Thanks for the McMemories

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

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

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)

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

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

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'

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)

(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

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!

(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)

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...

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

Untitled

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

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

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)

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

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'

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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.

I Interrupt This Weekend...

to wish Theresa a Happy Birthday!!

Tiara wishes and Cherubim dreams, Friend.

Chill

It is SOOOOOOO hot in Atlanta today. Central air conditioning in my home has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Have a great weekend!

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (8.23.07)

Here's what was referenced today and added to The Thanks Ranks. Thanks for calling in, Shaun!

* Ms. Tammy and Ms. Faith - Big Boy's pre, pre-K teachers extraordinaire

* Thea Singer, for her article in the September 2007 issue of O Magazine, "Why We Don't Care About Darfur" (page 236). Honorable mention: 60 Minutes and Scott Pelley's segment, "Searching for Jacob", PRI's The World, for airing, "Celebrities Focus on Darfur", and the organization Save Darfur

* Classmates.com, which helped old high school buddies Jin and Evelyn find me.

* Shaun's adds:

- the "granny with a glass of milk" who attempted to come to his lost tooth's rescue

- new social networking site: Yuwie!

* Best Life magazine (yes, it's a men's mag, but as you know, I'm a magazine junkie--I read just about anything) for the 8 Foods You Should Eat Everyday, complete with recipes and a plan on how to incorporate the foods into your diet

If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.

Who Wants to be a Millionaire?

Excuse me, I have some income-generating strategizing to do:

Retire a Millionaire: How to Start at Age 35 - AOL Money & Finance

For making it benchmarkingly plain in black and white, Kiplinger's, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Thinking of one of the "richest" women I know on her year's eve of 65, Happy Birthday, Mom!

Choose Happy

Some days, it's all about your perspective, right Lily?

"Joy just because" has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Jersey Girls

Jin and Evelyn--long lost high school buddies who found me today--for reminding me that we're still "the best in the world", you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

What the World Needs Now...

I got some from black Prius WF56AJ, who pulled out of a "front door" space in the perpetually packed downtown Decatur Square parking lot outside the Starbucks, just in time for my arrival--leaving time on the meter to boot!

Then the guy outside Sweet Melissa's with a guitar loudly serenaded Big Boy, Baby Girl and me with it as we disembarked from the truck and made our way to the Starbucks entrance--punctuating it with an, "I LOVE YOU!" ending, to which I yelled back, pleasantly surprising him, "WE LOVE YOU RIGHT BACK!"

"Heh, heh, heh--now THAT'S what I'm talking about..." he shared with outdoor patio, cold-beer-knockin'-back onlookers.

Heat-withstanding Love, effortlessly passed among strangers, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Birthday, Erynn!

Do The Right Thing

Perhaps you've seen it in your travels online... the looped video banner ad with the two Black women in their workspace dancing, droppin' it like it's hot and sweepin' the floor with it, only to be "surprised" when they discover the camera on them.

"Hate" is a strong word that I rarely use, but it's most accurate for describing how I felt about this spot whose relevance to refinancing mortgages, home loans and home equity I questioned.

I got so tired of seeing it everywhere I went online that I couldn't take it anymore. Last Friday I contacted the customer care division of lowermybills.com--the perpetrator.

I shared with them how I found the ad offensive and not truly representative of how women of color, particularly those of African decent, conduct themselves. I challenged that their ad was irresponsible, only fueling negative stereotypes and presenting a skewed view of how those belonging to this segment of people behave in a workplace setting.

I reasonably implored the marketing department to retire the spot, noting that I'd spoken with others who shared my view, and that the ad reflected poorly on the integrity of their company.

Well, I heard back from M. Dimsey in customer care who thanked me for my feedback, and assured me that my comments would be forwarded to their marketing department.

Lo and behold, as I think about it, I've not seen the ad this entire week. How about you? Let me know, 'cause I really, really do want to know.

Giving credit where it so far appears due: M. Dimsey and the marketing folks at lowermybills.com, for listening and responding, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Lesson learned and added to The Thanks Ranks: One voice can make a difference. It isn't likely the only voice, but one that helps tip the scales. Act on your convictions and see what happens.

