Fearfully, wonderfully made

Thanksgiving

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:08:00 +0000

All I can think of right now are Christmas songs...

Superdog's not going to get a visit from Santa if she keeps thinking those thoughts...then again, Santa may skip our house entirely if we keep torturing her by dressing her up...

Hubby and his mom, who joined my family for Thanksgiving this year.

I am blessed.

My MIL, me, and my mom. This was the third attempt at this photo. Mom needs to quit pinching me if she wants a good picture.

My two cousins and Superman. None of them can smile for a picture, apparently.

Looking for Black Friday bargains. My cousin's wife, on the right, is (to use a phrase from Superman) ballinous when it comes to Black Friday sales. I mean, she's seriously hard-core, 3 a.m. wake-up type. My wake up call came at 5:50. And I only shopped til 8:30.

BTW, I have all my Christmas gifts, minus two, purchased and (except for two which are already purchased) wrapped under the tree. WOO HOO!!

Granny, the grandkids, and their spouses. And Baxter the dog. He's a show stealer, that one.

I hear those J-I-N-G-L-E bells...oh, those holiday J-I-N-G-L-E bells...

We might have traveled an hour and a half away last night to see Christmas lights.

Random Dozen

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:10:00 +0000

(It’s sad that I’m doing this because I fell in love with the picture, isn’t it? LOL.)

1. Are you sticking to traditional Thanksgiving foods this year, or are you being culinarily adventurous?
Probably traditional. I’m hoping Bambi will be on the menu, but I’ll be happy with Tom the Turkey, too (Can you tell I’m not a vegetarian?).

2. Tell me something concrete that you're thankful for. (Something you can literally touch, see, etc., not a concept like "hope.")
My bug zapper. Yeah, that’s right. We own one. And it’s fairly amazing…even though I’m still too scared to get the bugs.

3. You knew the flip side was coming: Share about something intangible that you're thankful for.
That I don’t have school again until Jan. 19, 2010!!!

4. Share one vivid Thanksgiving memory. It doesn't have to be deep or meaningful, just something that remains etched in your memory.
I remember one a few years back with my hubby (at his old job, he often traveled on Thanksgiving). He and my cousins were throwing the football in my aunt’s front yard. It was just so fun and peaceful.

5. What is one thing that you know beyond a shadow of a doubt is going to happen this Thanksgiving because it always does, year after year?
We will eat. Lots.

6. Do your pets get any leftovers?
As I spent $200 to get Superdog’s teeth cleaned this year, she will NOT be having any leftovers. She may have a Milkbone. (Unless her "Grandpa" feels sorry for her and feeds her when I'm not looking.)

7. Does your family pray before the big meal? If so, do you join hands while seated, stand, repeat a formal prayer or offer a spontaneous prayer? Who does the praying?
Yep. It’s usually a prayer when everyone’s crowding around the food about to eat, and usually given by my uncle.

8. Will you be watching football in the afternoon? If not, what will you be doing?
Superman would like it if we would, and he may be able to con the other football-loving family members into turning on the TV. Before we married, the TV was not turned on during Thanksgiving.

9. There are two distinct camps of people on this issue: How do you feel about oysters in the dressing/stuffing?
What?!! Does that actually happen???

10. Do you consider yourself informed about the first Thanksgiving?
I went to public school. We dressed up as pilgrims and Indians. I was an Indian. I got pics to prove it.

11. Which variety of pie will you be enjoying?
One of each, please.

12. Do you feel for the turkey?? (This is a humorous throw back question related to the 12th question in another Random Dozen!)
Read Question 1. That should answer any and all questions.

One of these things is not like the other...

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:12:00 +0000

(I just happen to be sipping on a peppermint mocha right now. I may spontaneously bounce from wall to wall shortly.)

Happy early Thanksgiving to all of you!!! Who's excited about families, lots of food, days off, and shopping on Black Friday?! I AM!!!

(Like I said, bouncing from wall to wall...)

Anyway, Superman and I have made a bit of a big decision recently. We are going to be Sunday School teachers for a new class of 20-somethings (mainly college graduates who aren't married). I was a little apprehensive about this decision, not only because it's added responsibility, but also because I love our Sunday School class. It's amazing. When Superman and I got married and switched churches, I really didn't think I'd find the camraderie (sp?) that we had at our old church. And I was right. It was better. =)

HOWEVER, things are a'changing...not for the bad, mind you...but changing enough where I realize WE need to make a change...

This past Sunday I realized said change as we sat in a semi-circle and listened to the lesson. There were about eight other couples in our class, and, as I glanced from person to person, a horrible realization hit me: I was alone. Yes, Superman was with me, but...

"Hmmm...Susie's pregnant, and Katie's pregnant, and the Williams already have a baby, and John and Jane are expecting their second, and Erica's pregnant, and we just found out last week that Gina's pregnant, and..."

All. Around. The. Room. Besides the Sunday School teacher, I was the only one who had NOT been through pregnancy.

I might have hyperventilated. Just a little.

I really don't want to get into a discussion as to whether or not I should have a baby, because, unless God deems otherwise, I will -- just not right now.

But I don't really want to be the odd man -- ahem, woman -- out.

So I'm really excited about teaching this new SS class, starting Dec. 13. We know some of the people in there, which makes it more fun, and I'm excited about the book we're starting: The Tough Sayings of Jesus. Superman's already wanting to start a class twitter and blog...I'll let him handle that. ;)

Oh, and one more celebratory note:

No more Super Duper University classes until 2010!!!

