The Road Less Traveled

Sugar & Spice + Snips & Snails

2011-06-27T13:18:00.011-04:00

There is never a dull moment around these days….this spring/summer we have 4 new babies in the family. I have two new nieces both born in April. Madeline Margaret and Sophie Clare. Both are absolutely precious. There has been a lot of rocking and singing. Our Sunday dinners are now more about whose holding the babies instead of what’s for lunch! Both are already smarter than they should be….just yesterday they both told me “Love you, love you aunt pami”. I’d never lie about something like that!

This month my cousin Amy adopted an 11 month old baby girl Annie Rice. You can just call me Aunt Pami ! I haven’t gotten a chance to hold her yet…but will rectify that situation this weekend. She looks to be such a sweet baby and I know I will have fun spoiling her as well.

With all these girls hanging around…we had to have one little boy. My cousin Leigh had a baby boy this past week..Braydon Andrew. He’s a little small and will have to stay a little while in the NICU…can’t wait to see and hold him as well…I hope he’s working on being a Casanova…cause he’s surrounded with girls.

Anyway….if you need me I’ll be the one holding a baby! Here’ a few pics.

Hanging out! Catching up on the latest.

So Precious!

Am I cute or what!!!

Snoozing. Wake me when it's time for a bottle!

Some good Sleep!

Bath time!

Sweet Baby!

Twitter Feeds, Heart Surgery, & #pinkalicious

2011-04-01T10:00:00.002-04:00

I have been blown away this week. Actually stopped work twice yesterday to have a conversation about how social media, Twitter & Facebook, to be exact have changed my small town (big hearted) community. I live in what could be considered the quintessential small town. I like to think, as a community, we are there for each other with or without Twitter, but honestly Twitter & Facebook have made a big impact this week.

Our Mayor, Mel Pennington & His wife Kerri have two beautiful girls. Mayor Pennington uses Twitter on a regular basis and I started following him when he ran for office. I like having Mel on my list because I am always in the know about the happenings of Hartsville. This twitter feed also gives me insight on any personal tweets and this is how I originally found out about Mel & Kerri’s daughter, Mary Clare. Mary Clare was born with half a heart and had heart surgery this week.

Mel & Kerri both have tweeted since arriving at the hospital using the tag #pinkalicious. I’ve been amazed to watch the Twitter feeds over the last couple of days. Tons of prayers, good wishes, and words of encouragement have come from people far and wide. Because of Facebook and Twitter, Mary Clare's story and updates are available instantly. The Pennington family can feel the love and support of people from all over.

Honestly, I’m vested. I’ve never personally met Mary Clare, but I’ve shared tweets with co-workers and friends.

A tweet the day of the surgery.
@mayorpennington: UPDATE: Off Heart-Lung bypass! Could be in PCICU in a little over an hour. #fingerscrossed #pinkalicious #Hartsville

Or a tweet one day after surgery
@kerripennington: MC has been sipping on juice. Very groggy/out of it still. Hanging in there! Sitting, praying, waiting. Life in PCICU.click here

March 30th was designated as “Pinkalicious Day” my members of the community in Hartsville. People wore pink and sent pictures to show their support. Two news stations have picked up the story via Twitter and have updated on both the 6pm and 6:30am news.

Think of the difference social media made for this family during this time. We are long past the days of phone calls, but this is a great example of social media making a difference for people. Not just for convenience, but truly making a difference. I dare say they have been covered with prayers by people they know and don’t know. Encouraged by pictures, tweets, and postings. Social media has the ability to make a difference in ministry, just as it has here.

Take the time to check out the feeds, tweets, news stories, etc. People were simple using social media to communicate their support for a tiny member of their community. WOW!

Twitter: @mayorpennington @kerripennington
Twitter Feeds: #pinkalicious #hartsville
Blog: www.babypennington.com
News Stories: WMBF news and WISTV news

Girls vs. Boys

2011-03-17T09:52:00.000-04:00

I work with a great team of people here at ACS Technologies. It’s always nice to work with people you not only get along with, but truly like. One of topics we discuss (more than needed) is bathrooms. Girls vs. Boys.

Most nice ladies rooms have a little more to them than just the basics. Here at work we have music, incense, and a cabinet or two. We even sometimes have a occasional sticky on the mirror telling us we’re beautiful or smart or both. Where the guys truly have “just the basics”.

It’s always a lively conversation when we discuss the differences. Recently, a few of us went to Dallas for some training and upon entering a ladies room in the hotel lobby, we saw huge mural and couch. The doors were made with plantation shutters and of course there was music, lavender soap and lavender lotion.

That was exactly what we’d expect, but it also caused us to giggle. We knew the guys would never understand this. A picture was taken and immediately sent back for everyone to see that girls restrooms are always more elaborate.

Why does this matter? It is after all just teasing among co-workers, but if we examine it, there is a reason. Both restrooms are technically usable they both meet the basic requirements needed. However, designer’s know that if “just the basics” are met for the ladies rest room it would be considered cold, clinical, even less clean. It doesn’t matter how clean it is. It’s the expectation of more that has to be met. Don't we live in a crazy world.

Changes in Attitude

2010-09-09T19:37:00.000-04:00

I've always been a little jealous of women who are seemlessly poised and perfect. Even is distress, to have the look of ease and perfection. They seem to command an attitude of WOW. I recently ran across a quote that I'm going to put to the test. Manolo Blahnik says "You put high heels on and you change. " It's true, no matter how what people say. What you wear and especially the shoes you wear can affect the day and certainly my attitude for the day.

I'm snickering as I write this, but you girls know that SOME days you stand in front of closet and the choices made at that moment will define the day.

Easy & Laid-back - Comfy faded jeans, pull-over top and flip flops
Sassy - Wide leg pants, heels, and blouse with a jacket
Sexy - Flattering Dress..just above the knee, heels

I know the clothes make a difference......but the shoes define the day. changing from heels to sandals makes a statement about the way I feel.

