Celebrating Women...for the Real World
Saturday, December 31, 2005 Happy New Year!


We would like to leave 2005 by thanking all of our readers for visiting and coming back regularly. We would like to wish you and yours a very happy and prosperous New Year!

Here is a little inspirational thought that was very uplifting and fitting as the new year tends to bring a renewed spirit and strength. This is written by Helen Steiner Rice:

"There is always a tomorrow.
Tomorrow belongs as much to you
as it does to me.
No matter what our yesterdays have been,
tomorrow may be different.
Tomorrow may mean your victory.
The great joy of expectation,
the wonderment of an unknown realm,
the splendor of the vast future
lie in the eternal tomorrow_
the day for which life is worth living."
Happy New Year!

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 10:36 PM :: 3 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

ROAD TRIP and BACK!

I’m so glad we made this trip, we had a blast. The game was unbelievable (even though Michigan lost…it was still a great game). The atmosphere was awesome, and even though Texas is so totally into football, we cannot hold a candle to the devotion of these two teams. I went to SMU (back when they had a great football team) and I have never experienced this!



I think that I can fit into a U of M game now. I heard “Hail To The Victors” so many times that I have the tune and the arm movements down to a tee. Not to mention all the other yells they do with the band at the games. My only complaint is that Michigan fans DON’T SIT DOWN. So we were standing there for four hours during the whole game.


This really was a “dream come true” for G2. Just looking at him you would never know that he was born in Texas and has never lived anywhere but Texas (where did we go wrong?....LOL….just kidding).


This is how close we were to the band (Sheri…I bet your experiencing a little déjà vu). We actually were in the wrong seats and we were a little further from them (thank goodness).

We did have to do the tourist thing while we were there. Visits to the Alamo and ride on the river walk were a must.

The weather was just perfect for this trip (mid 70’s and sunny). The city of San Antonio did an outstanding job hosting the Bowl Game. Everything was in walking distance, and they even blocked off traffic before and after the game so that you could get to your hotel quickly.


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 8:03 AM :: 4 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Friday, December 30, 2005 Federal Express & Apple Computer - Ugh!

Dear Apple Computer & Federal Express:

First of all, I want to thank you for making my Christmas "interesting". You see, Christmas wouldn't be Christmas at my house if there wasn't some circumstance that would cause my sister to have a melt down. Well, you certainly succeeded. I'm not saying that her frustration wasn't warranted with either one of you because, well, you both fucked up!

Apple, when someone special orders a computer costing over $2000 and has it shipped to a different address than the billing address, and this happens before Christmas, you may want to pay a little more attention to detail. I feel that technically, the owness of this situation falls on you as, the computer was ordered from you, you collected the money, and you chose the carrier by which to ship said computer. You should be very ashamed of yourself for not taking this matter more seriously. According to my sister, Apple makes the best computers and operating platforms available. I will not get to experience this because, due to your complete incompetence, my sister rightfully cancelled her order! Ha!

Now, Federal Express, wipe that smile off of your face. You are just as much at fault as Apple. When you are given the responsibility to deliver a machine valued at over $2000, you may want to take a little more pride and care in doing so. You see, the package in question has been tracked, and tracked, and tracked again. You said you were busy (by the way, that's not our problem), and that said computer was on a truck in Houston, and would be delivered either Friday, 12/23 or Saturday 12/24 - GUARANTEED! Well, after my family was inconvenienced, plans changed, etc., we made sure that someone was at the house both days waiting for this GUARANTEED delivery. Here's the good part! We can track activity of the package up to the 24th, then, NOTHING!!!! As far as I'm concerned, this is complete incompetence on your part! Shame, shame, shame. Oh, but it gets better. When a customer service supervisor got involved all she had to say was "Hm, for some reason they are not answering the phone in Houston. I'll have to check on it tomorrow." When asked what time her call could be expected we were told "Well, I don't come in until 11:00 and then I have other work that needs to be taken care of. I can't promise you as to when you will be contacted!" Shame on you Federal Express! You never tell a customer that you have OTHER WORK!

Not that either of you care what I write about you on this little blog, but I feel much better getting all of this out! My hope is that somehow, when someone either Googles Apple or Federal Express, maybe our little blog will come up!

Thank you for your time. Have a nice day!

Sincerely,

A very dissatisfied customer

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 12:00 PM :: 5 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Stuff Portrait Friday

It is time for Stuff Portrait Friday. Kristine over at Random and Odd, has challenged us to take a picture of the following:



1. Your New Years Resolution.
2. Your Favorite Picture from 2005
3. Something you'll be glad to leave behind in '05

Hmmmmmm, this one is a bit tough but I'll give it a try. The first one is rough because I don't really do "New Years Resolutions". The track record for them is bad, and lets face it, since I'm a "closet rebel" if I think I can't do something, that will only motivate me to do it. One thing I am commited on resolving is this:

1. Your New Years Resolution:




I hate clutter and this is where it all ends up. We haven't remodeled the Kitchen yet, but when we do, this will be my home office with lots and lots of storagage. The problem is that I work out of my car and really can't leave everything in there (files/supplies/etc) so I bring it in and it seems to multiply. Oh don't you just love my desk extension? I finally found a good use for an ironing board (LOL).


