Thrasher Daze

The Age of Innocence

2011-10-24T19:47:00.003-04:00

What a wonderful world. Click here for slide show and feel the joy!

Hmmmmmmm.......

2011-10-04T16:29:00.000-04:00

Wonder when the laundry fairy is coming to visit and giving my laundry room a fresh new look??

Remembering

2011-09-11T20:05:00.000-04:00

September 11, 2001 Memorial

Most of us thought about where we were 10 years ago today and probably shed a tear or two. I asked myself what good things have happened in the last 10 years and I came up with the following....

Brock and Meme

Grady and Mac

And look how far they've come in 10 years.

Laundry room of the day....

2011-07-27T11:39:00.000-04:00

This is for you Moms....

Haven't you always wanted to get your childrens' black and white portraits done so you could display them in your perfectly polished laundry room? Wouldn't it be nice to gaze into their perfectly posed faces as you worked on getting out the grape juice and ballpark stains?

I have been waiting all summer.....

2011-06-24T16:09:00.000-04:00

LAUNDRY!!! 2 boys, 2 weeks, 2 trunks, 2 pugs to sniff it.....My laundry room is rejoicing because the boys are home from camp today! Wanda the Washer is really causing a stink this afternoon but she's gettin it done....one load at a time.

The wheels of progress are turning....

2011-06-09T09:59:00.001-04:00

DAY 1--demolition

What I've been up to...

2011-06-09T09:57:00.000-04:00

Hard to believe these are all "grays." Narrowed down from 126 other shades of gray.

Laundry Room of the day....

2011-06-03T12:55:00.000-04:00

She looks ready for summer huh?

I am guessing in the part of the room you can't see she hides wet bathing suits with sand in the pockets and wadded up beach towels. I am impressed the laundry fairy who frequents this room also looks to have a green thumb---Laundress/Gardener?? That would look good on a business card.

Does the laundry fairy....

2011-05-23T12:35:00.000-04:00

...in this house really sort the laundry according to each member of the family?

THEN does aforementioned family member take their own personal basket to their room?

THEN does family member put up laundry?

THEN does the laundry fairy meet family member back in the laundry room to replace empty basket in the proper slot?

When I find this laundry fairy, I will bottle her and poke holes in the top of the jar. She belongs in the Laundry Olympics.

Laundry room of the day....

2011-05-03T16:17:00.000-04:00

Chandelier and wallpaper---yes! Judging from this laundry room all the laundry must be sent out.

When life gives you lemons....

2011-04-27T12:33:00.000-04:00

....squeeze them on your laundry.

I will remind you again---I love/hate to talk about laundry. The boys now know how to do laundry literally by osmosis. I haven't taught them how. Brock and Mac told me yesterday that if I put a 1/2 cup of lemon juice in with the laundry it would whiten our whites. Who knew? Apparently the folks over at Zombie Farm---some *≈(*&^%^ video game that gives you "fun fruit facts" everytime you nail a zombie with a piece of fruit or sumpin like that. Headin to Publix for lemon juice. Summer is coming and I LOVE white whites.

Laundry room of the day....

2011-04-12T21:28:00.000-04:00

Do you think the Laundress of this household reads biographies of former 1st Ladies while she sips a martini in her striped chair while waiting on her delicates to dry? I like to imagine her that way.

The key to happiness....

2011-04-12T11:36:00.000-04:00

...is ORGANIZATION!!! I knew it wasn't weird that I've been having an affair with my label maker.

The Stepford Wives....

2011-04-07T22:18:00.000-04:00

....must do laundry here, because no real wife or mom looks like she's ever really worked up a sweat in this one. Though, I could really sort some lights and darks in here--on 2nd thought it's so spa like--the darks would get their feelings hurt because the lights would talk about them behind their backs. A girl can dream...

Laundry room of the day....

2011-04-05T07:48:00.000-04:00

Dreaming of the peaceful mom who soaks stains in the room above.

My boys came home from a weekend camping and my laundry room looks like this....

Honesty is funny.

2011-03-27T22:06:00.000-04:00

Me: I will see yall in awhile. I am going to the gym. Dad is upstairs. Love you. Be good.

Mac to Shelby: Dad doesn't do much while mom is gone.

Keep it real.

You can tell a lot about laundry...

2011-03-25T23:49:00.000-04:00

...by the person who performs it.

These are the baseball pants that have only been through 15 or so practices but I am hopeless. These ball field stains never had a chance. I probably put them through the dryer cycle a time or two before treating the stain but so be it. At least it looks like Brock is really putting in a lot of effort. Tips?

Real Simple thoughts on laundry

2011-03-24T00:12:00.000-04:00

It's interesting that not only my friends and I incessantly talk about laundry but Real Simple has a stand on it as well. Some interesting tips in the linked article.

What kills me is one of the author's brilliant suggestions: have a stain stick in every child and spouse's hamper so when the clothes are put in hamper--the owner of said clothes can go ahead and treat the stain preventing stain from soaking in for two days.

I don't know what planet her spouse and kids are from? Maybe she's married and has another WIFE!!

Anyway there are some good tips, but even more interesting comments from Real Simple readers at the end of the article. One reader actually brags she's a laundry bad-ass. She has 5 kids and says "is laundry really that hard for you people." You people? She must employ the services of a Laundress. Maybe I can be her 2nd Laundress when her 1st one reads about her making "light" of laundry and quits.

For now I will just lust for this laundry room. can you imagine sitting on top of one of these babies while on the spin cycle?

Much ado about laundry

2011-03-23T12:38:00.000-04:00

There's a lot of talk about laundry around here ALL the time. I mean ALL the time! Did I say all the time?

