Happy Howl oween!

Love, Barry

We went to the doctor today for a flu shot.  And, B didn’t even flinch. She did not  utter a word when the nurse delivered the prick.  I asked if this is normal.  “Once in a blue moon we have a baby that doesn’t cry. It’s rare but it’s okay. She’s a happy baby,” she reassured me.  In the photos she is dressed and ready to leave the office — no crying, nojore.

P.S. I love this little doggie kimono.  It has other components like little feet with paw prints on the bottom and a hat with dog ears. If you look you can see the tiny dog bones on the front.  I think, I kept Abbigails in business as I bought one for every baby on my list when I was pet sitting. 

Oh, and I forgot to post a very important milestone.  B started crawling over the weekend! She doesn’t truly crawl. Rather, she scoots with one leg and drags the other one along.  Regardless of her strategy she loco-motes from one end of the room to the other. Go B, go!

Pet Fun Day pictures.  Enjoy!

Apparently Under the Blue Moonhad a great Halloween Party. Check it out, here.  Her blog makes it look like so much fun!  Entirely envious, I noticed  she did a great job.  As I look at her pictures it reminds me:  we failed. And, we failed amazingly bad.  Who?  Brian and I.  Brian and I promised ourselves that we would have a Halloween Party this year. As we sat on the front porch batching out candy and doting over the fabulous costumes last October we dreamt of the best Halloween Party ever.  And, we made plans accordingly – bright plans, vivid plans, fun plans. With invitations to all of our friends and family we would have a candidly decorated, all too spooky house.  “Mummys and Frankenstein,” Brian envisioned.  Couples with children could trick or treat down Savannah Avenue while the childless guests consume cocktails.  The kids could play and the adults could…well, play.  In our minds we arranged bails of hay and apple bobbing contests on the front lawn.  “We can look for dancing Elvis, Dorothy and Toto, or the giant pumpkin with our friends,” we said.  Yay. How much fun.  Brian and I are such dreamers.  The trick-or-treaters came one by one, sometimes by the load, sometimes sparingly. The time between the carloads and the walkers was utilized to make the arrangements for the upcoming All-Hallows eve gala, the next-year event.  The planned menu included ghoulish treats, decor of spider webs and coffins. Everything was dark with spots of purple, orange and red.  Upon a Blue Moon’s partyis a gentle reminder that sometimes my husband and I fail to implement our dreams, our plans, and our arrangements.  Our calender is not reflective of a Halloween Party.  Admittedly, we have fun creating our plans in our minds. No need to worry about failing to implement our party strategy this year. Afterall,  we’ll have a Halloween party next year!

I am really getting into cooking for B’s Halloween Party’s.  It’s creative and fun.  It makes me laugh to fill up hungry tummies with compounds like Mummy Dogs.  There are so many ingredient lists that are smile-producing finger foods perfect for parties.  I chose this one  because it has the same ingredients as my Snake Recipe (from earlier post).  So, I didn’t have to buy anything new, figure out any tricky techniques, could use the olives from the snake leftovers, and I already had out the pans.  Refrigerated breadstick dough makes this crowd-pleaser a cinch to make — just like the snakes.  For eyes, press capers into the dough before baking or you can use olives.  It’s too bad B can’t eat yet. I know she would like these creepy wraps.

Ingredients

• 1  11-oz. package refrigerated bread sticks (12 bread sticks)
• 12  hotdogs
•   Ketchup and mustard
•   Capers (or sliced black olives)

Directions

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Unwrap bread. Stretch each bread stick to 12 inches. Wrap dough around frankfurters, letting the frankfurters show slightly through the bread. Press in capers for eyes. Bake in preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until bread is golden brown. Serve with Ketchup and mustard. Makes 12 snacks.

**P.S. The supermarket did not have any bread-sticks.  I rolled out croissant dough, which worked just fine.

Have fun. Enjoy!

