Aaaahhhhhh..... 

The Longest Weekend...

Here's hoping you all have a great, and loooooooong weekend.

And may you be fortunate enough to visit some place like the picture above.

Oh, and don't forget this.

If you are fortunate enough to visit a place like this picture, remember the ones who made it possible for you to come and go as you please, to be anyone you want to be, to live with a precious gift that not all humans enjoy...FREEDOM.

Please don't forget to thank your friends in the military for their service. Because of them, and countless thousands before, we enjoy the priviledge of freedom. Monday is not just another off-day. Memorial Day is set aside to pay homage to the sacrifices laid at the altar of freedom by the brave men and women serving at home and abroad.

GOD BLESS YOU, OUR BRAVE SOLDIERS. THANK YOU ALL...AND PLEASE, GOD BLESS AMERICA!

A nugget a day...

Aight. The country nuggets keep 'a comin'...this time from someone I consider a gentleman, a wordsmith and a scholar. The following submissions were sent to me via my brother Bob, aka Snick Snoid, aka Big Bro. One thing I would like to point out is the subtle differences between 'country' and 'country ghetto'. Bob is a master of both colloquial languages, and gives excellent examples. However, I think example #3 should be classified as 'country ghetto' since we hear this word across a vast number of ethnicities. It, by the way, is one of my favorite and most used country ghetto words. Dig it...and btw, you can visit my brother's blog by clicking on the blues blaster link. Go check it out.

Submitted by Big Bro...
1. Assed: " I assed him to pick up the bale of hay and tho it on the wagon."
Generally used in the deep south and is meant to be the word "asked"
2. Cut off / on / up: " Hey Bill, cut them lights off when you go to bed." OR
" Hey Bill, cut that radio up a little bit."
Generally used in the rural deep south and is commonly used in the place of "turn off / on / up."
3. Thoed: " He got mad as hell and "thoed" a fit."
Generally used in the rural south and is commonly understood to mean the past tense of the word throw which is "threw". No phonic similarities are noted between these two words which makes this a very interesting usage indeed.

Thanks, Bob, for your succint descriptions. Very easy to comprehend, even for Northerners. LOL
Now, I will add a few more of my favorites. Since we are on a vocabulary theme, then I will stick to that.

1. Fixin' to: "I'm fixin' to go to town."
Considered a verb, fixin' to is used in the place of 'about to' or 'going to'. Nothing is broken, so don't think someone is about to commence repair work.
2. Yonder: "The car is parked over yonder."
I am dogged non-stop about my use of this word. Usually, yonder is used to indicate an undeterminable distance. Generally used in place of 'over there'. Yes, yonder is a real place.
3. Reckon: "I reckon I'd better go." A legitimate word, reckon is often used to refer to reconcilliation. In this case, it refers to speculation. It is often used instead of 'suppose' or 'believe'.

I hope you have enjoyed this week's nuggets. Keep 'em coming, I need more, more, more! LOL

Religious Philosophies of the World

I came across a scrap of paper in my desk at work, and it contained the following observations. I abolutely love this, because I think a sense of humor should accompany all organized religions. It just helps to make it all more palatable. I have no idea of the author, but whomever she/he may be, they have hit the proverbial nail on the head. And, too, I must post this in honor of GF and her prior post on the ever present and ever funny subject of feces. This is totally tongue-in-cheek, so nobody choose to be offended, m'kay?

Catholicism: If shit happens, I deserve it.

Protestantism: Shit won't happen if I work harder (this applies heavily to all Baptists)

Judaism: Why does this shit always happen to me?

Mormanism: I'll go to hell if I say shit.

Buddhism: When shit happens, is it really shit?

Islam: If shit happens, take a hostage.

Hinduism: This shit happened before.

Hare Krishna: Shit happens, rama lama ding dong.

Rastafarianism: Let's smoke this shit.

--author unknown

Happy Tuesday, y'all! Feel free to add your own observations on comments...

Gimme sum uh them 'Country Nuggets'!