I seriously am thinking of a new career---Head Laundress. I think there's a market for it.

For crying out loud---I gather it. I frown at it. I accumulate it. I tackle it. I re-arrange it. I sort it. I fold it. I re-locate it. I put it away. I repeat.

I now estimate that after successfully managing my own laundry and the laundry of my family and friends, I have washed and folded approximately 12012 loads! 22 years of laundry at 52 weeks a year at an average of 1.5 loads a day equals 12,012 loads. Surely, when applying for said Head Laundress position I would have the equivalent of an MD, JD, MBA, Phd in experience. How could I get passed over?

2010 was inspiring.

2010-12-31T17:10:00.007-05:00

What inspired me in 2010...

Grady, Brock, and Mac--They inspired me to be a better wife and mother everyday.

Teddy and Bea--THE PUGS! You haven't seen love until you've seen the boys in my house hug a pug.

Our vet, Lance Hirsch--We spent quite a bit of time at the vet this year due to Munson's ailing health and acquiring new pups. The day we lost Munson was such an emotional one for the boys and I. Grady was out of town and it couldn't wait. Lance gently held the boys' hands, explained the life of a dog and how Munson's life would peacefully slip away. He showed great compassion as he taught the boys about the circle of life that Saturday morning. Thumbs up for the compassionate and sincere caregivers of humans and our pets.

My Girlfriends--They made me laugh my bottom off everyday and laughter does a body good!

Yoga--I got a taste of this physical and spiritual practice which I hope to devote more time to in 2011. It truly stretched not only my physical self but my mind as well.

The Gym--This was the year I finally added a weight circuit to my workouts. This made me feel strong, and somedays I even felt like a bad-ass.

Blogs--There were lots of beautiful pictures, words of wisdom, and everyday stories of Moms and their families out there. I was lucky enough to peek into the lives of these bloggers. I found lots of comfort and support in sharing professional and mundane experiences with other mothers and now new found friends in the blogosphere.

Rosalie Davis and Betsy Robinson, my instructor at The Schenck School and Mac's former tutor--if either or both of these amazing women are willing, I think I found a mentor for the new year. Betsy worked miracles with Mac, helping him find his confidence, and I've since watched her do it with several other children--what a gift! Rosalie helped me find a passion I never knew I had--1. wanting to sit in a classroom and learn something foreign (how to teach Dyslexics to read), and 2. the desire to explore new opportunities in the new year.

Books--I didn't read as many as I wanted to, but nontheless, I was drawn to a number of memoirs. Reading the stories of folks who faced huge life challenges and how they coped gave me lots of inspiration. I already visited my favorite bookstore today and added 3 new memoirs to my library.

Music--I sure hope one of the kids wants to play something musical one day because I find lots of inspiration in music--whether it's country, blues, folk or pop, I love (and am lucky) to work from home and play what I like to hear. There might be guitar lessons in the new year for me. We'll see if I can get to that. Be thinking of a good country music pseudonym for me.

The Santa Shop--I found the inspiration to hopefully help even more of the underprivileged in our community next year, by sharing with them this year at St. Martins School and Church.

I know I am leaving things out.

Mostly, I think I found inspiration in the little things every day--a freshly lit candle, a full CLEAN basket of laundry that was folded, a freshly vacuumed van, a fire in the fireplace, and dinners where we were all at the table together.

Here's hoping 2010 will melt into 2011 tonight with Grady and I giving thanks for the good health of our family and friends. The following quote from Mark Twain is going to stay next to my desk this year to keep those resolutions in check.

To whoever is reading this, I wish you peace in 2011.

Bbbbbrrrrrrrrrrrrrr......

2010-12-08T09:40:00.000-05:00

Baby it's cold outside!!!

That's 21 degrees in case you are thinking you need to go get your reading glasses----21!!

It should really be quite illegal to be the one that has to drive carpool on these mornings--though I am spoiled and have the heated front seats so after about 7 minutes I am roasty toasty. The gas gauge does read Empty though and quite frankly I am completely sexist. It's a man's job to keep the tank filled. I might have to indulge and go to full service lane today.

There's a few folks who are staying warm around here.....

The Christmas mice were warm enough to indulge in peppermint milkshakes before our "ELF" screening last night.

On a random note, after much arguing and cussing at strings of white lights yesterday, we have lights!!

Have you hugged your pug today?

2010-11-03T22:46:00.001-04:00

As I reflect on my 38th year (today is my birthday if you are anyone but my family reading this)....I am reminded that my life is one big analogy. That saying you see on needlepoint pillows: "I want to be the kind of person my dog thinks I am" is about THE. MOST. HONEST. TAKE. ON. MY. LIFE.

I didn't grow up with dogs. I was forced into them---another reason my husband is still the best thing that ever happened to me.

Some days I think they (the dogs) are the only ones that understand me. Of course, (not unlike Grady and the boys) I am also the only person that understands them as well. I know when and how and where they like to eat. I know when and where and how much they need to do their business. I know when they need their quiet time, play time, snuggle time. Oddly, they know when I need mine. Meet the puggies. They've stolen my heart and everyone they've met. Wouldn't trade them for a million $$. My loves....

I dare you.....

2010-10-22T11:33:00.000-04:00

...to take a few minutes to go to this link, watch the trailer and see this film.

Last night I was afforded the privilege of seeing a screening of Race to Nowhere. We ended up on the front row and as a bonus got to sit near the director and have a few minutes one on one time with her. What an inspiring parent.

In a nutshell, it's no surprise to any of you that most of us are parenting kids who are running on a hamster wheel--but not only are the kids, but we the parents are too. (hmmmmm--what's wrong with this picture?)