So, tomorrow morning when you are staring into the closet of the unknown.....choose the outfit and choose heels!!

Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability

2010-07-23T17:04:00.000-04:00

I don’t know about you but down here in the south we know when summer is here. There is a difference between early summer and summer. When temps are 100+ everyday for weeks on end, it brings out a different view on working and being outside. It’s always a good time to plan a trip to the beach. The breeze is always blowing and the idea of the water tricks the mind to think it’s 82 instead of 102.

We recently had the Griggs Family Vacation. It was fab-U-las week of doing much of nothing and calling it play. We played in the water and the sand. We looked for hidden treasure and found it! The hidden treasure can in the form of seashells and sanddollars. To be honest we and found a lot of interesting things…within the span of 7 days we found - 2 starfish, 2 conch shells (mollusk still in tack and alive), Hermit crabs, Sidewinder Crabs, Sting rays, Sanddollars (several broken, 1 in perfect condition), and a shark! All of these were in their natural environment and found by us.

We SO enjoyed the beach, but we also enjoyed being together. The boys had a terrific week being spoiled to death. More importantly the adults (you know the ones paying for the trip) had the best time. I think it goes down as one of my all time favorite getaways.
So I’m good with the quote above “Deep Summer is when laziness finds respectability” ~ Sam Keen. I think deep summer is a perfect time to have a little time for indulgence and laziness, how else could we handle those 100 plus days.

A WICKED Kind of Day

2010-05-24T15:08:00.001-04:00

It was a special day...an altogether WICKED day. Last Thursday, in the middle of the work week, three friends and I took a vacation day. We planned to ride to Charlotte to see an off-broadway production of WICKED. Everyone needs that kind of day. It started by sleeping in, then a nice enjoyable ride to Charlotte. We did have to go by car, unfortunately we unlike Glinda (the good witch) cannot travel by bubble. We stopped at McCalister's for lunch. A treat for us since we don't have one of those locally. Then on to the theater. I wore the perfect blouse for the occassion..a green, black, and white plaid top. It was unintential but perfect for the show. Once I realized this...it just moodified me in the best way possible. (sorry for all the "wicked" phases..they are just funny).

After a spectacular performance, we traveled over to Cheesecake Factory for dinner and dessert...We even sat on the patio for dinner. The day was just wonderful...most of all I enjoyed the time spent with friends. They say life happens in the moments you are least expecting. I guess this is a perfect example. A little slice of life served up on a plate of happiness...what more could one Thursday offer.

What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up?

2010-05-19T14:08:00.000-04:00

I love the way children’s minds work. They are open to any and all possibilities. Anything they can imagine is within the realm of possibility.    I was reminded of this two Sunday’s ago. My family gets together for Sunday Dinner and this particular Sunday the kids were outside playing. My sister overheard a VERY serious conversation between three boys ..Alan ( 7), Jacob (6), and Ethan (5).

Jacob: “ Alan, What do you want to be when you grow up?”
Alan: “I want to be Superman or a Policeman.”
Alan to Jacob: “ What do you want to be?”
Jacob: “ I want to be a super ninja.”
Alan to Ethan: “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
Ethan: “I want to be God”
Jacob: “You can’t be God…you gotta pick something that you can really be like a ninja or Superman.“
Ethan: “God is stronger and faster than them, I’m gonna be God.”

I love this story,   the possibilities are endless to these guys. They are not limited by what they feel is acceptable by others. They haven’t imposed any limits on themselves. The world is available to them and they can be as strong, as fast, or as powerful as they wish.   So how does this fit into the work and ministry world that we ALL live in as adults.   Couple of lessons for me.

Don’t forget that we serve a God of possibilities…think outside the box. What solutions help you accomplish ministry?
Don’t limit ourselves…..everyone has a chance to be a superhero to someone. Think about the person who shared Christ with you.   That person is a superhero.

I'll be really excited if we a super ninja in the family. I'm not sure what benefits they bring, but it will certainly be exciting!

Seven Year Itch

2010-05-11T13:47:00.002-04:00

It was 7 years ago that I officially became an aunt. It seems like yesterday that I was rushing to the hospital to see the newest edition to the Griggs clan. I had a friend who warned me that “Aunt” mode would kick in and it WOULD change my life. At the time, I wasn’t sure exactly what that meant, but I certainly know what it means today. Jeremy Alan may have come into this world as tiny little thing (3 lbs 3oz), but he has one of the LARGEST personalities you’ll ever encounter. He’s has transformed in front of us from a sweet, happy baby to an all American kid.

It makes me happy just seeing him play hard and enjoy life. No more are the days of rocking him to sleep….he doesn’t need me to hold and cuddle very much anymore….it’s a little sad, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m so proud of him…he’s super smart, thoughtful, and kind. Currently he’s missing his two front teeth and has a “wiggly” one of the bottom. Alan is into everything…one day he’s a fireman, the next a superhero, the next a ninja warrior, and don’t get me started on Bakugan.

At about 2 years old, we took a family vacation to Edisto and one night I sang Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star for two hours straight…..this was the only song that seemed to keep the tears from streaming….small sacrifice for me…not sure about the other people in the car (LOL)

One of my favorite things about him is his imagination. When he was about 4 yrs old, he had Grandmommy looking for an imaginary rock for about 20 min. Now Grandmommy had NO idea this rock was imaginary…but it was quite funny when she realized it was. What’s even more funny is that this imaginary rock was named “drunk” (we’re still not sure where this name came from)..but we’ve all been riding down the road with Alan when he would yell out from the back seat……”OH NO, my drunk fell out the window”…..I still chuckle at that one. I guess you should also know, that I have stopped the car to give “drunk” a chance to get back in the window. You can laugh, but what would you have done?

Wow, 7 years old. Almost ready for the 2nd grade. I can’t believe time has flown by. I can’t wait for all the fun times we’ll have together. I have so much fun building forts, racing cars, playing in sprinklers and all the other things we’ll do. You make me happy just by being you!!!! I LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU!!!!

