Where There's Smoke, It's Dire

Still groggy, I woke up quickly when it started registering in my brain. Something burning... hard to breathe... must be smoke... fire.... Fire? Fire!!!

"Something's burning!" I sleepy-hysterically exclaimed while nearly shaking the alignment out of Hubby-Honey's shoulders, making a beeline for the babies' rooms, following my nose to the kitchen, then the front door.

Outside the air was thick. But thank God it wasn't my home. Then I started saying a prayer for all my neighbors, becauuse surely the fire was close...

But I hadn't heard any sirens, and I'm not THAT sound a sleeper.

Turns out I was experiencing all of what metro Atlanta woke up to this morning: smoke from wildfires burning in south Georgia and Florida that had traveled up our way.

While poor air quality is challenging enough, I am so grateful that my home and everyone in it is safe.

My thoughts turn to those fighting the blazes. What a toll battling these fires must be taking on them. Firefighters, here's a prayer for your safety, strength and edification. Yours is a job I know I wouldn't care to handle. You've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Don't You Ever for a Second Get to Thinking...

Around this time last year I was in the midst of interviewing and consequently training the person who would be assuming my position at the job I was preparing to leave before giving birth to Baby Girl.

She was bright and talented with a beautiful spirit to boot. I knew she would do just fine in the position, and bring her own brand of energy to it.

This weekend I was able to witness just how well-channeled that energy has sprung, and it made me feel really, really gratified.

Shauntay, you learned well, young grasshopper. :-) For dancing fabulously in your own shoes and giving me "cherry-on-top" peace with the decision I'd made to move on and make room, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Ish List

If you're ever feeling blue 'bout what you can't perfectly do, you've got to read this book. It's the Ish.

Oh the wonder and wisdom contained in "children's" books. Peter H. Reynolds, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Have a great weekend!

Said I Oughtta Go To Rehab I Said Yes, Yes, Yes

"Thanks, Doc. I've been feeling a quart low."

