I go by my middle name...

Pumpkin Pie

2012-01-30T18:41:00.000-08:00

I was inspired by the pumpkin in my pantry to make pies for my students. We are learning about the letter P this week, so Pumpkin Pie will be on the menu for snack tomorrow.

It's fun being a preschool teacher (most days).

Talking Heads

2012-01-21T19:20:00.000-08:00

One of the best things about a political season--James Carville.

Beach People

2012-01-14T19:51:00.000-08:00

I have laughed that there are beach people and mountain people. I just don't get mountain people. Yeah you can say, wow that's a big mountain. That is cool.

The ocean, you see it, you smell it, you hear it. Well, you can even taste it if you really wanted to.

Ah, I am one of the beach people.

The Year of...

2012-01-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

Last Year I listened to a lot of Jerry Jeff Walker. Josh and I stumbled onto an opportunity to see him perform in April and it was the beginning of an almost obsession with Mr. Bojangles.

In 2010, I saw Lyle Lovett in concert twice and listened to his music in heavy rotation.

Who will I discover in 2012?

Shopping Goals--Update

2012-01-07T19:43:00.000-08:00

I wish for three things in my upcoming shopping trips:

A pair of black comfortable pumps

A belt worthy of wearing with dresses/tunics

I bought one belt at target and one at Burke's Outlet. I have worn the Target one with many compliments.

A pair of skinny/straight legged jeans that will stay tucked in boots

I tried on a pretty fabulous pair at Target, but $27 seemed steep for Target for a style I wasn't sure about. They were also quite distressed and I wanted more of a dark wash. I bought a dark pair at Walmart for $13 that are oddly comfortable and fit pretty well. I think I will like this style more than I thought, so I may keep the look out for a higher quality pair.

2012

2011-12-31T13:49:00.001-08:00

Welcome 2012, this year I hope to:

1. Use my passport

2. Cook 10 Recipes out of my new Cuban Cookbook

3. Cook 10 Recipes out of one of my Mexican Cookbooks (Rick Bayless).

4. Complete couch to 5K. I have revisited this beginning with week 3.

Peace and Love and we LIVE fully in the new year!

Honest Reflections

2011-12-26T12:54:00.000-08:00

I will be honest, I have not had a joyful last few months. I have been filled with worry and have had dashes of despair. I don't really know what the source of this has been. I am lucky enough to be married to a man I am still crazy about. I have daughters who amaze me with their kindness and generosity. I have friends who overwhelm me with their thoughtfulness.

It is beyond rationalizing, but I am still sad sometimes. I long to feel carefree and to be spontaneous, but that is not who I am. I would rather not be described as high strung, but it may be accurate.

Syrupy Peanut Buttery Stickiness

2011-12-22T07:12:00.000-08:00

This morning I made waffles. I love waffles while they are still hot enough to melt the peanut butter I put on top. Claire had hot chocolate, Delaney had cranberry juice and I had a cup of my favorite tea.

It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas--even though I had a meltdown last night over two missing gifts, which were last seen in my closet. Someday, I hope to find you.

So Easy Sugar Cookies

2011-12-19T17:57:00.000-08:00

Tonight I made these cookies. My mom made me a cookbook for Christmas when I was a freshman in college. These cookies are included with this note--Lynnea's favorite cookie. Even after all these years, every time I make them I think--yes, they really are my favorite cookie.

Ingredients

¾ cup sugar
⅓ cup margarine
⅓ cup oil
1 tbsp milk
1 teasp almond extract
1 egg
1½ cups flour
1½ teasp baking powder
¼ teasp salt
1 tbsp sugar for top

Method

Mix all ingredients.

Spread on 15 x 10 ungreased cookie sheet.

Sprinkle sugar on top.

Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes until light brown.

Cool 5 minutes. Cut into diamonds.

Eleven

2011-12-15T14:34:00.000-08:00

My first born, Delaney Elizabeth had her 11th birthday this week.

It's hard to believe she was ever this little.

Happy Birthday Delaney!

Cheers...

2011-12-03T14:31:00.000-08:00

My daughter Claire cheered her first game this morning as an Upward Cheerleader. I would have guessed playing basketball would be her choice, but she asked to cheer. I will admit, as much as I am not a cheerleader--she looks really cute in that cheer uniform.

Peace/Holiday Joy

2011-12-02T13:53:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Quincy invited me to a Christmas Dinner at her church. It was a wonderful evening with many warm, friendly people.

Wonderful conversation helped me to realize the need to relax and enjoy each day--especially in the hectic holidays. We shouldn't be so stressed that we lose sight of the joyful celebrations of Christmas.

Neglected

2011-11-28T12:27:00.000-08:00

Not me, but this blog.

Yeah, I haven't taken time to nurture this blog in recent months.

Truthfully, I have been feeling stressed by all of life's little responsibilities.

There are always jobs that need to be done and someplace to go.

Life can be frantic.

I am not great at dealing with the hectic pace.

