Stop a Moment, Take it In

This morning was dark, dreary and rainy. I was yet again stuck in traffic downtown, about to pull my hair out. While sitting in my car, I happened to look over at the Louisville Ballet building, where, through the large picture window, I saw a graceful dancer, spinning about the studio.

The Louisville Ballet headquarters on East Main Street in downtown Louisville.

I smiled, the traffic began to move again, and I was thankful that life slowed down a bit, at that moment, so I could see the beauty that surrounds me.
Images from The Louisville Ballet and Louisville Insider

What Would Emily Do?

An 18th edition of Emily Post’s” Etiquette: Manners for the New World” has been published and now addresses issues of the modern age, including Facebook, Twitter, texting, email, tattoos and piercings.

New York Times book critic, Dwight Garner feels that well enough should be left alone. You either get it or you don’t. Is an 18th edition needed? In my humble opinion, for far too many in the world, yes, a copy of this book is needed, and a new edition to boot. Gift wrapped and sat in one’s lap. Or, in some cases, gift wrapped and hit upside one’s head.

I do agree with Mr. Garner’s comments about much of the book being common sense; yet, perhaps he hasn’t interacted with much of the general public of late. Unfortunately, for so many, it’s not second nature. Have you seen any episodes of “The Real Housewives” franchise? Enough said. Although, this comment in his review made me laugh:

It is perhaps overly packed too with advice so obvious you wonder if its authors question its readers’ ability to walk down the street safely. From Page 25: “Use caution going around the corners of buildings to avoid a collision with someone coming round the other way.” Roger that.

But, considering a young woman in my office parking garage recently was hit by a car, because she was staring down at her iPhone and not paying attention to the fact that she darted in front of a moving vehicle, well, that’s why there’s an 18th edition. She’s one who needs a gift-wrapped version to the head.

It is good to know there is a new generation of Posts trying to keep their great-great grandmother's legacy alive. Be sure to visit http://www.emilypost.com/ to learn more. Yes, Virginia, Emily Post has a website. Ah, the irony.

What are your thoughts on etiquette and manners in today’s society? Is it fading? Are you trying to keep it alive? If so, how? 

That reminds me - my daughter needs to write a thank you note. Rest assured, it will be handwritten and not emailed. God forbid. ;)
Image from Amazon.com

Bourbon Under the Stars

In case you’re already planning ahead for late summer activities (yeah, I know, it’s hard to plan beyond tomorrow, isn’t it?) and if you happen to be close to Bluegrass country at that time, you may want to attend Bourbon Under the Stars.

Tickets to the event, as well as overnight accommodations at one of my favorite boutique hotels, the Gratz Park Inn, are now available on the Rue La La retail site for a limited time, at a discount.

The event includes (details courtesy of Rue La La):

• Two tickets to Bourbon Under the Stars on Saturday, September 10, 2011. The event, held at the L.V. Harkness rooftop garden in downtown Lexington, includes Bourbon cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and music. Alcohol will not be served to participants under the age of 21.

• Two nights in a room at the Gratz Park Inn. Offer is valid for two guests only, September 9 through September 11, 2011.

• A one-year subscription to The Bourbon Review. The magazine is dedicated to all things bourbon – from the perfect cocktail, to bourbon-influenced recipes, to finding the best of the best in Bourbon Country. Your subscription will be sent to the shipping address on your Rue La La account.

• A book signing by Jon Carloftis, award-winning author and Kentucky native, at the event.

• Two welcome gift baskets. Your gifts will be awaiting you at the event, and include local items such as mini bourbon samples, local food, and other special treats.

• Taxes are included.

This is a perfect function for lovers of gardening (Jon Carloftis is the king of landscaping and garden design), bourbon and luxury goods. L.V. Harkness has a gorgeous array of place settings, stemware, equine art and gifts, among many other bright, shiny things.

I’m dying to see their rooftop garden, designed by Jon Carloftis, where the event is taking place.

Seriously, ladies, who wouldn't want to sip bourbon and listen to this man talk about landscaping? I'm not sure if he plays for our team, but gosh darn it, he's pretty.

And, if you are a Bourbon connoisseur, be sure to check out The Bourbon Review, founded by four Kentucky boys. We subscribe and it’s a great publication.

