Anderson Misses Our Cat Beanie. What Can I Tell Him?

 

What do you tell him?

Last night I was wondering why it was taking Anderson so long to get his pajamas on. When I called to him he finally came downstairs and gave me a huge hug. That’s not unusual at our house, thank goodness. I told him he looked taller and that we should measure him. When I brought him into the lighted doorway where we measure all the kids I noticed his face was splotchy. I asked him if he felt ok and he said he had been crying. I said let’s measure you first and then we’ll talk about it.

He grew a quarter of an inch! That made him feel a little better!

When I walked him back to the kitchen I asked what was making him cry. He said it was Beanie.

Our cat Beanie had to be put down a few weeks ago. Anderson had the opportunity to give her hugs and kisses a few days before when I brought him to his dads for the weekend. I told him that Sunday that Beanie had gone to Heaven.  He was sad but he said he still had his stuffed ‘Beanie’ that he made at the Benton Family Fun Park a few years ago at Teddy Mountain. There were no tears just a nod of understanding then.

Now, two weeks later, the tears started to flow. I asked him what upset him so much and he said that he missed her.  He looked up at me with his big brown eyes and looked to me for an answer.  

What do you say? I missed her, too.

I told him the only thing I could. And this is what I said:

 "I miss her, too, honey. But she is no longer in pain. Remember when I told you that when we die we go to Heaven? Well, when we get to Heaven, we are no longer in pain. We are happy and perfectly healthy. You know how Beanie was so skinny and she had a hard time lying down? Now she has more weight and no pain in her whole body. She is perfect. She is chasing butterflies and rolling in the grass and taking naps in the sunshine outside. And she is up there with Brad’s hamster (He passed away Saturday of natural causes)! This way the hamster won’t be alone.

 We all miss her but the most wonderful thing is we always have her in our hearts. And we can think about her anytime we want! And you have your stuffed ‘Beanie’ that you can hug anytime you feel you want to hug her. When we die, which will be a long time from now, we will see her again. Right now she is looking down at us from Heaven saying “Aw, they miss me. I miss them, too. But now I can look after them and help them if they need it.”

 We will always love Beanie. It’s okay to cry. Just remember, she is happy and with God and lots of other cats and dogs playing in Heaven. We can still say goodnight to her in our prayers…and she will hear them."

That made him feel much better. I took him upstairs to my closet where I keep my old photo albums. I found a picture of her and we put it on his wall. He said “This way I can see her every day!”

Death is a tough subject to talk about with kids. Whether it is a pet, a relative, a friend or even someone in the news, you just have to be honest with them. Kids aren’t stupid. They figure things out pretty well.  Tell them it’s okay to cry. It’s a natural thing to do. Always remember they are gone but not forgotten.

So, give your dog extra scratches on its belly, your cat an extra pet (before it turns on you at the drop of a hat to say ok...that’s enough!) and even your hamster a few extra minutes in the little car it can roll around on the floor in before you put it back in its cage. You never know when they might have to leave us. They love us just as much as we love them. And we will see them again.

Sharon Auditioned for Into The Woods and Anderson's Words of Wisdom

When I saw on my friend, Dan Kennedy’s, Facebook page that he was headed to auditions for ‘Into the Woods’ at the Waterville Opera House on Sunday, I instantly wanted to go. The show will run in April of 2015. That will be exactly 10 years since the curtain went up on it before. I was lucky enough to be cast in the role of Little Red Riding Hood.

And, as luck would have it, I went to a callback Tuesday for the same role.

I am 40 years old but, thankfully, have a youthful look about me. However, I’m not as youthful as the young ladies were that were also at call backs. I am guessing I’m 20 years older than they.

A definite disadvantage.

However, I still wanted to sing my heart out and try. And I did. The young ladies were all beautiful. All had the voices of songbirds. In other words: pretty steep competition.

Is there anything left in this old gal?

There sure is. But now, I have to be realistic. Yes, I have experience in prior productions but the director and musical director have to make very tough choices on all the different parts.

