Thursday, December 31, 2009

Out with the Old, In with the New

As promised, listed below were my 2009 New Year's Resolutions:


Resolution #1: To remember to take my vitamins EVERY day.
*This one I actually did make pretty much. I may miss a day here and there, but for the most part I do this! I'm soooo proud. And I lowered my cholesterol several points with my daily cinnamon pill. Fish oil did NOT work, but the cinnamon does for me! Yay!
Resolution #2: To wean myself down to ONE Diet Coke a day.
*Ok, I actually weaned myself off DC completely for THREE WEEKS. I gained 3 pounds and was miserable. Back on them full force. My body is just not set up for "healthy" living. Will not be making this one ever again. LOL
Resolution #3: To concentrate on my abs during workouts.
*Whatever. Nope. Didn't even come close.
Resolution #4: To have a happy heart. Not to take things too seriously. And continue to care for others more that for myself.
*Well, this one was a total puff piece. Happy heart-check. Not take things too seriously-check. That last sentence-who am I trying to kid. I'm an only child for pete's sake! LOL

Just because I'm hardheaded and an overachiever, I'm going for FIVE resolutions for 2010! Here they are:

Resoultion #1- I resolve to find my joy (even at Wal-Mart). Hey, it could happen. I realize I'm pretty joyous all the time, but I'm particularly focusing on Hades and the effect it has on me this year. I will beat it down! LOL
Resolution #2-I resolve to eat at least one vegetable daily. This one will probably never happen. I know it's what I need to do, but what I want is entirely different. But I am going to try.
Resolution #3- I resolve to be quiet (sometimes) and listen better. This is truly one I need to try and achieve. I'm not gonna lie...this one's a stretch. ;)
Resolution #4: I resolve to commit one random act of kindness each day (even at wal-mart). Whether it be opening a door for someone, buying an American soldier a cup of coffee, letting someone cut in line, etc. The point is to be kind and random. This is really a resolution I want to keep.
Resolution #5: I resolve to love even the most negative peeps I know. Easier said than done.

Out with the old, in with the new. May your joys be a'plenty, and your troubles be few. Happy New Year from me to you!

Have a GREAT NEW YEAR's EVE! Be safe! See ya in 2010! Later blog readers.....

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Steph's Observations/Opinions of 2009

OK, I did a serious post about what I learned in 2009 and it just didn't "feel" like me. So, I thought I'd lighten it up a little.

1. Why don't people put their cart up at Hades AKA Wal-Mart??? I mean how far do you actually have to push the thing? Invariably, I always find a close parking spot, try to wheel in, only to find a cart smack dab in the middle making it impossible. Give me a break. You don't even have to push the cart ALL the way to the bin...you can get close and give it a good shove. I'm just saying.
2. I have accepted the fact that my baby girl is a pre-teen. The ONLY good thing about this is finally we no longer eat McDonald's Happy Meals/Big Kid Meals. Thank the good Lord!!! No more crappy, dinky toys. The Kroc family should make a dollar donation to a needy charity instead.
3. Speaking of crappy toys. Are we, Americans, completely incapable of making toys? ALL toys are made in China. Seriously, what isn't made in China????
4. If you don't have an IPhone, well, I'm sorry. It's like love at first sight! A phone I can actually understand, work, AND see!!! Thank you (American) Apple!!
5. 10 year old boys and 40 year old men are basically the same. Heck, you can even keep adding the years and yep, the same. Girls...not so much. Sometimes, I truly feel sorry for the guys.
6. There are some real nutjobs in the world. Why would you EVER wear rollers in your hair or pajamas/house shoes out in public? It's okay if you didn't feel like putting on makeup, but clothes/shoes...come on, that's just plain lazy! Please stop. And along the same vein, I really don't want to see your lime green thong.
7. If I stare off in the distance while you are talking, don't take it personally. I'm older and I've got a LOT on my mind. More than likely I won't even remember talking to you. Sorry, but I blame it on drinking too many Diet Cokes out of aluminum cans.
8. Also, don't take it personally if you wave at me while driving and I don't wave back. I did not see you. Seriously, I did NOT see you. Not everybody drives as noticeable of a vehicle as I do. Basically, I have a Secret Service car with an airplane sticker. How could you NOT see ME??? It's also the reason I will never go to Widener. For those of you from around here, you most definitely understand. For those not: it's our little slice of "adult entertainment" 2 miles from town. LOL
9. College is for younger people. And I mean 18 to 25 year olds. I haven't been invited to one kegger since starting ASU last fall. Total ego blow.
10. Finally, if 2010 is anywhere near as great as 2009, sign me up! So glad to be alive!

