Weekend

Hi.

The weekend was good ... I had a nice, head-clearing day on Friday. It was nice. I needed some time to myself to sort things out in my head. I think I have a clearer picture and at LEAST know what I'm dealing with.

Sunday Conrad and I went house hunting. We still don't know if we need to build the dream house or take advantage of some of these "deals" ... which are generally foreclosures. The practical side of me says DEAL DEAL ... but some of these houses were drop dead gorgeous. There was even one that had this wrap around staircase- half way up, it had a men's den/office - just RIGHT THERE in the middle of the staircase. It looked like a floating room. Conrad was ALL over that one! There are some beautiful homes out there.

There was also one we liked in a subdivision very close to where we live now. They are selling their model home and let me tell you, it was KILLER. It had 4 bedrooms and an office AND an exercise room (with wood floors and mirrors) and also had a media room (with stacked seating) and a game room. This house was to DIE for and in our price range too. We have a lot of talking to do ... It was absolutely the perfect house for us. It had everything- including built in sound system in every room. But there is another house, different floor plan, in the neighborhood that's a foreclosure going for 1/2 has much and it's a little bigger. Decisions. Decisions.

Kah

Lazy Day

Hey There!

I took the WHOLE day off! HEAVEN. I needed this to clear my mind ... get the cobwebs out, sort of go into my shell and "heal" sounds too corny- but ... fix what's broken.

So last night as I was leaving work one of the girls gave us free passes to see a Sneak Preview of the new Angelina Jolie movie- Wanted ... and I don't normally care for her movies ... AND there's a lot of these free passes that float around- I think people I work subscribe to market research firms or something, but if you know Houston, you know it's really, really big ... and so usually they hand out the passes the night of the movie and it's too hard to try to get somewhere 30 miles away. With gas prices the way they are, it ends up not being free at all... but last night it was at the Studio Movie Grill about 15 minutes from our house. SCORE! and SMG has the BEST BBQ chicken pizza in the world ... so I was game. Conrad was too. It was surprisingly a good movie ... clearly fantasy movie because nothing in it could have happened ... but it was good. It was a nice night out and something different for a work night.

As for my little issue, the Angelina Jolie movie helped ... she played, as usual, a strong character- tough, take no guff and the movie about some poor sap that hated his job, his apartment, his girlfriend and his life ... and I decided you know what- I don't need to take any guff either. I think I'm a normal, reasonable person. It does not bother me when other people do well. I like to see others succeed. I like to be proud of my friends, family and coworkers. I want people to be happy ... I tend to hurt FOR people ... if you cry, I'm almost guaranteed to be sobbing with you in minutes. People maybe sometimes take advantage of that. Other people sometimes don't want to see others do well- at least, not unless they are doing well too ... and I should not let others make me angry and bitter. I need to maintain my compassion and yet, find a way to take no guff. Rest assured I will no longer ... and my volunteering and going out of my way days are over ... but that doesn't mean I can't be compassionate ... I just have to figure out a way to do them all at one time, maybe learn to say no and not be so dragged down by guilt ALL the time. I can't stop living ... but I can for sure be more intune to what I want and need ...

So ... no more volunteering if I don't want to- that's the first thing. I won't go OUT of my way to make someone else happy when I know they don't appreciate it. Second off, I won't be a party to lies and I can not help how other people feel about me. Life is hard enough. I'm not going to FORCE myself to bend to other people's will. How can I live like that?

and in the meantime ... my eyes and feelers are wide open. I'm not married to anything but Conrad and thank the Lord for him.

Kah

Retraction

Ok ... so things are NOT getting better. They got worse since my last post. I really feel like I'm under attack. I'm not sure what I did to deserve it or if it's just the Devil working against me or not. I wish I could fake it- both on here (this blog) and at work, but I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve and right now, I feel like it's broken into a million pieces. There's not even enough left to SHOW on my sleeve.

I am very confused, very hurt ... very unsure of what I need or want to do. I am taking a half day vacation tomorrow to try to breathe and figure it out ...

I'm very friendly and helpful by nature and you can see it's bitten me in the butt ... I find myself very unfriendly right now ... very quiet and non-social ... very unhappy. This isn't me at all.

I'm not sure why I'm allowing other people to control me or kill who I am. I just don't feel, right now, like killing them with kindness ...

Kah

Thanks

Thanks for all the phone calls and emails yesterday.
I'm ok.

Phil. 4:6-7
Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praisesshape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you knowit, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will comeand settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry atthe center of your life.

The Love Guru

Saw this on Saturday- cute movie. Not as stupid and silly as Mike Myers normal movies, although certainly stupid and silly enough ... but it was good. You could maybe wait for the rental, but it's not a waste of money to go to the actual show. We had ICEE's!

Short post today ... not feeling myself. Overwhelmed with anger and sadness and a spot of confusion ... and wondering if I should take an easy way out my sweet husband has offered me ... but I'm not normally an easy way out kinda girl ... so it bothers me ... still, it's good to know you have options.

All I can say is what comes around goes around.

Kah

Saturday ...

Posting from work on a Saturday!

I came over this way kind of early because I work in a very affluent area of Houston called the Galleria/Bellaire... and I wanted to check out their garage sales! The houses around here go for twice what they would in my neighborhood ... same house, just worth three times more. AMAZING.

Anyway- these rich folks ... they are proud of their stuff ... but they do HAGGLE!

I got some good stuff!

Happy weekend to you all ...

Kah

TGIF

This is all I can think about today. FRIDAY FRIDAY FRIDAY

I do have to work about two-three hours tomorrow ... but we can dress down and I'll only be here with one other person, I love overtime AND we are in a REALLY nice neighborhood- so I will be garage saling all the way home. SCORE! I can FEEL a Dooney and Burke Purse, a few designer clothes, some jewelry ... it's all about me, me, me. Can you tell I had a hard week?


Today's Blog Spotlight: My brother- Benjamin Anthony (Andy)

1. Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you
andy FULL abercrombie (I don't know what this means- have you gotten into the devil's lettuce?)

2. How and/or when did we meet?
many moons ago- i was only a child then (Um yeah- like a day old actually)

3. What were your first thought upon meeting me
seems groovy (Somehow, I doubt this)

4. Are you satisifed with our current relationship?
needs work (YES it does my little Hawaiian Papaya)

5. If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it?
we need more contact- my bad- i know, im workin on it (You're doing better AND you got to come to the wedding. YAY!)

6. Are you happy?
yes
7. If no, why not?

8. Do you drink?
need water (Oh really? Given up the keg standing, eh?)

9. Do you feel you have a purpose?
its getting clearer all the time

10. Where do you live?
somewhere inbetween the moon and you (Isn't it- somewhere between the moon and New York City? Even though other than the occasional trip, I'm never near that place ... )

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever...
music-art- and following trains of thought (Following trains of thought? You should only be following MINE)

12. Do you think I'm funny?
you are (Correct!)

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny?
I am (Wow ... a little fond of yourself, are we?)

