Ok, so today is my 7th wedding anniversary.
Over the weekend, I offered my gifts to richard, which included a trip to California Dreaming (I'd promised we'd go when we moved up here), a trip to the NC Renaissance Festival, a floral bouquet complete with a back scratcher, and a Food City 500.
I do have photos of the floral bouquet and the food city and will post them when I get the chance to do so. I'll also give more explanation in those post(s).
The trip to the festival was really for Richard. I'm not really a big fan of them, but I've been to the ones in GA, which I always think are incredibly clever ways to perform a "people roast". I thought going in October would be a much better option.
I have to admit that when the breeze blew, it was wonderful. And, I have to admit that I did enjoy this festival overall more than the ones in GA. We browsed the shops, sat in the sky chairs (I swear one day I'm gonna buy one), had lunch, saw 3 or so shows, etc. This was opening weekend, and I think that next year I might opt for closing weekend, which is mid-November. even at 77 degrees, inside the festival with all the people, I was hot. Of course, this was partially my own fault as I decided to wear long sleeves thinking that it would be cool (ha ha).
Anyway, I am not a huge Will Ferrell fan, but one of the shows we saw had a guy that could be Will Ferrell's twin, and potentially stunt double since Geoffrey's show is sword swallowing. I don't believe I've ever seen a sword swallower live, and I've never seen anyone swallow one of the balloons they make balloon animals with (those really really long ones), but this was by far my fave show. For richard, who has a very easily triggered gag reflex, this was probably not his fave show....but I thought is was cool...and the name...well, it is sooooo my sense of humor. The guy goes by Thom Sellectomy (hee hee).
If you are into sword swallowing, or are just curious, check out his website here.
More later...
Monday, October 6, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
I know you'll be surprised---I'm reading a book
I don't often read books and usually when I do it is because they speak to me. Most of what I read is for knowledge and not for fictional pleasure although I certainly enjoy Nicholas Sparks' books because they are somewhat based on true stories and I connect with them. When I was younger I spent a lot of time engrossed in books, and books that were strictly fictional in nature. I used books to get where I couldn't go. They were my escape, my fantasy land.
Now that I am older, I really could care less about living in fantasy land, although an occasional journey there never hurt anyone :). I am more about living in reality. I do daydream, but my daydreams are usually more goal oriented and about things that could, in theory, be achieved. I don't have much of an attention span for books anymore, although arguably I should be more well read, but when I do read, I usually really, really enjoy the book because it offers me something.
What I want to share is something I read in a book I am currently reading---I'll likely finish the book tonight and then I'll consider reading another (shocker).
First, a little background. The book is by an Episcopal priest. I've known of her for years as she was formerly on the staff that I was now formerly on...just not during the same time frame. I'd just never read any of her books, or any other books by Episcopal priests for that matter.
It's actually a great book.
For context, the following was a description of what warms the authors soul, where she met God...
"I am floating in this field, held up toward the sun by the black dirt under my back. I am this earth's child, and I know it. When I am done lying here, I will visit the small crystal stream that runs through this field to see what is moving in it today. The Presence will be there too, lighting up everything that moves. I have met salamanders there, tadpoles, crayfish, and water bugs. I have watched the moss on the bottom ripple as the water runs over it. Years later, I will discover that this was no crystal stream but a drainage ditch. The difference between the two descriptions of the same place will screw with my sense of reality for a long time. Is the Divine Presence in the world, or in my eye?"
I find this particularly insightful and humorous because I learned long ago that I most often do not see the world as others do. There have been many times that I have gotten my feelings hurt over that because I felt that meant my perception was incorrect and wrong.
Now, as I grow older, I am becoming aware of how much of a blessing uniqueness can be and how others sometimes wish for it in themselves.
It really doesn't matter whether the crystal stream is a drainage ditch, or even whether the Divine Presence is in the world or in my eye...either way, there is a Divine Presence and either way, the stream is a gift to my soul.
The book, by the way is "Leaving Church: A Memoir of Faith" by Barbara Brown Taylor.
What got me reading this book was a suggestion made by a parishioner at the church where I work. The parishioner suggested doing some type of study, seminar, etc. on the topic of "what next in my life" and I started looking for books or people that might speak to this. The priest I work for said he believed that hundreds of folks could identify with that question, and I agree. I ask myself that regularly and I don't always know the answer. The basis of Barbara's book is answering that question in her life, and in a way she didn't expect.
Now that I am older, I really could care less about living in fantasy land, although an occasional journey there never hurt anyone :). I am more about living in reality. I do daydream, but my daydreams are usually more goal oriented and about things that could, in theory, be achieved. I don't have much of an attention span for books anymore, although arguably I should be more well read, but when I do read, I usually really, really enjoy the book because it offers me something.
What I want to share is something I read in a book I am currently reading---I'll likely finish the book tonight and then I'll consider reading another (shocker).
First, a little background. The book is by an Episcopal priest. I've known of her for years as she was formerly on the staff that I was now formerly on...just not during the same time frame. I'd just never read any of her books, or any other books by Episcopal priests for that matter.
It's actually a great book.
For context, the following was a description of what warms the authors soul, where she met God...
"I am floating in this field, held up toward the sun by the black dirt under my back. I am this earth's child, and I know it. When I am done lying here, I will visit the small crystal stream that runs through this field to see what is moving in it today. The Presence will be there too, lighting up everything that moves. I have met salamanders there, tadpoles, crayfish, and water bugs. I have watched the moss on the bottom ripple as the water runs over it. Years later, I will discover that this was no crystal stream but a drainage ditch. The difference between the two descriptions of the same place will screw with my sense of reality for a long time. Is the Divine Presence in the world, or in my eye?"
I find this particularly insightful and humorous because I learned long ago that I most often do not see the world as others do. There have been many times that I have gotten my feelings hurt over that because I felt that meant my perception was incorrect and wrong.
Now, as I grow older, I am becoming aware of how much of a blessing uniqueness can be and how others sometimes wish for it in themselves.
It really doesn't matter whether the crystal stream is a drainage ditch, or even whether the Divine Presence is in the world or in my eye...either way, there is a Divine Presence and either way, the stream is a gift to my soul.
The book, by the way is "Leaving Church: A Memoir of Faith" by Barbara Brown Taylor.
