Got big plans and things you're looking to accomplish in the new year?
I know I do, and while looking for recipes for my new recommended Crock-Pot slow cooker (that's a whole other post, but I'm trying new things in '08) on the Real Simple website, I ended up also finding these handy dandy checklists for getting things done and operating one's life efficiently. Just what I need, and they've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Happy last day of 2007!
Big Boy has a knack for picking DVDs and movies that I have no thought in my mind to see or watch, that end up being delightful, insightful and inspiring to me.
This time, it was with the DVD, Meet The Robinsons. It was the only thing he specifically asked for by name for Christmas this year. He'd wanted to see it when it was in the theaters, but we, a-hem, passed on it. Science experiments? Time travel? Futuristic inventions? Yawwwwn...
Santa heard him, though, and Big Boy was beside himself when he discovered his Christmas wish had come true. Straight to the DVD player he went! The movie did not disappoint--it was all he thought it would be and more (I believe I have a precious little geek on my hands).
I didn't watch Meet The Robinsons yesterday, but I was grateful it kept Big Boy occupied while I prepped Christmas dinner.
Today, though, I obliged him, and at his request we watched the movie together. All I'll say is, I was pleasantly surprised, and hence, I'm going to ask you to please make a point to check this movie out--if you haven't already. I'm sure you'll take away something positive from one of its many themes.
For me, it was the concept of "celebrating failure", which has just possibly changed the course of my children's future for even greater good, since I've now determined that I will incorporate this into my parenting. For that, Meet The Robinsons has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Christmas has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Thank you for being a part of my Thanks Ranks family. All the best to you and yours today and during this holiday season.
Indulge me--I've got, what, two/three weeks of lost time to make up for...? :-)
I recognize it's been out for a minute now, but:
Alicia Keys, for giving me a new anthem to bob my head to, grab Hubby-Honey's hand with, and add to our life soundtrack called "The Mr. & Mrs. Show", you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Go 'head, Girl! Sing it! Oh oh oh oh oh...
(Click here. The video below is no longer available for embedding)
Promotion at new job, "new" used car, feature in a calendar for the new year, new perspective... all just in time for 2008, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
I hesitate to consider the implications, but the sunny 75 degree weather we've been experiencing here in metro Atlanta has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
When is too long away long enough?
Being able to take a moment to log in and say, "Hi! I'm just fine. Thanks for asking, how are you?" has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
A new, "normal" week that has returned me to my senses (because really, leftover lemon cheesecake from Southern Sweets Bakery for breakfast, and as an accompaniment to lunch and dinner, with snacking in between, is NOT a sensible thing) has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Well, that, and the fact that there's no more left... :-)
In the U.S., it's THANKSGIVING DAY!
What's not to add to The Thanks Ranks? We should all have a list today.
Have a blessed holiday. A big hug to you from me.
(Happy Birthday, Renard!)
The pastry chef at Whole Foods, who intuitively knew even before I did that a pumpkin chocolate cookie would make me smile in the midst of holiday hustle, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
OK. I went and did it. I got a job. Hubby-Honey is not going to get to Yankees Fantasy Camp in '08 by me just wishing upon a star. OK, maybe he is, and I will, but now I also have a "Plan B".
And I'm just so excited about it, I can't contain myself. Why? Well, because I created a "wish list" for everything I was going to want in a job, given my somewhat reluctant decision to go back to work. And I'm telling you, it was pretty "unrealistic" criteria. So I didn't think I'd be working any time soon, or if I was, not necessarily in a wholly fulfilling way.
But amazingly (or not so much, as I'm starting to see more and more), such a position and company have been led to me, and my desires have been met--exceedingly and abundantly over all that I had hoped.
So it's back to work for me, but in the familiar surroundings of my home office, doing what I love to do most: promoting great people, places and things and getting the privilege of experiencing them firsthand. For a publication. Within an arena in which I'm voraciously interested. I couldn't be more delighted.
I say all this to say, indeed, in whatever area of your life you care to address ideal circumstances, make a list, check it twice, bypass the naughty and wait on the nice. Perfect plans are coming to town.
I'm here to testify. Gregg and Chris, for detecting my light and wanting to connect it to yours, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
My brother's safe return home after spending the last week in Hong Kong has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Have a great weekend!
"There is! There is a chocolate-covered M&M on the toilet!" Big Boy kept insisting. I assured him there wasn't, as (a.) I knew we didn't have any in the house and (b.) I'd just been in the bathroom and would have surely noticed it. But he wouldn't let it go, so I agreed to return and let him show me.
For the cautionary tale you've become that just may save another grown woman or a young girl--though I wish it hadn't had to be--Ms. West, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
R.I.P.
And Julie: Happy Birthday, Friend.
For all the freedoms I enjoy, veterans: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
I'm not perfect, and so can you. :-)
Here's what was referenced and added to The Thanks Ranks:
* My dear children for lending the soundtrack to the show and my life
* New Thanks Ranks Radio Friends and fellow blogtalkradio.com show hosts Minister D, Evangelist Linda and Sexy Morenita
* Sahar Gayton and her story of fortitude and gratitude
* All of you who have expressed interest in and support for the "No Dining Out Month" challenge" Hubby-Honey and I have undertaken
* Green Restaurant Association for their Certified Green Restaurant Guide and Atlanta certified restaurants My Panini and Radial.