They will go with the ones that fit the parts the best. That means looks, voice and ability all rolled into one. And they always choose correctly. You must put trust in the people who are casting the players. It is their vision. Whomever they choose, they have faith in those and will guide them through the process to make this stage production as grand as the ones that came before it.

Last night when I told Anderson I had a call back for the part, he said “Mama, can I come and see you?” I told him IF I get the part that he would certainly be in the audience.

This morning he asked if I had “won” the part. I told him that I wouldn’t know for at least a week.

And then I asked him a few very important questions. Here is what transpired this morning:

“Anderson, what happens if I get the part?”

“I would get to see you, Mama, and you would be very happy.”

“Anderson, what would happen if I DIDN’T get the part?”

“I wouldn’t get to see you and you would be sad.”

“But is that okay? To be sad?”

“Yes.”

“Why is that?”

“Because you did your best."

"That's right. I did."

There is always a lesson to be taught in all different situations. The reaction and how you handle each and every situation is watched closely by little eyes and ears. I hope he remembers this lesson when he unfortunately doesn't make it on a team or, if he ever gets into theater, doesn't get the role he wants. In the words of Stephen Sondheim and his lyrics for the Witch from the upcoming performances at the Waterville Opera House:

“Careful the things you say
Children will listen
Careful the things you do
Children will see and learn
Children may not obey, but children will listen
Children will look to you for which way to turn
To learn what to be
Careful before you say "Listen to me"
Children will listen
Careful the wish you make
Wishes are children
Careful the path they take
Wishes come true, not free
Careful the spell you cast
Not just on children
Sometimes a spell may last
Past what you can see
And turn against you
Careful the tale you tell
That is the spell
Children will listen
How do you say to a child who's in flight
"Don't slip away and I won't hold so tight"
What can you say that no matter how slight
Won't be misunderstood.
What do you leave to your child when you're dead?
Only whatever you put in its head
Things that you're mother and father had said
Which were left to them too
Careful the things you say
Children will listen
Careful you do them too
Children will see
And learn
Guide them, but step away
Children will glisten
Tamper with what is true
And children will turn
If just to be free
Careful before you say
"Listen to me"
Children will listen”

Anderson Got Baptized Sunday!

 

Sunday morning couldn’t come fast enough for Anderson or myself. We were both so excited for this very special day!

I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints…in other words…Mormon.  I was baptized Christmas Day of 1995. I’ve been to a few temples and I try and practice the Latter-Day Saint ways as best I can. I’m DEFINITELY not perfect but I try hard to be.

Anderson goes to church every Sunday thanks to his dad, Daniel and his stepmom, Lori. They are both members of the church and very active members. It was Anderson’s decision to be baptized. And on Sunday, dressed all in white, he was ready to take…the plunge!

It was a wonderful ceremony. His dad was so proud to be able to baptize him. Many family members and friends were able to make it. They counted the attendance and more people had attended the baptism than the sacrament meeting. He is one very loved young man.

I was lucky enough to be asked by Anderson to give the talk on the Holy Ghost. I wrote it and practiced it out loud a dozen times! It felt good to stand in front of the congregation that had gathered and tell him how much I loved him and how proud I was of his decision.

I spoke to him about the feeling the Holy Ghost can give, how it can help him make good decisions and that it was HIS responsibility to make the best choices he can. He is growing up and He’ll be approached by people and tempted to do things that aren’t healthy for him. I hope he is able to make the right decisions and, if he doesn’t, at least he’ll have the opportunity to repent and make them right again.

I’m not one to be all preachy about things and this is in NO WAY intended to be. I am just so proud of my son and the boy he has grown to be. I wish time would stand still sometimes. I know that the years will bring many more amazing times for us. He is already talking about getting a job so he can go to college and fund his mission with the church. He can afford to slow down a little bit. A job and being an adult will come soon enough. It’s great he wants to be so responsible but for now I think an allowance for chores is good enough!

And even though they are not members, Chad, Bradley and Jayden were all there to support him. It doesn't matter what the kids are into. We all support whatever they do. That's what being family is all about. This was a big moment in Anderson's life and they wanted to be there for him.

Thank you, Anderson, for asking me to be a part of your special day and the love you give to me and all around you. We are truly blessed to be a family.

