Dawn Ray of Sunshine

A Cultured Evening with the Rays

2012-01-14T16:22:00.000-06:00

It was a typical Friday night in January. The Ray Family was together at a family event, but with a slight twist. It was, indeed, a sight to behold. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, we went to the "Toughest Monter Truck" Tour in Southaven, Mississippi.

Along with thousands of other fans, we were serenaded by the likes of a wide range of musical stylings including, Van Halen's Panama and Hot for Teacher, The Who, Neil Diamond, Metallica's Enter Sandman, Queen, Motley Crue, AC/DC and The Black Eyed Peas (because what's a party withouth Boom Boom Boom?) Even Will Smith's Gettin' Jiggy Wit It and Humpty Hump's The Humpty Dance entertained us.

But as eclectic as it was, the music wasn't really the hightlight of the evening -- though it did provide an excellent soundtrack. Oh no, the most cultured part of our night was the people watching. It seems watching monster trucks transcends all racial and economic boundaries. Young, old, black, white, rich, poor, all kinds of people like to watch the Monster Truck mayhem in an indoor arena. But there were several scenes to add to the culture of the evening. Allow me to elaborate:

Date Night: we saw many a couple, teenagers and young couples in their 20s enjoying a romantic evening out watching $150,000 trucks smashing junker cars and doing wheelies. Yes, nothing says "I love you so much" than two tickets to see who is the "toughest monster truck."

Trip to the Big City: I, too, was this when I was a child. I lived in a small town, with the closest big city being Memphis. We saw lots of wide-eyed little boys and girls seeing

Tattoos and Tank Tops: even though it was January, the ladies pulled out their good tank tops to show off the guns.... literally. A few seats down from us was a woman showing us her tattoo... a beautiful masterpiece featuring two Colt 45 revolvers positioned over a pair of wings. Yes, guns and angel wings. Even the masters couldn't haven't painted a piece so lovely.

Camo, camo everywhere: Fans broke out their best camo attire- fleece jackets, pants, sweatshirts and hats-- with no deer or waterfowl in sight to shoot.

Family Fun Night: this was the majority of the fans in attendance at the Landers Center, including the Rays.

In all, it was a great event for the entire family (we just happened to leave Zane at home, given the extremely loud noise.) And sure, I have poked fun at some folks, but even I enjoyed myself. I was in awe when Stinger rolled over some junk cars and even when he tipped over and they had to bring the Cat out turn him right side up. I loved it when Shell-Camino (the evening's only female driver) turned over and emerged from the truck unharmed. And I screamed with glee when a 6'3" motocross quad rider did a full back flip across the arena floor. Up the ramp, across the floor, a complete back flip with the four wheeler, then landed safely on the other side.

It was not Masterpiece Theater, but is was as entertaining a night as I've had in a while.

I Want to Be Geoff Calkins When I Grow Up...

2011-12-19T13:50:00.001-06:00

I'm not saying Geoff Calkins is old, but I want to be him. His perspective is usally dead on and I look forward to reading his columns, especially about Tiger basketball.

In this column, he is exactly right.

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/dec/18/talented-but-timid-wont-win/

Our Memphis Tigers are scared to succeed. And that is getting in the way of them playing to their potential. Our coach is young, tenacious and a great recruiter, but by my estimation, lacks the ability to get his players to listen to him in times when they need to the most. He is their coach. Period. That’s why teams have them. Sure, teams are talented and ulitmately the players get out on the court and do amazing things, but coaches exist for a reason. It is the difference in collegiate level big-time basketball and AAU ball. Sometimes players HAVE to be coached. He is a nice guy, doesn’t curse at all, doesn’t drink caffeine, doesn’t eat junk food. But to truly reach these kids—the overwhelming majority of which haven’t come from an upbringing quite like his – he has to put his foot down.

Coach Pastner can’t keep playing Wesley Witherspoon, a senior, because “he knows he has potential” and “heart.” A lot of guys have heart. Heck, just ask the thousands of players around the country who were stars in high school -- with loads of heart -- that aren't playing in college. If heart was all it took, the competitive landscape in basketball would be vastly different. Heck, if heart was all it took, I would have been a Rockette when I grew up. Wesley has been given ample opportunity to prove himself for the team and hasn’t since Pastner’s first season when he made a buzzer beater to take us to the second round of the NIT in 2010.

Coach Pastner can't play a top recruit -- Adonis Thomas-- for 17 minutes of a game (Murray State) when he produces NOTHING. No points, no assists, no rebounds. Nothing. I love Adonis and think he is the real deal, but it doesn’t mean he isn’t a great player, it just means he is having a bad day. we all have them. So be it. If that’s the case, take him out, put him on the bench and don’t play him for nearly half the entire game, for goodness sakes.

Now, I'm not saying Pastner has to be like other coaches and curse out his player in front of a national TV audience. If you have been a reader of my blog, you know who I am talking about.:) But he's got to relate better to these players and get them to listen to him. Sit them on the bench when they blatantly don't do what you have coached them to do. Period.

Another thing, we flat out have to win. We have enough going against us by just being in Conference USA. And we will still be in CUSA, not the Big East, thanks to our fearless AD (who thankfully and finally is retiring in the summer.)

So, what's my point? Sure you've gotta have heart. But also talent. I've battled saying this for three years now, but heart isn't all that's going to cut it with our players, and it isn't going to cut it with our Head Coach, either.

And that’s the Dawn Ray of Sunshine report for today.

Social Media and Today's College Athletes... Freedom of Speech, but not Freedom from Ramification

2011-07-28T21:55:00.001-05:00

This blog post has been in my head for a while, so I think I will just jump right in. I definitely think there are some merits to the relationship between social media and today's college athletes. (The NCAA prefers to call them "student-athletes" but I'll just call them college athletes. I really should call them employees of the school, but that's another blog post.) One one side of the spectrum, tweets and Facebook posts really help build a fan base and following for the team and college. I, for one, follow many Memphis Tigers basketball players (current and former, along with a few future) and find it fascinating. Maybe I'm a dork, but I like to see how they interact with each other on social media and Twitter and how they trash talk each other a bit when they are playing summer ball in the Bluff City Classic.

I think these young men help build excitement around their team by giving fans a sneak peek into their lives outside of the 2 1/2 hours we see them on the court during basketball season or on TV. Sometimes they even have profound things to say. Other times, not so much...

On the other side of the spectrum, however, I think too much Twitter and social media can be detrimental to the team, its players and even its fans. Think about how many people have made stupid comments via Twitter that have affected their reputation forever? All is takes is one ill-placed tweet or post and your reputation is ruined.

I guess what I am saying is SOCIAL MEDIA IS DEFINITELY ABOUT FREEDOM OF SPEECH. BUT IT IS NOT FREEDOM OF RAMIFICATION. So, when a player posts trash talk about the other team, you better believe that team is going to see it and a smart coach would use it to his advantage in the locker room to get his team fired up.

If I were a coach, I would ban social media on game day. Players would have to turn their iPhones or Blackberries or whatever device they have before they turn in for bed the night before (for an earlier game) or first thing that morning for a night game. They could have one last tweet before turning the device in and going dark from social media. Then, it would be time to focus. That would alleviate some game day posts and potential trash talking. And posting from the locker room? No way. Not that they are saying mind-boggling things, but let's face it, if they are tweeting from the locker room right after the shoot around, they are not as focused on the upcoming game. And being a college athlete is about focus and determination.

I also think putting social media in the hands of young, naive players is a bit irresponsible. They should be coached by their coaches and the coaching staff about the ramifications of negative social media instances. Their social media activity should be monitored by the coaching staff so the coach knows what is going on in their personal life. (Please note, some coaches may be out there doing this, but I'm not so sure. The players I follow could use a little coaching on reputation management.) It would be unfortunate if someone were to ruin their career and future due to a reputation-altering tweet or Facebook post.

I think social media has its place in sports, certainly, but I wonder about the negative impact that comes from it, particular on game days. Only time will tell, I guess, and I will still go one following my Memphis Tigers and other athletes to see what they are up to. Besides, how else would I know what Jalen Rose's Bible verse is for the day?

I Be Up in the Gym Just Working on My Fitness

2011-07-22T21:16:00.001-05:00

I'm no Fergie Ferg, but I've been in the gym working on my fitness. I finally made the commitment to hire a personal trainer. And I mean commitment on many levels-- personal, time and financial. I called out to my Facebook friends to get trainer recommendations. I had a few caveats (of course) before choosing the right trainer:

1. Must be male: simply, I would hate, hate, hate any trainer that was a female. Mainly because she would be skinny and in shape. (and fat girls don't like skinny girls, just sayin'.) Of course, I would know that she should be fit and thin -- who would want a fat personal trainer? But, my own self-esteem can't handle that.

2. I needed someone who wouldn't be my friend: frankly, I have enough friends. I don't need to hire them. So, I need someone who isn't interested in being my friend, but interested in doing the job I hired him to do. That would be kicking my ass, ladies and gentlemen.

3. I don't need an enabler: I'm a communicator by profession and I can pretty much make an excuse for anything-- fitness and exercise being one of my biggest excuses (I don't have time, I'm too busy with work, kids, school, whatever.) Further, I can make nearly everyone believe it-- I'm in PR for goodness sakes ... and I'm good at it. Well, no more, I say. No more excuses. Frankly, I needed someone who would be honest and not an enabler. So when I made an excuse, he would say, "I don't care if it hurts. Just finish the damn set" and so forth.

4. I need someone who is kinda mean: it works for me. It motivates me. I need someone pushing me. Not letting me quit. I'm seriously a big time quitter at things I'm not good at, and let's face it, I'm not good at fitness, exercise or taking care of myself. Therefore, I need someone who is mean; who will yell at me, push me and make me do it.

I found him. His name is David Allen, owner of NBS Fitness http://www.nbsfitness.net/. He's a meathead former football player, but has the brains with the brawn. And he's really not a meat head at all. He is very smart, knows the human body and what makes it work and was a former strength coach at LSU. And he is massive. I mean, solid and in shape. As for NBS, you can figure out what it means. Yep, NO BULL SHIT. Now that's exactly what I need.

I've been working out with David for 3 weeks with a partner, the lovely and talented Shawn Sandy. She keeps inspiring me and keeps me motivated. David won't let me quit. My hubby, Tom, has been super supportive and says it's time to take care of me, rather than everyone else. So he's giving me to David 3 times a week, an hour at a time. And so far, I don't hate it. (which, if you know me, know that is a HUGE compliment!)

To show how much progress I've made, David pulled my first workout and compared it with my workout Wednesday. Workout 1, I did 17 pushups. Girl pushups, and I was dying. Week 3, I did 70 (yep seven-zero) girl pushups! That is major progress. Especially for a fat girl who is way out of shape. (Okay, maybe I'm being too hard on myself. I have 2 children, one of which is only a year old.) But my goal in 3 more weeks is to do FIVE REAL pushups in a row. Can I get a woop woop?!?!?!

I'm also running three times a week. Now, when I say running, I don't mean running a 6 minute mile. I've started the "Couch to 5K" program, whereby I follow a weekly program and alternate between running and walking to build up to running a 5K. And, I don't hate it. I have found that the 30 minutes I spend running three times a week helps me clear my head. It helps me think about things and I can just let my mind go. I don't have to solve any problems, I can just think about things and see where my mind goes. I'm not sure how long it has been since I have done that.

I will keep you posted on my progress, dear readers, and I hope you will help hold me accountable.

NO BS!

Cars As Billboards...and Memorials... and Tombstones

2011-06-01T21:18:00.000-05:00

This post has been sloshing around in my head for months now and I decided to finally write it all down. It seems everywhere I drive, I see bumper stickers that say things like: OBX, TYB, LWP, ASP, STJ, 26.2, 13.1, MB, you get the point. You know which ones I am talking about-- they are white ovals, with a black outline and black letters.

Then, there's the school bumper stickers (which I admit, I have one for my son's school-- CMDS.)

I get those to some degree -- you have a favorite place that you like to vacation (OBX=Outer Banks, MB=Myrtle Beach) and you want everyone to know. Got it. You pay tuition for a fancy private school, you want folks to know. But there is something going on with cars that I just don't understand. It is the tribute message on a car for all to see your grief.

Think about it. You know you have seen them, they go a little something like this (picture really hard to read Old English font):

In Loving Memory of Stevie Q.

August 25, 1962 - June 22, 2010

Rest in Peace, Big Daddy!

Gone but not forgotten.

Seriously, WTH? I don't quite understand a tribute to a deceased loved one plastered on the back windshield of your pickup truck. I don't want to seem to be uncaring, but I don't understand how airing your grievances while rolling down I-40 or Poplar Ave. will help your grief.

Perhaps I am wrong, but I just think it is weird. Particularly curious are the ones that have unfortunately lost their small children and put that information on there. Not to sound insensitive, but that is just weird.

Besides, with that hard-to-read script and sometimes an image on the window, isn't it going to cause accidents? Because you know you are gonna look and perhaps that is the point.

The Fashion Hits Just Keep On Comin'

2011-05-20T13:55:00.000-05:00

As I was boarding my very early flight this morning in Atlanta, I was struck by what I saw. At first, I thought I was seeing things. I was a bit bleary-eyed from the redeye flight from LAX, but I rubbed my eyes and sure enough, there it was. The man from the American Gothic painting was on my flight. Imagine my surprise when the overall-wearing, sportcoat clad farmer walked onto my plane!!!

Yep, except he wasn't carrying a pitchfork and he was wearing a really bad ball cap. I felt I had a brush with celebrity.

Air Travel Has Definitely Lost Its Cachet

2011-05-18T20:21:00.000-05:00

Remember back when people actually cared what they looked like? Back when is was not acceptable to wear pajamas or house slippers in public? Well, apparently those days are long gone. Today I traveled to Los Angeles from the Memphis International Airport. Now, I'm not picking on my fair city, it jsut happened to be where I was.

And frankly, girl in line in security, I don't care to see your navel or your stomach, no matter how flat or tan it is. And Mr. Sloppy, you shouldn't wear house slippers on a plane. With tube socks, no less. And oh, by the way, 14 year old girl who looks like you are 25, I don't care to see any writing across your behind. I don't care how much you "LOVE PINK" or how "JUICY" it is. (And don't even get me started on how I feel these types of sweat pants lead the sexualization of young women in our society!) And to you, Missy, pajamas aren't cute on anyone -- especially at the airport -- unless you are 5 years of age or below. Then it is only acceptable under certain circumstances.

And these rules don't just apply to the airport. It seems no matter where I am, Kroger, Target, Walgreens, or a t-ball game, I see people in inappropriate clothing. I have always abided by the rule "just because they make it in your size doesn't mean you should wear it." That philosophy goes with so many things.

So, no, size 24 lady, you shouldn't be wearing a halter top. No, man with a size 54 waist, you shouldn't be wearing a muscle under armour shirt that is too short and shows your belly. Now, I'm not saying there should be a dress code and I'm not making fun of overweight people, but seriously?!?!?!? If any of your body parts are hanging out, then it doesn't fit. Period.

And that goes for little skinny folks, too. Hey you, yeah you, over there, the very tanned (with a tanning bed) skinny 18 year old with the low rise jeans. I don't care to see your butterfly tramp stamp. I think you have the freedom to have one if you want, but why should I subjected to see your ill-fated attempt at being cool? Or was it just that you had too much PGA punch at that graduation party?

And seriously, young man. Pull up your pants. You shouldn't have to walk around holding them up and I frankly don't care to see your boxer shorts. I don't care what brand they are.

That is all.

Thanks for the concern, but I'm not dead

2011-05-11T07:21:00.002-05:00

I know it has been a while since I blogged, but things have kinda been happening at a pace I can barely process. Here's a laundry list:

New House: The Ray Family has moved to Germantown into a bigger house. We like to call it our "forever house." Mainly, because it is perfect for us, but also because we hate moving so badly. I. Despise. It. Yall come see us. Bring your momma 'n 'nem.
Family and Kids: the preschool politician keeps us busy with his social engagements and is playing socer and baseball. School's about to be out and as usual, we have him trapesing all over the city on the campaign trail. Little Zane will be ONE May 17th. WHAT?!!??!?! That just can't be right.
Work: work has been insane lately. Insane is not bad, insane is just crazy busy. I'ven been traveling quite a bit, have been giving several great projects that are requiring a good bit of my time, press and PR efforts are picking up. (woot woot! let's hear it for HGI!!!!)
March Madness: yes, you know I was completely obsessed with the NCAA tournament as usual. I'm likely the only mom that schedules her children's activities and napping habits around the tournamen in March.
Floodwatch 2011: its a global story-- the Mississippi River at record highs flooding downtown and other parts of West Tennessee. They say my home county of Lauderdale is 52% under water. Folks in Shelby County are at shelters. It's very sad.
Grizzlies Watch 2011: everybody on the bandwagon (including me!) You know I love college basketball but the NBA, not so much. But we do love us some Grizzlies. The team, led by perhaps the most under-rated coach in the NBA, Lionel Hollins, is doing the unthinkable as a #8 seed and making a run in the playoffs. I haven't seen the city come together and get behind something since the Tigers in 2008. But I LOVE IT! It makes me proud to be a Memphian. A Memphian by choice!

And in true Dawn Ray of Sunshine fashion, I have to talk about Tiger Woods just a bit. Poor baby, Tiger Woods. He's hurt. He's at his lowest ranking in years... maybe ever. Does anyone really care? I don't.

Brett Favre: well, he did it again. He retired. Again. Thank Goodness! Let's see how long it lasts. On a positive note for Brett, he at least is doing some good in the South and aiding in the clean up of the Alabama tornadoes. Of course, he's probably doing it for PR reasons, says the PR girls, but still. It's a good deed nonetheless, and I thank him for it.