I am working on enjoying the moment--and spending less time fretting over potential failures.

Anyone else been there?

Muppets!

2011-10-27T14:37:00.000-07:00

I can't wait..serious I am as excited as if I were going to Disney World. The Muppet Movie! Coming Thanksgiving Weekend!

I love the Muppets with a special soft spot for Animal. :)

Will you help with the...

2011-10-23T18:50:00.000-07:00

I am on some committees.

I have some responsibilities that involve recruiting volunteers.

Volunteers seem harder to get than ever this year.

I may be feeling overwhelming and teetering closer and closer to burned out.

Ribbon Run

2011-10-15T09:51:00.001-07:00

Our local Breast Cancer Run--I decided to wear my mom's wedding ring. My friend who has finished two rounds of chemo was there smiling and making her rounds of hugging everyone. I love her and was glad I was there. Of course, I wish my mother was among the survivors.

Hello...hello...

2011-10-13T16:18:00.001-07:00

Ok. I am here. I have been away from the blogging world.

One--September was totally lost. I was ill. I had surgery. I recovered.

Two--October proved that I am well. Back to work, back to life.

Three--We went to the beach! Yay, glorious white sandy beaches. I love you.

Food Glorious Food

2011-09-10T09:38:00.000-07:00

I haven't been able to tolerate a meal since Saturday, August 27. Sadly, that wasn't a delicious one. It was a sandwich sold by vendors at Parrots of the Caribbean, which is an outdoor concert/fundraiser for our Rotary Club.

I dream of my friend Quincy's delicious mashed potatoes, mahi po'boys from The Po'Boy Factory, and for some unknown reason Apple Pie. I think the latter may be from watching too much food network the past week or so.

I see a light at the end of the tunnel that maybe someday in the not so distant future I will be able to enjoy these things again.

A bit less of me

2011-09-09T19:54:00.001-07:00

Well friends, it looks like I am going to need my gallbladder removed. Many tests and opinions in the past two weeks have lead to this conclusion. No details on when yet.

It's been long earned...

2011-08-26T13:14:00.001-07:00

It's Friday!

Cancer

2011-08-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

One of my friends has breast cancer.

I am in shock.

I hate cancer.

I am fighting a war...

2011-08-08T14:19:00.000-07:00

This war is against clutter. I am hauling out the ill fitting clothes, outgrown items, and just random junk. So long to the excess baggage they bring. :)

Lesson from Rick Nelson

2011-08-03T07:56:00.000-07:00

Went to a garden party, reminisce with my old friends,
A chance to share old memories and play our songs again.
When I got to the garden party, they all knew my name,
No one recognized me, I didn't look the same.

But it's all right now, I learned my lesson well.
You see, you can't please everyone, so ya gotta please yourself.

I am consumed at times with the happiness of others. I like everyone to peacefully get along. Well, lesson learned--and hopefully not forgotten. I try and try and well, people still aren't happy. Which makes me unhappy. What a crazy cycle.

Be true to my values and convictions and well, the rest isn't up to me.

Oh Linda (or ode to cookbooks)

2011-07-31T17:17:00.000-07:00

Remember this. I love that cookbook. I have wondered over the years what the As You Requested was like since As You Requested 2 was so awesome. Well, Josh came through and gave me it for an anniversary gift! Yes, someone received it for Christmas in 1994 complete with a matching bookmark. It is even inscribed -- Mary, I hope this becomes your favorite cookbook. Linda Adams December 1994.

Happily, someone sold it to Josh via amazon. It's in good hands now. I can't wait to curl up and start planning some cooking.

Sleep

2011-07-24T13:35:00.000-07:00

If you know me well, you probably know I love my sleep. Last week, a friend asked me if I wanted to go to Montgomery for the Alabama Songwriter's Showcase. Of course, I am usually up for an event like this. Three hours there, three hours back, I was home after the concert at about 2 am.

I was tired the next morning, but was it worth it? Of course.

Ink

2011-07-22T06:52:00.000-07:00

Prompt from One Minute Writer--Ink

I love beautiful tattoos. I am amazed at the artistry of a well done tattoo. I have followed Ami James from Miami Ink to NY Ink. He and his crew are amazing. Vivid colors and amazing designs, much different than most of the tattoos I see in my day to day life.

Toes in the Sand

2011-07-20T20:36:00.001-07:00

It's been too long.

I am a beach person. I know a lot of people are in awe of mountains and find that feeling I feel at the beach.

Few sights top a sunset over the ocean.

Then there is this craziness--Sunset at Mallory Square. I love this so much that Claire could have been named Mallory. The fact that Mallory meant unlucky or unhappy changed my mind.

Oh yes, the world is full of great places. I hope to discover many of them, hopefully there will be some sand for my toes. They really do miss it.

