One Sporty Mama

Free and Clear

2010-05-11T12:59:00.000-05:00

I wanted to give an update on my skin cancer status. The pathology results came back as a basil cancer cell.

The spot has been removed. Now I am healing up.

The doctor said he got all of it. But he still wants to do a follow up in 3 months to make sure. It will look like I have a polio scar on my arm. Hopefully a little Mederma will minimize that.

The thought of having skin cancer has left me utterly paranoid. I feel like I walk around with a bottle of sunscreen in my hand all day. Hubby has officially labelled me OCD on the sunscreen.

And I have a perfectly good reason.

There is a silver lining in all of this. I get to have my varicose veins zapped. The doctor did a test spot after removing said cancer spot. It was the most unexpected feeling. My leg started to cramp which he said was normal. I'll then wait 2 weeks and if everything checks out, I'll get the others done.

I know every woman feels like she has a "problem area." Mine are my legs and these varicose veins just makes them worse. So for $200 I can have these unsightly things removed.

And then I'll have beautiful vein free legs again.

I guess that means I'll have buy a mini skirt.

Frustrated

2010-04-29T09:42:00.003-05:00

Well, it is painfully obvious that we are not going to sell our house by tomorrow, unless there is a miraculous God intervention. Which He is perfectly capable of doing.

We have been living with my parents for 4 months now. And up until this week I have been sitting around waiting on my house to sell in order to move on with my life. I have stayed couped up in my parent's house waiting on that phone call from our real estate agent. It's been depressing, frustrating and down right boring. I have sulked in my own little pity party for far too long.

The problem is that life moved on.

And so must I.

Genius isn't it.

It's not like I had some huge revelation. But it finally hit me that I've got to find away to make the best of the situation or I'm going to be miserable.

And now that I'm pretty sure we'll be camped out at the parents house for a little longer I have to think about being here for the summer AND possibly the fall. (Wow that was painful to type.)

I registered the Tornado for Fall preschool over in the Loveliest Village which was probably a little presumptuous of me. So to make sure that I have all of my bases are covered I registered him a preschool near my parents. The funny thing is that this is the same preschool I attended. Scary!!! And I signed him up for a summer camp.

We have looked at a few houses, but it just makes the situation even more frustrating. The good thing is that I have not found anything that I have absolutely fallen in love with. Maybe that's God way of protecting me.

We are taking a week long vacation to Gulf Shores and I can not wait. I found this cute little townhouse on the lagoon side. The boys can fish and find critters while Mama soaks up the sun. It's been so long since I have been there that I do know where anything is.

So I am open to suggestions for restaurants and activities.

A Heavy Dose Of Reality

2010-04-23T08:18:00.003-05:00

I have always thought that I am too young to have any kind of medical issues. I'm only 34. Plus, I am healthy. I eat right. And I exercise.

But, when it comes to the sun I was... well stupid. Not in the sense that I would bake all day in the sun without wearing any sunscreen in hopes of getting that glorious tan. I have fair skin. I can not do that. I would get out in the sun with a sleeveless shirt or tank top. Most of time it was to go for a walk or to play sports. One time I went horseback riding and got completely fired. Or when I was younger, it was playing out in the yard or neighborhood.

I have had this spot on my arm for a long time. I just thought it was a scar. I have lots of them. I even had it looked at and was told it was nothing. Well, over the last few months this spot has started to change. I needed to see a dermatologist.

Here's the thing...there are maybe 10 dermatologist in this city. So it takes 3 months to get an appointment.

Anyway, I made the appointment and of course I was totally freaking out. Who would have thought that I could have cancer? It's such a freaky work.

Well...I have skin cancer. It's one spot on my arm. The doctor was great. He said it's the most common form. It can be removed and will not come back. So that means it's not melanoma. The doctor got a sample to send to the pathologist to confirm his diagnosis. But in about a week, I will get the results and then make an appointment to have the spot removed.

I am relieved and a little frightened at the same time. I am relieved to find out what the spot was and to confirm my suspicion that it was some form of cancer. I am frightened because I am only 34. What do the next 10 years look like?

It definitely opened my eyes. I will be doing routine checks on all of moles and sunspots that I currently have. I will be seeing a dermatologist on a regular basis. I highly recommend it. And I will be wearing sunscreen all the time. Eucerin has come out with a great moisturizer with SPF 15. I bought 2.

It can happen to anyone. Wear sunscreen and get yourself checked.

Can I Get A Side of Pollen To Go With That?

2010-04-05T13:51:00.000-05:00

It's the beginning of Spring and everything is yellow. My car, my shoes, the driveway, the streets.

You can see the cloud of yellow dust pass over as the wind blows.

I could not even run this morning because the pollen was so thick. It's suffocating. I can feel my sinuses clog up with each breath I take.

And I do not see an end to this yellow nightmare any time soon.

Don't get me wrong, I love Spring! All of the trees and flowers are blooming. The weather is wonderful. But I can do without this yellow stuff.

It's a miracle that my allergies have not gone haywire. I should probably pop some clariton just to be safe.

Happy Spring everyone!

House Update

2010-03-29T12:16:00.003-05:00

The offer on house is a no go.

Errrrrr!

It has been a week since our agent has heard from their agent so he is assuming they have moved on.

Can you say home inspection?

So we are in the process of fixing some things around the house and getting a new home inspection. Because I do not want to give the current one to anyone ever again. That thing has killed 2 sales already. And I don't think I could go through another one.

At this point I'm a little frustrated. I take that back...I am very frustrated!

I am sooo over living with my parents. I mean I am 34 for cryin out loud. Who wants to be living with their parents? I love my mom and dad. They have been so helpful.

But I need my space!

Please someone buy our house before I go stark raving mad!

Hello Sunshine! I Have Missed You.

2010-03-23T15:08:00.000-05:00

Since Saturday was the first day of Spring and such a beautiful day, I thought things were looking up. We can get outside more and I won't have to deal with the stir crazy Tornado attitude very much. And it's perfect weather for buying a house since we do have that we NEED to sell.

Then Sunday comes along and it's raining (again) and cold. Monday was much of the same.

Can the drought please come back because I am sick of this rain. No, seriously, I do not want another drought. I think we have had enough rain that we couldn't possibly have a drought for another 10 years.

But please...enough of the rain already!

Well, Tuesday has been beautiful! And the Tornado is happier than a pig in slop. He has been outside since 11:00 this morning, with a break for lunch of course. And he will stay outside until the sun goes down.

It has given me a chance to work on some art work and fold the clothes.

Oh, how I love folding clothes.

I hope you caught that hint of sarcasm.

Now I must fold more clothes.

I'm Hanging in There

2010-03-17T21:46:00.002-05:00

Ok...so some people came to look at our house. They liked enough that they came back.

They like it even more and wanted to know if there was a home inspection. They said they are down to our house and another.

We had a home inspection in last May when we thought we had sold our house. Well, the home inspection was really bad meaning there were things in the inspection that were not true about our house. But, it's on paper and it's "official" and that's why we lost the sale. We have been meaning to get another inspection in case the very thing that is happening now were to happen...in case another buyer wants to see the home inspection.

But, we heard not a peep from them in 2 days. We thought more than likely they chose the other house.

I prayed last night that the Lord would give us confirmation that this was or was not the time for our house to sell. I just wanted an answer...something telling me that this was dead or still alive.

Our agent called today and said they asked to see the home inspection. It's still alive!

However, it's the home inspection. And we had to give it to them.

I'm trying not to panic and think that we could lose this sale because some home inspector said some not so nice things about our house that were totally not true.

The Lord is in control...the Lord is in control...the Lord is in control!!

What A Mess

2010-03-15T10:02:00.001-05:00

I enjoyed my visit with my house...It was much needed...I miss my stuff.

Well, now that I have gotten that off my chest I can tell what happened when we got there.

We arrived at the house to find a tree in our back yard. It fell sometime Friday and took out several large branches from neighboring trees and our fence in its desent. It was, for lack of a better word, a disaster. And the neighbor to whom the tree belonged was not really wanting to do anything about it.

Oh and remember that our house IS FOR SALE!!!!!

The house showed twice with this disaster in the back yard. I'm sure those buyers were just itcing to make an offer after seeing this! Finally, after a week of looking at this mess, we had a tree service come out and clean it up. And they were fast. It was gone in less than an our. Thank goodness!!

Then, someone came to look at the house on Saturday and came back yesterday.

Now they are deciding whether they want to make an offer.

I'm glad we had the tree removed!

A Few Things

2010-03-08T08:57:00.001-06:00

I am getting ready to go visit my house. It is a long awaited visit that is desperately needed. I am looking forward to spending sometime there with all of my stuff. We need to get reacquainted with on another after the long absence.

There's just something about a woman and her home.

I'm a Nester. I enjoy making my home beautiful, relaxing retreat. The past two and half months have wreaked havoc on my nesting.

So I am looking for ways to channel this chaos. Here's what I have found...

If you get a chance check out The Buzz Boutique.

Red Robin has a great hamburger and their California Chicken Burger is oh so yummy!

I'm working on a website for my artwork. Check it out!

Pottery Barn Kids has the cutest bags. I am dying to order a beach bag for the Tornado.

If you have found any neat and interesting items, please share them!

In Need of a Change

2010-03-02T15:47:00.006-06:00

It was time. I have had the same layout and theme for over 2 years. And I was getting a little bored with the whole blog thing (as you can see from the lack of posts for the past 4 months).

Hopefully this theme change will inspire me to tell more stories, show pictures, and update you on the happenings in the Sporty house. Well I guess you could call it Sporty Mama's parents house. Because we are kind of homeless at the moment.

And pictures...I am kind of lacking in that department too. I will try to take pictures. Particularly when the Tornado is playing in the dirt. He gets covered in it. And it's really cute. Because he's...ya know...a boy.

And then there's the singing. I think you may see the Tornado on American Idol one day. He may not make it to Hollywood, but he loves to sing. Right now the song of the month is The Rainbow Connection from "The Muppet Movie." He bursts into song at a moments notice. And begins to sway back and forth. And it makes me laugh every time.

Another Rainy Day

2010-03-02T09:53:00.001-06:00

I don't know about y'all but I about sick of the rain. And then there's a chance of snow...again.

It's the South...for crying out loud. It doesn't snow here but maybe every other year and if we're lucky it will stick every five years or so. Just long enough for the kids to get a snow day and make a snowman.

The Tornado is getting a little stir crazy. And Mama, well I'm on the brink of a nervous break down.

It was such a nice day yesterday. With the exception of spending an hour at the tag office. All I was trying to do was register my car is this state and get that much anticipated specialty plate that I have been dying to have. And you know it will be personalized. I just can't decide what I want on it. Either MMG 98 or AUALUM or 98ALUM. I'm taking votes!!!

Anyway, I could not register my car because I did not have a copy of the title since the bank is having trouble getting it from the Georgia DMV. Why does everything about moving have to be so complicated.

But, I digress.

The Tornado, Nanna and I spent the afternoon outside working in the yard, moving plants, trimming bushes. I think Nanna is happy to have a little help in the yard seeing that I was the one digging up the lilies and replanting them in another location. The dirt around here is like digging in concrete. And why on earth I volunteered for such a task is beyond me. Maybe it's because I love my mother. She did set aside a few lilies for me. And that's hoping I'll have a place to plant them SOMETIME THIS CENTURY.

