Day 36: Deliver gift bags to veterans in the nursing home

Day 35: Ride a carousel

They were developed in Italy, especially by the Medici Grand-Dukes in Florence, and the first French example was in Paris in 1605. These usually took place in squares or large courtyards, and consisted of elaborately costumed riders and horses ....

This seemingly rudimentary ride still fascinates. The ride hasn't evolved or transformed in hundreds of years. Its not really thrilling or frightening as so many rides mandate. It is simply the same experience as it was 400 years ago. But I maintain firmly, that a few minutes on this unchangeable invulnerable ride with my two kids makes a day better, or maybe its their smiles.

Day 34: Support the Boy Scouts

It is Saturday afternoon and a group of Boy Scouts stood on every corner peddling their wares of stale donuts. Easily, the temperature for this Memorial Day Saturday was 90 degrees. But still they stood with boxes held high. I turned around in traffic and gave my donation and received much more than a box of unwanted donuts. I invested in his hope that with hard work and a belief in the community anything is possible. It really isn't all about the green polka dot box it's more about showing these young people that we care about them and their camp.  And although it sucks like hell standing on a corner in the unbearable heat,  at the end of the day hopefully they see that there are those that care....about   donuts.

Day: 33 Clear the undergrowth

An army of weeds and bushes had been allowed to silently take over the back of the yard. Until today, when I was left alone with a lawn mower and a determination to reclaim my yard.  I plowed the stubborn walls away with the lawn mower I had  borrowed from my dad (ours was in the shop).  At the end of the day, I had cleared several yards of undergrowth and left with a few lessons:
1. Unnecessary weeds left unkempt can take over if left ignored choking the life out of potential growth, robbing the yard of its true potential.
2. All you need are the right tools to remove any weeds.
3. Sometimes you have to use your own hands  when tools don't work.
4. It is hard work to clear land. Its not work for wimps.
5. If the tools your parents loaned you no longer work, look at what you already have.
6. There is nothing you cant remove with determination.
7. Sometime beneath the undergrowth you can find treasures: toys, shoes, even a pair of glasses
8. If it gets to hard, take a break. But don't give up.
9. Anything that clutters up space should be removed.
10. Nothing is better than space without unnecessary clutter. Yards and homes and even life is made better when it is cleared of clutter.

Day 32: GTL

GTL stands for Gym, Tan, & Laundry.

It was made popular by the cast of Jersey Shore on MTV.

 

The process of staying fresh and mint. Stands for "Gym, tan, laundry." Must be done everyday to achieve maximum potential. Side effects include fist pumping. Coined by the eloquent Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino from MTV's ground breaking Jersey Shore.

You gotta GTL everyday to make sure you're looking your best bro. If your shirt looks bad it makes the whole product look bad.

 

 

 

Today I went to the gym followed by the tanning bed (ridiculous I know). However, my laundry means I washed and folded no less than 8 loads of  clothes. After putting all the clothes away, there were some fist pumps. I dont think I will be hooking up in any hot tubs though. Unless its with the hubs!

Day 31: Write an Ode to Summer

To share my true feelings on just how much I LOVE these 2 1/2 months I thought a poem was most appropriate.

Ode To Summer
After a long agonizing separation
During which I longed
and yearned for you
And in those bleak cold hours
You were no where

No signs, no calls,
Nothing
But a pile of photos and
shadowed memories.
And suddenly
you slam back into my life.
Bearing your gifts
of warmth, comfort, and
unbridled joy.
I am complete once more.
For only with you
does my life make sense.
With you, there is meaning
logic, purpose, direction, peace
and serenity.
I am at your mercy
I will cherish each second we are together
I will embrace you and love you like  no other
Of course, like always,
you will leave me
and an endless procession of days
will try to make me forget you
But for now
you are all mine
I give you myself completely
without reservation
indulge me like only you can do
Our adventure awaits!

Day 30: Write a letter to a State Representative

There was to be deliberation on a bill this week that I was particularly interested in (no need to elaborate,) so I contacted my local representative and voiced my opinion. This is not a monumental task for many people,  but I don't even vote. I can hardly call myself an activist. In fact, I'm not even that opinionated on most current issues. I rarely, if ever, take part in discussions related to politics or national affairs.  I take comfort in a blind faith that all those involved in running our country generally have the American people in mind. And that's good enough for me. However, one of my larger goals is to get more involved in my community in a variety of capacities including awareness. So I write my letter, certain that "change is going to come."

Day 29: Complete 3 Mandatory tasks

The last days of school are always extremely busy. Tests have to be administered, recorded, and grades averaged all in  a short amount of time.  There are several reports to complete: equipement, attendance, monies, text books, and all this is done with 120 kids high on summer time and Monstor drinks.  This is not a good time to come in Monday after three days of the Hangout Festival. But with perserverance, tylenol, and a short nap I managed to actually complete three important tasks before falling in bed at 7:30. This was truly the most challenging task so far.
1. Drive to work from the beach house before 8:00AM
2. Administer a quarter exam
3. Review quarter averages with suddenly concerned students

Day 28: Hug a stranger

Read the previous post for instructions on how to complete this task. Mom participated in this as well.

