Day 130 - Happy New Year

2010 is about to be history! I just watched the ball drop in New York and we have 39 more minutes in the central time zone, before 2011. Truthfully, I can't wait. Happy New Year All!

Be nTouch in 2011

Day 129 - Friends

This BLOG began because I truly wanted to live each day as if it were my last, and talk about it . . . (I know, I'm borrowing Tim McGraw's line from a great song) now that I am a third of the way through this last year before the BIG 50, I must admit that I have lived some great days since August 23. Yesterday, with the agent signing Max and tonight, with my friends, I am really blessed with a lot of fun experiences. In 24 1/2 hours, we will all embark on this new year. I'm really excited, for the first time. Possibilities o-plenty! Cyberspace, get ready for some serious BLOGGING! I'm just getting warmed up.

Tonight John Cougar was on Dave. Love him . . . I look at him and am reminded, again, we are all getting older. He used to be one of my favorites. A classic from college. Fitting to be on tonight as I'm writing. His song is about saving time to dream . . . an old rocker's mellow tribute with an album called "No Better Than This."
Cool, John Cougar Mellencamp . . . What an epiphany! (Kind of funny when he was popular he was just John Cougar)

It's a good day for me. I promise these posts will be more interesting starting soon!

Be nTouch

Day 128 - Max Picks An Agent

A little grainy, but yes, that is Max signing with his new agent! Wyatt captured the moment on his phone. It seems like this day has been in the making for years. This is the first step for Max to realize his dream. I feel like I got a crash course in how to navigate through the NFL draft and just what it takes to "make it." I truly do believe that ole saying, "if there's a will, there's a way" . . . Max has wanted this opportunity since he was a little boy. He's all grown up and the moment is now. He has the right attitude and he certainly has the heart! I pray he stays healthy and safe. He's a lucky, lucky kid to be in this position, but he isn't taking anything for granted and I believe he will work harder than he has ever worked, to accomplish this goal. Happy New Year!

Be nTouch

Day 124 - White Christmas

Living in Birmingham Alabama doesn't mean you'll see real snow on Christmas morning . . . Just the kind in this snow globe. For the first time in recorded history, we have snow on Christmas . . . In other words a White Christmas. Just wonderful! Merry Merry . . .

Be nTouch

Day 122 - Comments

Okay, yesterday I was discouraged, today I'm nSpired. (Thanks to my two commenters . . . you know who you are) I'm ready to start over with this daily deal . . . maybe my countdown should have started at 365 and backed all the way to 1. Might have been a little more exciting. It may change soon!

I have 243 days left to share all that is me (well, almost all) and to find out if me at 49 and me at 50 is going to be different. Wow, the drama . . .

Changing the subject; my Mom celebrated her 72nd birthday today. Does she look 72 to you? The others in the picture are my crew.

Seventy two . . . and I'm worried about fifty . . . She is a walking, talking example of good genes and taking good care of yourself. She is hardly in the sun, she never smoked and hardly drinks alcohol. She still exercises and eats right. Sounds kind of boring, but she looks and feels 15-20 years younger than she is. That has to count for something!

We had BBQ at her house, thanks to my brother. After dinner, the kids (although I use that term loosely because one is 23 and one is 26) played this card game that they have been playing for 10 years, called ERS. I can't explain it and really don't understand it but it is fun to watch their dynamic. The word joy comes close to describing the emotion they evoke. They become oblivious to everything and everyone around them. I watch from the sidelines, like a coach whose team is winning. I love them very much and I miss these moments because they are fewer and farther apart than they used to be. They become treasures for me to cherish. Note: wine on the table doesn't belong to the 15 year old.

In case you were wondering, my Dad is just as young and healthy as my Mom. He is only 71! He doesn't look it either . . .

Enough for tonight. It's almost Christmas Eve and there is a lot to do tomorrow. Night!

Happy Birthday Mom (aka Nana)

Be nTouch

Day 121 - Figuring it out . . .

Today it occurred to me that no one is reading my BLOG and there is probably a very good reason for that little bit of reality . . . who cares about the 365 days before one turns 50? I mean, I care and I would have thought that others might have shared this same position, but to date, not an interested party. So, it is up to me to pull the plug or not. I don't want to quit.  I want to make this work. Perhaps I will feel more insprired tomorrow. Only time will tell!

Be nTouch and laugh out loud!

Day 117 - The Big Day

This was a great day from beginning to end! The ceremony was wonderful and the reception was perfect. Everyone had such a geat time. Months of planning and preparation end with the celebration of their union before God, family and friends!

Pictures to follow . . .

Be nTouch

Day 116 - One More Day

One more day until the BIG day . . . Stephen and Judy's wedding. My friend and I have been in Fredricksburg TX since Wednesday night and we are heading to Austin this morning to put the finishing touches on tomorrow. We have had so much fun . . . a much needed get-away for both of us. Stay tuned!

Be nTouch

Day 113 - Busy, Busy, Busy

As you can see, I have gotten behind once again! I'm heading to Austin TX for a dear friend's wedding tomorrow so I'm hoping to be able to get caught up when I return. Lots going on for everyone! Busy, Busy, Busy . . .


Be nTouch

Day 110 - War Cam Eagle

If you love college football, and you have at least one team that you follow, then you will probably appreciate this post . . . Auburn University's, Cam Newton won the Heisman trophy today. As an Auburn fan, you always know that you may be disappointed. Not this year. This team . . . This young man, unbelievable! Next is the BCS National Championship game. Who do you pick.? War Eagle

AUBURN Faithful!

Be nTouch

P.S. Happy Anniversary Johnny

Day 108 - Snowflakes

Never the same, always beautiful, almost magical, snowflakes . . .

Be nTouch . . . Brrrrr

Day 106 - A Soldier's Silent Night (A Soldier's Night Before Christmas) told by Fa...

This morning, I woke up to this poem being read on my favorite morning radio program. Today, December 7, is the yearly anniversary of D Day, so it was very fitting to play this audio file. I found it on YouTube and wanted to share. It speaks for itself. We have a lot to be thankful for. Freedom isn't Free . . . Most of us just don't have to pay the price.

Also, God Bless the Edwards' family after the loss of Elizabeth Edwards. May they find peace soon.

Look for nSpiring words from her in the days to come.

Be nTouch

Day 105 - We Are Going To Be Okay . . .

Thankfully, through tears and honesty, yelling and cursing, unloading months, maybe years of hurt, we are going to be okay . . . Merry Christmas! God is Good! (This is just for me, I want to remember this day, not really BLOG material.)

My favorite picture

Be nTouch

Same day . . . Eat Pray Love

I am absolutely in love with this film! Okay, I know that sounds ridiculous, but I am. It spoke to me from beginning to end. It was truly inspiring. One day, I will look back and hope that I have accomplished as much. Too tired for complete review tonight. It was fabulous!



Thank you, thank you, thank you . . . God is Good . . . Be nTouch

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Day 104 - The morning after . . .