The Tornado ran around like a little man on a mission, playing in the dirt, playing with worms and sticks and whatever else a little boy can find to play with. He always has dirt under his fingernails, in his ears and hair and between his toes. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

But he can't do his little boy things when it rains like every other day.

So rain, rain, please go away.

There's Nothing A Little Retail Therapy Can't Cure

2010-02-22T15:24:00.001-06:00

I have to admit that the last month (or 2) has been...well...hard.

So I ventured out, thanks to a little babysitting from Nanna, to do a little shopping. Oh, how I have missed shopping.

I have been trying to find a pair of "skinny" jeans because I keep hearing from everyone I know that I could so pull off "skinny" jeans. I am still not convinced seeing as I can not find any that fit me.

I began my quest yet again. And still no luck. Sorry people. I will not be pulling off the "skinny" jean this go round. And if you have any suggestions as to a brand that I can try, please feel free to pass it along.

I did find a few things at my oh so favorite budget friendly store, Kohl's.

Like this ruffle cardigan...

and this medallion empire blouse

Then, I found this hot little boutique that has THE BEST CLOTHING AT REASONABLE PRICES and I could not resist this little sun dress.

I don't know about y'all, but after this weekend, I am ready for Spring.

So I Must Revisit the Pen Drama Again

2010-02-07T08:03:00.001-06:00

I can't let this one go.

The pen drama...remember that one.

Well I have discussed this issue with many folks who have all assured me that there children have done the same thing. I even had one sweet lady ask me if I was spanking him and was it hard enough. I about peed in my pants.

Because he gets spanked alright. It just doesn't do any good.

And now i need to insert PAINT into the equation. Yes, paint...BLACK PAINT. I knew it was there. It just completely slipped my mind to put it where the tornado could not get to it, if there is such a place. It was on the bed, the pillows,the floor, the WALL. You could see the steam rising off of my head. And I was not mad at the Tornado. He's 3. I was mad at myself. Fortunately it all came out. Just imagine the relief.

These things are like little magnets with voices calling out, "Come to me, little Tornado. You know you want me. It will be so much fun. Who cares what your mom does to you. It will be worth it."

So I think I know what I am going to do.

I am going to collect every pen, pencil, and paint tube in this house. I'm sure there some hiding in places I have not even thought of, but I will find them. And when I do I am going to set them on fire.

I think I'll have myself a bonfire in the back yard. I'll have a party and invite the neighborhood We'll roast marsh mellows and have a cocktail or two.

And watch this whole drama go up in flames.

Don't you want to come to my party?

Not Much Has Changed

2010-02-04T09:55:00.001-06:00

There's not too much to report these days. And I am very aware that I have become a severe slacker when it comes to this blog. This is what I know...

Our house is still for sale.

The housing market is dead.

We are still staying with my parents.

Hubby has been out of town quite a lot.

Our house is still for sale! It is worth repeating because it is the only thing that is holding this move back.

People need to start looking at houses before I go absolutely insane.

I guess I do have a little news...

I have a small part time job. My friend, Chris, needed help with the website for her little boutique. So I started working in it a few weeks ago. I did not design it, but I am building it and doing the necessary maintanence and promotion of the boutique website. We are hoping it will increase traffic. Chris is also putting a few pieces of my artwork in her boutique which is frequented by interior designers.

Oh and I am working on a website for my artwork. I will launching it once I get everything up. So I'll keep you waiting with bated breath.

It's The Most Wonderful Day Of The Year

2010-01-01T08:16:00.002-06:00

Seriously.

Not only is it the first day of a new year. And that in itself makes it wonderful.

But...

We get nonstop football from 10 am until...well until i don't know when.

That makes me so happy I can't stand it.

My butt hurts just thinking about it cause it will be mashed on that comfy sofa all stinkin' day.

And I can already taste that yummy mimosa.

Happy New Year Y'all!

Tonight Is Going To Be A Good Good Night

2009-12-31T16:15:00.003-06:00

Since there is much to celebrate, like a new job and a move that we have been praying for it seems like an eternity, Nanna and Papa have generously volunteered to keep the Tornado so Hubby and I can have a night out.

I'll get to break in the cute new black boots I got for Christmas. I think I'll pair them with my black sweater dress and some kickin' red and black tights. Throw on some accessories and I'll be good to go. Hubby just wants me to wear a dress.

What is it with men and dresses anyway?

Night out with Hubby...

Smokin outfit...

Toasting our new endeavor with some good red wine...

It really is going to be a good good night!

(and kudos to the Black Eyed Peas for a killer song)

Playing Catch Up (Sort Of)

2009-12-30T16:57:00.002-06:00

I thought I'd end this crazy kind of year with one last post (or 2). You'll have to forgive my absense, but we've been...well busy.

About 2 months ago, Hubby interviewed and received a job offer in a weeks time. It completely caught us off guard as the job search was producing no results. And not to mention that things at his now former company were getting progressively worse.

At the time of the job offer, Hubby's boss was on vacation and he had to wait on a background check and drug test to pass before receiving a formal offer, so we could not do anything, tell anyone, until everything was final. Once he was able to give his company his 2 week notice, they told him basically "we'll pay you for 2 weeks but go ahead and send us all of your stuff and turn in your truck." It was a done deal. Freedom At Last!!!!

So we had 2 weeks of much needed family time. We spent most of it working around the house and Christmas shopping. But for the most part it was spent relaxing. We did go to Atlanta for the day. We took the Tornado to a puppet show at the Center for Puppetry Arts and then to the aquarium. We had lunch on the Georgia Tech campus then Hubby gave us a tour of his alma mater. The Tornado was in hog heaven at the aquarium. His first words when we got there were, "Daddy, look at all the jellyfish." He now asks to go back to see the fish at Georgia Tech.

And in the midst of all of this, we were now were definitely moving. There is just one problem...we have not sold our house. So this plan is...cause we're planners ya know...to live with my parents TEMPORARILY until our house sells. That would alleviate some of the commuting.

We have moved most of the stuff we need immediately like our clothes. And we are hoping and praying real hard that our house will sell soon. Oh and we are getting a new real estate agent because the one we have is getting out of residential real estate.

Hubby started his job the week of Thanksgiving. Great time to start a new job. Plus throw in all of the Holiday chaos. So basically we have been driving back and forth from Nanna and Papa's. I have driven Highway 80 way more than I have ever wanted. And I'll be happy to never make that drive again.

Hubby and the Tornado spent Christmas with the flu. It was festive letmetellyou!

So the last 2 months have been a complete blur. But we have much to celebrate as the new year roles in!

Is It Winter Already?

2009-10-20T13:28:00.000-05:00

I don't know about y'all, but it's like seven times something cold outside. AND I LOVE IT!!!!

I love the cold. I could probably live up in the North (like in Tennessee) if I had too. Hubby, not so much. He actually would love it if we lived further South. I am adamantly against that one. I can't handle the gnats. I am perfectly happy living above the gnat line...for the rest of my life.

And I am not kidding when I say gnat line. It does exist. For those of you not familiar with this phenomenon, it is an imaginary line dividing coastal areas from more inland areas especially the Carolinas and Georgia. I've been told that I would get use to them.

Here's the thing...I DON"T WANT TO GET USE TO THEM.

So I am glad that it is getting cold. No more mosquitoes or any other kind of annoying bug.

We have already used our outdoor fireplace. Hubby and I sat in front of the fire sipping on our cocktails and enjoyed the sound of a roaring fire.

And this morning as I set out to walk Sasha I loaded up on my cold weather gear which consisted of pants, a long sleeved shirt, a sweatshirt, gloves, and ear warmers. I was nice and warm. Sasha and I got a good work out...in the cold. It was fabulous.

Last year I made a list of things I love about the fall. It is so worth mentioning again with few updates.

1. Football in the South

2. And excuse to make coffee at 3:00 in the afternoon

3. The outdoor fireplace

4. Pumpkins

5. Homemade chili

6. Changing colors in the foliage

7. My down comforter

8. Brisk evenings

9. The sound of a roaring fire

10. Jeans and flip flops

11. The smell of cinnamon, oranges & cloves

12. Nibblets (aka chex mix)

13. Yellow and orange mums

14. Christmas shopping

15. Decorating

16. Curling up in a blanket watching a movie

17. Sausage balls

18. My soft robe

19. Football in the South at night

20. Oh and my jeans!

Onions Aren't So Bad Afterall

2009-10-17T09:37:00.004-05:00

I have tried for years to make good chicken salad. It wouldn't seem like such a hard thing to do, but I could never make it right. And you'd think I could make it since my mom can make some good chicken salad. I did research on great chicken salad. I tried recipe after recipe. But still the same result.

Part of the problem was onions. I have had a strong aversion to onions that goes back to my high school camp days. It's a story for another time. But if my high school friend Katherine were here, I'm sure she’d love to tell you all about it. And maybe one day I will share that embarrassing story (if there is enough interest).

I can tell you with great pride that I have overcome the onions.

And alas, I have succeeded with the chicken salad.

I am so thrilled that I want to share the magic.

Sporty Mama's Chicken Salad

1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, chopped (I used herb roasted chicken)
1/3 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
2 large spoonfuls of mayonnaise (or however much you like)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp lemon pepper
*I am guessing on the measurements because I eyeballed everthing.*

Mix together and serve on Nature's Own Honey Wheat bread with sweet butter lettuce.

It is so yummy! The lemon pepper adds a twist.

Try it and tell me what you think.

Just Another Day In Paradise

2009-10-15T12:18:00.002-05:00

I know its October and I have been much of a blogger lately. Between the rain and the car, I've been a little stressed.

The Tornado came down with a little bug and of course was up all night. And it took several days to recover from that. Until this point I never knew what it was like to be up all night with a sick child. Hence, I could never sympathize with my mom friends that were struck by the child vomiting all night. Well, I can now say that I have been initiated into the club.

Fortunately for us, we were able to get away for an extended weekend thanks to Nana and Papa. We went to Apalachicola for a little B & B getaway. I had never been there before, but was told it was a quaint little fishing town. There's not much to do, but that was kind of the point. We stayed at the Coombs House Inn. We did a little shopping, ate some great seafood. Two days into our trip, we were having a great relaxing time.

Then it hit.

I got the same bug as the Tornado. Our fishing trip was cancelled. It was traded in for an entire day in the bed with ginger ale and saltine crackers to eat. Precious Hubby laid right there beside me and waited on me hand and foot.

Luckily I felt better on Saturday. Mama and her Hubby met us for a little getaway of their own. We watched the dreadful football game together. (Which I won't even touch that one since I have put the game behind me in order to move on with my life. It is so not worth emotional energy at this point.) Afterwards, we sat on the front porch of the inn for cocktail hour and some laughs.

Oh, how the laughs can sooth the soul!

Now it's back to the ordinary life of taking care of a family, living on a tight budget, and all the things that come with owning a home.

But I love what Phil Vassar says.

Well, it's ok. It's so nice. It's just another day in paradise. Well, there's no place that I'd rather be. Well, it's two hearts and one dream. I wouldn't trade it for anything. And I ask the Lord every night for just another day in paradise

There's Been A Whole Lot Of Clean Up Goin On

2009-10-04T10:11:00.002-05:00

I wish that I had taken pictures to show you what our yard and house looked like after all of that rain. But I don't have any. So you'll have to take my word for it.

