Bethany Anna: New Heart/New Life

2010-12-12T17:58:00.000-06:00

I've Moved [For the Last Time]

2010-10-04T08:21:00.000-05:00

I made the big move to WordPress! Come on over and see me.

How easy is this URL?!?

bethanygipson.com

Live Before Your Very Eyes!

2010-08-10T12:57:00.004-05:00

I finally recorded a VLOG! Honestly it's more of a screen test. I really wanted to see how it worked and looked.

Two things you will immediately notice:
1. That it was obviously nap time and I was speaking with a nap time voice.
2. I am obviously used to teaching ninth graders with my expressions. =)

Regardless of reviews I am definitely doing this again!

A big thank you to the fabulous MARIA for helping me get this thing uploaded. You better go check her out as soon as you leave here.

Gotta love that freeze frame:

Yes, I'm 5'11

2010-07-29T20:51:00.003-05:00

Another Crazy Five Question Friday

1. Did you have a favorite blanket or toy as a kid? If so, do you still have it?

This is a pretty embarrassing story. I had a nice fluffy eyelet baby blanket that was barely ever used. I remember just draping it over the corner of my bed. When I got toward the end of high school or starting college I began sleeping with it because it would roll up perfectly into whatever I needed it to be at home or traveling. Eventually, it got to where I couldn't sleep without it.

{ via }

On a beach trip to Destin my last semester of college in 2007 I went with some friends to a corporate party. When we left the next day and were about 20 minutes down the road I realized that I had left it.

Since the rooms were in a friend's name I had to give them the last name Carter and since my friend other friend Chrissy made the call to housekeeping, I had to go to the concierge and pick up a children's blanket for "Chrissy Carter." When the manager brought it to me he said, "I hope the little one wasn't too upset." I simply replied, "Oh, she'll be ok now."

Interestingly enough one of the guys that went with us that weekend was a friend of my husband's (whom I hadn't yet met), so when we began dating a month or so later…guess what the first story he heard about me was? He should've known then… =)

Thought I would throw a pic in from that trip.

Ironically, a year and a half later I was back at the same resort for a writing conference when I left it AGAIN. I wasn't so lucky that time, and I haven't seen it since. It was probably for the best since I was 23 at the time.

2. Do you dream in color?

Yes, I do. About 80% of the time I know that I am dreaming, as well, so if I think something is going to be painful I usually wake myself up; and about 20% of the time I do not want them to end, especially the ones when I am in a tropical or resort-like location, which isn't that rare.

3. How tall are you? Do you wish you were shorter or taller?

I am 5'11. I DO NOT wish I were taller, nor have I ever. I have been the "tallest" since kindergarten. Not only was I always the tallest at school, I was always the youngest because I have a September birthday. This did not stop me from wearing 3 in. heels when I first started teaching either.

Some of my wonderful juniors with me in 2007.

When I was younger it sucked, but when I got into college and would go out, it was always "Who's your tall friend?" or as I was apparently referred to by the boys where I taught "Amazon Warrior Princess." Hmm, yeah. A junior boy whom I had previously taught waited at my classroom door every morning for the month before the sweetheart dance, expecting me to say yes as his date. Seriously?! Thank you, Deborah LaFave for making that appear attainable. Later on in the year I heard that this student told an entire class, "I would like to climb her like a mountain. " Let's just say that it came in handy that my husband, then boyfriend, was their football coach. =)

4. If you could have anyone's (celeb or other) voice as the guide on your GPS, who would it be?

Oh my, this is tough, and I am the one who sent it in to Mama M.! I love Jenna Lamia's voice; she read the part of Skeeter on the audio recording of The Help. I know that there is another voice that I cannot think of! Ugh!

5. Do you return your shopping cart to the corral or leave it wherever in the parking lot?

I pretty much always return it. When I do not it's because it is dark, late, and not very smart to walk all the way across the parking lot by myself. I actually did this last night because I had to go to the generally weird, creepy Wal-Mart at 10:30 p.m.

P.S. I posted a sort of Clif's Notes on the 31 Days to a Better Blog Challenge Day 6 with SITS yesterday, if you want some tips for a better blog.

Check it out!

I Violated One of the Cardinal Rules of Blogging

2010-07-29T14:27:00.004-05:00

Apparently I violated one of the cardinal rules of blogging:

I apologized for not posting.

Funny thing is that when I did it, I actually felt that it was something that I maybe shouldn't do it.

Next time I will go with my gut.

{via}

I learned an infinite amount of bloggy info. from Saturday's homework assignment, and, yes, I know it is now Wedneday. If you are participating in the SITS Problogger Challenge, you know what I mean.

If you are not following along in the challenge it's never too late. Plus, today is your lucky day because I am giving you the Clif's Notes on day six of thirty-one!

This lesson is henceforth divided into three sections: Posts, Comments, and Sharing

{ Posts & Posting }

In sharing, I am going to do this section opposite of the traditional good news/bad news form by spreading the good news first. Well, it's good news for me. I hope it is for you, too!

Don't run any ads! [I don't!]
Coin a term. [Done! hilasterous]
"I hate AdSense on blogs." [Agreed. But I understand if you don't.]
Don't use lines and lines of text. [No problem here, too lazy.]
Don't clutter your website with badges. [I created the Blogellas tab for this very reason.]
Share link love and expect some back. [One of my favorite things to do, especially with my grammar blog.]

I did something right!

…and I absolutely love this line from Seth Godin:

"Digest the good ideas of other people all day every day."

~ Lessons Learned ~

1. One of my favorite probloggers Seth Godin says, "Write short, pithy posts," and Chris Brogan, one my new favorite blog masterminds, says, "Brevity rules."

I completely agree! The first blog I ever read is still one of my favorites, and she writes these best short posts on Texas Word Tangle. Rhea posts short, maybe not even full paragraphs at times, posts that may simply share an event or ask a question. Plus, I found SITS through Rhea's blog back in January!

2. Seth also says to "be snarky." I love to say, read, and type this word, and ironically this is how I am IRL; however, in the bloggy world I do not like to be snarky. If I cannot encourage someone or be positive in a comment, I do not like to at all. I hear about blog drama and virtual cat fights all the time, and I do not wish to understand it.

via

3. "Share your expertise generously; people will recognize it and count on you for it." This is what I am hoping to do with my transplant experience. I wish that patients and their friends and family would read my transplant experience and feel more comforted in knowing what to expect. I should go back and expand more on how I was actually feeling and acting on the specific days that were posted pre-transplant that my MIL wrote for me. I am also planning on posting on a more consistent basis on my grammar blog.

4. "Don't just post." Ask a question and spark a discussion.

{ Proof It! Preaching to the Choir }

5. "With the advent of feeds, once you publish there is no going back." AMEN! I am going to start waiting an hour after I spew it out then hit publish because I make about 5 changes on average every time after I publish. A lot of the time I even add pictures and more content.

Take a close look!
{Credit: Our sweet baby cousin Ezra}

{ Get Your Grammar Together }

6. Let me make something very clear: I do not believe in strictly adhering to the crazy, at times non-sensical rules of English grammar on a blog. Most of us blog to get something off of our chests and who gives a crap if there is a comma splice or run on sentence!!! I do, however, believe in making it readable. I should not have flashbacks to ninth grade love notes that I used to take up when reading the blog of an adult. I once graded the paper of an eleventh grade honors student who ended every single sentence with an exclamation point.

"Write exceptionally well," says Rand Fishkin of SEOmoz.

Look at the tables below. Do you see a pattern here???

This is why I like the idea of my grammar blog. There are writers out there who want to improve their writing, and I have the emails and DMs to prove it.

{ Have a an Irresistable Hook: Yep, That's Not Going to Happen Everyday Around Here }

7. Darren Rowse, the creator of the 31 Days to a Better Blog experience himself, has four key ingredients to a good title. How important is a good title? Well, we have been hearing since, what… 3rd grade maybe, that the title and first line are your hook? You need an "attention grabber." Same is true x's ten in the bloggy world.

- Simplify -
- Communicate -
- Key Words -
- Grab Attention -

Something like this should do...

This is actually a book of the best NYP headlines. =)

Here is a link to a more detailed list of Darren's four tips for titles, and here is another good link: "How to Write Headlines That Work."

{ We Love to Post a Pic }

8. Get your pics above the fold! In other words, get them above that first scroll. If a reader has to scroll before seeing any images, chances are that they won't.

9. Flickr…oh how I have wondered about Flickr. I usually get my images from We♥It, iStock, or Google Images, but randomly grabbing some images from wherever you like can have consequences, apparently. Skellie from Skelliewag explains how Flickr and the various image licenses work. I still have more research to do on this. I noticed early on that iPhoto on my laptop had a direct upload link to Flickr, but I had been with Photobucket for about six years now and have to do a little more research before migrating.

{ Digg, Digging, Dugg }

10. Digg, Digg, Digg!!! I am currently in the process of adding these buttons to my blog. It is also recommended that you do not post "share links" on every single post, that way when those buttons are there, your reader is more likely to notice them and be inclined to share.

I completely agree. I am so used to seeing these buttons on some blogs that I do not even pay them any mind sometimes. Well, that and I didn't know how to use them, with the exception of Facebook and Twitter or via email.

Besides, do I seriously want someone to Digg my post for the Valentine's Day Photobooth Saturday or my husband's random notes?

{ Domains for $10 - C'mon! }

11. "Keep your URL short." Done. I got tired of sounding out my own www.cardiocandyography.com even if I did think it was cute. Quit using the www.youwillneverrememberthis.blogspot.com address. FYI: GoDaddy is running a sale on domain names. This is where I got all of mine. Even if you don't want to use it now, go ahead and reserve so that you don't get stuck with a .net, .info, or .org. There are many other domain purchase options. I just happened to be really impressed with GoDaddy's customer service when they called to check on things and make sure that I wasn't paying for something I wasn't using, like my Wordpress hosting, and promptly offering a refund!

{ Google's Secret Recipe }

12. "Grow your Google authority." I do not deny that I would love for my blog to pop up every time someone searched for transplant but the truth is I am not writing to please the machine. Besides it has become apparent that no one really knows the magic formula for getting your page to pop up as a top result; it's sort of like the New York Times Bestsellers list.

This web illustrates how that authority is most likely determined.

13. There is an article about bad business ideas that I am not talking about because it has several annoying typos, like I often do, so it was hard for me to take it as an authority. Although, I do believe it wasn't meant to be taken seriously anyway. I am not going to be snarky about it, even if Seth Godin tells me to be snarky about it. =)

{ Umm…what? }

14. Now, Daniel Scocco from Daily Blogging Tips says to use CSS over HTML. Guess I better get out my HTML, XHTML, & CSS for Dummies and look at the difference. Yes, I do actually own it. While I am at it I guess I better learn what what ALT + Title attributes are since I should be using them as well. Then I will do a little Googling about Javascript links since I am supposed to "avoid" them.

{ Ok, I Know How to Do That }

15. Include functional links in your footer, since there is were readers typically go on regular websites for contact, about, etc.

{ Oil is to Water as _____________ is to Blogging }

16. Don't put your name in that blank just yet! I loved the material by Chris Brogan. He gave some great tips that I actually didn't make me feel like a blogging dumba***s* liked the sound of.

One of the first things he mentions is using analogies and stories to get your material across. I love analogies, and I always forget to use them; but think about it. Do you not pretty much always understand something better when someone uses an analogy? I quickly added that to my "DUH LIST," and here is the rest of it via Chris's advice.

