... Raindrops Renee ...

. . . F I N A L post of the year . . .

2008-12-30T17:22:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pics. Enjoy.

Grandad and the kids

Stair steps.

My man and me.

My sister-in-love.

Tennessee Fan.

Grandad. Smiling.

The grandkids at Winky's.

My husband. My love.

Smile. There's a John Deer tractor.

Barbie and a smile.

Love this pic. Opposites.

Big B.

Smile Winky.

Grandma...no...Chel.

"I'm chillin'."

"Let's color."

Well, it's been over a month since my last post. I've had alot going on at work...and in my family life. All good, but alot to juggle. Work has been alittle stressful because of the threat of losing my job because of budgets cuts, but it looks like I've missed this round of "cuts." A blessing..of course. And I really like working with the people and the benefits are great. And the family is growing . . . in size, not numbers of course.

Our son is 5'6" and the girl is 4'5". Big. Period. Our son has discovered girls, well he knew they were there, but they're looking back..texting...calling..wanting to "go out." Now we called that "going together." But we actually went somewhere, because we were 15-16 years old. But kids these days start alittle earlier and that's fine. A movie. Some "hanging out" time. We know our limit.

Our girl is continuing with the chorus. Maturing and looking cute as ever. Sweet. And still painting, and loving Barbies. So, she's secure for now. No boys in her sights. whew.

Christmas was fun and relaxing this year. No rushing around like crazy people. Running from house to house this year. My brother has a crazy job that had him work the day before and after Christmas. Strike crazy...replace with important. And so we had our side of the family's Christmas on the weekend after Christmas. The whole day at our mom's. And a laid back time over at my brother and sister-in-law's house. Fun. No stress.

Peace.

... have I mentioned ? ...

2008-11-13T09:26:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned I just LOVE Robert Downey, Jr. ?

Well... I do.
And so does Entertainment Weekly.
So much so that they named him Entertainer of the Year.

... FUN ...

2008-11-13T06:56:00.000-08:00

Something for when you're tried of the same ole crap on just a different day...ENJOY!

http://cdn1.ustream.tv/swf/4/viewer.45.swf?cid=317016

... something else to be mad about ...

2008-11-11T09:11:00.000-08:00

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/09/AR2008110902155.html?hpid=topnews

CROOKS!

... disgraceful ...

2008-11-11T06:45:00.001-08:00

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2008/nov/11/veterans-groups-sue-to-speed-claims/

CALL YOUR SENATOR.

.. funny ..

2008-11-11T06:06:00.000-08:00

A funny lady from CNN, Ms. Moos gives a funny review of the Obama's trip to visit the White House.

... CHORUS ... CHOIR .. it's all the same .. RIGHT?

2008-11-06T13:38:00.001-08:00

Today was a special day for the Edwards family. Sissy had her first official program in which she was a member of a group. The group, you ask? The Chorus! Yay.

She did a very good job . . . and so did all the other children of course . . . they are a group, I know. But she was front and center with her bright smile . . . and fidgeting . . . but no one noticed . . the fidgeting I mean . . . except her mother : ) ME.

They were accompanied by the Navy band from the base located in Millington, not far from our house. WOW.. they are amazing.

As I was watching her I was taking in this moment. Remembering when I was in the chorus (we called it the choir back then...we won big in Atlanta that year...1980 something) while attending high school. 9th grade...oh those were the days...oh where was I...

Singing has always been a passion of mine. Instilled in me by a couple of people. First and foremost my Uncle Doc. He would always sing at any gathering at my grandmother's house...when we went to church...in the bars...etc. Awesome voice. Bluesy, no matter what he's singing. Raspy. A true blessing. He was/is very poplar in Corinth...Tuscumbia...Aiken. So he inspired me and even encouraged me.

The second was my dad. Although I don't know for sure that he can sing, he does love music. All kinds. And we would listen in the car, on the TV (Hee Haw, Lawrence Welk, Barbara Mandrell and her prettier sisters, etc.) and now on YouTube. Yep. He's all the time telling me to look so and so up and listen to them. "So sweet" "It's great" he says. And he's very current on certain artists...some country and some not. Sugarland comes to mind. And he wasn't much impressed by the Mississippi Girl album by Faith Hill..."There aren't enough good ones." So he says.

And there were others...Chris, my husband for "hard rock." I had to know about it so I could sing along when we were dating. ... My brother, Bryan. Uh um, PRINCE. Only the greatest artist that every lived. Amen. ... Roxane (a friend from high school...who doesn't like me anymore.. I guess.. because since I told her I was voting for Obama, she hasn't emailed me since...which is fine with me) for introducing me to other groups that I've forgotten now, but thought they were cool then, Oh yeah GTR (some group with different members from old popular bands that weren't together anymore) ... and my Mom for telling me about a Blues group, whose name escapes me. But I always remember how much she loves to listen to them, when their name comes up .. Oh I just remembered, Booker T. and the MGees (spell check, please). And she loves Bluegrass music..as do I.

But ANYWAY ... my question is... I know that you shouldn't live your life through your child...right? But is it okay to want them to do what you did? I did encourage her to try out. I hope that she enjoys it ... I did.

It looks like she did, huh? I love the flag imitation.

... great photo ...

2008-11-03T06:57:00.000-08:00

Photo: Khalid Tanveer/Associated Press

Look at the sea of people on this train...can you even see the train... HOLY COW!

Great photo!

...Happy Halloween...

2008-11-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

my prisoner and princess.

the princess, taking a bow.

... sickening ... 14 Billion ...

2008-10-30T06:45:00.000-07:00

http://money.cnn.com/2008/10/30/news/companies/exxon_earnings/index.htm?cnn=yes

In case you haven't heard, while people are struggling to pay their mortgage, keep their homes, feed their families, etc. These sorry bastards were setting a record.

And that's all I have to say about that...

... baby news ...

