Nine min to go

Happy New Year

The Club

Frosty the Snowman

Well we've been reliving Christmas in our house and singing Christmas carols. Toddler O can fully recite "Santa Clause is Coming to Town". She can sing it "A" loud and "B" louder. She's also moved on to "Frosty the Snowman" which brings me to the funny moment. Instead of "Frosty" the snowman, she says, "Poppy the Snowman". Funny stuff.

Poppy the snowman
Was a holly jolly soul
With a corn-cob pipe and a button-nose
And two eyes made out of coal

The North Pole Express

"All aboard!" the conductor yelled stretching out the "O" for full effect.

All the kids boarded with parents in tow
The Trolard's last, but not late for the show

The North Pole our destination
with conductor as the guide
The train our transportation
Elves on the ride

We embark into the woods
as miles and miles go by
"were's Santa", kids scream
"I don't know", Mom's reply

Our coach slows down
and there with an elf
stands Mrs. Clause
and the big man himself

He came to our cabin
with elves close behind
"I want a race car", Oliver said
Santa speaks back, "I think that sounds fine".

Our wishes were logged
Milk and cookies were downed
The North Pole was reached
And our train turned around

The engine went, "chug a chug"
to take us back to the station
Kids and parents alike
Were filled with elation

We arrive back home
and can't believe what we've seen
Santa and his elves
Was this all just a dream?

I guess we'll know for sure
on Christmas day
Once St. Nick's made his rounds
and delivered toys from his sleigh

Three Times in Five Minutes

Toddler O has learned that Potty equals jellybeans. So now she takes every chance to go potty. Three times in the last five minutes. The last two times really didn't produce much more than a trickle. Hmm. Sounds like she understands math at an early age.

Trouble at School

Let me set the scene. This evening, Toddler O starting singing a song she made up.

It goes like this;

I sing a song about David
I sing a song about David
David is mean
David is bad
I sing a song about David
David is mean
David took my bowl

Not a song I like to hear, but I laughed inside.

You see, David (name changed for protecting his idenity) has been a little troublemaker in Toddler O's school. According to her he takes her toys and hides her stuff. Today O didn't get a jellybean because there was and "altercation" during circle time between she and David. If he's a mean kid, I guess I can't blame her. Sometimes you can take just so much, right?

That said, these are some of the days that I feared most as a dad. There is such a fine line between showing grace and forgivness, and not being a push-over. Though David has a history of trouble over the last few weeks, we aren't stupid enough to believe O is 100% innocent. After all she comes from two high-D (Dominance from the DISC test) parents. I'm sure she has her moments too. As the wise parents we are (tongue and cheek) we asked O to pray for David and forgive him and to let her be an example to him as a loving and kind person. And further instead of singing the "David is mean" song, we changed the words to "We prayed for David" la la la.

Hopefully we won't have much more trouble out of David and we can all be friends. I guess though this is merely a part of growing up for Toddler O. I just didn't know it started happening at two. Argh.

Incridebulls

They are the Incredibulls, but maybe we should call them the Incredi-Bills. In honor and memory of Bill Hammond, a group from Grandma Issa's school and Merrill Lynch have joined together to set up a Light the Night walk team in Jacksonville, Florida. What a great way to honor such a fighter as well as the many others who fight the horrible disease of leukemia or lymphoma.

If you are so inclined please visit the website for our team [link here], and if you are moved by the challenge that Bill has faced or maybe someone you know, please help our cause by donating to our team. I think it's pretty easy on the team site.

Thanks for all of your love and support.

Happy Halloween

We had too much candy! Toddler O, Hot Wife, and I, are suffering from sugar comas. Maybe a couple of days and lots of water will solve that.

In Memory of Cod

Sometimes all we are left with are memories, but at least no one can take that away...

Cod you inspired us with your fight and though things ended unlike we desired, we thank you for being with us until even your last of moments. Even when words wouldn't come out of your mouth no matter how hard you tried, thank you for speaking to Mom, Amy H, Hot Wife, me and all your friends. Thank you for the tear that fell from your eye. Thank you for sending Mr. Roy Clark and his book. You amazed us with God's surprises. Thank you for the bird at your memorial that hovered over the crowd to what seemed like forever as if to tell us all is well with you.

These things and more tell us that you are with us and won't leave us. And the rare time when I don't have words to express my heart, I must simply tell you thanks.

T-Tom This One's For You

Since you are a such a long-time visitor of Duff Stuff, we thought we'd say "hey"!

So from the whole gang; Hot Wife, Toddler O, and myself, "Hello from Duff Stuff".

No More Janky Christmas Cards: Call Today!!!

Ooops

Toddler O, pee'd on the potty. Yea right? Nope, she literally pee'd on the top of the potty -- she forgot to lift the seat. Argh!

Umbrellas, Potty, and Two-day School

It's been a while since I updated some pics. These aren't masterpieces but let you all know what we've been up to the last few weeks.

Toddler O learned to use an umbrella. And since it's a Dora umbrella, she thinks it should be used anytime... Rain or shine.

She's also learned to use the potty. She'll hate me for this picture one day, but it seems like a parents right of passage to show a pic like this. She doesn't know how to "feel" potty time yet, but if we stay on her, she doesn't have any accidents. Today she didn't mess up any panties! Woo Hoo!