Day 27: Dance in the sand

This challenge was completed with the help of:
35,000 other people including mother, husband, sister in law, and friend
Foo Fighters and Cee Lo Green
Glow sticks, hoola hoops, and Mardi Gras beads
Coors Light.

Day 26: Attend a live concert

The Hangout Music festival began Friday, May 20. This three day festival showcased the music of new, local artists as well as music legends like Paul Simon. Our first major show of the festival was Widespread Panic. This was the second time I have seen them and it is truly an experience. The crowds that follow this band are as entertaining as the music itself. I saw several stuffed animals duct taped to broom sticks, bongos, and hoola hoops. We were captured by al.com early on. It was a terrific night of music.

Day 25: Banana Split for Dinner

Rather than make a traditional meal, I went to Sonic and ordered a Banana Split for dinner. I then decided the banana, cherry, and pineapple sufficed for the fruit group.

Day 24: Make Fried Green Tomatoes

MMMMMmmmmm mmm Yum! These darn things are good! I had no idea this kind of good could be created in my kitchen. I can see why they have a book and a movie named after them.

Day 23: Buy produce direct from the person who grew it

I took Zach to a farmer's market at our church after school on Tuesday. I was surprised at how pleasant this experience was. The sellers were so kind and helpful but most of all proud.  Their produce was exceptionally beautiful. And the prices were very reasonable. I was told how to keep my garlic chives thriving and the best way to assess squash. The shopping experience was unlike the overburdened aisles at Wal Mart I usually find my vegetables. I will definitely make the farmers market a part of my weekly routine. I look forward to the summer harvest of area tomatoes and watermelons.
Also:
Later that evening I attended an outstanding performance of some very talented recorder players at Mobile Christian School. The medley included "Twinkle Twinkle" and "Mary Had a Little Lamb." These 4th graders sure know how to carry a tune! I took the cutest one, Ansley,  for ice cream and then home to bed.  

Day 22: Begin working on Zach's book

I finished the first draft of the book I am working on for Zach. The book teaches Zach his letters using people and things he loves. I am pleased with the first draft; it even rhymes! My next step is to add pictures, print, and bind. I should finish it before  the end of the month.  If I wait to long, he will already be reading nd have no use for an ABC book.

Day 21: Play in a golf tournement

Sunday was spent with JP playing in the Crewe of Columbus golf tournement. My golfing was horrible to say the least but I sure did have a great time. With a Saturday spent poolside and Sunday spend golfing, I almost forgot we had work on Monday. Now that I can check golf off of my list, next challenge is a batting cage!

Day 20: Help someone

I was asked if I could work on Saturday to help a student complete some final assignments so she could graduate on Monday. She had spent most of the last year in the hospital with lupus, RA and fluid on her heart. After working with her most of Friday afternoon, I met her back at the school early Saturday morning. We worked several hours and finally she completed the requirements necessary for English 12 credit. It was awesome to be able to tell her that she was officially finished with high school and would be able to graduate on Monday. I had never met this young lady before Friday and never thought working on a Saturday could be so rewarding.

Day 19: Be grateful for rain

After weeks of no rain, I was so glad to see the sheets of rain cover West Mobile. My recently planted flowers, and dying brown lawn was so very appreciative of this mid day treat. I remarked to JP that you know your getting old (and responsible and boring) when you are grateful for a rainy day. However, it was  a welcome break from hosing and sprinkling.

Day 18: Attend a graduation ceremony

After months of hard work and dedication the class would finally receive their diplomas. The graduates began the ceremony with a medley of songs they had prepared in honor of the occasion. A sense of confidence and pride exuded from each of the performers. It was a spectacular show with several spontaneous ad libs. Applause filled the sanctuary and the graduating class responded with over sized grins. The students were then called to receive their diplomas. After a little help up the steps, they found their way to the podium where the prized document was presented.
As a mother  of one of the graduates, watching him cross the stage was undoubtedly one of my proudest moments of his life.  In just 2 1/2 years he has already accomplished so very much. His rendition of "ABC" left me totally awe inspired. The way he marched so effortlessly carrying his 2K diploma  made this mother very happy. Zach Truett Williamson is now officially a 2K graduate.

Day 17: Go to the driving range (on my lunch break)

I visited the beautiful Magnolia Grove todat to hit some balls. It was obvious I need to do this more often! However, I enjoyed watching the balls (few as it was) soar into the sky. Hopefully, with more practice, this will  happen more.

Day 16: Make a list of my favorite Bible verses

Presently the market of self help books,  motivational speakers, self improvement retreats, weekends,  and encounters, therapy, psychiatry, counseling  and even life coaches surpasses $5 billion dollars. It is hard to know who to listen to  between Dr. Phil, Dr. Oz, and Kim Kardashian in our media dominated world.
However, all I need to know has been in print for thousands of years now. I spent time printing my favorites and decorating them with clip art.This inspired me to continue collecting verses, lines, words, lyrics or poems that inspire me and put them together in a binder.

