Eyes crinkle.
Tears shine.
Cheeks swell.
Hearty chuckles.
Throaty laughs.
Happiness comes.
Goes.
Ebbs.
Flows.
But laughter.
Somehow.
Remains.
Showing posts with label laughter. Show all posts
Showing posts with label laughter. Show all posts
Thursday, May 25, 2023
Sunday, November 5, 2017
It's So Dark.
I'm not even waiting until the last hour to get today's post written.
It's literally 5:55 PM.
And it's practically pitch black outside.
I mean. I can't see anything.
And as much as I love the cooler weather?
I am not a fan of DST.
I mean - I know - who is, right?
But man.
It's so so dreary when it's dark early.
It gives me a bit of a headache, and I want to turn on all of the lights in my house.
Which I sometimes do.
Which probably isn't the best scenario - but hey - I do what I want.
Remember that cute cat mug flashing the middle finger at y'all I shared a while back?
I think I might need one like that for myself this fall/winter season. Looks like that exact one might have sold out, but, well, I kinda still want and need something like it. Though how do you explain to your 10-year-old that the cat on your mug is flashing an eff off but you don't really mean it?
(affiliate link below)
But look how cute it is ...
And I'm so in a happy cranky cat mode - because we've currently got a fourth addition to our feline brood. Meet our neighbor's cat, Brutus. He's living with us right now because - well - they've moved and we're not sure that anyone is coming back for him.
But he's so danged cute. Cuter than the mug, even. I mean, look. Poor sweet thing.
And there you have it. That's my weekend wrap-up for you.
I'm consistent, at least. I've been writing every day - even if today's just sort of a free write and I'll be damned - I'm not even going to create a title image for this post. Woo Hoo! Look at me go!
Are you participating in National Blog Posting Month and looking for a place to share your posts?
Come on over to my Write With Me group on Facebook and leave me a comment to let me know you requested to join. I'd love to see you there!
It's literally 5:55 PM.
And it's practically pitch black outside.
I mean. I can't see anything.
And as much as I love the cooler weather?
I am not a fan of DST.
I mean - I know - who is, right?
But man.
It's so so dreary when it's dark early.
It gives me a bit of a headache, and I want to turn on all of the lights in my house.
Which I sometimes do.
Which probably isn't the best scenario - but hey - I do what I want.
Remember that cute cat mug flashing the middle finger at y'all I shared a while back?
I think I might need one like that for myself this fall/winter season. Looks like that exact one might have sold out, but, well, I kinda still want and need something like it. Though how do you explain to your 10-year-old that the cat on your mug is flashing an eff off but you don't really mean it?
(affiliate link below)
But look how cute it is ...
And I'm so in a happy cranky cat mode - because we've currently got a fourth addition to our feline brood. Meet our neighbor's cat, Brutus. He's living with us right now because - well - they've moved and we're not sure that anyone is coming back for him.
But he's so danged cute. Cuter than the mug, even. I mean, look. Poor sweet thing.
And there you have it. That's my weekend wrap-up for you.
I'm consistent, at least. I've been writing every day - even if today's just sort of a free write and I'll be damned - I'm not even going to create a title image for this post. Woo Hoo! Look at me go!
Are you participating in National Blog Posting Month and looking for a place to share your posts?
Come on over to my Write With Me group on Facebook and leave me a comment to let me know you requested to join. I'd love to see you there!
Monday, March 21, 2016
Lowcountry Livin'
I had the opportunity of a lifetime this past weekend - to spend some time in the Lowcountry. My first true visit to South Carolina gave me an opportunity to connect with some incredible women.
Let me go back a bit ...
I won a chance to attend a girls' weekend getaway for me and a guest hosted by the lovely and gracious Kim Boykin. Kim is an author who you're going to want to introduce yourself to, and not just cause I say so. Her southern hospitality knew no bounds this past weekend, as she welcomed a group of us into her Isle of Palms home.
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
My People.
* I wrote this a few days ago on the anniversary of my grandmother's passing. It is only now that I've finished it and felt it ready to share.*
Do you ever have days where you just need your people?
I have people in a number of places.
I have women in my life that I've grown up with. Learned with. Lived with and learned to love with. And loved. Fully. Like pieces of my heart.
And on some days - when my heart is full but I feel the pain of someone I know, or the loss of someone around me, or ... just ... something ...
I wish my people lived right down the street from me.
I wish they were within walking distance.
Now, don't get me wrong, I have local people, too. But local people - we're all running and busy and not right down the street - as much as I've wished it.
But my other people? They're scattered everywhere.
Do you ever have days where you just need your people?
I have people in a number of places.
I have women in my life that I've grown up with. Learned with. Lived with and learned to love with. And loved. Fully. Like pieces of my heart.
And on some days - when my heart is full but I feel the pain of someone I know, or the loss of someone around me, or ... just ... something ...
I wish my people lived right down the street from me.
I wish they were within walking distance.
Now, don't get me wrong, I have local people, too. But local people - we're all running and busy and not right down the street - as much as I've wished it.
But my other people? They're scattered everywhere.
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Guest Post: Christine, The Accidental Tourist
Let me introduce you to my friend Christine.
Christine and I go back as far as our college days - which - if I'm being honest - is kinda far back.
After I graduated we didn't keep in touch that well. And actually, it's a shame there was no Facebook by the time I relocated to my second office in Manhattan, because we worked a few buildings down from one another and didn't know it for the longest time. Crazy, right?
I'm pretty sure we ran into one another once or twice - but not enough to keep a connection.
Until ... years later? Facebook!
And just like that we're connected again. Immediate happy-face. Read on for your own smile.
Monday, February 23, 2015
Book of the Week: Women Are Scary, Melanie Dale
When I received an email introducing me to Melanie Dale and her new book with an opportunity to read and review it I jumped at the chance.
I mean - look at the cover? It's hilarious.
Even my husband asked me, are those cake pops?
Uhm, yeah. Yeah, they are.
Mommy cake pops.
Intimidating looking mommy cake pops.
And hilarious looking ones, as well.
