Talking Trash

Deja Vu...All Over Again...Really?

2012-02-08T16:28:00.001-06:00

For those of y'all that read me on a regular basis, you already know most of my...ahem...brilliant ideas come either during a semi-conscious state in the wee, still hours of the morning or at night...as I'm soaking in the tub. I'm thinkin' in the morning 'cause I'm still half asleep and at night, 'cause I'm running water instead of my head. Basically same difference...I'm not talking for a change...I'm listening and He seizes the opportunity to get a word in.

Last night as I was steppin' into the tub, the word Pinterest flashed through my mind. While relaxing with Mr. Bubbles and dreaming of all that Pinterest has to offer, my thoughts drifted in another direction...plagiarism.

Right about now I'm willing to bet a dollar to a donut, I got y'all wondering what the heck is she talking about and how does Sweetie Pie figure into this...correct-o mundo? She doesn't. She's just my favorite pin-up gal (get it...pin-up...pin-it?) and if you hang with me...I promise a caboose to end this train of thought!

Pinterest is this fantabulous, visual social network that has exploded over the last coupla years. It didn't take long to figure out it allows us to do pretty much what we do on Blogger...with a lot less work...and no need for spell-check. (If you ever get to wondering where me...and everybody else...is hiding out, check Pinterest first.) It dazzles the mind with all the talent that's out there and if they ever add scratch and sniff...oh mylanta...I'll never leave!

We can share ideas, words, comments and a whole mess of stuff with a click or a "pin it", but...and this is a huge but...it also allows us to borrow (a nice way of saying copy) another's brain child.

This is the conundrum I'm wrasslin' with.

At what point does it steer off from borrowing into flat-out plagiarism. By pinning something, does it then become public property or is it still protected?

(We're not gonna even address using it as a marketing tool, 'cause that's a whole 'nother can of worms!)

Trust me...I'm not pointing fingers here...'cause if I did...there would be three pointing back at me. I see ideas, displays, and words I fall in love with. I go there for inspiration and leave with tons of ideas I'd like to incorporate into my work, but I'm afraid of crossing the line and being labeled a copy-cat.

So-o-o...I'm asking y'all...what is the line? Is there an etiquette at play and what is and isn't up for grabs? By helping ourselves to ideas, are we following our dreams...or chasing another person's? Are we truly admiring their work...or pinning our hopes on them? Does the end justify the means?

In all fairness, if I put it out there to be admired, wouldn't it be foolish to think it won't be ~~stolen~~ used by others? More importantly...do I care enough to stop or do I need the admiration...even if it's double-edged sword?

If I'm gonna be honest here...sometimes I wish I had the morals of a politician. If I did, I could just steal someone's ideas or words, claim 'em as my own...and keep moving with nary a pang of guilt...but I'm just not geared that way. Not to say that I haven't inadvertently used someone's cleverness...just never on purpose. I've been found guilty of reading something, filing it away in my head, and using it later...not remembering where I read it.

(Hmmm...could this be a form of selective memory...or another manifestation of my Squirrel disorder?)

Most of the time, I do try and research out a clever phrase...just to be sure it's not a fluke and really my idea, but some do slip by me. It's important to remember words are an art form too and while we can't copyright them or the way in which they are used, we can try to make them our own. As much as I study the writing of others, I can't capture the rhythm, imagery, or style and it's their uniqueness combined with originality that keeps me reading.

(I sure wish I had wrote all this down on paper last night instead of on the tile with a loofah...'cause it read so much better and made so much more sense than I am now! I keep telling Cat Daddy I need a small tape recorder to carry around....water-proof natch!)

It's been said imitation is the highest form of flattery and I see the mega-talented get flattered out the wazoo constantly and yet...with style and grace...never utter a peep. I guess if I'm gonna be a copy-cat...I need to start with adopting this attitude...and thereby answering my own question. I have to be my own watchdog, hold myself accountable, give credit where credit is due...and let all the others struggle with their conscience.

(Although I'm pretty sure those with no remorse are the same ones who came up with the whole "imitation...form of flattery" malarkey!)

I apologize for my rant y'all. Consider this a lesson in why one should never leave a child...or an old woman...unsupervised during bath time. One...they get all pruney, two...water gets splashed everywhere, three...they leave their towel on the floor, and four...they have way too much time to stir up a tubful of ~~crap~~ ~~trouble~~ bubbles.

(Now let's just wait and see how many ~~copy-catters~~ flatters Pinterest and it's success has to fend off. We all know it's just a matter of time, but we'll remember where we saw it first!)

Carpe Diem...Deja Vu

2012-02-03T15:16:00.000-06:00

February 3, 2012...6:00 a.m.

Fall outta bed and make my way into office. Power up the computer and stumble into kitchen to make coffee.

While waiting on said coffee, click on TV to double check if the earth is still spinning and what the weatherman is predicting so I can dress accordingly...socks or bare feet.

Stumble back into kitchen to administer the first of 3 cups of coffee, then head on back to the office for just a few minutes of computer time.

February 3, 2012...8:30 a.m.

Try to get up from office chair, but find my butt and legs have gone numb. Scribble a note to remind me to google this later and find what might be causing this...hoping it's not old age.

Hmmm...find myself wondering on how earth I got that second cup of coffee in my hand...and is it somehow tied to the whole numb-butt phenom.

Start household chores by picking up Cat Daddy's dirty socks from where they hit the floor...smiling to myself at this...just one of his lovely daily reminders of how much he needs me.

Fill sink with hot sudsy water to ~~cram~~ soak dirty dishes in from the night before then off to make the bed.

Do a multi-task walk through picking up cr@p while straightening at the same time. Place vacuum cleaner in the middle of the room in case I decide the floors need a swipe.

Start to kitchen to wash dishes, but remember I need to check e-mails first.

February 3, 2012...10:00 a.m.

Stiffly, get out of office chair and run some hot water into the sinkful of dirty dishes that somehow got cold.

Put on rubber gloves and haz-mat suit to clean bathroom. Clean the three sides of the bathtub that show, wipe down the faucets (gleam says clean) and disinfect the toilet seat for that oh-so-fresh feeling.

Look at vacuum cleaner sitting in the middle of the floor and think to myself...is it really dirty.

Fix a little breakfast of Pop Tarts and sit down at desk to eat while checking out new blog posts. I can't afford to lose any time on trivial activities...like adding another dirty dish to the overflowing sinkful I got on stand-by.

February 3, 2012...11:30 a.m.

Struggle outta office chair and limp into kitchen to find drops for watery eyes. Funny...I don't remember Evan mentioning in his morning forecast a heavy pollen count. Numb butt, loss of memory, watery eyes...must remember to look this up on WebMD.

Add more hot water and Dawn to sink, but make the executive decision to go ahead, bite the bullet, and wash them to avoid a monster water bill next month.

Look at vacuum cleaner for the third time and have a light bulb moment... floors are clean enough.

My tummy is rumbling, reminding me it's almost lunch time...and I'm still in my pajamas.

February 3, 2012...12:15 p.m.

Fix a burrito (on a paper towel) for lunch, grab a coke outta the fridge, and using my time management skills, make a quick stop at the computer to visit Facebook.

February 3, 2012...1:30 p.m.

Decide to put on street clothes just in case Cat Daddy comes home early and give my hair a lick and a promise.

House smells a bit stale, but can't find my new fig scent candles to light. Searching for them is eating up my precious time, so instead throw a load of whites in the laundry, being sure to add fabric softener. Nothing like a little Downey to add a nice fresh scent to the house.

February 3, 2012...2:00 p.m.

Doing all that laundry has me too pooped to pop. Grab a snack sized Butterfinger and plop down at computer to re-charge for the next round of household chores.

While waiting for energy level to return to normal, get busy doing some real work...reorganizing my Pinterest boards.

February 3, 2012...3:30 p.m.

Jump outta my office chair, hobble into kitchen to run some water and Pine Sol into sink, having recently discovered it gives the house that "just cleaned" smell...without actually having to clean it.

Clean the glass storm door and hope I don't have any birds crashing into it...again.

February 3, 2012...4:00 p.m.

Realize I haven't done a post on my blog in over a week. Start post, but have to hit "Save" as Cat Daddy's truck pulls into drive.

Hurriedly shut down all tabs, lurch into the kitchen to throw water on my face to resemble beads of sweat, and notice my britches are on...inside out.

Throw wet towels in dryer and almost hang myself trying to get the last wash cloth outta the washer.

February 3, 2012...4:30 p.m.

Greet Cat Daddy with a weary, but loving smile from my day's exhausting work, sit and listen to his telling of his day...and try not to yawn.

Watch jealously as Cat Daddy sits in my chair at the computer to check out auctions and estate sales.

Start dinner while discreetly shooting him the stank eye.

Go ahead and put away vacuum cleaner for another day. He never even noticed it sitting there.

February 3, 2012...5:00 p.m.

Take a much needed sit-a-spell while supper's simmering to watch In The Heat Of The Night reruns.

Fold semi-dry towels while Mr. Tibbs solves the crime du jour.

February 3, 2012...6:00 p.m.

Sit down at separate TV trays with Cat Daddy and dine in the romantic flicker of The Big Bang Theory reruns. Laugh together at the same hilarious lines...over and over.

Make plans with Cat Daddy for the coming weekend to work around the house. Make silent note to self...that'll be the day.

February 3, 2012...7:30 p.m.

Wait patiently as C.D. takes his bath and gets ready for bed.

Listen for heavy snoring and sneak into office for just a short visit to blogs.

February 3, 2012...11:59 p.m.

Check the time and ponder where the time went, while thinking to myself...didn't I just do all this yesterday...and the day before...and the day before that?

Glancing down at the screen, I notice the date on Yahoo shows February 2nd...wha-a-a?

Jump to my feet with the realization...

I'm trapped in Groundhog Day!

Somebody quick...save me!

Change my date and time stamp if necessary...pull my plug...put me in a DeLorean...whatever it takes! Otherwise y'all...I'm trapped in this loop until further notice and...

if you gotta shoot, aim high. I don't want to hit the groundhog!

A TKO At W&T's!

2012-02-01T14:34:00.000-06:00

Once upon a time there existed a world where women wore curlers and hair nets while talking nonstop for hours on telephones wearing rotary dials and cords. A world in which hand written mail...paid for with a 4 cent stamp...came from far-away lands postmarked with exotic names like Ft. Worth, Duluth...or Toledo Ohio. A place where television came complete with rabbit ears, twittering was for the birds, and to kindle was what a husband had on his mind Saturday night.

A simple existence for these village haus-fraus...except in January...when an annual not-to-be-missed event would roll around and transform those same prim and proper ladies...seemingly in the blink of an eye...into marauders and pillagers.

It was called a White Sale.

Ladies would cluster outside Sanger-Harris and Titche-Goettinger's, sizing up the competition while awaiting the opening of the doors. A pox befelled the poor store manager who failed to unlock the doors promptly at ten and woe be unto any stragglers who stumbled and fell. As the women...armored in their pill box hats and Playtex girdles...staked out their line of attack, they wasted little time before beginning their assault on tables holding meticulously folded sheets and towels.

The tireless quest that ensued rivaled that of King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table. For as much as the knights of old searched valiantly for the Holy Grail, these stalwart damsels had their own dragons to slay...beginning with anyone blocking the 2-fer pillows and ending with a set of mismatched Fieldcrest sheets at 30% off.

Biting, scratching, hair pulling...girls and boys...it was better than the Saturday night wraslin' matches at the Sportatorium. Yea...even better than Fritz Von Erich's Iron Claw. Undaunted and prepared to run the gauntlet, these wenches of old, wearing white kid gloves instead of boxing gloves, kicked, elbowed, and gouged each other to reach the granddaddy bargain of them all...."While they last...white towels at...(gasp!!!)... three for a dollar!". With broken nails, black eyes, and missing a hank of hair or two, they would lay their bounty at the check-out counter while smiling sweetly (sans a tooth or two) at the clerk, secure in the knowledge...they had won and victory was sweet.

The end...

or is it?

Nowadays, there is a sale going on somewhere...every day...always. Whether it's a mattress or Red Apple Sale, it's just not the same. The anticipation of a really good, once a year, lose your mind sale is but a legend of old. Sadly, the frenzy those annual white sales could whip up are gone forever...BUT...if you lust after a really good sale...look no further. W&T's/Sweet Pea's to the rescue.

You want a knight in shining armor to rescue you?

We can do better than that with a day trip to rusty heaven and junk salvation.

You want him to carry you away on a white horse?

You'll be carried away by all the merchandise we are offering at 20-30% off at the shops...and not just in white.

You'd give your good right arm for a fortuitous deal...but don't want to lose your left one in the bargain?

Then...come on down!

If you're going to Canton tomorrow...or Thursday...or Friday...why not plan on making a little 20 minute detour to beautiful, downtown Athens? For a plethora of items guaranteed to make you see stars...and not from another shopper conking you on the noggin....head to Winnie and Tulula's and Sweet Pea's for Not Your Normal White Sale. You're gonna want to give your eyeteeth for our deals, but I promise you...the only one who'll be missing teeth at the register will be our precious shop baby!

Just to be on the safe side though...be sure and bring your checkbook!

Heck y'all...he's worth the trip!

Remember...listen for the cash register bell...no hitting below the macrame' belt...and may the best woman/man win!

Like Watching Paint Dry

2012-01-23T07:58:00.000-06:00

Goodness y'all, but I lead an exciting life. I don't know which of my latest nail-biting adventures to share with y'all first...painting the bedroom...or preparing my annual sales tax report. Both are have-you-sitting-on-the-edge-of-your-seat, riveting tales to be sure, but a cliff hanger is always good for a Monday morning so whatdaya say we start with the Black Hole of Casita de Trash...the bedroom project with no end?

Let me start by saying I love paint chip cards. They're right up there with wallpaper and fabric samples in my mind. (Is that a "girly" thing or what?) I've got those little strips of paper all over the house...clipped to my man basket, peeking outta drawers, tucked in every handbag I own. Shoot...I once even made price tags outta 'em just to get rid of some 'cause I couldn't bear to throw 'em in the trash.

I also love paint...not painting per se...just the paint. In the past, I changed paint colors almost as much as I changed my underwear. I swear up and down...I think I've lost a good 10' in square footage with all the layers of paint I've added over the years. Repaint every 10 years...pshaw...about every 3 around these parts!

What I don't like is picking out paint...normally. This time was a breeze. I knew what color I wanted and lucked out my first time outta the shoot when we went to get it....Glidden's Granite Gray. In the words of Goldilocks...not too dark...not too blue...ju-u-u-st right!

I'll tell y'all a little secret about me...I am the messiest painter on the planet! When I buy paint, I always get twice what I think I'll need...as in a gallon for the walls...and one for me to wear. I get paint everywhere...and I do mean everywhere. When I take a bath after painting, I think to myself "Now how on this green earth did I get paint there?"

Another little secret about me...I don't do product endorsements. I get asked, but I make it a rule to never mix business with pleasure. I'll endorse yours 'cause I believe in you and your artistry, but never commercial ones...never. Well guess what y'all? Never say never...'cause rules were made to be broken and I'm breaking one of mine.

Believe you me...and I'm not getting paid to say this...Glidden's 2n1 paint is...in three words...Fab U Lous!

I was going to be painting over dark chocolate brown walls and the idea of having to prime the walls first gave me the willys! I make no bones about being lazy...it's who I am and doing double work on a room I was already dreading just didn't seem like the carrot-on-a-stick incentive needed to get me shaking my tail feathers. When I saw this paint...I thought why the heck not give it a try. The only thing I stood to lose was a little money if it didn't work. Law...but work it did...like a rented mule! No dripping...no streaking...total coverage on first application...easy clean-up...a procrastinator's dream paint! I had bought only one gallon in case it didn't pan out, but guess what? I still have almost a half a gallon left after painting a 10x12 room!

The best part? Except for some Jackson Pollock squiggles on my left thumbnail...Trash is paint free! That's right y'all...the only gray in my hair comes from raising kids...not from raising a paint roller! Can I get a yee to the haw?

The room is taking shape and if my camera was working properly, I'd show y'all some money shots. In the meantime, you'll just have to take my word for it. I'm working my flat-as-a-flitter hiney off and it's gonna be Bee-U-ti-ful. The fun part is almost about to commence!

Before I begin hanging curtains though...I'm off to see what else I can slap some Granite Gray on.

