wornoutwoman

Brian Naranjo - A Celebrated Man

2012-02-11T19:31:00.006-06:00

It's Saturday...

It's Saturday, and at this very moment a few hundred miles north of me, my friend is grieving the loss of her husband.

It's Saturday and this week has felt like an eternity. I've moved through this week with such a heavy heart.

And I feel guilty for being trapped in this fog of sorrow, as I'm not the one who lost my life long partner of over 20 years. I'm not the one who just got my husband back from Afghanistan, only to lose him to an unexpected death.

I can not fathom how my friend is coping, walking step by step through the process of burying her soul mate at the tender young age of 39.

Brian Naranjo would have been 40 years old on February 29th, 2012. Brian Naranjo would have his whole life ahead of him. He would have been celebrating a marquis year, when you're supposed to reflect on where you've come and what you have left to do.

In reading his Facebook wall, as I'm inexplicably drawn to it, I've read the many memories shared from his childhood friends, family, and fellow soldiers. I smile tenderly at a picture of someone I never met in person, but knew through my friend ... his wife, Brooke, and FaceBook.

I hurt, seeing his smiling face on his profile picture, in which he stands next to his front door. The front door which has a homemade drawn sign on butcher paper, which reads, 'Welcome Home'.

I don't know why we all can't live to a ripe old age of 109. I don't get it when people are taken too young ... too soon.

I don't get it.

What I do get is just how big of an impact Brian made those around him. And isn't that what it's all about? Brian's faith in the Lord and courageous spirit gave him what he needed for 39 bold years to make his mark on life. A mark that left an imprint on each of of those he encountered.

For me - Brian helped get my foot in the door with a publisher. He is a major factor in why 'Finding Kylie' was considered and got published. He helped fulfill a lifelong dream of mine, and that is not something I take lightly.

On another occasion, he read on Facebook I was looking for some photoshop software. My computer had crashed and I lost all my programs. He contacted me to see how he could help, as he was also a photographer. He was in Afghanstan and was asking if he cold help me ... that blew me away. Here's someone who's serving overseas in a very dangerous area, and he's taking time to reach out to help his wife's friend for software needs. But that was Brian...he did what he could, whenever he could to help...no matter what.

Brain was also a gifted author with two books: 'Childish Things' & 'The Tamale List'. In fact ... just 2 days before reading about his death on Brooke's Facebook wall - his status announced that a major literary agent and publishing house was picking up his third book. I was so happy for him. There was so much to look forward to for him and his future.

Brian's celebrated military career was just as interesting as he was ... but as I couldn't recall it as well as Brooke could, I use her words below.

'Brian was a Mass Communications Chief in the Navy Reserve. He was active duty Navy from 1990-1999, with assignments to AFRTS (FEN-Tokyo), COMNAVMAR, Guam, and at JRB Fort Worth. He joined the Reserve in 2001 and served on deployments to Chinhae, Korea in 2001-2002, Misawa, Japan in 2008, and at ISAF in Afghanistan from 2009-2010. Brian's proudest moment came when he received his anchors in a ceremony in 2002 while he was the (Civilian) Public Affairs Officer of NAF Atsugi, Japan. He will be remembered as a Chief, not an E-7.'

Brian wrote for the The Navy Reservist (TNR) magazine, Anchors in the Dirt. He wrote on topics that were based from his tour in Afghanistan. He was well known for his wit, humor, and wisdom. It takes a moment to load, but I encourage you to click through to read some of his work - here.

Most importantly than all these accolades above - Brian was a loving family man, who served his country and his God.

So as I type ... and as his family sadly prepares him for burial ...

Brian is lovingly held in the arms of the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. And although we all know we'll see him again one day - we can't help but miss the brightness of the man that left this world way too early.

Rest in Peace my friend ... and know your family and friends will miss you.

Salmon Fishing In The Yemen

2012-01-26T13:46:00.004-06:00

I'm so excited to see this new film, starring Emily Blunt and Ewan McGregor. I love that film makers are finally taking a step back from the violent and TnA movies to produce a quality heartfelt product. I'm seeing more of this out there and it pleases me to no end.

I don't know about you but the title did nothing for me. I would have never guessed how intriguing this film could be, without watching the trailer. Take a look for yourself.

John 3:16

2012-01-20T19:00:00.002-06:00

It blows me away that millions of people had to google 'John 3:16' to understand what it was. I guess I take for granted that even though I live in a world of 'non-believers' - that those who don't believe at least are familiar with the concept of Christ and the most famous Bible verse in the world.

SO for anyone who has any questions - I'm posting this video, made by Focus on the Family.

John 3:16 'For so loved the world, that he gave His only begotten son. That for whoever shall believeth in Him, shall not perish but shall have eternal life'

Wow!

Dolphin Tale Movie

2011-12-19T15:02:00.003-06:00

For anyone that knows me, they know I LOVE LOVE LOVE Dolphins. I loved them before they were cool or the 'in thing' to collect. For our honeymoon trip 11 years ago, my husband took me to swim with the dolphins. It was the most fun thing I've ever done.

Growing up on islands, on Oahu and Okinawa, I have always had a love affair with these amazing creatures. They're gracious and inviting. Their communication skills are deeper and more complex than we'll ever understand. They're playful explorers who deserve our affection and adoration.

Wyland is my favorite artist. His art graces murals all over the world with his underwater marine life paintings. I have his art adorning my walls at home.

The mysterious nature of dolphins is one I've always aligned with my entire life, so you know the movie 'Dolphin Tale' is a must see for me!

When I saw the trailer for Dolphin Tale my entire insides were screaming. However since I was in the theater, I couldn't jump up in excitement - although I really felt like it. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw my husband staring at me during the trailer for the film. I turned to see him knowingly smiling down at me. He knew what I was feeling....pure joy at the thought of this amazing film concept. And then to find out it was based on a TRUE story with 'Winter' starring in her own role....forget about it I couldn't hold it in any longer.

I yelled out for all to hear - 'I can't wait to see it!' The crowd giggled in response.

So now that it's coming out on DVD...I'm hoping I get a copy of if in my stocking. This film is everything its promised to be. In my opinion it's the best 'feel good' movie of the year. Plus it has an amazing cast -- Ashley Judd, Kris Kristofferson, Harry Connick Jr, & Morgan Freeman. These are actors that align with superior projects across their career.

Dolphin Tale is produced by those that did 'The Blind Side', which is a good indicator to prove it's stature of being a heartfelt feel-good film.

Take a look at the trailer.

Looking at the calendar, it's now 6 days to Christmas. If you're anything like me - you're going to have last minute shopping needs. A Dolphin Tale DVD will be a must have item for anyone on your list. Oh! And, make sure you remember to get a copy for yourself too!!

It will be available on Blu-ray 3D Combo pack, featuring a 3D hi-definition, a hi-definition, a standard definition & a digital copy of the theatrical film, for $40.99, Blu-ray Combo Pack, featuring hi-definition, a standard definition and a a digital copy of the film, for $35.99 an don a single DVD for $28.98.

On the 20th of December, Dolphin Tale can be purchased for permanent dowload or rented on iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, and Xbox 360 and PlayStation3 game consoles.

It will also be available to rent via kiosks and subscriptions on January 17th.

Lil' T's Commercial Debut

2011-12-06T14:19:00.000-06:00

Thought you all would like to see some of my son's latest work. He's the inner-child voice over actor. So you won't see him in the commercial, but you'll hear his voice. I think he did very very well. I've got a talented little guy!

Have a Little Faith ...

2011-11-21T14:57:00.003-06:00

Once in a while, you get one of those feel good spiritually uplifting moments and you can feel God's arms wrap around you and your heart. It's as if you can almost feel His presence right inside you, reminding you of his love. Well what I'm getting ready to tell you about is also one of those feel good, uplifting projects that will give you goosebumps.

You all know I'm a fan of Hallmark anything - and it's not just because I've met Brad Moore, the President of Hallmark Films. It's also because of the quality of films they put out. When I hear of anything new of theirs, I grab my tissue box and get ready for a wonderfully uplifting tear-jerker. My husband makes fun of me everytime!

Well lets face it ... he makes fun of me a lot. I cry at Extreme Home Makeover. I cry at a military USAA commercial, with the scene where the troops finally come home and rush into the arms of their loved ones. I cry at most emotionally uplifting moments on TV. And I'm sure Mitch Albom's new project Have a Little Faith will be no different.

You may remember Mitch Albom from his book and film, Tuesdays With Morrie.

Well if you've not heard of his work before - listen up because Have a Little Faith will blow you away. You can see the trailer here.

I can't wait to read the book and see the film. And in a few days I will have some books of his to give away to anyone here that is interested. Contact me in the comment section or via email @ kimberlymckayauthor@gmail.com if you'd like to be considered.

Oh! And make sure you have a box of tissues on hand!

Little Angel Giveaways

2011-11-14T16:27:00.000-06:00

So recently I blogged about Roma Downey's new DVD series HERE.

To recap, Ms. Roma formerly known as Monica on 'Touched by an Angel' has released an amazing children's series that not only stimulates your pre-schooler's mind with art, humor,numbers, music, and creative aspects - but also with Biblical truths and foundations.

I've got a few giveaways that Roma has graciously sent me for anyone here that would be interested. For those that read, link me to your blog and mention Roma's new series. I'll be checking my stats and will be counting how many hits come from your blog. The bloggers with the most hits will receive one of her very cute and entertaining DVDs.

I promise your little pre-schooler will love love love watching as much as my 8 year old will deny loving it too.

Is this a great state or What???

2011-11-08T10:02:00.007-06:00

So right about now I'm wondering how the Oklahoma Tourism Department is going to entice anyone to visit our state. Their slogan, Is this a great state or what?, isn't quite the right fit for us after 2011.

Somehow I don't think this year would make anyone think 'Yeah! I'm going to Oklahoma!' In fact most of us who live here and love it, are seriously thinking about why we love it so much. After experiencing this year, I've caught myself looking to skies to watch for swarms of locusts or the second coming. LOL.

If you've been anywhere near a TV you may have seen that Oklahoma has been in the news. The national reports have shown 2011 as being the record breaking year for Oklahoma's weather. We've set records with the strongest earthquakes in state records, the longest drought, the hottest summer, the most tornadoes, the biggest blizzard, the most rain and flooding. All in one year!

Sheesh! And it's not like it's been quiet leading up to this year. Just two years ago one side of my house and roof was totaled in a massive hail shown here. I did not shoot the vid shown at that link, as we were all huddled in our closet as the end of our house was riddled with holes and windows were demolished. But that link/vid will give you a visual of the kind of hail we sustained.

Recently I met one of my cousins, who is getting ready to graduate from the University of Oklahoma's School of Meteorology. Kevin is an up and coming storm chaser, who has really good timing and great talent. In fact he is the only one who who shot the Joplin, MO tornado footage live, which he's since sold worldwide for different networks to use in their broadcasts.

Kevin was out with his crew yesterday chasing the outbreak of Oklahoma tornadoes that hit. He got some impressive footage that I thought I'd share with you. You can see the video at his Basehunters account on YOUTUBE.

If you're interested in his footage of any storm he's shot, you can find all his videos at this link.

So ... all you wandering travelers - if you've ever thought of coming to visit the great state of Oklahoma, I'd say wait till tornado season is over, which apparently now runs into November. Then I'd say get here before the snow and ice hit...wait that will start in November. Okay come during the summers, if you don't mind a heat index of 120 degrees. Just bring lots of water, as we may run out! And just in case of some freak storm, bring a camera. You'll make the news!

Little Angels - Amazing Series for Pre-School Aged Children

2011-11-03T18:59:00.004-05:00

As a parent, I'm always on the look out for hidden dangers that I should shield my son from. Things that would or could damage his sense of self or purpose. The media is one outlet I've been very careful with, as my son has matured.

KLOVE is usually on where we're in the car. When it comes to movies and television, we're very selective in what we watch. That being said we've not put him in a bubble. He's aware of the good and bad things that happen in this world, but we've just done what we can to keep his innocence around as long as possible.

Most of the kids in today's world are growing up too fast, and I want better for my child.

Have I been on my soapbox enough here? All this is leading to a point, I promise.

I recently became aware of Roma Downey's newest project, 'Little Angels' and was so happy to see someone of her caliber promote such a worthy series. You may remember Ms. Downey from her work as 'Monica' on Touched by an Angel, a popular television series.

Little Angels is an animated DVD series that promotes Biblical truths as well as educational applications. Your pre-school aged children will not only learn the basic building blocks of letters, numbers, & animals, but they will get to delve into exciting Bible stories in the process.

The premise is about 8 little angels, which are painted on a ceiling, coming to life to watch over two children, Alex and Zoe. They not only watch over Alex and Zoe but they bring the children a whole new view and understanding of what goes on around them and how God fits into it.

The angels teach Alex and Zoe to be responsible, have self control, and encourage good behavior. 'Little Angels' brings imagination, music, humor and art into the equation to make learning fun.

My son, who's now 8, rolled his eyes when he saw what I was watching (he's too big for baby stuff). However he kept sneaking around the corner to watch. These little angels and their humor sucked him into their world, and before I knew it he was also laughing at their jokes. As I turned to look over my shoulder, he'd pretend to not watch and turn away. I counted ... my son came in 5 times to sneak a peek at this DVD. You know it has to be good if it can captivate such a big kid!

How exciting that there is something available that will be expanding our children's spiritual knowledge as well as their educational base... And how refreshing that this will be stimulating their minds with Bible foundations. I only wish I had access to this series for my child a few years ago. I can only imagine the conversations that will come from your child watching 'Little Angels'. It's not just a great learning tool, but a wonderful communication tool for you as a parent.

Roma Downey does a wonderful job producing this series. She's bringing the message of God's love to our children in a creative and captivating way. I highly encourage you to visit her website for the DVD series.

Baby no more

2011-09-16T13:30:00.000-05:00

Forever I'll love you...forever my baby you'll be. This is something I used to read to my son, from a book from his shelf.

I've always told him...'no matter how old you get, you'll always be my baby.'

And he is my baby ... however this summer many changes took place. He grew up overnight and grew about 3 inches. All of the sudden my little guy isn't so little anymore.

On the first day of school, he instructed me that I could walk him in on the first day but from there on afterwards - I was to drop him off at the curb ... 'because he was a man now and he didn't need his mom to walk him in'

Sigh ...

So as he's now 8 and a half years old, I'm seeing the young man he's growing into. He's matured in so many ways, and it's time for him to grow up. It's time for those apron strings to be cut in some ways. It's with such bittersweet emotion that I let go of his hand and let him walk free from the shadow of the little baby he was and walk into the big boy shoes of the young man he's growing into.

That being said, it's time for some changes to allow him room to grow up. And one thing that will help is a room makeover for my son. I tried last year to get him to agree to a room makeover. It's stilled painted from when I designed his nursery.

Although I tried, he wasn't ready But I could tell he was torn. He wanted a big boy room but it meant saying goodbye to what he'd known for the last 7 years. Still, he was embarrassed when he had friends over for playdates. In effect each time his buddies would come over, I would constantly hear him make excuses for his walls. Those same words he'd utter when they'd enter made me smile..."This is from my mom...when she decorated my room as a baby." Then he'd roll his eyes like it was my fault it was that way.

And that was okay. I didn't mind being the fall guy, because I know my son doesn't do well with change. I also knew that when he was ready - he'd make the change for himself.

Two weeks ago, my mom brought him home after running errands with him. They were at Ace Hardware, and he asked to go to the paint section. As soon as he walked in the door, he proudly handed me some paint samples he liked. They lay on the coffee table for a couple days before he approached the subject I knew was coming ... he asked if we could re-do his room. I smiled and hugged him.

Even though I know he's scared to let go of what he's known, I also know he's ready to embrace the change of a big boy room. Trust me - that's big for my son. He's not an adapter. He likes status quo. And He is comfortable being right where he is at all times. To push him is to frustrate him. So, I couldn't be happier that he's making this step.

We're going to do a Tron Legacy room. I'll post before and after pictures soon.