I hope you have enjoyed my return to blogging. I have so many things to say and I need to make time to say them. (most of you who know me know I am very rarely at a loss for words.) It just seems to be lately that I am short on time.

Plan B

2010-10-05T20:25:00.001-05:00

Last week I was at a very enjoyable dinner (one of the most enjoyable dinner with coworkers in recent memory) during a work trip and the subject of a Plan B came up. Now, I'm not talking about your contingency plan for if your work goes through layoffs and transformation, or even your plan B if something doesn't go the way you expected with a work project. Hell, I'm not even talking about what Plan B would be if you ordered the chicken special for dinner and they didn't have it anymore.

I'm talking about what your Plan B is if your current life situation doesn't work out. Please allow me to elaborate...

I'm at this dinner with some very good and very funny company. I'm not exactly sure how it came up, but someone at the dinner professed they had found their Plan B if their marriage didn't work out. (Please note I am using incorrect grammar instead of the proper pronouns-- he/she, his/her etc.) This dinner companion said they had their Plan B all picked out in form of a same sex life partner. It was funny, because this person is not gay and is in a heterosexual marriage.

That spurred the conversation of someone else (another of my co workers) talking about Plan B and I am sorry to say that I wasn't anyone's Plan B. I was, in a word, devastated. Here I am, thinking I am charming and funny, and none of my coworkers has picked me as their same sex life partner Plan B.

Now, it may sound trivial, but I was a tad hurt. I think I'm the total package: okay-looking, funny, witty, smart. Apparently not enough for my co workers to consider me their Plan B. Of course, I am a heterosexual woman, with a fantastic husband and two beautiful children. I don't really think I need a Plan B. But it would be nice to know I was someone's Plan B. I'm just sayin'...

Random Posts from Dawn

2010-10-05T20:12:00.000-05:00

So sorry it's been a while since I posted. Seems life has been nutty lately with travel, baby, JK politician, a beach trip for the family, work, boxing up house stuff and the list goes on...

1. work travel: I've been back to work about 6 weeks and have gone on 3 trips. All were enjoyable, but did keep me away from the charming Zane, my JK politician and my very supportive and loving husband. I did get to go to a Mets game while in NYC and we were treated like total rock stars (guess purchasing in-stadium advertising will get you far in life.) Had yummy burger and shake there, along with fantastic seats behind home plate. Okay, so the Mets stunk it up this year, but it was so fun to check another stadium off my list.

2. Zane: that charming baby is stealing my heart more and more every day. He cackles out lous and has an infatuation with Daddy. He looks at Tripp like he is the funniest thing in the world. He began to eat rice cereal and fruit and the first time we gave it to him, he threw it up. And I mean THREW. IT. UP. Don't worry, I got it on video.

3. JK Politician: Tripp just keeps on campaigning for US President in 2044. He loves his teachers (Ms. Abercrombie and Ms. Guess) and seems to love JK at CMDS.

4. Beach trip: I had to travel to Orange Beach, AL for a work trip, so the boys, Tom and Mama Sue drove down to meet me for a mini vacation. The Gulf Coast is open for business and is absolutely beautiful! The weather was nice-- still warm but not so freakin' HOT -- and we stayed in a beautiful condo with a lazy river, pool and slide. The pool was freaking cold. The lazy river was cold, but the pool was FREEZING. We still had a fantastic time! :)

5. Work: boy, work has been absolutely insane. My boss left for a big fancy job in DC at the Hilton HQ (in July) and we've been without a boss for a bit. It has afforded me the opportunity to do some cool things and be a part of some great meetings in his absence, but we are CRAZY BUSY! We also have a new interim boss that we are still learning. As you know, everyone works differently and likes things a certain way, and we are adapting to it.

6. More work travel: getting ready to go to Orlando for 5 days, then to VA for 4 days. Then some international travel is likely.

7. House stuff: we've talked about it for years, now we are going to do it. We began boxing some stuff up to put our house on the market. It will likely take a long time to sell, but perhaps I will bury a statue in the front yard or whatever it is folks do to see their house quickly.

I'm sure there is more to post, but I can't think of it all right now.

What if...

2010-08-19T20:26:00.002-05:00

What if we all acted like Brett Favre? What if every year we waffled with a decision to retire? What if we decided to miss the prep meetings and hours of work, only to show up for the big meeting and take all the glory?

I'll tell you what... people would get pissed. Really pissed. And no work would get done. And no one would want to work with you because you didn't want to put in the time for the team. Really, that's all Favre is doing. I personally think he feels he is too good to go to preseason camp and sweat his ass off in practice. I think he feels he's been playing in the NFL for 20 years and doesn't have to do all of that anymore. Well, #4, in my opinion, you are dead wrong.

Brett, you are a talented player, one of the best quarterbacks the game has evern seen. You will certainly be a Hall of Famer, when you ever decide to retire and become eligible. But let me tell you, Grandpa, you keep making PR mistakes that are costing you your fans. Sure, Minnesota fans love you.... you almost took them to the Super Bowl. But need I remind you that you alienated an entire state, yes state, because everyone in Wisconsin is a Packer fan, the remainder of the Packer Nation, as well as New York Jets fans? How does that feel?

You could have handled your departure from the Packers much better. Just retire with decency and move along living it up in Hattiesburg. But no, you had to go play for the Jets. Then retire. Again.

Then, you betrayed all of Packer Nation by becoming a part of their rivals, the Vikings. You had one of your best years ever and almost took them to the Super Bowl. The last we saw of you, you were really hurting physically and mentally. And the questions began... will he retire? Will he stay a Viking? Will he go somewhere else? Will he enjoy being a new grandfather? The Favre Watch began.

And in your typical fashion, you decided to waffle and come back one last time. It took some of your teammates coming down to Hattiesburg (gees, what is it with that town of late? Tiger goes there to sex rehab then the media circus of Favre. It must be a happening place) to get you to come back. Now, you say you were hurt and had surgery on your ankle. I believe you. I'm sure it hurt. But I also believe your ego and pride were more hurt than your ankle. I'm thinking you couldn't believe you didn't beat New Orleans, of all teams, to go to the Super Bowl. Even after your record breaking year. Then all hell froze over when the Saints actually won the Super Bowl. The great QB couldn't go back after that. Everyone would remember that game. So you waffled, as you have been prone to do these last few years, and even caused ESPN to create the Favre ticker, much to my chagrin. Your ego made you sit out the summer and wonder if you were coming back. Are you really that much of a baby? Do you really need the attention? Did you really need some of your teammates to come down to Hattiesburg to ask you to rejoin the team?

You finally gave the world your answer yesterday and surprise!!!! You are coming back to the NFL. Again. You missed the preseason practices and camps. Way to be a team player.

Now, I really don't care either way. I'm neither a Favre lover or hater. I certainly didn't have anything against him and won't deny that he is a spectacular football player. But come on, Brett, your ego is getting to be as big as LeBron's and Tiger's. And that's not good company to keep.

Another Memphis Son Lost

2010-07-29T09:17:00.001-05:00

I, like many Memphians and Tiger fans, prayed he would turn up. Prayed that he decided to take some time off to think. Prayed that maybe he was on a beach somewhere figuring out his newly single life. Prayed that he maybe took off to Israel to try out for a basketball team there and surprise his family with the news that he made it. Now we are praying for his family and six children who no longer have a father.

It is such a sad, tragic end to a very promising career for a true Memphian and Memphis Tiger. Lorenzen Wright was a star at Booker T. Washington High School. He was a star at the University of Memphis and a star at the Memphis Grizzlies. He was loved by Tiger fans. He was loved by Memphians. He was loved by the African-American community. He was loved by the Caucasian community. Now he is gone. And we all grieve...together.

Lorenzen beat the odds. His father was paralyzed when he was shot breaking up a fight at a community center. He coached Lorenzen from a wheelchair making him a star at BTW. He played at the U of M, endearing himself to Tiger fans as a hometown kid who had made it. He was drafted into the NBA in 1996, eventually returning home to Memphis to play for the Grizzlies. He had made it. He had beat the odds. He didn't face the reality that so many young African-American men face not only in Memphis, but in America today. He wasn't shot. He didn't succumb to the violence that often plagues young African-American men. He didn't fall prey to drugs (that we know of.) He was living his dream in the NBA.

We all grieved with him when his 11-month-old baby girl died. We hoped he could feel the prayers and the arms of the city reaching around his family to comfort him. When we learned he was missing, we began to pray for him and his family again. Reaching our arms out to him and his family to keep them safe.

He had fallen on some hard times. He wasn't playing in the NBA anymore. He was newly single. He was away from his kids. He was apparently having financial troubles. He needed our prayers and support, but we didn't know about it until it was too late.

Today, as Tiger fans and as Memphians, we grieve the loss of Lorenzen Wright. We pray for his parents, his six children and his family. But let's also pray for other young basketball stars -- and other young men, of all races -- so they won't meet the same fate as Lorenzen Wright. Let's also pray they will figure out who did this to Memphis' son and that they be brought to justice.

Hair Envy

2010-07-25T20:53:00.000-05:00

I have major hair envy. I see someone's hair and I want it. I must have it. I will do anything to get it. I think it's because I went for a very long time and didn't do anything with my hair. After I got married, I cut it off (that's what brides do, right?) Anyway, then I let it grow, just to see if I could. I kept it in a pony tail most of the time, so I decided to cut it off again, and I loved it. Then I got bangs because I saw someone with great bangs, and then I hated them. Then I decided to cut it shorter, because I saw someone with short hair and I liked it. For a bit. Then right before Zane was born, I decided to get it even shorter. I went to someone new (I don't have an allegiance to any hair dresser) and I did not like what she did. At all.

So, it's been 11 weeks since I got it cut and it has grown out a little (it's still short of course) and I can't decide if I should grow it into a bob like I had before (and I liked) or if I should keep it shorter (which I also liked.) I really need to make up my mind.

I really wish my hair envy would go away. It bother me.

So I guess it IS Rocket Science

2010-07-25T20:46:00.000-05:00

I am little late posting this, but Tom and I took the Politician on a little weekend trip over July 4th weekend. We decided to leave little man with Mama Sue so the Politician could spend some quality time with mom and dad. We drove to Huntsville, AL on Friday and were lucky enough to get a very nice rate at the Hilton Garden Inn right at the US Space and Rocket Center.

The first night we were there, we went to see the Huntsville Stars play the Chattanooga Lookouts. We are baseball people and we love to go to different baseball stadiums and leagues. Hunstville has a AA team and it was a lot of fun. We go to the Memphis Redbirds games a lot and AAA is darn close to the Majors. AA and A, not so much. But it is good, cheap family entertainment. Beer is $2 cheaper, burgers and hot dogs are cheaper. The baseball is pretty good and we had a lot of fun. Their mascot was a pole cat, which is kinda like a skunk but the placement of the stripe on the tail is different.

The next day, it was off to the US Space & Rocket Center. They had recently opened a Star Wars exhibit, featuring all of the costumes, models and other props from the Star Wars movies. The exhibit was very cool (even though we were contributing to George Lucas' fortune.) Tripp and Tom both enjoyed it very much. Okay, so did I. They even had roaming storm troopers and Darth Vadar walking around and trust me, they were really great costumes, like movie-grade costumes.

Then, it was off to see the Rockets and learn all about our journey to the moon. That, my friends, was super-cool! They had an entire full size rocket hung over your heard, broken into pieces, with lots of memorabilia from NASA. There were space suits, rocket pieces, and lots of other cool stuff. The kids could get in a few of the pieces and see what it is like to be an astronaut. It was very cool and I highly recommend you go if you are looking for a quick weekend trip!

Then we headed back to our hotel and swam a bit in the pool. That evening, we went to a nice dinner and went to an outdoor mall (correct term is lifestyle center) and walked around. They had balloon artists, magicians and face painters who worked for tips. We enjoyed some great people watching and ice cream and Tripp got a cool dragon painted on his face.

We had a really great time, but were ready to get home and see the little man. Of course, he had a great time at Mama Sue's. I'm not sure she even put him down all weekend!

What is the advertising world coming to?

2010-07-22T21:27:00.001-05:00

So I am very bothered by the Kia Soul commerecial with the "street" hampsters driving the Kia Soul. Very odd. If you haven't seen it, let me paint you a picture...

The song is "The Choice is Yours" by Black Sheep (the "you can get with this; you can get with that" song.) These hampsters are rolling in their Kia Souls, wearing hoodies and other clothing young kids and college students wear today. Now, I realize I am not in Kia's demographic for this car, but I'm not sure I get it. It leads to many questions, and I would like answers...

1. Are hampsters the new "in" thing, like the puppies Hollywood socialites carry in their purses?
2. Is the car only big enough for hampsters? (stole that one from my husband)
3. Why are they human-sized?
3. Why Black Sheep? (am guessing the significance of the song is that you can choose from all sorts of "box-type" cars out there -- the Nissan Cube and the Scion -- but the Soul is the best choice (hence, the line is the song, "this is where it's at.)

Seriously, I wish I could have been in the board room where the agency sold this concept to the marketing VP. Did the conversation go something like this???

Agency: "Okay, imagine it. There are human-sized hampsters rolling uu, dressed like your typical colllege student."
Client: "Why hampsters?"
Agency: "our research shows hampsters test very favorably among 18-25 year old males, your core target audience."
Client: : "SOLD"

I'm not really sure I get it, but I think the agency has succeeded at doing their job. After all, I remembereed the commercial, can recall the type of car and I am blogging about it. That's really what marketing is all about

Stupidity, Thy Name is Mel Gibson

2010-07-21T17:15:00.000-05:00

What happened to Mel Gibson? He used to be a bona fide movie star and family man. We loved him in the Lethal Weapon movies (remember "I'm too old for this sh*t?") Heck, he was even People's "Sexiest Man Alive" in 1985. He made women swoon and men pound their chest as William Wallace in Braveheart (still one of mine and Tom's all time favorite movies.) He was from a foreign land, had gorgeous hair (hey, mulletts were hot then) and beautiful blue eyes. He was gorgeous and every woman wanted him. But seriously, he has now gone insane.

Either he was crazy all along and had a good publicist, or he has just gone ape sh*t. First there was the controversy over "The Passion of the Christ," which I thought was an excellent movie and the controversy was blown out of proportion. Then, he was arrested for drinking and driving and saying some very off color remarks to a polic officer. Inexcusable. So I began to think, "ok, maybe he is a little crazy." Then he left his wife of 100 years and his 500 children (ok, exaggeration) to be with this hot, young, chippy. Of course, he added to his brood and had another child with her.

Now we are listening to these secretly recorded audio tapes where he is berating Oksana, his lovely young chippy, for dressing provacatively and that she will be raped by words I will not use. Seriously, Mel, WTF? You had Hollywood and the entire world in your back pocket. You were a superstar, a brilliant director and actor. Have you gone mad?

Of course, I think it is weird that she is taping their phone conversations. And I also think it is weird he sounds so strange on the line and she sounds like she is speaking into a microphone, but I am no sound expert.

Anyway, I just think Mel has lost his marbles. I'm just sayin'.

I Was Born in a Small Town

2010-07-20T22:03:00.000-05:00

If you know me, you know I was born in Halls, TN, population (around) 2,000, one stop light, one grocery story, one drug store. No Sonic. A small town by any standards. I try to get back to see my mom some, but it keeps getting harder and harder to get there with 2 kids, working full time, keeping up with the preschool politician’s busy schedule, etc. (The politician makes it back fairly often to spend time with Mama Sue.)

Recently, I went to visit Mama Sue, with baby Zane in tow. The politician was already there and we got there on a Thursday morning. I decided to reconnect with a friend I have known for 30 years and she came to visit. She lives in Halls with her 3 boys and husband and I thought it would be nice to reconnect. She invited me and Tripp over to her mom’s house to swim the next day (her mom was my kindergarten teacher.) (For all who may know, I am talking about Lori Booker Wilson.)

Tripp and I arrived at the pool that day around lunch time and he had such a great time swimming with Lori’s son, Sam. It was surreal, however, sitting there with someone I have known for 30 years and watching our children play together. Swimming in the same pool I had swam in for many summers. Jumping off the same diving board.

Sitting on that deck, there in the hot summer sun, it was hard to believe that we were watching our children do the same things we used to do. We caught up on our lives (what we didn’t know through Facebook, that is) and she caught me up on all of the Halls gossip.

As I tried to go to sleep that night in my childhood bedroom, I thought about the allure of a small town and why people stay there after high school, go back there after being gone, or just move there altogether. There are certainly some great things about living in a small town: you know your kid’s teachers (and not just by being introduced to them on the first day of school), you run into people you know at the grocery store, your kids can walk home from school or to ball practice or to the store for an ice cream cone.

But me, I’m just not a small town girl anymore. Of course, some would argue that Memphis is hardly a big city, but I guess it is big enough for me. I sometimes see folks I know at the grocery store, but not usually. (Sometimes I’m just not in a talkative mood when I am in the cereal isle, and that really isn’t an option when you live in a small town. You have to talk. It’s just rude if you don’t.) I enjoy the plethora of things available to me and my family for recreation: movies, museums, a larger church, AAA baseball, U of M basketball and football, concerts. (not to say you don’ t get these things when you live in a small town, but they aren’t as easy to get to.)

Lately I’ve been feeling pretty nostalgic about my childhood and the friends I knew back then. I don’t really keep up with them anymore (except for Facebook.) I didn’t go to my high school reunion and never will. I’m not sure why I lost touch with all of them, but I do miss them. We all had some pretty fun times and some not-so-fun times. All of our experiences shaped who we are, for better or worse. Maybe I am running away from what I was back then. I was so insecure and had such low self esteem. I don't want to be that person ever again. I don't think I really figured out who I was until I got married and settled in my life.

Small towns remind me of the person I used to be, and I don't like that person. I never did. I can certainly see the allure of a small town, but I think I’ll stick with the suburbs. For my own good, if nothing else.