Howdy! Thanks to J and S who have submitted some goodies! I always love to hear everyone's favorite country sayings, so here goes. And if you want in on the action, email your nuggets to gribblelite@yahoo.com You may see your nuggets 'rite chear'. That means 'right here' for all your Northerners.

Submitted by J....heeheehee
1."a month of Sundays"
In a sentence: I ain't seen you in a month of Sundays.
Translation: A long damn time.

2. "he couldn't pour piss out of a boot"
In a sentence: My ex husband is so stupid, he couldn't pour piss out of a boot.
Translation: (none needed, self explanatory)

Submitted by S...luv the vocabulary words!

"I always thought it was weird that my grandmother and many other old people said the word "Karn" pronounced "Key-yarn" when talking about a dead animal. It wasn't until I became an adult I realized this wholetime she was meaning "carrion"!! I guess someonealong the way had read this word and said it wrong!"

The most country pick up line I've every heard:
"Gal,you are as cute as a speckled pup in a strawberrypatch"
Followed by the not so cute, "I ought ta just clonk you over the head, take you home, and put ya on mah bed. Whatcha think uh that?"

I love how words are mispronounced here in the south:
Each=Itch
ehet=ate
ceasars=seizures
alltimers or oldtimers=alzheimer's

Fabulously funny! And I will add a small spattering of my favorites, after all, we can't teach too much at once or it will not be retained.

1. When someone smiles really big, you might say they are...
"grinnin' like a mule eatin' sawbriars" or
"grinnin' like a 'possum"
or my all time favorite "he's got a grin on his face like a wave on a slop jar".

Note: A slop jar is a receptacle used before indoor plumbing. The jar or "thundermug" was used at night, or when it was too cold/hot to visit the local outhouse. "Honeybucket" is another interchangeable. I admit, I have actually utilized one of these at the home of my great grandmother some 30 or so years ago. It was in the middle of the night, and I had to tinkle. The indoor bathroom with running water was approximately 10 steps away, but she said, "Oh, honey...just use Ma's pot and I'll throw it out in the morning." Man, was that thing coooooold. LOL

Keep the country comments coming...hope y'all are having a great Monday! Yuck.

No end in sight...

Sorry, but due to my almost unbearable schedule, I will not be posting any country nuggets today. It will have to wait until next week, when hopefully, I will have clawed my way from under the train wreck that my life has become. I want to disappear.
I sincerely hope everyone out there will have the most restful and satisfying weekend of their lives.

Woooo-doggies!

Thanks J, for your submission in the "Southern Nuggets" contest. They are excellent, and will be revealed for all to see tomorrow. I will post a couple of my own faves just to make it more interesting, too.
Today is a mixed bag...Friday-eve, shower this weekend for JMG (fun,fun,fun!), maybe even some time for rest? Oh, wouldn't that be delicious. All I want to do is sit in the sun for a couple of hours on Sunday. That's not asking too much, now is it?
And I can finally speak of the most wonderful news I've heard in a while! I'M GONNA BE A GREAT AUNTIE! That's right...CBSD and hubby are using one home-preg test after another in disbelief. I would be doing the same thing if it were me, though....and IT'S NOT ME!
That brings me to the next subject in the bag today. Apparently, all the rage around the county is that I, somehow, (osmosis maybe?) got married while I was in Mexico. ROTFLMAO! I'm not mad about it, but it is positively stunning how these rumors come about. So, without reservation, let me set the record straight.
1. I am not married, to anyone.
2. I am not pregnant, nor have I ever been.
3. There are no plans in my immediate future to get married or to get pregnant.
There! Straight from the mouth of the horse. Am I married? Neigh. (get it?)
Too funny...still looking for those 'nuggets' from you country folks. Send 'em on, otherwise the contest will be BORING.

Good-bye, Citrus...

Today, as I was cruising along on my daily blogland tour, I anxiously awaited the page to load and reveal to me the mysteries and vividly tart tales of one now-beloved-to-me blogger named, aptly, Citrus. I have come to love Citrus' daily offerings, like I love my first cup of java in the morning. But today, as I noticed the hue of the screen loading, that something was different. The original, bright yellow happiness that greeted me was adorned with a blackened, bleak font composing a final 'turrah' from dear Citrus.

