Foggy Days, Sleepless Nights...

I admit - I was the first person to roll my eyes at all of the preggo women out there saying they had "baby brain", absentmindedness and were forgetful. Whatever, I thought. You already to get to eat anything you want and blame it on the child in your belly, get your own parking at the grocery store, get endless amounts of attention - you don't need another excuse.


But let me tell you - this Baby Brain isn't crap after all. IT IS TRUE - and evil. For starters, it has only taken me 30+ days to remember my password to this blog, then when I did, I managed to draft one of my best works of blog writing. And then...I accidentally deleted it. It took me several more days to get over it. So that’s where I am now….

Here’s the baby update – the little guy must be growing like a weed. He has soccer practice in the afternoons and practices his hair band head bang sometimes in the evening. He hasn’t forgotten about karate either – but that usually comes sometime mid-morning (after a snack.) I am certain he’s tall – he stretches from one side of the belly to the other. And if the tale is true that indigestion brings lots of hair, he just might look like an ape when he arrives. He’s had the hiccups a couple of times, decided that somersaults where fun on other occasions and locates the bladder quite often – poking at it when you least expect it.

As for the momma – I am growing too. My size 10 foot can only be squeezed into size 11’s now. I have outgrown a lot of clothing as well – and preggo clothing shopping isn’t as fun as I thought it would be. Every time I hold up a cute sundress in my size, it looks somewhat similar to a tent. I have almost resorted to a mumu – or should I say moo moo!! Just like the little guy, I have put on a few pounds (27 pounds to date) and look forward to what the next 6 weeks brings. My legs, ankles and feet still look barbaric (you’ve all seen Fred Flintstone right?) and just when I thought, “Gosh…my face hasn’t swollen too much,” I saw a picture of myself. (As Julie would put it, “well hell’s bells.” As Mom would put it, “oh cuss word.”)
My clumsiness and absentmindedness set in full force a month or two ago. I have managed to accidentally break things, run out of gas in my car, lose my car in parking lots, get lost in Dillard’s almost causing a panic attack, forget tickets to events to cause me to buy new ones, forget laundry for days in the washer (always a nice smell)…the list goes on and on. If it weren’t for Blaine tagging behind my every move at home, who knows what I would do. And thank goodness some of my co-workers have experienced this before or I would be up a creek with no paddle.

Despite the mishaps, the swollen feet, the anxiety and the sleepless nights, it’s all for a good cause. These are only small reminders of the many ways your life is about to change.

At my first baby shower, I opened gifts with the ooh & awww’s that every new mom should. Everything is so cute and I am overjoyed by how much thought my friends have put into things. The second baby shower, the ooh’s & awww’s continued – so very thankful for everyone and everything they are doing for us. But somewhere about halfway through, it hit me – WE ARE HAVING A BABY IN 6 WEEKS. **See Julie’s and Mom’s sayings above.

Not so sure why the ton of bricks landed on me yesterday but for some reason it did. I knew we were having a baby – but I guess the Diaper Genie made it real. It’s not just cute outfits, hats and shoes. It’s not just getting to redesign a bedroom and bathroom in the house. It’s about diaper changes, sleepless nights, feedings….it’s about the first day of kindergarten, overnight trips to Nana & Papas, 8th grade graduation and prom.

As Blaine and I have both realized, our days are numbered. Our days of picking up and heading to the lake at the last minute are gone, our days of sleeping in on weekends and lounging on the couch watching a movie or two, our days of going to dinner and a movie for a date night are almost gone too. But we so much look forward to the more important days – the first smile, the first crawl, the first word (which will be “momma” by the way) and the first step. We know it will be worth it in the end.

So …with 6 weeks to go, we are looking forward to our numbered days. Bring on the diapers (we have the Genie), bring on the sleepless nights (I am almost used to it), bring on the feedings, the cries and whimpers. We are ready to rock out as parents and begin this new chapter in our lives.

"I guess I haven't seen you in a while..."

As I ventured down the hallway today at work, a co-worker said, "Wow! I guess I haven't seen you in a while!" Sure that could mean more than one thing, but let's face it. We all know it means "sheesh - you are getting fat." Sorry - there is just no other way to put it.

She's right. Over the past 4 weeks, I have managed to pack on a few pounds. At my last doctor's visit two weeks ago, the doctor approved my 12 pounds in weight gain. You know pregnancy can pack on the pounds and are needed, but to hear "you have gained 12 pounds" is never fun. Believe me - my heart and pride sunk just a bit that morning.

Each week I get a new request from a friend asking me to post "pregnancy" photos of myself on Facebook. I have avoided this for quite some time now out of convenience. You see, I am normally behind the camera and feel no need to jump in front of it. And I certainly haven't felt like jumping in front of the camera lately - only out of pure necessity or when my momma chased me down with a camera on vacation last week. (As soon as I can get a good photo from me and Blaine's beach photo shoot, I will post one.)

