In the ATL

Boston!!

2011-07-25T18:44:00.017-04:00

My mom and I have not done a girls' trip in a few years. She's always wanted to go to Boston, so I thought that'd be a great place to go. A BIG thanks to my dad who gave us Delta tickets and 2 free nights at the Marriott!! We were able to stay there for 5 days, and I PACKED in the activities. Besides the millions of pictures here, I probably have another 20%. We also saw lots of gravestones- Winthrop, Revere, Hancock, Mary (Mother) Goose, Sam Adams. We saw lots of churches. The first day we flew in, checked in, and were out by noon.

This is Old South Church, near our hotel.

Faneuil Hall, originally a town meeting place

Quincy Market- still a place to buy fast foods and souvenirs

Old State House: Declaration of Independence was read from the balcony. Also the site of the Boston Massacre.

I love the Beacon Hill area, near the park (Boston Common).

Public Garden

We also saw the Make Way for Ducklings statues here.

Wednesdays after 4:00 are FREE at the Museum of Fine Arts. Whoo-hoo! We were quite tired at this point (woke up at 4am for our flight), so we split up. Mom went to American art; I headed for European art. I was able to find my favorite French artists. =)

Here is one of Monet's Water Lillies.

Walking back to the hotel. This is such a beautiful city. They definitely appreciate greenery.

The Christian Science Museum. We didn't go in, but we thought it was a beautiful area.

Day 2: The Boston Public Library is across the street from our hotel. SUCH a beautiful, free touring spot.

Freedom Trail

We did not walk the entire trail; we picked it up in spots.

Old North Church, where 2 lanterns were hung

Individualized pews provided for warmth in those harsh winter months. They kept a hot rock/brick in the bottom of the pew box. Families needed to purchase pew boxes. The larger the donation, the closer to the front.

Paul Revere's home. (No pictures inside.) One room was decorated in 17th century style, while the rest was decorated for when Revere's family would have lived there, in the late 1700's.

I definitely wanted to eat at Ye Olde Union Oyster House, the oldest restaurant in America. We really enjoyed the food and ambiance.

We visited Harvard in the afternoon but were not very impressed. I'm not sure what I expected- it was school buildings and dormitories. =)

Day 4: (Day 3 is at the end.) We rode the trolley all over town. It was such a fun way to see Boston! Here I am at the home of the Red Sox.

We also took a cruise of the harbor.

USS Constitution, "Old Ironsides"

This is the park on the roof across the street from our hotel. How neat is that?

Day 5: More downtown

This is the site of the first public school; it was a Latin school (1635).

on the trolley

Irish Famine Memorial

My mom's family (Quinn) is Irish but came over during the late 1600's.

BOSTON FOOD:

My family thinks I take too many pictures of food. But I love to show off new or beautiful foods. =) Here I am eating Boston Creme Pie for the first time. It was a little unimpressive. We are eating at Mike's Pastry. Some locals told us they all eat at Modern Pastry, across the street. I got gelatto there later. Yummmm!

Cookies at Mike's

Trying clam chowder for the first time (at Union Oyster House). I enjoyed it so much!

Now, you gotta admit that's beautiful food! I bought these in the oldest candy company in America.

Day 3: Daytrips to Plymouth & Salem

This is Plymouth. It is beautiful yet would be a little disheartening if I were a Pilgrim.

The Mayflower no longer exists, so this is the re-creation: Mayflower II.

Inside the cabin where 102 passengers lived for 9 months. Unfathomable. Cramped, smelly, wet.

And here's the rock.

We went to Plimoth Plantation. I was Super excited about this. Note: Plimoth was spelled many ways. They had no official spelling rules and just went with phonics.

Anyway, one area is the Wampanoag Village. Descendants of the original tribespeople work there, explaining their culture to us.

And then the 1627 English village. YEA! They even spoke in traditional tongue. It was so much fun to see their homes and speak with them. These role players study their "person" and dialect for 2 yrs. before they come into the village.

But the temperature WAS 103. Who knows what the heat index was. That made things a little difficult.

Inside one of the nicer homes.

There were 2 rooms in this one!

Listening to the preacher in the Meeting House

On to Salem, to visit the Witch Dungeon Museum

This was such a sad part of history to learn about.

Nathaniel Hawthorne's House of the Seven Gables

And finally, thrilled to be inside the Olde Pepper Candy Companie.

If you ever get a chance to go to Boston, go. Learn about our history. Enjoy the scenery. Eat. =)

So this has been a busy summer...

2011-07-15T22:03:00.002-04:00

Just saying. Classes for my Specialist 4 nights a week the month of June. Taught 5th grade summer school (Reading ALL day) mid-June to mid-July. Set up my new 2nd grade classroom. Working on an insanely huge project that's due in Oct (for Specialist). And I turned in my Research "Book" in June. So excited! I worked on it in 3 classes, nearly a year. I call it a book because it has chapters. I bound a copy for myself and put it on my bookshelf. =)

Mom has been visiting for a month or so. Ben is here for the summer. 2 dogs. An occasional weekend visit from my dad. Nice and crammed. But I love them!

I got to go for a long weekend to visit my uncle and family at the BEACH. But I got burned after a bad decision to visit the water between 11am and 3pm. I stayed under the umbrella the whole time, but my white skin didn't appreciate SPF 8.

So today was my first day of summer! Yea! Stephanie took me out for my birthday. I chose a Vietnamese restaurant. Fun, new experience.

Little Rock

2011-04-09T10:53:00.006-04:00

To start off Spring Break, I got to spend time with my lovely Lipscomb ladies.

Tiff is having a baby, so we got together to shower her with love.

We filled our time with eating, pedicures, shopping, hanging out. I just love these girls!!

Latest Pics

2011-03-05T19:51:00.006-05:00

I really have not been taking my camera on my outings in... FORever. I'm just not interested in whipping out my camera. We even had our Ladies' Retreat for the church this weekend, and I only got 2 pictures! My goal is to do much better next year!!

my friend Christi

my friend Kim Gibson

Jake got his new Spring haircut. A before/after picture:

Steph had told me about a burger boutique in Atlanta, and I wanted to try it! It's called Flip, if you're ever here; it's near Atlantic Station (IKEA). It had a modern atmosphere and gourmet burgers. Stephanie's favorite is the Southern Burger- battered and deep fried, with chow chow and pimento cheese. I was not quite so adventurous- caramelized onions, green peppers, and mushrooms. But the BEST part is the milkshakes. I didn't get a picture b/c I downed it in a matter of minutes- Nutella with toasted marshmallows. There's also Rice Krispies and Krispy Kreme milkshakes. Sooooo good!

Ben joined us.

Ella enjoyed a yogurt and banana meal.

This one cracked me up!!!!

Thanks, Steph, for the great suggestion!

Bruiser, the ball phython, has been visiting my class for years. But b/c he's getting so old, he hasn't come to the school in a couple of years. Well this year, Michael (the owner) is in MY class, and he's the youngest in his family... it's the last time for Bruiser to make an appearance. Bruiser is about to pass, so I'm so glad he stopped by for a visit. The kids love watching him.

Finally, my brother has decided to become an expert in Irish cuisine. I'm very excited about this. He came to dogsit this weekend and even made dinner for me tonight. Bangers and mash- He made homemade mash potatoes, sausage, caramelized onions, and a homemade gravy!!! I was sooooo impressed.

Moving to a New Grade Level....

2011-02-28T20:48:00.002-05:00

I will be teaching 2nd grade next year! I am very excited. This was a tough decision. I love the 5th graders, and I love my co-teachers in 5th. I have had 2nd in the back of my mind for a few years now, and this year I asked for the move.

I'm antsy about learning a new curriculum again. I'm also hoping I remember how needy the little ones can be. I'm used to self-efficient students.

But I have been getting tired of fractions/decimals/percents. =) I miss the time to explore and discover.

Yea! =)

Junk Mail!!

2011-01-23T18:28:00.003-05:00

My brother's home address is with me until college is finished. Man, did I forget how much junk mail is out there! He gets a credit card offer every day! Many of you may know about this already, but if not: https://www.optoutprescreen.com. I opted out of junk mail a few years ago, and it is awesome!!! And yes, I did the permanent opt out, which means you'll have to mail in a signed document stating so.

Another tactic I use: I cut off the top of his credit card offer that shows his address. I write on the top, "Please take me off your mailing list." Then I mail it back in their pre-paid envelope. I heard about that on a finance show; they hate that!! =)

If by chance you get solicitors on the phone, you can head over to: https://donotcall.gov/.

Just some ideas to get the clutter out of your life. =)

Christmas Goodies

2011-01-13T18:08:00.005-05:00

I got lots of fun stuff for Christmas. Plenty of clothes and accessories. Ben got me some ITunes and the new Ken Follett book- yea! Here's some more new stuff:

I have complained that I can't cut my brownies with neat lines. =)

I'm very, very excited about my toaster oven. The broiler in my big oven has never worked. Not only can I use less energy, I can now make my cinnamon/sugar toast and my cheese toast!

Here they are: a favorite from when I was little. Many of you may not know about the cheese toast: put a slice of cheese on bread, sprinkle with sugar, broil until cheese gets slightly bubbly. Yum!!

This is for my kid room. I love how girly and giraffey it is.

Remember I got a Jewelry Lady last year? Well Steph got me the ring shoe to go with her!

And the big one! My new TV was a complete surprise! I love getting to watch the new TV shows in wide-screen!!

