Let this day end!

Today has to be one of the worst days ever. As VP of Communications for my neighborhood association, I was put in front of a Ch. 11 camera yesterday. At the end of the interview, I felt I had done a good job in communicating the position of the association, but what aired on the 6 p.m. news was so edited. The message I was attempting to convey was missing and I was really disappointed!

KHOU placed the story on their website after it aired. Last night and today I've been called a despicable woman, a mean old nasty wench, an Albatross to the human race, an old hag, bitter, the epitome of what is wrong with this country, a bully, petty, and a liberal. I finally had to quite looking because it was so depressing. Life isn't always fair.

Today I'm creating a ticket brochure for the same neighborhood association that I defended yesterday and am getting beat up about now. And the man who started all the commotion called me this afternoon. Really?

A fabulous party at my client's office

Ready for tonight's party celebrating the Chinese New Year. 

I am beyond exhausted tonight, primarily due to the pro-bono work I've been working on for the past several days. It was completed this afternoon, I hope.

I completed my pro-bono work just in time to coordinate a party at my client's office. When organizing these events, I'm always afraid that no one will attend. Although the party was from 5:30-7:30 p.m. today, at 5:25 p.m. when not many people were there I was freaking out. Literally. But by 6 p.m., the place was packed.

Today I'm creating too many things to mention. I'm hoping that the rest of the week will be slower, although I doubt that will really happen.

Happy Anniversary, Mr. B

It was a cool, crisp morning 19 years ago when I married Mr. B. We had a lovely Episcopal church wedding and a really fun reception at Brennan's with about 150 friends and family. Dr. Mc was my 15-year-old attendant and Mr. B's older brother Gary came from Virginia to serve as  his best man. Sweetness was the flower girl and Zac Duran (who married the Saturday after Thanksgiving last year) served as ring bearer. My Goddaughter Madame (a.k.a. Ashley) attended the guest book. I eloped the first time I married, so I was excited that Daddy walked me down the isle when I married Mr. B. Mother had a stroke about two months before the wedding. She was determined to walk down the aisle, and she did with Daddy's help.

During the reception Mitzie got Dr. Mc and her two friends, Katie and Melinda, drunk on champagne. (These three ladies have all been part of each other's weddings during the past five year.) When Mr. B and I went into the dressing room to change clothes after the reception, I tried to convince him to have a "quickie." Apparently Dr. Mc and her friends weren't the only ones who had too much champagne at the reception!

Today I'm creating revisions and more revisions to an announcement. Having a committee of seven or so people making edits is a copywriter's nightmare. I'm signing off the computer for the rest of the evening so I can celebrate with my sweet husband.

A comfy nest

A couple of years ago it snowed in Houston,
and it may happen again this coming week.

Whoa. All the weather forecasters are predicting snow in Houston on Tuesday. And not just some here and there flakes, but an accumulation of three-to-five inches of snow. If this comes to be, the city will once again shut down. I would really hate that because Mr. B and I have plans for our anniversary that don't include driving downtown in snow.

Just in case it does snow on Tuesday, I guess I should create Plan B for our anniversary evening. There's always a bottle or so of champagne in the wine cooler, but what to do about dinner. Mr. B's favorite meal I cook is probably a Beef Bourguignon. It takes two days to prepare so I'm pretty sure that my schedule tomorrow will include a trip to the grocery store, just to be on the safe side.

Today I'm creating nothing. I did get dressed today, but watched movies all day and played on my computer.

An anniversary weekend

Happy wedding anniversary to me
from Mr. B (Jan. 28, 1995)

I don't know what Hallmark or etiquette books recommend as a 19th wedding anniversary gift, but in the Pettit household it's red boots with off-white embroidery. Look at these beauties in the pic-of-the-day. Mr. B was giving me all sorts of suggestions about how I could wear the boots (pants tucked, pants untucked, same with jeans, jean skirt), but what he forgot to mention was long tunic and tights. Cool!

When the lovely McCarley sisters were young, they would sleep with their new shoes. I may have to do the same with my FABULOUS new boots.

Today I'm reviewing a website, editing a newsletter, and working on an invitation for an upcoming non-profit fundraiser. And I'm doing it all in my new boots. Sweet!

A "snow" day

I'm staying in the house today because it's too cold
in my craft area (above the garage) to punch tin.

It's really cold in Texas. In Houston the temperature will remain below freezing most of the day. Just an hour north in Huntsville it snowed last night. This morning, when he was trying to leave for work, it took Mr. B about 15 minutes to defrost the ice off his windshield. Brrrrrr!

All the cold weather resulted in local news channels remaining on the air with live coverage, which is one of my pet peeves. There's nothing more boring than the desk anchors cutting to the same three bundled-up field reporters for hour. To quote former Olympic skater Nancy Kerrigan after she was whacked on knee, "Why? Why?"