Happy New Year!!!

Monday, December 28, 2009

Top Ten Things I Learned in 2009

1. You’re never too old to learn. I'm living proof.

2. Holidays are never the same without the ones you love. I wish I still had my grandparents.

3. The word “minority, etc.” shouldn’t be in our vocabulary. Electing a human being without a label….now that’s progress.

4. This is my last year to wear regular glasses. Moving on up to bifocals in 2010. Yippee.

5. I don’t know everything (and never will), and that’s OK.

6. I’m the only one responsible for my behavior, actions, moods, etc. Accept it or change it, and deal with it.

7. If you don’t like you, nobody else will either.

8. If you’re not being gossiped about, well, you must be dead.

9. Karma is fiction. I know plenty of people that never get what they deserve, but who am I to judge?

10. Life goes on with or without you.

Sunday, December 27, 2009

Christmas Hangover

Well, it's officially OVER. I will recap the Davis Christmas Festivus by ripping off the 12 days of Christmas (sort of). Work with me people!

By final day of Christmas the Davis fam of 3 had:

12 dollars between them (JK...but close! lol)
11 sacks of garbage (more like 22 but it wouldn't fit the song)
10 bottles of perfume (apparently I stink)
9 pounds to lose (divided equally thank you very much)
8 smell good candles (this is always a good gift..hint hint)
7 broken ornaments (thanks Mitts)
6 family meltdowns (we averaged 2 a day)

5 bottles of wine (needed 6)

4 complicated electronics (who writes these directions???)
3 confusing presents (i can't even begin to go there lol)
2 many memories (the Griswold's have nothing on us!)

and a very thankful family of three!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Never Forget

Christmas in America is always one of the happiest of times of the year. We gather with good friends, family, and neighbors to celebrate the season. Today, I was thinking how great I feel and how excited I am for our Christmas with our family.

Then I read the Unknown Soldier blog (noted in the blogs I follow). I immediately thought of Tyler Parten's family. Of course, this blog entry was not about Tyler but about another fallen soldier, PFC Albert Ware. He lost his life serving his country (and not the country of his birth) yesterday in Afghanistan. Here is the blog entry by Tom Sileo:

12-year-old Liberian boy fled to the United States in 1992, as his native country of Liberia was ravaged by a brutal Civil War. Just nine years later, when his new country was forced into a war it did not seek, the brave man signed up to fight for his still young, newfound freedom.

This is the story of Sgt. Albert Ware of Chicago, who died on Friday in Afghanistan's Arghandab River Valley. He was on his second tour of duty in the country. A Pentagon release sent out Tuesday afternoon said the soldier was killed when an improvised explosive device planted by terrorists blew up under his vehicle.

WMAQ-TV reports that Ware lived in the Windy City's Pullman neighborhood with his wife and three children. His name will soon be placed on a memorial close to where his family lives, which stands in tribute to fallen troops.

The NBC Chicago article about Ware has a tragic account of his family's final conversation with the soldier, just hours before his death.

Always generous, the family said Ware was making plans with his father to buy [his mother] a gift in his absence.

"I said, 'OK, call me tomorrow,' which was Friday. And that was the call that I got, which was four guys coming to tell me my son is dead," his father, Thomas Ware, recalled.

"He spoke to each one of us, and we shared our love. It was a normal conversation. I was trying to get from him a list of what his unit needed, because my job wanted to send him a care package," added his mother, Anna Ware.

Thank you, Sgt. Albert Ware, for coming to America and defending it so bravely. You have done an incredible deed for America, Liberia, and a world struggling against tyranny and terror. We will be praying for your family. --Tom Sileo


So later today, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day please PLEASE say a prayer for all of our soldiers serving; their families; the families of the fallen heroes who will never celebrate another Christmas with their loved one; and for our many blessings we receive because of their sacrifice. God bless them and the U.S.A.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Hip-Hop Christmas with the Davis Family

I wish I could say this idea is original, but I scammed it off another blog! It was FUN! Thanks to Kara through Jake ;)




Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Dear Santa from Clifford & Mitts (separately of course)