And, friends, thank you for the wonderful ideas for books, music and other items to take on vacation. I can always count on you guys to recommend the best of the best!
Images from girlmeetsfood.com, vanblogspot, L.V. Harkness, Gratz Park Inn, hautemommastuff.com and Rue La La.

Mind Your Manners

I recently received an e-mail from a young gal, stating that she’s moving to the South and wanted someone’s advice on when to say “mam” or “sir,” because she’s heard that is “big” in the South. Apparently, I was mouthing off about discussing the importance manners on another blog and she sought out my opinion.

Well, I am by no means an etiquette expert, but I felt the need to respond to the young lady. At the same time, I’m hoping I’m not actually corresponding with a large, burley house-bound man posing as a 13-year old girl.

Is it important to say “Yes, mam,” “No, sir,” and the like? Yes, yes, a thousand times, yes! This young lady has been told that it’s expected more in the South. I told her that while you’re likely to hear it more from young people in the South and Midwest – although not nearly enough these days – all adults, no matter where they live, are appreciative of respectful dialogue with children.

I try so hard to instill this in my children. When I call out to my kids, “Miss E.,” or “Little Guy,” there are times they respond with “What??” I, in turn, always respond with “What mommy?” or “Yes, mommy?” and then they repeat the correct response. We push the message home and they're getting it. Sometimes they slip, but they're getting better. Thankfully, they have "please" and "thank you" fairly down pat.

Miss Nancy Rascoe teaching youg campers how to write a proper thank-you note.

This correspondence reminded me of a documentary I recently came across called Miss Nancy Minds Their Manners, about North Carolina’s grand dame of etiquette, Nancy Rascoe. Miss Nancy and her husband Peter open their 200-year old historic home in Hertford, North Carolina every summer to youngsters from the region to teach them manners, along with a variety of sporting activities (swimming, fishing, archery, canoeing, etc.). Hubby joked that to get boys to attend such a camp they better be able to go shoot a bow and arrow at the end each day!

Has anyone else heard of Miss Nancy or perhaps even attended her camp or had a child  attend her camp? I would love for my kids to visit such a place, although not sure how much longer Miss Nancy and Mr. Peter will be doing this, given their ages. Hopefully, someone else will carry on the tradition. If my kids can’t attend Miss Nancy's camp, there will definitely be cotillion close by when they’re a little older. Hubby did this and not only received etiquette training that serves him well to this day, he can do a mean waltz and fox trot, too. :)

So, dear blogger friends, what are your thoughts on teaching children etiquette and manners? Is it a dying art? Are you trying to keep it alive in your families? Have you ever been to etiquette training or something akin to it?
Images from Miss Nancy Nancy Minds Their Manners documentary and The Etiquette Company.

P.S. - Thanks to everyone for their kind words and prayers for my mother-in-law, as well as my mom. It means the world to us!

The Bourbon Review and Bourbon Chase

If you’re a fan of bourbon or love a fan of bourbon, I highly recommend that you get a copy of The Bourbon Review.

I gave Hubby a subscription to this quarterly publication for Christmas. The brainchild of four University of Kentucky fraternity brothers, the Review is both a tribute to the fine spirits that Kentucky is known for, but also to the Bluegrass region itself. From famous distilleries along the Bourbon Trail, to the wonderful restaurants that serve these fine drinks, the magazine highlights a number of Kentucky treasures. In addition to the content, the magazine itself features a rich paper stock, similar to that of Garden & Gun, as well as great photography.

Bourbon Chase 200-mile relay

My sister-in-law, a running enthusiast, was browsing through the magazine during her recent holiday visit, and learned about the Bourbon Chase, an overnight relay through the Bourbon Trail and horse farms of Central Kentucky. If you're a runner, I think this would be such a fun event. Here are some photos from last year's Chase. I can't imagine a prettier running route.

Another scene from along the Bourbon Chase route.

Apparently the event is already full for 2011, but my SIL contacted the organizers anyway, just to see if any teams needed additional runners. Fingers crossed, Anne, that you hear back from them and are assigned to a team! I’ll be waiting for you at the finish line in downtown Lexington, with a bourbon in hand, cheering your arrival!

Here's one of the team's from last year's Bourbon Chase, the Maker's Dozen.