Here kitty, kitty, kitty!

Word To The Wise...From A Wiseacre

2012-01-12T20:26:00.001-06:00

A friend asked me recently what my word of the year was going to be and my first thought...it sure as heck ain't gonna be one that I feel inclined to include in the title of each.and.every.post! What the heck was I thinking when I dreamed up that nightmare? Folks...if you ever see me thinking of doing that again (and you'll know 'cause my eyes will be spinning in opposite directions and smoke comin' outta my ears)...do us both a favor and slap me on the forehead, get all up in my face, and holler "DON'T!" Let me tell y'all...some of my titles for 2011 were a stretch...even for me.

Like a lost marble (or two...or three), I've rolled this around in my head since New Year's eve trying to take a'holt of what and where I wanted to be in 2012. Looking at the date on the calendar this morning and realizing January was slipping away, I thought "Bingo...got it!".

PROCRASTINATION

A word that fits like a pair of Spanx. I do believe I could single-handedly put the Pro in procrastination.

(I ~~stole~~ borrowed this from somewhere and can't remember where!)

I tell myself all the time, I don't drag my feet...it's just that I work better under pressure...but I'm only fooling myself. To be fair...it's not entirely my fault. In doing a little prep work for this post, I did my research on the word procrastination and it seems it's actually a slight kink in the ol' wiring of the noggin...kinda like ADD.

For all my joking about Squirrel Alerts, it really is true. I'm easily distracted and even easier to talk into doing something...make that anything...instead of what I should be doing. It isn't always laziness on my part or even a lack of will power...it's poor time management more often than not. Obviously, a skill I failed to learn over the years. Ooops!

I have a tendency to put off and put off until I'm so overwhelmed, I don't know how to even begin. I'm not making excuses, but to keep from beating myself up relentlessly, it really got out of control while waiting for Bella to be born and continued to spiral downward like a kite that had lost its wind while waiting for her to come home. Like the wind...my priorities shifted and with it...my attention.

For example...remember this photo?

(Ugh...my Black Hole of Casita de Trash!)

'Course you don't...how could you? We'd have to take a trip in the Way Back Machine to jog your memory 'cause it's from December 2008 and half of you didn't even know me then. Would you be shocked if I told you the only thing different in this room is the boxes are back in the Christmas building (she says hanging her head in shame!)? It's true. This room is the bane of my existence...my Achilles heel...my Kryptonite. I walk in there...get the heebie-jeebies...close my eyes...slowly back out...shut the door...and promise myself I'll do it later. Deny..deny...deny!

The thing is y'all while doing my research, one suggestion for coping was to quit trying to be it all while doing it all. Instead, the experts suggest commit only to the first step and see how that goes, thus staving off the guys in white jackets and possibly real commitment.

S-o-o...here it is...my word for 2012.

ONE

That's it.

One step at a time...instead of trying to skip a few in haste and stumbling...or worse...falling.

One piece at a time...instead of running back and forth doing ten...and watching in horror as they all turn into hot messes.

One project at a time...instead of fifty that never get finished or wind up looking like...well...for lack of a better analogy..dog poo.

One day at a time...instead of worrying Thursday what could happen on Friday or what went wrong on Wednesday. Tomorrow can wait and yesterday's gone.

Finally...one life...mine...and me repurposing it.

My first step/project/day reclaiming my sanity began this week...in that blasted bedroom. The walls are swept down...along with the cobwebs...the holes patched. The blue tape is in place and the paint has been purchased. (Y'all would be so proud of me and how I handled making my paint choice. I kept calm and no bodily harm came to Cat Daddy throughout the entire ordeal!)

Once I begin painting, it'll go fast, but for now...I have to take a little breather from everything else in order to remain focused on one thing at a time. If I can conquer that ~~dratted~~ dreaded room...I'm on my way to conquering my fear of failure.

After that y'all...the world is my oyster...served on the half shell...

and I can't wait to slurp it down!

Word up...y'all!

Games Of Chance?

2012-01-08T08:18:00.002-06:00

Random...an adjective defined as having no specific pattern, purpose, or objective...

or in layman's terms...

chance.

I personally find this amusing since I don't happen to hold with chance...even with something as seemingly mundane as choosing a number for a giveaway. I couldn't have sat down, gone through all the entries, and picked a better number to win the Spoonin' pendant than #1.

# 1...Rebecca at A Re-Purposed life just "happened" to be the first commenter...just "happened" to be only one of two still awake at the stroke of midnight to ring in the New Year with me...and just "happens" to be anything but random.

R.E.'s life is full of purpose...God's purpose for her...hence her blog name. She never sits still for very long, always has an on-going project or her Bible at hand, runs up and down the highway like she was born with wheels on her tooshie, and epitomizes the words SQUIRREL ALERT. God is constantly diverting her attention with random beauty causing her to stop...pull over to the side of the road...and marvel in His goodness. She may begin a major over haul of a room, only to have Him whisper "Made you look!" sending her out to lecture, teach, and reach out to others. Her daily planner is full of changes, scribbled out dates, and cancelled plans, but it's also bulging with friendships, love, and proof-pudding of a most beautiful Re-Purposed Life.

Big...huge...thanks to all of you for your oh-so-funny comments and for taking the time to humor an old lady. BTW...one of the best was Susie's. If you get a chance...read it. Law...it's a squirrel tale to end all squirrel ~~tails~~ tales! (Warning: empty all contents of your mouth before reading!) 'Course I was sad to have to eliminate her, but good golly...she can make her own!

Sorry I had to eliminate a few others from the drawing as well, but there are rules about family members...Jenn. (Play nice and maybe your gorgeous mother will get you one for your birthday!)

A special thank you to those of y'all who became new followers. I appreciate the pleasure of your company and hope you come by again. I'll be sure and leave the light on for you...even if you've only time for a drive-by. Believe me when I say...I'll take it!

I want to emphasize...y'all are all numero uno in my book, but sadly...that ain't how the game is played. I will say here and now...for all the world (or at least a few hundred) to read...y'all could never be the dog poo on the soles of my Yellow Boxes. You're way too busy being the Dr. Scholl's to this ol' gal's heart and...SOUL!

Random... could be, but you'll have a hard time convincing me...

'cause people...

I just can't make this stuff up!

'Cause Sometimes You Feel Like A Nut

2012-01-04T09:56:00.000-06:00

In hindsight, vision is always 20/20, but when writing a post while drinking Pink Squirrels, it's more like 20/12. Let me be a warning against BWUI*...don't do it!

(*BWUI...blogging while under the influence.)

Nuts and bolts get omitted...important nuts...and even more important bolts....like extra ways to earn brownie points.

(~I do not like the cone of shame.~Up)

Why on earth didn't I mention giving a shout out to Susie on your own blogs...either with a post or on your sidebar? Really...tell me why? Oh yeah...I remember...my SADD* got in the way!

(*SADD...squirrel attention deficiency disorder.)

This people is why I cannot be left unattended...SQUIRREL!

(~Won't you please be my prisoner, please, please, please.~Up)

I also failed to mention that I'll be needing contact info...just in case you're the nut who falls from the tree when it comes time to shake out a winner. I'm not trying to get y'all to chase your tails...BUT...if you do decide to do a ~~assorted nuts~~ sorta soup-to-nuts on my giveaway...go here (not here) to let me know about it. Otherwise...I'll be the one running around...trying to gather all my nuts in one basket. I think I'm also gonna change the date to the 8th for announcing the winner for one reason and one reason only.

(Do you not agree with that I am saying to you now?~Up)

In a nutshell, the way I got it figured...the more folks who know about Susie Q...the more orders she's gonna be ~~filbert~~ filling and I really want to see her rattling that squirrel cage round and round 'til 2014! Yeah...her talent and prices are just that off-her-nut good!

(Susie girl...~My name is Dug. I have just met you and I love you.~)

Remember...let me know on the previous post here...not here. Don't make me take my earrings off. Got it...get it...good!

~I can smell you~Up

Jumping To A Foregone Conclusion

2011-12-31T20:43:00.000-06:00

Grab a glass of bubbly...this is gonna be a long-un!

As I sit here betwixt yesterday and tomorrow, I find myself drifting over the years...and not just 2011. I could wax poetic about twenty-twelve's scheduled arrival in just a few hours and all the promise it brings, but instead...I'm thinking of the past. While I don't make it a practice to live in the past, it is a nice place to visit on occasion...like New Year's eve.

And y'all wonder why I'm easily distracted...reason #1...and #2!

I've been reading all the wonderful, uplifting posts about the hidden promises of the new year and the realization of the past year's accomplishments. It does this ol' heart good to read how so many of y'all accomplished goals and reached for the stars...and got a handful for your efforts.

Many costume changes are necessary to get through Christmas Eve!

Tonight, I'm thinking on all the folks I've "met" through blogging and how each of you have enriched my life. You've been my cheerleader, coach, and confidant. You've put up with my ramblings, laughed...and cried...with me...and I hope I was there for you as well.

It's funny, but I've also realized that some friends I've made over the last 4 years don't come around as often. Gotta be honest here...at first I thought maybe I had done something wrong or maybe like Duckie said "Do I offend?", but then I came to the realization that things change and so do people.

For those of you who have been so kind to ask...Brandon is doing well. He is an amazing young man and Susan has to be smiling down at him.

Just like we can't stop the passage of time (although if anyone does come up with a invention that does...I'll be first in line to buy one.), so it goes with people. If we're truly lucky, we get blessed with individuals who may only come into our lives for a season and then have to move on...and that's okay.

As goals are set and met, friends drift out of our lives to find their own path. Doesn't mean they don't care...it's just the Lord doing His business.

One of my favorite Christmas things...cookies...and the more the merrier!

I'm as guilty as the next person. Perhaps the old adage about birds of a feather is true. I find myself more and more drawn to those who are seeking peace in their lives coupled with simplicity. Doesn't mean they aren't working as hard as the next guy/gal...just different...quieter. No fanfare, bugles, or trumpets...just their work and talent saying it all.

Take a good look at Barbie. She looked nothing like this the next day thanks to Grayzilla the beautician!

While we're on the subject of different, I find myself seeking that in blog posts as well. Not necessarily cutting edge different, but something that tells me a little bit about the person writing it. Ya know...you can tell a lot about a person by their voice/blog. If they dare to try something a little out there...whether I like it or not doesn't matter. I applaud them for trying...and their bravery in attempting to fly.

If there is humor on board...so am I. I love to laugh and I got the wrinkles to prove it. Make me laugh and I'm yours forever. In fact...just call me Ol' Shep.

Not to worry folks. No babies were harmed in taking this photo. As a matter of fact...we caught her in the act before any real damage was done!

Just as Bella Baby isn't afraid, those of you who risk it all and put yourself out there have my loyalty forever.

Who can resist a baby girl dressed in Nick & Nora's paired with boots?

What I'm trying to say (and not doing a very good job of it), is while I may not always leave a comment, I'm out here and I'm reading. I like to think you are too.

Like I was telling Rob-Uh-Lyn the other day, there are folks in our lives that are like dog poo on that favorite pair of tennis shoes. Try as you might...once it gets stuck down in those grooves...you just can't get it all off...which leaves you with two choices.

One...you can throw those sneakers out...

Two...you can keep 'em and pretend you don't notice the smell.

Consider me your dog poo. I'm here for the duration and while you may not see me...you're bound to get a whiff of me from time to time.

I do believe in Santy Claus and at my house, he wears a red corduroy shirt.

Are y'all still with me?

People, if this wasn't a lesson in Squirrel writing...I don't know what it. Let's blame it on three glasses of Champagne...agreed?

BUT...

if this doesn't illustrate how hard it is for me to stay on track...I don't know what will!

Y'all put up with a lot when you come to visit me and I want you to know...it's appreciated. To let you know how much I treasure you taking the time to visit...I'm making a change.

No...I don't intend to start writing more cohesive...mainly 'cause that just ain't in my genes.

No....the change is I had told y'all I wanted comments relating to squirrel attacks y'all might have had over the years, but because I'm feeling so mellow...I'm gonna give y'all a break.

Oh Law...do y'all have any idea how hard it is for me to give this away?

As I mentioned in a previous post, Susie of Vintage Susie & Wings, designer extraordinaire of Spoonin graciously donated this pendant for my giveaway. I first met her on line as she was traveling to Texas from California. Her posts about her road trip had me laughing out loud and almost wetting my pants...I kid you not. Meeting her at Zapp Hall, she managed to change it from almost to I did! I promise you up and down...I have never laughed so hard in my entire life.

In addition to being a hoot and a half, she is also talented out the wazoo. Her Spoonin line is just one of her products. This girl has mad skills when it comes to anything she puts her hand to...and to think...she's my friend.

Aw heck! Who am I kidding? I'm gonna order me one too!

On a side note (you didn't think you get off that easy...did ya?), some folks collect pottery, some art...I collect artists and I'm so blessed to have Susie and other amazing ones in my life. Now if I could just find some way to display 'em...life would be perfect!

So here's the deal pickle...because y'all take the time to read my meanderings...all you gotta do is leave me a comment telling me how fantastic you think this necklace is...that's it. No hoops to jump through...no following me (unless you just fall in love with me, which in that case...follow by all means), nothing else. If you have a facebook account...give Suze a shout out. It's not gonna get you any brownie points, but it's gonna make me and my girl Susie really happy.

Now...if you do decide to regale me with stories of squirrel attacks...bring 'em on. I never...repeat...never turn down a good opportunity to giggle or to know I'm not the only wing nut on the planet...and...and...that will get you an extra entry! No pressure though!

I'll announce the winner...ummm...how does January 7th sound? That gives you time to talk to me and gives me a week to get the Christmas back into the tubs from whence they came.

Gah...just add roller skates, a Roy Rogers pop gun with matching holster and I could be the poster child for Christmas gone amuck!

As I shake my tail feathers to "Mama's Got a Brand New Bag"...I'll close 'er down for 2011 with one last hurrah.

Besame Mucho and...

HAPPY NEW YEAR Y'ALL!

Red Sparkly Jumpsuits

2011-12-24T09:30:00.001-06:00

Guess whose lap I'll be jumping on tonight?

Rudolph, cue the sound of sleigh bells please!

Ta Da!

The Ghost of my Christmas Past, Present(s)...

and FUTURE!

Fa La La La La, La.La..La...LA!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE NORTH TEXAS POLE...Y'ALL!

Jumpin' Down The Chimney!

2011-12-21T10:19:00.000-06:00

My lovely, soulful friend Rebecca at A Re-Purposed Life celebrates her birthday a week before Christmas. Last year, as well as this one, she threw herself a party...only she didn't get gifts...she gave 'em. I was one of the lucky ones and my package arrived just after Christmas.

Me being me...I started to open it but found myself stopping just short of decimating it. Talking to the voice that only I can hear...the conversation went something like this.

Myself: "Girl...why don't you wait 'til next year?"

Me: "Hush your mouth...have you lost your cotton pickin' mind? I'm dying here to see what's tucked inside that beautiful paper!"

Myself: "Yeah, I know...myself included, BUT if you wait...think how much more of a thrilling surprise it'll be. Kinda like ol' Santy Claus dropped by early just 'cause you're his favorite ~~naughty~~ nice little girl. Right?"

Me: "Law...I hate to admit it, but when you're right...you're right. Okay...but I'm putting it on a low shelf so I can at least stare and drool during the year thinking about what's inside...and You.Can't.Stop.Me!"

Myself: "Wouldn't think of it ol' girl. Be my guest and I'll be thinking the same thoughts...kinda like we share a brain or somethin'!"

So-o-o...there it has sat on that shelf...just waiting for me to pluck it off and rip into. Has it been hard not to peek you ask? You betcha!

Have I peeked? Not on your life...although I came close a coupla times when I was having one of those days.

Let me tell y'all...when it came time to start dragging in the boxes for decking the halls, I first went to the bookshelf in my office and took this bad boy down. Thank goodness R.E. didn't use a lot of knots and tape or I would've been reduced to using my teeth to tear into it. (At my age, using one's teeth for anything other than chewing or grinnin' is a gamble at best...and sometimes even that is risky!)

Goodness knows I tried to be a good little girl this year...and look at what I got for my efforts!

Can you say Oh Mylanta?!?

I knew her handcrafted stockings were going to be inside, but I wasn't prepared for this pirate's booty of loveliness that awaited me. My poor eyes didn't know what had hit them...from all the shiny...or all the tears running down my chubby cheeks.