Oh...I am so sorry that you had to go, and I will sorely miss your postings. Whenever I needed a clever anecdote, or an original thought to stimulate my senses, I could always count on Citrus.

I have come to anticipate what your latest pic would be, featuring, of course, the deliciousness that is everything lemon.
Your gentle aggression toward the ugliness that surrounds us all was inspiring, and touching. And your wicked sense of humor was unmatched.

Thank you for gracing my blog with your always kind and always uplifting comments...God bless you for saying no to negativity! And if you can find it in your heart to give me some way to say goodbye, please allow me that. I am the sole of descretion, and only want to wish you and H well. I certainly hope you will see this post, dedicated to you, and all your "proletarian pithiness"...you are nothing less than an original, my dear. Here's my mail gribblelite@yahoo.com.

p.s. Your lemony influence has rubbed off on me...I am throwing a wedding shower this weekend, and, of all things, citris fruit will be one of my delectable influences. I will post pics later for all to see.

Godspeed, and Goodbye...

Southern Nuggets

I had a marvelous epiphany today! In order to create more understanding between the great diversity of cultures here on the web, I have decided to have a contest.
(I must be out of my mind since I have no spare time to start with, LOL)

Please submit your favorite southern or country saying to me at gribblelite@yahoo.com
I will review what I receive each week, and post a weekly "winner" in the "Southern Nuggets" contest. Please submit as many as you like, because I will eventually compile all of my gleaned knowledge into a collection and post the whole dang thang. You can include stories, jokes, anecdotes, whatever is country and worth repeating. I'll be looking forward to your submissions...thanks y'all! I will include some of my faves as well...I have some goodies, LOL.

Random thoughts on a Monday...

I feel like my vacation happened a year ago.

Can't wait for Jeanne's shower this weekend, it will be fun.

I want to get organized, I mean really organized.

Thinking about work is so overwhelming today.

I haven't eaten lunch yet, no wonder I'm hungry.

Where the hell did I put my keys?????????????

I don't have much of a sense of humor today, grrrr.

Would someone please stop the clock for me, just for a few minutes?

I miss getting to spend time doing nothing.

If stress were measured on a scale from 1 to 10, I'd score 100, at least.

Looking forward to seeing my brother soon...a jam session would do me good.

I just want a small, teeny-tiny break in the chaos.

Food Drive Tomorrow!

Okay everyone...I am gonna do my civic duty, and remind you about the annual National Association of Letter Carriers food drive coming up TOMORROW. It's simple...put some canned food out by your mailbox tomorrow morning, and your mail carrier will pick it up and deliver it to the Crossett Area Food Bank if you are in our area. The food collected here will STAY HERE. BTW, this is a nationwide drive, so give where ever you are.
I have been involved with the food bank in Crossett for about a year, and the need is REAL. The executive director has told me stories that would make you weep...like the 80 something-year-old grandmother raising her GREAT grandkids who couldn't buy food after she paid all her medical bills...or the young mother with 5 kids to feed, and dad is no where to be found. Just listen to these stats...

* Last year, the Crossett Area Food Bank served over 500 families...I said 500 FAMILIES, NOT INDIVIDUALS.
* The NALC food drive alone collected over 3100 pounds of food last year, and ALL of it was needed.
* Many of the hungry in our community are CHILDREN

Whether we want to talk about it or not, we have hungry people right here in Ashley County...and the need is year-round, NOT JUST DURING THE HOLIDAYS. Summertime can be particularly bad because energy costs can go up during hot months. So do a simple thing...go through your pantry, and donate some food. Here are some tips on what to give

Items not accepted:
*Home-canned foods
*No packets, please i.e ketchup, syrup, dressing
*Nothing in glass containers

Items that are needed:
*Canned meats, like tuna, spam, chili, stew
*Canned tomato sauces
*Pasta
*Hamburger Helper
*Boxed mac and cheese
*Canned soups of every kind

THE FOOD BANK LOVES POP-TOP FOOD!...SADLY, IT'S BECAUSE YOUNG CHILDREN CAN OPEN THE CANS THEMSELVES...OFTEN, THERE ARE NO ADULTS TO PREPARE THE FOOD FOR THEM.