Thursday, November 27, 2014
2014: Thanksgiving at our house
I'm thankful for so many things. Mostly today I'm thankful for Thanksgiving at my own home. With my daughter and my husband.
Thankful for Thanksgiving Eve. Long gone the nights of partying all over the place. Drinking til the late night/early morning hours. Thankful for snuggles on the couch with my 7-year-old.
Thankful for Thanksgiving Eve. Long gone the nights of partying all over the place. Drinking til the late night/early morning hours. Thankful for snuggles on the couch with my 7-year-old.
Friday, November 14, 2014
What I see in her eyes.
The most important things I see in my daughter's eyes.
* Sparkle
Don't little girl's eyes sparkle just so? The twinkle that you read about when you read stories and fairytales - the one that you never really saw and only imagined existed? It's in her eyes. I see it.
* Hope
So much hope. I see the world laying out in front of her. The ability for her to be whatever she dreams she will be. I see happiness and love, joy and laughter, and so so much more.
* Laughter
Yes, it deserves being said on its own. When your child laughs and you see it in their eyes it's the best possible feeling. Even better when you're the one who has made them laugh. Her eyes crunch up and crinkle - sometimes you can barely see them. But you know they're there. You know what they hold.
* Mischief
Yes, mischief. You didn't expect me to NOT say this, did you? She's a mischievous little one. She has gotten into things she wasn't supposed to (though not as much anymore) and she does things, or tries to do things that she knows she shouldn't. That sparkle I mentioned earlier? It's still there. It's just a little bit brighter. She also has this teeny, tiny smirk that shows up. That wide-eyed look. I know it well. I've worn it myself.
* Interest
This sounds weird. It almost didn't make the cut. But interest is critical to the hopes and dreams. She has it for so many things. And it's kind of glorious. Because to foster those interests and watch her grow within them? It's tremendous for a parent. Last night I watched her eyes as she read to me. The glow - the intensity - all of it - I stared more at her than I did the book or the words or anything else.
* Love
It's never-ending. Unflappable. Whole-heart-full-on-squeeze-you-tighter-than-anyone kind of love. The kind that brings tears to my own eyes.
* Sparkle
Don't little girl's eyes sparkle just so? The twinkle that you read about when you read stories and fairytales - the one that you never really saw and only imagined existed? It's in her eyes. I see it.
* Hope
So much hope. I see the world laying out in front of her. The ability for her to be whatever she dreams she will be. I see happiness and love, joy and laughter, and so so much more.
* Laughter
Yes, it deserves being said on its own. When your child laughs and you see it in their eyes it's the best possible feeling. Even better when you're the one who has made them laugh. Her eyes crunch up and crinkle - sometimes you can barely see them. But you know they're there. You know what they hold.
* Mischief
Yes, mischief. You didn't expect me to NOT say this, did you? She's a mischievous little one. She has gotten into things she wasn't supposed to (though not as much anymore) and she does things, or tries to do things that she knows she shouldn't. That sparkle I mentioned earlier? It's still there. It's just a little bit brighter. She also has this teeny, tiny smirk that shows up. That wide-eyed look. I know it well. I've worn it myself.
* Interest
This sounds weird. It almost didn't make the cut. But interest is critical to the hopes and dreams. She has it for so many things. And it's kind of glorious. Because to foster those interests and watch her grow within them? It's tremendous for a parent. Last night I watched her eyes as she read to me. The glow - the intensity - all of it - I stared more at her than I did the book or the words or anything else.
* Love
It's never-ending. Unflappable. Whole-heart-full-on-squeeze-you-tighter-than-anyone kind of love. The kind that brings tears to my own eyes.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Dance with me!
Yesterday my daughter had her first school dance.
Not the kind of will you dance with me kind of dance we all remember loathing so much.
But the kind where parents attended and it was actually okay that they danced.
Ehem. WE danced.
I might have to admit that I danced more than my daughter did. My seven-year-old daughter. Have I mentioned yet that she's seven now? Probably not. I hold off on that sort of stuff these days.
Sometimes I look at her and see that face that's still the baby I held in my arms.
And then she puts scarves on us both and asks for her fancy shoes (with a request for high heels, but we're not there yet) and is ready to go to the "ball" at her school.
But then we get there and she's running around and sliding across the floor and laughing and crying over a ridiculous little plastic ball-pit type of ball.
It's amazing how she changes in the blink of an eye. Literally.
I know - that word - using that word - she's not really CHANGING as I blink my eyes. But at the dance? One blink meant she went from dancing next to me, all fancy-ish to running around like a little girl playing. It was as close to literal as possible, so I'm going with it.
Anyway, it was so much fun. I lost track of what I was saying because I am sitting here listening to Pitbull and dancing in my chair. Honest. Dancing. In. My. Chair.
And this morning my daughter was singing about "$20 in my pocket ..." so it's all good.
Isn't it?
Because sometimes you just have to put the rest of your life on hold and DANCE.
Enjoy it. Feel it. Listen to the music. Sing along. Whatever it takes.
Just dance. Do it.
Even if you're sitting in your chair. It's all good.
Dance with me?*
*It's a video with the lyrics and no half-naked Ke$ha, promise. I needed it to be safe for my kiddo to watch with me when I show it to her later!
p.s. I'm linking up today with Tanya for her Small Victories Sunday link-up! Come on over and join me there.
Not the kind of will you dance with me kind of dance we all remember loathing so much.
But the kind where parents attended and it was actually okay that they danced.
Ehem. WE danced.
I might have to admit that I danced more than my daughter did. My seven-year-old daughter. Have I mentioned yet that she's seven now? Probably not. I hold off on that sort of stuff these days.
Sometimes I look at her and see that face that's still the baby I held in my arms.
And then she puts scarves on us both and asks for her fancy shoes (with a request for high heels, but we're not there yet) and is ready to go to the "ball" at her school.
But then we get there and she's running around and sliding across the floor and laughing and crying over a ridiculous little plastic ball-pit type of ball.
It's amazing how she changes in the blink of an eye. Literally.
