The eagle has landed.  My camera is back in my paws. Yahoo!  First things first.  Boo wants a picture of my Christmas tree. She said that I can’t post an article about How to Decorate Your Tree Like a Designer or post that my Christmas tree is up, then not post a picture of my own tree.  So, here it is, Boo.  My camera’s back.  Mama’s snappin’.  And, no it doesn’t look like a designer tree.  In fact, we don’t even have all the ornaments on it yet.  Nor do we have a tree topper. None the less it was fun to decorate. 

Now our house feels christmas-sy.  I wish we could keep it up all year!

P.S.  Look closely, you can barely see Barry in the left hand corner of the photo.  Good ol’ Sandy Paws!

Here’s a few pictures of my pine cone tree…just for fun.  I made it at Mom’s Night Out last week.  

 This is from our Wednesday Play Group. Beatrice had the BEST time playing with Madison’s toys.  This rocking horse was one of her favorites! 

Bunny Coats are good for cold weather. Brrr…

Okay, since I have had a Statesboro theme lately I can not resist showing you this fine display of South Georgia talent. 

Hell LOW flesh peddlers, your talent search will come to a  halt upon feasting your eyes on this commercial. It’s great to know there are a few souls with aptitude in the Bulloch County area. Who said, “white redneck men can’t dance?”

I have GOT to share this. If you do not do any thing else today, you must find a computer with sound and watch this.  I promise, you are going to smile. It is absolutely ridiculous. 

This one goes out to Amy — my long left the ‘boro, we went to the science fair in the 8th grade, I am super smart, beautiful friend Amy.  You, anyone who lives in Statesboro but does not have cable, former Statesboro residents, and well, just anybody have need to see this.  This is a a real commercial created and aired right here in the ‘boro. You either hate it or you love it.  For those of you who do not live here anymore, this is a reminder of why you relocated.  Yes, this commercial won Northland Cables BEST COMMERCIAL one year.  I am serious.  When this is the cream of the crop, you have a good idea about the quality level of programming we experience in rural Georgia.

So, do you love it, or do you hate it?  I want to know what you think.

I LOVE it. I am just cheesy like that!

Get into the Holiday Spirit

                 Statesboro Style!

 Watch the Commercial.

Come to the Downtown Statesboro Festival of Floats Parade on Dec 6, 5:30 p.  Ten get to the phone quickly to order your tickets to see Emma’s Holiday Follies. Call 912-212-2787 or visit the Box Office.  The show is December 14 – 16 at the Emma Kelly Theater. Bring your camera to take pictures with Santa and the Grinch after the show.  

Contact:  Connie Hayes, Assistant Director Averitt Center for the Arts home of The Emma Kelly Theater 33 East Main Street  Statesboro , Georgia 30458  912-212-ARTS

Here’s a sweepstakes for all the greenies reading the bloggy.  And, for the non-greenies you can enter, too.  You don’t have to actually go green to enter. 

I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas Sweepstakes

Enter the “I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas” Sweepstakes. It’s your chance to win weekly prizes and an eco-friendly resort vacation. Enter today!

Did you here about this?  Apparently, a girl drove her car into the pool at The Garden District in Statesboro, Georgia.  I would like to make light of the situation and say “this is how we roll here in the ‘boro.”  But, this is horrifying.  It is really disturbing, sad and dangerous — not only for the drinkers but for the rest of us who are on the road in a college town.

Please, if you are going to drink please call a cab for your safety and for ours. And, be careful if you are driving the roads of the ‘boro as there are drivers like this on the road!

This happened at Garden District in Statesboro last Friday night. No one was hurt

I received this today.  Clay is an old ‘boro buddy.  We go back as far as  preschool here in Statesboro as Mrs. Joyner’s Little School.  It’s so sad.  It makes my heart hurt.  I am passing it on in hopes of helping them sell a few extra dinners and spur a few extra blessings.  Clay is an awesome person.  According to my husband there is something special about red heads. And, Clay is one. 

Clay Gracen, a former Bulloch County Deputy, who currently works for the State of Georgia Juvenile Probation and part time as a Brooklet Police Officer has been out of work for some time.  He is very sick and recently had a colostomy bag put in.  Clay is 32 years old and is a married father of 3 children all under the age of 6.  His wife is Celena Perkins-Gracen.

The Brooklet Police Department will be selling dinners and all proceeds will go to Clay and his family to help with bills.  All of the food has been donated so 100% goes to him and his family.

Dinners are $6.00 and will be available Friday, November 30 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Westside Automotive (across from Ellis Meat) behind the Statesboro Post Office.  Dinners include:

·         Grilled Chicken (leg quarters)

·         Green Beans

·         Potato Salad

·         Dessert

Please let Craig Hunter know if you are interested.  He will be selling tickets at the Century 21 office.  Checks can be made out to Clay Gracen fund raiser

Thanks in advance for helping this local family in need.

As you  know from my post we decorated our Christmas tree (well, most of it) last night. Click here for a picture of it. I stumbled upon this article from BHG & Pier1.  Although we have already strayed from the instructions for a “designer” tree the article has good tips.  I am including it for your reference. 

May you a designer Christmas Tree this year!

Reprinted with permission of Better Homes & Gardens.

Chances are that decorating a Christmas tree is no mystery to you. But wouldn’t you like to know a few designer tricks? How about ways to get more lushness and drama? The secret is in the layers.

First, the Lights

Sparkle and shine comes primarily from the tree lights. Faceted glass bulbs will refract more light and appear brighter. Small twinkle lights and colored lights also have impact when you layer several strands and pair them with ornaments having reflective surfaces.

To illuminate the tree from the inside out, string lights around the trunk and the branches. Starting at the base of the trunk and working up, wrap the lights around every major branch, moving from the trunk to the tip and back.

