Figley Family

I'll Stand Up For You

2009-09-09T22:47:00.007-04:00

There's a lot of outrage these days when it comes to politicians, cable news, talk radio, and protesters. I have watched efforts to get these guys off the air or shut these people up. Please remember that for one side to be free, the other side must also be free.

Every issue has a multitude of ways it can be viewed. My life experiences have led me to view things from a unique perspective. Your life experiences may have brought you in at a different angle, but both are valuable enough that neither should be extinguished.

We may never find common ground outside of being fellow citizens. But citizens of this great United States of America. Our country is the envy of the oppressed that cannot speak out, cannot write freely, and cannot protest openly. We cannot allow ourselves to become haters of opposing views and haters of dissent. We are better than that.

Here are some of the best quotes I’ve found on the subject:

The only valid censorship of ideas is the right of people not to listen. ~Tommy Smothers

Censorship reflects society's lack of confidence in itself. It is a hallmark of an authoritarian regime. ~Potter Stewart

Think for yourselves and let others enjoy the privilege to do so, too. ~Voltaire

I am thankful for all the complaining I hear about our government because it means we have freedom of speech. ~Nancie J. Carmody

The peculiar evil of silencing the expression of an opinion is, that it is robbing the human race; posterity as well as the existing generation; those who dissent from the opinion, still more than those who hold it. If the opinion is right, they are deprived of the opportunity of exchanging error for truth: if wrong, they lose, what is almost as great a benefit, the clearer perception and livelier impression of truth, produced by its collision with error. ~John Stuart Mill, On Liberty, 1859

To reject the word is to reject the human search. ~Max Lerner, 1953, on book purging

Wherever they burn books they will also, in the end, burn human beings. ~Heinrich Heine, Almansor, 1823

Every burned book enlightens the world. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

The test of democracy is freedom of criticism. ~David Ben-Gurion

If all mankind minus one were of one opinion, mankind would be no more justified in silencing that one person than he, if he had the power, would be justified in silencing mankind. ~John Stuart Mill, On Liberty, 1859

To limit the press is to insult a nation; to prohibit reading of certain books is to declare the inhabitants to be either fools or slaves. ~Claude-Adrien Helvétius

We are not afraid to entrust the American people with unpleasant facts, foreign ideas, alien philosophies, and competitive values. For a nation that is afraid to let its people judge the truth and falsehood in an open market is a nation that is afraid of its people. ~John F. Kennedy

God forbid that any book should be banned. The practice is as indefensible as infanticide. ~Rebecca West

If we don't believe in freedom of expression for people we despise, we don't believe in it at all. ~Noam Chomsky

I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it. ~Voltaire

Meandering

2009-08-02T21:41:00.012-04:00

Somewhere between Atlantic City and Park City, UT sits the little town of Cambridge City, IN. Starting out just south of home, my friend Cindy and I head east on Rt. 40, making our way down the National Road to this little city.

It’s my favorite way to spend a beautiful Saturday. This road takes you past small town America in action. Yard sales, tractors, cows, ball fields and clothes lines all stretched out for miles. The sights along the way instill a feeling of joining forces with a different style of living. Spending the day on Route 40 is therapeutic for me in a way I can’t quite explain.

Not a serious antique hunter, I am in love with the little shops along the way of one of the earliest highway projects in the United States.

Walking down Main Street in small town USA, I can remember walking downtown in my own little hometown as a child. I can remember pausing at store windows and feeling a nostalgia I didn’t understand then either. My antique store affection comes more from those childhood memories than any serious search for matching Waterford glasses and decanter set. My love is for the plundering. Spending the night at my grandmother’s house always included plundering a drawer or two in her bedroom, a cabinet with my Aunt Brenda’s old dolls or going through those old books on the shelf. Those nights filled me with appreciation for small treasures and anticipation of finding something that was once meaningful in someone’s daily life. It helped me understand that something doesn’t have to be valuable to be valuable.
.

On the trip I touched items from a different time, like the vintage baby bonnet from 1832. And some not quite vintage items like a Starsky and Hutch lunchbox. There were rusty old tools, glassware in every color, and rustic tables. I found several scales (my favorite) with chipped paint, wooden bowls and pre-prohibition barrels.

These shops are testament to the adage that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.

All this pillaging leaves one ready for lunch and this old trail doesn’t disappoint. The Hilltop just above Cambridge City offers a “walk up to order” window for the best burgers around. Sitting on the bench facing the road, waiting for the hand patted burger to cook, is just another treat the day has to offer. Sipping a vanilla coke-another favorite-and eating without feeling rushed at the old stone picnic tables, makes for some much needed time off your feet. There is something small town café’s and eateries offer that you can’t satisfy at McDonalds, Applebee’s or Olive Garden.

Enjoying the wares of one antique store my friend states; “I would love to have lived back then, wouldn’t you?” “No” I reply, “I like cell phones and microwaves.” And indoor plumbing for that matter, but there is something about the ancient that makes my soul feel at home. There is some connection or joy my heart feels among all these items from another era.

It’s the simplicity of a different period. It’s the opportunity to walk down the street with a friend and feel like you are steeling away a few moments in Mayberry. The calm of the pace, the friendliness of the townsfolk…it's a darling way to unwind your mind.

*some photos were found via google search and not the property of any Figley

The Beauty of it All

2009-07-12T21:50:00.009-04:00

My annual visit to the beach reminds me of many life lessons:

The rhythm of the tides reminds me that there is a time of giving plenty and time for retreat.

Wait with patience; the ocean must deliver that beautiful shell to the shore.

You really don’t need a lot of things. You can spend an entire day with just a towel

and sunglasses.

Creating memories will last longer than any gift I can give my children.

There are a lot of lessons being at the beach can teach us, but this year, family watching was especially sweet to me. The beauty of the ocean is obvious but I found so much beauty in the people around me. They were all very different, but all so beautiful. And I believe there were life lessons in seeing them all.

The elderly couple out boogie boarding with each other-no grandkids in sight-beautiful

The five year old boy trying for an hour to get the skim board to do what his older brother's did-beautiful

Hearing the grandparents of a divorced daughter telling their grandson that “no matter what your daddy does, he’s still your daddy”-beautiful

The father from NY trying to get that one perfect picture of his sons and taking 100 pictures in the attempt-beautiful

The long haired guy sitting alone just looking out into the ocean-beautiful

The young girls with perfect bodies-beautiful

The old gals in bikinis-beautiful

The young couple with twin babies sleeping under the umbrella-beautiful

The thirteen year old boy who wouldn’t take his shirt off-beautiful

The bunch, just over 21, singing karaoke-beautiful

The baby who tried shaking, wiping and rubbing, but couldn’t get the sand off his hand; the confused look on his face-beautiful

The little boy who looked back at the ocean in disgust when it swept away his sand castle-beautiful

Such simple moments, yet they were all beautiful beyond just seeing them. We live in a wonderful world, with wonderful people. We are all in different stages, and we all come in different modes and models, but it is all beautiful.

Dell Stole my Money!

2009-06-22T14:51:00.003-04:00

Customer Service is the second most important thing a business can have. (Quality, pertinant products/service #1) Dear Every Business in the World….if I am spending my ever fleeting time and spending my hard earned dollar on your product/service; appreciate that effort.

Recently (Friday) Emily notices her laptop adaptor is not working. I log on to Bestbuy.com to see if they carry one to replace it. They offer a universal adaptor for about 78 bucks. Thinking perhaps it would be better for the computer if we use the adaptor from that brand (Dell) I check their website before driving all the way out to Best Buy. Dell has the adaptor for $65.99.
Great!
With the non-working adaptor in hand, I verify the numbers/type are correct (don’t want to mistakenly order the wrong thing…you’d never believe the variety of adaptors that exist!) Got it! I proceed with the order, placing said adaptor in my virtual shopping cart. Hmmmmm, shipping and handling….Express/overnight delivery? Just know I justified in my mind the $23.99 S&H because, well, Emily is my baby girl and if I can give it to her I do.
Send!
Within minutes I receive an email from Dell to “acknowledge” my order number 784144226.
About an hour later-another email to “confirm” my order number 784144226.