Happy Thanksgiving. =)

Signed, sealed, and delivered

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:45:00 +0000

Sent in my last research paper of 2009 not 10 minutes ago. I feel just slightly victorious. Still have two finals to go, but they're take-home finals. I feel the odds are more in my favor there.

I'm so excited about the holiday season that I'm about to burst. I'm trying to keep the squealing to a minimum. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.

I feel like a peppermint mocha right now. To celebrate.

I really wish I had some super amazing deep thought or question or anything more superficial than what I'm thinking right now (which consists of the food I'm going to devour next week and where I'm going shopping on Black Friday), but it's been a hard week, and my brain apparently shut off as soon as I turned my paper in.

PRAISE JESUS, THAT LAST PAPER IS DONE!!!!!!!!!

My husband is expecting all As this quarter from his three graduate classes. I have a lot of jealous comments for that, but, as I'm trying not to get coal in my stocking for Christmas, I'll refrain and just say that I would be happy with all As as well, for me as well as for him. (Happy? I'd be ESCATIC.)

Question (still very superficial and not deep): Do you go shopping on Black Friday, or do you avoid it like the Black Plague?

Our family was never really big into shopping on Black Friday, but I LOVE it. I love the sales, I love fighting the crowds, and I love having all my Christmas presents purchased before Dec. 1. It's like a shopping victory for me. And, of course, I love the post-shopping nap that follows.

A friend of mine mentioned that she always avoided the stores on Black Friday but went to the spa instead. Interesting concept. I think after the post-shopping nap I'll have to check that out. Ooooh, maybe with a peppermint mocha.

Question No. 2 (Seriously, this should have been a What's Your Answer Wednesday): What kinds of things do you do to celebrate Christmas before Dec. 25? Such as: caroling, going to see Christmas plays, going to look at the lights, parades...What do you do?

I have a list of ten items that I want to do during this season. Two of them are related to Christmas lights. I can't remember how many relate to food. At least one relates to peppermint mochas.

Another question! (I'm full of 'em today.) What kind of Christmas cards do you send? (Or do you send them out at all?) Do you send picture cards or regular cards? Do you have a certain place where you buy them each year (My mom always gets hers from Hallmark.)?

Okay. No more questions. It's just time for you to answer!!

Thankful for…

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:52:00 +0000

Life. With my co-worker’s father holding on to life, this becomes much more meaningful to me.

Love. My husband loves me unconditionally.

Comfort. The ability to give it and to receive it.

Clean drinking water. Eight glasses each day that I take for granted.

Excess. I have clothes on my back, I have enough food to eat, and I have a nice, warm house…I have an excess of blessings.

Intelligence. I’m not the brightest tool in the shed, but I have brains, and I am using them.

Time. Even though I never feel there’s enough time, I have time for what’s important – whether I’m proud of it or not.

Forgiveness. On both sides. The ability to forgive and the ability to be forgiven.

Support. Family support, work support, friend support.

Senses. Eyes to see, ears to hear, the ability to speak God’s love, the ability to wrap someone up in a hug.

Money. Again, like time, it’s something I’ll never have enough of, but I have what I need.

Health. Like No. 1…something taken for granted far too often.

Family and friends. So important.

Confidence. I know where I’m going when I die.

Freedom. But I shy away with political correctness unfortunately.

Words. Written and spoken. And sometimes silently heard.

Memories. Some good, some bad, but I’m so glad the majority of them are good. And those that are bad – I see how God pulled me through.

Job. With so many people out of work, I am thankful I am employed and I enjoy my work.

Running. It helps de-stress me, which allows me to sleep better at night.

Music. Especially when my husband plays.

Insurance. And soon to have dental insurance. Woo hoo!

Coffee. It’s an addiction, but at least it’s a coffee addiction and not a smoking addiction or alcohol addiction or something like that.

Mercy. 1 Timothy 1:16. It’s a reminder.

Emotions. I feel.

Humor. Look for the positives.

Tell me what you're thankful for.

Being sick never felt so good

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:46:00 +0000

Bet ya thought I'd fallen off the face of the planet because it's been so long since I've blogged.

Well...you'd almost be right.

As my aunt put it, apparently I'd been laying with pigs, because Sunday morning I woke up "oinking." Or coughing, whichever you want to say.

I don't have it confirmed that I had swine flu. Thankfully, a family friend who is a doctor precribed me some antibiotics Sunday which a) helped me fight the flu and b) kept me from spending $130 on a doctor's visit (yes, my health insurance stinks). I honestly think if I had waited until Monday, I would still be at home getting over that mess, because by Sunday night -- with antibiotics -- I was running a 100-degree fever. Monday morning? Almost better. Tuesday? Great, minus phelm. Today? Back at work, playing catch up.

I gotta say, though, it was one of the best "vacations" I've had, haha!

Since my husband has an array of PT jobs on top of grad school, he was able to stay home with me most of the time and take care of me, bake me brownies, cook soup, put a wet washcloth over my head, rub my back...but never a mocha... ;) Love you, sweetheart, lol!!!

I got to read two of Julie Lessman's Daughters of Boston series books -- AND watched more TV than I could handle. Seriously. I watched so much King of the Hill that one night when I was watching it with Superman, I started quoting it...word...for...word. That's when he switched to The Office.

I slept forever it seemed...woke up in the middle of the night with a request for a midnight snack (and my sweet husband got it for me), stayed up and watched TV...went back to sleep...woke up at 6:30 a.m. and got up...took a mid-morning nap...My whole sleep schedule was totally off last night when I tried to go to sleep around 11 p.m.

Like I said, this whole sickness thing was pretty fun. Granted, the vomiting, chills, aches, etc. of that first day were NOT fun, but, as I mentioned, those antibiotics are FABULOUS.

