tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10382101077214213632024-03-04T23:08:15.591-08:00I'm The Mommy I'll Blog If I Want Tohicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.comBlogger195125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-5923260543534211072011-10-03T08:31:00.000-07:002011-10-03T11:40:40.538-07:00To say good bye or not ?....THAT is the decision<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">There is no doubt in my mind that I truly enjoy blogging.</span> It is something I dabbled with in the early 2000's when my children where babies and then picked it up semi-full time when I wanted to share my adventures in <a href="http://www.hickshomeschool.blogspot.com/">homeschooling</a>.That blog led to THIS blog, My creative outlet. My spot to share whatever I wanted to whenever I wanted to regarding the circus that goes on in my head and without fail in my life.<br /><br />Until recently though, it has been much more harder than in times past for me to post here. These past 4 months have been a challenge to say the least. I can put my finger directly on a few of the thunder-stealing culprits. I'll briefly share them with you :<br /><ol><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">School</span> : the last few months have been stressful. The closer I got to being done, the more anxiety I felt and the more interruptions threatening my end I had. But fortunately, I did finish <span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">*insert HUGE smile here* </span>9/20/11 (one month later than scheduled )</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Family Crisis</span> : Over the summer I was hit with some pretty hot news (and it wasn't the weather report ) that left the members of my household as well as extended family burned. It has been a joy stealer at times, but we keep on going with as much grace, happiness and prayer that we can bring. Life has cycles and we know that this too shall pass.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Loss of a loved one</span> : Every one hates to get that call at 3am, at work, or on the way home. The one that sends chills up and down your spine and makes you want to rip off your own skin because what your heart feels when someone you love has died, is a far worse pain. I lost my 23 year old brother in a murder. I decided that since I am the oldest child, losing a sibling was the closest thing I could imagine losing a child to be.....'nuff said, right?</li></ol><br />So with this glimpse into my 3 ring circus I currently call life, I'm sure you can forgive me for not giving you regular posts, right ? Of course, because you are sooo understanding. So anyway, I have been wanting to put stuff up but I'm finding myself evolving in some kind of way, funny how that happens every time I think I got ME all figured out. This beloved site with all it's randomness is not really fueling me at the moment, and if I have to "push" myself to find content then it takes away from the whole point of this blog for me. And the kind of person I am, I need to have a point for what I'm doing (most of the time). So I guess what I'm trying to say is that I wont be posting on here anymore. *tear*After I finish printing all the posts that I want to remember, I will be shutting it down. I know, this is gonna be hard for you too :) but it's gonna be okay! I plan to resume my blogging on my <a href="http://www.bebeautifullywell.com/">wellness site</a> (<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">still under construction</span>). Perhaps I will guest blog on other sites as I have before. I'm not totally leaving my bloggy roots, just shifting my direction some. Putting my focus more on my passions. I'll be saving most of my randomness for my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#%21/hicksgirl93">facebook</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/hicksgirl93">twitter</a>, and <a href="https://plus.google.com/?hl=en&tab=mX#108613501879212892648/posts">google+</a> pages. Perhaps one day I will reinvent myself and comeback with another blog name & site. Thanks to those of you that read my posts regularly here and commented, I appreciated it greatly.<br /><br />But no matter what, I am STILL "The Mommy, and I'll Blog If I Want To ! "<br /><br />Peace<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCyhyphenhyphens8s4jIlGvsDTn6rEU2jQElZl_MPruPHc6dRKTc13ueXNuwgQoZuT60mOeQYfMLpMb2lg8Oy5NZkCnzqCU0zpOGgDwwbu1Lm_seaqjHpgW-QxkcjKJcIiIX0s4cELh2Jbt4M3Cmj0/s1600/peace.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 141px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCyhyphenhyphens8s4jIlGvsDTn6rEU2jQElZl_MPruPHc6dRKTc13ueXNuwgQoZuT60mOeQYfMLpMb2lg8Oy5NZkCnzqCU0zpOGgDwwbu1Lm_seaqjHpgW-QxkcjKJcIiIX0s4cELh2Jbt4M3Cmj0/s320/peace.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659334609228825538" border="0" /></a>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-20608586254153874842011-08-05T07:09:00.001-07:002011-08-05T09:53:24.485-07:00Working in the yard teaches lessons about relatinships<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4ahOGKfSOExDubNRw3DTSY_Pop_0nf6W9Q3MNx6JdnC7k6UG9bSGLx4G27TwiGeC8snP7pqEt0NVOsgJNOJelMxVN1BoMe2-4tWgpO9Z1WT6-PKZTaI9Ncl6WbgQm3QntbLx4OoDhV9O/s1600/Picture+137.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4ahOGKfSOExDubNRw3DTSY_Pop_0nf6W9Q3MNx6JdnC7k6UG9bSGLx4G27TwiGeC8snP7pqEt0NVOsgJNOJelMxVN1BoMe2-4tWgpO9Z1WT6-PKZTaI9Ncl6WbgQm3QntbLx4OoDhV9O/s320/Picture+137.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637378650002211122" border="0" /></a><br />I don't know how many of my readers know this about me, but I really enjoy working in my yard. If you did not know this, then I was amiss somewhere in my blogging here on this site. Well, I guess it just makes for some new material huh?<br /><br />Anyway, The other day I was working in my backyard and as I was digging a hole big enough to fit my new butterfly bush, *insert BIG smile* I was having a hard time. The ground was hard and I had to soften it with water, the sun was beaming hot and I had to really work to get the rocks out so that the soil was more suitable. As I was doing this work I thought about how my hard work will pay off. How proud I will be when I see my bush blooming and attracting beautiful butterfly's.<br /><br />As I scooped in the hand fulls of dirt, I started thinking. Because that's what I do when I work in my yard. There's something about running my fingers through the soil that makes me reflective and peaceful. My thoughts about my hard work led me to thinking about my relationships. They too are hard work sometimes. They require cultivating. Digging, softening, and proper nurturing even during tough conditions. Sometimes they are not easy and just like with working in the yard, it can sometimes be trial and error. Requiring some education either through previous experience, books or assistance from a friend. Whether it is a new or old plant, new or old reationship, you don't have a guarantee of the success of it's growth. However, because you want to see the fruits of your labor you work hard at it. It requires patience along the way because some plants (relationships) take longer than others to produce a bud. It is a fact though, that if you do nothing then you get nothing, only a dried up, lifeless stub of what could have been, not a pretty sight. As a gardener or as a person in any relationship, when you do your best according to YOUR best and with good intent there is satisfaction to be found.<br /><br />So appropriate and in line with my thoughts, is the topic for conversation on <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/loveonth%C3%A2%C2%80%C2%8Beradio">Love On The Radio</a>. A Blogtalk radio show hosted by my friend <a href="http://www.swarthydaisy.blogspot.com/">Swarthy Daisy</a> and my business partner with <a href="http://www.bebeautifullywell.com/">Be.Beautifully.Well</a> , LadyLovelyPeace. Each week during the month of August they will be discussing Love and Relationships with the author of the book:<a href="http://www.lovesgumbo.com/"> Loves Gumbo, by Brooke Brimm</a>.