But wait. Estimated delivery date of June 25th? Standard shipping would have gotten it there by that date. I just paid an extra $23.99 to get it before the standard 5 day delivery.

I call Dell Customer Service. After going through the automated responses, half of which they could not understand my response; I am connected to a rep. I explain my question. “I just placed an order and selected express/overnight delivery, yet my confirmation email estimates a delivery date of six days.” Yes, let me connect you with someone who can help. (?) Second rep-you know the kind-ah, they’ve transferred me to India. Now I have nothing against any group of people-but God it’s frustrating when you can’t understand someone due to their accent-perhaps they feel the same way about me (I am from KY you know) I repeat my concern. This rep (I think) explains that picking the order, possible assembly, etc are all factored in and the express/overnight part is counted from the moment it leaves the warehouse. I don’t like this (I paid extra!) but how can you arguer with that? Fair enough. I’ll wait.

Saturday morning I am dashing through my to-do list for the day. One more item-check bank statement online-and I am done. Next up-lounge pool side. Wait what’s this? Under pending charges: $96.28 charge from Dell at 12:39pm (okay) and $96.28 charge at 1:38pm (huh?) I call customer service.

I explain the problem three times to three people before they forward me to “a rep that can assist me”. Once to my fourth person, I recite the customer ID number (an eight digit number I can repeat with looking at this point). The line goes dead. Hello? Damn. I call back. Same routine as five minutes before-they hang up-I call back. Fourth person-third try-“Please don’t hang up on me!” I explain my dilemma-I request the second (mistaken) order be deleted and my $96.28 refunded. Sorry-you must wait and when you receive the adaptor we will arrange a return.

What is your name?
Shanks Hall.
Let me speak to your supervisor please.
No one else can resolve this any differently.
I know you have a boss-let me speak with them please.
I’m sorry Madame-it is the weekend. No supervisors here.
Then you are in charge? Then YOU fix this. It is YOUR mistake-not mine.
We don’t try to blame the customer, but adaptor was ordered.
You’re saying this is MY error? MY mistake?
Well, Madame, why would company like Dell, do this?
Then why did I not receive an acknowledgement email, or confirmation email for a second order? You really think I would mistakenly log back on to your website and order the exact same adaptor and pay ANOTHER $23.99 for express shipping-an HOUR LATER?
We would be glad to arrange a return once you have received the merchandise.
(this exchange has been shortened to protect the weak and faint of heart. It was NOT pleasant)

Unbelievable!

Fast forward to Sunday. I am really upset over this. I was so very careful about placing the order, ensuring that I had the right product. How did this happen? Perhaps I should get the order number, purchase ID number and verify what email address the acknowledgement and confirmation emails went to for this “mistaken” order. I call Dell customer service. Blah, blah, blah, here’s my customer ID number-call ends. Yes, they hung up, disconnected the call, let me down. I call back. Blah, blah, blah…can you give me the order number? Got it. Can you tell me when and to what email the order acknowledgement and confirmation was sent? They don’t have access to those records!
Whatever-I hang up.

I am at their mercy. I have resigned myself to the fact that Dell is NOT, regardless of all the information I have provided, going to expedite the refund. Shameful!

Today (Monday) at 1:05pm FedEX rings the doorbell and I answer the door to two boxes. Great. I bring the boxes in, select the one with the tracking number provided in the email for the adaptor I order and call Dell to arrange a return for the “mistaken” adaptor.
I am put on hold so the rep can “review the details of the order”. I am certain he is reading Indian curse words about the crazy woman who claims she only ordered one adaptor.

Returning to my call, the rep will send a shipping label to my email address…let me verify he says…m-a-d-r-f-i-g-@aol.com? No, m-a-“T” as in Tom-r-f-i-g-@aol.com. Yes, he says, m as in mike-a as in alpha-d as in Dome-r as in…no,no,no I interrupt…T as in TOM. Yes, D as in Dome….yes I say. Now, when you receive this shipping label, you will need to take the package to the nearest UPS store and drop off. Once we receive the merchandise, we will refund the amount within 31 days.

Great, I tell him. What’s the use in arguing anymore?

My summary is this: Dell stole $96.28 from my account WITHOUT my authorization and WITHOUT sending me an acknowledgement, confirmation, verification or acceptance.
When I called Customer Service; immediately after noticing this, they blamed ME for the mistake. I am assured that most refunds do not take the full 31 days…but Dell has now had MY money for 3 days too long.

$96.28 isn’t the end of the world-but it’s the entire principle of the thing. Imagine if I had ordered that laptop that Mark needs for work….how much of a banking error would THAT have been?

I will purchase another laptop this year. It will NOT be a Dell. Anyone of you who may be in the market for a computer (or even a computer accessory) please BEWARE.

Customer Service is EVERYTHING.

Maybe

2009-06-03T22:30:00.002-04:00

One of the first words kids learn is No. No! becomes the favorite of many a two year old, three year old…sixteen year old. The word No (followed closely by Why) is a tool that children use to fix their mistakes, and hide their fears…and can be fighting words for us Mothers.

The tables turn however when children start asking questions of their own.
I have been thinking a lot about my own use of the word No with my kids. “Mom, can we eat out tonight”? No! “Mom, can I take the car?” No! “Mom, can we have ice cream for dinner?” No! This list could go on and on. No has always been the most comfortable answer to most any question that comes out of the mouth of my children. This has been true whether they’ve been 2 or 21.

No means they are eating a healthy diet, No means they are safe at home. No means they are not spending my money, hanging out with friends that could negatively influence them, or other general disasters that only a Mother can dream up.

The most difficult word for me is Yes. Yes comes with worry. Yes comes with responsibility and unfamiliar territory. Yes means loosening control with unknown consequences. Yes means nervous tics, jagged fingernails and wearing a path in the carpet from miles of floor pacing. Yes equals risks.

Mom, can I have the car tonight? Mom, can I drive to Cincinnati? Mom, can I go camping in Arkansas? Mom, can I go canoeing with these 6 people you’ve never met, but you trust my judgment of character and driving ability to get there safely, we’re spending the night camping with nothing between me and the outdoors other than paper thin tent walls, with no sleeping bag, and oh, by the way my cell phone may not work since we will be in the middle of the woods, where by the way, no one would ever hear me scream for help if I needed them!?

Indeed, I struggle with Yes. I have to laugh at myself because in all reality, if my kids were all at home, reading a stimulating novel in their rooms, I would be at my happiest. You want to meet interesting people? Go read Stargirl. You want excitement? Pick up a copy of Holes. You stay safely tucked inside and leave Huck Finn to drift down the river.

Friends have calmed me, reasoned with me, and bought me drinks, after Yes has won its battle. The thing is, I know that saying Yes is more important than saying No. Saying Yes broadens their experience and creates memories that will last them a lifetime.

From the first time I gently unwrapped their hand from my finger and let them take their first step, I was saying Yes. Running along side them and finally letting go of the bicycle seat, as they pedaled along on their own, risking a skinned knee, I was saying Yes.

These are the small steps that prepare us to say Yes to the bigger things in life.
I doubt Yes will ever come without the “what ifs” that play through this Mother's mind.
I doubt I will ever be completely comfortable having my children roaming this earth without their hand tucked safely in mine. But I will listen with excitement, and relief, as they retell their adventures from the protection of the four walls of our home.

The Bow

2009-04-28T13:34:00.003-04:00

Mother’s are the ultimate animal in defending her child’s safety and well being. Moms know in their heart that their child is special, deserving and unique. We love our children unconditionally. Peppered with occasional disappointment or distress; Motherhood enables us to see these beings through the sometimes distorted lens of our hearts. The love a mother holds for her children is infinite, unrestricted, unrestrained and boundless. Mothers are proud of the very existence of their child.
My children awe me in too many ways to count. Looking beyond the natural love I feel, there are so many reasons for me to be proud, have respect, value, approve of and LIKE them as people. As I have devoted my life to teaching them, they have taught me so much. So today, the blog is devoted to my children and just some of the reasons they are loved.