14. Any kids?
myself (You can not be your own kid!)

15. Do you like them?
he's cool

16. Do I like them?
probablly

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates? The in-fighitng? The war?
People need to understand- war is a perspective - to be overcome
peace is fun- let's try that... i heard a wise man say once "love your enemy". imagine if all those billions were spent on food and shelter- we might make a few friends out of the deal- what do you think (I suppose this was a loaded question ... but yes, all we are saying is- give peace a chance)

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding?
im sure she tryed- gas is expensive yoiu know (Ha Ha funny boy. All she had to do was SEND a regret. It cost me $1.86 for the stamp. If she can't afford $1.86 then the monarchy is in way more trouble than I thought and frankly, she could have borrowed the money from Princes William and Harry- Lady Di left them rolling in it)

19. Are you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married?
just right

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man?
obviously (Good answer bro- someday, if you luck out, you may find a woman like me)

21. Chocolate or Vanilla?
vanilla!!! (Dad Gum Abercrombie men! Where is the life? Where is the joy? Vanilla???)

22. Morning person or not?
working on it (Don't work too hard- morning people are overrated and I think, victims more often than not, of domestic violence)

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol?
food- oxygen- sunlight- rain- wind and thunder (Mmm Hmm .... Mmmm Hmmm... wind and thunder?! I think this may take some more inquiry)

24. Do you trust me?
with my life! (Oh good ... WAA HAA HAA)

25. Do YOU know your heritage? If so, what is it ....
I come from a long line of angels and animals (Ok see ... here is where you lost me. Angels yes- I mean people can LOOK at me and see THAT ... but animals? Be more specific ... people could liken us to dogs or gerbils! Let me fix this quickly ... people, we Abercrombie's are descended from unicorns and swans)

Kah

P.S. OMG! Someone just called me "KH" for the first time and I LOVED it. It sounded good, and right. I am KH now and I'd thank you ALL to begin referring to me as such.

Work

Most of the time, my work doesn't feel like work. Because I like my job, what I do, the people I work with- some of them have become my closest friends. I have met some AMAZING people here ... and I'm blessed.

But my attitude has been in the toilet lately. I just feel really down and really like I need a vacation. I feel likeI'm in competition and I'm not even sure what for. Amazing that when you make the decision not to have children, as a woman, you suddenly BECOME what you DO.

I'm struggling.

Today's Blog Spotlight: Darlene Harris - one of my AR buddies! Porch-monkey extroidinaire

QUESTIONAIRE

1. Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you
Anna Darlene Harris...We know each other as friends forever to be!! (Anna? I did not KNOW that!!!!)

2. How and/or when did we meet?
On my porch with the other "porch monkies"...Tracy & FLW brought you to me!! (Yes and I will love Tracy forever for bringing you to me)

3. What were your first thought upon meeting me
I like this girl...she can hang with us!! (I totally CAN!)

4. Are you satisifed with our current relationship?
Wish we could see each other...@ least every couple of months..... (I know, I miss you so much. You always bring me such comfort ... and also liquor. But then liquor =comfort.)

5. If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it?
DUH...Come see me! (I'm coming- September!)

6. Are you happy?
Not always...not sad, just not really happy with my current situation. (Me either, as today's post implies)

7. If no, why not?
Did not plan to be here @ this age & stage!

8. Do you drink?
Yep (I KNEW the answer to this one ... who loves the Electric Cowboy?!)

9. Do you feel you have a purpose?
I wondered...till I studied 'The Purpose Driven Life' @ church...it makes God's plan for all of us clear & purposeful...read the book...it is great

10. Where do you live?
Bentonville...with my sister (now that is a BLOG all to itself)!! (Yes .. it is. God Bless your soul. You should get an audience with the Pope)

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever...
Have started a renewed interest in family Genealogy...who are we & where did we come from?? (Ah... a woman after my own heart!!!!)

12. Do you think I'm funny?
Hilarious (that is my 6 yr old, Olivia, grandgirls' favorite word!) ...(True. I am)

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny?
I can be!! Especially while 'sittin on the porch'! (You kill me- one of the funniest humans on the earth!)

14. Any kids?
1 son with a wonderful wife...1 daughter with a wonderful husband & 3 beautiful grand girls! I am blessed!!

15. Do you like them?
See above...what do you think!

16. Do I like them?
You do...mainly because friends love the ones their friends love...I already love Conrad & have never met him. (Ah, the best answer yet ... yes, if you love, then I love them. It also helps that they are grown. I find children to be sticky and loud ... I like dry and quiet)

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates? The in-fighitng? The war?
Tired and confused...says it all.

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding?
I think most people from England are rude/stuck-up...they are NOT Southern! I think she missed a good party! I also wonder what she carries in that purse??? (Probably a gun. She's big on hunting you know ...)

19. Are you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married?
No...you were looking and God was leading you to the right man. (It sure did take Him long enough! I almos had to hobble down the aisle on a cane)

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man?
I think he is a blessed man...and he is a blessing to you. What a great combination. (You haven't met him yet ... you will see I am more blessed than he. I still can't figure out how I deserve him)

21. Chocolate or Vanilla?
Chocolate...always. (LOVE you!)

22. Morning person or not?
I HATE Mornings..... ( LOVE LOVE LOVE you! I hate them too )

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol?
HGTV...it rocks! (OMG!I know! I love HGTV ... I love Color Correction, Design on a Dime, Devine Design, Deserving Design, House Hunters, House Hunters International ... can you tell I'm a fan?!)

24. Do you trust me?
Absolutely

25. Do YOU know your heritage? If so, what is it ....
As stated...I am now researching that. It is leading toward England...yuk! (Well now, that's not all that bad. This means are YOU are from the big island- you know- UK, Ireland and Scotland. It also may mean you have a penchant for the drink and a nasty temper ... but I say go get a pint and forget what everyone else thinks!)

Kah

Asian Chicken Tenders

I found a blog that has Weight Watchers recipes. I don't want to BE on Weight Watchers and in order to get their recipes you have to sign up, pay and be a member. I was more curious as to how their food would taste. So I found a young ladies blog that showcased some WW recipes. I made one the other night. Asian Chicken Tenders

Marinade:

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup teriaki sauce
1 Tbsp honey
1 Tbsp lemon juice
2 green onions (chopped up)
2 cloves of diced garlic

Soak your chicken tenders or breasts (chopped up) for 3-4 hours or overnight.

Then you can either grill them or like me, just cook them over medium heat in a non-stick pan.

DELICIOUS! Conrad and I were knocking each other down to get to the tenders. I made eggrolls and sesame chicken rice to go with it. Conrad said he'd like to see this in our regular dinner rotation. SCORE!

Today's Blog Spotlight: my former neighbor, Toni

1. Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you

Toni Lynn Storey. Friend. (Yes, and former neighbor.HELLO. Were you not going to mention that? Are you ASHAMED?)

2. How and/or when did we meet?

When you moved in next door to me. (Oh, I take it back)

3. What were your first thought upon meeting me

Oh good she seems like a nice girl (WAA HAA HAA ... how do you feel now?!)

4. Are you satisifed with our current relationship?

No (Me either ... blame Conrad. I do)

5. If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it?

Move back to Dallas. Just kidding! Yes I'm satisfied. (I wish I could. I miss Dallas very much. I completely took it for granted, during my time there)

6. Are you happy?

Content (I always say content too!)