So each day as I count the weeks until due date and gaze into my closet trying to find something that I can squeeze my belly into, I remember that this weight gain is for one good reason...the little boy that growing like crazy in my stomach. And growing he is - I swear those kicks and punches just get stronger and stronger.

I realize that his little personality hasn't quite developed just yet, but with my vivid imagination, I can't help but see him sitting on my bladder, legs crossed casually leaned up against an organ, bottle in one hand as he bounces up and down, up and down on my bladder. I swear he does that on purpose - especially when I lay down for some much needed sleep. I was always a night owl when I was younger - so I guess he is too. If he can't sleep, well then momma can't sleep either - and she might as well be spending her nights on trips to the bathroom. Neither the hubby nor the dog even wake up anymore when I stumble to the toilet 5 times a night, bouncing off the wall, cursing.

With about 15 weeks to go, I can only look forward to more bathroom breaks, more pudginess and those dreaded stretch marks that everyone keeps talking about. Next time I see you, remember it's okay to say "I guess I haven't seen you in a while" or better yet "how much weight HAVE you gained?" I at least have a good sense of humor nowadays....you have to, right?

Holy Moly - what was that?

First - let me apologize for being MIA lately. Although I have been guilty of accusing pregnant women of using "I can't remember anything" excuse as a very lame one, I now know its true. Either that or dimentia is really setting in early.

Being preggers is one of the craziest things I have been through - now before you think I am the dullest person on the face of earth, those of you that have shared the same joys, pains and confusion on the issue know what I am talking about.

From the days of "when will I keep my head out of this toilet" to the "holy moly - what was that movement" to the "I want a girl but I know it's a boy in there", prenancy is quite the roller coaster - and I haven't even experienced the extreme moods swings yet. (Blaine is truly relieved about that one so far.)

Let me bring you up to speed a bit -

1. My nausea is gone - only proving there is a God. No one should EVER have to go through that - and it only proves the theory that if men had to have babies and go through pregnancy, we would not exist! I have been nausea free for a few weeks now and couldn't be happier. Fat & happy I am.

2. It's a boy!! I admit - I wanted a girl and I wanted her bad. I couldn't think logically of having a boy. There were too many pink frilly dresses out there for the little girl. But something deep down in my gut kept telling me it was a boy - "shut up voices" I thought...its totally a girl. Not so much. The ultrasound so profoundly proved it was a boy that a tear came to my eye - not because it wasn't a girl, but because he was moving. He was in there - alive, well and he was mine. I will tell you that the ultrasound changes everything. It doesn't matter if its a boy or girl, it doesn't matter pink or blue - nothing matters. It is truly amazing.

3. My little boy might as well be named the Karate Kid. He must know the remake came out and he was hoping for the lead role. He is a kicking machine. I had heard the kicking, moving in the belly stories before. Sure, whatever, no big deal...I thought. But this kid can kick - and I am only at 22 weeks. I can't imagine the punch he will give in a couple of months. I was lying in bed last night and my whole stomach was moving. I guess little Mr. Preston was taking an evening swim in my belly.

4. "Hey, all l’m saying is she’s got cankles, for God’s sake. What? Cankles! She’s got no ankles. It’s like the calf merged with the foot, cut out the middleman." You have seen the movie Shallow Hal, right? I had never heard the cankle term until then - and now I know more than anyone what its like to have no ankles. Not attractive - at all. Disgusting as a matter of fact - no middleman for me. On certain days, my poor legs don't even look human. I should probably give up the 3-4 inch heels, but this early. Come on now - that's just torture.

5. Your name suggestions have been entertaining so far - but we have a name (we think) and we are not sharing! Why you ask? Well...some things just need to be a surprise. Plus - if I heard one person say to me, "why are you naming him THAT?" or "I don't like that name", preggo beeyotch might come out in me and I would like to keep her packed away as long as I can. No worries though - we still love the name suggestions so keep them coming. And for those of you wondering, no we are not going with Bubba or Rufus - but thanks for your well-thought out baby names. :-)

Well thats my preggo experiences in a nutshell so far. Through the good and the bad, it has been incredible. I will keep ya'll updated on the progress.

You are Not Going to Go There, Are You?

I seriously should have made a list of everthing that I just knew wouldn't happen to me during pregnancy. For some reason I thought I was going to be different when I was expecting - I was still going to be that fun-loving gal that loved life. I wouldn't have any illness, would still be able to burn the candle at both ends (I never knew why pregnant women went to bed early anyway) and love, love, love pregnancy.