- Sheriff, Cars (2006)

~~~
Whew, I've been dragging this week. Not complaining, mind you, in light of the many passings this week (Life: you're a permanent fixture on The Thanks Ranks). Just noting that my inner motor has not been running optimally. And there's only so much sweet tea and frappuccinos a body can take. I know, I know.

That's why after almost a year's absence, I checked in with Aggie and friends at Living Food Delights. Their organic raw and vegan take-out fueled me on many a day when I was pregnant with Baby Girl.

While I've yet to develop the discipline or inclination to adopt a soley raw, vegan dietary lifestyle, I know a good thing when I injest it. And this place is full of good things. Pricey-is-in-the-eye-of-the-beholder, takes-a-bit-of-time-to-prepare-it-so-don't-be-in-a-hurry-when-you-come good things.

And now I'm feeling better already.

For the refueling that my body desperately needed, Living Foods Delights, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Birthday, Shaun!

I Will

The cautionary reminder from this sad debacle to stop talking about updating and JUST DO IT has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Celebrating life: Happy Birthday, Kellie!

Still Reeling

To everyone who showered me with so much love and so many good wishes: for the Mother's Day "hangover" I'm still nursing today, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

A Blog By Any Other Name...

is not the same, but it's similar.

Looking for the references/links to the things I talked about on yesterday's "Thanks Ranks Radio" podcast? I did "post them on the blog"--just not this one. You'll find them here, at the blog specifically dedicated to the show (turn down your speakers, as the most recent show loads and plays automatically).

Jovan, for sharing your story as a member of the Thanks Ranks Radio community, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Have a great mother-lovin' weekend, All.

The Jury's Still Out

Have your taste buds ever experienced purified drinking water made that way by "reverse osmosis/deionization with USP medicinal-grade oxygen"?

Mine just did. No comment except that, well, I guess it's indeed good for me.

Penta Water, for the experience of discovering what H2O that is arsenic free, flouride free, chromium 6 free, chlorine free and MTBE free tastes like, spurring my reflection on just how fortunate I am to have such water options when many people around the world have no choice but to drink whatever is scarcely available, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Zzzz...

My comfy bed and pillows that await my tuckered-out body have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Birthday, Traci-Traci!

Up, Up and Away

To the ever-inspiring Victoria Colligan & Beth Schoenfeldt, authors of Ladies Who Launch and creators of the similarly named movement:

For making a stop in Atlanta this evening and giving me the “LIVE second chance” to meet you, Daryn and Traci; and the opportunity to serendipitously meet up with old friends Mimi, Kenyette and Kenya; while enjoying the catch up company of Theresa—you’ve just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Off to 3... 2... 1... into the book!

Untitled

Winter/Spring 2006. I was into my second trimester carrying Baby Girl and planning the annual spring barbecue for seniors and volunteers with Adopt-A-Grandparent Program.

I was looking for an MC for the event, as I didn’t want to be the one to have to do it. I’d served in this role for their Christmas Party some months earlier, and it took the whole of the following day for my pregnant ever-changing body to recover.

I considered radio and television personalities. Connie Flint was one that I knew the seniors loved and recognized on Praise 97.5 FM, a local gospel music station. We’d spoken on a couple of occasions and she was warm and gracious, telling me to call on her any time, as she loved seniors and doing these sorts of appearances.

With that in mind, I called Ms. Flint about this particular spring event, but my voicemail messages went unreturned. I sent her greetings via email looking to follow up with her. Never a reply. I mailed her packets and personal notes to give her more info. Nothing.

I was a little dismayed, as this unresponsive behavior didn’t seem characteristic of what I’d experienced with her.

In a last ditch effort, I planned to go to a live remote I learned she’d be doing at a newly-opened active senior retirement community with which I wasn’t familiar.

I sent her a note ahead of time letting her know I’d be there and was looking forward to talking with her. Still no response.

The afternoon of the remote, I was headed on my way when I got a flat tire. Perturbed, I listened to the goings on of the event on my radio as I waited for assistance. I heard residents and visitors go on and on about how lovely this new retirement community was, heard all about its fine amenities and listened to Ms. Flint kindly interact with all within the sound of her voice. It further perplexed me as to how such a clearly genuine and loving person could be so seemingly inconsiderate in not responding to any of my communiqués.

After getting my tire replaced I sped to the location, with just about 10 minutes of the live remote left. As I traveled down the last stretch of road with the community in sight, the radio station’s vehicle passed me in the oncoming lane. I’d hoped that perhaps Ms. Flint was still on the premises nonetheless.

She wasn’t. The retirement community’s staff was cleaning up and informed me she’d just left. Deflated, I figured I’d at least tour the community so that the trip wouldn’t be totally for naught. My parents were planning on moving to Atlanta in the next couple of months and although they already had a community in mind with which they were making their housing arrangement, what would it hurt to look around?

It didn’t hurt at all. Touring the grounds and units I knew this place would be just perfect for my parents. I picked up application forms and literature, thanked the staff and headed on my way.

I gave up trying to contact Ms. Flint, ended up serving as a co-MC and taking the whole of the following two days for my even more pregnant body to recover. But a fun time was had by all. And my parents ended up changing their plans and moving into that retirement community, where they still remain quite pleased.

So all was well that ended well. I thought about sending Ms. Flint a note letting her know that although she’d never gotten back to me, I saw that in the whole exercise in futility it was meant for me to find this fabulous place for my folks that I never would have likely known about had it not been for my chasing after her. But then I checked my intentions (admittedly, they weren’t pure) and decided not to do it. Yes, she seemed so kind and I’d felt we connected, but who knew why she didn’t respond—it could have been any number of reasons. She didn’t owe me anything. I let it go and moved on.

Driving yesterday a.m. doing my morning radio show channel surf, the memory flooded back to me instantly as I heard the jarring news on 97.5: Connie Flint had passed away the day before.

I hadn’t heard her on the air for a little while, and her station had shuffled their host line-up, but it didn’t occur to me what was now pretty obvious: she had been sick.

And for all I know, though I’ll never know, she could have been dealing with her private pain and challenges of being ill back in early ’06 when I was trying to reach her. Again, I’ll never know, but what I was sure of at that moment in hearing the sad news was that I was glad I never sent that note…

It was one of those stop-you-in your-tracks reminders to me that people have lives outside of their dealings with you. Everything is not always as it seems, and every inexplicably poor occurrence you may experience is not necessarily meant to be a personal affront to you. Hence, when in doubt, try a little tenderness. You just don’t know.

A humbled and heartfelt thank you to you, Ms. Flint, for this lesson, as I posthumously add you to The Thanks Ranks. My condolences to your family and all who love you and celebrate your life. God’s got a new announcer in heaven.

No More Beef Over the Beef

Organic...

Extra lean...

Meets American Heart Association's food criteria for saturated fat and cholesterol...

And Hubby-Honey actually LIKED it?!!!

Finally, a burger the health-concious herbivore and couldn't-care-less carnivore can agree to prepare (the former) and eat (the latter).

(Cue in celestial harps and angelic chorus for a collective, "Aahhhh...")

Sommers Organic, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Where The Wild (and Creative) Things Are

To the kind staffers at Tyler Perry Studios and Zoo Atlanta who sent my son home with a literal and figurative "goodie bag" of treats from his visits while spending a fun day with his Auntie Bridget (gracias, Bridge), you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Cause for Caleb

I didn't know much about autism until dear 4 year-old Caleb was diagnosed with it last year. Since then, his mom has been educating all who'll have an ear to hear, and I've appreciated being informed.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental illness that affects 1 in 150 children, more than pediatric AIDs, cancer and diabetes combined. It deserves, and has thankfully begun receiving, increased attention. But there is MUCH more work to be done.

Walk Now for Autism is committed to the effort of finding a cure, and here in Atlanta on May 19th, Maisha, Caleb's godmother, will be putting one foot in front of the other on his behalf.

Caleb is about to become a big brother any day now, and to mark the occasion, I thought I'd lend some support. If you're so inclined you can learn more here.

The research shows that autism doesn't play exclusive favorites, and this fact is not lost on me.

Caleb, for being a brave, beautiful boy taking on the world, and Maisha, for taking on three miles to equip him, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Half Day and History

Today is my 35th and 1/2 birthday. Whoo-hoo! Welcome to my cyber-party. :-)

In celebration, I decided to participate in the following history birthday blog game of tag, proposed by Marnie Pehrson at The Power of Gratitude.

Here were the instructions:

1. Go to Wikipedia and type in your birthday without the year:

October 27

2. List 3 events that occurred that day:

* 1904- The first underground New York City Subway line opens; the system becomes biggest in United States of America, and one of the biggest in world.

* 1997- Stock markets around the world crash because of fears of a global economic meltdown. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummets 554.26 points to 7,161.15. for the first time, the New York Stock Exchange activated their “circuit breakers” twice during the day eventually making the controversial move of closing the Exchange early.

* 2004 – Curse of the Bambino: The Boston Red Sox defeat the St. Louis Cardinal in Game 4 of the World Series, winning their first championship since 1918.

(Have to playfully get this jab in to Hubby-Honey, who put the festivities for my birthday in 1999 on hold until the game where his beloved Yankees won the World Series title was over. We were still just dating--lucky for him he more than made up for it!)

3. List 2 important birthdays:

* 1873 – Emily Post, American etiquette author

* 1924- Ruby Dee, American actress (once had the pleasure of meeting her at a booksigning and subsequently becoming an invited backstage guest of hers after a show performance as a birthday gift to Hubby-Honey)

4. List 1 death:

2003 – Rod Roddy, American television announcer (b.1937)
(“Come on down!” The Price Is Right weighs heavily in my loving memories of my great-grandmother, a huge fan of the show.)

5. List 1 holiday or observance:

St. Vincent and the Grenadines – Independence Day (from Britain, 1979)
(Ohhhh, yes! As if I needed yet another reason to head to the Caribbean!)

So now, according to the instructions, I'm supposed to "tag" someone else. How about... you?!

And if you've got a blog (you know who you are--don't make me call you out) ;-) and you want to play, post your results on your blog and come back here and comment with a link to it on mine. Consider it a fun half-birthday present that I'll accept with gratitude!

Marnie, you and celebrations of the everyday have just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Tag to the rest of you--you're it!

Puzzling

You may recall I pitched the idea of not watching television this week. In my attempt to practice what I preach, Big Boy and I, refraining from PBS Kids, sat down this afternoon to do the flamingo baby (as pictured in the series at right) Tom Arma jigsaw puzzle together.

I don't think I've taken the time to put together a jigsaw puzzle since... kindergarten. I don't even recall how this one made its way into the house.

It was fun.

Rediscovered simple pleasures from a simpler time: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Green Bum

11:10 a.m. The pediatrician surmises that Baby Girl's rash is an allergic reaction to her diapers and/or wipes.

11:45 a.m. A trip to Whole Foods and subsequent purchase of Seventh Generation Baby chlorine free diapers and 365 Everyday Value baby wipes (and a Green and Black's dark chocolate bar because, well, do I really need a reason?).

Tick-tock, tick-tock...

11:30 p.m. Diaper change. The rash appears to have diminished significantly.

Seventh Generation and Whole Foods' 365: for giving Baby Girl a jump on a cleared up rump, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Please Spare the Messenger

Today marks the start of TV-Turnoff Week 2007 (April 23rd - 29th).

I'm just sayin'...

As one whose family turned off the television in our home for the entire year of 2006, I'm telling you, for one week, you CAN do this--and you'll be surprised at the difference it will make in your life. And I'm talking about positve effects.

Besides, now that Sanjaya's been booted off American Idol, turning off the tube this week should be all the more easier!

Here are some "screen-free" activities with which you can amuse yourself in lieu of channel surfing. When's the last time you made a friendship bracelet, huh?

For encouraging children and adults to watch less television and in turn promote healthier lives and communities, TV-Turnoff Network, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Untitled

Listening to NPR’s All Things Considered yesterday afternoon, I was struck by the words of Virginia Tech accounting professor Bryan Cloyd, whose daughter Austin died in Monday’s tragedy. The remarks reportedly appeared on the front page of the Virginia Tech school paper’s website, from a copy of an email the professor sent to his students:

“…Go to your mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers, and tell them with all your heart how much you love them. Go out of your way to make good memories, because someday these memories may be all you have left.”

These words have stayed on my mind even today, and I suppose it’s meant for me to share them with you.

Go “make good memories” and have a good weekend.

Professor Brian Cloyd, for touching countless others with this poignant admonition in the midst of your grief, you have my deepest sympathy, and you’ve respectfully just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Baby Got Back Up

Hubby-Honey found this helpful automated backup service. I no longer have to be concerned about the outlying possibility of losing files, as all our work is now safely backed up. $49.95 annually is worth the peace of mind.

Carbonite, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Sing Along Now: "If You See Me Walking..."

down the street,
wearing this top,
with Baby Girl on my side,

Walk on by...
I'll know we're fly. :-)

Foolish pride, "Mini -Me" mother-daughter fashions from Lucky Brand Jeans and inspiration from page 298, InStyle May 2007, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

When There Are No Words

The ability to hold my babies close to me and feel their breath on my neck, as I ache for grieving moms who won't have the same priviledge again, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

La-TEA-Da

For a terrific tea time experience and education (their menu seemingly doubles as a textbook), and the complimentary Shangri-la tea shots and mints: Yvonne, Candace, Valerie, Yannick, Chase and Ms. Tonya--you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Blog Blah Blah

Wow!

I've had a spike in my listener stats for Thanks Ranks Radio, and I believe that the man behind Shaun OMac Radio has had much to do with it.

For your support and the benchmark you've become, Shaun, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Folks are Grand at The Brand

I got turned around in Snellville early this afternoon. Dinah kindly obliged me with driving directions through her drive-through teller window, and gave Big Boy a lollipop that he savored with frequent exclamations of, "Ahhh... this is SO good!"

Dinah, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Surely I'm Not the Only One Noting HIS Hair?

I told myself I was going to leave this alone within this blog, because it was so baselessly and worthlessly ignorant, but alas, I'm still annoyed, and I need an outlet...

So to the YWCA USA, who is giving me the opportunity to constructively express my ire against stupidity, and Karlease, for passing this along, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

**UPDATE: The link above no longer works, because the proper action was taken. Hip-hop artists also in violation take note: Though I'm an old school Brown Sugar babe, you're not off the hook with me either.**

Spring Cleaning with Special Meaning

Hope you had a terrific Easter weekend. It was a blessed but hectic one for me. I needed yesterday to recover!

One of my many tasks this weekend was finding just the right Easter outfits for my children. They were going to be visiting their Grandmom and Grandpoppy's church for the first time, so I couldn't have them looking any old way, right?

Well I was successful in finding clothes that sufficiently met the "Easter cute criteria" (though as their mother, I would find them just as adorable swaddled in burlap and raffia), and after having served their purpose, these specialty pieces are now hanging in the closet where they will likely remain if ever they are worn again before being outgrown.

The ability to just go to the store and buy outfits for my children, or have clothing provided by friends and family who love us, is a blessing that is not soon lost on me. Many are not as fortunate.

Chaffin, a volunteer with the Dekalb County CASA Program and Juvenile Court, reminds me of this fact. She is currently putting together a clothes bank for foster mothers where they can get and exchange clothing for children placed in their care. She will be collecting donated clothing and children's items this Thursday from a Moms group to which I belong.

Reality: foster moms tend to receive children in the middle of the night or on very short notice. Often these moms do not have suitable clothing or other needed items at the immediate moment and it can get costly to acquire them.

Given all this, I have been working at the challenge to part with the darling, beloved pieces that I have been holding onto for so long that crowd my little ones' dresser drawers, closets and hampers, so that others might benefit.

This has not been an easy process for me--this letting go--as my rational head that says, "Into the 'donate' pile it goes! They've outgrown it and will never wear it again!" battles my sentimental heart that counters, "Ohhhh... this was his/her first_________. I can mount this in a shadow box and display it..."

OK:

A) I'm not crafty. I've never mounted anything in a shadow box in my life. If I didn't do such things when time was on my side and the only person I was responsible for was myself, who am I kidding now?

B) I live in a house, not a museum, and that's where I'd have to dwell to reasonably display the 50+ outfits I'm trying to hold onto and consider for this grand installation.

So the head (deservedly so) wins and the heart gets to keep one outfit for each child, consoled by the fact that we have TONS of photos that capture the babies in these outfits, so the memory is indeed preserved.

So Chaffin, get ready. I've got some packages for ya....

And with that I should note a consideration Chaffin passed along that made me take pause:

She requested that if at all possible, we put our items in something other than trash bags, as such a presentation can be demoralizing to the children who receive them.

Think about that. When you receive something, whether purchased or presented as a gift, doesn't the bag or the box say something to you? I know I'm not the only one who stashes specialty shopping bags from stores or gift totes because they're attractive and essentially say, "You're special and appreciated."