Worst. Breakup. Ever.

2010-07-13T21:33:00.002-05:00

I’ve been through tough breakups before. We all have (unless you are one of those freaks who have never been dumped… that’s just not natural.) They’re not pretty. I’ve had a few bad ones myself. My high school boyfriend and I broke up 3 times. The first time, he broke up with me. I was devastated, depressed. Everything a 15 year old girl would be when she was dumped. After all, he broke up with me three weeks before Valentine’s Day. We got back together after a few weeks, then it was my turn to dump him. I think he took it better than me, but we ended up getting back together again, much to my parents’ chagrin. It lasted a few more months and then we both broke up with each other. Neither of us handled it well.

As an adult, I have had a few breakups and some went better than others. One was amicable and we are still friends to this day. The other, not so much. I was dumped and I decided to drown my sorrows (don’t we all?) I drowned my sorrows in an entire bottle of Gossamer Bay Zinfandel and boy did I pay for it. (Bear in mind I wasn’t a wine drinker then but I sure did guzzle that $6 bottle of wine.) It ended very badly. Of course, I drunk dialed and that led to me going to his house, becoming belligerent, yelling at him and then throwing up. A lot. At least I didn’t throw up on him. That was the last time I talked to him so I am quite sure he has a horrible lasting impression of me.

All in all, breakups are just bad. I’ve heard of breakups where car doors are keyed, houses are rolled with toiler paper, even baseball bats are taken to cars and their windshields. Now with Facebook and Twitter, it is bound to get even uglier. But never before have I seen the scorned burning jerseys in the streets. But then again, never before have a seen a breakup any worse than the one between LeBron James and the city of Cleveland.

Poor Cleveland Cavs fans. They now feel like that dumped, 15 year old slightly chubby girl sitting in her room listening to the radio relating every song to her breakup and her broken teenage love affair. I was that girl and I feel for them.

LeBron handled himself so poorly during this entire free agent process. At first, I didn’t blame him. I blamed the media for putting him on this pedestal. I even blogged about it. But now, I have changed my mind. LeBron acted like a spoiled, little rich kid, the self-proclaimed King, showing no regard for the city that has been with him, stood by him, and built an entire team around him. A city that lived and breathed LeBron and basketball. But no more.

When I first heard ESPN was holding a one-hour special entitled “The Decision,” I thought, at least he is doing it from the Boys and Girls Club in Greenwich, CT. (of course, I have to ask why Greenwich needs a Boys and Girls Club, I always thought it was full of rich people who commuted into NYC to work. Perhaps the organization is there to help kids whose parents make less than $200,000 a year, but I digress.) But seriously, this whole thing has been ridiculous. A media spectacle that can only be found in America.

I just wish he would have made his decision and put it out in a statement to the media like everyone else. I would have made him seem more humble. It would have been the classy way to go. Perhaps Cleveland fans wouldn’t have felt so betrayed. Instead, he had to drag it out for a week, having the media camp out on his doorstep, report on his every breath and leave poor Cavs fans on pins and needles.

Since the Bosh and Wade news was announced on Wednesday, the day prior to LeBron’s announcement, it seemed to be inevitable he would join them in Miami. He had played with them before in the Olympics and it was no secret they wanted to play on the same team. He should have just released a statement shortly after that saying he had made the decision to join his friends Bosh and Wade and the Miami Heat in the quest for an NBA Championship. That’s it. No more spectacle. It would have made him look more humble and less like an ego maniac. But no, he had to drag it out for 24 more hours and star in a special on ESPN.

I personally didn’t get to see “The Decision,” so I decided to read the transcripts from the interview with ESPN’s Jim Gray. Of course, I can’t just post it the way it was transcribed. I will break it down so you will know what LeBron really meant.

What have you thought about this process?

This process has been everything I've thought and more. And that's what I did a few years ago; I put myself in a position to have this process where I can hear teams' pitches and figure out what was the best possible chance for me to ultimately win and to ultimately be happy.

Translation: I love all of this attention. I’m an ego maniac. I want to win and be rich.

You weren't able to be recruited because you went straight to the NBA from high school. Have you enjoyed this recruiting process now?

I have enjoyed it. And I want to thank all six teams that I had an opportunity to sit down with and hear what they had to say. And my team, they hear what we had to say also.
It's been an unbelievable experience, a real humbling experience to be even to be in this position.

Translation: I’ve enjoyed every minute of the entire country, heck, world even, watching my every move. I’ve loved having a ticker on Sports Center. I’ve loved having media camp out in front of my Nike Skills Camp. I’ve loved having grown men beg me to come to their city. I’ve loved having President Obama beg me to come to Chicago. It is an ego maniac’s dream.

When did you decide?

I think I decided this morning. I mean, I decided this morning I went day to day. I wake up one morning, it's this team. I wake up another morning, it's this team. And it's a process that I felt it was I may feel like this is the best opportunity for me or not the best opportunity for me.

But this morning I woke up, had a great conversation with my mom. Once I had that conversation with her, I think I was set.

Translation: I’ve known all along I was going to Miami. I want to see how much people would beg and plead with me to stay in Cleveland or go to their city.

You've had everybody else biting their nails. So I guess it's time for them to stop chewing. The answer to the question everybody wants to know: LeBron, what's your decision?

In this fall, this is very tough, in this fall I'm going to take my talents to South Beach and join the Miami Heat.

Translation: This fall, I’m going to take my ego and powder down to Miami. I mean, who wouldn’t choose Miami over Cleveland???? Beautiful women, sandy beaches. Hell, it’s freakin’ cold in Cleveland.

Why?

Like I said before, I feel like it's going to give me the best opportunity to win and to win for multiple years, and not only just to win in the regular season or just to win five games in a row or three games in a row, I want to be able to win championships. And I feel like I can compete down there.

Translation: Being filthy rich just isn’t enough for me. I can’t win a championship by myself, being at Cleveland has proven that. I need more talented teammates.

How do you explain this to the people in Cleveland?

I mean, it's heartfelt for me. You know, it's hard to explain, but at the same time my heart, in the seven years I gave to that franchise, to that city, it was everything.

I mean, those 20,000 plus fans that came out every night we played, and they seen me grow from an 18 year old kid to a 25 year old man. And I never wanted to leave Cleveland. And my heart will always be around that area. But I also felt like this is the greatest challenge for me is to move on.

Translation: Suckers!!!!!!!!!!

What do you think will be the fans' reaction back there, and will you still live in Akron?

I'm not sure. You know, they can have mixed emotions, of course, but it's going to be a lot of emotions not understanding why. And then you're going to have the real friends who love me for who I am. For me being from Akron, Ohio, and loving Akron, Ohio, it's always home for me. I'm still going to live there, always be home. And Akron, Ohio is always home for me and that area.

Translation: I think the fans will still love me. I put the Cavs on the map. Of course, they will never be the same without me. I’m sure some folks will be mad at me, but that’s life. I’ll have a championship ring next year. Something Cleveland will never have. If I couldn’t give it to them, no one can. And will I still live in Akron? NO WAY! I'm gonna get me a sweet pad in South Beach.

For what it’s worth, I’m sorry about my behavior after that breakup. It was childish and immature. But it’s funny how things work out. If he hadn’t dumped me, I would never have met Tom and wouldn’t have the life I have now. So cheer up, Cavs fans. You never know where the road might lead.

Yum!

2010-07-06T17:55:00.001-05:00

A couple of my dear friends have created a blog...http://www.appetitesignite.blogspot.com/. If I so say so myself, it features some pretty yummy recipes and other entertaining ideas. They are both very talented dessert chefs and always have great advice about cooking. So I invite you to follow Toni and Rox. Bet you will learn something!

It's Good to be the King

2010-07-05T21:29:00.000-05:00

All I have to say is, “wow.” It must be good to be LeBron James. Now there is a LeBron ticker on ESPN. Everyone knows by now (unless you live in a hole) that King James is a free agent and he is being courted by several NBA teams. It is quite possibly the most pathetic display I’ve seen in sports in a long time, maybe ever. It is quite ridiculous how teams and entire cities are courting him. Grown men are singing songs about LeBron staying in their town or moving to their town. It is a frenzy that can only happen in American sports.

I don’t blame LeBron. He is a great basketball player and is trying to make the right decision. Sure, his decision is based mostly on money, and honestly, can you blame him? He made more money in endorsements the day he signed with Cleveland at 18 years of old than the majority of us will make in our entire lives. Besides, I guarantee you if someone offered you an obscene amount of money to do the job you loved to do, you would take it.

I blame the media for this frenzy. Everytime I turn on ESPN there is a new story speculating where LeBron will go. They've uncovered someone who claims to know something and is predicting LeBron will go here or stay there. They have a reporter camped out in front of his basketball camp in Akron, or in front of the office where he has been meeting with a team.

You have to imagine LeBron is enjoying this attention just a little bit. I mean, he’s got teams fighting over him, something we would all love to have happen to us. Put yourself in his shoes. Say you got a great job at Joe’s Corporation. You worked there a few years and made Joe’s a household name and improved their profit margins. Then, other companies began courting you. They flew you out to meet with them and showed you everything they could give you. It is obvious with all of the companies that you will be the top dog and you will get anything you want there. New desk? Check. Expense account? Check. Gourmet coffee? Check. New computer and iPhone? Check. Everything you need to do the best job you can do. What would you do? Would location play a factor? Would you still be loyal to Joe’s because it is where you got your start and happens to be located in your home state? Would you take a chance on a new company where there are new coworkers and a new boss/coach?

The big question now is just where will LeBron go? Will he stay in Cleveland? Will he go to Chicago? Miami? New York? Honestly, I don’t think it matters. His previous history with Cleveland has shown that one man – no matter how talented – cannot win a championship.

Tiger Woods + Skanky Women = HUGE payday for Elin

2010-07-05T20:59:00.001-05:00

Rumor has it, and some say it is just rumor, that Elin Nordegren (aka Mrs. Tiger Woods) is set to receive a butt load of money in her divorce settlement. At first, it was rumored to be $750 million, but now the figure is only a mere $100 million. Yep, that’s right, folks, Elin is a beautiful woman who will be rolling in the cash that her ex-husband made. Good for her! Good for her for not taking his indiscretions of sleeping around with skanky women. Good for her for being a role model for her daughter and son and showing that she won’t just take being treated that way. Good for her for showing the women of the world that she isn’t just a delicate little flower that relies on a “big strong man” to take care of her.

I really only have one thing to say to Tiger: I hope all that messing around with skanky women and sex while high on Ambien was worth it, because it may be the most high-priced sex in history. I'm just sayin'...

I'm Just Sayin'...

2010-07-02T11:20:00.000-05:00

Apparently, I say "I'm Just Sayin'" a lot. I also apparently blog that phrase a lot. As in "I don't like Erin Andrews... I'm just sayin'..." or "Tiger Woods is such a putz (keeping it clean, but could think of much better words to use) ... I'm just sayin'..." I use it so much, in fact, that Tom suggested I change the name of my blog to I'm Just Sayin'.

I really like the name of my blog, so I'm not changing it. But, I will think I will start a regular feature entitled, you guessed it, "I'm Just Sayin'." Here is the first one. Hope you enjoy.

I'm Just Sayin'...

It's the Fourth of July and it seems there are fireworks safety tips on every news station. Turn on your TV and you will like see warnings about sparklers, firecrackers and roman candles. Now, I think that idiots should not be allowed to use fireworks, but sometimes, it seems idiots are the only ones that do use fireworks. I believe people should be responsible when they are setting something on fire (doesn't everyone?) and a few tips on the news here are there are perfectly fin. (Personally, I am a bit afraid of fireworks and have never lit anything more than a sparkler.) But why must we see the clip of a sparkler being held to a sweet little girl's sundress every year and subsequently watch it burst into flames? I think even idiots know not to hold something on fire up to a little girls dress, don't thye? Of course, I know accidents can happen and likely no one is just holding it up to the dress to watch it catch fire for shits and giggles, but can't we show a more realistic clip? How about just the sparkler getting too close to the little girl's dress instead of some deviant holding it up to the dress (okay, it is a mannequin, but my imagination sees a deviant.) How about warnings of how bottle rockets being shot in the middle of the night can give elderly folks a heart attack (ok, maybe not, but they certainly bother me.)

So on this July 4th holiday weekend, celebrate America and our glorious freedom with family and friends, but please, do not, under any circumstances, put a sparkler to a little girl's dress. I'm just sayin'...

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

2010-07-01T18:07:00.002-05:00

Hello my name is Dawn and I'm a snorer. A BIG, LOUD snorer. It's caused some frustration in my house. It seems I snore loudly. It is worse when I am pregnant, but doesn't get softer for some time. And when your husband is a light sleeper, that can be a problem. I feel guilty because I am sleeping away and he is not. He is frustrated because he knows I can't help it. I tried Breathe Right strips, throat sprays, a wedge pillow. Nothing worked. Then, the Pure Sleep device came into our lives.

We resisted it for a while. We thought surely it must be a sham. And at $60 plus shipping and handling, it isn't cheap. But it worked! Can you hear Tom singing Hallelujah?????????

It's almost like a retainer and you boil it in water for a minute, then fit it to your mouth. The trick is to push out your lower jaw. Apparently, that opens up your airway a bit and keeps you from snoring. It is glorious, or so my husband says. My snoring wasn't bothering me at all.

I'm Finally Speaking Out

2010-07-01T17:27:00.005-05:00

I’ve been silent about this topic for sometime, but I have to break my silence. I don’t like Erin Andrews. There, I said it. Several people have been bashed for saying negative things about her, but I am speaking out. I don’t like her. I don’t take her seriously. She wants to have it both ways. She wants to be a serious sports journalist, but them turns around and poses in Maxim and the like.

Frankly, I think being stalked and filmed through a peep hole in a hotel by a creepy man was probably the best thing that happened to her. Now I know that’s a bold statement, but think about it. Did YOU know who she was before she was taped walking around naked in her hotel room by a stalker? I didn’t think so. Very few people did. Sure, she’s visible on ESPN and you may have known her from there, but let’s face it. She was eye candy for ESPN viewers, the majority of which, happen to be men.

Now, I’m not saying what happened to her was right. Her privacy was violated. She should be allowed to walk around naked in her own hotel room (no matter how strange I think that is, but anyway.) I’m just saying it was the best thing to happen to her career. She became a household name from the media coverage of her stalker. Then, she was asked to shake what her mama gave her on Dancing with the Stars.

And speaking of DWTS, I think it was a bad move for her. I mean, here she is, in the middle of this stalker mess and she is dancing on television doing sultry, sexual dance moves in skimpy clothing with a really handsome dance partner. It just was weird to me. How can I take her seriously as a real sports journalist if she is shaking her rump half naked? The answer: I can’t.

Don’t get me wrong, she is a beautiful woman and is free to pose wherever and however she wants, but don’t expect me to take her seriously when she is half naked. I think she is pretty good at her ESPN job, but when she starts to become a “celebrity” outside of that job, that is when I lost interest and respect.

And We Shall Call Him...

2010-07-01T17:06:00.003-05:00

Zane Ezekiel Ray

Well, we did it. We named a person. If you will recall, I blogged about baby naming a few months ago. You’ll remember we didn’t want to just name a baby, but we wanted to name a person. Give him/her a strong name, one that would stand the test of time; one that wouldn’t seem silly when he/she was 45 years old. One that would sound great when he was up to bat in the World Series. One that folks could take seriously when she was sitting at the head of the boardroom table. I think we hit it square on the head.

I have to confess, we didn’t know our top 2 choices for each gender until we were on our way to the hospital. We named our little bundle in the operating room about 10 minutes after he was born and we think we came up with a winner. Question is: did it pass all of our tests?

• The 40-year-old career man/woman test: as this test is fairly self-explanatory, and subjective, we think we nailed this one. Zane is a good VP or CEO name. It’s unforgettable, but not juvenile. Zane Ray: sounds like a power broker.

• The Yell Test: go ahead, yell it. We did. Several times, in fact. It comes out of your mouth nicely, doesn’t it? Almost like butter.

• The Graduation Announcement Test: Zane Ezekiel Ray (said stately over the loudspeaker.) Yep, that works. Sounds like a kid ready to go tackle college.

• The Athlete Name Test (over the Intercom at say, the World Series): Now batting for the St. Louis Cardinals, your shortstop... #8... Zane Ray. Great jock name, but also sounds strong and intellectual.

• The 4-year-old test aka the Tripp test: As stated previously, this isn't what Tripp thinks of the name, but mainly what he thinks of when he hears the name. When Tom told Tripp he had a brother named Zane, Tripp smiled and said “cool.” Enough said.

• The Tooth Fairy Test: this is essentially what the child's name would sound like when he/she says it after losing a bunch of teeth, as kids are prone to do. No s’s, so we’re good.

• The "was she/he a slut/jerk in high school/college/other parts of your life test?": The only Zane I know is my uncle (whom our little guy is name after) and Zane is his middle name. He's a great guy, my favorite uncle, in fact. So, no problem there. (Tom didn’t know any Zanes either.)

• The "how the name sounds with a thick Southern Accent" test: Say it with the thickest Ellie Mae accent you can muster. It doesn’t sound weird at all. Sure, it has a long A sound, but not too bad, even for my sweet mom with the thick Southern Accent.

• The "which one are you again?" test: We wanted a distinct name, not one where there would be several kids with the same name in his class. Do you know any Zanes? Yeah, neither did we.

In all, we are very pleased with our name choice. We named him after a wonderful man (who happens to be my Dad’s twin brother) and his middle name is my maiden name, so he is named after my dad. That was very important to me. So you see, I didn’t really have anything to stress over. And, I told you we would probably name the baby John or Jane. Hmmm…. Zane is derived from John (according to my baby name book and it also means “Gift from God”) and it also rhymes with Jane. Perhaps I knew his name all along.