If you get to feeling sick -- DON'T FIGHT IT. I was so angry on Sunday when I realized I was getting sick because I couldn't go to church, I couldn't go shopping, and I couldn't go running that day. And I almost didn't tell anyone that I was sick so I could do that. But if I had...I probably would have gotten one of my best friends sick, would have made myself sicker, and would STILL be out (which, granted, wouldn't be the worst thing in the world...just kidding!!).

Rachel asked me about symptoms that I had beforehand, and, remember, while I never had a confirmed case of swine flu (or the flu in general), I was treated for the flu because I had flu-like symptoms (aches, sore throat, coughing), and I had been exposed to someone with confirmed swine flu. The quicker this stuff is found out, the better.

The List

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:40:00 +0000

Stuff which must be accomplished by Saturday...

* Switch research paper from 12-point Times New Roman type to 12.5-point Times New Roman to add a full two pages to my need-to-be 20 page paper (It will be 18 when I'm done.).

* Pick up Superdog and give her a piece of cheese for surviving her day-long trip to the vet to get her teeth cleaned. Though if I didn't feed her human food, maybe I wouldn't have to pay $200 to get her teeth cleaned...

* Buy birthday cards. And remember to send them out.

* Do two article reviews. One that's due Monday and one that I have to redo because apparently I can't figure out what a content analysis is. Epic Fail.

* Run four miles tonight and six miles Saturday. Basically be Superwoman.

* Survive working two volleyball games, one basketball game, and one televised football game.

Bring it.

WHO DAT?!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:52:00 +0000

Colin Cowherd is WRONG.

That's right. You heard it here...well, maybe not first.

Yesterday on his program, Cowherd said that it's better to root for a winning team than a losing team. Why? Because you end up being depressed all weekend about the fact that your team lost (as it inevitably will). So why not root for a winner?

Because, Mr. Cowherd, what fun is it if you win all the time? Where's the excitement? Where's the passion? You sit there in your state-of-the-art press box, enjoying good playing, as you said, and yawn, fairly confident that the team you're rooting for will win.

Where's the fun in that?

We are Saints fans. We love them even when they break our hearts, when they're injured, when they play no better than a high school team. We loved them when they were displaced from Hurricane Katrina, and we prayed that they would return to their home, the Superdome. And they did.

And we loved them even more.

We love Drew Brees and Reggie Bush and Jeremy Shockey and even Thomas Morstead. But we don't beat ourselves up when they lose. After coming this far, it was almost expected. Note the past verb: WAS.

Here we are, halfway in the season, and we are 7-0. SEVEN-OH!!! My husband refuses to cut his hair until the Saints lose, and, at this point, I don't think I'd mind it getting as long as mine (but it does need cutting, sweetie). There's a frenzy in the air, an unexpected excitement, a thrill for the game.

And, were we to lose in the upcoming weeks, we would mourn. We would be sad. But then we'd go to bed, wake up the next morning, and go to work, as the usual. We would not mourn relentlessly. There's always another game, another chance at redemption. There's hope.

But, while we are 7-0, let the celebrations continue.

WHO DAT!!! WE DAT!!!

Let it rain. Why not?

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:53:00 +0000

**NOTE TO GINGER: For some reason, I am unable to access your blog. I click on your profile to get to it and am unable to. Send me the link, and let me see if I can get to it that way. Thank you!!!***

Who has two thumbs and will stand out in the pouring rain and tornado warnings to write a story about a building groundbreaking? This girl.

The exciting life of journalism.

The good news (depending on how you look at it) is that misery loves company, and all my students are required to come as well (they receive 10 bonus points if they do). A bigger crowd will look better for the visiting media, especially if they see so many students.

Carrot versus the stick, works every time.

Also, I'm doing a poll about Demotivator posters. Don't know what they are? Go to www.despair.com. Trust me. It's hilarious. I'm trying to pick out my favorite poster for my office. My current favorite is Worth. I wanted Potential, but the fries on the poster would make me constantly hungry. Yes, my sense of humor is slightly skewed. But, then again, you haven't met my students...

So head over there and let me know what you think!

In a lighter mood, I rediscovered (seems like I'm constantly rediscovering this little jewel) how much Bible study in the morning improves my mood. Yesterday, I was just so down. No particular reason. I deal with the same things over and over, so it's not like the day was much of a surprise. But my attitude was. Then it hit me. I hadn't read the Bible in about 10 days. Snap. So this morning, I woke up early, made some coffee (added some pumpkin spice creamer, YUM!) and had some one-on-one time with the Big Man.

My entire perspective changed.

Which brings me round to the top again. Who has two thumbs and has to take notes outside in the pouring rain today? This girl. And who's okay with that? THIS GIRL.

W00t.

WYAW: Smile, in bullet points

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:19:00 +0000

Soooo...my 26th was fabulous, thank you. No pictures, unfortunately. I feel awkward most of the time taking pictures at a restaurant, especially when it's a chain like Olive Garden. But Olive Garden wasn't the only reason why my b-day can be classified as "super-amazingly-awesome"...

* I got to go home and visit with my parents this weekend.
* We had a fantastic birthday celebration at Olive Garden.
* I ended up with three and a half birthday cakes. Yes, that number is correct.
* I won't have to buy coffee for three weeks (if I work it right) thanks to the McCormicks and Sara (courtesy of a giveaway, which also came with the softest socks in the world and an awesome book).
* I learned how well my hubby knows me. He got me a shirt with a Twitter bird that reads "Nobody Cares" (among other things). He knows me well. ;)
* THE SAINTS ARE 6-0!! THANKS DREW AND REGGIE FOR SHOWING UP FOR MY BIRTHDAY!!!
* I got to see Rachel and her hubby and sweet daughter this weekend!!! =D

My hubby was actually the first person to wish me happy birthday. =) We stayed up late the night before visiting with Rachel, and, once we were home, decided to stay up until midnight.