Finally, Toddler O had her first day of two-day school at God's House. She loves it! While the other kidos were pining for their mommies, Toddler O just cruised on in to the room and started playing. The little rat has the confidence of a kid many times her age. She loved school so much that she cried when she had to leave. Argh! I guess it could be worse - she could have not liked it.

Night time prayers.

"Dear God take care of Mommy, not Daddy, 'Tacy, not Bert Bert, Dede, not Poppy, Issa, not Cod"

Toddler O's been praying this prayer for weeks now and we can't figure out why the guys are getting the short end of the stick so to speak. Doggone, I want some prayers too!

After weeks of the prayer, last night Hot Wife asked, "why do you not like praying for the men"?
Toddler O responded by wrinkling her nose, opening her mouth, and breathing in and out making an airy noise.

"Because they snore?", asked Hot Wife.

"Yes", confirmed Toddler O.

Again I ask... Where does she get this stuff?

WHERE DOES SHE GET THIS STUFF

Everyday there is something new that comes out of Toddler O's mouth and mind I should say as well. Several weeks ago we were having dinner with a group of friends. On the way home she kept talking about how she liked "little people" but not "big people". We figured out she was talking about children and adults. Since then she will say her prayers at night and thank God for Mommy, not Daddy, De De, not Poppy, Tacy, not Burt Burt, and so on and so forth. Well tonight she thanked God for little people not big people and "all my friends". After she was finished I asker Toddler O if someone had ever told her big people were bad. She said yes, and she named the culprits. Now I know she is only 2 but she does remember a lot and we have not been talking about these children in a while. So I then try to explain to her that big people are good, well most are. That is a hard task to explain to a 2 year old. It just amazes me at the influence othr children and adults already play in a person at such a young age.

Phoenix the Big Chicken

"I don't want to go to the Big Chicken", blurted Toddler O.

"What?", I said.

"The Big Chicken. I not want to go"

Confused but well within the bounds of a two-year-old's conversation, I said, "okay".

Well as it turns out the Big Chicken or Phoenix as it is formally know as, is the logo for the condo we stayed at for our beach trip, and at the bottom of the pool was a tile inlay of the logo. A logo which can be very scary to a youngster.

I digress.

The trip was great. We enjoyed the beach with the normal cast of characters; Poppy, Dede, Aunt 'Tacy, Burt Burt, Hot Wife, Toddler O, and yours truly. The first day we mostly enjoyed the on-site facilities. The lazy river was a hit with all and the beach was nice too. Toddler O wouldn't put her feet in the sand and was very concerned with the cleanliness of the beach. She eventually got over her fear of the sand somewhat and built a sand castle, but her fear of the ocean never waned.

The first night, just like every one to follow, we ate dinners out. We searched for the perfect fried shrimp and crab claws, but left disappointed except for Louisiana Lagniappe. Really most of the popular places down on the coast sell the same fare. Fried this, fried that, and a side salad for the healthy folks.

In addition to the relaxing use of the condo facilities, we did go fishing at "the bridge". The first trip peaked our taste for the big catch which was never to be satisfied. We saw thousands of Skipjacks or Slapjacks as I call them, hitting the water feeding on minnows. It was a truly amazing sight. An easy catch, right? Nope, they wouldn't touch our lures. However, if you are a skilled reeler, you can snag one. Poppy caught one in the butt!

Saturday afternoon, Tim and Devon came to visit. They are friends who moved from Birmingham to Mobile. Argh! We miss them. They drove three hours to visit us for about that same amount and had to cut the visit short because of a sick baby. Wow! What great friends to make such a commitment of travel for such a short visit. We are truly humbled by their kind gesture.

Beach, pool, golf, fishing, naps, food... That pretty much sums up our vacation.

So back to the Big Chicken. The last day we were there, Toddler O turned on the lazy river and opted for the baby pool. The only problem is that the baby pool is near the normal pool with the Big Chicken in it. In order to calm her fears of the Big Chicken, I suggested we name it. You know, lets put a name with a face, right. After much thought about many potential names, we settled on Phoenix. Which is coincidentally the name of the condo complex.

We're home now. It's nice to be home. Good to go, good to be back!

BEACH PICTURES LINKED BELOW

http://duffey.smugmug.com/gallery/4240497_zkPXk

The Mind of a Two-Year-Old

Coming back home from supper club... Lot's of adults, kids, food, et.al.

"Toddler O, do you like to play with your friends", Hot Wife asked?

"Yeah", responded O.

"Well who are your friends?"

"Morgan and Madison" (we were just at their house so they were fresh on her mind).

"Good who else?"

"I not know"

"How about Oliver and Ann Hampton?"

"Yeah, they my friends"

How about Ryan and Little Sam?"

"Yeah, they my friends"

"Okay, what about Mommy and Daddy?"

"They not my friends"

"What? Why are we your friends?"

"You big. I friends with little people"

"Oh, so you can't be friends with big people?"

"No, I friends with little people"

Ode to Being 30

The Big 3-0 brings lots of fun
and worth living it up a ton

Lets celebrate and have a big bash
Hey forget about that grey hair in your mustache!

Do we have a party and eat some cake
or do I make it special and have a weekend date?