That phrase, all by itself, conjures up all kinds of feelings. This morning, it simply means that I'm exhausted. I flew to Houston yesterday to attend our company "Holiday" party. I guess it's politically incorrect to call it anything else this time of year. Anyway, I digress . . . it was a dress up affair downtown and it was good to see lots of folks I don't typically get to see. But flying to get dressed up, eat and drink too much, hurry to get back to the airport in time to wait on the flight which is delayed by an hour at last count. When I was younger, this would have been a piece of cake, but today, I'm feeling every moment of my 49 and counting years. (That reminds me, Happy Birthday Anne!!!)

Anyway, here I sit, a bit groggy from that last glass of red wine that I really wanted, thought I needed . . . Ha! Waiting. Thinking about the tree that needs decorating at home, the house that needs cleaning and decorating and the sweet boy that I can't wait to hug!

Last year's tree - note to self, move litter box this year!


Be nTouch
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Day 102 - Miracles

God our Father, walk through my house and take away all my worries and illnesses and please watch over and heal my family in Jesus name, Amen.



A dear friend sent this to me today via email. I get several of these "type" forwards, much of the time, I barely skim the message. This one was different. The first part of the image I saw were His eyes. They were looking right at me! Then I noticed the thorny crown wrapped around his heart. Then, I read these powerful words. These 27 words sum it ALL up for me . . . this is the prayer I pray . . . although, not enough, to watch over my family and friends, to keep my children safe and healthy and help them to discover happiness everywhere . . . This is how my day began!


A couple of hours later, our cat, who I haven't introduced y'all to yet, was crying to come back in the house. She can be incredibly annoying by playing this game to come in and go out, come in and go out . . . I can't stand the pitch of her whining, so I generally cave in and let her back in. I look at the french door and realize she has something in her mouth. This is a first for Miss Lil bit! As I approach the door I see the treasure she has is a baby bird. She must have seen my unhappiness because she ran, bird in mouth, as I opened the door. Long story short, it took several minutes of coaxing, but I finally managed to get her to drop the bird. I knew it was still alive but for how long? It was fully developed and tiny! 
I ran back in and through the house, cradling this small creature, out the front door, away from the hunter! I gently opened my hands on the ground and the little bird shook and fluttered quickly and then flew away. A life saved . . . it was amazing. This isn't my little friend, but this is what she looked like, only smaller!

As if I needed any more reminders (which I must have, right?) I watched a TV movie last night while my youngest went out to the movies with some friends. It was called In My Shoes. Basically it was about a very busy woman who had lost touch with what was really meaningful in her life. She worked hard, was driven to succeed and each day was fading into what was becoming the backdrop of her life. This was my third gift . . . although I'm not exactly like this TV character, I did realize that my life is moving way to fast. I get up each day, move through ALL that I have to accomplish, feel further behind than I did the day before, telling myself "if I can just get caught up" . . . I'm sure you get the picture. What I realized is I want more of those gazing moments at my son, like when he was a baby and we were joined at the hip (literally), I want to drink coffee in bed on Saturday morning, I want to spend more time with all my friends and family, I want to celebrate all that is magical and I want to manage my time to create a different lifestyle. After all, wasn't that what this BLOGGING adventure was supposed to help me accomplish? I'll get there, and more importantly, I want my children to learn these lessons too; better by example from me than through my words!  So again I type:


God our Father, walk through my house and take away all my worries and illnesses and please watch over and heal my family in Jesus name, Amen.


Be nTouch and love it!


P.S.  Okay, another first: as I was proofing my words, I realize I left out something really special and painted an unfair picture of our cat. I called her a hunter, which she instinctively is, but she was really a hunter with this tiny creature. I believe she was bringing in a new toy. This little bird could have been physically damaged (if birds have a psychology then I'm sure this trauma will last a lifetime) or killed. Our cat is small and this bird fit in her mouth. But Lil bit didn't bite down on this little plaything, she just brought it to the door as if to say "hey Mom, look what I found, can we keep it, look, it moves and doesn't stay on the ground, can we keep it???"


Meet Lil bit . . .

Day 101 - Beautiful Art

Best Friends

I commissioned the wonderful artist I BLOGGED about yesterday, to paint this picture for me and my two oldest friends . . . Beautiful! She painted three of these masterpieces; one for me, one for Alison and one for Brenda. I can't wait to surprise them with these treasures. I wish I could capture a moment in time on canvas.

Be nTouch

Day 100 - Something remarkable . . .

Something truly remarkable happened tonight. In my busy, busy world, I move from task to task and place to place and hardly ever have the opportunity to make a new friend. But today I met someone that I think I can keep up with! She is an artist and mother of three young children, she is creative and young and inspiring. And she BLOGS! Check out the funkyjunky@blogspot .com. It was a God Thing!

Thank you, thank you thank you!

Day 98 - Winter is coming

It's time for pansies! One more day until December . . . UNBELIEVABLE!!! Where did this year go? Pansies, then Christmas and New Year's, then 2011 . . . 2 0 1 1? That looks and sounds like a science-fiction novel. I hope and certainly pray, that 2011 is more peaceful than 2010 has been. The word tumultuous doesn't come close to describing 2010.

One good thing that came out of 2010 was this BLOG. I have promised myself I will get back into this process right after New Year's. I promise to be more diligent and entertaining. I guess I just haven't felt very effervescent lately! No problem, I'll get pointed in the right direction soon!

For now . . . Be nTouch!

Day 95 - Thanksgiving Recap

What a wonderful day we had yesterday at my sister's condo. Everyone behaved, the food was tasty and there was never a dull moment. This get-together for Thanksgivibg at my sister's house was a very big deal to her. She worked awfully hard to make everything perfect. It was a huge success and no one would have known this was her first Thanksgiving. She sure acted like she knew what she was doing. I'm very proud of her!

Be nTouch

Day 94 - Happy Thanksgiving!

May your home be filled with warmth, joy and love today . . . Think of ALL you have to be thankful for!

Be nTouch

Day 92 - Paying attention? Does that matter when it comes to Accidents?

Today I did something I have, thankfully, never done befor . . . I accidentally "hit" a young woman in the local grocery store parking lot. It was poring ran an dark and I turned left into the lot and bumped into this lady with my side mirror. Thankfully, the mirror is designed to move in towardbthe door when bumped into. This movement most likely helped prevent any real damage to her arm. That's not to say that it didn't scare her and probably hurt. I jumped out of the car and helped her walk to the shelter of a nearby sub sandwich shop. The restaurant called the police and paramedics. They checked her out and we filed a report. I must say that I have been a wreck ever since. I am so very grateful that I didn't cause her any serious harm. I just hate that it happened. What scares me the most is that I never saw her. It was raining but she was in my blindspot and never in view. I'm a careful driver but accidents do happen. I doubt that makes her feel any better tonight. I still feel terrible. I pray she is okay and completely recovers and I pray that I can let go of this by tomorrow! Ugh!!!

Be nTouch

Day 91 - Monday after the last big game at Furman . . .

I've really gotten behind this time. Perhaps after Thanksgiving I'll have more time to focus on my daily routine here. This is all for now. I'll try to write in the morning and post a photo or two.

Be nTouch!