* Todd from Arango's Roofing
* My 365 day anniversary celebration with fellow 365 Plays/Days enthusiasts
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
Have a great weekend!
For bringing my anniversary day to a celebratory creative end, Bridget, Alex, Roz, Danielle and S-LP: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
I don't believe it, but 'tis true...
If you look to the left column of this blog, and scroll down, down, down, past the 'Blog Archive' and all the months of 2007 listed, you'll get to '2006'.
And if you click on that, and scroll all the way down, down, down, you'll get to an entry that says, "Tuesday, November 07, 2006".
And that, dear friends, would be the very first post of The Thanks Ranks, which means that today, November 7, 2007, marks The Thanks Ranks' first anniversary.
I can't believe it. First of all, time has flown! As I've taken some time to re-read the earlier posts, I'm amazed that it's been a year, or almost a year, that the things detailed occurred. Can't be--it all seems like just yesterday!
But on the otherhand, as I read, I consider the interesting "evolution of me" that has occurred. As is documented, the genesis of this blog sprouted from a muddled head in a clouded space that had just enough presence of mind to grasp gratitude. That time and that person do feel far removed now.
So when I reflect upon this past year of my Thanks Ranks experience, I can say that I still don't know where it's going, and what's to come of it. And that's OK. It's not meant for me to get ahead of it. My job is to simply continue logging one entry at a time.
What I do know is that through this exercise I have received an amazing gift in discovering that I can find the "story" in the simplest of things, and that alone has given me a tremendous sense of clarity.
The "bestest" is yet to come, because this year has been the best. I highly recommend, "giving thanks a try".
The collective lesson in gratitude from the past 365 days and all that has blessedly occured in my life as a result have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Thank you for joining me on the ride.
Today's impromptu dance party with my children courtesy of DJ KC's groove masterwork has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Hubby-Honey and I are always challenging ourselves here in our humble little household. Taking on "make us better" tasks to see what we're capable of keeps things interesting.
For the month of November? Aside from social obligations that are already established or may come up, Hubby-Honey and I are not going to eat out. No take-out for lunch at work for him, no on-the-road-with-kids-on-the-fly stops for me, no, "It's the weekend! Let's go to (insert desired eatery here)!" for either one of us.
Nope. Even if it means nothing more than peanut butter and jelly sandwiches on our best china, this month, the only food we'll be consuming is that which came from our grocery/farmers market shopping.
This isn't something that I've ever taken on in the history of... well, my life. Where am I going to find the inspiration to come up with ideas for every meal for every day for 30 days?
Enter The Dinner A'Fare and Super Suppers. They're competitors in their prepare-ahead meals industry, but no matter to me--they're a font of recipe ideas!
I've simply checked out their menus for the current and future month, and come up with options that I think will work for our family, given my organic modifications and relative comfort around the kitchen (you may recall, I'm a culinary school dropout--that still puts me further ahead of the cooking game than most).
So far we've been so good. We just might be able to do this. At least now the meal prep is becoming a joy and not a joy-killer to the foodie in me. Maybe I'll go back and get my culinary degree yet--NOT!
But in the meantime, for providing me a vista to success, The Dinner A'Fare and Super Suppers, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Now if you'll excuse me, I've got some panko coating to do on some tilapia filets for tonight's "Pan-Asian Tilapia with Five Spice Panko Crust".
Bon appetit!
Baby Girl's fever having broken with no sign of the chicken pox has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Have a great weekend!
Here's what was referenced and added to The Thanks Ranks:
* Kellie's addition: Mr. M.M.--her, "thoughtful, really great boyfriend," and the good people in her life
* The good people in my life and Chocolate Pink for making my birthday memorable
* Halloween 2007 being a candy-fueled wrap, and the treat of paying off Hubby-Honey's car
* November 1 and the countdown to Thanksgiving
* Heat on chilly mornings and my fantastic jacket find
* My children's pediatricians and my beloved poxed brother
* Encountering the young ladies of the Coretta Scott King Young Women's Leadership Academy and playwright, author, activist Eve Ensler at the Going for the Goal Luncheon last Friday (not Thursday as I repeatedly stated)
* TED and its ideas worth spreading (if you're using Internet Explorer and the video above isn't loading, click here to access the Ensler video)
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
There's a chill in the air this morning. The ability to heat our home with the flick of a switch (and having a home in the first place) has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
To new-to-me L'Thai Organic Restaurant and Wine Bar for satisfying my taste for Pa-Nang curry with vegetables and Hubby-Honey driving 12 miles out of his way to get it for me, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
While I usually take the weekends off, you know I wasn't going to pass up seeing today's date on my blog in print. ;-)
Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending a GOAL luncheon, during which I was challenged from the podium to recall my little girl within--what she used to do, what she used to be into--and see if perhaps there weren't some "buried" parts of her that were worth my excavating for the examination/celebration of the adult woman that I am now.
And when I thought about it, I remember me thinking, as a young, child-of-the-70's girl, that I could do/be anything I wanted.
I could save the world, make people tell the truth, fly under the radar but get where I wanted with ease, deflect bullets meant to harm me, turn folks around or bring them back with a flick of my wrist--because there was some lady on TV named "Wonder Woman" who did that. And if she could, why couldn't I?