I know - that word - using that word - she's not really CHANGING as I blink my eyes. But at the dance? One blink meant she went from dancing next to me, all fancy-ish to running around like a little girl playing. It was as close to literal as possible, so I'm going with it.
Anyway, it was so much fun. I lost track of what I was saying because I am sitting here listening to Pitbull and dancing in my chair. Honest. Dancing. In. My. Chair.
And this morning my daughter was singing about "$20 in my pocket ..." so it's all good.
Isn't it?
Because sometimes you just have to put the rest of your life on hold and DANCE.
Enjoy it. Feel it. Listen to the music. Sing along. Whatever it takes.
Just dance. Do it.
Even if you're sitting in your chair. It's all good.
Dance with me?*
*It's a video with the lyrics and no half-naked Ke$ha, promise. I needed it to be safe for my kiddo to watch with me when I show it to her later!
p.s. I'm linking up today with Tanya for her Small Victories Sunday link-up! Come on over and join me there.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
They Just Want to Pee Alone.
You get it, right?
You know what it's like to close the door and know they're coming for you?
Whether it's your kid, your dog (or like me, your dogs AND your cats - when your kid is in school!), or your other half calling out to you, "Honey!?! Where's the _____?" Fill in that freakin' blank, my friends. I'm with you.
Well, a bunch of amazing bloggers have written a book. And the title?
I Just Want to Pee Alone.
*affiliate links throughout this post to help me buy ALL the books - thank you for using them to shop!*
For realz, people. How awesome is that?
Best. Title. EVER. As in of ALL. The freaking. TIME.
I was so excited when my friends Lisa and Ashley over at The Dose of Reality posted about their incredible upcoming Oprah moment that I almost peed FOR them. With joy. I mean.
And I've read Jen (of the well known People I want to Punch in the Throat)'s first book, and had to hear more.
Then my Facebook feed kept going.
Honest Mom is in it, too? Did y'all just see her on Katie recently? *yes, as in Katie Couric, THAT Katie* She rocked it.
And Baby Sideburns. Pee-worthy.
So these amazing writers and a truckload more?
Yep. All in one book.
I downloaded it to my Kindle and started tweeting and professing my love. For the people. The book. The whole deal. And you can buy your copy today. Right now. Go. Do it.
And guess what? I rock. Y'all have to love me.
I'm giving away a copy.
Like right now.
Today.
Well, not TODAY, but in a week - give or take.
So you need to enter.
You want this book. And I want to get you a copy.
Because not only do you want it ... you NEED it.
It's so funny I cried tears from laughing so hard.
Lookit:
The cover rocks mah socks. See why you need it for yourself?
So - enter here and I'll get your copy to you when you win. M'kay?
Just one winner - and ya' gotta be in it to win it.
And I'm lazy and so not going the rafflecopter route right now. I just want a comment from you that says why you need this book. Share a moment of insanity of your own so I know you need people you can relate to. That's it. That's all. Easy as Pi. Pie. 3.14 = 4.13 It doesn't look right on the screen. Le sigh.
So, enter away! Tell all your friends! And good luck!
Oh, also, you can tweet, if you'd like, just a simple:
I entered for a copy of I Just Want to Pee Alone over @goodgirlgonered #giveaway Go here to try and win: http://bit.ly/YdSG0i
And then in a separate comment leave me the URL of your tweet.
Bah-BAYUM!
Thanks for stopping by and good luck, peeps.
You know what it's like to close the door and know they're coming for you?
Whether it's your kid, your dog (or like me, your dogs AND your cats - when your kid is in school!), or your other half calling out to you, "Honey!?! Where's the _____?" Fill in that freakin' blank, my friends. I'm with you.
Well, a bunch of amazing bloggers have written a book. And the title?
I Just Want to Pee Alone.
*affiliate links throughout this post to help me buy ALL the books - thank you for using them to shop!*
For realz, people. How awesome is that?
Best. Title. EVER. As in of ALL. The freaking. TIME.
I was so excited when my friends Lisa and Ashley over at The Dose of Reality posted about their incredible upcoming Oprah moment that I almost peed FOR them. With joy. I mean.
And I've read Jen (of the well known People I want to Punch in the Throat)'s first book, and had to hear more.
Then my Facebook feed kept going.
Honest Mom is in it, too? Did y'all just see her on Katie recently? *yes, as in Katie Couric, THAT Katie* She rocked it.
And Baby Sideburns. Pee-worthy.
So these amazing writers and a truckload more?
Yep. All in one book.
I downloaded it to my Kindle and started tweeting and professing my love. For the people. The book. The whole deal. And you can buy your copy today. Right now. Go. Do it.
And guess what? I rock. Y'all have to love me.
I'm giving away a copy.
Like right now.
Today.
Well, not TODAY, but in a week - give or take.
So you need to enter.
You want this book. And I want to get you a copy.
Because not only do you want it ... you NEED it.
It's so funny I cried tears from laughing so hard.
Lookit:
The cover rocks mah socks. See why you need it for yourself?
So - enter here and I'll get your copy to you when you win. M'kay?
Just one winner - and ya' gotta be in it to win it.
And I'm lazy and so not going the rafflecopter route right now. I just want a comment from you that says why you need this book. Share a moment of insanity of your own so I know you need people you can relate to. That's it. That's all. Easy as Pi. Pie. 3.14 = 4.13 It doesn't look right on the screen. Le sigh.
So, enter away! Tell all your friends! And good luck!
Oh, also, you can tweet, if you'd like, just a simple:
I entered for a copy of I Just Want to Pee Alone over @goodgirlgonered #giveaway Go here to try and win: http://bit.ly/YdSG0i
And then in a separate comment leave me the URL of your tweet.
Bah-BAYUM!
Thanks for stopping by and good luck, peeps.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Wednesday thoughts.
Wednesday is a weird day, isn't it?
Mine is WAY better today because the incredible ladies over at The Dose of Reality have featured me over there today and all of their amazing readers are coming by and giving me loads of love.
And it's a brutal post, but Lisa and Ashley asked so nicely I couldn't say no.