2. Your Favorite Picture In 2005:


This one was easy, and I didn't even take this picture. This is Big G, and G2 took the picture when they were on their high adventure trip in Colorado this past summer. I don't go on these trips because I have told Big G that digging a hole to do my business and covering it up, is NOT my idea of a vacation, so I stay home and go shopping....hehehe.

3. Something you'll be glad to leave behind in '05



Oh yes, that would be this courtyard and the house painted poo-poo brown. I took this picture when we replaced the front door so you get the idea of my complaint. In 2005, since we ended up replacing the a/c (inside and out) it took a huge chunck out of our remodeling fund so this couldn't get done. So for 2006, bye bye poo-poo brown house color and icky courtyard, I will be glad to say b-bye to it in the new year.


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:11 AM :: 12 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Thursday, December 29, 2005 Thursday Thirteen


Thirteen Things about Sheri
and my plans for 2006
Sheri

1…. I resolve to give 100% of myself to whatever I'm doing. I want to be a better wife, mother, sister, friend, employee.
2....I will organize my cabinets and pantry by the end of January (if I don't give myself a deadline, it won't get done)
3....I will be more digital - that doesn't make sense to many unless you know my husband and saw all of the "toys" (mind out of the gutter, not those kind of toys...although....) that I'm blessed to have and are basically sitting and collecting dust!
4....I will download the pics from my new digital camera more frequently than, um, let's not go there.
5....I will organize said downloaded pictures!
6....I will make more time for myself and feel less guilty about doing so. (Yeah, add this to the list of resolutions most likely to be broken).
7....I will hold hands and cuddle with my husband when we are together (all you people who don't like public displays of affection-sorry)
8....I will slow down and smell the roses!
9....I will take a fabo vacation at some point during the year (without my kids) and not feel guilty about it.
10..I will put money into my savings each payday (and try not to take it out before the next payday)
11...I will get the wheels turning on a new project that I have churning in my brain. Nope, can't tell you what it is yet!
12...I will attempt to make better food choices on a regular basis
13...Saved the best for last.....I will join the new gym being built by my house as soon as it opens. I will then go to said gym at least 3 times per week!


Links to other Thursday Thirteens!
1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)



Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!



SuZan was not able to participate in Thursday Thirteen due to car-lag and desparately needing a nap.

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 8:41 AM :: 2 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Wednesday, December 28, 2005 ROAD TRIP!

We are just about ready to leave. I had told G2 that we would depart around 9:30 am, but he seemed upset and wanted to leave earlier. I told him that only takes about 2.5 hours to drive to San Antonio and we couldn’t even check into the Hotel until 3:00 pm and the game starts at 7:00 pm. Geez, the anticipation is killing him.

The good thing is that we are staying at a Hotel right next to the Alamo and about a block from the mall (I think his Christmas money is burning a hole in his pocket) and about five blocks from the Alamodome so we should be able to walk wherever we want to go (personally, I hate driving in a city I’m not familiar with). If restaurants are still open after the game I thought it would be fun to eat on the River Walk.

I’ll post pictures when we get back, the boy-child is ready to go and driving me nuts (I think he has been packed since Christmas afternoon).

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 7:29 AM :: 5 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Tuesday, December 27, 2005 Procrastination!


Since G2 and I are going out of town tomorrow, I decided to start putting away all the Christmas Decorations. As you see here, I am just procrastinating. Our blogger friends are so inventive changing their look, that I decided to give it a try. Well I can't change backgrounds or change things around, but I can cut and paste a template (LOL).

So all of you "shhhhhhhh....don't tell" Sheri doesn't know...so for her...

SURPRISE!

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 1:55 PM :: 7 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Signs You've Had Too Much Holiday Cheer

1. You strike a match and light your nose.
2. You take off your shoes and wade in the potato salad.
3. You hear a duck quacking and it's you.
4. You tell your best joke to the rubber plant.
5. You refill your glass from the fish bowl.
6. You hear someone say, "Call a priest!"
7. You start kissing the portraits on the wall.
8. You complain about the small bathroom after emerging from the closet.
9. You ask for another ice cube and put it in your pocket.
10. You tell everyone you have to go home... and the party's at your place.
11. You have to hold on to the floor to keep from sliding off.
12. You pick up a roll, and butter your watch.
13. You yawn at the biggest bore in the room... and realize you're in front of the hall mirror.
14. You take out your handkerchief and blow your ear.
15. You suggest everyone stand and sing the national budget.

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:23 AM :: 0 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Monday, December 26, 2005 The Greatest Gift of All

First I have to explain that my Texas born N’ bread son is a HUGE Michigan fan. Since he was in Elementary School he has just thought that they are the cat’s meow. About 90% of his casual wardrobe has U of M on it somewhere; and his room is blue with U of M stuff everywhere. This year, Michigan is playing Nebraska in the Alamodome in San Antonio on the 28th. We have gotten subtle hints, and some not so subtle hints from G2 since this was announced.