You know it's funny. This time last year I might have shed a tear to see the nursery paint covered up and updated... I always thought I'd have another child to move into that room. So re-doing this room symbolizes a lot for me too...letting go of a larger family and letting go of my baby.

However he'll always be my baby no matter how old he gets. And that I can smile about as I paint over the Cookie Monster, that sits up high on the wall. See ya Cookie Monster! Time for a big boy room!!!

An Apple a Day ...

2011-08-31T11:02:00.000-05:00

Usually when your doctor calls you it's for one of three things:

1) You're due for you appt or missed it.
2) You owe them money.
3) The test results came back and it's not good.

Even with the above list, I don't think I can ever remember my doctor(s) calling me on my cell in the last 10 years. So imagine my surprise when I get a voice mail from Sharon, my doctor's nurse, a few weeks ago. I turned up the volume on my phone to make sure I took in every word of her message, because this had to be important stuff for them to initiate a call to me.

Imagine my surprise - even bigger this time - in that her message was not medically related at all! Now what in the world would Sharon or my fav doc need so desperately that they're trying to track me down?

Well - they wanted books! And not just any book...mine. I laughed at her message which in short said 'that the copy of Finding Kylie I'd given doctor was in the patient waiting room, where many women had started it but couldn't finish due to their appointments.' Sharon, my nurse, asked me to bring multiple copies up to the office for patients to buy!

I was not expecting that. Over the last few weeks, I've meant to get by but my schedule has been slammed between my full time job, my photography company, and my family. I've not had a free second.

However after 2 more calls from Sharon, as more patients wanted books, I promised to come by this week.

Today I stopped in, apologetically for not being there sooner. Sharon genuinely smiled and pulled out a check in exchange for the books. She was too happy to have her copies in hand.

Basically women have been calling her asking for them repeatedly. It is the strangest thing I've ever heard of - in that my doctor is now my book pimp. And even weirder I left with a check from my doctor - not a check from his patients. Now when do you leave the office with money from your doctor?

The Hide

2011-08-29T09:55:00.005-05:00

With movie production these days - one is easily entertained but most story lines don't make you think. The majority of popular flicks are just too easy to follow & predict.

In a small minority of the film industry, you find that rare treasure that gives you intrigue, tense on the edge of your seat entertainment, and a complete twist of what your perception of the film's plot is. Going in to most films, I already have the development, plot, climax, and ending usually mapped out in my mind - and for the most part I'm right on target. It's rare that a film not only surprises me, but surpasses my expectations.

'The Hide' did just that ... It is brilliantly written! I normally do not go for films that are dark. It's just not my thing, although I've seen a handful and the ones that don't go too far over the edge for my liking.

I have to say 'The Hide' although promises to be dark, is so ingeniously written that you're too caught up in the story line to notice. You're taken there and part of the story. And the dark overtones aren't so harsh that I wasn't able to bear them. However do not take this film lightly because the twisted and macabre nature of character Roy Tunt will take your mind for a spin.

This film is all it's cracked up to be. It has won many awards, from multiple film festivals across the world, in the U.S. and Europe. John Schwab, the film producer, did a exemplary job taking these characters and film and developing them into a masterful piece of entertainment.

This is a must see! You can pre-order it now on Amazon at this link. If you're a film buff - and like intrigue, suspense, and surprise - you will love love love this film.

Girl Power

2011-08-06T13:37:00.000-05:00

It starts early ... the pressure to be popular. Lately that's been the theme around my house.

I cut my hair off shorter than my son would like and the response is: "Mom you know I love you the most - but you've lost some popularity points with me until you grow that back."

And today when I had to discipline him - I heard it again.

BUT I'm not trying to be his friend and just a friend, like the cool parents in today's world. You see I care about how my son turns out and if that means being the bad guy - then so be it.

Today we worked on respect for his parents. Lately he's had a smart mouth on him which needs to be handled before he turns into one of those Disney teen characters on TV (which is why we don't watch those shows).

After he'd been banned in his room for a short period and we'd had our talk about why he was punished, he crawled onto my back and hugged neck from behind. He cuddled ever so sweetly and said, "You know you just lost about 10 popularity points with me."

"Really? Well guess what?" I asked. "I really don't care. Being popular with you isn't my goal. Teaching you manners and respect is. So popular or not - if it happens again ... you'll be punished."

"Well then I'm going to cuddle my dog!" He laughed and let go of my neck to wrap his arms around our little puppy, who had curled up behind me.

In an instant, our puppy let out a huge growl as if she was about to attack. Keep in mind this is a very docile dog, who never gets aggressive.

My son's eyes grew wide and backed up. He very quickly replied, "Well Jewel ... you just lost about 50 popularity points with me!"

All I could do is laugh. Girl power! It was almost as if she could understand our conversation and that was her way to back me up.

I grabbed my son and hugged him. And it was nice to end it with a little laughter.

My sweet husband

2011-07-20T16:22:00.000-05:00

Due to the nature of my jobs, which have mostly been in outside sales, I've always had to have a reliable car that was under some sort of warranty. So over the 11 years of our marriage (our 11 yr anniversary is this Friday) we've been to the same dealership 3 times and ended up driving off the lot with something moderate but reliable for me.

Okay how many men would sacrifice every single time to give their wife the good car? Not many I've ever known of. However, that's just what mine does.

He just called me a few seconds ago, as he was trying to access the highway. He was clearly disturbed! He explained that the car behind him zipped up and around him while the driver was flipping him off... all because my husband's car was going too slow. I felt so bad for him as he was explaining to me. He said he pulled up along side the driver and motioned as if to say - 'are you flipping me off?' The driver blatantly flipped him off again and punched the gas.

All these years, my husband has driven the very very same old and not so reliable anymore car. This car is so bad that it won't go over 45 MPH as the turbo broke last year, and we've not been able to fix it. So when he's accessing the highway or merging into traffic, he has to pray each time not to get hit or pushed off the road by some ego-maniac in a big truck, who's probably never sacrificed for his wife.

Last year he slid on the ice and cracked the bottom of the car up. The drip pan underneath started hanging and dragging and my husband fixed it with a wire hanger. Now it hangs no more, but the car definitely suffers from the wreck cosmetically. You can see above where it's starting to crack up.

In the last few years it's slowly but surely started falling apart. The doors do NOT unlock anymore. They stay permanently locked from the outside. If an emergency were to happen, no one could open a door to get my family out if we were unable to open the doors from the inside. The only door that opens in my husband's driver door. To get in my son climbs through the passenger window.

He's climbing in driver side here...only because it's second nature to him now. Needless to say, my family doesn't travel much in my husband's car any longer. It's just not safe!

The glove box is I think my most aggravating distraction. When I do have to sit in the passenger seat, the glove box pops open and slams me in the legs. In hopes to fix it, my husband lined the inside with a high grade velcro to keep it shut. Yeah ... that doesn't work. As soon as we hit a bump on the road, it pops back open and slams me in the knees.

The interior is worn. However the paint job is somewhat shiny still. My husband does a great job maintaining the look...with the exception of some oily greasy looking leak that lubes up the bottom ledge of the car that will stain your pants when you get in or out of the driver's door. I hear because it's a diesel car - it has some leakage issues. I'm not sure why ...

So I'm writing to the Ellen Degeneres to ask for her to consider my husband for a new car. Anyone reading this want to write her as well to plea my case?

Every single day my husband drives in that car, I'm afraid for his safety. I'm about to post a sign in the rear window that says, "CAR WILL NOT GO FAST - PLEASE BE KIND!"

Butt of All Jokes

2011-07-15T20:24:00.000-05:00

So today was a big teaching moment for my boy. I told the truth about something that put me in a very uncomfortable position.

I think we've all been there ...

Something happens that could be considered a white lie that if under normal circumstances could slide, because if no one ever knows about it - then you don't really have to own up to it.

However, when you're a parent you are always under constant supervision. Little eyes and ears are always ever present ready to soak in every word you utter and every action you display. For me, I've always walked a pretty straight line so that my son would not have to question my motives or actions ... but no one is perfect. Everyone messes up...and a smart parent will use it as a teaching moment.

Long story short, I told a white lie. And no one would be the wiser if I kept to my story, except my son knew about it. And even though I didn't blatantly lie to anyone - and it wasn't a harmful untruth, I still did not need to set a low standard for my son. So ... I fessed up and clarified my untruth.

This morning I told my son that I came clean. I explained to him how honesty was always the best policy, and even though I a very honest person sometimes people tell each other what's called white lies. I emphasized that white lies - although aren't harmful - are still untrue.

I told him even though it put me in a tough spot to tell the truth ... the truth still was better than anything else.

I said, "It's kinda like when I ask Daddy if my butt looks big in a certain pair of pants...and he says .... noooo, not reaaaaallly." I laughed and finished up with, "You know he just doesn't want to tell me the truth, when the pants really do make my butt look big. And what he doesn't know is that I'd rather know the truth."

The next thing I heard was a sweet little voice from the back seat of my car. And it went a little like this:

"Aaawwww Mommy." He paused for that angelic effect. "I would neeeever tell you that your pants make your butt look big." (insert sweet smile)

I sincerely thanked him, to which he replied, "It's your butt that makes your butt look big!!" Then he started laughing.

It was the funniest thing I'd heard all week.

Who could resist?

2011-07-07T11:04:00.000-05:00

Okay so I'm a typical mom. I have to brag on my boy.

He made me a birthday card last night that read so beautifully. And not to take anything away from his heartfelt words, but part of the reason he did it was to make sure his card read better than my husband's did - because my husband's card made me cry. Little T wanted to beat his dad out!

(Okay this part made my heart smile....what mom doesn't love that from their child?)

Okay I'll retype the inside as it may be hard to read:
For my very (<---this X39) precios (and most beutiful) mother :) I say Happy Birthday to the prettiest girl on earth. -- your son :)

(Aww, he was laying it on thick. LOL)

One the back, he'd outlined his hand, and put T T cards inside. This was his logo.

He also drew a sheet of chore coupons, to be redeemed. There were 9 to the page, with cut lines drawn. It came with it's own bar code and pricing of 5.00. This was listed on the back, so if I wanted to buy more in the future I could. And of course it had his logo - outline of a hand with The T Store. It stated:

Our prices won't be beat!! GAURONTEED great savings!

Now that is great marketing people. Not only is he giving me a valuable gift, but I can buy something from him later. HA! He is going to be a wheeler and dealer when he starts in the business world. Watch out!

On a side note - I'm very blessed to have the people in my life that I do. God has truly blessed me with a great family.

My sis sent me some great flowers to my office yesterday... She's the best friend and sis a girl could have.

My Fav things ever

2011-06-21T11:32:00.002-05:00

Okay now I'm not saying I'm like this chef...I'm far from it. BUT I didn't know I was already so close to cooking perfection. I already use orange and olive oil, with my chicken to spice it up. I also use pineapple or lemons.

So here's a fun clip from the Nate Show to give you some easy cookin in your kitchen.

Now I need to go buy a food processor!!I'm wanting to make those patties!

A very long journey

2011-04-02T12:13:00.000-05:00

During the process of writing 'Finding Kylie' I got a lot of rejection letters. No one wants to look at you unless your a well known name. No one wants to read anything you send no matter if it's in the correct format or not. So you jump through hoops to keep submitting in the perfect forms per each agency or pub house, and in the end you get a form letter telling you 'Even though you've got great talent - you're just not right for our organization.'

Translation?
--I didn't even look at what you send but I did file it in the trash ... right after my assistant looked at the return address to be able to address this form letter.

I was encouraged at each rejection letter - as that meant that was one more time I was closer to my 'yes'. I've saved each one. So that when I have my own name in the industry, I can politely write them back and say thank you for the amazing encouragement. And I mean that last statement with utmost sincerity! I do! Because if it weren't for them, I wouldn't have kept going!

Most, when the get rejected 3 to 10 times, decide that if no one believes them then it wasn't the right path for them. Not me ... I took each rejection with joy because it means to me that it's helping me gain more energy for success. My multiple rejections only mean that I'm going to be blessed that much greater for listening - not to those in the industry - but to my God, who tells me I'm right on target.

Finally a small but legitimate publishing house took me on and published Finding Kylie in October 2008. When the book first came out, I knew it was meant to touch others. I always said it didn't matter if I made 20 dollars off it - it only it impacted others. And I still feel that way! I truly only care that this storyline makes the reader stop, think, and appreciate their lives and how much God loves them through thick and thin.

'Finding Kylie' is not a Christian book, but it definitely has a Christian message at the end. And if it touches one person, than I've done my job. I know I can walk through the pearly gates, and feel that I've done something for the kingdom.

Within a month, I got an email from a film producer in London who wanted to make the book into a screenplay. He warned me that it was a very long process but he wanted to partner with me to convert the book into a screenplay.

long process ... hmmmm. Okay 2 years? I could appreciate that. No, he meant a LLOOOONG process. So here we are 4 years later and within a week I'll have a finished product in hand. I'm super excited to see what it brings.

Big changes are getting ready to happen peeps.

School Project

2011-02-10T17:22:00.002-06:00

http://icareprojectokc.blogspot.com/For those of you who follow me - can you please take a look at my son's project and leave your thoughts?

You can link to it here.

The Talk

2011-01-31T10:41:00.003-06:00

So how do you prepare to have certain talks with your child as they grow up? As a mother, I certainly never expected to have certain conversations by the age of 5, 6, and 7, but life experiences have a way of opening up a curious child's mind to loooots of questions. And my motto is: 'If they're old enough to ask, they're old enough for the truth'. For one thing, I'd rather my child know he can trust me for the little but pertinent questions as they pop up in life. It will allow him to see that he can definitely count on me for the bigger stuff on life's highway...especially when it gets bumpy. And it will!

SO about 8 moths ago, he asks me why our puppy needed to get fixed. It was a simple enough question. I responded that it was to keep her from having any unwanted babies. He thought about it for a second and said, 'But mom if we keep her away from other dogs, why do we still need to get her fixed. She won't have puppies if she's not around dogs right?" (I could ignore this question and say he'd find out when he's older or I could approach it with the truth?)

Sooo ... we had the whole uterus talk and I compared it to a self cleaning oven. And with this uterus, that cleans itself out - I said I didn't want to keep cleaning up after a puppy all over her carpet. And I don't want to diaper our puppy to keep it clean.

What was his next thought? You'd think that would be enough - right? I would think any other kid would be grossed out and stop wondering. Not my child! He said, "Do all girls have a uterus? All animals and ..." Then he looked at me. He wanted to know what I do when my self cleaning oven/uterus goes on a cleaning binge. I confirmed my son's suspicions that yes, his mom, was a normal girl ... with a uterus. Ick!

Aaaarggghh! Where was his father? How come all the hard questions that I get are when dad is conveniently not around? (We'd already had the drugs/alcohol talk as one of my friend's teenager got a DUI and my son heard my comforting her over the phone. When I hung up, he immediately wanted to know what at DUI was and what was this other kid drinking.)

That short bit of info about our puppy was enough to tide him over - until about a couple weeks ago. He blurted out with, "Mom, where to babies come out? Do doctors cut them out of the uterus?" (shaking my head - of course dad was at work.)

I confirmed that some do get cut out.

His next question: "Some? What about the others?" (me<---groaning)

I asked him to come sit down at the table. I had a feeling that this might be bigger than just a simple answer. I didn't know how many questions would lead from this. After we sat, I explained that the uterus had it's own chute that the baby came down and out. He then wanted to know where it came out. I answered politely and correct. He asked how it would come out such a small area. My answer? Yeeeesh.

Here's what I said word for word:
"Honey God makes women's bodies very beautiful and complex. The area it comes out of is like a rubber band that stretches very far out to allow for a baby to come out. Then it goes back down small again to be normal."

He was amazed at that and agreed that God made us very special. Then he sat in thought and blurted out, "That must have really hurt momma!"

Me - laughing: "Well what do you think? Imagine squeezing something the size of a watermelon out of a pea sized hole."

He laughed and laughed. This led to many more questions. And I won't bore you with the infinite details but I will say that he then told me that he wouldn't have time for a wife and child, as he was going to go on special missions for the FBI and it wouldn't be fair to a family to be away for so long, with secretive missions.