{ MY DUH LIST }

1. "Make the main point in the first paragraph."

2. "You don't have to write in complete sentences, but use them sparingly. Like this. Like a condiment. Keep paragraphs small."

3. "Don't "blurt" the post automatically. Not every post is worth Twitter."

4. "Look at Google Trends to see what folks are writing about." He also mentioned looking at ALLTOP for topics, which I did. Love it.

5. Open with a question. I always encourage my students to find a better hook that a question, and now I am being told the opposite. Nice.

6. "Use an editorial calendar & get on a regular posting schedule." A while back a fella blogger ( I say fella because I feel like fellow is a masculine term.) posted about editorial calendars or wrote about them or something, and now I have lost the link.

7. "Use the word you are thinking about, not a fancier more polite word." WOW. That's hard to tell an English major who is constantly searching for the perfect word.

8. Here's a direct quote from Chris, "And never never never (raise your hand and repeat this with me) “I” (state your name) “solemnly swear never never never never ever to post another ‘I’m sorry I haven’t blogged lately’ posts ever again. Ever.” ...Oops.

9. "At least post once a week." Need help? Here is a link to 100 of Chris's blogging topics. I also have Jump Start: 510 Great Ideas for Your Blog from Cynthia @ A Shimmy in My Spirit it has a nice aesthetic. I have it printed out on cardstock in a binder.

10. "Add your URL to your email signature."

{ Comments & Commenting }

All of the following quotes came from master blogger and marketing extraordinary Seth Godin. =)

1. "Answer your email." If a reader takes time to write an email to me, it will not go unanswered. As much as I would like to think that I am too busy or popular to respond to a personal email, that is delusional.

2. "Include comments so that your blog becomes a virtual water cooler." I would love to do this. At one point I did have Intense Debate installed so that I could comment and respond publicly to every single comment. However, it erased all of the comments that were posted before I installed it then took all of the ones posted via ID with when it poofed, so now I just play it safe until I move to WordPress hopefully sometime in the fall, after I learn more about it at BBC. ;)

3. "Don't send the same email to a large number of people. Do not be tempted to copy & paste or mail merge." Ugh! I would never. I would only do that with wedding thank you notes. I hope this includes Twitter DMs because they are the DEVIL, and I am sick of them. If that hurts your feelings, I am really sorry, but now you know. Go fix it.

4. "Don't mush the salutation together with the rest of the note."

Example:

Dear Bethany, I am glad that you are passing on all of these blogging pointers.

"That's not personal - it's lazy merging."
(Besides being just completely wrong.)

One day I will share with you the various ways that Hubs's ninth grade summer school students addressed envelopes for him one summer. EEK!

And my two favorite points of all:

5. "Don't mark your email *urgent*. - Urgent to you is not urgent to me."

6. "Don't lie in the subject line; you're not clever enough to be cute. Just be honest."

{ Social Media & Sharing }

1. "Use Del.ico.us to tag your posts". (I need a Del.ico.us for Dummies book.) I hope they make a Social Media for Dummies book.

2. "Encourage readers to Digg your posts," and use Furl (now Diigo) and Reddit.

3. Still wondering if Del.ico.us, Technorati, Digg, Reddit, Furl (now Diigo), StumbleUpon, Tweetmeme, etc. are a good idea for getting your content out there? Look at these graphics.

I found Dan Zarella's website in researching social media numbers.

You will find it super helpful and interesting if you are interested in stepping things up.

Just for laughs...

To my fellow 31DBBBs,

That wraps up my work for days 6 - 8. I did days 7 - 8 without even realizing it!

Mission: List

2010-07-20T22:11:00.006-05:00

began writing this post while I was waiting on my clinic appointment, since I was about an hour early. I then proceeded to delete it when I was having my laptop checked out at the Apple store. Grr. I was in the "zone," too: great little lines of bloggy bits and now…moving on.

I have been reading the copy of Eat, Pray, Love that has been on my bookshelf for over a year, and now that the movie is coming out I want to tackle it. Except it's not a tackle. I am enjoying every second of it right now! I was not ready for her to leave Italy! That first portion of the book, telling of her time in Italy, made me so dang hungry. I settled for some La Madeleine and a stroll through my favorite store in all of New Orleans, a paperie named Scriptura. That little store just lights up my life and drives me to buy paper that I do not even need. I did however need something from there today: thank you notes for Finn. Plus, I picked up a little something for our friend Scarlett who is always there to help out Finn when something comes up.

She is marrying one of Zac's buddies in April, and we are SUPER excited for them. She is also Finn's favorite babysitter. =)

Moving on to today's Better Blogger Challenge…

We are asked to create a list in our post today. For some reason, this sent me into a state of panic. I have always used lists to organize things now and I ALWAYS used lists or outlines to study in college. I have no clue why it would, since one of my most popular posts ever have been lists like this and the one I am posting below. I am reposting this one below since it was on my other blog that I have somewhat abandoned and not too many folks saw, and the ones who did sent me lots-o-feedback. It is a list of low sugar or low fat substitutes that are helpful with the diet that I have also abandoned, but was somewhat reprimanded for at clinic today. I suppose that it is time to get back on the wagon.

Originally posted 2/12/10...
I am a deep-fried, strongly-seasoned, southern girl, so when I heard that I would have to adhere to a heart-healthy diet I thought that in itself would be enough to give me a heart attack. However, after losing over thirty pounds while in the hospital on a low to no sodium diet I learned to get used to it, and the weight loss was worth it. One of the first things I learned was, "where salt goes, water goes." So greatly reducing the sodium in your diet really knock of the pounds, and you really don't have to work to hard at it.

With all of the material I was given by the hospital dietician and a little internet research, I soon learned that I had been eating a whole day's worth of sodium or more in one meal! It's no wonder they took ten pounds of fluid off of me the first 24 hours I was there! I love love love food, and there is nothing that I can think of off of the top of my head that I absolutely will not eat. So obviously cutting back is very difficult for me. I am very lucky in that my weight and figure directly correlates with my food intake, but I just love it too much. MY weight has fluctuated up and down by thirty pounds at least three times the past seven years.

Before I get too sidetracked, let me get on with what I want to share with you in today's post. I have discovered a few things that have given "cutting back" a little flavor. All the items below are little things that make a big difference. I have found all of them at the local grocery store as well as Target and Wal-Mart. Each photo is linked to that company's website where you can look at nutritional info. and most them have some great recipes and other resources, too!

These are delish! I know it is hard to believe, but if I had not baked them, I would have never known the difference! They are so very fudgy, if that is a word. I baked mine in an 8 x 8 pan, but if you like them thicker than 1" use a mediumer pan.

I was introduced to this right out out of the hospital, and it saved my sweet tooth. Yumyumyum! This Peanut Butter Fudge is great, but they have a Butter Pecan that is out of this world. Portion control is this the key here since I struggle to keep from eating the whole tub.

I was never a big yogurt fan, but this stuff is addictive! It's the ones with the commercial that talks about "Boston Creme Pie, Strawberry Shortcake, etc." it is sooo good. I have tried all of them; I think. There are probably about 10-15 "dessert" flavors. I do not recommend the chocolate

mousse or cinnamon roll...I almost gagged. However, the cherry cobbler and strawberry shortcake are to die for! My husband even agrees: there's your proof!

If you like chocolate milk, this is a decent substitute. I would be willing to bet that the Hershey's Syrup: Lite is better, and it actually has less sodium than this one.

I love butter and jelly on toast for breakfast, and these are great substitutes for the sugar-laden originals. They a slight hint of tartness to them due to obvious lack of sugar, but I like it. There are Sugar Free varieties and Low Sugar varieties; I didn't notice the difference until after I saw the label.

Now for the second part of my favorite breakfast habit: butter. This butter is soft, tasty, and most important of all SPREADABLE. I had tried the Smart Balance before and it was like wax. This seems just as good as Country Crock!

I know I didn't have much to say about their butter, but their mayo rocks! Once again, if I didn't scoop it out of the jar myself, I wouldn't have known that it wasn't Hellman's or Kraft. Plus, it has Omega-3s. Thanks, babe, for finding this one! My hubby does the grocery shopping, since he does all of the cooking. Trust me, this hasn't been easy for him either. They make a great cooking spray, too.

I never in a MILLION YEARS thought that I would use these! Just the thought of them made me gag, until one day my hubby made me an omelette with them and I later saw the carton next to the stove. I couldn't believe how good they were. The carton does say, "99% real eggs" I suppose. I like using them better than real eggs now. They are just easier to cook, clean up, and no scrambling involved, unless you add other stuff in like I do.

The dietician at Ochsner told me about this stuff to use as a salt substitute. Let me just go ahead and admit this: there is no substitute for salt: sorry, there just isn't. But, this comes pretty darn close. It has a distinct flavor, so use it sparingly. I once put too much on my eggs and nearly gagged. It helps give a little flavor to your dishes where Mrs. Dash may fail.

This probably one the most commonly known diet keys: substitute sour cream with plain yogurt. I do this with eggs, salsa, and other dip-type snack foods. Love it! I haven't gotten to the point where I can just eat it with a spoon yet, though.

I eat the croissant variety of these. You can definitely tell

that they are not McDonald's, but they are filling and tasty substitutes. Jimmy also makes good, tasty, juicy turkey sausage that I had for breakfast this morning.

There is no Challenge More Challenging Than the Challenge to Improve Yourself...or Your Blog

2010-07-19T23:07:00.007-05:00

ecently, while clicking through the SITs Blog Frog Community, of which I have been a member since they decided to create one for their amazing website, I noticed a discussion regarding improving your blog in 31 days. This quickly caught my attention, and I knew immediately that I wanted to join in. Here's the plan:

Each day for 31 days, we’ll focus on one task that will help stretch and build those blogging muscles, transforming your blog into a lean, mean blogging machine. Since you’ll be taking the challenge with other bloggers (current count is 50 and rising), you’ll benefit from the knowledge of other recruits as we share tips and experiences in daily forum discussions.

By the end of the challenge you’ll have:

Written a variety of different types and styles of posts
Learned techniques for coming up with new post ideas
Promoted your blog in a variety of ways
Built relationships with readers
Reached out to and developed working relationships with other bloggers
Developed an editorial calendar for your blog
Discovered ways to be more connected to your niche/topic
Designed a plan for your next month of blogging

Today's task is to create an elevator pitch for your blog.

“An elevator pitch is an overview of an idea for a product, service, or project. The name reflects the fact that an elevator pitch can be delivered in the time span of an elevator ride (for example, thirty seconds or 100–150 words).” —Wikipedia

This is a topic that I have been thinking about for a few months now, since I am planning on attending Austin Bloggy Boot Camp in October, and I want to have a recognizable tagline (elevator pitch) by that time. Well, I have thought about this more and more the past day, and I as I reflect on my year and read back over my "About Me" page, I came up with this…

"The Sweet Life & Times That Follow a Wedding, a Baby, and a Heart Transplant."

That right there sums it up…straight to the point…I say the sweet life, although sometimes it is a little less than sugary-sweet, because of those three things I am now able to slow down, stay home, and enjoy things that I have never gotten to do. Although I don't recommend getting a heart transplant as a means of becoming a stay-at-home-mom, I must say that it is something I never even considered and now that it has been somewhat forced upon me, I would not have it any other way!

My post today was extremely brief because I am writing to you from my hotel room in New Orleans where I will have my monthly biopsy, echo, and heart cath tomorrow. If everything goes well, I will get to come down on the steroids again which keeps me right on schedule for coming off of them right at a year in October. July has been completely INSANE with an amazing family vacation (which I haven't even written about - shame on me), two trips to the ER, one to the transplant unit for three days, and Finn's first birthday party yesterday that I threw together in three days. WHEW!