In an age where many hardcopy periodicals are shutting down, it’s good to find a little gem that you enjoy reading. What magazines or journals are you reading these days?
Images from The Bourbon Review and The Bourbon Chase; article source The Herald-Leader.

Ringing in 2011

New Year's Day: Now is the accepted time to make your regular annual good resolutions. Next week you can begin paving hell with them as usual.    ~Mark Twain

Wow, my friends, what a year it has been! Tomorrow we say farewell to 2010 and ring in 2011. It’s been quite a year for us to say the least.

The Good: Our new house, our daughter starting kindergarten;
The Bad: My mom’s illness and the after-effects;
The Ugly: The economy, politics, celebrities behaving badly, etc.

But, I am determined to see 2011 as a glass-half-full-year- red or white, whatever you prefer - and I pray for good health and happiness in the new year. The fact that my mom is returning to teaching part-time in January already has things off to a great start! And, my brother and his wife are expecting a baby in March, so another awesome event in which to look forward!

So, dear friends, how will you ring in 2011? Any special traditions, such as clanging the pots and pans at midnight? A champagne toast? Black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day? By the way, if you’re looking to start a new tradition for New Year’s Day, consider making a batch of Hoppin’ John. Mmm, good!

We’ll be ringing in the new year at a dinner dance with friends and then spending the weekend taking down the Christmas decorations. Sad to see them go, but it’s time to clear the clutter and get ready for the New Year. As far as New Year's Resolutions, I bought a new pair of trail shoes today and have already put them to work on the treadmill. I hope to bump up my exercise regimen over the next year, eat healthier and have a more positive outlook. What are your New Year’s Resolutions for 2011?

Thank you for such a wonderful year. I value your comments, insight and support that you provide every day. I may not always respond directly to each of your comments, but please know that I appreciate them so very much. It means the world to me that you read my daily ramblings and find it worthwhile to visit often.

I wish you and yours the happiest of New Year's! Talk to you in 2011!
Image courtesy of Google and recipe from Garden & Gun

My Latest Rant

Sorry I’ve been MIA the last couple of days. Work and life in general have been crazy as we prepare for time off during the holidays and wrap up things before year-end.

So, I’m back and I feel like I need to end this week on my soapbox, addressing some things that have been in the news of late. (It’s a bit long, so hang in with me here if you can.)

You may be aware of the protests and outrage in England right now over college tuition increasing three times the current rate. Last night, protestors attacked a car carrying Prince Charles and Camilla, throwing eggs, shaking the car and breaking a window. The Prince and the Duchess were not hurt, but it made for a scary moment.

The, protestors also set the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square on fire. So, wrong. So very wrong.

I understand that this is a huge change for students in the U.K. (and for my blogger friends in the U.K., please don’t take offense to this). I get that. But, they’re complaining about the fact that tuition is going up to $14,000 next year after there has been a long-time cap on tuition rates (something we have not experienced here; increases are the norm). When NPR did a story about this topic the other day, a representative from the student group leading these protests said that with these increases, England will have the most expensive tuition costs in the world. Um, hello? Been to the United States lately?

Sorry, dude, but it’s the United States which has the highest tuition rates in the world. Not that this is anything to shout from the mountain tops, but at least get your facts straight. For instance, tuition at Trinity College in Hartford, Conn. is $53,380; Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn. is $53,660; Columbia University in New York City is $54,385; and Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, N.Y., is a whopping $57,556 per year.

Even at my alma mater, the University of Kentucky - a public university where tuition is well below that of a private school - tuition is much more than the proposal in the U.K.

I had student loans to pay back after I graduated. I got a job, I worked on paying my loans and finally, I paid them off, like many other college grads do in this country. That’s just how it is. I know this is difficult to do during tough economic times, when jobs may be hard to find.

There have been protests by U.S. students at their respective colleges over tuition increases. But, it's not the practice to set fires in the street, destroy property, and place others in harm's way. We save that behavior for an NCAA championship. :)

I'm probably going to take some heat over this, but I don’t have a lot of sympathy for this situation. It’s the norm here and we just suck it up and move on. Fight it all you want, but I doubt your efforts will restore a cap on costs. That's just the way it is.

