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Posts Tagged ‘lauren clark’

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Unto the Least of These

Friday, March 12th, 2010

I saw him turn towards me after a glance over his shoulder. I pretended to be digging for something in my car but he was there by my window… I gave in. In broad daylight, I gave money to the man who asked me for some money at the gas pump. He took off his hat and said “I’m not a beggar. I’m a grandpa…blah blah” I said “I can give you $5.” He said he has a car a few blocks away and is trying to get to work.

Do not scold nor ask “What were you thinking?!” My typical response is to say “no.” But for some reason this time, another thought popped into my head. Every day I pray that I will be aware and willing to share my blessings when/how I can with whoever needs.

The Bible verse describing helping others immediately came to mind. “…the King shall answer and say to them, Truly I say to you, Inasmuch as you have done it to one of the least of these my brothers, you have done it to me.” Matthew 25:40

So I gave the man $5. I filled up my tank with more than $45 and didn’t think twice about it. I am blessed. I drove a few blocks then happened to look over at a shopping center with various stores and fast-food places. The man was strolling through the parking lot with his just-ordered sack of food from one of those places.

You can imagine my reaction. A part of me (the curious and confident part) wanted to turn around and go ask him what he got. Nothing violent or rude. Just to let him know I had seen him. Another part of me thought, “Nope, you shared a trivial amount of your daily blessing with that man. God wanted you to.” Another part of me imagined the many things he could have bought with that $5 and realizes lunch is something I don’t regret buying for someone. I am blessed.

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At the End of the Day 03.02

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010

Perhaps my readers (yes, all 3 of you) might enjoy a  little update on me. If not, grin and bear it, or just click that little “x” in the top right corner of this screen.

I’ve been busy with work as usual. That tends to be my motto, but I also firmly believe we make time for what we want to make time for. We’ve all got the same amount of time in a week as everybody else. And the past few weeks I can’t help but think of that saying (and song) that says “All work and no play make Jack a dull boy.” Soooo, I’m purposely and accidentally adding spice to my life in ways that I can. If you have suggestions, please send them my way.

I’ve scored a small part in a movie and this is my first official movie role. The movie is “Step Away from the Stone” locally produced and shot in Central Arkansas. Their facebook page is here should you want info and to keep up with the production. I’m honored and excited to be part of the magic. And I dare say, I’ve been bitten by “the bug”. I didn’t want Director Bill to call “scene” when he did last week… :)

So, I’ve officially informed you. You may see updates from now on. Who knows? I’m so glad March is here. Unlike January, I actually enjoy February, but never get tired of that fresh feeling of changing the calendar to a new month. This month I’m looking forward to the following: Singing the National Anthem at the Diamonds football game, having dinner or at least sofa-talk with my great friend Heather, going home to see my new niece Sophia who I have not seen since the day she was born, buying some land, making progress on a personal website and not wearing a jacket when I leave the house.

Some things I’ve learned recently:

I’ve learned bananas reduce joint pain. I love and regularly eat bananas and don’t really notice joint pain…but also can’t say I have joint pain when I don’t eat them, because they’re part of my weekly diet.

Human fetuses are considered a delicacy in Vietnam. Yes, this came up in a conversation I had with some new friends last week. We just happened to be talking about…odd…things.

Sometimes I agree with that “right place, right time” thing… I went from being a nurse to a brain surgeon in the time it took a movie producer to make a phone call :)

Signing off now. I’ve got to make a Kroger run before I start my night… at the end of the day.

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The Bachelor Ep. 5

Friday, February 12th, 2010

What a doozy!

The episode faithful viewers always find helpful to see more into each relationship= the home town dates. The final 4 take the Bachelor to their hometowns, each to meet her family, tour and get a day to see what it’s like where she comes from.

Gia’s mom was too intuitive. Yeah right, do you feel he loves Gia because she’s your daughter and you have a mother’s love for her and don’t live in the mansion and can’t see his relationship with the other girls? Probably so.

I approved of Jake’s time with Tenley’s family. So did her dad. He reminded me of how my dad might act when (if) I ever bring home that “special boy”.  I can’t believe we’re already to the point where Jake is asking the fathers for permission to marry them! And no doubt (coming from this old-fashioned gal) my boy will ask my Daddy for permission. Plus, her dance choreographed personally for Jake was (cheesy) and very sweet. Encore! Encore!

Vienna has been nothing but up front about her relationship with her father since the beginning of the show. Truly a “Daddy’s girl” But come on. I’d be scared if I were a guy dating her. It would take too much to compete with her dad for her attention. Plus, he’s just a wee bit too much into her love life. In an icky way.

Ali had a tough week, poor girl. Like someone else I know. Choosing between staying on the show (and possibly Jake’s love) or her job back home? Truly a tough decision for a young woman. I love to work and I know how “boys” can be. And I confess here and now I’d go home to work. Laugh or scold me if you want.

