Windfall Woman

RIP Brittany Murphy

2009-12-27T10:57:00.002-05:00

Yes. I've come back. For now. I've really been grieving. As the description of my blog says a "look alike" Brittany. I never claimed to be her. The whole Brittany thing emanated from two people who are dearest in the world to me mentioned my resemblance. Not really being too aware of her, I began to look her up.....her photos and read about her. She struggled with eating issues (as do I). She wanted to be better than she was (the same). She searched for love (don't we all). She was gifted and talented and a huge light in the world. I feel as though a part of me has died along with her. I couldn't decide whether to come back here or not. I'm here for now.

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

2009-03-02T08:17:00.005-05:00

Baby, it's COLD outside! The snow is pretty; the driving is not. Luckily, I have a big pot of coffee and pan of frosted brownies waiting to be devoured.

Yes, I have to work today. No, I did not quit my job yet. Nor do I intend to do so. How's the windfall? Intact. I was absolutely right to keep a conservative stance when I did though. Let's leave it at that.

Can't believe it is March. I can't wait for summer. I can't remember being warm. Really warm. Hope you guys are staying comfortable. Thanks for not giving up on me!

Happy Valentine's Day 2009!

2009-02-14T18:02:00.001-05:00

I have missed ya'll. Valentine love to all of you! I'll be visiting.

IdeaBlob - What is an Idea?

2008-01-24T19:21:00.001-05:00

Amazing.......

Happy New Year!

2008-01-20T11:21:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I realize I'm a little late. Sorry about that. It's not that I don't think about you guys but I do! I had every intention of writing during my vacation (Christmas/Holidays). I had lots of company (work and fun) and volunteer work. Of course, I had NO idea when I got promoted that it would be so much MORE work. I mean ALOT more.

The fact is that because not many women do what I do so I can't exactly just "get by" because I don't need the money. I feel like I have to work harder to prove because I AM a woman that they made a good choice.

Let's see ......what else have I been up to? Work.....I said that. Volunteer stuff........I said that. Ah.......I've had a tremendous HOUSE project. I'm cleaning out like crazy. Stacks and stacks of paper. How have I accumulated so much paper???? I guess you could say I'm having a windfall moment cleaning. Maybe not a fun one.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-21T07:04:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays y'all!!!!!

Thanks for stopping by even though I haven't been around. I'm going to try to get around and see everyone.

I miss you guys.

Let the sun shine in!

2007-10-07T10:32:00.000-04:00

The sun is out today for the first time in a week! Fall is here; it's my favorite season. I can't wait for it to FEEL like Fall. Today I'm going to grab some rays. And some happiness! I've decided that for me - a sunny day is a windfall!

What a Mom Says in 24 Hours

2007-10-05T06:24:00.001-04:00

As she says, "Strap on your seatbelt......here we go." Enjoy! xoxoxoxoxo......TGIF

Blogs are hard work

2007-10-03T12:32:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone! Blogging is hard work. It is REALLY hard when BLOGGER won't let you sign in. It is particularly HARD when BLOGGER tells you that your email doesn't exist. And it does. It is even HARDER when you spend valuable time looking for a REAL person to HELP you.

Anyhow, I am back. I miss you guys. We have alot to talk about. Right now I need a nap after banging on Blogger's door all morning.

Hey......if you want a private email, email me at windfallwoman@aol.com

Love to hear from you!

Peeking back in

2007-08-19T19:01:00.001-04:00

I've been on hiatus. That's how it is with us rich folks. We just can't be counted on for any sort of continuity. It's sad.

Actually, I've been really busy this summer traveling here and there. I haven't purchased that second abode yet but still looking.

Work has been stressful and busy. I wonder why I still do it. I think because I'd be a neurotic person with too much time on my hands.

I'll be making my rounds to say hi to everyone.

I've missed you all. xoxoxoxoxo

Canine Love

2007-07-11T16:29:00.001-04:00

I hope no one came here expecting anything.......not nice.

I saw this on TV and on the net. I had to show it.

The dog, named Heart-kun, was born May 18 with a heart-shaped spot on its coat. He is part of a new litter at the Pucchin Dog's shop in Odate, Japan.Shop owner Emiko Sakurada said it's the first of 1,000 puppies she's bred with this type of pattern. She also said that she has no plans to sell the animal.

Just too precious! I think this doggie had a "windfall moment."

So beautiful and inspiring

2007-06-23T08:32:00.001-04:00

Do your heart a favor and make your soul "sing." I dare you.

Men who cook............Homemade Granola......YUM

2007-06-09T13:44:00.000-04:00

Here's one of my inspirations. One of my favorite shows has become Bravo's Top Chef. Here's my favorite chef - Sam.

Here's his bio:

Sam is handsome and charming and is sure to make temperatures rise in the kitchen. After being voted one of the ten sexiest chefs in New York, Sam is ready to be known for his culinary skills and not just his good looks. Born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, Sam incorporates his southern charm and love of food into all of his dishes as executive chef in New York City.

This self-described "arrogant" chef likes the finer things in life and has no problem saying he is like a girl when it comes to shopping and grooming himself. Although people will automatically notice his handsome appearance, few know that he has also been a diabetic since he was a teenager and has to wear an insulin pump attached to his leg. Sam forges ahead and is sure to surprise the viewers on this season of "Top Chef."

WELL......Sam has INSPIRED me. I'm busy baking homemade granola right NOW as I wait for it to brown at this very minute. By the way, men who COOK are SEXY.

Busy, Busy, Busy......Thank God for Laundry

2007-06-07T10:27:00.000-04:00

Yes...I've been running around like a chicken with my head cut off. Crazy! So many appointments. Travel arrangements (for work). I am trying to catch up on things and may I say.....I'm showing some success.

Today I don't have any big appointments. I do have a date. A date with mounds of DIRTY LAUNDRY. Guess what? I've never been glad to see it! It gives me the perfect excuse to stay home!

By the way, if you haven't rented Music and Lyrics with Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore, you are missing a great movie. Not great as in Oscar, but great as in extremely funny, witty, clean.....great for the whole family! Hugh Grant's witticisms kept me laughing .....I could barely recover from one laugh before he was delivering another funny line. Oops......the washer is off. Time for the next load. Have a relaxing day!

More Sopranos Stuff and Updates - WARNING SPOILERS!

2007-06-05T06:46:00.000-04:00

Hey y'all! Here I am buying more and more stuff. Haha. I have a new "not admirer" who left me loads of anonymous messages that I just received. Apparently, my spending habits and looks are pretty darned important to her. As in they rile her up. Maybe that's what it took to get me writing again. I'm laughing though. Not upset.

OK. Isn't it one more show of The Sopranos until we're through? I have to say. I'm ultimately VERY disappointed in the way the series is winding up. Here's a warning here.....don't read anymore if you don't want to know what's happened up until now!

Sunday's episode was not believable. A seasoned psychiatrist would not just dropkick a depressed client out of his/her office without warning. To me, Dr. Melfi is no better than a hit woman to do that to Tony just after his child has attempted suicide. Anyhow, I just don't think it is believable!

The killing of Bobby in the train store was believable. But the killing of Sil in the parking lot? No way. He would have had a gun closer than the backseat for sure. I don't think my prediction that Meadow would be the starting impetus for the NY/NJ wars is coming true. The war is underway and everyone knows that everyone is going after each other. So, now I think Meadow and Carmella are safe. I don't think Anthony Jr. is safe from himself. He's getting on my nerves, but then nothing's new, he's gotten on my nerves from the beginning (and it has nothing to do with his depression). I just don't see how they are going to wrap all this up neatly. I mean we've got Uncle Junior hanging out there, Tony and remaining gang all holed up, Carmella, Meadow, AJ, Janice and Company all headed for God knows where. Then the FBI guy and his mysterious stomach ailment. Plus the hated NY wiseguys. I don't know. I sure hate to see a series end badly. I think this whole season has been slow, slow, slow. And aggravating.

Now.....I watched "Music and Lyrics" on DVD last night. This movie is the aging, has been popstar played by Hugh Grant and the wacky, plant waterer played by Drew Barrymore. It is HYSTERICAL. If you need some laughs, this is the one! And it is CLEAN. Amazing. It is worth every penny of the rental.

Goodness, I have just been so busy! I had a couple of close folks ill, in the hospital, and then came down with a nasty bout of flu myself. Who gets the flu in May??? We're in the midst of a drought here which has made our air awfully unhealthy. When your lungs are already aggravated, try breathing in a big gulf of nasty air. YUCK.

Sorry to disappoint but I haven't been spending loads of cash at all. But I did get a recipe for homemade granola and intend to spend some bucks on oats, wheat germ, sweetened condensed milk and sunflower seeds today. I wonder if THAT massive expenditure will get anyone heated up? LOL. Have a super summer. I've missed you all. I'm coming to YOUR SITE.

The Sopranos Series Finale Spoilers

2007-05-21T12:27:00.000-04:00

I have to admit a secret passion of mine -- The Sopranos. It is the only show (or film) with a pervasive amount of violence and cursing that I can abide.

I did not get hooked on the show from the outset. In fact, I only began watching it last season after purchasing and watching all the previous seasons' episodes.