The Adventures of Mr. Poopy Pants

2010-06-26T20:09:00.002-05:00

Well, it's been a while since I've blogged, but I've been a little busy. Yep, Mr. Poopy Pants Zane and my politician, Tripp (I like to call him Bill Clinton) have been keeping me quite busy these last few weeks.

Zane will be 6 weeks on Monday -- WOW!!!!-- and we've been pretty busy since coming home from the hospital. In fact, Mr. Poopy Pants has had quite the adventurous life. Here's a quick run down:

2 Redbirds Games
2 tee ball games for big brother Tripp
2 trips to Mama Sue's
Swimming lessons for Tripp
visits from Pa, Mama Sue (several times), Aunt Sherry, Uncle Rick and Sam
trips to Kroger
trips to Target
drop off and pick up at VBS (for Tripp)
2 trips to Hilton (gotta visit the peeps)
Lunch with Ms. Toni and Ms. Sandra
Lunch with Ms. Beverly and Ms. Pam and Daddy
Lunch with Daddy
Birthday lunch for mom
Walking at the indoor track at the gym
Pool at Germantown Athletic Club

You get the idea. I'm not one of those moms that stays home with a newborn baby. We just keep on going and don't let anything stop us. I have to admit, though, I am pretty tired. It's funny, though. I thought having a baby would keep me tired, but it turns out Mr. Poopy Pants is a really easy baby. He is a good eater and a good sleeper. He rarely cries. He sleeps and smiles. I am sure that will change soon, but for now, I will take it. My little policitician, little Bill Clinton, is the one that keeps me running. He has VBS, camps, swimming lessons and play dates. It's tough being a president in the making.

Halle Berry Confirms What I’ve Suspected All Along…

2010-05-06T10:03:00.000-05:00

Beauty isn’t everything.

Just because you are beautiful, doesn’t mean you aren’t a head case. And, Halle Berry, my dear friends, is a major head case. Before you get your feathers ruffled … allow me to explain.

She is perhaps the most beautiful woman in the world. A style icon that graces the covers of fashion and celebrity magazines. A beautiful mother with a sweet baby girl. She’s an Oscar winner, she sells us Revlon make up. She’s also a head case.

Because I am an equal opportunity offender, I felt the need to post about Ms. Berry’s latest relationship conundrum. Last week, it was announced she and her model boyfriend (who is also the father of her baby) decided to split. Hmmm, seems she’s been through a lot of men.

Let’s look at a history of Halle’s men to support my argument that she’s a head case.

David Justice: the handsome baseball player from the Atlanta Braves was really the first public relationship Halle had. She was an up and coming actress and he was a handsome and popular baseball player. They were married and they seemed to be the perfect match. When the split, it was revealed that Justice was abusive to Berry. NO WOMAN (OR MAN) SHOULD STAY IN AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP!!!!! So she gets a pass.

Then, Halle became involved with Eric Benet, an R & B and soul singer. Many thought this was the relationship that would make her happy. She was finally out of the abusive relationship with David Justice and the beautiful Ms. Berry was married to a man who loved and respected her. Until they broke up. Halle claims he cheated on her 27 times. Here is where I ask the obvious question in everyone’s mind…

WHO CHEATS ON FREAKIN’ HALLE BERRY, UNLESS….. She’s a head case????

In 2005-2006, everyone thought Halle had finally found it—the elusive love of her life that had previously evaded her. She gave birth to a daughter in 2008. The father of her baby is Gabriel Aubry, a beautiful model and nine years her junior. They were the most beautiful couple on any red carpet in Hollywood. A beautiful model and perhaps the world’s most beautiful woman.

Of course, they have broken up.

Oh, one thing I failed to mention that has always bugged me about Halle Berry. It has pretty much been swept under the rug (by some pretty good PR folks, I might add.) In 2000, she was in a hit-and-run accident near the Sunset Strip. She injured a woman, and drove away to get medical attention for herself! What??!!??!!??! Are you kidding me? It was also revealed she was in a similar accident a few years prior and ran away from the scene. Unbelievable. Berry was sued by the woman she injured and Berry settled.

Of course, this is all my opinion, but I still stand by it. Beauty isn’t everything. She keeps having issues with men and seems so “unlucky in love.” I think she’s not so unlucky as she is a “head case in love.” I’m just sayin’…

Riddle me this...

2010-05-06T09:19:00.000-05:00

Some glitter when they get in the sun. Some burn and melt in the sun. Some can pass for humans in the sun, just very pale humans. Others just can’t go out at all.

Some sleep/die in the daytime. Others sleep in coffins. Yet others don’t need any sleep.

Some have to have human blood. Others can live on synthetic blood. Yet others survive on animal blood.
What am I talking about? You guessed it… vampires.

For the last 2 years or so, America and the world has been re-introduced to vampires. And I’m not talking about the blood sucking killers from Transylvania named Dracula. I’m talking about romantic vampires, ones that are handsome and dreamy (albeit a bit pale.) I’m talking about Civil War vampires with long, Southern draws for accents, and teenage vampires that live in Washington state. Today’s vampires are out and about, they are known about and aren’t in hiding anymore. And frankly, that makes them more confusing.

I’ll admit, I’ve succumbed to the vampire storylines that have been gripping everyone else. The Twilight saga featuring young Edward Cullen that makes teenagers and their moms swoon to be bitten on the neck; the Sookie Stackhouse novels that have been made into HBO’s Tru Blood with Bill Compton, the sultry Civil War vampire who falls in love with a “common but uncommon” Louisiana waitress; the teeny bopper show on the CW, “The Vampire Diaries,” featuring the ultimate good vs. evil vampire brothers (might I mention they are also hot) Stephan and Damon Salvatore in modern day Mystic Falls, Virginia. I’ve also read a series of novels by Laurell K. Hamilton about a modern day vampire hunter, Anita Blake, who falls in love with -- get this -- the city of St. Louis’ Master Vampire, Jean-Claude.

And, each of these vampires is different and has very different characteristics. Sometimes it’s hard to keep it all straight. For example, Edward can go out in daylight, and it isn’t so obvious he is a vampire, as long as it is cloudy. But in the sun, he sparkles like a million diamonds. Damon and Stephan can also go out in daylight and they are protected. Poor Bill Compton, on the other hand, dies all over again each morning and sleeps in either a coffin or under the floor of his home in a “hidey hole.” If he goes out in the sun, he burns severely and will die (but he’s already dead, but I digress.) Jean Claude also sleeps/dies during the day and can’t go out at night.

Some vampires eat food just to keep up appearances. Others don’t even bother. Some drink normal drinks like coffee to warm their body temperatures. Others don’t even bother. It’s all quite confusing and it must be a conundrum if you are the woman who is in love with them.

Big Ben: The Apology

2010-04-27T15:30:00.000-05:00

I’ll be the first to admit, I don’t know much about the Ben Rothlisberger allegations. I’ve been preoccupied with this whole baby, pregnancy thing, and haven’t read or seen much about it. But I do know this: he should be punished if he did what the girl accused. I have read there is very little evidence so they couldn’t bring any legal charges against him, but still. He violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy and doesn’t the NFL have enough image problems right now with Michael Vick and others? The NFL suspended the Steelers quarterback for 6 games and he issued an apology to his fans, the Steelers, the NFL, his family, etc.

So, in typical Dawn Ray of Sunshine fashion, I have attempted to break down Big Ben’s statement for you in real language and tell you what he really means.

"The commissioner's decision to suspend me speaks clearly that more is expected of me. I am accountable for the consequences of my actions. Though I have committed no crime, I regret that I have fallen short of the values instilled in me by my family. I will not appeal the suspension and will comply with what is asked of me -- and more.

I was partying it up in Georgia and had a little too much to drink. This girl flirted with me -- I mean, who wouldn’t -- I’m a Super Bowl winning quarterback, and perhaps I took it a little too far. My mother is very disappointed in me. I’m not going to stir the pot and appeal the suspension. I’m lucky I got off with just that.

"Missing games will be devastating for me. I am sorry to let down my teammates and the entire Steelers fan base. I am disappointed that I have reached this point and will not put myself in this situation again.

Pittsburgh is a great place and Steelers fans are really hard core. I’ve been in trouble before and they looked the other way. I hope they do this time. I'm afraid if they don't, they will kick my a$$. I am disappointed I got caught (I'm smarter than that!) and you can bet I will be more careful next time around.

"I appreciate the opportunities that I have been given in my life and will make the necessary improvements."

I’ve been given great opportunities and I will be more careful the next time I want to party and get some action from the ladies. I will be more discreet. Like Tiger Woods.

There you have it. Don't want to let anyone off the hook.

A letter to the newest Baby Ray...

2010-04-23T12:53:00.001-05:00

Dearest Baby Ray, my sweet, unborn child-

As I am entering the final 3 weeks of my pregnancy with you, I find it fitting to write this letter to express how I am feeling in these final few days. I can’t wait to have your sweet, smiling face in our home and watch our family grow. I can’t wait to spend quiet time with you watch and you grow and learn new things. I can’t wait to watch you share tender moments with your father and have your big brother Tripp teach you all the cool stuff to do (and some that you shouldn’t do at all!) Those will be some of the happiest times of our lives, and my heart beams at the love you will bring into our already bursting-at-the-seams-with-love household. But there is one more thing, dear baby, which I have to share with you. I am begging you… please, please, please for the love of God, get off my bladder and stop hurting me.

You are a sweet angel, I am quite sure, but honestly, you are like an alien inside my belly right now. You constantly sit on my bladder. Your feet constantly poke me in the ribs. You are hungry all the time, even when I am not. You make my back hurt. You make my feet swell. You toss and turn like a Olympic gymnast. Frankly, I just want you out.

Not to be mean, dear, sweet little baby, but you will be more fun out than you are in. Your cries will sound like music to my ears, since my back and belly won’t be hurting much anymore. The nighttime feedings will be a treat since I won’t be hungry every hour. The changing 10 diapers a day will be a dream come true since my feet and fingers won’t be so swollen.

I am begging you, sweet angel baby, to come on out now and give your mama a little break. We can’t wait to meet you and shower you with love and kisses. Plus, I will be a lot less grumpy, even on very little sleep.

Much love,

Mom

Easter with the Rays

2010-04-20T16:19:00.000-05:00

I realize it's a couple of weeks past Easter, but I've been busy with perfect brownies and the like. However, I did want to share some of our Easter pics, as well as tell a story about my little evangelist. First the pics...

Easter walk-thru at CMDS, Tripp got to put a flower on the cross.

Easter Egg Hunt at 2nd Pres. with Hayes, Harrison and Ivy

A bit of a crazy face from Tripp

Tripp and Mama Sue

At the fountain at church

I can't believe I put up a pregnancy photo

With the Easter Bunny at Windyke Easter Egg Hunt

Our Easter was fulled with lots of fun stuff, but perhaps the best of all was the song Tripp sang at the Windyke Easter Egg Hunt. Before the hunt got started, there was a little talent show for the kids while we were waiting for everyone to show up. The gentleman asked for kids to tell jokes or sing songs. Immediately, our little politician wanted the mic. Tripp knew several jokes so we thought he would go that route. But, he decided to sing a song. One that he made up, entitled, "Jesus Died on the Cross for Us." The gentleman picked a few other kids first and Tripp got a little upset, but then he was called to go on stage. He was ready.

He was handed the mic, and thus began his songwriting and singing debut.

Eyes are a little red from getting upset, but he was ready.

Let the singing begin!!!

The song went a little something like this (sung with a melancholy tone to set the mood):

Jesus died on the cross for us

He died to save us

They took him away and

Put him on the cross

Guy with mic: "are you finished? that's great!"

Tripp: "No, I have more"

Jesus died on the cross for us

The soldiers took him away

He died for us

And put him on the cross

Guy with mic: "are you finished? Let's give a hand to Tripp!"
Tripp: "I'm not finished yet."

The soliders took him away

He died for us

They put him in a tomb

And he rolled away the stone

He lives for us!

Applause all around. Tripp was so proud of himself, and so were we. Everyone thought he was the cutest thing and while others were telling "why did the chicken cross the road jokes" our little evangelist was telling us the story of Easter.

Perfect Brownie Pan = Perfect Brownies

2010-04-20T14:43:00.000-05:00

I've been talking about getting a perfect brownie pan for months. Well, friends, I am the lucky recipient of one, thanks to my co-workers (Thanks, Toni!)

Tripp and I decided to try it out and I thought I would blog about it. It is very easy to use, and I have photos to prove it. We used a simple Duncan Hines brownie mix (I think boxed brownies tend to be more moist and chewier than homemade) and they turned out simply delightful!

First, we mixed up the box of brownie mix with your requisite oil and eggs.

Then, Tripp poured into the brownie pan. (we added a few chocolate chips because I think there is no such thing as brownies that are too chocolate-y.)

Tripp stirred the chips into the pan.

Of course, Tripp had some of the batter. YUMMY! (and had to take a picture of himself!)

It was then time for the separator device. This nifty gadget ensures your brownies are the perfect size. (in my pan, I get 12 quite large brownies, YUM!)

Off into the oven they went, per the instructions, and voila! Perfect brownies!

I give the perfect brownie pan an A +++.

Grammar Pet Peeves

2010-04-19T16:41:00.000-05:00

Yep, I've got 'em. They make me cringe. And I know this is tacky, but they make me judge you. I know some folks forgot their grammar as soon as they graduated high school, but I can't help it.

I have compiled a list of common grammar mistakes and pet peeves. Some of these are very common and I make them myself (I'm constantly looking things up so I won't make mistakes.) I hope it solves the grammar problems of the world. My high school English teacher, Ms. Warren, would be very proud.

Loose for lose

Incorrect: I always loose my car keys.

Correct: I always lose my car keys.

It's for its (or God forbid, its'):

Incorrect: Download the document, along with it's readme file.

Correct: Download the document, along with its readme file.

Incorrect: The laptop is overheating and its making that funny noise again.

Correct: The laptop is overheating and it's making that funny noise again.

“it’s” is a contraction of it and is. Also, “it’s” is possessive.

They're for their or there

Incorrect: The VPs are in they're weekly planning meeting.

Correct: The VPs are in their weekly planning meeting.

Incorrect: The techs have to check there cell phones at the door, and their not happy about it.

Correct: The techs have to check their cell phones at the door, and they're not happy about it.

“they’re” is a contraction of they are. “their” is possessive.

i.e. for e.g.

Incorrect: Use an anti-spyware program (i.e., Ad-Aware).

Correct: Use an anti-spyware program (e.g., Ad-Aware).

Note: The term i.e. means "that is"; e.g. means "for example". And a comma follows both of them.

Effect for affect

Incorrect: The outage shouldn't effect any users during work hours.

Correct: The outage shouldn't affect any users during work hours.

Correct: The outage shouldn't have any effect on users.

Correct: We will effect several changes during the downtime.

You're for your

Incorrect: Remember to clean you're dishwasher on a regular basis.

Correct: Remember to clean your dishwasher on a regular basis.

Incorrect: Your right about the changes.

Correct: You're right about the changes.

“you’re” is a contraction for you are. “your” is possessive.

Lay for lie

Incorrect: I got dizzy and had to lay down.

Correct: I got dizzy and had to lie down.

Correct: Just lay those books over there.

A person lies down, buy lays objects down.

Then for than

Incorrect: The accounting department had more layoffs then we did.

Correct: The accounting department had more layoffs than we did.

Incorrect: If this is true, than I'm a fool.

Incorrect: I am more of a fool then you are.

Correct: If this is true, then I'm a fool.

Correct: I am more of a fool than you are.

Could of, would of for could have, would have

Incorrect: I could of installed that app by mistake.

Correct: I could have installed that app by mistake.

Incorrect: I would of sent you a meeting notice, but you were out of town.

Correct: I would have sent you a meeting notice, but you were out of town.

Writing `cannot' as two words

Incorrect: I can not decide.

Correct: I cannot decide.

Using `if' when you should use `whether'

Incorrect: I do not know if this is true.

Correct: I do not know whether this is true.

Correct: If this is true, then the moon is made of cheese.

Gender-neutral pronouns at the expense of grammar.

Incorrect: If someone did say that, then they were lying.

Correct: Anyone who did say that was lying.

Correct: All those who did say that were lying.

Dawn Ray Grammar Pet Peeves

When a sentence construction begins with if, you don't need a then. “Then” is implicit, so the sentence becomes too wordy.

Incorrect: If you can't get Windows to boot, then you'll need to call Ted.

Correct: If you can't get Windows to boot, you'll need to call Ted.

Using an unnecessary “that” in writing. For the most part, you don’t need “that.” Try reading your sentence and leaving out “that.” Chances are you won’t need the word.

Incorrect: It was evident that he had a drinking problem.

Correct: It was evident he had a drinking problem.

Using over instead of more than. Over is a spatial term. More than connotes quantity. (It is important to note that people say “over 500 hotels” in common everyday language, but it is grammatically incorrect.)

Incorrect: Hilton Garden Inn has over 500 hotels open.

Correct: Hilton Garden Inn has more than 500 hotels open.

Using “I” instead of “me.” Many people fall victim to this grammatical error, thinking they are choosing the appropriate word, but instead, choose the wrong word. When in doubt of which one to use, take out the first word before “and” and read the sentence again.

Incorrect: The only people waiting in line were Toni and I.

Correct: The only people waiting in line were Toni and me.

(if you follow my rule, you will see this is correct. The only person waiting in line was me (not I).

Incorrect: Roxane and me went to the store to buy cookies for Sandra’s birthday.

Correct: Roxane and I went to the store to buy cookies for Sandra’s birthday.

(if you follow my rule, you will see this is correct. It would read: I went to the store to buy cookies for Sandra’s birthday.)

Using wait on for wait for. The phrase wait on should be used only when referring to serving someone or something.

