The Thanks Ranks

The Thanks Ranks is Now All a-Twitter

2008-08-30T09:36:00.009-04:00

Greetings, Friends of The Thanks Ranks. How have you been?

I have been well, in a period of adjustment. I don't know when this all happened, but all of a sudden, I'm the mother to a 4 1/2 year-old pre-K Big Boy, who's a budding tech geek that I have to fight for time on the computer ("It's my turn, Mommy! Can I get on the computer now, pleeeeease?!). Remember "Thankful Thursdays at 3:00"? Well now, it's "Thankful Mondays through Fridays at 3:00" that find me in the carpool line to pick him up from school, 'cause if I'm any later than 3:15 p.m., he's headed to aftercare and I'm being charged a fee.

I'm also running around after Baby Girl, who's not so much a baby anymore at all, but a 2 year-old toddler with a personality that fits her Leo birth sign to a T. This girl is fearless, knows what she wants, tells you about it (yes, she is TALKING!) and goes for it. Naptime is not nearly as frequent or long as it used to be, and now we're entering the brave new world of Potty Training. To say she keeps me on my toes is an understatement.

Then there is Hubby Honey--my rock who challenges me to explore my best self. We have laughed, cried and hustled together over the last 5 months since he was let go from his job. You want to see what your marriage is made of? Try living in this current U.S. economy not having bankable steady income from either of you coming into your household and see how you manage and relate to each other... Tested, we have grown stronger than ever. And through it all, I remain grateful that the hand of God has been over us and optimistic that we will come to a triumphant "for richer" completion of this "for poorer" journey.

And finally, there is me. The Thanks Ranks was created at a time when I was struggling to define my personal purpose and direction. I am pleased to say that over these last almost two years, clarity has slowly but surely come. And I've been busy acting upon what's been revealed to me, with favorable results that are almost terrifying. But I'm feeling the fear and doing it anyway. And the practice of writing on and maintaining The Thanks Ranks has been instrumental in preparing me for this new stage.

So in a time where "Change" is a word of hope and optimism that has been a key theme, I find "change" occurring as it relates to necessary adjustments being made to the time (or lack thereof) I devote to The Thanks Ranks.

I have been trying to determine what that change should look like, as being grateful and adding things to The Thanks Ranks is not a habit I want to abandon. Plus, this blog has become a means through which I've made and kept up with friends. So I don't want to lose that either.

Jott, my last blog post, has become a "not", given their latest news of charging per post. Thanks, but no thanks. See paragraph #4. :-) But I've discovered a new tool that just may be the ticket: Twitter.

With Twitter, I am able to post "mini" blog entries--of 140 characters or less. Just quick little blurbs, long enough to let you know what I'm adding to The Thanks Ranks at the moment, with a link to more details if applicable.

So I invite you now to the top left corner of this blog, where you'll see that "The Thanks Ranks is All a-Twitter". There, you'll be able to see my real-time additions, and even click on the link that will lead you to the entire host of what I'm grateful for during any given period.

Welcome to The Thanks Ranks - Reloaded. I've enjoyed our journey together, and hope you'll continue along with me as I tweet about my gratitude through Twitter.

Much love and gratitude to you all. 'Change' has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Jott.com

2008-08-06T13:49:00.002-04:00

There's a way I can blog from my mobile phone! Jott.com.

Oh, this is going to make my blogging life so much easier...

I tried it earlier this a.m. and there's a bug with Blogger I've got to figure out (oh, who am I kidding... Hubby Honey's going to figure it out for me--LOL), but once that's taken care of, I'll be Jotting away!

So for providing an easy way for me to reconnect and stay current with my TTR peeps, Jott.com has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Soledad and CNN

2008-07-23T20:57:00.002-04:00

Getting ready to watch "Black in America" on CNN. I live for these kinds of conversations/dialogues. Don't know what to expect, but watch today and tomorrow. If you want to talk about it, consider me a willing participant.

A conversation that's been a long time coming on a national stage has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Laughter!

2008-07-15T14:45:00.002-04:00

My children crack me up. First of all, I'm not nearly on the computer as much as I used to be, because now, I have to share it with Big Boy, who tries to muscle me out of the way, so he can, "do his work". Lately, his "work" consists of checking out Pixar's Wall-e site. He can't get enough of it.

They're really coming into their own personalities now, at 41/2 and oh-so-close-to-two years old. And I'm realizing that, as they're getting older, there's a whole lot less crying going on at any given time in my house. Now, they can actually articulate what they want or need or are unhappy about, without the wailing and gnashing of teeth. Ah, I can see sweet peace on the horizon... almost didn't think I'd see the day.