Aunt Pami

Spring into Summer

2010-05-03T20:56:00.001-04:00

I believe we've skipped over Spring and headed straight to summer. The days are already hot and humid. I am looking forward to the family vacation this year. That's right...the Brady Bunch is going to the beach. I'm excited....mostly about waking up to the sound of ocean...and walking on the beach..but I'm also excited about spending some quality time with everyone.

It's fair to say that right now, the adults (well the pretend adults) are more excited than the kids.....but to be fair the adults, not the kids, are paying for the trip...so the excitement grows with each dollar saved.

I get a daily report of the weather and the water temp..from my brother. I don't know if you translate, but that's what I call excited. My sister and I have discussed what clothing, chairs, and kid stuff we're taking down.....which means we're excited.

I'm guessing that once we have our toes in that golden sand, the kids excitement level will far exceed ours. Some of the things I hope the boys remember are building sand castles, chasing waves, singing in the car just for fun (off tune and off pitch) , finding seashells, playing games, counting stars, and riding bikes.

It's nice to have those kind of memories..Regardless of all of the fun things....I'll be excited about going to the beach AND I'll be excited about being home again.

It All Goes Too Fast

2010-03-26T21:48:00.003-04:00

It's hard to believe that 5 years ago next week we had an addition to the Griggs' Clan. Ethan Cade came into this world and into our family. He is one of the most wonderful children to walk the earth (I may be a little prejudice, not much...but a little. ) We had so many years with really no children around and now we have two rambunctious boys.. FULL of energy. Check out those toddler checks....don't you just want to squeeze him!

Ethan amazes me all the time. At the ripe old age of 5, he is Mr. Personality. He has a wonderful sense of humor and is always looking for the opportunity to create a funny situation. He loves to make you laugh and he loves (I mean loves) a knock knock joke. Did I mention Smart...oh yeah...he gets that from me LOL. Ethan also knows that Aunt Pami likes hugs and kisses and she's a very easy target when the toy isle is close by!

Now Mr. Personality was one of the cutest and sweetest babies ever born. I enjoyed every moment I got to hold, cuddle, and rock that sweet baby. But I SO enjoy playing trains and cars, shoot outs and construction. Those girls have nothing on us. We build forts and look for treasure. We can construct an entire city with fire dept and police dept in my kitchen and living room during a sleepover. Luckily it's still very fun for me to build some Lego contraption and let him completely annihilate it. It's also funny to beat aunt Pami in any Wii game...especially Mario Bros and Star wars!

Some of my favorite Ethan quotes are:

"My name is Ethan X not Ethan...Ethan X"
"I don't like your rules"
"That is yucky to my tummy"

and the winner....."Love you Love you."

So....Happy Birthday to my dear, sweet Ethan. LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU!!!

A little more than you needed to know

2010-03-18T20:56:00.002-04:00

I have these crazy little goals. Sometimes they are perfectly sensible and sometimes they are a little cooky. One of my life goals is to spend the night in every state and visit 5 continents. I've accomplished a good bit of this. I've actually spent the night (not just set foot) in 31 states and have visited 3 continents. Here's 5 places I've visited ... hope you enjoy!

5 Places I've visited

New York city, New York
It's maybe my all time favorite city to visit. Love walking in Time Square, eating in trendy restaurants, going to shows (LOVE THE SHOWS), and walking through china town buying purses off the street. Who could ask for more. I'm not sure this is a city I could live in full time..but I sure would like to give it a try.

Jarkarta, Indonesia
Wow, this is a HUGE city 12 million people live in Jarkarta. They have two seasons..the hot dry season and the hot wet season. It's just hot there. There are people everywhere and they drive motorcycles. No Joke, more than once I saw a family of 5 on a motorcycle. It takes about 26 hours to get there from SC and I can promise you've not seen anything like it before. Also, you will eat food you don't recognize....life can be really exciting..enjoy it!

Montreal, Quebec
Snow, Snow, Snow well that's mostly what I got to see. I stayed in a little town called Terrebonne that was picturesque. Lot's of people talking very quickly in a language I understand very slowly. It was the first place I tried sushi....loved it.

Cancun, Mexico
Most people go to Cancun for a holiday. I went to work. I learned how to mix cement by hand (rocks, sand, water, stir with a shovel). Beautiful place, beautiful people. First place I truly understood that love and compassion could cross any boundaries. Also, the first time I experienced a nude beach. Quite a eye opener if you know what I mean.

Winnipeg, Manitoba
This was one of the flattest stretches of land I have ever seen. You could see for miles. I was there during the month of October and in case you wondered...IT WAS COLD!!! Lots and lots and lots of cold wind. No snow...just wind. I was there during the Canadian Thanksgiving and got to have Turkey with Yorkshire Pudding..mmm mmm good.

Tell me about places you've visited.

Perspectives

2010-03-15T19:04:00.003-04:00

I love my Ah ha moments. I had one this weekend and thought you might like to hear about it. It really begins with a story about a family. I've "known" this family for a long time and to be honest they are a mess....and by mess I mean they have trouble. I know we all have things that are troublesome or hard to deal with, but this family just seems to have more than their average share of trouble. The family consist of Father, Mother, and 2 sons. Just to give you a few facts: The Parents waited a long time for children and love their children dearly...but they do have favorites. This is very obvious and has been a problem since childhood. This is so evident in the family that it causes the brothers to plot against each other about trivial and important things. The division is so strong that the word hate has been used between the brothers. Honestly if given the choice, I think one would seriously hurt the other. Once it was so bad that the youngest son had to leave home and stayed away from the family a long time. It took years to reconcile and even then it was a scary time.

So where does my ah ha moment fit in....well this family as messed up as they are (and honestly they make my family seem like the Brady Bunch) was used by God in a mighty way. You see this family is Issac, Rebekah, Esau, and Jacob (Genesis 25 - 27; 34). This was the family line that Jesus was born from.