The photos did not do justice to the tiny stockings she had crafted with her own two little hands, nor the bird that winged it's way from Illinois to Texas.

SIGH!

And the pendant...2 die 4 perfect. This is exactly how Myself pictures me and our view on my life...at least in my mind's eye. As a wise person once said..."When the legend becomes fact...print the legend." and let's be honest...I tend to be a legend in my own mind...'specially around the Casita de Trash when no one is looking!

This is my way of saying Thank You Rebecca for being such a cherished friend and for getting my Christmas spirit going early on...and a thank you to myself for making me wait!

It was so worth it!

Speaking of giveaways...have I got a doozy coming y'alls way next week...thanks in part to my crazy, gypsy-souled friend, Susie of Spoonin fame. (Did I mention crazy?) Now pay close attention...there will be a test later.

One day next week (I'll not say when, 'cause in case y'all haven't noticed...I've been more than just a little SADD* here lately.) and to convince myself I'm not the ~~only nut job~~ Lone Stranger this time of year, I'm planning a special post to give away this fantastic pendant made by Susie. Very apropos...wouldn't you agree?

(*SADD: Squirrel Attention Deficiency Disorder)

I'm all over the place normally, but at Christmas...seems like I'm worse. Could be all the glitter, tinsel, and lights. (At least that's what I tell myself...and myself always has my back in agreement.) 'Course it could also be the crazy hoops we all jump through to get it all done by the 24th. Whatever the reason...I am a loose cannon until the 26th.

I've been known to hide gifts and not find them until 3 years later. One year's family Christmas portraits are still MIA.

I've prepared appetizers lovingly referred to as "foot dip". FYI...there is such a thing as too much fresh bleu cheese.

I've been caught swinging from the chandelier with my hair in hot rollers, sans underwear by early arriving guests...talk about shock and awe!

I've set guests' holiday sweaters on fire. Who knew ugly sweaters were that flammable?

In other words...I am a squirrel gone amuk this time of year, but I have a hunch I'm not alone here. To prove my ~~theory~~ hunch...I'm gonna give y'all a week to think of your most hilarious squirrel tail...ooops...tale to leave as a comment.

Not this week y'all...next week...got it? If you do it this week...it could count as a squirrel moment...or just that I'm too long winded and you zoned out eons ago! Hmmm...I may even find out if you really do read me.

I'll be back next week to give y'all all the 411, but in the meantime, if I don't talk to you between now and then...

from my casita to yours...and with much love from me and mine...

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

You Say Jump, I Say You Betcha and I'll Shout Too!

2011-12-12T22:30:00.000-06:00

My goodness...it seems like forever since I last sat down here and talked. What's that you say...it has been forever? I know...I know.

So much going on around here at the Casita de Trash, I hardly have time to catch my breath. You too huh? Yeah...this is a crazy time of year for all of us...and talk about crazy...you will never guess what we were up to (or should I say down at) this weekend. Instead of being covered in tinsel, glitter, and scotch tape...we were surrounded by tulle, perfume, and leather.

Oh you naughty boys and girls...I know what you're thinking, but no...not that. Cat Daddy and I made the trip to Round Top for the first ever Winter Junk Gypsy Prom. Can you say "Oh Law...Trash in a can-can!"?

Heidi...do you have any idea what a mischief maker Jackson is when he channels Buddy Holly?

I know I should have been decking the halls, but y'all know me....I can't resist a party...

and y'all also know Cat Daddy can't resist a photo op and we all know how the ladies can't resist him!

Animal magnetism with a splash of Hai Karate...what can I say?

"Be careful how you use it!"

They were lined up and waiting to bust a move!

I gotta stop here for a disclaimer. For any of y'all who might be thinking the Gypsies are sittin' pretty with their new HGTV show...think again. Sittin' is the last thing this family is getting to do these days!

Oh mylanta!

I do believe they are working harder than rented mules, what with the show's filming schedule plus trying to get their brick and mortar store built. Sheesh...there is so much that goes into shooting just one episode...I can't begin to wrap my noggin around what they've been through getting 13 into the can.

(BTW...did any of y'all watch the sneak preview? What'd ya think?)

In addition to coordinating the entire event...down to primping the hall...there were interviews, prep work for another shoot this week, running back and forth...all while taking care of sick babies and being sick themselves, but in the world of show biz...there are no days off...the show must go on.

Walking in, we were hit with a blast of music from The John Evans Band and Baby Cakes...the show did go on and boy howdy...was it ever ON!

Lights...cameras...action...

and a whole lotta tail feather shakin'!

Told to wear their junkiest prom attire, the 150+ guests complied...whole hog and whole hearted. It was a Texasified tangle of big hair, big hats, and big fun!

Folks came from miles around for this gaudy extravaganza and an extra, heapin' helpin' of whoppin' good times!

(Does she remind anyone else of "Jessie"? I swear up and down...she was just as tiny, but way cuter!)

Sisters On The Fly were representing and they were just so gosh darn cute! Their motto on their site reads "We have more fun than anyone." and let me tell ya...they were out to prove it. They asked everyone to write a short note to Amie and Jolie and presented the girls with a huge jar full of love notes. How sweet and thoughtful...right?

I'm telling y'all...SOTF girls are rootin' tootin' cute in fuzzy chaps!

I got tickled watching how many times the Gypsies had to replace kissed off lip gloss. That gloss was outside the purse more than it was in it 'cause that outhouse-turned-photo booth hasn't seen that much action since...well gosh I don't rightly know. I reckon since being replaced with indoor plumbing! All I do know is the line to get a photo and a kiss with the girls was stretched out for a mile...and so were the grins!

I don't know if I've ever told y'all, but I adore paper dresses. I think it's one of the most fanciful and beautiful art forms out there. Can you imagine my face when I got a load of this dress? Stunning is the only word to describe it...simply stunning.

Alas, being paper, it wasn't necessarily built to last...talk about a paper trail. Close to the end of the evening, I wondered if this gorgeous lady was going to be modeling her birthday suit, but the dress held up. I didn't find out who the tailor was, but BRAVO!

Hmmm...I wonder if Royer's had any pies go MIA last week.

.This creation was another of my faves. Queen of Hearts you ask? Nah...I dub thee The Queen of Tarts! Both of these ensembles deserved standing O's.

Look Ma...no pigtails!

See...I really was there...and no Janie isn't pretending like she doesn't ~~know~~ see me. She's just a busy, busy woman. With the show, I don't know if there ever is down time for any of them.

Even Phillip takes a back seat to text messages....especially when there are sick, little ones back at home. Sigh...I wish I had got a good photo of the two of 'em dancing...best couple on the floor.

It was a duke's mixture of glam...with some of that glam even arriving in matched sets!

At the end of the night all I could think was...

CAN I GET A YEE TO THE HAW?

Lest y'all get to thinking ol' Trash has forgot about my little teaser a post or so back...fret not. A hint is hidden inside the tree of what else I've been cooking up besides Christmas cookies, but for now, it's time to take the...

TRASH OUT!

Jumping The Couch

2011-11-30T09:00:00.001-06:00

This is such a crazy, rush-rush time of the year for me that without lists I'd be running around like the proverbial chicken muttering "Which way do I go...Which way do I go?"! So-o-o like Santa...I'm making my list and checking it once...or twice.

Christmas Open House at Winnie & Tulula's?

Check!

Thanks Margo for taking the photo. I never seem to have a camera ready when I need it!

New flooring in living room?

Thanks to my oldest melon-head...Check!

(I knew the 1349 hours I spent in labor delivering that 9 pound...most of it head...bundle of Joey would pay off someday!)

SQUIRREL ALERT!!!

I just have to stop here and ask...

is it possible to be in love with a floor?

So much so...that if it weren't for Cat Daddy standing in the way...I'd marry it?

(BTW...is it really bigamy if one of the parties in question is an ~~laminate~~ inanimate object? Just checking!)

Y'all...it was love at first click. Forget the sound of reindeer hooves...give me the sound of lengths of laminate clicking together! AH-H-H...music to my ears.

Watching it slowly come together, changing my room from boring to boardilicious, was worth all the broken nails, ragged knuckles and blowing a knee out it cost me to get it ready.

Pshaw! Who needs two knees anyways...although Mr. OMH might disagree.

(Did I mention how OCD he is when he's working? Oy vey!)

I am so crazy for this floor...I hate to place anything on it...except me!

Y'all know how a dog will roll on his back on the grass. You know...with the legs straight up in the air and wiggling all around?

That's me...RIGHT...NOW!

(Move over Tom Cruise and I'll show you how I do crazy!)

I'll get back to my check lists just as soon as I can find my way to make it up off this beautiful floor and regain my senses!

Don't wait up for me...this may take a while!

2011-11-24T22:20:00.001-06:00

Tonight there are so many gifts I have in my life to be thankful for...I don't even know where to begin.

Thankful for the mind numbing tiredness that engulfs me as I sit here and type. The kind of exhaustion that wraps around me like a blanket on a cold winter's night. A wonderful tiredness that comes from preparing food for those I love and who love me back. Bone tired from standing at a sink washing dishes, but thankful for the hot water and suds in which to wash them, knowing I'll sleep soundly from a day well spent.

I'm thankful for the ability to laugh...at the antics of children and adults alike...as well as at myself.

For rolls, a cake and a turkey that didn't come out quite right, but still graced our table beautifully and the hands I held as a small child's sweet voice said grace, I am so very thankful.

Thankful for the ache in my back that came from carrying His special gift (in the form of a two year old) around on my hip and not from carrying around old grudges or hard feelings.

Blessed for my tired, achy knees that managed to hold me upright all day, yet still allowed me to kneel at day's end, bow my head and count my blessings...one.by.one.

Grateful for my eyes to see all the beautiful faces that surrounded me today and to see clearly what matters most.

Blessed beyond measure for my ears to hear the chattering around me, the lilt of happy voices, and to hear the most beautiful word in the world..."Nana"...spoken by two precious girls. To hear "I love you more" spoken with a bit of lisp and in baby-ese and to know they do, I am thankful...even though I know it's impossible for them to love me more than I love them.

Thankful for my tongue that allows me to taste all the different flavors on the table, talk until the family throws me a roll to shut me up, and gives me the voice to praise Him.

Rene' is having a giveaway on her blog Miss Gracie's House and she inspired my Thanksgiving post. Sometimes I get so busy with the day-to-day, I fail to see all the small blessings in my life. Not to make light, but simple things like indoor plumbing, a pillow, or breathing in and out that sometimes I fail to say thank you for. Thanks to Rene', I'm going to be listing the gifts I've been given on a weekly basis. It may take me the rest of my life to say thank you to God for all that He has given me, but He took the time to bless me....and after all...what time I have, is given to me by Him and belongs to Him.

All that I have...all that I am...all that I hope to be...

from a humble and grateful heart...

I say Thank you Lord.

Jumping Bail

2011-11-18T09:35:00.000-06:00

Before y'all get to thinking I've lost my head and run off to join the pirate's life with Johnny, I thought I'd better stick my tangled mess out and let you know...don't pay the ransom...I escaped.

I've been running myself ragged getting ready for our big reveal at Winnie & Tulula's Christmas Open House. So much so, that in my haste...I've hot glued my left hand to my hair and I'm really typing this with one hand ~~tied~~ glued behind my back.

All the vendors are working on bringing y'all a splendific eye-feast fit for a king...or in W&T Land...a queen and what a queen I might add. Oh mylanta...Marie Antoinette no less! Sorry Louie...you just don't cut the mustard and speaking of cutting...here at W&T's, we don't believe in cutting corners when it comes to good taste...only cake...and occasionally a rug!

The windows are being covered to heighten the anticipation (kinda like Christmas morning for grown-ups)...so sorry y'all...no peeking allowed.

SQUIRREL ALERT!

This is the one of the few times when I crawl into that window where my classic ass-et isn't ogled and my ten-point stance for getting up offa the floor isn't shared by all who happen by!

Ooohh...and did someone mention squirrels? Just wait 'til you see what I got planned for y'all in the near future. All I'm gonna say right now is sometimes you feel like a nut!

Now on with our Marie Christmas commercial before it's off with my head!

Me being me, I got to thinking about how Marie might spend her time...and money...if she were around now. Something tells me that rather than lying around on a chaise nibbling pastries, she'd be hitting the streets of Paris for shopping on the Avenue Montaigne and stopping by Laduree's for macarons, BUT if she were in Athens...(Texas, not Greece y'all)...she'd definitely be stopping by W&T's for a heaping helping of je ne sais quoi and popping into Sweet Pea's Bistro for the same sweet little nosh. Heck...at Sweet Pea's you can make it a full-on nosh-up. The menu is 2die4 delish, delectable, decadent, and divine!

Mes amies...you too can be a queen for a day...or night. Just make plans to join us on the evening of the 25th or all day on the 26th. We know how to treat you like royalty down here at the North Texas Pole.

Marie would say "Let them eat cake!"...and you see where that got her!

I say "What are you waiting for...an invitation?".

OK...in that case...consider this your hand engraved invitation.

Now...what do y'all say?

Trying To Jump Up Off The Floor

2011-11-10T05:56:00.001-06:00

I thought there couldn't be anything sadder than the sight of a slightly (ahem) mature, chubby lady crawling around on the floor; ripping her knuckles a new one, all the while pulling up old carpet tacking and muttering to herself..."I am a girl...dadgummit...I am a girl!"

Maybe the sight of a shall remain ~~clueless~~ nameless slightly (ahem) mature coupla chubbies lassoing the old carpet and tying it to the back of a pickup to drag it outta the house is funnier...but not sadder.

Y'all...it was one for the record books! Me in the driver's seat, heading that raggedy rug to the brush pile and Cat Daddy doing the heeling! That's rodeo talk y'all for we're lazy, old and too stoved up to carry it.

No y'all. Sadder was my face when I sat down to post about our monkeyshine adventure in DIY'ing and seeing that Blogger had disabled my blog!

My first thought was really...ya gotta be kidding me?

My second thought was gone...all my words gone.

I was beside myself. I took the necessary steps to try and restore, but after reading the Help section, I had a sinking feeling I might not get it back.

Three years of posts...words I would never be able to rewrite...Bella's story...Cat Daddy tall tales...gone. Comments I could never reread when I was feeling blue or lost or hurt...gone. My sidebar with all the wonderful folks I have met...all gone, leaving me with a hole in my heart and a colorless world of black and white.

The photos I wasn't worried about. Those were stored in my own folders and not just in Picasa, but again...the words...the tears...the love...gone.

(BTW...thank you Anne for your sweet post. I'm betting you wish you hadn't picked a disabled blog! Oh...and if you see any misspelled words...spellcheck ain't working this morning either...grr!)

Thankfully...this morning all was right again. I received an e-mail my account had been restored and an apology for the inconvenience it had caused me.

Inconvenience...really? This wasn't an inconvenience. An inconvenience is all my dining room stuff piled in every room of the house. This was just a heap of frustration and one sleepless night.

It's not that I'm addicted to blogging (she says with her tongue in her cheek), only that there are posts I want my Trashettes to have. You better believe this old gal when she says (with no tongue in cheek) I will be printing out certain posts with comments to begin scrapbooks for them and I will be backing everything up on hard drive.

Oh Roby...have I got a project for you!

This old heart just couldn't take going through that again!

Bella's photo was taken by photographer extraordinaire, Melissa at Foto Fabulous. If you are in need of a superb people-person and are in the DFW area...Melissa is your gal! Give her a call and you can thank me later.

Ahhh...it feels good to have color back in my world again!

Is Flitting and Jumping The Same Thing?

2011-11-02T10:54:00.000-05:00

Never...and I do mean never...have I ever had such a hard time getting a post up. It's not like it's bad news or I'm ill...on the contrary. I spent last Saturday with all my girls at the Dallas Arboretum and had a wonderful day beginning with lunch at the Olive Garden.

The day was gorgeous, the temp perfect and I was with my precious Trashettes. So what seems to be the problem you ask?

Ummm...the answer would be ME!

Since coming back from the Greatest Show On Dirt, I have been all over the place, running around like a chicken with her head cut off.

There are so many things to do with the holidays just around the corner and my SADD* is in full throttle.

I'll start one project...then run to the next room to work on something else...then remember I need to pay bills...etc., etc., etc. I know I'm not alone here. C'mon y'all...give. How do you manage it all?