So in the spirit of reviving that sense of being strong and limitless, I give you this funky little memory-evoking ode to Wonder Woman that makes the little girl in me jump up and cheer.
All that over the years that has made my life what it is today has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Here's to Act II, Scene One.
And Happy Mother's day, Mom. Happy Father's Day, Poppy. ;-)
The opportunity to be grateful for everything, because there's too much to narrow it down to one thing, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Grateful Lisa, reticent-yet-evolving activist and film buff here...
Check out King Corn and Two Angry Moms when you get a chance.
That's all.
To your health and the health of children you love. To those who make movies to spur movements: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
With my, "I-don't-care-what-we-do-I-just-want-to-be-with-my-family," NYC slicker brother in town this past weekend, we sought out some good "country" fun by heading south to Serenbe--a place that I've long been drawn to visit.
We drove leisurely through the beautiful community in development, though we never came upon the farm located somewhere on the property that we'd set out to find (admittedly, not that hard, or we would've stopped and asked someone). So we decided to head over to the advertised BBQ-Bluegrass-Blues Festival taking place at a nearby park to see what it had to offer.
Once there, of greatest interest to me was the organic produce stand of said farm that we'd been unable to locate.
While chatting with the young gentleman manning the stand, trying to determine where we'd gone wrong in missing the farm, I noticed a photographer in my periphery documenting the event.
When Friendly Farm Guy's and my exchange was over and I turned to rejoin my family, the photographer approached me. To my surprise, it was an old co-worker of mine from our mutual part-time, culinary world "hustling" days, when Hubby-Honey nor the babies were even a thought in my consciousness.
As we hugged and caught up, I couldn't believe 1) that of all places we'd find each other here and 2) that this "coincidental" meeting was taking place with someone I'd admired those 10+ years ago for going after doing what she loved and was meant to do, who was now actively and successfully doing it--precisely at a time that I've been framing and receiving insight as to what that means for me.
It occurred to me later on the drive home that what I'd set out looking for that day was just what I'd found. And we weren't talking a farm here.
Julie, I congratulate you for "doing you". For being yet another signpost along my life's road, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Reflections on yesterday evening's fine prospective parents night at an elementary school we're pondering for Big Boy and a visit from my ever-clever "baby" brother to distract me from becoming irate over ignorance have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Have an enlightened weekend!
Here's what was referenced and added to The Thanks Ranks:
* Kellie's addition: Kiki92268, The Sims Simulator Supreme
* Mr. Reddick, "Honest Abe" car mechanic extraordinaire
* Atlanta Botanical Garden, for family fun at Scarecrows in the Garden and my, "LIVE!" Peacock Lady scarecrow
* "Childhood Jersey" Kelli, bygones being bygones and friendship
* Again, WABE 90.1 and the notable quotable that inspired Wednesday's blog post
* Olive Riley, 108 year-old birthday girl and world's oldest blogger: www.allaboutolive.com.au
* All the good from a conquered tumor experience
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
'Cause that's just the place I'm in right now...
Heard this morning on WABE 90.1, in a recorded spot of personal reflection from a supporter, encouraging folks to contribute to the station during this week's Fall Fund Drive:
"How we live our life is how we live our days."
I did not catch the featured listener/contributor's name at the top of the spot, but for sharing this quote that she mentioned is posted in her kitchen, and causing me to examine and reflect upon the accordance of how my days are being lived with how I want to see my life lived, she has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
The inexplicable privilege to sleep until noon today (yes, the babies slept too!) has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
On to carpe diem! Have a great weekend.
Gotta love Atlanta traffic...
Thanks to those of you who waited to hear my "half-time show", delivered with half-brain function. :-) Here's what was (or was meant to have been) referenced on today's show and added to The Thanks Ranks:
My signs/lessons always seem to come in threes...
*On ending my love affair with Starbucks:
1) Say it isn't so! Organic Consumers Association's scathing report
2)The Starbucks kids' cups recall. Starbucks and turtles (Go Maryland!)--what wasn't to love? I'd bought one this summer for Big Boy, and was mildly annoyed when he lost it. Now I'm relieved.
3) The discovery of Cafe Campesino, a fair trade coffee company in Georgia
* On being an activist:
1) Come On People by Bill Cosby and Alvin Poussaint
2) The invitation to the GOAL Luncheon (thanks, Gail)
3) Life's Fruit blog (way to go, Kirsten! inhale... exhale... write!)
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its, well, 15 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
Big Boy has been downed with respiratory issues yet again, so it was back to the pediatrician for us.
So here we go again with another round of treatments to pinpoint exactly what's going on with him: allergies, infection, asthma, a combo? Suspicions abound, but he's not textbook, so at this point it's hard to say.
While I was a little resistant the last time, for the sake of his full-functioning breathing and getting to the bottom of all of this, I have reluctantly-with-fingers-crossed agreed to the full-on assault of meds, which includes two inhalers.
At least this part of his treatments has been made manageable and fun for him by using what we've been calling, "The Duckface".
With this animated chamber, he's able to count his three breaths (child's play) and take in the mist that is hopefully giving his lungs a break and getting those passageways back in order.
In God I trust, and as we spend the next two weeks trotting out "The Duckface"... for making this aspect of his treatments distracting and amusing for Big Boy, PARI VORTEX Masks, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Moment of silence in my household.