So my Ah Ha moment, God can use anything, anything for good. (Romans 8:28). This family was not a horrible family, although they did some pretty horrible things.....that's the point...all of those things that were described above were human things. Decisions that they made without waiting on God for direction. WOW...how many times do I decide to make my own decision. Make it work for me, not even think what I should be doing for God.

So I'm working on knowing God is in control and this world big world that I live in ...it's all about Him, not me. I'm also gonna know that even when I mess up, and I will, that He can use that for good.

Have a great week!

Who’s the troublemaker in the group? That would be me.

2010-03-10T16:47:00.003-05:00

It’s official, I’m a troublemaker.    I must admit that I already knew this.   I’ve known it for quite some time now.   It’s a trait I’ve carried around since childhood and to be honest….sometimes I’m even a little proud of it.   I push the boundaries around me.   I always have and I guess I always will.   My sister and brother could most likely give many examples of me being the instigator of many a devious plot.   I simply can’t resist being the one that causes trouble.

It may have something to do with being the first-born child…that I always have to have or do things differently than “the standard” but more than that, I just enjoy seeing reactions of those around me.   I do try to keep myself contained when “trying” to accomplish serious and demanding work..but you know sometimes that’s not what happens.

So here’s the story….I’ll play me in the story…Steve, Executive Director or R&D (aka my supervisor) will play Steve.   So anyway….Steve has these drumsticks and when we are in meetings he plays with them or will hit the desk to get everyone’s attention etc.   Well we were in a brainstorming meeting the other day and I happen to be in close proximity to the drumsticks so I took and hit the desk ..creating a Boom sound.    Steve very calmly took the drumstick and announced that I was not mature enough to handle those.    There was a big laugh and then he said it.   I mean he just blurted it out…..You are the troublemaker in the Griggs’ family.

Well what can I say…it’s true, I am.   I hate that ALL my hard work of keeping that fact concealed has been destroyed..but there it is. Now watch out world….I’m free to be as much of a troublesome as I need to be.

Are you a troublemaker? Let me know!

Organization - My Friend and Enemy

2010-03-08T08:58:00.004-05:00

Organization is not my strong point.   As a matter of fact I struggle to even have the resemblance of organization most days.   I’m more of a person who constructively places things out of view so that I appear semi-organized and then at some point realize spring cleaning must occur.   At that point, lots of “stuff” is placed in trash or give away piles.   I’m actually pretty jealous of those naturally organized people.   You know the ones…their desk is always straight.   They never lose things because whatever they are looking for is in its correct spot.

I have a friend whose like that….she’s just very, very organized.   I think she thinks in patterns of organization.   LOL   It’s a little intense at times!   But as always, these organized people are put into my life for a reason.   They are there to help me.   So last week, I called this friend over to my office to help me.   Basically, I said…..take a look….decide what needs to be done and HELP me.

She did….she was dealing with very little space and lots of stuff…so she helped me and my office mate (I share an office) go to Target.   We came back with matching containers…..My desk feels cleaner and more organized.   I have really enjoyed having that clean, I can get more done feeling that an organized desk affords…..now if I can bring myself to let her see the coat closet at my house. Kira - save my coat closet?!?!?!

The Big Love Hug

2010-02-25T17:24:00.002-05:00

I think the world can be divided into two types of people. Those who hug and those who don’t hug. I’m definitely in first category. I really have had no say in the matter, I’m almost certain it’s part of my genetics. My family can hug in every way imaginable. I thought I’d classify a few for you.

Side Hug - Also known as the one arm hug. This is a quick one arm squeeze around each other’s shoulders
Big Love Hug – Full on Hug..There’s arms and hands and a big embrace. If kids are involved there’s also a big opportunity for swinging around in a circle
Kiss & Hug - This is two arm hug that has a kiss at the end.
Quickie Hug - This is really quick almost no touching hug
Double Hug - Hug, release, Repeat
Long Hug – Hug….keep hugging…keep hugging…now squeeze. Mostly seen around grandmothers and great-aunts
Group Hug – More than two people involved. You get the idea

Since my family has always hugged we sometimes forget what it must be like non-huggers. My sister-in-law, Brandy tells me it’s quite a traumatic experience. Over the years she’s come to know it's just part of the family.
I love her like a sister, and must say that I enjoy “making” her hug me. It’s kind of a joke between us. I’ll walk up and spread my arms out for a Big Love Hug. SHE LOVES IT! Well, at the very least she tolerates it. So where do you fall….are you a hugger or a non-hugger? Let me know!

I Know Why I'm NOT a Size 6

2010-02-16T19:43:00.001-05:00

There are some things about our quirky little personalities that takes a little time for people to discover. I think I'm normally a pretty transparent person but tonight, I'm gonna give you one of those "special insights" for free.

Now, as you can tell from my last post I love laughter....and I'll admit that some of the comments that come out of mouth are to get a funny reaction. This is NOT one of these things. This revelation..and it IS a revalation that came to me a few years back. I think there comes a time in everyone's life when you just realize certain things about yourself. Well, this one of those things.

I know, I mean I know why God didn't create me to be a size 6. He knew that if I were size 6, I'd just have trouble with running around naked. (In case you're not southern, that's pronounced NA-KED). I never have been a modest person, but if I had a size 6 body.....I couldn't handle it. LOL. I would be without enough clothes all the time!

So people out there in the real world...just know I couldn't handle it....and if some reason you see that I'm getting close to a size 6....be forwarned. I can't control it! I'll have to run around naked! For all you size 6's out there....where do you get your self-control. I need to know....

Sweet, Sweet Sound (part 2)

2010-02-12T15:55:00.000-05:00

Do you know the moment, the moment that you experience this OVERWHELMING sensation of happiness. I’m not sure the guys will get this one..but let’s say you’re shopping and you come across the perfect article of clothing.   I mean this shirt/dress/ pants/shoes/ whatever makes you look like a rock star….then you look at the price tag and it’s marked $80 with a red line, then $50 with a red line, then $25 with a red line.   You’ve just found the perfect piece of clothing for $11.    It’s a high….it’s actually pretty additive.   Well, that’s kind of how I feel about laughter.