Christmas Fun

2011-01-01T20:47:00.002-05:00

Ben and I went to Florida for Christmas to be with our parents. We had lots of fun!!

I bought a cookie press and spent hours making and decorating dozens of cookies.

One of our fun days was Magic Kingdom. We love Disney and had a great day. Even though it was quite cold!!! For dinner we went to Liberty Tavern. It's a colonial, family-style restaurant with yummy, yummy food!

As a surprise, my parents booked a night to stay on Disney property, at The Dolphin. This one was a new one for us. Beautiful decorations and a great view!

This is Christmas morning: our babies were ecstatic with the smell of their stockings and got to be the first to open any gifts.

We also did family traditions: our special Christmas Eve party. We watched Christmas movies, ate at a New Orleans-style restaurant, and had Georgia friends over for cards. I'll post some pics of my Christmas goodies soon. I need to unpack and organize a bit better.

Love you, Mom and Dad! We had a grrrreat time!

Chicken Breast

2010-11-18T21:19:00.003-05:00

Disclaimer: this is me getting on my soapbox, and I won't get off. Now, I'm not some crazy girl that wants to be a vegetarian (I LOVE meat.). BUT something's up with our food. Have y'all seen Food, Inc.? Just an incredible, interesting documentary. I've got a friend at church whose cousin is one of those chicken farmers. She says, yep, that's how it really is. And I somehow remember my grandfather saying, when I was young, "The chicken will kill us all one day. They grow 'em too fast and too big." I was terrified and didn't know what that meant. But I tucked it inside my memory. He's a very educated, vegetable-growing pharmacist. Now I know what he's talking about.
I've only really been cooking since I was a senior at Lipscomb. Since that short time, I've watched the chicken breasts that I buy grow and grow. Well last night topped it all. I got my boneless, skinless breasts on sale for $1.79/lb. I was cutting the fat off, and could NOT get over the size of these breasts! We're way past double D here. I had to take a picture to show the monstrosity of it. This is ONE chicken breast. The past year or so I've had to fillet them because of their size. And it got worse in the next package! I had to quarter one sucker!!
So, what's a girl to do? The nearest whole foods type place is over 1/2 an hour away. Not real eager to "run to the store." Do I save chicken for special occasions and get the "organic," $6.99/lb chicken??? I'm afraid my beloved government is letting me down.

Pumpkin Time!

2010-11-13T09:02:00.002-05:00

Back in September I was telling my students about all the exploration we got to do in Kindergarten. I told them about all I did with apples- taste testing, baking, sorting, investigating. They were quite jealous. They begged me to do that for them. I preface my next sentence with this: I loooove my students and this age. However, I miss Kindergarten. In 5th there is so much pressure for them and tests. We have to rush through everything to get to everything. I miss the discovery of K. I have no time for exploration if I am to teach all they need to know. I did agree, though, to do something fun with pumpkins when the season came. It needed to be Math related, so we measured, weighed, estimated/counted seeds. We had a great time!
This is our intern, Amber. She was with us a couple of days a week for the past 3 months. =)

Nearly October

2010-09-27T20:02:00.004-04:00

Not meaning to be boring but not much going on here.
As the usual start to a year, and the returning-to-college mode goes, it's been busy. Plus, let's not forget ABC's red-carpet week! =) I haven't even had time to check others' blogs. So I hope everyone out there is doing well. =)
I finished "chapter 1" of my research paper. I have a couple classes teaching us the entire process. I'm comparing small-group instruction to traditional large group. I like centers, where I teach new concepts to only a few students at a time. We'll see...
I leave with a couple of pictures and anecdote. My brother and I went to Moe's with the entire Gibson Klan, including extended family. (I can't even count that high- maybe like 20 people). The youngest Gibson, Tristan, found out that Ben is in the Army, when Ben went inside to change (heading back to school Sun. night). He sees Ben, and runs to us, "He's in the ARMY!!!" T was so excited. Ben was a superhero come to life. =) Ben let him put on his ACUs, and Kim Gibson had to snap a picture. Look how cute they are!

Affirmations: A MUST-See

2010-08-19T19:22:00.001-04:00

If you have never seen this, you have GOT to take one minute out of your day to watch this. =) We ladies should be doing this every morning!

Freshly Sharpened Pencils

2010-08-12T17:53:00.002-04:00

Well, the first week of school is almost to a close. We are spending tiresome days going over procedures, rules, and getting-to-know-you activities. I have 26 smiling faces greet me each morning. The Lord has blessed me with another good class, as past teachers quickly tell me.
Today they were working on "rules" our class should have. They wrote a few down and then got together with their table group to decide on the 5 most important rules. I overheard conversations with thoughtful suggestions, and others were:
"We should get to take home Ms. Collins's books.
We should get to walk around during dismissal.
We should get to eat/drink when we want."
I was afraid their rules were turning into a wishlist- these were all procedures I had taught that apparently didn't sit well with some. I had to ring my bell and ask for reminders of the purpose of rules- all examples had to do with safety and learning. So we'll see... can't wait to read their final copies. Of course, now I take those lists and come up with the "best five rules that would work." I wonder if any notice how often they "come up" with things that I've already set in stone. =)

On another note, I myself have started school. I started on Monday, along with my students. I'm getting my Specialist degree. And oh, I'm not sure if I'm ready for that again! The month of Aug. is twice a week, 4 hrs. a night. Then we'll be once a week. But ready or not, here I go...

Romans 7: 24,25

2010-07-30T16:59:00.000-04:00

104.7 the Fish- the Opening Act Contest- that's what my friend Dustin is entering. I'd love for you to view his song. He's such a great man of God and wrote this song from his heart. The more views he has, the better. =)

A Whole New Decade

2010-07-13T18:08:00.005-04:00

I turned 30 on Saturday! I am very excited to be in my 30's. For some unknown reason, I believed that being in your 30's was the coolest when I was little. =) So I'm glad to be here.

I wanted to do lots of fun things for my birthday. My mom was in town a week before my birthday and took me shopping. I found some great deals on lots of clothes.

Then Tuesday my brother and I went to see Phantom of the Opera at the Fox. I have loved the music since I got the soundtrack at 16. I had never been though! I'm so glad I had the chance to see it before he retires the show. Phantom will not be returning to the Fox.

On my actual birthday, I went to lunch with Steph and my sweet Ella.

I also got to open my ruby from my mom and dad that's been sitting- wrapped- on my mantle for a few weeks. It's being torturing me! I've been looking for just the right ruby (my birthstone) for a couple of years! It's hard not to find them in gold or heart-shaped.

My brother and I went to Medieval Times. I had never been there either. (Yes, we took our crowns off for this picture.) It was an interesting experience!

I also had lunch and dinner with a couple other friends this week. (I'm a fan of having a birthweek instead of birthday. LOL.)

Cincinnati

2010-06-08T11:03:00.007-04:00

Our annual Lipscomb girls' trip was to Cincinnati this year. Both Kelsey and Maurie live there, and we were able to welcome Kelsey's new baby, Findlay.

at the baby shower

We then went to a salon for mani/pedis.

Me & my sweet JodiTiffany & Laura

Lindsey & Jodi getting pedicures.

Eating Thai at Teak. This picture made us laugh so much. Apparently with the way I was sitting and the angle of the shot- it's just a picture of me and several heads. It was supposed to be a group picture!!! =)

At Skyline Chili. Apparently Cincinnati is famous for "their kind" of chili.

I had ordered my chili before Cinci-native Kelsey had come in. She saw my meal and said, "Oh, no, Kim, you've done this all wrong." I just couldn't quite grasp the idea of their kind of chili- on noodles. ???

This is my new version of the Cincinnati chili- complete with spaghetti noodles, chili, onions, and WAY TOO MUCH cheese. =)

Here we are after digging in and being just about finished.

Girls, I had the best time with y'all- as usual. Love y'all!!

GREEK yogurt

2010-05-26T22:27:00.003-04:00

I think Greek yogurt is disgusting. I've heard how great it is for our health, but my taste buds never would agree. Cabot was at Publix handing out samples, and I was shocked at how tasty it was. So I wanted to let y'all know about it. I promise: delicious! The flavor is Vanilla Bean. One cup is 36% of your day's protein! I've had a cup every day with blueberries and strawberries, and I feel like I'm eating dessert for breakfast. =)

Wow! May is Busy, Busy, Busy!