  Oh, my dear God above.  As I read the paper today, my neck craned forward, my hands clinched each side of the document as I brought it forward to my face.  A smile spread across my face as my mouth fell open wide. No way, I thought. There is absolutely no way. OPRAH IS COMING TO GEORGIA.  But, she is.  Hooray! She will be in Macon on November 17th.  This is the best news I have heard in a long time. I love Oprah.  Upon reading this delightful news, I raced to the computer to check on-line reservations. Tick, peck, tick, tap, tick. My fingers dance across the keyboard, expediently tapping the route to my on-line destination.  Maybe my dreams WILL come true.  I would love to go to the Oprah Show.  The trek is on my  list of things to do in this lifetime.  In fact, it is in the top ten.  Oprah is the only show that I watch semi-religiously. And, I have for years.  To my disappointment but not to my surprise, the show is booked. They are no longer accepting reservations.  If you are a survivor of domestic abuse you can submit your story of violence with hopes of being selected to attend.  Unfortunately, or fortunately, I do not fit the bill. Rats!  Oprah is one of my heroines. I think she is a modern prophet, an angel here on Planet Earth. She spreads happiness, light and love. I want to see her, darn it.  Hmm…she promotes The Secret.  That is it. There’s my ticket. I will hope and wish a chance to go to the show. I will use The Secret to secure my space in her audience.   See you there!

Georgia players storm the field following the first touchdown in the first quarter against Florida in a football game Saturday, Oct. 27, 2007, in Jacksonville.  Georgia won 42-30!  I guess, Grandaddy’s talk with Beatrice DID work. 

“Now Beatrice, the dawgs are going to need you tomorrow,”  said Grandaddy.

Happy Georgia-Florida! 

WTOC is having a Pet Costume Contest. Pick your fave’s here.

It was down an old, dirt, winding road that we drove to the party.  The site was PERFECT for the event.  There were horses, cats, a bulldog named Flower, and a yard full of costumed children and happy Moms.  The children were so cute!  Discarding her afternoon nap, Beatrice was surprisingly well mannered. She was very content to sit in my arms and watch all the dinosaurs, princess’, pirates, cowboys and skunks play.  By the end of the event she was asleep in my arms.  Every time I turned around there was another cute costume.  With Spiderman looming, an airplane zooming around, a flower sprouting, and several cheerleaders it felt as if were cast into a cartoon episode. 

Oh, I forgot the fun part:  B received a medal!  Beatrice got the Softest Costume Award.  Go Baby B!
I created a slideshow. I regret that I did not get more photos to include everyone there.  It is my very first slide show. Please bear with my expertise level. Enjoy!

The aroma of fresh baked bread fills the kitchen.  An opened jar of pimientos colorfully decorates the counter while diced black olives are stacked nearby.  “Hey babe, what are you cooking?” my husband questions as he enters my lair.  “Oh, nothing,” I answered.  “Nothing,” he questions. “It sure looks good,” he smiles while rubbing his belly. “If you insist on knowing, I am making snakes,” I surrender my secret.  “Yikes!” he exclaimed. 

Realizing it rings creepy, yes I am making snakes, snakes for B’s Halloween Party.  Tomorrow, tomorrow.  Tomorrow is B’s  very first Halloween Party!   Admittedly she has shown little enthusiasm for the affair. But, I am bubbling with excitement.  After hours of shopping and deliberating over her costume I finally selected a Tom Arma bunny.   I love it!   Usually, I am attracted to homemade costumes.  This one is so cute, however.  I couldn’t resist the image of B dressed up in this number.  She looks like a plush bunny rabbit.  It makes you want to squeeze her, hug her, and whisk her off to bed!  I assume this will be one of the only years that I have total control over her selection.  Mama can choose what Mama wants to choose.  So, I better enjoy it to the fullest.  I am!

Equally as excited with the costume as with the party, I have been looking forward to making my first goodies for her.  It makes me feel like a “real mother.”  The only requirement of the party is that you bring a healthy snack.  Being a Mother is so much fun!  Just call me Christy Cleaver.  My mind has been whirling all week.  What in the world can I make for Halloween that is healthy and fun?  I finally decided that I would make snakes out of bread stick dough, snap on two eyes out of sliced black olives, and stitch in a pimiento tongue.  Ssssss.

Until tomorrow I sign this post,

B’s Mamasssssssss

Sssssss…  

Ingredients: 

1 can refrigerated breadstick dough, Separate the dough and twist as directed on package.
16 small black olive slices
8 strips pimiento

Place twists on a cookie sheet and curve to form snake-like shapes. Press two olive slices into one end of the snake for the eyes. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Cut a small slit in the head of the snake and insert a strip of pimentoas a tongue. Refrigerate until serving time.

*With the first batch I let the sticks cool before inserting the pimento. It seemed to work better with the second batch when I inserted the pimento while the snakes were warm. 