Wrong! I am going to admit - No matter how much I love the little baby inside, pregnancy is not fun. Nope, nada, never. If it weren't for Zofran keeping me upright instead of my head hanging out of a toilet 24/7, I don't know what I would do.

Don't get me wrong - things are getting a little better. I do keep food down most of the time now, I can drink clear liquids again including water sometimes, I do make it to work everyday (okay...sometimes late, but at least I am there) and I had gained 6/10's of a pound on the last doctor's visit.

Just when you get ahead, you realize that your 15 year high school reunion will be when you are 8 months pregnant and miserable, you will have work outside for several days in August and then......

like a deep dark Lifetime movie a couple of nights ago - there it was in all its shining glory. The inside of my belly button. "Really?" I thought (actually I think I exclaimed that out loud.)

"You are not going to go there, are you (belly button)?" Well, apparently you are. Although it's only slighting starting to change, the inevitable will eventually happen. Great, just great. And why did I have to shudder each time I saw a pregnant lady's belly button protruding from her body. Why couldn't I just think it was cute? Not cute, I might add.

So with every waking day, I experience something new, something exciting and definitely something that I know nothing about. Thank goodness for google. I wonder if there is a way to push the belly button back in??? I must go now and google it.

Goodbye First - Hello Second

This week marks the end of the first trimester. And with any luck, it will end the nausea meds, the trips to the doctor for IV fluids and the "oh my gosh...when will this end" feeling. I have come to the conclusion that my pregnancy is not the norm. Everyone I talk to says, "I think I felt nausea once or twice" or says, "I loved pregnancy...I never felt better." My apologies if you have seen my middle finger fly up in the air - most likely behind your back. I am so happy for all of you super happy, fun-loving pregos that love to do nothing but eat and be merry. My trip down the motherhood lane hasn't been so much of that.

I guess I shouldn't complain - there is light at the end of the tunnel. However when you feel like this, you wonder if the light is the day you move the child out of the house for college. If I am nauseated now, how will I feel when my child heads to daycare for the first time, gets dropped off for kindergarten, loses their first tooth, goes on their first date? I cannot imagine. I may have to keep my nausea meds prescription open-ended. I wonder what my doc would think about that idea?

At any rate, I am now entering my 13th week of pregnancy. I am still not showing much (from the weight loss) and now fitting into clothes that I couldn't squeeze my butt into last summer. I guess that's a plus. And I know it won't last for long.

So here's to saying goodbye to the first and hello to the second. In the words of Joey on Friends, second...."how you doin'?" I hope it is all of the fun I hear about.

Is that my heartbeat or the baby's?

I never thought a visit to the emergency room would bring me so much excitement. After feeling worse and worse and clearly becoming dehydrated, my doctor sent me to the hospital yesterday for some IV fluids. Have I told you how much I hate needles? I just knew I was going to be traumatized.

I picked up Blaine from work - he did in fact want to be involved in everything of this pregnancy and I was about to show him the bad parts. We headed to the ER where I was poked and prodded (okay only poked once) for about 3 hours. Thankfully, I live in a city where the ER is not all that busy.

While I was still hooked up to the IV, along came a nurse with a small bag. After displaying my growing stomach, she squirted some clear jelly on my belly and said, "get used to this stuff." As she ran the tool across me listening for a heartbeat (which we didn't think we would be able to hear this early), I couldn't help but think, am I going to pee my pants? The fluids were apparently working and making my bladder scream. But then all of a sudden we heard a heartbeat. Blaine's ears perked up and smiles illuminated the room until Nurse Rita said, "that's the momma's heartbeat." Rats...I thought.

Nurse Rita left for a short while only to return with a much larger machine on wheels with a monitor. And the baby searching continued. The doctor joined us too. As soon as I saw Blaine's face light up, I knew something was happening. He hadn't looked that excited since last year's trip to Alabama when he found THE KABOTA tractor that he purchased and hauled home.

I turned to look but couldn't see anything. And then we heard it - the baby's heartbeat...very fast, very faint, but very there! I giggled and you could definitely hear that too - which was hard to stop after I started, but I finally did. Another giggle came out when the doctor said, "do you need to use the restroom? Your bladder is full." I thought they would never ask.

We got a quick photo of the little baby printed and the fun evening at the hospital was ending. They removed my IV, I rushed to the restroom, got meds for nausea and Blaine and I nearly skipped out of the hospital. All of this morning sickness was going to pay off sooner than later. What a relieving feeling!

I can't wait for October - or at least June when we can find out the gender. Right now, I think its a boy. Not sure why - just a feeling I guess. Or maybe its Blaine praying for someone to share the Kabota with..who knows.

Bringing Sexy Back....