Have a great weekend!

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (8.16.07)

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

* Thoughts on smiling from Ralph Marston

* Those who were a part of Baby Girl's baby dedication

* Zoho Planner online tool at zoho.com

* Ivillage.com's Top 10 Back-to-School Organizing Tips

* My brave friend, life's celebrations, Italian ice at Paccino's Pizzeria

* Happy Birthday blogtalkradio, Lineeka, Alexandra, Deborah and Cristen (Theresa...?)

If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.

Method to My Madness

I love the method cleaning product line, particularly their flushable wipes. They are my bathroom's saving grace.

"People against dirty": you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Rare Sighting of 1,000 Thank Yous

They say a picture is worth a thousand words...

So, after 24+ hours of not coming up with the right ones to express my gratitude for all the love that was showered on my family and me this past week, leading up to and mushrooming on Baby Girl's dedication day this past Sunday, here is a likely once-in-this-blog's-lifetime glimpse of what I can't put into words.

To all of you who shared in the day in any which celebratory way: you had a part in putting these smiles on our faces, and you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

:-)

Smiling has gotten me through much this week. My brother-in-law shared this with me, and it's been very effective.

Ralph Marston of The Daily Motivator and E.S., you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Smile, and have a great weekend!

Mark of Distinction

Wow, is it Tuesday already? :-)

Family converging on Atlanta this week, starting today. Don't know how much you'll be seeing of me in this space over the next several days...

But folks have been seeing a good deal of Baby Girl, as she's been out and about with me running errands. I don't know if it's because she's now, at one year old, more mobile and hence more "visible" to strangers, but this past week we've received a record number of well-meaning (I think?) but unfiltered comments about the small but clearly noticeable Australia-shaped birthmark that's located below her right eye:

"What's that on her face?"

"Oh... is that her birthmark...?" (with pity so thick you could cut it with a knife)

"I see you, pretty little girl, with your BIRTHMARK."

"Oh, she's GORGEOUS. What is that--a birthmark? Oh honey, you could put a little cover-up on that and she'll be fine."

Yeah, and these are adults. She hasn't even entered the "kids can be cruel" realm.

So although I and those who love her find her birthmark endearing and a non-issue, I'm seeing that I'm going to have to be proactive in building her self-esteem in spades, so she'll feel about it as we do and be ready to respond confidently and assuredly when she's hit with such comments from those not so familiar.

My initial search has brought me to a book entitled, "Buddy Booby's Birthmark", and it's just perfect. I'd love for you to check out the clip featuring it and its amazing young author and his mom that aired earlier this year on The Early Show on CBS. Click here, scroll down to Wednesday, January 3, 2007, and you'll find the links.

Evan and Donna Ducker, and those who take just a moment to think before speaking--embracing the beauty of and beyond the mark--you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

File Under: "Why Didn't I Think of That?!"

Daily Candy has done it again, tipping me off to Wants for Sale.

Check out the painting genius that is Christine Santora and Justin Gignac. See what they want and tell them what you want.

Tops on my list is sending Hubby Honey to Yankees Fantasy Camp next year to celebrate his 40th birthday, but since they're not trying to hear that... I shared with them the "Family Package" DNA kit from African Ancestry, Inc. that I mentioned not too long ago on the July 19th Thanks Ranks Radio broadcast. Think they'd want that too? Hey, it could happen... got to at least put it out there, right? :-)

And that's the just lesson reiterated by these folks at Wants for Sale and why today, Christine and Justin, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Have a great weekend!

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (8.2.07)

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

* Dedicated doctors, surgeons, nurses and all hospital staff who connected to my father with care this week.

* Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB), for presenting "Dishing Democracy", as featured on the PBS series called Wide Angle--human stories. global issues.