What do YOU plan to do Halloween night?  Each year Halloween becomes a bigger and bigger event in Statesboro.  With the increased excitement the number of celebratory events has grown.  As a ‘boro child the only event I recall  was the Haunted Forest on the GSU campus.  Brian confirms my recollection. Comparatively, the current list is long.  More, it is inclusive of a range of tastes and preferences. 

What makes people want to celebrate Halloween? There is definitely a magical allure of the holiday.  A hazy aura with the sound of wolves howling, the vision of clouds slinking in front of the moon, and the smell of a musky coffin just unearthed.  It’s spooky. It’s candy-cornish. And, it is down right freaky.  It’s fun and it is a deliverance from normal activity.  It’s the costumes, the parties, the nostalgia for childhood, the opportunity to shed inhibitions and become someone else for the evening, or to be somewhere else in a magical never land.  Regardless of your reason or your tastes, I have collected a list of Statesboro Halloween events to keep you and your little goblins busy. 

There is not a BAT-tle for things to do this year.  There are copious spook-tacular activities to keep your calender full.  So, grab your brooms. It’s time to fly by the moon.  

• (I have simply cut & pasted the events so there may be errors, typos, etc.)
•  Cotton Pickin’ Harvest Festival, Trick or Treat at Mill Creek     Friday, October 26th Starts at 6:00 pm     Costume Contest for all and four legged friends too.     Explore the Candy Trail with a FREE Halloween Safety Bag.      Movies on the big screen “Its a Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown & Monster House“  Starts @ 8:00 pm

GSU Wildlife Center celebrates 10 years!  Saturday, October 27th from 3-11 pm       Exotic Wildlife Presentations     Free Food & Beverages (3-5 pm)     Games & Activities (3-5 pm)     Trick or Treating starts at 7:15 pm     Fireworks starts at 8:45 pm      Music starts at 9:00 pm     All events and programs are free

A Blue & White Hall-o-ween @ GSU,  Monday, October 29th from 5:30 – 8:00 pm  Eagle Village Clubhouse  (on the corner of Harvey and Lanier Dr.)   Please bring a canned good or school supply, which will be donated to local charities as an entry fee.     Carnival Games     Haunted House     Free snacks and candy     Trick or Treating     Wear your favorite costume     Free parking in the Watson, Johnson & Eagle Village parking lots.   Signs will be posted at the corner of Fair Road and Chandler Road.

Halloween Costume Contest@ Chick-fil-a     Best Family-Friendly Costume wins FREE Chick-fil-a for one year!     On Halloween Eve, October 30th from 5-8 pm      Costumes will be photographed & judged.  Winner will be contacted on November 1st.  Due to the ages of our guests, please ensure your costume is friendly and appropriate for our Family Night event.   With one paying adult combo you will receive one kids kid meal for 99 cents.

This is from J. Lanier –  Thought I’d share with all of you:   

Go vote today!  If you are like me…I think Coach Hatcher already through 7 weeks has shown that he has turn the ship in the right direction with excitment and fun. Regardless of happens from this point on, who wouldhave expected the Eagles to beat App at the Rock with new coach and them beating Michigan in week 1.  More stunning victory than Wofford beating them at home.  You can vote for Coach Hatcher at LibertyMutual’s Coach of the Year.  They are giving awards in all divisions and I think Hatch is deserving.  You can vote at the following link:  http://www.coachoftheyear.com/

This guy looks awfully cute with his belly button sticking out in his pumpkin shirt.  B has an ongoing play date with Baby Q.  She’s a lucky girl. He’s handsome!

Ahh…I am having a pet sitting moment.  Did you know?  Some dogs may become anxious when left home alone. Keeping the TV on can help your dog to remain calm while you run your errands.  I often use the Cartoon Channel, the still channel (which plays easy listening music), or  Animal Planet.  Who says it’s not a dogs life?

A note from West Main Art Gallery:  

Greetings from West Main Art Gallery and Studios, Statesboro, Ga. We are thrilled about this event and hope you will be interested and will come . First Friday Art walks are a great evening out and watching an artist at work is always fascinating. Anyone you think will be interested please forward to them.   Lesley Manning, co-owner, Harry Manning silent/partner ‘go fer’ and ‘fix itperson’, West Main Art Gallery and Studios, Statesboro,  Ga. 
Be well and prosper,God Bless, Lesley

I decided I need to clean up the top post especially since I will be unable to blog for a few days. I AM a mother now.  I must keep it semi-clean — walking the straight and narrow, you know.  Here is a great opener: Boo’s Slideshow:

hmm…as you can see that did not work, the codes must be confused or something. So, here is another picture. It’s a funny of my brother in law. The picture is funny — here is my replacement, replacement opening post. Take one. Take two. Now finally, take three!