I vowed that I would never become that frumpy pregnant lady that wore oversized clothing too early, cut my hair so short it looked like I had just joined the military or give up my stilletos. I have kept those 3 things of my promise so far, but let me tell you....my new sweat bands (also called Sea Bands) that make me look like a skater boy, the several shades of green that my skin goes through each nauseous phase or new little pooch that is beginning to protrude from my belly - these are not what I call sexy. Nevermind the ugly "sleeping bra" I have to wear to bed at night - all of this keeps me wondering why Blaine hasn't been traveling non-stop. I think I might be saying, "Hasta La Vista, baby - see you after the first trimester!"

Believe me when I say that every woman even thinking of becoming pregnant should be handed a handbook that reads something like this:

WARNING - As soon as you find out you are pregnant, you may become nauseous. And that feeling may linger for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week until the end of time (or so it seems.) You will begin to gain weight - but not in that cute pregnant lady sort of way that you had hoped for and just knew you would be. You just become pudgy all over making it hard for anyone to know that you are pregnant rather you have just put on an extra winter weight. You will quit loving the foods you once loved and begin craving foods you haven't even heard of. You may wake one day with the most horrendous taste in you mouth making you think that you spend the last several hours chewing on the change in your purse. You will at all cost seek rememdies for all of the above.

I have tried all of the rumored remedies so far: for nausea - DHA, Preggo Pops, sucking on hard candy, Dramamine, B-6 vitamins, avoiding spicy foods, sipping Sprite and 7-Up, apple juice and Perrier water, the list is never ending. I am now on to my sexy new skater boy sweat bands...I mean Sea Bands. I am definitely bringing sexy back now.

As for Blaine...otherwise known as Daddy Daycare this week - he has been a jewel. Not only is he calling overpriced daycares (since there are 1-3 year waiting lists here in this town), making constant runs to the grocery store when I need the lastest remedy for nausea and more importantly staying the heck out of my way when I need him to, he is keeping me laughing which is important too. He even threw in a "you look thinner in the face" comment yesterday. Now that's a keeper!

So I guess if I am not bringing sexy back (like pop star Justin Timberlake referred to in 2006) maybe I am beginning to bring sexy to my backside. **cough cough...oh so doubtful.

Many Belly Laughs

I guess seeing how overwhelmed I have been and several shades of green from nausea, a co-worker of mine handed a book to me yesterday and said, "you have to read this." I thought - oh great....another book about how I can become a better pregnant person. I think I am doing a pretty fine job on my own...thank you very much!

But I will tell you that this book is one of the funniest books I have ever read. "Belly Laughs" by Jenny McCarthy had tears streaming down my face last night while I lay in my PJ's at home with one ear listening to American Idol. Nope - those weren't tears of "what did I get myself in to" or tears of "man, these guys really suck on Idol" - these tears were pure laughter.

After the first 40 pages, I now know that there are a gazillion women out there that have had morning sickness and about a hundred other things going crazy in their bodies. If you are pregnant, have been pregnant or ever expect to be pregnant, this is a must read. Warning: you will see the random curse word and be grossed out a bit, but I guarantee you will laugh if you have ever been through this.

Men, boys, hubbies - don't read. You will have plenty to belly laugh about us as we waddle about in these 9 months. This book will only gross you out!

Now - if any of you out there have any advice on things to make me laugh through this process, please share. I think laughter is my medicine!

A Little One is on the Way

Blaine and I are very excited to announce that we are going to become parents (of more than just dogs!) We are expecting a baby in October! We coudn't be more excited to enter this new journey of our lives. We will soon be "changing $500" time and time again for a nursery, cute clothes, diapers and daycare.

So far the journey has been one to remember. The families are excited - well except my niece Sophi. Apparently at 6 years old she thought she was going to be the only baby in the family! I hope to convince her that she will always be our little baby in the family.

Now if only I can keep Mom from buying gifts and furniture for the baby's room before we find out the gender. That (and morning sickness) have been the only true battles so far. And speaking of morning sickness - someone forgot to mention this illness that is very misleading in its title in the "I want to get pregnant" handbook. Although it has been lingering 24/7 for quite some time now, I am constantly reassured by Blaine, my mom and the nurse that it will go away. I just hope it goes away before the baby's 18th birthday.

I hope to keep you updated on my journey of becoming a mom. Some say it would never happen, some are still in shock that we are finally going to become parents...and we are ready for "changing $500" to give the little one everything it needs to be fully spoiled. We are also preparing for changing 500 diapers in the near future. Oh my.

Where do I start?

Okay - I admit. I abandoned the blog again. But believe me - if you knew all that had been happening lately, you would understand. Some of it I can go in to, some of it I won't. Bottom line - we are on a roller coaster and just hitting the first turn.