I would encourage each of you to send this link to any educator and parent you know. This is a film which can't help but make you want to join in or start a grassroots movement in your community schools. I am working to get a screening for our school and neighborhood as we speak.

Please take 10 minutes on this. You'll be hearing more from me.

I rode my butt off....

2010-10-17T09:13:00.001-04:00

...only to find when I fell into the bathtub after the race that it was still there! Dern!

I had quite the experience yesterday under the clearest blue skies, sunshine and cool breeze. I participated in the Tour de Pink. It was one of those postcard days. I told my dear friend, Tracy who I was riding with that if I were a painter I definitely would paint this day.

Back to the race--50 miles on road bike---a little overly ambitious I learned. Fortunately, I was completely ignorant when it came to road races---otherwise I would have been scared to death and probably talked myself out of it. Once I was on the route with the 600 riders out to raise $$ for breast cancer there was no turning back. I would pass people that I couldn't believe were riding so I knew if they could do it surely I could too.

Fast forward--I did FINISH---but it was not easy. I heard your voice Collette--"Anything worth doing is hard."

Tracy was very supportive and although she could have left me in the dust, she stuck with my pace and encouraged me the whole way. We got to the 1st rest stop. I thought surely we'd already been 20 miles only to learn we'd been 6. (ewwwww) The next rest stop would be at 21 miles and I thought when I got off my bike I surely would not be able to get back on. Tracy made me eat a banana, apples, nuts, drink a gatorade, and re-fill our water bottles. We used the restroom and I was ready to get back on because I knew Grady and the boys would be at the 1/2 mark cheering us on. Easily found them at mile 25 for a quick photo op. 2 of the girls we started riding with called Tracy to say they had just crossed the finished line--OMG!! Through sign language, I tried to tell Grady I was in over my head and how could I go another 25 miles UPHILL---yes--I think 49 of the 50 miles were all uphill. I'm sure you're thinking "how could that be?" Keep reading.

We got to the last rest stop--Mile 35--only 15 to go----Yippee. That was a much needed rest and the volunteers were soooooo supportive and after re-fueling and laying on my bottom moaning for a few minutes in the grass--I knew the sooner we got back on the bike the sooner we'd be done. All I could think about was a steak dinner.

This is where you can start feeling sorry for me. We'd made it I thought about 43 miles---man---only a few more to go. Tracy told me she thought we were coming up on a REALLY LONG BIG hill. "Wait--what were the last 38 hills we did?" Anyway, I told her she was doing so well she could just power on ahead and I would meet her at the end. She said, "No--I will power up the hill, but I will wait for you. Just do whatever it takes to get up the hill. If you have to walk, walk it."

I think she knew I was getting really fatigued and didn't want me to make a mistake on my bike that could cause an injury or accident. As I was on my own for a bit, I started to get a 2nd wind, knowing I'd accomplished over 80% of the race, the sun was on my back and Perimeter Mall couldn't be too far ahead. I was in the home stretch--until---unbeknownst to Tracy and I someone had manipulated the directional signs---Uh insert A_ _ hole!

Experienced with road races, Tracy had determined there was no way the route would take us on Roswell Road so she turned back looking for me. Ignorant me, looked at Roswell Road, cussed to myself and thought--"the signs say turn left" I guess that's what I'll do. I am an idiot!! I started praying right there in the middle of Roswell Road. If I was lucky I would escape with my life. I couldn't believe this was the route but also I couldn't believe a lot of other things I'd seen this day so I plugged on. I did get on the sidewalk though and thought if I get pulled over i will just start crying and get the police officer to drop me off at Perimeter Mall. So I am trudging UPHILL on Roswell Road with half of Atlanta traffic whizzing by me at 70 miles an hour. I kept thinking I'll see a tour de pink sign at any moment---no signs. Lucky me, at this point my chain falls off. My hands were shaking so badly I didn't think I would get the chain back on, but I willed it back on and kept trudging---really trudging.

After what I knew had been surely 10 miles with no signs I finally saw Spalding Drive. I knew I could get back to Perimeter via Spalding so with my tail between my legs I made an executive decision to go it alone and get off course. I had no gatorade or water left, my legs were shaking and I knew I had to finish.

Shortly after turning on Spalding, a peace came over me as I saw about 6 riders coming towards me from the opposite direction across the street. I hollered at them--"are yall headed towards the finish line?" YES!!! They waited for me as I crossed the street and rode the last 3 miles with them. 2 of the riders were the cutest couple. He was actually pulling his wife's bike with her on it and riding himself up the hills we were cussing. Man---where was Grady?

Obviously I really screwed up, and as a bonus I got to ride an extra 5-6 miles!! As I crossed the finish line behind riders who had ridden 100 miles I was just happy to see Tracy and talk to Grady on the phone. 55 miles for me---took me approximately 5-6 hours but done--CHECK!!

I learned several really important lessons yesterday.
1. I can do it.
2. Always carry your cell phone.
3. ALWAYS carry the map of the route.
4. ALWAYS carry the map of the route.

Thanks Tracy for believing in me. Thanks Grady, Brock, and Mac for hugging me at 25 miles. Thanks John McDonald for fixing me up with a bike. Thanks Richard for the steak dinner and thank you all for your support and contributions to a good cause.

Labor Daze

2010-09-05T23:58:00.000-04:00

Hard work never hurt anyone, but here's hoping you all get a break from your labors.

Dawg Daze!!

2010-09-05T23:33:00.001-04:00

School Daze 2010

2010-08-20T14:21:00.006-04:00

We celebrated two 1st days of school this week. I think the only one who was disappointed here was sweet Teddy Bear Thrasher. He's still sitting in Mac's booster in the car hoping he'll get to sneak in for a 1st day of school. Yes, he lost his two big brothers to 4th and 2nd grade this week.