I spent yesterday morning pressure washing the layer of sand off of our driveway. Hubby and the Tornado went to Lowe's for dirt and pinestraw. He had to fill in where the water washed our our yard. He also had to replant the banana trees and hydrangas that were completely uprooted.

Meanwhile, the inside of our house has been a little neglected...mostly because we have been gone.

Then the Tornado got a little bug Wednesday and was up all night. That means that I was up as well. Needlesstosay, we were completely worthless Thursday.

Hopefully, I can get some things accomplished today. But, I am a little sluggish from celebrating from my AUBURN TIGERS win over the Vols last night.

Mama's New Ride

2009-09-28T13:02:00.002-05:00

The rain has ended...for now.

Hallelujah!

Now the clean up is under way. The first order of business was to find a car.

It was a very frustrating and time consuming process.

And did I mention I hate dealing with car people. And we had fair share of slimy ones. But thankfully it is over.

I am now sporting a Jeep Commander.

This was not the car I was expecting to get, but it was the right one. And it's taking some getting use to after driving a sedan for so long. But I am glad to be back in a SUV.

Notice the Tiger Eyes. That had to be put on right away!

I even have a AUX port for my iPod.

And Sasha has her very own seat.

Now it's on to step 2 which is the house. It is a disaster.

Have You Ever Seen The Rain

2009-09-21T16:46:00.003-05:00

I can't even begin to tell you what the last 4 days have been like. I think I have had time to gather myself and my thoughts to put together a post that would make sense. But I can't promise anything.

I'll start from the beginning.

If you are living in the South then you know that it has been raining nonstop since last week. There is usually a break here and there but constant storms moving through. It has not been pleasant and even more so for us because we do not have the luxury of a garage.

But on Thursday, at 3:30 I noticed that there was something a little different about this particular rain storm. The rain seemed to be coming down pretty hard. I was talking on the phone to my dear friend Holly trying to get our plans squared away for the game Saturday. I interrupted to tell her something was wrong and that I needed to call her back. And this is what I found.

I AM NOT KIDDING. My car was under water. I got on the phone and called 911, my neighbor and Hubby. Oh, Hubby was in Tennessee.

I was SO freaking out.

My neighbor encourage me to call a few of the television stations since the drainage issues in our neighborhood do not seem to get addressed. REALLY! I hardly noticed. So about an hour later a camera crew comes to my house. So I got my 5 seconds of fame on the 11o'clock news. (And If I can ever find the footage I'll post it. But let me warn you it is bad.)

The Volkswagon dealership told me not to crank up the car because there was probably a lot of damage.

Y'all, there was nothing I could do.

I filed a claim with my insurance company that evening. Hubby got home really late to which I was very thankful. I could not take much more by myself.

Friday morning I called the adjuster. They towed the car to the body shop and put me in a rental. Hubby had to go to away again for work and I continued on with my plans for the game. There was nothing more we could do and looking at the mess left by the water only made us more overwhelmed. So we went our seperate ways.

The day of the game was much of the same. Rain showers here and there, but nothing heavy. By the time we were ready for the game it looked as though it may clear up. OH NO! Holly and I had not sat down more than 10 minutes when we saw a black cloud slowly make its way over the stadium. We immediately put on our ponchos. The bottom fell out.

The stadium annoucer told everyone to go under the stadium because of dangerous weather in the area. And when I say everyone that's 87,451 people. By this time we were already soaking wet. The students did not leave. They stood IN THE POORING DOWN RAIN and sang songs and cheered. And you know I would have done the same thing if I were a student.

So we had a good ole time in some close quarters with complete strangers. And we were so wet that we past miserable and onto hysterical.

The game was delayed an hour. But once it began, the rain cleared out. AU pulled it out and the fans were hysterical. My feet were prunes and my clothes were still wet. It was a thiller of a game and so worth the soaking. 41-30.

War Eagle!

Now will the rain please go away?

And the collision center declared my car a total loss.

Football - Sleep - Football

2009-09-17T13:26:00.001-05:00

I have been a delinquent blogger. I know. Shame on me.

I was absolutely exhausted after last weekend. I am guessing that it was a culmination of emotional and physical exhaustion seeing as if I cried most of the way home Sunday.

And I made Hubby sleep in the guest bedroom so that I could get a good nights sleep. My parents have already dubbed us the "old married couple." I am proud to have reached that status.

Oh I forgot to mention Hubby snores. I mean it is so loud that it's like sleeping next to a bear. And it has been so bad lately that I was so sleep deprived I reached the point of delirium and tears. Hubby has been out of town this week so I have slept quite nicely thankyouverymuch!

I feel refreshed and ready for another football game. Yes, another football game! And this one will probably be in the rain.

And I will sit through the whole darn thing.

I AM A DEVOTED FAN!!!

More like psycho!! But at least I admit it.

Breathing a Sigh of Relief

2009-09-09T14:42:00.001-05:00

As I catch my breath from a jam packed football weekend, I am getting ready to do it all over again. Such the life of a football fanatic.

So now I am knee deep in laundry and I haven't even unpacked. And I don't think I am going to since I have to pack it all up again tomorrow.

I rather enjoy this. But it is exhausting. But I can't imagine it any other way.

It's 1 football week down and 11 more to go.

Saturday's In The Fall

2009-09-05T09:16:00.003-05:00

It's that time of the year...The most wonderful time of the year.

We are packing up the car and heading on over to the Plains for a little tailgating and FOOTBALL!

My mom called on Monday wanting to know about the food. Monday people, Monday.

So it was decided that I am bringing the appetizer this week, which will be a Mexican Layer Dip. So yummy!

Oh, I am so fired up!!!!

And a little nervous. The coaching change got me all up in a tizzy last year. I have had some time to cool off. I think 8 months will do that. But, I am warming up to Coach Chiz. But I can't make any decisions until Saturday. So you can ask me about it then. I do anticipate some surprises and some let downs.

But there is one thing I do know for certain...

I believe in Auburn and love it!

School Has Finally Started

2009-09-02T12:31:00.003-05:00

Praise the Lord!!!!

Don't get me wrong, I love spending time with my precious little Tornado. But at this very moment, he is in his room pitching a fit for who knows what. AND, it's these moments, which are frequent, that cause me to need a little break.

This year the Tornado is going everyday, which is a big adjustment. I mean what in the world am going to do with all of that time?

Part of me is saying "Get a job" and the other part is saying "Enjoy it until you REALLY have to get a job."

So this morning I went to the gym. And I ran. And it felt great.

I'm sure tomorrow will involve cleaning and laundry of some sort. It's a never-ending cycle.

My Child the Artist

2009-08-28T14:25:00.007-05:00

The Tornado has discovered drawing. And not just scribbling. He actually draws.

I have been completely amazed at some of the things his little mind comes up with. His drawings are not exact, but I can definitely see the thought pattern. And when I ask him what he's drawing, he knows exactly what it is.

He LOVES his DoodlePro and side walk chalk. I even had to get a mini DoodlePro for the car.

I did get a few snapshots of some artwork before they disappeared.

Sailboat

Bull Dozer

Scenes From Summer

2009-08-26T14:18:00.001-05:00

It's Amazing What A Little Sleep Will Do

2009-08-25T14:28:00.002-05:00

I have recovered from my sleep deprivation. I have been trying to go to bed a little earlier. The key word here is trying...because I do not always live up to my own standards. And when Star Wars or Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix are ...I mean there's no way I can go to bed early.

Which by the way I am dying to see the Half Blooded Prince, but there is no chance that Hubby will go with me to see that one. I guess I’ll have to wait for it come out on video.

But I digress...

I am anxiously waiting for school to start. I am needing some relief from my days with my wonderful, rambunctious 3 year old. But really, every other preschool in town started last week or yesterday. Why is ours starting so late? I'm not really understanding that AND I am really ready for school to start.

Summer has been...well let's just say...whacky. Fun but a little whacky. I think I just need a normal routine and for our house to sell and for the money tree to pop up in the back yard. But if that were to happen, we could just give the house away, buy the land, build the palace and I could hire a housekeeper.

Hope all is well in LaLa Land!!

Sleep Deprived

2009-08-18T10:05:00.002-05:00

I am running on almost 0 sleep. It is not a good feeling.

First of all, I had trouble falling asleep. I was cold and normally our house is hot at night. So I had to get up and find a blanket. Then Hubby started snoring. I so need some ear plugs.

And about the time I fell asleep, the Tornado woke me up to tell me he had "poo poo". This was at about 4 AM.

You have got to be kidding me.

Luckily it wasn't "poo poo", but his bed was soaking wet. So needlesstosay, I changed the bed.

And yet again I could not fall asleep.

Wake up time came far to soon.

I feel absolutely worthless.

The Zoo And Baseball

2009-08-15T08:27:00.005-05:00

I Have A 3 Year Old

2009-08-13T08:09:00.021-05:00

The Tornado's birthday was a laid back affair. Notice the pool in the background. He spent the entire time in it. Meanwhile, the adults sat around with our adult beverages while he threw water everywhere. The cake was courtesy of Publix cookie dough and the icing decorations were made by noneother than Sporty Mama. I actually enjoyed making all of it. And it was cheap. We all had a fun time.

I Must Catch Up

2009-08-12T14:08:00.001-05:00

Please forgive me for being absent. It was not my intent to take a bloggity vacation. It just happened.

The last few weeks have been a little nutty. And it's not like I have been sooo busy. But the Tornado did turned 3 on July 25th. We had the grandparents and aunts over for some festivites. Nothing too spectacular. I'm waiting until he's 5 to do the big one. (Thanks Mama for that tip.) He did enjoy his birthday and all of the presents that came with it. Even the evil bubbles.

A brief aside...I think that bubbles were created by the devil himself in hopes of frustrating the ever loving daylights out of parents when their children pitch ungodly fits over the darn things. My child wants to blow the bubbles so bad and then winds up pouring them out and screaming to have it refilled then screaming again when I take them away after they were poured out yet again for the 100th millionth time.

Hubby has been out of town due to work. The Tornado and I went to Nana and Papa's for the week. They had super fun stuff planned like the zoo and a baseball game. The Zoo was great. We went early before it got too hot. The Tornado saw all kinds of cool animals. I did take pictures and I will post those later. We went to a minor league baseball game and sat in the suites. Thanks to Papa. We ate and drank FOR FREE. It was awesome and the Tornado enjoyed his first baseball game.

Hubby joined us later on in the week. And Nana babysat while Hubby and I drove over the The Loveliest Village. We ate lunch at The Barbeque House. It was oh so yummy. Probably some of the best barbeque EVER!

Our house is still for sale. We are having an open house this weekend so please pray that we get some prospects.

A Boy is...

2009-07-21T07:55:00.003-05:00

Trust with dirt on its face,
Beauty with a cut on its finger,
Wisdom with bubble gum in its hair,
and the hope of the future with
A frog in its pocket.

There's just something about little boys and frogs. They are fascinated by them. Even as adults, the little boy loves them.

Well Sunday evening Mr. Jim brought the Tornado a present.

Bullfrogs...3 of them. Lovely, isn't it?

The Tornado was tickled to death. At first he did not want to hold them. He would try to kick them or poke at them and giggle every time. But he'd shutter when trying to hold one. He just wanted to do was pour water from the watering can on them.

Then Hubby put one in his hand. He dropped, threw, picked them up by their legs.

The Tornado eventually shoved all of them into said watering can. And Hubby was getting a kick out of watching all of this.

I, on the other hand, was afraid for the poor frog's lives.