Homecoming

2011-07-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

While I was waiting for Josh at the airport in Billings, Montana, I was able to witness a beautiful event. A Native American man was arriving home from military service. When he walked down the stairs there was cheering. A rug was put down and he stood on it. He was approached by older men who performed some sort of ceremony which involved wrapping a blanket around him.

I had tears in my eyes that I was able to witness this event. I could just walk away. I knew it was important to be still and respectful of this event.

Peace

2011-07-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

What comes to mind? War? Internal feelings? Contentment? Tie Dye and Peace Symbols?

Peace is complex. I was striving for internal peace for a long time after my mom died. I chose Peace for my word one year. I wore a necklace with the word Peace engraved. I made peace a focus.

Remember Me?

2011-07-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

I've been traveling. Thirteen states and gone from home 16 days. Whew. A wedding, Yellowstone, Mt. Rushmore, Grand Tetons, and much, much more.

Whew, we are home now. I just realized school starts in four weeks, gulp!

Is the Glass Half Full or What?

2011-06-22T10:11:00.000-07:00

I don't think I am a negative person. I admit, I sometimes think of all the possibilities. I think somehow if I think of it I will be prepared if the worse happens.

I have saved a Dove Chocolates wrapper that says, "Most of what you worry about never happens."

Places I Love

2011-06-21T17:37:00.000-07:00

New Orleans
Key West
Madison, AL
Atlanta, GA
Nashville, TN
Cape Girardeau, MO
Little Rock, AR

I decided to give blog prompts a try. I found this one

Summer Pace

2011-06-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

This summer has begun with a sprint...

At some point, I hope to enjoy the leisure of summer.

It will come.

Too Much All the Time

2011-06-11T08:39:00.001-07:00

I admit, I am on facebook. I have found it to be an easy way to communicate with my friends. Sometimes you learn things you didn't want to know. Other times, it seems down right strange. Especially relationship statuses. I am so glad I wasn't dating/engaged/etc. in the time were I had to make it facebook official.

Toad What?

2011-05-22T19:48:00.000-07:00

Josh and I were able to attend Toad Suck Daze, which is an annual festival in Conway, AR. We happened to be nearby when we escaped the power outages at home after last month's tornadoes.

This is named for a local lake/park which is named for some sort of something steamboat operators would yell out--or something like that. It's a family friendly event, even though the name is suspect.

Anyway, Jerry Jeff Walker was the headline music act Saturday! We were in town and JJW was there for FREE!

We had made plans to go with some friends, but in typical current fashion, the weather was not agreeable. Storms were coming and the concert was move up by several hours. It wasn't doable for our friends, but we jumped in the car and made it. Well, we got a bit turned around. We missed the first few songs. We parked and I RAN to the stage. :)

So, in a seven day span, I was able to see Jerry Jeff Walker in AR , Jimmy Buffett in MO, and Mac McAnally in AL.

Claire, Delaney, and Mac McAnally at The Whistle Stop Festival in Huntsville, AL

Shh...

2011-05-22T18:19:00.000-07:00

I am going to a concert Tuesday...

My dad is coming to stay with the girls. :)

To the land of coconut bras and grass skirts, here I come.

Minor Woes

2011-05-21T21:24:00.000-07:00

I had to have a gum graft. Yeah, fun stuff. They take skin from your mouth and attach it to your gums. Odd but true.

I apparently dissolve stitches at rapid speed, so I had some issues. Yes, my stitches came out in two days rather than 5-6. So, I had to be extra careful for fear the graft would fall off. I have had three checks in the first week, when originally it was see you in two weeks. Fun times, lots of soup, pudding, and jello.

It's been an odd week or so for The Hortons.

Hello

2011-05-11T19:12:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a bit crazy around here. Big News:Tornadoes. LOTS of them all over Alabama. Some of them too close to think about to my home. No school for a week due to power outages and major clean up.

Confession

2011-04-22T18:11:00.000-07:00

I called my boss to give her a heads up that I will be out one day this week for dental work.

When the phone was ringing, I forgot who I had called. I didn't know what to do when I heard hello. I stumbled on my words and said this is Lynnea. When I heard her voice I remembered who I was talking to.

Things that Interest Me

2011-04-22T18:03:00.000-07:00

Steel Drums--middle aged white girl that plays the pans?

Mandolin--Is it possible for me to learn to play an instrument? I think a Mr. Shell, Mrs. Wegman, and another teacher I forgot her name would disagree.

Running--I have the shoes...lack the motivation.

The Quest for the perfect jeans--Is a myth much like Big Foot?

Pedicures--Can I perfect the at home pedicure?

Biographies--Perhaps I will live a life worth writing about, it seems pretty awesome on this side of it!

35 Things

2011-04-19T14:20:00.000-07:00

Last year I donated 34 things to charity in honor of my 34th birthday. I am working on doing the same for 35. I have a bag started, perhaps this afternoon is a great time to finish up this goal.

To my dear friend Q who is my most faithful reader, I agree--we must see each other soon! Give me a day and we shall meet up for ice cream after school! I could be pressured into chips and salsa as well.