What got me reading this book was a suggestion made by a parishioner at the church where I work. The parishioner suggested doing some type of study, seminar, etc. on the topic of "what next in my life" and I started looking for books or people that might speak to this. The priest I work for said he believed that hundreds of folks could identify with that question, and I agree. I ask myself that regularly and I don't always know the answer. The basis of Barbara's book is answering that question in her life, and in a way she didn't expect.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Synopsis of the weekend...travelin' stories
Well, Friday night we just hung out waiting for Christy and Ricky and Stuart to arrive from VA. We watched a little of the weather channel and heard the horror stories about gas shortages and prices. I went over to do a little shopping for a gift for Nicholas and Morgan for their reception on the following day.
On my way back from shopping I found a gas station, with gas, that was 3.72 a gallon. I went ahead and filled my car up so I'd have gas for the coming week to get to work in case the hurricane made things even worse. Christy and Ricky arrived right before 11 p.m. and I sent Richard and Ricky to go see if they could still fill up for 3.72 since we were going to have to travel to GA and back. We were fortunate and they were able to get gas for that price.
My Saturday began with me waking to the sneezes of Ricky in the living room. You just have to know Ricky to understand. He isn't a little "achoo" guy. They are big and scary----"AAAAHHHHH-CHIT". I got up and made my way out of mine and Richard's bedroom and to the bathroom and then to change clothes and get ready for the trip to GA. After we got Richard and Stuart up and ready we went through Shelby to one of our fave places for b'fast---Ken and Mary's. It was YUMMMY as usual...and very crowded.
Then it was off to GA. We laughed and joked along the way. We joked about how folks want to meet famous singers, bands, presidents, and one on my list is Jim Cantore (yes, the meteorologist). We lived in Atlanta for years and I never realized that the weather channel headquarters was right there in town. OK, so I never claimed to be normal (hee hee). It would've been so cool to go take a tour of the weather channel offices. Anyway, Christy joked that she'll set that up for my bd (meeting Jim and weather channel tour)---lol! By the way Christy, I looked it up---he's 44.
About 4 hours and 10 phone calls from Nicholas and Morgan later, we made it to Hiram. It was about 3 PM by then and we'd had breakfast about 8, 8:30, so we decided we'd stop and get something. Christy and Ricky had never been to a Krystal, so we introduced them to Krystal's---the square burgers!
After munching a bit, we made it to the house.
A couple of hours later, the reception "began". There were about 60+ people there, and I swear half of them were children. Not having children myself, I don't mind someone else's children, but by midnight that evening, I was ready to not see any children for a while. I'd heard enough running and squealing and little popcorn roller thingy for the evening.
The reception went well and I think Nicholas and Morgan got quite a bit of monetary gifts. Maybe they'll get to go get them a Wii now. The reception was fun...especially for being outdoors. I actually didn't get eaten alive by mosquitoes, which is a true miracle.
Sunday morning came quickly and we had breakfast with daddy and Kim and gave daddy his birthday card, complete with a gag gift of a Lowe's gift card (Ricky helped me come up with that one---lol), a sweet card that Richard picked out for daddy and a gift certificate to daddy's fave bbq restaurant. You have to understand that daddy owns Home Depot stock and he has a fit it any of us shop at Lowe's!
Then it was "on the road again" and off to find some gasoline. Our theme song became (can you name the tune???):
"Looking for gas(oline) at all the local stations,
The prices were giving us heart palpitations,
Looking for gas, Looking for gas,
oo-ooo, Looking for gas.
Finally we found tanks with unleaded
Prices ok, we filled an amount that we dreaded,
We set on our way, oo-oo, with us some gas"
The trip back was fun. Christy and I had fun with the windows down, letting the wind blow our hair into knots and our face into odd contortions. Once we were back in NC, we went to Murphy's (irsih Pub in Charlotte---home of my fave quesadilla) to grab something quickly before sending Ricky, Christy and Stuart on back to VA.
Richard and I went home and took a little nap. Christy and Ricky got stuck in some traffic and sat there for an hour...making them arrive home about 9:30 last night. All in all, it was a good trip.
It'll be fun to read what she writes about the highlights of the trip.
P.S.---for those in TX that were affected by Ike....my thoughts and prayers are with you. I pray blessings upon you and restoration among the destruction and tragedy.
On my way back from shopping I found a gas station, with gas, that was 3.72 a gallon. I went ahead and filled my car up so I'd have gas for the coming week to get to work in case the hurricane made things even worse. Christy and Ricky arrived right before 11 p.m. and I sent Richard and Ricky to go see if they could still fill up for 3.72 since we were going to have to travel to GA and back. We were fortunate and they were able to get gas for that price.
My Saturday began with me waking to the sneezes of Ricky in the living room. You just have to know Ricky to understand. He isn't a little "achoo" guy. They are big and scary----"AAAAHHHHH-CHIT". I got up and made my way out of mine and Richard's bedroom and to the bathroom and then to change clothes and get ready for the trip to GA. After we got Richard and Stuart up and ready we went through Shelby to one of our fave places for b'fast---Ken and Mary's. It was YUMMMY as usual...and very crowded.
Then it was off to GA. We laughed and joked along the way. We joked about how folks want to meet famous singers, bands, presidents, and one on my list is Jim Cantore (yes, the meteorologist). We lived in Atlanta for years and I never realized that the weather channel headquarters was right there in town. OK, so I never claimed to be normal (hee hee). It would've been so cool to go take a tour of the weather channel offices. Anyway, Christy joked that she'll set that up for my bd (meeting Jim and weather channel tour)---lol! By the way Christy, I looked it up---he's 44.
About 4 hours and 10 phone calls from Nicholas and Morgan later, we made it to Hiram. It was about 3 PM by then and we'd had breakfast about 8, 8:30, so we decided we'd stop and get something. Christy and Ricky had never been to a Krystal, so we introduced them to Krystal's---the square burgers!
After munching a bit, we made it to the house.
A couple of hours later, the reception "began". There were about 60+ people there, and I swear half of them were children. Not having children myself, I don't mind someone else's children, but by midnight that evening, I was ready to not see any children for a while. I'd heard enough running and squealing and little popcorn roller thingy for the evening.
The reception went well and I think Nicholas and Morgan got quite a bit of monetary gifts. Maybe they'll get to go get them a Wii now. The reception was fun...especially for being outdoors. I actually didn't get eaten alive by mosquitoes, which is a true miracle.
Sunday morning came quickly and we had breakfast with daddy and Kim and gave daddy his birthday card, complete with a gag gift of a Lowe's gift card (Ricky helped me come up with that one---lol), a sweet card that Richard picked out for daddy and a gift certificate to daddy's fave bbq restaurant. You have to understand that daddy owns Home Depot stock and he has a fit it any of us shop at Lowe's!