(*Squirrel Attention Deficiency Disease)

There has got to be a light at the end of this tunnel...or at least an "off" switch to stop this crazy merry-go-round I'm on.

I feel like things are piling up on me in my effort to get about a gazillion things done in just a few short weeks 'cause y'all know how fast Thanksgiving and Christmas will get here once the days get to rolling.

The worst of it...I'm temporarily, creatively depleted! I'm trying to plan my window at Winnie & Tulula's for our Christmas Open House (the Friday after Thanksgiving...more info to come) and nothing is suiting my fancy. Heck...even my space is in need of something...anything...besides dust for decor!

The last thing I needed to do was take a day off, but you know what? I'm not sorry...nope...not one iota. In fact...spending time with the ones I love is the only thing I am certain about these days. This, I'm willing to bet a dollar to a donut on, we All agree on. Am I right or am I right?

Sometimes finding the perfect piece of junk isn't as important as finding a butterfly...or shutter bug!

If Grayzilla isn't in a photo...it's 'cause she was behind the lens...thank goodness and not me! Y'all know the camera is in the purse on my shoulder, but never taken out for use. Also...pay no attention to the date on the photos. Seems like Kitten #1 is like her Mama Cat when it comes to techno-gear!

I really do wonder how some of y'all manage it all. I know you have to-do lists as long as mine. I just wish someone would do a post sharing how to get it all done...and not look like one hot mess at day's end 'cause right now...chaos is running amuk, amuk, amuk at the Casita de Trash!

Do you make lists? I make lists...then forget where I put them.

Do you plan your day out the night before. I tend to fall asleep right after I find a pen to write with.

Do you fly by the seat of your pants? 'Cause I gotta tell ya...I've been using that method and so far the only thing flying around here is fur...between me, myself and I!

Is it all make believe and you're really not as put together as I think you are? You can tell me...I won't tell anyone.

Just between us girls...do you ever feel overwhelmed and ~~burned~~ ~~burnt~~ (aw...forget it) burned out? I need to know! I hate thinking I'm the only one out there who just isn't up to the tasks at hand.

Psst...I gotta tell ya...in addition to not being able to focus on creating anything but a disaster...I'm also at a loss for words. Talk about running on empty. I have nothing remotely funny, clever or witty to say or write. This rarely happens to me...'cause talking is my middle name. (Actually...it's my first...but like in everything else I'm trying to do...I digress!)

I'm trying to read y'alls' posts early in the mornings, but short of leaving a "it's so pretty" comment, I have nothing to say. Understand...it's not because I don't want to...it's just that I can't find the right words to make a coherent statement. I guess it's finally happened. Someone has hit my mute button. I knew it was just a matter of time, but gosh...without my words I feel so nekkid...and that my friends is not a pretty sight.

Help a girl out y'all. Tell me how to recharge (and don't say rest 'cause we all know that ain't gonna happen until 'round about January) and refocus on blogging and junking. Is it time to go a different direction...change my layout...get a haircut...take up yoga, hang gliding...what? The suggestion box is open for comment, but hurry. Something's bound to give around here and it just may be more than my Spanx can handle.

~Now...bring on that horizon!~

Jumpin' Outta My Skin!

2011-10-25T18:09:00.003-05:00

If any of y'all have ever been to the Big Shows, you know first hand how hard it is to find decent accommodations. We have stayed for years at what I lovingly refer to as the La Grange Hilton. It's clean, has a microwave, fridge, running water and it's relatively cheap....all things I hold dear.

Trust me...not every motel is clean! Oh the horror stories I could tell!

This time I needed and wanted more. With our children coming with their families for Cat Daddy's birthday bash, I wanted us to all stay together.

Now as much as I love my kids...there is such a thing as too much togetherness. I knew our motel room would never work...not unless we threw down a coupla Baptist pallets and hung the two little Trashettes from some nails on the walls.

So I just did what I always do when I need help...I prayed.

I started by looking online for cabins or cottages to rent. I found one I just loved and thought would be perfect for us, but it was already booked. No surprise there. Things book six months in advance...even the La Grange Hilton.

Shelley suggested I contact the Round Top Chamber of Commerce. (BTW...if you're looking for a cottage/cabin/B&B to rent in the spring...this is a great place to start.)

E-mails started coming in, but unfortunately...my pocket book had gone out. We decided it wasn't going to happen...at least not for this show.

Why would anyone ever question the power of God...including me?

The evening before we were set to leave, I received an e-mail.

Are you waiting for it?

Yeppers!

The e-mail was from Sue...the first cabin I had inquired about.

Amazing?

Yeppers!

They had received a cancellation and the cabin was ours for the full two weeks if we wanted it. Did we still want it?

Did we?

Not just yeppers...but Heck Yeah Yeppers!

The best part?

The cost for two weeks was the same as one week at the LGH!

He knew my heart's desire and He fulfilled it...just as He does every day. God never ceases to amaze me His wonders to perform...down to the smallest of details like our budget.

This cabin was perfect. A cozy living room, two bedrooms,a complete kitchen...and indoor plumbing! The only thing missing was a television and while I thought that might be a deal breaker for Cat Daddy....turned out...he couldn't have cared less. He knew we were being given a gift and he was not about to thumb his nose at such a blessing.

Sue and Al were wonderful and so was their little cabin. Charming is the only word to describe it.

Rustic, cozy and sitting in the middle of silence...just what we needed to unwind. After a hot, hard day at the fields, it was so nice to come home to.

All the kids got to stay at least one night with us and loved it...although they were a little taken aback when we first led them to the back of the woods with only the light of the silvery moon to guide us. I'm pretty sure I saw Misty leaving a trail of bread crumbs to find her way back to the real world! I ain't gonna lie...it was a tad spooky at night.

Under different circumstances, it could have been like a second honeymoon. Fact is...we were so tired by the end of each day...moonin' and spoonin' was the last thought on our minds...or at least mine anyways! Him...he was so busy snoring, I'm not sure he had a thought or if he did...he fell asleep before he had a chance to give it a second one.

We did have a couple of stray kittens (the two-legged kind) come and stay a night with us....again complete with...ahem...~~redundant~~ witty remarks about serial killers, Lost, Salem's Lot, etc. etc.

The back deck overlooks a very wooded creek bank. 'Course there was no water in this branch, but it still was a gorgeous view during the day. At night...let's just say it was more than just a scoch scary.

Kristi (my first little hobo-ette) and I were sitting out on the deck late one night and the subject of Sasquatch sitings came up. Now while I did see a huge raccoon the size of a Chow dog one night (and may I add...I scurried inside quickly upon said siting!) and a possum who made a habit of a regular nightly stroll...Big Foot had not been seen....not that I was lookin' mind ya.

We kept laughing and talking about ol' Mr. Sasquatch when I swear up and down...we saw yellow eyes in the woods. All of a sudden...we were really tired and thought we better take ourselves on indoors where the light...and Cat Daddy, our big ol' he-man...was!

Not that we scared ourselves silly...by no means. We really were tired.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it!

See...not scary at all!

Then a certain little red-headed Red.Neck (my second little hobo-ette) came and stayed on Friday night. She and I were sitting out on the deck talking...'cause that's what we do ya know and I was telling her about how goofy Kristi and I had been about Sasquatch.

(I just love saying Sasquatch. Has a nice ring to it...wouldn't you agree?)

Anyhoo...she starts talking about Yeti. Now I know for certain there are no Yetis in Texas.

(Yettas, yes...Yetis, no...it's too dang hot!)

I thoughtlessly mentioned I didn't know if there were any Jasons or Smoke Monsters running around in the woods.

Oh yeah...one thing led to another...when suddenly...she and I decided we were really tired and needed to go indoors where the light...and C.D...was.

I'd like to add if (and I'm only saying if) I needed to change my britches after either of these nights, it was from all the laughing you understand...not that I was scared pea green.

And again...that's my story and I'm sticking to it!

Somehow two attack cats didn't seem like quite enough protection against things that go bump in the night. We needed our resident big, strong, manly-man to go out and see if there was anything or anyone lurking just beyond the light. Plus we figured if IT got him...he would keep IT busy just long enough for us to make a fast get-a-way...and double plus...I knew IT would let him go as soon as daylight hit!

In spite of the heat and being bone dead tired at the end of each day, we were happy for two weeks in our cool, little cabin...even with Sasquatch breathing down our necks.

I want to say thank you to Sue and Al for sharing their "Little Hut In The Woods" with us. Having it made our show more endurable and certainly more memorable. It provided not only shelter, but the opportunity to be with dear friends and family, to create memories that will keep us warm and laughing for a long time...all without having to sleep like stacked cord wood.

Before I close this fish tale, I would like to thank Robelyn for sharing her photos and allowing me to share them with y'all.

(Aren't her photography skills Fab U Lous?)

Now I think I better go check the trailer to make sure no hoboes in the form of Sasquatch followed us home!

Jumping Outta My Seat Saying Encore, Encore!

2011-10-19T13:32:00.002-05:00

Y'all know how much I love my Zapp Hall family and you also know how much I love talking. Seems like the two are a match made in heaven, so I thought it only fittin' to share a coupla made in heaven marriages with y'all today. Let's call it a fairy tale within a fairy tale...what'd ya say?

Once upon a time (as legend has it), a handsome, little, long-legged boy from Arkansas met a pretty, little, curly-headed girl from Texas. The years pass and the little boy and girl get married. From this union, they produced two offsprings that were the light of their lives. Little did they know, these two baby girls would grow up to be famous or that the celebrity these little girls would achieve would be a result of the best kind of upbringing. All the values they held as naturally as breathing would be instilled in their daughters with their positive outlook on life, love, and work being the compass to the little girls' adult lives. To dream big, believe in yourself, have faith, laugh, and work hard...really hard...really, really hard...would be the traits they passed on...not just curly hair or long legs.

(I could put "and they lived happily ever after" in right about now, but that would be just half the story...besides...I ain't outta words...yet!)

The years continue to pass and what starts out as a small family business in junking, keeps getting bigger and bigger, eclipsing even Janie and the girls' dreams of what could be. Their name and look becomes synonymous with rowdiness while tapping into the secret yearning residing in all of us to be gypsies. Wild, untamed and totally rebels with a cause...'cause the Gypsys said we could fly if we dared! In going about their business while minding their own, they redefined style while defying the rules.

(HGTV tent at Zapp Hall)

It was only a matter of time before the powers-that-be realized this family was a goldmine tailored made for television. Lucky HGTV for spotting this opportunity and grabbing it...and smart.

This union between HGTV and The Junk Gypsys will be a new reality series debuting in March 2012.

I KNOW!

Finally...a real show about real junkers doing it for real...complete with dirt, bruises, and heart!

(Please make a note of how one is supposed to wear shorts with boots when junking. Also pay close attention to the work gloves. These two aren't sissies or fools.)

SQUIRREL ALERT!!!

I've known this family a long, long time. I've seen first hand the work and hours they put in. I've seen 'em clean and dolled up...and I've seen 'em dirty, sweaty and looking like the rest of us...only somehow much prettier. I know they work from sun-up 'til sundown. Whatever it takes to get it done...they do. If one is down for the count, someone in the family is there to pick up the slack.

Nothing worth having in this life comes easy and if you're thinking it did for them...wrong! They've been busy plowing their fields to be ready when God said it's time to plant...and now they are about to enjoy a bountiful harvest from the fruits of their labors.

If you're also thinking I'm guilty of name dropping...you are so right. Junk Gypsy is a name I'll gladly drop over and over...not because of the fame attached to it...but because of the friendship we share. I want everyone to know of their new success because it represents the success of every one who takes pride in what they do, having the faith to dream, and for not sitting on one's duff waiting for things to happen.

It's for never stepping on others to reach a goal, but mainly it's for never forgetting what matters most in life...family.

As Jolie so aptly put it...for never losing your soul in the process and for knowing that it and family are the two most prized (and sometimes coveted) possessions.

To my way of thinking...this is gonna be a landmark show. Real people doing real work and smiling not at the cameras, but at life...theirs.

They will be taking all the lessons learned at their mom and dad's knees and passing it on to their own little ones...continuing the family tradition. How on earth could America not fall in love with this family?

(In the interest of full disclosure...I shamelessly ~~stole~~ borrowed all but one of these photos from the Gypsyville blog....with their kind permission...of course!)

There's nothing contrived about this family. They do love junk...they do love each other...and they do love what they do. In doing so honestly and humbly...life has no choice but to love them back...abundantly!

Janie and Phillip proudly own the bragging rights to their girls, but heck...we at Zapp are pretty darn proud of 'em too! In fact...most of us at the greatest show on dirt think of them as our girls as well.

~~I've~~ We at Zapp have been privileged to have a front row seat to watch as the legend grew, beginning in 1987 and with that first prom way back in 2004.

We've seen the crowd go from a few to thousands. We've seen the Today show filming it. We've seen the press and magazine articles. We've seen 'em go from 0 to 60 in the blink of an eye...never losing their passion or drive.

We've seen them add to the family tree and to think it all started with a little, long-legged, Arkansas boy and a little, curly headed Texas girl!

WHEW!

So I think I need to say thank you to HGTV for seeing what we've been saying all along. These girls were born to be stars...big ol' Texas stars!

Is this marriage of the century? It may just be!

Will y'all have to wait until March 2012 to find out?

No...just set your DVR (or yourself in a comfy chair) for a sneak peek November 27th and then let me know.

One thing I already know.

And they lived happily ever after!

JOLIE and AMIE proving...

"WELL BEHAVED WOMEN RARELY MAKE HISTORY!"

The End?

Not hardly!!!

Hey Diddle Diddle, Trash Loves to Piddle and the Cat Jumped Over the Moon

2011-10-10T11:30:00.001-05:00

I know by now you've read and seen all the photos of the Greatest Show On Dirt...or as I came to call it...Hellzapoppin'!

Yes...it was hotter than a pepper sprout, but we survived...barely!

(Tell me...how can one sit in a sauna day after day...and still manage to gain weight?)

Yes...the crowds were thin, but those who came...brought cash.

(I'm talking hard core, serious shoppers who braved the heat. No turkey leg chompers in this crowd!)

Yes...in true carny fashion, the Show will and did go on.

(AND...we did it without a safety net!)

In spite of things not being exactly how we planned, the big guy's birthday bash went on too. So some of my appetizers didn't make it to the field, the wine glasses were a tad dusty, and I happened to look like one hot mess in every photo. So what?

Instead of worrying about what didn't get done, I chose to focus on what did...a good time for him in his own personal Neverland.

Family: a group of people united by certain convictions or a common ~~affliction~~ ~~addiction~~ affiliation.

To me..family is more about sharing a lifeline rather than a bloodline.

Family are those who get me and mine...and still choose to love us...thus becoming our lifeblood.

In my life, the common denominators that define family are a raucous sense of humor, a joy for life...and laughter...with just a little junking spirit thrown in for good measure.

Family are those folks we welcome with open arms into our lives. They bring the much needed spice to add the BAM-M-M into the olio of our existence.

Not because we're related by birth...but by choice...mine...and theirs.

Imagine if the only flavors to pick from were butter brickle and vanilla...or worse still...no choice at all...just vanilla.

BORING!!!

I'm not sure why we say family AND friends, 'cause in my home (whether it's the Casita de Trash or the CaTillac Heights) it's one and the same. The minute you show up at the door with a smile...you're practically family.

If you can laugh at yourself as well...oh law...consider yourself one of our crazy family members. Y'all know which ones I'm talking about...those lucky few we put on the front porch for all the world to see.

Now just try and disown me...if you can! I double-dog dare ya!

A special thank you to all our family (all 100+ of you) who dropped by for Cat Daddy's 60 at 6-ish B-Day.

By the end of the day, with all those perfumes lingering on his shirt...it did waft a bit with the scent of a woman/women. Can you say Cat House instead of Cat Daddy?

In taking the time to come by, hug his neck, shower him with attention and goofy gifts, thereby making his day...you've endeared yourselves to me in ways you'll never know.

He and I have been blessed to be doing something we love and in doing so...be loved back.

Our workplace is a cow pasture...our cubicle...a 20x30 tent. Our co-workers come from all over the U.S. and for nine days, twice a year...it's Old Home Week at the Funny Farm.

Our little Ring-Mistress at Zapp, along with her crew, work steadfastly to provide the best work environment possible with her main goal being a successful show for us. Cheryl is the only CEO I know who wants us to be one big ol' happy family and does her best to make it happen.