10 Things I Love About My Kids

They don’t discriminate
The kids learned many lessons growing up as Army Brats. Their most valuable gain is their
ability to truly accept all people with an open heart. They get to know people rather than
make assumptions based on stereotypes. I absolutely love looking at their groups of friends
and seeing such diversity. They don’t seem to notice, but it is quite amazing. I admire them
in untold measure for this.

They have energy
How do you get up at 5am for work, and then hit the gym for a work-out on your way
home? How does one stay up until 4am then get up and to work by 9:00? How do you leave
for school at 6:30 am, return home at 9:30pm and still make time for homework, studying
and a boyfriend? Living life to the fullest takes the advantage of youth. Ah! to tap in to a
fraction of that excitement for life.

They speak their mind
This one can be a double edged sword. As a Mom, it hasn’t always been easy to have
opinionated kids. It is important to know when to hold your tongue, but sharing thoughts
and opinions helps us understand each other a little deeper. Who among us doesn’t want to
be heard?

They give me advice
Do these jeans make my butt look big? What do you think about this situation? My kids
provide a fresh, youthful outlook on so many things. I recently asked what they thought
about me going with a super short haircut. Emily informed me that “Cutting your hair short
won’t make you look fat; it will make you look fatter”. Ouch! Don’t ask if you don’t want
honesty, right?

They laugh
One of my favorite days ever was spent with Emily running errands and going to the mall.
She spent the day “in character” of someone I’d never met. She didn’t utter a single word in
her own voice that day and I’d never laughed so much. The silliness of their skits in the
living room, their quick wit and ability to appreciate the absurd makes for a life of laughter.
Never a group to take ourselves too seriously, laughter and joy abound!

They vote
Well, only two officially, but with an election year just behind us and a new President in
office, my kids have stayed informed and involved. It is exciting for me to see them excited
about our democracy and watch them navigate their way through the process. People in
history have been imprisoned and even died for them to exercise their right. I’m thankful
they don’t take it for granted.

They are compassionate
I always thought if I could just instill compassion in my kids, they would be well equipped for
functioning in the world. Our entire existence is based on relationships. From our family, to
friends, co-workers, and all of humanity as a whole; we must function as just one player on a
team of billions. My children’s ability to feel another person’s pain, embarrassment, sorrow,
frustration, or concern is awe inspiring.

They believe they can
Self doubt can derail the deepest dream. Doubt will hold you back from trying out for that
solo, keep you from getting that job, or stop you from beginning a new adventure. I’ve
watched with pride as Lyn has changed a headlight on her car, replace a broken doorknob,
and even audition for a TV show. I’ve seen Nate overcome overwhelming odds and come out
a winner, and Emily put herself out there for the world to see. I love that my kids, risking
failure, still try.

They trust their gut
When something doesn’t feel right, it is our built in defense system, steering us in a better
direction. A person who just doesn’t sit right with you, a nagging feeling that there is a better
answer to a dilemma, a drive to take a turn that is different from what the rest of the crowd
is taking…I respect my kids for listening to these things and taking heed.

They are stubborn
This is probably the most frustrating thing about my children, yet I stand in awe of their
ability to stand firm on their beliefs. They are not so inflexible it makes them unable to
consider other points of view, quite the opposite. However, when they believe they are right,
they will defend their position with fervor unmatched by any resolve I may feel.

Further reading…in the book The Prophet, the following premise has offered valuable
guidance in living with teens.

On Children

Kahlil Gibran

Your children are not your children.

They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.

They come through you but not from you,

And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts,

For they have their own thoughts.

You may house their bodies but not their souls,

For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,

which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.

You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you.

For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children

as living arrows are sent forth.

The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,

and He bends you with His might that His arrows may go swift and far.

Let our bending in the archer's hand be for gladness;

For even as He loves the arrow that flies,

so He loves also the bow that is stable

Flowers are the earth's Amen!

2009-03-27T16:54:00.011-04:00

With a few warm days behind us, my mind drifts into a field of flowers as I anticipate spring. Today while driving down the road, I spotted a small blanket of wild violets creeping along the floor of a wooded area. My heart jumped with joy! I love flowers; it's probably the most "girlie" thing about me.

The detail of a flower simply fascinates me. It is so intricate, both huge and small at the same time. Please take the time to visit this website and behold the amazement of a simple flower:

http://ninipixel.aminus3.com/image/2008-06-03.html

One of my favorite things to paint are flowers, but an artist can not do justice to what God has placed on this earth.

One of my favorite sayings goes like this:

"If I love each budding tree, each flower petal, bud and stem, then how much more I should revere the God which has created them."

My hope is that your heart too is stirred by the miracle of a simple plant.

A House is Not a Home Without a Dog

2009-03-03T15:38:00.010-05:00

This is one of my all time favorite email go 'rounds. As a dog lover, I know there is much to learn from our pets. They calm me, listen to me, and are always concerned for my well being. I truly hope to learn to love as unconditionally as my Lucy and Lola love me.

Things I've Learned From My Dog

When a loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a car ride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

When it’s in your best interest; practice obedience.

Let others know when they’ve invaded your territory.

Take naps and stretch before rising.

Run, romp and play daily

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Sometimes you have to make noise to get someone’s attention

Avoid biting, when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the cool grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a tree.

Be patient-the first lick doesn’t always do the job.

When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

No matter how often or severely you’re scolded…run right back and make friends.

Delight in the simple joys of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.

Be loyal.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it!

When someone is having a bad day, be silent and sit close by.

Get outside and run around everyday

The Last

2009-03-02T16:43:00.004-05:00

We always celebrate firsts...take a look at your child's baby book and you have undoubtedly recorded the first smile, first haircut, first tooth, first step and first word.

The most difficult "first" I think I endured was watching my baby (Lyndsay) drive out of my sight alone and driving all by herself for the first time. I held my cell phone in my hand the whole time she was gone, just in case.

What I truly wish I had held closer to my heart though are the "lasts".

I don't recall the last time I held one of my kids in my arms and rocked them to sleep. I have no recollection of the last time I held one of their hands to cross the street, or the last time they sat in the grocery cart seat. If I had known it was the last fort built with blankets on the dining room table, would I have crawled in there with them?

When you lose someone you love, your mind naturally returns to those "lasts". The last time we talked, our last visit, the last time we ate together.

The day before my Mom died, her sister brought a strawberry cake to us. My Mom and I sat up in the bed and laughed while we ate cake. I somehow knew it would be a "last" and enjoyed it with the heart of a five year old.

We don't always get that lucky though. We don't always have warning signs indicating trouble ahead, or even a heads up that change is on the horizon. And while I don't want to live in a morbid state of "what if this is the last kiss, last, hug, last talk, last phone call, last email, last time...", I do hope those lasts will live on in my heart.

What I am certain of is that when my grandchildren want to build a "cushion city" in the living room, I'm in. They may never ask me again!

Wretched

2009-02-10T10:12:00.015-05:00

(Make sure your speakers are on so you can hear the music that goes along with the show!)

Lawrence Central Winter Guard debuted their "wretched" look this weekend at the Pike High School competition. My big idea was to video the show to post here on the blog, but due to mechanical glitch (meaning I was the one video-ing) I ended up with a nice video of the inside of my purse! Thank goodness there was an audience full of other proud Moms, so I do have a few photos to post here...thanks Janet!

This is one of the BEST Winter Guard shows I have ever seen. Keep in mind that between Lyndsay and Emily I have been to 5,428 or so shows over the past five years. Between the music, the look, and the excellent talent of this group, everything comes together in this production to create a show that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

Lyndsay has been out of guard for three years (she was Emily's inspiration). She made time to go to the competition with Mark and I this weekend, which always adds a new element for me. I love hearing her opinions of shows and gaining some of her perspective. I think she was proud of her little sis.
<---This one is Emmy...you may not recognize her with all the make-up and hair! It is always an exciting part of the Winter Guard season to find out what the make-up and hair will look like and of course the uniforms or outfits. This was the first competition in full "gear" and they indeed look like a wretch seeking Grace. (show theme)

They ended up with a penalty this week from what I heard. Groups have a set time to get on and off the floor and apparently we took a little too long, but LC still walked away with the top score for their group. 75.9 is a great score for this time of year...even if it really could have been a 77.4.