  Nice hair Jon. I LOVE it!

Someone sent this to me. And, I probably should not post it especially since I will not be posting for a few days. It is going to appear at the top of my blog. Oh, no. It will serve as my hostess, it will be right in the foyer waving hello to all those who pass. But, here goes.  If you got a kick out of the Senator Craig debacle you will chuckle.  It really is funny.

There’s Baby B! B is always hanging on.  I found this on A little Piece of the World.  You should check out her work.  It’s tremendous. 

As redbpower is in the early stages, I have become more sensitive to the building industry.  I am personally, and now professionally, interested in “greener homes.” Here is some local “industry news.”  As I learn more about the technical side of making your home greener I will let you know. In the mean time, I have included the news at the bottom of this post.  Speaking of electrician type stuff:  Brian takes his final exam this week.  Yahoo.  Upon test results he will officially, legally be certified to do any type of electrical work including low and high voltage.  Thanks for keeping your fingers crossed for him. Send him lots of memory and recall for the day of the exam. 

RICHMOND HILL, GA) Sugar Magnolia Homes of Richmond Hill  participated in the Energy Star Awareness Eventin conjunction with Georgia Power Company. SMH opened two model homes for tours at their Midtown at White Oak Village property located off of Bethel Baptist Church Road. Sugar Magnolia diverts close to 24 million tons of drywall from landfills each year, and emphasizes recycling of other building materials such as vinyl. The company uses tighter duct work, low-emulsion windows, and other features to ensure its homes use less energy, making living cheaper for homeowners. For more information, visit www.savesomegreenbuildgreen.com.

We went to Savannah the other night just to simply “get away.”  Yes, I know it isn’t far; but when you are stay-at-home mom sometimes even short distances are worlds away.  It was SO nice.  With grand enthusiasm I highly recommend the Hampton Inn Savannah-Historic District Hotel.  From the moment you step on the heart pine floors of the foyer to the traditional Savannah grey brick, to the antiques in the lobby, this hotel is awesome.  More, the entire staff was extremly nice.  Whether for personal or business, I have stayed in a lot of accomodations in a lot of places.  I also have worked extensively in the hospitality industry.  Trust me, when I say this place was great.  It was not extravagent, I mean it was a Hampton Inn.  However, it’s Old South appeal and tasteful, casual elegence are unsurpassed. 

We walked to River Street as we finally decided to eat at Tubbys.  The air was crisp and cool while the breeze kissed out outside table. It was perfect. Someone was playing acoustical music at the restaurant but we could also hear a trumpet player from the Street. The song selection of the trumpet player has us in stiches.  It ranged from Jingle Bells to Beyonce.  He was talented!  We walked thru City Market on the way back. 

Here we are getting ready to go. This was my first time using the sling for a long period.  My arms adored the freedom.  I really like it. 

Here’s Brian and B at Tubby’s .  She looks drowsy.  “It’s past my bed time, Mama,” she seems to say.

 There’s our little pumpkin!  We could not resist the photo opportunity outside of an ice cream shop in City Market.  This is one of my favorite photos.  I love it!

As a child I LOVED Broccoli Casserole.  I liked it so much that my Mom taught me how to make it.   We made it so frequently that I memorized the ingredients and could rehearse the instructions by heart.  I cooked it last night as it made me nostalgic.  Simply the smell of it reminds me of the yellow bowl my Mom used to make it in.  And, I can remember grating the cheese and tearing with the onion.    I have other broccoli recipes, but this recipe is special. More than a meal, it is a dish of memories topped with sentimentality and spiced with reminence.  I can hardly wait to find out what Beatrice’s favorite recipes will be. More, I can not wait to cook together – just like my mother did with me. It will be so much fun!  I placed it with a Grilled Rib-eye, salad and wine.   It’s really easy. And, really yummy. Enjoy!

Broccoli Casserole from Aunt Jessie & Bert Beam’s Kitchen

2 (10 oz.) boxes chopped, frozen broccoli
1 can mushroom soup
1 cup grated sharp cheddar
2 tablespoons grated onion
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup Mayonnaise
salt & pepper to taste
1 bag crushed Ritz crackers
1/2 stick of butter

Cook broccoli. Drain. Mix with all the ingredients in a casserole dish.  Crush the crackers in the bag. Melt butter. Mix the butter with the crackers. Top the casserole.