Lately, there have just been silly sayings, songs and actions that lead up to an all out chucklefest between us. Baby Girl tries her hardest to be the loudest among us with her exaggerated, "AH HA HA HA HAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!" Her attempt launches Big Boy and me into a whole 'nother fit of laughter.

I'm savoring these moments between us, because I know, from what the experienced folks tell me, the period will come when they'll be too cool to laugh themselves silly with their Mommy. Instead of tears from laughing so hard, there will be eyerolls at such "lame" behavior.

So until that time, I'll fully embrace the belly laughs. They're good for the soul, they've been long overdue and they've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Bella - The Movie

2008-07-04T10:36:00.004-04:00

I'm drawn to this for reasons obvious to those who know me. The reviews are mixed, but folks at Toronto International Film Festival liked it in 2006, so I'll add it to my NetFlix list and check it out anyway. What do you think?

How did I miss this anyway? Oh well, Diane de Beer, SA film critic, for bringing this movie to my attention, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy 4th, my fellow Americans, and an equally beautiful day to the rest of you fine folks.

Writer Mama: Christina Katz

2008-06-27T14:06:00.002-04:00

While in Baltimore this past weekend, I by happenstance (but then again, is there such a thing?) found myself in Books-A-Million before heading to the airport. While looking for a playwriting book, I instead came across this one:

Writer Mama: How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids by Christina Katz.

I almost had to pick myself up off the floor when I discovered it in the stacks. This is precisely the topic I've been recently tossing around in my brain, with a moniker similar to the one I've been crafting for myself. Cue the "Twilight Zone" theme music...

Needless to say, I got the message that this was the book I needed to buy, and it's chock full of really useful information. It's too good not to share with you now, if you too are into this kind of thing.

Christina Katz, for writing the how-to manual to help me profitably pursue my writing interests and afford my goal of being freely available for my kids, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Oh, and happy 38th anniversary, Mom and Poppy! You're still smokin', and I love ya for it! :-)

Bridal Shower Buddy Bliss

2008-06-25T12:06:00.006-04:00

I've been out of pocket the last few weeks working on a couple projects, one of them being putting the final touches on the planning for my dear friend's bridal shower that took place this past weekend.

A much appreciated getaway to my old beloved stomping grounds from college days, seeing some of my buddies (I'll be back in September to see the rest of you, I promise!), all the pieces coming together the day-of, Kim and crew at Country Inn & Suites, returning to Hubby-Honey and the kids with limbs and the house still intact and FUN have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Bride-to-Be, I hope you're not upset by my putting you on blast, but gratitude is gratitude. ;-)

Poppy's Guardian Angels

2008-06-07T08:45:00.003-04:00

So I've been sprucing up around the house--planting here, container gardening there, adding flowers in the front, rescreening, painting and creating an "outdoor room" on the patio in the back...

With all the changes (inspired by the new roof we had to bite the bullet and get--no more squirrel scampering--yea!) I thought a new mailbox was also in order.

My brilliant, handy dad was over yesterday afternoon to take the old one off and install the new one on the post for me.

Now, my street is a relatively quiet one. It's on a circle, so the only traffic is essentially the neighbors. And on a Friday early afternoon, the flow is almost non-existent.

But not at the moment Poppy was on the street installing the mailbox. A car speedily rounded the corner onto the circle and came careening toward my father a little too recklessly and close for comfort. Thankfully, he's still a fit and nimble guy for his age, and he was able to jump out of the way to safety.

Soon on the car's heels was a tentative police cruiser. Poppy put two and two together and rigorously motioned to the cop the direction in which the car had gone. It was then was off in hot pursuit, and judging by the sirens and sounds of commotion on the other side of the circle, he got the car that had tried to duck him.

Now, I'm going to have to truthfully bare darkness here for a minute, because I tell you what--had that car hit my father and run off, I would have hunted down the driver and beaten him/her down with everything I had.

Whew. OK, now with that honest, knee-jerk reaction moment passed, I will say I'm SO grateful that it didn't have to come to that, and that Poppy's guardian angels have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

And the new mailbox looks really good on its perch!

History

2008-06-04T15:33:00.001-04:00

"Living to see the day," as my great-grandmother used to say, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Thai Food

2008-05-29T11:23:00.002-04:00

I'm sorry, but it's been so long since I've been out...

I still have the yummy lunch I had at my first time visit to Rama 5 yesterday on my mind. Portions so big I came out with a doggie bag. That doesn't usually happen when I go Thai.

Good food and the pleasure I am able to take in good company have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

"Normalcy"

2008-05-27T10:55:00.001-04:00

Mystery illness/infection and its adverse affects gone, and a new and improved routine have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Mother Goose

2008-05-11T08:14:00.002-04:00

This is one of those reasons why we realize we really need to get another digital camera to replace our beloved one that bit the dust...