Imagine how a child feels if all he/she ever receives, if anything, is given to them in a garbage bag.

Hmmmm.

Chaffin, pretty bags and boxes: for reminding me of the blessing of my bounty, and giving me the win-win opportunity to share it lovingly and attractively with others, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Soup, Shoes and (Shhh...)

I'm always pleasantly surprised and delighted when the little things I do just simply in the course of "being me" are met with appreciation in grand ways by folks who give me things in return.

To Ms. Carter for the homemade butternut squash soup, to Gerra for the baby shoes and slip, and to the grown and sexy playful new business owners (I love you, but I can't quite bring myself to linking your website here. ;-) Curious parties interested, email me for details) for the ends, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Won't Skirt the Issue

Reading through the April 2007 local edition of skirt! magazine, I came across this ad, and realized yet another reason why I love Atlanta:

Mayor Shirley Franklin is one admirable tough cookie.

Madame Mayor, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

For further information about keeping kids safe, call 1-800-244-5373.

Milestone

Baby Girl crawled the length of my bed today to get to a book. I moved her back to my pillows and put the book on the other end--three times--to make sure I was indeed witnessing this: her crawling for the first time. Each time, she did not disappoint. She did a herky-jerky elbow-hand-knee-foot plant and made it to her desired destination.

The breathtaking wonder of watching a little one develop, up close and personal, has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

I Do

For the quick $50 apiece earned last night for Hubby-Honey and me sharing our thoughts on faith and marriage, and for the work you're doing to strengthen them, Program for Strong African American Marriages, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Clip Me Baby One More Time

Britney did it with her hair. This weekend, I did it with some shrubs in our front yard.

It all started with the arrival last Thursday of four hydrangea plants my mother-in-law had shipped to me (which was a significant thing in and of itself).

I am not a gardener. Growing up I was a suburban girl living an urban existence. I left tooling around in the yard to my parents--my dad landscaping in the front, and my mom tending to her raised vegetable garden in the back.

It's not that I don't appreciate the beauty of a well-tended garden, and the bounty it yields. My main aversion to gardening is happening upon squirmy worms when you're disturbing their natural habitat--it gives me the heebie-jeebies.

Or at least it did when I was six years old watching my dad till soil. I haven't looked back since.

But when my mother-in-law, an avid gardener, started sharing her wisdom earlier this year with me around this area of her interest, I took the time to really listen to her. The conversations were seeming to nurture a new bond.

And then the plants came this Thursday. Live plants.

Well, I tell you what--I determined that best believe I was going to become a gardener this weekend, because I was NOT, given all the literal and symbolic importance of the gift of these hydrangea plants, going to be the one who'd have to put explaining their demise to my mother-in-law on my future to-do list.

So I got to thinking that the front of our house might be a nice place for them if it weren't for the unsightly half-dead shrubs, long serving as the bane of my existence, that were currently occupying the space.

Standing in the driveway looking at these shrubs the thought popped into my head: "They must go... they must go NOW."

And before I knew it, I was out there, looking like the best dressed gardener ever in my good "street clothes" and new shoes, cutting away at these shrubs with manual hedge clippers of my father's that we'd been storing for him in our basement.

Hubby-Honey was inside with the children watching the near completion of Ohio State vs. Georgetown Final Four game before he noticed that whatever I'd said I'd be doing outside (I wasn't specific) was taking a REALLY long time.

And that's when he found me, in the midst of green and browned clippings, grunting like Serena Williams returning a volley and hacking away at the shrubs that were now down to their thick bark-like limbs (that were no match for the clippers, so at this point I was just swinging the tool at them as if I could will it to now act as an axe).

I stopped at that point, because I could hear it in his voice when he questioned, "Uh, Babe...? Are you... OK...?" that I was scaring him.

I was fine. But I took out all that wasn't right with the world on those shrubs. And it did feel good.

Sunday, I was seven kinds of sore, but I got out there again (this time in proper "old clothes" gardening attire) and lawn-bagged up the clippings and branches. Hubby-Honey went to Lowe's and bought a "pick mattock", and finished the job--save for one last "shrub nud" whose roots run too deep for us to play with.

So like Britney, I'll be calling in a professional to clean up my impetuous mess, but unlike Britney, I'm clean and sober and didn't have to plop down $25,000+ and 30 days of my life for the therapeutic shedding.

But I think I might understand where she may have been coming from, so those who are venturing into glass greenhouses don't throw stones.

Satisfaction over a job (maybe half-crazily) well (almost) done, a newfound curb appeal and urge to garden, and Ma, for the hydrangea, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Smith and Hawken, here I come!

Shoe You - Shoe U.

Kendall of Macy's at Cumberland expertly assisted me as I selected and purchased a pair of shoes. When the transaction was complete, he directed my attention to my receipt and asked me to go online to www.macys.com/tellus and rate my shopping experience with him. In fact, he wrote his full name on the receipt, asked me to use it, and to give him the highest ranking with each of the criteria presented once I got online.

How many times have I been asked to do such a thing by a sales rep at any given store? Plenty. And I have the best of intentions to do so, but then life happens.

But last night, because of Kendall's unequivocal boldness in telling me exactly what he wanted of me, darned if I didn't go online and do just as he instructed. I'm sure he'll gain something from it as a result.

For reminding me to operate in boldness and ask for precisely what I want (what have I got to lose?), Kendall, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Altagracia

Happy Birthday, Julia Alvarez. Your novel, How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents, is a favorite of mine. Your words evoke a vivid imagery that make travel to the Dominican Republic possible by just a turn of the page. The chapters both enchant and leave me in stitches. For the cultural lessons and simple pleasures received in reading your work, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

I Got 99 Posts and this Bit is One -- Hundred

Happy Monday! Hope your new week is off to a great start.

This entry is the 100th post of The Thanks Ranks (counting some in draft form that have been written but not seen the light of day). I don't think anyone is more surprised than I!

For me this is a tangible lesson in how far you can go toward a goal by just putting one foot in front of the other, taking one step at a time. If someone had told me back in November when this project began that I'd have to write about 100 things I was grateful for in the form of blog entries with a March 26, 2007 deadline, I would have likely said, "Whoa... I don't know if I can do that... Where would I find the time? I can't just list them? What would I say? What would I write about?!"

And to be honest, those thoughts did cross my mind. But in just simply thinking of it as something I'd set out to do on an as-much-as-possible daily basis with weekends off for 'good behavior', I said, "Just do it!" And now I lift my head up and look back to discover it's been done 100 times. I'm ready to go tackle another 100 more. No pressure. Just one post at a time.

What task or project are you facing that seems so daunting that you can't figure out how to get it done, so you've not even started? I encourage you (and myself, on other fronts) to begin today, with just a simple step. And then tomorrow, take another one--a nice, small manageable step.

Let's make a deal. You commit to starting out on something you've been wanting to get going on for awhile, and I'll commit to letting you know when (God willing) I've hit post #200. Let's see how far you can travel on your "Journey of 1000 Steps" by that time, and we'll celebrate together. What do you say?

Consider the wise saying, "How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time."

Proverbial elephant, knife and fork--I'm wiping my mouth, taking another morsel, and for the lesson, adding you to The thanks Ranks.

Yes, I'm Still Grateful

Hi Thanks Ranks Reader Friends!

I've been under under the weather since Saturday, and my entire family has fallen suit in a domino effect. Taking care of myself, to take care of them, to doing "just one thing" that I have on my calendar, turns into a relapse, where I'm sick again.

At first it was the chills and fever, then a cold, and now, I think allergies. But usually, I get a case of the flu once a year, and this year, due to a flu shot, I really do believe I have been spared. So I take this time as being simply that--"just my time" to take ill.

For all of you who have attempted to check in with me, know that although there haven't been any posts to The Thanks Ranks this week, I have indeed experienced things for which I am grateful. They include:

A surprise visit from Denise by way of Tuscaloosa, AL; a helpful tip that I successfully employed from Sienna for taking care of pimples with Colgate; the finds I found at Finders Keepers; a sunny Atlanta afternoon enjoyed child-free on Debby's new screened in porch for a couple of hours (thanks to Bridget and Shawn); and the discovery of Amy Winehouse.

I say to them and to you--for your kind concern--you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Fly Kingfisher, Fly!

If you live in metro Atlanta and you're familiar with the stretch of road called 'Rockbridge', you've GOT to check out The Kingfisher Cafe. It's a relatively new foodie oasis in an otherwise barren culinary wasteland.