If you're interested in joining in, click the button in my sidebar.

If you just found my blog VIA the challenge look around, checkout "About Me" to learn a little more about what the heck is going on around here, and thanks for stopping by!

{source}

Axl, Scars, and a Hangover

2010-07-15T23:44:00.014-05:00

FIVE QUESTION FRIDAY

CLICK TO JOIN IN!

1. Do you collect anything?

Yes. I have been collecting I Love Lucy memorabilia since I was in elementary school. I have always kept it packed up thinking that one day I would have a place to display it, especially if I had a girl then I could do her room in light green and pink with a retro vibe. Now I have no idea what I am going to do with it. It's all packed up: trivia games, metal signs, Barbies, etc.

Oh, to live at the corner of Lucy and Ethel...

I also collect random Guns 'N Roses pieces. I have a demo record with some random covers. I was so excited to get it on eBay several years ago. I also have their first album: no, not Appetite for Destruction, but Live ?!*@ Like a Suicide, GNR comic books, post cards, Rolling Stone Magazines, Circus Magazines, even concert promo flyers from the early 80's before they hit it big, random bootleg concerts, and pretty much any and every TV performance. I still always smile when I hear them, and they always have a way of sneaking onto the radio when I need a pick me up. It's sort creepy how it ALWAYS happens.

Seriously, rewind to 1988, '89, '90, '91, '92 ...

I would have been on that GNR tour bus a la Penny Lane...

2. Name 3 celebrities that you find good looking.

{One}

Bradley Cooper

I'm pretty sure there wasn't a moment in The Hangover where he didn't look flat drool-worthy.

What can I say...I have a thing for hot, shaggy-haired, Biology teachers... (i.e. my hubby)

I am pretty sure that Mr. Cooper is the first celeb that makes me sweat that others find attractive. - I have somewhat twisted taste that always leaves other girls going, "Huh? Eww." i.e. Mickey Rourke (pre-scary facelift), Keifer Sutherland, Bruce Willis, …

{Two}

I have loved Robert Downey, Jr. since Only You. Oh gosh, he is so perfect in that movie!

I couldn't think and asked Zac who I think are hot. His exact reply was, "That guy from The Hangover…umm…old…dirty…guys… I don't know…Marlon Brando…random fat football players…"

Guilty.

I guess that counts as three.

3. Do you have any scars? If so, what's the story behind it (them)?

Well, before last year, I didn't any. I have always thought scars were really cool because they are like little bookmarks you wear around forever. Now, I have TEN. FOUR of them are from my gallbladder removal in January of 2009 when I was in my second trimester. Yep, you can have surgery when you are pregnant, but only in your second trimester. However I wouldn't recommend it since you have to wake up from surgery and have an OB nurse check the baby before you get any pain meds. Ahh!!! Then, they slowly give it to one mg at a time so that they can keep tabs on the baby. OUCH! I have another FOUR scars from my transplant. Three are on top of my tummy from the stomach tubes, then of course the great big one from having my chest cracked open for about 6 hours. =) It's actually not nearly as bad as I had imagined it would be. It was glued, no staples or stitches.

I love my transplant scar and all that it represents. I am not even going to use any Mederma or scar treatment.

Hubs has a massive scar in his back and sides as well where he had some pretty wicked melanomas removed several years ago. His was extremely touch and go for a while, too. Our scars are such incredible reminders of how blessed we are to be survivors. I also have a scar about the size of pencil eraser from my central line and a cut on top of my hand where I was attacked by a copy machine a couple of years ago. You know, one of those heavy duty ones at work? I reached in to get my copies, and "Ouch!" I have no clue what did it but it hurt!

4. What is a food that you like to eat, but others might think it's gross or weird?

Growing up always ate everything, so I always grossed everyone at school out by eating bread crusts, chicken liver, and olives. I still eat olives, crawfish, spinach, broccoli, brussel sprouts, etc. I also love to drink plain Perrier and club soda which totally grosses my husband out.

5. Have you ever seen a tornado in real life?

No tornados, but I've been through many, many hurricanes, including Ivan, and Katrina. They just come with the territory down here.

PINT: Hello, My Name is Bethany, and I Have a Coffee Problem.

2010-07-13T12:23:00.002-05:00

Snaps of Us

2010-07-11T21:11:00.003-05:00

ust let me say you how excited I am for Miss Brittany Ciara and the fabulous bash she is hosting this week. I haven't written in so long, and this is just what I needed to jump back in to the blogosphere. To my regular readers and followers: I have been on vacay for about two weeks and was home for two days before I got to go on another trip to the ER, so here I am writing from the luxury of a hospital bed. Hopefully, I will get to go home tomorrow. Enough about all that bull honkey and on to the fun stuff...

{ My Intro. Post }

I am a 25 year-old mother, wife, and teacher. My baby boy will be one in three days! My husband and I met when I was student teaching and he was already teaching and coaching. I received a heart transplant in October following a short bout of peripartum cardiomyopathy. I started out with a Caring Bridge page and decided to expand to a blog after I had so many subscribe to the CB page. I was approved for lifelong SS Disability in March, so I will not be returning to teaching anytime soon. I love my job so much as you can see here, I just can't stay away.

{1} Why do you blog?

I began blogging because, as I mentioned above, I had so many friends, family, and folks that I have never met writing me and inquiring about my condition. I absolutely fell in love with the community and the opportunity to reach other heart patients and friends and family of heart patients. I had no clue that I would meet so many friends other fabulous gals. I soon realized I wanted to do a little more, like the Book Nook and Grammar on the Go. I have also transferred my Caring Bridge entries to the Transplant Times section that begin with the fear and horror of my condition all to my nearly complete recovery following the transplant.

{2} What do you blog about?

I am probably one of the most random bloggers that you will come across. However, I am sure that every blogger probably thinks that about themselves. I blog about my post transplant adventures, the transition from working full-time to SAHM, being a newlywed, raising a baby, taking care of a new pup. I even talk about my small shopping problem, love of gadgets, and a weight battle.

{3} What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about blogging?

I always found even keeping a private journal was rewarding, when I made time to do it. Blogging has been so rewarding because of the instant feedback and the communities. Plus, you get to share pics, video, and music in context with what you share. Plus, there is the added "high" of helping others' causes!

{4} How long have you been blogging?

As part of a senior college assignment I had to post a weekly blog of my observation experiences in the schools. About three years later I decided to blog in the the real world, and I started a new blog where I would post about my daily life: teaching, mothering, etc. Before I even wrote my first post I became ill and was admitted to the hospital. I didn't return home until three months later. Needless to say, that would later add fuel to my bloggy fodder. I began writing here in January 2010.

{5} Let's hear the story behind your blog title!

This is actually my second title and second blog for that matter. My first blog that I wrote under was titled "Cardiocandyography." Cardio = heart related...candy = something sweet...ography = related to writing. When Ellie was installing my amazing blog template and layout, there was an issue with one of the free wallpapers that I had installed at one point, and I had to create an entirely new blog and quickly think of a title so that she could go ahead and install the template. "Cardiocandyography" had become a bit cumbersome and difficult to share with friends and family. I am till trying to think of a great tagline/blog title. My twitter handle is HeartHunnyBe; I am thinking of maybe using that somehow.( Be has been my life long nickname.)

Even If the Grass Was Greener, I'm Staying on This Side with You.

2010-06-21T22:56:00.004-05:00

Alabama Arkansas I do Love my Ma and Pa

But not as much as I do Love you

Holy Moly Me oh My you're the apple of my eye

Girl Boy ain't never loved one like you

Man o Man your my best friend I scream it to the nothingness

that we got everything we need

Hot and Heavy pumpkin pie

Chocolate candy Jesus Christ

Ain't nothin please me more than you

Home, Let me come Home

Home is Whenever Im with you

Home, yes I am Home

Home is wherever I'm with you

Lalalala Take me Home

Mama I'm Coming Home

I follow you into the park, thru the jungle thru the dark

Girl Boy aint never loved one like you

Moats and boats and Waterfalls, Alleyways and payphone calls

I been everywhere with you

Laugh until we think we'll die, barefoot on a summer night

never could be sweeter than with you

like its only you and me jade/ebes your somethin to see

Lalalala take me home

Mama Im Comin Home

Jade, you remember that night you fell outa my window?

ya you came jumpin out after me

well, you were bleedin all over the place and I covered your ass with your dress and we went off to the hospital, you remember that?

well there's somethin I never told you bout that night

what didnt you tell me?

well, while you were sitting in the back seat smokin a cigarrette you thought was gona be your last, I was fallin deep, deep in love with you, and I never told you till just now!

Home, let me come home, home is wherever I'm with you

Home, yes I am Home home is whenever I'm with you!

Alabama Arkansas I do love my Ma and Pa

Yes Home, yes ward! home is whenever I'm with you!

Home is whenever I'm with you

Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros - "Home"

To my dear and loving husband, father to our son:

Thank you for introducing me to this band for I could not have said it better myself. As soon as we found out that our little Finn baby was coming you became an incredible father before he was even here. Well, after you became an amazing husband, quickly naturally. You held our hand though my gallbladder fun and my awesome migraines, then as Finn came bouncing into the world. Those first several days when I could barely raise my head, you took him to the doc twice! Just when we thought that was as rough fun as it would get, I found us some snazzy new digs in a hospital for a few months. (Hey, it was waterfront property.) It was so exciting to see you two stroll in every morning, with the whole nursery in-tow, and those days that Finn got to go home for a break and you resumed night duty with me on the 7th floor of the TSU in that window seat those plush sleeping quarters. (Guess we finally got that long honeymoon after all.)Those days spent in the Levee Run apartments following discharge are some of my fondest memories of me, you, and Finn together. I am so proud that I have my scar to look at everyday and remember, not only that it saved my life, but that it was such a miraculous time that we got to share together as a family. You have done so much since then that I hate myself for not keep a journal of all you are every day. I guess if times ever get rough, we can just look back through THESE and realize that if we made it thought all of those adventures in the first nine months of marriage we, together, can do anything.

Happy 1st Father's Day.

I love you now and forever...

A Great Big Gulp of "UGH!"

2010-06-04T14:10:00.008-05:00

{1}

If you could go back to college would you change your major?
If you were to go to college right now...what major would you choose?

I doubt I would change my major if I went back to college because I loved my job so much. However, since I already have that degree and certification, if I went back I would try something new. I would really like to learn all about graphic design or something web-based.

{2}

What do you love most about your home?

When I first moved out here [into my husband's home] I was not happy AT ALL with the fact that I am now at least 15 - 20 minutes from ANY form of food, shopping, etc. I had lived the first 24 years of my life in the middle of town. (Except the first three when we lived on Fish River in Silverhill.) It is still extremely difficult knowing that I have a bit of a drive anytime I want to go anywhere other than Chevron, but on the other hand I have grown quite fond of not having next-door neighbors. If we could, we would buy the lots on either side of us so that we would have it like this forever. =)

{ to the right }

{ to the left }

{3}

What types of books do you like to read (if you like to read at all)?