Don’t skimp on lights! For every vertical foot of tree, use a strand of 100 lights. And don’t be afraid to mix and match lights. There’s no rule stating that you can only use one kind.

A “background” of white or clear lights can be highlighted with strands of colored lights that wrap the outside of the tree. Experiment with different lighting schemes until you get one you like.

Second, the Garland

There are no firm rules when draping garlands on a tree (as long as you don’t create a sausage effect, with branches bulging between tightly-cinched garlands). Start at the top, stringing less garland, and work your way down, increasing the amount of garland.

Thin bead garlands look best swagged from branch to branch; thick paper, ribbon, or foil garlands look best wrapped loosely around the entire tree.

Use a variety of garlands — from plain to fancy — to avoid a busy look. For every vertical foot of tree, use about two strands of garland.

Third, the Ornaments

To showcase your ornaments, start with the most important ones. Then hang the largest ornaments, spacing them evenly apart. Fill in around them with medium and small sizes, balancing the overall look.

Finish with specialty shapes, such as bird clip-ons. For interesting variety, include all shapes, from icicles to teardrops. And create depth by hanging some ornaments closer to the trunk.

Here’s the link to the article:  http://www.pier1.com/TopMenu/GetInspired/HowtoDecorateaChristmasTree/tabid/231/Default.aspx

See my tree, here.  More Christmas Posts, here.

GreenDrinks Savannah       5:30PM on Tue, Dec 11, 2007

Churchill’s Pub on Bay Street      cost: $drinks

description:  Many shades of green, one good time!  WHO:     Anyone interested in a greener Savannah    WHAT:  Sustainability is good. Cocktails are good.
Sustainability + Cocktails = BetterWHEN:   Second Tuesday of the month @ 5:30 – 7:30 WHERE:   Enjoy happy hour drink specials, half-price appetizers and $3 “Green Monsters” at Churchill’s Pub Join us downstairs in the cellar 13 West Bay Street

I admit this knowingly – I mean, I know that it sounds old-fogey, kind-of senior citizen-ish, totally southern. I hate to even say it, but I love going on Tours of Homes.  I really enjoy it. Grandmother and I used to go each season to a holiday inspired one on Sea Island.  My fascination with Tours of Homes probably originated with her as she has lugged me to tours in Valdosta, Albany, St. Simons and Sea Island.  Some were with coffee. Some were with cocktails. Some were extravagant. Some were mediocre.  No matter what the tours were they are fun. 

It’s too far to drive down to Sea Island now, too far to drive to our annual “oh wow” tour.  However,  I found one in Savannah.  It’s on a weekend so maybe I can convince Brian to go.  Or, maybe we can convince a Adam and Stacy to meet us there since they live in Savannah.  Hmm…that’s an idea.  Here are the details in the case you may want to go:

 Second Annual Ardsley Park Holiday Tour of HomesFriday, November 30, 2007      7 p.m. VIP Reception – $50

Saturday, December 1, 2007   noon – 4 p.m. Tour of Homes – $25

Proceeds benefit The Learning Center at Senior Citizens, Inc.

(912) 236-0363 for additional details or reservations

Our Christmas Tree is up!

It’s been a hustle bustle at the Hulsey House today.  We re-arranged the furniture.  I mean like, we moved the den in the office and the office into the den -lots of lifting.  And, we put up the Christmas decorations including the tree, pine cone mini tree, stockings, and front door wreath.  Our efforts began with gusto, yet we were exhausted by the afternoon’s conclusion. We were so tired we didn’t even put all the ornaments on the tree.  It was a lot of work to put all those limbs on the pole!

Brian wanted all white lights as that is what we hung.  However, I secretly wanted to use our colored lights.  I have bundles of the old-school, bulky, bulb-like strands that have blue, red, and green lights.  He thinks those are cheesy.  You know the style that I am talking about. They remind me of the lights on my Grandmother’s tree as a child. They are so old fashioned and so cute.  I love them even though he thinks they are tacky.

In all the moving, I have misplaced my camera.  So, I can’t show you any pictures.  Keep your fingers crossed that I find it soon. 

In a quest to stay healthy especially as we age, most of us wonder what we can do to prevent memory loss.  Although research has revealed some clues, a clear-cut answer is not existent.  Complex, it develops over many years.   Nutrition is beneficial to brain health. 

Grab your pen and paper.  Here’s Your Brain Boosting Shopping List from www.oprah.com . 

Your Brain-Boosting Shopping List

• Blueberries, pomegranate juice, apples, oranges or orange juice

• Wild salmon, herring, sardines

• Walnuts, almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, ground flaxseed

• Avocados, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, yams, collard greens, yellow squash

• White button, portabella, or shiitake mushrooms

• Oatmeal, whole-grain breads, brown rice

• Beans, peas, lentils, lima beans

• Freshly brewed green or black tea

• Dark chocolate

• Red wine

• Fruit and vegetable juices

For a more in-depth look at ‘Oprah’s Spotlight on Health: Alzheimer’s Disease’ click here.

For dinner tonight,  I found a roast in the freezer and a recipe online. So, here goes!  I will let you know how it turns out. I added a can of beef broth, garlic cloves, and French Onion Soup to the recipe.

FYI:  Beef Roast it puts a relatively inexpensive cut of meat on the table, tender and tasty, with very little preparation or cooking attention.

Easy Roast Beef Ingredients

Insructions for Easy Roast Beef

Dredge a 4 pound chuck or shoulder beef roast with a mixture of flour, salt, pepper and garlic salt. Place 3 or 4 patties of butter in bottom of roaster pan. Put meat in pan and put 3 or 4 patties of butter on top of meat. Pour broth over meat.  Empty Soup Packet on top of roast. Add potatoes.  Bake at 350 F for one hour, uncovered. Add 1 cup of water, cover and bake for 2 more hours at 250 F.