Hubby-Honey picked up some take-out of Fall-Off-The-Bone Baby Back Ribs and Pesto Chicken Panini last night that had us doing our family's traditional 'Happy Dance'. On a warmer evening we'll plan to stay awhile and incorporate The Kingfisher into a date night. I'm already eying the Smoked Mozzarella Ravioli.

For your labor of love, co-owners Buffy Davis and Talcott Printz, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Oh, We're So Over It

For peace provided from a fresh perspective, Robert M., LCSW, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

La Dia Con Mia En La Biblioteca

Ms. Mia--we had fun with you and friends today during the "Time for Tales" hour of stories, activities and music. You've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Swimmin' with the Fishes

It occurs to me just how many of my dear friends and family are born between February 19th and March 20th.

Pisceans--you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Birthday, Lisa and Taylor. Happy 'Birth Day'--literally--Newest One to Kirsten.

Defining 'Silver Lining'

Relief that comes from a decision being made--even a disappointing one: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Birthday, Bridget!

Cheers for Teachers

Back to doing my due diligence in mapping out an educational game plan for my little ones, I couldn't help but reflect upon teachers who made a difference in my life.

Ms. Behrmann, Ms. Laskowski, Ms. Gardner, Mr. Belz, Mr. Bingham--I want teachers like you for my children when they "grow up". You've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

A Pause for the Cause

Out and about early this morning, I became aware that I was braking behind an old familiar acquaintance.

The #2 MARTA bus was letting folks out at the precise stop I used to disembark from to go to my job at City Hall East when I first moved "carless" to Atlanta in '93. For awhile, I managed to live, work and shop along this route.

As I sat and waited for 'The #2' to begin its slow and laborious crawl up the road, I looked in my rear view mirror at my sleeping little ones and was reminded of how far, on so many levels, I've been blessed to come. But as Maya Angelou said, "I wouldn't take nothing for my journey now."

Life, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

I've Got Something Good for You to Do This Weekend

Want to do something spiritually uplifting for yourself this weekend, while helping out a wonderful little cause that I know would really appreciate your support? Here you go:

I happened across The Ultimate Gift movie last week after researching stories for Thanks Ranks Radio.

The movie, based on the best-selling book, tells the tale of trust fund baby Jason Stevens. "When his wealthy grandfather dies, Jason expects a big inheritance. Instead, he receives his grandfather's crash course on life, complete with twelve tasks – or 'gifts' – designed to challenge him in improbable ways. It sends Jason on a journey of self-discovery and forces him to determine what is most important in life: money or happiness."

Intrigued? You can check out the trailer and additional film clips here.

My grandmother gave me a number of gifts, both while she was here, and after she departed in 2004. The greatest of them was the legacy of being a Godly, loving, sane and supportive woman.

When she passed away, a small non-profit called Adopt-A-Grandparent Program allowed me to channel and process my grief in a productive way. I'll be forever grateful, and whenever I have the opportunity to support them, I do.

So with the opening of The Ultimate Gift during this "Weekend of Giving" (March 9, 10, 11), I think it fitting to humbly ask that you go see it, and gift Adopt-A-Grandparent Program with $1.00 from your ticket purchase.

How? It's easy. Just purchase your ticket online. All you need is Adopt-A-Grandparent's promotion code 500552.

1) Visit www.FoxFilmFund.com and insert your zip code. A list of theaters in your area will appear.

2) When you click on the theater nearest you, you will be directed to either www.fandango.com or www.movietickets.com and you'll be able to enter the promotion code in the area that says 'organization code'.

The Ultimate Gift movie has been booked in approximately 850 U.S. theaters to date, so you're bound to find one near you.

How can I not support this endeavor? Know what one of the movie's 12 "gifts" is? Gratitude!

Post a comment or shoot me an email letting me know that you plan to do this, and I'll gladly add you to The Thanks Ranks.

Remember, the code is 500552.

Hair Apparent

Naeemah,

This evening, while looking at some pictures of me with Big Boy when he was a Baby Boy, it occurred to me just how long my hair has gotten over these almost three years since I first been locking it. I have you to thank.

Now with the addition of Baby Girl, being able to go "from zero to 60 in 7 seconds" when it comes to styling my hair is a godsend. So you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

You, as well as a lesser known 'eminem' who've I've been wanting to applaud for some time now, for his terrific taste in women. ;-) Happy Birthday, sir!

Gee's, That's a Pretty Stamp

I love these postal stamps. They add a splash of color and pop to my stationery that makes my envelopes themselves a work of art. Who wouldn't want to open their mail and find out what awaits inside? It brings me joy to use them.

USPS Art Director Derry Noyes and the talented, ever-resourceful Gee's Bend quilters past and present, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Sandy Springs Civility

To Paul, for kindly servicing Hubby-Honey's watch, and to the other helpful staffers and security at LeeBrant Jewelers...

And Corey at Whole Foods, for helping me identify and select a suitable iron supplement alternative to 'bovine red blood cells' (eewwwww....)

You've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

What a Week! TGIF

It's been a few days, so I have much to share. Too much to write, so why not listen?

Due to a tornado watch complete with terrible rains and storming, Thanks Ranks Radio did not air yesterday. So I'm going to dish today, on TGIFriday. Still appropriate, right?

Listen at 3:00 p.m. live, or catch the archive.

Bright, bright, Sunshine-y Day, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Gushing with Gratitude

I still need a moment to collect my thoughts. There's been so much going on for which I'm grateful that I can't yet begin to articulate it. Honestly, I don't know that it will ever be possible.

For now let me just say that over the last few days I've once again been humbled, as I consider my life and realize just how much I've been and continue to be really, really blessed. I say this without sanctimony--there just really is no other word for it. I find myself caught up in grateful introspection.

Consider your life for a moment--long enough 'til you get to the point where you see what I mean. See? You see? That's what I'm talking about... Do you have the words? If you do, keep reflecting. You're not there yet. ;-)

Thank you, thank you for sharing in this experience and being a part of The Thanks Ranks.

Pink is the New Bliss

Oh my goodness, I'm on the ultimate sugar-sensory high after experiencing Chocolate Pink this evening. Right about now, I love you--I love everybody. I'm a happy-happy-jumpy-joy girl.

I brought home their signature pastry (comprised of a hazelnut cookie bottom, chocolate mousse, chocolate buttermilk cake and chocolate ganache) to Hubby-Honey. He likey-likey too. He says, "Is good-nik."

For incredibly capping a day that was all about me, Theresa, Michelle and Erin (email me if I've misspelled your names and I'll make the edit): you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

My adoration to the chef. Thanks, Chef Balbierer.

There Are No Words

I can't shake this story.

Do hold hands with your loved one. Do sit next to him/her on the couch. Do save your children's artwork.

Mr. B., until I'm at liberty to say more, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Russa-Frussa MySpace Hackers

russa-frussa (adj.), definition: 1. A made up expletive first introduced by Grateful Lisa's father when she was,"knee-high to a grasshopper," that safely enables one to describe someone or something with which one is displeased without being offensive. Used in lieu of commonly known cuss words. (n.): Someone or something with which one has extreme displeasure.

Used as in:

"Some russa-frussa hackers got into my Thanks Ranks MySpace page and apparently sent out foul messages and "party at my house" invitations under my profile. Now instead of tending to other pressing details (i.e., prepping for this afternoon's Thanks Ranks Radio broadcast), I'm having to do damage control. Russa-frussas!"

To Kirsten (that's "K-ur-sten", not "K-ear-sten") ;-) , who knew these acts weren't possibly in my character and alerted me to the problem: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Thanks to My Original Fam-Gs

Just a public reminder...

Mom and Poppy, as Kellie says, you're the type of folks I would like even if you didn't belong to me. :-)

And since you asked, Craig:

Continuing to live life with your irrepressible flair that keeps me on my toes and in stitches--that, Dear Brother, among the many things you do--can get you added to The Thanks Ranks.

I'm touched that you cared. ;-)

To the three who under the same roof I spent the first 17 years of my life: you hold permanent places in The Thanks Ranks.

Double Scoop of Thanks

More cake and ice cream celebrations--this time for Hubby-Honey celebrating one year minus the Big 4-0 yesterday. I remember him at the tender age of 31. Where does the time go...? :-)

Hence, in being Thanks Ranks MIA these last few days I owe gratitude nods to Jackie and the crew at One Hour Personalizing Cleaners, who are my partners in drycleaning crime, with their nobody-does-it-better same day service...

And to Kendall, who came through in a clutch today with a quality copier and kind conversation.

Jackie and Kendall--for keeping me the consummate professional after some time out of the game, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

The Power of Now Thanks

To the wise but anonymous person who shared these thoughts online, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Be Thankful Now

Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don't know something