So we are doing the Christmas thing, opening gifts, wooing over everyone’s treasures. After G2 opens his IPOD Nano, he is sure that that is his big gift (which he wanted). For his last gift I set it up like a scavenger hunt. The box under the tree had a note to lead him to the freezer where there was a note, leading him to the dining room where there was a gift with a note inside, leading him to the gift behind his dad’s chair. Low and behold there were two Alamobowl tickets (Big G couldn’t get off of work so he can’t go).

To my surprise, he got this huge grin on his face, his eyes watered up and he started crying. I went over to him (stunned actually because he is not one to show a lot of emotion). He grabbed me and hugged me and about squeezed the stuffing out of me! So he was crying, I was crying, my MIL was crying and yes even big tough Big G got a little misty eyed.

So if you think the greatest gift of all was a pair of Alamodome tickets you would be wrong. The greatest gift of all was to me! It was the surprise and true joy experienced by the boy, the love and thankfulness that he showed us so unexpected and unrehearsed; this was truly for me, The Greatest Gift of All!

Alamobowl tickets: $120.00
Hotel in San Antonio $ Too damn much
Reaction from Son over tickets $ Priceless

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 10:01 AM :: 3 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Saturday, December 24, 2005 Merry Christmas Everyone!


Sheri & SuZan would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Chirstmas. We have enjoyed welcoming each and every one of you into our lives.


For the kids and the kids at heart


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 2:36 PM :: 3 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Friday, December 23, 2005 Stuff Portrait Friday

I’m finally playing this week! Kristine over at Random and Odd, has instructed us to take a picture of the following:




Your favorite wrapped present:


We have so many great nieces and nephews that I get to continue to enjoy the young kids things during Christmas time. I made these gift sacks out of grocery bags and I just love how they turned out.



Something new you added to your decorations this year:


Ok, I’ll admit this was an impulse buy, but I couldn’t resist when I walked next to them. We have a court yard at our entry and I have always told Big G I would like a lamp post for it. I guess this is as close as I’m going to get…LOL.


You’re Christmas cards:



There is nothing exciting on the Christmas card front. All I do is put them in this sled as they arrive. I have no creativity here but one of my friends saves her Christmas cards and puts them on her tree instead of ornaments; would you believe that it is beautiful.


And I’m throwing in the tree…just because!


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:10 AM :: 13 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Thursday, December 22, 2005 It's Time For Thursday Thirteen!


Thirteen Things about Sheri

1. What color are your eyes? Blue/green/gray

2. Is there one gift you’ve purchased (or made) for someone this year that you really love, and are excited to give? I found these really cool picture holders at Pier 1 that I'm giving to everyone at the office. They are perfect for them to put on their desks and it's easy to change the pictures.

3. Are you already planning a New Year’s resolution? Of course. And, I think I'm planning on exactly how and when I will break them! Just kidding.

4. If you make a resolution, what are the odds you’ll keep it? Actually, the odds are about 90% in favor of keeping them. I'm a very hard headed, determined, young lady!

5. What is your favorite color? Oh, another hard one. I would have to say all shades of blue.

6. Do you have a favorite animal? What is it? (that’s part of the question.) I would have to say that my favorite animal is a dog. I like cats, they just don't like me.

7. How often do you visit my blog? I try to check all of the blogs on my blog roll everyday.
8. How come you never call? Um, gulp!

9. You really don’t love me, do you? Of course I love you!
10. Could you telll I was just kiddin’? You joker you.

11. When is your birthday? 06/68

12. Is Santa bringing you fancy pressies, or coal? Maybe a bit of both? I think I'm going to hit the jackpot! My hubby buys the best presents! You should see what he bought himself as his gift from me! I was VERY generous!

13. D’jya know there’s only 2 days left til Christmas? Jeez, don't remind me. I'm not done shopping yet!





Thirteen Things about SuZan


1. What color are your eyes? Blue/gray

2. Is there one gift you’ve purchased (or made) for someone this year that you really love, and are excited to give? It is always difficult to get my brother-in-law something that HE would appreciate. Both of his son's are Eagle Scouts, so Big-G and I went out to the District office where they have an Eagle Scout wall dating back to 1916. We made rubbings of his boys' names and took a picture of the wall. I'm not finished yet I still need to cut the mat and then put the frame together, but I'm really excited about this gift.

3. Are you already planning a New Year’s resolution? Why even bother....LOL :)

4. If you make a resolution, what are the odds you’ll keep it? If the resolution is to eat more chocolate or drink more coffee, then you can count on me!

5. What is your favorite color? Easy! Burgandy and a deep sage.

6. Do you have a favorite animal? What is it? (that’s part of the question.) Cats, I have always had cats.

7. How often do you visit my blog? When I'm not working, every day or every other day; when I'm working 2 times a week.

8. How come you never call? Because I hate talking on the phone.

9. You really don’t love me, do you? Of course I do!

10. Could you telll I was just kiddin’? I sure was hoping so!

11. When is your birthday? October 29th

12. Is Santa bringing you fancy pressies, or coal? Probably a bit of both.

13. D’jya know there’s only 2 days left til Christmas? Grrrrrrrrrrrrr....I KNOW!

Links to other Thursday Thirteens!
1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)



Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!




Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 2:08 PM :: 2 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

A Tip for a Great Santa Experience

I discovered this little tid-bit of information quite by accident. It was 1995 and G2 was six. He finally decided that he wanted to go see Santa, but he didn’t not share this with me until the night before Christmas Eve.