Brian and I love to travel all year round, not just during the holidays.  More, we love to visit with friends and family while traveling.  It’s always more fun to stay with loved ones vs. a hotel.  If you are one of them you already know this!  We will divert our trip for miles just to visit, to chum with relatives and comrads.  Most recently we stayed with Mason, Chrissy and Trey in Atlanta a few weeks ago while Brian took his electrical test even though it added about an hour drive time and extra gas. This isn’t a practice motivated by frugality.  We aren’t total cheapskates.  But, we do love to visit.  I miss my friends and my family.  It is so great to see them. It’s the best way to learn local lore and culture, to get the best insight on attractions, and to foster relationships. 

As I consider this alternative to traditional travel, I am realizing that it is more eco-friendly than staying at a hotel.  There’s no extra ac/heat used, no little bars of soap and shampoo and no paper for receipts.  While we travel we attempt to be good guests as we hope that our accommodate-ers enjoy our stay as much as we do. 

Tis the season for travel, family, friends, hostessing, and hosting.  I encourage you to forgo the commercial inns to absorb the warmth of those that you love.

Here are a few of my tips for being a good house guest.  Is there any thing that you do special when you stay at someones house?  Let me know. Leave me a comment.  I love fresh ideas, 

Here are a few things I like to do when invited to stay overnight at someone’s home:

• Bring a bread-and-butter gift. This is a token gift to thank your hosts. It doesn’t have to be extravagant, just thoughtful. Something to eat is always appropriate. I like to bring representations of our geographic area like Vidalia Onions, for instance.  We took Chrissy and Mason two bottles of wine from our local vineyard, Meinhardt Vinyard.  
  

  I know that Hopuliket Red can ONLY be found in Statesboro. It is a gift unique to our hometown!

• Help prepare at least one of the meals during your stay. This can be an alternative to taking everyone out to eat at a restaurant, especially with busy schedules. A breakfast casserole is always easy, coupled with fresh fruit and a bread.  When GG recently visited us she brought a recipe with all of the ingredients. It was nice to know that it was one less meal that I had to plan and prepare for.  Plus, it introduced us to a new dish.  You can see the details on my earlier post, here.
• Plan lunch away from your hosts. This gives them a break from meal preparation,  time to run needed errands, and a chance to have some time alone. 
• Bring your own snacks, so that you won’t have to raid your host’s pantry. It’s not nice to eat them out of house and home.
• Offer to help with any outstanding projects around the home (at your host’s mention). Sometimes it takes a second person for moral support.  My Aunt Peg always helps us finish our crafty projects.  I look forward to her visits because I know that we will get things done!
• Help with daily chores.  For example, at I emptied Chrissy’s dishwasher and helped wash the dishes.  And, when GG recently visited us she helped me clean my bathroom from top to bottem. It was really nice. 
• Make up the bed, strip the sheets, or launder them–depending on your hostess. Hostesses always insist, “Oh, no, you didn’t have to do that!” but isn’t it so nice if you do? I know I always collapse after guests leave!
• Write a thank-you note upon leaving. Be specific about your trip. Include a photo, if possible.
• Do all of the above if you are staying with friends. Do them twice as well if you are staying with family.

Note:  It does not cost a lot to be a considerate guest. It’s fun and it’s easy.  So, be one.  Your friends and family will look forward to  your stay!

*Photo Compliments of kenny42952on flickr

I haven’t forgotten about Operation Christmas Eco Challenge from my earlier post (read here). In fact, I found these ideas today at  www.martha.com. 

From:

Given the time and thought that goes into picking a holiday gift, the standard wrap job — a rumpled bow slapped on a department-store box or a bag and tissue paper picked up at the drugstore — rarely does justice to the contents. But visual appeal isn’t the only reason to reconsider your wrapping habits: Americans spend an estimated $2.7 billion annually on ribbons, paper, and bows, and almost all of those goods wind up in the trash. This year make gift wrap that’s both gorgeous and green by creatively repurposing stuff others might toss.

Notes eco-stylist Danny Seo, author of the new book “Simply Green Giving”: “It’s amazing what you can find at Goodwill. Vintage fabrics, wallpaper, and sweaters all make great wrapping — just look for rich textures.”Sometimes,” he adds, “the wrap will serve as part of the gift, as in the case of a belt or scarf used as a bow. When you think outside of the paper-covered box, the options are endless. Read on for wrapping ideas as stylish as they are sustainable.

Natural
Birch bark and fresh leaves are surprisingly pliable; just roll and secure with twine. Find them in Asian markets and outdoors.

Clockwise from top left: Banana leaf with cinnamon, bamboo leaves with hemp twine, bamboo leaves with star anise, banana leaves with reeds, birch bark with a feather.

Fillers
Biodegradable stuffing cushions small, fragile items just as well as plastic bubble wrap or Styrofoam peanuts, a recycler’s worst nightmare.

Clockwise from top left: Used wrapping paper, shredded; unsalted peanuts in their shells; air-popped popcorn; a pine bough.

Cloth
In Japan, the art of wrapping gifts in cloth is called furoshiki, and it’s brilliantly ecofriendly. Secure open ends with a button, safety pin, or knot.

Clockwise from top left: Vintage scarf; burlap rice bag; wool scarf with a knitting needle; tea towel with rickrack; scrap from a vintage kimono.

Paper
Easy to find and work with, vintage and repurposed papers add pop to presents. Layer several colors and textures, or add vintage beads for a finished look.

Clockwise from top left: Vintage wallpaper; Chinese newspaper topped with colored paper; recycled map; grocery bag with Japanese beads.