I read pretty much anything. I am not into any fantasy novels with the exception of Charlaine Harris. I really like how she made her vampire series The Southern Vampire Series. Most of the time I have to have something that is "can't put down," like James Patterson - which is quite embarrassing as an English teacher. I absolutely LOVE Mary Kay Andrews. I read a good bit of adolescent lit. trying to find books that my students would like: Sarah Dessen, Sharon Draper, Gary Paulsen, etc. I love Louise Rennison's Georgia Nicolson series; it totally transports me back to an awkward adolescence. I am currently determined to read some classics: Pride & Prejudice, Jane Eyre, and The Catcher in the Rye. I also reallllly want to read Gone With the Wind.

{4}

What is the grossest thing you've ever eaten?

When I was in middle school we had driven about 30 - 45 to the beach, which when you are 11 is an eternity and I was so thirsty that I felt as if I could jump into the pool and gulp down every gallon of the chlorinated water without batting an eye. Naturally, when we arrived at the condo everyone else was outside on the beach and pier, but I didn't care. I bolted in leaving the door open behind me, zoomed up the stairs and immediately started voraciously rummaging through the kitchen for a cold drink. There it was, calling my name, as if basking in the glow of a beam from heaven: giant ice bucket of water - the perfect slush of ice and water. I don't think that I even looked for a cup. Assuming everyone was done with it, since they were back outside swimming, I cupped my hands together and took a big gulp. AHHHHH! The world's most disgustingly shocking chug of water had failed me terribly. That "ice bucket" was an ice cream maker bucket!!! …and that was the day that I learned you use rock salt to make homemade ice cream.

{5}

If you HAD to be a character on a TV show, whom would you be?

I would like to be Fiona/Fi on Burn Notice. She's intelligent and quick-witted, lives in Miami, can kick anyone's butt, use any firearm with complete confidence, and drives the finest, fastest cars. Not to mention that weight and a tan are apparently no issue for her. (I would like to keep my curves though.) Plus, she has two fab guys that always have her back. Hmmm. Now that I think about it, I wanted to be her when I was in 2nd grade, and she played Sonora in the film Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken…weird.

All the hops I'm following today - If you want an idea of what you are getting yourself into check out my "About Moi" tab.

So Sorry...Will This GIVEAWAY Make It Better?

2010-05-20T18:40:00.003-05:00

lease forgive me, for I have been a bad blogger. I have not posted as I should, nor have I responded to your lovely comments the past couple of weeks. To make it up to you, I made a few updates: I finished reading The Help a couple of weeks ago and wrote a bit about it, and I posted a huge enlightenment over on the grammar end of things. Oh yeah and there's a *DOUBLE GIVEAWAY* over in the Book Nook! Plus, I will be responding to each of you soon!

Friday I got my first migraine since the weeks following transplant in October. It lasted half the day and nothing gave me relief! (That was the day I was going to update all my bloggies.) On Saturday, I got up and going at a decent hour. I went to get Finn's first big-boy car seat. =( I knew exactly what I wanted and went straight into Babies R' Us to get it and dragged it to the counter. I had the wedding of a close high school friend to attend at four o'clock about a half hour's drive away, so it was a shuffle to do it all. As I approached the counter, I suddenly broke out into a sweat and felt an excruciating pain in my chest/upper stomach area. I knew this pain and realized it was only going to get worse. The associates at the store were so kind and helpful. They had someone carry my purchase out to my car and were very sympathetic.

I got to my car and called my mom to bring the medicine I needed. We sat there for about thirty minutes until it kicked in. I got home just in time to get ready. Well, it didn't quite work out that way, and my body just couldn't do it. I think it may have been a side effect of what I had taken for the migraine the day before because it is so strong, and it had been so long since I had taken it. That's enough about that icky stuff.

To be honest, I have also been a little sidetracked by three other little things, as well:

I used a combination of the last my rewards points and the perks of an educator discount to snag the first two gadgets; however, this last one has been my true downfall: I am on lynda.com every single day learning how to use Photoshop and Illustrator like a pro. This site is amazing! If you ever wanted to learn how to software like this or others, this site is the answer to your prayers. I learned how to do this in less than an hour! There are training sets instantly available for everything from PowerPoint to Twitter and from iMovie to Dreamweaver, even Blogger. I am not being paid for this, just sharing some good stuff.

Here's the menu for my other updates:

~Book Nook~

Review & Giveaway of The Help
CLICK HERE

~Grammar for Girls on the Go~

The Mighty Apostrophe
CLICK HERE

Introducing...

Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Chooker in a Tub

2010-05-12T13:28:00.011-05:00

know that I should be posting more words on here today since I haven't posted in a WEEK, but I just couldn't help but to share these pics of Chooker-Baby before those top teeth come on through. =( Anypic, this week I will have updates on all fronts, I promise: my main page, book nook, and grammar. The oil hasn't reached our beach yet, so I may sketch out on some writing to go enjoy the last few moments of serenity.

A Little Bit for New Folks from Friday Follow

Howdy, Friday Followers! Welcome to my humble blog-abode.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Home: The commons where I talk about everything, post all my memes, and share what's going on.

2. About Moi: If you LOVE this, FOLLOW ME, and you'll get more of what you love!

3. The Crew: Who's living under my roof + a new puppy coming home tomorrow!

4. Transplant Times: Here's where you can catch up on what led me here: a heart transplant 6 months ago!

5. Book Nook: Bookworms, this is what will make you LOVE me. *wink*

6. Blogellas: a.k.a. my blog-button-roll

7. Grammar-On-the-Go: This is my newest feature, and I am loving it...because I'm a nerd like that. =)

Sound appealing?

FOLLOW ME!

HIT ME UP ON TWITTER

WELL, YOU GET THE IDEA.

COME ON, HOW MANY 25 YEAR OLDS DO YOU KNOW WITH A

NEW HUSBAND, NEW BABY, AND NEW HEART?!

If you're not convinced, here are some of my greatest hits:

Click 'em!

{1} ...And You Can Quote MEme on That

{2} From Photo Booth Saturday to Wordful Wednesday

{3} Steroids, Dust, and Kenny Chesney

{4} When Did Hubs Take up Writing? Here's When:

{5} Alot Is MIA

- One more thing -
If you want to know something, just ask...
Formspring.Me

Dear Lord, Please Don't Let My Memories Get an Oil Bath

2010-05-04T23:06:00.008-05:00

very time the t.v. is on, it oozes more depressing breaking news of the ever expanding oil spill. I live right on the coast; as a matter of fact, it is only about a twenty-five minute drive from my home to the water. The area of beach that I am talking about is Dauphin Island. It is a much less commercialized spread of beach in our area. I have so many memories there from my early childhood all of the way to last year when we took Finn for the first time at two weeks old. I was adamant that he be taken as soon as I felt good enough to do it.

Finn on his two week birthday

Beginning in kindergarten up to my middle school years my mother's best friend Rhonda had a condo where we always bunked-up. Those are the greatest memories of my life. You always hear the cliche of how as child you don't have a worry in the world and to enjoy every moment of what you think is boredom. Looking back, as an adult, I believe this is the gospel truth, and every time I think of a time of fun, innocence, and no worries I think back to the island summers.

The water tower that greets you...

I have a younger brother and Rhonda had four children. We would fish under the lights until two or three in the morning, play on the beach all day, go swimming at the country club, and munch on sno-cones until all of our teeth were a spectrum of syrup. At night for dinner there were tacos, burgers, spaghetti, and, of course, infinite amounts of redfish, flounder, and mullet. At night and during nap time we would watch videos from our I Love Lucy library of VHS tapes or play on an original Gameboy. Remember the great big one with gray screen? (...and we thought those were small.) I can still feel the sand in the shower and the beds and sand spurs in the carpet.

The door behind which lies the most cherished of memories...

One after noon that Duffie and I scooped baby shrimp from the water and tried to sell them to the neighbors who were huge environmental fanatics and told us to put them back and let them get bigger. Following in our footsteps, our little brothers decided to sell sea shells in the driveway. Of course we teased them relentlessly, but those little buggers made fifteen bucks! I remember when a go cart place finally opened and there was finally something to do after dark. I really do not know how my mom and Rhonda did it: just them and six kids running wild. Those were the summers of which I hope heaven is made.

The gully where Duffie and I caught the baby shrimp...

When I was in middle school, my parents got their own house down the street. It just wasn't the same though. It had a swimming pool, dock, and no beach. I missed staying with our friends and going to the club and the beach to swim.

The boardwalk from the country club to the beach: it's the one we are walking on in the header...

While I was in college, it was the place I would to get away, get space, breathe. It was my place of calm, my sanctuary. I have spent countless hours there just me and the water. Zac and I even had a couple of our first dates there. We walked on the beach and talked, talked, talked. The header photo was taken there as well. If you didn't read the background story on that photo, you can read it here. His sister had a great wedding reception and straight "throw-down" there in 2007. I have spent countless hours there just me and the water.

Island Rainbow: sno-cones, burgers, and hot dogs

When Rhonda died in March 2007 after a four month battle with stomach cancer, my mind and heart were overflowing with all of these beautiful memories of summers together that some people never get to experience in a lifetime. When I left her funeral service, I drove straight to the island and just let the salty air wash over me. With a small stick in my hand I wrote her a thank you note in the sand then drove around and visited all of the old spots. In the Estuarium I purchased a fish key chain made of wood that I always keep with me.

A view from the beach...

I am pouring my heart out about this today because this horrific oil spill is threatening the future memories for our children, not to mention the what it will do the restaurants and businesses. Shrimp and seafood is an enormous business in our area and their crop will be virtually destroyed. I volunteered to help, but the transplant team would probably have a massive coronary themselves if they ever knew I even thought about it.

Please help if you can. When I called to volunteer they said that there were calls coming in from all over the country to help. The damage will probably last a couple of years, not forever, but knowing that it will even be that long until we get the beach back breaks my heart. I have always said that if I ever win a million dollars, the first thing I will do is get my own house down there so that Finn can have the same memories that I did, although it will be tough to compete with mine.

If you are interested in helping with the clean up effort, here are some links:

Website

Facebook

Twitter

Website

Facebook

Website

Do you have something that you would like to pour your heart out about?

Do it and link up at Shell's place.

* With the exception of the photo of Finn, all of these photos were taken by myself about three years ago to use in a collage for my brother's eighteenth birthday.*

The Satisfied Appetite of a Reluctant Reader

2010-05-02T22:56:00.014-05:00

ince this week is Teacher Appreciation Week, this week's All About MEme Monday is a teacher tribute. I knew that I had an assignment somewhat similar to this when I was in college. The assignment was to write a literacy history. A literacy history was pretty much your history of reading, self-explanatory. Well, since I was becoming an English teacher, obviously my literacy history was going to end with an English teacher who influenced me. I cut and pasted this assignment from a Word doc, so I hope it cooperates.

◍ ◍ ◍ ◍ ◍
Also, check out the pics I posted in my Book Nook.

You can also check out what's on my nightstand right now.

◍ ◍ ◍ ◍ ◍

The Appetite of a Reluctant Reader: Sharks & Barbra Streisand

“When you read a book as a child, it becomes part of your identity in a way that no other reading in your life can.” As I think back on the words uttered from the lips of Kathleen Kelly in the quaint little film You’ve Got Mail, I must say that I agree. Therefore, if these books become such part of your identity then that would explain my early vocabulary development and lack of peer group social skills. Sadly enough, I had no favorite books until that day of enlightenment in the tenth grade when my soul was saved. In the tenth grade, I signed up to be part of a group of five students in an experimental writing class under the direction of the same person who would be teaching my English class. I had no idea the dramatic change of heart toward learning that this would set into motion. Even reluctant readers have some point of interest. As a teacher, I will seek to find that niche just as someone once did with me.