LC Winter Guard consumes my every Saturday through March and I can't think of ANYTHING I would rather do. Although I love Marching Band season...Winter Guard is focused on the guard in a small setting. We are in Terre Haute next week, then Ft. Wayne, ending up with our last few competitions in the Indy metro area. If anyone out there hasn't seen a winter guard show I invite you to come check it out...you may end up as hooked as me!

Winter Update

2009-02-04T20:58:00.004-05:00

It's Winter Guard Season and LC is off to a great start. We haven't performed in full uniform, hair and makeup yet, so I really look forward to this weekend at Pike High School! The best I could do for those interested is post the music the girls perform to. So as you read through the blog enjoy Ani Defranco's version of Amazing Grace...it is truly...well...amazing.

All the snow has been both a beautiful sight and a mess! I simply love watching Lola romp around, now that it isn't over her head. She runs and gets her ball, then asks to go outside where she can play by tossing it then digging for it. There are few things more beautiful to me than a pup with a face full of snow. Lucy on the other hand is scared to death of slipping and falling so she insists on help. Thank goodness Emily doesn't mind lending her a hand while she is "doing her business". Of course, other down sides are the number of times we've shoveled the walk and driveway-thanks Nathan-and the constant melted snow in the house from our shoes.
At least I'm not in Kentucky with all that ice!!!

Many of you may not know, but Mark started a new job in December. He is working in the local MEPS center, and works with individuals entering the Army. Ever since we moved here, every time we would drive past the Army Finance Center, he would say something along the lines of, "One day I want to work in that building". I say, If you can dream it you can do it!

Lyn is still working away and saving money. She suffered a little setback when her anticipated roommate couldn't go in on the apartment, but at least she figured it out before they moved in!
As of now, all of her earthly possession are boxed up and waiting for the ideal roommate to show up. Until then, I'll keep buying vegetarian frozen foods and listen to her complain about having a little sister who wears her clothes from time to time.

Nate has about driven me nuts with his guitar, but I am proud of how much he has improved. It simply amazes me that he can pick up an instrument and having no background, figure out how to play songs...songs you recognize. He is starting lessons so we will see what more he can do.

Emily, as always, is busy, busy, busy with school and guard. Tonight, she and Hayley are making "western" food dishes for school. Peach cobbler and cornbread...yum!

Okay, next update will hopefully include pictures and perhaps some interesting stories. I do hope you like the show music and as always, you are welcome to post a reply with your own family update!

Up, Up, and Away

2009-01-07T22:03:00.021-05:00

Emily took her first plane trip last week and headed out to Arizona with 140 of her closest friends (okay, only about 20 of them are true friends). The Spirit of Central participated in the Fiesta Bowl Band competition and parade, then headed to the Grand Canyon.

As with most people, she was quite nervous about flying and I heard there may have been a tear shed on the way out of Indianapolis. Rest assured she feels like a seasoned traveller after two layovers at the ATL.

Have you ever seen anyone begin their hiking trip in a peacoat and a Coach purse??? Yet hike
she did. Now, I can't even think of the Grand Canyon without that sick, woozy, I'm afraid of big holes in the ground feeling taking me over, and my baby goes out on snow covered trails into the depths of this amazing hole!

Of course having your best guy there with you makes it all the more fun!

And a great group of friends:

Emily enjoyed her trip to New York MUCH more that Phoenix, but at least now she has a little more travel experience under her belt and has a whole weeks worth of great memories that will last the rest of her life.

New Beginnings

2009-01-01T09:19:00.007-05:00

Happy New Year! 2009, a brand new year, and a new start. This is one of my favorite times. The newness, blank page, and possibilities a new year offers just thrills me.

Most people make resolutions of some sort. I like to think of it as a time to make goals...goals or steps we can take to inch our lives closer to how we need to live.

Here is a method to lay out your goals, start on that path, and navigate your life to where you want it to go. How exciting! I go through this ritual every year. Although I still haven't achieved my personal best, are any of us ever a finished product?

To start, I divide my goals into several categories: this allows for balance! Then I dwell on what I need to accomplish within each section. Remember, this is for you and the betterment of YOUR life, there is no right or wrong and your goals simply serve as a navigation tool to get you closer to that picture in your mind of how you would like your life to look.

The most important thing about goals is they should be SMART: Specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely! For each goal, you should write down HOW you are going to implement this into your life...what day, how long, etc.

I think the biggest hurdle is the realistic part...some years I find that there is so much that needs changed, I need a bulldozer to flatten my life and rebuild EVERYTHING. This is not realistic or attainable! So I start by asking myself; what is the one thing I really need to do within this area, and go from there.

Family/Home Goals:

This is where I list the things that need done inside the house for the new year, like "tile the

kitchen". It is also a place for concept goals for the family: Vacation in Disney or have game

night once per month, or eat dinner together at least weekly (our nightly dinner table

gatherings are just no longer possible).

Spiritual Goals

Join a prayer group, read a bible passage before work each day, attend church more

regularly, something that brings you closer to God and mankind.

Physical Goals

Under this title you can join a gym, exercise at lease three times per week, take a daily walk,

drink less, eat less, etc. I did great at this two years ago, I joined the gym, but haven't

been there once! Maybe go to the gym X times per week would have been a SMARTer

goal for me!

Knowledge Goals

Your mental state needs to be as satisfied as your physical and spiritual state! Read a book

a month, work the crossword puzzle each day, take a class, hone a talent or skill in some

way. Knowledge is power!

Social Goals

This is one of my favorites! My favorite goal I ever committed to fell under this category and

it proved to be good for me and the people I loved. One of my social goals in the past was to

send a piece of mail (with real stamps and everything) to a friend or family member at

least monthly. Sometimes I found a funny card, or ceremoniously, I would sit by the fire

and write a long thoughtful letter to someone who rarely heard how my heart felt about

them. Other months I would send a favorite book or pictures to share. Your social goals may

be completely different, as mine will as well, but a monthly lunch with a friend or hosting an

annual pool party qualify as ways to enhance our social needs.

Financial and Career Goals

Save X amount of $ monthly, pay off your car loan, ask for a raise, change jobs, start your

own business...often success in this area determines how well we excel in other areas

of our life. I do try to avoid tying my other goals to finances, but none of us can live without

money. Let's get ours in order!

Words of Wisdom:

Do you realize that 95% of our actions are carried out automatically; without thought? Imagine the change we could command in our lives if we commit to making conscious decisions. This morning I woke up, fixed coffee, sat down at the computer and smoked a cigarette. Same thing I do EVERY morning, and I never even had a thought in my mind. I have the power to start my day by showering first, choosing NOT to smoke and stop wasting my time with a computer card game for the first thirty minutes of my day...if only I'd make the conscious choice to do so.

Try living outside of your limits. Most of us live a safe, familiar life. It's what we know and we are comfortable there. Living inside your limits (daily routine) will give you the same results you have always gotten. Step outside the circle you have built at least occasionally. Eat at that restaurant you drive past, have wondered about, but never tried. Someone in Ashland, KY please stop at the Aladdin Frame Shop on Lexington and 12th Street, go see a movie (Last movie I saw at a theatre was Polar Express and that is just sad) try something new!

Set goals that you truly desire to achieve. If you have failed to reach a goal, it is because you didn't truly have a burning desire to achieve it in the first place. Weak desire creates weak results!

Try. This is my favorite word in the English language. (Well, after onomatopoeia and Constantinople) Everything you want to achieve in life can be had through this word. The more you try, the more likely you are to succeed. That success depends on your number of attempts.