We all know what the malls are like right now and especially on Christmas Eve. I was really dreading taking him but knew we HAD to go. The smartest thing that I ever did was call the mall and find out what time Santa opened for business (now that just sounds so wrong on so many levels). It turned out that he started visiting kids at 8:00 am, and the stores opened at 10:00 am, so I made sure that we were there at opening.

This last minute fiasco turned out to be the most wonderful Santa visit in G2’s life. Because no one was there, Santa spent a good 20 minutes with G2, they posed for pictures that I got to take with my camera (this one was my favorite and all Santa’s idea). This is one of my most treasured sappy mommy moments that I will remember forever…It was priceless!

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 7:33 AM :: 2 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Wednesday, December 21, 2005 The Holiday Edition of Getting To Know Your Friends-Sheri's Turn

I think SuZan participated in this last week. I'm a little late, but participated none the less. This was fun. Want to know my holiday idiot tendencies? Read on!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot Chocolate- with mini marshmallows! Egg Nog only if its laced with rum!

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? wrapped!

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? White, although I'm thinking about adding some blue outside next year. Hmmm.

4. Do you hang mistletoe? Are you kidding-encourage the teenagers to kiss! Jeez.....

5. When do you put your decorations up? yeah-well SuZan can tell you. I actually attempt to put them up the weekend after Thanksgiving. It's a process. OK, I'm a little embarrassed to share this, but the tree for the upstairs is at least put together. No lights or decorations yet. We may get to that on Thursday.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Cornbread dressing!!!!

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child? I was eight. My grandmother, my great-aunt (my grandmother's sister), and my aunt from Texas all came and stayed at our house for two weeks. Hey, I was a kid-I thought it was great. Yeah, I got to sleep in the sleeping bag on mom & dad's floor. Imagine being woken at midnight to find yourself suspend in mid-air, halfway down the stair case as your dad and great-aunt (she was like 70) try to move you because they think you're going to be cold on the floor! Oh yeah, then we all got the stomach flu (starting with me!).

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I'm not exactly sure. I think I must have been about 9. My sister was having a tough time being a teenager. I think I overheard something during one of their yelling matches that tipped me off.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Hell, we start opening the week of Christmas. The tradition of not putting any gifts under the tree until all the kids went to bed kind of got squashed when I was married to my ex. Oh, that's a whole post in and of itself.

10. What kind of cookies does Santa get set out for him? Cookies? There's cookies? Just kidding. My mom owned a restaurant and loved to bake. We had a huge assortment. Then I became a mom. Yeah, like I said "there's cookies?"

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? I love the snow-for a very short time, until things such as driving comes into the picture!

12. Can you ice skate? I can ice skate-not well, but I can do it.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Hmmm, when I was a kid, it would have been my Polaroid camera. As an adult, it must have been my wedding/engagement ring (from my current husband). Yeah, we so mushy!

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Everyone being safe and together
.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Favorite...that's a hard one. Probably the cookies that my kids and I make together.

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Decorating the outside and the tree together (and all the fighting that ultimately goes with it). Oh, and Aunt De De (my sister) coming to visit.

17. What tops your tree? The tree downstairs is naked. I haven't found anything I like. The tree upstairs has a star made out of construction paper and glitter that my oldest son made at church when he was 3.

18. Which do you prefer Giving or Receiving? Both-I love giving when I have the money to buy exactly what each person wants. To see their faces when they open their gift. I also love to see what gifts my children have put together for me. My favorite was a piece of gum my son wrapped for me when he was like 5 or 6. He gave it to me because I said it smelled good!

19. What is your favorite Christmas Carol? All of them.

20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? The first one-YUM! That's it! Can't do more than one!

If you would like to play-play on! I will tag anyone and everyone! Merry Christmas!

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 3:12 PM :: 0 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Way Back Wednesday

It’s Way Back Wednesday and Mama Duck says “Anything Christmasy” so in honor of The Kept Woman, I’m sharing my Texas State Capital ornaments.


I don’t really collect a lot of things but my sister-in-law got me started on this one and has given me the new ornament every year since 2000. These are pictures of my favorite ones.

This year, when Big-G was asking what I wanted for Christmas, I told him the rest of the collection that I was missing (1996 to 1999), so he said “order them”. When they arrived I told him I was not going to wrap them and I was adding them to the tree this year.


So Mama Duck, I know you miss Texas and since you lived in Austin, I thought this would be a great tribute to you…….
Merry Christmas!












Click on the picture for a larger veiw.

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:04 AM :: 8 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Tuesday, December 20, 2005 5 Weird Things About Us

The CrazyRideLady tagged us a while ago, we're just now catching up. Our mission was to find five weird things about each of us. It was really hard to find five weird things about me, what......OK, stop laughing SuZan. Maybe I should say find ONLY five weird things about me! But I gave it a try, so here it goes......