How many big corporations can boast that?

That...my friends...is a family business and one I consider myself fortunate to be a part of.

(No...this isn't the ring-mistress. This is just my pride showing! Thanks for the loan of the photos, Robelyn and the props Mal.)

(In case you're wondering if the Big Cat was happy at the end of the show...the Cheshire Cat smile says it all.)

Once again, I failed to take a lot of photos capturing the feel and look of the show. I didn't even get photos of all who dropped by during the week to say "Happy Birthday". I know...bad, bad...really bad Trash, but trust me...it was fantastic....and just too darn hot for me to get up for my camera.

(Even though Jenn, Roby, and Bella had to leave, I couldn't resist putting in a little teaser of what's coming later. I also want to say thank you for all the comments and prayers for Brandon. This is what makes you a huge part of our family too.)

Ya know y'all...it takes a mighty self-confident man to wear a tiara (thanks Darla) emblazoned with rhinestones, but I do believe he managed to carry it off.

Remember...always.

Laughter and a smile are the best accessories a sharp-dressed man....and his family can wear.

Just like freckles.

2011-10-04T11:04:00.000-05:00

We're home and it feels so good to be back in the Casita de Trash...even with the mountain of laundry I've yet to scale. This trip was different and I'll be trying to explain what I mean by that in future posts. I will tell y'all I came home with a renewed appreciation and love for my family and friends.

I'm sure I've mentioned in my past writings of how when Jenn married Roby, we were blessed not only with a wonderful son-in-law, but with a doll baby in the guise of a 7 year old grandson as a bonus, courtesy of Roby and his ex-wife, Susan.

Brandon is a big part of our lives even though I don't get to see him as much as the girls. He's talented, smart as a whip, and can do just about anything he puts his hands..or mind...to. He's been raised not to fear defeat, but to accept all challenges life throws at him head on.

I'm sharing all this with y'all for a purpose.

Brandon has been thrown the worst challenge a young man can face and needs all the prayers and support he can get.

Jenn and Roby had came to Zapp for the birthday party, but on Saturday received word Susan had been in a motorcycle accident in Oklahoma. After making several phone calls, Roby learned she had been killed while on a group ride...the details of which don't really matter. All that mattered was she was gone at 44 and Roby had to be the one to break the news to her mother...and Brandon.

They immediately did a turn around and headed back to Roanoke, Susan's mother, Donna, and to Brandon.

In the meantime, the Roanoke Police Department came to Donna's home and I have to say praise God for sending such caring individuals. They remained with Donna and Brandon, providing comfort until Jenn and Roby could get there. After receiving Roby's permission, one of the officers told Brandon what had happened and held the two of them when the reality of this nightmare hit them.

Brandon is an amazing young man who is doing the best he can to try and understand the whys...of which no one can answer nor explain. He made the statement to his dad that at least she was doing something she loved. Such intuitiveness for one so young makes my heart swell with love and pride.

~Fear not, for I am with you;

Be not dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you, yes I will help you.

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.~Isaiah 41:10

Everyone wants to try and take care of Brandon...he only wants to take care of his grandmother. My heart is breaking for him, but at the same time I am so proud of him. Losing a parent, especially a mother, is one of the hardest things in the world to experience, but to lose one at the age of 15...there just aren't words. Even though he won't be 16 until next month he is already showing the man he will become. He is strong, full of grace under pressure and such a testament to his mother's love and care. Susan has left a living legacy of what a beautiful, caring woman and mother she was in this remarkable young man. No words carved in concrete on a man-made marker could ever say as much about her life while on this earth as this child's face reveals.

I ask simply for your prayers to help him continue in this walk he is on and for the future that lays ahead of him without her. Even though she is gone, I pray he feels her love surrounding him and strengthening him every day of every month of every year.

Thank you.

Debbie

~When you pass through the water, I will be with you;

And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.

When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you.~Isaiah 43:2

All Jacked Up And Jumpy To Boot

2011-09-18T05:46:00.002-05:00

Anyone interested in the latest a-TIRE for luaus?

And so begins the first installment of the fall 2011 edition of "As The Wheel Turns".

Episode I...The Pick-A-Part starring those two lovable lug-heads...Trash and Cat Daddy.

Sure hope y'all are gonna get to come by Zapp Hall. I'm thinking the man could use a hug right about NOW!

Talk at y'all soon.

Party Jumper

2011-09-16T10:01:00.003-05:00

Whoa Nelly...you caught me!

Just putting myself together a little ensemb' for my Pop's big ol' Cat Daddy 60th Birthday Jamboree, September 24th at Nana's tent at the Greatest Show On Dirt.

Oh yeah...wouldn't miss this for love or money. Not even a Yo Gabba Gabba marathon could keep me home!

Whaaa?

Don't judge...a diaper paired with pink kicks (and an official Nana-do) is all the rage in my neck o'the woods.

Besides...my Pop has an outfit just like it...so there!

Play your cards right...I'll even pack an extra Pull-Up just for you.

Psst...I can be bribed with tortilla soup...just saying.

See you at Zapp.

Just as soon as I...can...get...this...tootsie....IN!

One Jumped Over The Cuckoo's Nest

2011-09-14T18:42:00.000-05:00

It seems amid all the excitement of getting ready for the Greatest Show on Dirt, I've neglected to tell y'all some huge news.

By now, I know you've been reminded of SweetT's Blog Party and are doing whatever it takes to be there. The guests she has lined up are amazing...but that's not my huge news.

And I know everybody and their dogs are making plans to attend the Junk Gypsys' Prom. This over-the-top-junk-a-rama-event just keeps getting bigger and better (kinda like Texas hair)..but that's not my huge news.

Then there's the big buzz story of the year concerning a certain little TV network making their presence known at Zapp Hall. You've heard the rumors...does HGTV ring a bell? It's true y'all...in Zapp Field...with their own tent...but that's not my huge news.

So now maybe you're thinking what on earth could be bigger than all this...right?

Well...maybe not bigger...but definitely huge...in my world!

The one...the only...the cat in the hat...my very own Cat Daddy will be turning 60 on September 24th which by coinkydink just happens to be during the show!

Before you say it, much less think it...yes...I am older than he is and no...this won't give you younger chicks a leg up on trying to steal him. I may not be as good as I once was, but I'm good once as I ever was...so back off sister!

He I told myself, "Self...if ever you had a great excuse to throw a party...this is it!" Never one to pass on a golden opportunity...that's what I'm gonna do!

Consider this your official, hand-engraved (feel that embossing?) invitation to a sideshow the likes of which may never be seen again in the Field o'Dreams... or as I like to call it...the Mother Ship!

If you're planning on being at the shows, I hope you drop by and see us, but I really want you to try and come by the evening of September 24, around six-ish and wish the big man a happy birthday. Hint...just think sixty at six.

There'll be cake, but no candles. Sorry y'all, but (A)...ain't that many candles in Texas and (B)...gotta think about the wildfires and burn bans before sparking that cake. Not to worry...I got it covered. I figured y'all could all just gather 'round the cake with your cell phones and let him try and blow them lights out. The sight of him huffing and puffing should take care of the entertainment too. Look at me...I am such a party organizer!

So it's a date...right? We're easy to find in the Zapp Hall field. Our tent is located to the right of Royer's Cafe (can you say yum?) and directly in front of the Beer Garden where there is always a party going on. Look for the Bubble Lounge, sniff the air for butter cream frosting, listen for laughter...and voila. You've found us under the Texas stars, where the sky goes on for ever...and so do we.

(Did I mention we got a heck of a load this time...but this ain't it!)

BTW...know how I love to say "Come for the junk, stay for the party"? This time I really think you should take me at my word!

THAT AIN'T ALL FOLKS!!!

Jump In The Lake? What Lakes?

2011-09-07T09:29:00.000-05:00

Y'all might want to go and put your roller skates on for this post 'cause I'm giving you fair warning...it's gonna be all over the place!

Down here in Texas, sure as shootin', there are certain facts that never change. If it's summer...it's gonna be hot. If it's late summer...the greatest show on dirt is not far behind. Combine those two facts and you got one chubby lady in dire need of a shower and a manicure. That's under normal circumstances, but...if we change the equation up and make that 68 days of 100+ temperatures leading up to late summer...Voila...you get one, hot mess! Trust me...even in Texas...this goes above and beyond even our normal daily dose of vitamin D.

Normally, I work a little each morning during the dog days of summer, prepping our load and pacing myself. When Cat Daddy gets home in the evening, he and I will generally go outside and work a little more. It'll be hot, but it's bearable. This summer...ummm...not so much. With overnight temps falling to barely under 90 degrees, it's been a tough row to hoe.

Thankfully, the good Lord was shopping with us and saw to it we didn't purchase many projects in need of a lot of prepping and most doubly thankfully, He sent cooler temps this week. I'll be working like a bat outta H-E-Double-Hockey-Sticks this week to finish up the load and get it ready for ol' C.D. to load. He's been trying to load as he could, but it's been tough. It gets hot in that sweat box of an enclosed trailer...mighty hot!

Needless to say, I'll be out in the back forty from can 'til can't, preventing me from being around much on here with y'all. Although I got enough mouth for two people, unfortunately I only come equipped with one pair of hands and one brain...and more often than not...only half of one of those at best! Can you say Squirrel?

(In case you were wondering about the photos in this post...it's my way of saying thank you to Gayle at A Vintage Green Life. She held a unique giveaway on her blog that required nothing from her readers...other than friendship. How cool is that? I was thrilled when she pulled my name out of a old suitcase for this pendant, but the real luck was being included as a friend. Thank you Gayle and thank you for thinking outside the ol' box on how to hold a giveaway! BTW...if you think this idea is clever...you oughta see what else she dreams up...Ohmylanta!

The bookies are now making odds on how many excuses I can dream up to wear this cute necklace while at Zapp. Care to wager a bet?)

Before I can wear it and be a big ol' showoff...I first got to get stuff ready to make the trip to my favorite playground. Sadly, the only way to accomplish this Herculean task is to quarantine myself to the workshop....even if it means chaining myself to the sander. I'm gonna try and get a coupla more posts up before we head out for the next installment of As The Wheel Turns, but for the time being...it's a mad dash to the finish line.

I'm closing this post with prayer requests. As you may or may not know, Texas...in addition to the horrendous heat wave...is under a severe drought and now experiencing wildfires. Please pray for all those in the line of these fires, both residents and firefighters. Pray and pray again for much needed rain. Most of us haven't seen any since May. Everything is so dry here in our beloved state, one fire was started by a spark from a car's brakes. Pray that the rain flooding the east will find it's way to us, providing relief for all who are impacted by these crazy weather patterns...North, South, East, and West.

While you are on your knees, please send up prayers for Anne and Angela. Both of these fine ladies' mothers are facing daunting health challenges and are in desperate need of lifting up. Please lift your voices and eyes to Heaven for them...and all the others out there facing similar circumstances...for strength, reassurance, and healing. The statistics are unsurmountable, but so blessed are we...God doesn't deal in statistics...only in His perfect plans for us.

I do believe in the power of prayer and I have faith God hears and answers our pleas for help.

Think I better go cover some furniture up before it starts raining.

Jumping Into The Act

2011-09-01T09:35:00.001-05:00

What is it about an idea (sometimes by happy accident...sometimes when Heaven whispers it) that suddenly makes everyone glom on to it? Doesn't matter if it's a great idea or not. If there is a dollar to be made...everybody...including family...wants a piece of it.

Case in point...guess who I caught trying to audition to be our "Alan"? Sheesh...she thinks she can be the next break-out star. Somebody oughta tell her this stage is getting mighty crowded with wannabe stars...and I don't like sharing the spotlight!

'Course...she does look mighty precious, the paintbrush does fit her hand, and who knows...there could be a whole new audience to aim for in her diaper generation. Just the thought of the untapped sponsers alone is enough to boggle the mind.

Pampers execs...are you reading this?

I checked...and double-checked the child labor laws (just to be on the safe side y'all) to make sure I wouldn't end up in the hoosegow. Seems she can work on television...hmmm! It didn't specify how much I had to pay her. I gotta wonder y'all..reckon she knows the difference between a penny and a dollar?

Bella...wouldn't you rather have this pretty, shiny quarter instead of that nasty, dirty five spot?

I'm thinking she'd be a good investment. You know...someone to take care of me during my diaper years...a little quid pro quo if you will in return for a little nepotism. Hey...don't judge me. It worked for Tori Spelling!

Sigh...next thing you know...Grayzilla will be trying to take over Miss Lazy's poodle seat. Heck...who am I kidding? If she wants it...done and done!

Wonder who Graycie will want to replace Cat Daddy with and is Justin Bieber available to drive a mini-Miss Lazy around?

Besides...where would I ever find someone this cute and happy who's willing to work at lightening speed...just for cookies and kisses?

I have to tell y'all thank you for all the cute comments you left on my previous post..especially to Pam and Cathy. They went the extra mile and did posts to try and drum up some interest on my behalf and for their beloved state...Ohio. Girls, I promise you up and down...if it ever happens...you are my first official road trip!

Y'all are all just the best at getting me and my unhealthy need to be the center of attention!

In the meantime...while I'm waiting for that elusive, pesky phone call from Lifetime...save me a seat in front of the telly.

I'll be easy to spot..I'll be the one pickin' mine!

Jump Into High Gear

2011-08-23T10:07:00.000-05:00

Dear Mr./Ms. Reality Show Producer:

I am writing you tonight with a proposition I believe could be a win/win for both of us.

In addition to your guys who only lust for beat up signage and old motorcycles, I have also been viewing your latest foray into the world of "reality" junking with mild chagrin. I must say, I think you are missing the mark with your programming. If you consider two attractive, young ladies dressed in shorts and boots, traipsing around in weeds the real deal...tsk, tsk! Monotonous is the first word that comes to mind when watching either of these shows.

Where's the sweat...the chigger bites...the cussing and fussing? In other words...where's the reality? In case you haven't noticed...there is a whole demographic that you are failing to attract...namely those of us who actually do this for a living and know first hand...these shows ain't reality.

The time has come to expand your realm of thought with something different for a change...the truth! Think unbridled, unscripted, and sometimes unbelievable...
Cat Daddy and his wing nut, Trash...junkers unplugged!

Pack a bag, catch the first plane outta L.A., come down to Texas and hire yourself a coupla "real" junkers. I swear up and down your viewers ain't seen nothing like the two of us. We don't just tramp around in people's yards, but hit every antique shop, auction and show we can. We'll fight to the death the crowds at estate and garage sales, risking life and limb for a good deal...and an even better story!

I've taken the liberty of coming up with several working titles and tag lines for your consideration.

1. Moose and Squirrel...
We put the fun in dysfunctional.

You'll find you can save a ton of money on script writers 'cause you'll never know what we'll say...or how we'll say it. Between the two us, we got enough mouth for ten rows of teeth.

Cheap is our watchword. We buy cheap and we can be bought just as cheaply! If you're looking for some arguing to add a fillip of spice to the show...look no further. Just come around on loading day for the trip to the Mother Ship for all the ~~bickering~~ friendly disagreements we dish up. (I would however, strongly recommend placing a bleeper on Cat Daddy's mike and a mute on mine when we have these backyard board meetings. We have been known to cuss and discuss while working long hours together.)

You want drama...have no fear. I am the original drama queen. I've had more than one table dropped on my head, forgotten to pack underwear when out on the road, and tripped on my own tongue too many times to count. We'll have 'em falling outta their Barcaloungers with tales of our misadventures in miscues, missed turns, and misbehavin'...to say nothing of flat hair, flat beer, flat broke, and plenty of flat tires.

2. A Hitch On Our Git-a-long...

Livin' life where the road and the party never ends.

We run up and down the highway of life, mixing high-tone with high-jinks resulting in hi-larity. We've been known to share the low-down on hidy-holes, steer clear of a few low-lifes along the way and keep it low-key if censors or children are around.

3. Pickin' and Grinnin'...

Served up Texasified and country fried.

Our show wouldn't be about finding rusty junk and repurposing it...'cause that ain't what we do. We're better at being inspired than being inspiring. We scout out the good stuff, sell to our crazy, somewhat pixilated customers (usually while standing in the middle of a cow pasture) and get up the next morning to do it all over again...smilin' out loud at ourselves and our life together. We're like a pair of scorpions. If you see one...wait...the other 'un is just over yonder.