To answer that question, I've been planning a while
since this day is about You, I had to go the extra mile

I sure hope the memories you will have made
will be special and fun for you always

I sure bet you now want a clue
for what you are going to do

Instead of driving in a car
becuase we have to go way too far

We will need a pilot to take us today
and go up in the sky and fly far away

you will so be boarding the lovely Southwest
and we will let them take care of the rest

get reado to go with your special lady
and 'Tacy and Burt Burt to...

VEGAS BABY!!!

- Hot Wife Duffey

Update: The Big Surprise

I'll have some updated content soon, but couldn't wait to post the pics.

The Big Surprise

First, I learned that the roulette wheel will take your thirty bucks more quickly than a walk from the front of the hotel to the back.

Second, a rib-eye steak and glass of Simi Cabernet is one of the best combination's ever.

Okay, okay, from the beginning...

Starting well before last Thursday, Hot Wife has been telling me that I had a big surprise for my 30th birthday. In the beginning, I thought she has me a new recliner. I've been needing one for a long time, and still do. Additionally, Hot Wife's a very practical gal and though a big ticket item, a recliner would fill be a useful item for years to come. Weeks leading up to last Thursday, I was thinking that Hot Wife had Golden Ticket Seats from The Rick and Bubba Show. Being confident that I had her figured out, I went to sleep early Thursday thinking that I'd need to wake up early the next morning.

Friday morning arrives and we woke up too late for Rick and Bubba. I played it cool and didn't pressure Hot Wife to disclose her agenda, but deep down inside I was eager to find out. She returns back from a quick workout and FINALLY fills me in on our plans. "We're going to the Marriot resort in Muscle Shoals" (Alabama), she told me. Awesome thought began to run through my mind.

"What's the spa menu?", I asked myself. "Oh, yeah. Where is the best spot to take a picture"? "Do you know how to get there", I blurted out.

"Yep, got it covered" she replied.

I was so pumped and couldn't wait to get a nice massage, a good meal or two, and a relaxing walk around what seemed to be some beautiful property.

We loaded the car to drop off Toddler O at the airport with Poppy and Dede. Why did this make since? Well of course, Poppy and Dede were taking the church organist to the airport and we were in a rush. Okay, okay! That sounds a little suspicious I thought, but they've done that before for the beloved church member so I'm all in.

We got to the airport parking lot saw Poppy and Dede and I was ready to make the exchange. I'm out of the car and Hot Wife tells me that, "the surprise isn't what I think it is".

All kind of things went through my mind, but one thing was evident to me, we weren't driving to our destination.

Hot Wife read a poem that ended in, "Vegas Baby!" with a sign held by Burt wearing an Elvis wig and sunglasses. We are off to Las Vegas with Burt and 'Tacy!

We loaded the car, went down the airport service road, and checked our bags. Five hours later, I was still surprised, but now we were in Vegas. We found a cabbie, rode ten minutes and arrived at the Monte Carlo resort and casino. Unfortunately, the cabbie forgot to put the car in park and almost hit the car in front of him. Oops!

The hotel was awesome!

But it gets better. "Room service" knocked on our door. Wow! They are on top of things to check on us and our room. "Room service" walked in and it wasn't "room service", it was our friends Tim and Devon!

Okay let me recap the events.

First surprise - trip to Marriot resort in Muscle Shoal's, Alabama

First surprise take two - trip to Las Vegas

Second surprise - Burt and 'Tacy are going to Vegas too

Third surprise - Tim and Devon disguised as room service arrive too

That's not the end, but all I can write about now. Remember... What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Just kidding! I'll follow up in a few days with the trip details. But for now, you just need to know that though back from the trip, I still feel surprised.

WAL-MART...

So I have decided to only go to Wal-Mart once a month to save money. You might say well they are the place for low prices, but I can save by not going every week. Well today was a day I had to take that dreaded trip to Wal-Mart and as always it was not a wonderful experience.
I was zipping along with a 2 year old in cart, sitting side-ways mind you, because she can't sit still for long, going down the paper tower isle. At the end of the isle were two employees and their buggy, which was in the middle of the isle. No one could get through. Maybe I am being taught wrong but customers always come first right, so do not put your buggy in the middle of the isle. Wait, it only gets better. So I pull up behind the buggy and wait, trying not to be rude, and after at least a minute, and I know he saw me, I ask kindly, may I move your buggy so I can get by.
Can I please tell you his reponse.... "If you had said please I would have moved it for you". Really?? I was so mad I did not know what to say or do for that matter. If you had said please, I mean come on people, no one should say that, much less an employee. So next time you go to Wal-Mart be respectful to the employees and by all means make sure they are taken care of!!

Birthday Week

OR SO HE THINKS I AM UP TO SOMETHING!! AM I REALLY????

Birthday Week

She's up to something.

Send One Up For Cod

There are six hundred or so readers of this blog every day. I love the opportunity you have given me to bring you the images and stories about my family, but today I want to use this blog as a tool.

As you have read, Cod has been undergoing numerous chemo-therapy treatments. I believe this is number four! As usual, though nothing is usual with this therapy, he has hit a low spot and is physically drained. Completely. Pray for his strength and courage. While you're at it, lift up Issa as she's been by his side from day one and stubbornly won't have it any other way. I know how stubborn she can be - before she became Issa, I called her Mom. It is just a part of her character to give every day especially when Cod can't.