7. If no, why not?

Don't really know

8. Do you drink?

No (WHATever ... I've seen you drink a time or three)

9. Do you feel you have a purpose?

I don't think about stuff like that (How come? You can't just BE ... you need to DO)

10. Where do you live?

Richardson (Yes, love North Texas!)

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever...

Flea Markets, card-making, reading (That's why we got along so well ... we have a lot of the same interests)

12. Do you think I'm funny?

God yes! (GOOD ANSWER!)

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny?

Nope (I think you are)

14. Any kids?

Nope (Well, if you're not funny- you're sure as heck SMART!)

15. Do you like them?

Yes as long as I can send them back at the end of the day

16. Do I like them?

Yes but you don't want them (I don't really like them to be honest. I like family kids and close friends kids ... but kids in general, I avoid)

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates? The in-fighitng? The war? I plead the 5th (Interesting ... you're being a little mysterious)

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding?

Downright rude! The nerve! She acts like she's busy or something. (I KNOW. I've seen documentaries and she's NOT that busy ... she only wears that formal Queen get up like once a year. Please.)

19. Are you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married?

No, you had to kiss some pretty ugly frogs before Conrad rode up on his white horse (Ha Ha Ha ... I think some ugly frogs read here ... but hey, if it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and sounds like a duck- it's probably a duck. Sorry Ugly Frogs!)

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man?

I don't think I know!

21. Chocolate or Vanilla?

Chocolate (Good)

22. Morning person or not?

Yes (Yes. This has always disturbed me about you)

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol?

American Express (Ah, I'm reformed!)

24. Do you trust me?

Completely

I notice you completely skipped answering the heritage question. Are you hiding something? I know you spent some TIME in Yankee land- but you're in a Texas girl and you repented ... I forgive you.

Kah

End

Does anyone else feel like the world is ending?

Gas is almost $4 a gallon here, floods have taken out most of Iowa and some other states too- I heard a levy broke this morning somewhere in IL ... and now it's much worse than it was, it's hurricane season- can hardly wait to see what's in store for us there! ... China is under water too, Tim Russert drops dead at work, prompting an entire weekend of mourning on TV- which if you know me, prompted ME to have chest pains all weekend and also to develop a mild fear of the Thrombosis ... it's suddenly disappeared in the past few days. Why? Because I'm at work - not at home in front of the TV, watching illustrations of how and what thrombosis's are ... I heard that food prices, because of all the messed up corn crops are going to go through the roof. They said up 7% this year and another 7% next year ... the economy is in the toilet ... these just do not seem like good times to me. Maybe it's good this is an election year.

Today's Blog Spotlight: my former stepdad, Chris Woodie

1. Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you
christopher charles woodie, ex-stepfather ( Right! well ... kinda, you'll always be my stepdad)

2. How and/or when did we meet?
we met in the summer of 1986 when i was shackin' up with yo mama (oh ... how lovely. I'm sure she will LOVE reading that. HA HA! I remember that first summer full of Funyons and reruns of Dallas ... I have no idea why I loved that show so much. I never watched it before that summer or after. I also remember your sister Kelli coming to visit and some terrible cookies we made)

3. What were your first thought upon meeting me
i hope she likes me (I did ... but I think I was afraid my mom would like you more ... such are the thoughts of a little kid. I know, I know- she loved me DIFFERENT- JEEZ, beat it into my head, you guys ... )

4. Are you satisifed with our current relationship?
no (Wow, put it out there!)

5. If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it?
communication (mmmm... you mean we don't have much of it? Yes, I know- I'm sorry ...)

6. Are you happy?
very

7. If no, why not?
N/A

8. Do you drink?
only on days that end with y (I would have answered this "only in groups of one or more")

9. Do you feel you have a purpose?
absolutely (Oh good... cause I need a purpose. Can I have yours?)

10. Where do you live?
Goose Creek, s.c. (Right again! The finest state in the nation)

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever...
guitar,bowling,singing,fishing (Interesting though, that none of those activities can really be done together- except for guitar and singing ... I would pay a lot of money to see bowling and fishing)

12. Do you think I'm funny?
Yes (Ah good, then you have not lost your memory!)

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny?
Yes

14. Any kids?
yep 4 incl steps (that's a lot of kiddos!- so clearly you HAVE lost your mind)

15. Do you like them?
very much

16. Do I like them?
at least 1 (Are you saying that I looooooove myself? Well you are correct! But to be fair, I don't know the other 3. I only met them maybe twice- and one was a baby)

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates? The in-fighitng? The war? hillary or obama-just say no (mmm hmmm ... mmmm hmmmm ... so McCain is your man then? Are you not concerned that he's over 100 years old?)

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding? abso-freakin-lutely (Thank you for your support. I'm afraid some people think I'm over reacting about the whole thing)

19. Are you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married?
Nope

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man?
definitely lucky (Yes I think so too)

21. Chocolate or Vanilla?
Chocolate (and who says people from West Virigina have no taste?!)

22. Morning person or not?
Yes (oh no... you lost me there ... )

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol?
coffee,beer,cigarettes (that's a lot Christopher. Really? Cigarettes? I did not know that ... )

24. Do you trust me?
Yes

25. Do YOU know your heritage? If so, what is it ....
yes- irish/cherokee (Irish- hip hip horray! .... Cherokee ... me too! about 1/32 of it anyway ... you can't tell by my cheekbones, but I daresay were they not buried in CHUB, you could totally see mine ... )

Kah

Monday Monday

Happy Monday!

I ended up having to work from home some this weekend, helping an emergency, so I sort of feel I worked all weekend. I ended up having to hang around the house Saturday afternoon and evening- and so I had to run my errands late that night. Yesterday I just laid around with a small migraine ... so Conrad went out to the gun range and shot his rifles. I felt like it may be a bit too loud and hot for me to go out there when I didn't feel well ... so I stayed back.

We watched our Netflix this weekend- I had gotten the movie, The Heartbreak Kid, with Ben Stiller. SO funny ... there is a character in the movie who is a little bit of a religious zealot and he called marijuana- "the devil's lettuce" ... we just died laughing. I am still laughing this morning. Pretty clever flick. Conrad wants to add it to our collection, which he almost never says ...

Mildly successful garage saling this week. Got a cute candle holder, some cool earrings, a brand new Pampered Chef piece in it's box, a beautiful Christmas ornament with tags, in its original box from a pretty fancy boutique and some "K" stationary ... nothing terribly exciting, but not a complete waste either.

Not much more to report from steamy Houston, Texas today ... just tired and have the regular Monday blah's ...

Hope the week goes fast for us all! At least the work part of it.

Also, of course, condolences to the family of Tim Russert. It was such a sad TV weekend. I watched the Meet The Press memorial show- and saw Tom Brokaw break down. Tim's son, Luke, was on the Today show this morning- it was a nice 15 minutes. It looks like he is ok ... but of course, I'm sure the sad moments come and go ... very sad. My thoughts are with them.

Kah

Sickly

A mid-day post to say I'm feeling sickly.