I am 35

2011-04-14T16:42:00.001-07:00

Yep, it is official. I am now 35 years old. I know it is silly, but I cried this morning. After my morning tears, the day was a fine one. I was cheered up by many great co workers. I had lunch with great friends. My husband and daughters shared a fine dinner of Stanlieos Subs with me. It is a fine life, aging, wrinkles, and all.

I am Falling Apart

2011-04-05T18:03:00.000-07:00

Short story-- I have been using a sonicare toothbrush, neti pot, and have a limp.

Long story--My gums are receding--due to my over zealous brushing technique. I get to go to a specialist to talk about a possible gum graft--is it just me or does that sound terrible?

My head is about to explode with sinus pressure.

About an hour ago, it felt like my knee was going out--what? This one is new.

All in all, I feel pretty miserable and slightly sorry for myself.

My Favorite Place in Town

2011-04-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

I love The Po Boy Factory in Huntsville. It is without hesitation my favorite place to eat. They just don't let me down. Of course, it's me--so it isn't just the food. I like the people who work there and the owners. I know, I am that kind of person. The people mean as much to me as the food. Don't misunderstand, this place is the perfect combination of both.

What I'd Like To Be Famous For...

2011-03-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

Well, maybe not famous, but I'd like to make great pralines. I made an ok for me, but not suitable for gifts, batch this Fall. Oddly, I don't love pecans, but somehow I love pralines.

Here I am in Vegas at The Cosmopolitan

2011-03-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

My Love of Robert Redford--sort of

2011-03-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

I can imagine wearing just about everything in his Sundance Catalog. The dresses--wow. I am sort of in love with their jewelry too. I dreamily browse online, spending most of my time in the outlet section. It is how I dream of dressing--the perfect casual boho, yet put together look.

Excuse me, I have some more browsing to do.

Only Me

2011-03-16T07:03:00.001-07:00

So in an odd, only would happen to Lynnea thing--my tattoo got infected while in NC. I can get a tattoo with no problems, but getting it removed I get an infection. Thankfully I was visiting my sister in law who is a nurse and her husband is a rep for medical supplies. It's much better now.

Spring Break 1997

2011-03-11T12:58:00.000-08:00

Many Spring Breaks ago, I joined eight others including Josh Horton on a journey from Cape Girardeau, MO to Kissimmee, FL. Five us went on to Key West, FL.

Among the group were two couples who were relatively new in their relationships and an engaged couple. The engaged couple broke up and the other two couples both are married.

Show Me Missouri

2011-03-10T18:21:00.000-08:00

I made a quick trip to Missouri last week.

Josh made a work trip to Missouri this week.

Thankfully, we are both in Alabama tonight.

Lenten Season

2011-03-07T14:26:00.001-08:00

Last year I participated in Lent for the first time. I gave up eating all meat and fish. I thought it was a meaningful experience, even making it though a week of Disney World.

I am still thinking about whether or now I am going to participate this year.

When I was 19

2011-03-01T15:43:00.000-08:00

When I was 19 I was a summer missionary. I taught a lot of Bible Schools and Children's Camps. A few Youth camps were sprinkled in for good measure.

I was on a team with Audra, Andy, and Clay.

We had a lot of fun and acquired a lot of stories. I'm a crab--pinch, pinch. That one is for Audra's sake.

I also acquired a cross tattoo on my ankle that cost $25 at A Different Drummer Tattoo in Cape Girardeau, Mo.

Today I had my first laser treatment to remove it. It was almost 16 years--we had a good run.

Dear Friend and Teacher

2011-02-25T14:11:00.000-08:00

In Tuesdays with Morrie, Mitch Albom wrote:

"Have you ever really had a teacher? One who saw you as a raw but precious thing, a jewel that, with wisdom, could be polished to a proud shine? If you are lucky enough to find your way to such teachers, you will always find yourself back. Sometimes only in your head. Sometimes right alongside."

Ben Whitener was this teacher for me. Ben was a serious teacher, who expected and at times demanded attention and respect. I first met him as a teacher when I was a 14 year old Freshman. I continued to have him for a teacher through four years of French, as well as English my Senior Year. I was a hardworking, but not excellent student. I set high goals for myself and was defeated that I never made it into National Honor Society. Near the end of my Senior Year, Mr. Whitener came to me and said, "Lynnea, I wouldn't think any more of you if you were in Honor Society." I was one of the lucky ones--I have been profoundly changed by having had Ben Whitener as a teacher and friend.

Life is Good

2011-02-22T13:31:00.001-08:00

I am baking up a big batch of Party Mix. I went for a three mile walk today. The weather is perfect. The girls are happily doing homework. I wore my Wonder Woman lipstick today.

The sum of these parts=Happiness

Tired

2011-02-17T14:34:00.000-08:00

Yeah that about sums it up. I am tired. Josh was out of town earlier this week and I didn't sleep well. I was watching the clock fearful I would be negligent on my getting the girls to school on time responsibility.