What draws me to it? I love the whole idea of being immersed in a sort of culture - in this case - "being Italian." All this said, people are trying to figure out what will happen on the last two episodes of The Sopranos. Here are my predictions based upon reading many interviews with characters, suppositions of other bloggers, and having watched all the episodes recently:

- In the previews, Sil refers to someone "turning." I do not believe this is "turning" to the Feds. I think it is a NJ guy talking to the NY group. This would be Paulie. He already set the stage talking to Johnny Sack. Paulie may die next week. It will be a real gangstyle killing too befitting of a true wiseguy.

- I believe that Meadow will be killed in the next episode. Perhaps she'll be driving Tony's car since she was rearended last night? The NY mob will spot Tony's car and think they are assassinating HIM and actually kill Meadow instead. Meadow's death will be the perfect impetus to set off the gang war and perfect irony. She symbolises everything good and pure in the mob families. The only one who is not guilty of anything; the one who has sincerely value in society. Now she's dead -- and -- after being disrespected by the NY wiseguy with no teeth.

- Something is up with the FBI agent with the parasite. I can't figure that part out. Something is eating away at him literally and figuratively. I'm not sure exactly how this figures into everything - at least yet.

- Leaks from the set say that the final scene occurs at Satriale's. It was a closed set that day with Tony being there. I can't think that the gang war will happen there if it was a closed set. Someone would have talked by now if all the "guys" were there. I personally think that the "war" will happen at Tony's house.

- Rumours abound that Adriana is not dead. I think that's crap. Sil did not botch that job. Unless HE'S the one ratting to the FBI and lets her go? Maybe that's a possibility but I so doubt it.

- One thing's for sure - when the dust settles, Phil and all his guys will be dead as will Tony, Sil, Bobby, Janice, Meadow, Paulie. Junior will hear of it all and off himself in the nursing home. Anthony Jr. will be left - a pathetic symbol of what Tony would have become had he not chosen a life of crime. Tony was doomed either way.

Those are my predictions!

Happy Mother's Day!

2007-05-13T14:35:00.000-04:00

Calling all MOMs! Happy Mother's Day!

I'm on good terms with my mom right now. She really came through for me this past week. My dad did too. Bless all of you. Do me a favor? Could you say a special prayer for Miss Belle and Master Walt? They both have big weeks coming up and could use all the help they could get.

I'm OK......just busy

2007-05-10T17:31:00.000-04:00

Hi y'all! Thanks for checking in on me. I actually was a bit "down"....maybe more than a bit. I settled into a funk. Even a little frightening. I decided to talk to someone. She told me to "switch things up a little." She said working from home sometimes can induce a little depression. So, I devoted myself to my Girl Scouts. And I'm doing some volunteer work for a school close by. It was just the trick to shake off the blues. My work was a bit in a lull as well. We've got some exciting things brewing with my customer...we'll see I guess. I also changed out my everyday china. Pieces had broken here and there and finally I found it was interesting to seat even six people with the same stuff. So, I just changed patterns -- actually to one I'd always wanted. Take care. I'm going to get regular here. No jokes please.....LOL.

Time to come back? Lost my identity?

2007-04-28T23:10:00.000-04:00

Those dreams finally quit haunting me. I thought about writing about them going away but I was actually afraid I might jinx myself and bring them back. Dreaming about marriage and kids wasn't bad at all. It was those damn taxes and bills that were as scary as a horror movie!

Well, I've gone and done it. Gotten a haircut. To which someone close to me said, now you're a Heather Graham look-alike. Yes, it's been a crisis of sorts. Who am I?

First those darned dreams, and now my image. My mind and my physical self at odds.

I'm blaming it on Oprah. You'll soon see why.

What is going on?

2007-04-13T12:07:00.000-04:00

After a week of very poor sleep, I took a pill before bed last night. Which, of course, immediately threw me into a panic attack thinking of Anna Nicole Smith and all of her drugs. See, I am a bit of a hypochondriac as it relates to poison, medicines, etc. I used to call Poison Control regularly worrying that I had taken too many Tylenol, etc. I've grown out of that a bit. Anyhow, I think I'm about to OD on Anna Nicole -- despite the fact that I have AVOIDED all the coverage.

Moving on, so I settle down to sleep. I'm determined not to watch any criminal shows or disturbing or thought provoking TV. What does that leave? I'm not really sure. I drifted off fairly soon with last night's dream recurring. There I was again, the husband, two kids, work, bills, taxes. The oldest child, a son, had suddenly taken to fits of meanness with his younger sister. The oldest being a true teenager and the youngest being a tween wasn't exactly optimum emotional state for discussion. I noted he needed a haircut, and she looked tired. I seemed to be reflecting over their dinners the past week and wasn't exactly pleased with my role or lack thereof in that. Perhaps that's why the tween girl looked peaked. And she did. Then I was consumed with this familiar feeling - worry. But it wasn't about me. It was about her. What was going on with her? It appeared that she was struggling with her extracurricular activity and of course her fellow tweens. The older boy seemed fairly uncommunicable but tired from his activities. The husband too was stressed about work and traveling. I decided (apparently) that everyone would benefit from filet mignons (!!! yes with all those bills) and a big dinner. We all slumped over dinner, talking but exhausted whereupon everyone retreated to his/her corner to work, homework, watching TV. Just when I thought it was all over, I found myself waking, preparing breakfast, dressing hurriedly for carpool (yes!! carpool) and noticing the gasoline level was on "E." This occurred as I realized that I was about to run down the son's Chemistry/Cross Country Coach in his new car. Dropoff quickly occurred and soon I was gassing the car up. Suddenly, I found myself at home - ALONE! The morning seemed to pass quickly with my work and then a quick break for lunch. I seemed HAPPY to prepare a grilled cheese sandwich and fat free (me worry about calories??) chocolate pudding while DANCING to Justin Timberlake in the KITCHEN. Suddenly the phone rang, and I sat up in bed. Whose life IS this?

A Nightmare?

2007-04-12T09:07:00.000-04:00

Last night, I went to bed watching Medium. If you follow my blog, then you know how much I like this show with Patricia Arquette. She dreams ALOT in the show. In this particular dream, I wasn't my normal self. I was married with two kids, didn't have my svelte body and cute clothes and I sure didn't have the windfall. I was worried about taxes and tuition and extracurricular activities and what to cook for dinner and work all on top of it. I'm not even mentioning (until now) worrying whether the animals had eaten any of that tainted food or that my car needs new tires, and by the way, the car payment is behind. I woke up in a cold sweat. Was it real?

Happy Easter

2007-04-08T08:16:00.000-04:00

The Cross at Calvary at sunrise. Happy Easter. To quote a friend.....Blessings, WFW.

An Important Day

2007-04-06T09:54:00.000-04:00

Today I have a wonderful privilege - a windfall moment. I am meeting my first soldier from Iraq who I served as an angel for during her second deployment. We're going to dinner. She's getting married in April. She ships out for her third deployment in June. She's been to Iraq twice before. She may be headed there again. She told me that she thinks our paths were meant to cross. She has a young daughter that she's been away from almost half her life. How can this be right? She's my hero.

Promotions and Teasers

2007-04-05T07:38:00.000-04:00

Lately, it has been really hard for me to post. Why? It's hard writing about my life as a "windfall woman" who keeps working out of fear, who suffers from bouts of depression and migraines, has a love/hate relationship with mama, a love relationship with daddy, finds anonymous ways to donate to deserving people and flits off on anonymous vacations to unspecified places.

Shouldn't I be brimming over with exciting stories? Exotic travel? Spending sprees? Or could it be that I led a lonely and boring life? Or that life without a mate or children isn't really rich? That spending one's life worrying about losing material things really isn't much of a life at all?

More to come.

P.S. I was promoted on Tuesday. I now have a title I've coveted for several years and a hefty salary increase. Imagine that. The good luck continues.

My Daddy is Sick

2007-03-31T19:43:00.000-04:00

My daddy is sick. He hasn't been sick in a year. He was like "go to the ER, get an IV, get xrays sick." Sometimes I get so frustrated that he moved 9 hours away. He was 9 hours away before and now he's still 9 hours away. I can't just jump in the car and go see him. Airplane? Believe it or not, by the time, I get through parking, checking in, airport security, driving, etc., it's not much better than 9 hours. I wish he was close by. I wish I could make him some of my home cooked specialities. I wish I could go do his laundry and do his chores. I want to take care of him. It breaks my heart that I can't be with him.

I'm not one of THOSE rich people

2007-03-28T07:43:00.000-04:00

OK. I have a beef. Driving around my city, I see lots of big houses -- well, to be honest, mansions. I don't live in one myself. I could. Here's the thing. All of these mansions have lawn services. What do the lawn service employees do? Admittedly, the yards look fantastic. But somebody tell me why - WHY - when you have that much money - do these people blow grass, pinestraw, leaves, etc. out into the STREET or worse, into the yard ACROSS the street? If you have that much money, you can afford to have your lawn service BAG up your....stuff! I just don't get it.

Happy Birthday to a Special Girl!

2007-03-24T07:52:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to a VERY special girl.....Wish her a happy birthday here. She has some fantastic photos too........Vintage Girl? May all your birthday wishes come true!