I think it may be Salmonella. You know I went to Ruby Tuesday's last Thursday night, June 5th and I had the tomato and mozeralla salad and I think I may be dying. I know it was over a week ago, but I have a slow metabolism and these things take time.

and NO Conrad I am not crying wolf! This not like those times I told you I felt like I was coming down with the West Nile or Tuberculosis- I mean it for real this time ... I've got the Salmonella.

My stomache is churning and when I cough I feel the urge to throw up. Is that part of the symptoms for the Salmonella? I think it might be. I'm not ALLOWED (thank you Conrad) to get on WebMD, or I'd look it up right quick.

For now, I am just regretting that salad... and thinking about the tomatos I found in the bin last night at home, that I threw away. I didn't actually TOUCH them, but maybe some of the Salmonella rubbed off on my hand or something.

I'll update you on Monday, if I've not been hospitalized ...

Kah

Let the Games Begin

I'm carpooling! I think over 50% of people in our office are. I encourage you to do so as well. I'm thinking if half as many people drive, then half as many people will buy fuel and then they will HAVE to drop the price. I don't know about you- but I have better things to spend my money on. Yesterday I was upset about the price of something else (priced at $2.24) and I said "It's half a gallon of gas!" ... and it shocked me. $2.25 is about half a gallon- we haven't QUITE reached the $4 mark yet, but it's coming .... so for now, I'm carpooling. It's less boring and makes the commute go by quicker- so I'm pleased with it!

We went to Target last night hunting new puzzles- but we couldn't find any good ones. They were all fantasy puzzles that almost looked like something out of Harry Potter, or kittens or villages - not interested. I'm looking for nice pirate ship or something. I HAVE to do puzzles that I like ... something I find interesting- otherwise, I lose interest.

Blog Spotlight: My Best Friend, Sunny

1. Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you
Sunny Le'Ann Bolin Alaniz, best friend, met you at Commonwealth Land Title (Correct!)

2. How and/or when did we meet? about 15 yrs. ago at our job (Yes, again correct... and I don't know why you had to say 15 YEARS AGO- putting my AGE all out there for the people. If you MUST know, I got that job at Commonwealth when I was 10 years old- making me a vivacious 25 year old)

3. What were your first thought upon meeting me--young & goofy, haha (um... I was never, ever goofy ... )

4. Are you satisifed with our current relationship? NO, I need you here in Dallas with me! :(
(I know ... I didn't mean to move away ... blame Conrad. I do.)

5. If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it? You & Conrad move back t take care of me & my kiddos (I would move back to Dallas in a heartbeat, if I could. I'd take 105 degrees over 93% humidity any day!)

6. Are you happy? Not so much

7. If no, why not? Massive life changes (Yeah ... those are tough and I am concerned for you)

8. Do you drink? Used to, thinking about taking it up again (I suggest Hurricanes and a nice trip to New Orleans!)

9. Do you feel you have a purpose? um, NO, trying to figure that out

10. Where do you live? Red Oak, Texas

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever... my children steal my hobbies but I enjoy movies, friends & good books (Yes, this is why I choose not to have children. If someone were to interupt me whilst I was reading a good book, I'd go homicidal and they frown on that, during child rearing)

12. Do you think I'm funny? Completey Mental, I mean hysterical (You're really letting your true colors shine through here Sunny ... I am not MENTAL; but if I were- I have a LIST of people to blame. )

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny? um, sometimes

14. Any kids? 2 you are their Aunt, surely you now that!

15. Do you like them? Sometimes

16. Do I like them? Yeah cause you don't see them often enough (Ha Ha. You may be more right about this, than you know- and I can not BELIEVE you would talk this way about those precious angels)

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates? The in-fighitng? The war? The democrats are idiots!!! (yes! Correct!)

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding? Well of course, does she not know who you are??? I mean come on! Let's go over there & Get HER! (I know. I don't think she does know who I am .. and frankly, with my recent name change I don't even know who I am)

19. Are you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married? No, I've seen the others & I'm glad you never married any of them, whew! (Amen sister ... I'm not so sure any of them were WORTHY to tell you the truth.)

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man? Sure & Crazy TOO (Are you saying he would have to be mentally challenged to have shackled himself to me for the next 40 years?!)

21. Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate always, migraines & all (Good answer)

22. Morning person or not? sometimes (Let me assist you with this one. NO. YOU ARE NOT. EVER)

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol?
I've been addicted to many things. Now, it's a.m. coffee. I would like to be addicted to shopping but I need $. (You should try garage saling. It helps me get my "stuff" fix and then I can turn around sell it on Ebay or at garage sales when I am done with it. Good recycling!)

24. Do you trust me? With my LIFE! Accept when Payton said you threw Michaela in the pool (6 mos old) and tried to let her drown. Still not sure what was up with THAT!!! (Payton, in her younger years, was quite the yarn teller. I don't want to come right out and call a four year old a liar, but if pushed, I WILL! I put water wings on her and I HELD the baby in the pool. At no time, was anyone not being suspended by plastic or by me .... and no, I am not referring to myself- nothing on me is plastic.)

25. Do YOU know your heritage? If so, what is it .... UM, Remember, I am heinz 57, the best of the mixes!!! I believe German, Irish & English but basically MUTT!!! (Um, southern is the correct answer here. What is UP with all the Germans?!)

Kah

Texas

Are you kidding me? I am cracking up- and no offense to you if I mention something you may have said. I am not directing this at any one person, but more to PEOPLE in general.

I have heard all over the news, radio, through blogs and through people I know how hot it is right now. I hear terms like Sweltering, Stifling, Africa Hot, Unbearable. Last night I tuned into David Letterman and he said it was "89 degrees and smothering" or something like that ... and I have to say WHAT? You think 89 degrees in unbearable? I tuned into the Gayle King Show on Oprah and Friends this morning she is going on and on about how NYC is hot hot hot and how they are running from one building into another and hailing cabs to take them mere blocks away ... the high today in NYC is 83 degrees- WHAT ARE YOU COMPLAINING ABOUT?

Have you ever been to Texas? Ever lived here, ever visited? How about 93 degrees with 95% humidity ... why don't you come and visit awhile in Houston? You wanna feel HOT- how about walking outside and within seconds feeling like your face is being covered by a wet washcloth. THAT is hot. I would trade in my best friend (sorry Sunny!) for 83 degrees ... and this is considered mild by the way! People are already talking about how awful July and August are going to be. I think coming to Texas for a little summer vacation may make you homesick for your area REAL quick. Of course, you'll never want to go home- our cost of living is one of the lowest in the nation, 3000 Sq foot homes are going for $180K, our food is incredible, our shopping even better ... the state of Texas itself is made up of many different areas of topography- we have the piney woods, the beach, mountains, hillcountry .... we have lakes and rivers as well as the ocean ... "local cuisine" could be BBQ, seafood, wild game or mexican depending on what area you visit. It's like going to a different country just a few hours each way. So, I don't know- maybe you better stay where you are ...

Blog Spotlight: Adelle Hopkins- my mother in law

QUESTIONAIRE

1. Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you.
Adelle Marie Hopkins (McKinley) - I am that ole wicked "Mother-in-law"! (Nah, I think I did well in the mother in law department. I love you. I can never imagine not feeling that way about you.)