Overall, it was a great weekend, as predicted, lol.

OH!!! AND just to round it off, I have some smiles for class, too!!

* I made a higher grade on my midterm than originally thought. WHEW.
* My final for that class is a TAKE HOME final, which we have two weeks to work on. Double WHEW.
* Since I won't have to go to that class on the last day, my other professor agreed to let me take my final for her class early. Oh, what was that? It's ANOTHER TAKE HOME FINAL.
* I only have four weeks left in this semester. You have no idea how ridiculously excited I am.

Soooo...we're pulling this into a What's Your Answer Wednesday edition, too!!! Haha! You answer -- I think I pretty much have. ;)

1. What was the hardest class (high school or college) that you had to take?
2. What do you think about take home finals? Blessings or a curse?
3. What was the best birthday you had?
4. How did you spend your last birthday (or, if your birthday is coming up, how are you planning on spending it)?

Are you down?

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:37:00 +0000

Why, hello, Friday. It's so nice of you to drop by. Yes, I do plan to enjoy you, despite the million small errands which must be accomplished today. But I do plan on having my cake and eating it, too -- twice. One at a bridal shower, one at work for birthday celebrations. But that's just today.

And, what's that, Friday? You invited fiends and family to come over? No, that's not a problem at all. The more the merrier! I look forward to a late night filled with hot chocolate and loved ones, thank you! Aren't you kind?

Oh, and then you'll leave and bring Saturday? Well, Friday, I will miss you, but I do think I'll enjoy your friend Saturday...and more cake, especially since Saturday, Rindy, and I will be running a good five miles early on to counteract those slices. And the delicious meal at my parents' house to celebrate my dad's birthday (which is Saturday's BFF).

Then Sunday will come? Okay, I'm fine with that. Yes, Saturday, I will mourn your passing, but Sunday will bring worship at church, a matinee with my sweet husband, and...you guessed it: pumpkin cheesecake. And Maggie Moos ice cream cupcakes. Who said you need an actual cake for birthday celebrations?

So, welcome, Friday, I am so glad you are here. You're absolutely fabulous, and I will treasure each moment.

Enjoy.

Random Dozen

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:10:00 +0000

(This is my highly lazy random dozen, as I don't even have a photo...and bold also hates me now...)

1. Candy corn: Your thoughts?
Let’s put it this way. When I was shopping for candy for the trick-or-treaters, I passed up the candy corn for ONE reason: it would be gone by Halloween.

2. Briefly, what was the first conversation you ever had with your spouse? (or best friend, if you're not married.) (Or someone significant, like your librarian.)
He doesn’t remember meeting me. I remember meeting him – thought he was CA-UUUTTTEE! He was my survival group leader in the BCM. I ended up dating a friend of his for a while until he wised up and realized I was amazing ;). Now he’s best friends with one of my ex-boyfriends from high school. Who’s married to one of my best friends. Lol!!

3. Could you ever become a vegetarian?
I love hamburgers too much. And Wendy’s chicken (and KFC’s…and Popeye’s). And FISH. And I’m hungry now…

4. Have you ever dressed up your pet in a costume?
Seriously? You’ve seen the pictures. She’s so entering a Halloween costume contest this year, too.

5. Name something about childhood that you miss (like Clark Bars, Teaberry Gum, Malibu Barbie, cracking fake eggs on people's heads with your fist and "It's the Great Pumpkin" airing only once a year).
I miss having no stress. I didn’t worry about anything as a kid. Now I worry about everything. And, yes, I will be competing in the 2012 Olympics in Rio as a Champion Worrier. If I don’t win first for Procrastination.

6. Have you ever won a trophy? If not, what do you deserve a trophy for?
Yes, for worrying. Just kidding!!

I got a lot for dancing when I was little (I think you “received” those, not really “won” them), but I did win a couple of trophies for (gasp) singing.

7. When do you think is the appropriate time to begin playing Christmas music each year?
Whenever you feel like it.

8. What's your favorite board game?
Not really a board game person. I’ll give it the ol’ college try, but I’d rather play something else. Like tennis. I’ll smoke ya (I like trash talking apparently).

9. How do you feel about surprises (receiving, not giving)?
LOVE THEM! Surprise me now! =D

10. Is it easy for you to say, "I'm sorry?"
A few questions must be asked.
1. Do I REALLY feel sorry?
2. Am I apologizing to someone I like or dislike?
3. Is it in person or via e-mail/letter/etc?

11. What is your favorite candle scent?
I love Bath and Body Works’ candles – the pumpkin smells, the winter candy apple smells…ahhh…Must light one now!

12. October is traditionally "open house" time in public schools. If you had a literal open house in your home (like a reception) what light snacks would you serve visitors and what would you show them (as in art projects, graded papers) that would uniquely represent you?
I would serve cupcakes, cookies, and sausage balls, because that’s what I like. As for what represents me…maybe photo albums? Or our extensive book collection (in three separate rooms)? Or books that we’ve written but are unpublished? =D (We also have published works; both of us served in the media for some time.)

Funsies! For MORE funsies, go see Linda!

Untitled

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:16:00 +0000

I’m trying not to become one of “those” people.

You know the ones: the complainers, the whiners, the “Oh-my-story-is-so-much-worse”ers. I can see the potential in me to become THAT person. “You think being a college student is hard? Try going for your Ph.D.” Or “You drive an hour to class? Try 3.5 hours there and 3.5 hours back.” Or “You don’t even KNOW busy. Busy is my BFF.”