I laughed and told him that I'd remind him of that when he was in his twenties and couldn't spare one more day without the one he would fall for...and it might happen again and again and again. As he'd find out soon enough.

This led to more questions which I won't provide the banter for but I will just leave you with my seven year old's mind full of questions below. Just know we had a very thoughtful heart to heart that I never saw us having at this age, and it showed me how blessed I am to have such a special son.

These questions progressed from here:

--Mom, how do I know when it's the one?
--How will I know if she's a Christian?
--What do I do if she's not?
--What happens when Christians marry someone who isn't a Christian?

How do you think you'd answer?

I know how I did and I feel my son has a lot of information to spin for a while - until the next time he asks what his little inquiring mind wants to know. I just pray God continues to bless me with the right answers.

Thankfully we've not had the sex talk yet! His dad better be home for that one!!!

Hot Babes in Bikinis

2010-11-13T14:43:00.001-06:00

If I were a dude, today would have been heaven ... minus the 30-40 degree temperatures.

Early this am, we met two bikini clad models at the lake to shoot months, January and July, for the new KRXO Classic Rock calendar. The models were troopers. I know if I was freezing my butt off in thermal underwear and sweats, they had to have been frigid with next to nothing on with winds whipping off the water at the lake.

Lake Overholser, affectionately nicknamed 'Lake Holdercloser' in my college days, was the perfect location. No one was out there and we had the entire lake to ourselves. Other than an occasional looker and one police officer that had to stop by to 'inspect' the shoot, we were totally alone.

And I fell in love with the two motorboats we went out on. One of the high end local dealers provided to amazing Mastercraft boats with every bell and whistle. I hadn't been out in one in a very long time, and now I know why I had so much fun way back then. Even though it was frigid temperatures, being out on the water was so relaxing.

I'd post a pic here but for some reason BLOGGER isn't allowing me to post pics today....arrgh!

Giant Florist Strikes OUT

2010-11-02T10:34:00.002-05:00

Imagine my surprise when I called 1-800 flowers today and not only did they not have ANYTHING to cater to sports fans, but the operator I was connected to had no clue what I was talking about.

I asked him if he had anything to celebrate the Giants winning the World Series. His response?

"Um we have nothing to do with Giants ma'am. I can't help you."

"No, not Giants. The San Francisco Giants. You know? Do you know who won the world series last night?"

"Um. Sorry we can't help you."

I was in shock that a sales person for a major organization didn't at least say, "Hey I don't follow sports, so I'm sorry I really don't know what you're talking about." Or, "Our company doesn't have anything for any major sports occasion..."

On top of that I was surprised he didn't start asking questions to dig deeper, because maybe if he'd asked what the teams colors were and realized that it was a baseball team I was talking about he could have tried to get someone to design something manageable like a baseball coffee cup with orange and black flowers. Come 'on. That is the first and last time I will call 1800 flowers again.

On a happy note, I'm thrilled for my husband. As a child he was taken to the stick for Giants games since he was old enough to hold a baseball. His dad and grandad, both passed now, were huge gi-normous Giants fans. Both celebrated this past-time with my husband to the point of eating, sleeping, and dreaming Giants baseball.

So today, I made my husband my own floral bouquet and emailed it to him. It's the pic seen above. It came with my own special message and it won't die in 3 days. It's something I made and it's free. You can't top that.

:) GO GIANTS! We're so proud of you even if most florists don't have a clue what a huge market base that sports fans are!!!

As I sit ...

2010-10-21T13:22:00.000-05:00

Music from 'Farm Story' softly plays in the background, while my son plays - and I work on my photos for my latest client. (Ok ... so I am taking a few minutes to blog - but I'm still working)

I recently stepped down as Asst. Manager at the boutique (store shall remain un-named) at the mall. I just kept turning down photo jobs, as my store Manager couldn't let me off for every job I was hired or potentially hired for. I realized I wasn't doing her any good asking off all the time, and the j.o.b wasn't really helping us out that much as far as revenue.

The realization hit when telling my son yet one more time that I wouldn't be home for another bed time because I had to close my store, but that I'd see him in the morning.

He looked to me with sad eyes and asked, "Mom, why don't you just stop working so hard and work smarter?"

Then the next week a friend dropped by with what I thought was a note. We hadn't talked or seen each other in a while. She said she was just thinking about me and had something for me. I'm blessed with some very sweet friends.

Inside wasn't a note ... it was money.

... Just so you know ... I don't ever take charity.

And as I told her, "We're making it okay. I don't need this. I can't take it."

Her response was, "We were going to tithe this and God woke me up in the middle of the night. He layed your name on my heart and told me to drive over to bring it specifically to YOU. Pray about it Kim. It's not from me - but from God. You can't turn away his gifts."

OKAY so that's a heavy load dropped in my lap. I can't turn away his gifts. I'm not supposed to turn on God in any way.

And yet I work every Sunday - I don't see my family - All of this due to my mall schedule. Isn't this also turning my back on my spiritual responsiblities?

So my husband and I prayed. And you know what the Lord told me?

Ever so gently he whispered ...

"Kim, if I can provide for you in such a direct way ... in this way through other people. Why would you doubt that I can take care of your every possible need?"

So the decision was made. We kept His gift for future needs. And I made the call to leave my j.o.b that kept me from being there for two of the most important things in my life, my God & my family.

So as I sit and I hear this simple music playing from my son's game, I have huge peace. I'm actually at home working on my first love - being with my family and working on my passion, pictures and writing.

Another friend contacted me a few weeks ago, and asked me to work with her. She owns a marketing and promotions company, and needs help running it as it's growing too fast for her to do all by herself. So now not only have I been slammed with photo work, as God is following through with his promise to provide - but I'm also working a second revenue stream. Every little bit helps and now as I promised my son - I'm working smarter.

Here's a pic from my latest shoot. A very talented actress hired me to take her headshots. Take a look and let me know what you think.

Have a great time. It's time to go play UNO with my boy. And then ... we may just go ride bikes.

God is good ... all. the. time.

so here's the deal ...

2010-08-24T11:00:00.001-05:00

I promise I've not been out of commission just running around like crazy, which has kept me from sitting let alone blogging.

Life since October has been overloaded with everything retail, as I took a full time job. Unfortunately this left me unable to creatively unload, which means I've not completely finished my sequel yet - but ... it's almost done.

The only thing creative I've been able to do is take some photography jobs here and there. I've not had much time off from retail-land to work on my company, but I still get enough work that I feel creatively charged. Here's an example of my last commercial shoot. This is one of many billboards that line the highways in Oklahoma City. I love that my work is posted up for everyone to see.

Last week I had headshots for some actors who are talking to some L.A. casting directors for 'Sonny With A Chance'. That was a treat to shoot those pics for their meeting.

Next on the docket is a calendar for this radio station, which should be fun. And ... I've got a wedding reception this weekend.

So sorry I've not been here much as of late ... but hopefully that will change very very soon. I'll keep you posted on life in the next few weeks. I'll have some exciting news I can share soon.

Have a great week my friends and keep counting your blessings!!

20 years

2010-06-23T07:52:00.002-05:00

I can't believe 20 years ago I was a fresh young pup ready to take on the world, thinking - no knowing - I knew everything there was to life and what it had in store for me. 20 years ago this month I graduated from a wonderful school over in Japan and left behind some really wonderful friends.

I say left behind because when you're a brat (insert military) - you don't have the option to go home for the weekend to visit the folks and all your buddies when you leave for college. Chances are your folks are packing up not too long after you, and headed for another duty station hundreds of miles away from where you once were. And your all your closest friends' families are doing the same. There is no going home. Home is where you are for the moment until it changes again. Your friends you just have to hope will keep in touch, but if not you already know the art of making really good new ones - as that's what you've done your whole life.

However, when you're a brat and you live overseas there's something special about those friends you spent time with. And thankfully, for me, we've all kept in touch somewhat even before facebook. And well, with facebook, it's so easy to catch up not only daily buy hourly on what their status is. Sometimes I know too much! LOL. Sometimes I give too much info.

However, this weekend we're off to our 20 year high school reunion. The 10 was in Vegas. I missed the 15 in New Orleans due to my pregnancy. And the 20 is in CHICAGO! We're going to have so much fun!! My friends, myself, and our spouses will invade and experience Chicago & party like it's 1990!

I'll post some pics soon.

Brooke White - what you see is what you get

2010-06-04T11:00:00.000-05:00

Brooke was one of my favorites. She was the girl with the sunny smile and warm presence. I thought she was a very talented artist, and we voted for her often.

Last night at an American Heart Association fund raiser, I had the chance to visit with her. She graciously played for our benefit and stayed to talk with all her fans.

Now I will say this -- one thing great about Oklahoma is that we don't swarm people or trample others to get to visit with anyone, famous or not. I was impressed that the entire room gave her space, allowing her to mingle at her leisure.

However, I have a feeling even if we were a rude bunch - she would have been just as gracious. She took time to truly visit with those around her. And I also found out she likes to read! And guess what's next on her reading list??

I always knew she was a smart girl! :) And just like on TV - she's brilliantly talented.

KINDLICIOUS

2010-06-03T08:37:00.001-05:00

I, for one, love the smell of a real book. I love the way it feels, and how the pages turn. And some days I just sit and look at my bookshelf, in love with the way they look lined up in order. Everything from the cover design to the layout inside is appealing to me.

However in this new digital age, I have to say that I'm very intrigued by 'Kindle'. They are the same size to read as a real book. It's as if the pages are just scanned and inserted inside. Even though I will still be a book lover at heart, I love how easy it is to just download a book and read in an instant.

Finding Kylie, my book, is also available on Kindle.

I would encourage any of you to try out this amazing technology. I believe the IPHONE even has a Kindle app that allows you to download. For those of you, who don't have time to go to a bookstore - download my book and let me know what you think.

How easy is it to read? And how much fun?

The path before me ...

2010-04-25T09:26:00.005-05:00

When I started this blog it was because I had a 'Corporate America' j-o-b and was a new mom, who was burning the candle at both ends. I felt like I was completely worn thin and out. I was working my tail off for someone else only to come home too worn thin to have quality time or energy to invest in my new baby/toddler.

After a long battle of mentally weighing my options - budget vs. investing time with my child - I decided to work from home. So when my child was three I took a work from home position, and gambled by stepping into a full commission position. It was a large leap of faith, but worth every stressful second knowing I had more time at home.

After three successful years in this position, it went to an 'office only' position, so again I decided to leave. As always God had my back every second of the way as I just so happened to be fully vested at the exact time I had to leave the company, which meant I would still receive a small paycheck from the company for the client residuals that paid out each month. 3 years after leaving them, I still have a little income from that company which desperately comes in handy in this economy.

After leaving my full commission position, I took a 6-8 month break from work to became a stay at home mom. It was an amazing experience. I found that answer to the age old question - 'What would you do if you didn't worry about getting paid?' I started my own photography company and focused my passions. And throughout this time also had another dream fulfilled, which was getting a book published.

I was in heaven being with my son and living my dreams. It was an amazing time in life. Then the recession hit.

So full-time motherhood took a back seat as did my dreams.

The reality hit hard that my only option was to join the work force again and work for someone else. However my entrepreneurial spirit did not die. I knew I had hit my stride and would not give up what I'd started, even if it meant working around another j-o-b.

I struggled with what I wanted to do. I felt I had no more options. I'd originally left a world of advertising and marketing, which I really thrived in and was successful. And even if it was working in corporate America, I was 'great' at it. My creativity had free reign, which gave me full satisfaction on some days. The meetings about meetings on why we weren't making numbers is what drained me, and eventually led me to leave. The constant 'Office Space'is why I knew leaving was the right move for me. The little creativity I had drained into oblivion.

I love advertising but knew I didn't want the office politics that came with it. After a few months of searching I found what was the right move for me, retail management. Right out of college, I managed a men's clothing store. I know clothes and fashion. And I know how to sell. So ...

Now I'm working full-time as an assistant at a great women's boutique...a quite well known one. And if I have to work, I love my j-o-b. I am able to make women feel beautiful every day! Also I get to do a lot of marketing and outreach - including some graphic design for our region for certain events. So it still feeds my creative side, which I love. And I am blessed to work with some of the most amazing women I know. I feel God's hand led me there because he knew I would be miserable working anywhere else.

As well on the outside of my 40 hours for this company, I still run to shoot weddings, commercial jobs, and individual & family sessions. In fact this month, some of my work will be displayed on some billboards around OKC for a commercial job I've been hired for. (yea!) Plus I've been hired for some freelance work for a high school magazine, which has now branched into advertising sales. This magazine allows me to work from home (perfect!). And last but not least, I'm working on some amazing things on the writing front. I can't say anything now as I don't want to jinx them, but God is opening doors and I'm blown away at His graciousness.

I'm busier now than I was when I termed myself wornoutwoman. I'm pulled in more directions than I was in bed with corporate America. Yet somehow because I'm living my dreams, I'm still revitalized each day. Even on the hard days when I've not had a day off in forever - I see the big picture and the lovely light at the end of the tunnel. I get to see each day what dreams coming true looks like. It may not pan out like I hope it does - but little bits pan out each day. And thats enough for me to keep going ... to keep trying ... and to keep on the path before me. I know God has it already mapped out. I just need to listen and follow.

cursing at 6?

2010-02-25T07:34:00.002-06:00

Recently I took my son to Build a Bear. We'd never gone before and I felt it to be a great Valentines gift trip. And I was right! He loved it!

He picked out a fuzzy dog, donned him in a OKC Thunder uniform, and fell in love with 'Skruffy'. He took Skruffy everywhere for the next few days ... even shoving him in his backpack to sneak into school. However Skruffy messed up and now is homebound.

All I know is that we were out our door a couple days ago - dog in hand. I handed my little guy his chewy sour vitamins and turned to put my shoes on. The thing I know I'm hearing cursing coming from my entryway.

"Stop shidding on my vitamins!" my little guy yells.

"What? What did you say?" I tried to not laugh or start putting on my discipline face. (because I didn't know which one to do)

"Stop shidding on my vitamins!" (rolls his eyes at me) "C'mon Mom ... you know Skruffy sheds!"

I couldn't hold my laughter in - "Ohhhh - shEding. OK - well I wouldn't eat them after that either."

I gave him new vitamins and we were out the door.

I'm still laughing at my son's dog shidding on his vitamins. My little guy cracks me up.

Hope you're having a great day!!!

ICE storm travel tips

2010-01-30T15:23:00.003-06:00

So it's been pretty crazy here for the last couple of months. Between getting stranded Christmas Eve for 6 hours, in a massive snow storm, to getting hit again this week with another ice storm. The first of the two storms - gave us 12 + inches of snow for days on end. Christmas was not typical in that most families were not together, because they were stranded and/or not able to travel anywhere to see extended family. We just took down our Christmas tree last week b/c we promised our son we'd keep it up until all our family Christmases were done.

It almost felt like winter was trailing off until this blasted ice storm hit this week. Again - because I'm 'that' lucky, I worked most days during the storms, and ended up traveling home in it all again. Thankfully, I work for a wonderful company who allowed me to close our store so that myself and one employee could go home. We closed 2 full hours before the mall did. You know it's serious when two major highways are shut down in the state...and yet the mall still chose to stay open. Here's a video showing my drive home on the second day. It really wasn't too bad - even today. However it's all the other CRAZY drivers that make it impossible to get through this mess.

I hope if you're in OK ,or in the path of the storm making it's way to your state, you're staying safe. Here are some great storm preparation musts --

Buy and stock up on:

batteries
bottled water
warm blankets
a generator
kitty litter or salt for the drive way, or to keep in your car incase of getting stranded
2 snow shovels - one for the house and one for your car
gloves and hats
extra thick socks to keep in your car, plus a warm change of clothes & snow boots
Toilet paper
Non-perishable foods

Also - never forget - do not leave your car unless help has arrived. Being exposed to the elements is more dangerous than staying where you have secure shelter ---> your car. The only reason to leave your car is if you're able to walk a short (and I mean short) distance to a nearby building for shelter.