Thanks a bunch ya'll!

Update

If we get two sets of Wonder Hangers do you think I can convert a closet into a home office or photography studio? I also must consider the value of the included Snap Light!

Love is in the Air

Doo bee doo bee dooooooo

Calling All Prayer Warriors

We arrived home last night from a visit with Grandma Issa and Bill aka Cod. Toddler O wowed them with her "ring around the rosie" and "London Bridge" skills.

In the past Cod and Issa have been great to come around the B'ham area knowing that it's tough to travel with a baby/toddler, but things have changed and Cod is undergoing a battle with leukemia and we've made the drive their way instead.

First considering he's already completed three rounds of powerful chemo-therapy, Cod looks awesome. Check out his new do. I think he has more of a Bruce Willis thing going on than Mr. Clean.

This weekend Cod didn't skip a beat and that means a lot with a two year-old running around! But this week he'll be going back to the hospital for another round (no. four) of chemo-therapy to keep him in remission.

I know that you all have been so loyal to me and my Hep C treatments and I am calling you all to continue your faithfulness for Bill. Like I said, he'll be in the hospital again this week. Please pray for his comfort. Trust me, Bill's much more comfortable with a driver in hand and a mile of grass in front of him than the four walls of a hospital room. Never the less, he is completely focused on beating the "beast" as he calls it. Also, pray for the doctors and his health to be restored soon.

Hopefully after this round of chemo, he'll be set up soon for a bone marrow transplant. If not soon, he might have to have yet another round of chemo.

We are proud of Cod and he's such an inspiration. A fighter is always inspirational because he does what others don't. He shows up against an enemy who at times seems greater than himself and yet in a foolish confidence continues on.

Where's My Refund

It's been over four months now since I submitted my State of Alabama Tax Return. Actually, I sent the form in February and Uncle Bubba (since Uncle Sam is taken) owes me a few thousand bucks. I consider it pretty nice that I've let them use MY money over the entire year. You would think I'd be first in line to get a refund. Nope!

I just checked the status of my refund and the message I got was, "Your refund was approved 5/29/2009. Refunds are issued from the Education Trust Fund as fund balances allow. Thank you for your patience and please be assured the ADOR is doing everything possible to expedite your refund's approval and issuance" What? Those crooks ain't got no money!

First I ask, what does the Education Trust Fund have to do with anything? Is that the same thing as the PACT fund that went bankrupt. Yeah. I "donated" to that "contract" too for my young daughter's education. Maybe they aren't related, but does it mean that the kids won't have books this year if their education fund is broke?

I am reminded of the classic Jerry Sienfeld episode at the car rental agency (below). So basically, they don't have a problem taking my money. Any government can TAKE my money. Alabama just has a problem returning it!

Size matters

It's warmed up and the rain has slowed and the garden is beginning to prosper. The beans and peas are starting to bloom while the corn has recently tasseled. The second planting of okra is germinating - a point that was never reached by the first planting - and the tomatoes are starting to produce green fruit. Then there is the squash and zucchini. We get new squash every day and the zucchini... Oh the zucchini... Well, hmmm, lets just say that it has grown to embarrassing proportions.

Dora Live

If I were to tell you that Dora Live was crazy awesome, I wouldn't be completely lying. The show was nice. Nice like bubble gum icecream. I don't like bubble gum icecream - it makes my teeth ache just thinking about it - but little tikes think it is the best thing in the world. Even thought the show wasn't made for an adult, trust me watching your daughter's reaction was to the show takes the cake.

Toddler O, the Dora fan, has been pretty pumped about Dora Live. If not anything else, her excitement was a result of the Dora Live Countdown Calendar that has been a fixture on her bookcase for the past month. And today was the big day, the one she's been waiting for, the grand poopa, the big cheese, the cat's meow. Yep, Dora Live time. All day O's been hyped up beyond her own ability to cope. I'd put her up against the post-raccoon bite Old Yeller as far as crazy goes.

All was not peachy though. Just before the show, in her craze of uncontrollably, O reared up her Dora car (designed not to pop-a-wheelie) and fell back on her head. Not a good start to the evening.

O recovered, and we trecked over the mountain to the BJCC (5 min from the hizzy - thank goodness). She was pretty reserved and I could tell that she was unsure about the events before us. Upon arrival, we got a souvineer Dora light wand, popcorn, and a few drinks and headed to our seats like a little family of Dora lemmings. In a sea of very happy kids and very sad kids, Toddler O kept a pretty even-keeled temper. She doesn't have this dispositoin often, but she clearly understands when she should act like a responsible little girl.

Our seats were awesome! We were so close to the stage, Dora herself could see us wave, clap, and stomp. I think Dora would have appreciated a little crowd interaction but O just sat there chewing on her tongue in a very pensive stare trying to savor every move of Dora, Diego, Tikko, Benny, Boots, and Swiper. Finally in the last act, O loosened up enough wiggle her hips and clap her hands a little.

That's the DL on the show. Now the Harry Reeder "Take Away"... What does one learn from Dora Live.

1. There is serious profits in consessions and souvineers. The Dora Light Wand was fifteen smack-a-roos! The stale popcorn was three-fifty - we got two - and a can of soft drink was two-fifty.


2. If you are a young girl (three to four years) you believe that showing Dora your program from your seat will help her find the way.