Created by Donna Garlough and Lauren Sanders; photographs by Karl Juengel; styling by Dawn Sinkowski   First Published: November/December 2006

Still want more ideas?  Click my earlier post here.

Okay, I know it sounds ridiculous but I love the new CVS commercial – the one for caregivers.  To see it click here. Every time I hear the commercial I wish for the music to play on and on.   I finally decided I would find out who  sings it so I could find it on itunes.  Apparently, Kathy Fisher of Fisher the Band sings it.  It is not available for download. 

I discovered that Sarah Maclaughlin also sings it.  She sang it in Charolette’s Web a few years ago, which I did not see.  And, she sang it the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade that year.  I must not have seen that either. 

It is a beautiful song. 

You can buy the album by clicking HERE.  

Here’s Sarah’s rendition: 

If you are interested, here are the lyrics:

The sky knows when its time to snow
You don’t need to teach a seed to grow
It’s just another ordinary miracle todayLife is like a gift they say
Wrapped up for you everyday
Open up and find a way
To give some of your ownIsn’t it remarkable’
Like every time a raindrop falls
It’s just another ordinary miracle todayBirds in winter have their fling
And always make it home by spring
It’s just another ordinary miracle today When you wake up everyday
Please don’t throw your dreams away
Hold them close to your heart
Cause we are all a part
Of the ordinary miracleOrdinary miracle
Do you want to see a miracle’Its seems so exceptional
Things just work out after all
It’s just another ordinary miracle todayThe sun comes up and shines so bright
It disappears again at night
It’s just another ordinary miracle todayI found Meadow Rabbit’s is also blogging about Ordinary Miracle Day.  I guess she listens to the song as she spins. 

A conversation with Daphne got me curious about Soulja Boy. I didn’t realize it was all over Youtube. I checked out.

I love it when white kids try to dance.

Here’s a better one:

“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors,
                   we borrow it from our children.”
                   – Ancient Lakota Proverb

I am so digging this. It’s Naughty by Nature…family style.

  Traci sent me these pictures earlier this week as I have not had the time to post them until now.  Beatrice was SO tiny. I can hardly believe it. She looks so different now!  The photos are from a wedding shower for Megan and their wedding.  I guess, Beatrice was only a few weeks old at the shower and around six weeks at the wedding.  Here are the pics:

 Kelly and I.  I look so “puffy.”  I think this is where  Kelly caught the fever.

 Anny & B.  Aunt Linda helps Anny.  Fussy Baby. Anny’s going to be a good mother one day.  She’s smiling despite B’s protest. 

 Brian’s Mom with Baby B-So-Sleepy.

 Traci the family photographer. Is she gorgeous, or what?

Hmm…I did not know this. Dal Cannady, reported this story on WTOCthough.  It must be legitimate.  Apparently several thousand Thanksgiving dinners will be given away right here in Statesboro.

Volunteers are gathering at Statesboro High School to prepare and deliver 2,400 plates to locals.  Unbelievable.  Can you believe this goes on here? This is so great! 

Like a good neighbor (can’t you hear the State Farm Insurance Jingle), Jimmy Anthony is theeeerrrrre.  Seriously, he really IS an agent. ”It is a pleasure to do.  I can’t stop. So I will do it as long as I live,” he explained.  He started it in his back yard.  If you want to to help, from cooking and serving to delivering or cleaning up, you can stop by Statesboro High School on Fleming Road between 6am and noon on Thursday.

*See WTOC story here

Dear Readers: 

Uh, oh. I know it is no surprise to you but my grammar is really bad.  And, it always has been.  For instance, in college at the University of Georgia,  I made an A in creative writing which is super difficult to do. It was the only ‘A’ in the entire class.  It was quite an honor.  But, I barely made a ‘C’ in English 101 which focused on grammer, punctuation, etc. despite diligent efforts.  Per the comment on the post, I am sorry.  Hearing people mis-use grammar sounds like chalk on a chalkboard to me.  As a reader of this blog you will simply have to excuse my errors.   I am sure the chalk will screech repeatedly, and more often than I realize.  I typically blog either while nursing or late at night without  pre-writing, editing, etc.  It’s a free flow, an outlet not a show. It’s impromptu.  I am thankful that you brought it to my attention as I will try to make amends, but please do not take it personal when I break rules.  Oh, and as you notice grammatical errors feel free to continue to advise me of the rules.  I do try to change bad habits.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!

It’s hard to teach an old dogs new tricks. 

According to Purina these are the top dog names.  Hello fellow pet sitters, does this surprise you? No, uh-uh, absolutely not.  I am never short of a good Buddy (or four or five).

Most Popular Male Dog Names

• Max – Meaning: Greatness
• Jake – Meaning: To take someone’s place
• Buddy – Meaning: A welcome messenger
• Bailey – Meaning: Keeper/guardian of property
• Sam – Meaning: Heard by God

Most Popular Female Dog Names

• Maggie – Meaning: Pearl
• Molly – Meaning: Irish for “Mary”
• Lady – Meaning: A noble title for a female
• Sadie – Meaning: A princess
• Lucy – Meaning: Patron Saint for the blind

All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players: they have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts… -William Shakespeare

The great thing about blogging is that I can introduce the characters of my life to one another.  Otherwise, they just dance thru the pages not knowing the other cast members.  I can bring the people that I love closer, or at least introduce them in ways that I aren’t usually possible.  So, Brian, Mom, Amanda, Aunt Peg, and Aunt Kathy — this is Chrissy’s Mom.  I know you have heard me talk about her over the years.  

Tah-dah, here she is with Baby Trey!

The one thing that the picture can’t show you is:  she is just as beautiful on the inside as the out.