<br />If you are like me and you welcome open dialogue, awareness and tips to keep your relationships in bloom, Join in and listen. They discuss critical points in relationships with :<br /><ul><li>Self</li><li>Mate</li><li>Friends</li><li>Family</li></ul>There will be an e-book give away for Love's Gumbo each week to one of the participants of the Twitter party as well. That is aaawwwwesome ! This week the twitter party was all kinds of juiciness as well as the show. Honey, don't miss it next week, Follow us on twitter and be ready for next week's party. Find any of us : <a href="http://www.twitter.com/hicksgirl93">@hicksgirls93</a> <a href="http://www.twitter.com/ladylovelypeace">@LadyLovelyPeace</a> <a href="http://www.twitter.com/swarthydaisy">@SwarthyDaisy</a> <a href="http://www.twitter.com/1loveontheradio">@1LoveOnTheRadio</a> <a href="http://www.twitter.com/beautifullywell">@BeautifullyWell </a>#LuvChat<br /><br />..<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">.BTW How you like my gardeners outfit? Cute, Right? ;)</span><br /><br /></span>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-49245285229374369072011-07-25T05:47:00.000-07:002011-07-25T05:47:00.809-07:00It's about that time to do it again<span style="font-family: georgia;">Like most parents I am about to start prepping for the first day of school. It's that time of year when there is excitement, anxiety and annoyance all rolled in one. OMG! I hate having to deal with the long lines at the local Walmart and the department stores looking for the best bargains on pencils, paper and the coolest must have tween clothing accessories. Don't get me wrong I love the bargains, I just hate feeling like I'm in competition with a million other parents to get them. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Then there is the anxiety of wondering who the new teacher is going to be. What type of kids will be in class with my kids every day? It's back to packing lunches and handing out lunch money. Or in my case, having to apologize to my kids because I forgot to give them the a'fore mentioned items which results in an embarrassing situation with the cafeteria lady giving my kid a PB &J wrapped in wax paper and a cup for water until they come back with cash. Those lunch ladies are merciless I tell ya!And of course filling out all those doggone papers the first two weeks. I just about feel like I'm buying my house all over again with all the paper signing that I have to do. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Then, there is the happy side that I enjoy so much. That look of excitement that is on their faces when they are looking on the list to see where they have been assigned, hoping that their classroom buddies from last year will be with them this year. It's that sense of pride I get when I hear each child tell me how much harder they will work this school term than they did the year before. Without a doubt, they always looks so cute rockin' the new outfits on the first day. It's such a confidence booster.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">And of course they always make my heart melt when they wave goodbye and blow me kisses as they ride away on the school bus. I quickly get over it however, as I sit at my kitchen table sipping my coffee flavored with caramel macchiato creamer and a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg. Enjoying the sweet sound of quiet.....<span style="font-style: italic;">hmmmmm, oh yeah it's back school time bayyyybeeee!</span></span> Can't you hear the bells ringing?hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-89125300168623958922011-07-12T14:47:00.000-07:002011-07-13T08:07:49.340-07:00See, what had happened was...<div style="text-align: center;">Yeah, the title of this blog post is kinda how I feel I need to start talking to you guys. I mean looking back I realize I have been away from this blog for about 2 months (gasp!). How could this happen? Me? The one that likes to just talk about almost anything on this site because it is MY creative outlet, was actually not having anything to blog about.<br /><br />As I was driving into school this morning ( yeah, I'm still there) I was trying to come up with a logical conclusion that made sense to me, and of course you too as to why I did not post. I decided that it started off as writers block...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDqZl747zy0uARH8AS4v48ybzAl9J7Oi2puNOZoh7dNXwvcMbAMOGIM7uZ0son-7EqHSfkkkjSh2iOA9762SoM0Ap_o9m7gnXRzWC89XrAZ_gdveWoVmwtZ4VvZ_0ARbo1iDbwcMzI3fW/s1600/writers_block2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 171px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDqZl747zy0uARH8AS4v48ybzAl9J7Oi2puNOZoh7dNXwvcMbAMOGIM7uZ0son-7EqHSfkkkjSh2iOA9762SoM0Ap_o9m7gnXRzWC89XrAZ_gdveWoVmwtZ4VvZ_0ARbo1iDbwcMzI3fW/s200/writers_block2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628593879563349570" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDqZl747zy0uARH8AS4v48ybzAl9J7Oi2puNOZoh7dNXwvcMbAMOGIM7uZ0son-7EqHSfkkkjSh2iOA9762SoM0Ap_o9m7gnXRzWC89XrAZ_gdveWoVmwtZ4VvZ_0ARbo1iDbwcMzI3fW/s1600/writers_block2.jpg"> </a><br />Then it was because I just did not have anything to write about and then I realized... I could of easily posted a Wordless Wednesday photo and showed you our Chi-Chi-Chi-ChiaPet my husband bought for the kids because it was his one childhood fantasy that <span style="font-style: italic;">never came true</span> (true story).<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2Nbno_t0I9ORpM_qFPuyxhWUAJ1ZxCaXxdgbnuScKEH9SemnSnQTR619eKXtsjgRV5A22SDS8VRqK4ICqCr0sD-iaaKxlwaHIHMQvmCDEADwnF27K_cKkHh85_IQ_Gnf3HMnXmd25z-H/s1600/chia+pet.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2Nbno_t0I9ORpM_qFPuyxhWUAJ1ZxCaXxdgbnuScKEH9SemnSnQTR619eKXtsjgRV5A22SDS8VRqK4ICqCr0sD-iaaKxlwaHIHMQvmCDEADwnF27K_cKkHh85_IQ_Gnf3HMnXmd25z-H/s200/chia+pet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628848099780382098" border="0" /></a>I could have taken a little time to tell you how we even had an opportunity to take a mini vacation with some friends, camping and boating up at Red Top Mountain and Lake Alatoona. You probably would have laughed and shook your head when I told you how we got rained on the very first night and that we would have made any boyscout troop proud by the way we got our tarps up over our tents and campground even in the rain and lightening. Then in spite of it all, still had a perfect campfire just long enough after the storm to satisfy the kids craving for s'more's.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp9iXBWSgHaKdund_GutkDCsD6VTXj_KGFfwW1c3x83Gm4EKarWA62_2BK7NU112CMnIOdIxQeoRRo4mQw838py1rcz1EktNVPzdsZezs2EhvdKKt_20LLAvNBb-HCIBFF0_5vBzFYXezl/s1600/capfire.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp9iXBWSgHaKdund_GutkDCsD6VTXj_KGFfwW1c3x83Gm4EKarWA62_2BK7NU112CMnIOdIxQeoRRo4mQw838py1rcz1EktNVPzdsZezs2EhvdKKt_20LLAvNBb-HCIBFF0_5vBzFYXezl/s200/capfire.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628848107427818274" border="0" /></a>Oh and yeah, there was that time my daughter had her emotional melt down all due to the American Girl doll I promised her 4 years ago, <span style="font-weight: bold;">THAT I NEVER GOT HER</span>...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkPFTfmu-AS3vRSBdVHV7vF_-Hc7wFEz7IQt2BrjXlHyblKew1mEAHprDoxVmHLYcSahxbxpxW4pz0S64dNFYZQFZ-jqQgKVbyooGXbY1cABy_Hmgzs8BS20PLkODyfcwyA848GYYQ5O3/s1600/doll-hair-stylist-american-girl-place.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 154px; height: 116px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkPFTfmu-AS3vRSBdVHV7vF_-Hc7wFEz7IQt2BrjXlHyblKew1mEAHprDoxVmHLYcSahxbxpxW4pz0S64dNFYZQFZ-jqQgKVbyooGXbY1cABy_Hmgzs8BS20PLkODyfcwyA848GYYQ5O3/s200/doll-hair-stylist-american-girl-place.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628850747253869106" border="0" /></a>...#sheesh That was a nightmare.<br /><br />And just to give you something sentimental and mushy to cling to, I should have wrote how just so very recently I came to the realization that my babies are not really babies anymore. How this summer seems like the summer they have grown up more than I want to acknowledge and I wish I could turn back 10 yrs. *sigh*<br /><br />Yeah, looking back I don't think I have much of an excuse for not blogging. But hey, at least I just caught you up to speed !