Sheri
1. I don't like to be cold, but I can't sleep when the heater is on. I will put on extra layers of clothing, even socks, add blankets, snuggle with hubby, whatever. Just don't turn the heater on!
.
2. I can't sleep on pillows after someone else has been laying on them. Not just pillows, but sheets too. My pillows have to be cold and freshly plumped in order for me to get comfortable and fall asleep.
.
3. I have a hard time falling asleep without the TV on. I can be right at the point of being totally asleep, but if JK turns off the TV, that's it, I'm awake!
.
4. I can't sleep until my kids are home safe. I can doze on the couch, but until they are home, I can't sleep. When Teenage boy comes home around midnight, he doesn't come into my room to kiss me if JK is already in bed. The boy's room is right over mine. I swear that child has lead in his feet, so it's no surprise that I know he's home. I get out of bed and go up and kiss him (OK, secretly I'm doing the smell test as well. Kind of killing two birds with one stone). For those of you that don't have teenagers-you'll be doing this one day. I also stay awake for about 30 mins listening to see if he's going to try to sneak out. Oh come on, don't judge. He's a good kid. They pretty much all try to sneak out at some point. Yeah, that's another post. But he's never tried it again since I busted him!
.
5. OK, a little OCD on my part when it comes to cleaning. Don't interrupt me, don't walk on the floors after I've mopped them (you WILL lose your feet); don't pee in the toilet when there's cleaner in it; every crack and every crevice must be clean, clean, clean! Yeah, I can let it get very dirty before I start cleaning, but once I start, look out!
OK....that's it for me. Let's see what SuZan has to say!
.
.
SuZan
OK....geez.....lets see:
1. Used toothbrushes gross me out. As for my own, I have to rinse it in hydrogen peroxide before next use, and don't you dare try and use mine.
.
2. I can't handle mucus well. I had to successfully demonstrate suctioning in order to pass my clinical rotation with spinal cord injury patients. I was able to squeak by for almost three months before they realized that I had not been checked off on it. I literally had to suction, leave the room to gag, return and suction, leave the room to gag….you get the picture. So now I work with snot-nosed kids *Bwahahahahaha*.
.
3. I sleep hot (ok, get your mind out of the gutter). No matter what the temperature, or if I only have a sheet. Give me two minutes, and I will be nice and toasty.
.
4. I have a cleaning product fetish. The funny thing is that I HATE house work, but if there is a new product for cleaning, I probably have it.
.
5. I have to sleep with three pillows; one for my head, one for my hand, and one between my knees (ok this is moving into tmi now).

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 7:06 PM :: 0 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Twas The Night Before Christmas..... Mom Style

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the abode
Only one creature was stirring & she was cleaning the commode.

The children were finally sleeping, all snug in their beds,
while visions of Nintendo & Barbie flipped through their heads.

Yes, and dad was snoring in front of the TV,
with a half constructed bicycle propped on his knee.

So only the mom heard the reindeer hooves clatter,
which made her sigh, "Now what is the matter?"

With toilet bowl brush still clutched in her hand,
She descended the stairs, and saw the old man.

He was covered with ashes & soot, which fell with a shrug,
"Oh great," muttered the mom, "Now I have to clean the rug."

"Ho Ho Ho!" cried Santa, I'm glad you're awake."
"your gift was especially difficult to make."

"Thanks, Santa, but all I want is time alone."
"Exactly!" he chuckled, "So, I've made you a clone.

"A clone?" she muttered, "What good is that?"
"Run along, Santa, I've no time for chit chat."

Then out walked the clone - The mother's twin,
Same hair, same eyes, same double chin.

"She'll cook, she'll dust, she'll mop every mess.
You'll relax, take it easy, watch TV and rest.

"Fantastic!" the mom cheered. "My dream has come true!"
"I'll shop, I'll read, I'll sleep a night through!"

From the room above, the youngest did fret.
"Mommy! Come quickly, I'm scared and I'm wet."

The clone replied, "I'm coming, sweetheart."
"Hey," the mom smiled, "She sure knows her part."

The clone changed the child and hummed her a tune,
as she bundled the small one in a blanket cocoon.

"You're the best mommy ever. I really love you."
The clone smiled and sighed, "And I love you too."

The mom frowned and said, "Sorry, Santa, no deal.
That's my child's LOVE she is going to steal."

Smiling wisely, Santa said: "To me it is clear,
Only one loving mother is needed here."

The mom kissed her child and tucked her in bed.
"Thank You, Santa, for clearing my head".

Sometimes I forget, it won't be very long,
before they'll be too old for my cradle and song."

The clock on the mantle began to chime.
Santa whispered to the clone, "It works every time."

With the clone by his side, Santa said: "Goodnight".
"Merry Christmas, dear Mom, you'll be all right."

Sometimes we need reminding of what life is all about.
Especially at times when the Holiday season shouts,

and all we do is clean, bake, and procure.
You get the picture -- I'm sure.

So stop for a moment and hug that little one so dear,
whether he/she is 2 or 22, or even older this year.

For they are the gift that God gave us from Heaven above,
and what a special gift to be treasured, with endless LOVE!

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:03 AM :: 2 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Monday, December 19, 2005 I Am A "Coffee Fool".....And Proud Of It!


SuZan and I were talking the other day about how we'll be going about our daily routine and something we do, say or encounter reminds us of our blogging buddies. For instance, every time I drink a good cup of coffee, I think off Merritt. When I eat at a McDonald's in Katy, I think of Katy, when I pass by a restaurant called "Clays", I think about Mama Duck. It's funny how much a part of our life our blogging pals have become.