Then it was "on the road again" and off to find some gasoline. Our theme song became (can you name the tune???):
"Looking for gas(oline) at all the local stations,
The prices were giving us heart palpitations,
Looking for gas, Looking for gas,
oo-ooo, Looking for gas.
Finally we found tanks with unleaded
Prices ok, we filled an amount that we dreaded,
We set on our way, oo-oo, with us some gas"
The trip back was fun. Christy and I had fun with the windows down, letting the wind blow our hair into knots and our face into odd contortions. Once we were back in NC, we went to Murphy's (irsih Pub in Charlotte---home of my fave quesadilla) to grab something quickly before sending Ricky, Christy and Stuart on back to VA.
Richard and I went home and took a little nap. Christy and Ricky got stuck in some traffic and sat there for an hour...making them arrive home about 9:30 last night. All in all, it was a good trip.
It'll be fun to read what she writes about the highlights of the trip.
P.S.---for those in TX that were affected by Ike....my thoughts and prayers are with you. I pray blessings upon you and restoration among the destruction and tragedy.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
A Song for Serenity
I was browsing this evening to look up a specific LeAnn Rimes tour date and I ran across her new single---"What I Cannot Change". I liked it SO much that I have posted the video that tells the background of the song and also has her singing the song. You can see the video closer to the bottom of the blog. Hey, and at 3:38, there is a great close up of Will!!!!!
The song talks about accepting life....accepting the things we cannot change.
If you like the song, check out her new album that will be released in October.
I'd have to say that seeing LeAnn in concert has really made me like her more. She is very charismatic on stage and seems to truly enjoy the fans and what she's doing.
The song talks about accepting life....accepting the things we cannot change.
If you like the song, check out her new album that will be released in October.
I'd have to say that seeing LeAnn in concert has really made me like her more. She is very charismatic on stage and seems to truly enjoy the fans and what she's doing.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
A weekend in the mountains
Richard grew up partially in the mountains of KY. I mean, you would'nt find it if you weren't trying to get there...that kind of rural, and in the mountains. So we had been promising his dad for a while now that we'd come up, so this weekend, we did.
Now Lynch, a former bustling coal mining town...is just a mountain town now. When Richard was gowing up there were at least 3 high schools in the county. One shut down while he was in high school and then another had their last graduating class in 2007-2008. Now there's just one county high school. Where I grew up is just the opposite. There was only one high school in the county when I was growing up and now there are 5 or 6.
At any rate, we got to see Richard's dad and step-mom and his nieces/sisters (his dad actually adopted them but by birth they are his nieces), and we saw the little baby of one of the nieces. I was going to take pictures but they said they'd come back later and never did...so I can't show ya baby pics. He's a cute little guy though. His skin looks american indian to me and he had a head full of dark hair. (no, I didnt hold him---y'all that know me know how I am about babies).
We did go up on the mountain and take pics and take pics on the way back home, so I am sharing some of those...what beauty!
Also, I have to mention...if you ever go to Unicoi, TN...go to Maple Farms Family Dining! There's a pic of the place that I'm including and their food is absolutely awesome!
Enjoy the photos!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Going, Going, Gone
I love to travel! I think it is because growing up I didn't get to go much of anywhere. In fact, I think I'd only been out of the state of Georgia 3 times until I started looking at colleges that were out of state. My relatives (that we saw) lived in state and my parents were very overprotective and really never let me go many places. So, once I hit college, I changed all that.
Since I left "home", I've been to 25 or so states, Brazil, on the border to Mexico (I could've walked across), Canada, Germany, France and Italy. I want to go so many more places. I love to see what's out there.
In the last few years, I've really wanted to get groups together that also want to do things. It doesn't have to be major events (like leaving the country), but just go on little excursions. However, I am apparently not really good at orchestrating these events. I guess I should just plan them, invite whomever will to attend, and if they show up, they do, and if they don't...well, I'll go do whatever was planned anyway. Maybe eventually it will catch on. I guess I just lack patience.
But...I think I might just get to the point of doing this...planning things to do...some in NC, some in GA, some other places and invite people to join in.
I wanna ride the Great Smoky Mountain Railway. I want to go to Fairy Stone Park on the NC/VA border. I want to go to God's acre in SC. I'd like to just go cosmic bowling with some friends. I like going to find little out of the way diners like they do on the Food Network Shows (Road Tasted and Feasting on Asphalt/Waves). I want to go to Natural Bridge, VA. I love covered bridges. I love waterfalls and mountains. I like going to the beach---just when it is cool. I want to go to Key West, FL and Nova Scotia Canada and I'd LOVE to return to Niagara Falls--it has to be the most beautiful place I've seen. I want to drive cross country. I want to go to Vegas. I occasionally get a wild hair to want to go on a little gambling trip (I'm not a big spender). I'd like to go back to New England...maybe to ME and to Martha's Vineyard. I love going to fall festivals and fall and Christmas events...like McAdenville or other light shows. Christmas is my fave and I love things associated with it. Maybe this year I'll do more of those things. I want to attend some college football and basketball games.
I also like events such as Nascar races, concerts, etc.
So, I guess I just need to plan them. Maybe it is like the movie "Field of Dreams"...plan them and they will attend.
Anyone else interested in this stuff????
Since I left "home", I've been to 25 or so states, Brazil, on the border to Mexico (I could've walked across), Canada, Germany, France and Italy. I want to go so many more places. I love to see what's out there.
In the last few years, I've really wanted to get groups together that also want to do things. It doesn't have to be major events (like leaving the country), but just go on little excursions. However, I am apparently not really good at orchestrating these events. I guess I should just plan them, invite whomever will to attend, and if they show up, they do, and if they don't...well, I'll go do whatever was planned anyway. Maybe eventually it will catch on. I guess I just lack patience.
But...I think I might just get to the point of doing this...planning things to do...some in NC, some in GA, some other places and invite people to join in.
I wanna ride the Great Smoky Mountain Railway. I want to go to Fairy Stone Park on the NC/VA border. I want to go to God's acre in SC. I'd like to just go cosmic bowling with some friends. I like going to find little out of the way diners like they do on the Food Network Shows (Road Tasted and Feasting on Asphalt/Waves). I want to go to Natural Bridge, VA. I love covered bridges. I love waterfalls and mountains. I like going to the beach---just when it is cool. I want to go to Key West, FL and Nova Scotia Canada and I'd LOVE to return to Niagara Falls--it has to be the most beautiful place I've seen. I want to drive cross country. I want to go to Vegas. I occasionally get a wild hair to want to go on a little gambling trip (I'm not a big spender). I'd like to go back to New England...maybe to ME and to Martha's Vineyard. I love going to fall festivals and fall and Christmas events...like McAdenville or other light shows. Christmas is my fave and I love things associated with it. Maybe this year I'll do more of those things. I want to attend some college football and basketball games.