As a young child, the only times I remember being read to was from the Bible or morally abundant anthologies like the Book of Virtues. These books were the only necessary reading in the eyes of my tremendously religious and now absent father. I must say that my vocabulary and reading progressed quite rapidly, being that the only reading I was ever required to accomplish was from a King James Version of the good book or a Focus on the Family-regulated girl’s magazine. I remember my father requiring me and my brother to take turns reading the scriptures aloud and interpreting them for chapters at a time. As you could probably understand, reading became more of a task or chore than a good habit.

Approaching fourth and fifth grades, I began to form more interests outside those that my parents dictated. As my interests and identity began to form so did new reading habits. I began to read about more about marine life. I became exceedingly interested in sharks. I remember reading books entitled The Animal Fact File and Sharks Attacks on Men until the spines were split. In addition to sharks, I was interested in musicians and actresses. The contrast between their real lives and their on-screen personas intrigued me. I remember specifically reading a Barbra Streisand biography cover-to-cover.

Although the private lives of celebrities and carnivorous eating habits of great white sharks infinitely intrigued me, it was not so cool amongst the rest of my cohorts at my small Baptist middle school. I had resolved to come to terms with my towering statue, but these atypical interests had to be tossed out the window for popularity’s sake. Throughout my latter middle school years and early high school years, my reading habits were virtually non-existent with the exception of the occasional Seventeen magazine, however, when I walked into my tenth grade English class that all changed. This teacher created the most endearing and comfortable environment. Under the inspiration and instruction of the most brilliant teacher I have ever encountered, my enthusiasm and motivation for learning dramatically increased. I found myself journaling and reading anything I could find, on a daily basis.

Because of one amazing person, I could not quit reading or writing every chance I was given. I remember every book we read. I kept every paper and writing assignment from that year. I sometimes look back at those old journal entries. Those pieces of free thought take me back to a time of such inspiration and intellectual energy that I am sometimes jealous of my own tenth-grade-self. I knew that there was a reason I kept all of those assignments. Now, I will use them to drive and inspire those in my own classroom the same as they inspired me.

◍ ◍ ◍ ◍ ◍
Since we are on the subject of high school, I went to a shower for a high school buddy last weekend. It was great to see some old faces. Can't wait for the wedding!
P.S. Look how much my steroid face has gone down!Only a few more inches of cheek to go! LOL.

Best Wishes, Whit!

I am participating in two carnivals today...

MOMMY BRAIN

JUNE CLEAVER NIRVANA

Hey Lady, I Can See Your A.D.D. From Here

2010-04-30T00:59:00.005-05:00

A note to my Friday Followers: I have posted a quick summary of this special spot in the blogosphere at the end of this post. Anypost, on with my brain sludge...

I haven't just sat down and let my thoughts just flow to the keyboard in a very long time; however, today I decided to pick my happy butt up off of the couch and relocate to the porch swing while Finn takes his afternoon nap.

Moses is snoring next to me on the swing. Vega is under my feet and snoring, as well. It is quite funny, but I know if I get up to get the video camera that they will both wake up. I am munching on an oh-so-yummy pb & j sandwich made of all-natural peanut butter, sugar-free jelly, or is it jam? I am not sure what the qualifications are, but it sure is darn good.

I decided a couple of days ago to consciously get Finn on a schedule. I typically get him up when he wakes up, let him nap when he is ready around mid-day, and lay him down in evening when he is ready (usually anywhere from 5:30 - 8:00). It's going very well, and there hasn't been any bumps yet:

8:00 a.m. Rise & shine

11:30 a.m. Lunch

12:00-2:00 p.m. Nap time

5:00 p.m. Bath

5:30 p.m. Dinner

6:00 p.m. Bedtime

He is loving life: crawling, pulling up, shredding Mama's magazines, playing pat-a-cake, commando-crawling under the furniture, racing me to any open doors, and getting into shouting matches with Vega. As soon as I find my card reader, I will post pics.

Vega Who? Vega What?

Sorry, where are my manners? Vega is our new German Shepard pup that we got from my cousin's litter. She kept one as well and named her Carson. It will be so much fun to watch them grow up together! His second day at home he ate a stinging or biting bug of some sort then cried, whined, and just laid low for a day or two. When he couldn't bark, Zac decided to take him to the vet, along with Moses, for a check-up. It was discovered that he had a "load" of round worms and hook worms. Eek! Since we caught them so early, they gave him meds, shots, etc. and he should be fine. I guess that explains his un-puppylike slothfulness. He is feeling much better and is beginning to act more like a puppy. He is very smart; Zac has been working with him every day to learn good habits and tricks. Our main focus right now is to teach him the basics and how to chase off farking ducks!!! He's beginning to get the hang of it, but it looks like he corrals them more than chases them off. Are German Sheps herding dogs? I guess I could ask Hubs since he read two books and a vast array of internet material on them before Vega even got here. Oh, and yes, there have been two confrontations with Moses so far. The first being when Vega first got out of the crate, ran upm and introduced himself to Moses, who responded in typical Moses fashion with a cat-slap to the snout. Two days ago Finn was asleep, Zac was on the back porch and I heard Vega scream, whimper, and howl, followed by a loud crash/boom. I assumed that Zac had finally had enough of the ducks and blasted one with the shotgun, so I ran (I use the term loosely) to see what had conspired. I found Zac laid back in his chair, Vega behind his crate, and Moses strutting past them both. Apparently, Vega had begun to get a little too comfortable with Moses and was deceived in believing that they were cool now. Moses quickly set him straight.

You must think that I am crazy to have a crawler and a pup.

You are correct.

Why Vega?

I agreed to the name before realizing Hubs got it from Pulp Fiction, but I still like it better than his other suggestions: Cyrus, Levon, and Cormac, which, by the way, were his baby name suggestions this time last year. Our other thoughts for the puppy were Kyzar or Remy. In case you haven't learned yet Hubs is a monstrous fan of folk music, Quentin Tarantino, and the blues.

Around the Porch

Since this house's image is basically centered around the porch, it just makes sense that I say that rather than "around the house." Anytime the words "the porch" are uttered around our crew, everyone knows it's our house that is being discussed. We have finally begun to get the porch together, now that hubs has finished our fence. All of the colors of the plants make me so happy and take my mind off of the fact that typically I would be laying out on all of these fabulous fair days.

I refuse to get on that subject. If you want to know why I can't lay out any more click here. I am making it my new hobby to test all of the available self-tanners and write a post about them. This will take some time since I will have allow one to fade before trying another in order to for it to be a completely real experience.

NOLA

To continue with the completely random pattern of this piece, I was driving back from New Orleans a few weeks ago and started having all of these random thoughts about Madonna's influence recording them onto the voice memo feature on my phone. I suppose I will post them someday. One of them was that they should create a musical out of her songs like they have done for Billy Joel (Movin' Up) and ABBA (Mama Mia). Am I right? It would be a killa!

I arrive home to find that the week's Glee episode was titled "The Power of Madonna"! Whoa - too crazy.

I will be going back to NOLA this weekend for my monthly check ups.

There are two things for whichI am desperately hoping:

that the gorgeous, beautiful, magnificent, superb, splendid, spectacular, majestic, breathtaking weather we have been having continues.
the docs reduce my steroid dose, yet again - I am tired of being fat swollen!

Nearly six hours after beginning this post, I have returned home to finish it with more subject matter. After I got my hair trimmed, I decided to go by our Barnes & Noble that will be closing on June 30th. I was not expecting the shelves to already be half empty. I know that it is odd to feel this way about a chain bookseller, but I couldn't help but feel a bit like Kathleen Kelly in You've Got Mail, except that B & N is more like Fox Books than The Shop Around the Corner. I have been going to this store since I was in the fifth grade! There is no other book store in the general vicinity with the selection and atmosphere that this store has in it. Do not even get me started on the other option: Books-A-Million. If you put a Starbucks in Wal-Mart does that make it a Target? No, no it does not. Looks like I will be saving my two hour book store strolls for my monthly NOLA visits.

A Little Bit for New Folks from Friday Follow

Howdy, Friday Followers! Welcome to my humble blog-abode.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Home: The commons where I talk about everything, post all my memes, and share what's going on.

2. About Moi: If you LOVE this, FOLLOW ME, and you'll get more of what you love!

3. The Crew: Who's living under my roof + a new puppy coming home tomorrow!

4. Transplant Times: Here's where you can catch up on what led me here: a heart transplant 6 months ago!

5. Book Nook: Bookworms, this is what will make you LOVE me. *wink*

6. Blogellas: a.k.a. my blog-button-roll

7. Grammar-On-the-Go: This is my newest feature, and I am loving it...because I'm a nerd like that. =)

Sound appealing?

FOLLOW ME!

HIT ME UP ON TWITTER

WELL, YOU GET THE IDEA.

COME ON, HOW MANY 25 YEAR OLDS DO YOU KNOW WITH A

NEW HUSBAND, NEW BABY, AND NEW HEART?!

If you're not convinced, here are some of my greatest hits:

Click 'em!

{1} ...And You Can Quote MEme on That

{2} From Photo Booth Saturday to Wordful Wednesday

{3} Steroids, Dust, and Kenny Chesney

{4} When Did Hubs Take up Writing? Here's When:

{5} Alot Is MIA

- One more thing -
If you want to know something, just ask...
Formspring.Me

What Effect Will This Affective Post Have on You?

2010-04-28T21:45:00.003-05:00

{Week 2}

Affect vs. Effect

I am covering the most common uses.

I think it will answer your questions. If not, you know what to do:
Write me!

If it asks for a login, click "cancel." I have no clue why it's doing this!

Follow Moi!

2010-04-23T12:14:00.017-05:00

Howdy, Friday Followers! Welcome to my humble blog-abode.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Home: The commons where I talk about everything, post all my memes, and share what's going on.

2. About Moi: If you LOVE this, FOLLOW ME, and you'll get more of what you love!

3. The Crew: Who's living under my roof + a new puppy coming home tomorrow!

4. Transplant Times: Here's where you can catch up on what led me here: a heart transplant 6 months ago!

5. Book Nook: Bookworms, this is what will make you LOVE me. *wink*

6. Blogellas: a.k.a. my blog-button-roll

7. Grammar-On-the-Go: This is my newest feature, and I am loving it...because I'm a nerd like that. =)

Sound appealing?

FOLLOW ME!

HIT ME UP ON TWITTER

WELL, YOU GET THE IDEA.

COME ON, HOW MANY 25 YEAR OLDS DO YOU KNOW WITH A

NEW HUSBAND, NEW BABY, AND NEW HEART?!

If you're not convinced, here are some of my greatest hits:

Click 'em!

{1} ...And You Can Quote MEme on That

{2} From Photo Booth Saturday to Wordful Wednesday

{3} Steroids, Dust, and Kenny Chesney

{4} When Did Hubs Take up Writing? Here's When:

{5} Alot Is MIA

Coming up Monday, April 26, 2010

Click to join us.

- One more thing -
If you want to know something...
Formspring.Me

Thanks for stopping by!

YoTweepers, Come on Down!

2010-04-21T23:59:00.007-05:00

Being that Supah's breakfast, lunch, and dinner plates are all full; YO TWEEPS is happening here this week. I noticed many of you looking for it last week and figured it would happen again because, well, there's no such thing as too many followers. Am I right?!

If you're a first-timer, welcome! There are directions below for you, even how to make your own follow button.

If your a regular, you know what to do.

Now get to it!

YO TWEEPS

This is all about following and meeting some new twitter friends.