We've got a pond behind our house at which geese hang out and frequent. Don't really know how they do, but they do.

Well, this morning, as Hubby-Honey and I were enjoying our morning tea, I saw, emerging from the path to the pond, the "two regulars". But then, as I looked more closely, I saw with them six fluffballs moving along... goslings!

It was the most precious thing. We let Baby Girl sleep, but we figured Big Boy might find this sight most entertaining, so we woke him up.

He watched in wonder, and like everything else of late, had 20 questions for their every move. Hubby-Honey and I patiently took turns and responded to each one.

As we watched them from the window, my baby studying the Momma Goose's babies, and the Momma Goose instinctively, protectively watching us, I could have sworn, for a moment, we locked eyes with each other.

"Happy Mother's Day," I told her. And, if I were one to "speak goose", I'd imagine that she responded, "Right back at ya," in her squawk.

Moms--geese moms and otherwise--have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Mother's Day!

A New Week, Alive and Well in Atlanta

2008-05-05T07:39:00.004-04:00

Frankly, this past week was a bit on the challenging side.

Thankfully, the Sunday before last I'd seen In Darfur at Horizon Theatre and was deeply moved by this play by Winter Miller. The theater gave out these wristbands, and after signing letters to legislators and picking up material, I was more than compelled to take a band and wear it.

Which was very timely, because as I went on to live out the rest of the week, when things weren't seemingly going my way, all I had to do was take a look at the green reminder on my right wrist.

Instantly I'd think, "OK, this isn't terrific, but, I'm not a woman living in Darfur, grieving a husband and son that have been murdered by the heartless madmen of the Janjaweed, or holding on for dear life after I and my daughter have been ambushed and gang-raped by said militia men while searching for firewood at night, or starving for just a bite to eat or a little water to take the taste of dry dirt out of my mouth after my whole village has been burned and reduced to nothing and all I have left are the tattered clothes on my broken body...

I know, not the most pleasant things to read about or consider on a Monday, but these are what many are dealing with today, right this moment. Bet they wish they didn't have to consider them either, but sadly, they do.

So last week, before I'd go to chugging straight from my big ol' bottle of "whine", I'd stop, look at my wrist, and instead say a prayer for the women in Darfur.

I got through, and though I really couldn't bring myself to blogging about it, I was able to count and think on those little things I do have that I sometimes take for granted.

And now, today, I have a promise of a new week. Last week, in retrospect, seems not so bad. Time heals. Mine were merely surface wounds of the flesh. For those in Darfur, they are more deeply of the spirit. To say it's going to take a little longer for them is an understatement.

So perhaps you'll join me in saying a prayer for them too, or learning a little more about their plight and doing something, anything, just to say, "I hear, and I want to help." Or, if you get the opportunity, go see In Darfur.

Who knows, maybe my experience of a not-so-fabulous last week was meant for me to have my say here now, so someone can be helped elsewhere later.

The reminder that sometimes, it's not all about me, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Silly Boy Fun

2008-04-25T22:07:00.002-04:00

Spring Fever, part III:

This time, as experienced by the males in my household, plus my brother visiting for the weekend...

Family sophomoric humor has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Peach Mango Iced Tea

2008-04-24T13:05:00.003-04:00

Spring fever, continued... Kirsten, don't hate me because it's 80 degrees today with sunshine. ;-)

Strolling with a friend down Main Street in historic Stone Mountain Village yesterday, we came across this sign in the window that we couldn't resist.

"Refreshing Peach Mango Iced Tea. Come in and try some!"

We did, and after paying a mere $5.33 for two large cups, we delighted in this nectar-of-the-gods tea that is still on my mind almost 24 hours later.

I'm trying to resist making the drive and getting some more today. I think I've found my Summer Love 2008 beverage already in spring.

Continental Coffee & Sweets, if it's got high fructose corn syrup in it, I don't want to know. You've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Spring Fever

2008-04-22T15:53:00.002-04:00

I've got it. Bad.

Love, love this weather we've been enjoying in Atlanta. Perfect day for celebrating Earth Day.

Green goodness has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Literate Friends

2008-04-15T23:26:00.001-04:00

Having great friends is a wonderful thing. Having great friends who also read is the best thing ever. 'Cause they share things with me that I might have otherwise missed, and these are often things that speak to or resonate with me, and then I'm all the better for it.

I have a number of terrific friends who are readers (guess as they say, "like attracts like"), but today I'm thinking of one in particular who dropped some knowledge on me this past Sunday that I'm still chewing on, and I love that.

For keeping me real and simple, Traci, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy 14th B-day, Ryan! Where did my baby godson go?!

Bluehost and Hubby-Honey

2008-04-11T19:43:00.003-04:00

Hello! Great to be back. Are you even still out there visiting? I hope so.