2010-05-15T17:47:00.010-04:00

May is just as busy as December for a teacher. I haven't had a chance to post, so here is a collection:

Stephanie, her mom, and I did the Tour of Homes in Madison. It is such a beautiful, picturesque town. We were able to see about 10 homes, from the mid-1800's. And, of course, there's always fun times with Ella. I got to babysit for a couple hours one afternoon, before we went to Athens. Steph made this tutu- how fun!Ella got her first lemon. She loved it!!! Like I said, May is insane at school. Among all the fun, last-year things we do for our 5th graders is the ABC Countdown. Each day is a letter, working our way down to Z (Zee End!). This is a picture of Funky Clothes/Hair Day. They just looked awesome!!! I loved how these students went all out. =) And amid these students are 4 that colored their hair! =)Some of my favorite people on Field Day. Today was the first-ever FLARE competition. We're teaching kids how to use renewable energy. The elementary division was creating solar cookers. There were about 22 teams in our division. I took 3 from Winn Holt. This team is The Braniacs.They made vegetarian lasagna. (I decided to go with meatless items juuuust to be on the safe side.) We were judged on both the design and the tastiness of the food.The Silver KnightsThey made turtle brownies: choc chips, marshmallows, pecans, and caramel topping. Unfortunately when the judges came for the taste-testing, we had to serve half-cooked brownie batter. =( It was still yummy, though! Who doesn't like brownie batter?! My 3rd team: the Golden Chefs. These kiddos are actually in my class. I had another, but she had a soccer tournament today.It was so hot, so hot, so hot! We got starting cooking around 9:30, once everyone was checked in, and the area was decorated. Judges came around to check out the design, and then around 12:20 they came to sample our food.Here are the judges sampling the Golden Chefs' award-winning vegetarian quesadillas!!! I was so excited; this team placed third! Yea!! =) And Kelly Gibson Romine has been here for a few days. Yea! The next time I see her, she'll have a little girl in her arms while chasing Lukas. =)

Spring Break

2010-04-10T10:56:00.006-04:00

For Spring Break, I went to visit my parents in Lakeland, FL. I love their porches! You can enjoy the elements without the bugs!We ate at Rainforest Cafe (my favorite atmosphere) the first night.

Mom took me to Plant City, and we walked the downtown area. We found this organic store and got a cheese/fruit plate for lunch. Yum, yum!

That afternoon, I went with Ben to get his tattoo. He didn't even flinch at all!His tattoo is this Benjamin Franklin political cartoon (minus the box around it). Apparently they used to think that if you cut a snake in pieces, put it back together, and left it overnight, the snake would return whole. Franklin did this in 1754, encouraging the states to join together.A sneak shot at his arm . =)Among my mom's fun itinerary, I went to the beach, we went to their new favorite Mexican restaurant, played cards with some church friends from ATL, and went to Disney for 2 days!! Dad has been picked- somehow- 4 times now do be in the Indiana Jones stuntshow. It's kinda like a family joke now. He has also been picked for a couple other Disney things. I guess he just has that big smile that draws others to him. =)

Ben Graduates From AIT

2010-03-31T21:24:00.005-04:00

Ben is officially finished with all training! He is home and awaiting college to start back up. He will have Reserve drill monthly for the next 2 yrs.

Steph came with me. =)

I got to give Ben his official pin. Such a cool part of the process!!

Is it time to retire my Bible?

2010-03-01T20:28:00.002-05:00

This has been coming for a long time. My Bible is my most prized possession. Y'all understand. I can flip to verses so quickly; I see highlighted verses in my mind and know where to look. My grandparents gave it to me on my 11th birthday, about a month after I was baptized. A few years ago I put it in a case. But it still kept deteriorating. I even looked into getting it rebound. The inside is still good; I just need a new cover! But unfortunately, it takes months to re-sew and costs a fortune. =( I guess I'll just have to shelve it.

Joke of the Week

2010-02-26T21:02:00.005-05:00

Hahahahaha!! =)

He's in the Army now!!!

2010-02-06T19:17:00.008-05:00

Well, the 3 months has passed. My little brother has finished his basic combat training for the Army.

This was the first day, Family Day. We were able to retrieve our soldiers after they ran onto the field. We were herded into these bleachers and waited nearly 2 hrs. The forecast had said 50's- I even left my big coat at the hotel. NOT SO!!! NO one was prepared, and businesses made a killing selling their blankets/hats/sweatshirts. When they sold out, people started buying towels to wrap up in!

Here they come! It was so cool to see 1200 soldiers running out from the treeline.

This is Charlie Company (240 soldiers).

And here is the 3rd Platoon (60 soldiers).

Mom and her baby

It was cool to see where Ben has been living. (Don't mind his messy bed. They were allowed 1 day off.)

Some of his awesome friends: Detmer & DeCesare

Charlie Company at the graduation. I loved the ceremony. Everything was so precise, and the creed gave me chills. They spoke in unison, and the last line was shouted: "I am an American Soldier!"

Now Ben is at advanced training for the next 7wks. He's actually at Ft. Jackson again. He's training to be Chaplain Assistant. That's like a bodyguard. =)

Vitamins & Supplements

2010-01-28T17:51:00.004-05:00

Well, as of late, I've been having some back issues. For about a week, I was on my couch and at the chiropractor. With no improvements, I went to the orthopaedic surgeon. Apparently I had a couple discs shrink in the lower back, and the nerves were unhappy. It could stay like that the rest of my life, or worsen. Every case is different. So, I get to be careful with any lifting the rest of my days, which could set off an "injury." It's hereditary and is more common in mid-life. Who knows why a 29-yr. old has... are you ready for the awful name that's not quite right... deginerative back disease. Promise, not that horrible.
BUT, I've got a friend, Kristie, that has researched vitamins/supplements/nutrition for about 20 yrs. She brought me dinner one night and gave me a GREAT website. They have a good reputation and have safe testing. Plus their prices/shipping are incredible. Just thought I'd share so you can check it out, too. http://swansonvitamins.com/
This post was inspired by my high school friend, Nicole. She's over on the right side of my blog, and you may find her very helpful! Her goal is to go more natural, and she's doing all the research for us! She's very smart and can be trusted. =) I've wanted to go more natural (My pharmacist, gardening Gfather warned me about our country's chicken years ago.) for years. It was so easy at LU; a whole foods was down the street. Not in my metropolitan ATL; yep, that'd be a 40 min. trip for me. But I may do it once a month... Nicole is helping inspire me! =)
By the way, I'm on 3 meds for 5 more days and doing muuuuch better. =)

2010-01-09T08:04:00.002-05:00

My parents just moved to Florida. =( You may remember my dad was in FL a year ago and moved back. Publix had intended for the move back to Dacula to be temporary. My mom and I were hoping they would like the Dacula arrangement. Not so. Dad is corporate, and he needs to be in Lakeland. So after 15yrs. in Georgia, they're on the move. As many may wonder, I'm staying in GA. Ben will be in school an hour away for the next 2 yrs., and he plans to come this way for church on Sundays.

Christmas Gifts

2009-12-31T10:41:00.009-05:00

Just wanted to post the thoughtfulness of my family. =) I love seeing what other people got too (hint, hint). I also got lots of books, CDs, etc.

I got a lovely new coat. It was a surprise to me. I had tried some on for fun, and I got this one. I didn't yet have a black "church" coat.

Army bro, Ben, ordered all of us the standard T-shirt. I was very excited about this one! I promise, the letters are black. I was annoyed you can't take a picture of it. Ben said it's reflective.

This picture was quite a surprise. My aunt in FL is a photographer. When my parents went to visit them this summer, she convinced them to get pictures taken for presents. I'm so glad she talked Mom into it! She gave us both framed pictures of them. How cool is that?I got lotsa things for the kitchen. One of them is my new Fry Daddy. Okra is my FAVorite vegetable, but I ONLY eat it homemade. I hate it in restaurants. My gparents got me started on it when I was a wee one. They have a large garden and would make me a plate of it every summer. I kid you not, I have never been satisfied once eating okra. I have to plan ahead, take a generous amount, and be disappointed when the last bite comes. I always, always want more. But realizing it's little fried food, I always stop. You might think I should just go ahead and eat more- I don't eat it often. My family laughs at how much I WILL eat- a whole dinner plate. Anyway.... my okra cooking is serious, and I finally have the perfect way to cook it! The only reason I wanted and will use my Fry Daddy is for my okra. Mmmm....Steph got me this cool, hanging thingy. It's hard to photograph- it's so pretty, though. She got it at Artful Living (Mall of GA, Atl people), my favorite store. It's full of funky, fun stuff.My gparents gave me some mulah, so I bought "her." She's also from Artful Living. I think it's such a fun way to hang my jewelry. And it matches my room perfectly! The top is jeweled, and the bottom is those flapper tassles with beads. Would be a totally fun dress to own.And let's not forget Jake! I don't do much for his stocking, so to get a real gift from someone else was so fun. My gparents found Auburn jerseys for Jake and Esau!!!It looks hilarious from this angle. His legs are a wee bit too short, and he keeps stepping out of it or hobbling along caught up in it. My dad actually suggested that my personal seamstress (Steph) take it in for him. Ha!!!I hope you had a fun and Merry Christmas with your goodies, too! =)

Blue Willow Inn

2009-12-21T15:31:00.005-05:00

For lunch, my parents took us to the Blue Willow Inn. It is decorated beautifully for Christmas.

This pretty house serves a huge buffet of home-cooking. Everything is just delicious!

This was a hard photo to take. We were in the corner w/ a mirror behind us. We had already taken a couple before this, and I couldn't stop laughing at Ben. I finally calm down (I'm still giggling here.), and Ben jumps out of the picture. That's a little brother for you!!! He hates my constant picture-taking. Notice, Mom is fussing at him. =)

Posing with Santa. But I did not like my giant, puffy coat size. So we had to retake. =)

Merry Christmas!

So the BB Gun and Homemade Target Pays Off

2009-12-12T17:31:00.005-05:00

Mom just got a letter from Ben. He has been learning how to shoot. He told us to pray b/c this past week were his tests. He qualified as an Army Sharpshooter and received "High BRM" (Highest in Basic Rifle Marksmanship) for his platoon (60 soldiers). He was tested over 2 days at the ranges, and he is ranked somewhere around 6th-8th in the company (240 soldiers). He'll find out later what his official rank is. I am so proud of him! =)
He'll be home from Christmas THIS Thurs. for 2 wks. YEA!!! =)

A Dog's Christmas

2009-12-09T15:41:00.002-05:00

I couldn't find Jake last night. Finally I knelt down and saw him in his new hiding spot. It's a little chilly in my house.This picture is a couple years old, but I love it. Esau disregarded all presents b/c he could smell a treat wafting out of a stocking.
He decided to claim both his and Jake's.