And, Chrissy just looks so darn good that I can’t resist sharing this picture of she and baby.  Don’t they look cute? Yummy!

My life is in some ways one gigantic music quest. My ears are not choosy as I simply love a range of sounds from a range of genres. I am not very educated in this area. Rather, I am a novice with little skill or knowledge. In this case, ignorance is bliss because I love it all!

Unlike my husband, who has a far superior ear I am often drawn to lyrics.  I can get lost in them. The lyrics take me away while giving me the opportunity to dream a little, wish a little, and escape a lot. While checking out Daily Scribblings, I stumbled upon a new favorite song,  ‘Strawberry’ by Paul Baribeau.  It has the best lyrics. This is my new love song to my husband while also my new love song to Beatrice. I would love to find either of them growing out in the woods. I would pick as many of them as I could.  I would then have huge basket of them. 

A tisket, a tasket. Brian and B in my basket.

You can read Andrea’s well written introduction to the song, here. 

Here is a link to Paul’s Baribeau myspace, here.

*Photo compliments of  jrabbiton flickr.

And, here are the super lyrics:

to say that you are cute

would be like saying that a strawberry is sweet

cause a strawberry has secret flavors that are sharp, and tart, and red, and deep

and i would love to find you growing wild out by the woods

i would make a basket with the front of my t-shirt

and take home as many of you as i could

and to say that you are pretty

would be like saying that the ocean is blue

cause the ocean is full of all kinds of colors

and i see all kinds of things when i look at you

and i want to explore you with my tenni shoes off

standing ankle deep in a tide pool, with my khaki pants rolled up

and to say that you are funny

would be like saying that the night sky is black

cause the night sky is filled with stars and comets and planets that no one has seen yet

and i want to look at you

lying down on my front lawn

ill try to take you all in at once

but you just go on and on and on

D

 The message said, “call me back immediately.” The excitement in her voice promted me to do just that with utmost urgency.  Bring. Brriinnnng. She answered almost immediately.  Lauren,one of my favorite-really-close-friends, had the best news EVER.  Her sister-in-law and two other people got tickets to Oprah’s Macon debut last Saturday.  Even better, they were on their way home with car load of loot, real Oprah booty. Not only did Rod’s brother’s wife go to an Oprah Show, she went to the very best show of the year.  The talk show host brought her FAVORITE THINGS 2007 list to Macon!!!!  This show is the “show of shows,” the cream of the Harpo crop. If you could choose just one episode to go to, this is it. Yes, you’re on the right track.  Sheila and her counterparts returned home with the gift of actually seeing Oprah AND a whole bunch of her favorite things.  OOOOOOOOOOO, yeah baby!

Some girls have all the luck.

*Per an earlier post: The secret is, sometimes THE SECRET doesn’t work.

I was curious to know exactly how lucky Sheila was so I checked out the list on www.oprah.com.  In the case you’re interested. Here’s the complete list of her favorite things (or Sheila’s big win):

The Artisan® Stand Mixer from KitchenAid Home Appliances  Approximate value: $349.99

United Artists 90th Anniversary Prestige Collection  Approximate value: $869.98 

  Anny and B.  Traci sent this today. I can hardly believe Beatrice was SO tiny.  Beatrice looks a little uptight.  Don’t you think?

                                 You wanna play with MY toys

 Like my hat?

 @$*!#! I said no hats!

Boo sent these today.  I wish I could take credit for them and for the catchy captions, but I owe it all to her.  Beatrice will not wear a hat.  It’s a quirk of hers.  She will  wear bows, but no hats.  Thanks for the photo’s of Beatrice visit with the cousin!

Okay, we have been living in our house over a year now.  If you have visited you probably noticed that seating is an issue, a real issue. We don’t have any chairs.  In my defense, I was pregnant and on bed rest for most of our tenure here.  I don’t know how to explain the 8 months since Bea’s arrival. I guess, I have just been lazy. Or, perhaps too picky. 

When GG visited last week she was very bothered that we did not have any dining room chairs. And, you know what that means. She initiated a mission.  Operation Find the Hulseys Something to Sit On.  She scoured the furniture stores and antique stores. And, I think she hit a few yard sales.  She preyed upon every possible furniture vendor in the area. She loved every minute of it. 

The results of her frisking:  six dynamite chairs. 

She probed. She proded. And ultimately she rummaged until she won. This was her steeple chase.  Ours, too.  We are the ones who reaped the benefit of her grouse. 

She pressed-on even after the gunning-down. She took the project a step further. She did not just win, she REALLY scored.  She suggested that my mom give them to us for Christmas. Go Granma, go!  So, thank you Grandmother and thank you Mom. The chairs are in great condition. They are beautiful.  They will look marvelous once we have them recovered.  Better, you will have a place to sit when you visit next. 

May all of YOUR coursing’s reap a capture.  May all of your sifting, snooping, shopping and sporting result with such booty. 

Sitting pretty,

Christy

PICTURES:

 We brought them home on Saturday.

Here’s a close up. The seats are in immaculate condition but they are gold, like the gold of church pews.  The gold doesn’t really match our decor. Maybe I can con Lauren into helping me pick out some fabric. Lauren, yew-hew, sweet decorater one: I need your help.  Or Lea, you are good with this kind of thing, too.  I do like the wood work of the chairs. Brian is thinking about painting them black. What do you think?  Oh, if you are wondering the location of the capture, we found them a Heritage House Antiques on Highway 80 in Brooklet.

Update from Decorated Sugar Cookies for Baby Shower Post: 

The bowl came home empty!  I translate that as “a hit.”  Thank you Pilsbury!

To see the original post click here.

Atlanta Journal-Constitution newspaper article
about The new Pink Pig Ride.
Photo tinted by: Dennis Whitefield.