The Thanks Ranks blog and my corresponding email have been down for the last week due to a really lousy merger and acquisition of my old host by a new, very unhelpful one. We had to take matters into our own hands and go elsewhere.

So to my new friends at Bluehost and my tech-savvy Hubby-Honey who wears an 'S' on his chest under his pocket protector ;-), for getting me “live” again, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

The Opening Scene of The Lion King Musical

2008-04-04T18:26:00.003-04:00

The Lion King roared into Atlanta last night, and Hubby-Honey and I got a chance to see it.

I first saw it on Broadway almost 5 years ago, but I was pregnant with Big Boy and more concerned with if I could hang on and wait 'til intermission before disturbing folks with my needing to make a run for the restroom. So it was nice to experience it this time around without such distractions.

Both times, I got so choked up at the opening scene. It's just... beautiful.

If you've never seen The Lion King and you get the chance, go. This gives you a sense of what it's like, but really, you have to be sitting in the midst of it to really get the full affect.

Getting a second chance to take in sheer pageantry and artistic brilliance has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Lessons from a Four-Dollar Face Lift

2008-04-04T17:54:00.004-04:00

I rolled the dice, and got snake-eyes.

Actually, I got one eyebrow that's thinner than the other and an expression that looks half angry and half quizzical.

My lessons are:

1) A $4 eyebrow threading at a salon is NOT a better deal than a $15 eyebrow threading at a spa if you come out looking like the Joker.

2) You get what you pay for.

3) Wearing a paper bag over my head with the eye and mouth holes cut out is not going to work, because it scares my children.

4) It's only hair and it will (hopefully), over time, grow back.

Justifiction for returning the spa for the sake of my pleasant appearance has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Hubby-Honey's Home!

2008-03-31T00:33:00.000-04:00

After being in New York since Thursday, helping his mom get wired with her new computer and easing her onto the information superhighway with the rest of us, Hubby-Honey has returned home safely.

Commence to Big Boy, Baby Girl and me doing a happy dance. Single moms: my hat's off to you.

Being reunited has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Rock Monster

2008-03-27T22:25:00.001-04:00

This is courtesy of Big Boy and Baby Girl. Fair warning: it is going to play incessantly in your head after you hear it.

Rockin' out with my kids has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

The Stone Mountain Ministerial Association

2008-03-23T14:11:00.005-04:00

My kind of Easter service. No fancy 'do or duds required--just a warm family huddle. And the kids were occupied by the magnificence of nature ("Bye-bye moon! Hello sun!"). All followed by sweet slumber and a relaxed afternoon.

For a new Easter family tradition, Stone Mountain sunrise service, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Easter, everyone!

Ms. Rena Belle

2008-03-22T23:36:00.000-04:00

Today my friend Theresa buried her 80 year-old mother.

The service was a celebration of life. In the midst of her grieving process, Theresa gave the family's acknowledgements in her own unique, "Big Love" manner.

Though people had attended to show support for her and her family, Theresa, in her typical fashion, ended up giving us all a gift to go home with, and I'll share it with you.

It was her admonishment to make the most of the time you have, right NOW, to:

* let those you love know you love them,
* address grievances and grow past them,
*call, write, visit, thank those you've been meaning to...

so that when the time comes (and you don't know when), and you or they are the "guest of honor" at such a ceremony, you can have the peace that comes in saying goodbye with a conscious that knows all that was left to said and do was said and done--with love.

And hence, you will be able to experience joy in the midst of grief, and celebrate in the midst of mourning, because you made the most of the moments together you had.

Perhaps no easy undertaking, but well worth it in the end, don't you think?

I do, judging by the way Theresa was able to stand at that podium with a smile and share these words with us. There was no denying that although she will miss her mother, she will be able to go forward knowing in her spirit that the time they were blessed with was time well spent. She has the loving memories to prove it.

For the reminder to give folks their flowers while they're still here, Ms. Rena Belle and Theresa, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

First Day of Spring

2008-03-20T14:23:00.001-04:00

Next to the first day of summer, to me, it's the most wonderful time of the year, and it's just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

House Spared

2008-03-16T17:34:00.003-04:00

My beloved Atlanta was hit pretty hard this weekend with unfathomable tornado activity.

Friday night into Saturday morning made for a scary, stormy time that had even the best of us "brave adults" a little rattled.

Then to have daylight reveal the damage, and to spend a good part of Saturday afternoon playing "dodge the tornado activity in metro Atlanta--Round II" after we'd tried to get out and get on with our day--ducking for cover in the mall, at my folks' house, anywhere with lower level covering--it was all a little much.