Her choice results in a no-stress rose ceremony because the remaining 3 raise a toast and a rose to their possible future with Jake.

My predictions: Vienna’s going home. Gia is mature, sexy, exotic which makes it a tough choice for Jake. Tenley is too cute, honest and makes one think “Is there anything negative about you? No!” He’s going to propose to her. But wait, Gia is a jewel. Maybe it’s her. Ahhhh!

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It’s Frosting In My Sweet World!

Monday, February 8th, 2010

“And they’re saying 10-15 more inches before it’s over!”

“Who said that?”

“Twitter!” (imagine embarrassed face with voice inflection on that second syllable)

This was part of a conversation I had this morning regarding the snow storm which so lovingly hit our state in the past 24 hours. Heck, the past 12 hours. Wow. These cars I see with their 5 inches of white fluff on top look like huge, mobile cupcakes with a perfect layer of icing atop. Yum. Imagine a cupcake that big. I’m a girl who loves her sweets and think I could probably take it down (if I had no other food) within a few days. Might take longer to get rid of the resulting tummyache though! Speaking of cupcakes, I know Little Rock has some great locally owned bakeries. The Sync staff regularly indulges in the tiny cups of heaven from Cupcakes on Kavanaugh. Whether it be a staff member’s birthday or just an afternoon pick-me-up. Their Razorback Red Velvet is worthy of the red carpet and their Peanut Butter Cup with a Reese’s Cup garnish is enough to make even this girl who doesn’t eat peanut butter want to devour one. I have a friend who started an at-home cupcake biz last summer. She has no store (yet) and I don’t know how often she fills orders. But something that makes her different from the others? Her cupcakes are vegan. Yes, vegan. Should you be interested in some help on your next vegan-catered event or reception or birthday gift, I’d be glad to give you her information.

*Notice how I’ve nicely changed the subject from the terrible weather? :)   I hate this kind of weather and know if I talk about it, nothing good will come from my mouth, so I pretend I’m oblivious.

So, with dangerous road conditions, not much gas in my cupcake and a sweet tooth aching for some sweet comfort food, it looks like tonight’s forecast calls for another layer of the white stuff and more icing…and I’m not even talking about what’s going on outside.

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Broken Window. Mended Spirit.

Saturday, February 6th, 2010

Walking to my vehicle last night after work, I saw what I thought was a puddle of someone’s drink with ice cubes they’d dumped near my car. When I came closer I realized what it was and my tummy flipped. The back window of my SUV was busted out. Knowing exactly where to look next, my tummy flipped again as I saw my purse (and other belongings) were gone. (To get it over with: yes, I confess I left my purse while I went inside to snap party pics. Lesson learned.) I was parked in a lot in the Rivermarket with many other cars, not a random creepy, dark, dangerous place. (Well, now that I say that…) After the shock, then a prayer, then realization it’s not getting any better just looking at it, I called the police then my mom. After 20 minutes and police still not there, I called again….Finally two officers who “happened to be passing through” saw my vehicle and stopped. They weren’t the ones who were sent to save me yet I waited 30 minutes before they did; I wonder how long before the others who’d gotten the call would have taken to find me! But these officers were very comforting, intrepid, and helpful.

Police report, calls to my bank and the credit card company, blah blah blah…you don’t care about reading all that… It’s after 10:00, dark and cold. My feelings are hurt and I’m ready to go home and know everything is safe. Another prayer. My commute home was cold and uneasy. Big brother was urgent yet soothing during our 12 phone calls back and forth regarding my stolen goods…and tips on how to cover up my window.

I got home to eat an 11:00 p.m. dinner. After a few minutes of more prayer and a little Jimmy Fallon (I think that’s what I was watching–I wasn’t even concentrating on it!)  I went to bed, tired from the week but wired from the events…

This morn I woke up before my alarm clock and made a follow up call to my bank. I’m still leery.

Fast forward: I got my window replaced at Glass Pro this morning. Friendly and efficient. I have packed another wallet and purse with a new checkbook. I’ll take care of Social Security and a new driver’s license after the weekend. Another prayer.

It could have been worse. I could’ve walked up on the thief and they could have pulled a gun. Or attacked me. They could have broken out all the windows. They chose a good one to hit–gift cards, stamps, makeup, perfume…even shoes. You betcha.) But I can go shopping for all new makeup in the comfort of my own home. Literally. I have other purses to carry. I can restock business cards. It just STINKS and is an inconvenience (an expensive one!) to put back in order. But I will be fine and keep my chin up.

Window replacement = $167

Purse and other property taken = $500+

Family to give guidance, advice and a bit of comical relief = Priceless

All my blessings and the opportunity to share some of those blessings with that thief = Double priceless.