Growin' up.....lots to be thankful for here.

This is how we celebrated...

Happy Father's Day to a favorite....

2010-06-20T10:54:00.015-04:00

You were and always will be my handsome husband 1st and I love you to the moon and back!! What a bonus to see you as a Dad who does it all----Brock and Mac are lucky to have you as we all are. Happy Father's Day to our "Everyman" Dad---the biker, surfer, skiier, camper, coach, teacher, couch potato, chef.....

It won't surprise you that Grady is an all-star Dad. He came from really great stock---His Dad, Grady III is a super cool delight and his grandfather, Grady II built his own airplanes, walked on their wings while in flight, etc. Need I say more....

He's a keeper

2010-02-15T15:34:00.017-05:00

Best Valentine's day reservations ever.....

The other day I heard Brock making a reservation for two on February 14th at 8:00 fireside at Le Chateau Thrasher. He was disappointed to hear you have to make reservations at least two weeks out, but fortunately Grady said he'd pull some strings and get us in. It helps to be sleeping with the chef. Grady pulled out all the stops on this meal. Here's the chef getting prepped....as you can see he had a little help from Julia....

At then at 8:00 dinner was served....Bon appétit...

Sorry you missed the pix of the sea scallops and the souffle....I was busy licking the vanilla bean sauce off the plate and then during dessert I couldn't let the ice cream melt so there was no way I could hold the camera at the same time. Do you think Le Chateau Thrasher is full next weekend?

SPIN CYCLE

2010-02-01T22:38:00.004-05:00

Pure satisfaction.

Visited my local laundromat with 4 coverlets and 5 comforters and 7 pillow shams. There is nothing more rewarding than sitting on top of a washer watching 4 commercial size washers wash all your stuff at the same time---except possibly eating the delightful chocolate iced sour cream donut and coffee next door while you are waiting to turn over the next load. Spring cleaning is done--a little early--check. ahhh-the little things. I am thankful for commercial washers, dryers, and the sweet little Asian man who loaned me his deck of cards to play solitaire while I waited---I was trying to keep from going back to Dandy Donuts for the 2nd donut.

Hands on Atlanta

2010-01-18T20:09:00.005-05:00

It was a "Hands On Atlanta Day" in our fine town. that means hundreds of locals were out doing good for the city. Though we weren't a part of a formal volunteer project, me and two other mom friends headed out to our own neck of the woods with our kids and picked up trash. It's amazing---we live in a nice area. We take pride in our neighborhood, yet a mile from our home within 15 minutes you can fill a bag full of trash. Anyway, it was an easy service project and it was a BEAUTIFUL day!!! we've had so much cold and dreary but today---on MLK day the sun was shining and it was a crisp 60 degree delight.

Merry New Year!!

2010-01-01T12:33:00.002-05:00

Happy 2010!

Hope you have a year full of good health and energy loving your family, friends, and daily work.

Well--it's time to get to work on the resolutions. My 1st resolution is to WRITE down my resolutions and put them where I can refer to them often. So here goes.....

1. Practice more random acts of kindness.

2. Write more handwritten letters on pretty stationery.

3. Find the patience to have the kids help me in the kitchen.

4. Have a "real" date night with my husband 2x/month.

5. Hang the piled up pictures at my office and Grady's.

6. Recover the chairs in the den.

7 . Designate ONE notebook to be my gratitude journal and write in it daily.

I almost always have the lose weight, practice healthier living, etc. resolution, but I had to save something for Lent so I am indulging on cajun black eyed peas, corned beef, and collards. Happy New Year folks! Eat your peas today.

Remembering the old.....ringing in the new

2009-12-31T16:44:00.004-05:00

Here's to all your happiest memories from 2009 and making new ones in 2010. I hope to be back more often in 2010 to share our happy days and blessings. The boys are ringing in the new year in The Big Easy and I have a quiet date with G. We will make resolutions and goals and reflect and all that sappy stuff at a fine dining restaurant. The boys will be happy to probably be eating ice cream for supper and staying up until midnight. I am thankful for grandparents.

Wherever you are--snuggled in, out on the town, or far from home---peace!!!

OMG He's 9!!

2009-10-18T21:15:00.019-04:00

Well 9 years ago our lives changed.....A LOT. Brock has become a namesake, a lover of babies, a talk-a-holic, a math whiz, an athlete, a challenge, but most of all.....a gift......that keeps on giving. Happy Birthday Brock!

We had a great Fall day in the sun. The weather was breezy and crisp but the boys had a ball at the BMX park---riding, jumping, popping wheelies. Mac said it was the BEST BROCK BIRTHDAY ever!!

Enjoy the pix!

i can't remember....

2009-09-30T23:01:00.004-04:00

.....is it fashion follows decor or decor follows fashion? Hard for me to remember b/c the top I was wearing was from our anniversary and the picture is from the set of Mad Men (which takes place in the 1960's) Notice the chairs. My top ---5 years (at least) old and chairs in Mad Men 50 years old. Hmmmmmm.........

Happy Happy!!

2009-09-30T22:22:00.005-04:00

We've been through the 7 year itch twice---14 years---whewwwww.......Happy Anniversary to my best friend. (girlfriends---don't be p.o.'ed) Some years have been itchier than others but I love you all the way to the moon as I do our two offspring. Life is good. God is great. Here's to 14 more......