Elizabeth Edwards (1949 to 2010)

As you know, Elizabeth Edwards died this week after a long battle with breast cancer. At times she was a controversial figure, in her ambition for her husband’s quest for the presidency and whether or not she knew about, and helped cover up, a scandal involving John Edwards. But, she also cherished her role as mother, was a successful lawyer and strategist. No one deserves to lose a child, have your husband cheat on you in a humiliatingly-public fashion, and then be stricken with cancer.

Now, it appears that the members of the crazy-town church, Westboro Baptist, which is known to protest military funerals, plans to show up at Elizabeth Edwards’ funeral on Saturday. Is there no shame? I just hope what happened to them at a recent military funeral in Oklahoma happens again. I bet the Devil can’t wait to get a hold of these people. Then again, it sounds like he already has.

Alright, thanks for putting up with my tirade this week. Let’s enjoy this holiday season and remember what it’s all about. My family and I have a full weekend of Christmas parties and activities. I’m looking forward to seeing friends old and new and enjoying time with my husband and kids. That’s what it’s all about.
Images and content courtesy of BBC News, New York Daily News, Tulsa World, CNN and Yahoo News

Vote

“Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost.”
        - John Quincy Adams

Be Kind

Yesterday, I read an article about 18-year-old Tyler Clementi, a Rutgers freshman who committed suicide after his college roommate filmed him during a private encounter with another person in their dorm room. The roommate and a gal pal streamed the footage on the Internet. Tyler jumped off the George Washington Bridge three days later.

This story saddened me because of the humiliation and pain this young man suffered at the hands of a classmate (the encounter was with that of another young man, so one can conclude that Tyler was closeted). I then felt great anger toward the two people responsible for this act. It was so cruel. Why, why do kids - and in this case, young adults - do this to others?!

Much discussion has been made about this event over the last couple of days. Would the
situation have been so bad if the act caught on camera had been between a male and female? Is this a case of two kids who really aren’t evil, just stupid and insensitive? Are they products of the Twitter/Facebook/reality TV generation and therefore think this is normal? Some believe they should go to jail. Others think expulsion from Rutgers should be the extent of their punishment.

What do I think? Yes, they should be charged with a crime! And not just invasion of privacy, which is the current charge both students are facing. How can you lack so much empathy and awareness that you would even consider doing such a thing? The kids who tormented Phoebe Prince, the young Irish girl who committed suicide after enduring unending bullying, both to her face and online, are facing criminal charges in Massachusetts, as they should.

The other day, I was having a discussion with a friend about bullying and mean kids. We remarked that there’s always that “one girl” or “one boy” in a class who is the target of mean kids. I wish I could get to the root of why there is a “one kid” in the first place. Why must these children be singled out, made fun of and tortured in a such a way? It made me think of two particular kids from grade school. While I didn’t participate in the taunting and harsh words, I didn’t stand up and say anything either. I didn’t tell the bullies to stop, in fear that I would be made fun of; I didn’t come to the defense of the child being tormented. That makes me just as guilty as the bully. To this day, I feel horrible about that. I wonder what those kids are doing now. I pray that they are living wonderful lives. Of course, having experienced teasing and hurtful comments from mean kids myself, I know that the wounds heal, but underneath the surface, they are still quite fresh.

According to the article, the news of Tyler’s death “came on the same day that Rutgers kicked off a two-year, campuswide project to teach the importance of civility, with special attention to the use and abuse of new technology.”

How sad is it that a college has to create an initiative about civility? Why isn't this groundwork being laid when the child is a toddler? Yes, I know that people have free will and a person is going to act how he or she wants. But, I am of the mindset that you ingrain in your children the concept of putting oneself in another’s shoes, and, of course, living the Golden Rule. I know I could have practiced that more in school. Believe me, if I could find those kids now, I would apologize for not sticking up for them. All I can do now is try my hardest to raise compassionate, empathetic children and drive home that message  every chance I get. And, of course, if I need to, take out whoever bullies them. I may be small, but I am mighty. :)

If you have a moment, think of those kids who have suffered at the hands of bullies and other mean-spirited people. Say a prayer for them or just send positive thoughts their way. This world could use more civility; let’s be the ones to lead the way.
Image from Google

Dear Always...