The vintage I rode The Pink Pig sticker
was mine when I rode the original
Pink Pig .

Please share your memories of
RICH’S orignal Pink Pig Flyer. 

It is confirmed The Pink Pig has offered Generations of Joy to Children in the South.  I found a link to photos in the Atlanta Journal Constitution.  If you want to look, click here.

 According to the AJC, “The venerable holiday ride for children of all ages is back.”

The Pink Pig is at the Macy’s Lenox Square mall store in Atlanta.  The original Pink Pig appeared at Rich’s in 1953.  The attraction was a series of of small cars wearing pig faces.   As my mom’s story indicated, “riding became a holiday rite of passage for children and adults alike” the AJC writes.  It all came down to who got an “I Rode the Pink Pig at Rich’s” sticker.

Here are the hours for 2007.  Why am I posting this?  Hmm…I dunno.  I guess, if you are considering going you don’t have to research any futher.  It’s here simply for your convenience.  November hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. It’s closed Nov. 22 and open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 23.

December hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. It’s closed on Christmas Day; Christmas Eve hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. New Year’s Eve hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hours on New Year’s Day, its final day, are noon to 6 p.m. The ride is $3 for children of all ages, and a portion of proceeds benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Info: macys.com.

If you want to see the full article AJC article click here.

*Photo compliments of Mr. Kimberley on flickr.

I spent the evening making cookies to accompany the Diaper Cake for Kelly’s Shower.  Concedingly, the confections look a like, well, a fifth grader bedecked them.  I wish that I could share a fancy recipe with you. 

Realistically though, I have Pilsbury  to thank.   The already mixed and rolled-into-a-tube dough was perfect. 

The whole task was relatively simple.  I baked the cookies. Let them cool. Then, decorated with Cake Mate Icing tubes. I highly recommend this type/brand of icing because it hardens.  This is critical for easy transporting.  The icing hardens so the cookies can be stacked.  The other type of icing required the little-rings-of-sugar-gold to be placed side by side. That is simply too much trouble for mwa.  

My only compaint about the icing is the color selection. Bi-Lo only carried the primary colors. Since the shower is for a little girl, I really wanted barbie-pink or something sparkley.  Oh, well. The good news is the color of the cookies will match the sunny diaper cake.

There are sixteen, actually there are 15 cookies.  I snuck one. I am sorry I couldn’t resist.  But anyway, I am taking 15 cookies.  Let’s see how many people actually eat one tomorrow. 

Do you think these will be a hit or miss? 

Stay tuned. I will post the results.

Azure sent me the Mom Song today.  If you are a Mom, or if you have one, then you should click and listen. 

LISTEN TO THE MOM SONG click the blue letters

Pamela Palacious sums up all that a mother says in a day into two short minutes.  It’s great.  If you want more information on Pamela visit her blog, here.

Remember when I posted about The Pink Pig?  Well, I was beginning to think I had fabricated a story about The Pink Pig.  None of my family has commented or called to explain the story.  To my rescue, an Atlanta reader offered insight through a comment:

[...]FINALLY, they would take my sister and me to visit with Santa Claus, which was of course the “real” Santa, at the downtown Rich’s.We would stand in line for hours, walking through Santa’s workshop, complete with reindeer, just to have our picture taken with Santa.

The undeniable highlight to the day was always the Pink Pig. The ride took us over a Christmas village (without parents) outside the building that surrounded the Great Tree. Once the ride returned indoors, it flew over the toy department before returning to its starting point. After completing the journey, we got a sticker that said “I rode the Pink Pig”. That silly little sticker, which by the way permanently left an oval adhesive outline on our clothes, was like a badge of honor.

The Pink Pig helped make Christmas magical in a carnival sort of way. Until I had kids of my own, it never even occurred to me that there were children who had not ridden or even heard of it.

I can’t imagine what my life would be like without those memories. Sometimes when I’m sad, memories like the Pink Pig help to cheer me up[...]

Thank you Baily Wood for the astute comment.  It DID exist.  It is not an artifact of my mind’s invention.  Especially grateful that you elaborated on the sticker,  ”the sticker” was a critical element of the stories I have heard.  The highly coveted sticker was blue ribbon  kid booty, a keepsake that was truly and very sincerely prized.  A simple gaphic, it was a citation of proof of your spoils, proof that you had ridden The Pink Pig.

Doesn’t the excitement for the ride make you sparkle inside as you think of an earlier time?  With multiple Six Flags, numerous Disney Parks, fairs every where, amid malls upon malls filled with small motorized attractions, it seems nice, it seems simple that at one time there were fewer things. 

Sometimes, too much is simply too much.  People become desensitized and numb.  I know The Pink Pig of today doesn’t draw the same emotion.  I mean, can you imagine driving all the way to Atlanta, making a four hour trek with a car load of children every Christmas to go shopping and let your kids ride on a ride – one ride, one SINGLE ride?  Wow, just saying it sounds exciting. I bet the kids were totally wired by the time they got to the ticket line.  This is such a great glimpse into the past. 

I would love to hear more stories. So, please feel free to share. 

*Photos Compliments of Baily Wood from Atlanta from her real-life ride on The Pink Pig.  Isn’t the picture cool?  And, the sticker, too. I am impressed that she has the pictures. Nice work!  You can read her comment in full here.

Carbon Equity is a British campaign for action on climate change.  CE recently published  The Big Melt report, a review of all the 2007 literature and studies looking at the current condition of the Arctic ice.

According to the report “the Arctic sea ice is disintegrating 100 years ahead of schedule”, having dropped 22% this year below the previous low, and it may completely disappear as early as the summer of 2013. This is far beyond the predictions of the International Panel on Climate Change.