Believe! If you can dream it you can do it! There is no room for doubt in the faithful.

So there you go, my annual thought process as we enter a new year. May we all look forward to the best year of our lives so far!

All is calm, all is bright

2008-12-25T17:51:00.005-05:00

I did it...got the trees decorated, meal together, gifts ordered, purchased, wrapped and under the tree. It has been quite a different season for us this year, but it still ended up a wonderful holiday. We played board games lastnight til midnight and our living room was full of evidence of Santa this morning! Nathan's friends Andrew and Dorian ended up spending the night, and it makes me happy to think that it just wouldn't seem normal if our home wasn't host to a few scragglers each year.

My favorite gifts to give this year went to Nathan and Mark. With the help of my friend Stefan (who spent this Christmas in Paris with beautiful Amanda) we got Nate a Fender Strata guitar and a killer amp. I've had a few moments of "what the heck was I thinking" today as the musi...er...loud noise...emits from the basement, but all in all, I was thrilled to make him happy with the gift. As for Mark; he was recently told by a friend he needed to upgrade his watch. He has one that seems somewhat "Army issue" and cost about fifteen bucks. He is now sporting a nice black face with gold accent gig I found at a mall jewlery store. It gorgeous!

Lyn has hardly done anything but load music on her new laptop and Emily had to have a nap after all that unwrapping. Lola has had the most fun today though. Santa brought her a ball that talks to her every time it moves. She absolutely exhausts herself with the stupid thing, then after a quick rest goes right back at it...she's insatiable.

As for me, Mark got me a print of one of my favorite paintings:

This makes it okay that he also got me a coffee pot.

We do miss our family and friends that seem even further away today. How we wish we could be with you to share in the memories and enjoy making new ones.

And as tradition dictates, I vow to start Christmas shopping earlier next year, and strive to make next year even less stressful. Fewer Christmas trees, less decorations, and who cares if dinner is perfect both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! For today, have more pie and cookies before we commit to all those New Year resolutions.

2008-12-13T18:27:00.002-05:00

Santa Claus is coming to town! And here I am on the 13th of December with the trees up, but no decorations yet. The kids have list, but no shopping started. I haven't even

bought Christmas Cards! Let's just say I haven't been living up to traditions very well this year. I haven't even dug out the CD collection of various winter wonderland tunes and played them constantly since the table was cleared at Thanksgiving. This just may be the year that the memory I create is of Mom trying to pull off a spectacular holiday in two days. The problem is I KNOW I need to kick into gear and DO something. Maybe I can hit the mall this week and see if Santa has a moment for a kid at heart to sit on his lap. Hmmm, what could I ask for? I wonder if he'd lend me one of those elves for a few weeks? Maybe he could lay a finger aside of his nose and my house would magically be spotless and the stockings would all get hung by the chimney with care.

What ever Santa brings, my hope is that I can still find a glimpse of childlike wonder on the kids faces this year. THAT is MY favorite thing of all about this season...that look you see when you know someone is feeling it inside. Could be from the perfect gift they wanted, watching Charlie Brown Christmas or getting to be the one who puts the star on top of the tree...simple memories that create ongoing traditions.

Please Don't

2008-11-23T17:27:00.003-05:00

I tend to be a fairly laid-back kinda gal and not let too much get under my skin. There are however, a few things that just irritate me to death. Pet Peeves if you will, things that just make me go...uggg.

One shoe on the side of the road: I don't understand this phenomenon. To see one shoe or two in a lifetime along side the highway, maybe; but I've had to have seen hundreds at this point. How on this earth have that many individuals lost a shoe while driving down an interstate and why have I never met anyone who has said, "you're never going to believe what happened to my shoe on the way here"? I simply don't believe there are that many hillbillies out there riding with one foot out the window, and what about the ones you see during winter? Are there that many angry people out there that get mad and throw a shoe? Wouldn't you think there would be easier access to something other than a shoe if that were the case? The majority of the shoes I've seen, I believe to be men's shoes...but how many men with one shoe do you ever really see?
I once saw a baby shoe...you know it wasn't just hanging out the window and happen to come off.
I'm at the point now that I try to determine if it is a left shoe or a right shoe. Left shoes make even less sense. Why, oh why are they there?
So this bothers me, and if anyone out there can give me some good explanation for the thousands of littered shoes across the country I would sure appreciate hearing from you.

BlueTooth: I have personally responded to five people who didn't even know they were speaking to me! Yes, having someone constantly plugged into your ear could be convenient, and hands free shopping while you are conducting serious business I guess could be a good thing. Seems most of the people I've seen use this most are in line at Wal-Mart and not dressed like serious business people to begin with. When they can invent a device that shuts people up...that's when I will be impressed.

Emergency Protocol: "Your seat bottom may be used as a flotation device" is my least favorite thing to hear on an airplane. Not because it scares me, but listen, I'm flying over Arizona...there are no large bodies of water to float in, why do I need this information? And couldn't airlines somehow build a plane that IS a flotation device so that once I recover from the shock of crashing I don't have to be cognisant enough to detach my seat bottom to float around until help arrives? Has one life been saved in say Ohio, when a plane crashed and the one person who actually listened to the safety features of a 747, got his seat bottom to work properly?

Holiday Haters: People who declare "I hate the holidays", or "I hate Christmas" are low on my list. How can anyone hate a day set aside for celebration!? This time of year is the most wonderful of all. We get to eat great food, shop til we drop, and get together with friends and family...I don't see what is in there to hate. If it's because your life doens't look like a Norman Rockwell painting, welcome to reality! But just watch the giddy kids at the mall, and the cars with a tree tied on top, the beautiful lights and store window displays. If nothing else, enjoy that! You can enjoy the smell of a pie baking in the oven, the blanket of snow on the ground, the Vince Guaraldi Trio and embrace the nostalgia of the season. This is a good thing!

Face Tattoos: Do you remember the first comforter you ever bought for your bedroom? Mine was mint green with soft pink roses. I loved that comforter, but it isn't what I want on my bed now. Now I couldn't live without a white down comforter with about five pillows. Maybe in my 50's I'll go with a quilt. Point is this...taste change. The things we think are so cool at 20 are different from what we find appealing at 25, 30, 40, etc. One day a little baby is going to look up at his Grandfather who has GOON tattooed across his neck. Can you imagine dear old Mom at high school graduation, beaming with pride while the fairy flying out of her ear onto her face contorts with her tears of pride? Or maybe Dad has tears tattooed on already. This bothers me beyond belief...an entire society that are now forever branded losers!

Animal Haters: There is no need to be cruel and abusive. If you don't like pets, don't have one. (it should go without saying but the same rule applies to children!)

The Marching Band refused to yield....

2008-11-16T16:10:00.005-05:00

Lawrence Central took 3rd place in the 2008 Grand National Championship!

This was a near flawless year with a group of kids who truly learned to work together. These are just a couple of the key lessons Band is teaching these young adults...strive for excellence and lift each other up. This is the exact finish LC achieved last night. Randy Greenwell, Matt James, Greg Hagen, Tod Hinton....you are my heroes!

Congratulations to the Avon Marching Black and Gold for taking first place. They worked long and hard for their moment last night. It was a phenomenal show.

Aunt Brenda seemed to enjoy the evening, but I ended up keeping her out until after 3am! May we both recover quickly. It was wonderful to have her here to share this fun time with us.

Now we look forward to Winter Guard and the Phoenix trip. Never a dull moment!

THE Weekend I wait all year for!

2008-11-14T22:02:00.002-05:00

Bands of America (BOA to those of us in the know) Grand Nationals is tomorrow. This competition brings the end of our marching season, and the end to a GREAT year for the Spirit of Central! With the highest honors at State and our Regionals, tomorrow the kids will compete with bands from Texas, California, Ohio, Oklahoma, Florida (you get the picture).