2008-10-29T07:58:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a GIRL for our nephew Blaine and his girlfriend, Jessica.

Congratulations!

The baby will arrive in March, 2009.

.. just one america ..

2008-10-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

.. something I learned at school .. earmarks

2008-10-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/02222008/watch.html

.. check this out ..

2008-10-22T13:26:00.000-07:00

After looking at this and comparing basically everyone I know...this one is exactly what it says.
Astrology...I do love it.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/worklife/10/15/cb.astrology.career/index.html

2008-10-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

Joy is the best makeup.
— Anne Lamott

... inspiring ...

2008-10-21T07:17:00.001-07:00

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2008/oct/20/21webvote/

R.I.P.

2008-10-15T11:26:00.000-07:00

It's a sad day at the University of Memphis....TOM II passed away.

"TOM II was recently diagnosed with cancer during an annual medical examination,
and passed away on October 15, 2008, at the age of 17. He outlived all four of his siblings by a number of years, a testament to the level of care and love he received.
He also far exceeded the life expectancy of a male tiger. "

1991-2008

... tired ...

2008-10-08T07:23:00.001-07:00

Who's tired of hearing their candidate say the same ole shit, just on a different day? ME!

... judge for yourself ...

2008-10-07T07:40:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that the Presidential candidates will be debating

"town hall meeting" style.

These debates are important to our democratic process.

And you'll get to see Tom Brokaw, as mediator.

TONIGHT @ 8pm (central)

Any major network of your choice.

... wow ...

2008-10-03T07:43:00.000-07:00

Kevin Clark/The Register-Guard

Heidi, a yellow labrador retriever jumps for a toy near Oakridge, Ore. Oct. 1, 2008. Heidi and owner Hannah Gordon, 14, who are rated number one in the nation for junior handlers, will be heading to the 2008 DockDogs National Championships in Wisconsin next week. The event involves dogs running and jumping off a dock for distance.

http://www.registerguard.com/csp/cms/sites/web/news/229891//story.csp

The photo caught my eye. I included the link to the story. Enjoy.

... remember ...

2008-10-02T12:27:00.000-07:00

People ...

Just because you're registered ....

does NOT mean you voted!

When November 4th rolls around,

GO to your selected poll

and

VOTE for your candidate.

... catching up ...

2008-09-30T16:54:00.001-07:00

So...I've been away for awhile. But for good reasons. I've
really not had much to talk about. Of course this economy thing is a
pain. And the election. But I really could expand on it so I've remained quiet.

But the kids have been active. Samantha tried out for the chorus.
We're still awaiting the outcome of that...cross your fingers. She ran
for student council (with just one day's notice...long story) and got
some experience with the "political" system that is elementary school.
She didn't "win" but she tried. And isn't that what you want your kids to
do? I do.

And Jake applied to be put on the Mayor's teen council and was
appointed! Exciting. He had to write a paragraph about why he wanted
to be on the council and fill out an application. He was coerced
into it a bit by his mother but in the end, he was proud of himself...Yay!

And my honey went on yet another mission trip to Africa to help some kids at an orphanage. The team built shower areas and a pavilion for them to be out of the rain when they worshiped or ate. Some photos will be at the end.

And I'm attending a class on campus. Lots of reading! That's my
weakness, but I'm competing and learning, and that's all that counts,
right?

Here are the pics! Awesome. Who knew he was such the
photographer! He's so talented. I love him! My booboo!

The dorms.

The mission group prepared a meal fit for Christmas...the time when
one of the kids said, "The best memories are of Christmas... because we get to
eat until we are full." STEAK!
Everyone ate til they were full.

The showers. No hot water. But
privacy.
The little boy is drinking from a "spiket"
while a cow wanders around the cooking pots.
The school "house."
Half of the line to be served lunch.
The cook and the "kitchen." It's not blurry, that's
smoke.
Patterns for the man who makes everyone's uniform.
They are made of paper...except for the one in
blue.
The bones of the pavilion.
Look at those smiles. Especially the one in the
middle.

... kind words ...

2008-09-11T08:45:00.001-07:00

Kind words do not cost much. Yet they accomplish much.
— Blaise Pascal

.. September 11th ..

2008-09-11T07:45:00.000-07:00

Enough said.

.. how cool is this ..

2008-09-11T07:22:00.000-07:00

What you're looking at this of course the UofM Tiger's logo, but look closer...It's the new design for the corn maze out at the AgriCenter. They have one every year at the beginning (or close to it) of Fall. Take the kids or go experience it yourself and get LOST. :) Here's the link for more info: http://www.cornfieldmaze.com/sites.php?ID=&username=tnmemphis

Get out and do something!

... Don LaFontaine ...

2008-09-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

He was famous without really being seen. A real celebrity.

1940-2008

... now me ...

2008-08-27T09:37:00.001-07:00

.. funny stuff ...

2008-08-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

My brother B...funny.

YEARBOOKYOURSELF.COM

Try it!

... just because ...

2008-08-27T09:10:00.001-07:00

.. what the olympics are about ..

2008-08-25T09:25:00.001-07:00

http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/beijing/track_field/news?slug=cr-somalirunners082408&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

.. disappointed ..

2008-08-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

I'm the first to admit that I don't know everything about politics. I have just begun to show interest in it to be honest. Now, I've always voted. But to get into the nitty gritty of it...I never felt like my vote would make a difference.

You've seen that I'm an Obama supporter. I am really into the thought of CHANGE and UNITY. Living in Memphis I wish the mayor of the city could receive a call from Obama and take a few notes. Anyway, today Obama announced his choice of VP and it's Joe Biden. What? Some old white guy...that's too safe.

To say the least, I'm disappointed. He's been in politics for YEARS and that's not change. I'm thinking Obama's bunch is hoping this will smooth over the doubters of the democratic party and gain some of those votes back that he's lost.

This just doesn't sit well with me. It may grow on me down the line...we'll see. But I won't change to McCain for sure.