But I hope he/she steps in dog poop.

Be careful and smart out there, kids.

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Free Food, Free Movies and Super Bowl Spot

Thursday, February 4th, 2010

A few bits you may find helpful. Or interesting. Or neither.

-Denny’s is offering a free Grand Slam breakfast to visitors Tuesday, February 9. 6:00 a.m. til 2:00 p.m.

-Sync has canceled the Singles Mingles contest previously announced. Stay tuned for it to show up later in the year, perhaps. But by all means, don’t turn down hot dates in the meantime.

-Yippeeeee! Movies in the Park is once again returning this summer to bring fabulous free, family-friendly entertainment for movie-lovers, couples, friends, cheapskates and the like. February 10 we can gather to hear the lineup of this summer’s chosen flicks. If you’ve never enjoyed Movies in the Park in Little Rock, I feel sorry for you. You must take advantage. Go this year and tell ‘em I sent ya!

-Speaking of movies…April 3, Morgan Freeman is coming to Little Rock to accept an award for Outstanding Contributions for Southern Culture from the Oxford American. Anddddd, as I previously reported via this video, a locally produced movie titled “Step Away From the Stone” has been cast and the shooting begins as soon as “early February” (which is… any day now) Stay tuned for more info ;)

-Finally, with the hype of the Super Bowl commercials I bring you this nugget: One of the spots stirring up lots of controversy is the Focus on Family spot (This organization is Pro-Life). One of the producers is a fellow Harding University alum. We were not students at the same time and I don’t know him. But I always love to hear about what other alumni are doing with their time and talents. Here is a recent interview on FOX news if you want a bit of background before you see it on Sunday night as you stuff your hand into the bag of Doritos.

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The Bachelor Ep. 5

Thursday, February 4th, 2010

San Fran! Jake takes Ali on her one-on-one in this city. This is where she lives! Irony? Advantage for her? Mmmm. I can see pros and cons. Pro: She can show him around and feels comfy (which is exactly what she did.) Con: She lives there! I’d want to travel to distant places I’ve never been while on this whirlwind experience.

Their rolling and frolicking in the park is just oh soooo cute. (insert my rolling eyes here) but she got defensive when he brought up her feelings towards Vienna. Ooooh I’d be irritated too when my date brings up another girl, then criticizes me for not liking her!

Next up? Two-on-one date as he invites Vienna and Gia for a romantic romp to a castle. Gia, step up and be a big girl! Yes, Vienna is bold and brave and tends to throw herself at the boy, but you must speak up. I think you’re cute. Probably most of America does, too. Act like you know it and know what you want. And KUDOS to Jake for turning Vienna away when she snuck into his bedroom at the castle later that night. His face was priceless: perturbed and tipsy and annoyed she came to visit. Vienna, child, I can only imagine how embarrassing that was for you. But if you’re not smart enough to be embarrassed, that makes it even more entertaining!

Tenley’s one-on-one date was cute. She’s so cute. The identical fortunes hidden inside the personalized fortune cookies couldn’t be a coincidence, could it?

"Kiss me!"

Dear Corrie, Rock on! First of all for saving yourself for marriage. Then, for not being ashamed to tell that special boy you’re trying to give your heart to. Then, for broadcasting it on television (in a subtle way if that’s possible?) Alas, it turned off our Bachelor. But I like to hope that wasn’t the reason you didn’t get a rose. P.S. Stay strong! Sincerely, Lauren

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Snow. And Now You Know.

Sunday, January 31st, 2010

Never asked for it. Didn’t pray for it. Hoped it would not fall on us. But, sure enough, Arkansas got that snow so many kids hoped for, adults prepared for, and meteorologists cautiously forecasted. I usually keep my mouth shut about things I don’t like because there’s no need to gripe. So this entry is short and sweet since the winter white flurries are not my best friend.

With a little more quiet, and downtime, with no kids to take care of, no cable channels to aimlessly flip through for hours, no private hill or yard to play in (not that you would have found me doing that anyway) I had a lot of time to think. In the midst of that daydreaming I made note of a few things. I leave you with my list of Snow Day Observations. And hope I don’t have another Snow Day for a lonnnnnng time.

-Be careful should you decide to make a joke to someone about their arrival or entrance. Example: “Did you have fun slipping/sliding in?” (to work, to the house, whatever the location may be) You might say it to someone who has actually fallen and hurt themselves just minutes before, leaving them in a terrible mood.

-Should you find yourself in the situation where you did, in fact, fall on the ice and hurt yourself, calling on the need for an ice pack, the bags of frozen veggies from Kroger work well on the boo-boo. Not whole okra, but the 3 Pepper and Onion blend or English Peas. I mean, of course, I would think those would be good ones. Not speaking from experience…uhmm

-Just because other vehicles are driving quickly with no problems (from your perspective) it’s always smart to play it safe. You don’t know how much experience those other drivers have in these conditions, nor how their vehicle compares to yours. Nor can you honestly foresee exactly where that hidden spot of ice is waiting just ahead of you.