The contest has a preliminary (we performed Thursday night) with Semi Finals in the morning and afternoon (Saturday) and Finals start at 7pm. OOOoooo, we just got news of our report time: 5:00am (being a chaperon is SUCH fun). Just to give you an idea of what these kids go thru: report at 5 am means getting out of bed at 4am, getting to school for practice...we are expecting snow and rain...practice, get every kid in uniform and guard girls in make-up and hair, leave for Lucas Oil around 7:30, transit, warm up and perform at 10am. Return to school, practice, eat lunch and wait for the 5PM announcement of what bands advance to finals. If they are the first band on we could return to the Stadium as early as 6. Awards happen about 11 or 11:30 pm. The kids break ranks and get a chance to visit with all the bands. The winner then plays a "stand still" then it's finally back to the school. There we have cake and watch the performance video. The kids are then released (no earlier than) about 2am. whew!

Anyway, if anyone reads the Figley Family Blog between now and tomorrow night, wish us luck for a good run. Miss Emily just loves this show, and I am sure will be somewhat sad once it is over.

Oh, and the most exciting news...Aunt Brenda will be on her way in the morning!

If you are interested in seeing picutres from last weekend here's a link
http://www.jolesch.com/csEventPhotoBrowse.aspx?EventID=2066&Group=19258&Cat=10651&PartID=0

There are several of Em, 2066-361-064 thru 066 and 2066-361-076 thru 077.
You'll just have to recognize her to see the rest cause I can't post all these numbers. I mean, yea, I'm a proud mom, but not THAT obsessed;)

Have a great weekend everyone...I sure will!

Letterman

2008-10-31T22:11:00.003-04:00

I can't confirm this was REALLY written by David Letterman, but I received this in an email tonight and thought I'd go ahead and post it.

Try to read this article by David Letterman, without thinking Democrat or Republican.....

David Letterman wrote this; it's the David we don't often see....

'As most of you know I am not a President Bush fan, nor have I ever been, but this is not about Bush, it is about us, as Americans, and it seems to hit the mark

'The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came across some Poll data I found rather hard to believe.

It must be true given the source, right?

The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed and 69 percent of the country is unhappy with the performance of the President.

In essence 2/3 of the citizenry just aren't happy and want a change.

So! being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking, 'What are we so unhappy about?''

A.. Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 Days a week?

B.. Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter?

C.. Could it be that 95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job?

D.. Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year?

E.. Maybe it is the ability to drive our cars and trucks from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each state?

F.. Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along the way that can provide temporary shelter?

G.. I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not good enough either.

H. Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and provide services to help all and even send a helicopter to take you to the hospital.

I.. Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a home.

J.. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment to extinguish the flames, thus saving you, your family, and your belongings.

K. Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or prowler intrudes, an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or loss.

L.. This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where 90% of teenagers own cell phones and computers.

M. How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy that are the envy of everyone in the world?

Maybe that is what has 67% of you folks unhappy. Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S. , yet has a great disdain for its citizens.

They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have, and what we hate about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here.

I know, I know. What about the president who took us into war and has no plan to get us out? The President who has a measly 31 percent approval rating?

Is this the same president who guided the nation in the dark days after 9/11?

The president that cut taxes to bring an economy out of recession?

Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe from terrorist attacks?

The commander in chief of an all-volunteer army that is out there defending you and me?

Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show?

Did this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad?

Think about it......are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain OR is it because the 'Media' told you he was failing to kiss your sorry ungrateful behind every day.

Make no mistake about it. The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom.

There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go. They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a ''general'' discharge, an 'other than honorable'' discharge or, worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable' ' discharge after a few days in the brig.

So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of Americans?

Say what you want but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds it leads and they specialize in bad news.
Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts.
How many will watch kids selling lemonade at the corner?

The media knows this and media outlets are for-profit corporations. They offer what sells, and when criticized, try to defend their actions by 'justifying' them in one way or another.
Just ask why they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a book about how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this way......Insane!

Turn off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of your bird cage.

Then start being grateful for all we have as country.
There is exponentially more good than bad.

We are among the most blessed people on Earth and should thank God several times a day, or at least be thankful and appreciative.' '

With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks,

'Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?'
David Letterman

May the Best Man Win

2008-10-31T19:34:00.004-04:00

TGIF! I have looked forward to this weekend since last Sunday. THIS is State Finals weekend for Indiana State Marching Band and Lawrence Central is looking FANTASTIC (of course so is Carmel, Avon, Homestead, etc...). This is an exciting year for LC and Emily is getting a little sad that she only has three more weekends to perform this show. I will try to get pictures and post them on Sunday.

We had two birthdays this week...Lola turned 2 on Thursday and Mark on the 27th inched closer and closer to the big 5-0.

Nathan has been getting more and more hours and is apparently a pizza pro. He does cook for us occasionally, has for years, and he DOES make the best homemade pizza I've every had. My favorite dish he ever cooked for us is Roasted Red Pepper soup. Now I'm not a fan of the red pepper, any pepper really, but this stuff was so good I wanted to take a bath in it!

Lyndsay is working hard with her two jobs. She has to be at work before I even get out of bed some mornings. I guess that's the price you pay for providing the best bagels in town.
Actually, "work is the price you pay for money". (another of my "favorite sayings" for those of you who remember THAT post) She is still hunting and gathering items for her apartment and we are making plans behind her back about all the things we can do with the extra space she will leave behind.

So that's the family update. We all look forward to Tuesday. Regardless of the outcome; there will be both happy and disappointment in our household. I will say that this election (and having a mixed bag of ideas in our home) has forced all of us to keep an open mind, debate with civility and not listen to the news for our news!

Spirit of Central

2008-10-22T21:18:00.007-04:00

You can't even imagine the high level of excellence that Marching Bands achieve here in Indiana. Our State competition is coming up and there are so many bands that could come out as the State Champion! Keep your fingers crossed for us!

You can pick Emily out if you watch real close...about midway through the short clip (hope this posts right!) she leaps over from the right to the 50 and does a toss.

What do YOU think?

2008-10-17T18:29:00.005-04:00

“From each according to his ability, to each according to his need.” Karl Marx in 1875.

Those who want to go directly to hell, they can follow capitalism. And those of us who want to build heaven here on earth, we will follow socialism.
Hugo Chavez

So"cial*ism\, n. [Cf. F. socialisme.] A theory or system of social reform which contemplates a complete reconstruction of society, with a more just and equitable distribution of property and labor.

The alleged goals of socialism were: the abolition of poverty, the achievement of general prosperity, progress, peace and human brotherhood. The results have been a terrifying failure—terrifying, that is, if one’s motive is men’s welfare.
Instead of prosperity, socialism has brought economic paralysis and/or collapse to every country that tried it. The degree of socialization has been the degree of disaster. The consequences have varied accordingly.-Ayn Rand

“Or they say, ‘Chavez is regulating prices. He is violating the laws of the marketplace.’ How many times have they criticized me for nationalizing the phone company? They say, ‘The state shouldn’t get involved in that.’ But now they don’t criticize Bush for having nationalize . . . the biggest banks in the world. Comrade Bush, how are you?”
The audience laughed and Chavez continued.
“Comrade Bush is heading toward socialism.”

Republican Sen. Jim Bunning of Kentucky said that when he first heard about the bailout plan, "I thought I woke up in France. But no, it turns out socialism is alive and well in America."

Movin' on

2008-10-16T18:47:00.003-04:00

We've come to the end of the debates and I've gotta say, I still have a few questions!

Dear Candidates,
Could you each define what your idea of a "small business" is? This would help a lot of people understand where they stand within your plans. I'd also like to understand your plan for a war in both Iraq and Afganistan, where are you going to get enough soldiers? More National Guard? Less in Iraq? Help me out here. Blah, blah, blah, tax plan, blah blah, blah, health plan...blah, blah, blah.

Whew, now that I have that out, on to the family.

Mark is still the studious student and flying through his classes. He goes to school, does homework, goes to the YMCA regularly, helps with housework, all while working full time...great guy

Flying the Coop:
Lyndsay was approved today for her first apartment. She won't be too far from home, and not moving out until December but I am already starting to miss her! At the same time, I am very proud of her and her independant nature. By the way, if you have any old, patched up chairs or lamps you no longer use, send em her way!