Dear Santa,

As usual, I have been a loyal companion ALL year. I haven't chewed up any furniture, well, because I have very few teeth. I haven't had any accidents in the house, except when my dad forgets to take me out. He doesn't get the bathroom "stare" like my mom does. And I haven't complained much about Mitts the Ninja Cat. I've been a really good boy. So, here's my list:

1. I want a new baby to chew on. My old ones are pretty worn and you always bring me one so please don't forget.
2. I want a day at the pet salon. Blakely's attempt at cutting my hair didn't work out so well.
3. I would like for Mitts the Ninja Cat to remain outside. NEVER be allowed in the house. And when I go to potty outside, I would prefer her to not be around. PLEASE MAKE THIS HAPPEN.
4. For my family to get everything on their list because I love them.
5. Peace on Earth and goodwill to all.

Love,

Clifford
XOXOXO

P.S.: I have enclosed a picture. Hope you like it.


Dear Santa,

Define good. Here are my demands:

1. Year's supply of gourmet Meow Mix. None of the cheap stuff.
2. Own room inside of Clifford's house. Preferably on the big comfy bed.
3. Speaking of Clifford, I want him to play with me at all times. I want a saddle to ride him, as well.
4. For the three obese cat terrorists who constantly eat my food outside, oh nevermind, I'll be in the house so it won't matter.
5. For the humans to realize, I am in charge. They will do as I say because I AM Mitts the Ninja Cat with paws of death.

Don't make me come to the North Pole,

Mitts

P.S.: I have enclosed a picture to illustrate my superior "ninja killer" prowess.


Monday, December 21, 2009

The Cracker Barrel w/OLD Friends

Sometimes I wonder if I'm on my last leg. I have mended friendships, started new ones, AND revisited old ones a LOT in the past six months. Today, I received a very special treat. Some of you may know that I worked for the Department of Human Services for 17 years. Yes, SEVENTEEN YEARS. I am thankful every single day for the lessons I learned while working in the Family Services Division (child abuse, neglect, etc.). Truly life changing. Truly.

I ate lunch today with two of my most favorite people EVER to have worked with...Dot and Dave. Dave has always treated me like a little sister. He still does. LOL I haven't seen him in almost five years. Not because we didn't "talk" about meeting for lunch, we just never could get it together. Dot and I have never lost touch. We never go longer than a couple of months without talking or catching up. Dot, Dave, and I were the like the three amigos OR the three stooges of licensing. We like to have fun! You would think being apart would change our behaviors, but nahhh, same old same old. It's like we never were apart. It's special to have friends like this in my life. I am blessed beyond words and thankful for their friendship.

We ate at the Cracker Barrel in West Memphis. I LOVE the Cracker Barrel. Heck, I would go there just to browse the gift shop. Dave always kidded me about my capacity to eat. He's tall. I'm not. I can out eat him...easily. He still cannot understand where all the food goes in my body. Honestly, I should weigh 500 lbs. Now before you "hate on me, " I am NOT one of those naturally thin folks. I have to work out. I promise. But seriously, I'm a good little eater.

After we left the Cracker Barrel, Dot and I went to Kroger's. What I wouldn't give to have the Kroger's back in FC. Best grocery store within 30 miles. It's like Wal-Mart but in a good way. I could literally wander around that store for hours. It's got EVERYthing. Did I mention I wish we had a Kroger's? Man!

I know this is a cheezy blog post, but I'm feeling cheezy. Two days and counting before Christmas Eve. I'm ready. Are you? Later blog readers......

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Good Food, Good Friends, Good Fun, Good Wine, Good Grades & Good Music!!!!

Thursday night I had a cocktail party!!! I invited several of my close friends over to eat, drink, and be merry! And merry we were! ROFL It was so nice to see everybody. We laughed until our stomachs hurt. That's the best kind of night. Thanks to all who came over. Here's a few shots:

Napkin says it all ;)



My House

The Yummy Non-Homemade Food ;)


The Potent Potables

The Winner of the 1st Annual "Swanky Shoes" Contest
 Received a 2 dollar ornament from Hades in a gift bag sans tissue paper
Cause that's how I roll! LOL


To say that we had a great time would be a HUGE understatement! I cannot wait to do it again next year!!!
Thanks to ALL who showed up!