Bah humbug!

This was a borrowed outfit he wore for about 30 seconds.

Jaw Update

2009-12-05T17:58:00.003-05:00

I've had several of you ask (thanks!) about my jaw. I'm doing much better; I'm back to my "normal." It pops much less and is still tight. I went to 4 wks. of physical therapy. They hooked me up to a tiny electric shock machine for 15min. and to a medicine machine for 20min. They also retaught me how to yawn (remember- keep the hyperextended jaw minimally opened now!) and how to relax my jaw when I set it frozen in concentration. I've been to a couple post-therapy appts. with my new appliance. It's HUGE. It's like one of those mouthguard pieces but sturdier with extra padding where I typically grind. I had to wear it 24hrs. a day for 3 wks. I cheated; it was too hard to teach! But I wear it for the rest of my life at night, and I am relieving the tension on my mouth b/c my teeth are unable to clench. So, all should be well. =)

Thanksgiving - Ben = Not Quite the Family Holiday

2009-11-26T20:12:00.004-05:00

Update on Ben: He is actually enjoying basic training. It's no cake-walk, but he respects his drill sergeants and all he's learning.

He has learned how to rock climb and come down using his hands and feet (like a monkey). He has been learning land navigation. They drop them off in locations and have to find their way to certain check-points. Last week he went into the gas chamber. They had to take off their masks and recite the creed. By the time the doors were opened, he said they were crying and snotting everywhere. =) This past week has been training in artillery, which he's really enjoying.

We usually get to talk to him once a week. They had the whole day off today and were served Tgiving dinner by their superiors, with an afternoon of football. He is also able to go to church on Sun. morns. Since he was not allowed to bring anything or can't receive packages, the church of Christ in Ft. Jackson (knowing this) gave him a Bible. He's very excited to have it.

We all definitely felt a hole today. One of his friends suggested my Mom put his picture on the dinner table, and she jumped on that chance. =)Except for the hole, we had a good day with my grandparents and all the dogs running around the house. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

GoD And DoG by WJ Francisco

2009-11-06T18:10:00.001-05:00

What a sweet video. Not that I compare my dog to God, but He did create such loving animals...

Army Roller Coaster

2009-10-16T15:48:00.003-04:00

So my little brother is going into the Army. He has been talking about the military for a while now. He wants to get in now and do Army Reserve while he finishes school. He'll still be away at boot camp and training for a few months. =(
But I have to- HAVE to- brag. =) He took their test the other day. A passing composite score is 50-99. Ben got a 98!! They were so impressed and said he could do anything. They had him lined up to do military intelligence. That would be so fun for him; he's a foreign affairs' major.
He did the Army physical a couple days ago. He's partially color-blind, and they won't let him do intelligence!!!! I can't imagine how frustrating that would be!! We always knew he couldn't match socks very well but thought it was a guy-thing.
He's not down, though, which I'm impressed about. He's going to be asst. chaplain. I think that could be a great mission field. Who knows what the Army will let him do once he's graduated??? Don't you think there would be some think-tank job he could do without using colors???
P.S. He leaves Nov. 3. We'd love prayers. =)

TMJ Disorder

2009-09-11T11:43:00.002-04:00

Well, my whole life has been filled with jaw popping and weird occurences on the left side of my face. The other day, my mouth dropped in shock, and there was a different kind of pop, along with lots of pain. I had trouble eating, putting any pressure on it. So I finally went to a jaw specialist. I do have the disorder, and over the course of my life, my jawbones have been rubbing and filing away the bone. My x-rays are crazy weird. He was shocked that I've never sought treatment, but to me, that's my "normal." It's all I've ever known. The majority of people with TMJ disorder are middle-aged women. He said it's quite rare for a child to have developed it. Also, I'm literally a Big-Mouth. =) The average opening is 35mm, and mine is 50mm. That's another problem for me. =)
So, now: I have to go to physical therapy twice a week for a month! Who knows what that entails. Apparently the guy I'm seeing is the only specialist of jaws in the state of GA! He's been doing it 20 yrs. and wrote a book on it! Can't start to see him 'til 9/23, though. We'll see if my jaw cooperates! =)

Welcome Baby Hunnicutt!!!

2009-09-03T19:08:00.003-04:00

Stephanie had her baby GIRL on Sunday night. She was in labor pretty much all day. She was such a good sport. Didn't complain much, and there were 12 of us hanging out in the room with her! Granted, she had the largest hospital room I've ever seen!!!

We had all voted, and pretty much everyone agreed it was a boy. Her husband was the one that said it was girl. We were shocked! Ella Cate Hunnicutt was 7 lbs. 10 oz and 20 1/2" long. She's such a good baby! I also spent Monday with her, and she rarely cries. She just looks around.right after labor
She's constantly sucking! She must've been a thumb-sucker in the womb. Those first two days she sucked on her thumb, her wrist, her blanket... anything she could get her mouth on.

The two of us.

Happy 1st Birthday, Lukas!!!

2009-08-11T06:28:00.004-04:00

Lukas Gibson turns one today. I can't believe it's already been a year!!! I love that happy, wiggly baby so much! He readily smiles and does NOT like to be held. He's very active and curious. =)

Kelly had his party on Saturday. So much fun. =)

Washington D.C.

2009-08-08T09:07:00.005-04:00

A couple days after I got back from Germany, my brother Ben and I went to D.C. for a few days. We had alot of fun! We left in the wee hours of the morning and got there around 4pm. We walked the monuments the 1st night. Lincoln Memorial

Washington Monument

The 2nd day, we went to the Smithsonian Museums: American History & Natural History. We also went to the National Archives to see our important, original documents.

The Constitution

T-Rex

Our 3rd day was our favorite. We had a tour of the Capitol Building. If you visit your congressmen, they give you tickets to sit in the House and Senate. It was so cool to sit in there, hearing the laws being discussed.

Our last day we went to Arlington Cemetery.

This is the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier.

Iwo Jima

Germany

2009-08-01T08:45:00.007-04:00

I recently went to visit my friend, Kelly, in Mannheim, Germany. She's been living there for 2 yrs., with her army-husband Rob. They could be moving back to the States soon, and ticket prices were great. Had to go! =) Kelly was a fantastic tour guide. She planned day trips and showed me different aspects of German culture. I took about 200 pictures, but here are a few highlights:

Rothenburg, the medieval city established in the 1100's. I LOVE this town. It's got a surrounding wall for guards, rolling hills outside, and typical village life.

We went to a torture/punishment museum. They had very creative methods of punishment centuries ago. This is a mask for gossips (the sign said usually for women). They are to wear these around town. It has a big tongue for spreading gossip, big ears for hearing gossip, and big eyes for seeing gossip.

Dachau Concentration Camp

It was very surreal to see. It was really brought to life. Dachau was designed for 6,000 prisoners. Once the U.S. military invaded the camp, they discovered 32,000 prisoners housed there in extremely cramped conditions.

There are 2 of 30 bunkers left. The bunks go 3 up. This snapshot shows 18 beds. They were given straw mats to sleep on. There was a picture showing prisoners in these bunks, and there were many, many more than 18 squished into these bunks.

Heidelburg Castle

This castle is still in pieces. You can't go up in the castle, but it's cool to see.

The castle overlooks the Rhein River.

These are the remains of the castle that inspired Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.

We also went to Paris for the day. The USO arranges trips on buses. We traveled in the night and woke up in Paris! I love to visit the Eiffel Tower.

We also went to the Louvre' and saw da Vinci's Mona Lisa.

I had such a great time! Thanks, Kelly, for your generosity. =)

Steph's Baby Shower!

2009-07-13T22:22:00.004-04:00

I had a wonderful weekend!! Some high school friends and I gave Steph her baby shower. It was so great! Everyone did great on the food, the gifts, everything! =) I just have to patiently wait for him/her to arrive.w/ Stephanie & Amieyummy, yummy food

games, games, games!She racked in!! =)

New House Color

2009-07-03T10:52:00.003-04:00

Even when I bought my house, I didn't like the exterior color. I can't find a picture of the "before." It was yellow, with faded, country blue shutters. I've saved up enough, and my friend, George the Builder, said it needed to be done. So it's now my style: very light tan with black and white accents. Love it. =)

Front Bathroom Renovation

2009-06-13T12:38:00.005-04:00

Well, this was the final room to paint. Granted, I've been in my house for 4 yrs., but I didn't really care; it worked for me. I just wanted to update it. I hate to admit, though, it has taken me mooonths to complete! I wasn't very motivated to work on the cabinets and floor.
So here's the before: light beige walls, came w/ jungle border, eh... fine.Then I had an image of icy blue and brown. It turned out robin egg blue. I knew it was bright and was just going to live with it. Maybe the brown would tone it down? I had it unfinished like this for a couple weeks, trying to decide. Then my dad stopped by and said, "Wow. That's redneck blue. Like old lady, redneck blue." I immediately went to Home Depot.Then I saw these tiles that are actually linoleum, but they look great. So I got those. Thought it would be easy. Nope, Dad (the perfectionist) offered to help. He pulled up the old floor and measured everything out perfectly. I'm glad he was there; mine would've been a sloppier floor.And the finished product. I'm very pleased. =)

Summer's Here!!!