This January, my sister Julie was diagnosed with breast cancer. Surgery this week discovered that is present in the lymph nodes and she has a long road ahead. She spent a night at Cox South in Springfield with Momma Moore at her bedside - and apparently they are both home now...resting. Only Julie & Mom could turn a hospital stay in to a slumber party full of story telling, TV watching and gorging themselves with snacks. But I am glad they did! I only wish that I could have been there - for Julie, for Mom and for the fun.

Julie is just now entering a journey that no one should have to experience. But she is one strong woman - who is going to kick cancer's butt. I can't wait to turn to her a while from and say something that she used to say back in the day, "stick a fork in it, it's done!"

If you want to follow Julie's story, please do at www.carepages.com/carepages/JulieG. Feel to send her messages and join in the conversation.

On to other news - well I will save that for later. But stay tuned. More to come soon!

Life is all about what you don't know but soon find out

As the holiday season continues to float amidst the air, I got an email today from a fellow ag communicator in Utah about a donation we made to a charity in the name of someone great. We are both a member of a group called COSDA where we get together each year to discuss news ideas and challenges in the agriculture industry. This October, we lost a fellow aggie, professional, leader and dear ole friend, Doug from New Mexico. We all knew Doug - he was in his 80's, could run circles around us all and seemed to have a heart of gold. His outlook on life and hot peppers was beyond my imagination. God had better things for Doug this October when he went to be in heaven. RIP Doug.

What I learned this year is that Doug was more than a COSDA member, more than just an aggie communicator, more than just a friend. Doug made a profound impact on his community and was the founder of the Salvation Army's Dress the Child Program - something he started more than 20 years ago. Today, we got confirmation that our COSDA group was able to clothe 5 children this season, in Doug's name. And these clothes went to children that more than likely had never had new clothes before. My heart aches and is jumping for joy.

I guess you never really know someone. You think you do, but you don't. You may see one thing in a person and then realize that there is so much more to them - whether good or bad. There have been many people that have touched my life in one way or another over the past few years. They have all made impacts and have all taught me lesson. You never really know a person.

As I gear up for Christmas this year with my family, I will hold the things that Doug taught me close to my heart. Giving to others through love, caring or monetary value is something that we all can do. We all possess the qualities to be good, compassionate people. We have that power. Now go out this holiday season and give more hugs than usual, apologize to those you have hurt over the years, give to the truly needy if you can and give each person a smile - they may need it more than you do.

Happy Holidays, my friends!!

2 Dogs, a Wedding and Green Grass

Just a few photos... Blaine & I recently traveled to Wisconsin to a wedding of his cousin, Steven Tre. It was a great wedding and I was so relieved that there wasn't about 12 inches of snow - which I expect in Wisconsin. It was my first trip to Wisconsin so check that one off of my list.

I have been trying to spend the dry days outside and began capturing some photos - mainly because I want to be able to reference my green grass and flowers this winter before they die and turn brown. So here is a photo of our home, our pride and joy and our money pit!

While out in the yard, I captured Ike doing what he does best - guarding the house and the Ford truck. Never mind his security pillow - he really is a tough dog. :-)

And we cannot talk about home without talking about Katie -

the indoor watchdog and big sister to Ike. She is always watching out for predators or nice neighbors to bark at.....

Just a funny....not for the kids to read.

I couldn't resist posting this funny little joke. Enjoy!

*********
A Little Boys Shares his Wisdom with Grandmother

A little boy asked his grandmother, how old are you?
Grandma replied "That is a question you never ask a woman."

A little while later the child ask Grandma "How much do you weigh?"
Grandma replied "That is another question you should never ask a woman."
Later the child again asked grandma "Why did grandpa leave you?"
Grandma advised Young man that is none of your business!"

The child responded "I already know the answers to my questions."
Grandma said "how's that young man.

"Well grandma I got them off your drivers license. Your 63 years old, weigh 163 pounds and got a F in sex."
*********

Oh my! Happy Tuesday!!

Happy Halloween!

It has been mentioned before - I am definitely not the first. Why in the heck are women's Halloween costumes so teeny tiny? Now that fun, sexy, itty bitty attire was great when I was in college (and much skinnier!) But now that I have a real job and have the opportunity to dress up, I just cannot decide what I would throw my butt in to and actually show up to work as. I know - a little late to be thinking about it....the costume will be worn tomorrow.

I went home today at lunch to find my "old" costumes - you know...the ones that I squeezed in to when I was 20 pounds lighter. As I stood there holding them up in front of me and thinking, "how in the hell am I going to fit in to that?" I realized - WHY in the hell do I even want to wear that? Have I become older and wiser? Lame & boring? I think I have. And yikes!

Even when I strolled down Rodeo Drive last week drooling on the fashions in the window, I thought do myself, "do I really want to drop $200 on that shirt or would I rather buy a rug for the house?" I really wanted that shirt, but ironically, I wanted that rug more. What has come over me?

