What's Next for Tebow?

You know I love me some Tebow, but I couldn't help posting this. I'm a long-time fan of Peyton Manning as well, so I have mixed emotions over this whole thing (don't worry, I'm not losing sleep over this).

In the end, I realize it's all about business, and perhaps that's the part that bothers me the most. And it makes me see John Elway in an unflattering light. Elway, you owe me a new jersey. Heck, I just got the thing for Christmas and now what am I going to do??

To be continued...

She Said What??

This is one of the reasons why I don't care for Tom Brady: his wife. Check out her rants after last night's game, trashing his teammates.

You just need to cool it, Yoko. Keep that up and see how well the offensive line protects your hubby next season.

Eli Manning celebrates his Super Bowl win with wife, Abby, and daughter, Ava Frances. Tom Brady was stuck with his f-bomb-dropping wife.

Cheers to the Giants and Eli Manning. You are a class act, Mr. Manning.
Photo by Marc Humphrey

All-Sports Weekend

How was your weekend?

Our weekend was centered around basketball and football viewing, which I imagine was the case in many households across the country. 

Saturday we ventured down to Lexington to watch the University of Kentucky take on South Carolina. It was an easy win for us, so not very suspenseful. But, it's always fun to cheer on my Cats in person.

One of the more exciting events at the game was during half-time when a fan won $10,000 after making a basket from half-court. The crowd went wild. Kroger, the grocery store chain, was offering the prize. Hubby joked that while the guy was doing his victory dance, Kroger reps were saying, "Damn it!"

After the game, we walked back toward campus to grab dinner. Along the way I took photos of some historic homes on Mill Street that I just love.

We toasted the Cats at hubby's grad school hangout, Pazzo's. I'll spend the rest of the week trying to burn off the beer and breadsticks.

Sunday was full of more basketball, the grade school variety, as we cheered my cousin's son on to victory.  

My kids adore him and he's such a good kid. His future high school is itching to have him. He's only 13 and already more than 6 feet tall. 

We closed out the weekend with one final sports event: The Denver Broncos versus the Pittsburgh Steelers. Hubby sported his Steelers-wear and I wore my Tebow jersey. Can you believe that touchdown pass?? Tebow is the man. I hope the Broncos can pull off a win against the Patriots next week. 

So, that about covers our weekend, minus the laundry and other mundane tasks.

Happy Monday!
All images property of JMW A Place to Dwell

Addendum to Yesterday's Rant

Late last night, Penn State football Joe Paterno was fired, as was university president Graham Spanier.

Good.

And to you students who took to the streets, destroying property while decrying the firing of both men, namely the coach, shame on you. Let's talk in a few years when you become parents. You'll see the world in a completely different light.

I think public relations professional Susan Young's commentary on the events at Penn State says it all. Kudos to you Ms. Young, who said, "One final observation: Football does not trump the safety of children or any human being—ever."

Image from the Patriot News

Book Reviews - Coming Soon to a Blog Near You

Stay tuned over the next few days for two book reviews I plan to publish. I was again fortunate enough to receive a complimentary copy of Diane Meier’s new set of short stories. If you recall, I reviewed Ms. Meier’s novel, The Season of Second Chances, last year and found it delightful.

Diane Meier, author of Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

I’m close to completing Meier's “Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner” (would have whipped through these earlier, but my kids don’t seem to adhere to their bedtime schedule very well), and once I do, I’ll be sure to share my thoughts on the compilation. So far, it’s been a great read - full report soon on the way.

In addition to Meier’s stories, I’m also prepping for Gridiron Belles, a fun look at the Southeastern Conference and a guide for women who are novices to the sport of football.

Christie Leigh Mueller, author of Gridiron Belles

I, for one, am not a novice. I love football and all things SEC. So, when I heard about this book, and the fact that it’s written by Louisville native Christie Leigh Mueller, (who also is an alumnae of my high school), I reached out requesting an interview. As you know, I like to give shout-outs to local writers, artists, businesses, etc., so I thought this would be a fun blog post. Ms. Mueller and I are meeting for coffee next week when she has some down-time from her book tour. And, you Auburn fans are going to LOVE her. Stay tuned – should be fun!

My son's teacher lent me Sarah's Key, which recently was made into a film starring Kristin Scott Thomas. I've barely started it (Yes, I multi-task with a few books at a time; I know, as a friend in college used to say, "That ain't right."), and I've heard great things about it, but the subject matter is already tough to take. A little too Sophie's Choice and I can't handle that, so we'll see where how far I get. If you've read it and liked it, please let me know.