Thanks to everyone who donates, because who knows? You or I may need assistance one day. The food bank is located inside the presbyterian church on Pine street in Crossett. Please help them, they do a great service.
Thanks, y'all!

10 Things for Which I am Thankful

It has been a tough week, for many, many reasons. So instead of a whine-fest (not to be confused with a wine-fest), I will post 10 things/people for which/whom I am truly grateful. In no particular order:
1. I am thankful for - My parents. They are the best, bar none, hands down. So don't argue. Two words? Consistent love.

2. I am thankful for - My health. I want to get old, but I 'm gonna keep it clean, keep it real. And I will do what I have to do to stay healthy...even if it means I can't have cathead biscuits every day. *sigh*

3. I am thankful for - My home place. I love my house, but I'm talking about the 40 acres where I spent my childhood. There is no place like Milo, anywhere. I know this because I've been around the world and back. I've seen ancient cities, white beaches, towering mountains...and nothing compares to the wind through the pine trees, the sun setting over the pond, the far-away call of the whipporwill, the sound of dad cranking the old massey ferguson. I can walk those woods with my eyes closed, and tell you of the times me and my mother picnicked by a certain tree. There's really no place like home.

4. I am thankful for - My family. Best and craziest on the planet...also, most hospitable and forgiving. I love y'all.

5. I am thankful for - My friends. I have a few very good ones, and for each of you I wouldn't take all the riches in the world...because YOUR friendship is more valuable.

6. I am thankful for - Freedom. I am, the number one, bona-fide, biggest fan and patriot of this great United States. Yeah, we ARE great. And I won't tolerate ANYONE belittling or insulting this great nation or the flag which represents her. Too many people have died on the field of battle to ensure that I have the PRIVILEGE, not THE RIGHT, to live here. Being an American is a privilege, and I'm proud to be one. Too many people confuse rights and privileges.

7. I am thankful for - The Creator. He made a way for me to look beyond this life I live now, through his Son. And His Holy Spirit ministers to me daily. I am thankful for having the faith to believe in the unseen, and to enjoy the confidence of being something greater when this life is though. It's really exciting to think about!

8. I am thankful for - My job. I have met so many awesome people through my job, and it enriches my life immensely. I am fortunate to have an occupation like this.

9. I am thankful for - Second chances. I have messed up in my life so many times it's embarrassing. I have made bad personal choices, extended my heart to the wrong people, invested time and energy in dead-end situations, acted careless when I should have been diligent...blah, blah, blah. But, thankfully, we all get a do-over. *whew*

10. And finally, I am thankful for - Music. What a gift! Music transcends all ages, nationalities, and creeds. Everywhere you go, you can find music...whether it includes voices, instruments or both. Music is not only, worldwide, it's universal. One day, I'm gonna sing "a new song". I can't wait.

Hope you enjoyed my list. Holla!

Letter to Momma

Can anyone tell me if I will ever stop missing my mother? This July 8th will be three years since she left this earth for a better place, and I swear by all things holy that I miss her worse today than then. So much so, that I couldn't bring myself to spend time with any of my family yesterday for 'Mother's Day'. I could neither bear the thought of seeing anyone that reminds me of her, nor could I visit her grave. I honestly can't tell if what I'm feeling resembles sadness, or if it' some odd mix of anger/resentment because her time was, in my opinion, too soon. She was 64. Today, I feel 64.
Oh, God, how I wish she were here! That is the most selfish thing in the world for me to say, but I want my momma. In my heart, I'm 8 years old, having a bad day, and I've fallen and skinned my knee...and no one but my mother will do. She was the most benevolent, kind and loving person I ever have known. The shame of it is that I didn't know this until after I was grown. I didn't give her the full measure of respect she deserved until I was in my twenties, but I know she knew how much I loved her.
She was so gifted with so much knowledge, and she shared it freely. I never, ever doubted that my mother would continue love me no matter how badly I disappointed her, or when I just plain messed up. There is nothing on earth, and possibly in heaven, to compare to a mother's love. And now, I don't enjoy that love any more. So, for the sake of my sanity, I will write my mother a letter. I'll pretend she is on some glorious trip, and just gone for a while.