... thanks D&Z 98.1 fm ...

2008-08-22T12:44:00.001-07:00

I Hate Hate - Razzy

... awesome pic ...

2008-08-21T11:38:00.000-07:00

look at this awesome pic of my brother, b.

.. question ..

2008-08-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

Are you really living the best life you can? Trying to improve on what you have?

After reading this article, http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2008/aug/17/immigrants-see-opportunities-others-do-not/, I can flat out say that I'm not. I'm not reaching out for what I want often enough. I take 'no' for an answer too often. There are so many times that I say 'can't' that I can't keep up with why. There are so many opportunities that I've passed by or let pass by because I probably thought it would be too hard. I can count three just sitting here writing this post.

I want to be like the man in the article. Perseverance and sacrifice...let me get my dictionary...right away.

'To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.'

c

... love this photo ...

2008-08-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

Photo: Vadim Ghirda/Associated Press

... Shut up ...

2008-08-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

Can't they just shut up about the all the "fake" stuff from the opening ceremonies until the games are over. The media is clouding the skies above the Olympics more than the pollution already there. Sure these things that are coming out are outrageous! But wait until they're over before draggin' China through the mud!

Just my opinion, and I'm only one person.

... OUTRAGED ...

2008-08-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

See why

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TRAVEL/08/13/troops.baggage/index.html

... love ...

2008-08-11T09:12:00.000-07:00

Bernie talks about doing what you love.

... goodbye america ...

2008-08-10T18:53:00.000-07:00

1957-2008
Bernie Mac was extremely funny and underrated...in my opinion. His show on FOX and the movie Mr. 3000 are favorites around my house. And he's funny in all the Ocean's movies.

He was only 50! And it's sad to hear of his passing.
But as Don Cheadle on of his Ocean's co-stars said,
"This is a very sad day for many of us who knew and loved Bernie,
but heaven just got funnier."

R.I.P.

Donations in Mac's honor may be sent to:
The Bernie Mac Foundation for Sarcoidosis
40 E. 9th St., Suite 601
Chicago, IL 60605.

... i'm saving my money, starting today ...

2008-08-08T09:54:00.001-07:00

See why...

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/08/08/air.car/index.html

.. Happy Birthday, B ..

2008-08-08T06:23:00.000-07:00

It's my big brother's birthday. He has always be someone I've adored (mostly secretly). All my life he has always walked to his own beat...music, political, religion...never following someone else's path. He tries to make his dreams come true. He's a good friend, husband, father. He's smart and knowledgeable. And I learn something everytime I'm around him. Enjoy your day B!

Happy birthday.

.. Olympics ..

2008-08-08T06:10:00.000-07:00

So..today is August 8, 2008. Does anyone realize that that's 08/08/08? Well, of course...if not, they're not playing attention. Pretty cool huh?

It's also the beginning of the Olympic games in Beijing, China. Everyone is upset over the pollution, the past (and continuing) support of Sudan's policy in Darfur and the oppression the Chinese government applies to its people, but the fact is that we (the US) are there to compete. And this is really the only time that the world comes together as one, if we choose (and if the Olympic folks approve you). I agree that all of these issues are important...But, can't we agree its wrong and pick up the fight when the Olympics are over?

Peace.

.. funny, even if it is Paris Hilton ..

2008-08-06T06:29:00.000-07:00

Paris Hilton Responds to McCain Adfunny videosFunnyOrDie.com

... love this picture ...

2008-08-05T14:07:00.001-07:00

... brad pitt news ...

2008-08-04T07:02:00.000-07:00

Look how cute he...I mean they... is/are.

Love him...brad pitt.

.. more Alma Mater (good) news ..

2008-08-04T06:30:00.000-07:00

Kingsbury High makes the grade
After years on 'high-priority' list, school shows signs of success

By Dakarai I. Aarons (Contact), Memphis Commercial Appeal Monday, August 4, 2008

The promise of summer vacation was dangling before Kingsbury High School students on a simmering afternoon in May. But instead of talking about plans to be poolside, students had one question for their teachers: "Where are the scores?"

Mildred Carpenter has been teaching at Kingsbury High for 16 years. Last week, she prepared her classroom. When a group of students in Anna Herzog's class got the answer, their cheers and shrieks reverberated through the schools' expansive halls. Every student in that class passed the Algebra 1 Gateway exam, and many scored at the advanced level. Last week, the school discovered, the success wasn't confined to Herzog's class. Kingsbury's Algebra scores went up by nearly 30 percentage points, allowing the school to make Adequate Yearly

Progress in all academic categories for the first time since No Child Left Behind started. The march toward progress has been long for Kingsbury, which languished for six years on the state's "high-priority" list. Former superintendent Carol Johnson appointed a new principal, Dr. Terrence Brown, for fall 2006. He was known for his work boosting performance at Lanier Middle School. And the state education department gave the school strict directives last summer on staffing to help improve the school, adding coaches to help increase math, literacy and graduation performance.

Most of the school's math department was new to the school in 2007, including several corps members from Teach for America. The school at 1270 N. Graham is home to large populations of immigrant and special education students, creating a challenge in delivering instruction to so many different types of students. But Brown, the principal, said it's a challenge Kingsbury is ready to meet. "How does a school this diverse ever get off the list? You get off the list by insisting you have a plan for teaching everyone," he said. "You have the Statue of Liberty mindset: whomever comes through the door, we will work with them." And that work is beginning to pay off.

"Kingsbury has been a conundrum," said Connie Smith, executive director of accountability for the Tennessee Department of Education. "They have had several principals and several staff changes." Smith said the new staff and school leadership has made a difference.
"They gave ownership of the school to the people in the school," she said. "Everybody had the same mission, which was to help teachers teach and children learn and it's obvious that it's worked there." Herzog said part of the success comes from higher expectations not only for teachers, but for students. The first-year teacher said she adopted a "no-excuses" policy with her students. "It was awesome to see them at the end realize they could do it," she said.
But the graduation rate remains the sticking point for the school's attempts to clear the bar. Brown says a significant number of migrant students come and go without a trace. Students who can't be found count against the school as dropouts. "We have a large number of undocumented kids. When they leave, we can't track them down," he said. Even so, the school has made strides.