Beware of Boys and Boogers

2009-07-20T12:54:00.002-05:00

This week launches the July is the Worst Month EVER festivities and this time it will take up August and some of September. Gee Thanks!

Hubby is away this week for work so over the weekend we got in as much family time as we could.

After church, we went to lunch, which in and of itself is surprising because we hardly ever go to lunch after church because it costs $$$.

We decided to dine at a popular restaurant since it was a little before noon and there would not be a wait. The Tornado was behaving (thank you, God) and in a rather silly mood which made lunch quite amusing.

About halfway through our meal, 3 young girls were seated behind the Tornado. So he turned on the charm and began chit chatting with one of the girls as much as a 3 year old can chit chat. Her name was Katie, and she was a doll. The Tornado hugged her and put his hands on her and did everything that would annoy most people. But it did not bother her. The other girls were laughing hysterically at all of this. It was cute.

The next thing I know, The Tornado put his finger in his nose and wiped it on Katie's shoulder. I AM NOT KIDDING. Hubby and I apologized repeatedly and all she said was "It's OK." And she continued to talk to the Tornado.

I was absolutely mortified. My son just wiped a booger on a complete stranger.

What have we done? Are we raising a complete monster? Do boys really do this? What have I gotten myself in to?

All of these questions were running through my mind. And then it hit me...

We should have asked her to babysit sometime.

Blueberry Scones

2009-07-15T15:58:00.001-05:00

The other day, a friend gave me a bag of blueberries from his garden. And I have been itching to make something with blueberries. So when the opportunity presented itself, I made scones.

And, oh my gosh, they are delicious. They have just a touch of sweetness. The blueberries are so full of flavor. Yummy!!

Here's the recipe.

Blueberry Scones

1 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup butter or margarine
3/4 cup light cream
1 egg
1 cup fresh blueberries

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine flours, baking powder, and sugar. Blend in the cold butter at the lowest speed and mix until the butter is in pea-sized pieces. Combine the eggs and heavy cream and quickly add them to the flour and butter mixture. Combine until just blended.

Gently fold in blueberries with rubber scraper. Turn out on a floured surface and knead gently about six times to form a ball. Roll the dough 3/4-inch thick. Cut into squares with a 4-inch plain or fluted cutter, and then cut them in half diagonally to make triangles. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Brush the tops with egg wash. Sprinkle with sugar and bake for 20, until the outsides are crisp and the insides are fully baked.

Enjoy!

Things I Love About The South

2009-07-13T08:42:00.003-05:00

All of this Farm talk got me thinking about the South. There's no place like it. And I couldn't live anywhere else. I went to California a couple of years ago and thought I was in a foreign country. No offense to California. I so enjoyed my trip and I would love to go back. But it was even more proof that I am a Southern girl.

Mama and I were talking about the little things that make the South so unique. It was fun sharing stories and AND finding yet again more things we have in common. We kinda made a list...in no particular order...of some of the things that we love about the South.

So I thought I'd share some of them and maybe tell you a story. And just as a discalimer...Storytelling is not my gift...I am severely lacking in that department...just so we are on the same page.

And please by all means share something you love about the South.

Things I Love About The South #1

Lighting Bugs

I grew up in the country and in the summer these tiny little bugs would light up our yard at night. Most nights, I would catch them and watch them light up in my hands. And then I'd fill up a jar and watch the bugs light up the jar. I couldn't quite understand how these tiny liitle things could produce such an amazing glow. It was mesmerizing. I could watch them for hours.

And now as a mom, I have enjoyed doing the same thing with the Tornado. He carries the jar and Hubby and I catch the lighting bugs. I still have so much fun catching them. I feel like a kid all over again. And the Tornado loves it...running around the yard, chasing bugs. What more could a boy want.

Getting Creative With Snapshots

2009-07-09T11:09:00.007-05:00

I've had a bit of fun with the pictures I took at the Farm. I guess it's the artist in me and the fact that I love black and white photos. I'd fill my house with them if I could.

Here's a few that may be frame worthy.

You Can't Take The Country Out Of The Girl

2009-07-08T13:39:00.006-05:00

We went to the Farm for the 4th of July, as in Grandaddy and KK's. The Tornado loves to see the animals and run free. And Hubby loves the fishing. There's always something to do and something to see. Like the alligators in the pond.And of course in the summer, there's always the fresh veggies.

This is when our freezer begins to fill up. We have already put up 6 bushels of peas and butter beans. Along with some corn. And I spent Monday canning tomatoes.

I could get use to this...when we finally start living the farm life.

I'm not kidding. Chickens and goats. Just the small livestock. I'm not into the big stuff.

One day...

When our house sells...

And we save enough money...

And our house sells.

But enough about the house. I have wasted enough blog space on that subject when I could be showing you pictures.

Vacation Pictures

2009-07-06T15:19:00.005-05:00

I know it's been 2 weeks, but here are some of the pictures. My picture taking frequency is suspect, but I did manage to get a few shots while we were there. I am still waiting to get pictures from relatives and I'll share those too.

Ready to go.

Casa a la beach

The evening fishermen

The Tornado playing with fisherman's kayak.

Too bad the Tornado didn't enjoy the beach. But we did manage to bring a little of the beach home with us.

The Tornado enjoyed Uncle John's pool so much that we got one. And he loves it.

Catching Up

2009-07-06T14:25:00.002-05:00

Y'all, where has this summer gone? It seems like yesterday that I got back from the beach. And now it is already 2 weeks later and we are in the 1st full week in July. And you know what that means...I am not at all crazy about July.

It took a week to recover from the trip. Our yard was a mess. The plants were on the verge of dying from the lack of water. Hubby had to get the grass cut. Oh the joys of being a homeowner that wants a pretty yard. And the fact that we are trying to sell the darn thing. Which, by the way, has had lots of lookers but no takers.

The Tornado came down with a fever last Monday. I was scratching my head trying to figure out what was wrong. He had a temp. of 102.5. The poor little guy felt horrible. And then it dawned on me. He squirmed when he brushed his teeth, did not like pulling his shirt over his head, and eventually went to screaming when I put the thermometer in his ear. He is cutting a tooth. Needless to say, he is feeling much better...at least physically. He still has that toddler attitude that I praying will go away today (or maybe tomorrow).

We braved the fever and went to the Farm for the 4th of July. We finally returned yesterday with no plans to go anywhere until Hubby's work keeps him away for most of this month. And I am sure I will have plenty to say about that.

Vacation Stories

2009-06-25T13:54:00.005-05:00

I have a story or 2 to share. A week at the beach and there's bound to be a story.

It was the Tornado's first vacation so it was a little bit of an adjustment for him. But the thing that surprised me the most was how he felt about the water. He hated it. I mean every time anyone tried to get him to go into the water, it sent the Tornado into hysteria. I think it scared him more than anything. He would not go near the water even to get his feet wet. Uncle John brought a blow pool that fit perfectly on the deck. And the Tornado loved it. So it got harder and harder to get him on the beach. At last, I finally gave in and let the Tornado spend the last day in the pool. When he went down for his nap though, I went to the beach.

And I just can't tell this one any better. Mama posted a story about her precious little boy and Hubby's Crocs. You can read it here.

I Am Now Convinced That the iPod Is the Best

2009-06-23T12:25:00.002-05:00

I am way to excited to keep this from y'all.

I am blogging from my iPod. How cool is that!

Hubby got an iPod Touch a couple of months ago and it was way to overwhelming even for a tech nerd like me.

So I got a little lesson from Mama.

I can get my email, blog, listen to my music, even get my sports updates.

Apple has made a believer out of me.

After 10 Days It's Good To Be Home

2009-06-22T13:49:00.007-05:00

We had a great time with friends and family. Now, I am spending the day recovering and detoxing from the indulgences while we were away. I do however want to share some highlights from our trip. Many of which have stories of their own. And there are the pictures.

* * *

I spent the first part of my trip with my friend 3m's Mama. It was a trip long over due. There was lots of laughing and sharing stories over great food and plenty of cocktails. And My Hubby even kept the 4 children so we could enjoy a night out. Bless him for taking on such a task, but he survived.

I did a little shopping which is always so much fun. And I shopped at one of my favorite little places, Cache.

I spent the rest of the week with my family. This was the first time in almost 15 years that we have had a family vacation. Papa was very proud to have his family together again. It brought back memories of childhood at the beach.

Hubby and I celebrated our 5th anniversary. We spent a romantic evening in Rosemary Beach We had dinner at a wonderful little place called Restaurant Paradis. Afterwards, we took a little walk through the little town and then we went back to the restaurant for some cocktails. We so enjoyed our evening out and thank goodness for family willing to babysit.

I now have a tan.

AND... The Tornado is successfully potty training.

More to come.

The Fun Is Almost Over But There Is So Much To Talk About

2009-06-19T18:27:00.002-05:00

Hello from the beautiful Gulf Coast. It is HOT! But I am having a blast.

Just wanted to check in and let you know what a great vacation this has turned out to be.

I'll post pictures and give the details when I get back. Which is Sunday by the way. So I will spend most of next week blooging about the trip. I hope you don't mind.

Stay cool and see you next week!

Planning For The Vacation

2009-06-08T13:39:00.002-05:00

We leave Friday for our much needed and oh so thrilling vacation. And I can not begin to type the words that express how excited I am that we are going away for a while.

It has been a stressful couple of months and I need to unwind and not think about anything but having a good time. There are 3 things that can not be brought up in conversation while we are way... finding a new job, selling the house, and finances.

And there are only a few things I want to do... lay on the beach, watch the Tornado play in the sand, spend some quality time with my Hubby and drink a few cocktails.

So here's our plan:

The first part of our trip will be spent with my best friend 3m's Mama while Hubby fishes with his good friend. I am so looking forward to that time. Then we are spending the rest of the week with my parents. We will be joined later in the week by my Uncle John, my brother and his girlfriend. It will definitely be a family vacation.

On Thursday of next week, Hubby and I will celebrate our 5th anniversary. We will get to go out since there will be 5 babysitters. I'm sure the Tornado will never even miss us.

And then the guys will get a fishing trip in before we leave.

And if you haven't figured it our yet...we are a fishing family.

So now I have to get ready to leave.

That means cleaning the house, a trip to Wally World, manicure, pedicure and the bikini wax (have to have that one since I plan to wear my swim suit the entire time)

Another One For The Hair Book

2009-06-04T16:31:00.004-05:00

I thought I'd bring in the summer with a hair cut. I wanted it to be fun, light weight, easy and totally beachy.

(My self picture taking skills stink so here's another shot.)

I totally love it.

And since I am going to the beach in a week, it's even better.

Oh and I get to see 3m's Mama and I am so psyched.

But Let Patience Have Its Perfect Work

2009-05-31T12:24:00.004-05:00

"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." ~James 1:2-5

This past few days have been incredible difficult and confusing. The sale of house fell through. The buyers decided they did not want the house after the home inspection. It was nothing major, but just a few things that come from buying an older home. All of which are fixable, but they still decided not to buy.

I am left wondering what in the world God is doing. Particularly, when I thought the message was clear that we were suppose to move. There are many things that we are praying for. But I think the major ones are faith and patience. I have so many questions...Where is God taking us? Are my desires God's desires? What is God teaching us? What is He telling us?