So what does this have to do with coffee? Well, when I visit Merritt's blog, she tells us what her "coffee of the day" happens to be. My mouth starts watering, and I think I get a little jealous! One day I came across this site. I didn't know it was possible for the internet to read the "sucker" label stuck to my forehead. OK, so I purchased some coffee from the internet, what about it? Stop looking at me like that! Go and check out The Coffee Fool. They have a neat site that's really user friendly. As I read the descriptions of the various flavors I thought "Oh, I just HAVE to try this!".

The Coffee Fool has a wide range of products sure to please anyone's pallet. Again, the sucker for advertising that I am couldn't get passed the main page which showcased their holiday flavors. After reading and re-reading, I settled for The Blueberry Cinnamon Swirl, Santa's Cookie Coffee, & Snoodle-Doodle. Take a peak at their site to read the descriptions of each flavor and you'll see why I just had to try these. You can buy the beans, or have it already ground. Seeing as I don't have a bean grinder (hint, hint to anyone who still is unsure as to what to get me for Christmas-any takers? anyone?) I chose to have mine ground.

As far as price, for about $7.50 per bag I didn't feel that I was going to have to sell one of my children. At first I justified the cost by thinking of a few friends that would appreciate getting some great coffee as a gift (and brew a pot while we visited). Well, the coffee was delivered within two business days. I opened the box.....the aroma was awesome! I thought to myself that keeping one of the flavors for myself wouldn't be too bad. I mean, I felt I really owed it to the recipients of the other two bags to at least taste one of the flavors. After the first pot, I was hooked! I had to taste the other two flavors to see if they were as good as the first! Guess what--they were!

I must tell you that I can't chose a favorite from the three that I purchased. They are all equally enjoyable. I will share my feeling about the blueberry cinnamon. I hesitated when purchasing, but I'm glad I did. Its a very nice combination that would be great to serve with brunch. I didn't like it as my "first cup in the morning" cup, but on that cold, rainy Saturday with the pancakes and eggs-PERFECT!

Enjoy!

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 3:13 PM :: 1 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Christmas Villages


As I have posted before, this is a tradition that was magical for my son and his friends when he was very young. It is a pain in the assets, but I’m always glad that I did once they are finished (don’t ask how I feel about them when it’s time to take them down). The one problem I do have is Mercedes (my cat), she thinks she is Godzilla and walks through this village. So far all she has done is disrupt the snow.


I didn’t put out all of my houses this year, I just don’t have the room or the energy so this will just have to do this year, a village on the bar, and one on the mantle. I love the one on the mantle because for years the fireplace was brick from floor to ceiling with a 4" by 3 ft (also brick) mantle. Big-G built a wood panel surround for me and it is just beautiful.



This last one is on the entry table and totally me, Starbucks! Putting out all the decorations this year not only did I think of family and friends we've known for years, but I also found myself thinking of our new blogger friends and this one reminded me of Meritt.


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:12 AM :: 3 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Sunday, December 18, 2005 A Martha Moment


Every year for Christmas I try to make something. It could be the gift, cookies, Christmas cards etc. Even though our son is 16 we have 8 (yes you read correctly) great nieces and nephews (most are under 4 years old, only 2 are older) and since we are insane we give gifts to every single one of them.

Throughout the year I’ve picked up books and other small items (age appropriate of course), I made these gift bags for the loot out of paper sacks. This project was so cute and easy to make. I just used paper sacks, google eyes, dark brown paper, red pompoms and brads to keep them closed, and waa-laaaa a Martha Moment.

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:57 PM :: 2 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Saturday, December 17, 2005 Crime is Everywhere!


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 8:24 AM :: 3 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Friday, December 16, 2005 Why It's Good To Live In Texas














You don't have to deal with the likes of this! I don't think I would make it if I had to move North!

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 9:14 AM :: 9 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Wednesday, December 14, 2005 Getting Ready for Christmas with Elmo

I found this to be very appropriate since it's Christmastime and the toy factories are working overtime.

There is a factory in Northern Minnesota which makes the Tickle Me Elmo toys. The toy laughs when you tickle it under the arm. Well, a woman named Lena was hired at the Tickle Me Elmo factory and reported for her first day promptly at 8:00 a.m. The next day at 8:45 there was a knock at the Personnel Manager’s door. The Foreman from the assembly line threw open the door and began to rant about the new employee. He complained that she is incredibly slow and the whole line was backing up, putting the entire production line behind schedule.

The Personnel Manager decides he should see this for himself so the 2 men marched down to the factory floor. When they get there the line was so backed up that there were Tickle Me Elmos all over the factory floor and they were really beginning to pile up. At the end of the line stood Lena surrounded by mountains of Tickle Me Elmos. She had a roll of plush red fabric and a huge bag of marbles. The two men watched in amazement as she cut a little piece of fabric, wrapped it around two marbles and began to carefully sew the little package between Elmo’s legs. The Personnel Manager burst into laughter. After several minutes of hysterics he pulled himself together and approached Lena. “I’m sorry,” he said to her, barely able to keep a straight face, “but I think you misunderstood the instructions I gave you yesterday………. “Your job is to give Elmo two test tickles.”