But what really, really, did it was for my family to drive around familiar neighborhoods of those we love today and see trees and roots where they didn't belong, and roofs and walls missing from where they ought to be. It broke my heart.

I ache and pray for those who were affected. I am humbled and grateful beyond words that our house was spared. Can't even give a cutesy, "Just been added..." ending this time around, but my gratitude is deep.

Organic Valley Milk on Sale at Publix

2008-03-14T19:33:00.004-04:00

Adjusting to our new status with Hubby-Honey not working in the traditional sense to which we were accustomed, I have to be a little more selective with what I purchase on my "Whole Foods runs".

This morning, it was Publix Super Markets proving itself worthy of my purchasing dollars, with Organic Valley milk half-gallons on sale for $3.29. Big Boy and Baby Girl want their "special" and "choco" milk--they don't care where it comes from, so long as it's in the fridge when they're asking for it.

Big Boy had his "Trike-A-Thon" at school today. "Milk makes me strong and healthy!" he exclaimed at breakfast this morning. The secret to his pedaling success, I guess? Milk in place, meltdown avoided, a triumphant trike-a-thon tale this afternoon.

Organics at a bargain and biking at its best has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Human Who?

2008-03-13T14:51:00.003-04:00

Human 'being' or human 'doing'?

Given this inspired word, I do believe I've been a human 'doing'. I want to change that, moving into my 'being'ness.

This realization, and the joyful shift it has brought about has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

More to come in this space. Getting back to basics. It feels good.

Happy Birthday, Little Mai!

Spring Forward!

2008-03-09T15:05:00.001-04:00

Daylight Savings Time has just been added to The Thanks Ranks!

Recharged!

2008-02-28T13:33:00.003-05:00

I just took a look at my blog for the first time in a long time. Read through some old posts--things I never looked at after writing them. In reading them now, I can't believe how quickly a year plus has flown by, and yet I note just how much has occurred in such a seemingly short time.

I'm a little saddened now by what I could be missing out on this time next year, given all the gaps that have appeared in The Thanks Ranks in recent months. What to do? Start again--today. And then start again--tomorrow. And then start again--the day after that...

It's not so much what I was writing about (one day it was dishware, for crying out loud!), it was the fact that I was writing. It's time to reclaim that again, for myself.

'Recommitment' has just been added to The Thanks Ranks. I don't care if it's not a real word. It works for me and I'll use it. :-)

B-day Credit Where Credit is Due

2008-02-19T11:54:00.003-05:00

Ma B,

If it weren't for you, I'd have no Hubby-Honey to celebrate. That was a fine thing you did, birthing him 40 years ago today. I appreciate it. You've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HUBBY-HONEY!!

And again, to all of you who recently or way back when decided to join the movement to help put him in pinstripes, I thank you deeply. A round of Thanks Ranks for everyone!!

Just Do It

2008-02-05T11:44:00.000-05:00

Those whose historical hard-fought efforts make it possible for me to cast my vote and make my voice heard today have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

And if you don't know, now you'll know...

Technical Difficulties

2008-01-31T15:10:00.000-05:00

"At this time there are no web audio servers available. We will try again shortly."

This is what the blogtalkradio.com pleasant-voiced recorded lady has been repeating to me ever since I first attempted to dial in and start my weekly 3:00 p.m. Thursday podcast show, "Thanks Ranks Radio".

In all my time doing the show--and it soon will be one year--this has never happened. Freezed out from airing? Huh?

It's just a testament to how much blogtalkradio.com has grown. Good for them, though today, too bad for me.

There was a time, maybe two years ago, where I would have been having an anal, it's not perfect, freak-out moment over this. Now, ever more increasingly, I just go with the flow.

The reminder that sometimes, whatever will be, will be, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Potty Mouth

2008-01-08T00:08:00.000-05:00

Hey! Happy New Year!

The toilet in our master bath has been running.

Here comes Eric Stromer, right on time, with an online video to tell us how to D-I-Y fix it. Hence, he's just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

2008 - Real and Simple

2007-12-31T10:40:00.000-05:00

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!

Keep Moving Forward

2007-12-26T23:45:00.000-05:00

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.

Merry

2007-12-25T08:23:00.000-05:00

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.

Random Thought Thanks

2007-12-19T13:50:00.000-05:00

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)

Fresh!

2007-12-19T08:07:00.000-05:00

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.

It Is December, Right?

2007-12-10T16:49:00.000-05:00

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.

Hellooooo??!!!

2007-12-04T12:54:00.000-05:00

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.

New Week for the Weak

2007-11-26T16:23:00.000-05:00

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... :-)

Gobble, Gobble

2007-11-22T10:34:00.000-05:00

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!)

Perfect Combination

2007-11-21T17:08:00.000-05:00

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.

Show and Tell

2007-11-20T13:11:00.000-05:00

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.