According to data provided by Memphis City Schools, 92.5 percent of Kingsbury seniors graduated in May. Students and teachers say they've seen a change in the two years Brown has been in charge. "I think Kingsbury is progressing in a positive way," said senior Julian Earl. "It has a lot of resources ... . If you're just coming because the law makes you, then you may not like it." Maj. Steven Williams, the school's military academy director, agreed. "When Dr. Brown came in, there was a definite focus on discipline," Williams said. "He has done an absolutely fantastic job on turning the school around." The Commercial Appeal was granted broad access to Kingsbury over the course of the school year to observe a work in progress. Hallways were filled with student work and charts showing where the school scored on practice exams.
Collaboration is both demanded and valued at the school, and most staffers say to good effect.
"The staff is supportive. Everyone has a good vibe," said English teacher A.J. Stich. "Everyone is working toward a goal ... ."

Mike Sizemore, the special education coordinator, has been at Kingsbury for 15 years, longer than all but a handful of other staff members. And he says he couldn't be prouder of what has taken place. "We've worked hard to get there," he said. "As a whole, this is one of the best teams of people I've worked with." Math and literacy coaches worked with teachers to isolate the areas where students struggled most, so those areas could be targeted in after-school and weekend tutoring sessions throughout the school year, said graduation coach Joel Harris. Fellowship Memphis Church also played a huge role, sending volunteers to tutor, help clean up the grounds around the school and encourage the students.

McKenzie Boyd, an algebra and geometry teacher, said she hopes the progress Kingsbury is making will help change negative perceptions about the school and attract more students.
"The kids need to understand they are in a place where change is happening," she said. "They should be proud of that."

...no comments needed...

2008-08-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

... then ...

2008-08-03T19:26:00.001-07:00

Someone nice took everyone's photo...

the only complete family photo...

turned out nice huh?

And we shopped...yes my eyes are closed...

Looked out at the bay..with the "telescope."

Saw someone nice folks catch some crabs...FUN!

We rode bikes...really ... this is not a prop!

Played in the sand on the beach.

And Kayaked...more fun!

... and a good time was had by all ...

2008-08-03T19:01:00.001-07:00

We stopped at Elvis' birthplace in Tupelo....

even though only Sissy and Mom wanted to.

But the boys smiled anyway.

me and my hunka hunka burning love.

We made it...but were pooped...

so we chilled...

in "style"...with robes...wow!

Hey guys...what cha doin'?

slippin'

and slidin'!

Who's that guy on the slide ?? GO DAD!

.. kingsbury news ..

2008-07-30T09:18:00.000-07:00

Kingsbury RB Gabriel Hunter commits to Ole Miss
The Commercial Appeal says today.

Kingsbury High (my alma mater) running back Gabriel Hunter said today that he's given a verbal commitment to play his college football at Ole Miss. Hunter, The Commercial Appeal's reigning Best of the Preps Offensive Player of the Year, rushed for a Shelby-Metro record 2,679 yards and 29 touchdowns as a junior. A three-star recruit according to Rivals.com and ranked the fifth best recruit in Tennessee, Hunter chose the Rebels over Alabama, Auburn, Kentucky, Memphis, Tennessee, Texas Tech and Vanderbilt. I felt like that was the school that was recruiting me the hardest," Hunter said. "At first I was thinking Alabama. I was going to roll with Alabama, but I felt like Ole Miss recruited me the hardest."

CONGRATULATIONS!

Just one question though, why didn't the home town team recruit him the hardest?

Us locals would have loved to seen a hometown kid out on the field. Go Tigers!

.. What a photo ..

2008-07-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

Wow!

2008-07-21T09:18:00.000-07:00

In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, for in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.

— Kahlil Gibran

... awesome poster ...

2008-07-19T16:56:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to see the film. Reviews are good. And the money's rollin' in. Too bad Heath can't bask in the glory he deserves. I wonder if it would have been so big if he hadn't died?

THE DARK KNIGHT.

.. mysterious ..

2008-07-17T14:57:00.000-07:00

I love numbers. Words are always giving me trouble. Reading really wasn't interesting to me until I found some great authors later in life.

So today I got one of those "forwards" that at first I wanted to just hit delete and never look back. But I decided to take a look first. Well, it said to go to this website and be amazed.

It's a link to a 7up connected site and it is quite interesting. Try it and it will amaze you.

How in the world does that computer know that?

check it out.... http://digicc.com/fido/

.. shh ..

2008-07-16T13:26:00.000-07:00

... It's someone's birthday ...

... family types photos per grandad's request ...

2008-07-15T04:04:00.001-07:00

Jake (in the back), Benjamin (little guy) and Samantha ("barely holdin' on")

on Grandad's birthday.

Guitar Hero, Winky (4th of July)

There's Trish celebrating Grandad's b-day.

Pie for (and on) Samantha on the 4th.

My sweet honey, Chris, ready to grill. (4th of July)

Our sweet puppy, Daisy (front) and her sister, Claira

... beauty ...

2008-07-10T07:08:00.001-07:00

Serenity on the Island.

It kinda looks like some chairs were placed on the bluff in downtown Memphis, but they weren't. This was taken in Mackinac Island, Michigan by a friend of mine from work. Her husband is from there and they went for a visit/vacation last week. I thought it was a great photo.

2008-06-13T13:50:00.000-07:00

Tim Russert

1950-2008

.. OMG! ...