Bwahahahaha! That is all!

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 12:00 PM :: 6 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

The 2005 Holiday Edition of Getting to Know Your Friends!

I got this from Sue’s blog who got it from Anne's Blog....

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? ***Hot chocolate***

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? He wraps of course and in his own special paper.

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? white on both the house and the tree inside

4. Do you hang mistletoe? Yep…..kiss, kiss, smooch.

5. When do you put your decorations up? The weekend after Thanksgiving

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Greensburg smoked turkey from Tyler, Texas.

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child? Spending Christmas at my Grandparents house on the lake in East Texas.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I camped out (hid) to surprise Santa when I was seven. I was the one surprised.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? The kids get to open one gift on Christmas Eve.

10. What kind of cookies does Santa get set out for him? Hermit Cookies and Muckle Balls (I guess I’m going to have to explain these in a post…lol)

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Snow? What is snow?

12. Can you ice skate? Yes, but not well

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Not really, the being together was always so special since I lived outside the US.

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Being with family!

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Muckle Balls (I’ll explain in a later post)

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? One of course when we are all sitting around the table ready to eat. It is when we are all together. With all of the little ones in our family now we probably are considered a mob, but it is special.

17. What tops your tree? A bow I made myself.

18. Which do you prefer Giving or Receiving? Giving! That’s what happens to you when you have children.

19. What is your favorite Christmas Carol? Silent Night, Drummer Boy, Feliz Navidad (of course..lol).

20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? Pretty to look at but yuck to eat.

So now it is your turn.

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 7:09 AM :: 2 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Tuesday, December 13, 2005 Peace On Earth


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 3:50 PM :: 1 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

You Know That Your Day is Screwed When.......

Your boss comes in to your office and tells you that his bank has rejected his paycheck and that you need to fix it! No other information....just fix it!

It's all good. We came to the conclusion that it was his bank's error, not ours. The electronic numbers on the bottom of the check couldn't be read by the bank's system, therefor, instead of pushing it through manually, they rejected it!

Now that my heart has started beating again...........

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 10:57 AM :: 3 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Monday, December 12, 2005 Easy Tips For Eating Healthy During The Holidays

I've read so many articles lately regarding how to eat healthy and not gain weight during the holidays. This was my favorite and most practical.

1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.
2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. Like fine single-malt scotch, it's rare. In fact, it's even rarer than single-malt scotch. You can't find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-aholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!
3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.
4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.
5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?
6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.
7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.
8. Same for pies. Apple. Pumpkin. Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or, if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?
9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.
10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention.
11. Reread tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner.

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 2:18 PM :: 6 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

The Princess And The Pea

Do you remember the fairy tale "The Princess and the pea?" Well here is the proof; as much as Mercedes thinks that she is royalty, that is her asleep, and that clearly is larger than a pea.


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:45 AM :: 3 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Saturday, December 10, 2005 The Perfect Couple

do not open around small kids

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 1:41 PM :: 3 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Friday, December 09, 2005 Self Portrait Friday!

MEET ELEPHANT woMAN…



I had posted earlier in the week that I woke up Monday morning to the left side of my face hurting, and thought that I had the mother of all zits forming under my brow. At the time of course I had to pick at it, try to squeeze it and all it did is send bolts of pain throughout my head.

Finally realizing that it was NOT a zit and that in fact it was lymph nodes (by now I have swelling where the arrows are on the self portrait). I conceded and went to the doctor (did I mention that I hate going to the doctor). He said that my throat was irritated and I had an infection and did not know why my throat wasn’t hurting (hello…I am woman…we have high tolerance to pain). So I’m taking Zithromax so we shall see.

Now that it is Friday I think that they are getting better, the big deformity under my brow is still hurting. Who knows what I did trying to squeeze the stuffing out of it….sigh. Now of course I’m wondering why we as women neglect ourselves and let things go a bit too far.

Yours truly,
THE ELEPHANT woMAN

btw: I never said I could draw!

Update: the swelling under the brow is a result of the swelling of the lymph node (I don't know, along the lymphatic tract ????)...internal medicine isn't my bag...however, it is starting to get better now.


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 3:51 PM :: 8 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

This Just Fits The Occasion


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 3:11 PM :: 1 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Does Anyone Have Some Xanax? Paxil? Hell, Anything Will Do!

Why? Because two, count em, two of my teenagers got their learner's permit yesterday. You guessed it. Of course, they both insisted on driving last night. My daughter got to drive to school this morning! I think they will surgically be removing the door handle from my hand and fix the hole in the floorboard-where I keep instinctively stepping on the invisible break!

Oy! Why don't they issue a "student driver" sticker or flag that you can hang on the car when your teenager is learning to drive. You all have heard that 60 is the new 45 here in Texas. My daughter was going 35 in a 60. You can just imagine what the cars around us were doing! Then, she turned the brights on instead of the turn signal.

Me: "Your brights are on."
J: "How do you turn it off?"
Me: "Pull turn signal thingy toward you gently."

****Lights go off******

Me: "How did you do that? Just pull it toward you."
J: "I am!"