Day 87 - Teenagers

OMG . . . I love my boy, my teenager, but at times I think, where did he come from or what did I do to him to create this behavior? He is mad a lot of the time, usually at me. He cuts corners and thinks it is okay. He is growing up but in a completely different place than I thought he would be. He is struggling and I can't help him. And he won't let me try. It makes me sad.

Day 86 - Invisible Children . . .

Have you ever heard of this movement? I certainly hadn't before tonight. My youngest came home talking about adopting a child from Uganda. He didn't mean that dollar a day adoption. He meant go get them, bring them home, buy them clothes, feed them, send them to college . . . Okay he didn't think about college but you get the point. He was so moved by a documentary that he saw in History today that we had to get online to look at the website. He decided to give any Christmas money that he gets to this group to save these children. We bought DVDs to give each member of our family, from him for Christmas. It was truly breathtaking to watch. No more self absorption. (Im sure it will return, just not tonight) He was relatively obsessed and he sold me too. If you have a minute, Google Invisible Children and check out this group of young people trying to save thousands of children. It is amazing.

Be nTouch

Day 85 - Countdown to Thanksgiving 2010

This year will be a very special Thanksgiving. My sister Allison will be hosting her first family gathering for Thanksgiving. She is so excited and so am I. I'll help with the cooking and decorating but I really want this to be her show. This will be a Thanksgiving to remember!

Be nTouch

Day 84 - Something Truly Wonderful Just Happened . . .

Just when you think you are 100% right about something, ready to stake your reputation, or something equally as substantial, you find out you are WRONG. Dead wrong! WOW. Tonight, I received an email from someone that made this little hypothetical example come to life. It's a long, rather tired story. Just suffice to say that I had all but given up on something and somebody. It has something to do with Senior Day at Furman this weekend. I was 100% convinced that I would be left out of the entire ceremony with Max. I have been sad and worried whenever it crossed my mind for as long as I could remember. But tonight, the one person who I have blamed for so many things, the person who I'm sure doesn't like me or my presence . . . That same person who occasionally ignores me as if I truly don't exist, that person considered me and Wyatt and has us scheduled to participate on the field, with Max on Saturday. WOW again. I truly never gave him enough credit! Shame on me! Valuable lesson: "don't be so certain you are right, that you miss out on the wonder of the world that is leftover as the truth is revealed."

Thank you to God for his patience in me and my shallow pettiness. And most especially for His gift of Grace.

Be nTouch

Day 83 - Playing Catch Up!

Why is it that I am always so far behind? I know, I know . . . There are several perfectly logical excuses/reasons that I could use . . . Let's see, I just can't say NO, or, I am terrible at time-management, or perhaps, I try to cram too many tasks into too little time, over and over again . . . Well, whatever the reason or excuse, I am still WAY behind!

Take this BLOG as a perfect example. It isn't that I don't have anything to say. It isn't that I don't have time, (time is relative - my day gets away from me for all or some of the reasons I have already cited and then there is NO time left until the end of the day when I'm exhausted) It isn't that I don't have the same desire as when I started this project.
Ugh . . . Never mind!

All I can promise is to try to do better tomorrow. Today is over but tomorrow I start all over. Yep, I'll do better tomorrow!

Be nTouch :)

Day 78 - Open Mind

Wouldn't you agree that being "open minded" is critical to most of our success? You must be able to listen intently (nTently) and empathize. I'm constantly reminding my son to consider what I may feel like, or one of his friends. Tough to do when "self" is the most important variable in your day.

It's not just about listening. It is truly about keeping all your options open, staying fresh and nTouch with everything around you, open to new ideas, feelings, etc. It takes dedication and self confidence when it comes to being open minded. Definitely worth striving for.

Be nTouch

Day 77 - FEAR

Fear? What are you afraid of . . . I have friends that are afraid of everything. Fear can be healthy when used with good judgement. However, fear that cripples should not blend in for any reason. No matter what scares you in life, keep your chin up, be honest, have joy and never let whatever it is scare you into doing something or not doing something you may regret.

Be nTouch

Day 76 - Watching the bus drive away . . .

I watched one of my favorite shows tonight. One of the main character's, a strong matriarch of the family, was talking about her children growing up. She described a scene where she put one of her sons on the school bus, only to watch him ride away, face pressed against the window waving. She said she felt like running after the bus, anything to shrink the space that their growing up encouraged. I'm dealing with my own bus and growing gap. It seems as though every day pulls us farther apart. It isn't that I mind being alone. I just ache sometimes from missing that little boy who needed and wanted me so. Everyone always said we were so close, that our relationship was remarkable. We were and it was . . . Sadly, since he entered the 6th grade, I have become the one person that bugs him dearly; the one person that doesn't understand him; the one person that he can safely say anything mean to without fear, because he knows, even if it is only subliminally, that my love for him is absolutely unconditional. I pray we find each other soon. It is very strange and lonely to not be with him. I do miss him!

Be nTouch

Day 75 - Seventy five days and counting . . .

I can't believe it has been 75 days since I started this journey. I have changed directions several times already and will most likely continue to travel down unexpected pathes and ask off-the-wall questions. Here goes:

Why is it that the older you get the harder it is to lose weight or stay in shape? I used to be able to eat what I wanted and stay thin. Now, at least for the last year, I'm getting bigger and bigger and feeling bloated till I'm about to bust. Nice visual I'm sure . . .
What I wouldn't give for a thin day. I'm soft and smooshy, and my arms are starting to sag. OMG, what am I to do?

Please send advice. I sure could use it!

To be continued but Be nTouch anyway . . .

Day 74 - On the road again

We have traveled to Greenvile for the second to the last home game of our season. It feels sad to think that we won't be making this trip, several weekends next fall. We made it in record time tonight, which is pretty boring to most folks. Who cares, right? But after four years, making great time means something!

Looking forward to a cold, but great ballgame tomorrow. Go Paladins!

Be nTouch

Day 73 - Incompetence

The older I get, the less tolerance I have for incompetence. I'm not talking about random mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. I'm talking about not being competent with tasks you are responsible for, and then making excuses about what went wrong. I guess this gripe goes along with not being accountable, which would run a close second. Do your job with honesty and integrity and try as hard as you can to get it right, or find a new job . . . Simple, right?

Be nTouch

Day 72 - Happiness is . . .

Happiness is watching my kids do anything, hugs from my kids, having a clean house, paying all the bills and having something left over, spending time with good friends, a martini with my Dad, any day at the beach, reading a great book, making a difference, peace and quiet, building something, cooking a wonderful meal, seeing Gods grace first-hand, babies, puppies & kittens, sleeping in, helping someone less fortunate, chocolate, watching any movie with Robert Redford or Wll Smith, feeling caught up, communion with my family . . .

To be continued . . .

Be nTouch

Day 71 - Compassion and Humility

Today is Election Day. For weeks, all I could think about was "I can't wait until these negative TV and radio ads are finally over." It isn't that I don't care about the VOTE . . . I care a lot about the VOTE and our political culture. But today, I witnessed something far more important than negative political ads.