Rear Window

2007-03-23T07:24:00.000-04:00

Last night, I was lounging, watching my favorite show, Grey's Anatomy, when I heard a strange noise. Turning the volume to mute, I sat up and heard crying. My neighbors next door have several young children, so I presumed it was one of them. For some reason, I got up and went to my bathroom window. The crying was loud. I opened the window expecting to hear the baby crying to my right. Instead, the crying was coming from another house in the back. I ran downstairs out to the deck and opened the door. Yes, the crying was in the back and the house adjacent to mine. It was indeed a baby - more like a toddler - crying. He/she was outside! In the dark! On the deck! Alone! As I stood outside trying to grasp what was happening, someone, a woman, appeared at the sliding glass door where the toddler (a boy I think) was facing and crying and snatched him inside. I heard her voice, "See what you've done," she said. I stood there frozen. What had I seen? Was this right? In a split second, I knew what I had to do. Call the police. I couldn't take the chance. Thirty minutes later a policeman showed up at my door. I explained what happened and showed him the house. The house was now dark. Soon after the policeman left, I saw the downstairs lights go on in the house. Next, the upstairs lights went on. I relaxed. He must have gone upstairs to check on the baby. I never heard sirens. I never heard an ambulance. It was hard sleeping. I figure there had to be two houses having a hard time sleeping. I wondered if I had done the right thing. Last night I was sure. This morning I'm still sure. Something wasn't right.

Found!

2007-03-20T11:46:00.000-04:00

Thank God! The little missing Boy Scout, Michael Auberry, has been found. He is reportedly fine. Don't you know this has to be one of the happiest days in his parents' lives?

Heart of Stone

2007-03-17T17:06:00.000-04:00

A heart that has turned to stone
Rendered from feeling all alone
Wrung from a life of giving
Now seems barely capable of living
Please God make the hardness soften
Before the body lies cold in a coffin

What if?

2007-03-15T07:53:00.000-04:00

What if........you were able to fire one of your company's executives? Would you do it?

Getting back on track

2007-03-13T07:43:00.000-04:00

Hi there! I'm on the road to recovery. Thanks for the well wishes. My vacation was actually really fun. Nowhere really exotic....just to the beaches of Florida. I stopped off and spent some great time with my daddy.

One of the best times I had was sitting on the floor going through his yearbooks from high school and college. He was something else! It's interesting getting a bird's eye view into your parents' pasts. I found out things about my dad I never knew (how popular he was). Things that surprised me (how irreverent he was about his studies). Things that didn't surprise me (his atheleticism). Things that amazed me (how many school transitions he made). Things to be expected (how popular cheerleaders have ALWAYS been). All in all, it made me want to go back and look at my own yearbooks. What did people write in my yearbooks? What would people surmise about me? What would yours say about you?

Late Breaking Congratulations to Phoe!!!!

2007-03-11T13:38:00.000-04:00

Please go over to Phoe's and tell her congratulations! She just found out that she was awarded six weeks at UCLA! And she's just a freshman! You go girl!

A cold, an anniversary and a blessing

2007-03-11T12:24:00.000-04:00

I have a nasty cold. My throat feels like I have a brillo pad in it. I have an occasional cough. Yuck. I just got back from vacation and was counting on two days to get my house in order before I go back to work tommorrow. I'm just sort of bumbling around not seeming to get much accomplished.

Today is the anniversary of my grandfather's accident. He literally probably never knew what hit him. That day set in motion a series of events that changed so many lives forever. I've never been exposed to grief like that. I hope I never am again.

What's the blessing? It's a gorgeous day outside. I know I'll get over this cold. I'm rich (sorry to be crass mentioning it). It will all come together.

Bring it ON Anonymous!

2007-03-10T19:02:00.000-05:00

Hey ANONYMOUS! Yeah....YOU. Why not identify yourself? Your last comment (which I cannot print due to its crudeness) telling me to "do something useful with yourself, drop the laundry......" Hey you! It's the internet buddy. You want to see some skin? You ain't seeing mine buddy. Dream on. But you can sure get your fill elsewhere on here. So go bug somebody else. Like I said before, send me your address, and I'll get you your very OWN copy of Emily Post. Cheers, Ciao.....oh, and while you're at your "intelligent" directions - why not sign your name? I'm sure your momma would be proud.

Back from Vacation and ......Back on 25 Peeps

2007-03-09T20:26:00.000-05:00

Hey YOU! Yes, YOU! I'm back after a FUN and RELAXING vacation. I'm looking forward to writing about it too!

Hey, I'm back trying to beat the T&A on 25peeps if you feel like voting for me!

Missed y'all! Hugs and kisses..........WFW

Just for fun

2007-03-02T07:06:00.001-05:00

I didn't know what to think when I first saw this video, but now, I just applaud their sense of fun! Life is so serious; it's great to see a couple starting out their marriage in such a cute way!

A Letter From Meredith

2007-02-23T23:00:00.000-05:00

Dear WFW,

I heard you are a major fan of Grey's Anatomy and all, so I decided to look you up. I'm struck by how many things you and I have in common. It's sort of spooky. Perhaps those crazy writers are setting up another story arc with me running into you.

You write about your mom, and believe me, I know how that is. My mom told me that I was "ordinary." Your mom told you that she never wanted a daughter like you. So we share that mother-daughter angst thing. Seriously, don't let it get you down like me. I almost let myself drown it got me so "dark and twisty."

Even though you aren't a brain surgeon like I am, your job sounds pretty crazy and stressful. I think I'd rather perform surgery and handle blood and guts than corporate politics. Perhaps my messy job is a metaphor for all the corporate crap you deal with on a day to day basis.

Interesting that you are a blonde as am I. Do you have a McDreamy in your life? I don't see you writing about one. He needs to have really great hair to be a true McDreamy. Your writing reminds me of our show's writers because you are awfully coy about things like men and stuff.

Well, I've got to get to the hospital. No, wait, I'm IN the hospital recovering from drowning and hypothermia. I'm still dealing with my near death experience as Derek is cuddled up behind me on my hospital bed. I'm going to rest now. These last three episodes have drained me so to speak.

By the way, thanks for begging the writers not to kill me off. I'm sure it helped, and from reading your blog, I guess you could say it was a windfall moment (again). See you on Thursday night?

Love,
Meredith Grey

Meredith - Sometimes A Miracle

2007-02-23T18:50:00.001-05:00

"I love you" he said

2007-02-22T11:22:00.000-05:00

My cell phone buzzed with a text message. It was 8:40am. "I love you" he said. What a wonderful way to begin the day! May someone special tell YOU that he/she loves you today!

Windfall Weekend

2007-02-21T08:03:00.000-05:00

It was really cold here over the weekend. A group of us were out and about just running errands. Yes, "group errands." We began the dinner discussion. It seemed the majority of us wanted breakfast food for dinner (probably on account of it being so cold). We finally decided on IHOP. For those of you unfamiliar with IHOP, it's the International House of Pancakes. I've been going to the IHOP since I was a little girl. I went in college (let's not talk about THOSE visits) and right after college (nor those either). My visits now are a bit more wholesome. Anyhow, we are seated at a table and the hostess (or whom we presume to be the hostess) looks right at me and says, "I remember you. You've been coming here a long time. I got promoted, and I'm now the District Manager."

Now.....where else but America can you be a waitress at IHOP and rise up the ranks to a DM? Isn't that like.....well.....AWESOME? In honor of the occasion, I promptly ordered my "old" favorite - cheese blintzes covered in strawberry preserves with link sausage. It was YUMMY. The whole experience was really fun, and our server was fantastic. My buddy Barney was with us. He went up to pay the tab as I lingered behind and offered to leave the tip.

He looked at me and said, "How much are you going to leave?" I said....."Oh, just a good tip." "Please WFW," he said, "tell me how much. I need to know if a server is going to chase us down in the parking lot waving and smiling or if you're going to tell me to peel rubber out of the parking lot again." Poor Barney. He puts up with so much. I told him to get in the car with the others and start the engine as I put the $100 bill down and scurried out.

Please visit? For me?

2007-02-19T19:25:00.000-05:00

Please visit a brand new blog I found. She's calling herself Vintage Girl. You can tell she's an aspiring photographer. You won't be sorry you visited. Consider it a "windfall moment."

Corinne Bailey Rae- Like A Star

2007-02-17T18:18:00.001-05:00

Sit back.....relax and enjoy this. Consider it a Windfall Moment. From me to you.....

Grey's Anatomy - Is Meredith Really Dead?

2007-02-15T23:21:00.000-05:00

OH.MY.WORD. Does anyone else watch Grey's Anatomy???? I just finished watching it. I've been crying non-stop. SHE CAN'T KILL THE MAIN CHARACTER, CAN SHE???? I didn't realize how much I love Meredith until they KILLED her tonight. Supposedly.

This 'N That + Valentine Windfall Moment

2007-02-15T07:36:00.000-05:00

First, let me thank everyone who provided advice on publishing unpleasant comments. I really was curious as to how different people handled it. I opted NOT to publish the comment for several reasons. #1 - I'm fairly certain I know who it came from and I wouldn't want to embarrass him. #2 - I'm fairly certain all of you would figure it out too (if you gave a rat's patootie) because he left subsequent comments somewhat explaining himself. #3 - Despite the fact that he didn't care about my feelings, I don't want to embarrass/hurt him. All nobleness aside, let me address a few things.....

I may be a Brittany look-a-like, and I may be blonde, but I sure as HELL am not a dumb blonde. If you don't like my photos, GET OVER IT! And fasten your seatbelt, because you've pissed me off now (pardon my unladylikeness here).....so you really may NOT like the photos I post for awhile. Now, some of you may really enjoy them ..........wink wink........

You probably are "getting" why the photo is posted above......yes, I'm on a soapbox. I get really sick of people who judge ANYBODY for the way they look. In fact, I'm pretty sick of those who judge others anyway. Enough about all this.....