School Daze

2009-08-22T01:11:00.005-04:00

Some might say how sad to see summer go. We did, but quickly my boys seemed to develop instant "crushes" on their Pre-1st and 3rd Grade teachers. It's going to be a good year. I'm proud of them. Another year of new beginnings for Mom, Dad, Brock and Mac. Yes, every 1st day of school and Christmas Eve I shed tears.....

mainly because I have to get up a little extra early to prepare Happy 1st Day of School Breakfasts.

Meet the teachers.

Summer Lovin'

2009-08-21T22:43:00.064-04:00

Summer lovin' had us a blast--

Summer lovin' happened so fast.

Me, the Mom, crazy was me--

Met some boys--cute as could be.

Summer days driftin' away to oh, oh, the summer nights....

Tell me more, tell me more.....

The Thrasher Summer. It was magical. It went too fast. We were surrounded by dear friends and family. We were spoiled. I could go on about beach breezes, glassy lakes, rolling meadows and pastures, crickets chirping.....God is good.

HAPPY TRAILS!!

Nothing shy of a petting zoo here....

2009-05-21T20:45:00.012-04:00

A funny story...

My husband---dear sweet man that he is LOVES to garden. He has tended our yard and garden well over the years. We have prolific blueberry bushes, blackberry bushes, strawberries, tomatoes, carrots, sometimes watermelon, pumpkins, squash, lots of herbs, and on and on.

Well this year, we've been over run with these....

If you are visiting us, if you are having a cocktail on our deck, if you are a neighborly neighbor, if you are 6 years old---you think they are WAY cute. But the truth of the matter is...the chipmunks--they play chase, they love, they race, they fight, they are a NUISANCE! So in an effort to keep the critters from consuming ALL of our strawberries, Grady has set these....

Chipmunk traps. He entices the critters with peanut butter and proceeds to capture one little friend a day. He then proceeds to take them to the Prayer Garden at the church and release them so they may serve our community as "Church Monks." (It's funny--when I'm in carpool line now I'll notice a few monks playing chase and I know they're Thrasher Monks. You can tell by the way they run.)

Well, he's trying really really hard to have an impact on the chipmunk population, but today I spied this new friend who heard we had the rockin' garden and yard....

Ever since Brock was named St. Francis (Patron Saint of Animals) in the Festival Day Festivities at St. Martins...

we do have the sweetest Garden of Eden in the thriving metropolis of Atlanta, but Grady's garden I'm afraid might not feed our family. Back to work. It might not be in the cards to live off the land this Spring.

Happiness

2009-05-18T17:40:00.014-04:00

Be outside.

Be enthusiastic.

Be cheerful.

Smile.

Be flexible.

Be a friend.

Be quiet.

Listen.

Be yourself.

I have determined that if you do a little of all of these things everyday you will be happy--no way around it.

Peace.

Some days life is.....

2009-05-03T22:21:00.007-04:00

A COUNTRY MUSIC SONG

And this is one of my favorites and seems to be most appropriate these days.

Anyway

You can pour your soul out singin'
A song you believe in
That tomorrow they'll forget you ever sang
Sing it anyway
Yeah sing it anyway

I sing
I dream
I love anyway

God is great, but sometimes life ain't good
When I pray it doesn't always turn out like I think it should
But I do it anyway
I do it anyway

Life is definitely good and God is definitely great or I wouldn't have this......

or this...

or these....

SPRING BREAK!

2009-04-06T22:31:00.005-04:00

HOORAY!!!!

How lucky are we? We are headed to these sugar white sands on Thursday for a much needed Spring Break. Yes, the kids have already had Spring Break--March 9-13. It was cold and rainy and still winter. Spring Break---shming break.

Anyway---currently in ATLANTA G-A it is 41 degrees with a chance of snow flurries beginning at 6:00am. Fortunately it is suppose to be short lived and in the 70's by Thursday---mid-70's in Florida Panhandle.

Hopefully Mother Nature won't let us down, but there's something about just being beach front and smelling the salt air. I'll take hot or cold, sun or rain. Just give me a little soft white sand and cool Gulf surf and Mom and Thrasher boys are all smiles.

Toast the Spring wherever you are. God is good.

6 years ago today.....

2009-03-19T10:03:00.010-04:00

It's A BOY!

Welcome to the World Henry McFatter Thrasher "MAC"

March 19, 2003

Who knew Mac would be the one who was born with a "song in his heart?" Not only was he, but he captured our hearts....from Day 1....Big Brother Brock threw him a party, we all napped with him and then through the years we've LAUGHEd with him....A LOT. Our sweet Mac----he loves the outdoors, he's a nurturer---of the soil and soul. He's comic relief. He's our Mac and we're celebrating him all day today. I love birthdays!

Things I love.....(not necessarily in order)

2009-03-17T23:05:00.004-04:00

A sense of humor on St. Patrick's Day

A soft side

Grady

Snowballs in my freezer in March

Acoustic sunrise

The smell of good coffee

My Keurig coffee pot G gave me for Christmas

Violins

Rock Band at the Snyders

Brock telling me, "Wow Mom--you can REALLY talk! Sometimes it's so annoying." (I don't have to tell anyone the apple doesn't fall for from the tree)

That Mac puts my kisses in his pocket to save for later

My family's generous spirit

Hearing from old friends

Acolytes at church

Birthdays

My i-phone (can't believe I'm admitting that)

Happys

Chardonnay

Jazz in the kitchen

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The Beach

Mom coming to visit

Handwritten Letters

My camera

Long dinners

Long runs

Long playlists of Norah Jones

Sun-kissed kids

The sound of the washer and dryer and dishwasher running simultaneously

Patient school teachers

Sincerity

Humility

High thread count sheets

A new can of tennis balls

Optimism

What did I do to deserve this?