It’s a sweet, sweet sound. To me it’s sound that invokes happiness, contentment, joy.   Now, I’m very big on laughter….I try my hardest to be funny.   Sometimes I succeed and sometimes I come off pretty geeky…but regardless, I try.

I hope on this Valentine weekend, you are with loved ones..but more than that I hope you have laughter….even more than that I hope you find an $80 deal for $11 bucks.   Let me know if you do!
Enjoy the song!

Blogs, Blogs Blogs

2010-02-11T18:39:00.001-05:00

My cousin Amy attended the Blissdom Blog Conference in Nashville last week. She came back with a ton of new ideas and links to some premier blogs. Check 'em out....Enjoy! Our Journey..Together....: a ton of other blogs....

Sweet Sweet Sound (part 1)

2010-02-09T15:47:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorite songs. So I thought I’d write about some things that are Sweet, Sweet Sounds to me.

Do you hear something and it just makes you smile or maybe chuckle.   I think about all the cute things my nephews do.    Children have a way of getting to heart of the matter.   We eat Sunday dinner (it’s a southern thing) at my mom’s each week.   All the family comes together and we gather around the table.      It’s a time for the adults to catch up, make plans, and just generally talk.   We have a great time..but the kids..now they love grandmommy’s.     You can find them in the back bedroom playing with trains, planes, and automobiles.   The sounds that they make while playing are sweet, sweet sounds…..well most of the time they are.   Sometimes it’s more crying and less sweet, but you get the idea.

When it’s time to say goodbye, I always ask my nephews for a BIG hug…and I get one. They hug with all they have in them….trying to squeeze in enough for the whole week.   I always say “ love ya, love ya”.   Alan will give me a “ love ya, love ya” …Ethan chooses to say “yummy, yummy in my tummy”.    It’s a sweet, sweet sound when I hear that.   It just makes me happy.

God enjoys the sweet, sweet sounds of our worship, just as we enjoy hearing the sweet, sweet sounds of children.    Oh Yeah….Enjoy the song

Like What You Do Times Four

2010-02-04T17:18:00.000-05:00

Question 1: Do you like what you do? HMMM Yes, I like what I do.

Question 2: Do you like what you do times four? Wow..yes..Today I like what I do times four.

My title is usability manager..but as you all know a title doesn't really mean anyting. So let me explain what I do. I spend a lot of time talking to clients asking them how they get their job accomplished. Today..it was exciting. My favorite question is "Tell me how you get your ministry accomplished?" It's exciting to see how everyday staff and volunteers are making a difference. It makes me excited to be able to help them..so yes today I like what I do times four! Not sure about tomorrow...but for today I'm good to go!

To Wish You Were Someone Else Is To Waste The Person You Are!

2010-02-02T16:35:00.001-05:00

Do you ever have Ahhaa   moments.   As you know, I’m a fly by the seat of my pants type of person, so ahhaa moments are part of everyday life for me.   My latest was this morning. It wasn’t a huge revelation, but enough to change the pattern of my day.    As I was riding to work this morning, listening to 89.7 WMHK, one of the host read the quote of the day.   The quote was “To wish you were someone else is to waste the person you are”

I said the quote out loud a couple of times, and then my mind was just whirling.   This is something that at one point in my life, I truly struggled with.   I worried about being different.   I wanted to be prettier, smarter, thinner.   I looked at my life and looked at the lives of my friends and really thought……what’s wrong with me.   Why isn’t my plan working out. Why am I here and not at the place I think I should be.   For years, I truly prayed ….Lord ,what do I need to change so that you’ll give me this plan.    It took a long time to realize that I was being selfish. Really selfish.

Jeremiah 29:11 says " For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." It’s easy in life (well in my life) to sometimes NOT put my faith in that hope and future.    Remember, although our purpose is the same (glorify God), the plan for each of our lives is different.   Looking back, I was a child banging my fist and crying out to be just like everyone else.   I wanted to do things my way.   What I’ve learned is that we’re not cut from cookie cutters.   Our lives are suppose to be different.   We are not all alike….our paths take us in different directions.   If I had had my cookie cutter life, I’d never get the opportunities and blessings I have today.   So I celebrate me……well I celebrate how God can and will use me.

Don’t waste the person you are….get comfortable in your skin…..roll around until your warm and fuzzy. There is a plan for every moment, so let’s not waste any of them!

Bravery, Patience, and Joy

2010-01-29T13:19:00.001-05:00

I stumbled onto a quote today. It’s from Helen Keller, who is one of my all time heroes.   It says “We could never learn to be brave and patient if there were only joy in the world.”   I went looking for a quote because I had a friend who was pretty upset about something that happened to her.   She was feeling hopeless in the circumstance she found herself in.   Now this wasn’t a terrible circumstance.   No life altering choices or decisions…just found herself backed in a corner not knowing quite how to react.    She came to me for some encouragement and hopefully I was able to give that to her.

After our little pep talk, I wrote the quote down on an index card and brought it home with me. It just stuck with me somehow.   I’m not sure if it was the words or the author, but I decided to investigate the true meaning of the words used.   Here we go:

Brave ~ Possessing or displaying courage; valiant.
Valiant (Valor) ~ Courage and boldness
Patient ~ Bearing or enduring pain, difficulty, provocation, or annoyance with calmness
Joy ~ To take great pleasure; rejoice

You know in life we sometimes are discouraged by the things that are unfair or harsh.   If asked, we’d want a life of peace and happiness. In truth, if our lives were all peace and happiness, we wouldn’t understand how to appreciate it.   Sometimes it takes the uncomfortable or harsh things to push us to react with bravery or valor.

Now patience is a different matter.   It (at least in my life ) requires practice.   I have a mentor that always says never pray for patience, pray for wisdom.   It’ a funny little quote, but it’s true…..we normally learn patience because we HAVE to not because we want to.