For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times
During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations
Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge
Because it will build strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes
They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you're tired and weary
Because it means you've made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are
also thankful for the setbacks.

If I don't check in, have a great weekend!

Love, Now Happiness

So yesterday was about the love. Today, it's all about the happiness.

Does money buy happiness? Did you know their are folks who conduct "happiness research" and speak to this and other such questions?

Jonathan Clements, author and award-winning personal-finance columnist for The Wall Street Journal, has talked with some of these experts, and will share his findings today on Thanks Ranks Radio.

One of the most "happiness-gifted" people I know, Theresa H.-S., will complete our "Thanks Ranks Three-Way", and if you're able to tune in live, you too will be given the opportunity to be a part of the triumvirate.

It's a Thankful Thursday at Three (3:00 p.m. EST) on Thanks Ranks Radio. As always, on this day, you tell me who to add to The Thanks Ranks. Tune in live, or catch the archived show at your leisure.

Already added to the Ranks: Jonathan and Theresa.

Spread Love

As our very first Valentine's Day (the one when we were exclusively dating, but who knew what the future held) approached, I asked Hubby-Honey to please not send me flowers to the office, as I had a feeling he'd be inclined to do.

At the time I was working at a B-to-B magazine publishing company. It had a staff of about 20, comprised mostly of women--women who were unattached or unlucky in love. I didn't want to rub the day in their faces. I told Hubby-Honey so. Whatever he may be wanting to do, a simple, private acknowledgement of the day would suffice. He just listened.

On the day, a large, beautiful multi-colored bouquet of carnations was delivered to the office. Who were the flowers for? The card said to all the ladies in my office. Each was to take one that suited her from the bouquet. Who were they from? Hubby-Honey.

The mood in that office changed love-festive instantly. Can I just tell you who was considered the SWEETEST guy ever by all on that day?

And then, the following morning, a dozen red roses exclusively for me arrived at the reception desk. Not for Valentine's Day, but just because.

This is the man I've since shared subsequent Valentine's Days with--all still just as sweet as the first.

I spread love to you today, reader-friends, as Hubby-Honey did with those carnations. Happy Valentine's Day.

And Hubby-Honey, who else but you could I add today to The Thanks Ranks? Today, Tomorrow, Always.

Law of Attractive Pattern

Since starting The Thanks Ranks, my eyes have indeed been opened to the positive in my life in a special way. And the most uncanny things have been happening to me, on an almost daily basis. This is one example of many that I think you can especially appreciate with me.

This past month, I set a goal of mapping out a 30-day dinner meal plan. I did it, and it's helpful knowing already that next Friday my family will be having tilapia with lemon and dill sauce, rice pilaf and broccoli, so I can plan and shop accordingly.

To celebrate this newfound efficiency, I had a fleeting thought that it would be nice to get some new dinnerware.

Now I've been in no hurry, and I haven't actively gone out and looked, but in walking through Macy's the other day, this is what I happened across in a display on my way to the escalator.

Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do (insert The Twilight Zone theme song here).

Noritake, for your personally appealing design of Mocha Java casual dining collection and taking my breath away, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

School Daze

Hmmm.

While it is my expectation that my little ones will grow up to finish high school and successfully go on to college...

For enabling me to inhale-exhale and keep the looming question of, "Where will I send my children to school?" in perspective--given their list of successful dropouts--Dr.Shaun Kerry and Education Reform.net, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Mo' Modem Makes It Mo' Better!

I've missed you all!

After days of trouble shooting, I am back online with the discovery that my lack-of-internet-access woes were a result of a modem that had essentially given up the ghost.

So I've got some catching up to do in adding 'Drummerboy' to The Thanks Ranks for sharing the heartwarming 'Juan Mann' story and video with me that I in turn shared with my listeners on Thanks Ranks Radio yesterday. Hugs, hugs, hugs!

I also have to acknowledge my forever-on-the-go matriarch and patriarch for allowing me to do the show remotely from their home. I remain amazed by what one can do these days with technology, and grateful that my folks retired to Atlanta.

Then I have to send my appreciation to Thanks Rankers Julie and Traci for joining me as my co-hosts for yesterday’s 'Hugs and Love' centered show—complete with Grandmother! Can I tell you all--I am blessed for days given the friends I have…

So it’s with a fond “see you later” that I send Pam all good wishes as she crosses the pond.

And while there’s more, I’ll have to save it for another time, as I have much ground to make up for elsewhere now that I’m back online. How did life get lived before the Internet?

Big, strong signaled modem, you too have been added to The Thanks Ranks.

The Thanks Ranks Twilight Zone

This has been a bizarre week for The Thanks Ranks. Blogger has been acting the fool, those who were in the process of being added have in more than one instance done something to forfeit their place, and great things that I'd love to recognize are either not my story to tell, or too premature to be revealed.

Hence, for the fist time ever, I'm feeling a little dry as it relates to fresh Thanks Ranks inductee material. So here's my tried and true, go-to fallback (oxymoron?), that has always come to mind over the years when I've found myself stuck in pondering gratitude...

My ten fingers and ten toes: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Great Greetings 101

Ms. Shunnarah at ICS; Kate at the under-new-management Urban Tea Party; my dear friends from Saturday night; Shirley, Nancy, Frances and Susie at Briarcliff Baptist (thanks for the intro, Talia)--they know how to make a gal feel welcome and create experiences that make for a great weekend.

You've all been added to the Thanks Ranks.

Congrats to you and your team, Coach Dungy. You're a class act.

Whew! 2

OK, so the link mentioned "here" in today's preceding post does not work. So to hear the show, try going to Thanks Ranks Radio, find yesterday's (February 1st) show, What is The Thanks Ranks?, under the 'archived segments' tab, and click on the segment's title.

Have a Super weekend!

Whew!

Well, after launching Thanks Ranks Radio yesterday, I am spent.

I appreciate the support, encouragement and kudos I've received from many of you. You're the greatest. Kellie and Bridget, thanks for being my beloved co-hosts for the day, and Shanta, thanks for the pleasant surprise of calling in and contributing mightily to our discussion.

Didn't catch Thanks Ranks Radio live? No worries. The show is archived here, so you can listen at your leisure.

I'm going to rest today, and then get back to prepping for next week's show. Michele? What say you? ;-)

To my friends Roxanne, Devoya, Patti and Poetess, who skillfully make the work of radio look effortless and inspire me: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Birthday, Poetess!

People Get Ready

Thanks Ranks Radio launches live tomorrow--Thursday, February 1, 2007, at 3:00 p.m. EST.

It'll be the show's maiden voyage on the internet radio waves. So I thought it fitting that I call on my friends Bridget and Kellie, who served as my matron-of-honor and maid-of-honor, to join me as co-hosts for the day. We think we're pretty entertaining when we get together. You be the judge.

Got someone who YOU would like to add to The Thanks Ranks? Call in during the show and tell us about them.

Listener Call in Number: (646) 652-4612

In order to listen to the show, your computer must have the Windows Media Player. You can download the latest version at the Windows Media Download Site. There is a version of Windows Media for Mac users as well.

So tune in tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. by simply going to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thethanksranks

We'll dish--and serve up a little attitude of gratitude.

You tell me who to add to The Thanks Ranks.

Party On

Well, not really. We're all "partied" out celebrating Big Boy yesterday. But I received this What is Your Cocktail IQ? quiz this a.m. from Fine Living's e-newsletter, and thought it would be fun to pass it along to you.

Seeing as though I'm not really a drinker, save for a Bellini at brunch or a celebratory sip of champagne, I didn't expect to do well on this test. And I didn't. 3 correct answers out of 10--because by process of elimination I guessed right!

So at the test's end, I was teasingly called a Teetotaller (I often am) and heralded for being the Designated Driver (I often was). Nonetheless, I've always been fascninated by the world of mixologists.

Take the quiz for fun. How will you fare?

For the sober amusement and all your great programming that enthralls and educates me: Fine Living, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Cheers!

Brides and Bath Salts

Hanging out with a friend today as she worked her magic at a bridal show, I met an esthetician with Eastside MedSpa & Family Practice, who gifted me with yummy bath salts that she personally mixed. I modified their use for a oh-so-luxurious shower.

A complimentary skin consultation and facial are just short of an hour's drive away for me... I may take her up on her offer.

Amanda: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Java Jump

Sometimes, when you're out and about and your car battery inexplicably goes dead, requiring a jump and a trip to Auto Zone--two feedings, a poopy diaper change and one wet pants episode later, a tall Java Chip Frappuccino is all that's needed to make everything right with the world.

To the drive-thru Starbucks at Cumberland Market in Smyrna: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