<br />*wink*<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-73647676388585403022011-05-16T06:16:00.000-07:002011-05-16T06:16:00.501-07:00Sometimes dreams do come trueI can recall last year how eager I felt to write a blog post when I woke up so very emotionally full from a dream. It was so moving to me that as soon as I woke up I immediately took out my net book and started pecking away at the keyboards for fear that I would forget the powerful impact it made upon me. In my dream I was a motivator, a source of empowerment and a light to a young woman. In real life I do not now her, she was a random non recognizable person of my reality. But in my dream it was as if we had a connection. You can read about what I wrote <a href="http://sandrahicks.blogspot.com/2010/08/pieces-of-dream.html">HERE</a>.<br /><br />Well after that time, I began to look more within myself and realized that I wanted to get more involved with public speaking, more specifically with women and women's issues. I wasn't quite sure how or when it would occur but I just started THINKING it, BELIEVING it, and SPEAKING it. <span style="font-style: italic;">Even when some snickered and smirked </span>at how I CLAIMED it. But I had to overcome some insecurities, take my head out of it (which is hard for me because sometimes my brain won't quit) and follow my heart. With a little motivation and inspiration from a couple of family members, friends and <a href="http://www.execumama.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">my coach/Lightcaster</span></a> I reached back, threw out my line and got a couple of bites! laughing at my own self for that analogy, because I seriously <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">do not </span>like fishing but my bait-casting, fishing pole toting, bass fishing husband totally does. Regardless, I got an offer to speak and I totally loved it! Even more importantly it was for <a href="http://ywtfatlanta.wordpress.com/our-blog/">The Younger Women's Task Force </a>of Atlanta during Women's health and wellness week....right up my alley. I am looking forward to my future endeavors, big or small I will appreciate them all. Hey! that rhymes! ;) To check out more detail of what I spoke about and what my whole experience was like please click on over to <a href="http://www.bebeautifullywell.com">www.bebeautfullywell.com</a>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-36624789267370558032011-04-18T08:00:00.000-07:002011-04-18T13:32:49.706-07:00The current soundtrack or playlist of my life- my top 8 in heavy rotationI sort of chuckled to myself as I was writing the title because I wondered if using the term soundtrack was outdated. Kind of like talking about records and tapes instead of CD's, it's a new day and a new era. Oh well you know what I mean, Music!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJjY_GTBwuHmwy1xo4SG1-pj8sdkiCsG_qtcwwzcZVA94KaeDkIFuUuyZJ7KMcsV_0gbYvOPYXvMc1or9XpipIqdmq1EW-zqggaoyJpl0F3iJILE0-Ekb-1wsOt-0p26XTxSMhtLpX4EX/s1600/record_player_385x261.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 217px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJjY_GTBwuHmwy1xo4SG1-pj8sdkiCsG_qtcwwzcZVA94KaeDkIFuUuyZJ7KMcsV_0gbYvOPYXvMc1or9XpipIqdmq1EW-zqggaoyJpl0F3iJILE0-Ekb-1wsOt-0p26XTxSMhtLpX4EX/s320/record_player_385x261.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595558425471739394" border="0" /></a><br />Last week I posted about Track One on my mental soundtrack and why it was playing in my head through out the week. Well I decided to share a few more of the songs in my soundtrack. Go through my list and tell me if you feeling it too.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Current Soundtrack, er-uh, play list of my life</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Track 1</span>. Keep on moving *Soul II Soul<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Track 2</span>. All of the lights *Kanye West & friends<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Track 3</span>. In a sentimental mood (the Love Jones song, although beautiful long before the movie made it popular) *John Coltrane<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Track 4</span>. Encourage yourself *Donald Lawrence & the Tri-City Singers<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Track 5</span>. Smile *Kirk Franklin<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Track 6. </span>Three little birds *Bob Marley<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Track 7</span>. Moment for life *Nikki Minage<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Track 8</span>. Lose my mind! * Busta Rhymes<br /><br />*photo credit : phonographplayers.com<br /><br /></div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-29082673016579511902011-04-14T13:05:00.000-07:002011-04-14T13:57:02.375-07:00Keep on moving, don't stop like the hands of time !: Track one in the soundtrack of my life..."<br /><pre>It's our time<br />time today<br />the right time is here to stay<br /><br />Stay in my life<br />my life always<br />yellow is the colour of sunrays<br />I hide myself from no one<br />I know the time will surely come... "<br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:100%;" >Those are part of the lyrics to the song by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Soul II Soul </span>and it is currently playing in my </span><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-size:130%;">head</span>.</span><br /></pre><div style="text-align: left;">It plays in my head at any given time during the 5 days that I am in school. I love it when I am there and I am excited by what I learn and am eager to apply it to the "real world" but It is hard for this woman to get there some days! I mean, the 6:40 am hour drive can be pretty daunting. And If I don't get my coffee? I'm jus' sayin' - IT'S AND AUTOMATIC SITUATION, lol!<br /><br />But through it all I am realizing and learning more and more that I am not in this alone. As I am walking through the halls and working in treatment rooms I am finding myself in the company of some phenomenal women. I am hearing their stories listening in amazement as I study with women learning to reinvent themselves, triumphs over self hate and abuse, determination to start businesses and passions for helping others to make a transformation in mind body and spirit. Through the various interchanges of success and failures I drive home in heavy contemplation because I am <span style="font-style: italic;">encouraged and in awe. </span>Some of my classmates are fresh out of high school, some already have degrees and licenses in other fields and you have ladies like me who have not had this length of schooling in 20 years. Either way, it all spells sacrifice.<br /><br />With so much inner beauty surrounding me, I have to keep with the standard. Listen to track one and remember that my goal is not too far ahead. Four more months and counting. I think I can see the horizon a little bit clearer now...#winning<br /></div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-51830971240497909222011-04-06T20:17:00.001-07:002011-04-06T20:17:55.816-07:00Wordless Wednesday : spring is in the air, time for new beginnings.<p><a href='http://lh4.ggpht.com/_lCJxMJT_-U0/TZ0s4ojMnBI/AAAAAAAABP8/T6UGi2_wGSs/IMAG0407.jpg'><img src='http://lh4.ggpht.com/_lCJxMJT_-U0/TZ0s4ojMnBI/AAAAAAAABP8/T6UGi2_wGSs/s400/IMAG0407.jpg' /></a></p>This is a bird nest that we found in one of our shrubs. Two baby birds just hatched out of their eggs. *awwww*<div style='clear: both; text-align: center; font-size: xx-small;'>Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.3</div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-49566293801708990832011-03-28T05:41:00.000-07:002011-03-28T05:41:00.663-07:00Out of the mouth of babes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUw8kcL-I47stidEaYaFtM3m-gadcLQ-wQbtQFXcRyx4hyphenhyphenkVBZZs4xCw9F78-na_8u4kSpsT_feGYv7Tg4aisf5foXfbeLVueOKrAZIVhftPdiLQ1P5Aj52DreusuUFi0p3wldxkSEBhq5/s1600/pink.jpeg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUw8kcL-I47stidEaYaFtM3m-gadcLQ-wQbtQFXcRyx4hyphenhyphenkVBZZs4xCw9F78-na_8u4kSpsT_feGYv7Tg4aisf5foXfbeLVueOKrAZIVhftPdiLQ1P5Aj52DreusuUFi0p3wldxkSEBhq5/s320/pink.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586542574735722658" border="0" /></a>It's so beautiful how children come into this world, all cute and cuddly. Completely edible, that we just cannot seem to get enough of their cuteness. We hug & kiss them constantly, tickle them and make funny faces just to see them laugh joyfully. Watch them sleep in the crib as we imagined who they will become in the upcoming years. I practically inhaled my children in the early days...