It is 4 30 and I am interested in curling up for a nap--but I have places to be at 5 30, so that isn't going to happen! Sounds nice though.

Oh Yeah...

2011-02-15T18:59:00.000-08:00

I envision this in my future decor!

What to Wear?

2011-02-15T16:36:00.001-08:00

I am that crazy person. I try on my clothes for the day every night. Yeah, I know. I don't just lay them out. I try them all on with various shoes, etc. I have been doing this since I was little. It gives me sanity somehow. :)

As I write, I have two possibilities for tomorrow. I wonder what direction I should go?

PB Snickers

2011-02-15T13:02:00.001-08:00

Are only so-so.

Just So You Know...

2011-02-10T17:46:00.000-08:00

I am Aunt Lynnea now.

I have a niece born yesterday evening!

Good vs Evil

2011-02-04T18:40:00.000-08:00

Mega Mind was totally worth the $1 each at the movies tonight. I thought it was great.

OXO Kitchen Shears

2011-02-02T13:29:00.000-08:00

Not only will they cut through chicken breasts, flower stems, twine, and other household items. They will snip human flesh. Ouch. I wondered for a few minutes if I needed stitches.

Muppets

2011-01-30T20:04:00.000-08:00

I have a soft spot for the Muppets and Sesame Street. I especially love this guy.

Last winter, one of my students made a penguin that looked like Sam the Eagle. I think it was the way he placed the googley eyes that made the resemblance uncanny. That penguin cracked me up, I am still thinking about him a year later.

ForEveryBody

2011-01-30T18:07:00.000-08:00

ForEveryBody Candles are amazing.

They are often on sale buy 1 get 1 free at Kohls.

They are made in the USA.

They smell great and burn completely.

Check out the clearance section and often there are seasonal scents discounted. Large jars of cinnamon and apple pie were $4.95 at my local store last week.

Princess and the Frog

2011-01-29T05:59:00.000-08:00

I was it's defender again last night! I even joked that I was always supporting it!

Baking

2011-01-27T14:29:00.000-08:00

I'm up to my elbows in these. It makes a ton of dough, so it you try them you will know what I mean about elbows.

I am baking two trays of them now. They are looking good!

While I Was Gone

2011-01-24T15:25:00.000-08:00

I remembered how much I really like being with Josh and the kids. I really missed them! They were fine, they went to visit Nana and Poppy in Arkansas.

Bright Lights

2011-01-24T13:54:00.000-08:00

Yeah, so I went to Vegas with my friend and co worker Carol. Yeah, we aren't really Vegas types.

We had a blast going to shows. We saw Barry Manilow. We saw Cher. We saw Penn and Teller. We saw a Magician. We saw 3D movie previews at Sony. We watched a movie at the M &M store. I had a Coke at the Coke store. We went up the Eiffel Tower. We walked around the shops. We ate lots of goodies from the Bakery in our Hotel. We watched the fountains at the Bellagio from our room window.

I laughed and told our co workers that Carol and I went to Vegas and in true Carol and Lynnea form--we managed to have a PG experience. It's who we are!

It's a Party, well sort of

2011-01-21T20:29:00.000-08:00

You know I love you if I go to your home sales party. You all know the type, Pampered Chef, Creative Memories, Tupperware. I made a vow several years ago to not go to parties of this sort. If I am interested in any of these type of products I probably know someone who sells it and order from them directly.

I once went to a Southern Living at home party and when the order was totaled my tea was $20. Shipping, taxes, etc. that pricey tea was over the top. I quickly decided to combine my order with some one else, but still ended up spending more than I was really interested in spending for a product I wasn't that thrilled about. I didn't want to go and not buy anything.

Tonight I went to a party, because of my dear friends was hosting it. I didn't buy anything and only feel slightly guilty about it.

That is why I don't usually go.

Snow Fell on Alabama

2011-01-19T19:10:00.000-08:00

Two winters ago, it snowed. Well, it was flurries in the middle of the night. People woke their children up at 2 am to see snow. These children had never seen snows. Last winter, we had a nice dusting of snow. Measurable snow for Alabama, a dusting to most anyone else.

This winter it snowed. Several inches Christmas eve--ugh, we missed it! We were out of town. The girls were sad. The snow was the talk of the school.

Ah, It snowed again! Really snowed, we measured eight inches at our house. It was cold, so the snow stuck around for a week.
School, church, nearly everything was cancelled. The whole place shut down for days. No school for a whole week! Bliss!

We went sledding after a breakfast of snow ice cream. We ate pancakes and drank hot cocoa. There was plenty of time for playing in the snow. The girls sprayed water colored with food color in the snow to make paintings. There were angels made in the snow on the trampoline. We had a cozy fire in the fireplace.

We can't forget this beauty of a snowman. Josh and the girls even made an igloo they could go inside! They do have an engineer for a dad after all. Eight inches of snow in Alabama sure was fun!