I asked Momma Moore - and she says my priortities have just changed. I think that is just a nice way of saying, "you are getting old." That's just great.....

On the bright side, I don't really care if "my priorities have changed", I guess. I do live in mid-Missouri where only I would have appreciated that $200 shirt, those $700 Jimmy Choos and that Louis Vuitton purse (okay...wait a minute - I neeeeed that Louis Vuitton purse.)

Someone once said - “The quickest way to know a woman is to go shopping with her.” I guess if you were with me on Rodeo Drive you would have seen that I have champagne taste but still have that beer budget, love to buy things for my favorite brat (a.k.a Shania) and that a furry rug in my living room suits me more than the Jimmy Choos. And tonight while shopping you would see that hoochy momma costumes just aren't me anymore - well...at least at work. Who knows what I will be prowling around at tomorrow night's Halloween party.... Lord help me if I try to squeeze in to that old witches outfit for devil's costumes. Ouch - my fat rolls!!

I am not missing, I am not sick -

I have had several people mention to me lately that I have abandoned my blog. And yes...guilty as charged. Ever since I got a new boss this year, my life has been very much a whirlwind. Work is insanely busy...I travel more, work more, socialize less BUT I love my job and that is what matters.

Lately, my travels have led me to the fabulous southern California. If you are my pal on Facebook, you have followed my travels. If not, well....it was an incredible trip. Here are a few photos of my trip......stories and additional photos will follow this week. (** All of these photos were taken with my cell phone.)

As you can tell: I made it to Hollywood (or HollyWeird!), we walked the beach in Malibu, took sunset pictures at Venice Beach, shopped for a new Bentley on Rodeo Drive and Blaine made it on the Price is Right. But that is just the tip of the iceberg! I can't wait to get back to Cali!!

It's Called Respect, Lady!

**Note - Very long story but worth taking the time to read!! This is one of the best things I have read in a while - please take the time to read the story in the link below and related emails regarding a fallen soldier's funeral near St. Louis. Some people disgust me and this lady is on the top of my list today - I am so glad that I am not some over-opinionated St. Louis resident like this lady - and believe me...I have encountered a few in my day. http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/localheroes/story/4CBF361CCA9F41328625762D0054CCCE?OpenDocument

I couldn't resist posting the entirety of these emails:
Source: St. Louis Post-Dispatch
The original email was sent to Sheriff Glenn Boyer on Thursday, August 27. Below is the citizen's email followed by Sheriff Boyer's response.

To Sheriff Boyer from Citizen:

I tried to call you earlier this morning, but was unable to obtain your extension from the voice mail system as I was not sure of your first name or correct spelling of your last. I was inadvertently in this procession as I was leaving work on 270 from Creve Coeur and proceeding on Hwy. 30 West. I have some issues and complaints. I called the Sheriff's office last night, but the officer in charge would not speak with me. His name was Corp. Curtis.

I am in no way complaining about your officers. I, however, was not treated very fairly when I called last evening because I wanted a ticket/complaint/or at least a slap on wrist for the people involved. Let me explain: 1) This procession should never have been held during rush hour traffic! Hwy. 270 is dangerous and people drive way too fast and there is too much traffic. This soldier's certainly would not have want his family hurt on the interstate taking him to Cedar Hill. People were dead-stopping on the interstate even though the procession was in the far right lane, the other three lanes just stopped. There were many near accidents and possibly were after I drove through.

I was in the 2nd to left lane, no way obstructing the funeral procession. 2) I exited off on Gravois (30 W), far right lane. Your police officers went in the left lane to stop any additional on-coming traffic so the procession could exit off 270 into the LEFT lane of 30. Again, I was in the right lane. The St. Louis County officer stopped and turned around at Weber Hill to return on 270 after the procession passed. 3) The road was not closed. (Only for president as far as I know.) Again, the road was not closed. Your officers only had the left lane blocked/closed for the funeral. All other traffic by MO law can proceed as long as they do not interfere (weave in and out )with funeral procession. Let me say, that I did not know what was happening. I knew the did not have Kennedy coming to STL, at least not yesterday. I was at work all day. No news. Nothing reported on the traffic on the radio driving home. Anyway, two of these dirty, nasty, renegade, who knows what motorcycle men that were escorting the procession proceeded to stop in front of me in the right lane on Gravois.