I was at our local grocery store with my son. We were checked out and rolling past other baskets for the sliding exit doors. It was then that I noticed a women vomiting in a plastic grocery bag. Actually, and forgive me for being gross, she was spitting up, almost a dry heave, not really vomiting. I looked at her as we rolled the cart past her. She didn't notice us, she was busy trying to spit in the bag and I assume, not on the floor or anywhere else. I got out the door and stopped. I looked at Wyatt and said, "should we help her?" He hadn't noticed her, and even though he has always followed my lead when it came to rescuing puppies or helping someone in obvious need, he has also become somewhat less enthusiastic about getting involved since he hit adolescence. He asked me who I was talking about. I said we had just walked by someone who looked to be throwing up. "Do you think she needs help?" I asked again. He nodded yes and shrugged his shoulders at the same time. I turned around and walked back in. This woman, standing now, was reaching for another bag and a towelette from a wall dispenser. I asked her if she needed help. She said no, she was waiting on her sister. I asked if she was sure and put my hand on her shoulder. It was then that she looked up at me and our eyes met for the briefest time . . . "I'm okay, it's just my chemo, I'm okay." Her face was wet from tears and saliva. She was wiping her mouth and cheeks with a moistened antibacterial towelette. I asked if I could get her a wet paper towel, my hand still on her shoulder. She simply said no, she was okay, but "thank you." She walked back to the bench, where I had first seen her, and began to gag and throw up again.

As we walked outside, I was so moved by this event that I could hardly focus on getting the groceries in the car. Wyatt and I talked about it a little bit as we left the parking lot and drove home. We were healthy, comfortable, far removed from the poison running through that random woman's veins. But she isn't really random - She is someones sister, daughter, possibly mother and surely friend. She was hurting, struggling, weeping and vomiting uncontrollably, in a public place. No shame, total humility . . . I couldn't stop thinking about her. The strength and courage to put one foot in front of the other, to fight for your life. I can still see her face and I'm sure as I close my eyes tonight, I will continue to play the scene over in my head. 


What would you have done? There is no right or wrong answer. But it is an interesting question. I got nVolved before I stopped to consider whether I should or shouldn't. I must admit I was a little uncomfortable when I approached her. But I'm glad I did. I was trying to help her, but now I realize that this sweet lady gave me a lot more than I gave her. I hope I continue to see her face and think about her. I don't want to forget her. And I especially want to pray for her.

Be nTouch

Beauty revealed ~ May God Bless Her and ALL of us . . .

Happy Halloween!

Day 68 - Tough Loss for The Paladins

Today's game was a heartbreaker. App State beat Furman 37-26. Too many offensive mistakes. Poor coaching. The defense did everything they could to hold on. Max had another great game but it doesn't feel as good when you lose.

We moved out of the Best Western to a condo my brother is staying in. Much nicer, no urine smell. I'm tired and sad and feel terrible for Max and the rest of the players. I'm also missing my youngest Wy. He's here with me but all grown up. Not nearly as interested in hanging with me as he used to. Tomorrow is another day. I'm planning to just start all over!

Be nTouch

Day 67 - On The Road Again

We are in Boone, NC ready to watch SOCON football tomorrow. App State vs Furman. Big Game! Staying at the Best Western, Banner Elk. Have you ever stayed in a "pet friendly" room? I truly didn't think it would matter . . . IT DOES. Can you say, URINE? OMG. I've learned a valuable lesson. No discount is worth a "pet friendly" room when you aren't traveling with a pet. Yuck . . .

Calling it a night. Go Paladins and War Cam Eagle!

Be nTouch

Day 66 - Political Correctness

In this last year of my 40's I find myself completely baffled by political correctness. The older I get, the less tolerant I want to be . . . of course, PC is almost a required skill to survive and thrive in corporate America. Transparency rarely exists. If you have an opinion, you must find a way to express it so as not to offend or presume or overstep . . . What ever happened to good old fashioned truth? Why are some people threatened by an idea that is not their own. Remember the old saying, "two heads are better than one"? Apparently not any more.

I'm turning it off for today. No PC here! Goodnight world!

Be nTouch

Day 65 - Happiness: When all is right with your children

It is amazing how much joy I feel when my children are happy. I don't mean when they are getting their way and happy, I mean when they are content and confident and feeling good about themselves; happy with who they are. For example, when Wyatt is happy and secure, his smile lights up a room. Pure joy for me. I'm very grateful for the joy I am feeling as I lay my head down for sleep tonight. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Looking forward to tomorrow!

Be nTouch

Day 64 - How do you get to be a morning person?

This is a question I have wondered about for years. Now that I have a son who is clearly NOT a morning person, the difference between morning and evening people is striking. Is there any way to change this pattern? Did I somehow condition him to be this way? What can I do about it now?

Honestly, I have always seemed to thrive a little more in the evening than in the morning. That tendency seems to worsen as I age. (Of course, so many things seem to worsen that it is sometimes hard to keep up with all that is falling apart . . . forgive me, I digress!) Some mornings I could just lay there, peaceful and content to not begin the race on the treadmill that I know is waiting just beyond my closed bedroom door. And then, the alarm goes off for the 5th or 6th time, thanks to my snooze button, and I am eventually jolted into the morning. This time of year is particularly challenging because it is dark when I first open my eyes, and my brain thinks, darkness . . . sleep, light . . . awake . . . drifting back until the next jolt by the radio alarm and consciousness takes over and I sit up and . . . well, you don't really need any more information than that, do you? Just suffice it to say, I would very much nJoy waking up chipper, rested, happy to greet whatever may come my way. I wish there was a pill for that.

Enough about me; to be or not to be a Morning Person, that is my question . . . answers anyone?

Be nTouch

Day 63 - Questioning Authority

It seems as though more and more businesses are trying borderline tactics to get money. Twice, in the last six months, I have had a company try to get money from me for reasons that were clear as mud.

The first example occurred in July. I was actually on vacation and a phone number called my cell phone that I didn't recognize. I didn't answer, but the party called back several more times. Finally, I answered and was told that the magazine company that I had ordered subscriptions from was trying to alert me that there may be another company that would try to sell me the same magazines for a lesser contract price. That may sound more like a good, proactive, customer service call to most folks; for me, I was scratching my head explaining that there must be some kind of mistake because I hadn't ordered any magazines and wasn't planning to order any magazines. [breath] The operator's tone changed to a more threatening pitch and then proceeded to tell me that there was absolutely nothing that I could do, I had signed a contract for 6 magazines a month, to be delivered to me for the next three years . . ."WHAT???? . . . Oh, no I didn't!!!! and Oh no I won't!!!!" . . . at that point, the line went dead.

The long and short of it is this: apparently, I got a magazine subscription for free because I bought something, and this company purchased my information, including my credit card number, and it was time to pay up. After several weeks of research, I finally traced the transaction back and discovered I had in fact used my debit card for the initial purchase and the bank was more than happy to reverse the magazine charges and keep an eye out for any suspicious transactions. I didn't know the company name, address, phone number or location. I had nothing . . . thankfully, no mysterious charges since.