* Jono and Season Korchin, founders of Buychange.com (Thanks, Kirsten. See video segment from "The View" in the post below)

* skirt! magazine for the 'bliss reminders' and the belly-laugh I got from reading the feature by Sandra A. Miller, entitled "Kiddus Interruptus"

* Additional belly-laughs and joy from Lineeka and other friends

* The anything but ordinary Uncommon Goods

* Farmers, particularly those who don't mind Big Boy kissing their tomatoes... that end up becoming a flavors-blasting-all-over-your-mouth tomato, basil and mozzarella salad.

If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.

BuyChange.com Founders on The View

As referenced today on Thanks Ranks Radio.

Eating Heart-ily

Between The American Heart Association's recipes, and Sustainable Table's Eat Well Guide, I've been busy in the test kitchen. I'm off to a first-time trip to the Decatur Organic Farmers Market later today.

Resources for opened eyes and ears due to an opened heart, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Have a Heart

Poppy had a heart procedure this morning that uncovered a 90% blockage of one of his arteries. Say what?!

To the surgeons who managed this surprise discovery and acted accordingly, and the hospital staff that is now making sure Poppy's resting and recovering comfortably, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

My Happy Mother's Day

She's got a light around her
And everywhere she goes
A million dreams of love surround her
Everywhere

--Billy Joel, She's Got A Way

To all of you everywhere who celebrate Baby Girl with me--your dreams of love that surround her are appreciated, and you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy 1st Birthday, my most precious and beloved Baby Girl. You too inspire me without a sound.

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (7.26.07)

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

* Monirah and enneagram studies (Part II)
* Garden of Wisdom raw materials for skincare
* The truth about soy? SoyOnline service
* Suzan-Lori Parks on being a writer

I didn't get to this, but wanted to still mention:

* The 5 Things You Need in Your Home to be Prepared for a Natural Disaster

If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety. For earlier shows, check out the Thanks Ranks Radio archives at blogtalkradio.com.

Ouch!

It is recommended that breastfeeding continue for at least 12 months, and thereafter for as long as mutually desired. --American Academy of Pediatrics

Baby Girl has two teeth that have just finally emerged, and she's learning how to use them. "And thereafter as far as long as mutually desired," is a countdown to July 28th, and it has just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

And while I'm on the subject of boobs, I feel like a big one for missing your special day, Kirsten. Happy Belated Birthday!

Declaration of In-the-pen--dance!

"I'm a writer every day I make the decision to write," said Suzan-Lori Parks during her conversation with Pearl Cleage at their NBAF event.

Really? I never thought of it that way... OK. I'm inspired. I believe it now. I'm a writer!

(loud fireworks going off inside my soul here)



For putting it that way, Suzan-Lori Parks, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

T.G.I.M.

Why do I always have a taste for Chick-fil-A fries on Sundays--when I can't get any, because they're closed?

Today, I'll happily be able to get my fill. I often wonder if the secret to their success is divinely connected to their moral stand?

For the example of standing up for what you believe in despite conventional standards and expectations (I consider this foremost, above your fries cooked in peanut oil and your slammin' sweet tea--two lemons, please), Chick-fil-A, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Simply Put

The gift of "today" has just been added to The The Thanks Ranks.

You've got it too. What are you going to do to celebrate?

I think I'll go buy some fresh flowers.

Happy 34th Birthday, my dear "baby" brother Craig.

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio (7.19.07)

Excerpt from the 51st (dream) state by Sekou Sundiata:

And what if we could show
that what we dream
is deeper than what we know?
Suppose if something does not live
in the world that we long to see
then we make it ourselves
as we want it to be.

R.I.P., Mr. Sundiata.

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

* National Black Arts Festival running in Atlanta July 20-29

* Pursue The Passion

* The DNA Project and African Ancestry Inc.

* Ed and the crew at Paccino's Pizzeria

* Monirah, Devonda and enneagram studies (to be continued next week...)

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.

California Hopin'

Big Boy has eczema. His skin has been plagued with it since he was 5 months old.

I am grateful that his condition is not as bad as it once was, and his pediatrician says he may very well be one of those children who for the most part outgrows it.