2. How and/or when did we meet?
We met May 2006 for Mikel's college graduation in Greenville, Texas. Your future nephew, Keagan, totally surprised us all as when we were leaving the graduation. Of course, by this time he had become very friendly with you and wanted to ride in the same car and sit next to you. As we all got our seatbelts on and started the car (before we even backed out) he said, "Now, let's talk about my penis!". That certainly broke the ice?! (Yes, well- I knew then he was related to Conrad, who never seems to mind talking about inappropriate things or bodily functions. It's taken some getting used to, but it's also rubbed off on me a little.)

3. What were your first thought upon meeting me?
I thought you were beautiful and very considerate since you showed up with a gift for Mikel whom you had never met. Wow, we were all very impressed. It felt as if we were all good friends and had known each other a long time. (The beauty thing, I totally understand- I mean HAVE YOU SEEN ME? I've heard the story about the gift thing before and it confuses me ... because I was taught that you always show up with just a little something ... my grandmother would have rolled over in her grave if I had not)

4. Are you satisifed with our current relationship?
Very much so - you are my "daughter" - no ifs, ands, or buts! (Excellent!)

5. If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it?
Not one thing needs to be changed.

6. Are you happy?
Yes, totally.

7. If no, why not?
Very seldom am I down in the dumps - life is too short. Usually by morning, I can pick myself up and move forward whatever has surfaced the previous days of my life. (Wow, then I need to talk to you. Morning is my worst time ... and Sunday's. I get very very down on Sunday's for some reason. I wish I was a stay at home dog mom)

8. Do you drink?
Occasionally! Here I am a good ole Baptist, but one glass or two of wine or Baileys Irish Creme w/coffee is very good for my soul! (ooooooo... I like Baileys too. I did not know this about you. I normally drink it in coffee, but there was once an incident where I was in a plane and had no choice but to drink it straight and FAST!)

9. Do you feel you have a purpose?
Yes, God has a plan for all of us or I truly believe we wouldn't be here to talk about it!!!!!!! (Sometimes I'm confused about what mine is ... but even then I don't want to be to GOOD at the plan, or my time will be over! HA!)

10. Where do you live?
Dallas, Texas - Good Ole "Oak Cliff" and I am proud of it!!!!!!! (I miss Dallas ... )

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever...
Sewing, Antique shopping, Crafts, Reading, Crocheting, Garage Sales, 1st Mondays @ Canton, and Cooking..... (I know my family will laugh at this one since I don't do a lot of cooking right now.) (You're a good cook!I liked your sweet potatoes ... and you know I love, love, love garage sales!)

12. Do you think I'm funny?
Yes, but I don't think you actually try to be funny sometimes - it just comes out that way along with the look on your face. (Sometimes I try!)

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny?
Not generally, but my Mother's nickname for me was "Lucy" (from the Lucille Ball show) from as young as I can remember. She said I did and said things like Lucy did on the show. (oh, so maybe you're just clumsy ... HA HA HA)

14. Any kids?
Yes, 1 boy and 1 girl - both are totally awesome. (Agreed)

15. Do you like them?
Very Much - I would never have sent them back - Even during the awful "teen" years - these years were a breeze and very delightful!!!!!!! (I thought Conrad was declared something of a saint and you 'never had a moment's trouble from him')

16. Do I like them?
Yes, there is one of them listed above that you actually "love" and married recently! (Yeah. I did)

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates?
The in-fighitng? The war?
Won't say too much - but wish that Obama and Hillary would battle it out and get it over with or even destroy each other and then we have only one choice. Mind you that I am not saying that any of the candidates stand out dramatically at this point - we certainly need and could have had better choices all the way around. The War - I wish we had done our job over ten years ago, but at this point we had no choice but to attack. These people do not want to be "civilized" so I believe our job is done and some of the Troops should be pulled out. I am afraid this War will continue into 10 years like Vietnam with not much to show for the time period spent there. (Well, now we know Obama has dominated over Hillary - but I still don't care for McCain either .... I don't know what we're going to end up with. I'm thinking we should all pack up and head to Europe)

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding?Yes, I do! She should have the best etiquette behavior than even the President of the United States. Mostly, because she is a woman and that she is in such a position of honor and privilege. The world has watched her for many years and she has a reputation to uphold. This is not a good thing - this was a simple task and she certainly had staff that should have completed this task promptly on her behalf. What a shame that she missed out on such a beautiful, fun time. (I KNOW! I would have thought she would have at LEAST sent a regret ... but nothing.... AND we had to pay $1.86 for her stamp! Worst $1.86 Conrad ever spent)

19. Are you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married?
No, but I didn't know you until you were in your 30's. (Good point ... but you missed out. I was even more charming, if it's possible, in my 20's. Of course, it could have just been the beer.)

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man?
Yes, you are the perfect mate for him. (I have told you this several times!) ... (Yep...)

21. Chocolate or Vanilla?
Vanilla? What is vanilla - what are you thinking????? There is no other flavor but CHOCOLATE!!!!!!! I told you on the phone the other night that I had a huge slice of chocolate cheesecake made by Father Gerald - I wish I had brought some home - OHH it was soooooo good! (OMG! There is no flavor but chocolate. Plus vanilla is sort of a sudo-flavor. It takes on the flavors of things added to it. Who wants that?!)

22. Morning person or not?
Morning - my brain scrambles after 11:00pm, but when my feet hit the floor in the morning, I am ready to go. (Ugh. You lost me here)

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol?
Cokes - trying to cut back, but it got pretty bad for awhile. I am embarrassed to say that I could drink a 2 liter in two days all by myself. I know that it is not good for me and I have made some changes. I have one 12oz Coke every two days! But, I am drinking more water! I have to say that I am addicted to my husband of 37 years. What a ride I've been on thru the years with this man. I would love to have another 37 years to share with him and even then I probably would not know everything about him?! (oh well then ... I see where Conrad gets his Coke addiction. I can't KEEP the stuff in the house. It comes in and goes just as quickly. He's running me into the poor house, truth me told ... and as for Mike- are yoyu saying he is such a mystery that even another 37 years would not reveal his secrets? I'll be thinking of ways to make him talk ... )

24. Do you trust me?
Yes, Yes, Yes!

25. Do YOU know your heritage? If so, what is it ....
Don't remember much. My daddy used to tell me the percentages of my heritage, but all I can remember is 1/4th Native American Indian and 1/8th Irish. (Well, as you know, I never met your dad ... but he sounds delightful. I like a man who knows his heritage- you hear THAT Conrad?! ... This makes Conrad 1/8 native american ... which is more than me. I think I am 1/16 .... neither one of us got the beautiful dark skin ... I can see the Irish because I SWEAR both of your have red in your hair ... maybe I should have Conrad's blood tested. All I know is that Nana was concerned about Yankee blood, but I don't think you have any of that ... or maybe it's so watered down by this point ... )

Kah

Blog Spotlight

My stepdad: Brian Boring

1. Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you. Brian Step daddy Boring step daddy of course (Yes, Stepdaddy Brian)

2. How and/or when did we meet? We met on in Charleston when you came to see your mom.
(NOPE! We met in St Petersburg, FL over Memorial Day or Labor Day- you were there seeing your mom. I met you at the airport there- I was wearing my sterling silver snake ring on my ring finger ... and I told you it was my wedding ring and that I was married to the devil. Quite a welcome, eh?!)

