October 2008 - Janelle's Blog

Sometimes saying the wrong thing can slip up on you and should leave you speechless. But, few of us can leave that awkward moment alone. Why is it we feel we have to insert comments at inappropriate moments? Why can't we let words hang in the air and cap them off with a smile or silence? Because we are human and human nature won't let it be.

Minding My Own Business

On a casual Saturday when I had the weekend to relax and catch up on things, I decided to clean out our master bedroom closet while my husband was at the dentist getting a simple cleaning. His appointment was at 10:30, so it seemed likely he would be back in a little over an hour. We would then go to lunch.

That was enough time for me to move winter clothes from the top closet clothes bars to the bottom—a job that took more time than I planned. Completely absorbed in the closet straightening project, I paid no attention to the time. I had long ago skipped breakfast since we would leave soon for lunch, but when I checked the time, it was already 12:30. Now my determination set in to finish before Neal arrived home. Time clicked by and it was after 2:00 before I heard the garage door open.

It seems to be inborn that a woman wants the mirror to be her friend. Having breast cancer may have heightened that desire, but I have always been willing to help Mother Nature out. I come from a long line of "natural" blonds. I don't know a woman in my family who hasn't given God a helping hand when it comes to having sun-kissed hair. If I walked out of the house without being adorned in some kind of jewelry, I would feel so naked I'd probably have to turn the car around and go back for the forgotten bangles. Yes, it is vanity at its best, but what a great feeling to be a woman.

That's W-O-M-A-N.

Knowing that about me, you may want to tag along with me as I go for a Saturday shopping trip. The sun is shining. The weather is in the low 80's and there are a dozen errands to run. My husband, Neal, doesn't mind going along if we get back in time for the hottest college football game. We are in and out of stores for an hour.