Joe Torre: watching your press conference in the wee hours of this morning, I ache and just want to cry. And it's my Hubby-Honey who's the uber-Yankee fan, not me.
But through him I've come to love you. For 12 great years of being a class act, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
1 promised to and highly expectant child in search of pumpkins and scarecrows
Rain in Georgia, because we've needed it, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Happy weekend!
Had to wrap up some loose ends... here's what was referenced on yesterday's show and added to The Thanks Ranks:
* October - what a difference a year makes!
* All of you who I've met as a result of The Thanks Ranks and Thanks Ranks Radio and experiences brought to me along my path
* New BlogTalk Radio"friends"--fellow show hosts ZedalzaRadio, Dr. Blogstein and Savair
* New acquaintances met over the past week, as referenced in the last few blog entries
* Kellie's addition: Bridge to Terabithia, the well-done 2007 movie based on her favorite childhood book of the same name, which incidentally appears on the American Library Association list of the 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books of 1990-2000
* Author Beverly Cleary for my childhood favorite, Ramona and Her Father
* Dr. Mercola for suggesting coconut oil as a skin moisturizer, and Nutiva Exta Virgin Coconut Oil for seemingly making a difference with Big Boy's eczema
* Hubby-Honey, my knight in shining armor, for saving me from myself after again not listening to "that small voice"... and the Atlanta Botanical Garden for "Scarecrows in the Garden". I was mistaken. The craft is not actually making the scarecrows, but more than 70 of them will be on display throughout the Garden. No matter--Big Boy will be all the more fascinated
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at the new and improved blogtalkradio.com.
This past Saturday I was at a fantastic "Farm-to-School 101" event and encountered fellow mom and blogger Pattie Baker. She addressed the crowd that day, and wrote a perfect summation of the event on her blog that I encourage you to read at FoodShed Planet.
I've since become a fan, as she is a trailblazer on the path I've just embarked upon since Big Boy started "school"--that of a hopeful mom who believes systemic change in the school lunch program is not too much to ask for the sustainable health and welfare of our children.
Stanley, the industrious mom behind the garden at E. Rivers Elementary, also challenged and inspired me in ways I dare to acknowledge. I'm telling you, reading that book, GRUB, has turned my head around, and the path of enlightenment has led me to these fine women.
Pattie and Stanley, I stand in mom-to-mom solidarity with you and all those committed to putting good food within our children's reach-- one square foot at a time. For all your fine efforts that have further fueled me, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Great reads, great conversations, great insights, great experiences. An all-around great day has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Have a terrific weekend!
Here's what was referenced and added to The Thanks Ranks:
To my friend Rubina and her brothers, who've invested in a Flying Biscuit restaurant:
For bringing the Love Cakes (yum-yum!) and a stellar "Friends and Family" pre-opening event to Marietta that I'm still savoring, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Congrats and Happy Grand Opening!
If you've been a part of this Thanks Ranks community for even a little while, you know I read a variety of magazines. 4 WD Magazine is not one of them.
But after being out and about today, maybe some time in the future it will be, thanks to friendly Mallory & Evans Commercial & Industrial HVAC Service guy.
Parked next to his F250 XL Super Duty this morning as I unloaded Baby Girl and he unloaded his ladder, I was given the 411 from him that if ever I needed to buy a replacement engine for my 4Runner, there is a company in California that advertises in the backpages of 4WD that still makes them available.
Apparently my truck's year has a sweet engine, the likes of which have never been made since.
I did not know. But I bet I would have if I'd read 4WD.
If friendly Mallory & Evans Commercial & Industrial HVAC Service guy's demeanor is any indicator of his skill and work ethic, the company with the felled air conditioning is sure to be up and running in no time, with them feeling all the bettter for encountering him-- just as I did.
I've had fleeting, long-range thoughts of this truck being the kids' "practice car" once they become of driving age. For giving me this nugget of information and other upkeep tips that may very well cause my plans to come to fruition: friendly Mallory & Evans Commercial & Industrial HVAC Service guy, in truck CN208508, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
(Sorry to be late with this. Yesterday evening Hubby-Honey and I attended our very first PTA meeting at Big Boy's school, and then one thing led to another and I crashed and fell asleep.)
Here's what was referenced and added to The Thanks Ranks:
* My new BlogTalk Radio friends, fellow show hosts Lisa Padilla (despite it still not showing up that we are--what's up BTR? ;-) ) and Diane Randall.
* Darned if I can't find that link for the guy who shot the documentary that first schooled me on the Jena 6. I'll keep looking. YouTube now has 600+ videos on the matter.
* Anna Lappe and Bryant Terry for their book, GRUB: ideas for an urban organic kitchen, that has turned my household on its head and enlightened me immensely.
* "My first mind" and all the adventures I'm having with going with it.
* Sakena, for sharing with me the miraculous story of Nancy and baby Naomi Pierre's testimony, and to their family for sharing it: http://uncutvideo.aol.com/videos/4cf875aba24f1a070c610fdbc0b67bfd
* You, for praying for and keeping my friend in your thoughts. When I spoke to her husband later in the day, he shared that she'd made it through her 3-hour surgery well, the doctors were optimistic they'd gotten all of the tumor, and that while recovering in ICU (which was anticipated), she did speak to him for a few moments.
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at the new and improved blogtalkradio.com.
Happy Weekend!