Also, incase you're stranded in your car for a bit - here's a helpful hint: Keep an empty cup in your car and a roll of toilet paper....I'll leave it to your imagination to why. :)

checkin you out...

2010-01-05T09:36:00.003-06:00

So when did it happen? When did my son turn into a teenager at the tender age of 6? ... well he's almost 7.

Day before yesterday we went to see the SQUEAKQUEL with Alvin and the Chipmunks. It was hilarious to see my son laugh and blurt out kid commentary throughout the film. I love watching him giggle at something. His face lights up.

However his face lit up for an entirely different reason earlier that day, and I almost lost it. I tried not to giggle, but he was too cute.

We were waiting for our friends to join us at the theater, when a young blonde 7ish little girl walked by. I noticed her doing a double take at my son, and giving him a shy sideways look.

I looked down to him and said, 'Dude she was totally checking you out!'
He said, 'And I was cheeeckin her out mom!'

He was grinning wide.

I asked him what that meant and his response?

'It's when you're seeing if you'd make a good couple with someone'

He was so excited that he thought she was cute and she obviously was in like as well. OH. MY. GOSH.

First - I started it. I started the whole idea.
Second - OH - MY - GOSH!
Third - HOLY CRAP - my son's checking a girl out. Stop that!

Sigh ... I'm going to have to keep those girls at bay and he's only 6. Why don't people tell us moms these things before we have kids? Where's the users manual on that one??

Catching up with you...

2009-12-29T10:27:00.005-06:00

So I haven't posted since October ... wow!

I guess blogging has gone to the wayside with all the projects and work I've been doing. But since Oklahoma has been frozen by a blizzard, I thought I'd take a few seconds to communicate to any of you out there, who still read this little blog.

Lots of things have happened in three months. A few for starters:

* I was asked to become an asst. manager at my work - so that took me from part time to full time. (hence no blogging)

* My own photography company picked up like crazy. (hence no blogging)

* more author events to promote book (still no time for blogging)

* Christmas enveloped our schedule - rushing through the few hours I did have, in which I wasn't working or with my son/husband, to get any shopping done. Once December started my hours changed to accommodate all other shoppers, which left me closing my store at 11 pm and home by midnight. So my husband had the fun chore of shopping this year. I took almost no part in it.

* I got stranded in the snow and ice on Christmas Eve for 6 hours, with no access home. My brother in law couldn't even reach me to come get me in his truck, as all roads were closed around me. Finally a co-workers husband, who was near by, braved the snowbanks of 14 inches and escorted me home around hundreds (literally) of stranded cars on the roads. Navigating that feat was not easy. It was a miracle I got home to see my family for Christmas at all.

O here I sit, as another snow storm approaches reflecting on this past week, let alone month - and I'm tired but still grateful for all that I've been given.

* I have a healthy family, which is the biggest blessing of them all.
* My business is still struggling along but doing okay. In fact, I have a wedding to shoot on New Year's Eve. I just hope I can drive in the mess that is getting ready to 're' hit.
* If I 'have' to work for someone else to help us make ends meet, at least I have a great j-o-b.
* And I'm making a new years resolution for the first time in my life. I'm going to be in shape for a 5K by the time my birthday hits in July. It's my birthday gift to myself.

All in all, so many things to be thankful for and so many things to continue to look forward to for the following year. I make just enough with my photography to break even, as expenses are pretty much even with my income. This year I may make it past that break even point. And trust me for tax purposes, I'm not complaining. I have a fruitful career that although I wasn't expecting, I'm grateful for at the boutique. My family is all healthy and happy, no small feat. And this year will bring some amazing things that I'm still keeping under wraps...but you'll know more about soon.

I'd like to see what you're planning for the new year. Although I've never believed in resolutions and I feel we've got to make life choices every day...this year I'm starting something I've been putting off for a very long time. I'm getting my legs in shape like they were in their 20's!

Thanks for keeping up with me with this blog from time to time. I appreciate you all, and look forward to hearing from you.

I'm getting old fast

2009-10-03T13:19:00.005-05:00

So I found a lump about 2 weeks ago. A pretty substantially sized lump and it kinda freaked me out. I've only recently started doing self exams in the last couple of years, and I'll admit I'm not as vigilant as I should be.

For the last 6 months one breast has been really tender to where I can't even sleep on one side at night. I've always heard cancer doesn't hurt, so I wasn't too concerned about it being the big C. But I have to admit, when I found that lump I was so sick to my stomach that I almost couldn't stand in the shower to finish up why I was really there.

I finally got my hair washed and cleaned and stood up enough to turn off the water and dry off. My stomach was in a lurch and my hands were a little shaky. About an hour later, I snapped out of it. I knew I was going to be okay. After all it was just a little lump. I prayed over it and started the day with determination, not worrying about anything I couldn't control. After handing it to God, I knew it was in great hands and whatever was the outcome I'd be taken care of.

The next day God practically told me that it wasn't cancer. I was playing with my son, and it was as if he literally told me, 'You have a son to raise and that's your job here. You're not going anywhere.'

A week & half later I finally got to my OBGYN for an exam who went through the standard exam. You have to know I'm squeemish being in his office anyways...let alone a breast exam. I'm ticklish. He confirmed my lump...'Yes, I feel that one. Let's try the other one.'

I breathe in and brace myself for round two.

'Oh yes, and I feel multiple ones over in this one.'

What? WT? I wasn't expecting that one. Again a little shaken - but this time it passed in minutes.
He wrote my work order for the breast center, and checked the appropriate boxes and sent me on my way with - 'well hopefully I won't be seeing you again for a year. Once I get their report I'll let you know.'

OK - thanks for that doc. I appreciate the reassurance.

Then once I was almost passed the doctor's hallway and out to the exit the nurse gave me puppy dog eyes and said, "Honey are you gonna be okay?"

"Yeah, I'm not scared." --- Why? I thought. Should I be????

My next appointment was for four days out. To make a long story short, I had to wait a looong time to get a diagnosis. Again I had reassurance it wouldn't be cancer as it was tender, and I was riddled with cysts. That's not typically cancer. BUT to finally have a diagnosis was like a huge breathe of fresh air...just very cleansing.

I suffer from fibrocystic tumors. My breasts weren't even readable with a mammogram. The tissue was so dense, you couldn't see through them. With an ultrasound, they confirmed that I'm riddled with cysts through both breasts and throughout the chest wall.

A bunch of pea sized bumps that will be there for ever that are very tender, causing me issues through most of the month. If they become bigger, they'll need to be lanced or drained with a needle.

So the moral of the story?

Stay away from caffiene -- which I never intake anyway. I drink water, juice or white 2% milk at all times. I do chocolate once a month for a few days. I'm not on caffiene with any products either, like energy drinks or back pills.

So for me, I just continue dealing with the pain as it's very manageable all but one week of the month & pray I don't get any enlarged cysts as I HATE NEEDLES!!!

Oh, and I wonder if I can get a doctor's note to ask for a 'hands off' period for my husband? Hmmmmm........

I think I'm getting old!

my little salesman

2009-09-24T20:26:00.002-05:00

This is the first year we're taking the leap and joining cub scouts. We're enjoying the culture and activities so much. Right now it's all about selling popcorn, to earn money for our troop.

My little guy has always been a great salesman and negotiator. What kid isn't?

But after years of listening to me on the phone with clients, I guess it's really soaked in.

Two nights ago, he grabbed my cells and scrolled through my contacts list. He started by dialing the obvious: nanas and papas, and immediate family. He could have just said, "Hey wanna buy something from me," and they would have forked over a few dollars. But he goes all the way with anything he does. His spiel was unbelievable. He even had the features and benefits of the product down pat. And instead of trying to sell the little items, he went for the $50 tins every time with the assumptive close.

After our family had run it's course, he started scrolling through my phone to find any name he knew. The most memorable conversation went something like this:

my son: "Hey, um I'm trying to raise money for my pack for cub scouts and I'm doing that by selling popcorn. I'd really like to tell you about it."

my sweet friend: "ok!"

(from here he went into product knowledge and investment levels)

friend: "Well, my husband is out of town and I really need to discuss this with him and call you back when we figure it out."

my son: "Well hey! I know you could 3 way call him and I like 3 way calling! Call him now and I'll tell him all about it!"

My jaw almost hit the floor, in listening to him wheel and deal. What was more amazing is that she agreed and the next thing I knew he was selling her husband on three way calling. HA!

Within an hour, my little 6 year old sold 200 dollars of popcorn. Not bad for a night's work!

I'm such a blessed mommy!

Kanye Shmanye

2009-09-14T10:36:00.002-05:00

Twitter was all abuz last night with the Kanye Controversy. It was the fastest I've seen people respond to something in a while. And why not? I mean, come on how much does one person get to mouth off before facing some back lash?

I'm really shocked that MTV didn't cart his butt out of there instantly and treat him like any other protester. If 'joe average' had popped up to take someone's mich and start spurting hurtful words, he would have been tackled and taken into a nice holding cell. Better yet, he wouldn't have even made it up on stage. Why can't the same security, put in place for a reason, take out someone - anyone - with mal content?

It's reported that Kayne spoke with Taylor's mother after the show and somewhat made amends. It's not said that he 'apologized' as far as I've read anywhere online.

I. just. don't. get it!

My 7th grade teacher taught me many things, but one thing has stuck with me through my entire life. It is this:

'Your rights END at the end of your own nose'

Need translation?

It means that Kanye has a right to be a jackass as long as he's only affecting himself with his behavior. When he starts to let his idiot behavior effect and ripple into other lives, then his rights are no longer.

Although I'm not a huge Taylor Swift fan, I'm a huge supporter after last night's escapade. As a 19 year old, I can't imagine how I would have handled an irate belligerent dude stealing that moment from me.

Why does anyone even buy this guys work? I say everyone should boycott him for his obviously ignorant behavior. It's people like him, who make Americans look bad.

My DH

2009-09-06T18:29:00.002-05:00

After 9 years of marriage, one wonders where time goes and how fast it will fly into the future. You also wonder if there will be any other dimension added to your relationship with your spouse.

At this stage, most women I know either really complain about their other half - as they're not in a happy marriage. Or they still have that glow about them when they talk about their DH.

I would have to say that we're not your typical couple and that's a good thing in many ways. Our schedules keep us coming and going so much that we don't get a lot of quality time together, but we still strive for couple time whereas most just don't care anymore.

For me, I don't want to get lazy in my relationship. I want to make sure my husband knows how much I appreciate him and love him, by telling him everyday how much I love him. BUT I don't think that's enough. It's easy to say those words to pacify one's partner. The hard part is to put forth effort to demonstrate how much the relationship means to you.

I think monthly date nights are a must! Especially after bringing kids into the equation, because we all know that once we become parents - it's all about our child's needs. Maintaining that one on one connection with our spouse is so vital, and I'm guilty of not making that a priority as much as I should.

Striving for couple time is good, but actually making it happen is another. So on our 9 year anniversary, we made a pact to make it out at least once a month for a dinner date. We really tried in August to make our monthly date night, but didn't succeed.

So tonight, we're out on the town - dinner and movie for momma! I'm a happy girl. Not only because I'm out with the man I love but because he's dating me again.

hard drive blues

2009-08-30T12:53:00.004-05:00

I'm on my husband's laptop at the moment, envious of of the portability and ease that it offers. Well envious period...

My hard drive crashed a few days ago leaving me without any access to any of my writing or photos. Thank the Lord my husband was wise enough to buy me an external hard-drive about a month ago, so I backed up my sequel, screenplay, and all my important photography shoots.

My computer dude called Saturday to say he's working on my computer, and the hard drive may be partially retrieved ... fully retrieved ... or not. at. all. Sigh.

So as of now, I'm praying that it's fully retrieved as I've got my photoshop, final draft software, and current photoshoot, that I shot last Monday (which didn't get backed up yet).

I'd rather not re-shoot anything, as it's a hassle for the family that's already paid me a sitting fee and taken their time to meet me at the park. I'd rather not refund their sitting fee as a courtesy because of a computer. Although I'M HAPPY to if I need to, as it's the right thing to do. If someone has to meet me again for a reshoot, I'm going to refund them their money. BUT - I'd be so thankful if those pictures are still there. (crossing my fingers)

I'd also rather not reload my final draft software...or spend more money to purchase photoshop. I don't have the original CD to reload it, as we got it through a previous job & have no access to it now.

So thank you for listening to my vent session. I'll be up and running soon hopefully. I just shot a wedding this past Friday and am ready to download those pics for the happy couple.

Come on computer dude! Call me with good news!!!

10 days

2009-08-10T16:06:00.003-05:00

This summer has flown by. I can't believe my little baby will be in first grade in 10 more days. It's so hard to believe he's growing up and then in other ways, I'm blown away that he's only 6.

Today when I took him to register for soccer, he also wanted to register for flag football. I asked my friend, who was in charge of the sports camps what each cost and she told us that for soccer it would be $50 but for flag football it would be $65. I instantly knew that was more than we really could afford or should spend.

I tried to make a game out of it for my son and said, "You do the math - what's 50 + 65?"

I was just being flippant.
I never dreamed he'd be able to answer.

You could see his wheels turning, and his mind calculating.

He turned to me and said, "Um, 115 dollars?"

Both my friend and I look at each other astounded.

Yes, that's my son. A funny social silly kid, with a major brain.

I told him we couldn't afford to do both - and he said he would choose soccer because 'it was more fun and less expensive.'

Um - okay 1st grade teacher - you've got 10 days to prepare for this kid! Good luck!!

A small but worthy review

2009-08-04T22:13:00.003-05:00

You know in a tough economy it's hard to sell anything that's not needed. To me the one thing needed is a good story to take you away from any stress you may have currently in your own life! BUT I'm not normal...and that's clear. And not everyone is a reader.

At this point I'm still waiting to know how many have sold, but I know it's making somewhat of a ripple...as I get so many emails from random people, who I have no ties to - that have bought the book and felt led to email me to comment.

BUT days like these are well worth the wait when I get a wonderful comment from a random stranger sent to me via facebook or email:

Pj Blevins- I just finished your book and it is spectacular. I love books that make me cry! I can so emphasize with Chastity in losing her Mother as I lost mine a year ago. Can't wait to see what happens to her in your next book. Hope it comes out soon.

Thank you miss PJ - whoever you are...where ever you are. You and those like you, who take this book to heart, is why I wrote this book. It doesn't matter how much I make (okay yes it does - a little) - as long as my work makes an impact by touching people's hearts.

http://robo.to

2009-07-29T16:23:00.003-05:00

Ok guys. Found a cool site to promote anything you're feeling, up to, or down with. Go here to check it out. It's in the beta stages, but links all your feeds and looks to be a really cool service!

Still in love...

2009-07-26T14:55:00.002-05:00

This week my husband and I celebrated our 9 year wedding anniversary. Who knew 9 years could fly by so fast? And it's gonna be 10 before I can blink an eye!

Wednesday, we ate a romantic meal by the lake, at of our favorite spots. We enjoyed every bite as we enjoyed eachother's company. I was good and had one perfect margarita...and then was bad and had a huge dessert!

Afterwards we walked down by the lake, sat on a bench and relaxed while the sun went down. Sigh! This was the best anniversary yet! And that's something considering last year we spent our 8th in Maui...but that was for someone else's wedding and we were surrounded by people the whole time. This year it was just US.

On our ten I'm thinking romantic weekend trip somewhere. So I'm open for suggestions. Can you think of somewhere romantic but not over the top expensive? I'd like to go to Hershey, PA and get a chocolate bath. So please leave me comments on your suggestions for next year.

Thanks!

Kim

Oooooshhhh**

2009-07-14T11:37:00.004-05:00

So you have to know my mother to truly appreciate this one. She's a God fearing lady who everyone perceives as very prim and proper. She is very proper but also has a fun personality with a quick wit. She always has a gem of wisdom to drop on you whenever a subject pops up. She's an all around homemaker, who is an expert in all things home - raising children, baking, cooking, gardening, decorating etc. She's also a true artist and is a very talented one too!