Happy Friday, everyone! I’m determined to end this week on a good note – since it’s been hellish for the last few days. Lots of big happenings at the company and one particular project group has been driving me ape-sh#! crazy. So, I took it as a good sign that Natalie Merchant’s live version of “Sympathy for the Devil” was playing on satellite radio as I drove into work today. Good tunes, tasty coffee (if you’re ever in Louisville, stop by Red Hot Roasters – good stuff) and a glimpse of the harvest moon in the sky. Ah, I’m ready for the weekend.

So, to end this week on a particularly funny note, I’m including a letter that was sent to me by a co-worker yesterday. Ladies, I know you can relate to this one. Guys, if you have a wife, girlfriend or gal pal in your life, I hope this sheds some light for you on a few things.

This is an "actual letter" from an Austin, Texas woman sent to Proctor and Gamble regarding one of their feminine products. This was PC Magazine's 2009 Editors' Choice award-winner for the best letter sent via e-mail. (Editorial note from Jen: Snopes claims only a portion of this letter is true, but it's pretty darn funny, so I'm including it today.)

Dear Mr. Thatcher,

I have been a loyal user of your 'Always' maxi pads for over 20 years and I appreciate many of their features. Why, without the LeakGuard Core or Dri-Weave absorbency, I'd probably never go horseback riding or salsa dancing, and I'd certainly steer clear of running up and down the beach in tight, white shorts.

But my favorite feature has to be your revolutionary Flexi-Wings. Kudos on being the only company smart enough to realize how crucial it is that maxi pads be aerodynamic I can't tell you how safe and secure I feel each month knowing there's a little F-16 in my pants.

Have you ever had a menstrual period, Mr. Thatcher? I'm guessing you haven't. Well, my time of the month is starting right now. As I type, I can already feel hormonal forces violently surging through my body. Just a few minutes from now, my body will adjust and I'll be transformed into what my husband likes to call 'an inbred hillbilly with knife skills.'

Isn't the human body amazing?

As Brand Manager in the Feminine-Hygiene Division, you've no doubt seen quite a bit of research on what exactly happens during your customer's monthly visits from 'Aunt Flo'. Therefore, you must know about the bloating, puffiness, and cramping we endure, and about our intense mood swings, crying jags, and out-of-control behavior. You surely realize it's a tough time for most women.

The point is, sir, you of all people must realize that America is just crawling with homicidal maniacs in Capri pants... Which brings me to the reason for my letter. Last month, while in the throes of cramping so painful I wanted to reach inside my body and yank out my uterus, I opened an Always maxi-pad, and there, printed on the adhesive backing, were these words: 'Have a Happy Period.'

Are you f------ kidding me? What I mean is, does any part of your tiny middle-manager brain really think happiness - actual smiling, laughing happiness, is possible during a menstrual period? Did anything mentioned above sound the least bit pleasurable? Well, did it, James? FYI, unless you're some kind of sick S&M freak, there will never be anything 'happy' about a day in which you have to jack yourself up on Motrin and Kahlua and lock yourself in your house just so you don't march down to the local Walgreen's armed with a hunting rifle and a sketchy plan to end your life in a blaze of glory.

For the love of God, pull your head out, man! If you have to slap a moronic message on a maxi pad, wouldn't it make more sense to say something that's actually pertinent, like 'Put down the Hammer' or 'Vehicular Manslaughter is Wrong'.

Sir, please inform your Accounting Department that, effective immediately, there will be an $8 drop in monthly profits, for I have chosen to take my maxi-pad business elsewhere. And though I will certainly miss your Flex-Wings, I will not for one minute miss your brand of condescending bullsh!t. And that's a promise I will keep.

Always...

Wendi Aarons
Austin , TX

World of Good

Sorry I’ve been MIA of late. Between work and outside commitments, I’ve not had much time for anything else. But, enough about me. Today is Earth Day where we focus on the environment in hopes to improve Mother Earth for generations to come. Now, I’m not going to pull out my soap box and start lecturing on climate change, recycling and so on. Instead, I’m going to showcase a wonderful site where you can buy earth-friendly wares and support craftspeople and artisans across the globe: WorldofGood from ebay.

This site features purses, clothing jewelry, food, skin care products and so much more. All of the items featured above are available on WorldofGood. According to the website, items are categorized by such “goodprints” as:

People Positive – "Combines economic empowerment, cultural traditions, and enhanced quality of life with the unique WorldofGood.com by eBay shopping experience. People Positive products are made in Fair Trade, sweatshop-free, safe environments.”