I HATE that person.

I’ve also noticed that people I work with/students/random-ners (love all the made up words in this blog so far) don’t catch my sense of humor. And, granted, it’s very dry. But, after working with me for over two years, you’d think they’d pick up on it by now.

Like my co-worker. He came in my office the other day and mentioned something how we were having to do extra work and not being recognized nor receiving additional pay for it. And I said, “Yeah. I’m not bitter or anything.” NOT serious (well, not totally). He didn’t catch the joke, though.

Or my student. When I smiled sweetly and told him, “You have to do the work or I’m going to fail you.” I’m not kidding. I may be smiling, but inside I’m going to mark a big fat F on your paper. Just saying.

Oh, and for additional funsies, tar is dripping through the roof at work and has made a big puddle on my floor and on my desk. Yes, that’s right: TAR. And it’s wrecking havoc on my asthma, so I’m being forced to move from my office to the student center, which is right beside a coffee shop. Oh, the horrors!

Catch the sarcasm. ;)

FYI, Sunday is my 26th birthday. I’m excited, if for no other reason than I get to say all week, “It’s my birthday week!” And, yes, I believe some Maggie Moos ice cream cupcakes will be involved. And possibly pumpkin cheesecake. Oh, who am I kidding? It’s my birthday, I’ll have both.

(Is it sad that I’m mainly excited about the food for my birthday?)

This is totally random, I know. I apparently love bouncing from subject to subject. I wish I had something super amazing to say, but I really don’t.

Oh, apparently now I twitter. Go figure.

WYAW: Fall time

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:29:00 +0000

Oh, Wednesday.

I’m taking a page from Linda’s What’s Your Answer Wednesday questions and focusing on that most fabulous time of the year, fall.

1. What’s your favorite fall/winter comfort food?

2. Which is better – apple cider or hot chocolate?

3. Have you ever played pranks on trick or treaters?

4. Are you dressing up for Halloween?

~My answers ~

1. There are so many…chicken pot pie, gumbo, chili, pot roast, potato soup…and my stomach growls again…

2. I usually stick with hot chocolate (my favorite being Starbucks’ salted caramel hot chocolate; trust me, it’s heavenly), but when my throat’s sore, I love some hot apple cider.

3. Yes. It’s my favorite thing to do. My best prank was when I was in high school and I hid on my parents’ roof dressed all in black, including black gloves and a black ski mask (I’m hardcore, seriously). When trick or treaters would come to the door, I’d lean over and drop down this “ghost” (a sheet over a balloon and tied to a fishing pole) behind them as they were getting their treats so that when they turned around, the ghost was right there. Ah, the joys of the fall season.

4. If there’s a party. Superdog’s definitely dressing up. Going to enter her in a pet costume contest, too. See, I can do this with my dog. I’m going to try to hold back with the kids. Key word there being “try.”

For more WYAW, visit Linda!!!

Bad weather

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 20:13:00 +0000

Superdog hates the rain.

I bet she hates tornados even more.

Friday, Superman was taking a shower, and, when he got out, he noticed a text from our preacher’s son: “Are you okay? I just heard a tornado touched down in your neighborhood.”

That’s right. OUR neighborhood. Our 40-house, maybe half-mile encompassing neighborhood. And Superman was taking a shower.

I’m sure my dog was catatonic under the bed.

The next day we checked the damage to our neighborhood, which was extensive. Our house, thankfully, missed all damage. Which is good since we’re already dealing with the ceiling issues and a non-working toilet. I think that’s enough for now. However, across the street from our house, our neighbors’ tree was struck by lightning, and another neighbor has horrible roof damage.

But less than a mile away…

This is not even the brunt of the damage. About three miles in the opposite direction is the true damage. Fences and trees collapsed, power down for three days, trees in the road…it’s insane. I don’t remember when I’ve seen anything like it before.

And it's STILL raining. It's been raining about two months now. We've had just a few days of sunshine. I'm starting to feel like I live in Seattle...or need to build an ark.

Maybe we can use some of those trees that fell down for lumber...

Trying the Random Dozen AND links to a giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

1. On an average, how often do you splurge and buy something for yourself?
Superman would say ALL THE TIME, but, really it’s not that often. About once a week I splurge with a pumpkin spice latte or a white mocha, so let’s go with once a week.

2. Are you more like Hall or Oates? Just kidding. Real question: What is the last creative project you began/finished? Feel free to post a pic of it.
Wow. Has to be last Christmas when I “sewed” Superman a blanket. Misti taught me to do this no-sew blanket, and it’s one of our favorites.

3. OK, Goldie Locks, do you consider your house too big, too little or juuuust right?
Too little!!! Our kitchen in our apartment was bigger than the one in our house! I have mental images of my dream kitchen and dream bathroom. Those are my two “must have” areas.

4. What is your favorite outdoor chore?
I HAVE a favorite outdoor chore? Um…putting bird seed in the bird feeder. Lazy, I know. But I love watching the birds from my window.

5. If you knew that cigarette smoking was not bad for your health but would be a weight loss tool, would you use it? Why or why not?
Ew, no. I hate the smell of cigarettes, and they make your teeth yellow!

6. On a road trip, would you rather drive or ride?
Depends on my mood. Sometimes I LOVE driving, but most of the time, I’d prefer just to ride.