I had to stop in the middle of an intersection. They proceeded to scream and yell at me about respecting this soldier, etc. One of them climbed off his motorcycle and came over to me and stuck his head in my car continuing to scream at me. I asked him what this was for and he told me I needed to stop as the officers had the road blocked and show some dang respect. #1, the road was not blocked, the funeral was in the other lane. #2, I am proud of our country and sorry for the family, but they had no idea where I was going or anything else. I could have a child at day-care, I could have been sick and racing to the bathroom, I could have a sick parent waiting for me, etc., etc. #3, They are not law enforcement and had no right to stop in the lane on Gravois and they had no right to scream at me and intimidate and threaten me. If I would have had my pepper spray, I would have used it on this nasty man! He is just a big hoo ha that is not even related to this soldier.

The other man did not get off his scooter, but was along side of my passenger window screaming. I left an abusive husband 1 1/2 years ago and I did not need this intimidation. I was livid and shaking!! My son is a deputy sheriff in another MO county. I respect police officers. It was not their fault as they were busy with traffic, but I called to make them aware of what was going on during this thing. The St. Louis County officer saw it but of course he was out of jurisdiction. However, I called last night and your office asked me if I knew about this soldier. Again, I am sorry about him, but I am a taxpayer.

I got a speeding ticket a few months ago and paid the fine. I do not deserve to be treated like this. I wanted to let the officer know how these men were acting. Also, they were driving into the turnarounds on Hwy. 30 and then back onto the road. the funeral was much further ahead. One of them nearly got hit by me and other people almost hit him and another as well. I wanted to lodge a complaint about them why they were still there, but no one in your office would take any information or do anything.

This was not a military funeral, even though it was a soldier. There were not military vehicles. It was a funeral and the road was not closed, the lane was closed, I was in the other lane and again, these nasty men had no right to do this and I would have liked them to get a ticket! I am sorry for the soldier and his family but you cannot let these motorcycle renegades do this. They could have caused several accidents and I really wanted them arrested. If they had any respect for the soldier they would have dressed better and not looked and acted so scuzzy. Thank you.

To Citizen From Sheriff Boyer

From: Glenn Boyer/JEFFCO Date: 08/31/2009 02:05 PM Subject: Re: Fw: Re: Funeral Procession - Yesterday p.m. --------------------------------------------------------------------Dear XXXXX:

Yes, you do deserve a response and I am willing to give you one. I would like to say that I am sorry for the inconvenience we caused you during the funeral procession of Sergeant 1st Class William B. Woods, but I cannot do so.

I would ask instead that you take a moment of your time to take into consideration the scope of the event. Your very right to complain was the reason Sgt. Woods fought for his country and ultimately gave his life; thus making the ultimate sacrifice for you and your family. Let me introduce you to him.

After high school, Sergeant Woods entered the Marine Corps. After his contract was up, he joined the Army, where he became a Green Beret. He comes from a long line of military members in his family. His Uncle is a Vietnam Veteran and two of his grandfathers were World War II Veterans. His job in the Army was one of the most dangerous jobs - he was a sniper looking for the bad guys to stop before they killed or injured one of our soldiers.

He has numerous decorations to include the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. He grew up in Catawissa and was best known by his middle name, Brian. He enjoyed the outdoors, playing sports, and skydiving. He had a wife, Elizabeth, and two daughters, whom he loved dearly. He was a soft-spoken, level-headed young man who was proud to serve his country no matter what the risk.

Now, I did not know him, but I wish I did. I am quoting from newspaper articles written about him. At the young age of 31, he was shot during an engagement with Taliban forces in Ghanzi , Afghanistan . He died of his wounds in Germany on August 16, with his family by his side. He did not choose the time of his death, nor did he choose the time his remains would be brought back to his home in Catawissa. He just did his duty. He was quite a young man.

While you were being inconvenienced in your car on your way home, there were soldiers just like Sergeant Woods carrying 100+ pounds of equipment in 120 degree heat, up some mountain or in the middle of some desert. They will shower out of a helmet liner if they get the chance. They will eat a cold meal of MRE's; something most people would consider garbage. They cannot text their family or friends, or go to McDonalds, or watch TV. They can only continue the mission and look out after the guy to the left and right of them. They don't complain because they know they volunteered. The only thing they ask is that we do not forget the sacrifices they have made.

One of the dirty "big hoo ha" bikers, as you call them, was Brian's uncle, a Vietnam Veteran, like myself. We were not treated with a homecoming. We were spit on and called baby killers by a misguided public. Brian's uncle was giving him the respect that he, himself, never received when he came back and I, for one, am proud of him for doing so. You say that your brother is a deputy in another Missouri county. I am sure he would be proud to escort the casket of a fallen solder, the same as he would that of a fallen officer. I am also sure he would not agree with your complaint about being inconvenienced.

My mother recently passed away. She was a World War II Veteran, serving the U.S. Army. She would say, maybe you should pick up Sergeant Woods' ruck sack and carry on where he left off. Then you could see first hand what it really is to be inconvenienced. Per your request, I will forward your complaint to the Prosecuting Attorney's Office for his review.