What Would My Answer Be?

On my birthday last week, my son, Anderson, asked me a question while I was driving him to the babysitter.

“Mama, what do you want for your birthday?”

I smiled at him in the rearview mirror and said “Lots of hugs and kisses from you!”

He laughed and said “No, Mama, what do you REALLY want for your birthday?”

I answered “Lots of hugs and kisses from Chad!”

Then he got a serious look on his face.

He said “No, Mama, what have you always wanted but never got?”

THAT took me by surprise.         

I remember being in a store about 10 years ago and buying a reissued Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine that I had always wanted as a kid.

I remember my co-worker surprising me on-air with an Easy Bake Oven.

But now, at 40, what is something I’ve always wanted but never received?

I had no answer. I told him I would have to get back to him on that.

I am now 40 years old. I certainly don’t feel it. And I’m told I don’t look it. But, at 40, it was time to look back and figure out what I HAD always wanted but NEVER received.

Or should it have been, never DONE?

So, I made a list of what I wish HAD happened to me.

I wish:

1.       I had been allowed to play sports in school

2.       Someone would have taught me about girl stuff (hair, monthlies, makeup, clothes)

3.       My mother had not ripped up the letter saying I had a full scholarship to UNC

4.       I had gone for a Bachelor’s Degree

5.       I had learned to play an instrument when I was a kid

6.       I had taken dance classes

7.       I had been allowed to attend school dances

8.       I had been allowed to have sleepovers

9.       I had not paid off someone’s $25,000 worth of credit card debt and not asked for it back (Because he is living large now!)

Yes, all those things happened.  I was what they called a “late bloomer” of life. In response to all those things I wish had happened, here is what I got out of them:

1.       It wasn’t until my 30s when I was part of an actual team. I played volleyball with my co-workers for a season.

2.      I’m still learning about girl stuff. I can’t do my own hair for the life of me and I rely on my husband to pick out my clothes. From what I hear he has good taste.

3.       I didn’t get to go to UNC but I DID graduate from KVTC and I’m going back to get my bachelor’s in January.

4.      That covers #4, too!

5.      I have learned enough on piano and guitar to create my own music but I’m not proficient at any of them.

6.      I can keep a beat on my feet but just because I have rhythm doesn’t mean I’m a good dancer.

7.     That one school dance where I was the laughing stock for the rest of the school year when my mother and sister arrived and made a huge scene….yeah, I could live without that memory.  I think if I had been able to attend them regularly, I would be able to relate to make friends and make better friends now.  I have plenty of friends on Facebook but I mostly keep to myself, husband  and children. I don’t ‘hang out’ with anyone.

8.     Ahhh, the sleepover. To this day I have no idea what goes on at one. I sincerely doubt it was pillow fights in pajamas.

9.       Yup. Paid off all his debt so his credit would be good and we could buy a nice house together. Got taken on that one. It’s a good thing I’ve got the right man now.

So what is it I want? At 40 years old, you’d think I could think of something, right?

Well, I have.

I want my son to grow up and experience everything I never got a chance to do.

I want him active in sports, which he is in baseball and basketball.

Learning about boy stuff, from Chad and Boy Scouts.

He WILL go to the college of his choice!

He WILL graduate, too!

He wants to take guitar lessons when he gets older. That’s fine with me!

The boy likes to dance and I will encourage him to dance whenever he wants to. A girl loves a man who can dance! (although I will have to intervene if ‘The Sprinkler’ ever becomes his signature move).

He can attend school dances and not be afraid of his mom freaking out on him.

He can sleep at a friend’s house without his mom freaking out on him.

And he will, hopefully, learn how to handle his money. He’s done well so far. He has a savings account for his church mission and college.

That’s it. I want my son to be able to do the things I was never allowed to do. It’s not because they were bad things. Yes, my parents were overprotective but it didn’t mean they didn’t love me or want what’s best for me. They did. And I know that.  And I’m who I am today because of it.

And I hope my son will understand, even if it is 20 years from when he graduates,  at the things I say ‘no’ to and the ones I say ‘yes’ to. I hope he will look back and say “I had it pretty good….and an awesome mom.”