(Wo)Man in the Mirror

OK, so with this entry, I'm going to tell myself that no one reads The Thanks Ranks. ;-)

In 2006, Hubby-Honey and I made the conscious decision to not watch television in our home for the entire year. That's another post for another day. But I mention it to say that although we've relaxed our stance in 2007, we've grown so accustomed to not watching it that we still really don't, even though we're now "allowed".

But yesterday, I was compelled to tune in to Oprah and watch her episode on "What Five Words Describe Your Marriage?". And in doing so, I received what I'll call THE A-HA MOMENT SMACKDOWN, in which I realized some things about me that unearthed some things I'd never considered about myself, but now couldn't escape because a great, big full-length mirror was being placed in front of me.

To add insult to injury--or irony--two of the three women in the three couples featured (brave, crazy souls--I give them a lot of credit) were named Lisa. And dare I admit, they had a few personality, ahem, "challenges" with which I could identify. Yeah, S-M-A-C-K-D-O-W-N.

So while I continue this hard but necessary and beneficial look at myself, and brace myself for what I wonder might be "part two" with today's episode, "Thirty-Something in America", I challenge you to consider the Spiritual Partnership Guidelines presented by Dr. Gary Zukov, and see if anything resonates with you, in any of your relationships.

I'm chalking all this up to, "be careful what you wish for...," but I am truly grateful for the pills I'm having to swallow. My marriage, my parenting, and all my relationships will be all the better for the work I'm willing to do.

So yeah, thanks Oprah and Gary Zukov, for raisin' up, flipping my inner world and twisting it 'round my head like a helicopter (some of you will get that, ha-ha-ha), but more importantly, thank you Hubby-Honey, for loving me in all my "stuff", and being the best partner God could have ever blessed me with. Yeah, I ended that sentence in a preposition, and you know what? I see that it's OK.

For all of you in relationship with me, you've just been added to The Thank Ranks.

Lost in the Sauce

Publix Super Markets, for your current "Buy One Get One Free" sale on 64 oz. bottles of Juicy Juice, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Turn the Feat Around

At halftime, my Yankees-fan-since-birth Hubby-Honey made his announcement:

"Everyone, go put on your rally caps."

The children and I obliged (well of course, I had to help Baby Girl), and within minutes we were all sitting in front of the TV donning the silliest of our hats in a modified baseball ritual, with hopes of it working for football. It did.

So Indianapolis, while maybe you should be adding my family, I'll simply say (as the athletic little girl now grown who wanted to play with pigskin but was relegated to a life of soccer), Lovie and Tony: for inspiring NFL history, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

C. and A., I hope you won't hold this against us. ;-)

Meditative Meals on Wheels

For a particularly transcendent Saturday, Panera (this time for the bagels), Paul and my prayer pals: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Blind Ambition

Raul Midon, for sharing your TREMENDOUS talent that caused my jaw to drop and my guitar to get picked up again, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

I'm with the Band

Me: Six tickets to the Honda Battle of the Bands, please.

Ticketmaster: Sure. All seats are $10 apiece for reserved seating.

Me: OK. Good deal.

Ticketmaster: Plus a $3.25 service charge per ticket.

Me: Yes, but of course.

Georgia Dome Ticket Office: Uh, excuse me, but in your running around town during the course of your day, if you want to stop by, I'll give you the tickets at $10 each, with no additional charges. There's a parking lot convenient to me, so it'll be no sweat.

Me: Cool. I'll put you on my day's itinerary. OK. I'm here.

Georgia Dome Ticket Office: Here are your tickets. The last in a really great section too. Your dad and son, band fans that they are, are truly going to love this.

Me: I appreciate it. Georgia Dome Ticket Office, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Ain't Too Proud to Shop

Tresa and Junior League of Atlanta, for giving me a guilt-free and rewarding shopping experience yesterday, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happiest of birthdays, Poppy! xoxo

Celebrity Face-off

OK, so in my profile I mention that I enjoy entertainment news, which means that I am amused by celebrity culture.

So when I was introduced to MyHeritage Face Recognition - Celebrity Matches by my TV producer/cinematographer/editor/animator friend Carlos, I was intrigued.

Essentially, MyHeritage helps folks track their genealogy through face recognition technology. As a fun feature on their site, they have you upload a photo of yourself, and from it they then apply their technology to match you with the celebrities that have your facial features and hence, share a resemblance.

So I did it. Here's who they came up with for me, with how closely we resemble each other represented by a percentage value:

Sofia Coppola: 60%
Uh, hi MyHeritage. I'm Lisa, and I'm a Black woman. The color photo I submitted kinda clearly reflects that. But you did say 60%, so I'll cut you some slack.

Amber Benson: 62%
Not...

Sela Ward: 63%
Quite...

Anne Hathaway: 64%
Seeing This. Is it the broad smiles? I guess I'll give you that...

Jared Padalecki: 64%
OK, first: Who?
Second: A guy? That's just plain mean.

Elizabeth Hurley: 66%
Seriously, now.

Gabrielle Union: 67%
Ah, a Black woman. Now we're getting somewhere. Except, uh, looking like Gabrielle? Not so much.

Nia Long: 70%
OK, this is getting downright comical. Guess your catalog of Black female celebs isn't that vast, huh?

Rosario Dawson: 71%
You're just trying to be funny now.

AND THE #1 CELEBRITY I MOST CLOSELY RESEMBLE (Drum roll, please):

Heather Locklear: 72%
HEATHER LOCKLEAR?! Heather Locklear?! A word with this technology's programmers, please.

Curiously missing from this list is the celebrity that I have, before chopping off and subsequently locking my hair, actually been told that I resemble (even once being quietly approached in the airport for an autograph!): Holly Robinson Peete.

What do you think? Give this a try for yourself. I'd be curious to know what you think of your results.

For the chuckle, Carlos and MyHeritage, you've just been added to The Thank Ranks.

Please join me in sending Carlos good wishes and encouragement. He's working through his heartbreak of missing the FEDEX deadline to submit to the Emmys. Everything happens for a reason, Carlos. When it's your time, you won't be denied.

No Grizzle Fo' Shizzle

For taking the "woof" from my two favorite guys and returning them to me looking like an officer and a gentleman, master barber Fred, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

International Thanker

Yesterday was International Thank You Day (I know, why didn't I tell you yesterday? It was just one of those days--I'm a mom, I have them), but according to the Crayola Calendar, International Thank You Days run 'til January 18th.

So I'm going to go with that and send thanks today to Eriko. Perennial Thanks Ranker KC contacted her on my behalf, as Eriko is currently living back in Japan, and learned for me that the cookies I was gifted with and have been desiring are only sold and shipped domestically, so basically--I'm out of luck.

Unless you're coming to the States again any time soon, Eriko... ;-)

So, true to my word: for leaving me no choice but to turn my focus to losing my pesky-preggie five pounds now that I know my beloved cookies are unattainable for the foreseeable future, Eriko, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

A Squirrel Monkey, God, Jesus and Santa?

Listening to NPR's "All Things Considered" this afternoon during my favorite drive on I-85, I had the pleasure of hearing this humorous and poignant commentary by storyteller Kevin Kling. I hope you'll take a listen and enjoy it too.

For articulating my similar experience in maintaining this blog--getting to see people at their best everyday and being grateful--Kevin Kling, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Big Baby Thanks

The Nurse Helpline staff and doctors at my children's pediatrician's office are the best.

For being an integral part of my little ones' health since Day One, and giving us the thoughtful attention and care that make us feel like we're the only family you tend to, Sandra, Dr. Pollack and everyone over at Dekalb Pediatric Center, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Your Own Private Project Runway

OK, I'm forewarning you: do NOT go to this site unless or until you're prepared to throw your entire day off schedule, because you're going to get totally consumed here...

Who of you out there remembers the toy activity called "Fashion Plates" from back in the day, circa 1978?

I'm here to tell you that if you don't know what I'm talking about, boy, did you miss out on hours of fun, mixing and matching tops and bottoms and rubbing colored pencils down to the nub to get the perfect texture on your design creations.

But you are so fortunate, because now, you can have an online experience that reminds me of such fun times, but blows them away exponentially, because THESE designs can be made to look like you and your friends!

I'm talking about Design-her Gals. A beautiful web creation headed by Jeanne Fitzmaurice that I discovered on Oprah's 'O List' in the May 2005 issue.

On this site you can create a Gal in your likeness, and add her to personal stationery, business cards, t-shirts, invitations--they give you many, many options.

And just recently, I learned that you can add her to your e-mail signature, blog or website. So I took Designer-her Gals up on their offer and they helped me come up with my Thanks Ranks Radio Gal (**If you're having trouble viewing this with your IE browser, and you really do care to see it, please try cutting and pasting this link http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thethanksranks into your address bar**).

Admirably, 5% of every Design-her Gal sale goes toward their Gal to Gal Foundation's effort to raise money for Stage 4 breast cancer patients.