I would like to add a coupla caveats as these could be deal breakers. I never...I repeat...never ferret. If you're wanting somebody to climb into a deserted loft to scour around for stuff...it won't be me. Doing so might result in chipped nail polish (which would break the code of GRITS) and besides....good gosh...that's what I had children for. I will however send Cat Daddy into the trenches if I spy something shiny.

Secondly...while I refuse to wear city shorts when junking (although Cat Daddy thinks that would be a great idea), I do tend to be a bit like Mrs. Astor's pet horse when dressing to go out huntin'. I love a lot of jingle in my jangle, but sadly this usually results in my overpaying...after being sized up. To compensate, I usually keep my bee-decked bee-hind parked in the poodle seat of the truck, waiting for C.D. to assess the situation and give me a wave. That hand gesture is my signal it's worth my time to get my rusty-dusty outta the truck. Sounds complicated...but it works like a charm and I don't get dirty...or sand-bagged.

Thirdly...Cat Daddy. I will need insurance to protect him from his countless admirers of the female persuasion and will not be held accountable for any disruptions this might cause to filming. Be sure and have the lawyers add something to the contract to prevent me from being kicked to the curb upon his reaching star status. I promise you...this man is catnip and you'll need me to keep him...and the ladies...under control.

Pickin' Up The Pieces...

While digging in the past.

In anticipation of your next question regarding our qualifications, we've been at this business for over 22 years. We've seen trends come and go, but are always up to adaptation. We know every back road between Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana (which btw...are the best pickin's in the whole U.S. of A.) including rest stops, BBQ joints, and Stuckeys. We have colorful customers with spectacular, off the wall shops that could provide fodder for at least twenty episodes, but more importantly...we deliver with brio and style...guaranteed! We are a dog and pony act in the sideshow of this crazy carny world we call junking. We are street rat crazy...and proud of it. In other words...we are the whole nut.

(Speaking of nuts, it's been suggested that our ratings would be greatly enhanced if we followed Roseanne's Nuts. Just thought I'd run that up the ol' flag pole and see if anybody saluted!)

We both firmly believe...nothing ventured, nothing gained...he who snoozes, loses...and vicey versey. It was with these thoughts in mind that prompted me to dash off this letter, but if you're not interested, you're not interested...pity...your loss. Perhaps you would be so kind as to forward this letter on to some insightful, discerning magazine editors in need of a star or two for a monthly column. We're available...and we're not too proud to beg.

Sincerely,

THE PICKUP ARTISTS...

We got a nose for pickin'

(A special thank you to Pam and Kathy for taking the time to give a shout out about this crazy post of mine. Y'all are the best girls. Texasified hugs coming your way from one gold digger to another!)

Jumping In...Then Jumping Out

2011-08-11T21:50:00.001-05:00

I seldom do a post this short...so don't blink twice or you'll miss it. I've been under the weather for several days now, but I wanted to first tell y'all all thank you for your love of our birthday baby girl. Each and every birthday wish and hug you shared is treasured by my family.

Second...I need to inform the winner of my little giveaway of the Red.Neck Chic's Red.neck Glam duct taped pendant...this is her lucky day. I had planned an anniversary post to go with this announcement, but that post will just have to wait until I'm not under the influence. (If you think I'm hard to follow normally...think NyQuil induced ramblings...oy vey!)

OK..since I'm beginning to feel myself becoming influenced...the winner is...

Debra...Common Ground! This lady gives so much to all of us in blogland...I'm pickled tink Mr. Random picked her so I have the pleasure of returning the favor!

Deb, I'll be mailing out your pendant PDQ. (I'm positive I have your address here at the Casita de Trash...somewhere.) Oh heck...just send it to me again to make sure this one gets mailed.

Now I have one little favor to ask all of you before I head back to my pillow and Kleenex box. Would y'all mind closing your eyes for this little closing bit? Ah-choo...I mean thank you!

Secret message for RobUhLyn's eyes only...remember y'all...no peeking:

Girl...that's one high class lady down...now how many more to go until we convert 'em all to duct tape and pearls' madness?

Insert maniacal, hot-toddy-induced laugh here.

Jumping Bella Bean

2011-08-08T16:23:00.000-05:00

We all know busy as life can get, there has to be times when it's important to slow your roll and just relax...let your hair down...and just be. It's just as important when you're two years old to give those little legs a rest...although sometimes thinking outside the box is a boon when down time is ~~required~~ needed by a very tired mommy.

You could use this time to catch up on correspondence and see what happening in blogland. You might even happen on something about you in your meanderings.

You could look at lunch time as chill time. Just hangin' and lookin' cool doing it...even though Mommy is saying "EAT!".

What Mommy doesn't understand is you have other plans for a light nosh later on.

You could catch a little sun and work on a baby tan....if Mommy would quit slathering you with SPF 30! Nothing like a little skinny dipping to get that all-over, even tan you've been working on all summer!

Funny thing...bath time is never the same as pool time, even though both call for H2O. After a little scrub-a-dub-dub in a lavender bubble bath...one always ends up just a tad sleepy. Hmmm...wonder if this is what Mommy had in mind?

Then there is the chance of getting wrapped up in something really engrossing. Maybe even a little hide and seek, with you doing the hiding and Mommy doing the seeking...that is until you fall asleep waiting to be found. Hmmm...am I seeing a pattern here?

It's important to stay on top of things, lest one ends up in the doghouse and Mommy ~~throws away~~ ~~swallows~~ hides the key.

Ah music to soothe the savage beast...or at least the little ~~hellion~~ precious baby.

When you are the precious baby, you can float along and get away with anything. You can also be blessed with not one, not two, but three birthdays a year...the day you were due, July 4th...the day you were delivered four months early, March 12th...and the day you came home from the hospital, August 8th. That's the date your Nana loves to celebrate. On that day, my precious darling...your journey that began with your fragile, tiny body being delivered March 12th ended. God had finished preparing you and you were perfect in every way, ready to come home to waiting hearts and arms.

It's awe inspiring to look at these photos of you Bella knowing God held your fragile heart in His hands from the beginning...just as you held us by our hearts.

~For you created my inmost being: You knit me in my mother's womb.~Psalms 139:13

~By you I was clothed with skin and flesh and joined together with bone and muscle.~Job 10:11

I will never forget the day I held you in my arms for the first time. You hooked by lines to me and me hooked to you by love.

~He shall cover thee with His feathers and under His wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.~Psalms 91:4

When God had finished all the details of your creation and whispered to the doctors "It is time for her to leave the hospital"...We were waiting with open arms.

~Thou has granted me life and favor, and thy visitation hath preserved my spirit.~Job 10:12

Each hurdle was faced with belief that God had a plan for you and would help you to overcome each health obstacle that arose.

~Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.~Hebrews 11:1

Awed to watch you get stronger, bigger, and more beautiful with each passing day. Wishing time to stand still...but knowing it cannot...leaving us to hang on to your dress-tail for dear life for fear of missing a single step, word, laugh...or tear.

~For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.~Ephesians 2:10

Celebrating the joy of being allowed the privilege of watching God's hands as they continue to mold and perfect you while keeping you safe in your life's journey.

~For we live by faith, not by sight.~II Corinthians 5:7

As we celebrate your birthday month after month Bella, know that we are eternally grateful to God for you and the blessings He has poured out on this family. There aren't words enough to say thank you to Him who created you or for the joy you have brought to our lives.

~I always thank God for you because of His grace given you in Jesus Christ.~I Corinthians 1:4

Happy (third time's the charm) second birthday our beautiful baby Bella Bean.

~I will sing of the Lord's great love forever; with my mouth I will make Your faithfulness known through all generations.~Psalms 89:1

Pas de Chat Ending With A Grand Jete'

2011-08-06T09:45:00.000-05:00

This is probably one of my favorite Cat Daddy stories. He knows I'm a sucker for surprises and never stops trying to step up his game. He says I'm a high maintenance woman...but you gotta ask yourself...who's fault is that? Anyway...here is another rerun from the Vault Of Dusty Memories.

Sunday, December 13

And She Lived Happily Ever After!

Once upon a time, there was a little redheaded girl who dreamed of being on Broadway or a world famous Radio City Music Hall Rockette. She took dance lessons and practiced her kicks day and night until that fateful day she learned a Rockette had to be at least 5'5". Sadly, save a miracle, she would never grow beyond 5'1".

She couldn't truly let go of that dream, but instead held it in her heart for safe keeping, never telling anyone for fear they'd laugh. A glittering dream to take out every now and then, dust off, smile at, hold in her hands and then gently place back in it's hiding place.

Many years later, she went to the mailbox to discover a Christmas card in a familiar handwriting. Opening it, she read an obscure message requesting a night of frivolity with dinner, a show and perhaps a little gratitude vo-di-oh-dohing! Shocked, since he had never done anything like that before, she ran to the phone to call her knight-in-rusting-armor to ask who had he meant to mail the invitation to! He laughingly told her to go and look in the drawer of his night stand...he would remain on the line. She flew to the bedroom...yanked open the drawer and there nestled in their own special little envelope, were two front row seat tickets to The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular!

Tripping back to the phone, she asked again if the invitation was for her (never hurts to double check) and YES, it was hers. Tickets to make her secret a reality...even if she wasn't on the stage! Tickets to transport her to the world she had always dreamed of!

Dressed to the nines and escorted by the most handsome man in the room (who just happened to be 10' tall) she climbed the stairs, entered the theater and prepared to be enthralled!

For one brief, shining moment in time, she was a Rockette. She laughed, jumped up and down in her seat, cried, clapped and behaved like that little redheaded girl of 9.

He loved every moment of her childlike happiness...and she him for knowing her heart!

THE END

Jump In My Trunk

2011-08-04T09:49:00.017-05:00

In case y'all didn't know it...even the devil leaves Texas in the summer. Gahh...it's hotter than a two dollar pistol here in Big D. In an effort to cool things down a bit, I thought I'd rerun this Cat Daddy tall tale from Christmas past.

Hopefully... you'll take a coupla things away from here today.

One...some things just can't be made up and...

two...ain't we got fun?

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Sunday Morning Funny Paper

This was a busy week for Cat Daddy and I! There is just no rest for the wicked and boy, I must be one little holy terror! Santa...please...no sticks and ashes in my fishnet stockings!

We attended a dinner party for a friend's retirement (not that I'm that old you understand...just my friends) and two Christmas Open Houses. Fran and Liz drove over to one with us and while driving, we got to talking about Christmas gifts. I told them about a present C.D. had given me several years ago and Liz insisted I share it with y'all!

A few years back he kept pestering me for a Christmas list. He nearly drove me crazy wanting that list, so finally I just sat down and made out my dream list. You know...things I knew I'd never get, but would love to have...secretly hoping I'd be driving him crazy for a change. One item on my list was a pair of Japanese garden pants and another was a butt!

If you've met me, you're aware that in the backside area...I'm more than just a little badonkadonk challenged. Picture that cartoon guy who always "hankered for a hunk of cheese" and you've got my shape...skinny legs and all! To say I'm a flat bottom boat would be an understatement. Don't get me wrong, if I could turn my head around to the back, I'd have a great rear...problem with that would be my "new" shoulder blades! It's a family thing...I come from a long line of flat butts and to add insult to injury, I also don't have any hips. Everything would slide right on down to my ankles if it wasn't for my belly! See my dilemma?

Well, imagine my surprise on Christmas Eve when everything on my list, including the Japanese garden pants, was wrapped and under the tree! Oh yeah...you read right...everything! (What can I say...the man's part bloodhound.) Ol' C.D. had made a special trip to Frederick's of Hollywood and bought me a lycra covered tailgate party with a capital A**! Man alive, I coulda served cocktails off this caboose! Talk about backfield in motion...no hitch in this gitalong! A tushie that a fanny pack would actually stay on! Buns of steel that you could bounce a quarter off! There was only one teeny tiny problem...I still didn't have any hips. My rear was bootiliscious, but (no pun intended) the rest of my bottom half...not so much! Baby had back...but no hip flasks to balance her load.

I guess I shoulda been more specific since what I really needed was this...

the DEE-luxe edition...the Cadillac of derrieres! In this plumped up, pumped out, rump-wrangler contraption, if asked "Is Trash Around?"...the answer would be "Heck yeah...all the way around."!

Maybe this year, if I wish real hard, he'll high-tail it back to FOH's...and I'll no longer be the butt of jokes! Sigh...a girl can dream can't she?

The Living End and I'll be seeing you in the funny pages!

Jump Back To The Future

2011-08-02T13:28:00.000-05:00

As I told y'all in the previous post, Cat Daddy and I got married in August. You'd think we would have chosen a better month...or at least a cooler one, but being young and stupid...we didn't. What can I say...the thermometer wasn't the only thing heating up. Since it is summertime and since the shows on TV can get away with repeats, I thought I'd repeat a few favorite C.D. posts leading up to the 10th...the day the magic began!

If you've read them before...humor an old lady. If you haven't...be kind...and remember my giveaway for a red.neck Glam pendant will be going on until the 10th. So without further ado and in no random order...a trip down memory lane.

Nearing Extinction...A Good Man

June 7, 2009

As a young girl, it was always my dream to possess the ultimate extreme pet...a Cat Daddy. Upon arriving at adulthood, I felt that I was more than ready to accept the responsibility of catching and caring for one. Imagine my horror to discover that they had been placed on the endangered species list along with the bison, Northern spotted owl and the numbat. I knew time was of the essence and I had to begin my pursuit in earnest.

Cat Daddies by nature are elusive animals, but have been known to mate for life. They themselves are unaware of this fact until introduced into a suitable and loving home. Cat Daddies are of the class mammalia, primata order, genus Homo and species sapiens. They are mainly carnivores and can be observed perched high in deer stands for hours on end, stalking their prey. On any given weekend, they can be found prowling the aisles of Home Depot, Bass Pro Shop and Lowe's. They are also known to gather as a herd at local watering holes such as the "It'll Do" and the "Take Your Best Shot". When found in packs, they are collectively known as Cheeseheads, Red Raiders, Aggies and Parrotheads, but will answer and come to Hun, Shug, and Did-You-Hear-A-Word-I-Said.

Based on scientific research performed by a large group of women, they appear to have evolved from scum to worms to lounge lizards to turkeys. At that point, a strange turn of events occurred evolving them even further into rats, pigs, jackasses and dirty dogs until the last step occurred, resulting in two distinct animals...wolves and cat daddies.

Cat Daddies, once in captivity, are quick to adapt to their surroundings. They can be house broken, trained to fetch and will attempt to mimic speech. A caveat must be inserted at this point. They are so good at learning new words, they will pick up certain colorful phrases not usually acceptable in polite society. While easily domesticated, they do have several bad habits that cannot be undone. They are known to pass gas frequently, talk with their mouths full, scratch themselves any time and any place there is an itch and do not fully understand the concept of putting the seat down. Many attempts have been made to rectify these peculiarities with little success.

They all appear to be color blind and cannot be left alone to dress themselves. To do so results in unusual coloration such as, but not limited to, black socks and sandals partnered with Madras shorts, Hawaiian shirts and the occasional leisure suit from the 1970's.

When setting a trap to ensnare a cat daddy, caution should always be observed. They are always skittish around the opposite sex for fear of domestication and are more relaxed around good buddies. I have found some sure-fire methods for entrapment and I am more than happy to share this information now.

Cat Daddies respond to games involving balls of all types, over-sized television screens, gadgets, Nascar, power tools and the lure of home cooking. If one is found at an antique auction, the sound of "Sold" can be used as a mating call. The remote control and fishing rods are favorite toys to provide diversions when needed, but can be hard to pry out of their hands. They should always...always be handled with kid gloves.

They will invariably follow the smell of a new car/truck, Frito chili pie, Spam and grilling steaks. If all else fails, the sound of a beer being popped will bring them in droves. Do not, I repeat, do not attempt to feed them a salad or anything remotely healthy at the risk of driving them into their caves.

The merits of owning a Cat Daddy far outweigh the time and effort required for training one. They are loyal, loving, fiercely protective, very territorial and are perfect for a home with children. They are capricious, level headed and will more than earn their keep. They are excellent pack animals for shopping and vacations. At times they can appear gruff, but this is a defense mechanism and are actually quite gentle when handled with loving care. Extreme caution should always be observed to never neglect them as this could lead to them straying from their own back yard. To prevent this, always speak to them in a loving voice as much as possible, reward their efforts to please and stroke their egos from time to time.