I wish my recent posts offered a little more variety than that of illness and all things related, but hey, what can I say? Such has been the central stuff of my life for the last, what, three weeks now?
Hubby-Honey, with the benefits of going out of the house to work and not having to set foot in Big Boy's school, had been managing to remain unscathed by this "flu-like-cold-respiratory-bronchial-allergy-thing" that the rest of us have been cycling through--until yesterday.
"The tickle" made a visit to his throat. Oh, no! Please sweet Jesus. There is nothing worse than Hubby-Honey getting sick. He's like most men--when he goes down, the world stops spinning on its axis. Running myself ragged taking care of the babies when they're ill is light action compared to caring after him. I do it with love, but cheese and crackers! ;-)
Recognizing that I'm right now only at 65% and I need to be at 110 when duty calls to take care of him, I went off to Whole Foods (just after a--thankfully--good report follow-up pediatrician visit for Big Boy) to see about getting something, perhaps by way of echinacea, to beat this thing back until I am stronger to deal with it.
The aisle offerings were dizzying. I didn't know where to turn. Out of nowhere stepped in Jill, and after explaining to her my mission, she nodded knowingly and suggested Gaia Herbs Quick Defense. She said she'd used it herself, highly recommended it, and that it had been flying off the shelves through word-of-mouth. After she'd engaged Big Boy in conversation and remarked that he and her father shared the same first name, I said I'd go with it.
She told us to come back and let her know how it worked. Now that Big Boy has a new best friend in "Ms. Jill", you can best believe he'll keep me to that.
16 hours since his first dose, Hubby Honey appears to be stabilized. I'll be checking in with him soon to make sure he takes his next administration. A text message is something I can manage, even at 65%. :-)
Jill and Gaia Herbs, for seemingly buying me some time before having to assume my full-on "Nurse Betty meets Nuclear Apocalypse" position, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
(Been so long... I'm missin' you, Baby.) :-)
If you've been reading this blog for any amount of time, you know I've been increasingly making use of my camera. What you see here is only the tip of the iceberg of the pictures I take.
Yesterday I learned about the "5 Steps to the Perfect Snapshot" from Real Simple magazine--its Fall 2007 Family edition. Wish I'd read this before our trip to the Children's Museum on Saturday, but no matter. I have it for future reference.
Here's my favorite tip: "Skip the 'cheese.' Tell your kids to say 'strawberry'. It's more fun, and gives their mouths a more natural shape."
I tried it, and by golly, it's true! What a difference it makes. Now my naturally large-eyed Big Boy, despite his sweet disposition, doesn't look like Jack Nicholson a la "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" in all his photos.
Photographer Tosca Radigonda, for this most valuable tip, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Here's what was referenced today and added to The Thanks Ranks.
* This marquee just cracks me up. "Grits/Gravy for Grandparents"--first thing in the morning. Mmmm-mmm... :-)
* Grandparents, and 50 year-olds who embrace life, engage others in it and party hard.
* Aunt Renee, family pharmacist
* The lesson in "love" from my olive oil friend at the grocery store.
* Big Boy's Netflix selection of Deepal Chopra: The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
Freshly laundered bed sheets to fall into after a long, long day have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
We all have our September the 11th story. Where we were, what we were doing. Each of has a story of profound grief or incredulous gratitude or something in between.
Then there are those who had their September the 11th story long before 2001. For them, it was called "my birthday". But one tragic day their license to be merry and joyful and self-indulgent and egocentric got revoked when madmen decided to fly planes in a manner that they should not have been flown.
And just like that, it ceased to be just these folks' special day. It became the world's day, and despite many valiant efforts to demonstrate resiliency, it's still honestly a not-so-very-happy place on the calendar. It's as though these individuals have had to sacrifice the blatant displays of birthday bliss that the rest of us are allowed, in order to remain respectful of a world's grieving process.
So to all of you born on this date (Ms. Valerie... Bryan...): for the gift of your life and its quiet reminder that it does go on, September 11th Birthday Babies, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Happy Birthday. It's not a wish. It's a command.
Sipping on this Twinings of London Lady Grey Tea has helped me feel immensely better. I bought it on a whim out of limited choice necessity, and am now pleasantly suurprised by how much I like it.
Going with something new does often yield unexpected, positive results. Lady Grey, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Have a great weekend!
The week after Labor Day–I did more than perhaps I should have, now I’m sick with flu-like symptoms. One of these days I’ll convince myself I’m not invincible. :-)
It’s back to school now for everyone. Here’s what I’m grateful for on the subject, and what would have been discussed today on Thanks Ranks Radio:
* Happiness Classes for students in the U.K.
I think they’re on to something. Can we try some of that in the U.S.? Are you aware of such classes being taught to kids in your community? I’d be interested in knowing.
* MTV Survey. If you think the teenager in your life is impossible to please and understand, the results of a new survey may surprise you:
An online survey from the Associated Press and MTV posed more than 100 questions about happiness to nearly 1300 people ages 13 to 24. Additionally, field research was conducted here in Atlanta and Phoenix and Philadelphia with in-person discussion groups among 59 teens.
When asked 'what makes them most happy?' 73-percent said their relationship with their parents.
While spending time with family was the top answer, next was spending time with friends, followed by time with a significant other.
Close to half say religion and spirituality are also very important.