Today I'm creating something warm for dinner. I could really go for some vegetarian chili. But since it's now meatless Monday, maybe turkey chili. Mr. B will like that better. Oh, and cornbread!

Calm

In New Braunsfels last weekend, I found wonderful tins recycle into jewelry.

It's good and bad that the neighborhood I live in within Houston-city limits – Houston Heights – is growing and changing. Good because of its improvements and property value increases. Bad because changes and growth can bring about conflict, such as is the case with a situation I've been monitoring for the past couple of months. Today everything came to a head, although I'm sure not a positive conclusion.

The short version of a long story reads like this. An older gentleman in the community, who is a tireless volunteer but has a reputation for doing things his way, stepped outside the policies and procedures of the neighborhood association. What he handmade for the community was good, but how he went about it and the results of his actions were bad. The neighborhood association, which is governed by non-profit as well as governmental rules and regulations, has policies and procedures that must be followed. When the gentleman disregards policies and procedures, the neighborhood association's hands are tied about what they must do. Of course the gentleman's feelings and pride are hurt. And when a community newspaper publishes an article, the situation only worsens. 

Today I'm creating a magazine ad for a client. Remember the song, "Why Can't We Be Friends?" It's ironic that the tune was recorded by War!

What the … ?

It feels like Christmas was a million years ago,
instead of just a few weeks ago?

I've received emails this morning about two different topics, where the explanation was basically "that's the way we've always done it." Really? I love tradition and consistency as much as anyone. For example, I'd never wear all white or black to a wedding, or intentionally walk under a ladder or end a sentence with a preposition. But I've found that sometimes common sense, desire, a different time, need, etc., outweigh "that's the way we've always done it." It's like Thanksgiving. If Mr. B and I don't like eating turkey and dressing at noon, then why should we continue doing that just because that's the way it was done when we were kids?

Speaking of food, I'm watching The Chew, as I do almost everyday during lunch. Michael Symon is cooking short ribs in a slow cooker, which is what I did for our Christmas Eve dinner this year. So yummy! I want to run to the grocery store and buy short ribs to throw in the slow cooker. Unfortunately, fatty short ribs don't fall into the category of healthy eating. Especially when I can't always follow the rule of portion control.

Today I'm creating havoc and potentially moving some people's cheese, if you know that book. Regardless of the outcome, people should consider all the options available to them.

A busy day

My first ever photo bomb. 

It was one of those days when I couldn't answer emails as fast as they were coming in. WOW! To calm my nerves at the end of the day, I'd love to have a margarita, but am fighting the urge. Too many calories and I'm trying to have a healthier lifestyle. Plus, once a have a margarita I'll start craving unhealthy food.

I'm working on an upcoming event where there are five women on the executive committee. It was amazing to everyone that the committee had been running so smoothly for several months. No one could believe that five "A" type females could agree on so much. Put the brakes on! Last night's review of something I sent around caused some tense back and forth emails, and the same thing happened today on another topic I circulated for review. So far I'm just smiling, compiling comments, and moving forward with the decision of the majority.

Today I'm creating a press release, responding to tons of emails, and making plans for an event next Wednesday. Tomorrow will be a day of jewelry making while I put aside what's going on in the rest of the world.

Ladies who lunch

High school friends (sorry to those on the right who had
the light from a window on their faces).

Mr. B drove me to New Braunfels yesterday so I could attend a high school reunion lunch today. For those of you who know I went to high school at Spring Woods in Spring Branch ISD, you might wonder why we have a reunion in New Braunfels. Well, it's because that's where the planners are located.

Mr. B went to the San Marcus outlets while I was at lunch and catching up with people. I told him to be back at 1 p.m., but the lunch went on until almost 2:30 p.m. So much chattering, we couldn't finish in just two hour. Then I saw Mr. B sitting outside the private room we were in, eating lunch at the bar. I asked our waiter to "give the handsome man at the end of the bar a glass of Merlot." Several women heard me and thought I was picking up a man.  Big laugh!

Today I'm creating time with high school friends. I really enjoyed myself. One woman I went to high school with just bought a house in Santa Fe about two blocks away from the our casita. How fun is that!

Congratulations to Mayor Parker and Kathy Hubbard

We're all too fair for sunning!

I was excited to read that Houston's Mayor Parker and her longtime partner Kathy Hubbard were married in San Francisco today. I'm not sure how the Big Guy upstairs feels about same-sex marriages, but I'm always happy when people in love are able to be together. It was even more exciting to read that Father Paul Fromberg – who was at Christ Church Cathedral and later St. Andrews in Houston – married the couple. And more joy. Friends Judge Steve Kirkland and his partner Mark Parthie were attendants at the wedding.