Now for the REALLY big news! I made ALL A's for my first semester in grad school! Shocked! I really thought I had a "B" in one class. Who knew?!?!?  I called AD and told him that they kicked me out of the progam because I made a C. I apologized and said I guess I'd have to get a job now. He soooo didn't fall for it. Man! He said there's no way you made a C. What a smart, smart boy I married! It's nice to know somebody believes in me beside my mom, who had already told everyone I made all a's before I even knew that I did! ROFL Love my momma!

And I'm hoping you notice and appreciate my new music gadget! I'm trying in vain to make my blog cooler. Let me know if it's working, or it's pathetic and to please stop.

Well, this time next week Christmas will be over. It's hard to believe. I hope all of you have a wonderful, and blessed Holiday week. For us Christians, Jesus is the reason for the season. I am trying to remember that daily in spite of all the commercialism that is literally bombarding me. Later blog readers.....

SIDEBAR:
Blakely brought home the Elf on the Shelf. Good grief! She prefaced it with the following insight:

"Mom, this elf is supposed to move. Kids aren't allowed to touch it, only parents. If the elf doesn't move, I want you to move it. But don't tell me you moved it. Okay?"

I love my kid! ;)





Thursday, December 17, 2009

Christmas Presents Suggestions

Christmas gift suggestions: To enemies, peace. To friends, your time. To children, a good example. To charities, your best. To yourself, forgiveness AND those shoes you've been eyeing all year. ;)





Christmas gift suggestions for the person who has everything: A charitable donation in their honor. They will appreciate it ten times over that 50th bottle of lotion, candle, or pair of socks, I promise. I suggest thetylerpartenfoundation.com or any other charity of your choice. It truly is the thought that counts. ;)

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Oh YAY!!! Oh YAY!!! Oh YAY!!!





Before Finals






During Finals









  After Finals







I feel I can more accurately convey the range of my emotions during the past two days with pictures. Seriously, I'm thinking the "during" shot is spot on!   Now I remember why college is for the young folk. Good grief. I feel like all of my infinite wisdom has been just sucked right out of my brain. I am surprised I can actually write sentences on my blog at this point.Can I just say how glad I am it is OVER?

Of course, I will be ready to start back in January. I'm a sadist.

I have been thinking a lot lately about the state of the world. I've come to the realization that it just cannot be as bad as it seems. I think we can all agree that "good" news just isn't as interesting as say, oh, Tiger Wood's infidelities. I wish I was kidding about that, but I am serious. Think about it, how many of us pay attention to feel good stories? If they don't have the WOW factor, we tend to dismiss, overlook, or ignore them. What's up with that? How can we complain about the "crap" news if we don't notice anything else? I'm just saying we should all just focus on the positives in our lives and try not to let the "real" news get us down.

I'M focusing on my "girlfriends" party I'm giving this Thursday. I've invited several of my old, really old, and kinda old friends for an evening of nothing but food, drink, and FUN. I appreciate each one's friendship and just wanted to say thanks. I know I'm a handful and it's the LEAST I could do for them. I am blessed with many other friendships and soooo wish I could invite them all, but alas I couldn't afford the wine bill. ;)

In 16 days, I will post my New Year's resolutions. As well as take a look back at the ones I totally failed at from last year. I think I might have succeeded with ONE. Maybe. Heck, I may not have even written them down! LOL

Friday, December 11, 2009

Pet Peeves!!!!!!!!!!!!

I will preface this blog post with the following statement:

I have consumed vast quantities of wine, so pay attention! ;)

Pet Peeves:
#1: I loathe tardiness. And really, REALLY loathe no-shows. I am always on time or as close to on time as one can get. If not, call 911 because something's happened. I realize how important your time is and think enough of you to respect that. It's okay if you forget occasionally, but chronic tardiness is UNacceptable. Sorry. Ok, no I'm really not sorry. Fashionably late is for people who live in Beverly Hills or NYC, not here. I'm just saying.

#2: Liars...just go ahead and move on past me, please. Tell the truth, tell it slant(Shout out to Emily Dickinson)if you must, but tell the truth. I mean COME ON how hard can it be????? Apparently, extremely hard for some folks.I am not much of a liar. Of course, we all lie. If you say you don't, well, you're a liar. LOL If you ask me how you look, I'm going to tell you, "you look good". You may look like total crap, but you are not hearing it from ME. I'm pulling a "bill clinton" here....because technically, you do look good compared to being dead. Sorry, harsh...but true. ;) But I'm not talking about that kind of lying, I'm talking about the BIG stuff. Especially when you get caught...just fess up already! It's the best (and right) thing to do.