2008-06-13T06:47:00.000-07:00

(CNN) -- Louisiana officials are demanding that hurricane supplies the Federal Emergency Management Agency gave away be returned to help victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Hand towels sit unused in Fort Worth, Texas. Goods ranged from cots to camp stoves to coffee makers. Their request comes after a CNN story Wednesday revealed that FEMA had given away $85 million in supplies that lingered on storage shelves while hurricane victims suffered without the items they needed.

In a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, Sen. Mary Landrieu demanded answers from FEMA. "While I understand the stated need to save taxpayer money being spent storing these materials, I am concerned that there are still ongoing needs for these type of goods in my state," Landrieu wrote Chertoff, whose department includes FEMA. She asked for Chertoff's assistance "in reviewing this situation and redistributing these goods."

The Louisiana Recovery Authority announced that it was asking the federal government to return goods "that were intended to help disaster victims in Louisiana but were marked as surplus and remain unused." "Many of these items are believed to be household goods that could help residents moving out of FEMA trailers re-establish their homes," the agency said.

The CNN investigation found FEMA gave away extensive stocks of items such as cots, cleansers, first-aid kits, coffee makers, camp stoves and other items that had been bought as "starter kits" for people living in trailers after the 2005 hurricane. "There is a particular and critical need for exactly these materials -- especially household goods --- by organizations dealing with the critical problem and homelessness as a result of hurricanes Katrina and Rita," Landrieu wrote. "One such organization is Unity of Greater New Orleans, which works with FEMA to house homeless hurricane victims and was featured prominently in the CNN piece." Martha Kegel, the director of Unity of Greater New Orleans, said she was shocked to learn about the existence of the goods and the government giveaway. "These are the very things that we are seeking right now," Kegel said." FEMA, in fact, refers homeless clients to us to house them. How can we house them if we don't have basic supplies?"

Before the giveaway, pallets at a warehouse in Fort Worth, Texas, were piled high with boxes of buckets, boots, cleansers, mops and brooms, as well as clothing, bedding, plates and utensils. General Services Administration records show FEMA gave away 121 truckloads of material that had been declared surplus property and offered free to federal agencies and states.

Louisiana officials originally passed on taking any of the supplies when FEMA offered them to states. John Medica, director of the state's Federal Property Assistance Agency, said he was unaware that Katrina victims still had a need for the household supplies because no agency had contacted his office. But Thursday, a spokeswoman for the Louisiana Recovery Authority told CNN it was working with FEMA to try to get similar items to help Unity and other groups. The supplies "would have gone a long way toward helping residents re-establish their households," agency spokeswoman Christina Stephens wrote in an e-mail to CNN on Thursday. "We hope that any of the supplies that the federal government has in its possession that could benefit hurricane victims would be returned to the state," she said.

James McIntyre, FEMA's acting press secretary, told CNN earlier that FEMA was spending more than $1 million a year to store the material and that another agency wanted the warehouses torn down, so "we needed to vacate them."

.. what a coincidence ..

2008-06-06T13:27:00.001-07:00

Hank Williams, Jr. w/Lynyrd Skynard
06-06-2008
7:00 PM
FedExForum
Memphis, TN

There was a guy that was a good friend in high school, who introduced me to Hank Jr. (well, not him but his music) and today's that guy's 40th birthday. And Hank is in town. That's wierd. I just thought that this was such a coincidence that I couldn't let it go without blogging about it.

I've always been fixated on dates / numbers. I can remember two of my best friend's phone number from high school..20 years ago. And I can remember all my high school friends' birthdates even though I've not seen them in a long while. I should write them down so I can remember them when I can't remember anything... :)

... wow, calm down cowboy ...

2008-06-06T12:28:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago Spike Lee said something about Clint Eastwood not having African Americans in Flags of our Fathers, Clint's war movie about the flag raising at Iwo Jima. Well...Clint got to talking to the British press and let them know exactly how he felt about Spike's take on the film. The best part is the last line: "Has he (Spike) ever studied the history?" asked Clint. Yes, there was a small detachment of black troops on Iwo Jima as a part of a munitions company, "but they didn't raise the flag. The story is Flags of Our Fathers, the famous flag-raising picture, and they didn't do that. If I go ahead and put an African-American actor in there, people'd go, 'This guy's lost his mind.' I mean, it's not accurate." "A guy like him should shut his face."

.. don't freak out ...

2008-06-05T11:47:00.001-07:00

I'm just trying out a new look.

What do ya think?

.. saviors ..

2008-06-03T06:49:00.001-07:00

There is a columnist, Wendi Thomas, who writes a weekly column for our local paper. Her typical topics are things going on in the city. Politics, fundraising efforts by the local inner city groups and from time to time she'll write about her know life. She is very much a Memphian.

And I can honestly say, I almost always agree with what she's writing about. This week is no exception. She wrote of how we're looking for someone to save our Memphis City School system. The Superintendent of our school system left a while ago to take a position up North somewhere. ...side note...I think she left under suspicious circumstances...Anyway, since then we've had a interim Superintendent. I forget his name. Older gentleman, African American. Seems like a nice enough man, very very quiet. Which in Memphis is unusual. (I'm getting to it, hold on.)

Anyhoo, this week Wendi wrote a great column about how the community is looking for a savior to come in and "transform" our schools. She goes on to say that neither of the candidates for Superintendent can do this task. Until I continued reading I thought Wendi had suddenly switched to "crazy" for a minute. But what she continued on to say was that this "change" would have to come from home. And until parents take responsibility for their children, then things will never change. Here's a link to the article:

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2008/jun/01/looking-for-a-school-savior-check-mirror/

I agree. The actions of the students in the schools are a reflection of what's going on at home. I think of it as cancer. It's genetic. If the parents act a certain way, the child will mimic that behavior. It goes back to the old tired saying, "children having children."

BUT... I also think, I mean know!, that even if your young and have children, you can raise them to be responsible well behaved contributors to society. Examples are my best friend Helen and my own mother.