Incorrect: We waited on our guests to arrive.

Correct: The server waited on the customers in the restaurant.

Correct: We waited for our guests to arrive.

Who vs. That: that is a pronoun and is often mistakenly used in place of who. When the noun to which you are referring is a person, always use who. If, however, you are not referring to a person, then the appropriate pronoun to use is that.

Incorrect: The waitress that served me was very rude. (In this sentence, that is referring to a real person–the waitress–so who should have been used instead.)

Correct: The waitress who served me was very rude.

Correct: The car that is parked in the street belongs to me. (That is correctly used because a car is not a person. Who would, of course, have been incorrect if used in this sentence.)

Baby Update

2010-04-09T12:44:00.000-05:00

Since I'm a bit sick of writing about Tiger Woods, I thought I would give a baby update. I went to the doctor today (had a bit of a crying breakdown, but that's normal for a 34-week pregnant woman) and everything is great. My blood pressure is spot on; the baby's heartbeat is great. Everything is going well.

I'm swelling a bit now and my toes, feet and fingers go numb, but that's all normal. We have a tentative delivery date of Monday, May 17th!

The time keeps ticking on by. Let's hope it ticks a little faster.

Bizarre, Weird, Creepy, Genius?

2010-04-08T13:20:00.000-05:00

I am talking about the new Nike ad featuring Tiger Woods and his late father, Earl. Some advertising folks have called it creepy. Others have called it genius. I think it is questionable, at best.

Usually, I think Nike is at the pinnacle of marketing and advertising. From their first "revolution" shoe ad in the late 80's, they have been the benchmark for branding and image advertising. They've given us "Bo knows." They've given us "Little Penny" (as in Hardaway.) They've given us targeted ads for women's running. For soccer. For football. For baseball. They have carved their way into advertising genius. That is, until now.

I think this spot is weird. I don't necessarily think it is creepy, but I think it is in poor taste. Granted, Nike has made the decision to stick with Tiger. And he has been a huge part of their marketing and advertising dollars since he signed with them when he turned pro. I've even been on the Nike campus and been to the Tiger Woods center. Putting my dislike for him aside, the center is actually pretty cool (just wish it wasn't all about him.) So I understand their decision to stand behind Tiger and keep him on. But I really think this ad misses the mark.

I know what they are trying to creatively execute. They want to show you that his dad would be disappointed in him and his actions of late (well, the last few years, but I digress.) They show Tiger standing there awkwardly, as if being scolded by his dad. It is Tiger's attempt to show remorse in a :30 spot. "I want to find out what your thinking was... what your feelings are? Did you learn anything?"

But here, in my opinion, is where it falls short.You see, his late father was no saint. In fact, it seems to be where Tiger learned his philandering ways. I mean, the man pushed his son from birth to be the best golfer in the world. Granted, he is a good golfer but one has to wonder, was it worth it? If his dad were alive today, would he be proud of the man his son has become? Of course as parents, you always love your children and are proud of them (to a degree) no matter what bad things they do, but would he stand up and say "my son's a fine citizen?" I don't think so.

On the flip side, Nike is certaily accomplishing it's "buzz" goal. And since I'm a PR person, I have to appreciate that. This ad is being posted on Facebook, You Tube, and has had countless media coverage-- from CNN, to CBS News, to USA Today. Regardless of the creative execution, Nike is succeeding with generating buzz for this spot.

Taming the Tiger: Breaking Down the Tiger Woods Press Conference

2010-04-05T19:51:00.001-05:00

Friends, I hope you have anxiously awaited the Tiger Woods press conference breakdown. In Dawn Ray of Sunshine fashion, I will break it down for the non-PR folks so you will know what Tiger really meant.

Tiger sat in front of a Masters green backdrop looking very "golf like" in a striped Nike shirt (of course, gotta give props to the one sponsor who didn't drop him.) He began the press conference with a few statements before taking questions. I've gotta hand it to him, he answered nearly every question thrown his way (although, I think some of the questions could have been a little more critical of him and hard-hitting.)

“Coming into today, I didn't know what to expect with regards to the reception, and I tell you what, the galleries couldn't be nicer. I mean, it was just incredible. The encouragement that I got, it was just -- it blew me away to be honest with you, it really did. And the people here over the years, I know they are extremely respectful, but today was just something that really touched my heart pretty good.”
Translation: I was completely blown away – but a different “blown” away from the last few months if you get my drift. The fans have been great and cheered for me. I was really touched. And I haven’t been touched physically in a while. Oh wait, wrong “touched.”

“I know that the players over the past few months have been bombarded with questions by all of you and the public, as well, and I would like to tell all of the players, hopefully after today, after answering questions at this press conference, the players can be left alone to focus on the Masters and focus on their game, not only for this week, but going forward, as well. And certainly apologize to all of them for having to endure what they have had to endure the past few months.”
Translation: I have to apologize first. It’s what the PGA golfers expect. If I don’t, they won’t ever speak to me anymore. Who knew I would make their lives chaotic, too? I did. I have that much power.

“A lot has happened in my life over the past five months, and I'm here at the Masters to play and compete. And just really excited about doing that. I missed the competition. I missed seeing the guys out here. A lot of my friends, I haven't seen in a while. It was great to play golf again with Freddie and Jim, two of my best friends out here, and I played with Mark yesterday for nine holes and I'm playing with him again tomorrow, as well as Steve Stricker. So it's been just an incredible experience so far here at the Masters.”

Translation: I’m finally ready to face the media because I have to in order to play in the Masters. And my ego is big enough that I really think I can win this thing. I haven’t had sex since November, so I’ve got a lot of pent up frustration. I’m going to take it out on that little white ball on golf’s biggest stage. I missed the competition. I missed beating the hell out of these guys. I’m Tiger freaking Woods, for God’s sakes.

After his opening statement, he was asked some questions by reporters (supposedly there were no restrictions.) Here’s how he answered some of them.

Q. What's been the most difficult thing for you to deal with these past few months, and how have you dealt with it?

TIGER WOODS: Well, probably two things. I think one being -- having to look at myself in a light that I never wanted to look at myself; that was difficult. How far astray I got from my core fundamentals and the core morals that my mom and dad taught me; and having to break all that down, and as I said in the interview, with all of the denial and rationalization; to cut through that, I had to really take a hard look at myself. And that's what I started finding strength and peace.

And the other is the -- the other difficult part I think over the past few months has just been the constant harassment to my family. My wife and kids being photographed everywhere they go; being badgered, that's tough. That's tough on them, because it's really hard for us to heal and try and get through this as best we can.

Translation: The most difficult thing? It has to be a tie: first, having to give up my lifestyle and not sleeping with anymore skanky women. Ahh, that was the life. Man, I had it made. The other would be getting caught. I mean, seriously, I had the life. Money, women, sex, Ambien…a beautiful wife at home. Everyone in the world thinking I was a golf God; that I could do no wrong. Then those stupid skanks had to mess it all up.

I also hate that my wife and family have been harassed. Boy, nothing gets Elin crankier than having to fight paparazzi to go to take my daughter to school. At this rate, I will never get any from her again.

Q. What were you anticipating today to be like for you and how nervous are you sitting here?

TIGER WOODS: Sitting here, not that nervous, no. As far as getting out there, I was definitely more nervous. That first tee, I didn't know what to expect, I really didn't, Steve. It's one of those things where I've never been in this position before. To be out there in front of the people where I have done some things that are just horrible, and you know, for the fans to really want to see me play golf again, I mean, that felt great, that really did. Usually I kind of focus on placements of shots and getting ready, but today was a little bit different. I kind of took it in a little bit more, sort of more than I think I have in a long time, and it felt really good.

Translation: I’m not nervous at all. Not compared to that time when Elin found those text messages and voice mails from all my mistresses. Boy, that was nerve-wracking. I thought she might go all “Lorena Bobbitt” on me. Thank God she only hit me with a golf club.

Q. You said you felt entitled to what you were doing before, at the same time how were you able to rationalize that in your mind while it was going on?

TIGER WOODS: Well, that's part of the problem I had, is the way I was thinking was not correct. And as part of where I was at, I was rationalizing and denying and in total denial at times. Whatever I did, I lied to myself, I lied to others, and just because I said -- just because I was winning golf tournaments doesn't mean a thing. The way I was thinking caused so much harm with the people that I love and care about the most on this planet.

Q. Did you only realize that after it became public?

TIGER WOODS: After I started going to treatment, that's when they started stripping all of that away from you.

Translation: Yeah, I was entitled. I am Tiger Freakin' Woods. I can do whatever I want with no consequences. I didn’t care until it all became public. I rationalized it any way I wanted. As long as Elin didn’t know, I was on top of the world. And on top of A LOT of women.
Q. Will Elin and the kids be joining you this week at the Masters, and if not, is that a sign that she's not ready to support you yet and should you be making this return so soon to the game?
TIGER WOODS: Elin is not coming this week, no,

Translation: Are you crazy? She will hardly talk to me. She certainly won’t parade around on golf’s biggest stage, having the media follow her every move and having you guys analyze her every facial expression. Besides, she only talks to me when she has to. And, she’s holding out for a big ass diamond. Then maybe she will be with me at a tournament. Maybe. Of course, if she's with me, I can't get as many women, so you know, I'd rather her stay with the kids.

Q. Will you keep your time, your management team intact, and how much did they actually know about everything that was going on?

TIGER WOODS: Well, I certainly have everyone around me. I've lied and deceived a lot of people and a lot of people didn't know what I was doing, either. So I've had, again, a tremendous amount of support, as well, from others on the outside, and it's been a difficult time, but also I'm actually surprised how much support I've gotten, as well.

Translation: They knew everything. I pay them well. I even increased their pay so Elin wouldn’t find out.

Q. After what you've been through in the last five months, what do you think some of your thoughts are going to be on the Thursday on the tee, and how tough is it to come back from the ACL?

TIGER WOODS: That first tee, I'm looking forward to it. I haven't looked forward to that tee shot in a long time, not like this. It feels fun again. You know, that's something that's been missing. Have I been winning, have I been competing, have I been doing well? Yeah, I have. I've won numerous times the last few years but I wasn't having anywhere near the amount of fun. Why? Because look at what I was engaged in. When you live a life where you're lying all the time, life is not fun. And that's where I was. Now that's been stripped all away and here I am. And it feels fun again.

Translation: I’m ready for everyone to focus on my golfing talent and not my sexual relationships and addiction. I’m finally ready to have fun at golf. It’s all I have now. I can’t have fun with the skanks anymore. No woman will every sleep with me again. I’ll be lucky if Elin ever touches me again. As far as the ACL, all of this shit is much worse than that.

So there you have it, friends. Tiger speaks to the media, with no restrictions. He didn't do a bad job, but I bet he was coached so heavily by his PR folks. Hopefully this will be the last of the dreaded Tiger ticker.

Now, on to more important stuff, like the men's NCAA championship game and baseball season. We're due a break from Tiger, don't you think?

Tender Moments….. From BOB HUGGINS?????

2010-04-05T13:36:00.000-05:00

Yes, that’s right. Probably two phrases I never thought I would ever say in reference to each other. But if you watched the Men’s Final Four game on Saturday night between Duke and West Virginia, you know what I mean.

Of course, I am a bit biased. I have adopted WVU senior Da’Sean Butler as my favorite “non-Memphis Tiger” basketball player and he has certainly not disappointed. Butler is an exceptional student and a mature, smart basketball player. (God help me if he disappoints and ever gets into any serious troubles--say with hookers.) He is active in the community and has helped bring West Virginia to the national prominence it experienced in the 50s when Jerry West (“The logo”) played as a Mountaineer. Butler has scored 2,095 points becoming the 3rd highest scorer in WVU history. Even if you hate Huggins, you gotta love that.

So when he came down hard on a play involving Duke’s big man Brian Zoubek, buckling his knee with 8 minutes left in the game, my heart sank. He was writhing in pain. He was beating the floor with his hands. He was in tears. I am sure he was hurt, but I am betting he felt he had let his team down. WVU had the game within 5 points at one time, but Duke just outplayed them. Being the leader that he is, Butler likely felt defeated. He likely felt he had let his team down. So many times before, he had been Mr. Clutch, always there when his team and state depended on him. He likely knew it was over.

Then, it happened. After immediately yelling at the refs for the call, Coach Huggins makes his way to his player, the team leader, and displays one of the most touching and tender moments I have ever seen in sports. He kneels down over him, cradling his face, and talks to him like a father to a son. One can only imagine what he said, but he was trying to calm Butler down. Reassuring him, comforting him, being compassionate. He spoke nose to nose with Butler. It was a scene etched into my brain forever.

And all of this from Bob Huggins. A man with a shady past in college basketball, a very public DUI, a “resignation” from Cincinnati after the university’s president called for him to be fired. A coach who went for years with a 0.0 percent graduation rate (sound familiar Tiger fans? Remember the Dana Kirk days?) A man who recruited hard hitting thugs to his basketball program. A coach who yells obscenities at his players and doesn’t really display one gentle bone in his body.

I was shocked. I was in disbelief. I was touched. Coach Huggins and another WVU player helped Butler off the court. And you know the rest of the story. The Duke Blue Devils went on to beat the Mountaineers by 21 points, securing their place in the championship game with underdog Butler University.

It was announced yesterday Da’Sean Butler suffered an ACL injury, now with his NBA career somewhat questionable. But he will also be one of the best players to ever play the game in my mind.

I am the epitome of uncomfortable-ness

2010-03-30T15:33:00.000-05:00

I'm not even sure that is a word, but you catch my drift. I am 32 weeks pregnant and can't get comfortable. I go to the doctor next week and I am sure I am measuring more than 32 weeks. I am also sure this will be a big baby. (Come on! We are not small people, so we won't have a small baby. Tripp weighed 9 pounds 2 ounces when he was born!)

Anyway, I am thankful to have a great husband who is doing almost everything around the house right now. He tells me, "you go sit down. you need to put your feet up." And I am taking advantage of his helpfulness. Thanks, Tom!

My mom has also been extremely helpful. She has been helping with laundry and the ironing (which I detest).

It's hard to believe that in 7 weeks we will have a new little bundle of joy (and also a little bundle of poop, pee and crying.) Big brother is excited about what's in store, and can't wait to meet the baby. Since we don't know the gender, we are excited about guessing what it is. Although frankly, I am tired of guessing. I just want to know!

Never before...

2010-03-29T10:27:00.001-05:00

Never before have I been so pleased and thrilled to see 2 teams lose. If you know me pretty well, you know I despise the Univ. of Tennessee. Equally so, I don't like that coach of theirs, Bruce Pearl. (To give him some accolades, he has done a tremendous job at UT, even in the face of some legal troubles of his players on New Year's Day.) Of course, you know I loathe John Calipari (I actually loathe the fact that I let him dupe me and so many other Tiger fans with his "chip on the shoulder" snake oil, but I digress.)

This weekend, Tiger fans all across the country rejoiced when Kentucky was beaten by West Virginia. And if you have been a Tiger fan for long, you know how difficult it is to root for West Virginia. Not because of their players, or the Mountaineers' Jerry West history, but because of their coach, Bob Huggins. The fact that Memphis fans are rooting for Bob Huggins just shows how much we feel we were wronged by Coach Cal.

You see, we've always hated Bob Huggins. He was the Cincinnati coach for a while and Memphis and Cincy were fierce rivals. He recruited thugs to play on his team and he even called the Memphis fans "obnoxious." Which started a t-shirt and sign campaign about being an OBNOXIOUS TIGER FAN. Anyone still have one of those shirts??

So, for us to actually ROOT for Huggins says a lot. I've actually been watching WVU a lot this season and have really grown fond of their team. I picked them to win it all! (granted they are the only team in the final four that I have picked in my bracket, but still.) Huggins' players make mature and strategic decisions while on the court, and don't seem to have any issues off the court. And Da'Sean Butler. Just call him Mr. Clutch. He has hit the game winning shot within the last few seconds for 6 of their games. Expect great things from this kid!

Seeing Coach Cal with that look of disappointment on his face was a thing of beatuy. Is it wrong to revel in someone else's misery? If so, then I am wrong...

For Tennessee to lose the very next day was also a joy to watch. Credit to Bruce Pearl and his team for making it to the Elite Eight for the first time in the school's history. I'm just hoping this means Pearl gets a better offer at another school and takes it. That way, we won't have to see him in that God-awful day-glo orange blazer, and we will be rid of him. (yes, a tad bitter becuase they have beaten Memphis since he became Coach. I can admit to that.)

Anyway, the Final Four is set and there is a #1 seed, a #2 seed, and 2 #5 seeds. Should be an interesting tournament.

The Magic of April 5th

2010-03-25T16:26:00.000-05:00

Spring is in the air. There's a certain energy and excitement surrounding this particular day on the calendar in 2010. It is opening day of Major League Baseball (long awaited by the Ray Family, might I add.) The 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship will be played in Indianapolis (though we aren't sure who the two teams will be, it will be an exciting game, nonetheless.) Tiger Woods will conduct a press conference for the first time since crashing his Escalade in November. Wait.... what?

Yep, Tiger Woods announced yesterday he will be conducting a press conference open to (shocking!) media in the days leading up to the Masters. Interesting timing, don't you think? Hmmmm, let's see. MLB will be all over the television. CBS will dedicate hours of coverage to the championship game. Hundreds of media outlets will be in Indy covering the game. Sounds like a great time to host a press conference to me.

Four Words I Never Thought I Would Say

2010-03-25T15:03:00.003-05:00

Thank you, John Calipari. Seriously, I mean it. I'm not supposed to post about Coach Cal anymore (my husband thinks I should just let it go, and I am getting there,) but sometimes I just can't help it. Allow me to explain.