<br /><br />Fast forward to the adolescent and tween years and the picture may not always be so glorious. I've gotten past the glory days and unbeknown to myself, my children could feel it too. Imagine my surprise when my daughter commented: "mommy, how come when you are talking with your friends you laugh alot, and you laugh really hard. But when you listen to one of our jokes or stories you only chuckle or smile? " Son on the sidelines co-signing :"Yep!" Hmmm, REALLY? I only chuckle? I thought about it and realized she had a really good observation going. How could I even deny it? Not that I could anyway, my children have the ability to present their case to the judge and jury astoundingly, right along with the best lawyers of defense.<br /><br />So my children came up with a plan, an intervention if you will to make me laugh really hard with them. They double teamed me and tickled until I begged for mercy! It was all so simple yet completely effective, I laughed so heartily that I cried. The looks on their faces and the joyous laughter coming from there bellies was priceless.<br /><br />Lessons to be learned: 1)The glory days are not always gone, we simply just have to be active to reach back to bring them back up. 2)Laughter is very good for the heart of all that partake.<br /><br /><br />*Image used from <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mybluemuse/4352189716/">My blue muse</a>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-34933563682388389942011-03-21T05:54:00.001-07:002011-03-21T05:58:54.678-07:00Consequences, rewards and getting it done.This is what <span style="font-style: italic;">I WAS</span> going to post a couple of weeks ago :<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">" <span style="font-style: italic;">I decided I'm going on strike. Yep I am proposing a strike on cleaning. Well , sort of. *sigh* I'm not going to completely give up and let it go but i just feel the need to rebel in some way. I mean if everyone else in the house can take a firm stand against cleanliness and order, then why can't I ? </span></span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span style="font-style: italic;"> I'm just saying, if the MISTER & the kids can take off their shoes in the kitchen, leave the laundry unfolded in the living room, forget to wipe the toothpaste off the sink then</span>..." </span><br /> <br />However, after having a very enlightening conversation with a fellow hard working, multi-tasking, still keeping it flly mama, I decided to make some adjustments in my attitude and save my sanity.<br /><br />How? Well just by giving out a true dose of reality, and a little tough love, with the kiddies at least. The hubby? Thats a whole other situation! <a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 51, 153);" href="http://myculture.tv/2011/03/17/original-honey-do-the-web-series-s1-ep-1-the-manifesto/">CLICK HERE</a> to see what I mean. <br /><br />I am on a hectic schedule, and as the family grows so does the mess. I was trying to do my part but also found myself doing THEIRS or nothing at all. The house and I was suffering. Anyway, I realized that all i needed to do was set out the plan and expectation along with consequences and rewards, then let them do the rest. Setting up a schedule and creating lists is not a new concept to me. In fact I was raised with notes and schedules attached to the fridge. I have written them out myself over the years. However, writing them down and distribution means nothing if not taken seriously. So, I.GOT.SERIOUS. ! <br /><br />Consequences are in full effect, and because I'm such a loving mom :) I also gave rewards and a point system. What I am asking of them is being accomplished and not blown off. Now of course, they had to TRY A SISTA but I commenced to regulating and they got the point. "Homie don't play 'dat!"<br /><br />Yeah, all is well in the Hicks family again, more importantly it's cleaner. <div style="clear: both; text-align: center; font-size: xx-small;">Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.3</div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-70048410443050939552011-03-01T06:26:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:19:25.673-08:00May I please? - giving and understanding permission at the Brownie Monologues<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyD6zKHfY_1nNzTx697j_wQDMskY1AWhTprYuF0DUu8FfdNYSQqREdS2x7tdulHymeqSbGMUo0nBnyNi3ZUh5b1HPNnJ_10Qx6EiZdEERCWHLL9E4M4jzh_CnZn9BVDRGaB4uopKk_t3S/s1600/brownies.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyD6zKHfY_1nNzTx697j_wQDMskY1AWhTprYuF0DUu8FfdNYSQqREdS2x7tdulHymeqSbGMUo0nBnyNi3ZUh5b1HPNnJ_10Qx6EiZdEERCWHLL9E4M4jzh_CnZn9BVDRGaB4uopKk_t3S/s320/brownies.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579120665430775730" border="0" /></a>You ever have those nights with your girlfriends or even by yourself where the order of the night is a big pan of brownies and some seriously insightful conversation? And as the night progresses the discussion and the brownies get better with every.single.bite, and you walk away feeling ever so full, nurtured and satisfied?<br /><br />Well that is what the Brownie Monologues were all about. Well, sort of...it WAS all that I mentioned except there was some testosterone in the building. Whaaaat?Yeah, I brought a MAN. I brought my honey with me because I was trying to kill two birds with one stone. You know... have a little date night too. **giggle giggle, at least HE was enlightened*<br /><br />Anyway, as the night progressed and each woman shared her challenges and how or why she wanted to change something in her life I found a little bit of myself in her too. It made me so very aware, yet again that my challenges are not completely unique. As women (and some men), we each share a similar story within our own individual stories. The stories told, ranged from self image to maternal imagery and reflection, people pleasing & guilt to entrepreneurship and more. Not only were these discussed but some resolves & solutions were exchanged. I loved it! <a href="http://www.herlightison.com">They were shining their light </a>and I was reflecting it.<br /><br />One thought organically became the theme for the evening. Giving ourselves permission. I thought that to be powerful. Because, sometimes I didn't realize how much pressure it relieves me in my everyday living and beyond when I gave myself permission to say yes or say no or to let go to something or someone. And as many of us in the room realized, there is so much more happiness and joy within our mind, body and spirit when we give permission. For me it is not permission to bounce wherever with whoever without regard or focus. But permission with balance, clarity, love & intent.<br /><br />This was the inaugural Brownie Monologues and so they promised there will be more. Even better, they encouraged us to continue, if we have not already been doing so, to create our own Monologues. It's good for the soul, it can only mean a better YOU, a better ME. So now we have PERMISSION ....where are the brownies?hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-41054383803713972022011-02-10T16:17:00.000-08:002011-02-10T17:41:37.129-08:00My fashion is ALWAYS a work in progressI'll admit it to you, I've never been blessed with the gift of having a totally dope styling sense. 90% of the time I am in heavy analysis over what to wear before going out for a social or professional event. I'm not horrible at putting together an outfit I mean, I can "pass". I think that I got this issue from my momma (hehe, everything always goes back to momma), maybe it was because she never encouraged me to develop my own fashion sense as a child. I rarely had creative control over my own wardrobe until I was 12 years old. *sigh* I fought hard for my styling Independence and finally won it at the age of 13 and it's been a roller coaster ride ever since.<br /><br />In the last 12 years with the birthing of two children, being a stay at home mom and then an entrepreneur in the wellness industry, I have fallen into some fashion traps. Due to work with clients, clinic hours at school, or running around with kids my outfit consists of black yoga pants, black t-shirts and sneakers. WTH? So boring ! It's okay when I HAVE to wear it but the problem comes in when I DON'T have to. What is even worse is that I have TWO friends who are FIERCE with their style and do styling for a living. I really have no excuse right?