So you can feel good about all the time you're going to spending on this site--which I'm telling you, is going to be A LOT! I introduced my parents to the site yesterday to show them my Radio Gal (and I'll admit, I've got more than a few "Lisa Gals" saved that I've designed since first discovering the site), and they got hooked designing one for my mother--with my father having very strong opinions on which features did or didn't most resemble her. Guess he figured after almost 37 years, he should know!

I love my new Thanks Ranks Radio Gal, and now I'm ready to launch. Jeanne, Mary, Erica, Dewey and Sue, for making her possible and making your work worthy cause-focused, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Anniversary Weekend - Part II

The Thanks Ranks is celebrating 50 today--its 50th post!

Yes, today marks 50 entries that have been made since the creation of The Thanks Ranks back in November 2006. I have personally had an amazing time. Everyday, through this blog, I'm meeting new people and making new friends. Fine and fascinating folks, you Thanks Ranks readers are!

In celebration of your support, I'm thrilled to announce that The Thanks Ranks will soon be launching a blog talk show called Thanks Ranks Radio. You'll be able to tune in and listen to it live on your computer, hear from me and a couple of invited friends, call in from your telephone to participate and personally add your own friends, family, acquaintances--what have you--to The Thanks Ranks.

And the best part? If you miss it live, the show will be recorded and you can catch it when you can!

OK, I was wrong, that's not the best part. The best part is: keep living right, do unto others... and when they ask, "What can I ever do to repay you?" you'll be able to say, "Tune into Thanks Ranks Radio live on Thankful Thursdays at Three (3:00 p.m. EST-New York), call in and add me to The Thanks Ranks!"

I haven't given you the full details, I know, but I've got some Gals helping me put the finishing touches on these plans--so hang on and all will be revealed soon.

Please save the date--Thursday, February 1, 2007--and plan to join me for Thanks Ranks Radio's maiden voyage on the internet airwaves.

In the meantime, know that I deeply appreciate you checking in with me here when your precious time allows. I raise my 50th celebratory glass to you. Your cherished support has just been added to the Thanks Ranks.

Cheers!

Weekend Anniversaries - Part I

Lunch with the Girls—
a joyous occasion:
10 years since the start
of our purposed trail blazin’.

Hubby-Honey—you’re good?
Yes, milk has been pumped.
I’ve great faith in you
but call if you get stumped.

Drivin’ alone
(how rare!)
Am I insane?!
Better get out
of the HOV lane.

Pull into the Center
that boasts a Coach House
I’m greeted with charm—
Can you say southern-soused?

Up the lift,
‘round the bend,
oh, there they are!
With this grand reception
you’d think I’m a star!

Hi! Kiss, kiss, hug, hug,
Oh Girl, you look good!
Well, you’re wearing orange
like others wish they could.

And you—look at you,
I’m so lovin’ your ‘do,
You say that I’m glowing?
You’re radiant too!

Well, lookie here—Hey!
Oh Girl, glad you made it!
No, you’re just in time.
Wanna try the “Swan’s Favorite”?

Catch up, reflection,
’06 is a wrap.
What things for ’07
do you have on tap?

This song is so sweet,
but two missed from the tune:
one newly in Maryland, the other—
Camaroon…

You both are sent love.
Your spirit is with us.
Can all of us--friends and fam--
plan to do Christmas?

Just shy of closing
we go on to gab.
Why, these dear, dear friends
even pick up the tab!

Cheers to the staff,
Tip the valet,
Do you want this to end?
It’s such a nice day…

Starbucks is just a few miles away…!

Venti to Venti,
Tall to Short,
Ok to a brownie
but no to the torte.

What say you ‘bout
this “Law of Attraction”?
‘07—agreed,
It’s time for some action!

Ok… gotta go.
Time to head to the car,
Uh—
Would each of you pose
wearing this here tiara?

‘Cause you’re each a queen—
want to capture this moment
Your friendship to me
in a word’s been Heaven-sent.

To my WVG sisters
both here and far-flung,
you’ve all made The Thanks Ranks.
My day’s post is done.

Happy 10-Year Anniversary!

Domo arigato

I was given these cookies from Japan. They were yummy. I ate them all. Now I want more.

If you can tell me what this says, and how I can order some online from www.paqtomog.com, I will add you to The Thanks Ranks. :-)

And no, that extra five pounds of baby weight I'm still carrying is none of your concern. Please just focus on the task at hand and get me the cookies.

Welcome Joeann - Thanks in Action

New Year's resolutions. I haven't made them since, oh, say 2002, but I do take time to reflect upon how I'd like to use my life to make a difference in the lives of others in the coming year.

In my travels as a Goodwill Hunter, I came across a woman who is tirelessly doing some amazing things to that end.

Joeann Fossland is, among many roles, a certified trainer, coach and real estate professional. She is also the leader of the Web Women Giving Circle, a group of professionals who are presently leveraging their talents and resources to raise money for CARE, a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty.

WWGC's specific focus is on working with poor women, with the belief that armed with the proper resources, women can help whole families and entire communities break the stronghold of poverty.

Joeann has embarked upon a virtual whistle-stop tour for CARE, making visits to blogs to chat about this effort.

Always game for something new and making new friends, I invited Joeann to drop in today for a "Three Things on Thanks" Q&A:

ME: C'mon in, Joeann. Welcome to The Thanks Ranks. Make yourself at home. May I offer you a glass of sweet tea?

I read that you were a single mom on welfare in the 70’s and it was from that experience that you gained a real appreciation for how challenging it can be to make a living and be a great mom. Hence, when you regained your self-sufficiency, you were moved to support women’s causes.

Your story is a fascinating, inspiring one. Tell me, to what or whom do we owe thanks for compelling you specifically to establish the Web Women Giving Circle?

JOEANN: Hi Lisa, thanks for inviting me to your blog. It was a project that More Magazine rolled out in the late Spring. They created an intention to raise $1 Million Dollars for CARE to impact women and children through micro development and their other great programs which impact health and hunger.

They created a contest for Giving Circles to compete on who could raise the most money in 2006. I love contests and I love helping women and children, so I was inspired to contact my friends from all over the country (many of whom supported me by helping raise $7K for the Liver Foundation when I ran a Triathlon a few years ago). We had 11 people who joined the Circle with a pledge to raise money, either by donating or helping with projects.

ME: I love MORE Magazine. They're really making “50 the new 40” and “40 the new 30” in a way that makes me look forward to getting, uh, wiser.

So you came up with this idea, got “buy” with a little help from your friends, and then they told someone, who told someone, who told someone… and now you’ve raised $21,340 toward your goal of $100,000. That’s fabulous!

My career background lies in the nonprofit sector, so I have a tremendous amount of respect for what you're doing with the Web Women Giving Circle. When I hear the stories of the women being empowered through CARE's efforts, I can't help but appreciate my own circumstances all the more. How can my blog friends and I make a difference?

JOEANN: I feel the same way. I traveled in South America in '78 and '88 and was amazed at how very poor most of those countries are.

There are two ways to help:

First, we have a donation page that links to our giving circle where people can donate directly to CARE.

Or, for real estate agents, we have some wonderful sponsors who have donated their tools for us to sell as premium packages ranging from $20 to $150 each and worth over $295. By buying a premium package, you get a tax deduction for business expenses, tools to help you grow your business and 100% of the money is the donated to CARE. You can view the package here.

Isn't this funny, Lisa, in Blogosphere, one can talk in hyperlinks!!!

ME: It is something. I'm amazed daily by what's possible on the web.

Hey KC and DB, did you catch what Joeann said about how real estate agents can get involved? ;-)

What are you grateful for today, Joeann? Who would you like to add to The Thanks Ranks?

JOEANN: I am thankful everyday to be above ground! And I am so lucky to be surrounded and supported by many inspiring women and men.

By the way, your readers might be interested in one other project we developed for the Circle, called www.InspiringWoman.com. It is a place to recognize anyone who has inspired you and that you are grateful for being in your life and we are asking people to make a $10 donation to CARE to post! What a great way to say thank you to someone!

And, of course, I'd like to thank you for all you are doing! Everyone needs thanks and gratitude is sure an attractive energy. I like to say that gratitude makes our hearts rise, like yeast in bread! You truly have a BIG HEART! Thank you.

ME: Well, I really appreciate that Joeann. What a great analogy. Thank you.

So tell me Joeann, with all you've got going on, when do you sleep? :-) Oh, wait. That’s four questions, and we did call this “Three Things on Thanks”, right?

But I am so delighted that you stopped by The Thanks Ranks today, and wish you safe travels and continued success on your tour.

To you, your 11 friends and all who have and plan to support the CARE-ing efforts of the Web Women Giving Circle, you’ve just been added to The Thank Ranks.

Riddled with Thanks

So the day got away from me yesterday, but I have to acknowledge this guy who was a 12-gauge troubleshooter for something that will be revealed on the 50th.

And tell me, tell me, do you know? Where in the blogworld is Joeann Fossland? You should CARE.

Check in tomorrow for the latter. All will be revealed soon for the former.

In the meantime, Bob C.: you know who you are, you know who you're with and you know what you did. You've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy New Year!

Delighted to meet you on the other side of 2006.

As you move-it move-it through 2007...



may you be tickled with joy!



To the crazy creatives behind T.M.X. Elmo and Frogz that have taken silly joyfulness in my home to a new level, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Cheers!