3. Too much happiness can lead to sadness. Like I said, O was very steady through out the entire night, but I noticed many kids who went from high to low in the blink of an eye.


4. Dora's crew can make even an adults clap like a Pentecostal worship service.

The Miracle Ticket

The Walk to Dora Live

Grandparents at souvenier stand.

Happy Dora fan with her light wand

Happy little girl

Dora Live is tomorrow. 'Nuf said.

All In One Day

Venezuelan Chaves says, "Comrad" referring to Pres. Obama's nationalization to General Motors. ARTICLE LINK

If that's not enough, Hussein Obama says that we are one of the largest muslim countries in the world. Try around 24th. That's okay I guess one can have goals right? ARTICLE LINK

Oh, but that's not all folks. Your highness is okay with Iran's neuclear expansion. "Hello McFly". These guys aren't our friends. ARTICLE HERE

That's just one day in liberalville. Wait maybe it's crazyville.

Anyway, thanks Matt Drudge for the layup.

I Don't Have Words For This

You know you're in trouble when you hear your middle name.

Cute little Livy-isms are getting so frequent around our house that I forget to blog about them. A few nights ago Toddler O and a number of our family members were eating dinner outside enjoying spring. We all had our grilled meats and veggies and O had her's too with the standard sippy cup of milk as well. O has recently gotten a habit of swishing her milk around in her mouth. I guess it makes that cool sound that only you can hear from the inside of your head. Anyway, some of her "swishing" milk got out and hit Hot Wife. Oops!

Why is it when parents get angry they call you by your WHOLE name? Given first name, middle, and last. No middle initial. Well, in classic parent fashion, Hot Wife began her discipline with... OLIVIA... ANN... and before she could get out the rest, Toddler O exclaimed "DUFFEEEEEY!" with the kind of exuberance you'd find from someone who thought they'd win something if they got it right. If you're a parent you understand the struggle not to laugh at events like this and Hot Wife kept her cool while the rest of us snickered.

Other than the wisecracks from Toddler O, things have been pretty steady lately. I have re-learned that pretending to feed Dora helps O eat her meals. This was a trick I thought we had graduated from months ago but it has returned and very handy.

I'm sure we'll have more -isms to write about next time.

They're Here... Finally

After weeks, no months, of waiting for a convenient yet dry day to take Toddler O's two-year portraits, we finally made it to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens to take a few snaps. I ended up with about 15 selects and boy am I pleased with the results!

SEE PORTRAITS... CLICK HERE

Have you ever tasted a great strawberry? One that is fresh off the vine. No. Really just off the vine. Toddler O, Hot Wife, Poppy, and Dede went to the strawberry patch to pick berries. The rules are you can eat all you can while picking. Toddler O ate about 20!

Bend But Don't Break

Hooray! Cod is home.

If you have been following us lately, we've been really concerned about Bill aka Cod and his battle with leukemia. Here's the facts folks:

• Cod was in the hospital for over 40 days which is a long time for anyone, but especially a guy who's used to being outside on a golf course.
• He endured two chemotherapy treatments. The first was unsuccessful, but the second one that we'll call "The Beast" put the leukemia in remission. Hence the title of the article, "bend but don't break". Cod's body was put to the test, but he didn't break!
• Cod had over a dozen blood transfusions and even more platelet transfusions.

There are many more facts that I could share, but I just don't know them. We are just so happy Cod is better and in his home. Thank you all for prayers! God listens and answers.

Cod, if you read this, we know you still have a long road ahead of you, but we're so proud of you strength and perserveriance.

The Farmer and The Duff

Have I blogged yet about wanting chickens in my backyard? If not, let me catch you up to speed. For months now, I've been talking to close friends and family about wanting to raise chickens for their fresh eggs. No roosters please, the cock-a-doodle-doo will surely wake the neighbors. Most thought I was joking, but Hot Wife knew that there was at least an ounce of seriousness which scared her.


Well apparently I'm not the only one interested in urban chicks. There is a whole movement as shown in the Kansas City . Com Article. The seed that was planted by Dr. Walsh may not be ready for harvest, but surely hasn't wasted away.

In the mean time, Hot Wife has found someone that was willing to barter fresh yard raised eggs for Arbonne products. I guess that's an okay solution.

New Pics

Congratulations Michael!

Pics here: http://duffey.smugmug.com/gallery/8169529_rj4Jm#533324960_eMiMc

Duffey Family Update

Pics here: http://duffey.smugmug.com/gallery/4240497_zkPXk#533331267_FCRbp

Monsoon Season in The Ham

Okay, so it's been raining. Rain does a lot. It brings nourishment to plants, quiches thirst, and gives little birds a nice place to play. However, lately little drops from heaven have fallen for three days straight. Instead of bringing life and fun to the little birdies, we've got a leak in our ceiling and a flooded garden. I should take pics, but trust me on this one.

Another casualty of the rain is Toddler O's two-year-old pictures. They were penciled in three weeks ago, but we got lazy, then two weeks ago, and we were out of town, and finally this past weekend, and the monsoon won.

We'll eventually get to the "official" two year pics, but for now, here's a few snaps from the last few days.