Why I love The Princess and the Frog

2011-01-07T13:36:00.000-08:00

I have defended The Princess and the Frog since it came out. I watched it soon after it was released and loved it. I saw it again at the theater and now own the movie. Oh yeah, I know I am an easy sell on Disney movies and New Orleans themes, so it added up to be a hit for me.

Ray and Louis are a charming pair. A lovable, naive firefly in love with a star and a trumpet playing, goofy alligator--a perfect pair of side kicks.

I love the theme of dream big, but keep on working towards the goal. Tiana's father told her to keep dreaming and she could do anything--but it doesn't fall in your lap without working for it.

Naveen is rich--but that doesn't solve his problems.

Mama Odie reminded us that what you think you want isn't always what you need--or even really want.

I love the songs.

I love the scenes of New Orleans, the river, the street car, Jackson Square--ok beignets and gumbo too!

I love that the spoiled princess in the end really shows she is much more than that.

A green dress that looks like a lily pad, awesome!

I love that Tiana isn't looking for a prince to solve her problems, although finding a prince can't hurt!

Yeah there is voodoo. I don't see the hang up with this. There is evil/darkness in all the princess movies. I don't think this movie is any darker than The Beast ripping up the palace or the town people storming the castle in Beauty and the Beast. I can name similar scenes in The Lion King, Aladdin, Snow White, and on and on.

Eyeliner

2011-01-04T14:11:00.000-08:00

I never could get a hang of eyeliner. I know that sounds crazy, but it's true. I even had a makeup counter lady try to teach me a few years back. Last summer we had a Joseph, Egyptian themed VBS. I wore a costume and heavy black eyeliner every day. Hey, in the process I learned how to apply eyeliner. I have been wearing eyeliner quite a bit since then with a much nicer line than I would have imagined I was capable of doing!

Daily Grind

2011-01-03T06:17:00.000-08:00

Interesting story about a man who keeps on going to work as usual, even though his business is closed.

2011

2011-01-03T06:09:00.000-08:00

Peace and Love to Everyone in 2011!

If I think of anything I find witty or interesting i will post!

Ugh!

2010-12-31T17:06:00.000-08:00

I have let people's perceptions of life control too much of me. I do the best I can to make everyone happy and worry and stress when they aren't.

I need to break free of worrying about other people's happiness. I am sorry I can't please everyone all the time.

Claire is Eight (tomorrow)

2010-12-30T18:47:00.001-08:00

I may not have time to post tomorrow.

My Claire will be 8. My baby girl, THE baby of the family is turning 8!

Snowflakes for a 10th Birthday

2010-12-15T08:38:00.000-08:00

Delaney had her tenth birthday on Sunday. We had a fun day with the family, with cupcakes, presents, The Nutcracker Ballet, and snow flakes blowing in the unusually cold Alabama air. It was a perfect day!

Merry Christmas, Alabama

2010-12-11T05:43:00.000-08:00

One year, a few years ago, I wrote a Christmas letter to put in my Christmas cards. I included a portion of this song's lyrics. I have experienced several places that were home and many, many faces that were home. Merry Christmas to you all!

Merry Christmas, Alabama
Merry Christmas, Tennessee
Merry Christmas, Louisiana
To St. Barths and the Florida Keys

Merry Christmas, Mississippi
Where I started this wild and crazy run
Such a long way from that first birthday
Merry Christmas, everyone

And Merry Christmas, Colorado
Though far from you all I have roamed
'tis the season to remember
All the faces,
And the places that were home

'tis the season to remember
And to count up all the ports of call I've known
And to thank his mercies tender

For I'm never far from home

Connection

2010-12-07T14:48:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth Edwards has died. I don't know her, but her life has something in common with my mother. She happened to get breast cancer. Cancer than showed back up later, spread in her body. She would then live years, knowing that cancer was no longer something she would get over.

I remember when John Edwards was running for President, I was mildly drawn to him as a candidate. He did seem to possess a boyish charm. I admit a weakness for a Southern boy. When Elizabeth's cancer as announced, I knew there was something amiss with him and/or their relationship. I remember calling my father and talking to him about it. I know some people disagreed with my conclusion, but I think the right, noble, honorable thing would to be to have made an announcement that his wife and children needed him. That running for office would have to wait.

I am saddened that Elizabeth's children are without their mother, no other can fill that role in the same way.

Mistletoe

2010-12-01T13:37:00.000-08:00

Anyone have some growing in their yard? I want some. I have trouble finding it to purchase, and I am cheap.

Rudolph

2010-11-30T17:25:00.001-08:00

I admit, I am 34 years old, and I LOVE Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. The Rankin Bass version. I own way too many figurines, stuffed animals, ornaments, pins, etc. I love them all.

Did you know it is currently on tv? I popped some popcorn and the girls and I are watching.

My favorite song is Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas. That Burl Ives/Sam the Snowman is awesome.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-26T16:21:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving in Madison, AL

We Hosted Thanksgiving this year.