7. What do you consider a trivial pursuit?
Solitaire.

8. This weekend, we downloaded the movie "Duplicity" with Julia Roberts and Clive Owen. Within 5 minutes, I was bored and annoyed, but I kept watching 5-10 minutes at a time hoping it would get better between small chores. I finally gave up and Jorge watched it alone, and then regretted wasting that time because he disliked it intensely, too. So ... how long do you watch a movie or read a book before giving up on it?
I started watching some movie, can’t even remember the name, recently, and the stupidity of it and the lame attempt at jokes made me give it up about 10 minutes in. I was so disappointed, too, because it had Will Arnett in it!
Books? First chapter. I need to be hooked early on.

9. Is there a song that you really love but are embarrassed to admit because it's not cool or it's racy or because it's by Hall and Oates?
We’re on a Hall and Oates kick today, aren’t we? ;) I like Paramore, even though it sounds like a silly high school band.

10. On a scale of 1-10 (10 = extremely) how spontaneous are you?
Probably a 7. Before we got married, I was HIGHLY spontaneous, so much so that I often scared my boyfriend-turned-hubby (seriously). I’ve calmed down, though, and I think it’s for the better, lol!!

11. Are you a food and/or beverage snob?
*Cough* Um, yes. Especially when it comes to my coffee. My co-worker mentioned that since all of us drink coffee, we should start using the big coffee pot in the break room for everyone. I smiled, but I didn’t mean the smile. I will continue to make my coffee using my specially-bought beans and the way I like it.

12. Who/What are you trying to control in your life?
I can’t anymore. I recently came to that conclusion, and I said, “Okay, God, I OBVIOUSLY can’t do it, so You have to.” Silly, I know, but it made me feel so much better because I realized, “Oh, wow. I don’t have to worry about this anymore.” Not that it took all the worry away, but I’m much less panicky now.

Okay, on to another subject: You MUST visit Sara at Interpret Sass today! She's hosting an amazing giveaway -- coffee, a book, AND warm, fuzzy socks. What more could a girl need? Anyway, if the link's not working, click here: http://interpretsasscox.blogspot.com/ Oh, and tell her I sent you, too! =)

Top 10 for weekends, by far

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:37:00 +0000

This weekend = epic win.

Rindy and I did the Bark in the Park 5K this weekend (more on that at a later date), and we beat our previous time by 1:30!! I was completely impressed, especially since we really didn't have too hard of a time running it this time, either! But today, let's focus on the love of my life (I probably should include this with Rachel's MM&M...and probably will...).

He and Grant performed a concert Saturday night, after the 5K, and, I've got to say, it really put a good weekend over the top.

Sigh. I love that man.

Some more fun pics from the evening:

Me and my rockstar husband.

For more MM&M magic, visit Rachel!!

No mas

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 20:49:00 +0000

I'm putting my foot down and taking a break from work. Yeah, that's right.

I could tell you all the unnecessary (I feel) junk I'm dealing with, but then I feel like I'd just be working all over again. So I'm not going to do that. I'm going to write and post this blog, and then I am going to read other blogs. It's called a necessary break to rid me of the headache. So there.

I've figured out what Superdog is going to be for Halloween. I had an idea, but it was a little...let's go with unorthodox, so I decided to go for a so-called better costume idea. She's going to be a runner!!

See, here's the deal. Rindy and I are running another 5k this Saturday, and in this one, you can bring your dogs. Well, let's be honest. Superdog would HATE MY GUTS if I made that 6-lb Chihuahua run a 5k. My dad and Puddin' are doing it, but Puddin' is 27-lbs and is used to walking about 3 miles a day. BUT Superdog will be at the 5k cheering me on, and since she is, I registered her as well so she can get a shirt. That's right. Human runners get shirts, and the dogs do, too. So for Halloween, we're dressing her up in the shirt and getting some of those thick ponytail holders to use for leg warmers.

I know. She's going to hate my guts anyway. HAHAHAHA!!!

For your viewing pleasure, the following has been Superdog's Halloween costumes in the past:

A lady bug (last year)

Herself, hehe (2007)

Also, some really cool news on Superman's front. A friend of ours, Grant Terry, opened for Eric Church's concert last week (Church is a country singer, but as I rarely listen to country, I don't really know who he is). Anyway, Grant is singing at an art studio this Saturday, and he asked Superman to play the piano for him!! I'm so excited! I've embedded the pic, but who knows what's up with my blog stuff and why it's not working right, so the URL to listen to Grant's music, in case it doesn't show up, is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biVCSGGp2hQ.

I hope each of you have a beautiful, blessed day!

Simple

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:59:00 +0000

I love Mars Hill Church. LOVE it. When the collegiate minister at our church mentioned a job opportunity for my husband in Seattle, he said no. I said maybe. That's how much I love Mars Hill. I listen to Mark Driscoll's podcasts (and Rob Bell's) frequently. If you haven't checked them out, DO SO NOW. If I ever get the opportunity to visit Seattle, you best believe I'm going there.

The point of this blog is so not about my love for Mars Hill and its ministry. I am a facebook "friend" of Mark Driscoll (of COURSE) and he posted a link to the Mars Hill blog about underage prostitution. Click here to read the information. (FYI, I have been told the link is not working, so if it's not working where you are, just copy and paste this: http://blog.marshillchurch.org/2009/09/30/seattle-and-underage-prostitution/)

Did you read it? Good. Cause I'm not rehashing it here.

My heart breaks for those girls -- and for the boys/men who are using them. My immediate thought when I read something like that is, What can I do? Can I donate some money? I can't go up to Seattle, so what can I do?

I didn't see a link to donate, so...pray.

If you haven't gathered from previous posts, I am a FIRM, STAUNCH, RELENTLESS believer in the power of prayer. I don't think when we pray to God that we're just thinking "happy thoughts" or "wishful thoughts." I believe we stand in front of the throne of the Almighty, and I am His daughter.