I also like events such as Nascar races, concerts, etc.
So, I guess I just need to plan them. Maybe it is like the movie "Field of Dreams"...plan them and they will attend.
Anyone else interested in this stuff????
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
My train of thought...Snoopy's animator to country roads
What a sad day. I love Peanuts, almost as much as I love the Muppets. Losing Bill Melendez is like losing Jim Henson.
Thinking of the Peanuts, led me to thinking of the Muppets which led me to thinking about John Denver (you just never know where my trains of thought are going to end up!).
Strangely enough, to this day, I still love John Denver. Probably a very strange thing for someone my age range to say, but I loved his music. It was the first "country" (and I guess it was folk?) music that I liked. I have included a video to one of his songs that I have always loved. It just always gives me a "homey" feeling to listen to it. If I lived in the middle of NYC I think this song would be the one that could most effectively take me back to my roots. Take a little trip back to the 70's with me if you choose.
Thinking of the Peanuts, led me to thinking of the Muppets which led me to thinking about John Denver (you just never know where my trains of thought are going to end up!).
Strangely enough, to this day, I still love John Denver. Probably a very strange thing for someone my age range to say, but I loved his music. It was the first "country" (and I guess it was folk?) music that I liked. I have included a video to one of his songs that I have always loved. It just always gives me a "homey" feeling to listen to it. If I lived in the middle of NYC I think this song would be the one that could most effectively take me back to my roots. Take a little trip back to the 70's with me if you choose.
Monday, September 1, 2008
It's only 3 months and 24 days til Christmas
This year will be a little different since I have a new SIL (see photo above) and technically a new BIL (I don't even know where to begin with that, so I'll refrain)...and I'll have a new niece (my first on my side of the family since Joel's children are both boys---photo of Christina and baby with Richard, also above).
As our family expands and changes, it changes Christmas, which was celebrated the same for many years and it is hard to change traditions and make everyone happy
I wish my family could find a tradition that would work and be fulfilling for everyone. The good thing is that my family has always celebrated Christmas on Christmas eve, so it usually doesn't conflict with when other sides of the family desire to celebrate. The issues are that now Richard and I live in NC...the family is bigger and bigger (do we still buy for everyone or draw names?), etc. Basically since I have no children, I'm not the voice that counts. Last year it was decided that we'd draw names, but today I received a call indicating that maybe that decision was being re-thought. I think it really doesn't matter if we DO draw names for adults and buy for the little kids. Draw two names if you want---it still makes for a lot less presents to haul back and forth for everyone and a lot less worrying about shopping for everyone. Still, everyone would get 2 gifts and I don't think that is bad. Or, heck, I'd be for everyone pooling the money we'd normally spend and putting it toward a vacation or something...but I doubt that would happen. Too many different schedules to try to satisfy.
Oh well. I just hope we can get together and be glad to be together! Half our family has bds in December--we should just have a big bd party and then draw names for the Christmas gifts.
Because I was tired of writing about hurricanes...
I thought I'd write about Nascar.
I wasn't formerly a Nascar fan. I considered it a redneck sport, and redneck I did not consider myself...although as I am getting older I don't really care. Country girl, rural female, redneck...whatever...I am what I am.
My first real Nascar race was watched the day Dale Earnhardt Sr. died. Not a good way to begin watching a sport. Amazing I ever watched another one. I didn't have any idea what the rules were, who the people were, etc. 7.5 years later, I probably know more about the sport than Richard does and I watch it frequently. We even attended the last race that was held at the Rockingham Speedway.
At any rate, there's one more race before the "chase" begins. For those who are reading who are not familiar with Nascar, the chase is this: At 10 races before the end of the season the top 12 drivers are entered into the chase. This means that their point systems are set back to zero and all 12 chase drivers all start on even playing ground. Now the interesting part is that there are still 43 drivers in each of the 10 chase races, but only the drivers in the "chase" earn points toward the 2008 championship.
Any driver can win a chase race, but if the driver is not in the chase he wins the "purse", not points toward the championship. It wouldn't matter if the same guy (not a chase driver) won all 10 races of the chase....then he cannot win the championship. Right now 8 drivers have earned enough points to be in the chase just by starting their car next Saturday at Richmond. 4 other spots are kind of up for grabs...depending on the outcome of the Richmond race. Jeff Gordon is one of our (mine and Richard's) fave drivers. If the chase drivers had been decided after yesterday's race, he'd be in the chase...but he isn't guaranteed a spot since there is one more race and he didn't have enough points spread between he and several other drivers to be guaranteed a spot as of yesterday. I hope he makes it.
Richard and I were talking about Jeff at dinner today. We believe him becoming a father has hurt his racing career. We believe that suddenly his mortality is real to him. He is a father and has to think about the fact that his career could cause his baby girl to grow up without her father. It makes complete sense, but I am sad that it is that way.
Richard and I wrote out who we'd want to be in the chase if we could just vote them in. Here are the choices we made:
R's: Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Dale Jr., Carl Edwards, Kyle Petty, David Ragan, Kasey Kahne, Casey Mears, Michael Waltrip, Ryan Newman, Bill Elliott, Jeff Burton
Mine(I only came up with 10--other two I don't care as long as it wouldn't be Kyle Bush): Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Dale Jr., Kasey Kahne, Tony Stewart, Carl Edwards, Jeff Burton, Jamie McMurray, Denny Hamlin, Greg Biffle.
So, Saturday night at Richmond will decide the chase drivers and then there are 10 races to decide the championship. Jimmie Johnson was 2006 and 2007 Nascar Champion.
I wasn't formerly a Nascar fan. I considered it a redneck sport, and redneck I did not consider myself...although as I am getting older I don't really care. Country girl, rural female, redneck...whatever...I am what I am.
My first real Nascar race was watched the day Dale Earnhardt Sr. died. Not a good way to begin watching a sport. Amazing I ever watched another one. I didn't have any idea what the rules were, who the people were, etc. 7.5 years later, I probably know more about the sport than Richard does and I watch it frequently. We even attended the last race that was held at the Rockingham Speedway.