I had a very nice Valentine's Day, but probably the best part was my windfall moment. I was at my local grocery store (not a 7-11 by the way.....inside joke there). My cashier was a sweet young girl. She noticed my bottle of Cetaphil that I use as a facial cleanser and asked me if it worked. I told her that I have delicate skin, and it is very gentle and inexpensive (old habits die hard). She then said, "I need something for my face (she had terrible acne bless her heart), and I can't afford my Proactiv that's about $50." She smiled and said, "I'm going to try this." I thought to myself -- what a brave young lady she was to say such things to a stranger.

Luckily, I had been to the bank. I pulled some big bills out of my wallet, sealed them up in a valentine addressed to "Sandy" with a note and took them over to a sleepy Customer Service Rep. I slipped out of the store smiling. Some days it's particularly great to be Windfall Woman.

Happy Valentine's Day!!!!

2007-02-14T08:59:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day. Will YOU be mine?

Judge Part 2 and Ugly comments

2007-02-12T22:54:00.000-05:00

OK......interesting that my last post should be about the judge and jury, etc. I had another post I was planning to write, but I happened to get a really NOT nice comment in my "in box." I've heard about people believing that their identity was discovered but I've not had this happen to me before. From this person's comment, you would deduce that he/she seemingly knows me. At least the comment is written that way. There are only a very few people who actually know my real identity -- on purpose. I have spoken with those people and am convinced that none of them authored the post nor told anyone else who I am. So that leaves me with a wicked comment. I thought about posting it. Fellow bloggers....what do you do? Do you post the mean ones?

Here Comes The Judge........and the Jury

2007-02-08T07:32:00.000-05:00

I had to go to court yesterday for two minor traffic violations (nothing that could have hurt anyone - no speeding, etc.) The judge came in on time after I had counted 18 rows with 11 seats each plus people standing. He began speaking and assuring us that the worst any of us would suffer would be one year in jail and a $1000 fine. THAT was reassuring. At first his humor was a bit reassuring. As the afternoon wore on, his humor masked a huge ego along with his didactic manner. It was dismaying to realize that the justice system in this city was so inefficient. It appeared un,ess you wanted to plead guilty and immediately pay your fine (which you could have done without showing up for the cattle call) that you had to fill out a very confusing set of papers. At several points in my career, I worked for law firms. Even with my experience, it was a bewildering process. Since I was pleading no contest, I had to fill out a paper. Once handed in (questionable as to whom), we waited to be called into a separate room with three solicitors. One solicitor looked especially nice -- I hoped to get him. One was designated for the latino "defendants" (what we were all called). The last one looked like a typical hard DA. I watched as defendant after defendant approached the individual solicitors. Most were pled down, points reduced or eliminated. The latinos' solicitor seemed the toughest.

Finally, I was called up to the "hard" DA's table. My solicitor took one look at me, asked a few questions, and to my ultimate happiness, he dismissed my charges completely. That wasn't the end of it. I had to go out and wait in the courtroom for the judge to agree to the solicitors' negotiations. After I went back into the courtroom, the jovial judge suddenly began to be not so jovial. He began overturning pleas, lecturing those who had already pled guilty. Amazingly, in the midst of all this, a woman accused of battery, followed by a crack then a cocaine addict were brought in and interrupted the process. The judge was "easier" on these defendants than those sitting in the courtroom. I waited through 192 cases to be called - among the last eight - and found that he had already signed off on my case but no one had called my name. I had sat for four hours virtually for nothing. Last night, I dreamed of people passing unloading school buses, speeding at 90+ miles an hour, driving with no license, no insurance, it was a troubled sleep.

I'm still trying to make sense of yesterday. Did I witness justice? Or something else?

Hey, I'm just thinking

2007-02-07T07:01:00.000-05:00

Yesterday my boss called me. He was "just thinking," he said as "I walk to the sandwich shop." WFW, he said, "why don't you set up a strategy meeting for the RFP (request for proposal) that MAY come out?" He went on, "Let's get a group together to talk about what the customer MAY want and build some strategy and tactics." I sat, listening to him and thinking, (and muffling giggles and a dash of agitation). "You're not saying anything, WFW," he said as I could hear the wind whipping through his OTHER cell phone (yes, he has two). "Actually, Mr. Manager, I'm just thinking," I replied. It occurs to me that in this day and age of fast food and instant gratification that maybe we just don't have time to think anymore. Maybe we aren't ALLOWED. Maybe that's why the world is in the shape its in. As for me? Maybe I'll be a rebel. Maybe I will just sit down and keep thinking and to heck with them all.

Thank you and Ideas for a Friend

2007-02-01T07:45:00.000-05:00

First, I want to thank all of you who voted for me on 25peeps. My time came to end early this morning. Secretly, I accomplished what I set out to do. My goal? To make it on the site long enough to earn a spot in their "Hall of Fame." (I'm number 48 out of 100 right now.) Why? I said several times that I wanted to prove that a clothed individual writing a blog about something other than sex would be read and revisited. Please understand that I am not judging the half naked/naked/sex blogs featured. I simply wanted to prove that blogs OTHER than those are interesting to people in the blogger world. Enough said.

NOW.....on to the interesting stuff......a great blogger friend of mine - Big White Hat - has lost his job. He is my hero responsible for assisting me with my blogroll and making my "Rich Reads" tag which sits over on the left side of my blog. Anyhow, he commented jokingly that maybe I could write about 25 new jobs for him. That got me to thinking....if I lost MY JOB.....and I didn't have the windfall......what would I do? What do you think BWH should do? Oh and......if I get 25 job suggestions for BWH, I'll probably post them.

Boring? What can I do?

2007-01-31T07:11:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I received a comment that my lists of 25 are getting boring. You know something? I re-read those lists and realized I might BE boring. That is NOT a fun realization. I sure haven't changed much since the windfall. That's a good thing - for me anyway. I haven't blown it either. After converting to the "new blogger," I've been going back and labeling my posts. One thing, I don't seem to be enjoying myself as much as I could. I'm sure not expanding my horizons either.

So.....I filled out an application for my local "ritzy" Country Club. It's pretty much something I've always had as a "reach goal." I can use it for business reasons, but it would be fun to take my friends over for a nice lunch and dinner. I'm also going to take golf lessons. That's something I've always wanted to do. They also have fabulous fireworks shows, and I love those. Who knows? I may meet some interesting folks.....

Top 25 Reasons to Have a Significant Other

2007-01-30T07:53:00.000-05:00

1. You have a readymade date for "date-y" things (office parties, weddings, funerals, etc.)

2. You have someone to at least think about on Valentine's Day

3. Hopefully, you have someone who is good at something you aren't and helps you

4. Someone to hug

5. Someone to argue with

6. Someone who calls you

7. Someone you can call

8. A co-holiday celebrator

9. Someone to cook for and to cook for you

10. Someone to cry with when you're sad

11. Someone to lavish gifts on (LOL)

12. Someone who listens to you vent

13. Someone to provide a different point of view

14. Someone to watch movies with

15. Someone to tease

16. Someone to complain about

17. Someone to brag about

18. Someone that makes you happy

19. Someone to laugh with

20. Someone to be with when you are scared

21. Someone to love

22. Someone to be your best friend

23. Someone to take you to the hospital

24. Someone to take care of you when you're sick

25. Someone to take care of

Did you notice my labels? Blogger virtually tricked me into converting to the new blogger. So far....so good.

SO........my list. I have a terrible feeling I'm missing something. Enlighten me? Please???????

May God Bless Him

2007-01-30T07:20:00.000-05:00

I know many people are writing about Barbaro today. After thinking about it, I knew I had to celebrate his life after writing about his accident earlier this year.

What a beautiful horse he was! More importantly, what an unbelievable heart he had! May God bless Barbaro, and may he rest in peace.

Top 25 Things to Do on a Date

2007-01-28T15:30:00.000-05:00

1. Go to a musical concert (someone you both like)

2. Get dressed up and go to a play or the ballet and have a glass of champagne

3. Go window shopping

4. Go to a romantic movie

5. Visit a spa, have massages side by side

6. Have a quiet dinner by some kind of water (river, lake, ocean) Hawaii is best for this......but any water will do

7. Fix dinner together at your place or his and watch TV (one of my favorites

8. Take a sleigh ride together

9. Go on a Halloween hayride together

10. Go to church together

11. Go for a walk together when the leaves are changing

12. Go for a drive in the mountains in the Fall

13. Sit together with just the Christmas tree lights on, a nice fire and hold hands

14. Go to an exciting athletic event together (you both have to be for the same team and enjoy watching the same sport) High school sports are great for this.

15. Dress for dinner and go somewhere old fashioned where the band just plays slow dances

16. Attend a NASCAR race (if you don't happen to live in a Cup city, this can be hard)

17. Go roller skating

18. Watch fireworks together outside on a blanket

19. This one is if you REALLY like him/her - Kiss during the ENTIRE date

20. Eat at a Mexican restaurant with roaming musicians

21. Go to a comedy show.....laugh alot

22. I've never done this but I'd like to -------go for a motorcyle ride with someone who knows how to ride!

23. Go to a bookstore, pick out some books, read, and sit and look at each other between reads!

24. Go to the beach, have a picnic, grab some rays, take your boombox

25. Go ANYWHERE in a limo!

What do YOU like to do on a date???

