Christmas Synopsis 2008

After all the worrying over how Christmas would play out, I am happy to report that all went smoothly, with only a few details differing from Christmas' past. We all traveled to Maryville, TN; the only difference was that Todd, Maria and Abby spent their nights with Uncle Ron and Aunt Susan rather than at Nana's. It was so wonderful to be able to celebrate Christmas in almost the same way we have for the last several years. I know I can't always expect that in the future, but having the opportunity to bring a little tradition back in to Nana's world made me feel good.

Per tradition, Maria and Abby read Santa's letter (to Abby) together first thing Christmas morning. Since Christmas 2002, I have concocted said "Santa letters" to Abby, despite both mine and Maria's inability to plan accordingly - meaning EVERY year there is a panic to find appropriate paper on which to compose the letter (all previous letters remain in the pillow pocket from year to year, so a deviant paper type would be suspect). Thus far we have muddled through, "Santa book fiasco" not withstanding.


Grammy being an excellent sport, putting Abby's new soccer ball to good use.


Abby on her new bike - which is apparently still a little too big for her. Fuzzpa says she needs another six months to grow into it. She did okay until a super spill left her with skinned knees and less than a desire to ride further.


A Glazener tradition: the group photo, taken on Christmas evening. The Graves' (mom's side of the family, Nana's maiden name) are notorious for closing their eyes at the most inopportune of times, but I think we captured a keeper this year! Not the most attractive photo of my dad, but I love that he went out of his way to try to get Bailey into the picture (even though Bailey appears to be in some kind of invisible straight jacket!) Zoe is absent due to stress-inducing beeps from mom's new digital camera. I have since figured out how to disable beeping from new camera. Yay for Zoe.



I hope Happy Holidays were had by all!!!

Houdini strikes again...

Bailey was up to his escape artist ways on Christmas Eve, not the first time he's made a dash for freedom in Winston-Salem. Thank goodness for my marathon-running brother and sister-in-law! This most recent stint of freedom was quite short-lived, but nerve-wracking as usual.

Maria and I were upstairs in the bonus room trying to gather presents for the trip to Nana's when suddenly I heard what sounded like dogs fighting. I knew Bailey was in the fenced back yard, but also knew he could've squeezed his way out. I looked at Maria and said, "Did you hear that?" and that's the last thing I remember before we were all outside: Maria in the lead, followed by Todd, and then me with the leash, shouting, "Bailey!" I was so shocked to hear that Bailey had been an aggressor, but delighted to find that the owners of the other dog were very friendly and not perturbed by Bailey's behavior.

The last thing I saw during the chase was Maria, sprinting after Bailey (in clogs no less) through the last yard in the cul-de-sac behind their house. Todd and I made a hard right to try to cut Bailey off at the pass, but as we realized we were blocked by a fence, one of the other dog owners yelled, "She's got him!"

After breathing a huge sigh of relief and thanking Maria for efficiently chasing him down, I wanted to give Bailey a lashing - which of course I never do.

I couldn't help but laugh (ONLY after retaining Bailey once again) when thinking of him fleeing from us. Calling for him makes him run faster, so I asked Maria how she finally cornered him. While I think he was somewhat distracted by something in his path, Maria said she looked at him and said (in her angriest voice possible - which by most standards is still pretty sweet), "Bailey, if you don't stop...I'm gonna..." and then she captured him.

Perhaps the most memorable thing about this particular "break" was Abby, who sat at the bottom of the stairs during the entire event spouting, "I didn't open any doors! I didn't! It's not my fault!" Gotta love her.

Thank you Todd and Maria for loving Bailey as much as I do!

Touchdown!

One of Sydney's newest tricks - if we say touchdown, she'll throw her hands up and grin from ear to ear. Apparently she's even uttered, "ta da!" almost like she's saying "touchdown!" herself.


So, since Sydney was born into a Tar Heel family, I think she must've been practicing for today's bowl game. The Heels are taking on West Virginia in the Meineke Car Care Bowl in Charlotte at 1 pm. I won't be there in person, but Todd, Maria and friends are sure to do enough on-site cheering for me!


I'm hoping Sydney will get to do several "touchdowns!" in response to actual Tar Heel touchdowns this afternoon! Go Heels!