I hope this will be the case, but we're not there yet. And in the summer, it gets worse. Watching him itch involuntarily while his skin bears the leathery, scarred effects is one of the things that really breaks my heart as his Mom, and keeps me in the fight to find something that will give him relief.

It's been a long, costly battle, with remedies working for awhile, then his eczema becoming somehow "immune" to them, sending us on a quest for something else that may soothe his skin and give it a fighting chance. Today, it led me to California Baby Super Sensitive Everyday Lotion.

Upon first application, it seems to be having a positive effect. "It feels good, Mommy," is what Big Boy told me. It's the little things in life... I'm so happy I could cry.

In checking out their website, I see that there are creams that may prove to be even more effective. I'll give this lotion another couple of days and if appears to make a difference, I'll likely be ordering their Calming Botanical Moisturizing Cream.

Do any of you have experience with eczema? What has worked for you? Let me know, and I'll add you, as I'm doing now with mom-who-understands and California Baby developer Jessica Iclisoy, to The Thanks Ranks.

Tinkle Tee Hee

"Clean Is Happy" and despite the numerous puns I caught (which I wonder whether or not were intentional--I have to believe yes), these folks at TOTO appear to be serious about it.

Big Boy now wants to know what we need Kandoo for? This seems like so much more fun.

For the potty humor that gave me an incredulous chuckle, Washlet, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

The Arch of Friendship

At their gorgeous, brand-spankin' new beauty boutique now in Inman Park, these friends, helped my friend and me, to celebrate another friend, who recently lost 20 pounds (and counting). It all started with a professional eyebrow arching, but it ended with an experience that was so much more.

Tracy and Natalie--no, you're great--and you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks. :-)

Cup of Kindness

To my new friend Kate in AZ who bought me a cup of coffee (which for me translates to frappuccino), I so appreciate it! You've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Have you tried the recently introduced Starbucks Raspberry Mocha Frappuccino? Oh my goodness... It's my new summer love.

Today on Thanks Ranks Radio

So for those of you who didn't know, I host a live internet radio show/podcast on Thursdays--"Thankful Thursdays at 3:00, EST"--to be exact. It's called, "Thanks Ranks Radio".

I had established a blog dedicated solely for the show, and had resources on blogtalkradio.com (who makes my show possible) where I'd post show notes and links to those things I may have discussed on air.

But my consistency in keeping up with all of this in multiple locations has been spotty at best. So I've decided to streamline my processes and just post the show highlights and resources here. It's just easier, and at this stage of my life, I like easy.

That being said, here's what was referenced today and added to The Thanks Ranks:

* vital juice daily
* Whole Foods, for "Supplementing with Superfoods"
* Bolthouse Farms, for Green Goodness and Blue Goodness
* Little India magazine
* charity: water

If you so desire, you can click on the player to the left to hear this week's show in its 30 minute entirety.

Charity: water

Here's my non-profit career background rearing its charitable head again...

1) Get past the fact that this Ford model is GORGEOUS and hear her message (I love and hate her simultaneously) :-)

2) Get past your knee-jerk reaction of, "What?! $20 for a bottle of water?!"

3) Check out http://www.charitywater.org/ for more info, particularly the 'why water?' page

4) Consider how fortunate you (and your children, if applicable) are

5) Make the decision to purchase a bottle and be one of 200 Thanks Ranks readers who makes installing a clean water well in a needy village possible

6) Tell me that you did or are planning to do so, and I'll add you to The Thanks Ranks

In the meantime, Hubby-Honey, for bringing this to my attention; Gelila, for using your beauty and celebrity for something noble (what a concept!); and Scott Harrison, charity: water founder, for determining to do something of monumental human significance with your privilege: you've all just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Backyard Buddy

Until I behold Warrick Dunn up close and personal (sigh...)

I present to you this Atlanta falcon that has been hanging out in my backyard for the last 3 weeks. We've named him?/her? Freddie-Frieda Falcon, and his?/her? visits have absolutely fascinated and delighted my family. Make no mistake about it, this picture doesn't do justice--this is a BIG bird.