2009-06-01T19:10:00.002-04:00

I LOVE teaching, yet I do so enjoy the summer. I've had a week off, and I've been staying busy hopping around visiting friends, redecorating my front bath, and catching up on the last season of Lost.
I had end-of-the-year celebrations for my kids. I took the boys to a park that had lots of sports' facilities, and they were able to play for a few hours. I had the girls over for a slumber party. We had so much fun! They pigged out, giggled about boys, and played games. We played a few games for about 15 mins. each. =) We even played Truth or Dare. Great dares: push-ups, put on a skirt (for my tomboy), and prank call my brother! Ben was very good and patient about their call. He was great! Then they voted on watching Annie. Bedtime- Oh my. I was never the kid that stayed up all night, and I had to be that adult to grumpily shush them near 4am. Apparently they went to sleep around 6:00.
I'm almost done w/ my bathroom. I'll post pictures soon...

I got stalked on my way to school!! =(

2009-05-05T08:54:00.000-04:00

I was driving down the road, a couple miles from my school. The speed limit is 40. I was going 45-50 in the left lane, a car beside me in the right lane. A truck, that I see most mornings, came barreling down the road and got as close as he could to me. I did not speed up or slow down to get behind the person beside me. He continued to inch forward. (This took all of 30 seconds.) Then he took pictures of my license plate and showed me, so that I could see it in my rearview. I was able to go around the other car and get in the right-hand turning lane for the road at my school. He got in his usual left-hand turning lane. Then when he saw me turn, he swerved across all lanes and followed me! All the way to school, taking pictures of me. I saw his face, and he was like in his 40's. I was scared at this point. He ended up driving away when I got to the parking lot. Now I'm worried. Is he going to continue this each morning? I called the police, and they said he can't do anything with my license.

VEGAS, Baby!!!

2009-04-15T13:16:00.004-04:00

Stephanie and I went to Las Vegas over Spring Break for a few days. We had a fun time! Here we are playing the quarter slot machines.And our big winnings: (If you can't see that, I won $0.15, and she got $0.05.)We actually ended up doing just fine. I took $20 out of my wallet the whole time and was able to put $20 back in.
We spent a lot of time touring all the hotels. They all have unique qualities. This is Paris Las Vegas. Their Eiffel Tower is 1/2 the size of the real one.The Bellagio was just beautiful, with flowers everywhere.This is a replica of Trevi Fountains in Rome.We rented a car for the day and went to Hoover Dam. Quite a big structure! And beautiful scenery.We also drove to Red Rock Canyon. We have several pictures that look completely different. The landscape will change drastically, randomly. Very cool! =)

Spring Breakin'

2009-04-07T20:48:00.006-04:00

I started Spring Break heading up to Freed to see my brother in his Makin' Music. (Awww... LU girls, are you having floods of memories of Singarama???) It's quite different but still enjoyable. Since it takes so long to get there, we got to stop and see my grandparents. =)It was also the weekend of the Battle of Shiloh, and they had a reinactment. Very cool!On Tuesday, my friend Darcy and I went to the Bodies and Dialog in the Dark exhibits. I'm sure you've heard of Bodies- very cool looking at all the parts. Dialog left us blind for an hour and a half. It's started in Germany 10 yrs. ago and has just come to the U.S. The point was not to simulate blindness but to encourage the other senses. However we were in pitch blackness with canes, walking through simulated parks, grocery stores, cities, restaurant. It was quite frustrating but a great experience! Make sure you go if it comes to a nearby city.

Ben's Birthday

2009-03-19T10:42:00.002-04:00

I took off work on Monday to spend the day with Ben. We first went to the Cheescake Factory. Cheesecake is his absolute favorite dessert, but he's never been there. Yummy, yummy!Then I took my history-major-brother to see the King Tut exhibit. Very surreal to see such history! We even got to see a statue made for Pharoah Ramses (Moses's evil Pharoah). Wow!Here we are "walking like an Egyptian."
We finished off the night with the whole family, grilling steaks! =)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BEN!!!

2009-03-15T12:50:00.003-04:00

My baby brother, Ben, will be 21 on Mon. the 16th!!! I can't believe he's grown so quickly. I vividly remembering crying and desperately praying for a sibling. Ben has been such a blessing! I love you!

Still Alive....

2009-02-28T20:16:00.003-05:00

Nothing new going on. Just the daily grind. Working hard, playing hard.
My 5th graders take the state writing test on Wed. If they don't pass this, they don't go to 6th grade. Nerves and tension are very high right now. They've developed into good writers; their biggest trouble is remembering to write the correct genre. They'll be given 1 of 3 prompts: persuasive, informational, or narrative. Mine keep mixing it up! Here's praying... =)
This weekend my church had a Ladies' Retreat. Don't you love your Christian friends? It's so uplifting to be with such fun, virtuous women!
Have a good week!

Lukas Gibson

2009-02-10T21:46:00.004-05:00

These pictures are from a couple weeks ago (computer's been in the shop). Lukas (for those that don't know) is a HS/church friend's new baby. =) He's so precious!!! He's passed around like crazy at church. He laughs now, and is the cutest thing ever!Kelly & Lukas

Ya Had to Be There????

2009-01-15T19:29:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure if this'll be funny, but I couldn't stop laughing....
First of all, I LOVE my job. I am so happy, and I love 5th graders!!! They are a joy (most of the time). I usually don't have the funny stories like I did in K, but I had a flashback today.
I was introducing volcanoes. I started out by asking them what they already know about them. I got the usual... has magma, lava, erupts, can form an island. Then my brand-new student (whom I've wondered about after grading some papers, poor thing) offered what she knows: We use lava to make ketchup.
I said Okay and moved on to other kids. After about 10 seconds, I couldn't hold it in. I imagined bottling lava. I started giggling, trying to hide it. They asked me what was so funny. "I'm so excited you know so much about volcanoes! It makes me so happy," I explained. I was able to recover after a while, but I think some of them could figure out my struggle to keep composure. Sheesh...

Don't Do Resolutions!!!

2009-01-03T12:28:00.002-05:00

I mean, no one keeps them anyway. =) I tried a few when I was in high school and realized that Jan. 1 is not a magic day. If I'm going to commit to something, I pick my day to start. =) My resolution was always to keep a journal or read that Daily Bible... I always fall off the wagon in February or March. I think an "everyday" kind of resolution is just too constricting for me. =) So tell me, what resolution have you NOT kept in the past? =)

Deck the Halls, Walls, Floors, Tables... Anything I Can!

2008-12-23T19:32:00.005-05:00

I decorate for Christmas right at Thanksgiving time, but I recently bought a little tree for my bedroom. I just love it! It's black but looks dark green when it's all lit up.The rest of my house has completely normal colors. =)

4th folder, 4th picture

2008-12-20T13:29:00.003-05:00

Kelly tagged me to blindly post a picture. So this is from nearly 3 yrs. ago. I'm at a Girls' Only Tea at my church. This is Ashley, my fashion guru. =)
Let's see what Steph, Jillina, and Tiff have in theirs. Always interested in everyone else's pics too. =)

Where are you on the political compass?

2008-12-13T19:54:00.003-05:00

Ben's home! Our resident government guru. Ben was interested in me taking the test on www.politicialcompass.org. It was really fun really analyzing our beliefs. These last two graphs are provided by the website to help understand your results. The first one is my results. I would think most Americans would be pretty moderate, but I was surprised that I've gone a little left.??? The nevers/always getcha every time! Keep in mind: above the middle line is big government involvement, below is little. And you know left/right...
If you have the time, where do you fall on the political compass?

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-05T21:57:00.003-05:00

Hilarious!!!

2008-11-27T09:50:00.002-05:00

Mommy works at Home Depot.

Check out Tiff's new business:

2008-11-18T20:28:00.001-05:00

http://peartreeembroidery.blogspot.com/
She's got some super-cute stuff at great prices!

PRAISE GOD!!!!

2008-11-18T19:51:00.003-05:00

Many of you may know/remember: my dad works for Publix Corporate and was transferred to central FL last January. My mom stayed to sell the house. In May, Dad heard whisperings of a job opening back here in Dacula. Mom decided that was God talking to her, telling her to stay in Atlanta!!! =) We started praying. The job wasn't ideal- not quite in my dad's field, but he didn't mind all the months of training if it meant returning to Atlanta. Well, the interview was 3 wks. ago, and we just found out!!! He didn't get it. They gave him his current job- a job he LOVES and is good at- back here in Dacula! We didn't even think to pray for something like that! =) Isn't God cool?
Also, my friend, Amie, had her baby Liam 2 months early. We were so worried when she first went to the hospital. Liam is a fighter! He wasn't on oxygen and got taken off his IV after only 2 wks! And he came home yesterday at just over 5 lbs. I got to meet that teeny tiny cutie on Sat.