3. What were your first thought upon meeting me. AHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!! LOL (what does that mean?)

4. Are you satisifed with our current relationship? Yes

5. If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it?

6. Are you happy? yes

7. If no, why not?

8. Do you drink? damn skippy (Good boy!)

9. Do you feel you have a purpose? Of course

10. Where do you live? Eadytown SC (um .... I don't know. I thought you lived in Cross or something like that)

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever...guns, fishing, hunting, pool, drinking (Drinking is a hobby? I guess it could be ... )

12. Do you think I'm funny? Funny queer or funny ha ha? (HA HA, punk!)

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny? Not funny queer but yes funny ha ha (I am going with queer for you, not that there's anything wrong with that)

14. Any kids? Hummmm elaborate (DO YOU HAVE ANY KIDS)

15. Do you like them? yes

16. Do I like them? I am not sure

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates? The in-fighitng? The war? Not enough time that is a whole lot of talking for me (me too)

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding? I do we should boycott (Ok! Want to do like the Boston Tea Party thing again? Really show 'em?)

19. Are you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married? No I was there (Ha Ha, now THAT was funny)

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man? Well there are TWO kinds of luck you know. (No, I did not know)

21. Chocolate or Vanilla? depends (on?)

22. Morning person or not? Not at all (Good, I like you more already)

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol? Guns maybe?????? (Yes... maybe ... Conrad would say yes )

24. Do you trust me? yes (I could have a lot of fun with this one!)

25. Do YOU know your heritage? If so, what is it .... yes German mostly. (Oooo... I was totally with you until this statement. Really? German? Huh... well, you're already family .... )

Kah

Early

I am LOVING getting off work 30 minutes early. I was home yesterday by 5:30. On a "normal" day I would have been just getting on my second highway (out of 4) I use to get home. I was sitting on my couch at 5:30 and feeling like I was doing something naughty... and better than all of that was that my evening at home really DID seem longer, which is wonderful. I want more time at home with Conrad and Blanca.

We finished the puzzle! I don't know what in the world we're gonna do now. HA HA ... probably go buy some more and then send the ones we've finished to my dad. I think he likes puzzles- I KNOW he likes games ... so maybe this is a why we can recycle them. If anyone else out there likes them, let me know and we can recycle them to you too! It's actually pretty mentally stimulating - I really enjoy doing puzzles. Last night we were so close to finishing it, we worked as a team and no one called anyone any names. HA HA!

Anyway, it's Wednesday ... and I am HAPPY about that! I've already decided that Saturday is going to be a PHENOMENAL garage sale day and that I am going to find two fabulous and healthy meals in this cookbook I got from the library ... and that it's going to be a slow and lazy weekend... let's see if I can actually accomplish all of this just by brainpower, positive thinking and some prayer.

Also I've been thinking about the kitchen. If you've ever been in it, you know it's WHITE. STARK WHITE- I'm thinking of aging the cabinets ... Conrad and I talked. This is a WONDERFUL time to buy a house. We want a much larger one- maybe 2500 sq feet or so. It's a good time to buy an existing home and make a lot of money BUT it's a crummy time to sell one and we'd have to sell ours... plus we always sort of thought we'd build our "dream house" and stay there ... so I think that's what we've decided to do. We are going to stay put for now and make this house PERFECT for us ... which means painting the master bath ... and hanging some new blinds, maybe aging these cabinets- turning Conrad's den into a better den/bar/office ... perhaps putting some french doors on that room . Anyway- I saw this pic of someone's kitchen and I think the black looks good too ... and would look good with our wall color ... I think it will be fun.

Of course, ask me in a few months if it's all that fun ...

Kah

Puzzling

Happy Tuesday!

I hope the week passes as fast as yesterday did. The traffic has been very light - I suppose because school is out; maybe a lot of parents have taken off on some early summer vacations. I hope it stays! I have been getting here early- at 7:30 which is when all my other co-workers start ( I usually started at 8) ... and they all got off at 4:30 (I get off at 5). Anyway, yesterday I got permission to go on everyone else's schedule. You have NO IDEA how happy this makes me. Getting this 30 minute head start literally takes 45 minutes off my commute. I am SO SO SO happy- especially since I get here at 7:30 anyway. Interesting side note- I'm the only one who did! The 7:30 girls slither in here anywhere from 5-15 late! I HAD NO IDEA! They are always here when I got here at 8. Anyway ...

Conrad and I have been working on a puzzle at home. We love them-they are so addicting. We bought it months ago and it has been sitting in a closet this whole time. I suppose I'll start looking at garage sales for more- and I'll only buy them at a GS if the wrapper is still on. There's nothing more frustrating than having a piece or two missing. But, we've been having a good time with the newest one we have. The last one we did, we modge podged and hung on the wall .. a few weeks later I found the POSTER of the puzzle at a garage sale, framed! HA! I think ours has more character, a story behind it AND we worked really hard on it ... it's hanging above the fireplace.

I WILL say that putting together puzzles sort of brings out the worst in us ... if there is a piece missing or hard to locate, the other person will blame it on the one not looking for it. If one person gets many pieces in a row, they will taunt the other one. There's a lot of taunting going on in the house these days!

We also got two more wedding gifts this week ... which was a nice and unexpected surprise. We thank you ... and I got my new debit card in the mail last night with my new name... I also filled out my passport information last night too. All I need to do now is get my passport photo taken- CVS and Walgreens both offer that service for $7.99 - so I'll do that this week and get that process moving.

Kah

Good Morning!

I'm trying to be cheerful- I hate Monday's! Also I only slept maybe four hours last night. That happens every third or fourth Sunday night.

I had a TERRIBLE garage sale experience on Saturday. There were people out with sales, but there was nothing worth buying. At one sale, all he had was FOSSILS. YES. Fossils- with index stickers on them. I assume he was some sort of retired professor. But I would think he would have donated them to a school or museum when he was done with them. It was rather disturbing. Wonder if there is some law about that ... I would THINK so.

Anyway, I got away with a bag and an old set of Good Housekeeping cookbooks. They are actually small magazines, from l967- one was Christmas, one was casseroles, desserts, cooking basics, sides, etc ... and they all fit into this white, plastic Good Housekeeping thing. I assume this was something you wrote away for- and collected each piece. The lady sold them to me for $2 and they were her grandmother's- never used. I'm going to check out their value on Ebay - it's not something I'd really want to keep for myself. EDITTED TO ADD: Just found them on Ebay! Here's a pic ... they are going for $10. Not a bad return. I'll list mine this week, and I have the full set- this lady only has 1/2.

The rest of the weekend was laying around, putting together a puzzle and completely blowing off my new way of eating. I didn't do too great with that- but back on the plan today! I think it's a lifestyle change more than a DIET- so I suppose I'm expected to break down and be bad once in awhile. I really did fine until yesterday- when we went to Johnny Carrino's ... and I'm not sure how one behaves oneself there when you get bread, salad and a meal. SO- I just went with it.

I hope you all have a good week!

No Blog Spotlight today. Let's give it a break, shall we?