Really insightful stuff—I’m keeping it in mind, as I’m always looking for things present and future to add to my parenting arsenal. Get more details and results from the entire study here.
* David Lowry and Jimmy Walicek—the “Kickball Guys” featured in the "Love Your Life" article in the Sept/Oct 2007 issue of Positive Thinking magazine. Kickball was one of my favorite playground pastimes in elementary school. These guys have made their passion for the game into a viable living. How fun!
* Bridget Greenleaf, for her no excuses, inspirational story featured in “But I Can’t Go Back to School”, also in Positive Thinking magazine.
* Pam for her book picks. Time to throw my brain some mental meat again. Are you game for reading these books along with me this fall? Have you already read one or both? What are your thoughts on them?:
A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers by Xiaolu Guo
The Girls by Lori Lansens
* Luciano Pavarotti. RIP.
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear my under-the-weather self in this week's show's, what, 5 minute entirety? :-) For earlier 30 minute shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
To your health and mine! I look forward to being back "on the air" with you at 100% next week.
Labor Day weekend. Spent quality time with the family, knocked some major things off my "to-do" list and caught up on some of my mag reading.
Essence, September 2007 issue. Did you catch it? I'm devastated to learn that the absolutely incredible, deeply profound, indescribably, superiorly talented performer Jill Scott (can you tell I'm a fan?), had divorced.
Not Jill, who's song, "He Loves Me: Lyzel in E Flat," inspired by her man, holds special significance with me (for reasons if I divulged you'd likely file under "TMI", so I'll spare you).
So sad. But she says she's OK, she's clear and she still loves and thinks well of him. Aww, Jill...
Then she says something, that makes me sit still for a minute.
When asked by Terry McMillan (who knows a thing or two about betrayal, heartache and divorce) to describe what for her would be the perfect experience with someone she loves, she responds:
"I would love to have a baby and I'd love for the man who helped me conceive that child to be holding my hand when I give birth. I would love that."
And I think, wow, I've had that experience. Twice. And it was pretty incredible. Afterwards--after the babies drew their first breaths in the world. It wasn't so pretty with angelic harps playing leading up to that. ;-)
But it was powerfully phenomenal. And now, reading this, I'm not as perturbed with Hubby-Honey for not as of yet holding up his end of the bargain in clearing out his side of the bedroom closet this weekend as we'd agreed. At the moment, he's bathing Big Boy. And they're both laughing together over something or another.
And I'm melting. Thanks, Jill. For reminding me yet again that sans the Grammy and the accolades and the money and the fame, I've still got it good--you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
And may you indeed experience this gift when your time comes.
The promise that comes with a long Labor Day Weekend has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Enjoy, my fellow Americans!
With Baby Girl along for the ride, here's what was referenced today and added to The Thanks Ranks. Thanks for emailing during the show, Stevie.
* Celebrating 200 posts for The Thanks Ranks
* Comments from Donna and Evan Ducker and Beverley Fulker, LoveYourMark.com and the fine folks who shared their personal stories
* My brave friend and those of you who've asked about her
* Pam Socolow's Family Facts Family Life Organizer & Planner (more found at www.family-facts.com) and Barnes & Noble for the printable online coupon
* Kid to Kid for turning me on to Little Twig's Body Milk, at a fraction of the cost that Courtney Cox pays for it, as reported by InStyle magazine :-) (Oh yeah, the name of the emollient I blanked on?"Shea butter...")
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
With inclement weather we make indoor fun where we can get it. So with Big Boy at the wheel directing me to go, "Faster, Mommy, faster!" as he, Baby Girl and I gathered a few groceries at the market in this tricked-out shopping cart, the kid in me was grateful for the empty frozen food aisle where I could let loose and run with abandon--all in the name of providing amusement for the children.
This is yet another reason why I love Atlanta.
See that white lawn chair under the tree to the right of the worn path? It's a respite from the heat and blazing sun for the first fortunate soul who makes it to the bus stop, as marked by the post on the corner, to the left of the worn path.
The chair belongs to no one, and yet it belongs to everyone. I'll sporadically spot others around town, where full-on bus stop shelters haven't been built.
And I'm not coming down on any city in particular here, as at my core I am a city girl. I'm just saying: it's not every metropolis where that chair would be left to remain where it is, in random public service to others.
I heart Atlanta, 'cause Atlanta has a heart. And that heart has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Gonzales, Vick, Bynum, Weeks, White, Wilson, Hogan:
for reminding me that all that glitters ain't gold, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Here's to your wholeness.
It is SOOOOOOO hot in Atlanta today. Central air conditioning in my home has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Have a great weekend!
Here's what was referenced today and added to The Thanks Ranks. Thanks for calling in, Shaun!
* Ms. Tammy and Ms. Faith - Big Boy's pre, pre-K teachers extraordinaire
* Thea Singer, for her article in the September 2007 issue of O Magazine, "Why We Don't Care About Darfur" (page 236). Honorable mention: 60 Minutes and Scott Pelley's segment, "Searching for Jacob", PRI's The World, for airing, "Celebrities Focus on Darfur", and the organization Save Darfur
* Classmates.com, which helped old high school buddies Jin and Evelyn find me.
* Shaun's adds:
- the "granny with a glass of milk" who attempted to come to his lost tooth's rescue
- new social networking site: Yuwie!