Eco Positive – “Combines energy conservation, eco-friendly production, and environmental conservation with the unique WorldofGood.com shopping experience. Eco Positive shopping brings you thousands of all-new eco products, 100% verified by independent Trust Provider organizations and labeled with Goodprint statements to show your positive purchase impact.”

Animal Friendly – “Products are a positive force for animals. In both materials and production, no animals are killed or harmed, and natural habitats aren't disturbed. (Some Animal Friendly products are made with animal ingredients, such as wool or alpaca sweaters or Fair Trade milk chocolate.)”

Supports a Cause - “On WorldofGood.com by eBay means that your purchase enables the seller to donate from 10% to 100% of the item's final sale price to a worthy nonprofit organization through eBay Giving Works. The amount of the donation is on the listing, and it doesn't add to the selling price. Nonprofit charity organizations can do their own selling through eBay Giving Works as well.”

And best of all? The prices are FABULOUS! For instance, the recycled glass bowl above is only $4.95! The natural fiber purse is $26! You’re not only making a fashion statement, an eco-statement and helping fair trade artisans, you’re getting a major bargain in the process! Can’t get much better than that.

So, if you’re looking for a way to commemorate Earth Day, consider WorldofGood as your “green” activity of choice.
Images courtesy of ebay's WorldofGood

TOMS Shoes

Have you heard of TOMS Shoes? The casual canvas shoes for men, women and children have really hit it big and not so much for their look or fit, but because of the company’s mission. Here's their story:

In 2006 an American traveler, Blake Mycoskie, befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes, a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by caring TOMS customers.

Since our beginning in May 2006, TOMS has given over 400,000* pairs of shoes to children in need, through the purchases of caring customers.
*As of December 2009

You may have seen Mykoskie in an AT&T commercial featuring him interacting with children who have received the shoes. It seems to be a great company and great concept. TOMS One-for-One Campus Clubs are popping up at colleges across the country. In fact, Mykoskie is speaking at my alma mater, the University of Kentucky, tomorrow. It’s good to see such altruism taking place among today’s youth (do I sound like an old lady or what?). I hope it continues to blossom.

I guess I’m a little slow to join the TOMS movement, since I’m not a 20-something, the main TOMS demographic to date. But, now that I’ve arrived, I plan to order some shoes and I’m thrilled to know that a child will benefit from this purchase. Be sure to check out the TOMs website. Cool stuff available for purchase and a great blog, too.

Hope everyone had a good weekend. My Wildcats lost in the Elite Eight round of the NCAA Tournament on Saturday. It kills me that Bob Huggins and his oh-so-classy track suit are going to the Final Four. And, so is that evil team from North Carolina. I can’t even say their name. Sorry, still sore over an incident in March of 1992 involving a final shot at the buzzer. A tragic moment that CBS Sports insists on replaying every time they lead into the next game. Make it stop!
Images and content courtesy of http://www.toms.com/

Humanity

I heard a story on the radio yesterday that touched my heart and I wanted to share this with you. The next time you are watching your child, grandchild, niece or nephew playing a sport, count your blessings. I know I will.

Above is a photo of the U.S. under-17 women's soccer team. They recently beat Haiti 9 - 0 in a regional tournament in Costa Rica. But, the win was bittersweet for the young women, knowing what their Haitian counterparts had endured since the devastating earthquake in that country. Seeing the Haitian goalie still lying on the ground after the game, sobbing, the American team walked over, picked her up and hugged her for a lengthy period.

One U.S. player said she had her mom and aunt in the crowd cheering for her, but many of the Haitian players had lost their loved ones or are unsure of their whereabouts. The majority of the team is homeless due to the quake. They only have each other and the sport of soccer.

Prior to leaving for the tournament, the U.S. team expressed a desire to help the Haitian team. Each young woman brought a bag full of cleats, soccer gloves and other equipment for each member of the Haitian team.

From NPR: Defender Olivia Brannon read a letter to the Haitians, thanking the team for inspiring the Americans to play great soccer and commending them for everything they had been through. "Seeing the Haitians smile," U.S. goalie Bryane Heaberlin says, "was amazing for all of us."
Photo courtesy of NPR

Get Your Green On

Happy St. Paddy’s Day to all you lads and lassies! I’m decked out in green today and that’s probably the extent of my celebrating, given that we have kid commitments tonight. Speaking of the kids, they have a Leprechaun hunt at school today, so hopefully they’ll come across a Leprechaun who will lead them to a pot of gold. Hey, whatever helps pay for college.