Thank you, John Calipari, for bringing the Memphis Tigers basketball program to national prominence

Thank you, John Calipari, for hiring Josh Pastner as an assistant coach. He has been an excellent addition to our Tiger family and has made us proud to be Tiger fans. He is a first class coach and human being, and we love having him on our side. He did an outstanding job this year, considering you took everything with you to the Bluegrass State. (Well, everything but an NCAA investigation.)

Thank you, John Calipari, for taking your "one and done" recruiting style to Kentucky. That way, we can root for a fantastic team each year and not have to begin worrying if our star players will be back for another season. (Sorry, Kentucky fans, we went through it with Derrick Rose and Tyreke Evans and you have to rebuild every year. It's tough.)

And lastly, Thank you, John Calipari, for blowing a 9 point lead and not calling a time out in the 2008 national championship game against Kansas. It hurt at the time, and I still have issues with it, but in the long run, it has been better for us Tiger fans. You see, it is much easier to vacate the wins, great tournament run and a Final Four appearance, versus a national championship. Right, UMass fans? (Calipari did the exact same thing at UMass: left amidst the NCAA investigation and ran for the hills of the New Jersey Nets, leaving UMass to pick up the nasty pieces. He, of course, was unscathed.)

On behalf of Tiger fans everywhere, we thank you, John Calipari, for making it easier to digest the NCAA-imposed vacated wins and Final Four Appearance/National Championship Runner Up. It may be the way in the record books, but we will remember how much fun that season was: for the university and for the entire city of Memphis. And in some strange way, we have you, John Calipari, to thank for that.

I am graphic design challenged....

2010-03-24T10:28:00.002-05:00

Yes, that's right. If you are a regular reader of my blog, you will notice I have changed the layout 10 times. And they have all been horribly designed. So, I have enlisted the help of my fabulous husband to help me. So, hopefully soon, I will have a fantastic design for my blog, courtesy of Tom Ray. :)

Hooray!!!!

You know it is bad when your PR flack quits...

2010-03-22T16:03:00.001-05:00

So the hub bub continues about Tiger Woods and his “image.” Last night, they even aired a special interview with Tiger – his first on camera appearance since the scripted statement in February in front of a select group of friends. I didn’t see, but I have read several recaps about said interview. Which, I might add, was only 5 minutes and he stood up the entire time. (Nothing says comfort like standing up talking instead of sitting down on a nice comfy couch.)

Interesting timing, don’t you think? His interviews were perfectly timed with the health care reform vote—something the majority of Americans was glued to. Gotta believe that timing was intentional. (Somehow, I think more people would have watched Tiger’s interview had it not been the same time as the most historic health care reform vote ever.)

Even Ari Fleischer didn’t want to work with him anymore. And who can blame him, really? An email from Fleischer to several news outlets today confirmed he is no longer working with Woods. Hmmm, does Tiger think he is out of the woods? Does he think his latest interview with ESPN and the Golf Channel has helped him so much he doesn’t need PR representation?

I found the transcript for the interview, and noticed a few interesting parts. And in Ray of Sunshine fashion, I thought I would break it down for you…(note: Rinaldi is the ESPN interviewer.)

Rinaldi: For a lot of people, the spark of those bad things is Nov. 27. Early that day, what happened?

Woods: Well, it's all in the police report. Beyond that, everything's between Elin and myself and that's private.

Rinaldi: Why did you lose control of the car?

Woods: As I said ... that's between Elin and myself.

Rinaldi: If it's a private matter, why issue a public apology?

Woods: Well, I owe a lot of people an apology. I hurt a lot of people. Not just my wife. My friends, my colleagues, the public, kids who looked up to me. There were a lot of people that thought I was a different person and my actions were not according to that. That's why I had to apologize. I was so sorry for what I had done.

PR translation: I HAD to publicly apologize. I could never return and make oodles of money at golf unless I said I was sorry. Plus, I’ve always had great PR representation who succeeded at making the world believe I was a good person. Life was a lot more fun then.

Rinaldi: You said you were in treatment. The simple question is, for what?

Woods: That's a private matter as well. But I can tell you what, it was tough, it was really tough to look at yourself in a light that you never want to look at yourself, that's pretty brutal.

PR translation: I got caught and had to go. Rehab is the “in” thing to do these days. Look at Britney.

Rinaldi: What'd you see?

Woods: I saw a person that I never thought I would ever become.

Rinaldi: Who was that?

Woods: Well, I had gotten away from my core values as I said earlier. I'd gotten away from my Buddhism. And I quit meditating. I quit doing all the things that my mom and dad had taught me. And as I said earlier in my statement, I felt entitled, and that is not how I was raised.

PR translation: I saw a person my mother was ashamed of.

Rinaldi: Why not seek treatment before all of this came out?

Woods: Well, I didn't know I was that bad. I didn't know that I was that bad.

Rinaldi: How did you learn that? How did you learn it?

Woods: Stripping away denial, rationalization. You strip all that away and you find the truth.

PR translation: I learned it by stripping away stuff. After all, strippers helped me become the man I saw, so I thought stripping away at denial would help me find the truth. Trust me, stripping away clothes with strippers was MUCH easier.

And to be fair to Tiger Woods, he did admit he was wrong and hurt a lot of people. He also apologized to his wife, mom, family and fans.

Rinaldi: I ask this question respectfully, but of course at a distance from your family life. When you look at it now, why did you get married?

Woods: Why? Because I loved her. I loved Elin with everything I have. And that's something that makes me feel even worse, that I did this to someone I loved that much.

Rinaldi: How do you reconcile what you've done with that love?
Woods: We work at it.

PR translation: I’ve been with so many women now, no one else will touch me, so I’ve got to convince her to stay. And, she is beautiful.

I hope to not write about Tiger Woods anymore, but when he opens the door, I have to go in (figuratively speaking, of course.) I wouldn’t touch him with a 25-foot pole.

Jesse James needs a good PR writer...

2010-03-19T12:55:00.001-05:00

Is anyone surprised at this Jesse James nonsense? I certainly am not. The man was married to a porn star for Goodness sakes (note to all the porn stars out there reading my blog--it is your business if you want to be a porn star, not mine, so go right ahead.)

But our sweet, funny, beautiful Sandra Bullock? For that skanky looking woman? Seriously, Jesse, what were you thinking? Yes, I know you are loaded with tatoos and like motorcycles and other fast things (perhaps that's why you "allegedly had an affair" with the self-proclaimed "bombshell.") More like "train wreck," but whatever. She certainly isn't America's sweetheart like Sandra. Trust me, you've gotta see this girl. And I am not opposed to tattoos. I know lovely people who have many tattoos and I don't discriminate because you choose to be inked, but what you don't see in the photos is this woman has a tattoo on her forehead that reads, "Pray for us sinners." Classy.

Now Jesse is no different than any other celebrity. He has women throwing themselves at him on any given day and I certainly understand there is temptation, but when you get married, you have to resist that. And if you screw up, which many celebrities as well as regular people often do, you have to accept your actions, apologize and move on. So, Jesse James, I commend you for apologizing to your lovely wife, Sandra Bullock, but I have to question your written statement. (If Tom issued me a written apology, it better be accompanied by a LOT more, I'm just sayin'...)

As I love to do in my blog, I have decided to translate your statement.

"The vast majority of the allegations reported are untrue and unfounded. Beyond that, I will not dignify these private matters with any further public comment.

Translation: I slept with "the Bombshell" on more than one occassion. I just cant resist a totally tattooed woman. She was so classy, Sandra, I just couldn't help it! I mean, one of her tattoos says Pray for us sinners... so i thought, Hey, she's gotta be a good girl if she is praying for me.

"There is only one person to blame for this whole situation, and that is me. It's because of my poor judgment that I deserve everything bad that is coming my way.

Translation: I didn't really confess in the first part of the statement, but this should tell you that I did it. I'm sorry I got caught.

"This has caused my wife and kids pain and embarrassment beyond comprehension and I am extremely saddened to have brought this on them. I am truly very sorry for the grief I have caused them. I hope one day they can find it in their hearts to forgive me."

Translation: I am embarrassed that I got caught, I thought I was more discreet than that. And I hate that this has come out after my beautiful wife just received her first Academy Award. The timing stinks for her. And me, because I got caught...

Jesse James, you're not so bright. But here's my advice to Sandra Bullock, there are plenty of great men out there that won't cheat on you with those kind of women -- or any other kind of women. My husband is one of them. Niw, I don't want you coming to Memphis and sweeping him off his feet, but you are at the top of his Top 5 list, so I would have to let it happen. But I will certainly put up a fight...

Hang in there, girl.

Return of the Tiger Ticker

2010-03-17T11:16:00.002-05:00

Wow. Thanks goodness it’s back. I thought I couldn’t live another day without it. As I settle in to watch basketball last night (as I do excessively during every March,) I see it looming on the bottom of ESPN. The dreaded “Tiger Ticker.” Seriously? This again?

Sure, I heard the news that Tiger Woods is returning to the Master’s in April after his “self-imposed” break from golf, but really, the Ticker again? Aren’t there more important things to dedicate that little portion of my screen to? Let’s see: the NIT; the NCAA tournament; the women’s NCAA tournament; MLB (which is beginning its season in a few days); soccer; the NFL combine; NASCAR; NCAA men’s wrestling tournament; Erin Andrews and her stalker. Anything really. Anything but this.

I realize I haven’t written about Tiger in a while, so I thought I would wax poetic about him once again. I read his statement and have a few comments about that (see below.) But before I get into that, let me answer a few of the pressing questions the media is throwing at us today about Tiger.

Q: He’s was spotted with Elin over the weekend. Are they back together?

A: No, it was a photo op, folks. Good PR people put them together for the media everyday. Tiger just hired one of the best PR folks around—Ari Fleischer (former press secretary to Pres. Bush.) Quite a coincidence, don’t you think, that this photo emerges over the weekend and his statement about the Masters comes out on Tuesday? Not really.

Q: She wasn’t wearing her wedding ring. What does that mean?

A: It means she’s holding out for a bigger one, like Kobe Bryant’s wife. (Get it girl, then dump him!)

Q: Will she stay for the kids?

A: Why is this concerning the media? Those kids are very small and need both parents right now and it is their business. End of discussion.

Q: Is he finished with his therapy?

A: Don’t even get me started about “sex addiction.” As my husband says, when you are single, it is called playing the field and sleeping around. But when you are married, you are allowed to say you suffer from sex addiction. Whatever! You can’t keep it in your pants (and that goes for ladies, too. I’m not discriminating, here.) It is called cheating. You slept with a bunch of women and you are married. Not to mention they were gross women. (you definitely have a type, Tiger.) Be honest, deal with it, move on.

Of course, Tiger won't get on camera and talk to someone, he has to read his statement. So, as a good PR person, I decided to dissect his statement for you and translate it into what it really means…..

"The Masters is where I won my first major and I view this tournament with great respect. After a long and necessary time away from the game, I feel like I'm ready to start my season at Augusta.

Translation: the timing for my “comeback” was perfect. My PR strategist, Ari Fleischer, decided the Masters would be the best time for me to come back. Besides, the sponsors and media need me. The Masters will be so stuffy and boring if I am not there.

"The major championships have always been a special focus in my career and, as a professional, I think Augusta is where I need to be, even though it's been a while since I last played.

Translation: I have a big ego and I think I will win the Masters this year and show everyone that my sleeping around with skanky women has not affected my golfing capability. Plus, I need more money to buy Ambien. Oh, and the skanky women will be coming out of the woodwork to sleep with me and I can’t go back to the 12 or so women I was having an affair with. They think I’m disgusting now.

"I have undergone almost two months of inpatient therapy and I am continuing my treatment. Although I'm returning to competition, I still have a lot of work to do in my personal life.

Translation: my beautiful wife won’t let me touch her and I have to focus my energies on something physical.

"When I finally got into a position to think about competitive golf again, it became apparent to me that the Masters would be the earliest I could play. I called both Joe Lewis and Arnold Palmer and expressed my regrets for not attending the Tavistock Cup and the Arnold Palmer Invitational. I again want to thank them both for their support and their understanding. Those are fantastic tournaments and I look forward to competing in them again.

Translation: I have embarrassed the entire game of golf and some of the greatest golfers who have stood beside me. I felt I owed them an apology for not playing and likely costing them millions of dollars. Plus, Ari Fleischer told me to call them.

"I would also like to thank the Augusta National members and staff for their support. I have deep appreciation for everything that they do to create a wonderful event for the benefit of the game."

Translation: Augusta National begged me to come back. No one wants to see the Masters played by a bunch of old golfers. They knew if I played this year -- at the height of my downfall – it would make more money for them, the sponsors, the networks, hotels in the area, etc. Oh, and also me. Because I have a big ego and I can win the Masters again. And I need the money for more strippers, girlfriends and Ambien. Also, more sex addiction rehabilitation. Hopefully they will send me somewhere with hotter chicks this time.

So there you have it, what I think about Tiger. Let's hope ESPN gets rid of this Ticker. It is interrupting my basketball coverage.

Baby Names

2010-03-04T14:25:00.000-06:00

We're getting closer to the debut of Baby Ray (about 10 weeks if all goes well) and thus we have begun the process of naming baby. A couple of Tom and Dawn guidelines before I move forward:

We will NOT name him/her before he/she is born
We won't call him/her by a name while still in the womb (we're weird that way)
We are naming a person, not a baby
We are narrowing it down to a list of 3 names for each gender
We aren't telling anyone our final list of names (people can be downright rude about names!)
Each person (Tom and Dawn) will have 3 vetoes to exercise per gender . These vetoes don't have to have a reason.

Now that I have spelled out the rules, please allow me to vent a bit. This naming business is hard work, particularly the second time around. Seems like with the doodlebug, we knew what our names would be. Our lists were pretty cut and dried and truth be told, we were 95% sure if our baby was a boy, he would take the family name. A girl likely would have been different. We each only exercised one of our vetoes and we were ok with that. But this time, it is much more difficult.

Even though it wasn't confirmed, I knew in my heart that our first baby was a boy. I thought about girl names, but really didn't give it much thought. I didn't feel I needed to. This one, however, I'm not sure what this kid is and therefore don't know what to name him/her.

I know what you're thinking-- come on, Dawn, this is easy. Just pick a name and go. But if you know me, you know I overanalyze things, and this is no exception. But I don't see it as overanalyzation. I see it is an important "detail" that affects and shapes one's life. I'm a firm believer we are not naming a baby, but a person. Sure, I don't want the child to be one of 3-5 kids in the same class with the same name, but I don't want him/her to go through life constantly spelling his/her name. (Like my friend Roxane, one n.)

To help me solve this, I have created a series of tests to see if any names we are bouncing around fit my criteria:

The 40-year-old career man/woman test: this test is fairly self-explanatory, and is of course, subjective. Essentially, you ask yourself, would a 40 year old career man/woman have this name and be taken seriously. Examples: Jane would be a name that withstands many ages and she would be taken seriously as a career woman. Tallulah Belle--not so much.
The Yell Test: suggested to me by my friend Pam, this test is exactly what it sounds like. How does it sound when you yell it? As in, the kid is 14 years old and didn't take out the trash after you told him 100 times...
The Graduation Announcement Test: how does the full name sound when announced over the loudspeaker at high school graduation? Does it sound like a kid ready to take on the world? Or does it sound like a kid that is still attached to mommy and daddy?
The Athlete Name Test (over the Intercom at say, the World Series): Now batting for the St. Louis Cardinals, your shortstop... #8... Sequoia Ray. Silence falls on the crowd. Did that guy just say Sequoia? Isn't that a tree? Or a Toyota SUV? What the heck kind of a name is that.
The 4-year-old test aka the Tripp test: This isn't what Tripp thinks of the name, but mainly what he thinks of when he hears the name. Case in point: Sasha. Mom: "Tripp, what do you think of the name Sasha?" Tripp: "I like it. I will call her Sausage!" Thus ended the running for the name Sasha.
The Tooth Fairy Test: this is essentially what the child's name would sound like when he/she says it after losing a bunch of teeth, as kids are prone to do. You don't want your kid saying his/her name with no teeth and it sounds like an expletive. Just sayin'.
The "was she/he a slut/jerk in high school/college/other parts of your life test?": Whether you want to admit it or not, this is a legitimate test. It was the source of one of Tom's vetoes the last time. I have always loved one name, Tom hated it because of someone he knew, he vetoed. Case closed.
The "how the name sounds with a thick Southern Accent" test: Mainly I am talking about my sweet Mom here, but also, about other folks here in the South. I'm a Southern girl and probably always will be, but that doesn't mean the kid's name has to sound weird coming out of a Southerner's mouth. For example: Michael is a very well-respected, well-rounded name. But put it in mouth of some deep Southerners, and it becomes "MY-kull." I can't take it.
The "which one are you again?" test: everyone knows this test. There are 5 Dakotas in your kid's class. So they become-- Dakota A., Dakota S., Dakota John, and so on. Boy we make it hard on teachers sometimes.

Anyway, I realize I maybe should have bigger things to worry about with a baby on the way, but this is the source of most of my thoughts when I have free time. It will be interesting to see where we land and what this kid's name is. Probably after all of this, I will name him John. Or Jane.

I Passed!

2010-02-27T09:42:00.000-06:00

After sitting in the doctor's office for nearly 4 hours, drinking a nasty, gross flat orange soda-like substance full of sugary sweet, and being stuck in the arm for blood 4 times, I passed my glucose test. No gestational diabetes!

Hooray!

I celebrated with a variety of ethnic food this week-- which has been my craving with this pregnancy. Tuesday with Pho Ga and shrimp spring rolls (YUMMY), Wednesday after the test was sushi (my doc said I can have it, so don't worry) and Thursday as Pei Wei (tried a new dish-- Thai Dynamite -- I highly recommend it!) Do you see a pattern? I had a lady ask me if my baby daddy was Asian. I said, "no, he looks like Opie Taylor!"