So, dear friends, what are you reading these days? Anything you would recommend? Please share!
Images from dianemeier.com and gridironbelles.com

Handbags and an Anniversary Weekend

Saw the latest from Tory Burch's handbag line on Facebook yesterday (because, you know, Tory and I are FB friends) and I'm drooling over the blue bag. Actually, the marketers are calling it "Cobalt," while the orange version has been tagged as Habanero Pepper. Hmmm, looks like a combo for a certain school in the SEC. Well, rather than in Gainseville, the Cobalt version would look fabulous in Rupp Arena this basketball season. On my arm. With new wedge boots on my feet. But, I digress.

And, speaking of Gators, how jazzed am I that Tim Tebow will be the starting QB for the Broncos in their next game? Maybe just me, the city of Denver and the state of Florida? Not sure why I've become such a big Tebow fan, since his golden arm always meant doom for my Kentucky Wildcats. But, as I mentioned in a previous post, anytime an SEC player can do well in the NFL, I'm there.

It's Friday, dear friends, and I'm sure you're just as thankful as I. The weekend will be full of typical busy activity. Our daughter has a birthday party, the kids have haircuts, leaves need to be raked and, oh yeah, Hubby and I will celebrate our 12th anniversary on Sunday.

October 16, 1999

I love you, Hon. Looking forward to dinner on Saturday night!

(And, no, the Tory Burch Cobalt Blue purse will not be an anniversary gift; it's only eye candy, as is Mr. Tebow. Although, he doesn't hold a candle to my Hubby!)
Images from Tory Burch via Facebook and property of A Place to Dwell Blog

Back-from-Campus Report

I'm back from an overnight in Lexington after watching my beloved Wildcats turn in a horrible performance against Louisville. Not sure what happened, but I think one of the local high school teams could have whipped their butts last night.

Overall, though, it was a fun weekend with friends and that made the loss much easier to take. After checking into our hotel, we headed to campus to enjoy an alumni get-together at the Faculty Club. Let me tell you, there's nothing like tailgating in style at the Faculty Club on campus. We enjoyed delicious food in a gorgeous setting.

The library lounge at the Hilary J. Boone Faculty Club

Had the weather not been so gosh-darn beautiful, I could have propped my feet up on a cushy sofa at the club with a cocktail in hand and watched the game there. But, we couldn't pass up a sunny, 72 degree day, so after dining in the courtyard at Boone (below), we went back to the cars to tailgate a bit. Oh, and when we got out there, we saw that some little punk had stolen one of our UK car flags. Really? Damn college students.

We then made our way over to the stadium to meet up with more friends. Along the way, we saw the serious tailgaters with their elaborate set-ups. Everything from flat screen TVs, enormous tents, giant RVs, to beautifully set buffet tables with candleabras, mums and nice silver and china in which to serve the hot dogs, hamburgers and burgoo. Let me tell you, the Southeastern Conference fans know how to do it right.

This isn't one of the big tailgate set-ups, but this gives you just a glimpse of  how people set up for their pre-game activities.

At the top of the 4th quarter when we knew things weren't going to turn around, we left early to beat the crowd, heading to Dudley's for drinks. If you ever make it to Lexington, go downtown to Dudley's. Great atmosphere and vibe. We then went back to the hotel because we're old and can't manage to stay out past 11 p.m. anymore.

So, that was my weekend and it was such fun. What did you do this weekend? Hope you had a good one. Take it easy so you're well rested heading into Monday. Ugh. I'll try not to think about Monday too much.
Images from kentucky.com, Hilary J. Boone Faculity Club, UK alumni facebook page and kentucky tailgating

Football Season Approacheth

Summer is officially winding down. Miss E.’s day-camp ends today and then she has one week of “freedom” before first grade. We ordered her a new backpack last night – her one from kindergarten is apparently too small. At least this one will get her through a few more years. I told her she better like purple and green for a while, because I’m not buying an L.L. Bean backpack every year. Those things last forever anyway, so that’s good.

Little Man is wrapping up his time in the 3-to-4-year-old room and will be moving to Pre-K in about a week. Where has the time gone??

So, even though we’ll likely have this super-hot weather for the next several weeks, I’m looking forward to what fall has to bring, especially college football. Woo hoo! I’m trying to line up at least one excursion to Lexington for a fun day of tailgating and football with friends. I get almost giddy thinking about a big spread of food, drinks, skipping around campus and cheering on my Wildcats. I know my UK and SEC friends join me in the excitement of the season. Bring it on!