My New Blankie

2008-11-11T16:56:00.006-05:00

Back in college, Jillina made Mark a T-shirt quilt. I drooled! I've been wanting one ever since. So I saved all my Phi Sigma shirts. I planned on getting Steph to teach me how. I realized, after a few years, that would never happen. I really don't have the desire to learn. So Steph and I went shopping for possible fabrics to go with them. She took the shirts and said she'd call me about it. Lo and behold, a couple weeks later she shows up at my door, and the quilt is finished!!! I screamed and jumped up and down. She did such a great job!! Thanks again, Stephanie! Now I can wrap up in my college memories. =)Jake enjoys it too.While I'm bragging on my blankets, this is the one I got for Christmas last year, to go with my love of Africa:

Wicked Weekend

2008-10-27T18:31:00.004-04:00

I love going to the theatre! Steph and I went to see Wicked. I highly recommend it. I love the background about the Wicked Witch of the West. It's all a conspiracy theory!
Also my high school friend, Amie, had her shower for Liam Elijah.
with hostesses Stephanie and sister Emily

Freed Weekend

2008-10-19T21:44:00.009-04:00

I got to visit Freed for the first time. My lil bro goes there, and I'm always talking smack. LU Rocks! But I so enjoyed seeing Freed and knowing that he's having a wonderful college experience. Even though I miss LU everyday, this weekend brought back a flood of memories. Sigh...
Ben works at the radio station, and it can be heard in several counties. It was so cool to hear him on-air. =) He let me pretend.

Camping Weekend

2008-10-12T21:57:00.005-04:00

Steph and I headed up to the mountains this weekend. We had sooo much fun! We decided to stay in her in-law's cabin, which was decorated very "cabinish." Can I just mention the sulfur-smelling water???? Yikes! It smelled after we'd turned off the water.
Anyway.... we chatted all Fri. night. Sat. we went fishing. I usually go with my grandfather, Steph w/ her hubby. They're the worm and dehooking fish guys. We had to do that all by ourselves! Yuck. I didn't like forcing that worm on that hook. Ewwww. Thankfully we didn't catch anything, or that fish would still be on that pole.
We then ate pizza on the town square and went to a local festival. Her mom and sister came up late afternoon, and we went hiking. We then enjoyed talking for hours... Such relaxation with old friends. =)

Mom's Birthday

2008-10-05T20:54:00.003-04:00

For my mom's birthday, I got her Alan Jackson tickets. I grew up listening to him, and he's pretty much the favorite for both of us. Yet somehow, we have never seen him in concert.
It was awesome!!!! He did such a fantastic job! I sang along to nearly every song. Good ole country boy. =)

Snip, Snip, Snip

2008-10-04T17:01:00.001-04:00

Fri. + Sat. = 4 Football Games

2008-09-27T22:40:00.009-04:00

Now that I'm with the big kids, I decided we should all meet up at a football game. So we went to see their high school play. 6 of them came (+ 2 moms). It was a lot of fun! Plus many of the other 5th graders had to stop by. They sure bounced around a lot, all over the stands. =)

On Saturday, I went to see my kids play and cheer. I really encourage the kids to become well-rounded, to get involved with extracurricular activities. So I think it's important I'm supportive. I've got a few extra in the big group picture- you know kids when a camera is pulled out... plus a photo op with Ms. Collins???!!! =)

Then I got to watch my Auburn Tigers beat Tennessee! I'm so glad our offense finally did something. And who could miss Georgia vs. Bama?! =)
I also somehow managed to squeeze in a school get-together eating Mexican and a FREE trip to Zoo Atlanta (Educators' Day) with some girls. We got to see 3 lion cubs wrestling with their Momma! =)

Retreat

2008-09-22T07:48:00.003-04:00

I just went on a retreat this weekend, a Singles' Retreat. A dear lady at our church, Ms. Pat, organized this. She's on the board of our local Christian camp and is there much of the year. So she organized this with local churches. They did it last year, and I did not go. This year, she twisted my arm, and I happily drove to the other side of Atlanta Fri. night, to be greeted by 3 other people. I felt so bad for Ms. Pat! Only 4 guests!
So our Sat. morn. speaker did NOT stay on topic- he discussed how to raise your children not to be incompetent adults- and spoke for nearly 2 hrs. ????? Then we went to prepare the camp's pool for winter. Yea. Everyone was able to get a long nap Sat. afternoon- as there was NO television to see the football games! Thought about driving myself to BestBuy.... And to top the weekend off, I got stung by a yellow jacket on Sun. morning. Ouch!
In all seriousness, though, I enjoyed getting to know the other people. And our other speakers were great. And I so appreciate all the effort Ms. Pat went to. But thinking back on our "Retreat" is something to chuckle about...

Maddie Mitchell

2008-09-06T10:30:00.003-04:00

Like I said, my camera died at Tiffany's wedding. Jodi just sent me this picture, and "Aunt Kimme" has to brag. Maddie is the prettiest, sweetest, most attentive baby. I can't get enough of her! And she lives 9 hrs. away! Love you, Jodi and Maddie!

Tiffany Ann Stovall Erwin

2008-08-25T17:57:00.004-04:00

I spent the weekend at the Biltmore watching Tiffany marry Paul. It was such a nice time! We had a GREAT Rehearsal Dinner. It was in a barn yet still seemed fancy. =) On the day of the wedding we took about a million pictures with the photographer. I'm sure they'll turn out beautiful, so it was totally worth it. The ceremony was so intimate: it was in a courtyard, surrounded by glass walls leading to a restaurant. Then we had MORE fun at the Reception. Paul and Tiffany whisked off to Hawaii for their honeymoon and will be starting their life together in Little Rock. Even though she EVEN farther away from me, I hope to see her plenty. Love you, Tiff!!!
Our dorm girls that came.

Healing Well

2008-08-22T10:34:00.002-04:00

I had my surgery about a week and a half ago. I had to stay in bed for about 5 days. I went back to school Monday, but of course I tried to do too much so I was in LOTS of pain. Wed. and Th. was better b/c I stayed off my feet. I had the kids wheel me around in my rolling chair, and I'd use my crutches otherwise.
My post-op appt was yesterday. The doc said it's starting to straighten out. He said the pain will be there for another 2 wks. I've got another appt in 3 wks., when they hope to take the pin out. But I got to take off all the gauze and bandages. My doc said to keep a bandaid on it (so it won't snag and get pulled out- gross!), my sock, and my boot.
Here's my pin (I'm about to paint my toenails for Tiff's wedding.):

Call me Grace

2008-08-09T11:10:00.005-04:00

Last week I broke my toe/(piece of my) foot. I am a weekly toe-stubber, and I've broken a toe before. I was walking very quickly and decided to do a 180. I turned into my chest that has clawed feet that stick out. I knew immediately I had broken it. I got sick and went to the doctor the next day. I know that nothing can be done for a broken toe but tape. However, it looked funny. Yep, have to have surgery. It was a spiral break that sent the bone down and out. Apparently I'll have trouble wearing shoes the rest of my life if they don't put a pin in it to straighten it out. I've been wearing a shoe to help me walk. I was favoring that side and the orthopedic surgeon said I'd collapse my arch and develop tendinitis in my ankle. So this shoe puts all the pressure on my heel, which is really starting to hurt. My surgery is Tues., and the first day of school is Monday. I'm so upset about that! They said once or twice people have come to surgery completely healed, so I'm hoping that'll be me. =)Excuse my "pedicure" and fat little toes. Usually that pinkie toe lays flat like the rest of them and is not quite that big.. This is before all the bruising spread across my foot.Getting around was really difficult the first several days. My mom went grocery shopping with me and couldn't stop laughing at me in the old-person zoomer.

Ken & Kim Plus 8

2008-07-28T21:41:00.005-04:00

For those LU grads that know Kyle, Kelly, and Kayne (& Audrey) Gibson, they have a new brother and sister!!! I am so excited. Last night was the adoption ceremony of Abigail Kenna and Triston Kade Gibson. Ken and Kim now have eight children (including their 2 daughters-in-law). We are so happy for them!!!I could NOT find my camera, so I had to use my camera phone. Of course ALL the pictures I took with Abby were blurry. Abby is on the right; her cousin Betsy is on the left.
Big THere's only a handful of those that came to show how much we love the littlest Gibsons.

A Weekend of Showers

2008-07-14T07:53:00.002-04:00

I went up to Nashville to visit college girls. I didn't take very many pictures b/c I'm hoping to steal others. But it was so good to see my girls!
Lindsey Stigall Crites is having a baby girl, Annalise, in October.Tiffany Stovall is getting married in August.
I love you girls!!!

Birthday Dinner

2008-07-11T08:10:00.002-04:00

I am usually never surprised. My mom managed to get together some friends for dinner, and I had no idea. I thought my friend, Julia, might show up, but then my mom called me in the afternoon and offered to change my birthday dinner to Sat., since I'm so busy. I thought, "Well maybe it is just the two of us." And I was convinced that my best friend Stephanie had to work; she was stopping by later that evening. Well, they did it. My mom didn't keep me on a strict schedule of getting to the Olive Garden, so once again I thought it was just us. Nope. Some of my sweet, precious friends came. And even though they were told not to, they brought gifts. Love you girls!That's Jan, Julia, Steph, me, Mom, and Natalie.

Happy Sweet 16, Jessica!!!

2008-07-11T08:03:00.003-04:00

For those that live around here, my friends know the Reese girls. I love the Reese family!!! They go to church with me. Holly, the mom, is a precious person, and the 3 blonde beauties are the most wonderful girls on Earth!
Jessica turned Sweet 16 on Wednesday (She's the one in the middle-back, to the right of me). I am so proud of what a Christian example she is. Happy Birthday, Jess. Love you!!!