Rob Hopkins, one of the blogs I regularly read, says

[The Big Melt] does not make for comfortable reading, and indeed it adds enormous urgency to to need to reduce emissions. It argues that to speak of 2 degrees being a safe threshold is nonsense, that we haven’t yet reached 1 degree, but already the Arctic ice is melting 100 years ahead of when the IPCC predicted it would.

Rob makes a point of posting positive, action-oriented info on his blog, which is why I read it. He is active internationally in helping communities prepare for peak oil and global warming. I must warn you that he named his post about The Big Melt “The Single Most Depressing Thing I Have Ever Read.”

Sharon Astyk (another fovorite blogger) says about it: “If you are a sensitive sort, I strongly recommend reading it while clutching a teddy bear and having your back massaged.”  It really is depressing.

Makes you want to dive right in, eh?

Here are the highlights:

• Climate change impacts are happening at lower temperature increases and more quickly than projected.

• The Arctic’s floating sea ice is headed towards rapid summer disintegration as early as 2013, a century ahead of the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projections.

• The rapid loss of Arctic sea ice will speed up the disintegration of the Greenland ice sheet, and a rise in sea levels by as much as 5 metres by the turn of this century is possible.

• The Antarctic ice shelf reacts far more sensitively to warming temperatures than previously believed.

• Long-term climate sensitivity (including “slow” feedbacks such as carbon cycle feedbacks which are starting to operate) may be double the IPCC standard.

• Temperatures are now within ≈1°C of the maximum temperature of the past million years.

Are your eyes glazing over? Mine did.  As the most intellectual species of the planet are humans being good stewards?  Are we being Godly and ethical?  Or, are we quickening the race to extinction.  The dinosaurs were here for years.  Humans haven’t been around even close to that long.  In our quest for ease, comfort, materials, and the good life are we sprinting to the finish line, the final leg, the last leg, the home stretch to hell?

Melting arctic ice affects more than just polar bears, who are having a rough time these days by the way. A warmer Arctic changes global weather patterns that  disrupt food production around the world. Melting glaciers and land-based ice sheets will contribute to rising sea levels, threatening low-lying areas with erosion, flooding, and contamination of freshwater supplies.  Will the beach house still be there?

We all need to make personal changes to cut our carbon footprints, working toward 90%.  We really need  leadership to instigate sweeping policy changes, and radical and inspired conservation efforts on a federal level. However, I’m not holding my breath. 

Here’s Beatrice and one of her favorite people in the world, her baby sitter.  Viviana is amazing with her. Frankly, she is an amazing person.  I know you all have heard me sing her praises.  So, I thought I would share a picture with you.  Beatrice looks so happy with her. Doesn’t she? 

Baby Happy = Mama Happy.

Buenas Dias!

Here’s one more picture of Beatrice. She’s pretty in pink! Sorry, I just had to squeeze it in — in true stay-at-home-mom-crazy-about-your-kid fashion.

For years, experts were quick to acknowledge that organic foods didn’t contain harmful pesticide residues, but wouldn’t go so far as to say they were actually better for you nutritionally. Now a new study by British researchers takes that leap.

Researchers compared the nutritional content of fruits, vegetables, and beef grown side by side in two farms: one organic, one not. To their surprise, they found foods grown organically contained up to 40 percent higher levels of antioxidants, compounds in foods that have been linked to everything from fighting cancer to slowing the signs of age. In addition, the foods grown organically contained lower amounts of undesirable compounds, such as harmful fats.

The Bottom line (literally): Not only is organically grown food better for the environment and your body, it’s better for your waistline.

[…] stephanie’s comment […]

I finally had an opportunity to check out Stephanie’s Diaper Cake for her nephew.  If you haven’t had a chance to see it yet, here it is. 

Moke, I didn’t know of your talents. It is so cute.  Okay, yes I did know you are creative.  And, I do know how thoughtful you are.  I should have known the Auntie Cake would be super cute. 

You know Southern Pet Sitters would’ve been selling these things if I would have only realized your Nappy Creativity earlier.    You and I were always up to making a dollar!

Guess what. Guess what. Guess what!  Beatrice and Barry played for the FIRST time yesterday. They actually interacted with each other. I know you know how crazy I am about Barry. And, I know you know how crazy I am about Beatrice. You know this makes mama proud.  Barry has ignored her much-unlike my dreams, my dreams that they would play and love each other.  During my pregnancy he was very attentive to my needs and very understanding. However, once Beatrice arrived he has been really low, lethargic, and seemingly depressed.  He completely ignores her as he will leave the room any time she approaches him. I caught a video of it yesterday.  I am still beaming. My children DO get along!

P.S. They are playing with one of the leftover daisy’s from the diaper cake (from earlier post).  I was going to return it for a refund. Oh, well. It is worth the dollar it cost to seem them interact with one another. 

Interesting, very interesting.  A very conservative, well I thought he was conservative, friend sent me this Youtube clip of Pink.  `Maybe he sent it because he thinks I am liberal.  He’s always thought I was too liberal. But, I admit I didn’t think he had a soft spot. So, I am impressed that he sent this clip. 

All I have to say is sometimes, the Georgia Coast will swing even the most difficult cases to the left a little.

I clicked, and I listened.  I like it. 

Oprah Winfrey spent Thursday night in Central Georgia as She’ll tape a show at the Macon City Auditorium tomorrow.  Oprah’s jet flew into the Middle Georgia Regional Airport shortly after 5:30 Thursday.

About an hour later, Oprah surprised diners at the Fish ‘N’ Pig restaurant on Lake Tobesofkee. Hmm…I do not think that I have ever been there.  Have you?