Top 25 Timeout

2007-01-27T16:47:00.000-05:00

So......I'm like lounging on my bed having watched my 3 movies from Blockbuster. Lazy. Too lazy to drive 2 miles up the street and exchange them for more movies. So I click on my cable provider and see that they have new movies. Yep.....I'm paying $17/month for all the movies I can watch and I spend $3.99 to watch "Scoop." These are the kinds of wastrel things you can do with a windfall. It was a great movie with some very funny moments in it. I ought to be spanked for wasting that money. Hehehehehe.......

Top 25 Memories of my Big Mama

2007-01-25T07:49:00.000-05:00

My "Big Mama" was my maternal grandmother. I am named after her and my mama. The third. That's me. Again, here are my top memories in random order.

1. Her voice's natural vibrato (and her needlepoint!)

2. When she played the piano and organ and I sang with her

3. Her last Christmas spent at my house and the way she enjoyed my cooking

4. Holding her hand as she was dying

5. Shopping for "pocketbooks"

6. Our last Christmas shopping trip when she sent me to buy a tablecloth for my mama

7. The way she clapped her hands together just before she said something spectacular

8. Her laugh

9. The time she covered herself in a white sheet and sat on the porch at Halloween

10. The way she bought me things and said, "don't tell anyone"

11. The time she loaned me $250 when I couldn't pay my bills and wouldn't let me pay her back

12. The way she ate slowly -- just like I used to

13. The way she kept a tissue neatly folded under her watchband on her wrist

14. The time my college friends and I dropped in on her unexpectedly and she was watching the World Series and all my "guy friends" thought she was the coolest grandmother ever

15. All the times I said, I love you Big Mama and she said, " I love you too WFW"

16. Seeing her go to bed in her hairnet

17. Her gorgeous always polished and perfectly manicured nails

18. All the times she accurately guessed her presents before opening them

19. The way her eyes crinkled when she smiled and laughed

20. Her one grey eye and her one hazelish/green eye

21. All the times she wore orchid corsages

22. She had this cute little habit of saying "meow" to me. I've inherited this.

23. The way she drove her big car with a pistol in a cigar box underneath the seat

24. The way she read the entire Bible every single year

25. Knowing she really loved me the best. Everyone needs to feel that kind of love.

This list made me cry (in a nice way) to compile it. I loved my Big Mama. I miss her every day of my life. I challenge you to think of someone living or gone and make your own list. Who would you choose? How many memories would you have?

Top 25 Things I Do Well

2007-01-24T13:12:00.000-05:00

1. Laugh

2. Design Christmas/Holiday cards

3. Cook

4. Feel Your Pain

5. Read

6. Lounge

7. Cry

8. Meet new people

9. Talk

10. Network

11. Shop

12. Plan and throw parties

13. Think

14. Drive

15. Sing

16. Remember

17. Lead people

18. Sell

19. Watch TV

20. Enjoy people

21. Give gifts

22. Write

23. Hug

24. Kiss

25. Love

**Please note that these are not in any particular order. By the way, what do YOU do well?

Top 25 Heroes

2007-01-22T13:59:00.000-05:00

1. Walt
2. Belle
3. My dad
4. Pete Maravich
5. Chris Evert
6. Jan Karon
7. Every and Any soldier
8. My doctors
9. Big Mama (my maternal grandmother)
10. Mama Brown (my paternal grandmother)
11. Herschel Walker
12. Barney, his bacon and his special sandwiches
13. My former therapist
14. Barney's godfather
15. Mr. Shapiro
16. Mother Theresa
17. Father Marren
18. Billy Graham
19. Heather Whitestone
20. Auntie Jane
21. Sell
22. Jackie Kennedy
23. Jerry Lewis
24. Gerald Ford
25. Jill Connor Browne

Who are YOUR heroes? All of these people touched my life in one way or another in a POSITIVE way.

Top 25 Favorite Songs

2007-01-21T08:51:00.000-05:00

1. Somewhere Over the Rainbow - Judy Garland
2. Fields of Gold - Eva Cassidy
3. Sweet Home Alabama - Lynyrd Skynrd
4. All I Ask of You - Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman
5. Gimme Shelter - The Rolling Stones
6. Not Fade Away - The Stones
7. Do You Hear What I Hear? - Whitney Houston
8. The Sound of Music - Julie Andrews
9. Waiting on the World to Change - John Mayer
10. One Fine Day (Un Bel Di From Madame Butterfly) - Opera Babes
11. Seasons of Love - Theme from Rent
12. Lullaby - The Dixie Chicks
13. You're Still You - Josh Groban
14. I'll Still Love You More - Trisha Yearwood
15. Let Me Let Go - Faith Hill
16. 100 Years - Five for Fighting
17. Both Sides Now - Joni Mitchell
18. I Walk the Line - Johnny Cash
19. Crazy Love - Van Morrison
20. Suspicious Minds - Elvis
21. Tupelo Honey - Van Morrison
22. He Stopped Loving Her Today - George Jones
23. Son of a Preacher Man - Dusty Springfield
24. Midnight Train to Georgia - Gladys Knight and the Pips
25. Whipping Post - The Allman Brothers

This Top 25 was ROUGH! I went with songs that no matter how many times I hear them......I still LOVE them. I know, I know. I'm sure I've missed one (or more). Tell me who you like and who I'm missing.........I'm curious.

We interrupt the series of 25 for a survey......

2007-01-20T07:32:00.000-05:00

Top 25 Places to Spend Money

2007-01-18T06:21:00.000-05:00

1. Victoria's Secret (enough said)
2. Nordstrom shoe department
3. Nordstrom ladies department
4. Williams Sonoma
5. The Ritz for tea
6. The Ritz Spa
7. The Ritz for Thanksgiving Brunch/Lunch
8. Neiman Marcus' shoe department
9. Nordstrom's handbag department
10. Neiman Marcus' handbag department
11. Ann Taylor
12. Antique Markets
13. Amazon.com
14. Barnes and Noble
15. Fye Music
16. Whole Foods
17. A local boutique - Veronica's
18. Starbuck's
19. Sephora
20. Office Depot
21. The Bakery
22. Movie Theatres
23. Ticketmaster.com
24. Virtually any shop in Savannah, Georgia - my favorite city of all
25. Church

Where do you LIKE to spend your money? By the way, I am enjoying these lists of 25, I hope you are. All of these 25s were first inspired by my appearance on 25peeps which I am still "hanging" in there sans my head. As one of my blogger friends noted making lists of 25 can be hard. I find it is forcing me to think -- in a good way. In an ironic turn of events, I chose a new nail polish color yesterday. Eerily, I turned the bottle upside down - it's name was "Quarter of a Century."

Top 25 Favorite Things To Do

2007-01-17T08:07:00.000-05:00

1. Read a good book
2. Watch a good movie
3. Have lunch with my girls' club
4. Have a massage at The Ritz
5. Watch people open my Christmas presents
6. Cook Christmas dinner
7. Eat Christmas dinner
8. Nap by a fire
9. Nap when it's raining
10. Go on a fun date
11. Attend a concert by an artist I love
12. Soak in a jacuzzi
13. Drink champagne with a special guy
14. Go to a Broadway show
15. Have someone else wash my hair and dry it
16. Kiss
17. Go shoe shopping
18. Be snowed inside, unable to drive anywhere, but have power and plenty of food
19. Laugh
20. Watch trash TV (to include certain reality shows, Lifetime movies, etc.)
21. Take a nap with my kitty on my chest
22. Sleep in fresh, clean sheets after a shower
23. Sit in Barnes and Noble with a stack of books, reading one and sipping Chai Tea
24. Holding hands with someone I love
25. Going to my old church and passing the "peace"

What are your favorite things to do? Are you taking time to do them? I'm not. But I'm going to!

Top 25 Favorite Foods

2007-01-16T07:36:00.000-05:00

1. My cornbread dressing
2. My own Poppyseed Chicken Casserole
3. Chicken wings by my local restaurant
4. Crème brulee’
5. Yeast rolls from my local bakery
6. Orange chicken from Panda Express
7. Hot dog from Chicago Mike’s
8. My dad’s Belgian Waffles
9. Barney’s bacon
10. Mongolian beef from Mandarin House
11. Ham and pineapple cream cheese sandwich from The Patio
12. Moist chocolate layer cake
13. A really good barbeque plate with sliced pork, brunswick stew and white bread topped off with peach cobbler
14. Homemade vegetable soup with cornbread muffins
15. Sweet iced tea
16. Homemade mashed potatoes
17. Glazed chocolate doughtnut from my local bakery
18. Guacamole dip with crisp corn chips
19. My own Chicken White Bean chili
20. My own Apple Cake with Rum Glaze
21. Houston’s Cobb Salad
22. Fried chicken
23. My own banana waffles
24. My own coleslaw
25. My mom’s pimento and cheese sandwiches on white bread

Hungry? If you want, keep a clothed person on 25peeps and vote for me. I'm headless but hanging on!

Love and Time

2007-01-16T07:24:00.000-05:00

A girlfriend and I watched "The Lake House" yesterday (one of the benefits of my new Blockbuster membership). It began a bit slowly, but the overall feeling I was left with was rather bittersweet. Even despite the ending which I won't spoil if you haven't seen it. By the way, it was definitely worth watching.

It has caused me to ponder. Is love really like the movies? Do people flirt any more? Does romance exist still?

Holiday

2007-01-15T08:04:00.000-05:00

I'm interrupting my series of "25" to celebrate MLK's birthday. Good Morning America just showed his report card, and he received a "C" in Public Speaking!!!???!!! Interesting, isn't it?