Monday, I cooked apple pie and cornbread.

Tuesday, I cooked cranberries and peanut butter pie. I was thinking of my mom today. I wore her wedding ring. I spent many Thanksgivings in Verona, MO, where my mom was from. I remember Grandpa would help out by mashing the potatoes by hand. Grandma made wonderful Apple pie.

Wednesday, I baked bread and went to a Lyle Lovett concert.

Thursday, I cooked turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes and peas. We went to The Galaxy of Lights.

Friday, I shopped. Josh cooked biscuits. Later, I cooked soup. Oh yeah, I watched the Iron Bowl. I do live in Alabama.

Now, I must rest...

The mashed potatoes are amazing, recipe thanks to my friend Quincy. I can't get enough. I decided to have a bowl of potatoes instead of soup.

More Favorites

2010-11-20T18:28:00.001-08:00

More Favorites by Lynnea featuring tall boots

These are a few of my favorite things

2010-11-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

The Orange mug was found at Books A Million after a work party. I was with my co worker Carol. She bought it for me and saved it for my birthday.

The stainless steel travel mug gets used everyday. It is amazing that it keeps things hot for hours or cold for hours. I have given many of these for gifts and most of those nearest and dearest to me have one.

Peace was my word for 2009. I happened to find this Starbucks brand mug on sale at Kohls after Christmas. It's my "holiday" mug.

I love Anthropologie, Josh bought me an initial mug from there. It's a sturdy cup with a good hand feel.

A few years ago, I had a student who gave me a Starbucks card for a gift. I bought this mug. I think of her and my other former students when I use it.

What's Always Been

2010-11-13T14:36:00.000-08:00

One thing that Josh has always had since I met him, besides his boyish good looks and charm, was his Honda Accord. Yes, when I met Josh in the Fall of 1996--He had this car.

All of our dating, we rode in this car. We took this car from Cape Girardeau, MO to Key West, FL for Spring Break back in 1997. We drove to Tucker's Place where Josh presented me with my engagement ring in this car. Yes, I could go on and on. We drove away from our wedding, moved to AL, brought home both babies from the hospital, and traveled MANY a mile in this car.

I gave the keys to the new owner and asked them to come get it whenever they wanted, knowing that I was going to be busy all evening. I didn't want to see it driving away.

Oh I will miss you Honda Accord.

Sunshine Family

2010-11-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

When I was little I had these dolls. They were sort of the Hippie Cousins of Barbie. They owned a craft store and had a van. They came with a booklet that showed you how to make accessories for them using household objects. I remember cutting a foam cup and creating a chair. I think it involved brown marker to make it look like wood.

I wonder if my mom was hoping I would be content with the responsible Sunshine Family? I loved them for a bit, but then I met the Upbeat Beauty--Barbie. Sandals and craft stores just couldn't compete with the sparkles of Pink and Pretty Barbie (my first Barbie).

Ah Zac Brown

2010-11-08T12:49:00.000-08:00

Concrete and cars are their own prison bars
Like this life I'm living in
But the plane brought me farther I'm surrounded by water
And I'm not going back again

Ah to be surrounded by water, I love the ocean. I tell Josh all the time that I am not joking. I want to settle at a beach somewhere.

Sad Tale

2010-11-07T17:05:00.000-08:00

I went to Books A Million today looking for a book. I didn't see it and asked the sales associate to look it up for me. None in stock, which was a good thing. I went home and found that same book on my book shelf of yet to be read books.

Tell me I am not alone in this sad tale.

Confession

2010-10-31T20:23:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween!

I hope everyone had a great weekend, mine was BUSY with lots of fun events! Whew, I am exhausted!

Cutesy Words

2010-10-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

I dislike the term "besties" in regard to best friend. I don't use the term best friend either, I have friends. I don't rank them. This may be my issue. I know I have odd hang ups. :)

I also dislike "preggers" and "preggo" for pregnant.

I really dislike "potty" and never use that word. In my preschool class you use the restroom.

I may just dislike cutesy words.

The Girls

2010-10-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

Our family has "The Girls". Josh told friends of ours when they had a second daughter, they will forever be "The Girls".

Teachers

2010-10-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

Who was your favorite teacher?

Third Grade--Miss Canepa showed extra attention to a shy little girl, who didn't care much about school work.

High School--Mr. Whitener had patience with a talkative high schooler, who didn't excel in French, but tried really hard.

College--Dr. Pratt took the time to listen to my questions, whether or not he had the answers to them or not

State of the Union

2010-10-21T15:10:00.000-07:00

I don't think we would be better off if Obama had lost.

I don't think the current President has had much to do with our current economy. I know he will be blamed for it, but I think this situation was brewing long ago.

I do think voting is important, so vote and use your voice.

Exercise

2010-10-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

I am lazy, I admit.

I have logged in at least two miles for 10 of the last 11 days.

Gotta get back in the groove...