My before and after do

There is no style to my hair, so I usually get away with one haircut per year - although that is not my intention. Meaning that every year I swear I will take better care of my hair (getting it trimmed regularly) and I never do. For shame.

Got my hair cut yesterday for the first time since the first week of June. I had three inches taken off, and I'm sure I still have some stray split ends. My hope is that if I revert to responsible hair trimming, and I keep my hair this length for a year or so, I can then start to grow my hair long again. That is, if that is want I want to do a year or so from now. Long hair is such a pain for those of us who must blow out, straighten and then curl our tresses...

Too short for designer denim?

Most of us are...

I am not tall, but I am also not short. In my stocking feet I am 5'6, so in most of my shoes I am at least 5'7 (I almost never wear heels). I prefer my jeans and pants a little long, so I've always purchased those categorized as "long." Pants labeled "regular" are always too short, even if I'm barefoot. This makes sense, as the average American woman is 5'4, according to the National Center for Health Statistics.

Too bad all of my favorite brands of jeans do not come in multiple lengths - most of them are at least 34 inches long, usually longer. So what is a barely above average height girl to do? Of course the natural suggestion is to have the jeans hemmed, but that prospect can be quite terrifying when one considers the price paid for the jeans in the first place.

For more than a year, I only wore my most favorite jeans when I could also pair them with 2+ inch heels, and I HATE wearing heels. I'm a tennis shoes/Keen wearing girl who absolutely lives in flip flops in the summer. (If you haven't guessed, I've managed to hold down jobs at uniquely casual establishments - otherwise I'd be spending my meager cash on suits/skirts/business wear rather than jeans!)

So a few weeks ago I finally entrusted a couple pairs of my beloved jeans to a tailor labeled "best in the triangle since 1985." I was blown away - they did a wonderful job, they were quick and they only charged $10 per pair of jeans! I've since had three additional pairs hemmed. Now the proud owner of five fabulous pairs of 33" jeans, I took some photos of my latest pair, picked up last night, to show the tailor's lovely handiwork. (Yes, they keep the original hem). Note: Color differences in photos are due to lighting and my camera



Below, I tried to capture the hem in detail. I won't say that it's impossible when looking at this photo to tell that the hem has been altered, but I can say I feel confident that when the jeans are on my body, no normal person is going to get a close enough look at my hem to see a difference. In addition, they drape perfectly!



The last photo shows the hem as sewn from the inside of the jeans. I haven't studied exactly how they do it. As so accurately described by my friend Cristy, I just do my best to show them what I want, I sign the ticket and hope (a lot!) for the best. I've been super-pleased with their work thus far and will go back (still one more pair of jeans with a 35" hemline to go).



For locals, the tailor I used is Lee's Tailors at the Streets at Southpoint Mall in Durham. I recommend their services with the highest confidence!

For you dog walkers out there

Unfortunately this item is truly named "Doggie Doo Bag Dispenser," which is by no means a cool name. But, I must say, I am a big fan of the item none-the-less. Hook conveniently attaches to leash or belt loop.



The bag refills are biodegradable (set of 3 bag rolls, 15 bags per roll for $2.99), which is worth it to me as I usually dispose of two poops per dog, per day. Available at World Market.

Quote of the day

"A gift is pure when it is given from the heart to the right person at the right time and at the right place, and when we expect nothing in return."

-Bhagavad Gita


Kind of like a hug from Abby to Bailey!

Quote of the day

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole."

-Roger Caras

Hot Dog!

Not really...

Anyone who's been to my house knows that my heat is never set above 63º in the winter. Zoe usually snuggles up in one of the many fleece blankets lying around, but whenever I turn on the space heater she is front and center, practically pressed against the vent. After a while she's always hotter than hades to the touch, but she doesn't budge.

If you look closely, you can see that her hair is blowing in the heat breeze.

Alma mater snapshots

On Saturday I had errands to run on Franklin Street, and just as I turned on Cameron Avenue to make my way home, I realized I had my camera and that I've been meaning to get some campus shots. So I turned around, parked in the exact same spot I'd been in and made my way towards the Old Well. I should mention that although I still remain clueless as to the campus events of the day, Franklin Street was packed. Johnny T-shirt was beyond annoying, and there were tons of people everywhere, especially at the Old Well. This became particularly annoying since it was one of the places I most desired to photograph.