<br /><br />Someone else that is awesome at styling for a living is <a href="http://virtuousstyls.com/">VirtuousOne</a>. She and the <a href="http://www.execumama.com/">Execumamma </a>will be blogging live on Saturday morning <a href="http://http//www.whatisbloglive.com/2011/02/08/bloglive5-all-about-style/">ALL ABOUT STYLE</a> ! They are gonna be sharing all types of delicious tips I'm so sure. Giving advice on topics such as emotional shopping to Hootchie Mamma dressing...mmmhmmm !. I'm going to be at school getting my clinic hours and can't participate...boooooo! But please believe I will be checking in on <a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 204, 204);" href="http://www.twitter.com/hicksgirl93">twitter,</a> following hastag #BlogLive5 as soon as I get a break, this Sistar has got's ta do betta!hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-7888929790290668262011-02-01T06:00:00.000-08:002011-02-01T12:41:03.176-08:00A family's determination to get a book in a child's handsAs a lover of reading I cannot remember a time in my life when reading was not apart of it. My weekly trips to the local library with my mother as a child left huge imprints on me. It was there with her that I was able to see a whole new world outside of my own. Right there within those four walls and the reach of my fingertips I could read about anybody, anytime, and anyplace. In my home it was never unusual to see my mother with a book in her face, and whenever I had the nerve to say I was bored she would quickly tell me "<span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">go read a book, as long as you have books you wont be bored.</span>"<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mommy said it and she was right.</span><br /><br />Although I was fortunate to have the joy of reading influenced by my mother, that is not always the case for many children. Particularly African American children or other children of color. So I was really delighted to know that New York Times best selling author Denene Millner and her husband Nick Chiles are co-founders of and launching <a style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51);" href="http://www.blogger.com/www.northparan.com">North Paran</a>, A site that promotes books for, by and about black people. I love to read all types of books from all types of authors, but as a black woman myself I also enjoy reading books about people like me. And it is especially important for me to have books that are relatable to my own children. North Paran has books to cover all interests for adults and children...they even have a bargain book section (love it!). Even better, for every book that is purchased they will donate a book to a needy child. This is wonderful, a great way to give back to the community. For the child whose mother or father cannot or does not take them to the library, read to them or just can't afford it there is still an opportunity for them to develop their reading skills. I plan on showing my support and I hope you do to.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51);">*Click here to see the brief video of Denene, Nick and the kids discuss North Paran.Then go check out the site for yourself!</span></span><object width="340" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/ZCjtvwPI5ds?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/ZCjtvwPI5ds?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="340" height="340"></embed></object>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-77892235126341941242011-01-29T08:00:00.000-08:002011-01-30T06:19:59.240-08:00Pushing forward , possibilities and opportunitiesI’m feeling really good right now, kinda breezy. My mind is swirling with ideas and possibilities. I love this feeling. It is the feeling that I get regarding entrepreneurship that pushes me to the next level. Then when I attended the Atlanta Blogger's Connect Seminar yesterday, I knew I was on the right track. According to Lamar Tyler it is called c.r.u.s.h. - can’t rest until something happens ! I have a passion for what I do and I am delighted that I can share it with others and at the same time make a living from it too. Can it get any better than that?<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">*<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153); font-weight: bold;">Check the video</span></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153); font-weight: bold;"></span></span> <iframe title="YouTube video player" class="youtube-player" type="text/html" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/GsUboS84KLM" allowfullscreen="" width="345" frameborder="0" height="345"></iframe>However , just in typical fashion of life nothing comes easy. Sometimes it is trial and error, blood sweat and tears along with many late nights deep in thought. Without encouragement and focus it is so easy to second guess myself, my intentions and my abilities. Which is why I was so happy to see an article sooo right on time from the execumama Akila. I don’t know how she knew my thoughts, how she understood my unspoken feelings but her post “3 reasons to not give up on entrepreneurship” was sheer perfection. ( not that I wanted to give up, but it can be hard on a sister sometimes)<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">*check her article</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.execumama.com/?p=2708"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmXDCIf9SSXPhyphenhyphenUOhvMDMzMOLSWvZekNy4afOfTZPpl8KqZeMxVlMtajesklvJONTJ8QPeyXErmwkBgj_HoNZDh1dROzA4v-1reGmR3yGipVyCxmYe7rl0VqfHxoD5DinTbW_50cX-dYAN/s320/eyes.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567789749693303538" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Between her post, The Gatekeepers Are Gone web series and my own ambitions. I am ready for the next level. I believe I can do it. What about you? Do you have similar feelings about your own possibilities and opportunities? Go for it!<br /><br /></div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-59574354652488424122011-01-28T13:46:00.000-08:002011-01-28T18:53:36.744-08:00What I realized about Joe<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUe_Lkb2w2o-XyO6ig-QCvjLQQdogmjCRpjlj3pLi5E5GKm8qPWEKLTkZEmuZrtBFF9MFdBx27PAOT9XyDGASGBCI0HPpTn2zBMZ5g6cZdIWATZoiGA4p_TJ9JR4y6JHO-_O4VRoY4Yce3/s1600/dreamstime_cup-of-coffee.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 219px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUe_Lkb2w2o-XyO6ig-QCvjLQQdogmjCRpjlj3pLi5E5GKm8qPWEKLTkZEmuZrtBFF9MFdBx27PAOT9XyDGASGBCI0HPpTn2zBMZ5g6cZdIWATZoiGA4p_TJ9JR4y6JHO-_O4VRoY4Yce3/s320/dreamstime_cup-of-coffee.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567401804421196786" border="0" /></a>Earlier this week I made a decision to step away from the Joe. Okay, so maybe I took like 10 steps away. Everyone that knows me is aware of how I love thee, so needless to say it's been tough. I have always heard that coffee can really dehydrate a persons body, and that for every cup of coffee you should chase it down with two cups of water. A few years ago while under the care of my naturapath doctor, I was advised to leave the coffee alone.<br /><br />Blah, blah , blah my love and borderline addiction kept me from heeding the counsel. Fast forward to the present day.... I'm looking in on a skin analysis demonstration by my esthetics's educator who very strategically allows my classmates and I to witness a classic case of completely dehydrated skin under the all seeing magnifying lamp. To say the least, I was scared straight !<br />Oh my goodness, What?!<br /><br />After taking a closer look at my own skin with an esthetician's eye, I was able to see what I've been doing to my skin which is EXTERNAL. I don't even want to see what could be going on INTERNALLY. Needless to say I been moisturizing like it's going out of style and guzzling water like a fish taken out of it's element!<br /><br />I am normally a person who tries to stay on the path of wellness, but by my own admittance I need encouragement in certain areas. I must admit nothing encourages a woman better than the threat of losing her external beauty (Vanity , I know).