Kah

Cracker Jack

Last night on the way home from work, Conrad sent me a text and asked me to pick up a Diet Coke at CVS- I had to stop in and get my thyroid meds.

I went in and it was SO hard to just get the Coke and meds and go. I ended up stopping and grabbing a bag of Cracker Jacks. They remind me so much of my grandmother, who bought them for me all the time. Only back in the day, they came in a box, three to a pack and were taped together with a thin blue cord ... your grandma had to cut the top of the box off with a knife! Now, they come in a bag ... but they take me back, all the same. I shared them with Blanca and thought about my grandma the whole time. I miss her so much.

Today's Blog Spotlight: My Mom, Dickie Doran Boring

1. Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you ... Dickie Doran Boring, Mom (Correct!)

2. How and/or when did we meet? Aug 12, 1975 at 11:30 in the delivery room! (mmmm... I take issue with this one. According to medical science, we had been together a good nine months or so before Aug 12th)

3. What were your first thought upon meeting me oh! look at all that hair! and its black (Oh, is this a Vietnamese refugee joke?!)

4. Are you satisifed with our current relationship? yup (Excellent ... then I'm doing everything right; as if there were a doubt .... )

5. If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it? move closer (I wish I could; but I'm married up now, and legally, I think I have to take his wants into consideration)

6. Are you happy? most of the time

7. If no, why not? issues..job..a health blip or 2

8. Do you drink? wine, once in awhile (Yes, wine, right?)

9. Do you feel you have a purpose? yes

10. Where do you live? Pinevile, SC..which is in the middle of nowhere (Yes, it sure is ... but I like it. I like that you live near the Quattle Mart! I mostly just like to say Quattle Mart. QUATTLE MART, QUATTLE MART!)

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever... reading, fishing, boating, LOVE go carts..playing with my doggies (I love to read too. I could hole up and do it for days and days and days at a time. I don't like go carts, because they make my hair smell like gas)

12. Do you think I'm funny? to the max (Good, A++++ for you)

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny? yup

14. Any kids?1

15. Do you like them? yes

16. Do I like them? I belive you have an upclose and personal relationship with my child (That I do; I adore her)

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates? The in-fighitng? The war? Boo Democrats, don't like McCain, too old, but no other choice (I agree with you. McCain scares me too. I don't like him- he reminds me of Bob Dole - who I REALLY don't care for. But you're right- he's all we got)

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding? ummm sure (You don't sound conviced, are you on her side? Are you playing for her team?)

19. Were you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married? nope

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man? oh certainly and he has an awesome MIL (MIL in general is a scary word, for everyone. I'm glad both he and I lucked out in this department)

21. Chocolate or Vanilla? choc (No Abercrombie blood, so this does not surprise me)

22. Morning person or not? yup..up at 3:30 (Yeah, that is sick sick sick)

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol? no (not shopping? Come on .... )

24. Do you trust me? yes

25. Do YOU know your heritage? If so, what is it .... sorta, Southern gal, born and raised in SC and I miss my Mom and dad (SORTA!? I have not done my job correctly ... you are IRISH. But Southern is good too and I miss your mom and dad too. You have no idea)

Kah

Restaurants

I am really proud of our foodservice industry! Everywhere I go lately, it seems, they DO have a healthy version of their menu. Last night we went out to Ruby Tuesday and I had the Chicken Bella ... and it was FABULOUS and under 700 calories. The only down side is that when we got home I was in PAIN. I haven't been eating out a lot- so to eat something so heavy and so much of it made me feel really bad. I had no idea that I felt like that a LOT ... because we went out a lot. So- I'm wondering if I AM going to eat out, perhaps I should do it earlier in the day- like lunch ... because you can almost always walk off that feeling.

Anyway ... not that I'm going to take up eating out all the time, but you can't avoid it ... so in my searches so far, these are the restaurants that have healthier options ... you can go on http://www.thedailyplate.com/ and enter in the restaurant name if you can't find a healthy menu online.

Some restaurants with healthy menus: Chick Fil A, Chili's, Ruby Tuesday, Olive Garden, Red Lobster, On the Border Mexican Cantina ... those are just a few!

Today's Blog Spotlight: My Aunt Robin (Robbie) who is my mother's sister

QUESTIONAIRE

Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you
Robin Faye Doran - I am your mother’s youngest sister (Yes! That is correct and I've always liked the name Faye, by the way- how did *I* end up with Elizabeth?!)

How and/or when did we meet?
On the day of your birth, I visited you in the hospital. I was also there when you left the hospital. (Very nice of you to come, thanks ... did you, like my Uncle Michael, think I looked like a Vietnamese refugee - his words, not mine)

What were your first thought upon meeting me
I remember thinking how beautiful and precious you were. What happened? Just kidding! (I'm still BOTH of those things ... )

Are you satisfied with our current relationship?
I wish we lived closer to one another, but other than that, of course. (YOU retired and you COULD have moved to Texas instead of Tennessee ... )

If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it?
We already did it and I am thrilled that we did. (Me too!)

Are you happy?
Immensely! (Me too!)

7. If no, why not? Defintely NOT applicable.

8. Do you drink? No…it doesn’t like me. (Me either- but sometimes, it beckons. Did you know my father's grandmother's family was and is full of moonshine bootleggers? I suppose I come by it natural)

9. Do you feel you have a purpose? We all have a purpose; mine is to be a wonderful source of inspiration for others. Not only that, but to be loved beyond measure. Not to mention being utterly worshipped. Then there’s being so blatantly gorgeous…it’s unfair really. It is a curse I live with every single day, but one never gets used to it. However, I am resigned to my fate! (OMG, I could have totally written this same answer! You never do get used to be worshipped and having people stare and always try to be near you and be your friend ... I've learned to deal with it. It appears you have too ... At least I've never used it for financial gain- but there's still time! )

10. Where do you live? Crossville, TN (It's no Texas ... but ok)

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever... I like to read, do polymer clay crafting, decorate, flower arranging….stuff like that. (I like crafting, LOVE reading and I'm trying to get better with my garage saling and bargain shopping)

12. Do you think I'm funny? Usually. (Um ... USUALLY? Clearly you don't hang out with me enough. I am always ON!)

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny? Usually.

14. Any kids? None I personally gave birth to! I have 4 daughters by marriage and we are expecting our 13th grandchild in July. (I won't have any personally I give birth too either. If I could pay to have my insides taken out RIGHT NOW, I totally would- but they have some wacky law that you have to keep your insides unless you have a medical reason. Can someone please give me a medical reason?)

15. Do you like them? Yes…because they don’t live with me, nothing they do wrong can be traced back to me, we live far enough away from them that they can’t drop in, and I never have to babysit. (Ha Ha- nothing bad can be traced back to you. I like that! People do tend to blame their parents for problems and issues, huh?)

16. Do I like them? You’ve never met them. If you did, you would probably get a headache just like I do when they are ALL around at the same time. Counting significant others, that’s a LOT of people talking at once!!

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates? The in-fighitng? The war? I have genuine fear for this country right now due to the current candidates running for President. As a retired Federal Civil Service employee who worked as Security Officer of a large Navy facility and an American, I fully support decisions made by the President. His job sucks. It’s my duty as an American to support him. If I don’t like those decisions, then it is also my duty as an American to vote for someone who I believe will make appropriate changes. (Aw, this answer really touched me. I fully support the President too. Unless he's acting illegally or immorally- what choice do we really have? His job DOES suck!)