"Taste and see that the Lord is good." ~Psalm 34:8

Oh, how I have repeated that to myself over and over again these last few days. The Lord is good. I have experienced His goodness so many times over the course of my life. And I know that this time will not be any different. I just have to wait on His timing, which is extremely difficult for me. Patience is not a virtue that comes to me naturally. In fact, I am very impatient. But in this case I do not have a choice. I can not force my house to sell. I can not flag people down on the street on get them to come look at my house. (Well I could, I just would look like a complete idiot doing so.)

"Taste and see that the Lord is good."

In Full Bloom

2009-05-24T13:57:00.005-05:00

It is with great excitement that I present to you our first orchid to bloom. Isn't she lovely?

And since I enjoy painting orchids, I think I shall pull out my brush and paints. This painting will be extra special.

This Has To Be A Record

2009-05-21T15:15:00.002-05:00

We have a contract on our house...

It only took 5 days...

In a pretty bad housing market...

For only $4,000 below asking price...

Which means we break even...

I am still in shock!

Bo Knows...

2009-05-14T12:30:00.002-05:00

How's this for a blast from the past? It's hard not to remember this commercial.

If you didn't hear or see, Bo gave the commencement address at Auburn University over the weekend. It was a very moving speech and if I could have I would have seen it in person. As one who grew up loving Bo and loving football and watching Bo play for my Auburn Tigers, it's cool to see him now as an Auburn man, not just as an ex-pro athlete.

More Randomness

2009-05-13T13:58:00.002-05:00

Our house is up for sale...FINALLY!

Nana and Papa were here this weekend to help out with the laundry list of stuff we had to do.

Our yard sale was a success and we sold the green house. Hubby was so sad to see it go.

The Tornado's last day of school is Friday and I am distraught. I enjoy my free mornings way too much.

We sold the last of the baseball card sets on eBay. Now, we are on to single cards. But, at least I don't have a pile of boxes stacked against the wall anymore.

Happy Mother's Day (3 days late) to all my mama friends out there.

I watched about 5 minutes of American Idol last night. Shocker I know but, I realized that I really like that Apologize song. It might have to go into my iPod.

Speaking of my iPod, I am in desperate need of some new music. Do you have any suggestions?

We have planned a beach trip in June and I get to see Mama. I am sooooo excited!

I think that's about it. I like these little bits of randomness. Don't you?

A Bunch of Randomness All In One

2009-05-04T14:20:00.006-05:00

Our house is almost ready to go. We still have a few things left to do...like have a huge yard sale to get rid of all our stuff that we do not use. And people around here show up in droves for a bargain.

My friend Meg asked where we were we moving to so I thought I'd answer that question since I kind of randomly stated that we were putting our house up for sale with no foreseen warning.

Answer: We are just trying to get out from underneath our house and praying that God will open some doors to allow us to move. Ultimately, we want to move to The Loveliest Village, buy some land and build a house.

Moving on to the randomness...

The boys got haircuts and can I tell you that I am officially scared to death.
Hubby got his fishing trip. He left Friday at 3:30 and got home at 12:30 AM. Then left again at 6:30 and returned at 12:30 PM. And this is what he had to show for it.
They were proud of their catch and I was glad to have the free fish. And Hubby had a good time.

Our garden is about to be in full bloom. And we are about to get our first orchid to bloom. I made a bargain with Hubby that he could not buy another orchid until one of ours blooms under our care. After 5 years, we finally have one. Until now they have either died or gone to be nursed back to health under someone else's care.

I think that's enough randomness for 1 day.

Home Staging 101

2009-04-29T14:54:00.002-05:00

Well I am over my exhaustion. It took many cups of coffee and a little more sleep.

Our house is well on it's way to being market ready. We still have a few things to mark off the list.

The list...it is quite long.

Our friend Jim has offered to help with some of Hubby's tasks...

IF HUBBY CAN GO FISHING

That was the contingency.

And I signed off. Hubby needs his fishing time.

But for right now I am clearing of counters and dressers, cleaning windows, dusting and how could I forget...still selling baseball cards.

And we have set a date...Monday, May 11.

Our house will officially go on the market.

That gives us a week and a half.

I better get to work.

Can I Get Another Cup of Coffee Please ?

2009-04-24T09:49:00.005-05:00

I am exhausted. My legs and feet hurt. Every morning this week I have gotten out of bed and my legs are still hurting from the night before.

We met with a 2 Realtors Monday and Tuesday. And we got 2 completely different opinions on listing our house which I thought was really interesting. One thought we should list at a price a little lower than I expected and the other thought we should list $10,000 higher. Gee, I wonder who we'll go with? It was the difference between an agent that wants to make a quick buck and one that wants us to make us as much money as we can.

So as you can see the plan is set into motion.

Next step, getting rid of all of the junk. After that...a gigantic yard sale. And then, we will officially put our home on the market.

So my body aches because I have begun the removing junk from every cabinet and self and closet we have process. I have tackled the laundry room and kitchen so far. All of the junk has now moved to the guest bedroom to await the yard sale. Which means I will have to go through all of it and put a little price tag on it. This is not fun.

And last night Hubby and I stayed up and went through all of the boxes of baseball cards. And finally, FINALLY, we are down to last few remaining boxes.

Can I get a Hallelujah?

And when I say the last few I mean 19 boxes. Yes I counted correctly, 19 boxes. And that doesn't include the 10 that are on eBay right now.

To be continued...

As Days Go By - The List Version

2009-04-17T14:17:00.007-05:00

I haven't been much of a blogger lately. I haven't even read any of my faves. We've had many things going so I thought this would be a good time for a list.

1. We had a great weekend away minus the Tornado to our old stomping ground in the ATL. It was great to eat some great food and visit with old friends.

2. Spring Break came and went and all it did was rain. And I mean it came down. The house next door flooded and the fire department came to pump the water out. Then, they came to pump the water out under our house. We had so much water it knocked out the pilot light on our water heater. Our creek overflowed and destroyed the little red shed that Hubby built.

3. We spent the entire weekend cleaning up after said monsoon. I even pressure washed the patio, deck and part of the driveway.

4. Hubby has had several job interviews and I have even had one. Nothing has come of them, but I thought I'd mention that we are in the market for jobs.

5. Which brings me to this point...we are putting our house on the market. The decision was made last night after going back and forth many, many times. I have been given the task of scheduling appointments we Realtors. There are still things we need to do to our house in order for it to be ready to list so that will be a whole new post in and of itself.

6. We are up to our eyeballs in baseball cards. Every time a sell a box on eBay a new one appears. It just seems like a never ending pile. I'll try to get some pictures up just so you'll have an idea of how many baseball cards Hubby has. We are making money so that's a plus.

7. And lastly, I am so excited about the new season of Deadliest Catch. Is anyone else hooked on this show?

This Was So Yummy I Had To Show You

2009-03-27T14:25:00.005-05:00

Last weekend we grilled up some oh so delicious chicken kabobs.

And this was easy. No clean up except for the plates and silverware. It was a nice break.

Next time we will try them with fillet mignon.

Teachable Moments

2009-03-27T13:58:00.002-05:00

Car rides have become full of conversation and quite amusing these days.

If you can call it conversation with a 2 1/2 year old.

Now when riding along in the car, I am told "turn this way" or in 2 year old lingo "tun is ay."

So the teacher in me is taking the opportunity to teach the Tornado his right and left. So when he tells me to "turn this way," I tell him we are turning right...or left. And he has to repeat what I say.

He's a genius I tell you. He'll be preforming operations or designing the greatest invention EVER by the time he's 8.

Or I can just settle for 3rd grade.

I Have Reached A New Level

2009-03-18T13:46:00.004-05:00

I have encountered a different realm of childproofing my home. You see, we have these little instruments in our home called pens . Have you heard of them? I'm sure you have. Everyone has them. My child just happens to LUV them. I mean it is so over the top that everyday I find a new hiding place for these pesky little things.

Please let me vent to you for just a minute.

The keyboard is covered in scribbling from an early morning drawing fest...not to mention the wall, the inside of the desk drawer, and my dining room chair. Oh yes, he got to the chair. And the other day, it was the sheets on my bed. I found out the wrong way that there were pens in my bed side table. Oh and don't forget the puzzles and books. Those have little scribbles in them also.

Can the madness please end...soon?

Have you had this problem?

Please make me feel better.

Because I am at my wits end with this pen saga.

It's everyday.

Moments Like That

2009-03-16T12:30:00.002-05:00

I've been meaning to put up pictures over the last few weeks, but I couldn't seem to get them loaded on to my computer until now. I think it was a case of the I'M JUST TO LAZY TO DO IT.

We have had some wonderful, picture worthy moments as of late with the great weather.

And Wouldn't You Know

2009-03-02T18:03:00.002-06:00

The kids were out of school today. Which I think was kind of funny.

I remember living in Atlanta when it snowed. The city would shut down. The milk and bread would disappear from the shelves at the grocery store. The headline of the AJC would read SNOW STORM 2000 whatever year it was. I have this vivid memory of driving downtown and it beginning to snow. Little white flakes falling from the sky. It was quite beautiful. Then all I saw were red brake lights.

But that's how we roll in the South y'all. One snowflake and everything shuts down.

Happy Winter to all that we graced with snow yesterday and today. It will be 70 by the end of the week here.

Hey, it's the South, y'all!

It's The South, And It's Snowing?

2009-03-01T15:00:00.005-06:00

We have ourselves a bonified Winter Wonderland.

It will last for maybe the day, become slush tomorrow, and if the kids are lucky there will be no school.

This is the Tornado's first snow. He'll have to wait a couple of years for the next one. So we took a few minutes to experience the snow.

And now I know why we don't live in the north.

We live in the real South...ya know, south of Atlanta and Birmingham where we're lucky if it snows once every 5 years.

Here are some pics...

Why Can't Everyday Be Like Yesterday?

2009-02-27T10:25:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was the perfect day. Well at least in my little world.

I spent most of the day outside enjoying the beautiful weather. I did a little time gardening, reading in my Bible, spent some time with Sasha. All while the Tornado was napping.

Oh and Sasha...she has been quite the handful. Puppy + German Shepherd = Lots of energy. She is a strong willed dog. She wants her way and for you to obey her. So the training and correction has been a little on the exhausting side. But, I think yesterday we had a break through.

I'll move on...

When the Tornado arose from his nap, I fixed his snack and juice and we went outside. Sasha went a little crazy but after a few corrections, she calmed down. The 2 played great together. The Tornado played in the dirt while Sasha laid there and watched. The Tornado would get up with a shovel full of dirt and put it in the pot. Sasha followed him. Occasionally she took the shovel from him. He cried. Sasha dropped it. And everyone was happy again.

All the while I am sitting in my chair enjoying my time outside. Sasha would come over to me, sit down beside me so I could rub her neck. She didn't jump, paw or nip at me. Alas, the break through.

Hubby arrived home from work to find all of us in the yard. After a little work he joined in on the festivities. After is was all said and done the Tornado was covered in dirt so a bath was in order.

Hubby cooked ribs and chicken on the grill. And Sasha had a time with the bones.

Our evening ended with the Tornado fast asleep, us on the couch watching regularly scheduled CSI and Sasha laying at our feet.

I do have pictures that I will post later.

Milestone #1

2009-02-23T09:01:00.002-06:00

We can't scream it from the mountain top...yet, but we are 1 step closer.

Today we paid off the consolidation loan!

GO US!

I had to go to the bank and get a cashier's check for a large sum of money that we have been saving because the only way to pay the loan off was in one lump sum. SIGH!