<br /><br />I always say "TIMING IS EVERYTHING" , this all happens on the skirt tail of the <a href="http://swarthydaisy.blogspot.com/2011/01/health-and-wellness-tweet-up-speakers.html">Health and Wellness tweetup</a> I attended two weeks ago.<br /><br />Changes and growth occur when we are ready to receive them. Balance is key.<br /> I'm motivated yet again.<br /><br /></div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-43696777811417138462011-01-19T14:05:00.000-08:002011-01-19T15:22:28.975-08:00When we sweep the dust under the rug, throw skeleton bones in the closet, it all gets exposed during a snow stormLast week the great snow storm of 2011 in Atlanta was like an amazing test of human nature. With so many people stuck inside their homes, many were getting cabin fever. The first day or two wasn't so bad. It was kinda cute....you know? You make a little fire in the fireplace and sipped wine while admiring the winter wonderland from the window ( well, at least that's what I did). Families had some bonding time, pulled out the old boardgames, had Wii competitions, baked, slept and many adults found some <span style="font-style: italic;">very adult</span> ways to pass the time *wink, wink*.<br /><br />However by the end of day 3 and consecutively the 4th-5th days, folks was about to go bonkers! Kids were bored outta their minds and people was so desperate they was walking to the store in the snow for items as small as a pack of m & m's !<br /><br />Recently on a local radio show it was announced that past psychological studies have shown that two things happen during times such as these. One : 9 months from now there will be an increase in babies born (result of the <span style="font-style: italic;">very adult ways to pass the time</span>) and Two : separations, divorce, breakups and familial dissension occurs.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLL8PGo5wU6k-bkdspGKKPLJvbSEulraU7X3zCcT_YqS9nV31PZ73he_17PfwAIcIpsx6V3EBY97YXfPehhy7PBdFlP6SyHuYiTOG0eGb4zonfoPvLPOnClZfPuQDE9iWhrdFtWlG49uMq/s1600/arguing+couple.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 159px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLL8PGo5wU6k-bkdspGKKPLJvbSEulraU7X3zCcT_YqS9nV31PZ73he_17PfwAIcIpsx6V3EBY97YXfPehhy7PBdFlP6SyHuYiTOG0eGb4zonfoPvLPOnClZfPuQDE9iWhrdFtWlG49uMq/s320/arguing+couple.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564040943475399890" border="0" /></a>The latter situation I think is so sad, although I know it is such a reality for many. Mainly because life is so busy, people take relationships for granted and do not take the proper time to cultivate them. Often times family meals are rushed, communication is done during transportation to and from work, school, team practice, etc. foundations for successful relationships are not being made solid. I have a feeling that the issues within the various families and relationships which have been swept under the rug previously, were then staring people right smack in the face. Which means they had to DO SOMETHING about it.<br /><br />Instead of taking the easy way out, I hope that many folks proved the study wrong and made positive steps in the right direction if it was at all possible. To see the negative in something, someone, or even our self can be good if handled and addressed in a positive and progressive way. Maybe the great snow storm of 2011 will prove to be a catalyst for revelations creating better and healthier relationships.<br /><br />Just a thoughthicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-9943068251220130652011-01-12T08:39:00.000-08:002011-01-12T09:14:13.470-08:00Chores and Cravings<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;">This morning at 4:30 am I woke up and made<br />THIS :<br />LIVER AND ONIONS WITH RICE<br /></span></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj797RL9GuPf6cYfNAWoM2HqplnYhPdTRDo0Ddn1Z2bzylSHppzlh0ZtawwPh0w1GmtEN2nZbPMy6993CR8GdTGyqDcSTir0zq1FIl-J6EhNyMT0rtu1IPi-XE68DvpP9a9UOMT8cTwGcQ0/s1600/liver_onions.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj797RL9GuPf6cYfNAWoM2HqplnYhPdTRDo0Ddn1Z2bzylSHppzlh0ZtawwPh0w1GmtEN2nZbPMy6993CR8GdTGyqDcSTir0zq1FIl-J6EhNyMT0rtu1IPi-XE68DvpP9a9UOMT8cTwGcQ0/s320/liver_onions.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561342715217262130" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />THEN I decided to do THIS:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj797RL9GuPf6cYfNAWoM2HqplnYhPdTRDo0Ddn1Z2bzylSHppzlh0ZtawwPh0w1GmtEN2nZbPMy6993CR8GdTGyqDcSTir0zq1FIl-J6EhNyMT0rtu1IPi-XE68DvpP9a9UOMT8cTwGcQ0/s1600/liver_onions.jpg"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"></span></a><br />LAUNDRY.<br />Three loads of it.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj797RL9GuPf6cYfNAWoM2HqplnYhPdTRDo0Ddn1Z2bzylSHppzlh0ZtawwPh0w1GmtEN2nZbPMy6993CR8GdTGyqDcSTir0zq1FIl-J6EhNyMT0rtu1IPi-XE68DvpP9a9UOMT8cTwGcQ0/s1600/liver_onions.jpg"> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtPHJ_eEGHKXBbh2dGyzfINwS6Mr9t-Fd178QqYifQIDA-EJJ9SXVfblcRvix2cVb4MhN8t9GR8SYyvSWK132qEZ7zdYMlfXiD4bgMYv10Es32a9hZSxXYBvr9OGzsTQq-7aXd4PzfHNl/s1600/laundry+pile.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 198px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtPHJ_eEGHKXBbh2dGyzfINwS6Mr9t-Fd178QqYifQIDA-EJJ9SXVfblcRvix2cVb4MhN8t9GR8SYyvSWK132qEZ7zdYMlfXiD4bgMYv10Es32a9hZSxXYBvr9OGzsTQq-7aXd4PzfHNl/s320/laundry+pile.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561345056945088738" border="0" /></a>I guess I got my <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://sandrahicks.blogspot.com/2011/01/passing-opportunity.html">Motivation</a> back.<br />Yeah I know...WEIRD<br /></div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-51433705471389698272011-01-11T16:46:00.000-08:002011-01-11T17:20:39.928-08:00A passing opportunity<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTBkVqEZjc0uqcrfNnQpg9S4DKvg_RVcmlXn4JPNVzmUWGF1bkq633b6wS5TcqYhWIMG0IKlDBv4vlkOGTQUWBXPN_zM2mUMX9OP5rElsT6QyO1429gNNSAQA1q7FSnnHyCwq3_WGKTU5/s1600/2011+snow.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTBkVqEZjc0uqcrfNnQpg9S4DKvg_RVcmlXn4JPNVzmUWGF1bkq633b6wS5TcqYhWIMG0IKlDBv4vlkOGTQUWBXPN_zM2mUMX9OP5rElsT6QyO1429gNNSAQA1q7FSnnHyCwq3_WGKTU5/s320/2011+snow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561096467054226802" border="0" /></a>So we all know about the big 2011 Snowstorm that has affected GA and the surrounding areas. Schools have shut down, highways, interstates and jobs are also non-functioning. Leaving many people indoors and getting really reacquainted with members of the same household.<br /><br />What a great time to snuggle up, play games , eat great comfort food and <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">catch up on things</span>. All great opportunities, EXCEPT ...Ive not been doing the latter . I'm good at snuggling, eating and playing. *Sigh* Motivation is just not here. This is the perfect time to get out those blogposts that are floating in my head. Finish up my project for school, or even organizing my closets. No Motivation. Why? I don't know but, I'm just gonna ride this out with hopes that the "M word" will return to me. <br /><br /><br />Seriously hoping for some motivation and inspiration.....hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-33309204107366804282011-01-06T05:43:00.001-08:002011-01-06T05:43:57.809-08:00Just call me Mommy DearestI was thinking last night, a recurring thought that I am similar to my mother. Yeah I admit it, the woman who I thought was pretty eccentric and took drastic measures to get her point across is actually living somewhere inside of me. She has taken up residence and like an annoying nieghbor she kind of likes to make surpise visits in my mind when I least expect it. <br/> <br/> It seems to always happen when I'm dealing with the kids.