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding? Personally, I don’t think she ever saw your invitation. Whoever works as her correspondence secretary is either rude or lazy or extremely slow. I recently watched a movie about the Queen and I now suspect she IS rude. (Yes, I saw that movie- The Queen. All she cares about is those dogs. She is also a terrible dresser. If I had all that money, you can be assured I would ALWAYS look fabulous.)

19. Are you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married? I sort of got used to you not being married when you were around 23. I wasn’t surprised in a bad way…I was happily surprised. (Oh if I had been married at 23, we'd have all been in trouble. Emotionally unstable is a good way to describe me and demon spawn is a good way to describe anyone I was dating between the ages of 17-28.)

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man? Yes. I also suspect he will be extremely tired most of the time. (Really? I'm not generally high maintenance. )

21. Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate! (Excellent)

22. Morning person or not? I certainly AM. Even retired, I am up before 7 AM. (That is sick)

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol? I do like my morning coffee. (OMG! We ARE related! I like my coffee too- usually with a nice flavored creamer)

24. Do you trust me? Sure, why not? Is there something you aren’t telling me? (Um, this was not a resounding YES answer ... we'll work on that. Unless you give me reason, I'm not planning on writing a tell all book about you- although I daresay it would be a best seller. Everything I touch turns to gold- just look at Conrad. He used to be very pasty white when I first met him. It's the glow- of love.)

25. Do YOU know your heritage? If so, what is it .... I am SOUTHERN…and from the best Southern city in the world… Charleston , SC. (AH! The most perfect answer so far! A++++)

Kah

JAIL

I am so completely in love- with JAIL! It's this new show on cable ... I think it's actually called Inside American Jail. I am so in love with this show. I can't stand Cops- for a long time, it's given me a headache and sent me into depression. I never enjoy seeing a 40 year old DIRTY man, who looks 65- with a fading blonde, greasy mullet being dragged off his rotting porch screaming that his "old lady" just went "plum crazy" ... upon closer inspection, you can see he has no teeth and probably hasn't bathed in awhile. His "old lady" meanwhile is being detained by another officer, both are drunk, both have bruises where they beat the crap out of each other and both are screaming and sobbing... "I loooove you baby!" ... I'm sorry, but THAT is depressing ... and it happens in Dallas, Detroit, Brirmingham, Raleigh ... name it, the same couple lives, it appears in every single city in America.

Ah, but not on Inside American Jail! I LOVE THIS SHOW! They actually show activity IN the jail. Last night was a former solider, clearly with some post traumatic stress disorder (which is NOT funny), but he also didn't have his insulin and he was having a break down. He was completely wasted and was picking fights with this GIANT police officer. He kept taunting the officer and making faces and trying to trip him and stuff. I don't know ... it was pretty entertaining. They ended up putting him in "The Chair" which is this delightful contraption that has a mold in the back where they can set their cuffed arms ... then they sit in the chair and are strapped across the middle, twice... and then their legs are strapped in on the bottom. It has wheels and they can wheel them around the jail. It's AWESOME. When people are acting up, they tell them in a voice like you'd use with a three year old ... "Thomas? THOMAS! Do you want me to go get THE CHAIR?" ... then they get the chair and put in front of their cell and just show it to them, like a warning ... most of the time, the inmate will spit at them or something and that's it- they go into the chair! It's so so so awesome!!!!

They DID have the couple mentioned above from Cops. They had gotten into some domestic squabble and had been arrested. They were in side by side cells and he started singing hymns and screaming into her cell that it would be alright and he loved her and she would scream back ... less depressing when they get the people off the porch! He called her "Sunshine" ... "Sunshine?" (wailing) ... "Sunshine, baby I loooove you! Hold tight Sunshine... Jesus is with us! HE is able, baby!!!! " ..... AHHHHHHHHHHHHH HA HA HA HA

Today's Blog Spotlight: My Aunt Ann, my dad's sister
QUESTIONAIRE

1. Please state your FULL name and your relation to me or how I know you
Ann Marie (Abercrombie) Kyle I am your aunt... (Correct!)

2. How and/or when did we meet?
I knew you before you were born. I saw you the first time when you were three. (Really? I had no idea. I thought you had seen me when I was a baby- but you must have met me around the time of the Santa Clause story)

3. What were your first thought upon meeting me?
I though you were the most beautiful little girl I had ever seen. (Awww... thanks!)

4. Are you satisifed with our current relationship? No ( I know.)

5. If no, then what I can do or what can WE do to improve it? I wish we had more time to be involved in each others lives. (I wish that too and it's even worse because I'm only maybe two hours from you ... )

6. Are you happy? Most of the time

7. If no, why not?N/A

8. Do you drink? Nope (Hmmm.. well I have some suggestions, should you ever need them)

9. Do you feel you have a purpose? Yes - we all do or we would not be here

10. Where do you live? Round Rock, Texas (I remember Round Rock had the first HEB I had ever seen ... I am fascinated with different kinds of grocery stores)

11. Name some of your hobbies, or all of them, whatever...Reading, going to movies, doing different crafts, and hanging out with the family (Wow! Ours are the same. We look alike, we are alike!)

12. Do you think I'm funny? Duh! you know I do (I've never heard you say DUH, interesting .... )

13. Do you think YOU'RE funny? Of course....where do you think you got your humor from???? (well I used to think Dad, but now maybe I'm rethinking it)

14. Any kids? two- Russell and Misti

15. Do you like them? sometimes hee, hee

16. Do I like them?I hope so (I do. I don't know Mr Russell very well .... )

17. Care to talk about how you feel about the upcoming election? The candidates? The in-fighitng? The war?I wish we had more choices...I don't like war, but that is why the U.S. is a free country and I support our troups. (Good for you! ... and you know Obama clinched his nomination last night. I don't think it bodes well for McCain ... but I don't like McCain either. I'd be a far better President than either of them ... )

18. Do you think the Queen of England was rude for not responding to the invitation to our wedding?where was she born??? IN A BARN.. You always respond to invitations. (THANK YOU. I KNOW! All she cares about is hunting with her ugly dogs. Breaks my heart into pieces ... )

19. Are you surprised I was in my 30's when I finally got married?No, I always thought that you were very independent ( some things are worth waiting for) .... (Yes, and I know you think Conrad is cute!)

20. Do you think Conrad is a lucky man?Yes, and if he doesn't know that I will be glad to beat it into him. (I will extend the offer to him)

21. Chocolate or Vanilla?
chocolate (FINALLY! An Abercrombie with some taste! Yes ... that was a pun)

22. Morning person or not?
Morning person (Oh... sorry ... you lost me there!)

23. Are you addicted to anything- coffee, relationships, shopping, alcohol?
maybe good food (Me too!)

24. Do you trust me? with my life (Aww... very sweet!)

25. Do YOU know your heritage? If so, what is it ....Yep.. I come from good old southern stock...They loved God, family, and their country. (Perfect answer! They also know how to cook!)

Kah