****Meanwhile, big hulky guy in pick-up truck in front of us starts flipping the bird******

Me: "Let me get it."
J: "No, I have to learn!"
Me: "Yes, but we don't want to get killed in the process. Let me just fix it."
J: "No"
Me: "Damn it! ...seat belt off, reaches over & fixes problem....... Do you want to know what the problem was? She was TURNING the knob instead of pulling it towards her!

Oh-and the best part-this morning she goes to back out of the driveway and puts it into drive instead of reverse. After she backs out, she left it in reverse instead of drive!

SK thinking it's going to be a LONG six months!

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 7:56 AM :: 5 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Thursday, December 08, 2005 Weather and Boobies......Need I Say More?

In an effort to start your day with a smile, I thought I'd pass on a little holiday humor. Have a great day!

If you look on our side bar, the temp today in Houston is not supposed to get over 38. This my friends will be a record for us! Do you think we'll be able to enjoy the likes of these?


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 8:15 AM :: 5 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Wednesday, December 07, 2005 The Decorating of The Room

Last friday I mentioned a phone call from a girl (the girl he took to homecoming) wanting to decorate my son's room in an effort to help her friend ask my son to be her date for the "Brigade Ball". I just had to post some pictures. Enjoy!




Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 2:23 PM :: 2 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Be Safe!

My MIL sent me this email so I thought I would share....pretty scary!

Date: Sunday, November 20, 2005 11:39 am

Nov. 19, 2005 Wanted to share this...and let everyone know that there are individuals on the loose, at least in my area of town, that are seeking out unsuspecting individuals, usually someone who is alone, and they follow them.

When the culprit/s are at ease that the prospective target is unaware of their being followed, this is what happens: A vehicle will pull up beside you and someone; usually a female will jump out and grab you if you have already gotten out of your vehicle. This person, usually a female, will proceed to start an argument and accuse you of either cutting her off intraffic or following her, or whatever. Next, another vehicle will come along and two men will hop out and try and aide in the argument. However, they are really all together. The woman who starts the commotion is the distracter, while the men who appear to be available for assisting, are actually there to aide in an assault, robbery, etc.

In the past, I was always certain this happened to other people in different areas of town, yet I have always been very cautious as to what is going on around me. However, this past Wednesday it happened to me. After going to my bank, drive thru window, I went to Kohl's on FM1960 and Eldridge. After leaving Kohl's, I left the shopping center I exited onto FM 1960 and headed towards Jones Road. Hobby Lobby was my destination point. After parking in a front row parking space, I proceeded to put my keys in my purse, make sure I had my list, and I hopped out of my car. When I reached down to lock my door, and raised back up, I was grabbed by a "crazy woman" who was shouting obscenities at me, and shouting that I had been following her. How I managed to get back in my car is beyond me, but to my surprise, there were now two men with her outside shouting for me to get out of my car to resolve this. After I gained a sense of composure, I remembered my cell phone and called 911 fromthe inside of my car.

It was not until the Sheriff's Dept. was driving upto Hobby Lobby in the direction and location that I was parked, that the culprits jumped in their vehicles and drove away. Even though I was scared out of my wits, and incredibly shaken, I managed to get the license plate numbers of one of the vehicles. The operator of 911 stayed on the phonewith me the entire time. The Sheriffs Dept. told me I was very lucky because this is happening frequently, with the victim usually ending up inthe hospital.

So, No matter where you are, or where you go, take the time to observe vehicles and individuals that are around you, physically or in their automobiles. Never drive straight from a bank directly to your home. The officer told me to lock my doors, drive to McDonalds (or someplace) and go thru drive thru or something, because the whole intent was to rob, steal and assault. I have lived in my neighborhood for six years and frequently go places alone. Not anymore, at least not during the holiday season. All of you take care and be safe.

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:57 AM :: 1 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Don’t Have Much Right Now!

Of course it has been just plain crazy lately. Since the end of the six weeks is up on the 16th, I’m running around like a chicken with my head cut off to see my kids, attend staffings and ARDs you know, the ole school thing. I have also picked up a junior high school so now I am servicing six schools……sigh…….I could just kick myself sometimes.

I woke up Monday morning to the left side of my face hurting. It looks like I have the Guinness World record’s blind zit underneath my left brow. I have determined that the lymph nodes on the left side of my neck/face are what is swollen and as tender as it is, I’m going to have to go and see the darn doctor. Now that it is Wednesday morning the swelling is very visible and when I look in the mirror all I see is the Elephant woman (Big G assures me that it is not that bad).

I hate going to the doctor.

Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 6:26 AM :: 4 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------

Tuesday, December 06, 2005 How Girlie Are You?

We stole this from Christie, it's pretty fun...give it a try!


SuZan


Like this was a surprise to me...LOL. I am a Tomboy all the way.

You Are a Tomboy

You're having too much fun to bother with nail polish and crazy diets.
Guys are instead impressed by how much you know and do!
How Girlie Are You?


Sheri:
Yup-Sounds like me!
You Can Hang With the Guys and the Girls

You've struck a good balance between girlie and laid back.
You can keep it casual but when you dress up, you are as girly as the next girl.


Posted by Sheri & SuZan :: 3:30 PM :: 1 comments

Post / Read Comments

---------------oOo---------------