Wow. That's just so cool.

Anway -- again, I'm a little spacey this week (needing to write an 18-page paper by Monday will do that to you -- oh, and having NO TIME to do it) -- please, just pray for these girls. I wouldn't think many people are praying for them.

Sorry for such a downer blog, but this is just something that needs to be distributed. =)

Caffeinated Randomness: Rock on

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:13:00 +0000

I try to listen to something upbeat on the way to work. Marc Broussard, Grits, the Derek Trucks Band...something that kind of gets me ready to face the day, you know?

So I turned on some Marc and started driving the seven miles to my workplace, thinking about my 5k next week and if I could trash talk the preacher any more. What? Did I not mention this?

Sunday night we were over at a friend's parents house, and the pastor and his wife were there, too. Dr. R asked me how my 5k the day before had gone, and I told him we'd finished, but our time was bad. "Well, what was it?" he asked. I told him. He. Straight. Up. Laughed. Laughed!

"I could CRAWL faster than that!!" he exclaimed.

Smart aleck. "Well, time for you to prove it," I retorted. "There's another one in two weeks. Are you ready, or are you scared you're going to get beat by a couple of girls?"

I'd like to say I scared him when I challenged him. Maybe I did. He's hard to read sometimes.

At any rate, I planned for the shirts Rindy and I could make for this next 5k. I'm not sure what they'll say on the front, but on the back, they'll say, "How's the view look from back there, R?"

Hehe.

I might have also shot R an e-mail Tuesday with the form to fill out for the 5k with three words under it: "Eat my dust." Yeah...

At any rate, I'm not sure if he's signed up or not. I suppose we'll find out Sunday. If he did, I gotta pick up the pace. If not...well, doesn't that mean I already won?

Anyway, back to the story. As I was driving in the minimal traffic our city has, I was stuck behind this red truck, and I noticed the driver, the only person in the vehicle, jerk his head erratically, as if he were mad at someone. Curious and stopped at a red light behind him, I watched closer.

He was air drumming.

Now, granted, I've been known to cut a rug or two in the car, but I have never seen someone so intently focused on playing imaginary drums in a vehicle that it actually shook the vehicle. No joke.

I was fascinated by his dedication to the scene in his mind, especially during his morning drive. From the stickers on the back of his truck, I could tell he went to high school, and he had curly dark hair.

I had to see who this air drummer was. When the red light changed, I sped forward, knowing he'd turn right in less than a mile, and I did not want to miss seeing what he looked like.

It took some fancy manuevering on my part to stay between the three lanes of traffic, and then my car voomed forward until my car and the air drummer's red truck were side by side. I looked to my right.

Turns out I recgonized that face.

Turns out...it was the preacher's son.

I have no words.

For more Caffeinated Randomness, visit Andrea!

Home improvements

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 12:49:00 +0000

It was a lovely evening in the Super household.

Rindy and I had just run two miles, Superman and I had fixed and eaten dinner, and we were watching TV, curled up on the couch with Superdog. And, being the Super couple we are, we decided after our show was over to put up the two big boxes that hold my fall and winter decorations in the attic.

I handed Superman the heavier box and then poked my head in the bedroom to say something sweet to Superdog that would make her tail wag. Mission accomplished.

"Okay, Lois, I'm ready for the other box!" Superman called down to me.

I handed him the second box and slowly made my way the two steps back to our bedroom. As I did, I heard this sickening, awful BOOM.

"Oh no," Superman said. "Tell me I didn't do what I think I just did."

I just KNEW that Superman had dropped the heavier box somewhere, and it had fallen through the ceiling. I just KNEW it.

I was close....

Our ceiling, like many, I assume, is very precarious. When we moved in, Dad and Superman put extra boards in to help the situation so things like this wouldn't happen. Unfortunately, Superman missed one of the boards and kicked a hole in our ceiling.

I just stared in shock. I couldn't even answer him. Superdog had immediately dove under the bed and had taken to digging imaginary holes in the carpet. I think she was trying to dig herself out of the situation.

I didn't know which was worse. The hole in the ceiling...or the disaster on the floor...

Still not sure.

Superman was amazing, though. We immediately went to work to clean up Disaster Zone 1 (the floor). After that was fixed, we debated for about a minute about what to do with the ceiling. And, in true redneck fashion, we fixed it the best way we knew how to at 9:30 p.m.

Duct tape can fix anything.

FYI, we're not leaving the duct tape there. The ceiling will be fixed soon. We're just hoping the tape stays until the weekend.

Superdog did crawl out from underneath the bed after we "fixed" the ceiling. Acted like she hadn't been terrified at all at the ceiling coming down on top of her.

She's such a poser.

5K survival

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 17:22:00 +0000

Well, ladies and gentlemen, we did it. We ran our first 5k. Our time was not what I had hoped, but it wasn't too bad, either. But the most important thing? We did it!

Before the race. Before we died.

S, with the pink hat, did not run with us, and Christina, beside her on the left, passed me and Rindy within the first mile. I am told that our route led us through some of the prettiest homes in the city. I'm not really sure. I was looking constantly for mile markers.

The race was for cancer research, though somewhere between Mile 2 and 3, Rindy and I were literally shouting that we were racing for pancakes. And orange juice. And coffee. And eggs. All from IHOP. A lady running next to us cheered.

But we did finish.

Some very sweet women were waiting on the other side of the finish line with water for us. They handed me a bottle, and the first words after I finished my first 5k were to that woman as I said, "I LOVE YOU."

Rindy was right after me.