Helen had two children before she graduated from high school. Raised them, with support of her family only. No active father in the picture. No consistent child support. Working a job at Krystal's restaurant... yep at minimum wage. She found a better job and went to college...yep...and graduated, all while raising her two girls. And they have since graduated from high school. One's a student here in Memphis at one of the local colleges and the other is enrolled at a school in Denver. Active members of society.

Another, very good example, is my own mother. Raised dirt poor in Mississippi, "rescued" by the guy from Memphis (my Dad) at 17, divorced by 26 (or so). Growing up...while raising a 2 and 7 year old. Working, working, working. Doing her best. Working her way up the world, gaining respect. Providing for us. Some minimal assistance from my Dad... he did the best he could, I have believe. All the while keeping her eye on us, guiding us to become active, good members of society. I just think, how in the world did she do it. Latchkey kids we were, but we knew right from wrong. Average students, some college. But contributors. She has always been supportive of any of good and bad ideas I've thought of. Caught me when I realized the bad ones were bad. She was an excellent example. I'm sure she's not perfect, there are bad decisions of course, but she recovered from those and so did I. She has always been there for me. My "savior."

So in my mind, anything is possible. And as Wendi says, check the mirror for that savior Memphis. We're the only one who can make that kind of change happen.

... book review ... yep I read it ...

2008-05-30T06:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, so not everyone knows, I'm not a reader. I pick up a book when someone recommends it to me. Sometimes I get hooked and other times, well, I don't. So when my Mom said, "you should read this," I said okay. And at first I must confess, I thought "Here's another self-help book." Honestly, look at the title. "Eat, Pray, Love." With this title it had to be about praying and loving yourself so you don't eat so much. No joke, that's what I thought. If you've read some of my posts about the LapBand procedure I underwent, then you can assume I have "issues" with food. So I thought my mother had lovingly, and I mean lovingly, thought of me when she picked it up. Very presumptuous, huh? That she'd buy a book about eating for ME...and just for the record...she's never done that...to my knowledge...

ANYWAY, I read the entire book...including the after thoughts...yes the after thoughts. The book is about "One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia." Just like the cover says, which by the way, I didn't read. :)

The author (Elizabeth Gilbert) shared all aspects of her life. The good, the bad and the ugly. Depression, love, divorce, search for something MORE. It's all in there. In Italy, she ate. In India, she prayed...ALOT! And In Indonesia, she found love. Hence the title of the book... And I won't go through every adventure she embarks on, but I suggest that you READ it people....especially the ladies. I have a different mindset because of it.

She made me want to go to Italy immediately. Her storytelling abilities are phenomenal. India and Indonesia were awesome too, through her story, but I'd have to work on some of my "quirks" (like my intense dislike of being hot, all the time) to be able to visit those countries.

Thanks Mom for recommending this to me.

c

.. oz's Lion ..

2008-05-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

A clip from the movie my brother and a friend wrote, produced and filmed from a few years back. It's on YouTube...wow. Check it out.

2008-05-29T07:54:00.000-07:00

~*~ Beauty of a Woman ~*~

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure she carries,

or the way she combs her hair.

The beauty of a woman must be seen from her eyes,

because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.

The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole,

but true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul.

It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows.

The beauty of a woman with time, only grows.

... spring ...

2008-05-28T07:06:00.001-07:00

Isn't this the cutest, most tear jerking photo you've ever seen?

This my nephew Benjamin enjoying the benefits of Spring.

Sweeet! Everythings coming up roses!

...ducklings...

2008-05-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the blurriness of the photo...

Everyone... the ducklings have arrived. The only thing is, the Mama duck had them in our neighbors backyard and he let them out into our front yard. And we couldn't round them up and back into our yard. But luckily Mama duck got them into another neighbor's yard for safety. We informed that neighbor and ... our work is done. I'll keep you informed on their progress.

.. great photo ..

2008-05-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

... Save October Road ...

2008-05-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

Now, there are a few TV shows that I watch religiously...Lost (even though half the time I don't understand what I'm suppose to understand), Dexter (even though it's really a showtime show that NBC is showing as "all new") and October Road.

Well, today there's an article out about ABC's schedule for the Fall. And guess what, "Notes From the Underbelly," (what ever that is) "Women's Murder Club" (again, whatever that is) and "October Road" (uhh what?) were left off ABC's schedule. Do the powers that be understand what they've done to me and my former co-worker & emailing buddy, Kim? We religiously watched and the following day would email the morning away (in between work, of course).

The characters are not academy award winning actors, but Tom Berenger (The Commander) has been nominated...but they are a well orchestrated group. They characters work together...no one is the scene stealer. The show made me proud, sad and mad enough to cry. That's what shows are suppose to do. Right? They didn't go around sleeping with a bunch of people, well maybe they did, but that's popular in the "popular...still on the schedule shows", right? Look at Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy and the such...they have people sleeping around...But they're still on.

There's mystery about the paternity about a kid on the show and someone who ran away from their past. There's betrayal, love, fighting (physical and verbal), unlikely love (big girl gets the highschool football star who's now in his 30's), a guy that's afraid to go outside the house (now who wouldn't want to see that) and the pizza girl who falls for him.

Also in the article from CNN, there's a couple of new shows that are ON the schedule. One that's another reality based show where someone shows up at people's door with prizes and quizzes the family members about what they know about each other...wow I can't wait to watch that BS...sidenote...this show is backed by Ashton Kutcher's production company, but that's not going to make it any better for me...even thought he's cute. And the other new show ... hold on to what you got...is "Life on Mars." Which by the way is based on a British show about a detective that finds himself by in 1973. Yep...that's right. As Kim said, "A show about a detective back in 1973, but no October Road?" Yep!

What the heck is going on...the gas prices, war, global warming and now October Road is off the schedule!? Now I know it's not the right to compare war with an "unscheduling" of a show...but for heaven's sake, it's wrong, just on a smaller scale.