The second example was a few weeks ago. I rented a car for work. I noticed a big gash on the rear side of the passenger back bumper, after I left the airport rental office. I took a picture and immediately called the company to explain that I had just left with the car and the damage must have been to the car prior to my driving it. Not only could I never get a live person on the line, I never got anyone at all. Last week, I received a letter detailing the damage and my part to pay: $275.00. Unbelievable is all I could think. I put it aside to deal with later. Truthfully, I was tempted to write a check and be done. Something stopped me and today,  I put a call into the dispute department listed on the letter. Thanks to two very nice individuals (Hazel and Shane) I am now waiting for an appeal. It may work, it may not, but had I not taken the chance, had I just assumed I wouldn't have a chance to reverse the charge, I would have definitely owed $275.00. Now, I have some time and hopefully, it will get overturned. I nGaged a bit of moxy, mixed in with good ole southern charm, and just might have saved some money!

I'll keep you all posted.

Moral of the story: Don't ever assume, it makes and ass out of you and me too . . . ass•u•me . . . Also, don't just roll over in this difficult economic time. If you think you are right, don't back down. Stand up and fight if you have to. You probably don't have anything to lose, but a lot more to gain.

Climbing down now, from my soap-box that is . . . Be nTouch

Day 62 - A BIG WEEKEND comes to an end . . . Thank Goodness

This was one of those never-ending weekends. Thankfully, it is over, we survived and tomorrow is another day. Quick recap: Learners permit, first time driving, homecoming football game, homecoming dance (with sweet friend from camp), learning to tie a tie, first boutonniere, first high school dance . . . I'm sure there is more that I have either forgotten or don't know about. BIG WEEKEND indeed!

On another note, I really want to get back to BLOGGING. I read the Dooce BLOG this afternoon. She is really good and nSpiring. It makes me want to write better and more often. I think I am a pretty good story teller. I want to be funny and entertaining, nSightful and nGaging. It takes practice and dedication. It also takes time, which I am sometimes short of.  I am determined to make this happen, to create something that people look forward to reading. I know my goal is to BLOG everyday (I have to modify that somewhat) until I turn 50; but I must say that after 60 something days, I have really come to nJoy this. I don't always have the time to devote to it like I would like to, but I certainly have the desire. Look out Dooce . . . just kidding! If anything, I am grateful for what you have accomplished. You have helped pioneer a new way to write and share media. I hope I can hang in there long enough to have a few followers!

Be nTouch

Freshman Homecoming 2010

Day 61 - Big Football Saturday

We aren't on the road again! It's Homecoming at our high school and Furman. Can't be at two games at the same time. We wanted to ask the great Lucy Lerner, football dog aficionado, who she liked in the big games today. Lucy says: Furman and Auburn! Doesn't she look like she knows what she is barking about?

Lucy Goosey

Be nTouch . . . arf, arf, arf

Day 60 - TGIF

What a week! Out of town for business for three days, youngest gets learner's permit to drive, first High School Homecoming . . . I'm exhausted, but happy!

Emotions are pretty high with my Freshman. First serious girlfriend broke up with him last week to go to Homecoming with someone else. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not disappointed about the outcome, just the way it was handled. It is life and it won't be the last time, but "bad timing" doesn't come close to describing the how and when of the event! When it is all said and done, I do think this will serve him well. I just hate to see the pain.

Our high school won big tonight and tomorrow is the big dance. It's still surreal to me.

Be nTouch

Peace

Day 59 - When will my teenager like me again?

Wyatt driving for the first time!

Today marked a BIG day for the Lerners. Wyatt got his learner's permit to drive. He has put it off for a long time. Finally, we went to the local DMV and he did it! Then we spent the next hour and a half going over the basics, getting a "feel" for the car and then . . . Driving for the first time. All in all he did terrific. I looked at him in the driver seat and couldn't help but flashback to when he was a baby. With each new day he moves further away from me. It is sad and yet very appropriate. In a couple of days he will be attending his first high school Homecoming dance. There's that infant flashback again. I miss being the center of his universe. I miss him. We aren't friends . . . I am the boss, the mom.

Be nTouch, please!

Day 55 - Sanctuary Sunday

I have really struggled getting everything DONE . . . To the break down point. Today became the sanctuary day for me out of pure necessity! I almost feel like I've lost some of my touch lately. I think stress can be like a cancer; all consuming until all that is left is worn out nothing. That's what I have felt like lately, worn out nothing. To make matters worse, I have to travel to Houston for work tomorrow. Remember, my oh so stressful JOB.

Okay, enough of that already. I have realized something true today . . . I may have to miss some days BLOGGING. I may not be able to BLOG for the next several. Sadly! I'll have to adapt my nTouch plan. No worries.

Take care out there. Hope to BLOG soon. Until then, Be nTouch!

Day 54- Big Day in Birmingham

Today was a remarkable day! We didn't travel outside of our neighborhood to see Furman play Samford. What a game . . . Max did well and we didn't have to travel. Not that i miss the travel, but it is nice to go straight home to bed.

Go Paladins!!!

Be nTouch

Day 53 - Just Another Day in Paradise!

Do you ever think , what would true paradise be like? No phones or TVs, no computers or technology. Just a beach and waves and life.

I guess everyone has their own opinion about what paradise would be for them. For me, it would be warm and tropical. It would not have to be plush. Raw would be just fine.

It's late so this will be another short one. Tomorrow is a big game day for Furman. I'm not in a hotel room . . . I'm in my own bed. No travel required this week. Furman plays Samford tomorrow at 1:00. I can't wait.
Go Paladins!!!!

Please Be nTouch

Day 52 - Catching Up . . .

Do you think I will ever catch up? I can't imagine that feeling, knowing that I have finished everything and nothing is standing in my way - I would pay a lot of money to be in that position. I wish . . .

One of my nTouch goals was to get caught up. I'm moving in that direction. Patience grasshopper.

Be nTouch

Day 51 - Did you see this?

My Day 51 is Day 70 for 33 miners in Chili. While we have been going about the business of work, school, chores, fun, football . . . life, 33 men were trapped more than 2000 feet below ground. Last night, after midnight, the first of the men were brought to the surface. Unbelievable doesn't come close to describing this unprecedented event. ALL 33 men, now safe and relatively sound. Thank you to God and to all those who worked so tirelessly. Watch this video and see if you don't fall down on your knees to be thankful for all that you have. I have watched footage of this historic event throughout the day. I have cried with each viewing. This video is of the first man pulled out in the middle of the night. God Bless!

Be nTouch . . . Please

Day 50 - BIG WEEK . . .

Do you ever have a week that you just hope you survive? I know that sounds very dramatic, but my goodness, I am worn out and it's only Tuesday! This post is also going to have to be short too. I hope and pray that I will be able to get back into the swing of things next week. I need some rest and relaxation. Now how am I supposed to get that? I'll just have to pray about it.

Be nTouch

Day 49 - TOO TIRED!

Okay . . . please forgive me but I am too tired to BLOG,  BLOG, BLOG tonight. I waited too late. I have so much to say but I can't string several more words together to make a reasonable sentence, much less an entire post . . . so please, forgive my absence tonight! Be back tomorrow, I promise!

Be nTouch

Night night . . .

Day 48 - The Rudest Thing Happened On The Way Out of South Carolina

It is hard to describe this story. To say it is PG rated is too conservative. And, I can safely say that I have never had this experience before. In modern language . . . OMG!!!