Sure - I said. Go link me up!! And then I re-read my post.
Dayum. - I thought aloud. Who thinks aloud? It's like, allowed, aloud. out loud. What?
It's always in novels and it makes me laugh. I think it should be I said out loud, instead of aloud. Is aloud even a word? It's totally not showing up red and squiggly vis-a-vi spellcheck so I'm gonna go with yes.
Anyway, I read my post again and whoa. It's rough stuff. But I love that every comment reminds me it's totally normal. It's okay to be normal, be cranky and BE A MOM.
In case you're checking this later in the week, the post they spotlight me in is A Spoonful of Frustration. Do you remember that one?
Go follow the trail of breadcrumbs and no doubt you will.
It's Dr. Seuss week this week at my daughter's school.
Monday was wacky socks day. Tuesday was Green Day (not to be confused with the band, who has the Time of Your Life song that I love - which is not to be confused with the best movie of all time, Dirty Dancing, which has the OTHER Time of Your Life song that I also kind of love, only not nearly as much).
Where was I?
Today was wacky hair day.
Tomorrow is hat day. Friday is kind of free day, focus on reading. Lots and lots of reading.
Reading is fun. Or fundamental. Or something. Isn't that Shaq's commercial?
Okay, where was I again?
Right. My child finished her homework and is now playing with the *I*Pad next to me and singing loudly at those creatures that sing back to you. It's like the copying game ten-fold. Seriously. It's amazing. And when she was little it was cute. She loved them. But now she's louder than they are. Ow. Bestill my ears. And head.
Did you know you could create your own ecard of the famous variety that everyone can pin and repin and so forth? I just did one. Whatcha think?
I think every mom can relate. Probably some dads, too. Although I feel like dads get more bathroom privacy. Maybe they demand it better?
I'm thinking that this could mesh with my You Know You're a Mom When series, because all of this applies, as does the post that the Dose of Reality Girls share for me is one that meshes, as well.
So, what say you?
Want to share some of your own Moments of Motherhood with me today?
Also? p.s. Right now the child AND the *I*Pad are singing:
I took the world and she's ON FIYAAAHHHHH!!!!
She's WALKIN' SHE'S WALKIN She's WALKIN ON FIYAHHHH!!!!
Take that Alicia Keys.
Mine is WAY better today because the incredible ladies over at The Dose of Reality have featured me over there today and all of their amazing readers are coming by and giving me loads of love.
And it's a brutal post, but Lisa and Ashley asked so nicely I couldn't say no.
Sure - I said. Go link me up!! And then I re-read my post.
Dayum. - I thought aloud. Who thinks aloud? It's like, allowed, aloud. out loud. What?
It's always in novels and it makes me laugh. I think it should be I said out loud, instead of aloud. Is aloud even a word? It's totally not showing up red and squiggly vis-a-vi spellcheck so I'm gonna go with yes.
Anyway, I read my post again and whoa. It's rough stuff. But I love that every comment reminds me it's totally normal. It's okay to be normal, be cranky and BE A MOM.
In case you're checking this later in the week, the post they spotlight me in is A Spoonful of Frustration. Do you remember that one?
Go follow the trail of breadcrumbs and no doubt you will.
It's Dr. Seuss week this week at my daughter's school.
Monday was wacky socks day. Tuesday was Green Day (not to be confused with the band, who has the Time of Your Life song that I love - which is not to be confused with the best movie of all time, Dirty Dancing, which has the OTHER Time of Your Life song that I also kind of love, only not nearly as much).
Where was I?
Today was wacky hair day.
Tomorrow is hat day. Friday is kind of free day, focus on reading. Lots and lots of reading.
Reading is fun. Or fundamental. Or something. Isn't that Shaq's commercial?
Okay, where was I again?
Right. My child finished her homework and is now playing with the *I*Pad next to me and singing loudly at those creatures that sing back to you. It's like the copying game ten-fold. Seriously. It's amazing. And when she was little it was cute. She loved them. But now she's louder than they are. Ow. Bestill my ears. And head.
Did you know you could create your own ecard of the famous variety that everyone can pin and repin and so forth? I just did one. Whatcha think?
I think every mom can relate. Probably some dads, too. Although I feel like dads get more bathroom privacy. Maybe they demand it better?
I'm thinking that this could mesh with my You Know You're a Mom When series, because all of this applies, as does the post that the Dose of Reality Girls share for me is one that meshes, as well.
So, what say you?
Want to share some of your own Moments of Motherhood with me today?
Also? p.s. Right now the child AND the *I*Pad are singing:
I took the world and she's ON FIYAAAHHHHH!!!!
She's WALKIN' SHE'S WALKIN She's WALKIN ON FIYAHHHH!!!!
Take that Alicia Keys.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Type-A Reflections ... the people
It's like they say on Toot and Puddle:
We saw great sights, We made great friends
And now our journey has to end.
Or something like that. It could be wrong, but whatever. It's all good.
Either way - it's not the end. It's a cool journey on a conference weekend and though I think this was quite a different experience for me this year over last, I made new friends this time around, too. And reconnected with old ones. I'm happy to say these are people I think will stick around in my world. And I'm all the better for it. And for that - I thank them. Each and every one!
Me and the Lovely Lisa from Two Bears Farm! She was my roommate last year, and though we didn't room together this time around, she STILL brought me baked goods. Can you believe it? We were lucky enough to get in some quiet dinner time just the two of us and I'm thankful to be able to call her a friend.
I was truly lucky to meet the incredible Nicole of Cute Culture Chick and Beauty and the Bypass and we clicked. I mean I seriously clicked with this woman. Thank goodness for Type-A. I may never have met her otherwise!
psst. By the way, this perfect picture was taken by the incredibly talented Sarah from Water Water Everywhere. I got a chance to get to know her on the drive to Charlotte and as you can tell - she's one killer of a photographer.
Do you know Mama.Mommy.Mom yet? No?
Go meet her. Jamie is my unlikely friend.
When you meet someone once and rarely get a chance to talk you don't expect such a connection.