4th of July

2008-07-11T07:25:00.005-04:00

I'm a little late posting, but I have to say I had a wonderful 4th. Not a typical one, though. I was raised in a house that does a lot for the 4th and Memorial Day. This year, we didn't go see fireworks or do our usual patriotic stuff. BUT my whole family was together, which is awesome. We headed for my grandparents' in AL; my dad flew in from FL, and Ben drove down from Freed. It was so great to see them! We played cards, sat around talking, went to town to go to Wal-Mart, church, etc. Great times!!! But it was really weird having to say good-bye to my dad and brother. We were all going in different directions. =( (On a sidenote, my dad is trying to transfer back, so if you think of me, send up a prayer for him. Thanks!) And on the 2nd picture, please notice my dad in coveralls!!! When he gets home, he really goes back to being countrified. =)

Summer School Has Started!

2008-07-01T15:15:00.003-04:00

I prayed and prayed and prayed that I would get to teach summer school. I was on the waiting list, but we had so many kids my school needed more teachers. YEA!!! I am so excited. It SO helps with the financial situation. I'm teaching 4th grade, so maybe I'll get a preview of some of my future students for next year. =)

On my Birthday

2008-06-29T12:17:00.002-04:00

Well the day is approaching. My bored little brother was doing some research during down-time at his job. He's a history major and found some facts of cool things that happened on July 10. Thanks, Ben!
July 10:
988- Dublin is founded
1821- US takes possession of Florida
1839- Adolphous Busch is born (german brewer)
1890- Wyoming admitted as a state
1923- John Bradley is born (United States Navy corpsman, one of six who raised flag on top of Mt. Suribachi)
1940- Battle of Britian begins (WWII)
1964- Urban Meyer is born (American football coach)
1970- lead singer of Rascall Flats is born
1980- Jessica Simpson is born

And on his day (March 16) a shocking one is:
1995- Mississippi formally ratifies the 13th ammendment (in case you are wondering, that is the ammendment abolishing slavery!! Wait, what year is it?)

Do you know something cool that happened on your day?

Mandy's Back! Mandy's Back! Mandy's Back!

2008-06-19T23:46:00.002-04:00

I am just beyond excited. I have to post about my good buddy, Mandy. She and I started teaching together 4 yrs. ago. We were next-door teachers, got our Masters together, and share a love for Auburn. In March she moved to FL, with about 2 weeks notice to everyone (and to her and her new husband). We were so sad to see her go. She just told me they're moving back. YEA!!!! Welcome home, Mandy!

No Time to Blog!!!

2008-06-18T21:32:00.006-04:00

How in the world can summer be busier than the school year?! =) I guess I just save everything until I have "free time" in summer. I've been moving back in my house- yea!!! I'm on week 2 of moving in. I cannot get it done quickly. I'm trying to do this between teacher workshops and working at VS. But I'm getting to organize: one of my favorite things to do. And moving forces you to put your hands on everything you own, so I've got quite a few garage sale boxes. Especially coming from those boxes that were in storage. Except for memory items, I lived without these things for a year, and I only wished I had a few of those things, so I obviously don't need them too much.

The next few pictures were taken a couple weeks ago, right before I moved out of the apartment. Okay, this happened on one of the few Sundays I have off. I thought I'd take a nap, play my noise maker (frogs, Becky!! =) ), and burn my incense. When this thing crashed through my window, I was startled from my near deep-sleep. I screamed and ran to the bathroom. I don't know why??? I thought it was a tornado or something, so I went outside to check my car. Then I fully woke up (when I saw the sunny sky) and realized I had just ran outside into a "tornado."

Not to Learn... That is my Answer

2008-05-28T10:56:00.003-04:00

Thanks for all the advice, guys. I thought and prayed, thought and prayed. It's not the right time for me now. I want to pay down some of my current school loans. I also want to get a gifted endorsement. It's a year's worth of work, tons of hours. But it's free. It'll enable me to have a chunk of gifted students in my room, or to be a gifted teacher. Only one per school can go (It's always about money.), and there is a waiting list. I'm still fighting with the county to let me go this year. =) I told them, "All I want to do is learn. I don't get paid extra; why can't I go?" Hitting closed doors right now, but we'll see...

Memorial Day

2008-05-28T10:21:00.005-04:00

I look forward to Memorial Day in my town every year. Our country parade is the best- although this year was a little long. My favorite part is the John Deeres.
My best friend had a booth, selling her goods with her mom. She is a great seamstress!

But this year, my favorite part was the baby animals. This pig is only a week old. It was so cute and fuzzy. He's squeel if you didn't hold him close. Isn't he adorable?! I definitely wanted to take him home- just didn't want him to grow. =)

Google Search

2008-05-13T11:05:00.001-04:00

Hey! I'm trying AdSense. Has anyone else done it?
Check out my new Google Search on the right side. Try it out. What did you search and find? =)

Happy Retirement, Mrs. Spears!!!

2008-05-10T11:01:00.005-04:00

The BEST Chorus teacher EVER is retiring! Seriously, she is wonderful- and that is her nickname- Mrs. Wonderful. Instead of teaching us songs to sing, she gave us the skills to sing all songs. She pushed us to read music on our own, and I am forever grateful to her. Even when I got to college, I only lasted 1 semester in Chorus. Unfortunately, the professor played each note for us on the piano to teach us the song. What's the fun in that? I feel so blessed when I'm sitting in church hearing a new song, and I can sing it nearly immediately. Both Ben and I had Mrs. Spears, and we're sad for future students but so happy for her- and selfishly happy we BOTH got to learn from her. Thank you, Mrs. Spears! Mrs. Spears had her last concert last night and a reception following. I got to catch up with some very good high school friends- Josh and Kelly.
Miss you, Kelly! =)

I was sports incompetent. My parents reminded me that I needed to do what I could to get scholarships. So I did my best with grades. Besides Chorus, I was in every club. I think I was President of 4 clubs. I was in Key Club, Youth Leaders, STAND (anti-drug), FHA, FTeachersA, French Club, National Honor Society, Beta Club... need I go on? What were y'all involved with in high school?

To Learn or not to Learn... that is my question

2008-05-07T10:12:00.002-04:00

Okay, so I'm up for a big decision. It involves money. I'd love advice from friends. A friend of mine is encouraging me to get my doctorate with him. I want to- had planned on waiting til I was about 32. I want to pay off Lipscomb and Masters' loans. BUT, if I got my doctorate, I would make (after 3 yrs.) what I will be making at the END of my career with my Master's. Gwinnett Co. has the whole step-process of salary posted every year. It's something to think about. I don't know if I'm taking on too much debt- house, loans, car. (Doctorate will cost $38K.) I really need a financial advisor. Plus it makes me nervous to think about all the work. But my brain is still used to all the work. =) And I DO want my doctorate at some point- my goal is to teach college one day. (Ed. majors at LU: I want to be Dr. Mary. =) ) So, any comments? Thanks for any thoughts! I know I'll have to pray a lot.

What's your scent?

2008-04-30T11:41:00.004-04:00

I heard on the radio yesterday that Tim McGraw has a new fragrance coming out, called McGraw. Among the ingredients are nutmeg, lavendar, amber, sandalwood, and whiskey. So, if I could create a fragrance, (and in a perfect world it mixed together perfectly), my 5 would be:

1. lavendar!!!
2. honeysuckle
3. Cabbage Patch dolls' heads
4. peppermint
5. good ole barsoap (Coast, Zest, Caress, etc.)

What smells would you put in yours?

I had gas stolen out of my car. =(

2008-04-22T10:12:00.007-04:00

Well, a few days ago I filled up, all the way- you know, above the F. Then the next day I only went to the mall and back. On my way to church the next morning, I noticed that my tank was already on 3/4. Wow. That's a lot. Then I noticed my odometer (I always reset it.), and I'd only gone 33 miles. Ugh. That's one gallon for me, and I don't have a 4-gallon tank!
Then my roommate saw on the news that there have been reports of stolen gas from different apartment complexes around Atlanta. Yet another reason for a huff of frustration for not having my garage to put my car in. Now I'm just trying to keep between 1/2 and 1/4 a tank in my car.

Happy Birthday, Jake!

2008-04-17T19:17:00.007-04:00

He's now 5 years old. Doesn't he look so sad!? It's rough getting older.

I love my "child." =)

Orlando Spring Break

2008-04-12T15:31:00.004-04:00

Mom and I went to visit Dad in Orlando. We had fun spending time with him. We got to see the church he's interested in- but he says he won't officially pick one until my mom gets there. =)
We went to SeaWorld for a couple days and to Epcot. I also got my hair highlighted. It was a good, relaxing few days. Ben wasn't there, but it was still great to spend time with Dad.

When we were at Disney Marketplace, my dad noticed their TINK Collection. It is amazing how similar it is to Victoria's Secret PINK Collection!

Happy April Fool's!!!

2008-04-01T11:38:00.002-04:00

Our local radio station, Star 94, totally got me! They had a commercial about plastic surgery for ugly babies. I didn't hear the commercial; I just got the end when callers were commenting. One woman called and said her 3rd child wasn't as pretty as the other two, so she got his pig-nose done at 7 mos. I was appalled!!! Little did I remember that it's April Fool's. =)

Atlanta Day

2008-03-31T19:46:00.007-04:00

I do NOT get downtown enough! I had the beginning of Saturday off (at VS), so Diana and I went to Atlanta. It was Educator's Day at Zoo Atlanta, and we got in free! (Prices are usually near $20.) I was so excited! We saw a few animals, and it started to rain. And rain and rain.
We headed for the gift shop. It wasn't going to stop, so we decided to make a run to World of Coca-Cola. They recently opened up a new World of Coke (doubling admission to $15). I was expecting more. =( I used to frequent the World of Coke- fun day, learning, different drinks to try. Not so anymore. It was geared more towards kids and kind of corny. I'm glad I saw it, but I don't think I'll return. For my most precious time off, we were a little disappointed in our Atlanta run. =) Maybe next time...
Here's me with my most precious, adored, loved, addicted to, favorite-ever, discontinued Coca-Cola product, Surge:

My storage unit is no longer!