2009-02-17T19:58:00.003-05:00

Don't answer that. I actually took this picture about 10 days ago and have finally finished folding and put away all of that pile---one problem--the next pile is twice as high and I'm almost out of laundry detergent and fabric softener. I made Brock wear dirty uniform pants to school today and I was o.k. with that. His haircut was clean-cut and he was tucked in and belted---so what's a little dirt and wrinkles on the knees?

Grady praised me for my super-laundress abilities over the last 16 years, but as I literally "put my feet up" on him on the sofa last night he asked me if I was wearing two different socks. After a subtle finger gesture, I asked him if he'd been in the guest room lately. He smiled and said, "you know....the laundry has LAPPED you." He hit the nail on the head. (Just FYI--Grady does not EXPECT me to do the laundry. I do it, b/c I'm scared to death he'll ask me to help with yard work.)

I might never catch up---that is unless anyone wants (for a week or two) two boys, their homework, a real estate biz, 6 months of mail, a law practice, an old dog, and two dieting parents.

Then.......

2009-01-30T10:28:00.009-05:00

I got so many comments on how grown up Brock was I started to get a little weepy (not too weepy---there's something good about boys dressing and feeding themselves)---so I had to remember when.....

Now

I'm sorry....

2009-01-29T21:40:00.005-05:00

Brock might get a demerit at school but it has to be worth it. Look how handsome he is? We are on the s_ _ _ list at school and have been referred to page 53 of the school handbook---"What is out of uniform?" Apparently hair that's not above the eyebrows is "out of uniform." You know----times are tough. The line item in our budget for "haircuts" now has to last 2 months instead of one. Good thing Kate Hudson's son, Ryder, doesn't go to St. Martins. Check him out below.

Girlfriends ROCK!!!!

2009-01-28T11:34:00.005-05:00

This is what was on my doorstep yesterday--a complete surprise!!

Not half as surprising as what was on the inside---look at all of my FAV "happys."

I think I've mentioned this before, but I have some of the best friends ever!! I know these amazing women that have figured out I have lots of s_ _ _ going on in my life. The amazing thing about them is they have just as much s _ _ _ as I do, but it doesn't hamper their happy spirits. They just find ways to spread more happy spirit and I am thankful. There's nothing better than a "happy bag." So, when I am done reading every last page of all my favorite mags and these fabulous books, I am going to recycle the happy bag and deliver it to the next girlfriend that needs a pick-me-up. Love you girls!!!

Baby it's cold outside

2009-01-17T18:49:00.003-05:00

It has been a "chili" week all week, but I just got around to making it. We are having a lazy Saturday. G and I are about to "uncork" a cheap bottle of vino, and snuggle up for a movie and big bowl of Mercedes Ball's chili. I hear that Mercedes was an evil mother-in-law (I of course can't relate) of a dear family friend, but boy did she make a damn good bowl of chili. If you are in the mood, the recipe is as follows. It's SOOOOOOOOOO easy.

2 lbs. hamburger meat

1 large onion, chopped

2 cans tomato soup, undiluted

1/2 tablespoon vinegar

5 tablespoons chili bowder

1 can light red kidney beans

Bag of shredded cheese

Any kind of rice

Box of Jiffy cornbread

In a large pot, with a small amount of oil or PAM spray, brown hamburger meat with onion, then drain. Add vinegar and chili powder and 2 cans tomato soup. Then add kidney beans and liquid from beans. Add salt and pepper to taste. Simmer and then serve with rice and cheese. Cornbread is a great side. Mmmmmmmmmmm....................

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T13:11:00.004-05:00

I keep running into folks that seem relieved 2008 is over and can only hope that 2009 will be a better year. I guess in terms of financial prosperity that could be true, but I've spent the last 24 hours reflecting a lot, and in a lot of ways I don't know if Grady and I could do any better. When we count our blessings we are rich beyond measure.

I don't have to tell any of you how blessed we are with our children so this one is for you parents---ALL 8 of you! (yes, 8 of you--we still haven't had time to see Four Christmases yet, because we've been visiting with all of you)

Seriously though, I feel lucky for so many reasons to be your daughter and daughter-in-law.

Mom, your energy this year campaigning for countless underdogs, your service to the Louisiana Racing Commission and devotion to sweet BryBry is remarkable to me. After all that, your patience with me and talent as "OFFICIAL Halloween Costumer" is the best of gifts I ever got in 2008. I'm hoping to have half your energy in 2009.

Bryan, your constant perseverance to improve the quality of life for the city you so love and its citizens is remarkable. Partisan politics aside, this article will probably be interesting to all of you.

Dad, your service as President of the Lions Club, leading members to serve the community in so many good works is so admirable. Assisting your sisters in pulling off a 90th birthday for your Dad was such a memorable special event. Heck, just having a Dad who is 90 and healthy and happy is no small task.

Dad and Faye, your dedication to so many deserving underprivileged children and their families touches my heart. What an example of generosity you two display year round.

Lee, your devotion to all the familial units surrounding you and Warren is really in a word--beautiful. You are such an example of "grace." I've never seen you tire of grandchildren, nephews, nieces, brothers, sisters, children, friends...the list goes on. This is a gift.

Warren, I happen to know you are one of those quiet, anonymous types that spreads insurmountable joy and wisdom to so many on a daily basis. How privileged am I to have you as a father-in-law.

Dad (G3) and Kathy--I think this article really sums up how sincerely proud Grady and I are of the two of you--taking on Homeland Security for the greater good of your community, renovating your charming home, publishing Award winning childrens' books, and tending prolific seasonal gardens at Sunnybank.

Despite the economy, you are all so generous of time, money, and spirit. I know my children will be better in this world for having grandparents like you.