At any rate, there's one more race before the "chase" begins. For those who are reading who are not familiar with Nascar, the chase is this: At 10 races before the end of the season the top 12 drivers are entered into the chase. This means that their point systems are set back to zero and all 12 chase drivers all start on even playing ground. Now the interesting part is that there are still 43 drivers in each of the 10 chase races, but only the drivers in the "chase" earn points toward the 2008 championship.
Any driver can win a chase race, but if the driver is not in the chase he wins the "purse", not points toward the championship. It wouldn't matter if the same guy (not a chase driver) won all 10 races of the chase....then he cannot win the championship. Right now 8 drivers have earned enough points to be in the chase just by starting their car next Saturday at Richmond. 4 other spots are kind of up for grabs...depending on the outcome of the Richmond race. Jeff Gordon is one of our (mine and Richard's) fave drivers. If the chase drivers had been decided after yesterday's race, he'd be in the chase...but he isn't guaranteed a spot since there is one more race and he didn't have enough points spread between he and several other drivers to be guaranteed a spot as of yesterday. I hope he makes it.
Richard and I were talking about Jeff at dinner today. We believe him becoming a father has hurt his racing career. We believe that suddenly his mortality is real to him. He is a father and has to think about the fact that his career could cause his baby girl to grow up without her father. It makes complete sense, but I am sad that it is that way.
Richard and I wrote out who we'd want to be in the chase if we could just vote them in. Here are the choices we made:
R's: Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Dale Jr., Carl Edwards, Kyle Petty, David Ragan, Kasey Kahne, Casey Mears, Michael Waltrip, Ryan Newman, Bill Elliott, Jeff Burton
Mine(I only came up with 10--other two I don't care as long as it wouldn't be Kyle Bush): Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Dale Jr., Kasey Kahne, Tony Stewart, Carl Edwards, Jeff Burton, Jamie McMurray, Denny Hamlin, Greg Biffle.
So, Saturday night at Richmond will decide the chase drivers and then there are 10 races to decide the championship. Jimmie Johnson was 2006 and 2007 Nascar Champion.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Memories and Rebuilding
photo credit: http://cheftami.blogspot.com/It is only fitting that I should take a moment to blog about memories and rebuilding on the 3rd anniversary of Katrina, with storms swirling out in the Atlantic that could cause us to relive the memories.
My mind is searching, searching for the sentiment that would be most fitting for this occasion and what strikes me in this moment is this: I find my heart reaching. I find myself preparing for thinking of how I can help if Gustav brings devastation again to the Gulf.
Following Katrina I was part of a group in my home county that offered aid to some of those displaced Katrina victims. We served them food and listened to their stories. It was the most engaged I have ever felt...offering what we had to people who were in search of the basics: food, shelter, clothing. It was the christian mission in place, although not everyone I worked in this with was a christian, and certainly not all those coming to receive help were christian either. However, it was human helping human. It was "if you've done to the least of these my bretheren, you've done it to me" in action.
I don't know what happened to the people we served. I don't kow if they stayed in GA or were able to go back to their homes and rebuild. I know they were survivors. I hope they got an opportunity to rebuild.
For all of those who are on the Gulf Coast of the USA, you are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that the hands that rebuilt the levees made them strong enough and that through the Katrina experience, those in government have become wiser and far more proactive, rather than reactive. Whatever happens in the coming days...my heart goes out to those who may be put in harms way. I don't wish to need to be a part of another effort similar to that made on behalf of Katrina again, simply because I hope it does not become a necessity. However, if Gustav or any storm to follow makes it a reality again, I hope that I can be a part of helping again.
PEACE SPEAKER Geron Davis/Meadowgreen
It was such a lovely day The sun was shining bright The gentle wind was blowin' my way Not a storm cloud was in sight Then, suddenly without warning, A storm surrounded my life. But even in the storm I could feel the calm,And here's the reason why.
Chorus
I know the Peace Speaker, I know Him by NameI know the Peace Speaker, He controls the windAnd the waves.When He says, "Peace, be still," They have to obey. I know the Peace Speaker, Yes, I Know Him by Name.
There's never been another man With the power of this friend, By simply saying, "Peace be still" He can calm the strongest wind. And that's why I never worry When the storm clouds come my way, I know that He is near to drive Away my fears And I can smile and say:
Peace, peace, wonderful peace Coming down from the Father Above. When He says, " Peace be Still, " They have to obey. I'm glad I know the Peace Speaker, Yes I know Him by Name. I know Him by Name.I know the Peace Speaker, Yes I Know Him by Name.
My mind is searching, searching for the sentiment that would be most fitting for this occasion and what strikes me in this moment is this: I find my heart reaching. I find myself preparing for thinking of how I can help if Gustav brings devastation again to the Gulf.
Following Katrina I was part of a group in my home county that offered aid to some of those displaced Katrina victims. We served them food and listened to their stories. It was the most engaged I have ever felt...offering what we had to people who were in search of the basics: food, shelter, clothing. It was the christian mission in place, although not everyone I worked in this with was a christian, and certainly not all those coming to receive help were christian either. However, it was human helping human. It was "if you've done to the least of these my bretheren, you've done it to me" in action.
I don't know what happened to the people we served. I don't kow if they stayed in GA or were able to go back to their homes and rebuild. I know they were survivors. I hope they got an opportunity to rebuild.
For all of those who are on the Gulf Coast of the USA, you are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that the hands that rebuilt the levees made them strong enough and that through the Katrina experience, those in government have become wiser and far more proactive, rather than reactive. Whatever happens in the coming days...my heart goes out to those who may be put in harms way. I don't wish to need to be a part of another effort similar to that made on behalf of Katrina again, simply because I hope it does not become a necessity. However, if Gustav or any storm to follow makes it a reality again, I hope that I can be a part of helping again.
PEACE SPEAKER Geron Davis/Meadowgreen
It was such a lovely day The sun was shining bright The gentle wind was blowin' my way Not a storm cloud was in sight Then, suddenly without warning, A storm surrounded my life. But even in the storm I could feel the calm,And here's the reason why.
Chorus
I know the Peace Speaker, I know Him by NameI know the Peace Speaker, He controls the windAnd the waves.When He says, "Peace, be still," They have to obey. I know the Peace Speaker, Yes, I Know Him by Name.
There's never been another man With the power of this friend, By simply saying, "Peace be still" He can calm the strongest wind. And that's why I never worry When the storm clouds come my way, I know that He is near to drive Away my fears And I can smile and say:
Peace, peace, wonderful peace Coming down from the Father Above. When He says, " Peace be Still, " They have to obey. I'm glad I know the Peace Speaker, Yes I know Him by Name. I know Him by Name.I know the Peace Speaker, Yes I Know Him by Name.