Ever the Little Big Sister

2007-11-16T20:52:00.000-05:00

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!

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (11.15.07)

2007-11-15T20:20:00.000-05:00

Here's what was referenced and added to The Thanks Ranks:

* Kellie's addition: Finding "Free To Be... You and Me" on iTunes

* The Thankful Tree idea from fabric shop co-owners Katie Metzger and Catherine Clark, of the Brooklyn General Store

* The New Food Lover's Companion by Sharon Tyler Herbst, now in its Fourth edition

* The goodwill and good word generation at FreeRice.com (let's get with honoring our agreement, U.S.)

* Pat Marcus at WABE 90.1 for identifying and offering to pass along my thanks to Emily Wood for sharing the quote that has ever-changed the way I make decisions about how I chose to spend and conduct myself on any given day.

* Stella of the Brotman Medical Center and Roxy of the Skull Base Institute for the positive update on Sahar Gayton, a mom undergoing brain tumor surgery mentioned in last week's show.

* Oh, and btw, Hubby-Honey and I have been married almost 6 1/2 years, not 5 1/2 as I glibly stated. I knew that... ;-)

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.

Adults Don't Know Everything

2007-11-15T10:02:00.000-05:00

"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.

And then he pointed to it. Do you see it? ;-)

For the morning chuckle, Big Boy's astute observation has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

You're Beautiful

2007-11-13T10:59:00.000-05:00

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.

Not Just a Shopping Sale Day

2007-11-12T17:52:00.000-05:00

For all the freedoms I enjoy, veterans: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Yesterday on Thanks Ranks Radio (11.08.07)

2007-11-09T17:20:00.000-05:00

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!

Full Circle + Five

2007-11-08T09:34:00.000-05:00

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.

What's In A Year?

2007-11-07T08:32:00.000-05:00

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.

Boogie Wonderland

2007-11-06T17:27:00.001-05:00

Today's impromptu dance party with my children courtesy of DJ KC's groove masterwork has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

How Inspired!

2007-11-05T16:21:00.000-05:00

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!

Day 14

2007-11-02T22:08:00.000-04:00

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!

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (11.1.07)

2007-11-01T22:45:00.001-04:00

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.

Baby It's Cold Outside

2007-10-31T07:56:00.000-04:00

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.

Blessed Be The Thai That Binds

2007-10-30T23:35:00.000-04:00

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.

I Slept On It

2007-10-29T11:53:00.000-04:00

Thursday night...

Friday night...

Saturday night...

Sunday night...

And this morning, I decided that was that. If my coveted vintage Aigner leather jacket was still at Finders Keepers, then it was meant to be mine, and I was going to get it.

I went, it was, and I did. And I have to say, the picture doesn't do it justice. And when I'm wearing it with my jeans and already-owned heels of the same color, it's exquisitely nothing short of badass.

Dana recognized me from being in the store last week, and our friendly exchange at the register made the shopping experience all the more pleasurable. And the biggest bang to boot? It was further on sale than I'd thought!

To Dana, the donor, and the minimal dollars spent--for a terrific start to my week--you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Wonder-Fun from My Inner Birthday Girl

2007-10-27T10:49:00.001-04:00

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. ;-)

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (10.25.07)

2007-10-25T23:57:00.000-04:00

(photo credit: AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

Here's what was referenced and added to The Thanks Ranks:

* The individual(s)? responsible for the spike in Thanks Ranks Radio's listenership

* All of those lending a hand to those in need in the SoCal wildfires

* My son's school for being open to healthier lunch options; Farm to School activists; Amy Kalafa and Susan Rubin for Two Angry Moms and for Ian Cheney and Curt Ellis for King Corn

* Finders Keepers Fashions consignment store

* Sevananda Natural Foods Market and Financial Coach Patricia Del Rey for the Women and Money discussion, and the two fellow attendees who caused me, "Ah ha!" moments

* Mint.com for refreshing money management

* All of you who have enriched and helped me celebrate my life by being a part of The Thanks Ranks community. MmmUAH!!!

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.

Horn of Plenty

2007-10-24T13:00:00.000-04:00

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.

Corn and a-Cussin'

2007-10-23T11:47:00.000-04:00

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.

The Road of Life in Focus

2007-10-22T12:36:00.000-04:00

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.

Signs of Intelligent Life

2007-10-19T12:22:00.000-04:00

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!

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (10.18.07)

2007-10-18T23:05:00.000-04:00

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.

More on Living

2007-10-17T12:26:00.001-04:00

'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.

Shake it Up, Baby

2007-10-16T10:49:00.000-04:00

My routine being anything but as of late has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Not Lazy, Just Necessary

2007-10-12T13:37:00.000-04:00

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.