Hubby has a pair of friends, twin brothers actually, who celebrate this day like nothing I’ve ever seen. Both brothers take the day off work. They invite friends over to one of their homes for an early morning viewing of “The Quiet Man” and a breakfast of Lucky Charms. Then around 11 a.m., it’s off to the bars. Seriously. They hit two or three Irish pubs in one neighborhood and then make their way to a few more in another area of town. Then, the day ends at one of the best Irish pubs in town, The Irish Rover, where there’s a huge tent over the parking lot, music, dancing and plenty of Guinness flowing. I’ve been to a couple of St. Patrick’s Day events there and it’s such fun. You end up seeing every Irish Louisvillian you knew growing up. It’s basically a homecoming. A very drunk homecoming.

If you’re celebrating today, have fun and be safe. Erin go bragh!
Images courtesy of history.com

Political Ramblings

First Lady of South Carolina, Jenny Sanford

While at the grocery on Saturday afternoon, I walked down the book and magazine aisle and saw Jenny Sandford’s autobiography, Staying True. If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you may remember my post about Jenny Sanford on June 29, 2009, as the firestorm broke when Governor Sanford disappeared to Argentina to visit his mistress. He lied about it at first, stating he was hiking the Appalachian Trail. I felt such empathy for Mrs. Sanford and her sons and how, at least publicly, she seemed to handle the situation with such grace. And, thank God, she wasn’t “standing by her man” during his bizarre press conference. A few weeks ago, Mrs. Sanford started making the rounds on the talk shows promoting her book. I watched her interview with Barbara Walters and was intrigued. So, on Saturday, I couldn’t resist buying the book. I’m half-way through it already, and I’ll give a full update when I finish it.

None of us are in the position to judge others, so I’m not going to sit here and say Jenny Sanford was wrong in her decision to marry him. When you are young and in love, your judgment can be clouded. But from the stories she tells about him early on and well into their marriage, the red flags must have been flying. I mean, when the man refused to take a vow of faithfulness/fidelity during their wedding ceremony because he didn’t think he could live up to it, well, that had to be a huge indicator of things to come. Again, I don't want to make judgmental statements about her - I have come to really like her, even though I've only seen her through television, radio and the written word. But, I have to say I admire her dedication to her sons and her sense of self. She's a good woman. He's an ass.

We Kentuckians watched a similar scenario play out a few years ago when Gov. Paul Patton admitted to an affair with a woman with whom he exchanged political favors. At first he lied, then in a tearful press conference, he admitted it. And, just like Sanford, he stayed on as governor, even though EVERYONE was calling for his resignation.

Oh, look, it’s my soapbox. I think I’ll stand on it…what is it about politics? Does it breed arrogance? Does one begin to think that morals don’t apply to them? I realize that not every politician is like this, but it certainly feels this way at times. I hope changes are underway, especially in Congress. Chuck the whole lot and start from scratch. I don’t believe in career politicians. Serve a couple of terms, strive to make a difference, then move back into private life and be effective in that capacity and serve your community in other ways. If you do something too long it gets stagnant and you can become ineffective. I think we’re seeing that in politics today. It’s time to shake things up a bit!

Okay, I’m stepping down and putting my soap box away. Sorry for my random ramblings, but I felt the need to make a statement, perhaps stir things up a bit on this rainy morning. ;) Hope everyone had a great weekend. Can you believe it’s the last week of February? Spring is getting closer!
Image courtesy of www.jennysandford.com

Rock On, USA!

So proud of our athletes at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver – they rock! Shaun White, AKA “The Flying Tomato,” won gold in the half-pipe competition, while queen of the mountain Lindsey Vonn took gold in the downhill competition.

Have you been watching the Olympics? What’s your favorite competition? Hubby likes to ski, so we’ve been watching the downhill races. Miss E. is in awe of figure skating, so we try to catch that, too. I’m fascinated with curling, so I try watch that every chance I get (no, not really).