This woman has one of the biggest hearts and doesn't have a perverse bone in her body. That being said she's not one to use foul language. I think THE ONLY time I've heard her curse was when I started driving, and I pulled out in front of a fast oncoming car. Something big popped out of her mouth, to both of our surprise and it sent me into laughing fits.

A couple of weeks ago, I dropped my son off so I could work for a few hours. As I sit in her perfectly arranged and pristine home, I noticed that some water had fled one of her plants. This water had spread out on half her glass top dining room table, and was threatening to spill over it's ridge onto the very expensive dining room chairs, which have silk cushions.

"Hey Mom ... what's that water doing?"

"What? What water?"

(pointing to her table, as my son sat in my lap)

"That water."

"Oh my goodness...I must have over watered my plant."

(She lifts the bottom of her plant to inspect - then sets it down into the plate below again.)

My mother then promptly lifted the whole small planter, with the bottom plate held firm under the pot. Water promptly came pouring from the plate below and onto everything below (except - thank goodness - the dining room chairs), and my mother again surprised me with her knowledge of the human language.

"Oh Shi*!!"

Keep in mind my 6 year old has never heard many bad words, as our family isn't one that curses...and certainly not from his Nana. So I came up with a quick cover.

"Did you hear that baby? Nana said, 'O'Cean!' because that water was like an ocean pouring out of that plant."

He started laughing hard b/c Nana is always funny. Now everything he sees with water he yells, "Hey Nana! Look - OOO'Cean!" She looks at me with disdain and I start laughing.

"Hey Mom...if you don't want to be teased - you shouldn't have said it!" And I giggle again.

My mother is not amused! But I am!

So to all you out there - when you're having a rough day - just remember:

OOO'Cean!

A healthy home = A healthy mind?

2009-07-01T11:01:00.007-05:00

How many times in life do we need to perge? What about make something right?

It seems even the simplest of things can make our minds and bodies feel so much better. I don't know about you but I'm lazy about certain things in life.

I will work hard at my job and my family, and when the rest comes to the plate - I feel worn thin. So my house will be cleaned sporadically and my yard goes in spurts. I can't balance it all.

They say a sign of a healthy mind is when you're able to get up and make your bed every day. Do you notice when you do get your bed made, how good and refreshed you feel?

If you are anything like me - I'll cheat a little. I pull up the covers but won't completely make it every day. BUT when I do, making it feels good. And I find that I have energy to do more around my home.

Is anyone else like this or just me?

Today I finally perged my back garden of all the daunting monstrous weeds and tilled the 'hard as clay' dirt. I've neglected that back flower bed for way too long.

I tried a few times to get it going. I've wanted to make sure it's as pretty as the one in my front yard (again - a balance issue ... or maybe time management, I'm not sure). Somehow, though I've never ever committed or intended to make it happen.

Today is the first step in making my bad flower bed a success. My son helped in the process by getting his little garden tools and pulling up the little weeds.

After we were done, we planted Okra and Tomato seeds that should germinate in about a week. We're going to our local garden center to get some mesh netting to protect them as they grow, from our new puppies dig happy claws.

It is so inspiring to watch something grow, that you've planted and matured with your own two hands. My son is so excited to see his baby okra grow too. In fact, he was so inspired by our hard work - he came inside and made my bed as a thank you!

Hmmmm.... my six year old - completely making and outfitting my King bed with overstuffed pillows. Maybe I should make that one of his routine chores around the house. Or is that cheating again?

I feel better!

2009-06-05T15:07:00.001-05:00

Before:

After:

A quick recap

2009-05-30T22:36:00.003-05:00

In the last few months so much has been taking place.

*My photography business has been ramping up as outdoor season is upon us.

*I got my house refinanced after 3 months of mortgage lending hell. (Yeah, we closed day before yesterday! It's gonna save us $150 a month!)

*My son graduated from Kindergarten and became a first grader.

*I was a chair person for an event for the last two weeks at my son's school, which lent me to two weeks off from work.

*And through all this my writing has not taken a back seat.

Family of course is first and foremost, but during times like these - it just makes me grateful that I have a part time job. Although we're financially short, we're learning how to make it stretch out. And right now I'm investing so much in my son, that I know it's time I'll never get back again.

My only regret is this: BECAUSE of my budget I've given up hair cuts/color! Aaargh! I've never done this in my whole life. I've never forsaken my hair through any times in life, but when you're in a recession and living on less than you've ever had to. You find ways to cut back.

You buy grocery store bargain brands.

You buy in bulk.

You re-use aluminum foil and baggies.

You use every last bit of food and realize how wasteful you've been in past times. Shameful but true.

You forgo going out and eating out.

You don't buy 'anything' unless it's an emergency.

AND ... when it's that tight - YOU don't get a hair cut.

OK - well I finally have a little 'me' mad money. And I've decided to use it on my hair. My first cut in 6 months will be this coming Friday. At this point, I feel like one of those women you see on 'Extreme MakeOver' or 'Fashion Emergency' who hasn't had a hair cut since 1970.

Ok, maybe my hair's not that bad ... but it feels that way. It's frizzy, shaggy, and scraggly. My grays are poppin out like crazy!

So after Friday, I'm gonna feel like a million bucks! And I've decided no matter how much I have to trim my budget - it's never worth it to NOT trim my hair.

I'm gonna post before and after pics for you guys!

An unlikely look at your life!

2009-05-22T11:45:00.003-05:00

For anyone wanting a genuine devotional book that speaks to you - NOT AT YOU! Please click the book cover above to check out my friend's book. The book cover takes you directly to Amazon.

Dr. George Goodman, is an exceptional writer, who is up and coming. God is doing big things with this book and through the book in many lives.

If you're needing some guidance in 'real terms' in 'real life' that is personal and pointed --- please go check this book out!

Thanks guys!

Kim

Amazing People

2009-05-16T12:55:00.007-05:00

There are people in life who do things so amazing but never get credit. Mark Harmon is one of those people.

When the bombing happened in downtown OKC, we all felt it's blast here in Oklahoma -- literally for miles, figuratively for decades, and emotionally for eons to come. Children lost parents, parents lost children...we all lost someone. The nation lost it's heart that someone in our own country would terrorize us in such a manner.

Many people came in support in many ways. There was a celebrity softball game that came to play at the bricktown ballpark. At that point in life I was in awe that I got to meet Dean Cain, who was yet to bloom into stardom. Most fans yelled, "superman!" at him because they didn't know his real name....although I did.

I still have a scar on my knee, from where I was shoved into a chainlink fence, where women were hording to get close to him. He signed MY softball program and walked off. I was too shy to even speak to him, as my knee bled from metal digging into it under the pressure of bodies behind me.

Mark Harmon was also at this event. Humble, quiet, and cute Mark Harmon took his time with the fans and wasn't trying to spy the spotlight. Out of all those so called celebrities, Mark, I believe, the ONLY one who has continually returned in efforts to help our city.

When he was here many years ago, he saw and fell in love with 'The Children's Center' in Bethany, OK. He started the Mark Harmon Foundation to raise money for this worthy cause and started enlisting famous counterparts, like film producer, Frank Marshall, to come back each year to support the sick children of OK.

Frank now premiers some of his films here locally in support of this state. He brought Matt Damon with him for the last Bourne release. Again, another star who supported our community.

This year was no different, except his charity was the Ronald McDonald House. And I got to attend! It was last minute and I just happened to have my book with me. I honestly didn't plan it that way. It was in my car, for just in case.

Last week before I knew I'd be at the even last night - God literally placed this thought in my head, "PUT YOUR BOOK IN THE CAR WITH YOU - YOU MAY NEED IT FOR SOMETHING SOON."

I believe last night was that 'something soon'. Frank and I chatted about it for a few minutes. Mark asked about the book and was genuinely interested so I signed the book and gave it to him. He put his arm on my waist and called me darlin'. I almost giggled!

Today I am still on cloud nine.

Here are pics from last night! I'm so thankful to men and women like these, who take their precious time to support a local community. What humble amazing people we have in this world. And I for one and truly humbled by their efforts and heart.

Bart and Nadia Conner are two amazing people as well. Gold medal Olympians who come back to OK to support Bart's hometown of Norman, OK. He is very active here and we all appreciate him very much!!

What happens in Vegas...

2009-04-26T13:11:00.000-05:00

6 week contest

2009-04-18T10:30:00.001-05:00

Hey I thought of a little contest I could start through this blog. For those of you who've not read the book yet, this will be incentive hopefully for you, as well, to go get a copy.

In the next 6 weeks, I will be running a contest that everyone can participate in. The only catch is that you 'have' to have read Finding Kylie.

For those of you anxiously awaiting the sequel...here's some good news. I've got 50 chapters outlined and about 20 chapters written.

So what's the contest?

For the next 6 weeks, you're to email me once you've read the book - and tell me who your favorite character is from Finding Kylie and why. Tell me one thing in particular which made you fall in love with that character and why it defines them. I'll know if you've truly read the book by how you answer this challenge.

I will be choosing a top 15 out of all the emails sent to me based on your thoughtful answers and heartfelt responses. Out of the top 15 persons, I will do a random drawing. The winning person, who's email I choose, will get their name in the next book, Facing Redemption.

It may not be a main character's name, but it will have a prominent scene. And you'll get a mention in the forward in the book. For those of you who have read it, you get the first jump at sending my your emails. For those who have not, if you're able to go to a Barnes & Noble - ask them to order your copy in. It's that simple. If you're no where near a Barnes and Noble than you can go through Amazon.

Here is the link to buy Finding Kylie.

I look forward to your emails.
Send them to: kimberlymckayauthor@gmail.com
Thank you for your support! And I can't wait to hear from you!

Also after you've read it - don't forget to take a picture of you with the book and send it on to. Here's an example of some I've been getting!

A never-ending song

2009-04-12T18:20:00.004-05:00

So my husband, who's in the advertising industry/media, always in on the look out for funny commercials. He's got the silliest sense of humor, which sometimes cracks me up and other times - just has me rolling my eyes.

A couple days ago he came home, popped open his lap top, and giggled while typing in the youtube website address.

"Kim, come here you've got to see this."

I sigh, knowing it's a gamble on wether it's worth it to pop over to view his latest find.

Here's what he found:

Okay, I admit it was kind of funny the first time I saw it. It took me a couple of seconds to catch on. BUT then he started on in his usual methodic mode by playing it again and again. And because he was shaking hard and laughing loud, my son had to come see what all the commotion was about.

This is something that will go right over my son's head so I wasn't too worried. Except now all I hear is this stupid 'mow the lawn' song around my house. First because once my husband get's something 'he thinks' is funny in his head, he doesn't let it go until the horse is dead - and buried and then killed again. And then my son will mimick his daddy, who he idolizes in every way.

We were driving home today, after a day of peace with no jingles interrupting our Easter when I hear this sweet little voice from the back seat.

"Hey mommy, you know what you need to do today?"

"What sweetie?"

You guessed it....the singing began, "Mow the lawn...mow the lawn. Trim it cut it!"

My husband was laughing so hard he almost wrecked the car. I am so ready for this commercial to fade away because now I have a feeling my son will be teaching his friends this song at school. And if any of their parents are at all like my hubby, they'll be calling me to see what I'm teaching my child.

Humbled

2009-03-31T09:19:00.007-05:00

I'm getting a lot of creative and funny pictures submitted for my picture challenge I submitted a couple weeks ago. It's amazing to see what my blogger buddies and readers are coming up with.

I think the coolest aspect of putting a book out there is the response you receive from readers, who are completely touched and in awe of what you wrote. Now that may change if I started getting a back lash of some sort (knock on wood that I don't). BUT the comments and reviews have humbled me and completely made this process worthwhile.

What's amazing me most are the comments or reviews from men! I don't necessarily consider Finding Kylie chick lit, but I knew it would be catered more toward the female demographic. Little did I know that men of all ages, as there have been some in their 80's and 20's, have thoroughly enjoyed this story too.

One of the more recent reviews, from a guy no less, I'll post here. I copied this from Amazon and pasted below:

"A touching story, March 26, 2009
By T. Norton

Finding Kylie is a very moving story which masterfully draws the reader into its world. I found myself surprised by the turns in the book as well and the emotional impact it had on me as a reader. Kimberly McKay is a rare talent that is able to convey her story through fleshed out characters and sets a tone that captures the reader's imagination. I'm eagerly awaiting McKay's upcoming novels and I strongly recommend one of the best books I've read this year."

I'd like to ask...how many of you like to fall into a story? How many of you love to fall in love with characters, who still haunt you after you've finished the book?

If that describes you, then I highly recommend you read this book. My contact info is in the back of it, and I would encourage you to write me - letting me know your thoughts.

Putting a book out there is the most scary thing. It's like standing on the edge of a cliff naked - totally exposed and ready to jump. Wow thats a picture none of us wants to see huh? BUT that's how it feels to put your heart out there for all to see, read, and respond to - good or bad.

I just wanted to send a sincere thank you to those that have read this, and a hopeful thank you to those that will. Each of you humbles me in ways you'll never know.

A few posts ago, I asked that you send me creative pics taken with the books... I have received many but want much more! I'm creating a collage poster for my office as inspiration, as I write the sequel. So get out your camera and get creative!

I want some taken:
* at city monuments
* and photoshopped with creative subtitles
* with celebrities
* with kids or animals
* in creative situations (you be the judge)
* in different countries
* on top buildings
* in the .... (fill in the blank) sky's the limit people!!!

Here's a couple to give you an idea!!

This was taken by my friend, Meleah, who blogs at Momma Mia, Mea Culpa. She's also in the process of writing an amazing book and she runs a quirky fun blog, which I suggest you go read!

Another reader took his book to Rupert, outside David Letterman's studio to take his picture. How cool is this??

I love this whole process and can't wait to see what pictures you come up with next!!! Send me some more!
Love to you all ~ Kimberly

Literally funny

2009-03-23T17:11:00.002-05:00

So everytime my son and I drive by our housing edition, he reads it's sign and tells me to turn in. Today, after I picked him up from school, we passed our housing area on the way to the grocery store. He pointed to our street and told me where I was supposed to turn to go home.

First I'm amazed that he knew his surroundings so well...well enough to know where we were supposed to be going to get home.

After packing up our groceries, buckling up, and driving off - I thought I'd make sure I'd acknowledge our turn in this time. Right before I turned I said, "Hey do you what what I'm turning into?"

I thought I'd get something like this -- "Yeah, our neighborhood."

Nope --- I got (with a smirk no less):

"A roooobot!"

"What?"
"You're turning into a robot mommy!"

His little infectious giggle did me in and we laughed all the way home.

I hope you get a giggle out of that today!

I need your photos please -- for Finding Kylie

2009-03-10T17:04:00.007-05:00

I've got a project for 'Finding Kylie' that I need your help with. I need ALL of you, who have the book, to take your picture with the book and email it to me. I am in the process of making a photo collage so that I can create a poster for my office. I'm doing it to give me inspiration while I'm writing the sequel.

So if you've got a copy of 'Finding Kylie' -snap a pic and email me at: kimberlymckayauthor@gmail.com
If you don't have a copy -- get your own, read it, and take a pic.

I want to see how creative you can be!! Take a pic in front of some city monument with your book up close and personal -- make sure you're in it too!! Take it in the bathroom or at the office - I don't care. Just have fun with it and send it in!

I look forward to receiving them. And if you're needing to know where you can find it...click on the 'Finding Kylie' button on my side bar. It's the direct link to Amazon. If you'd rather get it at your local bookstore, you can ask them to order it in for you. Some Barnes & Nobles in OKC carry them, but go out of stock quickly.

Get to work people! :)

Puppy Love

2009-03-03T11:29:00.004-06:00

I've been looking for all kinds of pictures to post at my facebook account, as all sorts of friends are finding me and me them. It's amazing how many different types of friends you find, and some you wish you didn't. Just kidding...

Although don't get your feelings hurt if you're a blog land friend, and I don't add you. I strictly use facebook for real life in person friends only to protect my privacy and my family's.

Here is one picture I ran across, from the fourth grade. It is from my 2 year relationship (HA!) in grade school. We went out for all of fourth and fifth grade, and were a hot item. Yeah, whatever that means. I think he pinched me on the butt a couple times, we held hands, and open mouthed kissed by the end of fifth grade. We mainly just hung out, and though each other were cute. BUT OH we were in love and had to have buttons made to say so! HA!