And then suddenly ... BAM! We started interacting via Twitter and our blogs. Friendship say wha?
She also took this picture which I love. Crimped hair and all.
Go meet her. Jamie is my unlikely friend.
When you meet someone once and rarely get a chance to talk you don't expect such a connection.
And then suddenly ... BAM! We started interacting via Twitter and our blogs. Friendship say wha?
She also took this picture which I love. Crimped hair and all.
Jennifer of MommyBKnowsBest is one of my favorite peeps that I met last year at Type-A.
We connected and somehow wound up roommates this time around, which was pure luck.
Love this chick. She's adorable (and we oddly look like we could be related in this picture - which is really a compliment to me) and totally real. I puffy heart her. Also?
She can dance. Like shorty can move. For realz. /wink wink!
We connected and somehow wound up roommates this time around, which was pure luck.
Love this chick. She's adorable (and we oddly look like we could be related in this picture - which is really a compliment to me) and totally real. I puffy heart her. Also?
She can dance. Like shorty can move. For realz. /wink wink!
There are so many more pictures to share, and so much to say about the things I've learned, the places I ate (best.guacamole.ever), the people I connected with, but I have to stop here before I turn this into a tribute to each and every person I spent some time talking to. Sadly I don't have pictures with them all (I'm looking at you, Adrianna! - next time, I promise!).
I *think* I'll be writing up one more post about the conference ~ after all, last year I wrote three, too ~ and will try to cover the primary points of the sessions I attended, and what I actually LEARNED. Although, as you can tell by now, for me, this weekend was all about the people.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Heading to #typeacon? My tips!
So this year I'm going back to Type-A Parent Conference.
And I'm really excited!
But I'm also kind of laid back about it. I'm not stressing over the schedule. I just know I'll be slightly OCD when I get there, and when I have the schedule in my hands I'll be reading, re-reading and living off of that thing for the entire weekend+. I can't let myself stress about it now, or I'll turn into loopy mode and won't be able to function on the other stuff that's important before I head off to Charlotte for this trip.
So - I know you've read loads of tips by now, but I'm going to give you mine anyway. Last year Type-A Conference in Asheville was my first conference ever. This year in Charlotte is my second. See a pattern here? I totally do!
Anyway, some of the things I brought with me last year that I found essential may seem the norm for many conference-goers, but I'm going to list them out for you anyway.
* Your camera
Yes, your cell phone will rock. But your standard digital camera, if you have one, or your fancy-schmancy point-n-shoot, whichever works for you? That's needed. The better pictures I got were on my digital camera. I may not use it all the time, but I'm bringing it anyway.
* Your phone
I know - Duh. But last year the hotel's wireless was wonky. It was so frustrating and the ONLY way I was able to get online was through my phone. Seriously. I had a slightly crappy phone, and it came through for me in a big way. Yay, phone!
* Chargers
Of ALL nature. Your phone. Your iPad. Your tablet. Your laptop. Your camera. Whatever else you might need to charge up - bring it. For reals. And while you're at it ...
* A power strip
I kid you not, you'll find a lot of people who want to be your best friend if you bring one of these with you. I need to be sure I have a working one this year. I didn't bring one last time - but I absolutely borrowed some juice off of someone else's!
* Pen and paper
Sure, in today's electronic world we rely on note-taking methods that run the gamut. But a pen and paper are a no-fail back-up. What if you run out of battery? What if you can't type fast enough? What if - what if? What if you're like me and sometimes just love writing stuff down? Bring it.
* A sweater/long-sleeved cover-up of some sort
Because yes, it's pretty hot in NC in June. But it's also pretty air-conditioned in those conference rooms. Without a doubt.
* An easy to carry water bottle
Reusable is the way to go for me, so I recommend it. It's the best way to ensure you're not dried out while sitting in the aforementioned AC-d rooms. And it's easy and always free to fill 'em up! Plus? Environmentally friendly. Go for it.
* Snacks
If you're like me and can't make it through an all-day class without at least 2 snacks? Bring a few of your own. Plus it's really nice to make friends w. your roomies or whomever else you're hanging with if you share your extras.
* Gum
Say you have something spicy/salady/soupy for the meal you had prior to the session/party/etc. you're attending? 'Nuff said. Bring enough to share and you'll make new friends for sure.
* Business cards
They're often a given, but if you don't have your own please be sure to collect them from others. Take notes on them, if you can (remember that pen) and remind yourself where you met people, what stands out about them, etc. And if you DO have your own? HAND THEM OUT. Seriously. Don't feel weird. Even though it DOES feel weird. Do it anyway. You didn't buy them for nothing, right? Just do it. I promise nobody will look at you funny.
* Cash
It's always good to have some extra cash on hand. Just cause.
* Socks, or closed shoes
If you're like me and your feet tend to freeze those conference rooms might not be kind to your toes. Bring socks or closed-toe shoes to keep your tootsies warm during the day and save the open-toed shoes for night. Or outdoors. Plus socks are great if your feet get cold when you're going to bed. And then you can avoid packing slippers if you're one of those people who don't like to walk on hotel carpets without some sort of buffer.
And speaking of your room and the other aspect of the conference ... the following options could be a plus for you and your roomies:
* bathroom spray (I don't need to explain this - right?)
* water/wine/beverages of your choice
* a treat or two for your new friends (baked goods are ALWAYS a hit)
* snacks (see previous entry) (and the one before it!)
* whatever else you bring with you that gives you the comforts of home? And doesn't include a pillow and/or towel? Bring enough to share! Your roommates will thank you for it.
I'm sure I have more to add here, (I'm not even going to touch anything to do with clothing, aside from my thoughts on shoes!) but for the time being I'm going to wrap up this post before it becomes even more novel-like.
So, what do you think? Was this helpful? Did I forget anything? If so - what? Please tell me! I still have time to pack. Oh! And DON'T forget a small bag of some sort for the swag. Because yes, Type-A does have swag, and you may get your own reusable grocery bag to carry it home in, but if you're flying that then becomes your carry-on, and you all know you only get one of those, so ... think ahead!