Thanks to everyone who was thinking of me while I endured the test. :) Baby Ray is getting close to making his/her debut.

DAMN YOU, GLUCOSE TEST!!!!!!!!

2010-02-22T14:57:00.000-06:00

I had to take the dreaded glucose test last week and yep, you guessed it, I failed it. Granted, I didnt' fail by much, but they said any level above 140 is failing, and I had a 147.

Great. Now I get to go on Wednesday and have the 3-hour glucose test. I can't eat anything past midnight and I have to be there at 8:45. Happy, happy, joy, joy. Do you know how hard it is for a pregnant woman not to eat? Especially in the morning when I am the hungriest?

Oh well, my fantastic hubby is going to take me and sit with me for 3 hours for fear I might pass out. (But at least I am in a doctor's office if I do, right?)

Damn, you glucose. Damn you (potential diabetes.)

High School Confidential

2010-02-18T13:36:00.000-06:00

The other night my family went to visit my mom overnight, which meant I spent the night in my childhood bedroom. It doesn’t look the same anymore, my mom has redecorated and it even has different furniture, but as I lay in bed, I couldn’t help but think about growing up in the bedroom.

You may (or may not) know that I hated high school. No offense to the school, my friends from then or my parents, but it was just horrible. Of course, at the time, I didn’t realize it was that awful, but I knew something wasn’t right about. Sure, I had some good times here and there, but for the most part, I HATED it.

Now, keep in mind, I grew up in Halls, TN, population 2,000 (think they may have overestimated it a bit, but whatever.) There is one stop light (right at Main Street, course) and several 4-way stops. My high school had 400 people in it, with my graduating class being the largest with 120 students. Yeah, the class of 1994 rocked.

Anyway, I’ve been thinking about high school quite a bit, and even more so since I am active on Facebook. I’m friends with a lot of folks from high school on Facebook, but not in real life. It almost makes me feel like a “poser” and also a bit sad, at times. Probably the folks that knew me then thought I would keep in touch with everyone. But I didn’t even go to my high school reunion.

So rather than lamenting over the fact that I wasn’t that fond of high school (one might say detested with the white, hot intensity of a thousand suns,) I thought I would take a look at the things I enjoyed and jot them down. Besides, most people would rather read happy stuff, anyway.

Things I Enjoyed About High School:

1. My friends: not those superficial relationships I and everyone else had, but the ones that were really my friends. The one that would go anywhere with my in my green car (and her sister); the ones that practiced cheerleading with me (at school or at each other’s houses), the one that watched the same damn movies with me over and over and over again. The ones that talked to me for hours about crushes that would never in a million years go out with me. The one that always had a boyfriend (even as she had just broken up with one, she had another). The one that always had boyfriend trouble (and the certain boyfriend of hers that always had girlfriend trouble.) The ones in other grades that I hung out with. The ones that needed help with their homework.

2. Listening to rap songs thinking we were the coolest white girls around.
(okay, we were the coolest white girls around!!!!) Songs, artists and albums included, but certainly weren’t limited to: Whomp There it Is; OPP; the entire Chronic album from Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg; Today was a Good Day by Ice Cube; Arrested Development’s Tennessee; 2Pac Keep Ya Head Up; Tootsie Roll; Eightball and MJG; Diggable Planets; Naughty by Nature; Warren G Regulate; Salt n Pepa; Sir Mix a lot; Vanilla Ice (Ice, Ice Baby, anyone)…. Sometimes I can frighten my husband to no end by singing rap songs. It’s a gift!

3. Driving my sweet 1981 green Honda accord (note photo below,but my car was green.) I loved that car so much. (I told my husband I eventually wanted another one just like it, color and all, restored to mint condition.) The seat belt got stuck, the radio worked sometimes, but damn, I loved that car. It went everywhere and hauled almost everyone. (I even had one friend whose parents wouldn’t let her go anywhere unless I was going.) We had some good times in that car, riding around our big town or down to the “bottom”. (for you city folk friends of mine, the bottoms are the Mississippi River bottoms located about 13 miles from Halls. It is the farm land and subsequent roads located near the Mississippi River. Also, there was a grainery and a boat dock.) Now I’m not admitting to drinking underage, but that’s where it happened (if I were to have hypothetically drank while underage.) I’m just sayin’…

4. Baseball games: even then I had the baseball bug. I loved it. I never missed a game unless I could absolutely help it.

5. Ms. Warren: loved her! Favorite teacher and I was lucky enough to have her 3 years in a row for English.

6. The icky Dyersburg movie theater: yep, your feet stuck to the floor, and it was an old, ugly white building with 3 screens and 2 movie times—7 and 9 – but I didn’t care. We could go to the MOVIES! Didn’t really matter what was playing, we’d go see it anyway. I went on (very few) dates there, but mostly I went with a bunch of girls. Just a sampling of movies I saw there over the course of my lifetime: Ghostbusters, 9 to 5, Steel Magnolias, batman, Days of Thunder, Grumpy Old Men, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, to name a few.

7. The airbase: it used to be an airbase in WWII; in the 60s it was where kids went to drag race. Now, it’s just a big open concrete slab. We used to ride out there, learn to drive stick out there, build a bon fire, hang out, whatever. It was fun (though I’m not sure exactly why)

8. First day of school: yes, I know, such a geek. But the first day of school always brought new hope in my mind. New hope that things would be different for me. New hope that exciting things would happen. New hope that some new boy would move in and fall madly in love with me. (that never happened.) By the end of the day, I had figured out it was just another day at school and no new hope was possible, but I sure did get excited about it.

9. Building a Homecoming float: this was the chance to show our creative chops and build awesome floats. We always went to the Pugh shed and had a great time. Of course, there were only a few of us that actually built the floats, but they were always really good and we had a great showing during homecoming week.

10. Cheerleading camp: so much fun. I went to Lambuth and UT Martin and it was always a blast. It was nice to get away from everyone with the other cheerleaders, learn new cheers and routines and pick up pointers. We always stayed up too late and laughed a lot.

11. Camping out: so we didn’t do it often, but we certainly had a good time. Most of the time, someone snuck alcohol, but hey, at least we weren’t driving! (I mean, for those that were drinking, of course)

12. Watching the same movies over and over and over again: typically, I watched the same movies over and over again with the same friend. Amber and I spent lots of time watching movies and music videos. (I still know the words to those movies and they are still some of the most quoted in my repertoire.) Wayne’s World, Buffy the Vampire Slayer (with Kristy Swanson), Singles, Shag, Steel Magnolias, Sliver, Dirty Dancing, the Thriller video (I love that dance), Say Anything, 16 Candles, Flowers in the Attic, Pretty in Pink, The Breakfast Club, One Crazy Summer, When Harry Met Sally, Boyz n the Hood, Karate Kid, The Lost Boys… I know there are more, but these are the ones I remember the most.

13. Spending a summer away in North Carolina: I met so many cool people that summer and it likely contributed to the unhappiness I felt my senior year of high school, but I loved it. I got a taste of what being away from Halls felt like. And I never looked back. Amber, you experienced that same thing at the same time. It really made a difference, didn't it?

14. Finally meeting someone interesting who actually liked me for me: yep, the principal’s son. He was older, wiser, didn’t know me when I was five, didn’t know my family and didn’t know me when I was awkward at 13 … It was awesome.

But of course, I can’t mention the good, without the bad, but I decided to limit the things I didn’t like to just a few. I am sure I could go on and on about things I hated, but will just keep it short.

1. The way my brother’s girlfriend treated me: she was mean to me, called me fat, left me nasty notes in my locker and made up stories about me behind my back. She made my 10th grade year absolutely miserable. Enough said. Thank God she didn't become my sister-in-law (whom I love dearly)

2. When my really great (guy) friend turned into the biggest horn ball I knew. It happened in the 10th grade. We went from having fun and have interesting conversations about life, school and baseball, to him talking about sex and girls, and gross horn ball things. I won’t name names… He eventually became more like my friend, but that was a weird time in our friendship.

3. Proms and Dances: gees, I hated them so much. But you had to go. If you didn’t, people would look at you weird and talk about you. I never really had any fun. Probably the most fun was my junior prom when I went with Tim Davis—no strings attached, just a nice time.

4. Being chastised for my weight: yep, you all know who you are. I never claimed to be a skinny girl, but I wasn’t really fat either. I was called fat quite a bit by both boys and girls, and you contributed to my poor self body image and self esteem (I’m over it now, but it really took me a while.)

So, didn’t want this to be a bitch session, but this stuff came to me when I was visiting my mom. Probably not too surprising. Maybe you learned something about me.

But hey, it can't always be a ray of sunshine, right?

T-I-G-E-R-S......TIGERS!!!!!

2010-02-17T10:49:00.000-06:00

Our Memphis Tigers are back in action tonight and I couldn't be happer about that. We take on Tulane tonight at 6 p.m. in the Big Easy-- boy don't you know it smells down there after all of the Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras festivities?

Anyway, we are coming off a big win in Tulsa over the weekend, with a fantastic showing by Elliot Williams (thank goodness he transferred from Duke-- sweet Mama's boy that he is) and Angel Garcia.

That Angel Garcia hasn't played hardly at all -- okay, he has played in only 2 games, but boy he really showed us Tiger fans something this past Saturday, AND on ESPN2.

Let's hope the Tigers came to play and Coach Paz can get a little aggressive in his coaching. Do you think he ever slips up and says an expletive in his head and then says "gosh darn?" nah, probaby not.

Go Tigers!

Whatcha thinkin', PHN??!!??!??!???!

2010-02-09T10:59:00.001-06:00

If you know me even a little bit, you know I am a Memphis Tigers Basketball fan. You also know that we are in the middle of a true rebuilding year. Our Coach McDreamy, um, I mean, Pastner, has done a heck of a job considering the mess he was handed in April by the snake oil salesman. (I know I said I was over it and not bitter anymore, but occassionally, the bitterness rears its ugly head.)

Last night the U of M announced that native Memphian Pierre Henderson-Niles is no longer a Tiger. The decision was mutual, the statement says. We wish him the best, sthe statement says. We will help him as he presses on to graduate in May, the statement says. But its not what the statement says, so much as what the statement DOESN'T say. (of course, this is my speculating what has actually happened, so take it for what it is worth.)

So, here is what I would say if I had written the statement.

"After much discussion, we are sad to announce that Pierre Henderson-Niles will be leaving the men's Tiger basketball program effective immediately. Henderson-Niles has been a member of our team since he was a freshman, and frankly, didn't see any playing time under John Calipari. Coah Pastner has given him quite the chance to prove himself, by starting him nearly every game, but honestly, Pierre hasn't given Coach, or Tiger fans, much in return.

Henderson-Niles has been shown up the last few games by juco transfer Will Coleman, and has not taken it very maturely. At Saturday's Gonzaga game, when the Tigers needed all of the support and morale it could garner to overcome a deficit, Henderson-Niles refused to participate in a time out huddle.

Thus, after much discussion about obeying team rules, not being a team player and not respecting Coach Pastner's decisions, Henderson-Niles has decided to make the stupidest, most immature decision of his life and leave the team with only 8 regular season games remaining.

We wish him the best, and are pleased to help him succeed in graduating in May. He's certainly going to need that college degree, because he doesn't have a basketball career ahead of him."

Okay, so hopefully you have detected the sarcasm in that statement and know that NO GOOD PR PERSON would ever release something like that, but that is what we all want to hear. It is what we Tiger fans know is true.

Grow up, PHN. You don't always get your way and Coach Pastner has been the best thing to ever happen to you and your basketball career at the U of M.

Snow can be a Ray of Sunshine

2010-02-09T10:52:00.000-06:00

What a surprise! Waking up to unexpected snow on a Monday! It's cool when it isn't expected. Of course, I live in Memphis, so it is never expected. Bet TDOT was keeping that one snow plow busy.

Tripp had a great time yesterday in the snow. Uncle Jeff, Taylor and Jordan came over and Tom and Tripp built a snow man with them. The snow man (which Tripp named Charlie) tumped over at about 4 p.m., but he gave us something to look at in the afternoon out of the window.

Of course, I thought for sure we would be home today (why do I listen to weather casters again? haven't I learned?) and let Tripp stay up until 9 p.m. But, we are back to normal again today. Some pretty white stuff on the ground today, and a bit cold. But it is February.

Enjoy it while it lasts, kids. It will soon be Spring (thank goodness!) with snow no where to be seen.

A Must-Read for Every Southerner

2010-01-29T12:10:00.000-06:00

And not just every Southerner, but every person. It's called The Help (by Kathryn Stockett) and it is about Jackson, Miss in the Civil Rights movement and specifically, the African American "help" that was so rampant in white families during that time.

The book is written from the perspectives of 2 african american maids/nannies Aibileen and Minny, and one young college graduate, Ms. Skeeter. The maids are fantastic, and they are very easy to commiserate with. Aibileen lost her son a few years ago, and she devotes all of her time to raising "white babies." She currently works for one family who isn't really rich enough to have help, but the mother really doesn't like children that much, and just feels the need to keep up with the Joneses. Apparently, nearly all white families in Jackson had help to raise their babies and polish their silver. Seriously, what the heck is that all about??!!??!

Minny is a lot like I would imagine I would be if I were in her shoes. She's a bit sassy and sometimes struggles to shut her mouth. In fact, she's been fired from several white families for speaking her mind when she is wronged. (She does something else, too, but I won't spoil it for you.)

Miss Skeeter is a young, somewhat awkward girl who has been home from Ole Miss for a few months after graduation. She is caught between old Jackson and what she is "supposed to be" and the Civil Rights movement, and what she knows is right (and what she WANTS to be.) Skeeter is a bit awkward, very tall, not so cute, but is a brilliant and loving person. She is definitely a character you can relate to.

I highly recommend you read this book. It gives you quite a perspective on how things used to be, how far we've come, and how far we still have to go.

Doodle me this

2010-01-15T14:06:00.000-06:00

So I have this Facebook friend that always posts his doodles. They are fascinating. It got me thinking... anyone who knows me knows that I doodle. All. the. time. So,I thought, hey, I will post my doodles.

This incessant doodling drives the hubs crazy sometimes because he doesn't think I am listening. Quite the contrary. I concentrate better when I am doodling than when I am just staring into space. I'm ust sayin'...

My favorite thing about doodling is trying out new pens or markers. I LOVE THEM. Actually, it may be an unhealthy love, but a love, nonetheless.

Here is a list of things I love about doodling:

1. it helps me concentrate and listen better in meetings.
2. In meetings where people are saying things I find preposterous -- and I want to speak up but shouldn't -- doodling helps me keep my mouth shut. Doodling furiously has, at times, helped save me from popping off at the mouth.
3. Doodling is a creative outlet. Of course, I realize I am in to swirls and dots right now, but dammit, they are my swirls and dots!

More doodles to come.

Worst. Pregnant Woman. Ever

2010-01-14T16:38:00.000-06:00

Yes, I am talking about myself here. I hope you don't find me crass, but I HATE being pregnant. I mean, hate it with the white hot intensity of a thousand suns. Don't get me wrong, I love having a baby (not having the baby, but having it here, with us, as a part of our family.) I am thankful that God has bless me and the Hubs with a beautiful little Toots McGhee and a new baby peanut, who should make his/her debut in May. But I really don't like the pregnancy part. I look awful. I feel awful. My skin is awful. You get it...pregnancy sucks.

Hubs says I have 2 moods right now: tired and hungry. Well, I've got news, it's only going to get worse. This time around, I have been making a conscious effort to eat better foods to help me in the long run. I'm eating fruit, I'm not eating as many sweets. Blah, blah, blah. I'm also trying to walk at least 6 miles a week (which I don't think is too shabby for a pregnant girl.)

Honestly, all I really want to do is sit on my couch and sleep. Or lie in my bed and sleep. Or put my head down on my desk and sleep. Or nod off in meetings or on conference calls. Oh, and when I'm awake, I'd love to just eat. But honestly, the weirdest craving I've had is Pho Saigon's Pho Ga. (For all of you out there who may not know, that is Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Soup.) Seriously, the best damn soup I've ever eaten. Hands down. No lie. It's the best, Jerry, the best! Before I dig into my soup, I like to partake in some shrimp spring rolls. Oh, and I got through nearly half a jar of chili garlic sauce -- some of the hottest stuff you can put in your mouth!

I know it will all be over soon and I will have a sweet little baby peanut to love and hold and coo with. But for now, I am trying to limit my complaining to a minimum (although Hubs would think and say otherwise.)

Oh wait, did you say something? I was sleeping..... and by the way, I'm hungry.

Cancer Sucks

2010-01-11T14:21:00.000-06:00

That headline is probably the most obvious headline I will ever write, but it is so true. It really sucks. I hate it. Nearly everyone I know has been affected by cancer in some way.

My father died of cancer. Tom's mom died of cancer. The majority of my dad's siblings died of cancer. Tom's mom's siblings died of cancer. And the list goes on. Recently, my 39-year-old cousin, who is healthy otherwise, was diagnosed with stage 2breast cancer. It is aggressive, so they decided her chemo should be aggressive.

She's taken 3 rounds of chemo so far, and there has been good news and bad news. The good news: the tumors have shrunk considerably. HOORAY! The bad news: she was admitted to the hospital yesterday because her blood count is high, she is terribly ill and has of all things, kidney stones.

So, I repeat... cancer sucks.

Keep her in your thoughts and prayers, please. You can learn more about her at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/danaezekiel.

Also keep her parents in your thoughts and prayers. My aunt takes care of her mom (who is home bound) and they don't drive much in the big city.

Crazy weather we're having.... though, not really

2010-01-07T13:02:00.000-06:00

The hysteria that is Memphis when there is a small amount of snow on the ground is something to experience at least one time in your life. The city, nor its residents, are equipped to handle even half an inch of snow. I mean, Memphis doesn't even have one snow plow. (not that we really even need it.)