I feel a little guilty; I'm not doing any public service work today. Did I miss a memo? The news just said that today is a National Day of Service. Ummm...did I know that?

The "clean up and out" continues in my house. When I sunk into my depression last year, I let things pile up. Now that I've emerged, I'm ready to get my environment "nice" again. I can't pay someone to do that; I have to do it myself. How are you celebrating MLK Day?

The First of my Top 25

2007-01-14T07:50:00.000-05:00

Snake left a comment that has inspired (thank heavens) me to begin a series of Top 25s. (Referring of course to being on 25peeps (yes, I'm still on it) .......which has been referred to as "25creeps"........LOL. Anyhow, since he asked what movies I rented last night, and I DO have this incredible FREE trial (yes, we rich people love pinching pennies).....I thought I would start with my favorite 25 movies (in no particular order). I'm going to make lists of 25 for all sorts of things. So stay tuned.

First, I saw "My Super Ex Girlfriend" last night. It had all the makings of being a "Blockbuster" hit; but it just ran.... Luke (Wilson)warm. Uma Thurman (I like her in movies) was the "Superhero," but it was just too nuts. Also, don't let your kids see it. There are alot of ....sexual references in it. (My Girl Scout troop wanted to see it.) By the way, if you need a Super Hero fix, go read Henry the Adequate - a new friend who dubbed 25peeps 25creeps.

Here they are in random order, WFW's top 25 movies:
1. To Kill A Mockingbird (Gregory Peck good)
2. Duel in the Sun (Gregory Peck bad)
3. The Sound of Music (has it all…great music, great love story, great family)
4. Where the Heart Is (watch it when you’re depressed or need to get “up”)
5. The Birds
6. Home Alone (modern favorite Christmas movie)
7. It’s a Wonderful Life (favorite classic Christmas movie)
8. The English Patient (possibly the most romantic, sexy movie ever made)
9. Elizabeth (favorite historical movie)
10. Bridget Jones’ Diary (Colin Firth is dreamy)
11. Air Force One (Harrison Ford when he was sexy and a REAL kickass President)
12. The Notebook (true love transcends boundaries and the leads fell in love with each other)
13. Lean on Me (Morgan Freeman inspiring)
14. Driving Miss Daisy (Morgan Freeman heartwarming)
15. Legally Blonde (Reese Witherspoon triumphs over the smug ex)
16. Gone With The Wind (Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable are riveting)
17. Mildred Pierce (Joan Crawford – fantastic!)
18. Castaway and Big (Tom Hanks is just great)
19. Any movie with Sir Laurence Olivier - Wuthering Heights is my favorite though
20. The Count of Monte Cristo ( with Jim Cavaziel)
21. The Pursuit of Happyness
22. Any Jack Nicholson movie – A Few Good Men (“You can’t handle the truth); Terms of Endearment; As Good as it Gets
23. Sliding Doors (Gwyneth Paltrow is marvelous in this one!)
24. An Affair to Remember – but ANYTHING with Cary Grant
25. Love With the Proper Stranger (Natalie Wood and Steve McQueen – a twofer)

Any comments? Your favorites?

It's Hot HOT HOT

2007-01-13T21:54:00.000-05:00

So.....this year goes on record as the warmest ever. And it was warm today. I didn't even have coffee today. You can see that I'm certainly not wearing a sweater! What a wonderful weekend already! I joined Blockbuster's equivalent of Netflix. I got two movies tonight and queued up my next 25. We'll just see how this delivery thingie works. I am continuing with my clean up efforts. All clothes are aligned in the closet and the dressing room floor is completely CLEAR. A clean house, homemade brownies and three movies today! MMMMMMmmm. That's my idea of heaven on earth. I think I'm just a simple girl.

By the way, I'm hanging in there at 25peeps.com. I really appreciate your votes - which, if you had a mind to, you could click on EVERY hour. LOL. I posted almost all of the posts to whether I should be on that site or not. I've decided that I'm going to stand for wholesomeness on there with some others. Again, I'm a simple girl.

Cleaning up and out

2007-01-12T09:39:00.000-05:00

Yes, I've been kicking up my heels for sure. In my cleaned out closet. I finally tackled it, but it almost tackled ME. I wasn't sure I was going to emerge. Armloads of clothes went to Goodwill. Isn't it funny how your clothes remind you of certain times? Anything associated with a bad memory went OUT. I certainly must have gone through an animal stripes phase because I had shoes, dresses, etc. All that stuff is gone! Have some fun. Dance in your closet. I dare ya! You get extra points if you GROWL or ROAR. LOL.......

To Click or Not to Click

2007-01-07T12:25:00.000-05:00

I've been reposted over at 25peeps.com. Now, herein lies the dilemma. My head's been cut off just showing my body. Seeing as how I am sandwiched in the midst of rather risque (putting it a bit mildly) pictures, I've been debating about even asking for clicks. Being one that has always enjoyed competition, part of me says YES! Please vote for me! There's also a part of me that wants to show that a "not risque" blog can stay with the best of everyone over there. Tell me what you think - and, if you want to - here's my referral link to click: 25peeps.com. You'll see me all headless and in blue. Seriously, I do want to get your input.

A fun quiz

2007-01-07T10:47:00.000-05:00

Found over at Phoe's Chronicle's of an Ugly Duckling.

You are The Hierophant

Divine Wisdom. Manifestation. Explanation. Teaching.

All things relating to education, patience, help from superiors.The Hierophant is often considered to be a Guardian Angel.

The Hierophant's purpose is to bring the spiritual down to Earth. Where the High Priestess between her two pillars deals with realms beyond this Earth, the Hierophant (or High Priest) deals with worldly problems. He is well suited to do this because he strives to create harmony and peace in the midst of a crisis. The Hierophant's only problem is that he can be stubborn and hidebound. At his best, he is wise and soothing, at his worst, he is an unbending traditionalist.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

The Pursuit of Happyness

2007-01-06T16:36:00.000-05:00

I have just returned - still hanky in hand - from seeing "The Pursuit of Happyness." If you don't see another movie all year, you need to see this one. It's a true story. See it. You'll be glad you did.

What a difference a day makes!

2007-01-04T17:58:00.000-05:00

What a difference a day makes! My medicine kicked in last night. No headaches today. I am feeling not completely back to normal, but I am closer than I've been in 2007. Thanks for your prayers and well wishes. As we speak, I'm roasting a turkey breast in the oven (I love turkey) and preparing some mashed potatoes and biscuits with honey! MMMMMM.....What are YOU having for dinner???

Middle of the Night and Headaches

2007-01-03T16:25:00.000-05:00

I awoke in the middle of the night with my dreaded headache's return. I have had it off and on today, and it is bad enough that I called my doctor. He believes it is because I've changed my medication. I'm to begin trying the different dosage today. I know to watch chocolate and caffeine and get enough rest. I'm excited about 2007 and have so many things to do. These headaches are messing up my progress. Not to mention scaring me.

Happy 2007!

2007-01-02T15:23:00.000-05:00

HAPPY 2007! I'm especially happy today on the 2nd as I put out an SOS for help on adding blog links. I'm going to have to get permission from my "rescuer" to publish his name, but he designed my "Rich Reads." I love having the links I read frequently over there! I am still missing a few as I had them haphazardly in my favorites. PLEASE, if I've missed you somehow, send me an email and I'll add yours! About the only crummy thing going on is that I was laid up yesterday with a migraine headache, and it has returned this afternoon. I'm so happy looking at my links though! Thank you to the Big guy!

ARGGGGHHH!!!!! HELP!!! All Crossed Up!

2006-12-29T22:25:00.000-05:00

I am ALL crossed up. I do not want to lose my religion over this. I am trying to add "blogrolling" so I can add all my "reads" to my blog. ARGGGHH! I can't do it. It's supposed to be easy. I went to blogrolling but can't figure out where to put in my "cookie cutter template" offered by Blogger. Any white knight or knightresses out there? Also, if I EVER get it working, is etiquette that I ASK people before adding them to my list? Your advice and help is greatly appreciated.

2006 in Review

2006-12-28T22:19:00.000-05:00

2006 in Review

January – Resolved not to be superstitious. Washed on New Year’s Day. Wrote my 100th post. High points: Planned my trip to Spain and ate twinkies for the first time. Low point: My laptop died and blogger quit on me. Lowest point: My mother told me she never wanted a daughter like me.

February – Made a presentation to a big dog at work. Caught a cold. Worshipped Coca-Cola. Highest point: Made a waitress at IHOP happy on her birthday.

March – Too busy to take trip to Spain. Hurt my foot and went to the ER. Took great painkillers. Ate Girl Scout cookies. Began my bi monthly manicure/pedicures. Highest point: Saved from a crazy driver.

April – Had a car accident. Began belly dancing. Lowest point: Watching my little friend Belle’s heartbreak. Highest point: Mistaken for the Eastern Bunny.

May – Cried all month. Lowest point of the year: My beloved Balto died. High point of the month: Got a kitten.

June – Traveled. Had a hot date. Low point: My cousin killed himself. Scary point: Found a lump in my breast. Then another one. High point: Made a great peach pie and lumps disappeared.

July – Had several windfall moments. Low point: CPA made a mistake on my taxes. High point: My mom had a dinner party. She invited me.

August – Went on vacation. Bought a new bed. Low point: Left vacation to be with my mom who had emergency surgery for cancer. High point: Began to read The Bible again.