For more information on Oprah’s arrival click here. Or, check out A View from A Hearse where a Macon Blogger references Oprah’s arrival. He even has a few pictures of the crew set up.

Speaking of Oprah, this one brought tears to even my eyes   Oprah calls this the greatest love story ever told. You need to take some time out of this day to read this … right now. Not later. Stories like this are why I have faith that God exists but because of this story. Click here for the story Really. I promise, it’s good.

	Small dogs may be intimidated to eat out of big bowls. In order to keep your little pooch comfortable during mealtime, try feeding him out of a flat plate or saucer.

This is always a good trick.  While pet sitting a dog that wasn’t eating well with the owners away, sometimes it worked to change to a smaller dish. 

Hello Linsay , my favorite person in the world, my “twin”, my fellow Oprah fanatic. Guess what? You are not going to believe this but our big Angel has her own NEW CHANNEL!!! You Tube.  See, even Oprah is getting into the bloggy world of Youtube.

Okay, I have GOT to stop blogging about Oprah before people think I am O so psycho

Okay, I admit it. I got REALLY into the diaper cake. I over spent time and money.  However, in personal defense it was really fun. 

I dug through the craft boxes of my attic and browsed and bought things in Wal-mart.  I really wanted to do something pink but the ribbon selection was scarce of coordinating hues of pink.  Strangely, I couldn’t find any stuffed animals, either.  I shopped in the infant and the toy sections.  Finally, I decided to be resourceful by using a sunny theme including orange and yellow colors. Let me know what you think.  

Here’s where we started:  

I added toys:

And, mini baby items like baby powder and baby shampoo:

I laced the cake with tiny yellow flowers to fill in the “blank” spots until I finished. And, I topped the cake with three Sunflowers placed at varying lengths. I tied a small bow around one of the flowers.  

To add contrast and interest I used ribbon of different widths, textures, and styles including polka dots, plaid, shiny. gross-grain, wired, and paper. I think it turned out well although I am not 100% thrilled with it.  Next time I will use clear rubber bands. The black rubber bands were difficult to camouflage.  And, I will not build the tiers out so far.  I probably should have had one less layer of diapers to distinguish the tiers better.  One final tweak: I would use a larger cookie sheet.

Overall the project was fun.  It gave me an excuse to get out of the house alone as Brian kept Beatrice while I gathered supplies.  It was a nice diversion from my house work, too.  And, I feel good that I am able to give Kelly something that is handmade, useful, and practical.  Plus, we will have a great center piece for the baby shower.  Even though it could use a little improvement, I think we can add it to the list of “cream of the crop” photos of my earlier post. Don’t you?

Oh, what fun making a diaper cake is!

For my directions on How to Make a Diaper Cake click, here.

Well, since I am not going to the Oprah Show.  Yes, I know I am practicing The Secret. But, really.  Come on, now.  I am more than most likely probably not going to be in the Macon Auditorium on November 17th.

I will have to live vicariously thru Jenny, over at Chased By Children. 

Apparently, she has JUST scored tickets to the show. According to her blog it was a misery.  May I restate, please. IT WAS A MISERY.  Yahoo. Maybe I am not missing out on much.  Maybe I should count my blessings.    Maybe, The O Show isn’t so great.

http://www.typepad.com/t/trackback/2322720/23330572  — is this how you put in a track back?  Anyone?  Anyone?

Everybody keeps talking about the new restaurant in town.  Rather than cook, I think we are going to try it soon.  I found this article.  From it’s description, Christophers sounds like it will be great.   Here is an article from Jan Moore from the Statesboro Herald. I cut and pasted it. Or, you can click through to the article, here.  You can read about my personal visit to Christophers, here.

It’s intimate, it’s sleek, and it has fabulous ambience. It’s Christopher’s restaurant, slated to open during the first week of September.

            Located on South Main Street in the Midtown development, Christopher’s is the latest installment in a “foodies” dream. With a coffee house, wine and cigar store, and lunch restaurant already in operation, Christopher’s will complete Midtown’s offerings by serving dinner Tuesday through Sunday.

            Chef and co-owner of the restaurant Stephen Christopher “Soup” Campbell said Christopher’s will operate in sync with the other businesses in the development.

            “We will run like one large operation,” Campbell said. “We are here to help one another out and literally feed off of each other. For example, the chefs from Wrapsody will help here at night and we will share supplies and ideas.”

            Campbell said everyone involved in the operation of Midtown is passionate about great food and providing a fine dining experience. “It is who we are; it is what we love to do.”

            That passion includes a demonstration/teaching kitchen located on the second floor of Christopher’s.

            “We want to give cooking lessons during the day as well as prepare for catering,” Campbell said. “That is why Christopher’s will only be open for dinner. We cannot wait to share our passion for food with others.”
            Campbell said Christopher’s will serve “American regional” fare in which he will use fresh southeastern ingredients to create his daily menu. The following is an example of what Campbell is going to serve – roasted duck breast with a blackberry port reduction served with a green apple, sweet potato gratin and prosciutto and asparagus topped with a watercress vinaigrette. Campbell said his menu will rotate depending on what is in season.

            Working with Campbell are Adam Saltzman and Michael Ditchfield. Saltzman will serve as a floor manager and sommelier of the operation, and Ditchfield will also help with the floor and manage the business aspect of the restaurant.

            It is clear when talking with the three of them that Christopher’s is a team effort and a labor of love.

            “We want people to come in and leisurely enjoy a fine meal with wonderful wine,” Ditchfield said. “We don’t want people to feel rushed. We just want them to relax and have a great time. Also, we encourage people to make a reservation.”

          By JAN MOORE  jmoore@statesboroherald.com  Posted: Aug. 19, 2007  4:38 p.m.

Curious about the Pig, I looked it up.

You can learn more here.