Have a great laugh at those shots up there, and have a great day!

Kim

20 years seriously?

2009-02-28T12:01:00.004-06:00

So on top of everything I've been up to, I'm also coordinating my 20 year high school reunion. I can't believe it's been that long!! I went to two high schools...the first in Woodbridge, Virginia and the second in Okinawa, Japan; Kubasaki High School...the dragons..

Forever Young was our class song and we thought we'd never get old. I look back to all that some of my alumni have done in lfe and I'm proud of each and every one! To list a few success stories, we have an:

*Olympic Gold Medalist in the 2008 Olympics
*Actor/Producer in London
*Mentor and Public Speaker with Rich Dad Poor Dad
*Many amazing officers serving our country
*Executives in the travel/hotel industry
*DJ's in foreign countries

Those are off the top of my head...the others who are just as important and are just as successful in their fields hold positions in the media, film, education, government, motherhood, fatherhood, the oil industry...the list goes on. These although more quiet successes, are equally impressive. I'm very proud of my classmates and friends, and can't wait to see them next summer.

Here's the thing..

When we get together it's never about what we've done, or how successful some of them are. It's always about our bond and amazing friendships. At a military school overseas, we were thrown together - all classes, races, religions, and creeds - and expected to get along.

There were no cliques...well there were those who had their friendships...but no one was left out from any friendship circle.

We all were in the same boat, in a far away land, learning to survive. No one can understand what it was like to be us, in that time or place. So this is why we love each other like brother and sister, still to this day, and because we were banded together then ... we only now can truly appreciate just how special and unique it was.

I can't believe it's been 20 years!

Real Life

2009-02-19T09:06:00.004-06:00

I wanted to apologize if it's seemed my posts have been slim lately, but I've had so many things going on in my real life that it's left me with little to no time.

Lately life hasn't been spent enough with my friends and family as much as I'd like, as I think we all tend to hibernate in the winter. Once Spring hits, we'll all be out & about again like this picture above. BUT life has definitely kept me on my toes.

I've been contacted by a production company in London to work with them on some projects, so my mind and time has been very full. The sequel for Finding Kylie is still on, but I'm splitting my time between the two projects. This week I'm speaking at my old University as an 'author' and am not sure I'll have anything interesting to say, but when asked to do these things...you do so whole heartedly. Next week, I'm driving to Tulsa for the FOX morning show for an interview. They contacted me last week, and it's an honor to be asked to do this as well.

So please don't think I'm ignoring my blogging...just know I'm doing what I can - when I can without sacrificing time for my son and family. Thank you so much for your support and continued interest in my book and this blog. I appreciate each and every one of you!

Kim

Also if you're a member of good reads, there's a contest there. Could you vote for Finding Kylie at this link?
Thank you!

Cozy and Comfy

2009-02-09T11:12:00.003-06:00

So since I've been partially unemployed/self employed I've taken to all my husband's sweatshirts. In fact, some of my favorites are his newest ones that were either birthday or Christmas gifts from this past year. He's not even had a chance to wear them as I've monopolized them all!

Yesterday, he walked in as I was playing with my son. I let my boy play sports in the house like basketball or hockey. We've got indoor goals, plastic pucks, nerf basketballs...so I have safe zones away from all my breakables, where we play. We happened to be playing hockey yesterday when my husband walked in the room, as it was his turn to play and mine to take a break.

I had on yet another one of his sweatshirts. I think it's been bothering him a bit because he gave me that look & asked, "You've got on another one? "

I nodded and smiled.

"Why are you wearing all my sweatshirts?"
"Because they're cozy and comfy...they make me feel close to you."

He gave me yet another one of his looks and replied, "Yah, that's why I wear your underwear."

Side note, he doesn't really wear my undies...he's just a smart ass!

Just another day in my home, with both of my comedians to keep me busy.

The good news is...that it's almost spring so I won't have his sweatshirts to wear much longer. I'd soon graduate to his T-shirts! :)

My son, the miser

2009-02-06T08:44:00.005-06:00

My son has and will always have a very big heart. In years past, on his birthdays, he's taken the initiative to give to various charities of his choice. You can click here to read about last year's birthday giving...it was pretty amazing.

Well - one year older and little wiser to the world, he's gaining more knowledge of money and it's power. I think the fact that I've been somewhat unemployed/self-employed since July, has had a larger effect than I thought. Obviously it benefits him, because I get to spend most all my time with him ... BUT he notices that we're restricted as a family to do certain things, from big to small on a financial level.

Last Wednesday night, at church, we were helping the kids decorate little plastic piggy banks. We told the kids, once they filled this itty bitty bank up...they could feel free to donate it to the charity of their choice. We're trying to teach these little hearts and minds about other places of the world, and here at home...and how we can help others in need. After all, this is what Jesus asks of us. Luke 3:11. And [John the Baptist] would answer and say to them, "Let the man with two tunics share with him who has none, and let him who has food do likewise." This is something small to teach that can have a big impact on the world for ours and the next generation.

So as we've finished, I went around the room to ask each child what charity they may have in mind. Not to put any pressure on them at all, but just to get them thinking how they personally could help - and how they'd want to. Well I heard various answers:
Jesus House
Homeless Shelters
The Hungry
etc...

I get to my son, who I know is going to have a great answer, as he's always cared for others in need and he responds with?

"Myself. I think I'll donate to my savings account at the bank, Mom!"

I couldn't keep a straight face. I had to turn around to keep the class from seeing me bust out in laughter, and caught the second teacher doing the same. After a few seconds, I turned back around and said, "okay well we'll talk about that one later...anyone else?"

I swear sometimes he cracks me up!!

Super is the New Awesome

2009-02-01T22:05:00.003-06:00

How cool was the game tonight? How many of you writhed in agony at the many near missed touch downs by the Steelers? How many of you were jumping up screaming, "Go Go Go!!!" at the amazing 100 yard touchdown by James Harrison? The crazy attempt by the Steelers to get that last score in? Not once but, twice, and three times finally score...CRAZY!!

My husband is such a freak of nature with his sports addiction in general, let alone when one of his favorite teams are playing. He'll root for little league...all the way up to the pro's. So imagine his anxiety level at tonight's game.

I think hands down - this was the BEST Superbowl ever played. I feel incredibly sad for Kurt Warner, as he's an amazing QB and person, but I'm rejoicing right now for me and my family. Our team won an AWESOME game. The Card's should feel proud, not just because they were a part of a game that will go down in history, but because they played really well. Both teams played hard and with heart.

My son before going to bed tonight told me, "I just watched the best game of my life."

I have to agree!

Crazy like that...

2009-01-26T12:13:00.004-06:00

Sometimes my brain goes into overdrive. The bottom of my computer screen has this lovely weather bar at the bottom, and seeing it made my mind automatically start snoopdoggin talk...saying to myself, "Fashizzle, my frzdrizzle."

Now tell me why my dorky brain does such crazy stuff? And sometimes it's when other people are talking, and I have to stop it, my brain, and intently listen to them.

Do you do this or am I the only one who's a little crazy??

By the way my booked is ranked at 77,232 out of over 3 million books today....wahhhoooo!

Encouraging Words

2009-01-20T16:21:00.004-06:00

To me it's amazing when my 5 year old comes home talking about the history behind MLK day.

When I was in Kindergarten, we learned our colors, numbers, and maybe a few words.

My son comes home teaching me about rhumbuses (I'm sure I didn't even spell that right), and arctic animals and their habitats, and about politics.

Today he came home and gave me a history lesson. He said Martin Luther King was a very good man, who gave a speech that he was killed for. I'm sure the teachers tried to give these kids the whole picture of "I have a dream", but this is the part that stuck with my little boy. ---> He gave a speech that he died for...

I tried to impart some wisdom in that moment. Wisdom that MLK tried to impart on that day he died...

That we are all created equal...that some people judge others b/c of their background, race, or religion. That we all should work as a human race to improve our society, in peace and respect. That we should NOT judge others based on their color, creed, or religion...but treat others with kindness and strive for equality.

He's just five and I'm sure it didn't sink in...parts of it are too big for him to grasp - so that's okay.

I don't want to burden him with too much, as he takes on too much on his own. He's such a mature and wise little boy. BUT I felt in that moment I needed to give him encouraging words.

After our talk, the rest of our convo looked like this:

"You know - they caught the guy who killed him mommy?"

"yes, honey. The man who shot MLK was caught and put in jail"

"That must have been some speech...."

"Yes, it was."

Never know what you're gonna get...

2009-01-05T12:09:00.004-06:00

These days my son, the cerebral five year old, is so analytical and ponderous on a variety of subjects. So much so that I an anticipating every word...

Even yesterday as we were folding laundry, which he told me was his job to put every item up...and not to touch any after I folded (he was trying to earn playing the Wii).
When he was making his multiple trips from the stacks I had folded, to gather and attempt his duties...he stopped when he grabbed my underwear. He looked at them, turned to me, and curiously said...

"Mom...why do you wear such little underpants for your big bottom?"

Ah...now what do you say to that? So I answered the only way I knew how...

"Weeellll...I don't want big underpants to poke out the pants I wear, so I try to make sure everything fits."

It seemed to satisfy his curiosity for the moment. I'm just glad I didn't have any thongs in that stack of underwear. No telling how the conversation could have turned.

On that note, here's a funny video for you thong wearers and lovers....

2 week break

2008-12-30T22:46:00.004-06:00

This is the first time I've had this much time off from anything since I was in college. Although it's not paid time off, it's time off just the same. Since I quit my sales career to work around my son's school schedule, I've taken up waiting tables. It also allows me the time I need to write and work on my photography. All good things.

Even though we've struggled financially, the investment I make in my son is the best investment on the planet. AND it's time I'll never get back.

My manager understands that when my son is sick or out of school, I will not be at the restaurant. I'm blessed with a winter break, like all the kids! My gosh I'm amazed at how wonderful it is!

Today we went to a movie and ate at the food court. Tomorrow we'll run errands and play games. I need to find time to write, but for now it's nice just to have time ... for me to do anything and nothing at all.

I hope you all have a happy and safe New Year! Here's to a magical and peaceful 2009!

And here's a little something to all you gator fans out there in college football land:

My list

2008-12-24T08:25:00.002-06:00

Here are some things I want for everyone that reads this - tomorrow:

*No family drama
*No anxiety of any kind
*A house full of loved ones
*Snow if they so desire
*Peace in their hearts that God loves them no matter what
*Thanks in their hearts that He sent his son, Jesus
*Lots of memories to look back on fondly

I love each one of you and pray you have a wonderful day tomorrow. Reflect on the real reason we all come together to celebrate, and don't get too caught up in the commercialism of Christmas.

Merry Christmas to you all.

Thank YOU and you

2008-12-21T22:47:00.003-06:00

Colleen, at Short Stories in the Making, just surprised me by leaving me such a kind comment on my Daily Blessings blog. What a delight to have a reader, who has just finished your book, send a genuinely kind email and leave a blog comment about their thoughts on your work.

So far I am so excited by people by Colleen, who have showed love for Finding Kylie and genuine interest in the sequel. It drives me to get this second book done, and it also puts pressure on me somewhat to make it the best it can be.

So Thank YOU Colleen for your kind words and for writing a review for my book - without me even asking. You're very kind!

Naughty or Nice?

2008-12-17T21:28:00.001-06:00

It's true -- today he made his bed, folded kitchen towels from the laundry basket, and put up toys...all without me asking.

Hmmmm...should we have the promise of Santa year round??

Won't you be my nieghbor? Not!

2008-12-15T16:45:00.003-06:00

This was the sweetest neighborhood for a while. I know every area has it's cycles depending on who moves in or out, but my neighborhood is just getting ridiculous. AND with the economy the way it is now and the housing market, I don't see how we're going to be able to move out any time soon.

Over the last three years, the kids that moved in down the street have slowly begun tagging or vandalizing all the houses on this street. Now I can't blame every bad word chalked on our driveways on them, as we live near some apartment complexes as well. The kids from those apartments filter through our streets daily. So who really knows how many kids are involved now.

BUT

when mail boxes are uprooted...
when Christmas lights are uprooted and unplugged...
when cars are egged...
when cars are broken into...
when police on patrol tell me their concerned at the crimes that have spiked in our housing area...
and when I drive down my street to go to work today and see a stop sign spray painted with some very inflammatory words...

IM VERY CONCERNED!

I have called the police to do more patrol.
I have called the city's action line to document vandalism or neighbor's break ins.
I have alerted my neighbors to be on watch.

Other than locking my kid in my house, and putting up security cameras -- I'm at a loss of what to do. This is not a bad area I live in, but somehow crime is filtering it's way in.

Any suggestions people??

Facing Redemption

2008-12-05T20:35:00.004-06:00

So the sequel to Finding Kylie is called Facing Redemption. I'm 12 chapters in and am so ready to get it finished. With Finding Kylie, I would dream different scenes or character traits and wake up knowing what direction I needed to head with my next chapter.

So far with this book, I've not dreamt as much at night but can't stop day dreaming during the day.

I need to pull my head out of the clouds and focus on my own life a little more. Lately it seems all I eat, drink, and sometimes sleep is this sequel. I think mostly because every time I turn around I've been getting emails, phone calls, and questions from readers of 'Finding Kylie' wanting to know 'when the next book will be out'.

It's exciting to know they've fallen in love with my characters so much that they're chomping at the bit to have closure on some of the things I've left open ended with the first book. To me this means I'm making a difference with my writing. I've impacted them in a way that I'd hoped too.

If you've not read Finding Kylie yet, and you're a book lover ... I encourage you to click on the book cover over there -------> and go to Amazon and get it. Let me know you're thoughts on Chastity and her plight to find out about her history and her mother's past.

I hope you fall in love with the characters as much as I have and what it seems most of the readers have too.

Look for Facing Redemption ... the sequel to Finding Kylie ... next Spring or Summer.

Family Circle

2008-12-04T07:38:00.006-06:00

My mom is working on a centennial project for her old high school. Her school unfortunately had a big fire a looong time ago, and all the archives were burned with it. All the original files from the early 1900's were gone forever.

So she's been calling children of children to see if they may have old yearbooks or photos to use for this project. At the same time, I'm scanning them in to store and re-stock the archives. This last week she actually found someone, who had an original copy of the first yearbook and she's so excited. So am I! It held so many cool pics of my grandparents. The one above is my grandmother's sophomore high school pic.

It's a labor of love for my mother, and for me as I get to see old pictures of my grandmother and grandfather before they were even married. I lost my grandparents in my twenties, and miss them so badly. I would encourage you to read a little about them here, as it will explain why they were so special.

This is the school's first women's basketball team, which my grandmother was a part of. I didn't even know she played, as my sister and I did when we were in high school. She's the one holding the ball.

My grandparents were one in a million, and I can't wait one day to join them in heaven. They were such strong Christians, who loved and cared for everyone they met. They were a fine example of what it was to love like Christ, and I wish everyone had someone like them in their lives.

This pic is when they were just friends, before they were dating. My grandfather was on the back row, second to the right. My grandmother, on the front row ... second to the right.

I think old pictures are so cool. And today I just needed to remember them. Sharp dressed pics and all. I love you Grama and Papa.

Some feedback on Finding Kylie

2008-11-29T13:37:00.002-06:00

I got a really sweet voice mail today from a former co-worker and friend, named Kim. I just had to post it for you all to hear. When I heard her crying at first, I thought something was really wrong and it scared me. Then I listened to the rest of the message, and felt so honored at her reaction.

Give it a listen!

If you've not read the book yet, you can click on my book button on the side bar of this blog. Scroll down a little and click on the book cover of 'Finding Kylie'! I look forward to your reviews too!

My Son's Career Path

2008-11-21T18:57:00.007-06:00

It doesn't take much to recognize certain traits in our children from early on. My son's a born salesman. Last night at my book launch party, which went phenomenal by the way, he circulated and worked the room, asking every single person if they've bought a book by his mommy.