My dearest momma,
Hey there, long time since we last visited, so I just wanted to catch up with you. I have been busy, as usual, with work. If I had my choice, I would come get you, and we would sit on buckets and fish in the pond like we have done so many times. Remember when I dropped my cell phone in the water? LOL...thank goodness you had that dip net.
Your flowers are blooming all over the yard. Irises everywhere, even the ones at the corner of the old chicken yard. And roses! Your rose bushes are coming on like a new rooster in a hen house. Haven't checked the ones that came from Mrs. Lonia May's, but I bet they'll bloom soon. Daddy burned up most all of his tomatoes...he did a "Neal" and got overzealous with the fertilizer...heehee. But the ones in the the raised "tire" beds are looking good. I think he has staked them already. Maybe a few pepper plants will survive the lethal dose of triple 13.
Mom, I'm so tired, and there's no end in sight. How did you manage to keep a household intact, care for your husband, and raise 4 kids? I am in awe of you...at my age, you were a mom 4 times over with a 3 year old in the mix! If you know of any elixer or remedy besides Geritol that will help, please let me know.
Momma, I miss you. I feel like you have been gone forever, even though it has been just a short while. I sure do miss your phone calls and visits on the three wheeler. I miss our early morning coffee and breakfasts on Saturdays...I miss your homemade biscuits. I still eat my biscuits with coffee in a cup, just like you did...there's no taste that reminds me of you more. I miss your hugs and kisses...I miss the way you smell. I miss how you could make all my bad thoughts go away with just one kind word and a smile. I want you to know how much I needed you in my life, and still do. I want you to know how much living without you has made me appreciate you, and just how much your unwavering devotion has come to mean to me. I just needed to say these things to you, because you deserve to hear them, and I need to say them.
Momma, I love you. I will continue to miss you every day, sometimes every moment. I want to thank you for giving me a chance to become a person of faith, for it is my faith that enables me to go on without you. I have the assurance that we will ,indeed, meet again one day, and I am thankful. I wish you were here so we could talk face to face...there are so many things I want to tell you, to ask you about. But I will have to wait.
Thank you, mother, for being a bastion of consistent love...for showing me that nothing could ever separate me from you. Thank you for having faith in me when no one else did. Thank you for everything. As I continue to live each day without you, I will endeavor to be the daughter you deserve.
I love you,
Pollyanna
p.s. are there biscuits in heaven? just wondering...

On the beach at Playa Mia...the water was perfect....ahhhh, I should have defected. 

Oooohhhh, Mexico.....

James Taylor wrote that song. I know just how he feels, because I just returned from there. Rustic, humid, exotic, captivating...it was all those things. But no sooner had I reached the friendly confines of my home county, the magic disappeared, just like a wisp of smoke.
Vacations are great, blessed things. If only there were some way to bottle the effects they render, to recapture some of the wonder and excitement of travelling to a new place. But, sadly, this isn't possible. You can look at the pictures, you can watch videos, but nothing can reproduce the euphoria of travel.
I used to travel alot more, and I miss it. I miss the stimulation and excitement of going somewhere new for the first time, of meeting new people. It's like letting my mind 'stretch it's legs', so to speak. I will just have to be diligent, and not let my mind get weighed down with worry and concern. I will find a way to be on permanent vacation. Then I will sell the idea and get ridiculously wealthy. Hahahaha!

Here's an evening shot of the beach in Costa Maya....I could watch those waves forever...ahhhhhh. 

Before....and now after! This was taken at during the Captain's formal night. Quite a difference when you compare what we looked like 2 years ago (check archives). We had a great, relaxing time...and NO! I didn't want to come home ****sigh****