I put the check in the envelope and checked the address for the 4,000th time. I didn't want this cashier's check for a large sum of money going to the wrong address.

So driving from the bank to the post office with this cashier's check for a large sum of money made my nervous. I was shaking and all I wanted to do was give the envelope to the post office man and let God do the rest. I did my part for cryin out loud.

So now it's on to saving money...so we can buy that little piece of heaven that's waiting for us off of Highway 80.

But in the meantime that celebratory bottle of wine is going to be opened to toast our new found financial freedom. But it's not time to loosen up yet, folks. There's still much work to be done.

The Tailbone - Update

2009-02-20T20:18:00.002-06:00

I mentioned my tailbone dilemma a while ago...well I didn't exactly mention it. I had a whole post about it!

I was experiencing some major discomfort particularly when I sat down ...especially on the sofa. I ceased all pilates, which was extremely difficult. This class which meets on Tuesday afternoons is kind of my stress reliever, relaxation, and recovery all long with tightening up those pesky abs.

So I finally made an appointment with a physical therapist that my pilates instructor recommended...well she kind of insisted that I go to him. She said he's known for his tailbone expertise.

Tailbone expertise? This is something I have never heard before.

Well people let me tell you about this little tailbone of mine.

First, I found out that my pelvis was out of wack so that was fixed first. I won't bore you with the details. Just trust me when I say that my pelvis is back in its normal position.

Now on to the tailbone...I never knew such a little bone could do so much. I found out it had moved to the right and was slightly twisted. After a few exercises, this physical therapist my pilates instructor insisted that I go to fixed my tailbone.

Who woulda thought?

So now I am free to join my pilates class again. However, I am a little hesitant.

It Was a Whirlwind of a Week

2009-02-17T10:16:00.005-06:00

One of the things I enjoy about being married to Hubby is that our birthday's fall in the same week. So we usually pick a day that we celebrate together on top of trying to make each of day's special for one another. So it generally turns into Birthday Week.

Last week was indeed Birthday Week.

My birthday was Tuesday. I was serenaded by the Tornado with "Happy Birthday to you" which was quite adorable considering he can barely speak in complete sentences. Despite the fact that Hubby had his class that night, I still enjoyed my day. My Facebook wall was bombarded by many friends some of which I have not seen in a long time. When Hubby got home from class he walked through the door with flowers and chocolate covered strawberries.

Wednesday Hubby and I received a cake from one of our high school friends. It was fun to share with all our kids that we get together with on Wednesday nights.

Thursday was Hubby's birthday. He always has a request for dinner which usually involves fried pork chops and macaroni and cheese. But this year his request was hamburger helper. Hamburger helper?

For crying out loud you want me to fix you food from a box for your birthday?

Well his request was fulfilled. And for dessert I made creme brulee. At least something was homemade. And it was delicious.

Friday, my parents came for the weekend. They babysat Saturday night so we could go out to celebrate our birthdays. And Saturday happened to be Valentine's Day. One thing that I might need to mention here is that I have an utter displeasure for Valentine's Day. Let me indulge you on this displeasure.

It is a holiday created by the card, candy and flower company to exploit a day that we are suppose to show love and friendship and whatever else you want to call it when we should be doing this everyday. I don't need a day on the calendar to tell me that I need to tell my husband and child that I love them. It is something I do everyday.

But I digress...

We did go out and celebrate our birthdays, not Valentine's Day. Our server even brought us birthday cake. Thanks to the many friends that made my birthday special with phone calls, emails and Facebook.

We Can Always Supplement With Cookie Dough

2009-02-09T14:43:00.003-06:00

I had the fortunate opportunity to spend some much needed time with the girls. It was refreshing to relax and laugh...a lot. Not that I don't laugh at home, but I'm talking about the I feel like I'm in high school all over again laughing.

Yours truly was the Wii bowling champ. I have never played Wii, but I have to admit it was fun.

Can you picture 5 girls playing a video game and talking smack? I know the mental image makes me belly laugh.

And the Wii will never grace the doors of our home according to Hubby. So I guess I'll have to plan another girls weekend so I can get my Wii fix.

And for some reason I was dubbed the weekend hair stylist. I cut and colored hair. Who knew I was so talented? And to toot my own horn, the hair looked pretty darn good.

We ate some good food and laughed a lot. I think I mentioned that.

Oh and the cookie dough. I'm sure you can imagine 5 girls sitting around a tub of cookie dough.

Meltdown Thursday

2009-02-05T13:34:00.003-06:00

If you didn't gather from the title, I had a meltdown. It was small. There were tears and Hubby was feeling a little helpless. For he is on the road and has been since the wee hours of the morning yesterday.

It all started yesterday when I picked the Tornado up from school. Here's how it unfolded.

The Tornado has come into the habit of laying out in the hallway of his school to display his displeasure for something. And when I try to get him up he becomes dead weight. And yesterday, he had his little tantrum again. Not to mention all of the moms standing around watching this and me asking myself "Do I really want to spank my child in front of all of these people?" In the car, I gave him his juice, and he threw it on the floor in protest of something. This something means that I have no idea what. Then he couldn't find his stick that he got in class and he goes to screaming. Meanwhile, I am driving down the road not really able to do anything except listen to this tantrum. So my solution was to turn up the music to drown out the screaming. Can I tell you that Kelly Clarkson sounds really bad when she is played really loud.

Later on in the day, I took the dog outside (Sasha has returned from obedience school a couple of weeks ago, and I'll discuss he later on in this post) and I smelled gas. I called the gas company and someone came out. After an hour the guy tells me I have a gas leak in the water heater and I need to call a plumber. I called the plumber, he quickly comes out and 2 hours later I have a bill for $200. I had the option to replace the valve or the water heater. I chose the valve because buying a new water heater is not in the budget.

The Tornado was still in his "mood" after his nap. And he has started filling available cups with water because he can now reach the water dispenser in the refrigerator and watering the plants. Except all of the water gets onto the floor. More about this later.

The Tornado was sent to bed at his usual time fighting it all the way. And I poured myself a class of wine.

Then there was today!

I awoke this morning to rumbling in the laundry room. This is where Sasha sleeps at night until she gets out of her puppy phase. Up until now this has worked out well. I opened the door to find her bed shredded and pee on the floor. Apparently she needed to go to the bathroom and took it out on the bed. I cleaned up the pee, closed the door and when to the gym.

I was hoping to take my frustration out on the treadmill, but it didn't really work out that way.

When we got home, all I wanted I got out of the shower. I put on the dreaded Veggie Tales, which up until today keeps the Tornado occupied so I can take a shower. I found water on the kitchen floor and more in the living room next to the plant that the Tornado enjoys watering. The house was a disaster already.

I lost it. I screamed and cried.

Glad to get it out of my system. I think I scared the Tornado so I had to reassure him that Mommy was OK.

So to make me feel better I have now gone into cleaning mode. I am getting everything out of site that is causing such turmoil in the Sporty House.

And tonight I will have another glass of wine, maybe 2.

It's National Signing Day!

2009-02-04T10:16:00.005-06:00

Today is National Signing Day, the day all high school football players sign their lives away to the school of their choice. Some commit early and others wait until the last minute. They hold press conferences and put on a big show.

Just sign your name for cryin out loud!

I will be following closely because that's a just what I do. Hubby follows recruiting very closely so I naturally take an interest.

There are suppose to be a few surprises today. There has already been one. Thanks, DeAngelo Benton! Welcome to Auburn!

I'm A Little Disappointed

2009-02-02T14:05:00.003-06:00

For the past few months I have been trying to juggle working, being a wife and a mama along with all of the other jobs that classify as manager of our home. It has been overwhelming at times particularly when the Tornado does not want to nap or doesn't quite nap as long as I think he should.

I liked bringing in a little extra money to help with our way too tight budget. It gave me a sense of fulfillment that I was able to contribute just a little bit. Not to downplay my contributions as a wife and a mama along with all of the other jobs that classify as manager of our home. Like I didn't have enough to do already.

When I took the job I was told that it was a temporary, contract job and that Google could terminate it any time.

Well, I got the news last week that Google was terminating my contract effective February 10. Let's just say that it's a little disappointing (hence the title of this post). And for those of you who do not know, THAT"S MY BIRTHDAY!

This was working out good for me. I could do everything at home. But who would want to terminate me? Really? There was no explanation. So I can only assume it was 1 of 2 things... they didn't like the work I was doing or they are eliminating temporary workers because they are getting hit by the economy. I am going take the latter...at least for my own self respect.

So to supplement the lost wages, I am hitting eBay pretty hard. Hubby has a baseball card collection that is worth a little money and he graciously agreed to sell some of it off. I know it is hard for him to give up these precious collectibles. Bless him!

I'm just glad I have something to do. Like I didn't have enough to do already.

Wait, I think I already said that.

Rice and Bean, Beans and Rice

2009-01-30T16:22:00.004-06:00

I thought I'd share the monthly Dave Ramsey's Newsletter. It has some articles that I found interesting and you might, also.

Hubby and I are clamping down tight this year. It has the potential to be a milestone year and pay off all of our debt. One area we are going to hit hard is groceries. We are going cheap...rice and bean, beans and rice. Not really, but we are going cheap.

And this is a painful one for me. I enjoy cooking good food with fresh ingredients. I am not one for food out of a box. So I now I about to do the thing that I dislike the most.

Sacrifice, that's what we are doing!

And, I do not sacrifice very well mind you. So this will be totally from the Lord.

And here's an article entitled Recession Proof Yourself: Your Economy is up to You!

The Tale of My Tailbone

2009-01-26T14:58:00.002-06:00

I am sitting at my computer listening to my non napping child as he jabbers away while not taking a nap. And as I sit here, my tailbone is expressing its discomfort towards the positon that I am in.

I think I have mentioned it before but I really LUV Pilates. I firmly believe that Pilates is the reason I got my pre-baby bod back. It is a great work out and so relaxing at the same time.
Let me me give you a brief back ground on my Pilates experience. I had my first introduction to this exercise about 9 years ago in a Yoga/Pilates combo. And it was clear that I enjoyed the Pilates more than the Yoga. Yoga just made my body go into positions that it had never done before and it was screaming at me to stop. I, then, found a Pilates studio near my house and began taking to supplement my marathon training. When we moved, the gym we joined offered a Pilates class and so after the Tornado was old enough I started going. It has been great for me...

Up until I bruised my tailbone.

Yes, people, you can bruise your tailbone. And let me tell you it does not feel good. Apparently I bruised it several months ago and then reaggrevated it. And now I have a spur on the end of my tailbone. All I can take for it is Aleve until it goes away.

I tearfully told my Pilates instructor about my tailbone experience. She was so comforting and offered several suggestions and even gave me a matt with a hole cut out in the middle just for my tailbone. However, I have decided to take a break from Pilates to let my tailbone recover.

Now I am left to the treadmill and lifting weight, which is fine. That's what iPods are for.

Living Like No One Else - Financial Freedon 101

2009-01-24T11:31:00.000-06:00

Financial Freedom 101 is my version of Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover. It is a solid money management plan that the average family could live by, pay off debt and begin to build wealth. He says, "Live like no one else, so later you can live like no one else."

Dave has what he calls 7 Baby Steps. I added one because I think it is crucial to have a budget, on paper. One that is detailed and realistic. We are only at Baby Step 3, but we about to make it to #4. Wha-Hoo.