Pluggin Along:
Nathan got his first paycheck Monday. Yippie!

Choose your weapon:
Emily is working hard and the band show is awesome! She has a few great spots up front (she does love to be the center of attention) LC has won 1st place in several contests this year and of course I think they are simply the best. You can see a short video on indianamarching.com (go to video vault and look for Lawrence Central). I've tried to post a link here (hope it works). As you watch, Emily is to the right on your screen, first to toss the rifle.
Lawrence Cetnral 9/13/08

Queen Lucy:
Lucy had to make a visit to the vet on Saturday for an antibiotic. She is doing much, much, better, but I'm a little embarrassed...she's already 10 yrs old and I've had her at 8 or 9 I guess for a couple of years. (Her b-day is 1/29/98) Darn, I missed an excuse for birthday cake!!

Born in the USA

2008-10-11T09:26:00.004-04:00

Yet another campaign was threatened this week to stop playing a song on the trail that they had paid the copyright fee for. It has happened to both camps...Obama..not allowed to use "Soul Man"...probably a good thing in the long run...and McCain is no "Hero" to the Foo
Fighters.

Ultimately, these artists don't agree with the politics of the of the user and therefore have asked, demanded, threatened lawsuits if they continue to use the song on the campaign trail. The thing I don't agree with about this is that these artists have put their "product" on the market for purchase (copyright fees). These campaigns paid the fees. To me, it's not a lot different than buying a sweater at Macy's, then the designer decides they don't like the way it looks on you, so you are asked not to wear it any longer.

I pay to download music all the time. I love Pink's edgy songs and Madonna (being a product of the 80's) will always hold a special place in my heart. I've paid to use their songs, bought CD's, and even albums back in the day. Knowing I don't always agree with these gals on politics; would they ask ME to stop playing their music?

I've heard that Hank Williams Jr. is set to perform at a Palin/Mc...oops...McCain/Palin rally. I would get a kick out of it if he'd dedicate "All My Rowdy Friends" to Obama, considering some of his past affiliations. I personally think having Hank "live" is a little risky though because, well, Hank tends to speak his mind and not always in a sane, stable manner. Maybe that is fitting for this campaign.

None of us would want these rallys to be devoid of music. Music energizes, and it would be awkward to intro Joe Bidden with orchsetra music or John McCain with humming. If Sarah Palin has paid to use "Bringin' Sexy Back or Lady Marmalade" and Obama forked over thousands to walk onto stage to "Crank Dat or I've Got Friends in Low Places", we could judge them on song choice, but the artists who recorded these songs should be out of the picture. Hey, I bought the ugly sweater, and if I want to belt it I can. It now belongs to me.

For me, this whole fiasco has highlighted the intolerance of the famous.

Bottom line is this...Attention famous people...we like you for your voice; your catchy tunes, don't assume we really care about your political views too. Your fans are a diverse bunch.

Lift up your voice

2008-10-05T00:40:00.002-04:00

It takes guts to get up and do karaoke...this is why most people need to have a few shots of liquid courage first!

Some of the best times I've had has been watching people sing! The first time I ever went to a place that had karaoke was problably 1998. There were some very serious singers there, but my personal favorite was the big guy who got up and sang "I'm too sexy for my shirt". There is a little place down the street that Mark and I have gone to a few times. Talk about serious...some of these people have made their own music mix on cd and bring them in and wait for their three minutes of fame.

I say let's have fun with it. I just don't think the audience appreciates those serious individuals the same way they do when say, Lyndsay sings "I like big butts". Anyone who knows me, knows my all time favorite karaoke song to perform...and yes, I perform...is "Love Shack". "Me and Bobby McGee" was my most embarassing ever...and I completely missed Nathan doing Johnny Cash at the beach due to a restroom break. The funniest I've ever watched (in horror) was a guy about 60 yrs old do "Funky Cold Medina". There is a limit!

Songs are fun, and every one of us sing....in the car, while cleaning, in the shower..heck, I can sing; just doesn't sound great when I do it.

My Mom was a singer at heart. She and my Dad both deepened my love for music and I see the result in my own kids who probably know songs the average teen has never heard. (You know your a redneck when you get a David Allen Coe CD from your Grandfather for Christmas)

You'll notice a few songs playing while you browse the site. These are the ones that no matter what, always make me think of my Mom. Next time I get a chance at Karaoke, maybe I'll give "Delta Dawn" a try.

Remember me!

2008-09-26T15:47:00.004-04:00

What a great week! The weather has been picture perfect all week, and now we all look forward as that crisp autum air begins to creep in. I also got to take Mark to the Colts game last Sunday and even though we didn't win we had a blast! Marshall Thundering Herd Marching Band played at halftime, which was a nice surprise. If you don't want to read all my jibberish... keep scrolling: there are a few new pictures posted.

Today, I had to take the written driving test to re-new my drivers license. (whew, I passed) It has been about five years since I've lived in Missouri, but I had such a great license picture, I just never re-newed them when I got back to Indy. Yea, I know, technically your supposed to do that within 30 days of moving to a state. How often in ones life is their license picture actually good?? Well, my luck with the picture certainly didn't transfer to my new license but at least now I'm officially (legally) a Hoosier driver.

Lyndsay started a second job this week at Einstein Bagel and Nathan starts at a pizza place on Tuesday. I hope this means I can actually start saving a little pocket change now.

Emily has been working hard in school and has two competitions tomorrow. That means a 7:00am Saturday to 1:00am Sunday for her. Sure wish I still had that energy in me!

Speaking of Emily, she share a paper she had written in school with me this week and it just knocked my socks off. It was titled "Life After Death" and was about her dealing with her Papaw's death. It was so insightful (as the "baby" of the family I forget how mature she can be). Dad was buried with a letter from Emily. She didn't let anyone read it but in her paper she talks about the comfort writing that letter brought to her. She was able to say what she needed to say but didn't have time. It was simply beautiful.

After I read her paper we talked about how quickly we lose people and how we take each other for granted without meaning to. Stop and think...what would you say to the people around you now if this was the last time you talked with them? What legacy are you leaving?

Let's all try to make good memories. Those memories are your legacy and how thankful we are, that along with the tears, we said goodbye to Dad with a lot of fond memories and laughter too.

Perfume on a Pig

2008-09-12T01:00:00.006-04:00

As a nation, we’ve had a week long discussion over the phrase “lipstick on a pig”. It got me thinking about some of my favorite sayings. These phrases just get the point across better or convey that moment of emotion better than any other words. I love sayings, phrases and quotes and keep one posted on the kitchen chalk board at all times. These are tried and true words of advice, encouragement, and humor that help us gain some perspective on our daily trials.

Please feel free to post your own in the comments and share the knowledge!

If you lie down with dogs you rise up with fleas.
(this is a spin on the “birds of a feather…adage. I learned this one from a neighbor in North Carolina and oh, how southern it sounds!)

He is a lost ball in the high weeds
(this is one of my top ten favorites! Do you know how many people this phrase applies to!? Actually refers to golf and a ball ending up in the rough. One of my favorite people of all time, Jeff Stewart, taught this one to me. He was one of my first “real” bosses and he taught me much. Jeff passed away at too young an age, but what an impact his life had on many.)

I feel like I’ve been rode hard and put up wet
Sounds a little gross doesn’t it? It is a legitimate horse training phrase because after a hard work out, horses need to be washed down and brushed out. If they are rode hard and put up wet their muscles become very sore. Maybe this is a Kentucky thing.

Kentucky: Beautiful horses and fast women.
First heard this one from Mrs. Parks, 9th grade. Maybe it used to be the state motto.

As lost as last years Easter eggs
I learned this one from Mark. He uses this to describe people who are not “in the know”…I tend to use it describe myself as in actual travel. thank goodness for TomTom.

Poor as Jobs turkey
This one was handed down to me from my Mom. Job didn’t actually have a turkey because they were not native to Aisa Minor in Jobs day. If Job had a turkey though, imagine how poor it would have been! By the way, I do try to have the patience of Job.