For reminding me that nature is cool, and not attacking me as I tried to capture you on film (or rather, digitally), Freddie-Frieda Falcon, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Letting Go is Hard to Do

Truth be told, I STILL had clothes to donate, even after my massive spring cleaning clear-out in April, because I just couldn't get to it all. But I'd made a huge, significant dent.

And as good as it felt then after it was done, I still had trouble letting go of my little ones' clothes this time around, prompted by an American Kidney Fund representative calling late last month and inquiring if I had anything to donate. "Uh... umm... yes...," I reluctantly responded. I'm just a great, big, sentimental sap.

But I worked through it, and this morning, a little after 8:00 a.m., the American Kidney Fund truck came by and picked up my boxes of clothes and miscellaneous household items.

Through this process of giving away, you make more room to receive, right? That's what I keep telling myself--deep breath inhale-exhale after deep breath inhale-exhale.

For coming to relieve me of my things, providing me the reminder that I've been blessed so that I can be a blessing to others, American Kidney Fund, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Birthday Dara, Tenera and Stefani!

Lofty Aspirations

This photo, taken one-handed, looking up, while holding Baby Girl, is one of my favorites from the trip. It's one of the many tiled ceiling with chandelier "squares" in the relatively recently renovated Union Station. Beautiful.

St. Louis Antique Lighting Co., Hayles & Howe, Oehrlein & Associates--for your painstaking work in restoring this landmark that was one of the highlights of my visit, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Veni Vidi Vici

Family reunion in Kansas City, MO. Mission accomplished.

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

We've Got Baggage

Prepping already for next week's air travel--first time with both children.

Carseats and boosters and strollers, oh my! Just how much of this stuff can we bring?

For spelling it all out and relieving my stress because yes, we will be able to manage with these child-friendly allowances, delta.com, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Weekend!

The Hippy-Hippy Shake

WE INTERRUPT THIS OTHERWISE HUMBLE BLOG FOR A MOMENT OF VANITY:

Hey, hmm... I'm walking down my hallway, towards the full length mirror at its end, and I notice something: I have hips.

I have definable, curvy hips. How cool is that? I didn't have hips before the babies. Dare I say I'm moving into "Coke Bottle" territory? I look good! :-)

Pregnancy twice over that made these hips possible, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

WE NOW RETURN YOU TO THE HUMBLE SPIRIT OF THE THANKS RANKS, ALREADY IN PROGRESS.

Miracle Whipped

I've loved Miracle Whip for as long as I can remember. When I was growing up my mother didn't buy it, so we never had it in the house. But my aunt in Niagara Falls, NY did, and it was one of the reasons I looked forward to going there during the summer. Late night fridge runs for Miracle Whip spread on a single slice of bread--mmm-mmm... It was "dessert" enough for me, and always made me happy.

Today I had the pleasure of introducing two mom-friends of mine to the, "great tangy zip of Miracle Whip," over cold cuts--as one had never heard of it, and the other had never tried it. When I was questioned, "What is it?" I hestitated to answer because I've loved it for so long I don't know, except to say, "salad... dressing...". I'm afraid to really know what it is. Ingnorance is definitely bliss in this case. It's been a good, long relationship between Miracle Whip and me. I don't want to mess it up now with any probing--I just want to continue to love it as I know it (or don't really know it, as is likely the case.) :-)

For the yummy in my tummy (plus 0 grams trans fat and 0 grams saturated fat per serving) that takes me WAY back, Miracle Whip: you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy 37th, Mom and Poppy!

Buff Puff

"Body by Yardwork" has just been added to The Thanks Ranks. :-)

Turning A Corner

Hey-Hi!

So usually I take the weekends off for "good behavior" in blogging consistently on the weekdays. But I was a little spotty this past week, so, here I am. :-)

And here's where I've been:

I started The Thanks Ranks when I was in a foggy, funky place in my life. In committing to this project, I thought it might prove therapeutic if I forced myself to look for and acknowledge my blessings, however great or small, and note them in cyberspace. I am happy to report that it has, with results that I would have never been able to expect or anticipate.