As usual, I’m going to steer this discussion toward fashion. I LOVED the USA teams’ official uniform for the opening ceremonies, designed by Ralph Lauren. And how cute were those moose hats? Not sure if I would pay $75 for them, but they were super-cool.

Have a great Thursday, everyone. We’re supposed to get more snow in this region between now and early next week, because we just haven’t gotten enough already. ;)
Images courtesy of the New York Times and the Team USA Shop

Fat Tuesday

Beads, King Cake, purple and green: it's Mardi Gras! Time to eat, drink and be merry. Then, tomorrow, we fast.

As you know, tomorrow is Ash Wednesday. I'm Catholic, so I'll be getting my ashes and fasting as best I can that day (I have a permanent crown procedure at the dentist tomorrow, so it's probably best I don't go in there totally famished, because it could get ugly. Sorry, God.) Often, I "give up" something for Lent, and it's usually chocolate. This can be very difficult, but at the end of 40 days, there's always an Easter basket. Why is it, though, that the Girl Scout cookies always arrive during Lent? Why must I be tempted in such a way? Oh, well. I'll throw a box in the freezer. This year, I've also decided to give up soft drinks. I love them, but they're baaaaad. My hope is to continue this "sacrifice" long after Lent.

Really, though, these aren't true sacrifices. And, it's better to do, rather than just refrain, and, now that I'm a community advisor for one of the Junior League provisional groups this season, I've got that part covered. Whew, do I have that part covered! (I'll get through it, I'll get through it...)

So, dear friends, if you observe Lent, are you giving anything up? Doing something special? Or perhaps the more interesting question is, what are you doing for Fat Tuesday?? ;)
Image courtesy of J. Peterman

P.S. - Thanks to everyone for the sweet comments you left yesterday! You guys are the best! And, I loved hearing about your Valentine's Day activities as well. Hope everyone had a great day!

Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez

Mardi Gras is going to pale in comparison to what took place in New Orleans yesterday.

Cheers to the Saints for their first ever Super Bowl win! And while I was pulling for Peyton Manning and the Colts, I wasn't that disappointed that the Saints won. This was a long-time coming for the Saints and they deserved the honor this year. So, I raise a Hurricane glass to the mighty Saints and congratulate them on their Super Bowl win. I imagine this party will probably last at least until Feb. 16...
Photo courtesy of Garden & Gun - Talk of the South

The Hovey Sisters

Did you catch one of my favorite bloggers in today’s New York Times Style section? Hollister Hovey, and her sister Porter, are featured in the article “The New Antiquarians,” about those who collect, wear and uphold what Hollister calls “the new vintage style.” This style is very Victorian, very W. Somerset Maugham, very Wes Anderson “Royal Tennenbaums.”

It’s fun to see what they collect, where they visit, what they wear. I like that they march to their own beat (even though there are many others sharing in their love of all things dark and Victorian, thus the focus of the article). Wouldn’t you love to have a play-date at their house?

By the way, Porter Hovey is lobbying for a coveted walk-on role in an episode on AMC’s “Mad Men.” Visit Hollister’s blog for information on how to vote.
Image of Hollister and Porter Hovey courtesy of NY Times.

What does preppy mean to you?

In today’s New York Times Style section, there’s an article about the so-called comeback of the preppy style. Although, depending on where you live, I argue that this style never really went away, especially for those of us who went to college preparatory schools and attended universities with strong Greek systems.

The article focuses on how the all-American prepster style now has a strong Japanese influence, highlighting the 1965 book of photography, “Take Ivy,” by Teruyoshi Hayashida.

The article mentions a bevy of preppy brands, including Sperry, L.L. Bean, Brooks Brothers and even some I had forgotten, such as Woolrich. This made me smile. In high school, I had a tan Woolrich jacket lined in red and black tartan wool. I also carried my books in an L.L. Bean backpack and wore L.L. Bean moccasins. In addition to my bob haircut, an add-a-bead necklace adorned my neck, and my class ring – a signet, of course – was firmly in place on my right hand, exhibiting great pride in my all-girls school. Ah, the late 80s/early 90s. Weren’t those the days?

So, dear readers, what does preppy mean to you? Did it ever go out of style or has it constantly been evolving?
“Take Ivy,” by Teruyoshi Hayashida image courtesy of A Continuous Lean.