It is my personal opinion that your complaint is self-serving and without merit.
Sheriff Oliver "Glenn" Boyer

Ellen?

I am not certain yet how I feel about Ellen DeGeneres as the new judge on American Idol. I guess she loves music enough, she is well spoken and she is the voice of the somewhat naked ear for music. But I just don't know yet. It will take some time for me.

In other reality news - a friend of mine's (Jennifer Vannatta Fisher) husband, JC, is part of the Texas Tenor's on America's Got Talent - see the photo. They will be competing in the top 10 on Monday for a million dollars and a show in Vegas. I had another friend win a million dollars on a reality show a few years ago- and dang I wish she were going to once again defeat on Survivor All Stars...... but I am afraid that isn't going to happen.

Reality shows are just funny nowadays. What started as the newest greatest phenomenon has almost turned into a nightmare for TV viewers. I think they have tried every idea in the book to make a new show a success. For me the only real reality shows are American Idol and Survivor. But I admit - sometimes you can catch me watching the Bachelor, Real World (weird I know) and any other show that just might be taking up a perfectly good spot for a great new series.

I have known several people over the past fews years in reality TV: Melana Scantlin on Average Joe, Larissa Meek on Average Joe 2, Shandi Finnessey on Dancing with the Stars, Danni Boatwright on Survivor and now JC Fisher on America's Got Talent. It is a weird feeling to be sitting there watching TV and see an aquaintance (and in Danni's case - a very good friend - see Danni in the photos with her enemy Stephanie) on the screen playing, dancing, singing or dating their hearts out.

I don't think I could make it on reality TV - I know I would die on Survivor, couldn't dance my way out of a paper bag on Dancing with the Stars, get pulled off the stage with a big hook on American Idol or America's Got Talent and I would never date a guy on a reality show (One because I am married and two because they are all ego-driven jerks.)

But I encourage everyone I know to go for the reality show of their dreams. It becomes instant entertainment for me.

Once Upon a Mattress....

After several months of pain when I would awake each morning to begin my day, Blaine and I finally went mattress shopping. We only were "looking" not "purchasing." But only after two short hours of laying on a million mattresses all of which were 10 times better than ours, we pulled the trigger. Once upon a mattress - welcome to Snoozeville!

We had to leave it in the store for one more night of despair on our old mattress, but after a short mishap last night (another story below), Blaine was off to fetch our new heavenly dream-getter. Let me be the first to admit - a new mattress takes a little getting used to....especially when you have sleeping in a hole.

Blaine asked me this morning, "so what's the verdict?" I said, "I felt like I was sleeping on a brick." Ironically, that was a good thing!

I can guess after a couple of weeks, I will be saying, "Once upon a mattress, I finally had a good night's sleep!"

** BONUS STORY ** And now to the mishap from last night. Bottom line - Katie, our Yorkie, got in trouble.

While Blaine was loading the old mattress to dispose of it because Lord knows no one would ever want to use it, Katie decided it was time she run away from home. With orange bow nicely placed on her head, she darted out the door.

By the time I got home from work, Katie had been missing for about 40 minutes with no indication of what direction she had gone. We searched and searched, the neighbors were out looking, passersby stopped to help - I bet I walked 10 miles in the snow around the neighborhood....nothing. (Okay 10 miles and snow is stretching it a bit especially since it is summer in Missouri and 75 degrees out- but that is what my butt and legs feel like today.)

Just short of two hours later, Blaine spotted her among the trees and bushes across the street. When he yelled out, "Katie, let's go" she fell over dead....play dead that is.

Remember that cute bow on her head - not so cute anymore as it is sideways barely hanging on. I wasn't there when she crawled back home like she had been beaten. I was down the hill trying to make my way back up - if you have seen the hill in my neighborhood, you know that you don't want to walk up and down it too many times.

But all turned out well: Katie is home and the mattress is making home better.

It's Brix!!

As promised - here is a photo of my little buddy, Brix, the rock star! My pal, Shandon called last night to report that momma and baby are doing great.

I got this Rock Star blanket for Brix. Knowing the Smith's, I think it will fit him well.

Rock on, Brix. Rock on!

Welcome to the World, Brix Loudon Smith!

Born today, Aug. 31 at 4:59, p.m. at 8 pounds, Brix Loudon Smith entered into the world. Congratulations to the Smith family on their new addition.

If you don't know Shandon & Kristina Smith, they are great friends of ours from Illinois. This blonde headed duo just had their first child. I have been calling myself Lake Aunt Misti for quite some time. I am so grateful to have the Smith's as some of my very best friends and could not be happier that their little guy has entered the world....finally.

Good luck Shandon & Kristina!! Can't wait to meet little Brix!

**I hope to post baby photos as soon as I can get my hands on them!!