Smells that's for Sure

2010-10-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

I have a very strong sense of smell. This can at times drive my husband crazy. For some reason, my house smelled bad when I arrived home from work this afternoon. I have laundry going, the dishwasher is running, and the garbage is taken out. I hope I have remedied the situation. YUCK!

Linda Sue Adams of North Little Rock, Arkansas

2010-10-18T16:03:00.000-07:00

I made your apple tea bread yesterday. It is wonderful, no surprise. Your recipes never seem to fail. Oh and I made your jambalaya for friends over the weekend--good enough to make me forget about that horrible Razorback loss to Auburn for a few minutes.

Pink Feather

2010-10-17T17:45:00.000-07:00

Today Claire earned a pink feather at an Indian Princess meeting. Somehow in a strange course of events, it flew out the window. She arrived home in tears. We had very little time, Delaney needed to be at church for practice. I took her to the street where she lost it. We pulled over and walked around looking. A few minutes later, a car stopped. A man asked, "Are you looking for a pink feather?" Startled, I said yes. He gave me Claire's feather. He said he thought that must be what we were looking for. He has seen it a ways up the road. He stopped, picked it up, turned around, and gave it to us. After he gave it to us, he turned around and went on his way. How many of us would do this for a stranger--for a pink feather?

One thing about this man, he had a little girl with him. I assume his daughter. He probably would want someone to help him if his daughter had lost something, even as minor as a pink feather.

Thank you to the man who saved the day by finding Claire's pink feather.

The Food You Leave Behind

2010-10-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

I was reading a cookbook I picked up at a thrift store. The recipes don't seem to be what I am looking for, but in reading about the recipes I was inspired. One of the contributors mentioned that in her family part of the legacy they leave behind are their recipes. Her grandmother's cookies, great grandma's pie crust, there were the examples she listed.

This reminded me of my recipes. I often make "my mom's party mix". I had just made a huge batch a few days prior to reading about this woman's family recipes. I think of my mom and my father's mom when I make our taco sauce. It is strange and sort of unusual, turmeric isn't an every day sort of spice to be included in an old recipe made from trial and error two generations ago in Southwest Missouri. I have two recipes for brisket, my mom's and my mother in law's. They are similar, but not quite the same.

What food memories does your family leave behind?

Confessions of a Lackluster Student

2010-10-05T12:54:00.000-07:00

Homework gets the best of me. I have crazy expectations for my girls. I know they are bright girls, I expect them to be amazing. 89% doesn't cut it, did you see that I just said? That is ridiculous. Why am I so much of an ogre about grades? My own parents weren't that way. I don't recall a single mention of my lackluster elementary school grades.

Oh yes, I was a terrible students until about 5th grade. I had no interest at all. I scribbled down answers so I could move on to the next thing. If one person turned their work in, I would quickly finish up too.

Even given their flawed genetics from my side, my girls work hard and show great interest in school. I hate that I am such a nag about an 89%. I sometimes fear they will take after me and my lazy Elementary habits. Sure, they can have my sense of humor or my knack at conversation--but I want for them to have their Daddy's grades.

Christmas is Here, Well Sort of

2010-10-03T13:52:00.001-07:00

I love Fall, it is perhaps my favorite season. I say perhaps, because I like when each season comes. I enjoy living where we have four seasons, although admittedly, our winters tend to be mild.

Fall brings romantic notions of beautiful falling leaving, brisk walks outdoors, and snuggling under a pile of blankets. I love pumpkins and apple cider and the traditional fall tastes they bring. I love Halloween, even though it seems to be frowned upon by more and more churches. I love the simple joy of trick or treating and seeing the children in their fun costumes. I have a special love for The Great Pumpkin.

Fall seems to usher us into The Holidays--Halloween leads into Thanksgiving, which brings us to Christmas. Of course, Christmas to me is a whole Month. In the chaos of December, all the plans and my two girls have birthdays. I may be a fit frenzied, but I love the Celebrating and FUN of Christmas. I like the bright gaudy colors, the mixture of old sentimental ornaments and new favorites. I never will claim a perfectly decorated home for the holidays, but I have a home full of treasured memories. Some of these memories are triggered by objects, but many more are remembered in the baking, writing cards, wrapping gifts, the songs we sing. I am sure Josh will bring out the Christmas music in a few weeks.

I feel the coolness in the air today, it brings me fond memories of Autumns past and an anticipation of the future.

Lyle Lovett

2010-09-24T14:31:00.000-07:00

Josh and I were able to see the talented Lyle Lovett perform in Nashville a few nights ago. The musicians with him are amazing. Opening for him was Lilly Hiatt, who I enjoyed.

At one point, I thought--I have a perfect life. I felt so lucky to be there sitting next to Josh listening to great music in the Ryman Theater. The next morning, I found out I had locked my dad and the girls out of the house for a little while. Thankfully, our neighbors had a spare key!

Isn't that life? It is perfect and imperfect all at once.