And, yes, we did get our pancakes.

I hear rumors that another 5K is taking place next month. I'm ready!

Caffeinated Randomness: In less than 24 hours...

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:00:00 +0000

...I'll be on the starting line for my first 5k.

I'm not nervous about it at all. I know I can run three miles, so it's one of those things where my attitude is, "Okay, so what am I doing after the 5k?"

(FYI, my entire Saturday is planned. And it's very busy.)

Rindy and I ran/walked around three miles last night. I had such high hopes for this new route I planned out around my house. Turns out it was an EPIC FAIL.

Problem No. 1: Cars
Since we've been running on treadmills, sidewalks, and early in the morning, cars have not been a problem for us. However, the new route was up and down hills and curves, and cars aren't known for driving slow in those parts. Coupled with the increasing darkness, and I was realizing that this route would not be repeated.

Problem No. 2: Wild animals
My dad walks a lot, and a couple of weeks ago, he mentioned he saw a black bear when he went walking. Naturally, my paranoid state kept me looking for bears, even though we live within the city limits. Not that there's not wildlife around...

Right after when we decided to cut our three mile run into about 2.5 due to the darkness (and the only thing reflective on our attire was Rindy's shoes), we heard a dog barking nearby. Hoping that the dog was a) on a leash b) in a fence or c) nice, we picked up the pace a little bit and suddenly noticed a huge animal rushing our way.

I. Nearly. Died.

I just KNEW it was a black bear. It was too dark to make out the animal at first, and as it came closer and closer, it darted across the road in front of us, and rushed into the trees on the other side of the road.

It was a deer.

Not that deer can't mess you up. Especially in a car. But it was nice to know that it wasn't a black bear. Or a mean dog.

Problem No. 3: Hills
All the routes up to this point have been mainly with no hills or small hills. Last night's route had HUGE hills. I discovered the joy of running downhill (It's fantastic) and the agony of going uphill (I'd rather collapse). I decided we don't need to train running uphill. While I'm not sure how hilly our 5k will be, our half-marathon is in New Orleans. Does New Orleans even know what a hill is?

We ran fairly well last night, though both of our knees were hurting. I need to keep a better record of our running activities. I'm thinking that we were sore because we ran so late at night, and, if I had a record, I could look back and tell.

Therefore, I'm guessing the blog is going to be my record keeper. Because I'd lose it otherwise.

Happy Friday, everyone! For more Caffeinated Randomness, visit Andrea!!

Prayer request

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:34:00 +0000

Pray for the Maxey family. Their baby daughter, Annette, passed away last night. I know a lot of you were involved with the "Hope for the Maxeys" project.

A day in the life of...

noreply@blogger.com (Lois Lane II) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:07:00 +0000

I’m teetering on the edge of panic every day.

First, my job. I love what I do for a living: I teach. It’s fantastic. I love my students, I love the information I teach, and I love the hours. But there are other things that I hate which probably cannot be written on this blog. Panic Button No. 1.

Grad school. It’s rough being a doctoral student. It’s even rougher having to commute seven hours for class. I don’t have the opportunity to really get to know my professors, which, as it’s really all political anyway, is a pain. Plus, if I have a question, I have to pray that they check their e-mail or pick up their phone. I can’t go to the mass com building and hunt them down like I would do normally.

Training. Don’t get me wrong; I love running. Okay, I don’t love running – I love the feeling I have after a run. But it takes up some serious time, either early in the morning or in the afternoon. Time is money. Speaking of which…

Money. Isn’t money always a problem? Sometimes I just want to escape and live on a beach where I’d fish for my food and not worry about money. But then I’d probably have to walk around nude, I’d starve because I wouldn’t catch any fish, and Hubby would miss his Saints football.

I panic on a regular basis. It’s just who I am. Last year, my first year of teaching, I was so nervous that my eye twitched for a month.

I’m living on the edge, and if I fall, they’re probably going to lock me up in jail or a mental institution and throw away the key.

So what does a panic-stricken girl do? Drink a lot of coffee and pray. No, I’m serious. Praying’s always my best choice (though I do appreciate a good cup of coffee, too). Sometimes I choose less-than-fantastic options, but I have learned that praying a) calms me down and b) makes me feel like I don’t have to worry about this anymore.

I had a revelation on Sunday, and it was pretty ridiculous – that I didn’t already figure it out, that is. “This is it, Lord,” I thought. “This is all I can do. My life’s in your hands.” And then I thought about that last statement. It was like a brilliant light bulb went off in that dark attic of my brain, and I was just stunned. Like I said, ridiculous, right?

Before I go any further, don't think that I'm sad or depressed or anything like that. Life rocks. It really does. I have a fantastic husband, a great family, wonderful friends, and, really, everything's going well. But I'm always living on that edge...

As a side note, my hip feels better today. I did run (don’t hate!) but it was only because around 2, it stopped hurting. No running today, but I’ll do three miles tomorrow, rest on Friday, and then 5k on Saturday.

But if I need it, just pour me a cup of coffee, okay?

Fearfully, wonderfully made

Thanksgiving

Random Dozen

One of these things is not like the other...

Signed, sealed, and delivered

Thankful for…

Being sick never felt so good

The List

WHO DAT?!!!

Let it rain. Why not?

WYAW: Smile, in bullet points

Are you down?

Random Dozen

*Untitled*

WYAW: Fall time

Bad weather

Trying the Random Dozen AND links to a giveaway

Top 10 for weekends, by far

No mas

Simple

Caffeinated Randomness: Rock on

Home improvements

5K survival

Caffeinated Randomness: In less than 24 hours...

Prayer request

A day in the life of...

Untitled