So I guess, I’m going to rejoice in the fact that I can learn bravery and patience.   I’m also thankful that my life affords me the opportunity to experience joy.

Have a brave, patient, and joy filled day!

It's a Southern Thing ~ Iced Tea

2010-01-28T08:24:00.000-05:00

If you’ve ever heard me speak, there is no denying that I am a child of the South. I certainly have the draaawwwl that make words with one or two syllables expand to 5 syllable words. I relish the fact that in everyday conversations (casual or professional)people use words such as ya’ll, Yes ‘em, and bless your heart. One of my all time favorite southern things is sweet tea.

It's a standard on any menu in any restaurant. I always have tea in the fridge. Honestly, it's my go to drink. Growing up it was served at dinner and supper. We really never had any choices you drank tea or water. In the movie Steel Magnolias it's considered the "house wine of the south" and honestly there is truth in that.

That's all I have for today, but you should know that you're always welcome to come on over and sit a spell. I'll have the ice tea cold and ready for for you.

Character, not circumstance, makes the person

2010-01-25T17:23:00.002-05:00

I currently teach a 10th grade Sunday School (bible fellowship) class and we are delving into lessons related character. This past Sunday, we talked about Noah and the Flood. The lesson really struck a chord with me this week. We tend to think that Noah’s obedience and character were exercised once he started building the boat or when the floods started. I know when telling this story, I like to begin with “God told Noah to build an ark….”, but in truth Noah’s character was defined long before the first cypress tree was cut down!!! If you read Genesis 6: 5-22 you’ll see that God was grieved with everyone in the world except Noah and his family. Basically the whole population of the earth were thinking and doing one thing and Noah and his family were headed in the opposite direction. Talk about building character. I imagine, the everyday choices they made were not the "popular" decision. I’m sure many times they ended a conversation with…. it’s the right thing to do. I don’t know that I’d have the strength or the willpower…but then again…..I haven’t heard God telling me to build a boat. LOL.

The quote in the title is so true. "Character, not circumstance, makes the person.". We are faced every day with little and big decisions. Lots of times we think it’s circumstances that shape who we are, but it’s the choices we make while in the circumstance, that shape us. In Noah’s life the entire world was making the wrong decisions, the peer pressure alone must have been enormous, but Noah was righteous and blameless. He practiced making the right choices. He built character in small and big decisions. I’m not sure what the students took away from the lesson this week…but I took away a lifestyle of character. WOW!!!

Surprise, Surprise

2010-01-21T15:55:00.003-05:00

To give you a little insight about me, I’m always being surprised or wowed by things in life.   I guess this happens because my personality is fly by the seat of my pants rather than plan, plan, plan and do not go outside the plan   I find that life is so much more fun and unexpected when I’m not sure what each day may bring.   I’m not against those people who have a more rigid type of day…just think maybe they miss some of the fun. For example…just this week something happened that was hilarious.   I don’t think this wowed me, but it was certainly unexpected and had I been a person who was more together, it would have never happened.

I’ll need to set the story up.   I’m currently working with a team on a new project and we’ve been moved to a more secluded work area so that we can foster agile processes and new philosophies.   It builds team spirit and allows you to be more focused…so one of the people I’m working with now is named Darci.   She’s a wonderful team leader and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know her better.   We actually share an office, so we’ve learned a lot about each other in just a few short months.

Okay, time for the story.     It’s a new work week….Monday is here, everyone is in the office.   Darci is only working half a day, so she leaves after lunch on Monday.   Well, I’m in a meeting but someone let me know that we’ve had some plumbing issues and they are taking care of Something in the girls bathroom. I guess now would be a good time to let you know that Darci & I are the only two females on the team.   I go about my day and the next time I need to use the restroom, I realize they have replaced the toilet.   Well a little strange, but no big deal…cause I know the plumbers were there.   I made a mental note of this and actually thought….HMMM, I need to remember to tell Darci about this.

Tuesday rolls around…no big deal…everyone is working hard.   Meetings and heads down working on whatever.   Now, anytime I used the rest room, I made that mental note to tell Darci about the new toilet…but honestly, I never remembered to actually tell her.   That’s part of the non-rigid, fly by the seat of your pants world I’m in…..list and remembering list are not high priorities for me.

Wednesday comes…another big day in the office . ….lots of meetings …lots of collaboration..so end of day comes and I’m winding down getting ready to head home when Darci walks into our office, closes the door and says…. “ I need to ask you a question…(long pause)….did something happen to our toilet?????”   Well, I broke down in hysterics….we were both laughing hysterically…I mean this poor girl has gone two full days questioning whether or not something has changed about the toilet……It’s now a smaller toilet…so either it shrunk or she got bigger. Those are the only options.   It’s not like toilets are changed on a regular basis.   It was super funny.   I finally was able to speak and let her in on the little secret, so that she didn’t think she was like the character in Alice in Wonderland.

I can tell you that we’ll laugh about this more than once. It made for a great end to long day and it would have never happened if I were that plan, plan, plan person.    I hope you are able to enjoy the little things…..cause it’s the little things that make a big difference.

It’s the little things……that make a big difference.

2010-01-18T16:24:00.000-05:00

In church yesterday we sang one of my favorite worship songs, "In Christ Alone". The words are so moving. Isn’t it amazing how words that we use every day to communicate with each other are the same words we use to communicate with the God of this universe. It’s even more amazing that the God of this universe takes the time to use me…and the small things in my life to bring about things for His kingdom. The song paints a picture of Christ our Lord in all His power coming to earth out of love. I heard David Jeremiah say that out of all the “ships” in the world.....worship, stewardship, membership, discipleship, fellowship are all settled when we realize that Lordship is the main ship. When we realize that Jesus Christ is Lord and we give ourselves over to him we have no trouble with all the other “ships” and the song "In Christ Alone" reminds me of just that kind of Lordship.