Picture this if you will; beautiful Sunday morning, stunning weather, perfect start to the trip back home. We are well rested, well fed and happy to be making headed home. The car is loaded and we pull out of the hotel parking lot, out onto a main street to get gas. As I am about to pull onto this street, I see there are three cars slowly headed our way. I am at the crest of a hill and realize that the front of our Lincoln Navigator is sticking out a little bit in the road. The lead car of the three, begins to slow down, and I slowly back up to move out of the way. This lead car doesn't regain his speed. He continues to come toward us, eventually passing in front of us and he beeps his horn as he passes. I think to myself, "Wow, somebody got up on the wrong side of the bed this morning." 

After the third car passes, I slowly pull out onto this main road and approach the intersection, where all three cars are waiting for the light to change. I pull up alongside the car that beeped, as I am now in the turn lane and the other cars are going straight. Now, here is where everything gets weird, crude, and at least R rated! As I pass the lead car, approaching the line at the intersection, I notice this man, older than me, is holding his right arm up in the air. I can't really see what he is doing as I inch our big car past him by a little bit. Thirty seconds later, he slowly pulls up beside me, waiting for the light to change, with his arm still stuck up in the air. Now I realize the significance, he is flicking me off, shooting me a bird, giving me the finger; how ever you want to phrase it, he is crudely letting me know he isn't happy. As I hesitate, trying to understand what he is doing, he begins to mouth the "F" word, followed by "YOU" while he continues with the finger up in the air. It takes me a few seconds to register what is happening. This is road rage, on a beautiful Sunday morning. Unbelievable is all I can think. And then, I do something totally uncharacteristic . . . No, I don't mimic his poor, crude behavior. But I do mouth the words, "does that make you feel better?" What was I thinking? That this would somehow make him stop this ridiculous behavior. Of course that wouldn't happen, quite the opposite! He continues with his obscenities and I am growing nervous and, embarrassed, because I have three teenagers in the back watching this scene, from a bad movie, play out in front of us, and I looked like the co-star.

I truly don't know what came over me. Before I knew it, this perverted, grown man, was acting like he was undoing his pants, pulling on himself, making awful facial expressions and then he began to stick out his tung, pretending to do, God only knows what. I sat there stunned, frozen, thinking, "this can't really be happening, can the boys see any of this, what if he gets out of the car, how old is this man, why is he so mad" . . . thankfully, the boys saw NONE of what I did. Thank goodness. As soon as the light changed, I turned right and he went straight, right arm and finger up, as if saluting one last time. I pulled into the gas station and as I pumped gas, began to worry about what might be next. Would he turn around and see that I was parked, out of my car? I hurriedly pumped the gas, got back in the car, had a teachable moment with the boys and left Greenville.

The boys had a million questions, wanted to go find him and let him know how wrong he was. Their chivalry was sweet, but it does scare me. This man was crazy. If he had had a gun, what might he have done? I couldn't quit thinking about the set of circumstances, wondering what had happened to him before he rounded that curve in the road and came up on my big car, sticking out in the street. My wave and mouthing "sorry" as he slowly passed by my, didn't serve the purpose I intended. He was VERY angry, probably long before he saw our car. Scary to say the least!

I did pray for him to find peace, comfort, time to heal his heart and find happiness. I hope God reached him through his armor. I hope he didn't hurt any one else.

Surreal!

Be nTouch

Day 47 - Game Day Again

Every home game begins with this ritual. It is one of my favorite parts of the game. Maybe because I'm a proud Mom, a little sentimental . . . who knows, you be the judge . . . Go Paladins!

They won big, although Max didn't get to play much. Actually, that isn't a fair statement, he was in the game the entire first half, but due to the type of plays they call, his position didn't see much action. Then, Furman was beating the other team so badly that the coaches put the second string in. So, Max didn't see a lot of actual playing time. I'm just glad they won!

Be nTouch

Day 46 - Another Friday night on the road.

Too pooped to contribute much tonight! Very excited about the game tomorrow. Since we missed last weekend, I feel like it has been forever since we saw Max play. I know, silly, it has only been a couple of weeks.

We are tucked in an about to call it a night. Good luck to all college teams tomorrow. May everyone stay safe with NO serious injuries.

Be nTouch

Day 45 - Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

Precious moment, precious film.

One of my youngest son's favorite movies is Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. And this photo captures our favorite moment . . . When Charlie, the impoverished child, finds the last golden ticket, because he had faith and hope that this Wonka bar would reveal the treasure beneath it's outer wrapper. And we all know how this story ends, happily!

Tonight, I found my fifteen year old mesmerized, just like he used to get when he was much younger. He knows the movie by heart, can recite each word. He brought so much joy to a very long day. His faith and hope were being acted out on the screen. I think that's why he still loves the movie so much. It is an affirmation of all that is possible, all that can be . . . Wonderful Willie Wonka!

I am grateful tonight as I lay my head on this pillow. How fortunate I am to have this sweet young man in my life. Words simply don't do him, or the depthnof my feeling for him, justice.

Be nTouch!

Day 44 - Homework

I want to get his very brief BLOG/comment off my chest . . . I don't believe in homework. My child has been in school for 7 hours a day, for 10 years, and the homework increases exponentially with age. Why not get ALL of the work done prior to inviting the bandits to become involved? Anyway, I just hate homework!

Be nTouch (if you feel like it)

Day 43 - More Light

Yesterday I wrote about light, how hard it would be without it and how secure it made me feel. I saw a story on the news tonight about a corner of the world in the Middle East that has no electricity, no running water, no modern conveniences what so ever. No light. Now, my imagination got a little bent yesterday, but what I imagined is real in other parts of the world. No light. Little children growing up, barely surviving, in clay huts, with little food and again, No light. Have I made my point?

I am very grateful to be typing by lightbulb tonight, asking whoever out there, to keep nTouch! No light . . . I can't imagine, not really!

Be nTouch

Day 42 - Light

I took this picture last week. I love this candle in my window. Whenever I see it, I think about light and how secure it is to have a light in the dark. Imagine if all you had was light during the daylight hours. If at night, darkness enveloped us and we could only exist in that darkness; no lights allowed. It would change our world overnight (pardon the pun!) We would be forced to prioritize our day to make the most of the light emitted by the sun, and rest in the evening when we had no more light to live by. Would we get more sleep? Would be suffer from more stress? Would we learn to adapt and choose to slow down? Would we figure out how to beat the system and create light? Would there be black market light rings, coexisting with the drug lords and other shady characters bred from whatever those types of people are bred from?

Okay, how did I go from nJoying my candle to underground, outlaw light criminals? I don't know! I will type this, I love my candle(s) and I am thankful that we have light on demand, not just sunshine. Perhaps a little break from all the stress will do me some good. I like my imagination better when it finds positive rather than dark ideas. Maybe I'll light my candle . . .

Be nTouch

Day 41 - what does it all mean?