#3: Glass Half-EMPTY peeps. Get over yourselves!!!!! Life is way too short...oh, snap..that's EXACTLY what a half-emptyist would say! ROFL Oops! Oh well, you know what I mean. ;) Silver linings people!!! Silver linings!

#4: Surprises. I am not a fan of surprises. Never have been, never will be. I LOVE knowledge! I want to know "stuff"...period. I am the kid who searched for Christmas presents and when I found them (and I always did), I would open them to see what was inside! Then I would rewrap, if necessary. Yes, you should feel sorry for my mom. ;)

#5: Close-minded bigoted people. The world is a very big place, and you really need to branch out. Feel the love!! How can you watch children in Africa OR America starving and NOT FEEL??? Who cares what color they are....they're CHILDREN! Or just human!!! Come on! We are blessed beyond words and it is our duty to share! Period.

#6: Disrespectful people. Whether you are 3yrs old or 110, you should respect others. Say please and thank you, yessir or no maam (if you're Southern), let the elderly have your seat, hold the door open for people, thank the military for their service, etc.

Okay, I'm done. Later blog readers......

Thursday, December 10, 2009

ANOTHER poetry explication?!?!? You must be joking. Oh, and Ka-ching!!!

This week has been wild! Jam packed with all sorts of crap I sooooo did not predict. Life never ceases to amaze me. Once I think I have it "handled," it goes all to Hades in a handbasket. However, you'll always hear me say, "every cloud has a silver lining." ;)

My last night of grad class was also supposed to be the LAST night of grad assignments. Well, apparently I was wrong yet again. I checked my ASU email and, lo and behold, ANOTHER opportunity to explicate ONE MORE poem. Of course the professor made it "optional" but we all know what that means. I "opt" to do it because I probably need the extra grade. I'm okay except I really wanted a little down time. Oh, who am I trying to kid....I'm don't "do" down time! LOL I mean really, what's the point? I am an active participant in this life and WILL get the most out of it. Of course, I'm also apparently delusional at times but I won't dwell on that little tidbit. ;) Anywho, I'm halfway finished with an absolutely stunning explication so I headed to Tunica.

Tunica, Mississippi. Once nothing but vast farmland, now nothing but casinos and strip malls. I always take my aunt whenever I get the chance. She really enjoys gambling. Me, not so much. But I really do enjoy sitting at the poker tables. I love to talk and meet people. I usually always come home with empty pockets, but not today!!!! I actually win quite a respectable amount and am super excited! Luck be a lady fo'sho! You'd be surprised at how much people tell you (that you really didn't want to know) at the poker tables. No offense to my male blog readers, but usually they are the ones "sharing" way too much. Honestly, do I really need to know about your prostrate and/or issues with Viagra? What I did enjoy finding out, though, was their opinions regarding Tiger. Wow. VERY opinionated set of gentlemen. Maybe it was because I was the only lady at the table (and younger by probably 30 years!) but they really seem disappointed in the guy. Oh, they can understand an affair. They can understand a couple of affairs. But ELEVEN and counting, well they just draw the line right there! LOL This could have something to do with the previous viagra conversation..I'm just saying.

Well, I know this isn't much of a blog post. I will try again this weekend. Later blog readers......

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Monday Night Grad Class

Monday night was my last "regular" grad class of the semester. I arrive early, turn in my absolutely ridiculous 10 page research paper, bibliography "busy work" exercise, and prepare for an easy evening. BOY, was I wrong!

IDIOT ALERT: That would be me. In order to receive an M.A. in English from ASU, I knew I would need to pass a written poetry explication by the end of the next fall semester. Apparently, I am unable to read and/or comprehend. I also have to pass a "short list AND a long list" exam! What?!?!?!?! Two tests basically from Hades about all sorts of literary selections. Great, just great.

Sooooo, halfway through the class the professor brings in our "short list" essay questions. Can you say unprepared?!?!? Thank goodness I was in good company because the rest of the class apparently was unprepared as well. I'm just not happy with my performance. Not happy at ALL.