And in fact, this week (as Mary J. Blige framed it in the title of her award-winning CD title), I experienced "The Breakthrough". Clarity and revelation came to me re so many things I've questioned or avoided over the years. So I was marveling and sitting with that--and not so much blogging. This week was one for which I was extremely grateful, just not so willing to share so publicly.

As time goes on, and I get more comfortable in this new space, perhaps I'll end up sharing bits and pieces of it in my posts.

But in the meantime, I want to thank all of you who have been along on this journey with me and developed your own appreciation for living with an attitude of gratitude. I'm a genuinely happier, clearer-eyed gal because of it, so you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Right Tool for the Right Job

This sweet baby right here allowed me to make the most of today in my yard, on the longest day of the year. What fun I had. It's just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Summer!

Class of '89

I just can't bring myself to upgrading my status on Classmates.com to a paying Gold member to learn who you are and read what you said...

But to the "mystery signer" from my high school past who wrote something in my guestbook, bringing my total profile views to 60 (is that good?)--for thinking of me--you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Feel free to email me at lisa@thethanksranks.com. Mustangs Forever. :-)

Happy Birthday, Pamela!

Dude!

It's a kids' movie (wink, wink). For the "follow your dreams" lesson for big kids, Surf's Up, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Two-Track Mind

Yesterday, running my errands at a clip that was very necessary to adhere to, I found myself in downtown Decatur at the start of an oncoming train stop. This was not what I needed at the moment.

Particularly because, if you can picture this, I was the second car in the right lane who wanted to make a right turn. Which would have been easy to do, if it weren't for the car in front of me whose intention was to go straight. Which they couldn't do, because of said train stop.

Frustration began to mount, because I couldn't stop thinking, "If only they'd been one lane over to the left... I'd be clear and on my way..."

And so my pondering on this went for 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 4 minutes, 5 minutes...

Big Boy had been snoozing in the backseat, but awakened.

"OOOOhhhhhh... a train!!" he exclaimed.

"Yes, Baby, it's a train," I responded to my avid Thomas The Tank Engine fan.

"Look at all the troublesome trucks!" he noted.

I have been, for the last five minutes, I thought to myself.

"They're going to the Island of Sodor!" he went on.

Not likely, but I won't burst your bubble, my thoughts went on silently. "Maybe so, Sweetie."

"This is GREAT!" he exclaimed.

I turned and looked at him, and his eyes were big as saucers watching this train go by. By this time, we were at the 7 minute mark of this impromptu boxcar parade, and something in observing his glee changed up my mood.

It occurred to me that I had my camera in my purse, so I took it out, and determined that for however much longer this took, I would capture it on film.

"Get that one, Mommy! And that one!" Big Boy began directing me, as I just let it all go and snapped away.

And soon, after a mere 12 minutes out of the history of time had passed, the gates lifted, the light turned green, the car in front of me proceeded forward, and I was able to make my right hand turn and move along my now merrier way. But not before I was able to capture one perfect shot of the train's end.

"Let me see, Mommy. Let me see!" Big Boy pleaded, and at the next light, I cued the camera's review mode and let him see the fruits of our shoot.

"Whoa..." he said in utter pride and amazement. Right back at ya, Kid. I thought.

Childlike wonder that can derail adulthood-induced irritation, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Have a great Father's Day weekend!

Glad for Dads

Yesterday the Wee Ones and I headed to the store to purchase Father's Day cards. I was particularly inspired because Hubby-Honey's best friend, career Air Force man and godfather to Big Boy, had just called from where he's stationed in Korea to check in and see how I'm doing.

Working oceans away from his beloved wife and three children that he misses dearly, and he's kind enough to think of his godson and see about what's going on in our comparatively mundane lives. Sweet. These are the kinds of men and dads that circulate in my life. I am grateful.

So when I'm in the store and checking out the selection (or lack thereof) of cards that speak to dads like these, I'm frustrated. The cards I come across seem to address dads who are/were ATM's or A-holes, who we obligatorily acknowledege on this upcoming holiday, because it's seemingly the right thing to do.