Cook for 20 minutes at 400 degrees (cook until it bubbles)

Variations:  1/2 can mushroom soup/1/2 can celery soup 0r, 1/2 cup mayonnaise/1/2 cup sour cream.

I saw this on, Nomad’s myspace page, I guess I should call him Nomad.  Yes, I won’t reveal his real name.  If he wanted his real name disclosed he would have it on his myspace page, right? 

I will come back and elaborate later on this later.  For now, I am just cutting and pasting.  

There are currently 3,071 “critically endangered” species in the world and species assessed at the critically endangered level “face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild unless the pressures on them are relieved,” according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Here are some species around the world that might be extinct by 2017.

It’s where all the creatures will be stirring – squeeking, squawking, barking and purring.  It’s Pet Fun Day! 

PET FUN DAY, SAT., OCT. 20
10 a.m.-3:00 p.m.  Honey Bowen Memorial Park.  A fun day with friendly people and friendly animals.  There will be agility competitions, pet costume contests, photo opportunities, and more. DOGS WELCOME (on a leash, please). Cats, snakes, horses, turtles and iguanas, are welcome, too. 

And, then: 
CREEPY SATURDAY, SAT., OCT. 27   11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.,                                Anderson’s General Store. Dress your furbaby in a costume for a photo opportunity.

 PLEASE SPAY AND NEUTER! IT’S SO EASY, AND IT SAVES LIVES.

My friend and cousin, Jessica T. sent me these links this morning.  Her name may ring familiar if you kept up with the Cultural Clays posts. She is the avid shooter.  State Champion Clay Shot, in fact.  Her email arrived while I need some encouragement.  Each link is funny.  The first one reminds me that I am doing a great thing for Beatrice. Dog hair is good for the baby : ).  The second one is from a mother who has sworn off public restrooms. It is funny, too.  She kindly wrote in her email:   “I read this and thought of you…. You are doing an amazingly wonderful thing for Bea and yourself!   And….Yes…..It is glamorous! It shows you have a wonderful heart!” Thank goodness for cousins with good timing. And, telepathy!

Focus on the Family

http://www.christianitytoday.com/momsense/2007/001/3.10.html

Okay – this is an old post. Apparently the photos were not visable. So, I am reposting it in effort to learn how to correctly includ pictures.  Can you see them now?  Please take a minute to let me know. You can just leave a comment. Thanks a bunch for helping me learn the art & science of blogging:

We went to the Pumpkin Patch yesterday for a hay ride and corn maze. The weird thing was there were no pumpkins!  The fields did not produce any this year.  The kids fed the chickens and pigs. And got a baby pumpkin to take home. It was so much fun. I am super short on time today so I will have to tell you all about it later.  As you will see, I dressed B in her overalls. She matched Farmer Joe.  For all the Aunts and Uncles and Cousins and friends here are some of the pictures.  My hair is doing something rather funky.  It’s a good thing I am going to the salon on Thursday!

Will is a friend and a neighbor. He actually came over to visit and campaign a little bit on Saturday.  This post is no way indicative of my voting habits (that’s secret) or gives any insight into the way I will vote. Will’s opposition is a great candidate with a wonderful focus for downtown dwellers. Well, rather than dwellers, I should say home owners.  We are so that makes him very appealing. The Historic District he proposes will add property value. Yeah, baby, that is what we are looking for.  But as I mentioned, Will is a long time friend of Brian and I’s – we all go back to kid-hood here in the ‘boro. We were in the class of ‘93. Will and I actually went thru Bulloch Youth Leadership together back in 19??. You see where it got us.  Hah, I am laughing loudly at that one.  And, we were State Officers for Y-Club back in the day, too.  Again, I have to laugh a little.  I feel like I should help a homeboy out no matter which way I vote. Here is a mass message that he sent out: 

Note From Will Britt:

this is the first of a few messages about voting in the upcoming city council election.

here is the deal
- im running for city council
- id like your support and vote
-id like to assist you in voting by offering you a ride to early voting or with absentee ballots
-id like your help in getting other people to the polls

early voting is open to everyone
a registered voted can vote at statesboro city hall 9 am to 5 pm oct 29th to nov 2nd

election day is nov 6th

please let me know when you would like to vote

one vote matters

our voice will be heard

four years ago i only won by 49 votes

this year id like to sleep better monday the 5th, so help me get my votes early

thanks

call, text, facebook, myspace me or email me back

will

forward this to other friendstake a moment to help out

Hello Pet Lovers. Pet Fun Day is Saturday.  Pam from Best Friends Animal Hospital, just sent these numbers. Here’s the prices:

Canines: Rabies vacc.   $9.00, DHPP vacc.  $12.00, Bordetella vacc. $10.00

Felines: Rabies vacc. $9.00, FVRCP vacc.$12.00, Felv vacc.    $15.00, Microchips are $35.00 (includes reg. fee)

Southern Pet Sitters is in the straights. And, it worries me.  It worries me a lot, in fact. My dearest friend and largest confidant, my husband, keeps reminding me that “it’s not any of your business.”  After three years in the industry, I sold it.  But, in my defense, I built that business as had those before me.  By wrapping my heart, soul and mind around it, I made it mine.  I worked every day in the business and loved every, well most every, single minute of it.  “You didn’t say that on Christmas. Nor, Thanksgiving,” Brian reminds me.  And yes, he is right. But, I think it was my calling.  We won international recognition with that little business. It was such a simple business — low overhead, low investment. Yet, it was ever emotionally and financially successful.  We were slated to win the 2007 Pet Sitting Business of the Year.   But, I sold out.  Dr. Gary Edwards, a local veterinarian and professional friend, once asked me, “if you won the lottery tomorrow would you still pet sit?”  I surprised him when I said yes.  The truth is yes, I would.  Really, I would. Being a pet sitter is one of the most amazing jobs in the world. You are able to make animals content, satisfied & happy and thru them people happy.  It’s an invaluable service that you can only appreciate when you have furry family members to care for and a will to vacation or a job that travels.  I know that the new owners will glide thru the bumps.  But the bumps are stressing me out.  I feel lost without my job, without my income. It had become my identity. I never dreamed I would miss it so much.  I sold out. I took the money and ran at my business consultants advice.  Our accountant specifically told me to do cart wheels out of the attorneys office.  I didn’t. It was a solemn goodbye.  As a mother, I know it was a wise decision. And, as a business person I know it was financially advantageous for me to sell at that time.  Honestly, though, I regret it sometimes.  I miss the relationships and the friends that I made.  I miss being the bread winner. I miss the feeling of accomplishment and the satisfaction of a job well done.  I miss crunching numbers, stalking the business stats, creating business strategies, and financial reports.  I miss loving what I do. 

*NOTE:  You should see a picture at the top of the page. I think I have correctly added it to my blog. If you do not see a picture then let me know so that I can tinker a little more.  Again, I am in a quest to learn how to blog. 

NOTE, NOTE:  This is not a current picture. This is a picture from last year BEFORE I tipped the scales with my pregnancy.  I have developed severe camera-phobe as I do not have any current photos.   This is my disclaimer so you don’t think I am one of those cheesy people who only puts old photos of themselves on-line.  But, you guys know me better than that. 

As many of you have let me know, I am not yet skilled in adding pictures to my blog.  So, this is a test, kind of.  Here is a picture of our window treatments.  Actually, it is page of what our treatments will look like.  I hope you can see them.  Can you see them?  This is a cut and paste -

I just remembered that Caroline’s new speech pathology practice is opening today.  Yay, she is finally going into private practice and is going to do great.  I do not know what she is calling it or I would post it here. I promise to find out and get back to you.  I am so proud of her.  She helped jumpstart my baby sign language interest, which is one reason I am interested in her opening — the classes.  She is passionate about baby communication and will incorporate sign classes into her practice.  She is confident that Beatrice will get master it.  We’ll see!

.

Hmm…my brain has been churning. I have been brainstorming but haven’t come up with any thing creative.  I am going to a MOMs Club brunch tomorrow. The theme: Fall Foods.  I think one mom is bringing Pumpkin Bread. Another mom is making chili.  Any ideas?  Anyone?  Anyone?  I will be super happy if you leave your ideas in my comment box.  I don’t know how to tell you to leave a comment.

While I am on here, I am posting pic of Mere’s baby.  I haven’t heard from her in so long but she sent me pics today.  Her baby is super cute! I can hardly resist babies and pumpkin pictures. Oh, my goodness, she is so cute! So, I am including it to spice up my post.  It goes with the fall foods theme, don’t you think?