Do you ever wonder what your purpose is? I don't usually think about that. I'm normally pretty secure with my purpose, but lately, not so much. As I have mentioned, my job is rough. Sure there are perks, but all in all it is awful. I have a lot if autonomy and I make a fair amount of money, but the stress that goes along with the living is just NOT worth it. I'm trying to figure out what I'm going to do now. If only this BLOG and my website, with bracelet sales, could take off. At this point I feel very stuck. I feel committed to my team and their customers. I wish things were different . . . Believe me when I say that looking for a job now is not on my nTouch list. I don't want to face that probability, at least not tonight!

Hopefully I'll be able to bring some interesting content back to this little space on the web! I know this has been pretty boring lately. Anybody out there? I wish someone would join in. My sister has and I appreciate it! I know she feels the same way about her BLOG. Where is everyone out there?

Be nTouch

Day 40 - Bittersweet Game Day

Unfortunately, we didn't make the trip to watch the Paladins today. It was a bittersweet day for football. The Paladins lost to Wofford . . . ugh! I listened to the play by play through the internet, while I watched the Auburn game on mute. Auburn won big, which was great, but Furman struggled. I'll have to get the details from Max tomorrow. Later, Florida played #1 Alabama. Now, I'm an Auburn fan, but don't cheer against Alabama unless they are playing Auburn or Florida (My Dad is a huge Gator fan). To say it was a disaster for Florida would be an understatement. It was tough to watch. College football can be very stressful, which is a bit ridiculous if you think about it; so don't, think about it that is! I'm just glad it's over and we can look forward to a win form both next weekend.

On a brighter note, check out this new Clapton CD as well as the Zac Brown Band! You can order it from Amazon from this BLOG! Pretty cool!















Be nTouch!

Day 39 - Have I Done What I said I Would Do?

I think not. One of my first promises to myself was to live each day as if it were my last. I can't say that I have done that. Sadly, I haven't followed much of my nTouch list either. I have BLOGGED every day, some posts stronger than others. I'll be excited when people start following. (I'm trying to be positive here) Maybe one day!

I know there is always tomorrow. My goodness I have needy issues. I will begin anew tomorrow.
I have so much to contribute . . . Night all.

Be nTouch

Day 38 - Trust

I have always trusted first. I'm not the person that makes you prove yourself before I trust you. No,I give you the benefit if the doubt first. Not always the best plan to be sure.

Why do you (whoever may be reading this out there) think that is; I mean, why are some of us more trusting while others are not? And I'm not talking about those who have been abused or hurt and have a good reason not to trust. I'm talking about random folks. I've always wondered.

Certainly makes me curious . . . Keep an eye out for what makes you feel like you can trust or why you might automatically not trust . . . Let me know.

Be nTouch

Day 37 - Short and Sweet

Well, I decided to start something new today. Not ready to reveal details quite yet. With the conditions at work like they are, I need a plan B. I wish I could make a living BLOGGING, working on my website and making my bracelets, but that is pretty unrealistic at this point. Plan B just might be my way out. I keep telling myself "Life is too short." I better than anyone knows how true that statement is!

It's late and I'm ready for some sleep. Night from nGage and me.

Be nTouch.

Day 36 - Life After 40

You know, last week it occurred to me that one subject I had completely ignored was how much my life has changed after I turned 40. And I'm not defining that statement by life events. I've certainly experienced a variety of those. No, I mean change from the inside, from my core.

When I was in my 20's, life flew by and now seems relatively blurry. I fell in love for the first time (unless you count the very first boy that I thought I loved in the 7th grade that I still dream about . . . I'll save that for another post), graduated from college, started my career, moved out on my own, met my husband and got into debt. All milestones to be sure, but the day to day detail is hard to recall.

My 30's yielded even bigger events: I advanced in my career, bought my first home, married my husband, became a stepmother, had a baby, lost my husband, bought my second home, along with a lot of other "things" that go along with children, and grew my debt. I learned how to manage being a single Mom, full time employee, and dedicated volunteer. I cruised through those ten years without much thought about the future. Day to day presented enough challenge to keep my mind occupied. Along with the challenges were equal or sometimes rivaling amounts, of joy and reward. I was happy and for the most part refused to have any regrets. That was very important to me back then; living without regret. (We'll save that for a future post as well)

My 40's have so far been more about reflection than advancement. That's not to say that I haven't advanced, but everything about me has changed. Some subtle changes, some not so subtle. Whoever said that "everything starts to fall apart after 40" was right. My body has changed dramatically (at least as far as I'm concerned; others who know me don't seem to notice), I can't remember anything unless I write it down, which is a total contrast to my youth, I could remember every detail of every conversation and debate both sides if necessary. Now my self deprecating joke is that I am the best person to keep a secret because I won't remember the information, much less who divulged the dirt. My 40's have definitely given me reason to pause. I'm not as physically strong or fit as I used to be. I don't have the stamina but still have the desire, which seems oddly unfair. I am tired all the time and I have way too many "irons in the fire," as my sweet Grandmother used to say. I worry about getting cancer or dying prematurely. I worry about my teenager, although he just feels oppressed. I feel more alone than I ever have in any other time in my life. And yet, I also feel a sense of peace and recognition that I HAVE come along way from that 21 year college graduate. The experiences I lived through and survived, have shaped this time. So, these last few hundred days before my next decade will hopefully help me to solidify my perspective. "It is what it is" and "Life is hard," but it sure beats the alternative.

I sincerely pray that the next 50 years are full of adventure, perhaps love and companionship, certainly living debt-free and healthy, and that I remember to take notes so I don't forget a moment. After all,  I AM BLESSED!

Be nTouch







One of my favorite books! I don't want to be the boy. Do you?

Day 35 - Hair

Silly title? My hair is one of my least favorite parts of my body. Always has been. My youngest son, on the other hand, has his father's gorgeous, to die-for (what ever that means) hair. When he was younger, he preferred to have, what we in the south call, a buzz cut. I took that for granted. Now, I'm paying for it.

For the record, I have never, probably will never, care about my hair as much as my son cares about his mane. It is truly remarkable. It affects his mood and personality more often than not. He only trusts me to cut it which is always dangerous. No, hair is a sore subject at our house. I've included a picture of one of my more favorite buzzes, or I should say time frame when he had a buzz. Cute as can be! Now he is still very cute, but without hair, he looked more child-like. Now he looks like a teenage version of this little boy.

Be nTouch

Those were the days! 

Day 34 - Truly A Day of Rest

I'm in search of, but have yet to find, all the missing Days of Rest that I have lost. What happened to Sunday? I remember when nothing was open on Sunday. Your only activity was to get up and go to church. The only time you traveled on Sunday was if there was an emergency or you went out of town for the weekend, which hardly ever happened. Sunday truly was a day of rest. No more . . . I am in search of that Sunday when ALL we do is get up to go to church and come home to lay around,  ALL day long. A girl can dream . . .

Be nTouch

Day 33 - Game # 3 Furman vs. Citadel

Game #3 was a BIG win for the Paladins. This is the one game that I personally wanted Furman to win. At the risk of alienating future Citadel fan readers, I have to confess that this is the game that we had to win. Last year, the Citadel, in Charleston, SC, hosted our young men to play on their field. Unknown to me, this rivalry dates back generations. In all of my years of watching college football, I have NEVER witnessed a nastier fan base than the Citadel cadets and their fans. I must also admit that more than a little part of me wanted to be just as nasty! Thankfully, my normal classy demeanor took over and I behaved myself. We won, they lost, badly, end of story! It just goes to show you that football, particularly college football, where rivalries are steeped into traditions, can bring out the worst in all of us.