Create a bare bones budget on paper. This means the minimum amount that you can live on. Find things to cut out in order to pay off debt.
Save $1,000 to start an Emergency Fund. Things happen...the air conditioner, new tires, etc. This ensures that there is money to pay for them without using a credit card. If you have to use the Emergency Fund, stop paying on the debt and build the Emergency Fund back up.
Pay off ALL debt using the Debt Snowball. List all of your debts from smallest to largest. Pay the minimums on all debts except the first one, which you pay any extra funds you have. When that one is paid off, you take the money you payed on the first debt and put it towards the second. Then you do that with the third, and so on and so on, until all your debt is gone. This one is the most difficult because against what our culture says.
Save 3 to 6 months of expenses. After all the debt is gone, the money used to pay towards the debt should go into savings until there is enough to cover 3 to 6 months of expenses.
Invest 15% of household income into Roth IRAs and pre-tax retirement.
College funding for children. This should be done AFTER saving for retirement. Other financial plans tell you the opposite. But you need to take care of yourself so that you can take care of your kids.
Pay off home early. Some people lump this one into the Debt Snowball. It depend on where you are in your home and whether you plan to be in your home long term.
Build wealth and give! Invest in mutual funds and real estate.

Now you can call me crazy!

There's No Denying This

2009-01-21T13:33:00.001-06:00

After the Tornado had his school picture made, I had a thought... (I know scary isn't it.)

I have seen this picture before.

So I began rummaging through old photo albums and I came across one of Hubby's baby pictures.

I could not believe my eyes. Hubby has a mini-me. I knew they favored each other but come on.

I am doomed!

Living Like No One Else - Our Finances

2009-01-19T13:06:00.003-06:00

Our financial plan is the biggest topic in our house. I haven't made it the top subject on this blog and I probably won't. But I am going to spend a little time on our financial plan because I'm just the kind of girl that can't hold anything in. And maybe it will encourage someone along the way.

So here we go...

I have become a devout believer in being debt free. I think it is honoring to God, and it is very liberating, freeing, (insert adjective here). I look forward to the day that I do not owe anyone a dime, and I can pay for everything in cash.

But, I have not always been this way. When Hubby and I got married, we inherited each others debt and made some not so smart decisions with our money. We made a decent living, and we had nothing to show for it but a pile of debt.

We became enlightened by Dave Ramsey about 2 and a half years ago . He laid out a solid money management plan that the average family could live by, pay off debt and begin to build wealth. He says, "Live like no one else, so later you can live like no one else."
I bought his book, The Total Money Makeover (which, by the way, I had to use the credit card because there was no cash to pay for the book), and we have not been the same since. I strongly encourage everyone to read this book.

We have had many milestones and also, may lulls in this financial plan. In all honesty, it has been extremely difficult and extremely rewarding at the same time. People think we are crazy, but that only confirms that we are on the right track. I believe that God has blessed us through this and will continue to.

Up next, Financial Freedom 101.

On His Way Home

2009-01-16T19:05:00.003-06:00

I bring you this post with a little frustration...OK a lot of frustration.

You see my Husband has been away all week in Salt Lake City. It was work related. He was under the impression that he would be there until Friday so he booked his travel accordingly. Well, come to find out he was only suppose to be there until Thursday. And his company told him they'd much rather pay for the hotel than change his flight.

So today he was suppose to arrive home safely around 7ish. All was going according to plan until he landed in Chicago. He had 10 minutes to make his connection only to find out that said connection was on the other side of the airport. Hence, he missed his flight.

Then... the airline, which shall remain nameless, put him on the 7:30 flight to Atlanta and 1st for standby on the 5:15 flight. Well when it came time to board the standby passengers, Hubby did not get a ticket. Everyone else made it but him. So he had a few candid words for those airline people. To bad it didn't do anything to get him on the flight. But at least he felt a little better. I know I did NOT.

Rrrrrrrrrrr!

Meanwhile, the Tornado is throwing fits because he wants to watch Veggie Tales, and quite frankly, I am sick and tired of Veggie Tales.

So I am sitting here at the computer with my glass of wine, waiting for my husband to return from being gone for 5 days.

It's July All Over Again, Not Really

2009-01-12T12:30:00.003-06:00

But it's real close. If you need a refresher on what July is like in the Sporty House, go here.

Hubby is away this week. This begins another busy time with his job, and it takes him away from us for a while. It also brings back the fond memories I have of July. And helps me to remember that July is now less than 6 months away.

Let the countdown begin.

So the Tornado and I are left to fend for ourselves. We are doing alright, but the little guy is beginning to notice that Daddy is not around. And when that happens...and I shall quote my dear friend Larry the Cucumber..."The games afoot."

Because Veggie Tales in on repeat in our house. And let me tell you I can sing a some Silly Songs with Larry.

So...I'll have the glass of wine and the Tylenol on hand. Because right now I need it.

I'm Not One For Resolutions

2009-01-12T12:18:00.005-06:00

Well, I guess there may be one... I resolve not to set myself up for failure.

But I do like to set goals. It's more along the lines of...Hubby likes to set goals. So we began our fabulous new year with some goal setting.

They are broken down into 4 categories.

Family - More family outings: park, zoo, aquarium etc (any ideas would be greatly appreciated).

Marriage - Quality time in the morning before the Tornado touches down and more date nights.

Financial - Pay off the credit card consolidation loan and save 6 months of expenses.

Personal - Apply to graduate school and begin classes to renew my teaching certificate (this a post in and of itself.

Check back with me in 6 months and see how I am doing.

And We're Onto To Potty Training Again

2009-01-09T07:18:00.001-06:00

So the last time I blogged on this subject it was an absolute nightmare. Who knew getting a 27 month old to use the toilet would be so stressful?

This time out of nowhere, the Tornado is interested in the potty. And to describe the setting of potty time, it goes a little something like this...

The pull up needs to be changed (because this is a sssslow process) the Tornado goes running back to his room, occasionally he gallops (Oh, if I had a video camera to capture this. It is a true site.). As I am kneeling on the floor, trying to pull down his packs, the Tornado begins to spin around and around and around. As soon as the pants come down and the pull up comes off, it begins. The Tornado starts his little dance, running in place and grabbing himself between the legs then yells, I kid you not, yells, "TEE TEE POTTY." And he runs to the toilet.

It is one of the funniest things I have ever seen. If you could be at my house to see this you'd laugh until you peed in your pants.

2008: A Look Back

2009-01-06T07:31:00.001-06:00

Is anyone else glad that it is a new year?

There are many things that I am so glad to put to rest and move on...like the 2008 Auburn football season.

But in all seriousness...

2008 had it's ups and downs. We didn't have any huge milestone with our finances. So it really felt like we weren't getting anywhere. But the reality is, we were. When we look at it on paper, we paid off a huge amount. But nothing we can check off of the debt list.

We are just going to wait on the mail fairy to deliver a $60,000 check to our mailbox.

But I thought I'd look at the brighter side of things. To bring in the new year, I have created my 2008 Top 10. (They are really in no particular order. I just had to number them so it would look like a top 10.)

10. Finally getting a greenhouse so Hubby's plants won't die.

9. Our getaway to Chattanooga.

8. Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.

7. My Accountablility Group.

6. Spending a great evening with 3m's Mama and her hubby.

5. The Tornado's 2nd Birthday.

4. Our 4th Wedding Anniversary.

3. Selling Coke bottles on eBay for $550.

2. Sasha, our new German Shepard.

1. Making some progress on paying off debt.

Cheers!

Our Little Christmas Ruiner

2009-01-05T13:30:00.001-06:00

Oh, you know there had to be some sort of Tornado disaster in our house on Christmas morning.

This is what we woke up to Christmas morning.

All of the Tornado's gifts were unwrapped. I am not kidding!

He was awake, but he was awfully quiet. The door to his room was shut but he was not in there. He was found in the living room with his gifts...opened. I was so looking forward to watching him open all of his gifts. He just opened all of ours.

I guess I will have to wait until next year.

Now That The Madness Has Ended

2009-01-03T13:12:00.002-06:00

I am glad that I can put 2008 behind me. HELLO 2009. So thrilled you have arrived!

I can relax. At least for a little while.

The last 2 weeks have been full of all kinds of craziness. We had a house full of people, then Hubby and I dropped the Tornado off at Granddaddy and Kay's so we could go on a mini getaway. We spent 2 nights in a little town about an hour and a half away. We used Hubby's Hilton points to get a free hotel. Trying to conserve that money ya know. We ate some good food and partied for New Years Eve. It was a nice change of pace. But we are glad to be home.

And it is so nice to be back in the blogosphere. I have missed you, friends. I have much to blog about so it may take a few posts to get it all out.

Happy New Year!

The Card Revealed

2008-12-22T14:46:00.004-06:00

Merry Christmas from the Sporty House!

And the Tour

2008-12-16T13:50:00.011-06:00

Yes, the Sporty House Christmas Extravaganza is in full swing. So courtesy of BooMama I thought I'd give you a tour. And check out the rest of the tour at the Tour of Christmas Homes.

Come on in!

The wreath on my front door.

My very real Christmas tree. This year I decided to use feathers as my tree topper. I like the exotic

This is the mantle in the living room.

And the adorable stockings that I just love.

This year I found these red trees that I think are fabulous.

And the centerpiece on my dining room table.

Hope you enjoyed my home!

Merry Christmas!

Here's a Sneak Peak

2008-12-06T08:30:00.005-06:00

I have been diligently working on the Sporty House Christmas Extravaganza. The decorations are up inside except for the tree. We will be getting that this weekend.

We have to have a real live Christmas tree according to Hubby. I'll take the fake tree any ole day, but on this particular topic, Hubby pulls the head of the household card. Oh how I love that card.

Anyway...the outside still needs to be decorated and I am hoping to get to that this weekend.

And I do have my Christmas cards finished.

Welcome to the Second Annual Sporty Mama Christmas Card Sneak Peak.

I will toot my own horn for a couple of sentences if you don't mind. I started on this project a month ago. I usually start at Thanksgiving and get completely stressed out trying to do this and everything else I want to accomplish during Christmas. This year's goal was get this done before the 2nd week in December. And y'all, I succeeded.

Hope you enjoyed your sneak peak. The full card will be revealed shortly.

Have a great weekend and deck those halls y'all!

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all!

2008-11-26T13:33:00.004-06:00

I apologize for the lack of posting, but the Sporty House has been a little sick. The Tornado has recovered from his cut beautifully (after a couple of trips to the doctor's office). I know y'all were concerned.

I, then, proceeded to acquire a nasty stomach virus. Let me warn you people, this thing is bad. I was doubled over in pain. It felt like contractions all over again (not really, it just feels good saying it) that's how much pain I was in. I am still recovering from it. But I felt good enough today to get in a little Christmas shopping.

We will be traveling tomorrow and I do plan on being well enough to eat even if I have to force myself. I can't pass up all of that good food.

Happy eating!

Our Little Inventor

2008-11-26T13:30:00.000-06:00

We have a very innovative child. I honestly think he destroys things just to figure out how it is put together. As Mama put it, he'll be the child that takes the radio apart just to see how it works.

And the other day, the Tornado found a new use for his spanking spoon.
Pretty creative don't you say!

It Was Bound To Happen Sooner or Later.

2008-11-11T12:43:00.003-06:00

The Tornado made his first trip to the doctor's office that was not a regular check up or sick related. This one was injury related. It was only a matter of time.