2008-03-24T16:22:00.003-04:00

I'm slowly... slowly normalizing everything. My renter moved out last weekend. I don't want to get another tenant for 4 mos., so I emptied out my storage unit. I took a day off work since Ben was home, and we moved everything. This is including couch, love seat, and chest. I thought I was going to DIE!!! My brother said, "Now, Kim, I'm going to ask you to do something you physically can't. I need testerone pumping through your blood. Now yell." I just whined and said I was scared, but I somehow moved that couch! And boy, I could barely move my arms for 2 days. Now I look forward to painting my walls while no one is there and going through the boxes I've been months without. =)
ps- I've got a funny comment for those of you that know and love Kacy Maxwell. I'm not the best packer (even though I worked in a shipping store for 6 yrs.--- I get lazy). I tend not to pack bigger, bulkier items, or I just use garbage bags. My final trip home from Lipscomb, Kacy was helping me load my U-Haul. He said, "Kim, I like how you pack. The U-Haul is your box." =)

Happy Easter!!!

2008-03-23T20:13:00.003-04:00

I hope everyone had good family fun! I've had such a good week. My college brother, Ben, was home for Spring Break. He actually stayed with me for a few days. And my dad came up to visit. I don't know if I mentioned, but my parents are transferring to the Orlando/Tampa area. My dad got a job with Publix Corporate. He LOVES it, but he's already moved. My mom's staying to sell the house, just long enough to finish the school year. So we were all together this weekend. =) I barely saw them, though, with working at VS. We did catch a great movie: 10,000 B.C. and go eat Japanese. (Do you think I managed to get a picture, though??? I have SO neglected my camera lately!) Love you Dad and Ben! I'm sad already that you're gone!

I've had nothing to say...

2008-03-15T12:14:00.002-04:00

I haven't posted lately. Nothing exciting is going on or entering my mind to share. =) I've gotten a definite on what grade I'm teaching next year- 5th. Remember I wanted 2nd/3rd? Dr. Curtiss emailed me last week and said he only had one position left- 5th. So I took it. I'm excited about it. I really enjoy my 5th grade group I teach now, and I want to teach every grade level in my career. Just jumping around! =) I am currently trying to catch up on reading children's chapter book. Haven't read those in years. I can tell you ALL about picture books, but nothing about chapter books, other than Junie B. Jones- hilarious chapter books for little ones. So what was your favorite young chapter book? Teachers, what did we read in Children's Lit? Luckily, I can read through those very quickly. Let me know what I should read and include in my classroom library! Thanks!

Malachi 3:3

2008-03-05T09:48:00.002-05:00

My roommate sent me this email, and I thought I'd share it. I really enjoyed the meaning behind this verse!

Malachi 3:3 says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study, and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.
That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver.
As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.
The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver." She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined.
The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.
The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"
He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it."

2008-02-26T20:18:00.001-05:00

I’ve been tagged a couple times...
10 random things about me...

1. I had a letter I wrote to Oprah read on-air back in 1999.
2. Bananas and eggs disgust me.
3. I still love my tattoo- and wish I had 3 more- it just hurts too much.
4. I will retire with money to burn. That's my plan.
5. My passion (other than Jesus) is traveling. My dream is to go to Ireland, and to Africa!
6. My faith began to grow when I was 3 and lost my lucky penny...
7. My drug of choice is Coca-Cola; I'm currently trying to quit.
8. My mom taught me to read when I was 3, but my smartness wore off in high school. =)
9. The Collins family came from Ireland during the Potato Famine- straight to Alabama, where land was free. I am the first one in my direct line NOT raised in Alabama.
10. While living in TX (ages 2-8), school was cancelled for a day when the rodeo came to town. I loved, loved going to the rodeo, with the sounds, sights, and SMELLS!!!

Now, I'd like for y'all to tell me some tidbits. I enjoyed reading about your children (for those of you that posted those). What about you ladies? =) Or you can tell just me a few interesting things about yourself. =)

I DO have a job nailed down for next year!

2008-02-26T11:50:00.003-05:00

Thanks for all your encouragement. I went ahead and committed to my old school for next year. I was toying with the idea of helping to open a new school in a more white-collared neighborhood. But my friend reminded me of the Teacher Loan Forgiveness program. If you teach in a Title 1 school (LOW socio-economic school), up to $5000 of your student loans will be erased. I've only got one year left to meet that goal!
So, I told Dr. Curtiss on Friday I'd like to come back. He'd like me in 4th. 4th would be fine with me, but I told him I'd really like 2nd or 3rd. We'll see... I really don't mind either way; I just have some buddies in 2nd. =)

Lemme just tell you about my past week....

2008-02-21T09:31:00.004-05:00

Disclaimer: This is a negative blog. Don't continue reading if you don't want to hear me vent. Wow. It turned out to be a long post! Sorry! =)
Blessings I currently notice:
1. My friends/family are healthy.
2. I can eat.
3. There's a roof over my head.
4. I sort of have a job.
This past week:
1. My renter informed me she's moving out of my house, breaking her contract 5 mos. early. So now I pay rent to an apt I can't get out of AND my mortgage.
2. My GREAT friend, Mandy, just found out 2 wks. ago she and her husband are transferring to south FL. She's leaving in a week. She's leaving a teaching job at my old school- Winn Holt.... full-time position available!!!!
3. My current principal won't let me leave my 1/2 time Reading position. She said I could leave after Spring Break if my old principal will hire a long-term sub until April.
4. Dr. Curtiss (Winn Holt's principal) won't do that- he's hiring someone else to take the position.
5. So now I have extra bills with my $1100 a month salary (taxes, insurance, and retirement are killing me right now!)
6. I thought, "Hmmm... maybe I can teach summer school for extra cash." Dr. Curtiss wants me to do this. The AP over summer school isn't sure I can b/c I didn't teach at Winn Holt this year.
7. Anything else? I know my problems are not huge, and I will get out of them shortly. I still feel a tiny bit like Job. It's been one thing after another. I told God the other day that Satan can keep it up- I still love HIM.
Plan of action:
I've called my renter to offer her a much lower rate. (Money is the issue for her- I still haven't been paid in full for Feb.) I'm taking on more hours at Victoria's Secret. I.... might get a 0%APR credit card. (Isn't that just terrible???) My savings have been nearly depleted already, having to live this whole school year on a sub's and 1/2 time position's salary. But thank the Lord I had saved up so much over the past few years. It's just sad to see it all go. I could have gone to Europe a few times by now! So, wait for the next post that has GOOD news. And say a little prayer for my sanity. Thanks!

Health Inspections

2008-02-13T13:07:00.003-05:00

Okay, I have a bit of a problem with germs. Although I find it fascinating, I really shouldn't watch those types of specials on 20/20 or Oprah. And of course, when my friend forwarded me a video on lemons in drinks at restaurants, I just had to watch it. Ewwwwww!!! Apparently, they did a study on 21 different restaurants. 77% of the lemons had disease-causing bacteria on them- even fecal matter. I mean, seriously, I can see how people become hermits. How do just ignore stuff like this? I guess you just have to, if you want to lead a normal life. If you are curious like me, click away:
Health Inspections.

Great Reads

2008-02-04T17:15:00.000-05:00

I just finished a book I got for Christmas, all 973 pages. The Pillars of Earth, by Ken Follett, is historical fiction (my favorite). It journeys through lives in the time of Middle Ages, all centered around the building of a cathedral. I definitely recommend it! Even if you say you have no time to read: make time. Just a few minutes a day.
A couple more of my favorites:
Timeline, by Michael Crichton. Disclaimer: there are some offensive words. Modern-day scientists and archaeologists time travel to the Middle Ages. For everyone in my family (with all our different tastes), it is in the top 5.
The Red Tent, by Anita Diamant. This is the fictional story of Dinah, Joseph's raped sister. She's barely mentioned in the Bible, but Diamant takes this opportunity to tell her story, and those of her mothers. Pick it up today!
Hope I didn't sound too Amazon-ish. I'm about to read Wicked. But after that, any suggestions? Thanks!

World Record Holders

2008-01-31T19:02:00.000-05:00

Every year, I got the Guinness Book of World Records at our school book fair. I was so excited to see all the oddities in the world. The most interesting ones were the tallest, the fattest, the most tattoos, and the lady with the longest fingernails! Oprah had some of the record holders on her show yesterday. Weird things, like: cutting apples the fastest in the air, and the biggest bubble, and clapping the fastest.
This lady puts eggs in cups the fastest with her feet!
Aren't they the cutest?
And here's the reason for this post. Look at the waist on this lady! I think she's in her 60's, with a 15" waist!!! She keeps herself in a corset, pulled as tight as possible, 24 hrs. a day, except for showering.
I really think if you come up with something weird and the fastest or the smallest or the biggest, you could be published. So what shall it be? What's the World Record you're striving for?