I'm so sleepy
Ok, I am not an insomniac. Not even close. Usually my head hits the pillow and I am out! Lately though, I've had a ton on my mind and I can't sleep.
It's nothing bad on my mind...mostly new ideas and thoughts about my job (which I LOVE), but nevertheless, I lay awake at night.
In fact, it is to the point that pretty much if I feel really sleepy, I just want to make a mad dash for the bed to try to get some sleep while I can. I'm not one to want to take medicine to make me sleep, although Tylenol PM has been a friend on several nights in the past few months.
Even when I do sleep, I find that I am dreaming much more---or, at least dreaming to the point that I remember what I dream, which seems to make me more tired when I awaken.
I am usually a person who goes to bed about 10 pm because quite honestly, my body prefers 9 hours of sleep over 8. However, in the past couple months, I am not getting to sleep until midnight, sometimes one...and then I usually start waking up around six even though I try my best to lay there until 7:10 (did I mention that I am not a morning person. Even when I've had plenty of sleep, I don't just "pop" out of bed.)
Last night I went to bed at a little after 10...but laid there listening to the snores of my husband for about 45 minutes before finally deciding to get up because my stomach was feeling a little queasy. I got up and went and browsed some things on the computer that had been racing through my mind and about midnight, Richard woke up and called out wondering where I had gone. I went back to bed. I laid there a little while longer before finally managing to drift off to sleep. When the alarm went off this morning, I was still deep in dreamland. I can't remember what I was dreaming although I know that while I was sleeping, I was aware of what I was dreaming. Many times when I awaken, if I don't consciously think about the dream, I'll forget it soon after (unless it is one of my wackier dreams, which I tend to have on a reasonably frequent basis).
I was sooooo wishing that it were Saturday this morning. I crawled down under the cover for a few more minutes until I had to get up. So, anyway, now I am here...but I am so wishing I could just crawl back under the cover and get some zzz's!
It's nothing bad on my mind...mostly new ideas and thoughts about my job (which I LOVE), but nevertheless, I lay awake at night.
In fact, it is to the point that pretty much if I feel really sleepy, I just want to make a mad dash for the bed to try to get some sleep while I can. I'm not one to want to take medicine to make me sleep, although Tylenol PM has been a friend on several nights in the past few months.
Even when I do sleep, I find that I am dreaming much more---or, at least dreaming to the point that I remember what I dream, which seems to make me more tired when I awaken.
I am usually a person who goes to bed about 10 pm because quite honestly, my body prefers 9 hours of sleep over 8. However, in the past couple months, I am not getting to sleep until midnight, sometimes one...and then I usually start waking up around six even though I try my best to lay there until 7:10 (did I mention that I am not a morning person. Even when I've had plenty of sleep, I don't just "pop" out of bed.)
Last night I went to bed at a little after 10...but laid there listening to the snores of my husband for about 45 minutes before finally deciding to get up because my stomach was feeling a little queasy. I got up and went and browsed some things on the computer that had been racing through my mind and about midnight, Richard woke up and called out wondering where I had gone. I went back to bed. I laid there a little while longer before finally managing to drift off to sleep. When the alarm went off this morning, I was still deep in dreamland. I can't remember what I was dreaming although I know that while I was sleeping, I was aware of what I was dreaming. Many times when I awaken, if I don't consciously think about the dream, I'll forget it soon after (unless it is one of my wackier dreams, which I tend to have on a reasonably frequent basis).
I was sooooo wishing that it were Saturday this morning. I crawled down under the cover for a few more minutes until I had to get up. So, anyway, now I am here...but I am so wishing I could just crawl back under the cover and get some zzz's!
High School Reunions and other Musings
This year is my 20th! Wow, I can remember when I thought that meant folks were OLD!
I hadn't really been getting any info on ours although I kept being told it was in the works, in the works, so I finally started an event on classmates at least to gauge interest in one since I'd been hearing buzz all over about people wanting to have one.
By golly, I figured if one wasn't planned, then I (with some help) would plan one...and if one had been planned, we'd find out. Crazy statement coming from someone who most people didn't even know in high school.
Last night I got an email back from the class president indicating that there is one being worked on. It's funny how there is a committee working on something that I can find no one that knows anything about it, and nothing has been promoted, etc. Oh well. I had previously been told it would be in September, and since Monday is September 1st....I'll be surprised if that happens. And, if it does, I'll be surprised if many folks can agree to make it.
I was really a nobody in high school, but a lot has changed since then. I read online that it is amazing that you find that the really "snobby" people in school usually turn out to have been just insecure teens looking for acceptance and that 20 and 30 years later you find that the wallflowers have turned out to be quite fascinating people. When I read that, I had to sit back and make a little smug "hmmm..." I was a wallflower in a sense. People might have known of me, but very few, if any, really knew me. And, it is funny that most of the people who were cheerleaders and football players, etc., aren't even on classmates. Most of the people are just the plain ole people...not the ones that were superlatives or class officers, etc.
So, that makes me think a reunion will be even more interesting. If I am so different, how different must these people be as well? I still revert to my shyness in new situations, but I'm quite a different person than I was. I pretty much like who I am. I am not perfect. I should lose some weight, be more active physically, etc., but overall I've had some great life experiences and even some of the bad experiences have really been instrumental in teaching me about life and about who I want to be or who I don't want to be.
I think I'm different from most people...but I like it that way. According to a personality test, I am in a group of only 2% of the population. That wows me. But, again, I've learned to embrace that and like it. It also gives me a bit of an excuse when I do something totally off the wall, or just downright weird.
If I could just boost my confidence level, I'd be good. I'm not good with thinking that when I meet new people or am in new situations that I have anything to add. I even have that issue when trying to come up with something to blog. I have a hard time just talking for the sake of talking. I like to TELL a story, to SOMEONE, and ideally, someone who cares ("here's a quarter..."---sorry, got sidetracked). Writing or speaking my story for no reason seems strange to me. Some people can talk to anyone...but I shy away and wait for when I think there is a connection.
I keep telling people that one day I'm gonna write the memoirs of Christy---but it'll be called something much more exciting than that---I can't have something that plain (people who know me well are shaking their heads in agreement as they read that statement). I have so many stories of the nutty things I've done and the experiences I've had---particularly that people wouldn't expect from a wallflower. Maybe that's it....Memoirs of a Wallflower.