Today was haircut day. The Tornado was sitting in the chair and for some reason thought it would be fun to take a nose dive onto the floor. Along the way, he hit the armoire and cut his cheek.

The deeply concerned mom in me cleaned him up, put a band aid on the cut, gave the little man some Skittles and continued with the haircut.

Because I was bound and determined to get that boy's hair cut, ya know. It was a shaggy mess and quite frankly I was tired of looking at it. Meanwhile, the band aid is red from all of the blood.

After the haircut, the deeply concerned mom in me thought maybe I should call the doctor just to see. They wanted him to come in so off we went. And wouldn't you know, he needed stitches.

I guess my concerned paid off, and we got that haircut!

Hubby's Trophy From The Weekend

2008-11-05T13:55:00.007-06:00

**What you about to see is not normal on this blog. But Hubby was proud therefore Sporty Mama was proud of him.**

My Hubby is a deeply country man. He is all about his southern heritage. He drives a big ole pickup truck that you can hear coming from the end of our street. He loves hunting and fishing, but not necessarily in that order. Our house is filled with guns, knives, fishing poles and all sorts of related equipment. And he has several mounted animals, skulls and skins.

Trust me people, I do not find these items visually appealing and they certainly do not coordinate with decor in our home. This is where compromise began in our marriage. These items are confined to one room in our home.

Anyway...

Hubby swears up and down that he will get me in a deer stand one day. And I say only with a heater, my iPod and Starbucks. Not to mention the fact that I won't touch that gun of his.

So hunting season has officially began in our state and Hubby went to the woods Saturday. I got a call from him excitedly telling me about his hunt and that our freezer will be full this year. He neglected to tell me his prize. This is what he brought back along with 2 others.

In the hunting world this is a pretty fine day!

I Was In Line At 6:45 This Morning

2008-11-04T07:33:00.002-06:00

There were 150 people in line ahead of me when I got there. I had no idea what to expect so I got up early to get it over with. It took me an hour and 15 minutes to actually vote.

So I fulfilled my responsibility as an American. Now I wait and see what happens.

Make sure your vote today.

My Fabulous New Dinnerware

2008-11-03T13:38:00.006-06:00

I have such exciting news. I got new dinnerware. I know, this is such thrilling information that I am beside myself.

I have been looking (and saving) for a long time. So here's what happened...

We have been using the same dinnerware that I bought when I graduated from college 10 years ago. It was a 40 piece set I found on sale from Beth, Bath and Beyond. It was cheap and served its purpose.

When Hubby and I began completing our wedding registry, I convinced him that we did not need everyday china because what I had would work for now and fine china was much more expensive. And one day we could get a new set of everyday china. Sounds pretty good to me!

So now I convinced myself it was time because I was tired of looking at my old dinnerware.

A brief aside...There is nothing wrong with my old dinnerware. It eats just fine. I just wanted something that was a little more higher end. Confession! I know. I am admitting that I have a need for higher end dinnerware. So sad.

I wanted something classic, nothing too bold or frilly. So I decided to go with white. I searched hard looking for the perfect set. I had the hardest time with the bowls and coffee mugs. I did not want a rimmed bowl or one too deep. And the coffee mug needed to have some character, not a tea cup or a chunky mug, though. See my line of thinking. I was being extremely picky. I went to almost every store in my town, which by the way are not very many, and found nothing. And then it dawned on me. I forgot one.

And there it was...at Pier One. $25 for 4 place settings... so I bought 3 of them. Now, I have 12 place settings. It's nothing fancy, but I love it.

Where Has The Time Gone?

2008-11-03T12:54:00.002-06:00

I must say that feel deeply terrible about the neglect that has taken place at One Sporty Mama. They say that time is money and right now the spare time I have goes into making some $$$. So I am sorry to say that the ole blog has been pushed aside. I do have a few things to blog about...like Hubby's trophy from the weekend and Sporty Mama's new set of dinnerware that she got a fabulous price and the Tornado's potty training fiasco.

So stay tuned.

Please Allow Me to Step Onto My Soap Box

2008-10-24T08:25:00.005-05:00

As I was sitting on my sofa last night watching the massacre that was the Auburn-West Virginia game, my blood began to boil. In the history that I have been an Auburn fan, which is all of 32 years, I have never been so sick to my stomach. I actually got up and walked out of the room only to return when the game was over.

During these years that I have followed my Tigers...and when I say followed, trust me I have followed them to Lexington, KY, Charlottesville, VA, Fayetteville, AR and beyond...I have never seen a fan base that is so disgruntled as the one we have. We have become spoiled. We have won a lot of games, but according to our fan base that's not good enough because there are no championships.

To my faithful readers who actually care, there are maybe 3 of you, please allow me to give you some statistics.

Under Tuberville, Auburn has won 50 games in 5 years. He has a winning record against its two biggest rivals, Georgia (5-4), and Alabama (7–2) and is tied with its next most significant rival, LSU (5-5). He has led Auburn to 6 straight victories over Alabama. Since the start of the 2004 season, Tuberville has won 9 of the last 11 games against Top 10 opponents. In 2006, his Tigers recorded victories over two Top 5 teams who later played in BCS bowls, including eventual BCS Champion Florida. Tuberville has a 5-1 career record versus Top 5 teams, including 3 wins versus Florida. Tuberville has coached 19 players who were selected in the NFL draft, including four first round picks in 2004. He has coached 8 All-Americans and a Thorpe Award winner (Carlos Rogers). Thirty-four players under Tuberville have been named to First Team All-SEC. Eighteen players have been named All-SEC freshman. His players have been named SEC player of the week 46 times. He has also had 2 SEC players of the year and one SEC Championship game MVP.

The bottom line is...The grass is not greener on the other side.

Joe Paterno is in his 59th season at Penn State. He's won 2 national championships. It took him 17 years to win his 1st.

Bobby Bowden is in his 31st season at Florida State. He's won 2 national championships. AND It took him 17 years to win his 1st.

See a connection.

I went to Auburn during the Terry Bowden era so I know what bad is. My Dad lived through the "streak" and Bear Bryant. He knows what bad is. This is not bad, it has been a tough year. Auburn can not and will not win every game. That's asking for perfection and we do not live in a perfect world.

So I ask all Auburn men and women, lay off the "it's time for Tuberville to go" nonsense. There's no one else out there that is better suited to coach this program.

War Eagle Always!

Housekeeping...I Need Some Help!

2008-10-22T09:29:00.004-05:00

This working thing has left me with little time for the daily household chores I am use to doing. I have said this before and I'm saying it again...I like a clean and organized house. And I have had to push that aside for now.

But IT IS DRIVING ME CRAZY!

My Hubby has reassured me that is OK if the beds don't get made or there is a pile of dishes in the sink. And I don't like it one bit. It makes me feel chaotic and scattered. I so need to get over this because...

When I work...from home...every day...while Thomas is at school or taking a nap...I get paid. WOW, that should be incentive to let the orderliness of my house get pushed aside for right now. And if that is not reason enough, let's think about this one. If I work 3 hours a day...5 days a week, $200 show up in our checking account every Thursday.

I think I should get over this. Don't you think?

A Great McCain Campaign Quote

2008-10-16T17:32:00.002-05:00

"It is astounding that Joe Biden, the self-adulated everyman, can't believe that an American making less than $250,000 a year might still be opposed to socialism," said McCain spokesman Ben Porritt. "Barack Obama wants to raise taxes and redistribute the wealth in this country because he believes government can spend your money better than you can -- it's not just naive, it's poor judgment."

Sometimes I Could Just Pull All of My Hair Out

2008-10-16T12:53:00.003-05:00

I have been trying to figure out how to describe my life right now. So I am going to attempt to tell about all of the goings on around the Sporty House.

We have basically been gone since oh the end of August. I kid you not. The house is in shambles. And our yard...I'm not even going to go there. I have been doing good to get Thomas to preschool and the laundry done. Football is the ruler of our home this time of the year. And seeing as if we live 3 hours from our Saturday destination, it gets old really fast. Somethings got to give. Either we need to move or give up football. Hmmmm...which one do you think we'll choose?

We got a dog...a puppy that does puppy things, like pooping and peeing and chewing ON MY FEET! And this puppy named Sasha and Thomas do not play well together. Thomas antagonizes Sasha and Sasha scratches and bites (playfully). Thomas begins to cry and runs to me, Sasha follows and begins chewing on my feet. Thomas runs away, Sasha follows. And we start all over again.

I started a job. It is a job that I can do from home which is great. But it also means that all of things I use to do when Thomas is at preschool and napping have to be done some other time. And I have not quite figured out when that other time is. It brings in extra money so it will help ease the budget burden.

Hubby is grossly unhappy in his job. He's hardly at home, overworked, stressed out and underpaid. And Sporty Mama wants her husband at home. So what does all of this mean? A job search. So the resume updating has begun. This also opens up a whole new can of worms...relocation. And you you know what is involved in that. But hey, that could eliminate the football problem.

So with all that is the Sporty House, I just want to sink my bottom into my comfy, bleach stained sofa and drink a glass of wine.

A List - I Have A Few Things To Say

2008-10-10T09:21:00.004-05:00

1. I have a job. I probably should have mentioned this a little earlier but this week has been a little nuts trying to balance it all. It is a temp job with Google. I get to work from home 10 to 30 hours a week. The pay is pretty good too. Since money is a little tight it will be good for our family to bring in a little extra.

2. I so don't know what to think about my Auburn football team. I mean they fired the offensive coordinator in the middle of the week, in the middle of the season for cryin out load. When I first heard this I thought is was a joke. It is either going to turn things around or completely backfire. If the latter happens, the end of the season will be pretty ugly and there will probably be a few more unemployed coaches. I am going to the game tomorrow... hesitantly.

3. This puppy business is making me crazy. I have done nothing but clean up poop and pee. Talk about making me gag. Plus, she and Thomas play rough together. I have to separate them like two fighting children.

I think that about does it for the weekly wrap up. Have a great weekend!

To Be A Child Again

2008-10-08T14:19:00.007-05:00

We took Thomas to the fair. Besides being overstimulated and extremely exhausted from walking (wait a minute...am I talking about myself?), he had quite a time.

We saw all of the farm animals, rode a few rides and pigged out on that yummy fair food that makes me want to run 10 miles to make sure I get ALL of the calories.We went to the petting zoo TWICE...
And rode 2 rides. That was all the little guy could handle.
But he did manage to find these.

Too bad it only happens once a year.

Vacation on a Budget

2008-10-07T11:10:00.007-05:00

Hubby and I are the self proclaimed king and queen of budget living. It is hard at times, but we find creative solutions to have fun without spending a lot of money. And we still take vacations, cheap vacations.

Our friends were gracious enough to let us stay at their lake house for 4 days. We did not hesitate to take them up on their offer. It would allow us a much needed break from our little world without the stress of coming up with money for a vacation. So we packed the car with groceries and headed out of town.

It was quiet, beautiful and in the middle of nowhere.We cooked breakfast in the mornings.
And enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee.
We took Thomas to a fish hatchery. And he went nuts looking at all of the fish.
And he was entertained just throwing rocks into the water.
And then there's Sasha. Her ears are sticking up now so she looks like a German Shepherd.
Daddy and son had a great time together. (I so want to frame this picture.)
We had a great family vacation. We got to relax and spend some much needed time together with no distractions...

without spending a lot of money. Can't beat that!