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (10.11.07)

2007-10-11T18:40:00.000-04:00

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.

Just Ducky

2007-10-10T10:29:00.001-04:00

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.

Oh, Joe...

2007-10-09T00:10:00.000-04:00

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.

Harvest Mission Accomplished

2007-10-08T11:11:00.000-04:00

1 promised to and highly expectant child in search of pumpkins and scarecrows

+ 2 lazy Sunday afternoon parents

+ 3 hours of good sunlight left in the day

+ 4 entries down on a "pumpkin patches - Atlanta" online search

equals

a manageably distanced trip out to "the country" and Yule Forest Hwy 155, where the desired objectives were met and family fun adventures with a petting zoo, tractor-pulled hayrides and more were thrown in as gravy.

For exponentially meeting my son's "Welcome, fall!" needs this weekend and making Mommy and Daddy look like heroes without much required effort, Yule Forest Hwy 155, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Under My Umbrella...brella...brella...

2007-10-05T14:05:00.000-04:00

Rain in Georgia, because we've needed it, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy weekend!

Yesterday on Thanks Ranks Radio (10.4.07)

2007-10-05T12:30:00.000-04:00

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.

Thanks for the McMemories

2007-10-03T10:47:00.000-04:00

Whew! I'm recuping from driving all around God's green Georgia yesterday. Logged a lot of miles, but all for good causes. More on that in the near future, with thanks to Mari, Leah (sp?), Shona and crew.

By 5:10 p.m., I couldn't stand the highways and traffic anymore, so I embarked upon a little adventure traveling unfamiliar backroads that I was confident-thanks to an inherent good sense of direction-would eventually lead me to a place I knew, with the children and I getting home at a less harried pace.

Traveling on one of the many thousand metro Atlanta streets with "Peachtree" in its name, I found myself between the cities of Doraville and Chamblee when I came upon this house of yesteryear, with signs, objects and symbols from days gone by scattered all around the building.

And I find it funny that, in light of my recent posts and thoughts on quality food, I came upon this relic from my childhood and a piece of immortalizd pop culture.

Do you remember McDonaldland, and its characters? I was running through my mental rolodex, and could recall Grimace, Hamburglar, Mayor McCheese, Ronald (of course), The Fry Guys... But this character...his name escaped me. Later when I quizzed Hubby-Honey at home, he too couldn't recall.

Gotta love Google. I gave up trying to remember it on my own, searched this a.m. and got the answer--that for fun I'll link but not state here. Tell me if you recalled it, or if you too needed a little online assistance to jog your memory.

For the "final-nail-in-coffin" symbolism that coincides with my making peace with my McPast and bidding my relationship with the Golden Arches a complete adieu, strange little house of oddities, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Mothers Earth

2007-10-01T11:55:00.000-04:00

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.

Friday

2007-09-28T23:36:00.000-04:00

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!

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (9.27.07)

2007-09-27T13:59:00.000-04:00

Here's what was referenced and added to The Thanks Ranks:

* Kellie's addition: Starbucks in Charles Village, for introducing her (and I don't know about you--but subsequently, me) to The Gotan Project and "Triptico"

* Vinx (check out "Take Me Along" on his myspace page to get a small tease of his "unplugged" incredibleness, and find samples if you can of the CD, I Love My Job--my personal favorite)

* The newest addition to my household, "Sara Dipity", the lesson in acquiring her, and all those who played a part in it

* The DVD, "Conversations with God" (Netflix, you're the greatest...), and author Neale Donald Walsch, for listening and sharing

* My friends, for putting me up to adding the "Help me send Hubby-Honey to Yankees Fantasy Camp for His 40th Birthday" button on my blog (to the left, to the left, everything I've said in a box, column left) and Ms. "Million Dollar Pubes", for putting me over the edge with incredulousness and spurring me to action. Until I come up with something, um, "creative" like her... I'll stick to the passive button on the blog

Tia, you've been added for being the first to support the vision, "in honor and celebration of good men and the women who love them." Only 1,099 more Thanks Ranks (and otherwise) friends with 5 bucks to go! I've stated my intention and put it out there...

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.

Simple Pleasures

2007-09-26T22:44:00.000-04:00

I know it's time to say goodbye to summer, but the delicious juxtaposition of warm pita bread against cold tabbouleh (aka tabouleh, tabouli, tabooli) salad that makes my mouth do a Middle Eastern happy dance has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Here's a video recipe. I've yet to make it myself, but maybe with this I'll give it a shot.

Happy Birthday, Camille and Raquel, wherever you are...

Now Identified Flying Biscuit

2007-09-25T18:25:00.000-04:00

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!

Keep on Truckin'

2007-09-24T13:00:00.000-04:00

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.