And I'm really excited!
But I'm also kind of laid back about it. I'm not stressing over the schedule. I just know I'll be slightly OCD when I get there, and when I have the schedule in my hands I'll be reading, re-reading and living off of that thing for the entire weekend+. I can't let myself stress about it now, or I'll turn into loopy mode and won't be able to function on the other stuff that's important before I head off to Charlotte for this trip.
So - I know you've read loads of tips by now, but I'm going to give you mine anyway. Last year Type-A Conference in Asheville was my first conference ever. This year in Charlotte is my second. See a pattern here? I totally do!
Anyway, some of the things I brought with me last year that I found essential may seem the norm for many conference-goers, but I'm going to list them out for you anyway.
* Your camera
Yes, your cell phone will rock. But your standard digital camera, if you have one, or your fancy-schmancy point-n-shoot, whichever works for you? That's needed. The better pictures I got were on my digital camera. I may not use it all the time, but I'm bringing it anyway.
* Your phone
I know - Duh. But last year the hotel's wireless was wonky. It was so frustrating and the ONLY way I was able to get online was through my phone. Seriously. I had a slightly crappy phone, and it came through for me in a big way. Yay, phone!
* Chargers
Of ALL nature. Your phone. Your iPad. Your tablet. Your laptop. Your camera. Whatever else you might need to charge up - bring it. For reals. And while you're at it ...
* A power strip
I kid you not, you'll find a lot of people who want to be your best friend if you bring one of these with you. I need to be sure I have a working one this year. I didn't bring one last time - but I absolutely borrowed some juice off of someone else's!
* Pen and paper
Sure, in today's electronic world we rely on note-taking methods that run the gamut. But a pen and paper are a no-fail back-up. What if you run out of battery? What if you can't type fast enough? What if - what if? What if you're like me and sometimes just love writing stuff down? Bring it.
* A sweater/long-sleeved cover-up of some sort
Because yes, it's pretty hot in NC in June. But it's also pretty air-conditioned in those conference rooms. Without a doubt.
* An easy to carry water bottle
Reusable is the way to go for me, so I recommend it. It's the best way to ensure you're not dried out while sitting in the aforementioned AC-d rooms. And it's easy and always free to fill 'em up! Plus? Environmentally friendly. Go for it.
* Snacks
If you're like me and can't make it through an all-day class without at least 2 snacks? Bring a few of your own. Plus it's really nice to make friends w. your roomies or whomever else you're hanging with if you share your extras.
* Gum
Say you have something spicy/salady/soupy for the meal you had prior to the session/party/etc. you're attending? 'Nuff said. Bring enough to share and you'll make new friends for sure.
* Business cards
They're often a given, but if you don't have your own please be sure to collect them from others. Take notes on them, if you can (remember that pen) and remind yourself where you met people, what stands out about them, etc. And if you DO have your own? HAND THEM OUT. Seriously. Don't feel weird. Even though it DOES feel weird. Do it anyway. You didn't buy them for nothing, right? Just do it. I promise nobody will look at you funny.
* Cash
It's always good to have some extra cash on hand. Just cause.
* Socks, or closed shoes
If you're like me and your feet tend to freeze those conference rooms might not be kind to your toes. Bring socks or closed-toe shoes to keep your tootsies warm during the day and save the open-toed shoes for night. Or outdoors. Plus socks are great if your feet get cold when you're going to bed. And then you can avoid packing slippers if you're one of those people who don't like to walk on hotel carpets without some sort of buffer.
And speaking of your room and the other aspect of the conference ... the following options could be a plus for you and your roomies:
* bathroom spray (I don't need to explain this - right?)
* water/wine/beverages of your choice
* a treat or two for your new friends (baked goods are ALWAYS a hit)
* snacks (see previous entry) (and the one before it!)
* whatever else you bring with you that gives you the comforts of home? And doesn't include a pillow and/or towel? Bring enough to share! Your roommates will thank you for it.
I'm sure I have more to add here, (I'm not even going to touch anything to do with clothing, aside from my thoughts on shoes!) but for the time being I'm going to wrap up this post before it becomes even more novel-like.
So, what do you think? Was this helpful? Did I forget anything? If so - what? Please tell me! I still have time to pack. Oh! And DON'T forget a small bag of some sort for the swag. Because yes, Type-A does have swag, and you may get your own reusable grocery bag to carry it home in, but if you're flying that then becomes your carry-on, and you all know you only get one of those, so ... think ahead!
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
I'm a little bit country ...
Let's face it, by now I'm a lot more country than anyone would ever imagine me being.
Let me walk you through my day yesterday.
We got up fairly early and left the house. Hubby stayed home from work as we were headed to test ride a boat that we have had our eye on.
Longish drive. Boat is good. Kiddo shouted "woo hoo" and "wheeee!" the entire 10 minute ride. Or so.
Prior to heading out we stopped at Sheetz to pick up breakfast. It's a gas station. Seriously.
We don't go there that often, but enough in the last week or so that my daughter looked up and read the signage: SHEETZ. When the time is right we'll explain to her that bed sheets have an S and not a Z at the end.
So, let's continue.
Driving along towards the marina, later in the day, and I hear my daughter shouting from the back seat.
"Go! Go! Go! Run! Go!!!!"
I turn from where I was looking just in time to watch a turkey cross the road.
What the WHA? A TURKEY! That gives a whole new spin to her favorite chicken-cross-the-road jokes.
Now, I can't remember if it was before or after the turkey, but hubby pulled down a certain dirt road and we watched a batch of birds fly off. All except one. Hubs hit the brakes and that little fecker DID NOT MOVE. For real. We started backing up and he eventually flew away. It was a he. I mean, I just know that much has to be true. (A girl would have gotten her behind OUT of there.)
A while later, leaving the marina? Off to the side of the road I find myself gasping as I see two deer running. Fortunately in the other direction. Whew.
Now, where does that leave us? I talk to my brother and explain the boat. He defines me as a country bumpkin. In the nicest possible way.