I did, after spending more time than I'd planned, manage to find cards that conveyed what I was feeling for the dads I had in mind. But the experience made me think of the call on Thanks Ranks Radio that I fielded from Kirsten during the archived May 24th show, where she noted that good dads don't seem to get the credit they deserve from the greeting card companies, or our society.

Now don't get me wrong. I know there are a lot of fathers out there who have fallen abysmally short of their duties and responsibilities. But I submit there are more good guys working diligently and lovingly at this fatherhood thing than we are seeing in the media and elsewhere.

Which prompted me to contact an author I'd just learned about earlier in the week, and see if he might be able to join me on today's Thanks Ranks Radio show that will be focusing on fathers. His name is David Manuel, and in his "spare" time, he wrote a book, I Am A Father: Celebrating African-American Fathers, that came out last month.

Turns out he's made himself available, so I invite you to tune in and see what he has to say about his experience in delving into the father-child relationship.

And for kicks, I've invited my father, affectionately known as "Poppy", to also join us on the show. He's reluctantly agreed, because that's what good dads do for their relentless daughters. :-) I don't know how much I'll get out of him, but if ever you've wondered what tree this odd apple fell from, you may be able to get half the story today!

David, Poppy: I'll see you later today on Thanks Ranks Radio at 3:00 EST. For indulging me, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Happy Anniversary, Traci and Renard (another fine father in my book)!

Voices in the Wind

Craaccckkk... WHOOMPH!

I heard it, and Big Boy heard it. Hubby-Honey wasn't home yet, and I was wishing he'd heard it so he could go deal with it. Rain, thunder and lightning were having a grand time outside, as our electricity flickered and threatened to leave us in darkness. Now something outside was amiss.

<Lean-in', lean-in'...>

"What was THAT?!" Big Boy asked, his eyes wide. I could tell he was alarmed, but was trying to play it cool.

There is nothing like being to forced to to be calm, strong and brave for a child when your first inclination is to freak out or close your eyes, put your hands over your ears and say, "La-la-la-you-don't-exist-you-don't-exist!"

<Safe and secure from all alarms...>

"Oh, no worries," I said, "Just sounds like a tree limb or something that probably fell, but we're OK. C'mere. Let Mommy hold you."

That seemed to be enough for him, and we nonchalantly continued on with our evening as the storm finally passed.

<Lean-in', lean-in'...>

Assesing what the damage was this morning, Hubby-Honey and I discovered a large tree limb, dare I say, bough, that had fallen on the back patio precariously close to the house, but thankfully not on it.

<Lean-in' on the everlasting arms.>

"Church mother" warblers and moaners long gone, whose memory and voices still influence and comfort me, you've just been added to The Thaks Ranks.

(Lower the volume on your speakers)

Happy Birthday, Myesha!

There's Just Me: One (plus four) is the Magic Number

Today marked the first day of a three-day-a-week preschool summer program for Big Boy.

From 9:30 a.m to 1:00 p.m. it was just Baby Girl and me, and she slept for a good portion of the time. Then, when we picked up the happy and sufficiently tuckered-out Big Boy, he promptly fell asleep on the drive home and napped for an hour and a half. Baby Girl said, "Oh, OK, why not?" and went down early for her afternoon nap.

That left me with essentially five--count them--five hours of time during the day to savor all to myself.

This new schedule that I believe is going to really, really work out well has just been added to The Thanks Ranks. Hooray for summer. Do I dare consider a full 5-day program for fall?

Artsy-Fartsy Etsy

I love Etsy. Just thought I'd share.

Gifted, creative minds and hands--how do you come up with this stuff? Whimsy makes me smile. You've just been added to the Thanks Ranks.

Who's Waving the White Flag Now?

"Raising kids is part joy and part guerrilla warfare." --Ed Asner

The tide of the weeklong ear infection battle is turning. Baby Girl is fever-free, smiling and laughing this morning as opposed to sweating, scowling and shrieking. I do believe we're back on the path to normalcy, just in time for the weekend. Whew!