I hadn't really been getting any info on ours although I kept being told it was in the works, in the works, so I finally started an event on classmates at least to gauge interest in one since I'd been hearing buzz all over about people wanting to have one.
By golly, I figured if one wasn't planned, then I (with some help) would plan one...and if one had been planned, we'd find out. Crazy statement coming from someone who most people didn't even know in high school.
Last night I got an email back from the class president indicating that there is one being worked on. It's funny how there is a committee working on something that I can find no one that knows anything about it, and nothing has been promoted, etc. Oh well. I had previously been told it would be in September, and since Monday is September 1st....I'll be surprised if that happens. And, if it does, I'll be surprised if many folks can agree to make it.
I was really a nobody in high school, but a lot has changed since then. I read online that it is amazing that you find that the really "snobby" people in school usually turn out to have been just insecure teens looking for acceptance and that 20 and 30 years later you find that the wallflowers have turned out to be quite fascinating people. When I read that, I had to sit back and make a little smug "hmmm..." I was a wallflower in a sense. People might have known of me, but very few, if any, really knew me. And, it is funny that most of the people who were cheerleaders and football players, etc., aren't even on classmates. Most of the people are just the plain ole people...not the ones that were superlatives or class officers, etc.
So, that makes me think a reunion will be even more interesting. If I am so different, how different must these people be as well? I still revert to my shyness in new situations, but I'm quite a different person than I was. I pretty much like who I am. I am not perfect. I should lose some weight, be more active physically, etc., but overall I've had some great life experiences and even some of the bad experiences have really been instrumental in teaching me about life and about who I want to be or who I don't want to be.
I think I'm different from most people...but I like it that way. According to a personality test, I am in a group of only 2% of the population. That wows me. But, again, I've learned to embrace that and like it. It also gives me a bit of an excuse when I do something totally off the wall, or just downright weird.
If I could just boost my confidence level, I'd be good. I'm not good with thinking that when I meet new people or am in new situations that I have anything to add. I even have that issue when trying to come up with something to blog. I have a hard time just talking for the sake of talking. I like to TELL a story, to SOMEONE, and ideally, someone who cares ("here's a quarter..."---sorry, got sidetracked). Writing or speaking my story for no reason seems strange to me. Some people can talk to anyone...but I shy away and wait for when I think there is a connection.
I keep telling people that one day I'm gonna write the memoirs of Christy---but it'll be called something much more exciting than that---I can't have something that plain (people who know me well are shaking their heads in agreement as they read that statement). I have so many stories of the nutty things I've done and the experiences I've had---particularly that people wouldn't expect from a wallflower. Maybe that's it....Memoirs of a Wallflower.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Ayyyy, Gustav!
Well, here we go, Gustav threatens the Gulf Coast. I was still thinking about Fay and then I hear about Gustav. Who is Gustav?????
The info says that Gustav is potentially headed for New Orleans, and to the oil rigs....so look out gas prices! Better fill up now as the oil companies are already raising prices amid the terror of the possibility of Gustav following in Katrina's footsteps.
And, it appears that Gustav will hit just 2 days after the anniversary of Katrina. I'm sure the people in N.O. are nervous, and this time hopefully much more prepared to at least make evacuations.
There is something strange in my DNA that makes me crave info on storms. I'll likely go home tonight and, if Richard doesn't give me grief about it, turn on the weather channel and start watching. I don't know if it is the innate human trait of needing to see a "train wreck" in progress, or just the scientific awe of such a natural phenomenon, but I would stay glued to the weather channel 24/7 in times of storm. I am dazzled by Jim Cantore. In fact, I should put meeting him on my "bucket list" to the left. I love, love, love to watch him---but not only him. I like Stephanie Abrams and Steve Lyons, the hurricane expert as well. Maybe meteorology was my calling and I missed it. I used to love science as a child...but more astronomy than meteorology.
As I've gotten older, I have begun to have more appreciation for weather, and particularly storms. I don't know that I'm your chasing twisters kind of girl, but I do think it is incredible. On two of my last vacations, I've gone during tropical storms. A little less threat, but still amazing. I didn't do it on purpose---maybe they crave me too---lol!
At any rate, to our friends in the Gulf---my prayers are with you. I pray safety for you.
The info says that Gustav is potentially headed for New Orleans, and to the oil rigs....so look out gas prices! Better fill up now as the oil companies are already raising prices amid the terror of the possibility of Gustav following in Katrina's footsteps.
And, it appears that Gustav will hit just 2 days after the anniversary of Katrina. I'm sure the people in N.O. are nervous, and this time hopefully much more prepared to at least make evacuations.
There is something strange in my DNA that makes me crave info on storms. I'll likely go home tonight and, if Richard doesn't give me grief about it, turn on the weather channel and start watching. I don't know if it is the innate human trait of needing to see a "train wreck" in progress, or just the scientific awe of such a natural phenomenon, but I would stay glued to the weather channel 24/7 in times of storm. I am dazzled by Jim Cantore. In fact, I should put meeting him on my "bucket list" to the left. I love, love, love to watch him---but not only him. I like Stephanie Abrams and Steve Lyons, the hurricane expert as well. Maybe meteorology was my calling and I missed it. I used to love science as a child...but more astronomy than meteorology.
As I've gotten older, I have begun to have more appreciation for weather, and particularly storms. I don't know that I'm your chasing twisters kind of girl, but I do think it is incredible. On two of my last vacations, I've gone during tropical storms. A little less threat, but still amazing. I didn't do it on purpose---maybe they crave me too---lol!
At any rate, to our friends in the Gulf---my prayers are with you. I pray safety for you.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Homesick!
Well, today I got a call from my step-mom. Seems my new SIL is a bit homesick. It's a big adjustment for her!
After all, she graduated high school, moved from her mom's to her dad's, then got married and moved from her dad's to GA. That's a LOT to deal with in just a few months.
Now she's stuck with a family she really doesn't know, no driver's license, and no friends there. It is hard to tell someone that it is going to get better when they don't quite see it that way.
It reminded me of when I went away to college. Boy, the first week, I wanted to come home.
I didn't know anyone and I'm shy anyway, my roommate went home for the weekend, I fell on a swing and bruised my tailbone (which hurts a lot, thank you very much), had to get used to school food on a daily basis (and let me tell ya, it wasn't the good stuff they give you now---it was like the regular ole high school cafeteria food---just in a college setting) and was 250 miles from home. I'd been sheltered, so I didn't know how to do anything without mama and daddy.