*hint* It is always then at the hieght of the kid crisis that I think "Aha! I know what will fix 'em" and then I have my "Ramona Moment". The moment when my kids look at me like they are certain I am from another planet, the look that says " is this CHICK for real, for real? " For a brief moment as I look in their eyes I totally understand how THEY feel, but in another flash I totally understand how SHE felt. Then I proceed with my own eccentric and drastic measures mixed with some of hers, to get my point across... <br/> <br/> Mothers have to do what they gotta do to raise decent, moral, respectable citizens (as my mother would say) and now that I am a mother, I concur. Does that make me "Ramona - Like" ? Maybe so...oh well, maybe it's not that bad after all. <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <div style='clear: both; text-align: center; font-size: xx-small;'>Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.3</div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-11375543563673233302011-01-03T20:21:00.000-08:002011-01-04T14:28:15.804-08:00Eat, pray, love : my review<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBjrimQoNhFwIu_HqJ2dswFF-3QQskYfqR7oKiL-YSYUQF92DRfRnitFG7DhoFH1tf8ubwiDnYZvKXQ3hDN5TCJFNrdcaixcagehs5kZDe-C8S0HOMA1UqHxs8YcMQtlA9GADnvnPQfpb/s1600/eatpraylove-lg.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 215px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBjrimQoNhFwIu_HqJ2dswFF-3QQskYfqR7oKiL-YSYUQF92DRfRnitFG7DhoFH1tf8ubwiDnYZvKXQ3hDN5TCJFNrdcaixcagehs5kZDe-C8S0HOMA1UqHxs8YcMQtlA9GADnvnPQfpb/s320/eatpraylove-lg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558187152194229554" border="0" /></a>What can I say about this book? What one word can I use to describe they way I felt when reading this book ?<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Connected</span><br /><br />Yes, as Elisabeth went through her journey for a period of 9 months or more through Italy, India, and Indonesia I felt connected. She was witty and able to laugh, cry and be angry with herself and her experiences. Within each country, she allowed herself to be in the moment to feel each emotion that was brought up. She worked through them no matter how uncomfortable it was physically or emotionally. I enjoyed peeking through her life and rejoicing with her when she had her "aha!" moments. During her times of clarity I was put in deep thought. Her satisfaction and connection with spirituality, made me reflect and have gratefulness.<br /><br />I am so glad I read this book first. Now I'm ready for the movie, pass the popcorn please!<br /></div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-12594610899657920082010-12-31T07:48:00.000-08:002010-12-31T09:22:50.082-08:00Reflections<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYLFYU00Nge2awXA5oOj1JsLDzIlifcCNhzPCsvQwQYcJx5oJb0kg23CJrJZYCdSTTeZvKoT32G1JmYVij4j9pjUGGtTAIK6b2w1zpk9rQIvp9EGLXZbAZ1Iil0MqGjejGVgTPKyzn1iN/s1600/2011_new_year.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYLFYU00Nge2awXA5oOj1JsLDzIlifcCNhzPCsvQwQYcJx5oJb0kg23CJrJZYCdSTTeZvKoT32G1JmYVij4j9pjUGGtTAIK6b2w1zpk9rQIvp9EGLXZbAZ1Iil0MqGjejGVgTPKyzn1iN/s320/2011_new_year.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556876445068033538" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">It seems like every year on December 31st we hear the same phrases "<span style="font-style: italic;">where did the year go!" "It just zoomed by!" " I can't believe a new year is upon us!</span>" The funny part to me is that we always have the same amount of time, it's just how we choose to use it or <span style="font-weight: bold;">not</span> that makes it feel like it has "zoomed" past us.<br /><br />Upon the close of the present year and arrival of the new we naturally look back on the <span style="font-weight: bold;">good, the bad and the ugly</span> that went on in our lives. As I look back on my year I have to admit that I had so many good things to happen, I can only be grateful. New business venture, new house etc. Yes there were some material gain in 2010, but my emotional & mental growth has been what is most amazing to me. I feel as though the barriers that kept me from being my best self had been lowered if not removed from in front of me. This, primarily due to feeling that enough was enough, realizing that my own inabilities to move on and let go were my biggest hurdles. Finally "getting it." Truly understanding my own worth. Understanding my feelings, accepting them, working with them and being okay with them. To take off the heavy amount of pressure that I put upon myself regarding various relationships was such a relief ! This all happened during a process or a series of processes not always easy on the psyche but oh so very worth it. The end result is <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">HAPPINESS AND CONTENTMENT</span>....what a sweet way to end 2010.<br /><br />I am open, ready and willing to accept all good things 2011 is going to bring me.<br /></div>hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-31331796811612696012010-12-29T08:33:00.000-08:002010-12-29T09:54:13.292-08:00I wish my jeans could travel, or something like that.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnwyscEmzoxkrnWxAeSUVG2ieSRFy7UTMqXk4L7EBmMvcJ6oSKGjtXhuLyP-4_buKNScGu5nwJl2i5sZU8V62zmNK04PW6iGwxNAJoNWOvMd88ySZUA_hfDaFmTqt8FvwMWENXytxp4Fdr/s1600/RIP+JEANS.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnwyscEmzoxkrnWxAeSUVG2ieSRFy7UTMqXk4L7EBmMvcJ6oSKGjtXhuLyP-4_buKNScGu5nwJl2i5sZU8V62zmNK04PW6iGwxNAJoNWOvMd88ySZUA_hfDaFmTqt8FvwMWENXytxp4Fdr/s320/RIP+JEANS.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556154208044240914" border="0" /></a>Yeah, something like that...kind of like the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. Honestly, I never saw the movie or read the books (although I plan too), but the name and the concept speaks for itself and I think its kind of cool.<br /><br />Unfortunately, my jeans and I do not belong to the Traveling Pants group. The exact reason why I am sad and saying Rest In Peace to them. In case you did not know by now, these are not JUST a pair of jeans. No, these are my FAVORITE pair of jeans. These jeans have seen me through thick and thin, literally. They are the only jeans I could wear through my yo-yo weight and still look good on me. They just adjusted to every curve I gained and each inch I lost. These jeans loved me and were loyal to me no matter what!<br /><br />Over the years after much washing they began to get those tears and rips. I didn't care, it just made me and my jeans look "cooler", "hip" and "funkier". We had rips in the front and rips in the back and we were okay with it. That is until recently.....I tried them on and came to the conclusion that old faithful has gone as far as she could go. I have pushed her to her limit and it seems that she cannot adjust herself to accept my "newest set of curves." We no longer look cool , hip and funky. We just look like...well, you get the point.<br /><br />So I have to say goodbye, I wish I could pack her up and send her off to the next woman in some other town, some other country, some other city. I just cannot stand to throw her away. Maybe I could donate her to the goodwill! *side eyes* Then one day I will be walking down the street minding my own business with my <span style="font-weight: bold;">NEW JEANS</span> and look over to see <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Her</span> with someone else. Looking cool, hip and funky. My mind would quickly shift back to all the fun times we had back in 'da day. Remembering how she used to fit me like that too. **sigh** I know, I know, I need to just let go ...<br /><br />Do you think all good jeans go to HEAVEN?hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-8382479491151138062010-12-13T19:22:00.000-08:002010-12-13T20:14:46.524-08:00My lightbulb moment<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmqIN4iA3GhnRMqNY0lfiWhDTmZNE7HEPVLnM9ctEBl_SKLSk3ly8ExNOv7mKvYiAZ-PDyxWqYdFS8kOMxkVIYDVv_JrUYhscnmGD-0c3A5GNR0wlKxY3k3vaeq93fBbMH4ahuvi5-cIV/s1600/lightbulb.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 155px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmqIN4iA3GhnRMqNY0lfiWhDTmZNE7HEPVLnM9ctEBl_SKLSk3ly8ExNOv7mKvYiAZ-PDyxWqYdFS8kOMxkVIYDVv_JrUYhscnmGD-0c3A5GNR0wlKxY3k3vaeq93fBbMH4ahuvi5-cIV/s320/lightbulb.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550374260405498178" border="0" /></a>Had a situation today that really put some "light" on how life works. It was actually kinda funny. One of those things that secretly make you feel like a dummy, looking over your shoulder for the hidden camera because this had to be a joke, right?