So, whether any of you took a pay cut or not in 2008--congratulations on a job well done!

Here's to continued success in the New Year!

Visions of Sugarplums danced in their heads.....

2008-12-21T20:34:00.003-05:00

With my help, Brock and Mac hosted their 1st Annual Gingerbread House making party two days ago. Click on the link to see why we are still on a sugar high here, though I think I'm starting to crash (once you get to link, click on video camera and turn up volume.)

I am blessed beyond measure with sweet sweet friends who have equally sweet children. We had an idyllic day under balmy skies making sugary sweet houses and playing football. Aside from the fact we didn't use real gingerbread (graham crackers seem to adhere better to icing), Martha Stewart would have been proud. On 2nd thought, Martha would have been disappointed but Southern Living might have picked up our story.

PEACE.

2008-12-18T15:02:00.011-05:00

"It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. it means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart." --author (unknown)

It's a shame I don't know who wrote this because these are words to live by, and I hate I can't give credit where credit is due. Though I keep this reminder next to my keyboard everyday, I still can't keep all the anxiety from creeping in.

I know in my heart that a broken dishwasher and laundry shouldn't cause me anxiety, but I'll be honest, they do. Fortunately, we have these friendly little Christmas Mice who come to visit in December. They often get into mischief in the middle of the night, but sometimes they do helpful chores. My husband was in charge of giving the mice their duties the other night. I awoke to the following.

The Christmas Mice have done a little towards easing my anxiety. My sweet Mom was here for 48 hours a couple days ago and said, "you know the Christmas Mice always look so happy." I said, "yeah--it's because they don't do any of the work, but they get all the credit." If only i could enlist a few more mice. I think next year I will add a line item to our Christmas budget.

Hope you all find a little peace today and some Christmas Mice. I hope my dishwasher repairman shows up.

Just another manic Monday

2008-12-08T19:40:00.005-05:00

I almost quit Christmas this weekend due to Christmas tree lights. In my Sunday school class yesterday, we talked about "love absolutely everything that ever happens in your life." Paul Cantalupo. I feel sure Paul wasn't talking about putting lights on a Christmas tree when he said this. After cussing the tree, cussing the lights, I finally finished this morning and I have to say it is ONE good looking lighted tree. Of course I'm so exhausted now, it may never have ornaments on it, but it is well lit!!

So to keep me in the Christmas spirit I want to remind myself of all the things I LOVE about this time of year. Think of what you enjoy and push the things that stress you out onto the "I'll worry about that tomorrow" pile.

Enjoy.

1.The Christmas Mice at our house.

2. Now that it's cold, Brock sleeping under my "little girl" purple blanket.

3. Hot chocolate and Charlie Brown Christmas on the couch.

4. My mom's white bean chicken chili.

5. William's Sonoma Mulling Spices

6. Our gas log fireplace

7. My husband taking the trash out (he doesn't know this yet, but I'm going to tell him I blogged about it.)

8. Brock reading the Advent lesson after Mac lights the Advent candle at dinner.

9. getting a mailbox full of Christmas cards, mainly the ones with pix of kids and dogs.

10. Mac wanting to plant a Christmas tree in our backyard so we can give it to someone who can't buy one.

Do Something Good Everyday!

2008-12-03T10:50:00.004-05:00

I really don't have time to blog today, but I couldn't get started on my list until I shared with yall. I knew a Starbucks would get me going this morning, but it was 32 degrees out, I was in my jammas and my Starbucks doesn't have a drive-thru. I went out of my way down Peachtree so i could do the drive-thru. There were cars everywhere, coming from both drive ways offthe side street, off Peachtree---It was a zoo. I managed to get in line pretty quickly without a fender bender and looked up and saw a gal pull in off Peachtree (her car was actually half in the street). She should have been about the 19th car in line due to when she pulled in--- but I thought if I don't let her in she might have an accident. She also might need a latte as much as I do. So, I cringed (b/c I knew the folks behind me would blast me for letting her in), and I let her in anyway. Finally got to the window to p/u coffee and the barista handed me this cute stationery you see in the picture and told me the car in front of me had paid for my coffee. I, in turn paid for the guy behind me. Call me hormonal. Call me crazy. I've been crying all morning, but patronize your local Starbucks. Their flippin' motto is "DO SOMETHING GOOD EVERYDAY." It's on their front door and on their receipts.

p.s. Can you get over the fact the girl that paid for my coffee just happened to have a charming piece of stationery in her car?

Bah Humbug!!

2008-12-02T23:12:00.003-05:00

If you just read my last post, you are thinking "she's doing great." "She's not letting the holiday stress get to her." "She's probably "upped her meds." ALL WRONG. I wanted to wring a reindeer's antlers today. I'm overwhelmed. I have a tree, but it's outside, not in a stand, not in water. (I barely have a tree.)

I had a gift swap to go to tonight---didn't want to go--nothing personal to my dear friend hosting it--i just wanted to jammie up, make a fire and go to bed early. So glad I went though. A cute red head said I looked like Cameron Diaz and now I'm in the Christmas spirit again. Do you know what Cameron Diaz (click on her) looks like? thank you. I might go back to the gift swap again tomorrow or track the cute redhead down at Macy's, where she works.

Tis' the season

2008-12-02T22:41:00.005-05:00

I'm going to be completely honest----I don't DREAD it, but I don't really look forward to it---the whole tree thing, lights, decor, everything. it's soooooooo much work. I really have to do it by myself. Anyway, I ALWAYS love the outcome, but the process is tiresome. I know you can relate.