Veggie Tales II

Well, it's been a few weeks since my last post. Sorry folks, but things have been kind of crazy around here. Hot Wife is feeling noticably better now that she's on some roids to treat Aurther, the guy that keeps waking her up at night. Between stirring up some new real estate business and being the family man, I had some time thanks to Poppy to plant a garden. See previous post.

This morning, I stepped out into the cool brisk air to feed Herald and his buddies. Oops! I forgot to tell you about Herald.

[flashback]

Yesterday, Toddler O and I set up a worm farm to create black gold, aka worm poop for our houseplants and garden. I have had the idea to create a worm farm for a few weeks now and was on my way Friday to pick up some red wigglers from Walmart. I was talking to one of our best friends Megan when she told me to hold off. She knew a worm guy. Really, CIA herself knew a worm guy. Yep, she has a friend of a friend who met on facebook who knows the worm guy. So, I got his number and called him. I figure if you are the worm guy, you probably have better worms than Wal Mart's fishing variety.

ring, ring, ring.

Me, "hello this is Duff Stuff, are you the worm guy"

Worm Guy, "yep"

"Can I buy some of your worms?"

"Well they are kind of our employees right now since we specialize in selling what they produce"

"Ahh, well I'm a business man and completely understand. I'll just go back to Wally World and pick up some wigglers"

"No man, those just won't work as well"

And there it began, a thirty minute long conversation about worms. Worm Guy's dad even went to a worm convention a few months ago.

Anyway, after our conversation, Worm Guy ablidged and agreed to sell me 1/2 pound of high quality poop makers.

The next day, Toddler O and I went to meet Worm Guy and pick up the guys. O loved the idea of worms and the usually squeemish gal actually held one in her hand. Yep, the girl who eats with her hands, but can't stand to have them messy, picked up a worm. She named him or her, Herald. So we now have Herald and about 200 of his buddies eating up our scraps in the back yard.

Back from my flashback, I walked in the brisk morning air to see some of our sprouts coming up. I can clearly see something growning in the mounds we created for the zuchinni and squash. I scanned the other rows and think I see some other sprouts in the bean and pea family. Ahh, second that, it may just be debris from the storm last night. Argh! The tomatos look great and I think I even heard one of them ask when the worm poop will be ready.

Veggie Tales

Tomorrow's a big day. No, a huge day. Whatya thinking... new house, new baby, new job. Nope, nope, and nope. Okay how about you learned a new skill, Sam. Nope again.

Tomorrow is the day that we prepare the garden for planting. Yep our 10' x 10' turned 20' x 30' for good measure will be tilled and planted tomorrow. Any veggie requests out there? Be careful, your request may be a curse come harvest time.

Well, this isn't that inspirational of a post, but I guess I want to setup for following posts with the results.

However, speaking of inspiration. Scott M, on American Idol is a huge inspiration. Wow! I am truly amazed about his talent and grace on stage. Heck, I've got two working eyes and wouldn't have that much grace not to mention a horrendous voice.

Happy Birthday "Baby" O

I suppose a two year old is not a baby anymore. Well, O, you'll always be your mom's and my baby. That's just the way it is. Your mom is still her parents baby and I'm still my parent's baby. Consider it tradition.

Well, in typical family fashion we celebrated her birthday for the entire week. Starting with Cece, Duff, Cole, and Michael paying us a visit the weekend before the official big day. Then Burt Burt, Aunt 'Tacy, Poppy, and Dede joining us for a cookout on O's actual birthday. And finally, other friends and family joined us for the big bash that took place the following Saturday. Wow! That's a lot of celebrating.

This time instead of sending you a bunch of snapshots to thumb through, I've created a collage.

Also, those who are reading this, please pray, think, or whatever you do for Cod. He and Grandma Issa weren't able to make it to O's party. While we missed them much, it turns out that Cod needed to be at home in the most certain way. You see he is very sick right now and is fighting all he can to get back home. We love you Cod! Get well very soon!!!

The Best Things in Life are Free

Some of the best things happen unintentionally. I credit some of my most supportive and fulfilling relationships to a series of unintentional events.

It all started with a knock on the door to our new house. As first time homeowners we were painting, cleaning, as well as other general activities that make our home, "our home". We answered the door and there was someone we recognized, but didn't know. She was from our Sunday school class and was now presenting us with cheese soup and tortilla chips. It was probably not Amy's favorite combo, but boy I loved it.

Of course we were inspired by the kind gesture and followed up with them. They nonchalantly invited us to be with some of their other friends. I think it was dinner or something, probably Tazikis since we did spend just about every Friday evening there for at least a year.

It's funny to look back just a relatively short period of time. You see those Friday nights at Tazikis looked a whole lot different than it would today. There was just six of us. Yep, six adults who could have uninterrupted conversation. Wow! Uninterrupted conversation? What a great opportunity to begin some of the most meaningful relationships that we've ever had.

Today looks a whole lot different. Some of us have bigger houses. Some have two houses (not a vacation house though). We all have larger families. And most importantly, we all have a ton of memories that are the bonds that keep us connected.

I am inspired by the simple messages of life. You see at some point we should all realize that a stock portfolio doesn't entitle happiness, position doesn't earn respect, and just looking nice in front of others isn't considered good character. But there are some things like genuine and true and simple friendship that carry us for a lifetime. You see, you just can't create the kind of relationships that I speak of. The kind of friendship that I speak of only results from the presence of good times and bad times just like easy times and tough times. Those diverse circumstances offer opportunities to be supportiave and supported, to be fun and made fun of, or to carry and be carried.