So, I understand my SIL's feeling. I remember. But, I also remember that it was because my mama and daddy didn't let me just pick up and come home that I got to experience some great things and meet the person who, 20 years later, is still my best friend. I met people, I tried new things, and I grew as a person. I'm not going to clami that I grew a huge amount academically in college---although I definitely wish I had grown more....but I did mature socially and emotionally in a huge way. So much so that my senior year of college, I up and transferred to a whole new school where I only new OF two people and had to change my minor and live in the city.
From then on, I've learned to adapt. I admit, I still resist change unless I am the instrigator...but my friends will tell you that I will instigate pretty easily nowadays.
So, for Morgan---hang in there sweetie! I don't think you'll regret it.
After all, she graduated high school, moved from her mom's to her dad's, then got married and moved from her dad's to GA. That's a LOT to deal with in just a few months.
Now she's stuck with a family she really doesn't know, no driver's license, and no friends there. It is hard to tell someone that it is going to get better when they don't quite see it that way.
It reminded me of when I went away to college. Boy, the first week, I wanted to come home.
I didn't know anyone and I'm shy anyway, my roommate went home for the weekend, I fell on a swing and bruised my tailbone (which hurts a lot, thank you very much), had to get used to school food on a daily basis (and let me tell ya, it wasn't the good stuff they give you now---it was like the regular ole high school cafeteria food---just in a college setting) and was 250 miles from home. I'd been sheltered, so I didn't know how to do anything without mama and daddy.
So, I understand my SIL's feeling. I remember. But, I also remember that it was because my mama and daddy didn't let me just pick up and come home that I got to experience some great things and meet the person who, 20 years later, is still my best friend. I met people, I tried new things, and I grew as a person. I'm not going to clami that I grew a huge amount academically in college---although I definitely wish I had grown more....but I did mature socially and emotionally in a huge way. So much so that my senior year of college, I up and transferred to a whole new school where I only new OF two people and had to change my minor and live in the city.
From then on, I've learned to adapt. I admit, I still resist change unless I am the instrigator...but my friends will tell you that I will instigate pretty easily nowadays.
So, for Morgan---hang in there sweetie! I don't think you'll regret it.
It's yellow and blue and green, oh my!
Ok, not really...but it is yellow and a little greenish yellow.
What is, you ask?
Remember when I said I got conked with a drumstick? Well, I meant I got conked! The bruise is there today to prove it. So, for all you gals out there who've been told to get a baseball bat after a guy who has done you wrong...I say go for the drumsticks!
On a side note...I got an email today from the guy who gave me the ticket to the show. I had managed to get the set list off the floor following the show for LeAnn, and I gave it to him. Seemed only right---he was the reason I even got to go. So today, in my inbox, there was a scanned copy of the set list. How nice.
What is, you ask?
Remember when I said I got conked with a drumstick? Well, I meant I got conked! The bruise is there today to prove it. So, for all you gals out there who've been told to get a baseball bat after a guy who has done you wrong...I say go for the drumsticks!
On a side note...I got an email today from the guy who gave me the ticket to the show. I had managed to get the set list off the floor following the show for LeAnn, and I gave it to him. Seemed only right---he was the reason I even got to go. So today, in my inbox, there was a scanned copy of the set list. How nice.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Yes, My cat would do this
My cats, Tanger and Kirby, are hilarious. They believe that they are human and if we can do something, they should be able to do it too.
I saw this online and I thought....my cats would definitely do this! Just this week Kirby has scraped Cheerios from the table to eat, and both Tanger and Kirby have indulged in their favorite, spaghetti. I love spaghetti, so they come by it genetically (lol---it's a joke).
They had ham for breakfast.
Of course, they also eat their fair share of kitty food as well, but I'm certain that they can't understand why I don't partake in their Cat Chow!
I saw this online and I thought....my cats would definitely do this! Just this week Kirby has scraped Cheerios from the table to eat, and both Tanger and Kirby have indulged in their favorite, spaghetti. I love spaghetti, so they come by it genetically (lol---it's a joke).
They had ham for breakfast.
Of course, they also eat their fair share of kitty food as well, but I'm certain that they can't understand why I don't partake in their Cat Chow!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Chapter in the novel I call life: concert karma
First of all, let me say that people in the south sometimes have negative vibes from those of us we might refer to as yankees. I've been guilty myself---sometimes thinking that those from the northern states tend to be a bit more curt with their words and just not naturally ingrained with that good ole southern hospitality. After yesterday, I have to say there are some very nice northern folk too!
I had planned for weeks to go to see Kenny Chesney, but I thought I'd fair better by waiting to buy tickets for a Thursday show from ebay since I wanted good seats. There was a problem with that. My husband ended up not being able to go, and my friend I asked couldn't decide....so I kept waiting and missed out on several pretty good offers. But, all things happen for a reason right?
As I lay in bed last night, I couldn't help but think that good karma, or whatever you want to call it had come back to me. A little over a year ago I ended up with 3 sets of tickets to a certain show. I wasn't able to sell the other two pairs, so I gave one set to a relative...but the other set I gave to complete strangers. I placed an ad offering them to whomever could give me the best story and I chose a person to give them to (you can click the link to read the story). Well, yesterday, the karma paid me back.
I was desperately searching last minute for tickets, but either they were far too overpriced or not good enough for me to warrant buying them. I have a friend that plays for LeAnn Rimes (opened for Kenny) and I had hoped to catch the show to be able to see him. I ran across an ad that a guy placed that said he had front row tickets. He was apparently going, but he had an extra ticket to either sell or "give away". I inquired about purchasing the ticket, but the price he paid was too steep for me and I indicated as such. After many emails back and forth, he said he'd let me know. As it turned out, in the afternoon he called and said if I wanted to go, I could. He said the amount didn't matter. If I was ok with meeting at the show, let him know. I struggled. It was a stranger. I made it very clear that I was married and was not looking for a date. He was also married. Finally, I decided this was an opportunity I just couldn't pass up...a front row seat. So...I did it. As it turned out, the man was very nice...and normal. He wouldn't take my money, and all I promised was to send him the great photos I was able to take as a result of his generosity. I hope he thinks it was a good trade-off. So, to the yankees out there...you've proven to be some nice folks. Hope we southerners still offer the hospitality we claim.
Incidentally, I came home with a knot on my head. Seems my friend (Will) who plays drums tossed his drumsticks to me (I had requested them) and one bounced right off my head. What a souvenir, huh?
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