I don't tell him it's our most recent mission to try all of the pickle chips available in North Carolina. That's a whole 'nother story!
I laugh, and our girls get into a Why did the turkey cross the road discussion. This can last for hours if we don't intervene. Seriously. City child. Country-ish child. Doesn't matter. Five-year-olds will make the joke their own for hours. HOURS.
Lookie how cute mine looks at the Got to be NC fest this past weekend? Feeding the animals at the farm? Yeah. She's ALL country. Born here and NC-blooded!
Let's wrap up the day with a 50+ minute walk around the 'hood with a friend.
I spy a bunny rabbit running (hopping?) across the street like wildfire in the darkness of the night.
She points to what I thought was a shadow of a leaf and we pause in our tracks as a toad jumps off out of our way.
I don't live in the boonies. I don't. I just live far enough away from the world of my youth that this city girl is turning a little bit more country by the day!
Oh ... and stay tuned for more on that boat!
Let me walk you through my day yesterday.
We got up fairly early and left the house. Hubby stayed home from work as we were headed to test ride a boat that we have had our eye on.
Longish drive. Boat is good. Kiddo shouted "woo hoo" and "wheeee!" the entire 10 minute ride. Or so.
Prior to heading out we stopped at Sheetz to pick up breakfast. It's a gas station. Seriously.
We don't go there that often, but enough in the last week or so that my daughter looked up and read the signage: SHEETZ. When the time is right we'll explain to her that bed sheets have an S and not a Z at the end.
So, let's continue.
Driving along towards the marina, later in the day, and I hear my daughter shouting from the back seat.
"Go! Go! Go! Run! Go!!!!"
I turn from where I was looking just in time to watch a turkey cross the road.
What the WHA? A TURKEY! That gives a whole new spin to her favorite chicken-cross-the-road jokes.
Now, I can't remember if it was before or after the turkey, but hubby pulled down a certain dirt road and we watched a batch of birds fly off. All except one. Hubs hit the brakes and that little fecker DID NOT MOVE. For real. We started backing up and he eventually flew away. It was a he. I mean, I just know that much has to be true. (A girl would have gotten her behind OUT of there.)
A while later, leaving the marina? Off to the side of the road I find myself gasping as I see two deer running. Fortunately in the other direction. Whew.
Now, where does that leave us? I talk to my brother and explain the boat. He defines me as a country bumpkin. In the nicest possible way.
I don't tell him it's our most recent mission to try all of the pickle chips available in North Carolina. That's a whole 'nother story!
I laugh, and our girls get into a Why did the turkey cross the road discussion. This can last for hours if we don't intervene. Seriously. City child. Country-ish child. Doesn't matter. Five-year-olds will make the joke their own for hours. HOURS.
Lookie how cute mine looks at the Got to be NC fest this past weekend? Feeding the animals at the farm? Yeah. She's ALL country. Born here and NC-blooded!
Let's wrap up the day with a 50+ minute walk around the 'hood with a friend.
I spy a bunny rabbit running (hopping?) across the street like wildfire in the darkness of the night.
She points to what I thought was a shadow of a leaf and we pause in our tracks as a toad jumps off out of our way.
I don't live in the boonies. I don't. I just live far enough away from the world of my youth that this city girl is turning a little bit more country by the day!
Oh ... and stay tuned for more on that boat!
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Happy Mother's Day, Momma
Dear Momma,
It's Mother's Day. I know you say that every day is Mother's Day, but you know what? Today is still that special day where I apologize for not sending your card in time, send your gift too late, and think of you for 24 hours straight. Not that I don't do that all the time, but today - well - it's different.
I guess we can thank Hallmark for that. But that's okay. You deserve many a day filled with moments of love, joy, emotion and smiles. And hugs. Lots and lots of the best hugs ever.
And so today I wish I were home in New York with you and Pops. Just because.
I wish we lived a few minutes away from one another so we could come over and be with you and the family. I wish we could watch the girls run around the living room, take out every single toy, and try to both fit on your lap at the same time. (Not so easy now that they're five!)
I wish a lot of things, but I know that no matter how many miles apart we are - you know that Mother's Day for me equals you.
It means you. It means your mother before you. And Dad's mom, too.
It means my aunts, my extra moms, and all the mommas who are no longer around to squeeze and send flowers to on this simple day.
It means all of the kids at your school who call you Ma. I'll let them do that. Because they're not all as lucky as I am. They don't all have you. And who am I to not share you with them? They need you right now. They need MY little momma.
Because my guess is that you're the one who will remind them to not leave out.
You're the one who makes sure they have an umbrella when it's pouring outside - even if it has to come from the lost and found.
You'll probably also make sure they don't hang out outside of their classrooms and get their butts to their class on time.
You're the one who will walk block after block in the blizzard to make sure they have their snow boots for the walk home. (Oh, wait, that was just for me. And yes, it was mortifying. But my feet were warm.)
You're the one who waited up for me late at night, leaving the light on no matter what time I came home.
The one whose hand I held when I crossed every single street.
The one who brushed my hair and parted it, half-up, half-down. Uneven pigtails. I see them when I do my daughter's hair. That same look. Only I never use a comb. Why should I? I know they don't work anyway.
The one who played Tri-ominos with me when I was home from school, sick with fever.
The one whose eyes and smile I see all the time. The one I laugh and cry with. Tears flowing whenever we have to say goodbye. It's not easy - living 500 miles away from my family. It's not easy being so far from my mother.
But miles don't matter, honestly. Truly. Because I know you'd be here in an instant if I needed you. And you know that works both ways.
And no matter how far away we are, we talk all the time. We see each other (thank goodness for Skype!) often. And we share. We always share.
And for all that and more ... I love you, Mom. Always and forever.
Thank you. For everything. For being the best mom in the world.
Love, ME
It's Mother's Day. I know you say that every day is Mother's Day, but you know what? Today is still that special day where I apologize for not sending your card in time, send your gift too late, and think of you for 24 hours straight. Not that I don't do that all the time, but today - well - it's different.