September – Low points: Steve Irwin and Polly died. My bad headaches returned. High point: Rediscovered coffee and went to Europe unplanned.

October – Barely posted at all. Low point: Depression jumped on me. Bad.

November – Depression continued. I sought help.

December – High points: Got back on track mentally, celebrated my birthday, enjoyed Christmas shopping. Low point: Realized how many deaths and illnesses I witnessed this year.

And how was YOUR 2006?

Looking toward 2007

2006-12-27T09:47:00.000-05:00

It's time for me to look toward 2007. Many people don't believe in New Year's resolutions, but I like the idea of a "fresh start." Over the years, I've accomplished so much using the "resolution method." In fact, the windfall actually occurred as a result of a such a goal setting session. Some day I'll talk more about that. I'm not going to look back much over 2006. Instead, I decided this morning that I am going to set a goal for this year. I've spent over an hour searching for a certain waffle recipe. Being a cookbook collector, I'm going to get them organized. To that end, I will cook at least ONE recipe from each one in 2007. I have to COUNT how many I have. LOL. What do you think of resolutions, and if you have one, will you share it? I won't tell.....I promise.

Day after Christmas, Lounging, Mystery Neighbors and a Motorcycle

2006-12-26T10:54:00.000-05:00

How was YOUR Christmas? Mine was FUN and very MERRY. A different assortment of folks, and YES, I had DRAMA. One of my guests brought his poodle! And my little sweet dog went wild. Man, you do not want to deal with dog drama/relationships while you are cooking a huge meal. I mean, I could barely get myself calm -- even with my sure fire calming tea. LOL. Barney was over and cracking jokes. He likes to complain (sometimes I think to get a reaction) but honestly, he is a stitch. I am lounging reading a not too trashy novel and watching a Law and Order Criminal Intent I taped three days ago. I have four DVRs in my house (I know, I know....not good) so that I can taped things anywhere I might be watching TV. That way, I'm never late for anything because I waited around to watch something! Speaking of mysteries (we weren't talking about them though, were we?), I just heard a motorcycle outside. Thinking I might see Cornbread, Steel Cowboy or Grey Biker out there, I catapulted myself up and over to the window. It was my "mystery neighbors" with a truck and a trailer with a guy riding on the motorcycle driving down their driveway. No, I didn't get to see what kind it was. I've never met them. They come and go at crazy hours. The house goes up and down for sale. They have lots of visitors too. They also have landscapers over alot. Does one of Tony Soprano's cousins live across the street from me? Not to be a bore, but I'm hanging in there at 25peeps if you don't mind still clicking me.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE!!!!!!!!!

2006-12-24T10:52:00.000-05:00

I have put on my Christmas dress for y'all. Am I looking fine or what? Not only that......I have my famous white bean chili cooking and all the dinner's trimmings bought. Still wrapping presents! Dinner is going to be wild! My daddy's here. I have three visitors with nowhere else to go coming which my friend Barney simply can't understand! He's like YOU BARELY KNOW THESE PEOPLE. I'm like......this is the spirit of Christmas! Even though one of them is Jewish. He's still coming. Who wants to be alone this time of year? I have to go now. My ferocious cat is insisting I finish wrapping HIS gifts. I'm STILL on 25peeps.com! Thank you for your past votes, and if you feel in the spirit, keep voting! Love you guys! Merry Christmas EVE!!!!!!!!

Clicking and Parties

2006-12-22T08:28:00.000-05:00

Three days 'til Christmas! Thank you for your votes at 25peeps.com. I'm hanging in there. Go back and click more if you are so inclined.

I had date last night; we went to my girls' club party. These types of functions can't be fun for guys. One of the girls insisted that couples "split" and go to different tables. He looked a bit uneasy, and I really didn't want him to go anywhere else. I beckoned him over, and he seemed relieved. During the course of the conversation, several times he shook his head at me as though to say "don't say that." I do so hate being monitored. These are my friends; they love me for me. I'm not perfect. Maybe he thinks he's perfect? I sure could use some expert "man advice" here. Are all men like this?

WOW! I made it!

2006-12-21T09:15:00.000-05:00

WOW! I made it to 25peeps.com. Please come click on me! I could use your.......click. Thanks alot in advance.

The Season of Miracles

2006-12-20T10:40:00.000-05:00

Tis the season for miracles. Yesterday, a friend of mine called me quite shaken. He had witnessed a teenager crossing a busy road to school and being hit by a car going quickly. He watched her body fly in the air and crash. The police crossing guard told all to pray for her as they waited for a life flight helicopter. As my friend talked, I searched his city's television news website. Behold, the accident was listed; but the teenage girl did not have life threatening injuries. She had a broken leg! Surely God's hand was at work.

When I was a teenager, I was driving with my mother and grandmother in the car along a narrow two lane road. A man was mowing a thin patch of land as we approaching in our car. Suddenly, the lawnmower slipped from his hands and careened directly in my path. There was no time to react. I braced myself for the crash, and miraculously, there was none. I looked in the rear view mirror and the lawnmower was on the other side of the street. It literally would have had to pass through my car. The man was staring at the back of my car. What happened? I believe it was a miracle -- the hand of angel?

I believe. Truly I do. Do you?

What do you do?

2006-12-19T07:19:00.000-05:00

There are days that I wonder why I brought my life to this blog. Of course, it is rendered YOU and I Time Magazine's person of the year. Do I care? No. Have I even seen the fake mirror on the front? No. When you bring your life here and you write about it, you open your life and yourself up. Do I pass muster? I don't know. Will God think I passed muster? Or will someone say just not good enough?

The Third Gift

2006-12-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

First, I owe you an apology for not keeping my promise. I was supposed to post this Thursday!

The third gift came from my daddy. I always get a beautiful card. This time, there was a check but it was facedown. Flipping it over, I expected no large sum but I was amazed! It was $250! I actually sat down.

Now, I don't know about you, but when I receive monetary gifts they aren't that large. Of course what's interesting is that my daddy knows about the windfall. Why did he send me this money? I began to think of all the possibilities for $250......a chair or curiosity from my favorite antique shop? Splurging on a pair of my favorite top end pair of shoes with money left over? More pots for my kitchen? A food processor (no, I don't have one)? A piece of jewelry? So many possibilities......Now, you know I could buy any of these things myself. But this present would come from my dad. Throughout the day, I thought of birthday checks and all the things I've gotten with them in the past. My paternal grandmother always sent checks. With my birthday so close to Christmas, many times I was cash strapped and bought my Christmas tree with it. I have my "budget" ornaments from the grocery store with paperclips fashioned as hangers. I keep those to remind myself of my days before the windfall. I think it's important to remember that. So, I haven't spent my check yet. What would you buy with $250?

Birthdays

2006-12-13T15:06:00.000-05:00

You are tricky readers! Yes, Monday was my birthday. It was great, and thank you to those you remembered and wrote me. I got some roses, some pictures, assorted scented soaps, etc. I had three favorite presents. First, I got a pair of snowflake candlesticks from Walt. It seems he remembered that I had talked about my grandmother having some. What a kid! And Belle? She gave me a bracelet that looked just like a David Yurman! I had to go to the doctor yesterday and a lady there thought it was the real thing! It means more to me than if it was worth thousands! It's priceless because it came from her. Walt and Belle.....two wonderful kids! I'm lucky they're in my life. P.S. I'll tell you about my third gift tommorrow.

Santa Baby.....I'm Looking

2006-12-10T19:41:00.000-05:00

Dear Santa,

Thank you for any part you had in bringing me my windfall. I have sure enjoyed it and tried to be a good girl. I've shared with many others. I haven't been extravagant - I promise. There's one thing I'm missing if you can shove one in my stocking. Do you have an extra good man up there on the North Pole? I need one who isn't too attached to his family. I need one who doesn't like to argue. Can he be a good guy too? I don't care so much for looks although being clean and neat is a must. He shouldn't want me for my money either. He can't be an alcoholic or drug addict either. It would be really nice if he liked to go to church too. It would be great if he could just love me for myself. Thanks for listening Santa. I left you an American Express gift certificate by the cookies and milk.

Sincerely,

WFW

Memories (not Streisand either)

2006-12-08T07:36:00.000-05:00

I've been on a quiet campaign at my house of cleaning. You can hire wonderful people to "hit the high spots," but getting someone to stand on top of a chair and clean the tippy top of your oven near the ceiling? I don't think so. I was daydreaming in my kitchen as I put away clean dishes and looked up at my soup toureen I display. It was dusty, so I hauled it down to wash it.

You probably know someone who has a piece or two of this pattern - Franciscan Desert Rose. It was my grandmother's. My grandmother, my namesake, had just about every piece imaginable. That is, she had every piece except the soup toureen. We happened to be talking about her "missing piece" one year, and I resolved to complete her collection. I went to Macy's and got the last one. Because it was so expensive, I got gift wrapping for free. I was so excited on Christmas morning to see her open it. She could always guess EVERY present. Everyone wanted her to guess this time, but she couldn't. When she saw it, her mouth opened so wide and she smiled with her whole face. I love that memory. Don't you wish every gift you gave brought so much happiness? I'd love to hear about your successes!