Day 15: Start a new scrapbook

I completed the first page of a new scrapbook that will focus on the highlights of 2010. The page I did tonight was about New Years. I liked the colors I used and the listing I made to describe the photos. Scrapbooking is such a relaxing meaningful hobby. I love the way scrapbooks showcase our treasured memories. I plan to complete this scrapbook by July.

Day 14: Breakfast in Bed

While JP prepared breakfast, the kids brought me gifts which included a flower, a beaded key chain, painted hand print, and a letter Ansley wrote in school. They were so proud of their gifts they had made. Later, they all brought me a wonderful breakfast in bed. I stayed in bed until almost 9:00 watching Sunday Morning with almost no interruptions! I felt so loved and so lucky.

Day 13: Attend Ansley's Dance Recital

It was without a doubt the most beautuful, awe inspiring, flawless, and touching performance I have ever attended. Tears filled my eyes as I watched her glide across the stage so effortlessly. I loved the confidence and joy that radiates from her when she dances. She will soon be grown and I think as I watch her so talented and so very graceful, as cliche as it is, where has the time gone? Where is my chubby infant that I adorned with smocked dresses and bows? Where is my bashful toddler who I carried on my hip for her first four years? Where is my toothless first grader that hid rocks, cats, and candy wrappers under her bed? She is still very much a child but watching her so natural, so self assured and jubilant  on the stage, I saw momentraily the woman she will one day be. And I think to myself, I have done a good job.

Day 12: Call a parent with good news

It was my Friday afternoon and I was eagerly driving away from school, ready to begin my Mothers Day weekend. A night of celebrating Latin American independence with nachos and Coors (Colorado was once part of the Spanish Empire) had made the Friday afternoon bell even sweeter.  However, I could not stop thinking of the boy from my last class who tentatively asked me if there was anything he could do to help his failing friend (35%) pass English 10. He confided in me that he sure hated to see his friend left behind and would be more than willing to complete assignments for him. He even offered to give the student some of his points.   I told him unfortunately that would not be possible but I appreciated his concern. Thoughts of his kindness and genuine empathy would not leave me. So I called the school and requested his phone number from a very annoyed bookkeeper who was clearly ready to leave. I then called his mother and shared with her the story. I explained to her that such compassion is uncommon at that age and that her son is a true asset to our class. I am fairly sure she was moved to tears because I know I was.

Day 11: Make a Mexican Meal for Cinco de Mayo

After reading dozens of recipes, I made the best nachos I have ever had and some burritoes for dinner. JP celebrated this holiday by enjoying the evening on the porch.

Day 10: Go swinging

An excellent afternoon spent at Chickasaw park. The purpose was to take Zach to the mostly unnoticed swings in this beautiful park that my  dad played in as a child himself. However, I didn't miss the opportunity to sit in the swing, push off, pump my legs, and see how high I could go. The best part was leaning backwards with eyes tightly shut as I oscillated above the dirt path. All of this with the sounds of Zach's laughter filling my universe.
A good day indeed.

Day 9: Put on a cowboy hat and ride an electric scooter

Not much to say about this task other than it is  a great way to transition from work to home.

Day 8: Make bread and blackberry jam

I am proud of myself for making blackberry jam and homemade bread. Because none of these two skills are second nature to me, I could only hope it wasn't a complete fiasco. I like beer and cussing too much to ever be one of the devout church ladies with the long hair and skirts, but for today I was able to understand that their seemingly spartan like existance does include some source of pleasure: baking bread and canning. I should also add that complete sobriety is a necessity due to the importance of exact measurements.
I include pictures as proof because I find this accomplishment hard to believe myself even with a full belly of jam and bread. If you are nearby, please come by for a sample.

Day 7: Pick Blackberries

Some of my most beloved childhood memories are of picking blackberries. In the Spring, the pesky sticker bushes became a little less of a nuisance when they were covered with the succulant and versatile berries. We would eat them canned, in cobblers, in pies, but mostly right of the vine.
Today, I took my kids and a few others to pick blackberries in a field not too far from home. At the end of the day, our "fun" had yielded us about 10 cups of these fat little berries, purple stained hands and faces, and barely menacing scratches on our ankles and fingers.
Tomorrow I will attempt to make jam. And then show my kids how I used eat it straight from the jar with a glass of milk.

Day Six: Plant flowers

As dictated by the unwritten codes of suburbia, I started Saturday with a trip to Lowe's. I chose a variety of flowers and plants for the yard, porch, and pool area. Its easy to feel a sense of satisfaction at the end of a day spent working outside. JP and I rewarded ourselves with a cold Heineken on the freshly cleaned porch. Some dear friends joined us for grilled burgers and  porch chat. It was a near perfect day, duplicated in thousands of back yards across the country. Early morning grocery shopping, a lawn mower covered with cut blades of grass, a  smoking grill with a belly full of beef, barefoot kids covered with bug spray, and of course, an ice chest full of cold bottled beer. I love Saturdays!