Hubby and I at a UK game in year's past. My freshman dorm is in the background. Ah, memories of living in a matchbox with a view.

I made him wear that sweatshirt. Hubby grew up a University of Louisville (blech) fan, but I'm quick to remind him that not only did he earn his master's at UK, but he's married to me. Therefore, Blue rules in our house.

And, for Hubby and many of his brethren, there’s much excitement (and a huge sigh of relief) that there will be an NFL season as well.

Because, my gosh, what were they going to do with themselves on Monday nights and Sunday afternoons?? The chicken wing industry was in great peril as well, so I'm sure BW3s and other chains like that are quite relieved that the season will go on.

Are you looking forward to football season?

TGIF, my friends. I’m planning to drop head first on the sofa once I get home this evening. It’s been a long week and I’m tuckered out. Hope you have a good one – talk to you soon!
Images from someecards, Kentucky.com and property of jmw-aplacetodwell.blogspot.com

Really???

Really? You poison two historic trees because you're a fan of a rival school? And maybe because you're crazy as a loon? How very sad.

To all the Auburn faithful, my sympathies for the loss of the grand, old oaks at Toomer's Corner. All of us in the SEC support you, as do many across the country.

And, hey, people, let's get a grip.
Image from Birmingham News

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

Who dat?!

For my brother-bloggers, as well as my sister bloggers who enjoy the gridiron, this one's for you: Who dat?! Cheers to the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints for making the Super Bowl!

I’m a big Colts fan (love Peyton Manning), so I was thrilled with their win yesterday. In the NFC Championship, I was pulling hard for the Saints, in hopes of them making it to their first-ever Super Bowl appearance. They didn’t disappoint, although the Vikings sure gave them a run for their money. Great game, guys. So, the two teams I wanted to see in the Super Bowl are going. It should make for a great game.

In other news from the home front, the weekend was full of errands. I finally got around to having one of my lamps fixed, and purchased a new fleur de lis finial to top it off. Perhaps that was a sign that the Saints were going to win? The temperature warmed up a bit on Saturday, so we took the kids to the playground and ran them hard. They fell asleep in the car, which was a beautiful thing.

That night, we attended a trivia contest with family and friends. We’ve been going to this contest for the last five years. We also attended one the weekend before at our church. We joke that we’re on the “circuit.” But, it’s all for good causes (both schools’ PTOs) and it finally gives me an opportunity to be rewarded for all of the useless, pop culture information I carry around in my head. And, if you’re not doing well in the contest, at least they serve beer, so it’s not a total loss. ;)

The weekend concluded with lots of laundry and football. I have a feeling that was the theme in most households yesterday.

Happy Monday, everyone!
Images courtesy of ESPN

Game Day

Saturday was game day in Lexington and we had so much fun! We left Louisville about 7:45 a.m. with plenty of food and beverages in tow. We tailgated near the stadium and close to some of the dorms where I once lived. In fact, at one point Hubby and I ran over to the Commons, the cafeteria I used to frequent, to use the restrooms. That place still smells the same! How is that?

The Cats managed to squeak out a win. We enjoyed some post game tailgating with another group of friends while waiting for the crazy traffic to let up, then grabbed some dinner on our way out of town.

Next week is the Florida game. Tim Tebow, please be gentle. :)

From Kindergarten Tours to Tailgating

What's currently on our tailgating menu - food suggestions welcome.

Well, we're two tours down and one more to go on the kindergarten search. But, I think we've pretty much decided upon the school for our daughter and, of course, it's the one that will require switching parishes. But, it just felt right. I was happy with the size of the school, the curriculum, the theology and the overall feel. Like everyone said, you'll know a good fit when you find it and we certainly did. Thanks again to everyone who offered words of support. I greatly appreciate it! Here's hoping we're not placed on a waiting list...

Now, onto thoughts of food, drink and general debauchery, or as we call it in the South, tailgating at a college football game. I need to decide what we're going to bring with us down to Lexington on Saturday morning. Any suggestions on what will travel well for the one hour trip? Besides beer or bourbon? We're going to get down there early in the morning, since the game is at noon. I'd like to do something breakfast/brunch style. Anything that requires baking will need to be placed in a special carrier - hopefully it will stay warm for the trip. Recipes and general tailgating suggestions are welcome!