When my rich uncle gets out of the poor house
Dear ol’ Mom. She had the patience of Job. As a youngster I would ask her when I could get this new toy or that new toy. This was her answer.

Money can buy you a pretty good dog, but it won’t buy the wag of its tail
Whether you are a dog lover or not, this is a great one. Money doesn't buy happiness...but it doesn't make you sad either.

Activity creates activity
This is a wonderful concept. When you perform and activity it creates another activity. I use this concept at work often: put any word in front of activity here and you see the result. Good activity creates good activity, bad activity creates bad activity, diet activity creates diet activity. Try any word you want! If you need to get something started or completed; use this simple formula to get you there.

Do unto others as you would have others do unto you
This is the underlying message of every major religion in the world. All of the world’s woes could be cured if this one golden rule was followed. Think about that. Every single problem we see on the news, every problem in our lives. If this one rule was applied by everyone-problem solved.

God gave us two ears and one mouth…use accordingly
This is a great reminder for someone like me who talks for a living and LOVES to talk to people.

Everything needs dirt to grow
This was my mantra when the kids were little. They, and by they I mean mostly Nathan, would play outside for hours. I never cared how dirty they got because, well, everything needs dirt to grow. By the way, I heard on the radio yesterday that there was a study conducted on kids and it surmised that the art of going outdoors to play is being lost and it is not healthy for our children. They suggest that parent make an effort to get kids out for 30 minutes to an hour a day...I say send them out get 'em dirty!

Don’t have a pot to piss in or a window to throw it out
Mable Maddox used this one to explain poor and really could be used to describe certain periods of my own life!

There are two types of knowledge: things I know and things I know how to find out.
I don’t remember where I learned this, but how powerful. It truly changed my attitude. Yes, we are indeed all know it alls. Heck, with google at our finger tips is there any knowledge we are without?

Actions speak louder than words
Ugh! My Dad used this on me every time I ever got in trouble. Of course my nature was to talk my way out of whatever I’d done and this was always his come back. It has stayed with me though and has given me pause at times when I needed to make a choice about who I am and what I stand for. We are witness to people in how we live our lives and how we live stands as an example of who you are. You’re actions determine your true priorities, not your words.

Hurtful, limiting comments say more about the people who make those comments than they say about you.
Ok, this one probably doesn't qualify as a saying, but this can help us remember that people may be having a bad day and their comments are more about that than us. Some people are just plain mean. Other are just unhappy individuals. Again, that reflects on them, not you.

When in doubt; don’t
When I’ve had to make a decision I have often depended on this nugget of advice.

The rooster may crow, but the hen delivers the goods
Cocky, cocky men!

Well behaved women rarely make history
Enough said

2 weeks later

2008-08-29T19:09:00.003-04:00

Battle Creek, Atlanta, Phoenix, Casa Grande, Plano/Dallas...a few of the reasons I haven't been able to post in two weeks now! It has been a busy couple of weeks, but I've had the opportunity to enjoy some of the best cities in the U.S. I will admit...I think I am addicted to hotels. The Radisson with their sleep number bed is my favorite, but really, having a king bed to myself and complete control of a remote..great no matter where I end up staying.

Go Colts! Or more appropriately, the guys who are playing on the Colt's team until the first "real" game. I was thrilled to attend the first ever NFL game played in our new Lucas Oil Stadium. Next up, season opener against the Bears. Now I love Chicago...but I truly hope the Colt's I know and love show up and destroy the Bears and statrs this season off the right way!

Our own Lawrence Central Bears won their first football game in the traditional, rival game against Lawrence North. Looks like it will be a great year for the team with a new coach and not such a great couple of years.
Of course I was there for the half time show and the Spirit of Central Marching Band and Guard did not disappoint. Their sound was superb; although I am not in love with the guard work yet. I'm sure I will eventually be head over heals. Emily is a joy to watch with the rifle and dance. She enjoys this show a lot and once it hits youtube or I get photos I will get them posted. For those of you who don't live in Indiana...marching band is BIG in Indiana. We have the best high school marching bands in the country. Texas may argue that point, but it is truly in the water here and what a great group of kids to chaperone and have in my life.

Nathan FINALLY got his license this week and is also now a registered voter. Both a little scary for me. I do love that he has asked my opinion about the upcoming election. I have taken my children with me inside the voting booth for every election since they were small. My hope is that this inspires them to be a part of this great process we have and I especially hope the values we've held dear will influence how they consider the candidates for the responsibility of holding office. They stand alone in the voting booth now and kudos to them, and all the young adults, who are interested enough to make the effort to join in and share their voice by voting.

Lyndsay is off to see Peter Frampton tonight with her bestfriend Lisa who is visiting from Austria. I wonder if these two even know more than one Frampton song!? But I have to admit, if I need songs for my Ipod, Lyn's song list is the first one I go to. She has a little of everything and she's introduced me to music I didn't even know I liked. I called her once to ask if she'd ever heard of a band one of my co-workers was playing and I really liked...she laughs at me...Mom they've been around forever...just when I thought I was hip.

Happy Labor day to you all. Work hard, play hard, rest hard!

August 15th

2008-08-15T21:26:00.004-04:00

What a week!

Tuesday was the contractor open house at Indy's new Lucas Oil Stadium. This stadium has been a long time coming for us Hoosiers who love our Colts (and Marching Band competitions). WOW! Lucas Oil Stadium is just a wonder. I've loved watching it grow in the city's skyscape as I would drive past on my commute to work, but to go inside and see the finished product was just amazing. And that floor in the North entrance...gorgeous!

Spent time not feeling well this week and ended up at the doctor office to make sure I didn't have some horrible, fatal disease. I'd had some sort of "spell" the other morning and truly thought about calling 911. Very scary. I have had similar spells, although rarely, since I was young, but never this severe or as long lasting. Anyway, apparently everyone of us will have one of these spells in our lifetime, although people who are prone to them will have them periodically throughout their entire life. I am posting a link for you to read about this if you have ever had sudden dizziness, turn white, break out in a sweat, ringing in ears and nausea together as symptoms. I didn't pass out, just a darkening of my peripheral vision, but fainting is common. I can't explain how scary this was, but now that I know about it and realize how common and harmless it is...well, not scared anymore. Here's a link if any of you have ever had these symptoms... Vasovagal syncope - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

We also have a birthday girl this week! Ms. Lyn turns 20 in a few days, and plans on celebrating with a sushi dinner & friends. I remember her first birthday so well. Every now and then I would love to spend one more day with that little one year old. My Aunt Brenda sent me a dozen pink roses that day. I hope I remember to do the same thing for Lyndsay on her daughters first birthday.

Emily came home from her first day of school with enough homework to keep her up past midnight. Junior year is off to a great start. I did get to go watch practice today for a bit. The band sounds wonderful and the guard looks beautiful. First football game performance has been cancelled so it will be a few more weeks before I'll get to see her on the field.

Nate has been applying for jobs everywhere. Poor kid needs a job to get a car, needs a car to get a job...

Mark is doing great and has spent most of the week cheering on team USA in the Olympics.
It's been exciting to see the events each night, but we've all stayed up too late watching.
Thank God for weekends and hopefully a lot of rest and relaxation.

The start

2008-08-08T23:52:00.000-04:00

With so little time and so much to share, we've started our Figley Family blog to share updates with family and friends and whoever else stumbles across this page.
School and marching band are about to get our fall started, which means go, go, go and little time to do anything but work and go to competitions.

Quick family notes:

Lyndsay is working at Target until she can get to Bloomington

Mark is a college student again

Nate still doesn't have a job, and seems to be having a lot of fun for an 18 yr old with no money

Emily just got her first car, and starts her junior year in four days.

me, well these three words seem to sum up my life...work, clean, sleep...then repeat..well ok, mostly just the work and sleep part.

Check back to see what we have going on, where LC places in the band world, and what Nathan is up to next.