-On the subject of driving: think twice before you honk at the car stopped in front of you at a traffic light after it turns green. They may be stuck and can’t go anywhere. And as sure as you honk rudely at them, a pox on you and you start to slide.

-Hey! Lack of traffic = no need to worry about looking both ways before crossing the street!

-Finally, if you must drive on bad/icy roads and find yourself frowning all the way to your destination, notice the funeral procession and remember how good you really have it. Snow day or no snow day.

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The Bachelor Ep. 4

Sunday, January 31st, 2010

Bad timing…my show aired on the eve of my niece’s birthday. Priorities!

Busy on an impromptu road trip with Valerie to welcome the baby, then work, then snow, then…well better late than never.

Little Sophia, my new niece

You can read more about her below :) I’ve got a “Bachelor” evaluation for you.

The select group board an RV for the group date and goes out for an afternoon on dune buggies near the beach. Refreshing! I know some of the girls are irritated when dates involve getting “dirty” like that. I wouldn’t mind. On Gia’s one-on-one date camping with Jake (thumbs up for playing spin the bottle with the empty wine bottle!) she admitted never being able to see stars like that living in New York. Wow. I thank God I have wonderful memories of those clear nights I had growing up, gazing up into the clear night heavens! Then the other girls start howling from their nearby campsite and we lose the mood.

Later, he tells Tenley it’s the first time he’s laid his head in a girl’s lap (in his own words) A sign of his feelings for her.

It goes downhill from there! (insert evil smile on my face here) His one-on-two date is terrible for both Kathryn and Ella! He gives Ella most of his attention, Kathryn gets way too drunk and only makes herself look more stupid when she confronts him and he picks neither one to stay around any longer! Me likes. Clean house. If you know you don’t like the chair, no need to keep it around! I love that he keeps this momentum going into the rose ceremony refusing to give out the last two roses because he knows he doesn’t love those remaining girls anyway.

A fun feature on the ABC/Bachelor website is a pic caption feature. They post pics from the episodes such as this one:

and fans can make up their own caption. If I weren’t hosting the show, I’d like to snap those.

Final words: Vienna is immature. I don’t like her… but not for the same reasons the other girls in the house don’t. Ali is bold, a bit snooty and I’m not surprised she’s in advertising sales. I predict some hot tub scenes soon. Because this is “The Bachelor” and we haven’t seen much of that yet. Who else saw the huge pitcher of red wine on the sand dunes picnic?! Wow. That’s another thing you can always count on “The Bachelor” to have. Drinks. And drama. I’m thirsty for more this week.

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But What’s Her Name?

Thursday, January 28th, 2010

She’s here!

Valerie and I had a smooth, speedy trip to Texarkana (see previous post) With a few stops along the way…oil change, makeup, gas, state trooper…the usual.

I’ve got to brag. We get to the hospital at 3:15 and find our parents in the waiting room. Mama shows us to Carmen’s room. Going to pop in to say “hi and good luck.” I walk up and hear…the baby crying! “She’s here! She’s here! Go call them! (meaning the family, since Mama had phone in hand) I hear her crying!”

*Please excuse the eyeliner samples on my wrist :)

Unfortunately the volume of my voice was enough to alert the nurse who promptly poked her head out the door to let us know we “need to leave. It will be a few minutes”. But hey, those bragging rights can’t be taken away from me!

So we’re in the waiting room a few minutes later and more family shows up and Trey comes in to announce. Baby is 7 lb. 12 oz. and  22″ long with very long feet. What’s her name? No answer. Everyone is excited and we begin to

Tweet, text, Facebook this news!

Tweet, text, Facebook, etc. What’s her name? No answer.

Quick and easy (easy for us to say–WE aren’t the ones having the baby!) It’s a big fun party with kids running around with balloons and chocolate covered pretzels. Well, not for everyone. Carmen was snacking on a club sandwich when we go in and see her. I think the nurses were mixed up  because 10 minutes after she ate her sandwich they brought another entree! Please find the one carrot stick a significant part of a healthy meal :)

"You had a baby! Now have some gravy!"

The cousins are sooo eager to see her.

Lined up to meet the little one.

‘Twas a wonderful reunion with the family, a fun road trip on a sunny day with one of my best friends who shares nieces with me. I gave Trey some Samoas (his favorite Girl Scout Cookie) Maybe he’ll share with Carmen after she finishes her carrot stick and mystery meat. But he’d better save some for these little girls because they’re going to need something to make it through the next few days. They just don’t know it yet.

Ava and Isabel admire their new sister Sophia

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