* Best Life magazine (yes, it's a men's mag, but as you know, I'm a magazine junkie--I read just about anything) for the 8 Foods You Should Eat Everyday, complete with recipes and a plan on how to incorporate the foods into your diet
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
Excuse me, I have some income-generating strategizing to do:
Retire a Millionaire: How to Start at Age 35 - AOL Money & Finance
For making it benchmarkingly plain in black and white, Kiplinger's, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Thinking of one of the "richest" women I know on her year's eve of 65, Happy Birthday, Mom!
Some days, it's all about your perspective, right Lily?
"Joy just because" has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Jin and Evelyn--long lost high school buddies who found me today--for reminding me that we're still "the best in the world", you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
I got some from black Prius WF56AJ, who pulled out of a "front door" space in the perpetually packed downtown Decatur Square parking lot outside the Starbucks, just in time for my arrival--leaving time on the meter to boot!
Then the guy outside Sweet Melissa's with a guitar loudly serenaded Big Boy, Baby Girl and me with it as we disembarked from the truck and made our way to the Starbucks entrance--punctuating it with an, "I LOVE YOU!" ending, to which I yelled back, pleasantly surprising him, "WE LOVE YOU RIGHT BACK!"
"Heh, heh, heh--now THAT'S what I'm talking about..." he shared with outdoor patio, cold-beer-knockin'-back onlookers.
Heat-withstanding Love, effortlessly passed among strangers, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Happy Birthday, Erynn!
Perhaps you've seen it in your travels online... the looped video banner ad with the two Black women in their workspace dancing, droppin' it like it's hot and sweepin' the floor with it, only to be "surprised" when they discover the camera on them.
"Hate" is a strong word that I rarely use, but it's most accurate for describing how I felt about this spot whose relevance to refinancing mortgages, home loans and home equity I questioned.
I got so tired of seeing it everywhere I went online that I couldn't take it anymore. Last Friday I contacted the customer care division of lowermybills.com--the perpetrator.
I shared with them how I found the ad offensive and not truly representative of how women of color, particularly those of African decent, conduct themselves. I challenged that their ad was irresponsible, only fueling negative stereotypes and presenting a skewed view of how those belonging to this segment of people behave in a workplace setting.
I reasonably implored the marketing department to retire the spot, noting that I'd spoken with others who shared my view, and that the ad reflected poorly on the integrity of their company.
Well, I heard back from M. Dimsey in customer care who thanked me for my feedback, and assured me that my comments would be forwarded to their marketing department.
Lo and behold, as I think about it, I've not seen the ad this entire week. How about you? Let me know, 'cause I really, really do want to know.
Giving credit where it so far appears due: M. Dimsey and the marketing folks at lowermybills.com, for listening and responding, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Lesson learned and added to The Thanks Ranks: One voice can make a difference. It isn't likely the only voice, but one that helps tip the scales. Act on your convictions and see what happens.
Have a great weekend!
Here's what was referenced today and added to The Thanks Ranks:
* Thoughts on smiling from Ralph Marston
* Those who were a part of Baby Girl's baby dedication
* Zoho Planner online tool at zoho.com
* Ivillage.com's Top 10 Back-to-School Organizing Tips
* My brave friend, life's celebrations, Italian ice at Paccino's Pizzeria
* Happy Birthday blogtalkradio, Lineeka, Alexandra, Deborah and Cristen (Theresa...?)
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
I love the method cleaning product line, particularly their flushable wipes. They are my bathroom's saving grace.
"People against dirty": you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Wow, is it Tuesday already? :-)
Family converging on Atlanta this week, starting today. Don't know how much you'll be seeing of me in this space over the next several days...
But folks have been seeing a good deal of Baby Girl, as she's been out and about with me running errands. I don't know if it's because she's now, at one year old, more mobile and hence more "visible" to strangers, but this past week we've received a record number of well-meaning (I think?) but unfiltered comments about the small but clearly noticeable Australia-shaped birthmark that's located below her right eye:
"What's that on her face?"
"Oh... is that her birthmark...?" (with pity so thick you could cut it with a knife)
"I see you, pretty little girl, with your BIRTHMARK."
"Oh, she's GORGEOUS. What is that--a birthmark? Oh honey, you could put a little cover-up on that and she'll be fine."
Yeah, and these are adults. She hasn't even entered the "kids can be cruel" realm.
So although I and those who love her find her birthmark endearing and a non-issue, I'm seeing that I'm going to have to be proactive in building her self-esteem in spades, so she'll feel about it as we do and be ready to respond confidently and assuredly when she's hit with such comments from those not so familiar.
My initial search has brought me to a book entitled, "Buddy Booby's Birthmark", and it's just perfect. I'd love for you to check out the clip featuring it and its amazing young author and his mom that aired earlier this year on The Early Show on CBS. Click here, scroll down to Wednesday, January 3, 2007, and you'll find the links.
Evan and Donna Ducker, and those who take just a moment to think before speaking--embracing the beauty of and beyond the mark--you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Daily Candy has done it again, tipping me off to Wants for Sale.
Check out the painting genius that is Christine Santora and Justin Gignac. See what they want and tell them what you want.