I'm lucky I managed to get the photos posted here. (I used the poster edges filter in photoshop on the Old Well photos. The filter somewhat disguises my camera's lack of sophistication). There was a group of women loitering about that made me want to punch someone. I'm sure they weren't trying to be annoying, but they stood smack dab in the middle of the Old Well/South Building photo op area forever. Wouldn't budge. Gave directions to passersby - still right in my way - yes I know they were being helpful and I just wanted to take a photo, but it was freezing and all I wanted was ONE photo without people or cars in it! (White van in photo #2 couldn't be helped, it was parked there). I even tried to trespass on construction sites to gain access to fire escapes - no dice.



Next is the Silent Sam Civil War Monument. This monument was erected in 1913 as a monument to the 321 alumni of the University who died in the Civil War and all students who joined the Confederate Army. I also photographed the dedication, found on the left side of the monument.




The bench photographed in Sunday's post can be found alongside another in front of the South Building at McCorkle Place.



Although it was freezing, it was absolutely lovely - the perfect time of day in winter - around 3:15-4:30 pm. My time there reminded me that I live too close to campus to not spend more time there.

Celebrating three years

My dearest friend's first born, Felton, turned three on Thursday, so Kerry and Robert hosted family and a few friends to celebrate on Saturday. I particularly loved Felton's "trekkie" way of showing everyone how old he is.



The delicious orange marmalade layer cake was hand-crafted by none other than Kerry's mom, Mary, and Kerry herself. It was quite tasty and a hit with the kids.

Below you will find Felton blowing out his candles. As Mary commented, he was quite efficient. One quick strong blow and those candles were out!



I was ecstatic to see both Bestama and the newest addition to Kerry's family, Cooper James Petruzzi (second son of Kerry's sister Robin). He's a hefty boy at 2 1/2 months, supercute and behaved like an angel while I held him. Erik (also supercute) was animated as always, and Sydney was showing off walking and crawling up and down the stairs (something that after a few laps Kerry grows quite tired of!) It was a wonderful afternoon, but the Burleighs have two more birthdays yet to go this month: Sydney turns 1-year-old on December 26th and Robert's birthday is on the 30th. Hoorah!

Quote of the day

"It is better to think of laughter than tears, for laughter is the heart of a man."

-Karleton D.B. Fyfe



I took this photo while on UNC campus Saturday because I really liked the quote. I had no idea who Karleton D.B. Fyfe was. I've since done a little backgrounding, which left me sobbing.

Fyfe was one of six UNC alumni killed on September 11th. He was a passenger on American Airlines flight 11 - the first of two planes to crash into the World Trade Center.

I watched those planes crash into the WTC - practically live. My dearest friend lived in NY at the time and I couldn't reach her. I sat glued to the television all day, speechless, desperate for any new details.

But to this day I can't begin to fathom what a passenger on any of those planes was feeling. I've tortured myself, watching United 93 numerous times, hoping beyond hope that somehow the movie ends differently upon the next viewing. It never does.

Only chosen by their travel schedules, I've always tried to block out the personal details of those on the fateful flights that day. This one blind-sided me. What I read made me weep. So, while he's unknown to me, I will be sure to raise my next glass in honor of Karleton.

Santa Bailey

Last night, I saw a photo of a friend's dog with a santa hat on, and it reminded me of this photo of Bailey from 2004. At the time, I really couldn't believe how long he allowed that santa hat to remain on his head! Anyhow, even before these photos were taken, I had somehow gotten the song "Santa Baby" in my head that year, so I made up my own lyrics for Bailey and sang them to him with annoying frequency (could not get them out of my head!) Annoying to me, that is, as Bailey seemed to love the attention.

The little ditty went something like this:

"Santa Bailey, I'll slip a bone right under the tree, for you.
You've been an awful good boy.
Santa Bailey, I'll hurry down to walk you tonight!

Santa Bailey, I've maybe got a smoked pig ear, too, for you.
A milk-bone might be near,
Santa Bailey, I'll hurry down to pet you tonight!

Think of all the people you've kissed,
Think of all the butts you've sniffed,
Next year you'll be just as good,
If I check off your Christmas list..."

Repeat above, over and over...

All wrapped up...at least partially...