The last verse is by far my favorite…..the music swells so that you want to shout “From life’s first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny ” What a love song!

Little Words…BIG Difference.

In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save
‘Til on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave He rose again
And as He stands in victory
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life’s first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand
‘til He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand

Little Things that make a BIG Differences

2010-01-14T21:53:00.001-05:00

It's the little things in life that matter. Really, It's true. Now I have nothing against big things....I'd love to receive a check for $1 million dollars in my mailbox, but I'm not sure it could make me any more happy than when I find a $10 dollar bill in my jeans pocket! In my house...that's celebration time. It's that way with most matters. Small things really do make a big difference.

We have a running joke at work. Currently, I'm working with a team that's located away from the main buildings. Now we have everything we need to accomplish our work including a printer.... the printer they gave us is just the most ornery contraption there is. Anytime the printer runs out of paper, there's no recovery for that print job or any others. Actually there is about a 10 minute process involving rebooting that must be preformed before anyone can use the printer again. SO...we find ourselves laughing when someone realizes the paper is low...someone is running frantically..re-feeding the same piece of paper until more paper can be inserted. All this to keep the printer in tact. We have office jokes about. We've even given the printer a name as to add even more to it's "personality"

It is such a small thing....in today's world we don't even print very often...but that small unimportant entity can stop the work of 11 people for 30 minutes or more when paper runs out. Such a small thing makes such a BIG difference.

Do you have small things that impact you. My next post will include more

Strange and Alarming Fact

2010-01-11T19:20:00.002-05:00

This morning I learned a strange and alarming fact. This morning Florence, SC was colder than Antarctica. It was WOW moment for me. Enough of a WOW moment that I went to weather.com to find out the facts. In truth at 7:50AM this morning Florence, SC was registering 16degrees. Antarctica registered 33degrees. OH MY GOODNESS!!

Now as I child of the South, this is an alarming and disturbing realization. We are not made of thick blood. I'm most happy when the temperature is a low to mid-seventies with partly cloudy skies. You will not find me complaining at the sweltering days in July and only mentioning the dog days of August. I will, however; complain and grumble about the cold. I'm just not cut out for it.

I guess I should explain that Antarctica's seasons are opposite our seasons....so they are in the midst of summer. Can you believe summer and it's 33degrees! I'm planning on staying warm and dreaming about lazy days that require iced tea to stay cool. I hope you stay warm too!!!

Pam

Oscar

2010-01-08T10:28:00.003-05:00

Let me tell you a little about Oscar. He's my 12lb bob tail cat that thinks he's a 2lb kitten. He's spoiled rotten for certain. He demonstrates this by ignoring the dry cat food, because he knows he can hold out for the good stuff. He has also claimed a chair as his and doesn't mind letting others know. He's a beautiful white cat with 2 gray splotches on his ears. Now Oscar didn't always have the good life. When he wondered over to Kenwood he was skin and bones and very afraid of everyone. I must admit that my first comments were...I don't want a scrawny cat around...BUT as fate would have it he was presistant and his sad little face won me over.

Oscar has taught me something in my Christian walk...what I first thought was unpleasant and ugly has turned out to be beautiful to me. Our sins are ugly to God...but He loves us enough to die for us. Romans: 5:8 says "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Imagine how much God loves us. We are his beautiful creations. No matter what others may see...we belong to Him and are beautiful.

Oscar was once very afraid...so afraid that petting him was out of the question...it took patience and kindness to win him over. In time Oscar became confident in my love for him. There is no fear of mistreatment or unkindness. If only we were as patient and kind to those God has asked us to serve. Mark 12:29 - 31 says "Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.""
Pam

Family Vacations

2010-01-05T17:26:00.001-05:00

I thought this would be a perfect topic to write about. I’ve been back at work for almost 2 entire days, is there any better time to plan a vacation.

Hopefully we all have memories of those family vacations.    I have great memories of spending time with the family mostly at the beach or the lake.    We would ALL pile up in a house for a week every summer.   There was no privacy that week….people were sleeping everywhere. I remember one house we stayed in, the kitchen table would fold up and the seats would push together to become a bed.   Just to clarify, that’s not where the kids slept….the kids slept on pallets.   We would have a great week of playing in the ocean, riding bikes and hanging out with cousins, aunts and uncles.

Now back to planning for the family..    I may need to explain the Fam. Vacate to those who may not understand the incantricies that are involved in the planning.   The Brady Bunch (as I like to refer to us) consist of My parents, My sister’s family, my brother’s family, and myself.    We’ve rented a house on the beach and will spend a week together.    I think in the good old days, a house was found and rented…there were no counting of bedrooms and baths. No viewing of the kitchen or living room to make sure it met requirements.   I think in the old days everyone just accepted what was there. I’m not sure that was the greatest plan.   I know we had a lot of good times, but we also had a lot of people in very little houses.

Today we check that house out head to toe.   If I’m paying for a vacation then I need to make sure I’m sleeping in a Bed.   A real bed not a bed made from the kitchen table!    I’m excited about vacation this year…..I’m excited about the kids playing together, about being on the beach, playing games, just general all around family fun.   I hope the fun and crazy things we do are the memories we’ll laugh about for a long time to come. Plan that Brady Bunch family vacation....you'll be glad you did!

Pam

Parking lots are Against Me!

2009-12-23T14:06:00.000-05:00

Have you ever been watching a movie and you know it’s going to scare you.    The suspense music is playing, you know that the main character is going to open that door and the bad guy is behind it…just waiting for him.    When watching movies like that my stomach flip flops a little.   I want to yell out an escape plan for the person.   Well……..that’s how I sometimes feel about parking lots.    I hate to admit it but I have a fear.   It is irrational…….I’m smart enough to know there is absolutely no reason to panic……but I do.   I can’t think, I start to panic a little, no rational thoughts can override the sense of anxiety I feel.   It’s weird and a little funny.   It’s especially funny to the people with me and I’m not so far gone that I can’t laugh about it.