Image courtesy of Wolverine on August 20, 2009 by Dave Mott

For all you newbies here's what YO TWEEPS is all about:
Fun & increasing your Twitter Twaffic!

1. MAKE A *NEW* BLOG POST & CUSTOM BUTTON like I did here.

2. COPY and PASTE these directions & button into it. The code is below with the hunky button. ;)

3. LINK-UP your post with the linky below.

4. FOLLOW the first FIVE Twitter Twaffic hosts listed on the linky! Follow them on twitter.

5. YELL out to them #yotweeps "I'm following." They'll reciprocate your love on twitter when they can.

6. On Twitter check out all of the Yotweep-ers. Here's a shortcut: #yotweeps: follow who you want!

7. When you follow someone make sure to mention them in a msg like this:

@hearthunnybe I'm following! #yotweeps

This way all of the #yotweep (s) will show up and you get more exposure.

8. If someone follows you, be sure to reciprocate with a msg like this:

@yourtwittername Backatcha! #yotweeps

9. Hit me up if you have any questions.

Strike up some friendships!
Show 'em some blog love too if you would like!

Enjoy!

How to make a twitter icon.

Two Much For You Two To Do: an Enlightenment

2010-04-20T23:52:00.000-05:00

Today I have my first Grammar-on-the-Go post!

"Two Much For You Two To Do"

Click the badge to check it out, and then hang around to give me feedback.

Shout-Out/Check-Out Debut + a Coming Attraction

2010-04-19T20:33:00.013-05:00

^Umm...that should say "grab their BUTTON."

Here's something new: I am going to start "Shout Out to Check Out" <---- My terms don't take 'em without saying, "Mother May I." LOL. Got it? Seriously. =P Or just grab the button for your post...

These are gals/blogs/spots I mentioned in the post that you should go check-out.

:::What You Will Can Go Do Right Now:::

   {1}
Join SITS Blog Frog Book Club with Tiffany

   {2}
Join We Believe Blogs. They're looking for featured bloggers. (Spoken in a tempting tone.) =)

   {3}
   3. Visit Beach Brights (where I found out about Habitat For Humanity Restores).

   {4}
   4. Find your local store @ Habitat for Humanity Restores.

I'll let you know if if I gave you a "Shout-Out to Check Out," then you can post the button to your blog...if you want...please...please...you know if you have room. No biggie. =)

And, yes, that is MY mouth in the button. =)

Yotweeps & A Peek Easter Peeps

2010-04-15T09:30:00.004-05:00

I do not have much time to post today, but I wanted to throw some love Supah's way and join in on #yotweeps. I am posting a peek at Finn's first Easter.
Also, please continue to keep the Loney family in your hearts, thoughts, and prayers.

Some fun with Picnik:

Finn & Daddy

and with my momma

For the newbies, here's what #yotweeps is all about:

Play along and increase your Twitter twaffic!

1. First, click my custom follow icon & follow moi.

2. Make a blog post and include the #yotweeps directions like am doing here.

3. The #yotweeps icon and put him in your post like I did here's the code: <a href="http://supahmommy.blogspot.com/2010/03/yo-tweeps-twaffic-exchange.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s27/dperry_2007/yotweeps-1.png" /></a>

4. Create a custom follow icon for your post like I did. (I use Picnik.)

5. On Twitter check out all of the Yotweep-ers. Here's a shortcut: #yotweeps. Then follow who you want!

6. When you follow someone make sure to mention them in a msg like this:

@hearthunnybe I'm following! #yotweeps

This way all of the #yotweep (s) will show up and you get more exposure.

7. If someone follows you, be sure to reciprocate with a msg like this:

@yourtwittername Backatcha! #yotweeps

8. If you have any questions just ask!

Wonder Woman, Veronica, and Tammy Faye Walk Into a Bar...

2010-04-13T10:21:00.007-05:00

OK, fine, I couldn't help it. I realize this will be my second post for the day. Sitting in the atrium at Ochsner Medical Center in NOLA waiting for my umpteenth appointment in the past week, I read Christina Lee's post and just had to join in...

Would You Rather...

1. ...be the Bionic Woman or Wonder Woman?

When I started teaching some of my students and co-workers would call me Wonder Woman as a joke , so I thought it would be funny to indulge them a bit...

Ted Nugent, the Devil, Wonder Woman, and Evil Knievil

2. ...have Archie choose Betty or Veronica?

Hello! Veronica: obviously I would root for the brunette!

3. ...leave the house without lips (chapstick or lipgloss) or eyes (mascara) done?

I never go without lip product; I can't even sleep without chapstick on. However, I definitely need more help with my eyes. I have zero eyelashes without mascara and a curler. I have a tendency to keep my sunglasses on indoors when I do not have on mascara. I know it looks pretentious, but I would rather my bare eyes be left to the imagination. No, I hope to God that I do not have Tammy Faye eyes, but for me it would be better than nothing! Ok...maybe not.

Papa Paparazzi - The (B) True Gollywood Story

2010-04-12T23:17:00.003-05:00

Today for the first time I am participating in Once Upon a Miracle's True Story Tuesday. I couldn't pass up this perfect opportunity to write about this story

Let me take you back to March 2007. I had just met Zac, and we had been on maybe two dates, when I asked him if he would like to ride down to the beach for a little while on a Sunday afternoon. This was a pretty big deal for me since I was never the one who made a move in a relationship; or if I did, there was much plotting, debating, and second-guessing that preceded the actual verbalizing and execution of the plan.

He warmly agreed and said he would pick me up, and we could go for a couple of hours, adding that he couldn't stay for longer than a couple of hours because his aunt and uncle were in town helping his folks shop-around for a good spot for his sister's wedding reception and wanted to come by his house. (I later realized why he needed more than just an hour or two to clean it up. =) )

The day was perfect. While got soaked up some sun, we talked about the random, safe topics that you discuss when you are first dating; and before I knew it, the couple of hours had flown-by ever so quickly. I had worn a small dress over my bathing suit to the beach, but it had become dirty, sandy, sweaty and was at this point rolled into a ball underneath my sandy, sweaty, salt-water-soaked towel in the bottom of my bag. To walk back up to the truck I simply pulled on a pair of cut-off Victoria's Secret sweatpants for the ride home. I can't stand to put clothes back on when I've been on the beach before I get to shower.

As we were getting into the truck, I swore I could faintly hear someone calling his name. He went over to investigate. Upon his return, he opened my door and said that it was his parents, aunt, and uncle. Apparently, they were there to check out me the country club where the beach access was for the reception. He asked if I wanted to get out and meet them.

Of course I panicked because of the clothing situation: bikini top & shorts. It's not like I could be nonchalant about it. I am five feet and eleven farking inches tall! If I don't have a shirt on it's, "HELLO, Bethany's has just entered the room." Thank the Lord my nunga-nungas weren't too big at the time. Ahh, I miss my B cup. Anyboob, so here I am meeting this guy's parents PLUS some extended family, I might add, in my bikini top. My mother would have been mortified.

Look, I know I was at the beach…but still! He mentioned that he didn't think it was an accident; I was flattered, but tried not to get too excited just to later have to tell myself, "He's just not that into you."

About a month later, we are still dating (obviously); and he was talking to his grandmother on the phone when she mentions something to the effect of "in the pictures." He was curious as to what she was referring to as "in the pictures." APPARENTLY, the day that his folks were looking at venues, they also took pictures the options and…me. Oh yes - my own personal paparazzi. He then informs me that some photos of me have been "floating" around and amongst his Missouri family.

Months went by and we would joke about the pictures or mention them. I always wanted to see them and never did. Until one day I looking through some photos of an event on his parents computer.

Low and behold…

THE PAPARAZZI PICTURES!

As you have probably noticed I have used one for my blog header. I think they are so neat, and I am so glad to have them. They always make me smile.

Also this week Kmama is having a fan-tab-u-lous giveaway for the Corel® Digital Suite 2010 that I so desperately want to win. Be sure to stop by her blog and enter!

The Word: Hilasterous - The Definition...

2010-04-11T20:16:00.006-05:00

Last week I was somewhat absent from the bloggy blog world of memes, carnivals, and my hobby as Princess Comments-a-Lot. If you read my previous post or follow me on Twitter you knew what was going on. (The constant Twittering was therapeutic.)

Anyway, I am back full force this week…hopefully. I will go back to New Orleans tomorrow to see the hemotologist/oncologist to check the progress of my white blood cell count on Tuesday morning. I pray it has come back up. I really do not want to spend another four days there. With the passing of Ethan Loney every one of my little complaints seem so petty, so I will not dwell on these minute issues. I was told to expect a few bumps the first year, and hopefully this is all it is.

On to this week's Meme-Go-Round with Supah - here's the assignment:

What is YOUR WORD?

a WORD or CATCH PHRASE that you made up

or stole borrowed

or adapted or whatever

a WORD or CATCH PHRASE that you say all the time,

use in an unusual way,

makes you laugh or feel clever.

a WORD or CATCH PHRASE that you've redefined

or that has come to mean something different

because of your kids or your job

Tell us your WORD or CATCH PHRASE,

give us the DEFINITION and ORIGIN,

and use it in a SENTENCE or story, if you prefer.

Not too far back I was tweeting or blogging, I can't remember, and I was telling a story about something physical. I know it must have been about my dancing or athletic ability because this is the perfect term a coined to describe it.

hil◍as◍ter◍ous |hil|'as|tur|əs

   adjective
   1. describes something extremely amusing that also causes
   unfortunate circumstances
   2. describes a catastrophe or unfortunate consequences that
   simultaneously brings laughter to those involved in the
   event or simply spectators.
   - These events can include my attempts to overtake a
   rolled bale of hay by running then leaping over it.
   - They are also included, but not limited to my
   dancing, running, throwing, lifting, bending over,
   working-out, anything requiring hand-eye coordination,
   or choreography.

***Don't forget if you were following my other blog that you transfer "followership"!

Ha - another new word!***

You Would Think 4 Days in New Orleans Would Be Awesome

2010-04-10T01:35:00.008-05:00

Well, girls, I finally did it and Ellie made it happen. I have real blog complete with a nav bar and everything! I highly recommend her to anyone who likes a clean, classic yet modern look on their pages. If you followed me over from Cardiocandyography, you have probably read what happened over there. Let's just say beware of free templates, you might not be able to remove it...EVER. I love me some Ellie - four stars for Rainy Day Templates! Out of this one blog I have created a few more so that I can place more than one post on each nav link. Also, each page may have a different sidebar so be sure to check them out for different links!

Many of you have only gotten bits and pieces of my transplant story, so some of my current let's say "adventures" for lack of a better word are a bit mystifying. GOOD NEWS: I have finally transferred all of my Caring Bridge entries over here for you to read when you get curious. Since I couldn't back-date them, they are all separate posts posted yesterday. I have created a table of contents on that page with the dates of each entry starting at the beginning.

Over the past six months I have received many, many emails expressing emotion over going back and reading my story from the beginning. So, it should much easier to read it here the way it is organized as opposed to on Caring Bridge. Please, still feel free to hop over there and check out the pics from my stay as well.

What did I say? SIX MONTHS? SIX MONTHS! Yes, this past Monday I celebrated the six month marker with my new heart. The first six months can very volatile, tricky, and has a lot of restrictions; however, I made it! As many of you already know, it was not without a few bumps.
Several of you sent me Twitter messages and Facebook messages worried about what was going on this week, so here is the explanation you've been waiting for...