<br /><br />Well okay, here is some background info. We bought a new house 6 months ago. Fairly new, barely lived in and empty for over two years. Generally everything is in good condition, but as time went on we noticed there were some minor repairs that needed to be done on some major components of the house. It seemed like one by one, little by little something was breaking down. And let's just be honest here, no matter how minor it is a breakdown of any sort is ALWAYS inconvenient.<br /><br />Two months ago, the lights in the family room stopped working. "Great! just Great!" We complained. Tried checking the wiring, and even made an appointment for an electrician to come to the house and do some inspecting. He hasn't made it here yet. That's what happens when you ask your homeboy to come out. but ANYWAY... We have just been making do, using whatever other light source we had to see whenever we were in that room. Often using the light from the open door of another room nearby, or the light from the computer screen.<br /><br />Today however, I was changing the light bulb in my laundry room and I got the bright idea to put a light bulb in the family room too. I honestly didn't think it would do any good, but I figured I should just go ahead and do it now and not wait until later. So that once we got the wiring fixed I would not have to look for a bulb. Low and behold, I twisted the bulb in and then flipped the switch (just because) and there was light! Huh? Was that all that was needed all this time? Wowwwwwww, I had to chuckle at the simplicity of the situation. Talk about turning an anthill into a mountain!<br /><br />Basically, because of the other issues we were facing with the house we approached the missing light situation with the same expectation. We were beginning to view everything that was going on with the house as a problem and so therefore grudgingly approached the missing light in the family room the same way. We did not look at it for what it simply was, <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">a light bulb that needed to be changed</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">WE </span>made it complicated, <span style="font-weight: bold;">WE </span>made it a serious problem. <span style="font-weight: bold;">WE</span> did not handle it as it's own entity, it was lumped all together without distinction. <span style="font-weight: bold;">WE just did not consider all the possibilities.</span><br /><br />This situation made me reflect on life. How often do we handle issues that pop up this way? Just adding each issue to the next and rolling it all into one? Creating one big problem, approaching them all with the same expectation? Sometimes though when we take on each problem as it's own compartment and deal with it accordingly we will see that it is not always soooo serious. Some issues are heavy and weighty while others are really just simple and require little to no work at all. Often the challenges of our lives are what we make them out to be.<br /><br />Truly a light bulb moment....hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-63749408920589869022010-12-10T08:06:00.000-08:002010-12-10T08:06:00.289-08:00A new series<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCap-G_qB4562VJ_CW6x52VRJUIkYitilmG7jWNkxoFzHfEdJP2GYSMg6TdYDQEdk628JFi9XQ2GK2l2ghjEWIW3IJHHDMJBtkbybTrZwnumoNMFwyW637sd6CXfZ8KEZl3jUlwu4YH_aE/s1600/stack_of_books_clip_art_22886.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCap-G_qB4562VJ_CW6x52VRJUIkYitilmG7jWNkxoFzHfEdJP2GYSMg6TdYDQEdk628JFi9XQ2GK2l2ghjEWIW3IJHHDMJBtkbybTrZwnumoNMFwyW637sd6CXfZ8KEZl3jUlwu4YH_aE/s320/stack_of_books_clip_art_22886.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548535293097630034" border="0" /></a><br />Some of y'all might know this and some of y'all don't, but - "ahem!" I am an avid reader. Well at least I used to be. Back in da day, when I had more time on my hands It would mean nothing for me to read an entire book in one night. Finish 2-3 books in a week! I love to read and always have, ever since I can remember learning to read. Like, I just jumped from reading Dr. Seuss to the novels on my mother's bedside table. Over the years, my passion for reading has not changed, but my time and priorities have. Therefore I have not been able to read as much or in the fashion that I prefer.<br /><br />Lately though, I am feeling that ol' feeling again. Once I finish one book, I am ready for the next one. Perhaps not within the same week, heck not even in the same month sometimes! But nonetheless, ready for my next good read. Just like my music preferences, I am versatile with my books. I like to read romance, mystery, motivational, self-help, christian, comedy and even adventure.<br /><br />I have seen a few of my fellow blogger's post about books they have read. Their perspective on books are interesting and because I feel that I know them, I trust their opinion on whether the book is good or not. Since I am back on the scene with my book reading I decided that I would like to add a new series to my blog. It will be of course my very own book review, not sure what I will call this series but I will be sure to give my reviews an honest rating with a very sincere approach. I figured this will be something different than my usual, but kind of similar to my <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://sandrahicks.blogspot.com/2010/01/terrific-tuesdays-tasty-recipes-buffalo.html">Tasty Tuesday Recipe Series</a> I had going on for a while. I'm a little excited about my new blogging venture. It's a new creative outlet for me, I hope you will be excited about it too.hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1038210107721421363.post-17836209267959634202010-12-09T09:42:00.000-08:002010-12-09T11:09:21.115-08:00People are getting "Nutmeg Wasted" these days, it's the new Scary SpiceToday I went to the store to pick up some cough medicine, I've been battling a bad cough for about a week now. After nearly coughing up a lung, I decided enough is enough I gotta take something. While paying for my purchase, the woman at the register wants to know my birthday. Huh? What? I ask her why did she need my personal information just for me to get my over the counter medication. I was informed that it was a new rule, just as in purchasing alcohol or cigarettes. Really? I thought "things must be getting bad if OTC meds are having to be regulated." But then the woman behind the counter reminded me of a a new trend in "getting high" among young people today.....Using Nutmeg. Yep! I know right? Who does that? Herbs, yes I've heard of THAT. I have even heard of Cloves (another spice) and it was not really surprising to me. But, nutmeg ? I'm too old to understand this stuff. Well, apparently lots of kids / teens / young adults do. So I came home and googled it, and just as it was told to me I saw it for my own eyes. I went to Third Age website and saw <a href="http://www.thirdage.com/news/nutmeg-high-cooking-spice-new-drug-choice_12-2-2010?page=1">THIS</a> article. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVv484l0iNbmO-GCuUysSvRW047hzb844Z5PdlNRrDykF6LGszCfvSUoLXVINbs2oK72jelVmzqSB8ILVsCX5ppp9qnNiCOsZ44OzK0ZixEC979jFu4D7NLgHwNO6Ic7-qvTwr3fZfiM8s/s1600/Nutmeg-Ground.ashx.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 119px; height: 119px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVv484l0iNbmO-GCuUysSvRW047hzb844Z5PdlNRrDykF6LGszCfvSUoLXVINbs2oK72jelVmzqSB8ILVsCX5ppp9qnNiCOsZ44OzK0ZixEC979jFu4D7NLgHwNO6Ic7-qvTwr3fZfiM8s/s320/Nutmeg-Ground.ashx.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548758471585980242" border="0" /></a>In this economy, people are looking for inexpensive ways to get high, legally. Folks are even on Youtube demonstrating this "Homemade Nutmeg High". Of course most normally think of it as a tasty spice, but in years past it was commonly used in a <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Nutmeg">medicinal way </a>for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions. In addition it has been proven that in large doses it can be fatal. I feel bad for the kids and the parents dealing with this situation. As the lady at the register said and I agreed : " when I was a kid, I just wasn't that smart to think of these things nor was I that desperate." I'm just shaking my head and shaking my head some more. I guess desperate times call for desperate measures, but goodness gracious is anything used for it's natural purpose anymore?hicksgirl93http://www.blogger.com/profile/08458709989179468568noreply@blogger.com0