Tops on my list is sending Hubby Honey to Yankees Fantasy Camp next year to celebrate his 40th birthday, but since they're not trying to hear that... I shared with them the "Family Package" DNA kit from African Ancestry, Inc. that I mentioned not too long ago on the July 19th Thanks Ranks Radio broadcast. Think they'd want that too? Hey, it could happen... got to at least put it out there, right? :-)
And that's the just lesson reiterated by these folks at Wants for Sale and why today, Christine and Justin, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Have a great weekend!
Here's what was referenced today and added to The Thanks Ranks:
* Dedicated doctors, surgeons, nurses and all hospital staff who connected to my father with care this week.
* Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB), for presenting "Dishing Democracy", as featured on the PBS series called Wide Angle--human stories. global issues.
* Jono and Season Korchin, founders of Buychange.com (Thanks, Kirsten. See video segment from "The View" in the post below)
* skirt! magazine for the 'bliss reminders' and the belly-laugh I got from reading the feature by Sandra A. Miller, entitled "Kiddus Interruptus"
* Additional belly-laughs and joy from Lineeka and other friends
* The anything but ordinary Uncommon Goods
* Farmers, particularly those who don't mind Big Boy kissing their tomatoes... that end up becoming a flavors-blasting-all-over-your-mouth tomato, basil and mozzarella salad.
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
Between The American Heart Association's recipes, and Sustainable Table's Eat Well Guide, I've been busy in the test kitchen. I'm off to a first-time trip to the Decatur Organic Farmers Market later today.
Resources for opened eyes and ears due to an opened heart, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Poppy had a heart procedure this morning that uncovered a 90% blockage of one of his arteries. Say what?!
To the surgeons who managed this surprise discovery and acted accordingly, and the hospital staff that is now making sure Poppy's resting and recovering comfortably, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
She's got a light around her
And everywhere she goes
A million dreams of love surround her
Everywhere
--Billy Joel, She's Got A Way
To all of you everywhere who celebrate Baby Girl with me--your dreams of love that surround her are appreciated, and you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Happy 1st Birthday, my most precious and beloved Baby Girl. You too inspire me without a sound.
Here's what was referenced today and added to The Thanks Ranks:
* Monirah and enneagram studies (Part II)
* Garden of Wisdom raw materials for skincare
* The truth about soy? SoyOnline service
* Suzan-Lori Parks on being a writer
I didn't get to this, but wanted to still mention:
* The 5 Things You Need in Your Home to be Prepared for a Natural Disaster
If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.
It is recommended that breastfeeding continue for at least 12 months, and thereafter for as long as mutually desired. --American Academy of Pediatrics
Baby Girl has two teeth that have just finally emerged, and she's learning how to use them. "And thereafter as far as long as mutually desired," is a countdown to July 28th, and it has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
And while I'm on the subject of boobs, I feel like a big one for missing your special day, Kirsten. Happy Belated Birthday!
"I'm a writer every day I make the decision to write," said Suzan-Lori Parks during her conversation with Pearl Cleage at their NBAF event.
Really? I never thought of it that way... OK. I'm inspired. I believe it now. I'm a writer!
(loud fireworks going off inside my soul here)
For putting it that way, Suzan-Lori Parks, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
Why do I always have a taste for Chick-fil-A fries on Sundays--when I can't get any, because they're closed?
Today, I'll happily be able to get my fill. I often wonder if the secret to their success is divinely connected to their moral stand?
For the example of standing up for what you believe in despite conventional standards and expectations (I consider this foremost, above your fries cooked in peanut oil and your slammin' sweet tea--two lemons, please), Chick-fil-A, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.
The gift of "today" has just been added to The The Thanks Ranks.
You've got it too. What are you going to do to celebrate?
I think I'll go buy some fresh flowers.
Happy 34th Birthday, my dear "baby" brother Craig.
Excerpt from the 51st (dream) state by Sekou Sundiata:
And what if we could show
that what we dream
is deeper than what we know?
Suppose if something does not live
in the world that we long to see
then we make it ourselves
as we want it to be.
R.I.P., Mr. Sundiata.
Here's what was referenced today and added to The Thanks Ranks:
* National Black Arts Festival running in Atlanta July 20-29
* The DNA Project and African Ancestry Inc.
* Ed and the crew at Paccino's Pizzeria
Big Boy has eczema. His skin has been plagued with it since he was 5 months old.
I am grateful that his condition is not as bad as it once was, and his pediatrician says he may very well be one of those children who for the most part outgrows it.
I hope this will be the case, but we're not there yet. And in the summer, it gets worse. Watching him itch involuntarily while his skin bears the leathery, scarred effects is one of the things that really breaks my heart as his Mom, and keeps me in the fight to find something that will give him relief.
It's been a long, costly battle, with remedies working for awhile, then his eczema becoming somehow "immune" to them, sending us on a quest for something else that may soothe his skin and give it a fighting chance. Today, it led me to California Baby Super Sensitive Everyday Lotion.
Upon first application, it seems to be having a positive effect. "It feels good, Mommy," is what Big Boy told me. It's the little things in life... I'm so happy I could cry.
In checking out their website, I see that there are creams that may prove to be even more effective. I'll give this lotion another couple of days and if appears to make a difference, I'll likely be ordering their Calming Botanical Moisturizing Cream.
Do any of you have experience with eczema? What has worked for you? Let me know, and I'll add you, as I'm doing now with mom-who-understands and California Baby developer Jessica Iclisoy, to The Thanks Ranks.