I guess I have to tell ya.   I’m afraid of losing my car in parking lots.    I’m guessing the fear started when I traveled SO much.   A different car every week…..but it’s not something that has gone away.   I mean some of the scariest moments I face are when I walk out of Wal-mart and stare at the vast unknown parking lot (LOL).    My car could be anywhere……I mean anywhere, and I don’t have one clue where it is.   (hopefully you are laughing with me).

My friends tease me about this.   They’ll say “Do YOU know where the car is, I forgot”   I respond by saying “ Of course I don’t know where the car is……it’s YOUR job to keep up with the car”   then I’ll panic a little…….get a distressed look on my face and scan the entire parking lot for my car….even though we’re in my friend’s car!!!!   As I stated….this is considered most entertaining to everyone around me.    The funniest incident happened last fall.   I was talking on the phone…just chit chatting away…parked the car….went into the store and shopped.   I had several bags....as I walked into the parking lot…it hit me.    I had NO clue where the car was. I wasn’t even sure I came out the same door that I went into.    I was all alone……no one could help me.   So after I decided I had to put one foot in front of the other, I started the search.   Now, I know the normal person could just think back to where they parked, but you see my brain will not work in these situations.   I’m in a panic mode.    So   I just started walking……up one aisle….down another.   Suddenly, I saw it.   Not my car, but my friend Tricia.    There she was to rescue me…..I’ve never been so happy to see a minivan.   She pulls up ….opens the door and laughs….she knows exactly what has happened.     Being the friend that she is…we rode around and found my car three rows over!!!   She was my hero that day.

So if you see me wandering, please stop and help…..the parking lots are against me!

Pam

Hard Candy Christmas

2009-12-22T17:10:00.000-05:00

This is an old Dolly Parton Christmas song. It falls into the stereo types for country music for certain.   It’s about someone who has had a bad year.   There are lines in the song like “I’m barely getting through tomorrow” and “I won’t let sorrow bring me way down”    I told someone that was complaining about expenses that this year would be a Hard Candy Christmas. …..meaning it’s a year for the cheaper hard candy instead of the more expensive gifts.

Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the business of this time of year, but we need to remember that whether we have all the money in the world or we are caught up in a hard candy Christmas, we have received the most wonderful gift. Christmas is Love come down on earth to offer us a gift beyond measure. The gift of salvation. I’m amazed at how much my Father loved me, he sent Jesus here to earth.   He was sent not as a mighty conqueror but as baby, wrapped in swaddling clothes…to be placed in a manger.   He grew up in the meekest of households.   Jesus would certainly understand a hard candy Christmas.    He would also understand the meaning beyond a slim year.   The song holds hope.   No matter what the singer faced during the year, she was going to be hopeful, optimistic……she’s a glass half full kind of person.

I’ll be spending my Christmas with family and friends surrounded by those that I love the most.   I hope your Christmas will filled with love and happiness, but more than that I pray your Christmas will be filled with the confidence that Jesus is your Lord and Savior.   After all he is the only reason that Christmas is Love.

Merry Christmas!
Pam

Jane Austin Fan club.

2009-12-18T15:39:00.000-05:00

I guess you could consider me a romantic. Not in the sappy, sentimental sense of the word. I don’t swoon over a prince charming or feel that every story should have a happily ever after ending….but I do enjoy..no love romanticism in literature. Jane Austin is by far my favorite. I’ve read all of her books and find myself re-reading them time and time again. I normally start reading “Pride and Prejudice” in October or November and then continue to read the others throughout the cold months. We don’t have a lot of cold months here in SC, but enough to enjoy a good read.

I love the fact that the heroine has to overcome everyday life to find joy & love. I love that in every story the heroine is confident in herself…she knows who she is. She may make mistakes or draw the wrong conclusions at times, but in the end she is a strong person who knows how to handle herself and any conflicts that may arise. She also wants the right and just outcome to occur……even if this means she may not get the perfect end to her story.

I hope I’m like that in life. I hope I appear confident…sure of myself even if I’m not sure of the circumstances, a strong person who handles problems and conflicts well. I hope in the small decisions I make that I choose the right and just outcome over the best end for me personally. Proverbs 31:25 – 30 tells of this virtuous woman. I pray that you see these traits in me.

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

Pam

Winter time = Carmex

2009-12-16T16:18:00.000-05:00

It’s almost officially winter (next week)….I’d have to say although winter offers some wonderful things…it’s not my favorite time of year. I’m just not a fan of being cold. Maybe it has something to do with all that travel I used to do during the coldest times of the year. I turn into a homebody in the winter and try to stay nice and warm. One of the products I always use during the winter months is Carmex. Now, I’m not fanatic, but it’s good stuff. I know a couple of these fanatics and honestly it’s very funny to see them realize they have no Carmex. Other brands will not do. They must, must, must have Carmex. I have one friend that put it in her hospital gown pocket during a surgery so that she could have it in the recovery room..... Now that’s a fanatic. I’ll admit that I do like it, and I’ve visited the website more than once…which for me means I like the product….anyway….I hope you enjoy the cold…and I hope your lips are moist and smooth with a layer of Carmex to keep them cozy.

Have a Carmex day!
Pam

Mantras

2009-12-14T16:12:00.000-05:00

The road less traveled is really a less of a saying and more of a mantra for me. It comes from the poem by Robert Frost " The Road Not Taken"

I love the idea of taking the road less traveled. It's an adventure. I am never quite sure what life might bring but am always happy to find it. I was thinking about the adventures I'd had this year........it's seemed like a pretty calm year...but looking back....these are some of the highlights: Winter Cruise to the Bahammas, a weekend Beach trip with friends, Jacksonville, FL with Work (I'm counting this one......some I do Some I don't), 2 Weeks in Indonesia (wow what a trip), 2 Weeks in Indonesia (so nice, I'll say it twice) and a beach trip with family in September.

I'm excited about writing this blog and getting my thoughts out there....and I plan to take the road less traveled ...hope you do also!

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Pam