OK, on to something interesting.....the Tiger saga! Look people, I am sorry but this is just NOT news to me. I don't care how many pundits come on the air and discuss his "responsibilities to his sponsors" OR how he's "fallen from hero status"...give me a break. It's marital affairs. The subject is between he and his wife....that's it. Not my business. Has absolutely nothing to do with his athleticism. I don't even care that the police "supposedly" let him slide. Puh-lease. He crashed into a tree in his neighbor's yard. Most police I know would've done the same thing. Honestly, I don't watch a lot of news because I get so irritated. I would love to hear POSITIVE news reporting on our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq and EVERYWHERE. We're doing a LOT of paying it forward and I just wish somebody would interview somebody uplifting every once in a while. I realize it's not scandalous or scintillating but turn on HBO/Cinemax/Showtime after 9pm if you're interested in that crap. Sorry, I know I'm rambling. Don't mean to.

How about our weather? Cold and rainy here in Arkansas. Pretty much becoming a normal weather pattern here. It's okay with me, though. Honestly, anyday above ground is STILL a GOOD day.

I think I'll leave it here for now. Later blog readers......

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Lyrics I LOVE

Today is just one of those days. I am not melancholy, just a bit reflective. One of my most favorite groups of all time is the Black Eyed Peas. If you're not a fan, it's okay, I totally understand. The following song hooked me from the beginning and I've loved them ever since. It sums up exactly how I feel, and sometimes exactly what I want to say. Read the words. It's a wonderful poem.

"Where is the Love" by the Black Eyed Peas

What's wrong with the world, mama

People livin' like they ain't got no mamas
I think the whole world addicted to the drama
Only attracted to things that'll bring you trauma
Overseas, yeah, we try to stop terrorism
But we still got terrorists here livin'
In the USA, the big CIA
The Bloods and The Crips and the KKK
But if you only have love for your own race
Then you only leave space to discriminate
And to discriminate only generates hate
And when you hate then you're bound to get irate, yeah
Madness is what you demonstrate
And that's exactly how anger works and operates
Man, you gotta have love just to set it straight
Take control of your mind and meditate
Let your soul gravitate to the love, y'all, y'all

People killin', people dyin'
Children hurt and you hear them cryin'
Can you practice what you preach
And would you turn the other cheek

Father, Father, Father help us
Send some guidance from above
'Cause people got me, got me questionin'
Where is the love (Love)

Where is the love (The love)
Where is the love (The love)
Where is the love
The love, the love

It just ain't the same, always unchanged
New days are strange, is the world insane
If love and peace is so strong
Why are there pieces of love that don't belong
Nations droppin' bombs
Chemical gasses fillin' lungs of little ones
With ongoin' sufferin' as the youth die young
So ask yourself is the lovin' really gone
So I could ask myself really what is goin' wrong
In this world that we livin' in people keep on givin'
in
Makin' wrong decisions, only visions of them dividends
Not respectin' each other, deny thy brother
A war is goin' on but the reason's undercover
The truth is kept secret, it's swept under the rug
If you never know truth then you never know love
Where's the love, y'all, come on (I don't know)
Where's the truth, y'all, come on (I don't know)
Where's the love, y'all

People killin', people dyin'
Children hurt and you hear them cryin'
Can you practice what you preach
And would you turn the other cheek

Father, Father, Father help us
Send some guidance from above
'Cause people got me, got me questionin'
Where is the love (Love)

Where is the love (The love)
Where is the love (The love)
Where is the love (The love)
Where is the love (The love)
Where is the love, the love, the love?

I feel the weight of the world on my shoulder
As I'm gettin' older, y'all, people gets colder
Most of us only care about money makin'
Selfishness got us followin' our wrong direction
Wrong information always shown by the media
Negative images is the main criteria
Infecting the young minds faster than bacteria
Kids wanna act like what they see in the cinema
Yo', whatever happened to the values of humanity
Whatever happened to the fairness in equality
Instead of spreading love we're spreading animosity
Lack of understanding, leading lives away from unity
That's the reason why sometimes I'm feelin' under
That's the reason why sometimes I'm feelin' down
There's no wonder why sometimes I'm feelin' under
Gotta keep my faith alive till love is found
Now ask yourself

Where is the love?
Where is the love?
Where is the love?
Where is the love?

Father, Father, Father help us
Send some guidance from above
'Cause people got me, got me questionin'
Where is the love?

Sing wit me y'all:
One world, one world (We only got)
One world, one world (That's all we got)
One world, one world
And something's wrong wit it (Yeah)
Something's wrong wit it (Yeah)
Something's wrong wit the wo-wo-world, yeah
We only got
(One world, one world)
That's all we got
(One world, one world)










*Hope you enjoyed. It's worth remembering. Later blog readers....