Sooooo, if you've eve needed a little "oomph" to get you in the Christmas spirit---FIND A 5 year old. Find your own, borrow one, steal one, adopt one, whatever it takes to get a 5 year old and take he/she to pick out a Christmas tree. Mac ("THE" resident 5 year old in my house) , grabbed his Santa hat an we headed to Lowe's to get a tree this afternoon. I think this year was THE BEST tree buying year EVER!!

Christmas is about managing expectations. Nothing is perfect. In my perfect world---my husband, my two boys and I would all skip off to a North Georgia tree farm singing carols and cut down our "perfect" tree, all the while sipping hot chocolate and egg nog lattes, taking our Christmas card picture, ETC.

But I've managed to manage my expectations. Mac and I went tree shopping because Brock was at a friends' house and Grady was at work. I knew if I had both kids, a husband, a camera, coffee, ETC. I would definitely have whining, spilled milk, someone so rudely on their phone, someone who had to potty, was hungry, etc, (you get the picture).

We picked out the 1st tree we saw. We went inside to get tree lights. Mac could have instantly qualified to be a Lowe's employee. At a moment's notice he was able to tell me ALL 200 benefits to owning the SANTA and ME SEE SAW and everything else in our path.

Manage your expectations. Put up your tree. Happy 1st week in December!

Running on Empty?

2008-11-24T18:52:00.006-05:00

Are you a "panic manic?"

Are you a "worrier?"

Or do you like to live on the edge?

This is an unscientific poll to find out where I lie in the midst of you all.

1. Can you not get to a gas station fast enough if you are about 3/4 of the way to EMPTY?

2. Do you wait until the light comes on and then briskly get to the nearest gas station?

3. Do you have your own personal olympics going on how long can you go until you absolutely are riding on fumes and then you have no choice but to find gas and quick?

I think I am a #2. when it comes to GAS, but toilet paper is a whole different issue. When we are running low (meaning I don't see any t.p. in the basket behind the toilet), I have a wave of anxiety which overtakes me and makes me want to go to Costco to buy toilet paper in bulk.

Yesterday was one of those days, and not having the energy to do Costco, I ran up the street to Kroger and immediately bought a 24 pack of Cottonelle and a gallon of milk. (I was soooooo excited they were stocking the egg nog, but I refrained. You can't buy egg nog until AFTER Thanksgiving, but it's good to know it's there.)

When I came home Mac asked me if he could help with the groceries. I said, "Certainly. I need you to put 8 rolls of toilet paper in each bathroom."

Note the picture---this is what I found in the 1st bathroom. Count the rolls on the t.p. tower. I have delighted in his creativity for the last 24 hours.

Happy Thanksgiving! I'm thankful we have a good supply of t.p. at our house and a 5 year old that knows how to count it.

20 reasons that made me happy I didn't beat the kids to a pulp today....

2008-11-20T20:33:00.008-05:00

1. my boys eating marshmallows this morning in honor of Uncle Bill's birthday.

2. my Ugg slippers Grady gave me last year.

3. My hand-me-down Levi's from Chandra.

4. filling up my van for $1.79/gallon at QuikTrip.

5. walking Munson around the block.

6. my clean house. (Thanks Gwen.)

7. seeing Shelby and Kate perform in the 3rd grade school play at St. Martins.

8. my new 2009 calendar

9. my Mom's chicken white bean chili

10. my crockpot

11. my ENTIRE family all ate the same thing for dinner and all ENJOYED it. (WoW!! The kids are maturing or I'm getting a backbone.)

12. the pile of decorating magazines Shannon gave me.

13. a phone call from Susanne

14. a 4.5 mile run

15. cleaning the lint out of the dryer

16. ordering pumpkin bread from my friend, Jarrett.

17. the kids coming home from school "lice free" (there's an almost epidemic at school)

18. seeing that they still sell "feetie" one piece jammies at Target

19. bowling shoes

20. successfully making it through the day without beating the kids to a pulp. (I actually started writing this post about 7:30 tonight when I thought if my kids were any whinier, needy, etc. I would beat them to a pulp. Decided if I reminded myself of all the good things today, I wouldn't beat them.)

I guess I should have known by the way you parked your car sideways

2008-11-19T23:26:00.006-05:00

I've gained a bunch of weight---probably all the eating and drinking I do. Alas, instead of fretting over what's done is done I've decided to commit myself to "body sculpting" classes twice a week through the end of the year. The 1st one was today and i was introduced to the class by........"Little Red Corvette...woo hoo hoo" Who Doesn't love PRINCE? I can't say enough about how PRINCE will give you the "get up and go" you need to make it through the day. Sooooo.....whether you're getting dressed for corporate America, heading to your child's field trip, volunteering at the Food Bank, whatever....turn up a little Prince. If you want to upload a little motivation to your ipod here's the link.

Today is the 1st day of the rest of your life!

2008-11-17T22:09:00.003-05:00

I have a dear friend who likes to call me, and some mutual friends, on a random basis and cheerfully exclaim, "Today is the 1st day of the rest of your life." I liken it to the lesson we discussed in my Sunday school class last Sunday. We don't see things as they are. We see them as WE are. --Anais Nin

This is a good place for me to start my blog and my week. I see this blog and today as an opportunity to see the possibilities that lie herein. If you are reading this, please keep in mind everyone has different perceptions (the old cliche' some see the glass half empty, half full). I hope to keep a transparent view of my life and the lives around me and share them with you. It is up to you in how you see what i have to post.

For me, this blog gives me an outlet---a chance to speak my mind, share thoughts, concerns, observances, etc., but most of all it's an invitation to you---FOR YOU to share with me. I am an extrovert. I LOVE to hear from my friends and family. It makes me feel warm and fuzzy.

Thanks for letting me share the mundane.