Amoxicillin, for finally kicking into gear and fighting off the bad, bad bacteria, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Tisane Saves the Near-Insane

No Calgon in the house to take me away, but this Cinnamon and Orange Rooibos loose infusion from Whittard of Chelsea is doing the trick. It was brought with love from London, and it's like nothing I've ever tasted--Ev-uh.

Thank you, perennial Thanks Ranker Pamela. Whittard of Chelsea, I probably could bathe in a tub with this aromatic majesty I'm drinking, couldn't I? You've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Bug In My Ear

When my babies are sick, my whole world is put on hold 'til they're back to their happy selves.

This time, it's Baby Girl. Ear infection. She's resting comfortably now, and after fever and fitfulness, we're all ready for a nap.

It occurred to me that I'm one of a privileged global, shucks, national minority that can "just" call the pediatrician and "just" make a same-day appointment and "just" drive over to the office and "just" present a card and pay $20 for services that actually cost much more and "just" drive to the local pharmacy and "just" get the needed prescription filled by again presenting that card along with a nominal fee and "just" go buy the yogurt from Whole Foods that was recommended and "just" drive back home, give the baby her medicine and "just" put her in the room and bed that she shares with no one but herself.

Paris is reported (ad nauseam) to be "reading" The Power of Now. Think she'd be interested in my lesson pondered about the wealth I possess in this moment?

My abundance of "just" things has indeed "just" been added to The Thanks Ranks.

They're Golden

Had a wonderful 6th wedding anniversary this weekend with Hubby-Honey. While we've done better than most of the Hollywood couplings that I recall starting out around our time, I have to bow down and give respect to those like Mr. and Mrs. Cross, who were celebrated by friends and family yesterday for their 50 years of marriage. Now THAT'S saying something.

Mr. and Mrs. Cross, for your tangible benchmark of marital love and longevity, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Flix Rule!

Thanks to the DVD-at-my-door service, I got to check out Charlotte's Web last night and cry like a baby all over again just as I did when I saw the cartoon version as a youngster. The difference was now picking up the more subtle nuances re friendship that I'd missed as a child.

NetFlix is a film enthusiast's best friend. It's just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

I appreciate your friendship in checking in with me from time to time in this space. Have a great weekend!

If I Can't Have You

At an unfamiliar gas station from yesteryear, where I can't pay at the pump (yes, I'm annoyed), I enter and hear a song playing that instantly floods memories from a time long, long ago, and I can't help but smile.

This was the first song I ever paid to play from a jukebox (some of you may remember those) with my own money, at a pizza parlor in Burlington, Vermont on a late summer family vacation. I was so proud. That was a whole quarter--MY quarter--because I'd kept my bed made the entire week!

Yvonne, where have you gone? Mood-changing, happy memories triggered instantly by song (you know you have them too--which songs cause yours?): you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Peace From a Sliver in My Bowl

Ah the slpendid, juicy, mushy, messy mango that reminds me of far off exotic places to which I need to return and visit outside of my dreams--you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

BFFF

Comedienne Michelle Thomas contacted the Thanks Ranks Radio MySpace page and asked to be added as a friend--"fake friend" as she more accurately calls it. That along with her mustached and goateed profile photo had me chuckling.

Reading her page had me in further stitches, and I had to pass her humor along to you because that's what friends--fake and for real are for--right?

Michelle, for the comic relief and love of cake in common, you've just been added to The Thanks Ranks.

Have a happy and safe Memorial Day Weekend, everyone. As I requested on yesterday's show on Thanks Ranks Radio, please consider doing something for which the holiday was intended.

Knock-Knock:

Who's there?

Orange.

Orange who?

Orange Mocha Frappuccino. I tried it, and as I drove off and thought about it, I realized I didn't like it. Called the Starbucks retail customer relations line. That was the near equivalent of a gallon of gas wasted. Could they help a girl out with her case of buyer's remorse?

They could. John took my information and is sending me a free drink coupon or two so I can go back and enjoy my tried and true.

So knock-knock:

Who's there?

Orange

Orange who?

Orange you glad you called and asked?

Why yes, yes I am.

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

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.