Let's Chat

It's been an extremely long week for me. The last normal week of classes at ASU, and preparation for finals kind of snuck up on me. Don't get me wrong, I'm soooooo ready to end this semester, but seriously where did the time go??? Of course I waited until the LAST minute to write a 12 page paper I have known about for oh, say, 3 months! lol It took me almost 2 full days to finish, but finish I did. It's a bunch of bull poop, but find me a paper on the Greek tragedies that isn't. ;)

The President spoke to the nation from West Point this week. It was no accident he chose to deliver the speech in front of our most promising young men, the cadets. I thought the cadets looked absolutely impressive. WoW, what a country we have to produce the kind of soldiers like that. I will say two things:
1. I thought it was a gross error on the President's part to give a time frame for withdrawal in 18 months. I am confused at to why his advisors (and him) would ever give the enemy any information. All they need to know is we're coming and won't leave until they do. I may be a girl, but even I know how to play the game of don't blink.
2. I thought about our men and women in the military (plus their families) and what it means to them. What I think I understand is most, if not all, active soldiers in the branches or the National Guard "get" that this is their job. It is what they serve for and are called upon to do. It is a duty and honor for them. We, regular civvies, may not understand this mentality but all of us need to respect it! (Hint Hint: Liberal media) And, if you think about it, you rarely see active military comment on news shows. They have opinions but their job is to follow the orders of the Commander-in-Chief. Some of the smartest people in the world keep their mouths shut, and their heads down.....our military.

That being said, I truly hope we take the fight all the way and finish the job because that's what our military would want to do. I feel that for sure. Next time you see a soldier, extend thanks and gratitude and if at all possible, pick up their tab. It's the least we can do.

On to a lighter topic: the BCS. Give me a BREAK!!! I can't even comment further because it could become ugly and I have too much respect for my readers. LOL But I did order tickets to see Arkansas play in the Liberty Bowl! It's going to be FUN....GO HOGS GO!!!!!!!!

Well, hope all have a wonderful week. I know I am going to enjoy mine simply because tomorrow night is my last night of grad school for the semester. Sweet Christmas break! Yes! Later blog readers......

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Confessions are Good for the Soul

Sometimes you've just got to own up to your shortcomings. I'm not going to lie, I have quite a few. I am opinionated, quick tempered, and stubborn.

I often open my mouth to speak before others are actually ready for me to. Please don't ask me for my opinion unless you really, really want the truth. I tend to be a no-holds barred kind of girl. Say what you mean, mean what you say. I have hurt people's feelings without meaning to. My bluntness often lands me in hot water. My tone can be harsh, and although I'm only 5'1" I apparently "look" and "sound" much taller. For this I won't apologize. As a matter of fact, I rarely apologize. If I said it, I meant it and cannot/will not say I'm sorry for my true feelings. This is a hard pill to swallow for some. My advice to those: get a glass of water. ;)

I am quick-tempered. It doesn't take much to make me mad. My fuse is short, and I'm fully TNT. I would love to break things if I could, but that scares people so I usually refrain. ;) I do tend to think of my anger as justifiable. Usually, there is a specific reason or cause. If I'm mad, I don't act like I'm not. You will know if you made me mad. However, once I chew you out and you fold, all is well. ;)

I am as stubborn as a mule. I WILL figure it out even if it takes me the rest of my life! Hard-headed is the label my spouse prefers to use. It takes a LOT for me to back down. I am not entirely convinced this is a "bad" thing. Of course, my family would think otherwise. LOL

The only other flaw I will cop to is my tendency to be "green-eyed," as in jealous. This may surprise some, but when it comes to my hubby, don't even think about it....trust me on that one. Zero tolerance.

All that being said, I'm okay with myself. I'm not perfect. Sure I need to work on a few things, but who doesn't???? Why I wanted to share this I truly have NO idea. Maybe it's because so many of us spend too much time trying to change to fit other needs/expectations. That's okay if you WANT to change, but nobody has power over you BUT you....unless you give them that power. And if someone doesn't accept you for you, then maybe they're the ones who need changing.

I will hopefully blog by the end of the week AFTER my ridiculous final papers are complete. Nothing like waiting until the last minute. Later blog readers.......