Then.......

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....

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!!!!

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

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!

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!