If you're an October Road lover, then don't waste time...email today to complain. And even if you're not...SAVE A "WORTH WATCHING" SHOW!

http://abc.go.com/site/contactus.html

thanks for listening..again!
c

... sad ...

2008-05-05T12:11:00.000-07:00

We have a local resturant in town, Huey's that

s a fun place to visit. They have GREAT burgers and onion rings and fries. Their burgers are famous, they call them the HueyBurger. There's a bar and on the weekends they usually have a band. But it's totally a family place in the daytime...and for some people at night too. The one that I associate as being the first is located on Madison Avenue. (I may be wrong about that.)It's a bit cramped but no one cares. The food and atmosphere is why you go...right? RIGHT. You can write on the walls, any wall. Blow the toothpicks with the colored plastic into the ceiling...and no one cares if you don't make it...it's part of the "experience" of Huey's. It's the burger joint, every town has. The serving staff and the bartender are the well oiled machines, the cook crew in back, kick ass. I'm telling you all about this place, because today I read that the guy, Thomas Boggs, behind the Huey name has passed away at 63. No details on why, but does that really matter. I didn't even know the man, but it's like a member of the Memphis family has gone. I'll keep my fingers crossed for the business and the prayers coming for all of us left behind.

... 100.8 million dollars ... daaanngg! ...

2008-05-05T06:54:00.000-07:00

IRON MAN...I'm going to see this one.

Robert Downey, Jr. is so freaking awesome....in anything.

Love him.

... amen & amen ...

2008-04-29T12:19:00.000-07:00

I wish there were a Project Innocence in Tennessee, so I could help.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/04/29/dna.exoneration.ap/index.html?iref=mpstoryview

Thank God for DNA testing and technology! Too bad it took 27 years for him.

... unfreakin' believeable ...

2008-04-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

You gotta read this!

http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2008/04/29/they-gave-him-money-to-fix-his-house-now-they-want-it-back/

What is this country coming to? What an injustice!

... no news, really ...

2008-04-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

So, you know that my boy has joined this competitive baseball team for the spring. Wow! What a shock to all of us. Uniforms, bat bags, traveling, etc. I think we all were prepared for all of it. But the part that blindsided us was the "click" that the team had before we joined. Unbeknownst that to us, there was a team. Contrary to what it seemed when we (Jake) "tried out."

Sidenote: I always say we because I consider every event in our children's lives something we all did. Grades, baseball, basketball, cheer leading, etc. Chris and I supported them through encouragement & of course, money. But they do the work. Back to the thought...

My boy, who has been rather successful at baseball until this team, is now being told that he's not in the "best 9" and doesn't always get to play...or bat. So we've spent the money to purchase these fancy uniforms, we travel either 25 or 70 miles each weekend to support the team, and he doesn't always get to play? What the heck? I'm venting here... bare with me.

He does play some, but not what he would like to...what we'd like to have him play. The thing that gets me is the promise to play when others make errors. And when errors are made, well...the coach isn't doing what he did at the beginning of the season. Now, I know I'm bellyaching, and venting, but it would be different if my boy was just a lunatic running around and making errors out on the field. Waaa, right? I sound totally like a mother. And I am a mother. This kid's mother. He's got skills that are being wasted.

Now, he is learning alot about stealing bases, which he hadn't had much experience with before this season. And maybe some other things that escape me at this weakened moment. But it's so frustrating for me, as his mother to watch him struggle to make these coaches happy. It's like putting out fires. He thinks he's doing alright for a while and then BAM!, they slug him with a "you could've done that better." I'm sure I'm totally blowing this out of proportion...actually I know I am. BUT, remember I'm venting.

There is gossiping behind people's back...the coaches' back actually. Questioning their judgments and calls. I listen. No comment. I'm usually one of the loudest that cheerers in the galley. But I'm having trouble. I'm stifled by my anger, disappointment with the adults leading this team and fear that I'm making a bad decision to allow my boy to stay on this team that won't give him the chance to shine.

I've seen the small victories though. Like the day that my boy got to play second base (his normal position) and shined like a new penny. Even got the game ball that the coach said he never gives out. But it seemed that after that, the tide turned ... something changed. I'm still trying to figure that one out.

Right field. Pitch a half an inning (the last out). A bone here, a scrap there.

I've got to search for some sort of speech to give myself. Because Jake doesn't seem too fazed by the whole thing. And I don't want to ruin his mindset. I encourage him. And I try not to complain in front of him. But it's hard not to when I think he's being done wrong.

Anyone lived this life? Send encouragement.

I'm moving on...the best I can.

Thanks for listening.

.. yep there are lady tigers ..

2008-04-24T06:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome Melissa McFerrin to the UofM as the head coach of our Lady Tigers.

She looks good on paper and has some great experience.

This is what the CA said....

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2008/apr/24/hit-the-ground-running/

Let's hope that she can make the women's team into as much as a gem as the men's.

GO TIGERS GO!

.. more tiger stuff ..

2008-04-22T14:02:00.000-07:00

http://alumni.memphis.edu/flash_presentations/flash_ncaa.htm

Great slideshow put together by the UofM Alumni. ENJOY!

And... GO TIGERS GO!

... ...

2008-04-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

http://g.dwgsee.com/wake/index.htm

Check out the video that was forwarded to me.

Support the troops. This was put together by 3 soldiers.

.. visitors ..

2008-04-20T05:50:00.000-07:00

This morning our pup Daisy was barking "upa storm" when I let her out for her morning duty or dooty, if you will. I went to check things out. And look what I found.

Good job girl.

.. worried? .. me too ..

2008-04-18T19:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, so earlier this week I told you (not that I'm your official UofM news outlet) that our beloved Derrick Rose is entering the NBA draft. Well, Thursday our treasured & "always there" CDR (Chris Douglas-Roberts) announced he'd go too. Dang! So if you're counting, that's Joey Dorsey & Andre Allen (both Seniors) Derrick Rose (early NBA) and now Chris. I don't want to sound like I'm surprised or disappointed, but I'm a bit of both. But I'm also proud and excited for them both. And I'm hopeful that someone will see Joey and Andre's talented even though the spotlight isn't blinding them. They're awesome guys/players.