Boo & Lilly at Outback

One of my Savannah friends invited me to a PMS Party. Now, that sounds like the kind of party I can get into  — especially since champagne and truffles are involved.  I bet Brian would agree. For that matter, any of my close friends, relatives, former roommates or old boyfriends probably think I spearheaded the jubilee.  Without a doubt, I am the poster child for PMS crazy woman.  Isn’t it great there is a party to celebrate the syndrome! I don’t know if I will be able to meet Margie for the party but here’s the information she sent.  Maybe you can go.  It sounds like fun: 

 Come join skirt! Magazine for their PMS Party to celebrate founder and publisher Nikki Hardin’s release of her book PMS: Problems Men Started November 8th. The party will be held from 6:00-8:30p.m. at 45 Bistro on Broughton St.  Beer, wine and champagne along with chocolate truffles, cakes and pies will be served with musical entertainment provided by Savannah’s own Annie Allman, owner of Annie Allman’s Downtown Music on Broughton Street. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. People who purchase their tickets in advance will receive the book absolutely free. For reservations and ticket sales call 912.525.0740

My ears, eyes and mouth are in constant search for new recipes to introduce to my kitchen.  I like to challenge my culinary skills.  I enjoy cooking; but, it seems our menu is stagnant. It rarely changes.  “Something new. Something new, please,” our bellies cravingly appeal.  Tonight I tried something new. And, it WAS good.  Easy, too. So, I thought I would share it.   The dish is for serious garlic lovers.  We are!  It’s an easy recipe and the chicken bakes out moist and tender, grated cheese may be sprinkled on top of the breast the last 5 minutes of cooking if desired, double all ingredients for more than four breasts and adjust the amount of garlic to suit taste — to take this dish to yet another level about 10 minutes before the cooking time is finished drizzle the top of the chicken with a little pasta sauce then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, return to oven for about 10 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked and sauce is hot and cheese has melted, if you prefer a lemon-garlic flavor add in 3 tablespoons lemon to the melted butter/garlic mixture.  You will LOVE this chicken. We do!

1. Set oven to 350 degrees.
2. Butter an 11 x 7-inch pan (for 4 breasts, use a larger pan for more breasts).
3. In a bowl, combine butter, fresh garlic, garlic powder and salt.
4. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, cheddar and Parmesan cheese and pepper.
5. Dip chicken in butter mixture; then in crumb mixture.
6. Place in prepared pan and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until juices run clear (or bake covered for 15 minutes and uncover for the remainder of the cooking time).
7. Top with shredded cheese the last 5 minutes of cooking (this is optional).

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word,
a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all
of which have the potential to turn a life around.             Leo Buscaglia

I have had this quote posted on the bottem of my personal email for YEARS.   My mind is fuzzy as I attempt to recall it’s origin. I ponder and ponder but I can not remember. Where in the world did I get this from? I have no idea.  Occaisionally, I get bored with it as I consider removal. But, each attempt has failed, mission-not-accomplished.  It is a gentle reminder to myself to savor the good things in life, to share them, to encourage them, to plant them and allow  the seeds grow.  Honestly, it really does make me feel honorable, warm, sunny, confident and cheerful when someone tells me something good, something honest and true.  I need to balance the scales by doing the same for others.  I love to hear compliments, cheer, and positive information.  So, I try to spread the sparkle.  Or, flap the butterfly wings (if you’ve ever read the ripple effect).  Afterall, you never know what great things could come. 

I love this quote.  Thank you Mr.  Buscaglia.  You have turned my life around, year after year after year .  Touche!

Brian was running late from work as he had an electrical job after his professional job.  Hooray for redbpower!  So, he picked up the baby sitter on the way home before even taking a shower.  I am sure she thought, “Pee, Yew.” We considered cancelling but the sitter was already booked.  Plus, we had both been anticipating a night out for a while.  We kept our date.  I clipped the movie schedule but we nixed that idea.  We finally ended up at Longhorn for a late dinner.  It wasn’t any thing fancy schmanzy or even exciting.  In fact, I had eaten there for lunch with D & L that same day. But that wasn’t the point.  It was simply nice to have privacy away from the babe, the ringing phone, the television,  visitors.  It was just the two of us together for a quiet evening.  I love quiet these days.  I live for muffles, low pitches, stillness, unspeaking, and noiseless.  I like to be reserved. We didn’t drink much. Although, I DID have a blackberry peach Margarita that was specktacular.  And, Brian had a beer or two.  Being able to sincerely focus on eating and conversation was relaxing and ever enjoyable.  Due to the time the restaurant was rather vacant making it more personal than usual. We finished much earlier than we had hired the sitter.  “Let’s don’t go home yet,” Brian said as we exited the parking lot.  “Yes, you MUST be a mind reader,” I laughed.  We rode around like old fogies. We drove out to Brooklet and back across town by the lights of the fair.  As veterens of nightlife, it was ironically fun to take it easy.  I liked my easy night at Longhorn.  Maybe we will try Christophers on our next outing.  I have heard it was delicious from a friend whose taste I trust.