 

Alex Trebek Say Uranus In A Funny Way

I couldn't help it but I had to giggle when he said it.

Yes, I feel 13 again but when someone so serious says the word 'Uranus' in a sentence the way he did...well...let's just say it brought me back to junior high.

Alex Trebek's Uranus Faux Pas: http://youtu.be/tGUntX0NWbo

Two Different Kinds of People...One Life Together. It CAN Work!

Believe it or not, Chad and I are two COMPLETELY different kinds of people.

I know. It's like we're joined at the hip sometimes. We're newlyweds. Give us a break!

But what happens when two different kinds of people fall in love? They say opposites attract but what if it's only physical attraction? What then?

Here's a peek into the lives of two very different souls and how it CAN work!

He grew up in the country in Turner, ME….I grew up in the city in Milford, CT.

He is from a family of 5….I am from a family of 11.

He’s 6 feet  tall…...I’m only 4 foot 11.

He played baseball, basketball, did track and field….I wasn’t allowed to play sports.

He was very quiet in school....I was extremely outgoing.

He was outdoorsy with camping, hunting, fishing….I liked books and sewing.

We have different thoughts on politics, church, movies and humor. VERY DIFFERENT THOUGHTS.

But even though we are extremely different, we still find a way to make things work. We find the things that we like together and do them, like music.  We also try and do together, if only once, something the other person likes. You never know, the other person may like it, too, and we have found something else we can do together. Then, we try something entirely new. It’s possible both might like it and we have a new interest! For instance, we have found we enjoy metal detecting!

In our life together, we’ve found a way to have common ground.

We have also treated each other with RESPECT with each and every difference. Each has not tried to force their beliefs on the other. We have each been to activities for all our children to support them whether it be a baseball game, a dance recital or speaking in church. 

A relationship is compromise. A relationship is knowing who you’re with and loving them for your common ground and differences. A relationship is respecting the other person for their common ground and differences.

Is our relationship perfect? No. Do we argue?  Yes. Do we air our dirty laundry on Facebook? No.

But we try hard to make it work. And it does. And we’re happy. Want to know why?

It's because we WANT it to work.

I'm not going to lie. The past hurt. Whose doesn't? It still does every once in a while. But what needs to happen is to not let the past define your future!

Know the mistakes you made, own them and don't make them again. The new person you're with doesn't deserve them just like you don't deserve theirs.

So, will it be a chick flick or action movie Friday night? I don't know. But I DO know that spending time together snuggling on the couch under a blanket during an action movie is better than playing Candy Crush by yourself when the one you love is two feet away.

Anderson Starts 3rd Grade!

I know. I know. EVERY kid starts school. But not with the tradition Anderson and I do!

You see, every year he started a new grade, we have this special thing we do. And I hope it continues through grade 12. I think he'll be kind enough to humor his 48 year old mother then.

It's his breakfast!

Each 1st day of school starts the same: with a Happy Pancake!

This year he wants it with a '1st Day' on it. THAT was challenging but I figured it out!

Below you can see the pictures through the years...from Kindergarten all the way up to now!

It's amazing how time flies. Now, he picks out his own school clothes. He has the routine down, too. First breakfast, then brushing teeth, then clothes, then shoes...all without asking. Mom's help no longer needed except when he can't find his socks.

Parents, be active in your child's school life. Ask questions about their day, contact the teacher BEFORE the parent/teacher conference happens to see if there's anything you can do to help your child with their learning. CHECK THEIR HOMEWORK! Nothing's better than a child's face that lights up with a 'GOOD JOB!". These years are what helps them grow into the person they become. Set a good example of how they should treat THEIR children when they have them. And most of all, LOVE THEM! And show it as much as you can!

And here is the link to that wonderful poem Randy McCoy reads every year on B98.5 that makes me cry:

I Trust You'll Treat Her Well.

 

 

Anderson Visited Me at Work Today!

It's not every day your child asks 'Mama, can I go to work with you?"  And when they do, you can't wait to bring them!

But first, you must ask permission. And Anderson did just that! He said he would write a letter to Bob and ask. I presented it to Bob the next day and he approved the request. (You must do things through the proper channels.)