I am happy to report that over 35 years ago, I successfully found my Cat Daddy at an undisclosed location and have been more than pleased with my extreme pet ever since. Oh and by the way...I named him Danny Ray!

I'd like to thank Trish at the Domestic Fringe for letting me participate in the Pet Carnival and a special thanks to the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.

I hope y'all don't mind me posting reruns, but it's just too hot to think!

BTW...if you're planning any safaris of your own in the future...I could be available to lead it. Just call me Bwana at 1-800-GET-ACAT.

Jumping Off The Eiffel Tire

2011-07-31T07:06:00.000-05:00

Man alive...I thought I was the only one getting dizzy from the paint fumes, but seems a certain cute redhead from Wacky Waco has been sniffing the back side of her roll of duct tape. RobUhLyn loves her duct tape. She keeps telling it it's the new burlap and is constantly working it into her designs. Would y'all believe that little whipper-snapper is having a giveaway over at her blog? Would you also believe it's a doozie...if I ever saw one?

Y'all know I'm just nutso crazy for this girl and you've heard me go on and on about her talent.

"You may be a redneck if a dumpster gets emptied...with you still in it."

I (proudly I must add) own one of her red.neck Chic original handbags (I love my Trash Bag)...or as she likes to call 'em...pocketbooks. Each and every one is unique...just like her! She also designs and makes a line of blouses called Saddle Tramps (I personally like the idea of being just a tad trampy from time to time...keeps my man on his toes) and does her own twist on jewelry...red.neck Glam.

Using only the finest of silver duct tape available, elegant pearls (to remind us we are ladies) and with just enough bits and baubles to make the magpie in all of us squeal, she devilishly creates these one of kind treasures in her lab.or.a.tory!

"You may be a redneck if you save your Junk Gypsys' Mama Tried cap for special occasions."

Now tighten up those bra straps ladies 'cause here is where it gets real good!

SHE'S.GIVING.ONE.OF.HER.red.neckGLAM'S.AWAY!

EEEKKK!!!

But wait....there's more.

Because I never got around to having my senior prom (she says hanging her head in shame)...and because I want one of these bad boys so much...I ain't gonna wait to see if she draws my name outta the Eiffel Tire...I'm gonna buy two...one for me...

AND

ONE for you!

Let me just say...I am a fool for statement jewelry. In fact...my personal motto is "Don't jazzercise...accessorize!". Truth is, if you can't see me from across a field...my rhinestones ain't big...or gaudy...enough!

"You may be a redneck if your matching serving bowls really do say Parkay...and not butter."

So here's the deal pickle...head on over to red.neck Chic and look at her simple rules for entering. Since I don't like to think or work any more than I have to...her rules are my rules. The only difference is her giveaway will end Saturday and mine, August 10th. A long time...yeah...but that's mine and Cat Daddy's anniversary and I do believe a red.neck Glam necklace will make the perfect gift to moi from moi!

"You may be a redneck f you have a beer box duct taped over one or more truck windows."

Only the best for my Texas man!

I'll fess up...I'm a redneck. Heck...you can't live in Texas and not be. Our belt buckles...and hair...weigh at least 3 pounds, we like to wear boots with everything, and if you want to know how to spell our names...just check out the back of our belts! If you go to any mall in Texas and holler out Bubba...at least fourteen little boys and a coupla grown men are gonna come runnin'!

Don't let anybody try and tell you different. Even the folks livin' in the North Dallas Forty way 'cross Central Expressway say ham and aigs when there ain't nobody listenin'!

Let your inner redneck out and make a fashion statement all at the same time. It can be yours for just a comment!

"You may be a redneck if your granddaughter learned her numbers by watching Nascar."

(Do I? Oh heck yeah!)

You know you do too...so time's a-wastin' y'all. Head on over to The red.neck (check out her ETSY while you're there for all the tray sheek fashion she's whuppin' up) and leave her a big ol' comment. I guarantee you'll leave with a big toothy grin!

But first...talk to me. Remember...one for me...one for one of y'all.

Oh...and tell her Trash sent ya!

From one redneck to another...can I get a yee to the haw?

Feeling My Heart Jump

2011-07-24T13:28:00.007-05:00

I'd like to say once again, thank you Karen for hosting Where Bloggers Create. To say I came away inspired would be an understatement. The talent out there is like a scratchy throat...it tickles me to no end.

(Thank you Sister Janet for my beautiful pendant. I wear it everywhere...including to bed!)

Seeing all the fabulous studios, playpens and offices was amazing and I picked up three important things while viewing the miracle cure-alls they provided.

First...just when I get to thinking there isn't anything new under the sun...I find out how wrong that assumption is. The trick is to make something old, new again. These folks start with just a germ of an idea that grows into full blown genius until at last it goes viral, infecting everyone who wishes they had thought of it first.

I'll be the first to admit to catching more than one or two great solutions to the headaches of problematic storage and cute remedies for the pain of trying to contain clutter.

Second...while I thought I was a ~~hoarder~~ ~~magpie~~ collector deluxe...some of these gals make moi look like a piker...and I've been at it for 20+ years! It's a hard pill to swallow, but shoot...I thought I held a B.P.* when it came to buying/accumulating stuff. Silly me...'cause it seems a lot of these girls have Ph.D.** shingles hanging on their walls!

(*Builder of Piles)

(**Piled Higher and Deeper)

Truthfully, I got the bends gazing glassy eyed and slack jaw at some of their collections. Fact is, the knowledge that a lot of this stuff is gonna be used for art and not for collecting dust, blew my mind. What a concept!

Law...I stopped breathing a coupla times just thinking about it and thought ol' Cat Daddy was gonna have to give me mouth to mouth!

(Just a little sump'n sump'n for Debra. This one's for you doll! MEOW!)

Lastly...there is no such thing as a completed house or even a single room. It's an ongoing sickness that we women seem to pass from one to another...secretly hoping a cure is never found...all the while our significant others are desperately praying for one to stop the epidemic of ideas.

I now find myself caught in the feverish throes of re-fluffing my fluffing after being exposed to so many clever ideas. In fact...I'm flat out light headed from the thoughts that are whirling in this dizzy noggin of mine.

This is going to be my project for the week...four chairs and a darling leather topped game table (with two leaves). If you don't hear from me during the week...you know I've quarantined myself until I finish....or am overcome by paint fumes.

So much inspiration...so little time!

Ah-Choo!

Jumping On The Bandwagon With Where Bloggers Create

2011-07-15T09:48:00.000-05:00

Let me start by saying thank you to Karen from My Desert Cottage for all the hard work she puts in to host this fab event. I can't even keep my few ducks in a row...let alone coordinate over 300 of 'em!

Whew...and double whew!!!

This is my first time to participate in Where Bloggers Create and I'm thrilled to see all the amazing work places that are being shared. Everyone does such a splendid job interpreting their personal playpens to best represent their unique talents and personalities.

My workspace is basically an unorganized organization of my life and work.

(I get this handy skill from my daddy.)

Here is where the madness begins and ends. It's where I keep the business end moving, ~~hoard~~ store treasures and retreat when I need a break. It's also where I go to visit the world of the talented and sit a spell.

Myself...I've never made a secret of the fact that when it comes to creating, I'm better at stealing...I mean borrowing ideas. I guess when all you girls were swimming in the deep end of the talent-gene pool...I was hanging around the lifeguard tower...trying not to freckle.

It's a fact I've always been aware (and more than a little ashamed) of. Girls are supposed to know how to sew, make pretty things, and be clever gluing cardboard. All I ever managed to do was either glue...or sew my fingers together.

Imagine my surprise when I started blogging three years ago to discover I did indeed possess a hidden talent. Maybe not a great one...but a little talent that up until then I was unaware of.

It seems unbeknownst to me, with the practice of writing that came with blogging, I had an ability to string letters into words, then into comprehensible sentences. Sentences that some people even found enjoyable to read...at least that's what some of y'all tell me.

Well Yee to the Haw!

Having loved the written word, research papers, monograms and most of all...books since I was five...God sat me down at a computer and revealed His plan for me. As my sweet friend R. E. told me when I wondered about the late timing in my life for this new adventure...the 59 preceding years was His way of preparing me.

Where others sprinkle glitter on their projects...I liberally add punctuation marks (and break all kinds of writing rules doing so!).

Where some use glue or nails to hold things together...I use conjunctions...and ellipses!

Your nemesis may be edges that won't lay flat. Mine is jokes that land flat.

You may fret over missed stitches...I cringe over grammar miscued...mine.

And if you promise to not mention spelling...I won't mention that one spot you forgot to trim.

I've seen art pieces that are layer upon layer of individual items, all to highlight the finished product.

I layer adjectives and adverbs to embellish mine...with a ten dollar word thrown in every now and then for good measure.

Do I sometimes go over the top with my Texasified way of talking?

You betcha, but let me ask you one question.

Do you ever use too much ribbon for flourish when you're trying to make it your own?

EXACTLY!!!

Ain't no such thing as too much anything...except calories and bills.

(Leave it to Bella to get in the on act...my little muse!)

Don't get me wrong. I certainly don't think I'm the next Harper Lee....ah contrary mes amis. I don't even consider myself Paris Hilton!

The point is I never would have known I could even attempt to write without having blogged first. Whether it is just kinda ok writing or even bad...I enjoy it and that's important to me. Surrounding myself with things I love inspires me, brings me joy and writing allows me to express that joy.

It's the same joy you feel when you step back and look at your art with pride...knowing it was created by you...and you alone.

Just as I know each of you are proud of your accomplishments with a hot glue gun or a roll of burlap...I'm just as pleased with my ability to talk and type! The words I can't take full credit for. Most of the time...I'm just the typist...His.

SADD* Alert!

(*Squirrel Attention Deficiency Disorder)

Little known fact...when I was searching for a name for my blog, I initially tried for "white trash" because we bought and sold so much white ~~junk~~ quality merchandise. That name was taken and I tried several others until ~~something~~ Someone told me to type in "Talking White Trash". I did and it was accepted. The funny thing is when I hit publish for that very first post...my header read "Talking Trash"...and I've been talking ever since.

God knew me better than I did.

SQUIRREL ALERT!!! (The sequel)

Good gravy. I just realized I took so many flippin' photos I'm gonna have to finish this up with a part deux! I really wanted to share the art I've received from dear friends I've made since I started blogging, but it'd be cruel to make y'all sit through 30+ photos with me jabberin' in just one sitting. Nobody should be made to wear out their sit-upons...even for less-than-great photos of some more-than-Fab U Lous stuff!

Besides there's a lot of WBC posts to read (drool over) and I'm not gonna keep y'all here any longer than necessary. If you want to come back in a day or two and see what I've added...come on up to the house...I'll leave the light on for you.

Now go...visit...enjoy all the beautiful spaces that folks work...and play in!

Jump On The Bus, Gus

2011-07-11T09:01:00.001-05:00

In case anyone was wondering what ol' Trash has been up to the past couple of weeks, I thought I would quickly bring y'all up to speed.

I've been quite the accidental tourist, doing a little vacationing...all while out joy-riding on a train of thought.

I started in a state of confusion and quickly moved on to one of chaos. From there, I found myself in a state of panic, barely missing the great state of oblivion.

(WHEW! Take it from me...don't waste your time. Ain't nothing to see or do in either locale...nil, nada!)

Feeling the need for a change of scenery, imagine my surprise at being caught in the states of shock and wonder, while allowing myself to get lost wandering in a state of apathy!

(Again...don't waste your time or gas. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt. Heck...I'll send you a t-shirt if a souvenir is all you're wanting from this useless state of mind!)

Fortunately, while meandering in a state of flux, I allowed the highway of life to lead me to a supreme state of consciousness. From there, it was just a hop, skip and a ~~jump~~ prayer to my final stop...the blessed state of grace.

I bet you can guess WHO was waiting with a light on...just for me. Now I know what the "G" stands for in GPS.

(Hint: It ain't Gus!)

I plan on visiting here for quite some time and would love nothing better than to take up permanent, full-time residency.

(This paradise location I highly recommend...five stars! In fact...care to join me for a return visit?)

Just give me a second to slip something into the ol' CD player for our road trip.

(WARNING: I like to sing along...loud!)

You bring the strawberry Twizzlers and beef jerky.

I'll bring the Yoo-Hoos and hang-down.

We'll stop for a Stuckey's Pecan Log.

Pack light, don't forget your toothbrush, slap on some red lipstick, GO before we go...and let's get this dog and ~~cat~~ pony show on the road.

I call shotgun!!!

21 Jump Street...Almost!

2011-06-22T10:17:00.005-05:00

Back in the day when you were still dating, did you ever have a friend, cousin...or even your well-meaning mother...do a "fix-up" for you?

And didn't they always swear up and down, he/she was perfect for you?

And didn't they always guilt you into going when you said "thanks, but no thanks" by crying if you didn't go...they couldn't go?

And didn't you always cave...even when you knew better...and agree to go anyway...hoping against hope for Captain Jack Sparrow?

And ending up instead with Captain Underpants?

Yeah...I thought so!

Happened to the best of us!

(For the record...I once spent an entire evening perched on the roof of a '55 Chevy while at the drive-in with my so-called perfect match! I shall forever remember him fondly as Sir Handsalot...and I'm still not speaking to my cousin for thinking that troll was my anybody's perfect date!)

(Photos courtesy of La LuLu and friend Sherry!)

Such was the case just recently when I was contacted by someone I had "met" through a mutual blogging friend.

This new friend was going to be in Texas for an art retreat and e-mailed to ask if there was a way we could possibly meet. She was going to be at Canton so I suggested we meet at W&T's...and our blind date was set in ink!

Gotta tell y'all...I was as nervous as a bride on her honeymoon about meeting this lady for the first time. For one thing...she's gorgeous and for another...you know how it is. People aren't always exactly the same as they appear on a monitor.

In fact...let's talk real here y'all.

We all tend to hide our faults and put our best "face" out there...moi included...right?

Who'll know the difference...right? That is until we step outta the boat and meet someone we admire face-to-face!

So I was a little worried that either she...or I...would be disappointed with the "warts and all" first howdy-do!

Arriving at Winnie and Tulula's, I was greeted by these mavens of madcap marauding, mischief, and mayhem. It was a lucky day indeed for to me to meet this bevy of beautiful bloggers...but the high light of my day...

was meeting La LuLu!

I tell y'all...I was gobsmacked!

La LuLu is everything you read on her blog...and more! She's delightful, insightful, and...

oh gosh...what's another 'ful word to describe her? Forget it...there just aren't words enough! She is the person you visit when you pop in...nothing phony or contrived or warty....and I love her!

All I can say is...she was my perfect mystery date. We sat, talked, laughed, cried...and talked some more! Talking was more like catching up with a long lost friend 'cause I felt as if I'd known her forever....an instant connection...a bonding. I truly hated for the afternoon to end, but smiled out loud at the thought of it all the way home!

(Are you reading this Cousin EX? This is the kind of personality you shoulda fixed me up with! Certainly not that guy who thought if a little Hai Karate good...whole bottle even better! "Be careful how you use it"? Yeah right...someone forgot to tell him to read the little manual that came with each and every bottle...assuming he could read!)

(Photo of Junke & Disorderly Sale courtesy of Margo!)

Let me tell y'all...if you've never visited W&T's...you might want to think twice about getting yourself in there...PDQ. You never know what kind of treasures you'll take away...maybe even some warm memories that will last ~~you~~ me a lifetime!

Psst! FYI...also you'll never know who's loitering just around the corner in the alley either! Captains of industry...or

Captain America!

The Cow Jumped Over The Moon

2011-06-19T15:30:00.000-05:00

To all the fathers of daughters,

When you learned you were going to be a dad, I bet your first thoughts were of catcher's mitts, teeny golf clubs, and spending many hours teaching your boy all about the finer things in life...like football!

Never in your wildest dreams did you think your life would revolve around Hello Kitty, sleep-overs, and some guy named Justin Bieber instead of Nascar, fishing lures, and some power tools named Ryobi...right?

Let me ask you point blank.

When you first laid eyes on that tiny bundle of pink...did you remember ever really wanting anything else....except that little girl with your eyes?

Who else thinks you are just as funny as you think you are, but never throws a raised eyebrow your way...only blown kisses, followed by squeals of delight?

What does it feel like to be the only man in her life for now...but dreading the day you're not?