Animals provide therapy for anyone with any illness, but especially Alzheimers patients.   Cats, dogs, and even exotic animals help patients with “memory loss” by bringing them back to the present.  More, trained pups can help alert others that an Alzheimer’s patient has wandered into harm’s way. “Pets can provide a measure of safety to people with the disease,” says Thomas Kirk, a vice president of a chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.  In addition to offering safety they give companionship and relieve depression, which is a criticalpart of the disease.  I have included a video I found moving.  This patient is in the advance stages of the disease. 

In a landfill, plastic bags take up to 1,000 years to degrade. As litter, they breakdown into tiny bits, contaminating our soil and water.

Hmm…this is disgusting. I really need to address my plastic consumption problem. I really don’t have much time to blog today. This stat is big enough. It says all that I want to say and more.  Just, think about it.

I saw the cutest children this morning. They were all making pizzas at Papa’s Pizza.  B and I went to a Pizza Party!  The event was sponsored by the Moms Club of Statesboro.  Peperoni, please.  The chef-kids made pizzas and calzones before the restaurant gave them tokens to play games.  Oh, and there was a tour of the kitchen.  The morning experience was so great.   B had a good time mingling with the other babies and watching the older kids.  Mama had a good time mingling with the stay-at-home mamas.  I am in love with this group as this was my first event.  The association is so fast-forward for Statesboro. There is a baby sitting co-op, secret mama’s, play groups, a book club, and much more. There is even a desperate housewives group that helps hang curtains, paint living rooms, and any other household work.  Gosh, I have lots of unfinished projects. Where can I sign up? I belive, I AM a desperate housewife.  Certainly, I fit the bill. I have tons of unfinished project.   There are about forty mothers in the assembly of posh mamas. From going to movies together to brunch buddy groups this is a bustling bunch. I was SO impressed. I am so refreshed.  Go, Statesboro Mothers. I am so happy to be one of you!

Here is a link to the group:  http://momsclub.wordpress.com/

 

My sister is so great with children. She took her baby to the Halloween Store! Kids in costumes are pleasently perky and ever-cute.  I think that is a great outing:  the Halloween Store.  We don’t have one of those here in the ‘boro.  We have to square off with people at Wal-mart, knock people out with the hangers and stuff.   They dressed baby up and snapped photos. Is that a great mama or what?  And, she looks so cute.   

She is the spookiest little neice ever. She is so cute. Boo!

Hubby and I are headed out for a date tonight. Yes, a real live date, a date without a child in tow.  Oh, it is going to be so great. I can hardly wait.  Our favorite baby sitter is coming. More she is excited to see Baby B!  Her excitement makes me so sunny.  Where should we go?  The movies?  To dinner?  Out for dessert?  hmm…I will have to think about this one.  To be honest any where will be great.  Maybe we should go to Statesboro Brews for a martini (or two) or to Blue Moon or to the French Quarter.  Yahoo, finally some alone time with the husband.

Okay, okay. Everyone is taking this shooting thing way too serious.  Someone sent me an email with a link to this number. Some things are pretty in pink. Other things are not.  Besides, I am not even in the clay challenge any more.  So, everyone can back off. And, keep your jokes to yourself.  Although, I must admit they make me laugh. That considered, keep sending the jokes.  They are really funny. I love them!

If you REALLY are interested in a Pink Remington Shot Gun, then here are a few links for the fashion minded gun enthusiasts:

BB Gadgets

The Third Rail Design

Ripe Now

Trend Hunter

Beatrice and I went to the library today.  I put her in the sling as we browsed.   All was well until she let out several LOUD screeches that pierced the silence of the library like a needle going thru an inflated balloon.  Embarressed as the entire library population looked for the source of the noise obstruction, I sprinted to the check out counter with the only books I had in-hand.  I like to check out 5 – 10 at at time. Today, due to the  special b-circumstance I only have these three:

• Losing my mind, An intimate Look at Life with Alzheimers
• The Beach Club, Elin Hilderbrand
• Second Hand Chic

I will let you know how they are!