I left Mobile on Sunday afternoon for New Orleans; I had my typical monthly labs, biopsy, echo, and clinic visit. However, upon the receipt of my blood work; it was discovered that white blood cell count had dropped drastically. FYI: White blood cells are what fight infection. The less of them you have, the more likely you are to get an infection, virus, etc. This is doubly as vital to the life of transplant patient because we are on so many immunosuppressants to prevent our body from rejecting the new organ, that it nearly demolishes our immune system, hence the mask, no buffets, raw food, etc. Therefore, if we contract anything we have to be immediately hospitalized to prevent it from progressing any further. Mono, flu, etc. are deadly to a transplant patient.

Headed to NOLA, completely unprepared for four days!

By the time I was through with my biopsy, Dr. Patel told me that this was a cause for major concern and that I would need to hang around for a few days to see what was going on. By the time I was finished with all four appointments, I had two more: one to get blood drawn to test for the viruses, and the second to get a neupogen shot in the hepatology-oncology clinic. Thankfully, the virus results came back clear. They stopped two of my meds that can cause the loss of WBC and gave me my first shot.The worst news was hearing that I would have to stay in New Orleans (two hours from home) until Thursday.
On Tuesday, I got up, worked on my blog a bit and went to get my second shot, which feels like a wasp sting with an encore. I decided to hit-up a few book stores, stroll down Magazine Street, browse through Whole Foods, and have lunch at great little pizza spot named Slice. I took a trip down to the water, explored Urban Outfitters and French Connection. Then I made the most beautiful discovery of all: the construction of a new Anthropologie! My summer check-ups may not be such a chore after all! The walk through the French Market wasn't too bad either, not to mention that I went in four book stores in in two days.

Spinach, Sun-dried Tomato, and Artichoke Pizza @ Slice

Wednesday morning I slept in until my lab appointment at 11:00. Which was great considering that I couldn't go to sleep until at least 4:30 (that was the last time I remember looking at the clock). When Tara, my post-transplant coordinator/nurse, called to inform me that after two shots of nupogen and stopping the potentially offending meds, my WBC had DROPPED! I cried nearly the rest of the day because I was ready to home and see my baby and hubs. I waited almost an hour before I called anyone because I could not get it together. Well, hubs called before I was ready, and I just broke down. Well, hunny, if he didn't just jump in his truck and giddy-up all the way to NOLA. Before he got there I had myself some lunch at Pazza Gelato for the second time in two days. It is so yummy! I had a different panini each day and different gelato. When he arrived around 5:00, it was so wonderful to see him. We had a delicious dinner, and enjoyed a great date night.

Gelato: the blue variety tasted like birthday cake icing!

Wednesday morning we went to Dr. Molina, a hemotologist & oncologist, to see if maybe he could narrow-down what was wrong. He too believed it was the combination of meds and asked to see me back Tuesday. If the meds alteration and injections do not work, then he will have to do a bone marrow biopsy. Shriek! he sounded very optimistic, just a bit confused as to why my numbers would plummet in a month's time. I guess we will see on Tuesday.
Upon returning home on Thursday evening, went to my in-law's house to pick Baby Finn. It was soooooooo good to see his sweet cheeks. I didn't want to put him down! Zac's grandparents are also in town for the week, so we will be happily busy once again. Finn and I both are going to the doctor this week! He has his nine month check-up this week...tear. :*( Here's one more reason to shed a tear.

Bleep, bleep, bleepity, bleep, bleep

2010-04-01T10:24:00.001-05:00

We interrupt this regularly scheduled program for a Blogfia announcement...

Channeling Princess of Sarcasm:
One of our blog friends is going through a really hard time. Her son has been the victim of bullying. She spent the night in the ER. I am outraged and I'm sure you will be too when you see the pics of her baby with his busted up face.

Go here and show Jane some love. She is a single mother who is very involved in Autism awareness and loves all her children dearly. She does so much for others. Let's do something for her.

If you feel so inclined...post her link on your blog and send your peeps over to show her some love today too. Tell her the Blogfia sent you.

Grab the Blogfia button code and post away. Feel free to copy this post if you don't have time.

But copy only this post. If you copy my other original content I will hunt you down and give you multiple paper cuts...

Let her know that we all stand behind her in protest of bullying!!

After you go give Jane some comment love, you may return to your regularly scheduled program with the YoTweeps post below.

*~*Attention All Tweeps*~*

Join up! Follow the instructions below.

To play along and increase your twitter twaffic, just follow the steps below!
1. Follow me on twitter . Click on my twitter Icon at the bottom.
2. Shout me a hello on twitter. #yotweeps Then I'll know you followed and I'll reciprocate.

Want more tweeps?

3. Grab the YO Tweeps Button

4. Place it on your blog. This helps to BRAND the Exchange so that it is recognizable.
5. Put a twitter icon / link on your blog post AND on your sidebar, like I did.
6. Visit some other YO Tweeps linkers on the list and follow their blogs if you find their stuff fun and interesting!
7. Sign into your twitter account and follow them. Tweet them using the example below so they know you're following!

Example: @hearthunnybe #yotweeps I'm following!

8. If someone follows you, reciprocate. It's that easy.

Be sure to grab the button above and encourage your readers to grab it as well, this way we all get more people following and more people to follow!

If you don't have TweetDeck on your desktop, get it now! Do it. Now.

Alphabet-Me

2010-03-30T12:48:00.000-05:00

I snagged this from Jennifer because I will do anything to avoid housework right now.

My Post-Its for today are in the previous post.

A. AREA CODE : 251 for all of my 25 years!

B. BED SIZE: We had a king and ditched it for the queen. I would rather have space in the room than in the bed. ;)

C. CHORE YOU HATE: All of them! Being a SAHM has made me the queen of procrastination, when I was simply the lowly common procrastinator before.

D. DOG'S NAME: Still debating: we get him in 3 weeks!

E. ESSENTIAL "START THE DAY!" ITEM: I know it's cliche, but I am a disaster without coffee. My Keurig is nearly my favorite thing my house, well favorite inanimate thing. =)

F. FAVORITE COLOR: There's no way I can even come close to pinpointing a fav.

G. GOLD OR SILVER: Silver

H. HEIGHT: 5'11

I. INSTRUMENTS YOU PLAY: None - unless you go back to middle school, but then I would have to get with one of those Men-In-Black memory zappers so that you wouldn't remember how pathetic I was.

J. JOB: On medical leave from teaching high school English - not sure about next year yet.

K. KIDS: My sweet Finn-baby a.k.a. Chooker, Cukaburra, Foof, Foo Baby Shoo Baby…the poor kid is going to have a hell of a time learning his actual name.

L. LIVING ARRANGEMENTS: We live in the amazing house that my hubs built as a bachelor five years ago.

M. MOM'S NAME: Cheryl

N. NICKNAME: In high school it was B.P. or B.A.P. Some of my former students call me BP, too because my maiden name was hyphenated & looong; at work it was Cricket because of my long legs. Hubs calls me BooBoo - original right? He gives everyone else cool nicknames but me; we have had this discussion, but it's still sweet.

O. OVERNIGHT HOSPITAL STAY: Well, none until last year. January: gall bladder removal, well that wasn't overnight; July: Finn was born; September - November: I lived in the Transplant Unit at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, plus a few overnight stays there since then.

P. PET PEEVE: obvious spelling errors; certain grammar errors - I can't help it. I'm a teacher.

Q. QUOTE FROM A MOVIE: anything from Almost Famous or Christmas Vacation

R. RIGHTY OR LEFTY?: Righty. But I right like I am left-handed with my pen leaning forward. It looks awful, but it is impossible to fix it now.

S. SIBLINGS: One bro - 21 - He got the skinny end of the stick. NO FAIR! Guys don't even care about that stuff!

T. TIME YOU WAKE UP: whenever Finn gets up, anywhere from 6:45 - 9:30

U. UNDERWEAR: colored cotton

V. VEGGIE YOU DISLIKE: I am pretty sure I like them all, actually.

W. WAYS/REASONS YOU ARE LATE: Getting distracted while getting ready

X. XRAYS YOU'VE HAD: knee, sinus, and a million chest x-rays

Y. YUMMY FOOD YOU MAKE: Hubs is the chef, but I make a mean chicken salad =)

Z. ZOO ANIMALS YOU LIKE: the tigers and the otters

ALOT is MIA

2010-03-29T22:08:00.001-05:00

Very few folks actually know "a lot" is two words. I try to never correct grammar because I often slip up; maybe you will take it as a helpful tip. Sorry, I've been out of the classroom too long: The teacher in me is coming out. Maybe I will post a tip or two of common mistakes on Tuesdays. Would that be bitchy?

Porch Therapy

2010-03-28T21:44:00.000-05:00

"What happens on the porch stays on the porch," dangles on a piece of sheet hanging from the back porch. So, all the "Supah Stars" wanted know what the favorite part of our house is for this week's All About MEme Monday.

Usually my favorite part of a house is the office or workspace, but since I haven't tweaked this one to my liking yet we will go with the porch. It is definitely the most infamous part of our home and the one everyone else loves the most, too. T-Ram says that there is a "porch code" that unites all that have had accrued porch time. She's right. Folks we haven't seen in awhile always say, "I miss the porch" or "I need some porch time." We are very lucky that we do not have any neighbors on our side of the street right now. Plus, we are on a dead end street. Once I got hubs to trash the green pleather "bachelor" couch and chair, things were definitely looking up out there.

There are so many porch memories to choose from: the first being within the first few months that Zac & I were dating we were cooking out one afternoon and decided to play 100 questions - no topic off limits - whatever we wanted to know we could ask, with a little liquid courage of course. A few months later, we had his sister's wedding reception pre-party/shrimp boil back there. One of the greatest bashes ever! Two summers ago we hosted a pre-party for all of hub's old football buddies before the 10 year reunion.

Those events were just the beginning of a string of insanities and memories.

Link to my old post

I ran out and took this right before I wrote the post. A little messy from building the fence, but summer's coming and it will soon be cluttered with beach chairs, towels, and floatees!

From YoTweeps to NoQuacks

2010-03-25T09:13:00.000-05:00

In honor of #yotweeps today I am not writing too much, but but posting video evidence that spring is here. I took this video yesterday after I discovered that the biggest quacker had snuck in the back door while I went out the front door to get the mail. Yes, I had the back door open, but since when does a big nasty duck think he can come in and eat my kid's leftovers off of his exisaucer? ...hey wait...maybe I shouldn't have chased him out so fast...ha! Anyquack, I started cracking up as I chased him out, and he was rapidly running in place on the ceramic tile. They have become so domesticated that simply stomping your foot and yelling won't do; I nearly had to punt him between the double doors! Just kidding...sort off...as a whole - the flock has turned my back porch into a poopy Pollock. I first talked about this pile of poo here. Anyduckling, my anger was deterred by this sight:

*~*Attention All Tweeps*~*

Join up! Follow the instructions below.

To play along and increase your twitter twaffic, just follow the steps below!
1. Follow me on twitter . Click on my twitter Icon at the
2. Shout me a hello on twitter. #yotweeps Then I'll know you followed and I'll reciprocate.

Want more tweeps?

3. Grab the YO Tweeps Button

4.. Place it on your blog. This helps to BRAND the Exchange so that it is recognizable.
5. Put a twitter icon / link on your blog post AND on your sidebar, like I did.
6. Link that post up below.
7. Visit some other YO Tweeps linkers on the list and follow their blogs if you find their stuff fun and interesting!
8. Sign into your twitter account and follow them. Tweet them using the example below so they know you're following!