I had lunch with Mitzie today, which is always fun and uplifting. She and her family have just returned from celebrating her husband's 60th birthday in Cabo. I doubt that we'll ever go to Cabo or Hawaii. Mr. B, the lovely McCarley sister, #1 son-in-law Nick and I are just too fair to spend any time in the sun.

Today I'm creating revisions to an invitation. I have got to get my printer working with my main computer. After all these years as a writer, I need to have printouts of emails to remember what I'm supposed to be doing. Having an electronic calendar just doesn't work for me.

In rapid pace

It was cool all day today and the feral kitties never left
their warm and cozy spot on the front-porch bench.

Let's see. Where was I. Oh, yeah. I'm not sure I like the direction my aging body is taking. I ate tuna with a splash of mayo for lunch and had heartburn an hour later. What's up with that? Don't even get me started on how I can't remember anything. Anything!

And what about my hair? Growing out my hair, I'm at that terrible place where it looks crappy everyday, not matter what I do. Today I didn't know what to do with the front. At the end of the day when I looked in the mirror, I realized what I had done to the front of my hair looked like a bad comb over. So not attractive.

Today I'm creating revisions to an ad for a client. I'm also creating an invitation and other items for the Houston Heights Spring Home & Garden Tour.

Time for the critics

'Nuf said!

I'm anxiously waiting for the entertainment shows to hear the comments about the Golden Globe Awards fashions. My least favorite dress might have been worn by Julia Roberts. It looked like she put on a white shirt underneath a strapless black gown. Not a fan of the look!

Another one of my favorite dresses from last night (besides the one worn by Kate Blanchett) was the one worn by Lupita Nyong'o. The color of her dress against her skin was so beautiful. Just beautiful!

Today I'm creating jewelry. I have received tons on tins that are perfect for making Valentine's Day earrings. I also have a couple that might work for western wear. People will be getting ready for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo! Tin and turquoise or coral. Perfect!

Thanks for all the tins

Since the holidays, I've received lots of tins from friends and family. So many new tins that I haven't seen before. Love it! Thanks to those who think of me and save their tins.

I just finished watching the Golden Globe Awards. By far my favorite dress was worn by Kate Blanchett. She looked magnificent! I loved the softness of most of the dress. Some dresses seemed to be inspired by Downton Abbey. I watched the Golden Globe Awards in a horizontal position in pajama bottoms, a t-shirt and a oversized sweater. Kate might have looked better, but I bet I was more comfortable.

Today I'm creating time for two meetings and a nap. The second part of the day (two naps) was just my kind of afternoon!

Movie time

Mr. B likes nothing better than spending the day watching classic movies which is what we did today.

Unfortunately the day didn't start so well for the man of the house. On this way to have breakfast with his buddy, Keith, Mr. B discovered a flat tire on his beloved Lexus. Hours later he discovered that his spare was rotten. Eight hundred dollars later, he has new tires.

Today I'm creating a self performed mani/pedi. Somethings

are best left to the professionals.

Movie night

My Tuesday client presented movie night to a crowd of 50-60 people. We had the usual popcorn and concession candy, plus wine. In addition, since the movie was set in Manhattan, the speciality cocktail for the evening was Manhattans. Yes, I love a good theme! Who knew I would like Manhattans – made with rye whiskey – so much. They were yummy.

A rare moment of the furry Pettit girls living (sleeping) harmoniously.

Tomorrow is an off day for me. I don't think I have anything planned, which is nice. I have some house cleaning that should take priority.

Today I'm creating talking points for Sunday. Although my schedule is clear for Saturday, it's another story for Sunday. I have to present and speak for 10 minutes. For someone who likes to talk as much as I do, limiting myself to 10 minutes could be difficult.

Computer solutions

I got a wifi range extender today. The router is downstairs and my office computer is upstairs above the garage. The connection upstairs is terrible, so I'm hoping this will do the trick.

While I was out, I also got some new nail polish. I may have been living in the past thinking that, since my skin is so far, I shouldn't wear dark polishes. But I really like the two I got. OPI "Got the Blues for Red" might be on my toes tomorrow.

Today I'm creating registration for a new computer class. There was a time when I was really good at desktop publishing, but the software I used is so out of date. Maybe you can teach an old dog new tricks.

Spreadsheets

The handsome and well dressed.

It's one thing not to remove the outdoor Christmas Lights from your home. It's something else to keep turning them on. One of the houses on our block is guilty of both offenses.

Mr. B and I had a dinner date tonight. We went to Zelko Bistro. Yum!

Today I'm creating spreadsheets to help a client plan for advertising and sponsorship donations, based on 2013 results. This makes me realize how much I need to take an Excel class so I don't have to call Mr. B and ask him how-to questions.