Happy and Partying

2006-12-06T18:58:00.000-05:00

Hi y'all! I feel so happy (finally)! This is my favorite time of year. I helped with a parade on Saturday and went to the ballet. So beautiful! On Monday night, I was dressed up for a Christmas Tree Festival and Tuesday night I was at a band concert. All put me in the holiday spirit even more. I have deliberately waited to do all my Christmas shopping so I can surprise everyone! Besides, call me sick but I like getting out and rubbing elbows with everyone. I can't tell what I'm buying EVERYONE but suffice it to say that you can find me mainly in the electronics, music and video departments this year! I had someone ask me what I want for my birthday. I have NO idea except that (shhhh.....) I would love a tiny diamond necklace that I've seen on other people. But I don't want to buy it for myself! I'll take any cookbook I don't have. More than anything, I want to see the people I love have a great Christmas. What do YOU want????? Tell me.....I won't tell. I promise!

Sunday and Decorations and Coming to Terms

2006-12-03T07:24:00.000-05:00

Sunday is supposed to be a day of rest. I'm taking my rest today. It's gray and overcast here and cold in the mornings. I had a busy day yesterday with my volunteer work. Today I'm going to get my Christmas tree. Last year I paid a designer friend to come and decorate my house. This year I'm paying a couple of teenagers to help me. I missed not doing it myself. I didn't decorate for Halloween this year like I did last year or give out extravagant trick or treat items. I was too "not myself." I won't let myself slide back into that "not myself" place again. I could barely even talk about it but here's what happened. Over the course of about six weeks, five teenagers I knew died, ruined their lives or had their lives ruined for them. How do you make sense of such tragedy? You just don't. You work your way through the morass of grief. You hold on to those precious people in your lives. You move on. I've missed you all. Thank you for your cards, words of encouragement and advice. Now, let's get on with the business and joy of living.

Happy Christmas!

2006-12-02T21:17:00.000-05:00

Happy Christmas! I'm back. I can't believe I've been gone so long. I even missed my anniversary in September. You know I haven't been myself, but I'm better now. Family and health problems got me off track. This crazy windfall has really messed with my head. Plenty of you are probably out there thinking, "I'd like to have THAT problem." Believe me, it's not ALL bad. BUT...it does require some major life adjustment. I've always believed in the goodness of other people. Now, I cast a fishy eye at many. Are they being nice to me because of the money? Do they want to date me for my money? If I didn't have it, would they treat me the same? It can really make you paranoid. And, the sad part is that so many organizations don't even ASK me for money. They EXPECT it. I wonder if there is a Millionaires Anonymous. Because if there isn't, maybe I should start it. My birthday is coming up in 9 days. I'm excited. I don't know why. I love birthdays, and I love Christmas. What do YOU love?

Green Eyed Girl

2006-11-08T07:48:00.000-05:00

Hi y'all. Check out this blog. I love it!

Progress

2006-11-04T20:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, now I'm talking to my friends. And they are astounded. Me, the ultimate cheery "woman who does and manages it all" is foilable. Yep, she's crumbling. Today I managed to write three checks that did not total $100 but needed to be mailed. I got it done. It was like an ant moving a mountain. Why couldn't I do it? No energy. I had time. I had the checks, stamps, money. Today I gripped my upper arm and grimaced -- it hurt! I looked and realized that it was bruised. Apparently now, I am gripping on a regular basis -- so much that I am bruising myself. The only thing I am maintaining right now is work and my mani/pedicure appointments. Why the latter - I don't know except I think she needs the money. I wish I could say that looking at my gorgeous nails makes me feel better. I need to exercise but I have no energy. I need to cook again but I have no energy. I need to see a movie but I have no energy. What's happening to me?

Back......

2006-10-28T21:21:00.000-04:00

Hi y'all. I've been gone almost a whole month. I really didn't intend on it; it just happened. August up to now has been a rough time. Suffice it to say that health scares, deaths, car accidents and tragedies have been the themes for these three months. As you may have read, I've been struggling to find peace. I am still having my ups and downs (like everyone else) and my depression has been stalking me. I've tried running away from it with trips, shopping, but it hasn't really budged. I wonder? Have I had this all my life and I didn't know it? Was all that anxiety really depression? The worst part about depression is that I've been feeling extraordinarily lonely. I finally confessed to two of my friends. We're supposed to have lunch. Yeah. Lunch. When I have the energy. It's a start. It's a start.

Peek a Boo!

2006-10-01T13:34:00.000-04:00

Peek a Boo! I had enough of those headaches. I called my travel agent and booked a trip to get away. London, Paris, Milan, Rome.......all through Europe. I had not done that, and I really needed it. Being poor before, I had only been to Mexico and Jamaica. All that history was amazing. Some places weren't so great to be American. Boy, when people tell you that we aren't popular, they are RIGHT! Having the appropriate money straightened those Europeans right up though. I didn't take any crap. But I didn't stir any up either. It was fun to get away and relax. And my headache is finally gone! How have YOU been?

This week.....

2006-09-21T14:46:00.000-04:00

Thank you for your emails wondering where I've been. Headache. Actually, make that headaches with a big capital S. I've had one since Sunday. Every single day. They've come and gone. I've awakened in the middle of the night with one. I have one now, and I feel sick to my stomach. I can't think, I can't tolerate noise, I can barely do anything. I feel like crap.

Polly Wolly Lolly Get Your Adverbs Here......

2006-09-13T20:20:00.000-04:00

Once upon a time, there was a beautiful dog named Polly. She was a beautiful girl, beloved by many, cherished by a special couple. They took walks and played together. Their grandchildren came to visit and played with Polly too. Their granddaughter made up "the Polly song" -- Polly Wolly Lolly, Get Your Adverbs Here. She sang it to the sweet dog every time she saw her. One day, Polly fell ill and soon did not know her own name. There was only one thing to be done to preserve her dignity and end her suffering. Rest in peace Polly Wolly Lolly and get your adverbs here.

Quiet Mornings

2006-09-08T08:49:00.000-04:00

It's not QUITE this cold here yet; however, it is a lovely quiet morning. I am enjoying my second cup of decaff from McDonald's and reading a new book, The Mermaid Chair. I'm sure your mouths are hanging open that I am drinking coffee from McD's, but I guess some habits (aka being poor) die hard. It's a whole LOT less expensive than Starbuck's or Caribou plus it is better! Let me be a rebel and stand up and say - Starbuck's coffee is BITTER sometimes! Anyhow, it is a peaceful quiet this morning; and my body is still and relaxed. It's also FRIDAY. I love Fridays. Even though my work is fairly easy (most of the time) and I work from home (even better), I still look forward to the big old TGIF. It's also PAYDAY, and I love PAYDAY. Again, a hangover from the old days when I worked from paycheck to paycheck.

I'm convinced now, right after celebrating my year with the windfall this year, that if you keep your priorities straight.....life doesn't really change that much. Sure, I have financial independence. Sure, I've got some wonderful 0s in the accounts. I still live in the SAME house, work at the SAME job, and drink my coffee from the SAME place. Life is good.

Rest in Peace Steve Irwin

2006-09-04T16:57:00.000-04:00

Such sad news. One of the greatest zoologists of our time died today in a freak accident after being pierced by a stingray while filming in the Great Barrier Reef. Steve Irwin, the great "Crocodile Hunter," is now gone leaving his wife, daughter and son. I wish I could muster up a "Crickey" as he would say, but my heart just isn't in it. God bless his soul and his family.

Who do you turn to?

2006-08-29T21:10:00.000-04:00

In recent times, I've been rocked to the core with worries. Health scares for my family and me, my beloved dog's and my cousin's death......it's been so much to process. Even the windfall is a stress of sorts. Let me share with you that there are times I awake in the middle of the night wondering if I am doing the right things with it. Am I being generous enough? What is meant for me to do with it? Is there one life in particular that I am meant to touch? No one can accuse me of squandering it, because I have been so conservative. I didn't quit my job. I'm still out there amongst you still. Hoping to find answers, I picked up a book - a brand new one that I bought two years ago. Yes, a brand new lilac colored Bible for women. I had never opened it. Well, now I've been opening it and reading random selections. God, I'm trying. Help me please. Help me do what's right.

You never know......

2006-08-24T09:08:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I was in the grocery store madly shopping for ingredients for the dinner I was cooking for my mom. I needed some things from the deli (sigh) which is ALWAYS a wait. They were just finishing with one lady, and an older gentleman was waiting patiently and I was behind him. This other older lady just barged right in ahead of both of us. The next worker came up and asked who was next and I pointed to the gentleman and said, "he is." The older lady who had "cut" in line said, "Did I go ahead of you?" I said, "Yes, and that man was before me." I was infuriated beause I was in just as much of a hurry! She said, "Oh, I'm so sorry, my air conditioning just broke in my car and my husband is at home with a broken leg. I'm dreading getting back in that car." Well, I could certainly relate to the A/C being out in THIS 90 degree weather. I told her not to worry about it. I told her I was shopping for my mom because she had just had surgery. She said, "She's lucky to have you. My daughter lives far away and can't help." She moved her cart away, and after I got my stuff, I followed her into the produce section. I asked her if I could help her get her car to the shop. She said, "I think it just needs fleon." Poor thing ("fleon" instead of freon); I asked her where she was going and if I could help. She thanked me and said she was going to find a full service station. I told her where the closest one was. I thought about giving her my number and decided against it. With all of this stuff with my mom, I've wondered........what do people do who have no family? No friends? Who helps them? Who listens to them? Who cooks for them? Who sits in the waiting room for news from their surgery? Who cries from relief when they are going to be fine? Who holds their hand when they wake up? Who prays for them?