Can you imagine your life any sweeter than raspberry pink tutus, motorcycles and toe nail polish?

You musta been mistaken when you thought there wasn't a thing under the sun a little girl would want to do with her daddy by her side or that she'd be your number one fan...huh?

Who knew that a ponytail and flip flops would make your own heart go flip flop?

If someone had told you she'd love what you love only because you love it...just because you're her daddy...would you have believed them?

For the record...is there any music more beautiful than the sound of her singing and giggling...simultaneously?

Can you imagine your life being any richer...not for what your pockets can hold...but for what you can hold in your arms?

Are you amazed each morning when you see her beautiful face and at the infinite wisdom of God for placing such a treasure in your life...thus completing you?

Do you always remember to hit your knees, raise your hands, bow your head and say thank you Lord for this wisdom?

Do you find yourself wishing for more hours in the day just to be with her, but treasuring the time you have been given?

Do you pray for guidance to help guide her in her journey of life all the while praying doubly hard your mistakes be few...

and secretly wishing little girls came with a how-to manual?

At the end of the day, how does it feel to be ten feet tall and bullet-proof because you are her hero?

Can you even remember what your life was like before she floated into the picture?

When you look at her...do you wonder how on earth your beating heart can possibly fit in your chest...

and find yourself also wondering how such a creature so tiny can wrap you around her little finger with just the flutter of an eyelash?

Every minute of every day...do you ask God to keep her safe, happy, blessed...and always your little girl?

If you answered yes...or no...to any of the above questions...I'm sorry. I guess I should have warned you on the day you became a father of a couple of little details. Boy or girl...you'll never have another good night's sleep...and your heart will never be yours again. You gave it all away in the delivery room when you took receipt of one of God's precious miracles.

Now answer me one last question.

Do you really want it back?

XOXO

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY JOEY AND ROBY!

Jumpin' From The Frying Pan Straight Into The Fire!

2011-06-13T13:07:00.002-05:00

I warned y'all I was going to be mighty busy this month, but I guess I forgot to warn moi...imagine that!

Things have really been jumping at W&T's (and for that I am most grateful), but reloading my space...not once, but twice...has added to my burgeoning Ta Da list. Not that I'm complaining mind ya...aw con-tra-ree mes amies...but I do feel as if I'm neglecting y'all. To try and make up for it, I'm offering up my "tried and true" recipe for cooking up one hot mess. Got your pen and paper handy? All righty then...let's get cookin'...

Trash's secret party recipe for Squirrel Stew!

I guarantee it'll have 'em begging for seconds...and thirds!

First you'll need to assemble all the necessary components for this concoction. This may take a little time and patience to find just the right spices and secret ingredients hidden away in remote, hard-to-reach places...but oh so worth the effort!

Since I like to make jumbo batches for party-sized crowds, feel free to increase/reduce the amounts to serve your needs.

Step One:

Take three (3) truck loads of ~~junk~~ quality merchandise and

add two (2) backseat loads of very cool, smallish items.

Slowly stir in a tub of glassware, taking care not to break anything salable, but don't cry over spilt milk if you hear the sound of tinkling glass. After all...you can't make an omelet without cracking some eggs.

Step Two:

Once you have all your dry ingredients assembled, place in a roasting ~~backyard~~ pan and baste with three (3) buckets of sweat.

This step is very important and is the roux that holds all the ingredients together, forming a pastiche of taste and style!

(FYI...While a chafing dish is not recommended...keeping a box of baking soda on hand is. When working in this much heat, the danger of underwear fires caused by excessive chafing is always present!)

Step Four:

At this point of preparation, you'll need to be thinking about garnishes. Your own personal taste buds are instrumental for creating your own unique bouquet garni!

As Julia Child must of (had to of) said at some time or another..."A copy never tastes as wonderful as the original."...so make it full of the flavor of YOU!

Step Five:

For those who like their dishes sweet, sugar can be added at this point. In fact, my mother always added a pinch of sugar to a recipe calling for salt...and vicey-versey...so with 3 buckets of sweat... I highly recommend more than a pinch or two!

Bear Claws are always a welcome addition, but I prefer my sweetener in this kind of cute packaging.

( I stole, I mean borrowed this photo from Sherry who was in the fantastic group of ladies from the Gilded Life I met at W&T's!)

Nothing artificial about this cotton-candy dish. In fact...just the right amount of spun sugar to make ya wanta slap yore mama! This La LuLu of a cupcake is so deliciously divine...she deserves her own post and I'll be serving one up this week. Be prepared to fall in love...I did!

Step Five:

You will now begin to separate your olla podrida into equal parts depending on your serving needs. I just happen to need it for three upcoming special occasions.

One for Paper Cowgirls Vendor Night...which I just participated in this past Saturday!

One for Winnie and Tulula's Junke And Disorderly Sale ...which just happens to be this upcoming weekend!

And of course...

One to grow on...for The Greatest Show On Dirt!

For the first batch, I allowed the mixture to simmer outside in the Texas heat while the temperature inside the trailer rose to hotterthanblueblazes. We popped our Junque Jambalaya into the pre-heated truck, burned up the highway to Waxahachie and being careful not to scorch ourselves, removed and placed it all on a steamy, hot parking lot outside the Paper Cowgirl Playground! Served warm, straight off the griddle, to a bunch of hot nuts who love all things spicy...it was delish!

This piping, hot melange was guaranteed to melt in your hand...not in your mouth as demonstrated above by one of the lovely taste testers!

(Did I mention hot nuts?

Beth (Happy Birthday sweet girl) and Lisa made setting up look like fun. These two were hotter than a pepper's sprout...all the while glistening in the shimmering sun!)

I made sure to set my timer ('cause time sure does fly when we're having fun) to have a second batch ready and waiting for vendor night at Paper Cowgirls...where girls really do just wanta have fun. Once again the old adage of "git 'em while they're hot" rang true! No oven mitts required...in fact...all gloves came off when it came time to getting the goodies!

(Thanks to Cindy for letting me try out my recipe on a lovely bunch of ~~coconuts~~ cowgirls!)

Now I've got to start preparing the sizzling batch for our big 2nd birthday bash in Athens this coming weekend. No left-overs y'all...always freshly picked!

I hope y'all will think about joining us...I'll save you a plate! Heck...I'll serve pheasant under glass if that's what it'll take to get you to come see me and the Cat!

In the meantime...I'll be watching you...and wishing you the sweet smell of success!

Jump Break

2011-06-06T08:08:00.000-05:00

(Look deep into my eyes...deeper...deeper.

You're getting sleepy...sleepy.

You never saw me. I wasn't here. I was working my fool head off getting ready for Vendor Night at Paper Cowgirl and the Junque and Disorderly Sale at W&T's.

When I snap my fingers you will remember nothing...nothing!)

Memorial Day weekend, instead of cleaning, pricing and packing, Cat Daddy and I decided we needed to light out in search of El Dorado. After flipping a coin...and making a necessary phone call...we hit the hardtop heading north.

Upon reaching our destination, the back of the truck was already half-full, but being a lover of animals...especially squirrels...I'll tell y'all about that later. Right now, I'd like to tell you a little story.

While out to dinner with our new friends, the question was posed "What did we ever do before blogging?" My first response was I.don't.know, but I quickly added that it had opened my life to a world I didn't even know existed. The people, places, and dreams that lived inside my monitor screen were miles away physically...yet only a heartbeat from mine spiritually.

My beautiful, soul-eyed friend Debra was one of these people. I've loved her from the first time I read her and dreamed of actually meeting her face to face.

She does posts about her lovely home and one room in particular is my favorite...the sun room. Love it and always leave with a smile on my face when I've popped in.

This past November she did a piece on her sun room and when I clicked on...just for an instant...I literally saw myself in that room. The surreal moment came and went in a second, but as I sat there staring at the screen ...I could still the warmth of the room...and her. I'm telling y'all...I was there.

I know it sounds crazy...and we all know I'm more than just a little throwed off...but I swear up and down...I was sitting on this little loveseat with her. I even had to leave a comment telling her about it!

We-l-l-l...call me crazy if ya want...heck...even call the guys with the nets, but guess what?

(all photos except this one...belong to Debra!)

LOOKIE...LOOKIE!

Yeppers y'all...I made it to El Dorado...thanks to a certain Tom Cat and a red Ford diesel!

Pinch me y'all 'cause either I'm dreaming...or I've died and gone to Heaven...or I'm "Ready for my close-up Mr. DeMille" coo-coo! Whichever...I don't care. God gave me a peek into my future and then provided the opportunity to make it a reality.

Did I have the time to make a road trip?

No.

Did I need to look for more junk?

No.

Did I need to listen to His voice as He whispered "Call her...then pack your bags."?

Yes...a hundred times yes!

Life is a series of roads traveled. Some uphill, some rocky and sometimes the ones less traveled bringing the sweetest rewards!

This particular journey, my friends, is something I'd never have without blogging.

Can you hear us smiling?

I have to add that while finding junk and friends on this trip was a breeze...finding a room...not so easy. We didn't think about how close Joplin is to Springfield and while it did my heart proud as an American to see so many people (first responders, work crews, emergency workers, etc.) there to help, it also meant we had to drive until 3:00 am to find a room in Muskogee. Seems there also was a huge rock concert going on in Oklahoma.

Silly us for not making reservations, but would I do it again?

OH HECK YEAH!!!

(SNAP!!!)

Jumping Through Hoops!

2011-05-26T11:10:00.000-05:00

Am I jumping through hoops you ask?

Can you say Alley-Oop!

Between Blogger continuing to be a real ~~PITA~~ challenge, upcoming events, and life throwing a few unexpected curve balls in the direction of the Casita de Trash...I'd say I'm the star of this Dog And Pony Side-Show!

Watch me pull a rabbit outta my hat!

I'm busy gathering the best ~~crap~~ quality merchandise I can for my space and I know all the vendors at Winnie & Tulula's are doing the same. We had such a great time last year (think cake and champagne) and this year's promises to be just as much fun!

The original Paper Cowgirls Art Retreat is coming up in June as well. This year I'm pickled tink to be included on Vendor Night! 'Course this means more work for moi and I'm knee deep and up to my armpits in alligators, digging in boxes for things I've been ~~hoarding~~ saving for just the right occasion...and I do believe this is the market place for my treasures! I'm excited, but a little overwhelmed. I've never done a one-day-down-and-dirty event before, but hopefully a smile and my wares will carry me through!

I know I promised y'all a prom, but failed to deliver. Trust me...it takes a lot for me to bypass a party, but on top of everything that's going on in my life right now...I just couldn't pull it off. I promise y'all up and down to make it up in the future...pinkie swear!

In the meantime, I'll be out of the picture and off the computer until sometime towards the end of June. I hate it, but when you get to be my age...you gotta learn to compromise! Even Superman has his Kryptonite...mine just happens to be SADD!

I promise I'll be back...even if the last hoop I jump through is on fire!

(Happy Birthday SweetT...one day late!)

(Thank you April and Shawn for my beautiful birthday cake!)

CAUTION: Chocolate may cause jumpiness!

2011-05-19T13:22:00.001-05:00

Forget Botox...y'all wanta know what the fountain of youth really is?

It's sweet German chocolate and a really sweet ol' tom cat who still knows how to make this kitty-cat purr on her 60 39th birthday. Yeah buddy...those two things can keep a gal young forever!

Y'all gotta admit any man who will leave work early, travel 85 miles to West to a certain chubby lady's favorite haunt just to purchase her favorite catnip can only go by one name.

And Y'all wonder why I call him Cat Daddy?

Maybe it's 'cause I think he's pretty PUR-R-R-FECT!

Gosh...I feel like a kitten again! Somebody toss me a ball of yarn...but first let me lick the chocolate off my fingertips!

Thank you Cat Daddy for stickin' around to ~~share~~ make this a very special birthday for me!

Love you and can't wait to see what mischief you got planned for the rest of the day...

'cause you never fail to surprise me!

Every day truly is an adventure with you in the driver's seat!

AHH...GERMAN CHOCOLATE CUPCAKES...

THE BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

Are You Ready To Jump, Jive and Wail?

2011-05-17T12:31:00.001-05:00

May is a busy, busy month here at the Casita de Trash. Seems like there is more to do during this month than when I'm getting ready for the Greatest Show On Dirt!

The calendar is already crowded with Mother's Day, the Oldest Melon-Head, Sister Trash, and Grayzilla's birthdays...not to mention moi's, but throw in graduation parties, showers and a gazillion upcoming projects (have I mentioned I'm going to be representing at Vendor Night during the Paper Cowgirl's Art Retreat?) and you've got yourself one Mama Kitty in much need of a siesta!

Time flies, but I don't! For some strange reason, I'm not as quick as I used to be. Couldn't be my age...after all...I'm only 38 (she glibly says with her fingers crossed behind her back).

Truth is...and I'm only sharing this with you 'cause I know you won't reveal my secret, I'll be..gulp...60 on Thursday.

(Gosh, if I say it real fast like...doesn't sound nearly so bad.)

To prove I'm not ready for a rocking chair...YET...when my family asked what I wanted for my birthday, I didn't think twice before answering...DANCING!

Because they love me and indulge me in my flights of fancy (or maybe to humor me in my old age), they agreed to have a party...with dancing. 'Course I got a coupla looks like I had lost my everlovin' mind, but it's the one thing I love with a passion. I may not have been a Rockette, but in my heyday, I could shake my tail feathers with the best of 'em and this ol' hen still has a little shake left in her...even if her feathers are a trifle dusty! Talk about dust...just put on Silver Wings, a little Ray Price, and a whole lotta CCR...then stand back and watch it fly!

AH-CHOO!!!

I still want to have a LX Blowout Senior Prom with y'all as well, but that darn time thing is getting in the way of my party planning. For some one with SADD*, trying to plan TWO parties is an exercise in futility and since I plan on getting plenty of exercise Saturday night dancing with my hunkahunka burning love, I've decided to hold my Senior Prom, Monday, May 23. The 23rd is Grayzilla's birthday so still plenty of reason to celebrate...like I ever need an excuse to party!

So boys and girls...here's the plan. I want to see YOUR senior photos. Send 'em to me or post 'em...either one...just do it by or on the 23rd. If you want to dress you or a mannequin up...fine by me. If you want to post a photo of you as a senior at your prom...fine too! If you just want to show a photo of yourelf at graduation...I ain't gonna stop you! I encourage creativity and thrive on y'alls...having none myself.

*SADD...SQUIRREL ATTENTION DEFICIENCY DISORDER

Here's our golden opportunity to relive our glory days or create new ones...it's all up to you!

If you have a senior graduating...be my guest to take this opportunity to brag a little. Heck...let's make this a fun ride in my magic time machine...whaddaya say?

Now since this is my special birthday and since I make the rules...you know what? Rules...we don't need no stinkin' rules...'cept to have a crazy good time! What do y'all think? You like? Let me know and we'll call it a date! Please don't stand me up. Think of my age and remember...my heart couldn't take it!

(BTW, I wasn't the Prom Queen (I was robbed), but I might crown a Ms. Geritol, Mr. AARP or Best Senior Moment just to add a little TnT to the big blowout!)

Start sifting through those old photographs. Girls...dig out (or run buy) a vintage prom dress. Boys...find a powder blue tux with matching cumberbund. Everybody...get yourself a date (real or imaginary...just not your cousin) and let's party like it's 1969!

Oooh...and just for fun...buy yourself a glittery wrist corsage! I'm thinking orchids!

See you on the 23rd...if not sooner!

(All the above photos are of my space at Winnie & Tulula's...just in case y'all were wondering!)

Did Blogger Jump The Shark?

2011-05-14T08:12:00.000-05:00

Ah Blogger...you little mischief maker! You've been mighty busy for the last two days playing hide and seek with my posts. I found my posts, but I don't think my comments heard the "Ollie, Ollie, Outs In Free".

You can try and shut me up Blogger, but better men than you have tried and failed...just ask Cat Daddy! I'm still here and I'm still talking. In fact, I've got so much to say, I'm talking over at my other blog Do Over as well...so stuff that in your HTML and sit on it!

Dear readers...if you'd like to sit on it too...pull up a chair and pop on over to read my latest entry to Tricia's Friday Fiction. While you're at it...visit Trish to read all the other great short stories linked up.

In the meantime...

Oh where, oh where has my little post gone?

Oh where, oh where can it be?

With my words cut short, but my tale cut long,

Oh where, oh where can it be?