Thank you friends, you know who you are. You are an inspiration and a gift. Won't it be fun to see what we look like in another five, ten, or even twenty years. Yikes!

Super Hottt Wife

Hey ya'll!

Hot Wife and I are cultured. Like you didn't know already, right?

For those of you who are scratching your heads with the previous statement, don't let the southern drawl, burps, or the occasionally confused synonym trick you - the Duffey's are a cultured bunch. This weekend Hot Wife and I had the wonderful opportunity to have a date night with the Trolard's, but for identity protection, we'll call them Computer Guy and Lightroom Lady. "Lightroom" being a program she uses for postproduction in the portraiture business that she and Computer Guy own.

I digress... Anyway, Hot Wife, Lightroom Lady, Computer Guy, and myself went to Sip's N Strokes for our date night. For those not familliar, I recommend you visit the link herein, but Sip's N Strokes is a great concept where you drink wine, beer, Coke (whatever your poison) and paint a picture with the help of an instructor. We began the night with a nice cheese and fruit tray. Hot Wife did an awesome job picking out the cheeses! The spread was great and Computer Guy and I ate about a pound of grapes. Argh! Hot Wife, Lightroom Lady, and Computer Guy drank Menage a Trois (great wine, bad name) while thanks to hepatitis, I drank near beer. In summary, we had a blast. No, no, we had more than a blast! We had so much fun, it has no name.

Anyway, we painted, painted, and painted some more, and the final result was.

Drum Roll!



Yes, yes, you can comment and tell us that we should quit our day jobs and persue a carreer in art. Ha!!!

Furthermore, the Duffey's continued the weekend with more artful intentions. One of the perks of my latest photography class, is individual studio time in a "real" photographer's studio. Ooooo! We'll I picked the hottest subject I could find (Hot Wife) and asked her if she'd kindly join me. She did. She was a good trooper since no one that I know is truly confortable in front of a camera. And guess what, if you are just starting in portraiture, you, the photographer, are probably not comforatble behind the camera either. As you can imagine that could make for a train wreck.

Well my instructor, we'll call her Cool Curly Red Hair, helped a ton and the results are great so far. Here's a quick example of Hot Wife strutting her stuff.



One word... Awesome!

So, Duffey = Culture; no matter what we do or might do to negate it.

Order Yours Today

I just ordered my first custom t-shirt from Custom Ink. Inspired by our mayor here's the sneak preview.




For you Birmingham folks who want to join my cause, I can order you one too. They are white and about $22 plus shipping. Just let me know.

Super Idiot

I have heard it all. Birmingham's mayor, Larry Langford, says that local banks are discriminating based on credit scores. Credit scores! What the heck? If the banks were doing more "discriminating" based on credit scores, we wouldn't be in this mess. What a idiot! No... Super idiot!

Photography Class Portrait

You know, being the family photographer, I rarely get images of myself. Thanks to my recent photography class where we took pictures of each other, I've got one to share. Maybe I should put it on my business card.

Don't Drink the Duffey Water!!

If you want to stay well do not come to our house and drink our water. Who knows what you might be diagnosed with. You all know how brave my husband is and you read about his journey of "the juice" to treat his Hep C. Unfortunately as you know, "the juice" did not work but he is trying some natural things we are excited about and we will keep you posted.
Well today I received the news that I have rhumatoid arthritis. I have been battling horrific joint pain over the last year and I went back to the Dr. the other day because of our sleepless Monday night filled with knee pain that kept me from walking. After more test I was told this afternoon of our great news. Many of you might say but you are too young for that. Well that is what I think too. But that is not what my cards dealt to me believe. I mean Satan leave the Duffeys alone!!! God is only making us stronger to fight you.
I try to make light of the situation, our water is not contaminated, but we are going to get a new filter for the BRITA just in case. Never the less, we would still love and appreciate your prayers.

My Stimulus Package

Sorry for the stiff political post today, but I have been disturbed by what is going on in our government these days.

Let me set the stage with a quick economics primer... In our economy, a very consumer driven economy, when a dollar is injected it has a multiplier effect. It is spent time and time again and beause we have very skilled workers and servicers that dollar's value is multiplied time and time again.

Well, that is the premesis for the government's stimulus plan. If they inject capital into our marketplace then it will have a return greater than the base amount. Hmm... Confused yet? Well, I agree with the theory, but don't forget that this is yours and my money that they are playing with here.

However, think of this... If the decision makers in Washington are so confident in the multiplier effect of capital into the market place, why aren't they interested in cutting taxes for everyone in the first place?

Answer... Control.

If taxes are cut, then you and I have control of how the money is spent (and multiplied). But, if our government get its hands on our taxed money, then they get to choose its destination to be spent. Hence, the ultimate big government control scheme, and the repbulicans and democrats are all guilty.

Now, to clear up my position about the stimulus... There is a portion of the stimulus bill that offers tax breaks and cuts. For this I am pleased that our government decision makers are not completely oblivious to the power of the peoples abilit to stimulate our economy.