Yesterday on Thanks Ranks Radio (9.20.07)

2007-09-21T09:36:00.000-04:00

(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!

Keep Your Germs to Yourself

2007-09-19T10:24:00.001-04:00

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.

Strawberry!

2007-09-17T10:15:00.000-04:00

(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.

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (9.13.07)

2007-09-13T19:22:00.000-04:00

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.

Ahhh...

2007-09-12T23:59:00.000-04:00

Freshly laundered bed sheets to fall into after a long, long day have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Untitled

2007-09-11T23:43:00.000-04:00

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.

Pour A Little Out for My Homeopaths

2007-09-10T21:44:00.000-04:00

In 24 hours, Boericke & Tafel Children's Cough & Bronchial Syrup managed to do what Children's Sudafed Cold & Cough couldn't do in 3 days: relieve Big Boy's cough and *ahem* "loosen the stuff up" that was plaguing his nasal and bronchial passages.

Formulated by a company established in 1835, this Boericke & Tafel natural homeopathic concoction is indeed old-school stuff, complete with alcohol at a level 0.74%. Big Boy didn't seem to be adversely affected. On the contrary, he seemed much less lethargic and certainly not nearly as troubled with coughing as he'd been before taking it.

The Syrup was easily found in the children's meds aisle at Whole Foods, but I now see, like everything else, it can also be ordered online.

For providing an as-old-as-the-ages natural shortcut on Big Boy's road to recovery, homeopathic pharmacology pioneers Francis E. Boericke and Adolf J. Tafel, you've just been posthumously added to The Thanks Ranks.

That's Why the Lady is a Tea

2007-09-07T18:21:00.000-04:00

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!

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (9.6.07)

2007-09-06T15:31:00.000-04:00

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.

The Look of Lotus

2007-09-05T15:01:00.000-04:00

This blossom represents supreme thoughtfulness, kindness and resourcefulness.

It also is the first hair clip/barette that Baby Girl has not managed to be able to pull from her (what little bit she has) hair.

Receiving it was an incredibly pleasant surprise. Malachi and Mai's Mom, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Gettin' in the Way of What I'm Feelin'

2007-09-04T12:55:00.000-04:00

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.

Workin' It

2007-08-31T17:35:00.000-04:00

The promise that comes with a long Labor Day Weekend has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Enjoy, my fellow Americans!

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (8.30.07)

2007-08-30T17:43:00.000-04:00

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.

Big Two-O-O Tomato

2007-08-30T13:39:00.001-04:00

Can you tell how much I've been enjoying taking pictures of late? :-)

I present to you Big Boy's tomato plant.

I noticed this morning that a growing tomato we've been watching intently (for what seems the entire summer) has begun to ripen.

Two smaller ones appear to be following in its wake.

Now, this tomato plant was grown in a container as more of an experiment and learning tool for Big Boy. Abmittedly, it didn't receive optimal care and feeding, though our intentions were good. And yet, it's grown. It hasn't fully arrived, but it's further along than where it began, and it has put a smile on the faces of those who have visited and noted it along the way.

So is the story of The Thanks Ranks, I suppose. Little by little, day by day, it has grown. Grown in fact, into today, its 200th post. I told you, back at post 100 on March 26th, that I'd mark this day, as I encouraged you to pick a task or project of your own to work toward and celebrate its accomplishment on this occasion along with me. Did you do it? How far have you come? Congrats to you!

If you didn't choose something the last time around, pick something for post #300. I don't know when I'll reach it, but to rework a favorite line of my friend Kellie's, let's not worry so much about the final destination--let's just start on the journey and enjoy the trip.

Like this tomato, I've grown as a result of undertaking this project called The Thanks Ranks. I've "met" a number of you that I wouldn't have otherwise, and you've made rich deposits into my life for which I'm grateful. So goes the same for the places, things and experiences that have heightened my awareness of all things for which I can be appreciative. I have my days, I'm not "fully ripened", but wow, when I think of it all, as life goes, I really have it good.

Thanks, tomato. Thanks all 200 subjects for supplying the material and lessons for my posts. Thanks to all of you who've shared that they've made a difference for you too. Yes, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Here's to the journey toward 3oo!

Blame It on the Rain

2007-08-29T21:09:00.000-04:00

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.

"Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeee!" we collectively reveled.

I couldn't help but wink at a male shopper passing by, who spotted us and looked almost wistful. I know, I thought, as I composed myself at the end of the aisle and assumed a refined parental pace. You wish you had a child so you could do it too, right?

The thrill of sometimes going childish and Best Bank, for being the car sponsor of our fun run, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Southern Comfort

2007-08-28T20:35:00.000-04:00

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.

Trading Places--Not

2007-08-27T15:54:00.000-04:00

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.