I even saw him dragging my mom over, when he noticed she didn't have hers yet. He pulled her across the room, made her out a ticket, and gave her a $5 bill and a nickel. It didn't matter that she hadn't bought one yet, he gave her the standard change he saw us giving out to all those that paid with a 20 dollar bill. His math and reasoning skills are very high for someone his age.

At the of the night, one man, whom I met for the first time last night said, "Hey your son signed my copy of your book."
me--"Huh? He did?"
Opening to the back page, I saw a backwards J that was crossed out ... and then a correct J next to it.
me--"What did he put that down for?"
Man--"Well he stopped by as he was working the room, and saw my copy of the book. He said 'I see you bought my mommy's book ... would you like me to sign that sir?'. I told him sure. Then he asked what my name was."
I smiled picturing the moment.
Man continues-- "When I told him my name was Jay, he did his best to sign the book with my name...hence the letter 'J'."

We all had a good laugh over it. When everyone left, most commented that I should hire him as my business manager. A few minutes later I asked him if he'd take the job. He asked what it meant to be a business manager.

After I explained it, he thought hard before replying, "How bout if I just be your employer and you can be my employee!"

Yes, my son's born go getter.

Here's few pics from last night:

Me up on the balcony, at Toby Kieth's I love this bar and grille, during a break of book signing.

My husband welcoming our guests, and greeting all at the restaurant ... to invite them upstairs for the event.

Fat lip and all ...

2008-11-20T10:51:00.003-06:00

So last night my son purposely head butted me, and busted both my top and bottom lip. I keep trying to teach him to be gentle when playing with girls, and his mommy ... but I don't think he's catching on.

This morning, the cuts were barely noticable. Relieved I continued with my day. My little guy stayed home from school today. He's been on anti-biotics, which make him crazy -- I mean really crazy with a capital CCCCCCCCCCC!

We were playing and he shoved up his arm and fist, pretending to knock someone out. Unfortunately for me I turned my head toward him, and into a little fist.

Now I have my first fat lip. I look like I had a collagen injection!

Well, I always wanted sexy full lips. Now I have one!

(I hope it goes down before tonight's book launch party)

My 3 minutes of fame on KSBI TV

2008-11-17T22:30:00.000-06:00

An online review from my buddy Terri. Love this girl, and so appreciate her every word on this vlog online book review. Thank you Terri.

She also gave me this cool shirt once she vlogged me on her blog.

Blog Talk Me Baby

2008-11-15T18:53:00.002-06:00

Here's my first interview. IF you have a little time to hear about the book, check this link out.

Kimberlee, my publisher, is a really neat lady and she asked some awesome questions. We had fun bantering back and forth.

What happened the the girls?

2008-11-12T10:36:00.003-06:00

Okay lets face it - as women we know our power is held in many areas ... one of them being our bra size.

I was one that was always flat chested growing up. Flat as a pancake. I always envied girls in school, who were ogled over by the boys because their boobs were the first thing you could see when they walked up.

Secretly I know those girls envied me as we got older, because I never had back problems due to my large endowments. I was perky and cute, and grew into my womanhood. Instead of my boobs outgrowing me.

However, once I had my child my breasts fell nicely into the C cup range. When pregnant, I was a double D. I gave enough milk for 4 kids, and my family called me 'Elsie'.

After I stopped breastfeeding, they were the perfect size for me and my husband's tastes. Yeah! I liked wearing tight tops as I could actually show some cleavage for the first time in my life, which was in my 30's.

Is this TMI or what? Well now, after waiting tables for one month. I've not been eating regularly at all. I've lost 5 pounds or so, without trying which would normally be a good thing.

EXCEPT instead of my body taking the inches off where I needed them ... around my thighs ... where do you think I lost it all? That's right!

I'm not an A anymore but I'm ready to have my girls back.

Okay I fess up ...

2008-11-11T15:57:00.005-06:00

I know times are tough. I also am one to keep a sunny side up in times of trouble. Anyone that reads my Daily Blessings blog, will know I see blessings in the midst of chaos. And 99% of the time ... I do. It's not just me typing that philosophy to fool you all that life is that good if you make it--> I honestly feel that focusing on my blessings gives me peace in midst of strife. Giving God thanks in times of trouble is a wonderful way to keep it together.

Today, it's not that I'm not thanking Him upside and sideways ... because I am. He's so wonderful in providing for me each day. Sometimes it's day by day in how we get by financially. HOWEVER --- I'm stressing out some.

The job I took waiting tables, to work around my son's school schedule, is not paying what I thought it would. And with the economy, the first thing people cut back on is tips. I'm making 20-30 dollars a day.

I'm needing a huge friendly benefactor, who has tons to spend to stop by my bank and say, "here, I have plenty to spare --- drop some in Kim's account please."

How about a millionaire coming to sit in my section? Seeing that I work hard and with a smile? And dropping me a $500 tip? That would be a huge huge blessing!

Stress ... fessing up here ... I do have it. We all do! I'm just trying not to let it take me over today.

------
post note: My Sunday School teacher just called to direct me to the financial assistance program they offer members through the church. He was thinking of me and thought I may benefit from it this month.

Is God good or what????

Missing Blogger Needs Your Help

2008-11-09T10:31:00.004-06:00

Tara has been doing a great job of keeping us all up to date on Kathleen's disappearance, with posts like these. I'm sickened to think of a fellow blogger gone for 11 days and her local media is just NOW caring enough to run stories to get leads for the police.

Was anchorage so caught up in local and national election coverage that threat of a missings woman's life was too trivial to cover? It angers me that a loved and missed family member, mom, wife, and friend can just disappear with no one covering it!!!

Sheila Kathleen McBroom, more commonly known as Kathy McBroom, has been missing for over ten days.

Please watch this video, and if you know someone who knows anything please contact the local Anchorage authorities!

Review Me Please

2008-11-07T11:01:00.005-06:00

Hey you guys. As you read my book, I want to invite you to write a review on Amazon. If you have an account through Amazon, you can review my book here!

I hope you'll thoroughly enjoy it, and take the time to jot a few things down for me in order to promote it through Amazon. Thank you!

Tomorrow morning, I have my first book signing at my college's library. It's Southern Nazarene University's Homecoming weekend, and part of the festivities is their first almuni book signing event. It's an honor to be asked to be involved. I only have 15 books to take with me for this one, but am not worried as most people who want it will hold off for the big event in downtown OKC.

Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill is graciously hosting my launch party on November 20th. If anyone is in OKC that night let me know!

My First Review From My #1 Fan

2008-10-31T17:14:00.001-05:00

OKC NBYeah!

2008-10-30T21:56:00.009-05:00

We had our second date night in a month! Look out, we may actually have some couple time here. Woo Hoo! We've not done that in sooo long. Our fine city has our first NBA league. ESPN has been hating on us for it too. I'm so tired of all the sports media bad mouthing OKC and taking shots at our city. Personally I'm excited for us and the team. The Hornet's record improved drastically when they played here, because our city embraced them and supported them. I know it will be the same with the Thunder.

This pic above is our first shot when we entered the Ford Center, in downtown, to watch our first NBA game! They had bands playing everywhere...entertainers all over the place...C&C Music Factory had a pre-game concert. It was like a big party. We were all loving it.

My bil and sil playing NBA video games. She kicked his butt. They had TV and game systems set up all over the arena.

The view from our season ticket seats. It was in what they call Loud City. We had so much fun.

A little pre-game excitement with fireworks and some lighting. Clay Bennett even came out to say a few words. His wife is sisters with my former boss (well my boss's boss's boss's boss. She owned the company I worked for).
I could see all 4 of them on the front row down a the end of the court.

The tip off to a slow game against the Milwaukee Bucs. The Thunder weren't very aggressive. They re-bounded the opposing team's missed goals, but almost never got their own rebounds. They'd shoot it in and never try to recover it...and 97% of the time...they'd miss the shot. You'd think their coach would enforce - GET YOUR OWN BALL - REBOUND IT OR DO 100 LAPS BOYS! I know they had to be a little nervous, as it was their first game in a new city. I know they did fairly well last week in their first pre-season game. I expect they'll do better as time goes on.

Redemption - Book Style

2008-10-25T11:22:00.002-05:00

Do you know how hard it is to write a story from a point of view that you'd never want to see?

My first book, Finding Kylie, is now out which was from my point of view from 'my' what if story in life. Now the sequel is my task, and it's from the opposing side or point of view. Not that I can't do it, because I've made some extra-ordinary headway in the last 2 days...BUT it's definitely interesting to put myself in someone's shoes, who I don't want anything to do with.

So that I don't give anything away in my current book, I won't say too much except that the main character's name is Chastity. She finds some things out in her life and about some family ties that she's not sure she wants or now needs to know. This book takes her on her journey in many ways to discover about life and love through her mother's hidden journals, found after her mother's, Kylie's, funeral.

This new book, Facing Redemption, is from a totally different vantage point...from the black sheep of the family. Whew! It's a daunting task but a challenge worth taking on to show that even the worst of us, with a changed heart, deserve the chance to face redemption.

Whoo! How bout that? Did I perk any interest in anyone with that? I can't wait to see what happens! I already have the third book lined out too. So this first novel is one of three! I'm so excited!

SNL funnies

2008-10-20T14:50:00.000-05:00

Available for Pre-Order

2008-10-14T17:27:00.002-05:00

Ahhhh! I'm so exicted my book, 'Finding Kylie', is now available for pre-order through Amazon.com.

You can either click this link or the pic of my book, on the side of the page, to be directed to the amazon site.

Yahhhhh!

Sweet Moments

2008-10-13T08:42:00.007-05:00

At the age of 5, my son has continued to surprise me. He's so wise and silly at the same time. While peering into my eyes to tell me he loves my beautiful brown eyes, he pops off about a new wrinkle he found around them. Talk about a back-handed compliment.

This week has been a doozy as far as his little personality and how it's developing. You can read here about his girlfriend situation. Since then he's proposed to yet another cute young thing on his soccer team.

You can see how he chased and chased her. I was standing with her father, waiting for the game to start, and the next thing we heard was my son asking for this little girl's hand in marriage.

It was too windy to hear her response, but I figure she didn't mind too much. Her dad said she punched the last little boy who asked her. My son is quite the playah. He went in one breathe from asking her ... to waving to the second girl of his dreams on the opposing team ... leaving his new fiance in the dust.

Can anyone say girl crazy at five? What am I going to do in his teens??

Last night topped it all though. We were at a pot-luck dinner for our church volunteers. And a friend of mine and I were talking about his healthy eating habits, and he busted out with, "And I haven't even had a sip of alcohol today!"

Her eye's bulged, and she started cracking up. He then continued with, "Not even in my whole life."

I had to explain that I wasn't a bad parent and how he heard of drinking alcohol in the first place. You can read up on that here. My son's little comment was the talk of the party. Everyone loved knowing that he wasn't an alcoholic. Yay mom!

Finding Kylie Coming Soon ...

2008-10-07T17:15:00.002-05:00

The University I graduated from has asked me to be a part of their alumni book signing event, at our homecoming on November 8th.

By no means do I want to rush my publisher, as I feel they've been doing an awesome job with deadlines and follow up work. But ... I needed to let my school know whether I could realistically be there.

I got notice today that they expect to have Finding Kylie available by November 1st!

Yippppeee! I'm so excited that I could pee in my pants.

Meme on!

2008-10-03T21:00:00.004-05:00

wfbdoglover
tagged me with a fun meme, and it's been a while since I've done one. And then I read Terri at her blog with the meme she just did. It inspired me to mix my meme up a little.

Here are the regular rules for the 6 quirky things about me meme:

* Post the rules on your blog
* Write 6 random things about yourself
* Tag 6 people

Here are my rules:

I'm gonna post 5 things, instead of 6, about me that have multiple choice answers. They're all a little quirky, so any of them could be the right answer ... heck there maybe more than one right answer. So have fun trying to figure me out.

#1
I'm extremely competitive and ...

a) get very anxious playing my son or husband in any sport at home because I've got to win.

b) won't bet unless I know it's a sure thing. I've hardly ever lost a bet.

c) can't even relax while learning something new and shouldn't be the best yet, but still expect to be.

d) feel the need to even win 'rock - paper - scissors' or thumb-wars against my DH.

#2
Whenever I mean to do or say something that doesn't come out right, I pop out with ...

a) Oh, did I do that?

b) O, just kiddin'

c) Seriously?

d) Not even!

#3

I can speak these languages:

a) German

b) Pidgin

c) Japanese

d) Spanish

#4

I was once on ...

a) a yaught in the Pacific ocean with photographers, and the owner of it was a friend to the Yakuza.

b) a first date which was held on military ship. The military officer, who invited me couldn't leave, b/c he had to work. He made me dinner, and I got the grand tour.

c) a runway, walking the cat-walk. It was for a nationally televised fashion show in Japan.

d) spring break, where I went bungee jumping in Padre, while in college.

#5

In my life I've ...

a) had to do crowd control at Rick Springfield's concert & ended up doing the bouncer's job by the stage front.

b) sunbathed al-la natural on my parent's back deck, which was upstairs so no one could see me. I though no one was home, until my dad walked in on me getting rid of my sun tan lines. I've never done that again!

c) learned to play the guitar, and the piano.

d) run 3 marathons.

What are the answers? Who should do this next? I'd be interested in seeing how BusyDad does his. Also Meg would have fun with this. Tara, at IfMomSaysOK needs to have a crack at it. And that's it ... I'm not pushing it on anyone else.

I look forward to seeing which of those random facts belong to me!

Daily Grind

2008-10-01T08:49:00.002-05:00

So this week my numerous sleep disorders haven't bothered me one bit. I think my job at the restaurant has me so busy that by the time nighttime falls, I'm ready to crash.

I haven't gotten the whole swing of how to eat during the day yet. Breakfast makes me queasy. So I normally don't eat it. BUT now if I don't eat something early, I won't eat until 3 pm. My schedule is 11 - 2:45ish, and I can't eat while working.

Most eat right afterwards in the restaurant, but I try not to do that either as I need to conserve every dime I make in tips. So when it's time to get off I'm either starving or my stomach has forgotten I'm starving ... and I just can't eat then either.

Any suggestions for me?

Two Words ...

2008-09-27T14:57:00.010-05:00

BOOMER SOONER!

I used to attend the games with my husband before my son was born. We got season tickets the season before I got pregnant. Then motherhood hit and football was something I could watch from home, as my husband made the trek to Norman. Being at home with my little one was more my speed.

Now that he's five, I'm ready to get a sitter and get back to the games. Next season, we'll get an extra ticket to make it a family event for the three of us. Even though it's already a huge family event.

My husband, sister, brother-in-law, and mother-in-law all go in on a bunch of tickets so that we all can go cheer on our team. My husband's first love after his family of course, is sports. Since this was his birthday weekend, I figured it would be a perfect game to attend with him and my sis.

The weather was awesome. The Sooners kicked big time TCU butt. And my son had a great time at his Nana's house, while we kicked it in the stadium. What a wonderful day for football.

Go Sooners!

I just had to add a few more:

My niece, me, and my sis.

The view from behind me. The jumbo-tron is massively huge, but there was also a huge 6 .5 foot tall dude right behind me. I kept getting vertigo when I'd turn to watch the screen.

My SIL, me and my DH.

Life Interrupted by Chris

2008-09-24T13:51:00.007-05:00

A blogging buddy of mine asked me to review his book. I of course agreed wholeheartedly. I assumed, judging the book by it's cover, that it would be strictly about his struggle with MS and his journey through this crippling disease.

I couldn't have been more surprised and delighted once reading, to find this story had not only about the obvious but the underlying struggles this man goes through in the process. Delighted sounds callous, and I don't mean I'm delighted he has the health issues he does. I mean delighted, in that the book had so much more depth to it than I first imagined.

Chris M. Tatevosian humbly writes from his heart to encourage not only those struggling with MS, that there is life with this disease, BUT he writes to encourage everyone to let go of the 'poor pitiful me' syndrome that we all take on with any life challenges. He claims that this PPM (poor pitiful me) syndrome is more dehabilitating than the disease MS itself.