For the last 4 or 5 years, I've been a champ at early Christmas shopping and wrapping. (The early shopping is always necessary when you live paycheck to paycheck!) I've also realized I've probably got enough wrapping paper to last me until 2012 (yes, this accurately indicates that I am not the favorite gift giver). Anyway, my early wrapping reveals that I am remotely less stressed than most regarding holiday shopping. Or, one could say it is my embarrassing display of those gifts I am unable to give! (Truly, I do realize that whining is reprehensible, as there are far less fortunate folks out there).

Honestly, with or without gifts, what I really want this year is to spend Christmas with my Nana. We always have, but she's been ill and there are wrenches flying through all of our plans. I just hope I get to spend Christmas morning with her!

As promised...

My regular blog readers might remember my reference to Sydney's "True Traceyness" in this photo from my December 4th post.

My photo (pictured right), taken the summer of 1999, immediately came to mind when I saw Sydney's "grrrr," although I am fully aware that Sydney's "grrrr" is cute, while mine is just scary. Case in point, my new nickname at work is Slash.

I would not normally openly display such a psychotic photo of myself, but as I told a few co-workers yesterday, this photo proves a couple of things that many have a hard time believing:

1. Yes, my hair is extremely curly - kinky curly, can't tame it without major effort crazy.

2. Yes, my hair is naturally extremely dark - almost black - I did not choose "ultra dark" on my own - genetics did that for me.

Those of you who knew me way back in the day (more importantly, those who also knew Brian) might recall any number of reasons why my face is so contorted, although I'm pretty sure on this occasion that the "Grrrr!" was completely in fun.

Quote of the day

"When I speak of home, I speak of the place where – in default of a better – those I love are gathered together; and if that place were a gypsy’s tent, or a barn, I should call it by the same good name notwithstanding."

-Charles Dickens

Busy, yet fabulously fun weekend

Brogan hosted our annual Christmas party on Friday night at the Page Walker Arts and History Center in downtown Cary. As usual, the night included dinner, drinks, personalized awards and entertainment. I thoroughly enjoyed (probably to excess) the pomegranate martinis, provided by the pitcher. Wow, they were yummy and potent, and put a bit of a damper on my Saturday schedule...

So the entertainment was Wii and karaoke. I really don't know if a single EHP employee got to play Wii, but then again I was quite tipsy. I had no plans to croon for anyone, but the martinis made me do it. Jen and I made fools of ourselves first, then Joseph joined us in trying to sing along to Mmm bop. Not only is that song ridiculous, but trying to sing along with blurred vision and impaired vocal skills is beyond ridiculous.

I'm lucky Jeni and Mark dragged me out the door soon after! Photo of me with the lovely Kimberly below. She is terribly missed from our daily EHP lives!



Next photo of my dear Jen. That is, Jennifer Garner. I love telling people I work with Jennifer Garner. Hee!



So, as I mentioned earlier, the martini effects kept me from sticking to my planned travel schedule on Saturday. No real harm done, I made it to Charlotte in time to visit with Cristy and Will before heading out for a night that proved to be quite the crazy one. Evidence below, depicted in the photo of a very intoxicated Cristy and myself.

Fun was had by all - I was set up with one of Will's co-workers, and another couple joined us as well - Mary and Michael - all some of the nicest, most hilarious people I've had the pleasure of spending time with.

Again, as repeatedly noted, my camera is TRUE DOOKIE, so I didn't get many photos. Cristy's camera holds the true steep digression of the evening, as we all indulged a bit too much!

I vaguely remember having an indepth discussion with our homeward bound cab driver about Reykjavik, Iceland. Pretty sure I was more surprised at my ability to discuss actual historical landmarks and cultural references than the fact that Reykjavik came up in conversation.



Couldn't help but photograph the sign below. What a beaut.

Paper Moon, Paper Life

I recently checked out Tatum O'Neal's biography, "A Paper Life" at the Durham County Library. While I knew the book would be an empty read (something like a trashy novel), I must admit being intrigued. Apparently, little Tatum was the youngest Oscar winner (at least as of the 1974 Academy Awards), and the movie (in which she co-starred with her father, Ryan O'Neal) lead her to a life of success, then ruin, then redemption. Although I included this post in my "book reviews" category, I've thus far only read up to page 87. If I like the book, I will post an actual review.