I guess we can thank Hallmark for that. But that's okay. You deserve many a day filled with moments of love, joy, emotion and smiles. And hugs. Lots and lots of the best hugs ever.
And so today I wish I were home in New York with you and Pops. Just because.
I wish we lived a few minutes away from one another so we could come over and be with you and the family. I wish we could watch the girls run around the living room, take out every single toy, and try to both fit on your lap at the same time. (Not so easy now that they're five!)
I wish a lot of things, but I know that no matter how many miles apart we are - you know that Mother's Day for me equals you.
It means you. It means your mother before you. And Dad's mom, too.
It means my aunts, my extra moms, and all the mommas who are no longer around to squeeze and send flowers to on this simple day.
It means all of the kids at your school who call you Ma. I'll let them do that. Because they're not all as lucky as I am. They don't all have you. And who am I to not share you with them? They need you right now. They need MY little momma.
Because my guess is that you're the one who will remind them to not leave out.
You're the one who makes sure they have an umbrella when it's pouring outside - even if it has to come from the lost and found.
You'll probably also make sure they don't hang out outside of their classrooms and get their butts to their class on time.
You're the one who will walk block after block in the blizzard to make sure they have their snow boots for the walk home. (Oh, wait, that was just for me. And yes, it was mortifying. But my feet were warm.)
You're the one who waited up for me late at night, leaving the light on no matter what time I came home.
The one whose hand I held when I crossed every single street.
The one who brushed my hair and parted it, half-up, half-down. Uneven pigtails. I see them when I do my daughter's hair. That same look. Only I never use a comb. Why should I? I know they don't work anyway.
The one who played Tri-ominos with me when I was home from school, sick with fever.
The one whose eyes and smile I see all the time. The one I laugh and cry with. Tears flowing whenever we have to say goodbye. It's not easy - living 500 miles away from my family. It's not easy being so far from my mother.
But miles don't matter, honestly. Truly. Because I know you'd be here in an instant if I needed you. And you know that works both ways.
And no matter how far away we are, we talk all the time. We see each other (thank goodness for Skype!) often. And we share. We always share.
And for all that and more ... I love you, Mom. Always and forever.
Thank you. For everything. For being the best mom in the world.
Love, ME
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Bazinga!
The Big Bang Theory is on in the living room.
My husband and my daughter (yes, she's five) are watching. At the same time she's sorting her "day kit" - which would be more along the lines of what you'd call your first aid kit.
She's taken to Band Aids lately. I don't know if it started before my hand-bite incident, or after, but the Band Aids and their non-name-brand copies are all over her stuffed animals.
Perry (the platypus) had two on his eyes yesterday morning.
Pugsly (her beanie baby pug that used to be mine) had a tiny one on his head, as well.
Pounce (we have a thing for P-names, it seems, he's a beanie baby cat that was mine many moons ago, too) hasn't had any yet, but he's her favorite these days so it's important that he stay healthy.
As I sit here typing this she's telling my husband that he "needs a check-up!" ... come to think of it, it could be Doc McStuffins' influence. Have you watched that yet? It's really super cute. I think it's a nice change from the typical kids' shows out there, especially what's been out there for girls.
We're waiting to start grilling dinner (hamburgers and turkey burgers are sitting on the newly cleared island) - well, my husband is going to. I have never actually learned to use the grill. I mean, I know the concept, but it's not something I have ever tried.
Have I mentioned my daughter enjoys The Big Bang Theory? Lately she's taken to shouting:
"BAZINGA!"
When she teases us about something, or pretends to be.
If you're unfamiliar with the word or the concept, watch this.
The ballpit scenes? All one episode. Pee-worthy.
If we're not shouting that out we're singing the theme song. A little BNL that isn't exactly kid-specific, but she loves it anyway.
And my puppy - the one out of prison? Is sitting here licking the bottoms of my arms, whimpering like a looney toon because she wants to go back to her crate, I'm sure.
Le sigh. Just another Tuesday night at our house.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Letting go ...
Hope is an interesting thing.
For some, it is equivalent to prayer. For others, it's all that there is to hold onto.
For me, it comes and goes. It's in my heart. My mind. My being.
And sometimes I let it go. Because I have no other choice.
This month is the third anniversary of my aunt's passing.
There was so much I held onto. So much we, as a family, held onto those few years ago.
When we found out she was sick we hoped it was not nearly as bad as it sounded.
When we found out how long she had been sick we hoped that this was an unnecessary exaggeration.
When she could barely speak I held out hope that I would hear her voice once more. I was lucky. I did.
When I listened to my mother cry I hoped for strength. For her. For my father. For my cousins. For us all.
When the days went by and she remained in pain. Suffering. Sadness. I found myself letting go. Slowly. Letting go of the hope.
I needed to let it go. Needed to so I could let her go.
There was no way for me to rush home to see her. There was no timeline. No understanding of what might come. And yet - - the hope that she would hold on. Continue to fight. Was for me. For myself. For my parents. Most especially my father. I didn't want her to leave us. Didn't want her to go.
But I didn't want her to suffer. In pain. Trapped inside of herself.
So I let go of the hope.
Set it free like a green balloon.
Why green? I don't know - it just worked for me. For her. My beautiful aunt.
A balloon drifting up into the sky. Carrying my hope - up - up - up.
I let it go.
And switched to a different kind of hope.
One where she was no longer hurting. One where she knew she, too, could let go.
And when I heard the phone ring that evening. Heard my husband's voice shift as he spoke to whomever was on the other end.
I knew.
I knew letting go was the best thing for us all. But more importantly, for her.
I miss my aunt. I miss her crazy ways. Her laugh. The way she refused to smile for the camera, but her eyes crinkled just like my dad's. Like mine.
I hate that she is gone too soon. I hate that there is so much she is missing. But I knew that it was time to let her go. To let go of the hope.
**This week's Write on Edge prompt was about abandoning hope. This is my interpretation of that prompt and I hope you'll all go gentle on me for using it to share a personal experience that is prevalent in my mind and heart this week. Thanks for taking the time to read.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
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