Chris shares his experiences in his life and marriage, and how PMM broke him and his relationship with his wife down bit by bit. He does this to encourage the reader to learn from his mistakes ... to take a different path whether the reader has MS or not. In reading his book, you can clearly see he deeply desires his readers, to count thier blessings daily. He encourages us all to remember those around us ... those who support us. He wants us to not only love them daily but remember not to take them for granted through our PMM.

Chris' testimony and story encouraged me to take life one step at a time, with humor, grace, and patience for all around me.

Whether you're saddled with disease or circumstance, we're all subject to feel sorry for the lot life has dealt us. This book is a wonderfully written reminder to make sure to count our blessings and be aware of those we love around us. To not only be aware of their needs, but tell them every day how much you love and appreciate them. This is a wonderful read and I would highly recommend it.

To purchase Life Interrupted-It's Not All About Me click here.

Clinton's words on the Palin Duo

2008-09-23T09:37:00.004-05:00

Jury Duty is now commenced. Whew. To read on it go here.

However I thought this information was interesting, so I thought I'd pass it along.

This story just broke so there should be more in the future.
Bill Clinton speaking on Palin said:

“I come from Arkansas. I get why she’s hot out there — why she’s doing well. You know, people look at her and they say — all those kids. Something happens in everybody’s family.”

"I get this," Clinton said. "My view is ... why say, ever, anything bad about a person? Why don't we like them and celebrate them and be happy for her elevation to the ticket? And just say that she was a good choice for him and we disagree with them?"

On Todd:
And I like the idea that this guy does those long-distance races. Stayed in the race for 500 miles with a broken arm. My kind of guy."

From a liberal news source, click here

From a conservative news source, click here

Jury Prep

2008-09-21T15:59:00.004-05:00

Preparing for tomorrows jury selection process:

1) Buy books to read for the day (check)

2) Go to ATM to get enough money per day for parking and food (check)

3) Pull out old BON JOVI T-shirt to wear in court (check) --they said business casual. Does that mean no jeans??

4) Get snacks for the day in case I get hungry (check)

5) Take my note pad to write notes for next manuscript (check)

6) Remember Jury Summons with my info on it (check)

& finally

7) Get some sleep as I have wake up eaaarrrrrlllleeeee.

Seriously? 8 a.m. on the dot in a court house? I usually wake up at 7:30 a.m. every day. That reminds me ...

8) Remember to leave early enough to buy McD's vanilla iced coffee (check)

Needless to say ... I may not post for a few days as I may be sequestered or stuck in court. Yay! Sounds like so much fun! Wanna trade??

The Wedding of My Dreams

2008-09-14T09:02:00.005-05:00

My sister got engaged over a month ago with the promise of a small intimate wedding, only inviting immediate family and a few close friends. I wanted this day to be the most special day of her life, and I know it was.

We'd originally planned in on the golf greens, by the pond, behind my parent's house. BUT...with Ike and every storm prior...the rain was non-stop and the ground was muddy. The reception was to be in my mother's gardens, which were to be decorated as a Japanese garden with twinkle lights and lanterns. Again...the rain...

The rain did not let up...so by Wednesday my parents went to plan B--my mother's living room and garage for the wedding and reception. You would think this would be a big let down...but it wasn't. For one the rain stopped on her wedding day and the sun shone bright welcoming our event. It was a huge blessing. For two, our florist (who we used for my wedding of 450) transformed my mothers house and garage into a beautiful Hawaiian Wedding dream. It looked as if we'd planned it that way from the beginning.

My sister seriously was and is the most beautiful bride I'd ever ever seen....much prettier than I was. She had this elegance about her that captured everyone, especially her groom and his little boy.

Her flowers were amazing...a Hawaiian bouquet with orchids infused with teal, ginger, bird of paradise, and a few more Hawaiian treasures. Mine was a mini of hers. They're the most beautiful bouquets I've ever seen.

This day, since I helped in planning a looot of it, was the wedding of my dreams. To finally let go of it isn't something I was ready to do, but by midnight my feet and back were screaming for me too.

If you're reading this my dear sister...I love you and my new BIL so much. I'm very happy for you both that you found someone who appreciates who you are. I'm very honored to have been a part of it, and to get to deliver the speech I'd planned. I'm so glad I didn't stumble through it. Thank you.....
Me and my sister pre-wedding...getting hair and make up done. I did everyone's makeup.
A quick close up of her bouquet.

A picture I captured of the happy couple.

Isn't love grand???

WOW/MOM

2008-09-10T17:11:00.002-05:00

Wornoutwoman = WOW or MOM (take your pic...either applies!)

I think today I need a mommy day. All moms, even the really really good ones (and I'm not claiming to be one of those), need a break now and then.

Lately I've had a lot going on...which has added some slight stress.

-- I've quit my career to find a job that allows me to work around my son's schedule.
Don't get me wrong...this has been a really really good move for our family. Our family time has more quality and quantity..... but changed our finances for the worse.

-- My sister's getting married....all good stuff happening there, but there are still some little stresses that my mother's feeling, which effects us all. And with 1 1/2 to D-day, for an outdoor wedding...and it being completely rainy and wet...my mom is getting a little more stressed....which is stressing me out.

-- My son lately is earning my childhood nickname, radio. They called me that because I'd talk and they couldn't turn me off! My little one, adorable as he is...will NOT STOP TALKING. He's reporting everything to me in spades.

-- My husband has been out of town for 2 days/nights, which leaves me with no sleep as I'm not comfortable without him here at night. I used to have my dog with me when he left town, and now that Hershey's passed....well it's too quiet and I can't sleep.
I'm soooooo grouchy. Can you tell from reading this post???

Let's just say---I for sure am looking forward to the pedicures I have scheduled for my sister's wedding party at the spa. I need a WOW break and some MOM time!

Now in the mean time, can we make the Wii stop playing that incessant circus-like music??? AHHH!

Now I'm off to church, to volunteer in my weekly Wednesday night with 18 hyper 5 year olds. DOUBLE AHHHHHH!

Marchies and so forth...

2008-09-07T13:33:00.003-05:00

When I was little I had my pretend friends. It eventually narrowed down to one...Kai'm, which sounds like Kay-I'm. I think I used my own name, Kim, and basically took the hard K and the I'm and made my name into a funky cooler one.

Kai'm was my constant companion...so much so that during one of ours moves, which we did every two to three years, my mom told me that she was locking up the empty house and leaving her inside. 'Kai'm was not to be coming with us.'

After driving a few seconds down the road, I screamed, "STOP!" My mom screeched on the brakes, almost causing an accident, and asked what it was....

I responded simply that Kai'm was swinging in the trees - trying to catch up to us. I remember her pushing the gas harder saying that Kai'm was definitely staying behind.

That was the last I saw of my pretend friend. I don't remember missing her after that, as I knew she wasn't really real. BUT she was real for me when I needed her and she served her purpose...endless hours of entertainment.

My son has the same curious and obvious creative spirit. He drew a picture up there for me. Those are his Marchies. They're little people that live in our carpet, that go everywhere with him. He was born in March, so I assume that is how they got their name. His Marchies scoot in his back pack to go to school. They are about a centimeter tall and flew their own plane to Hawaii, to go on vacation with us. They're a friendly group of beings that keep my son entertained.

He has graduated some I guess, as JEFF GORDON is now also his pretend best friend. He's determined you see to grow up, to relplace number 24, and race to beat Jeff Gordon. His friend Jeff Gordon looks just like my son. And now he's got a group of Jeff friends....Jeff Couch, Jeff Chair, Jeff Roof, Jeff Ceiling, Jeff Carpet....Jeff just about anything. They all look like my son, like racing, and play hard.

I love my son's mind and am blessed to see it in action. I can't wait to see what type of creative things he'll come up with as he gets older.

Today's Malady

2008-09-05T08:30:00.006-05:00

One month ago I got a letter for jury duty...ahhhh! Not exactly what I'd planned but nothing that would be unbearable.....

.....Until my sister got engaged and is getting married....you guessed it...the same week I'm scheduled for jury duty.

On the bottom of this notice I see...in order to try to get out of your duty, show up the Friday prior to the Monday's reported show time.

SO today is that Friday....only I got the times mixed up. I showed up at 8 a.m. and was notified that I needed to come back at 3 p.m.

Here's how it goes:

Me: "really?" dumbfounded that I didn't read my notice more clearly.

Security Guard: "Yes, but whats your reason for trying to get out."

Me: "I'm the only one who can take & pick up my son to school. I can't be in
two places at once. Plus my sister's wedding in next week...I'm the matron of honor."

Security Guard: "Oh, just don't come back this afternooon...nothing will happen to you. They'll just extend it, but you'll be okay. I'll just tell them you
won't make it."

Me: "Seriously?"

S.G.: "Yes, you'll be fine. See ya next time."

Walking out, something just didn't sit right with me, and it wasn't just that I had to pay 8 dollars to park for the wrong time of day at court. So I got in my car, and called the number listed on the summons.

Me---explaining what happened.

Court Clerk: "ummmm Mam, you'd have a bench warrant issued for you if you didn't show up. No one has the right to excuse you except the judge. What was this security officer's name?"

Me---telling her his name

Court Clerk: "okay I'm heading over to him right now. We've had a problem lately with 'no show's', for which we've been issuing bench warrants for, and he's probably the reason."

Me----explaining that I'd rather not get him in trouble as he knows my name and address from the court summons he was examining when we were talking in the court lobby.

Court Clerk: "Sorry he needs to be reprimanded. Just be here this afternoon. Oh and by the way, the judge rarely lets people out of jury duty so be prepared for that. He may reschedule you, but you probably won't be released."

Okay, so now I have 3 choices. Obviously I'm going back and hope I don't run into the reprimanded crazy security guard, who knows all my personal info.

I can then:

A) Either throw myself at the mercy of the judge to hopefully get rescheduled, as my hopes of getting out of it are now dashed.

B) If selected to come, no matter what. I will answer what ever question they have with the death penalty in mind, and tailor my answers to hopefully get thrown out.

C) If that doesn't work....just not show up on Thursday and Friday and have a bench warrant for my arrest.

Fun Stuff I've got going on here! Yay me!

I was explaining the whole jury process to my son last night and why I was going to be in court. He asked, "Mommy are you the one getting thrown in jail?"
"No sweetie, I'd be the one, if chosen, helping decide someone else's fate on going to jail or not."

Hmmmm did my son have a premonition? Let's hope not!

---update on this, as many have asked is listed down in comments. :)

Time to Slow Down

2008-09-04T08:27:00.002-05:00

Today's my day off, and I'm relaxing this morning. My son is asleep and hopefully on the mend.
He had an allergic reaction to his antibiotics yesterday. He's rejecting more of them as he goes along...just like me. I'm allergic to most of them. :<

Please pray that we get his health figured out today. We've got a doctor's appt. today to follow up after this weekend's ER trip.

As of now...
The weather today is completely fallish. I'm in my PJ's. The house is quiet. AND I got good sleep last night. So in this moment....I can relax. It's a good morning.

This week has been so hectic that is so nice to take some time to slow down....do nothing. And wait for next week's ramp up for my sister's wedding. That means... people in town, activities to plan, pictures to work on, and energy abound, which I'm so excited for. Seeing my sister happy with the man that loves her so much, is such a huge blessing.

I'll leave you today with one quote from my son, who said this when meeting two of his great-great uncles this week for the first time.

"Mom, they're a lot older than Papa. That means they're going to heaven REAL soon, right?"

If only he hadn't blurted that out in front of them loudly, instead of whispering it in my ear.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-03T09:00:00.002-05:00

Bookish

2008-09-02T17:14:00.003-05:00

So my first review came back in spades. Loved it and have to say an official thank you to Char for graciously reviewing Finding Kylie.
Her words are:

“After reading the trailer for Finding Kylie I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the novel. I knew I was in for a good story and the manuscript exceeded my expectations. Using a combination of intrigue and gentle suspense, Kimberly McKay leads the reader down a trail of self-discovery. Her spunky heroine, Chastity Wayne, not only survives the premature loss of her mother, Kylie, due to cancer, she “finds” her again in the pages of the journal she left behind and in the memories of her best friend, Cheryl Jenkins. In the process, Chastity also finds herself, and the confidence she needs to pursue relationships with an openness that her mother never felt. I look forward to more good story-telling from Kimberly McKay.”
~ Charlene A. Derby, author and storyteller

Now I'm just awaiting the edited version from my publisher...chomping at the bit is more like it. They've got two more books ahead of me in their pipeline to release, so I'm trying my hardest to be patient. Patience...me? HA!

I sent them a query letter today for my sequel, which took me a few minutes to throw together. I should have sent it a couple of weeks ago, but life has been really busy with the ER trips and the new job.

Here's the gist of my second book...give me your thoughts....

Two things we can count on, is that we all have redeeming qualities and flaws. The questions are - are we self aware enough to know which of the two we have more of? And how do they affect those around us?

On The Verge, the sequel to Finding Kylie, follows John Mikale’s journey in facing the redemption of his past, but he can’t shake his guilt. How can he even imagine being forgiven, when he can’t begin to forgive himself for the hurt he’s caused the mother of his first child?

John, now married and expecting his second child, is haunted by cryptic dreams and driven to bridge the gap with his adult daughter, Chastity, who he’s never met. His futile attempts to reconcile, through letters, is the only way he knows how to release his past to heal both their wounds.

Chastity, while in Venice, already has one letter from her father in hand, which taunts her daily. Just as she’s getting on with her life and on the verge of a great relationship, she’s pulled to read the letter she’s promised herself she never would. The instant she decides to open it, emotions of anger and betrayal surface, just in time for Timothy’s weekend visit causing some major turbulence in what seems to be a smooth beginning to her and Timothy’s journey.

On The Verge is a dual story line that follows the path of an unwanted father and daughter’s journey, through a trail of self-awareness and final acceptance.

Read along and learn that even the worst of us, can have a changed heart and earn the right to redemption.

McCain and Palin 2008

2008-08-29T19:51:00.004-05:00

Either way this election goes, it will be revolutionary. I, for one, am very excited about McCain's pick for VP. I had a gut feeling a few days ago he'd pick a female.

What are your thoughts? Does this effect your decision if you're a Democrat? Does it give you incentive to get out and vote if you're Republican?

Who would play in your movie?

2008-08-26T17:52:00.011-05:00

I've been tagged to cast my own movie. My poor memory seems to recall it was by speedy. He cast his own, which got me thinking...A movie about my life, although interesting, may not hold up with just anyone. So who would play me and my loved ones?

Well my hubbie seems to think we're very 'King of Queens' in demeanor and in casting. The slightly portly funny guy with the cute wife...so I think my pick for he and I would have to be Kevin James and Leah Remeni.
Like them, we're a couple, who like to banter and banter...in love. We like to have fun, but get frustrated easily. BUT not enough for it to become a fight...only enough to end up shaking our heads and then laugh it off later.

My lovely sister would be played by Ashley Judd. She's the beautiful tough girl, who doesn't let most people know she has a soft side. If you're lucky enough, you'll see it. She makes everyone laugh and everyone loves her. I think Ashley would be a great pick for her.

My son would be played by himself, b/c I don't think there would be anyone cuter or more funny than he. I won't post a picture of him here, as I never do. SO you'll have to take my word on it. He's quite a ham, and wouldn't have a problem pulling it off.

My father, whose been told he looks like Steve McQueen his whole life, could only be portrayed by the legend himself. If he were alive, Steve McQueen would be a great cast for my father. Since he's not...Ed Harris would be a great second.

My mother, graceful elegant and quirky, could only be cast as Audrey Hepburn. My mom, dark skin, hair, and eyes would be portrayed easily by her if Audrey were still with us. Since she's not, I'd normally try to find a good second choice. But there's not one actress that would come to mind that would be as beautiful as my mom, in their 50-60 range. We'd have to find an Audrey look alike.

As far as anyone else....my brain is tired. Those are my top picks. I took this meme on b/c my husband have been talking about my book and turning it into a screen play. We've been discussing who would play the certain parts. And as they say write what you know, there is a little of everyone I love in "Finding Kylie". So it's been a subject on my mind anyway.

Who would play you?