Max and the teenager (Wyatt)

Go Paladins and Be nTouch!

Day 32 - Goals and Parenting,

Wow . . . now there's a BROAD topic! Okay, I know but I am struggling with mine right now. I have too many, and not enough time to move forward toward most of them. (This time theme is certainly on my mind lately; I just need about 5 or 6 hours more in everyday, that's all . . . )

Seriously, I have so many goals that I can't seem to narrow them down. I have a hugely busy life, a stressful career (I am taking Dooce's advice and not typing ill of my job, but I could, trust me!) and a teenager living across the hall. The teenager, my youngest son, is the most wonderful and toughest part of any given day. He doesn't mean to be, I know, but (as he might type) OMG we can battle with each other.

Last night, which just might rank up there as the worst night on record, was truly surreal. Not since he was four or five years old have I witnessed such a melt-down. I'm not going into the particulars, because that would just be tacky, but suffice it to say, I wasn't sure we were going to come out on the other side of this Twilight Zone experience. I have long ago accepted the realization that I am, at least in his eyes, stupid some of the time, that I say the wrong thing much of the time and that I can be incredibly embarrassing with very little effort. I don't say yes enough and I am trying to keep him from growing up, but last night defied all logic, trumped all past WWIII preludes and became one of those nights I will forever regret. (Now, before you decide never to read this BLOG again, fearful I may reveal something really disturbing . . . assuming anyone has or will begin to follow this BLOG . . . there were no physical injuries, no one ran away and nothing got broken. But both of our feelings and psyches certainly were bruised terribly and the drama was in high gear from both the parent and the child. Not one of my finer parenting moments, but I digress . . . ) Once there were no more tears and we were both exhausted, we calmed down, hugged and tried to start over. I vowed to never allow myself to get that worked up again . . .  which led me to this BLOG about goals and parenting.

It is rather cliche to state that there is nothing easy about parenting. Of course it is easy to love and nurture and have dreams about what your child or children will become. But the nitty, gritty, disciplinarian, truth is that parenting is hard. Especially when you are alone. It often times hardens your perspective and doesn't allow for flexibility. On the other hand, we all know parents who are more interested in being friends. They make my job a LOT harder and I have gotten to the point that I would like to ban them from our little universe! (Who died and made me Queen?) Seriously. being friends with a teenager is a BAD plan. Don't try it because you will live to regret it, and so will all of us parents who are depending on you to do the right thing. Parenting takes a village, unless you live on an island . . . then you can be friends all day long, and it won't bother anyone else.

What does all this mean? I finally had some time today to get a few things off my chest. I'm no expert and this rant isn't meant to be a rant at all. Remember, I set out to share each day before the big 50. I'm just following that GOAL!

Be nTouch

Not a teenager yet! Look at that face!!

Day 31 - BLESSINGS

Today was a day full of emotion and mixed blessings. Today, Was Brenda's Mom's funeral. It was a stark reminder of life, how short it really is, how we all must try to live each day and not just talk about living. Mrs. Slaughter had several tragedies to live with. She lost her sweet husband and two daughters prematurely. She battled with several lung illnesses for many, many years. But she did live! 

Although today was sad, and Brenda and her family will struggle with this loss and the void it will leave, for a long time, they can certainly feel blessed to have been able to live with and love Jo Ann for many years. And I feel blessed to have been able to spend some wonderful time with my friends today. I miss them dearly.

Be nTouch and treasure your BLESSINGS

Day 30 - Dear Friends

Again, I will be brief . . . please forgive!

Have you ever noticed that NO MATTER what the circumstance, NO MATTER what the issue is, your dear friends (and I pray you have at least one if not more) are ALWAYS right beside you, or behind you or in front of you, depending on your need. I know I take them for granted. I know I don't spend enough time with them. I know that I would do ANYTHING for them, or a member of their family. I know I want to make the time instead of excuses . . . we only have this moment, not promised any time beyond that . . . I know I will do better. Now that I have written it down, put it "out there" so to type, I must make changes, now.

I miss my dear friends! God Bless you all!

Be nTouch

Day 29 - No TIME

Wasn't I just talking about time . . . my goodness, this week is already getting away from me.

Nothing to report today. Not that I don't have any thoughts that might nSpire; I have just run out of the time to articulate them the way that I would like to.

Apologies, but this entire week, or at least the next three days, are going to be slim.

Please, be nTouch . . .

Day 28 - Moms

Today was a sad day for one of my dearest friend's in the world. This morning, my sweet friend Brenda lost her Mom. Earlier this summer, my other dear friend Alison, lost her Mom. Obviously, it makes me think about my Mom. I am lucky to still have her in my life and wish we were closer.

Our relationship has been strained for several years now. We used to talk and spend time together. I used to look forward to sharing hopes and dreams, sadness and frustration; the full range of emotion that daughters and mothers usually share. But we came to an impasse and have never been the same. I truly don't think we ever will be. That thought makes me very sad and today has reminded me that both Alison and Brenda would say, please don't waste another day, let it go and forget. Good advice . . . I need to figure out some way to start a new relationship with my Mom. The past is gone, but the future could present a new beginning. I know that if there is going to be a new start, I am going to have to initiate it, nurture it and make sure it continues. It is all on me . . . perhaps that has been part of the problem all along. But she is worth it and so am I.

God Bless Brenda and Alison! I know their Moms are smiling down now. I love you both very much!

Be nTouch

Day 27 - FOOTBALL FEVER . . .

College Football is here! The only thing better than football in the fall, is baseball in the spring. It was a very long drive home from South Carolina, but well worth the trip. South Carolina didn't expect the Paladins to come to their stadium and give them a good scare. Can't stop thinking about it. Go Paladins

Next Saturday . . . get ready Cadets . . . we will have to give you a little pay back from last year. It's going to be a long trip back to Charleston!

Get your souvenir helmet today.  Be nTouch!

Day 26 - Game Number Two

SOCON Defensive Player of the Week    9-11-2010

Does he look ready to you? This was actually taken at last week's game against Colgate University. Today will be a much harder game against South Carolina. I'm a little nervous. Always worried about injuries when they play these teams made up of bigger players. Last year, the team faced Missouri and then Auburn. Thankfully, everyone stayed safe. (Sorry, I'm a Mom first!)

Looking at this picture takes me back to when he was a little boy. He sure isn't little any more.

Kick off is in a few hours. I'll pick this up after the game tonight; sort of a two part er in one session.
Until then . . .

OMG . . . for everyone over 60, that means Oh My God (or Goodness, which I prefer) What a game. First, we are very sad that one of our quarterbacks was hurt and will be out for the season. But Max had a fantastic game. His name was called more than any one single player on the field, on either side. And he stayed safe! It's late but I had to give a final update . . . the Furman Paladins scared the Carolina Gamecocks and it felt good to be wearing purple in that sea of burnt red, or rust or whatever that "red" color was supposed to be.

Go Paladins!