Time to breathe

It was happening this morning at the company meeting.

My busy day is over and everything went well. I didn't see any missteps. Plus, I got home in time to organize for my volunteer meeting that started at 6:30 p.m.

I wasn't as happy with my volunteer meeting. People didn't step up like I hoped they would to fill positions. That means I have to call and beg. Ugh!

Today I'm creating a shopping list for the Friday night event I'm coordinating for a client. Since I didn't sleep last night, I'm hoping that I'll be able to shut down and close me eyes at a reasonable hour tonight.

Layering

Fun book!

Tomorrow is the big event. I have to be dressed and looking professional at The Houstonian by 8 a.m. to ensure everything is ready. The morning meeting will be for 65 people and three guest speakers and then the afternoon is filled with spa services for 45 or so. I'm looking forward to my mani/pedi.

Mr. B came home sick today. That doesn't happen but maybe every other year, if that often. Although I'm sorry he isn't feeling well, I'm glad he was home to help me put together a professional looking outfit to wear tomorrow. I wear casual or cocktail clothes these days, so finding something (in style) that fits the bill for business attire is difficult.

Today I'm creating final plans for the event tomorrow. Someone left a book on my desk, without a card. I hope it was intended as a gift for me because it's now in my library.

What to wear. What to wear.

Can't wait!

I haven't had a sleepless night in several months, until last night. I went into the TV room to find a dull movie to watch so I would fall asleep on the couch. Not even that worked. I did find a movie to watch – "Just Cause" – but I couldn't stop watching it. I was still awake at 7 a.m. when the morning shows came on.

In "Just Cause" (1995), a Harvard professor (Sean Connery) is lured back into the courtroom after 25 years to take the case of a young black man (Blaire Underwood) condemned to death for the horrific murder of a child. Laurence Fishburne was the sheriff, Kate Capshaw was Sean Connery's wife (weird age difference). And there were actors in the movie who weren't really famous in 1995 (Ed Harris and a young Scarlett Johansson). The cast included lots of other well known actors (Ruby Dee, Daniel J. Travanti, Ned Beatty, Kevin McCarthy, Hope Lange, Chris Sarandon, George Plimpton), yet I don't remember the movie. I also don't recommend the movie. I had the plot figured out fairly soon. But Ed Harris was terrific in his small, pivotal part. 

Today I'm creating plans for the coming week. It's going to be busy so I need to be prepared. My only dilemma is what to wear all week. It's going to be cold. 

A Productive Day

With a small bit of welding and lots of
scraping, the baker's rack will look great.

We didn't stay out too late last night, celebrating Dr. Mc's birthday. We were at D&T Drive Inn, which is an ice house in the Heights. It's owned by the same people who have Down House. Lots of beer, a few bottles of wine and set ups, plus a very limited menu. Their pimento cheese was terrific! It's not something I would normally order, but #1 son-in-law suggested it and the man knows his cheeses.

Today I met friend Sandy to talk about the Houston Heights Association's 2014 Spring Home & Garden Tour. I'm working on the auction and also coordinating the marketing materials. Later today I walked around 19th Street some. The man who owns the salvage yard was open, which only happens about two or three times a year. I had to walk around and see what new treasurers he had stuffed into the old burned out building space. Low and behold. A wonderful old wrought iron baker's rack was there. It only needs minimal repairs and some scrapping so Mr. B and I got it for the kitchen. After he cleans it up, it's going to look fabulous!

Today I'm creating spreadsheets and notes for the upcoming auction. I have lots of work to do so it will be fresh and enjoyable.

Happy Birthday, Dr. Mc!

Happy birthday Kenderella. 

Yes, time flies! Thirty-four years ago today Kendall Elyse McCarley (a.k.a. Dr. Mc) was born. I'm not old enough to have a 34-year-old daughter.

I've been working on an event for 65-70 people. Guests were invited to have spa services after the morning meeting and lunch. I've had 10-15 people email me wanting to change something or add something. The meeting is this coming Tuesday. I told everyone that the deadline was noon yesterday. Noon yesterday!

Today I'm creating a timeline for an event that takes place in April. That's complete and now I'm concentrating on Dr. Mc's birthday.

Happy New Year!

Mr. B and Roz bringing me black-eyed peas.

It has been a quiet day at the Pettit house in Houston. How we wish we were in Santa Fe, but that wasn't to be this year.

This isn't how I planned to spend New Year's Day … in bed. My shingles are more painful this time than the first time around. I need to find a comfy spot on either my left or right side. Those spots don't last long before I'm flipping.

Today I'm creating a day of rest. Mr. B worked several hours and then came home to make us black-eyed peas. I'm ready for a new day. A new year of better health.