Example: @hearthunnybe #yotweeps I'm following!

9. If someone follows you, reciprocate. It's that easy.

Be sure to grab the button above and encourage your readers to grab it as well, this way we all get more people following and more people to follow!

If you don't have TweetDeck on your desktop, get it now! Do it. Now.

WARNING: Santa Spoiler

2010-03-21T20:18:00.000-05:00

There was ONE item that you wanted when you were a youth.

What was it?

You know, the one your begged and pleaded for.

The one you sold your soul for?

Show us a pic if you can and tell us a story about how you got it.

You know how this works!

Write us a post.

Come back Monday March 22nd and Link up with us !

The year was nineteen ninety-three; the holiday was Christmas; on the wish list was Mall Madness.

Oh how I wished to swipe that playful plastic. Shop those sales and grab that cash!

Did it happen?

Nope, not in 1993.

1994? No.

1995? Negative.

1996? Bingo!

I remember searching through the cedar closet for something.

There in the middle of Santa's loot, stood Mall Madness.

Mall Madness?!?!

I was so upset that I went and told my mom that I had found it.

To which she replied, "I thought you wanted Mall Madness!"

"Umm...yeah...Three years ago!"

I wasn't interested in make-believe shopping.

I was interested in shopping for real!

Well, needless to say, I didn't let collect dust.

I did get some playing time anyway.

Oh how I remember having to place those gold stickers on the electronic part when I first opened it.

I feel so bad about that now because she always works so hard getting us things that we like and want. :(

Steroids, Dust, & Kenny Chesney

2010-03-18T22:32:00.000-05:00

Today I am participating in Mama M.'s Five Question Friday for the first time. Head on over to Five Crooked Halos to read more responses to 5QF, then join in yourself!

Have you ever had a celeb sighting?

When I was a senior in high school, Kenny Chesney came into the department store where a friend and I were working as fragrance models for the weekend. He had on sunglasses, a hat, sweatshirt, and gym shorts. In other words, we didn't recognize him; even though we were going to his concert that night. Oops. He came up to the counter with his little entourage, which just looked like a group of average guys. We were telling them about the fragrance, of course they were flirting a bit: typical charmers. =) All we cared about was selling the stuff, so we flirted back then offered them some samples. When I asked about how many they needed, one of them responded, "Counting the band and crew, probably about 13." I was bent over getting the samples out of the drawer, and my friend was tapping me and nudging me with her knee whispering, "That's Kenny Chesney. That's Kenny Chesney!" Sure was and we didn't have a camera to prove it to everyone else that was going with us that night. So what do we do: literally run down to the Target and buy one - but wait! As we were leaving to do that, one of the regular saleswomen told us that she probably had what we needed. She pulled out a Tommy Hilfiger disposable camera from an old men's fragrance gift set underneath her register. When they came back through on their way out, we asked if we could get some pictures with them, and of course, they obliged. We all headed outside and took photos in front of the shrubbery - the camera didn't have a flash. By the way, Kenny came up to my shoulder: it was Bethany and her pet Kenny.

At what temperature do you keep your house?

It definitely varies. Before I was on Prednisone, I was pregnant. Interpretation: it's been quite chilly in here for about a year. My body temperature is way higher on the Prednisone than when I was preggers. Even in this 40 degree weather, it was still around 65 in here.
Funny story - well, it's funny now, barely - but it wasn't then. The first night that I moved back up to the Transplant Unit from ICU after surgery, they started the iv steroids. I had severe shakes and the hot flashes of a lifetime. I felt like I was on fire and started to panic because I couldn't breath. Enter SuperNurse! Dace had been my nurse on and off throughout my two month stay, and he was my nurse that night. He found a high-powered tabletop fan and sat it on my food table/tray and aimed it right on me. Then, he went and filled up some Ziplocs with ice and put them in the palms of my hands, and that's how I slept. Did I ever get cold? Nope. At the time, I probably would have been annoyed, but now I wish I had a picture of how "rigged-up" I looked that night. I felt like a human sacrifice. Knowing that I couldn't get up and run if I to, freaked me out as well. I know, but it's crazy the stuff you think about when you spend that much time in a bed. That would have been hilasterous: me...scooting down the hall for more ice...3 stomach tubes, 2 sets of pacing wires, a catheter box-thing (TMI, I know), and a dangling PICC line, in tow.

Do you notice dust at other peoples' homes?

Rarely, it would have to be really bad. I am the one with the dust problem: it's a daily battle that I cannot figure out, especially without any pets inside anymore.

What's the worst job you ever had?

Honestly, I can say that I have never had a bad job. The most boring had to be when I worked as a trade-out a gym three hours a week: longest three hours of my life.

What is your most sentimental possession?

Oh my, this is very difficult. I keep everything that is even slightly tied to a memory. I have several sentimental items, but probably now the most precious is the locket Zac gave me for my birthday when I was in New Orleans. Read about it here.

When Did Hubs Take Up Writing? Here's When...

2010-03-16T21:38:00.000-05:00

I was gone for a couple of hours last Thursday night. I returned home to find this taped on my bathroom mirror written on a Winn-Dixie receipt:

Folded and taped where the arrow is pointing.

I guess he was attempting to build suspense, and I admit I was a little nervous; but I never suspected:

As you can see, he remembered how much "alot" drives me crazy: it's two words, people!

So you ask how do I know he won't be mad that I put this up for the whole world to see?

I'm pretty sure that's called the "go-ahead."

Then I find this yesterday in the hall bathroom. Well, you can see where I found it...

Apparently this has been building up for awhile.

Oops...

Wordful Wednesday is for those of us that like to showcase a photo(s) but that just can’t seem keep our mouths shut about it (them). If you’d like to play along, post a photo {or more if you are so inclined} on your blog, and let the words roll.

You'll love #yotweeps!

DIRECTIONS: To play along and increase your twitter twaffic do the following:

1. Follow the first 5 Twitter Twaffic hosts listed on the linky. Netiquette and courtesy! They'll reciprocate your love on twitter!

2. MAKE A BLOG POST LIKE I am doing. Copy and Paste these directions.

3. Grab the YO Tweeps Twaffic Exchange Button pictured below. Put him in your post.

(He's so cute. Put him on your sidebar too if you're that kinda girl. Netiquette... not a hairspray ;) lol )

4. Put YOUR OWN twitter icon / link on your blog post like I did. It should directly link to your TWITTER PROFILE.

5. Now link up your post below in the linky!

6. Visit some other #YOtweeps linkers on the list.

7. Follow them if you choose and shout out to them on twitter that you are following so they can instantly follow you if they're on. (Follow their blog as well if you're interested.)

Example:

@personsname #yotweeps I'm following!

8. If someone follows you JUST reciprocate on twitter. It's that easy.

Join in the fun and grab the html code to paste the linky into your own site !

SPread the word. WE'LL BE BACK every THURSDAY TO DO THIS AGAIN! ( yes THURSDAY)

Minty Post-Its

2010-03-15T23:11:00.000-05:00

Pretty Meme Prom

2010-03-14T22:46:00.000-05:00

All About Meme Monday: Pretty or Not Prom Story

Go to Supah's Blog to read other gals who shared their "Pretty or Not Prom Story"

Rather than going into detail, rambling, and losing you, I will give you the extra short version. For my senior prom I was set up; yes, set up...by my boss. A friend came into where I was working about a month before prom and asked if I had a date yet. My boss's husband heard this and starts freaking out about how his son thinks I am cute and loooves to dance. Oh my! He immediately picks up the phone, calls him, and tells him that I don't have a date for prom yet. Umm...could I have felt more pathetic? He called back later that night, we start talking, and ended up dating for that month prior to prom. Interesting, huh? Turns out several of my friends knew him, and everywhere we went he knew folks; seriously, everywhere we went.

Needless to say prom night was a blast. I went to a private, Baptist school...14 years....ugh. You know what Baptist means: no dancing. Thank goodness our parents didn't agree. We had a large banquet, then the parents rented a venue, decorated it, and hired a D.J. It was sort of a Footloose situation; except the majority of the parents agreed with the students. =) All that the students had to do was buy a ticket for the dance just as if it were the prom. So, yes, we did get a prom...sort of.

The picture with Mom; I didn't think she would be happy about me leaving her in this one.

My dress was two separate parts. I HATED the prom look. I wasn't into glitter, neon, and crunchy up-do prom hair. I wanted something basic but different. The skirt was the bottom of a Watters & Watters bridesmaid dress that I had worn in my cousin's wedding a few months earlier, and I found the perfect v-neck lace top at a Stein Mart. My mom cinched the shoulders together to make it look more formal, and ta-da...The only downside to the fitted skirt: the back slit ripped a little higher from the dancing. ;)

I was so excited about wearing false eyelashes; I was probably batting them all night as if I was in Maybelline commercial.

Back to the date: yes he could dance; so much so that guess where his picture was the next week: the front page of our school paper...hand in the air...dancing his butt off. HE DIDN"T EVEN GO TO OUR SCHOOL, and he was the most popular guy on Monday morning! Geez.

The official prom picture

Anyway, we dated maybe a month after that, had an argument, and didn't talk for a long time. About two years later we started talking again, only as friends. We were both in serious relationships. When I got out of that relationship and began going on different dates again, he was my guru, and became one of my best friends. He was the best for guy advice; he always, always called it right! We are still very close to this day. When I had all of my health issues back in the fall, I knew that I would break down if I told him myself, so I sent him a text just so he wouldn't hear it from anyone else. He is a great friend and looking back gave me a great senior prom! Love ya babe.

Nowadays...

While I was looking for the old prom pics, these were in the same book: pictures from my senior trip to Disney World. I thought they were funny. Ah, the life of no worries past the weekend plans.

Think this was an alligator tour?

I think everyone poses on this thing; sorry, I don't the official Star Wars term.

Love me some Flik; this made my day.

Honey I shrunk the seniors!

Bethany Anna: New Heart/New Life

I've Moved [For the Last Time]

Live Before Your Very Eyes!

Yes, I'm 5'11

I Violated One of the Cardinal Rules of Blogging

Mission: List

There is no Challenge More Challenging Than the Challenge to Improve Yourself...or Your Blog

Axl, Scars, and a Hangover

PINT: Hello, My Name is Bethany, and I Have a Coffee Problem.

Snaps of Us

Even If the Grass Was Greener, I'm Staying on This Side with You.

A Great Big Gulp of "UGH!"

So Sorry...Will This GIVEAWAY Make It Better?

Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Chooker in a Tub

Dear Lord, Please Don't Let My Memories Get an Oil Bath

The Satisfied Appetite of a Reluctant Reader

Hey Lady, I Can See Your A.D.D. From Here

What Effect Will This Affective Post Have on You?

Follow Moi!

YoTweepers, Come on Down!

Two Much For You Two To Do: an Enlightenment

Shout-Out/Check-Out Debut + a Coming Attraction

Yotweeps & A Peek Easter Peeps

Wonder Woman, Veronica, and Tammy Faye Walk Into a Bar...

Papa Paparazzi - The (B) True Gollywood Story

The Word: Hilasterous - The Definition...

You Would Think 4 Days in New Orleans Would Be Awesome

Bleep, bleep, bleepity, bleep, bleep

Alphabet-Me

ALOT is MIA

Porch Therapy

From YoTweeps to NoQuacks

*WARNING: Santa Spoiler*

Steroids, Dust, & Kenny Chesney

When Did Hubs Take Up Writing? Here's When...

Minty Post-Its

Pretty Meme Prom

WARNING: Santa Spoiler