GOOD LUCK TO THEM ALL. THEY'LL BE MISSED!

... First Farve, now ...

2008-04-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

Well, folks seems as though it's out with the old and in with the new. It's happened again. Another great quarterback has announced he won't return for the NFL 2008 season. This time it's Steve McNair. In case your not up on football or you've been living under a rock, especially those from Tennessee, Steve McNair was our "leader of the team" (for The Titans) for 11 years. He was so easy to watch and he was exciting to watch. He wouldn't just drop back and throw the ball. He didn't just pass off the ball to the running back. He was the running back when the team was in a crunch! Would sacrifice his body to make the play any day. And that's why he's out. Shoulder, arm and groin pain plague him after 13 years. But he will always be a Titan!

I'll miss him. (wiping away a tear)

.. No suprise .. but exciting! ..

2008-04-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

Tigers' Rose will declare for NBA draft this week.

GOOD LUCK #23 !

... Maybe I should start voting ...

2008-04-11T11:09:00.000-07:00

Remember when I confessed that I watch "american idol" and how that I loved Michael Johns? Well.. he got the boot last night and everyone was shocked... even me. Look at that Smithson girl's face. She even knows he shouldn't have gone. I saw the clip of the Aerosmith song he did and he was pretty dog gone good. Maybe I should start voting in these things. But am I that invested in this that I'd call to vote? I hate it for him. I was really good. Hey Michael - Hold your head up, Dolly loved you. I bet she's penning a song for you right now! Reality shows suck!

check it out. he was good!

.. ELVIS ..

2008-04-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

You gotta love Elvis.

This is one of the newly discovered/released photos.

Wonder what he would have been like had he lived?

... thoughts ...

2008-04-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

So, one of the things I say is "I'm not very good at that." Usually it's about speaking to a crowd, gardening, fixing things, etc. I tend to limit myself in these areas. Really I've not tried to do them. If there's fixing to be done, that's Chris's job. And gardening is my mom or my brother. And speaking to a crowd, well my Dad has never met a stranger.

Today I opened my "thought for the day" from the Real Simple magazine email and this is what it says:

It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not.
— Anonymous

So, maybe this spring I'll do alittle more gardening. And when we redo the kitchen later this year I participate and not just pay someone to do it. And in the Fall I'm taking a communications class...uh, sorry.... but I'll never be something different if I don't think I'm not.

thanks for listening.
c

.. Bartlett Royals ..

2008-04-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

my boy's team...2nd row second from right.

Go Royals.

... Remembering a Great Season ...

2008-04-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

http://web.commercialappeal.com/08/cusa/tigersseason/index.html

thanks to the commercial appeal for putting this together! It's a trip down memory lane.

GO TIGERS GO!

... you win 38 ... you lose 2 ...

2008-04-08T06:23:00.000-07:00

Hold your head up Joey!

We feel the same way, Coach!

My University of Memphis Tigers fell to Kansas last night in the NCAA Championship game.

Coach Cal did all he could and so did the team...

I'm extremely proud to be an employee of the University and a Tiger fan! I can't wait until the 2008-2009 season.

GO TIGERS GO!!!

.... University of Memphis basketball ....

2008-04-07T12:20:00.000-07:00

go tigers go !

come on...cross them!

2008-04-07T12:19:00.001-07:00

... 1 to go ...

2008-04-05T19:49:00.000-07:00

YYYEEESSS!!

(1) UCLA 63, (1) Memphis 78

GO TIGERS GO!

.. again I wonder, what would it had been like ...

2008-04-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

April 3, 1968

... amazing ... sad ... inspiring ...

.. a cute mess ..

2008-04-04T11:09:00.000-07:00

How cute is that? My nephew playing the drums...he'll be 4 later this month.

... a hot mess ...

2008-04-04T10:56:00.001-07:00

What the heck? She's so talented. She needs to get it back together.

.. exactly ..

2008-04-04T10:52:00.000-07:00

I have learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not on our circumstances. — Martha Washington

... fill #2 ...

2008-04-04T08:25:00.001-07:00

Not much change in my weight... 3lbs. Now I'm going to tell you that I feel like it's more just because I can tell in my clothes, but I was a bit disappointed. The doctor said though that she didn't expect any loss so three pounds was good. She said it will take at least three visits to find just the right tightness.

It's been a couple of days, and again I don't think it's tight enough, but I'm going to give it a week. And I don't think I'll wait a whole month to go back. The fill was much the same as last time. It was difficult to find the port and painful. Not like getting a tooth pull (even though I've not had that done, but have heard it's painful), but like getting an IV or blood drawn painful. Just uncomfortable.

Still no regrets. Still happy with my choice. However you want to say it. I'm going to be honest though, it's not going fast enough. I'm walking and trying to eat right. And although 3 pounds is good, I want 13. Faster would be better. But I'm optomistic and hopefilled!

And a big "shoutout" to one of my biggest cheerleader, My Mom. She held my hand. Thanks, Mom!

... another reason to love Coach Cal ...

2008-04-04T07:48:00.001-07:00

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/ncaatourney08/columns/story?id=3327069

He looks at their eyes...that's deep.

GO TIGERS GO!

... chinese proverb ...

2008-04-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

Words are just words and without heart they have no meaning.

... okay, so I watch ...

2008-04-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

WARNING: ** IGNORE THE JUDGES AT THE END, THEY RUIN IT. **
So this guy, Michael Johns is amazing. I loved this performance of Dolly's song, It's all wrong but it's Alright. Listen to the last note he sings and try not to cry...I dare ya.

... have you ever noticed ? ...

2008-04-01T07:51:00.001-07:00

... how cute this guy is ...

just wondering.