Don't get me wrong, I don't drive in it. I am lucky enough to have a wonderful husband who is a great driver and can navigate snow and ice. I could probably drive in the stuff and drive just fine, but all of the other crazies out there simply cannot.

Memphis drivers are the worst. Snow falling this morning and there are icy patches on the road, but my friend Pam said some maniac was swerving in and out of traffic on Poplar (a very heavily traveled and oftentimes small laned, 6 lane road) in his swanky new BMW. Good for the guy for having a Beemer, but gees, slow down already. Take your time. You work in Memphis, so half of your office won't be in anyway.

And the schools, don't even get me started. Some schools cancel at the mention of snow. Granted, if the roads are dangerous, there shouldn't be bus loads of children on them. But seriously, maybe there are icy spots on roads out in the county, but not in the city. Good call, Memphis City Schools, for being open today. (Sorry, Kids.)

Thank Goodness Doodle's school was open today. Good old CMDS.

The ABC's of a Ray Family Christmas

2009-12-25T21:00:00.000-06:00

Rather than writing an intense recap of the Christmas festivities of 2009, I thought I would just clue you in on the ABCs of a Ray Family Christmas.

A: Airplane: Santa was nice enough to bring Tripp an airplane that flies around. However, it doesn't fly so well. Guess the elves were a bit too busy with other toys and this one didn't go through QA.

B: Butterfly: my first real Christmas present that Tripp picked out just for me... a beautiful silver butterfly necklace with a real diamond (albeit a very small diamond chip. I will treasure it forever.)

C: COOKIES! Tripp made some great cookies for Santa. Chocolate chip and some pretty fancy sugar cookies. Santa must have liked them, because he ate them. All.

D. Drawings: Tripp got an awesome art set from Aunt Laura, Uncle Jeff, Taylor and Jordan. Awesome pictures have been drawn already, and best of all... it is all contained in the same case.

E. Eyes: gotta have sharp eyes to play I Spy on the new Leapster Video Game Tripp got from Santa.

F. FREEZE DIRTBAG!!!!! As in, what cops yell. Aunt Sherri and Uncle Rick got Tripp some really cool costumes -- a police office and a ninja. Dress up, anyone?

G. Games: Loud Hungry, Hungry Hippos and a cool game with numbers-- 123 Stomp! Perfect for family game night.

H. Home Depot Work Bench: Santa must really listen to Tripp, because "wow, I always wanted one of these, but I forgot to ask for it."

I. I Spy: see E (also one of Tripp's favorite game to play in the car, even though Mommy gets very tired of playing it.)

J. Jail rings: When opening the police officer gift from Aunt Sherri and Uncle Rick, Tripp says, "ooh, its a police officer uniform and cool, it comes with Jail Rings!!!" (read: hand cuffs)

K. Kisses and Kindle: Seriously, Santa loves us, because I got the two best kinds of kisses there are: Lots of Hershey kisses in my stocking, and kisses from my two favorite boys! My sweet husband also got me a Kindle from Amazon. Love. it.

L. Lasagna: What's the best no-fuss Christmas dinner for five? Stouffer's Lasagna.

M: Memphis Tigers: Seems everyone will show their Tiger Pride in Tiger Blue. Tripp got a fantastic Tiger sweatshirt from Mama Sue; I got a Tiger hoodie and t-shirt; Tom got a cool Tiger pullover and a license plate from Tripp. Go Big Blue!

N: Nieces: My two little nieces, Taylor and Jordan, also had a really great visit from Santa. When asked what Taylor got from Santa, the first thing she yelled to me was, "Santa brought me Hannah Montana panties!!!!!" And Jordan, "I got Minnie panties!!!!!!" (Forget about the other cool gifts, these girls got character panties. A dream come true for a 4 year old and a 2 year old.)

O. Ornaments: Tripp loves our tree. Also loves to move the ornaments around. You just never know where they are when you walk into the room.

P: Pa: Tripp's grandpa came in a day early to avoid the nasty weather in Milwaukee and Chicago. Good thing he came in on Wednesday, because he probably wouldn't have made it yesterday. We're glad he came to be with Tripp this Christmas.

Q: Questions: Maybe the best question from Tripp this entire Christmas season. "How do adults know Santa's secret phone number?" Answer: "Santa gives it to us so we can let him know how good or bad the kids have been. He has a lot of kids to keep tabs on." Question: "Can I have that phone number so I can call him???"

R: Racer, as in Speed Racer. Awesome Speed Racer car from Kay-Kay and Mr. Mike. An actual replica of the Mach 5 (on a 1:24 scale, of course.) Doors open and everything.

S: Star Wars: Play video games on Leapster, you will. Learn to spell with Yoda, you will. Wear earphones when playing, you will.

Sleeping Bag: Tripp is all ready to go camping with his new sleeping bag. And it's camo, so no one will see him. Only question now, who's gonna take him. I so hate camping.

T: Tag Reading System Awesome gift from Pa. Very cool reading system, with Cat in the Hat book and Lightning McQueen and Mater going Tractor Tippin'. Thanks, Pa!!!

U: Unbelievable: As in, its unbelievable how much love my son has for his unborn sibling already. He is so excited about it, he just can't wait until May!

V: Video Games: Tripp's at that age where some of his friends already have a Wii or an X Box. I refuse to get one of those right now, so Tom and I had a little talk with Santa and we were able to compromise...with a Leapster 2 handheld video game. Tripp loves it.

W: WOW! We heard a lot of that on Christmas morning while opening gifts. Seems Tripp really enjoyed opening the presents from Santa and family.

X: Okay, I wish I could think of something for X, but I just can't.

Y: Yelling: No yelling today, on this day of Jesus' birth. Hallelujah! It's not that we mean to yell, it's just that we have loud voices and Tripp gets excited. I'm sure we will get back to normal (yelling) tomorrow.

Z: Zoo: if we had a big family, that's what our house would be. We already have a bit of a small zoo around here, but it would be a full-rate, first class zoo with more folks. (Thank Goodness for Christmas miracles, although I wish Tom's family could have been with us.)

And now, a few more words that wouldn't quite fit neatly into my ABC's.

Pickles: Tripp got a Pickle Launcher gun from Miss Melissa. Very big Hit.

Scrooge: typically, I'm a scrooge when it comes to the holidays, but this year, I've done really well. Guess that's what having a child will do to you.

Hope: We celebrated Christmas Eve service at Hope Presbyterian Church. Along with 23,000 other people, throughout 7 services. Beautiful candlelight service.

Thankful: Tripp was so excited and thankful that Pa was here with him for Christmas. It really was a special Christmas for him. He even had Mama Sue here for Christmas dinner too, and that's pretty special to have both grandparents in the same room.

All in all, we had a fantastic Christmas. Merry Christmas to everyone. We are blessed to have a home, jobs, food, wonderful friends and family. (plus, no one was sick this year... a major plus for us.)

Merry Christmas!!!!!!

Some Kids Just Love Santa Claus... Others, Not So Much

2009-12-21T16:15:00.000-06:00

My child falls into the former. He can't get enough of Santa. We had lunch with him last week. He brought him a picture that he drew. We went to see Santa at a friend's house last night, I couldn't get Toots McGhee away from him. I finally had to ask him gently to let Santa take a break. And he wasn't talking to him about what he wanted for Christmas. Oh no. He was making casual conversation with Santa. As in, "On Imagination Movers, Santa didn't say HO HO HO, he said He He He because his pants were too tight from eating too many cookies." Or, he would just talk to him about his life and the fact he will get a baby brother or sister soon. (so cute!)

Mind you, I don't mind. I would much rather him be the kid that loves Santa than the one that detests Santa. We all know that kid. Either they are terrified of him and scream at even the mention of sitting in his lap. And don't let Santa come in the room when they are there. You will never hear such blood curdling screams and clinging to mom and dad. Then there's the kid that sits over in the corner and never takes his/her eyes off santa. But not in a goood way. The kids looks at him in the "if i could i might stab with something" way.

Alas, I am glad my child loves Santa. You just never know what he's going to say to him. For example, Santa had another engagement last event after the party, and my son asked him where he sleigh was. (Santa can't drive a car, can he?) Quick witted Santa replied, "oh, it's on Shady Grove because this street was too narrow." Pretty smart, eh?

And for those of you that know me and know that I am a bit of a scrooge, I posted the pic of the Ray Family with Santa. See, I'm not that big of a scrooge. Just a little.

Merry Christmas!

Damn! 8 degrees is cold!

2009-12-11T13:51:00.000-06:00

So, no one has ever mistaken me for someone that loves the cold weather. My husband's family, God love them, live in Wisconsin. And boy, its cold there. They always laugh at me when I visit because I am dressed like I live at the North Pole. But they can jest all they want... I stay warm.

So last weekend we decided to visit Nash Vegas with some friends and their kids and purposefully go into a building where Charlie Brown was frozen. Now kids, don't get upset. It wasn't the real Charlie Brown, just one made out of ice. And boy, was it beautiful, and cold.

My husband, being the Peanuts aficionado that he is (the man can name characters that probably Charles Schultz forgot the names)had a smile on his frozen face the entire time. As did my son.

I have to admit, it was very cool. I was expecting ice sculptures, but didn't at all think about the cool colors.

It was a fun family trip and really helped get me in the holiday spirit (as much as i can, of course.) Now, if only I could get Charlie Brown and that darn Lucy to wrap my presents....

You know I am a Tigers fan, but not a Tiger (Woods) fan...

2009-12-04T15:21:00.000-06:00

I'm not in shock at all.

I know everyone keeps going on and on about Tiger Woods and his "trangressions." I must admit, I've watch a few entertainment shows about it. (Plus, it's really hard not to keep up with the Tiger news when even ESPN has a special "Tiger Ticker" going across the bottom of its college basketball coverage.

Let's just say that I am not surprised in the least. Sure, he's a great golfer. Arguably the best, but he isn't a nice person. He really never has been. "Oh, but Dawn, he's been so good for the game by being a person of color." Uh, Tiger has never really claimed to be an African-American. He touts his diversity as "Cau-bl-in-asion" as in caucasian, black, indian, asian. Last time I checked, that wasn't African-American. Strike One.

"But Dawn, he gives so much money to St. Jude..." And? He has a ton of it. He should give money to St. Jude. It doesn't really make him a good person. It just means someone has advised him to give back. Besides, he's never played in the St. Jude Golf Tournament, even though he is a huge contributor to the hospital and to Target House here in Memphis. He knows how much more money it would bring, but he still has yet to play. (Some may think this is a weak argument...)

"But Dawn, he's been such a great role model for young, black athletes." Really? Let's see, he has a horrible temper, and curses when he doesn't make a shot. He is a bad sport and a big baby. He yells, he doesn't sign autographs, he isn't that nice to children or fans on the course. Yes, he is a great golfer, likely the best, but he ought to be. His father groomed him to play golf and be a pro golfer by the time he could walk. He was born to be one of the world's best golfers. He didn't really have much of a childhood, it was consumed by golf.

"Still, Dawn, it's a shame that something like this has happened to an American icon." I disagree. We all make choices. He married arguably one of the most beautiful women in the world. If he wasn't ready to stop f-ing around, then he shouldn't have married her. Obviously, Elin doesn't sit on the side lines, and good for her. If the rumors about her are true, then perhaps Nike Golf should replace Tiger as a spokesperson with her. Perhaps the LPGA now has a new player. Seems she can really swing a club!

I know that given the right circumstances, almost everyone can be tempted to commit "transgressions," but a 31-month "transgression?" I don't think so. (of course, that is if one of his alleged 3 mistresses is telling the truth.)

So, chalk Tiger Woods up to one of the many, many people who cheat on their spouses. And it's not just men. Women are guilty of indiscretion, as well.

As a PR person, it's funny to me that his ridiculous statement posted on his web site turned the tables on the media to place blame. The same media who have put him on this pedestal and have made him the icon that he is. Just goest to show you the type of society we live in, and that one bad move in life and in the media will tarnish your image forever. And yes, my professional PR opinion, is that his image is tarnished. Actually, I think his true image is just now shining through.

Perhaps a little late for Thanksgiving, but...

2009-12-04T15:16:00.000-06:00

So hosting Thanksgiving while being pregnant isn't an easy task, but I did it. (with the help of my dear, sweet, very handy mother, of course.) I was especially proud this year because I made my first ever lemon meringue pie. I wanted it to be picture perfect, with a mile-high meringue. I didn't achieve that status, but I was pretty proud of it.

Might I add it also tasted quite yummy. It was a Paula Deen recipe, but I admit, I had trouble with the meringue. I envisioned the fluffy meringue to be 5 inches high, and I actually went through 3 different meringues before I got this one, but alas, I settled.

I soon realized that the big, tall meringues are probably made with about twice the amount of egg whites, and I only used 3 (so said Mother Deen's recipe.)

Oh well, it was tasty and everyone was stufed as Thanksgiving should be. I am thankful for my family and friends.

T-I-G-E-R-S......TIGERS!!!!!

2009-11-17T19:15:00.000-06:00

Hello my name is Dawn, and I hold a grudge...

Before I officially begin my post this evening, you should know something about me. I am a Memphis Tigers fan, and yes, Iam still a bit bitter. Okay, a LOT bitter. I started to title this post Snake Oil Salesman (a nod to our former coach John "never implicated in any wrongdoing" Calipari) but I want to move beyond the bitterness. I really do. My husband says it's not healthy. I even have had dreams about confronting him. I know, I know, I should have better things to think and dream about, but what can I say?

I'm going to use this post to get it out of my system, as probably one of the biggest games in Tiger history is happening less than 2 hours from now -- Memphis vs. Kansas. I don't want to get my hopes up, but I just want us to play decently.

OUR COACH IS HOTTER THAN YOURS (AND WELL, ANYONE'S)

Mainly, I want the Tigers to shine and the spotlight our new (and very hot, might I add) coach Josh Pastner. He's a 32-year-old coaching phenom, the second youngest coach in the NCAA right now. I want this season to not be about Cal. I want it to be about our players and Coach Pastner. The players that have endured the disappointment that Memphis had in April when Calipari left for Kentucky. And let's face it, Coach Pastner played for and coached under one of the greats, Lute Olson of Arizona.

While in high school, Pastner played and coached AAU ball in Texas. Yep, coached, as a player. Anyway, he walked on at Arizona, and didn't play too much, but coached the players and Olson hired him on as an assistant right out of college. Oh, by the way, he's also really smart. Did I mention he was smokin' hot?

Anyway, I want this season to be about the TIGERS and our coach. Not one man hogging the spotlight, selling us snake oil and making us drink the kool aid. (I've often compared Calipari to Jim Jones -- the cult leader who made his followers commit mass suicide by drinking kool aid. However, at least Jim Jones drank his own kool aid. Calipari tool off for a big-A house in Lexington. But, I digress...

Anyway, here's to the Tigers, and our city. And to Coach Pastner. Play on.

The Grotto's Not Just a Place at the Playboy Mansion

2009-11-17T18:48:00.000-06:00

So I knew it was a beautiful place-the grotto they call it. But let's face it, it is at the graveyard. When I think of grotto, my mind wanders to the Playboy mansion, with Playboy bunnies and Hef in his pajamas and smoking jacket, but I digress.

Anyway, we've been needing some new photos of our Toots McGee, and a friend of mine let me know about a photographer who is trying to get her business started-- Shannon Payne. Well, I am very pleased and I haven't even seen all of the photos yet.

http://shannonpaynephotography.blogspot.com

All in all, the session went great. He was dressed to the nines, looking like a Gap or Polo ad. Ridiculous. but so cute. Thanks, Shannon. We'll spread the word about your photos.

WTF w/ Lady GaGa?

2009-11-10T16:12:00.000-06:00

I've been following this Lady Gaga fascination for some time, and I have to finally ask the question... WTF?

I mean seriously, the lady never wears pants. Doesn't she get cold? Some might think she is a fashion genius, but honestly, she wears so much weirdness on her face.

Her music is ok, i get tired of hearing it EVERYWHERE, but her choices in fashion are just weird. She wears bird's nests on her face, and this photo has her face covered in lace.

Perhaps I am getting old. Maybe I am a fuddy duddy, but gees, her choices are just weird.

Perez Hilton, one of my favorite celeb bloggers, seems to be in love with her. He dressed up as her for Halloween, and yikes, it was a bit scary. But she is always scary to look at, so....

Ode to Pellet Ice

2009-11-10T16:09:00.001-06:00

Yes, you heard me, pellet ice. Recently, a very resourceful coworker of mine clued me in on the best ice machine on our campus--the pellet ice machine. Now, I know you are thinking that ice is ice is ice, but au contraire.

Pellet ice is like nectar of the gods (okay, perhaps a overstatement) but we truly love it 'round these parts. Trust me, the pellet ice is keeping me from eating everything in sight.

I wanted to pay tribute to this phenomenal ice creation, so here goes...

oh pellet ice
i love you so
crunchy texture
cold on my lips
a nice treat in the afternoon
wish you were in this building so i wouldn't have to walk to another

(so i never claimed to be a poet)

I wish I were Dawn Wells (Mary Ann from Gilligan's Island)

2009-07-17T13:48:00.000-05:00

Everyone likes her, right? You ask 10 men who they'd rather, and 9 men out of 10 will say Mary Ann over Ginger. It's a scientific fact. I am sure of it.

But let's face it. I am no Mary Ann, nor Ginger, and probably not even Lovie-- Mrs. Thurston Howell III. But I am Dawn Ray, deliverer of all things sunshine. okay, for those of you who don't do sarcasm, may not be the blog for you.

we'll see how this works. As my name--Dawn Ray-- suggests, i evoke sunshine. (note: sarcasm.) So, i intend to deliver said sunshine everywhere i go.

Better put on the spf