Before checking out the book, I had no idea that Tatum O'Neal won an Oscar, that she was formerly married to John McEnroe, or that she was in any way associated with Farrah Fawcett. Yes, I'd heard the name, but didn't care anything about her until I knew her as Maggie on "Rescue Me," where she is fabulous.

I must say, I am seriously considering renting "Paper Moon" at this point. Should one of the few who read this blog have an opinion of the film, please share.

Until I am further along, I remain irritated that she didn't write the book herself (some woman named Elisa Petrini interpreted her ramblings into a manuscript). However, I find the historical references believable enough to want to read further. Even if it is a piece of trash, I can't deny being entertained. Isn't that the point?

Pink Bear shoot...less than picture perfect

At the end of each month, Kerry takes a photo of Sydney with her pink bear (hand-made by the fabulous Bestama) to represent Sydney's growth. It was time for Sydney's 11-month photo and Kerry's camera was on the fritz, so she asked me to come over with mine. (Sadly, as previously mentioned repeatedly, my camera is really a piece of dookie).

By the time I got there last night, Sydney wasn't the happiest camper and Felton wanted to help, so long as he didn't have to stay out of the spotlight. Not the best combination, but I like the photos I've posted here.




One of the photos of Felton with Sydney


I LOVE this last photo - Sydney is showing her true "Traceyness" here. This was taken over the Thanksgiving holiday at Robert's parent's house in Florida. I have a similar photo of myself (although I was much older at the time and not in Florida or Robert's parent's house) that I will do my best to find, scan and post asap. Love that Sydney GRRRRR!!!

Sherpani Zoe wallet

A gift from the fabulous Maria, my Zoe wallet has become an essential part of my life. It’s my itty-bitty mini-purse that I carry in my purse. So fabulous when I’m out and about and don’t want to lug my “whole purse” in with me on an errand.


Large enough for numerous credit cards (several of which I need to rid my life of), it also includes a clear pocket for a driver’s license/ID, zippered change pocket, strap for a cell phone or other device, and of course, standard cash wallet pocket. Even at capacity, the wallet expands enough to fit other items. For example, my Real Simple card wheel will zip into this wallet for shopping trips. Size, (which must be of the CLOSED wallet) as described on web retailer sites: 5.75" x 4.5" x .75"



I suppose I should also mention that I’m a carabiner clip freak - I’ve kept my keys on one for the last 3-4 years, as it’s the only way I can prevent myself from losing my mind. Case in point, the carabiner clip easily clips onto the shoulder cord of the Zoe wallet (as well as my purses). The point is that I can easily pare down to Zoe and still have a place to hook my keys (for those days I’m not wearing jeans with belt loops – although those aren’t many!)

There have been a few online reviews published that complain of Zoe zipper difficulty. Of course I can't attest to every Zoe wallet out there, but I have had ZERO problems with mine, and I am not particularly kind to mine either. So, I suppose subjectivity could be a factor. Regardless, I hold true to my high recommendation of the Zoe wallet!

Last of the birthday celebrations

The Carolina Designer Craftsmen Fine Craft and Design Show has taken place over Thanksgiving weekend for the last several years, which has been convenient because it brings my parents to my neck of the woods to also celebrate my birthday. The parents are always making their way out of town on Sunday night, and while many restaurants are not opened for dinner on Sundays, one of our favorites is: Panzanella. We've met there for at least the last three years, if not more. Great food, nice atmosphere, good service, highly recommended.

First photo is none other than myself and the lovely parents, taken at dinner last night.


The second takes a bit of explanation, and may still be a mystery to some. Marsha Heatwole is an artist with whom my parents have become acquainted over the years. I have a few of her works in my house, and I had her do a personalized piece for my dad a few years ago, which I was quite pleased with. My dad saw this piece at this year's show and recognized the breed/animal right away, but still asked Marsha about it. When she said it was an Elkhound, he immediately bought it for me (for Bailey)! I love it. Still have to find a place for it that is extra special.


The last two photos are related to a serious blast from the past. The "ABC" outfit was mine as a toddler, and my mom fished it out at my Nana's house a while back for Sydney. Mom brought it to me last night, and I must say, I can't believe I ever fit into that getup, despite the photo below of me wearing it.



If I'm able to get this outfit on Sydney and get a photo, it will be posted here. We'll see!