I 'Tuck Mommy

Ok friends and family of the blogworld, I must share with you an experience that occurred this morning around 4 AM. Yes, we shouldl all be asleep but not in our house. You read the post that was written a few entries ago about the "big girl bed". Well O did super the first 2 weeks but now she is waking up many times a night. I really feel like I did when she was 8 weeks old, it is that bad. Well Stud the husband and I have been trying to brainstorm on how we can nip this in the bud. We started our process a few nights ago and I think it might be helping. Well last night was just a funny adventure. At 4 AM I hear this "pappy ( which is the paci) ere r u" several times so I go check out the situation. I walk into O's room and she is nowhere to be found. I say O where are you then I look down with sleepy eyes and I see half a person hanging out from under the big girl bed and this sweet little voice say "I 'tuck mommy". The poor thing was looking for her paci under her bed and yes she got stuck. She did not cry, but she was becoming a bit agitated as I tried to save her from her great location on the hardwood with toddler bed on the head. She was quite stuck because I could not pull her out, instead I had to lift the bed up and we had to work a little to get her out but we managed and she went back to sleep with no problem. I just had to share this story because not many things make you smile that early in the morning but hearing those sweet soft words "I 'tuck mommy" were just too comical for me not to share with you.

Shaving Update III: Recession Shaving

If you've followed the blog for a while, you understand my passion for a great shave. I first started blogging about it in January 2007 (HERE), and then again in February 2007 (HERE), and again in April 2007 (HERE). I absolutely love nice high quality shaving creams and soaps as well as using a double-edge safty razor.

Well... Our ecomomy is not quite in the best position that its been in for a while so, in that spirit, I've introduced recession shaving.

The safety razor stays, but instead of the small batch creams, I've switched to good old fashioned Noxema shave cream. $2.45 a bottle at CVS. A far cry from $10 Proraso and further from $20 Art of Shaving brand.

So what's the result?

Well, the shave isn't quite as close and definately not a comfortable, but "hey!" it gets the job done and a nice tingly feeling to boot.

You May Never Know Who or When

See more funny videos and Funny Videos at Today's Big Thing.

New Baby O Portraits

Click the image below for the rest.

DuffStuff Hits 2,631

Wow! A single-day record for DuffStuff. We had 2,631 visitors! I am amazed. Is it really that interesting?

Anyway, thanks for all your interest. You inspire me to keep the posts coming.

Grandma Issa Hits The Big Screen -- kind of...

We just got a call today that Grandma Issa was interviewed on a Jacksonville news station regarding her schools new Walk Across America program. At first I thought, "oh no, my Mom", "what did she say?" Well, all is well, you did great Mom!





Click on the picture below to see the video clip.

source: News 4 Jacksonville

Adults Shouldn't Sit on a Toddler Bed

Sorry ya'll it's been a while since the last post. We've been pretty busy lately. I have been working on a closing - praise the Lord, and we also had a conference at our church that took a lot of out time and preparation. All that is behind us now and life has calmed down somewhat. I will take more closings to work on though! Ha!

The lastest news in our castle is that Baby O has a new bed. Hot Wife and Dede found her last week hiking her leg over the rails of her crib after a nap last week. Not a good fall for a young child, right? So, the next day we purchased a toddler bed. Now please understand that I didn't know what a toddler bed was until last week, but it's a little mini-bed. So cute and pratical.

Now she can fall, but it's only about eight inches. She's done worse already!

Hot Wife still has chronic joint pain and no solutions. Her latest idea was that her body is too acidic so I bought some pH test strips. Do you know what you do with those things? Pee on them. I'm glad I'm a guy it's much easier if curisioty should catch your attention to know your pH. The test strips came back slightly elevated, but apparently not enough for concern. Back to the drawing board. Argh!

Like I said, I've been happily going nuts with a closing (see link to my business blog). Now I guess it's on to tax prep. Since I was not blessed with a bounty of harvest if you will, there is a silver-lining, and Mr. Tax Man ought to be pretty good to us this year. Yea for tax returns!

We don't know who did it, but it wasn't Hot Wife or PopPop

I Caught You A Delicious Trout -- On Your Birthday

Happy birthday Hot Wife, I went trout fishing. Wow! What a great wife, while on vacation (on her birthday) she didn't mind me waking up early to go trout fishing. Woo Hoo! (there you go Keeeiiiitttthhhh)

Bert Bert, Tacy, Pop Pop, and I did pretty will and ended up with about 50 or so rainbows. That pretty good catching for around four hours of fishing!

Back to Hot Wife's birthday. The highlight meal of the day was probably the Pancake Pantry. Even though she ate buckwheat pancakes, I think she really enjoyed them. Well, I take that back, the staff at Fudruckers did wish her AKA Nicky Babe a very happy birthday. Then Mrs. Brown Teeth, came by to say that she was sorry for embarrassing her. Hot Wife was a good sport and even let Bert Bert serenade her with the Rick and Bubba anniversary song, but birthday rendition.

So Long - Mahalo Nui Loa

The inventor of the Hawaiian shirt died. Alfred Shaheen pioneered the "aloha shirt" industry by turning it from a small local trade to a world-wide icon of pop culture. Really... Did I just say that?

Anyway, where would we be without this guy. Whether you think, hum, "that guy must be pretty confident wearing such a hideous shirt", or "wow, here comes the funny guy", our world would be less interesting without those crazy shirts.

Source: http://www.metro.co.uk/