Today was the big day! I woke up Anderson and told him to look his best so he put on his church clothes....tie and all! If he ever works in an actual office, I think he's got the attire down.

After stopping at McDonald's for some pancakes (because you can't work on an empty stomach), we stepped into Kennebec Behavioral Health. I work in the Billing Department as a Billing Specialist. I really love my job because 1 + 1 ALWAYS equals 2! Everything is black & white. There really are no gray areas. You either get paid or you don't. Very few times do I ever have to worry about not figuring things out. 99% of the time there is always an answer.

After his big breakfast, our boss, Bob, brought in doughnuts from Tim Hortons. He offered Anderson first choice! Of course, he chose the one with the most sprinkles!

After all the food, it was time to get down to business! I told him that if he ever wanted to work in Billing, Bob needed to make sure he knew his numbers. So I gave him the test EVERY employee must take before being able to work in Billing. (wink wink) A test of addition and subtraction. Could he do it?

You better believe he could! 100%!!

 

I asked him if he knew what insurance was. He shook his head no. So I explained it to him like this:

You know how you visit the doctor or the chiropractor? Well, each time you see them, you are charged money. Would you like to pay them ALL the money?

He said no. Smart boy!

I told him that insurance is something you can buy through your work so they pay for almost all of it!

After that, I put him to work! I made him add up the columns in our report to make sure the computer system was adding them correctly. Never can be too sure, right?

When he was all done, he received a certificate!

I tell you, this kid will be ready for corporate America soon enough! He liked it so much he wants to come back! Maybe when he's old enough he can be a temp and do data entry. All I know is that he said when he gets older he wants a convertible. I told him he could start looking for a job at 15. When it comes to his financial future, I'm not worried.

What A Little Girl Told Me Last Night...And What I Said Back

I am very lucky. Every weekend I get to go and do something I absolutely love: SING! And to be compensated for that is awesome! Heck, most of the time I will sing for food.

I have been in bands since I was 17. Each one has been a unique experience. I've learned what to and not to do. What to say and what not to say. But the most important thing I've learned is how to treat people. You really find out who your friends are when things happen.

And kids are the most important people you can talk to. They are brutally honest. They will tell you what they DO like and, without a filter, what they DON'T like. And I take what they say into consideration. Everyone has an opinion.

But what one little girl told me last night really hit home.

When Sharon Hood & Dixon Road finished our gig at Lake Pemaquid Campground, a young lady named Jackie came up to me and said "You have an amazing voice. I wish I could do what you do but I get stagefright. I could never do that...I look up to you."

Oh, be still my heart.

I am but a medium-sized fish in a big pond. The band has a wonderful following for which I am truly thankful for. Each gig brings exciting new people into our lives.

And this exciting new little person was a beautiful soul.

It shows that I have a very important job to do. With all the media that kids are watching (tv, YouTube, the internet in general), they are exposed to so much. Most children at that certain age (10-12) have never been to an actual concert so when they see me it's the first concert they've ever been to. (They are REALLY wanting Taylor Swift but they get me instead!) And I have a responsibility to give them a great performance.

It is also my responsibility to be a role model. There are some stars out there who do things on stage that I would NEVER let MY children see (I think you know who I'm talking about). And I wouldn't be caught dead doing ANYTHING they do. Now is the time when kids soak up every picture, every song, every action of their favorite artists. It's that kind of time we live in.

So when this young, beautiful girl with big bright eyes says something like that to me, it's my responsibility to talk with her. To, hopefully, tell her the right things.

And this is what I told her:

I told her thank you very much and that I was glad she enjoyed the show. I also told her that she CAN do what I do. You see, every gig I have I'm a little nervous before the show starts. If I wasn't a little nervous, I wouldn't be human. Everyone wants to give a great performance. Who likes to mess up? After I get up on stage and that first song is over, I feel much better and the show goes on as usual.

I told her that if she likes to sing, STICK WITH IT! If it is something you love, why give it up? Why let something stop you? She could be the next winner of American Idol or The Voice! All it takes is practice. And lots of it. I've been singing since I could walk. Practice may not make perfect but it sure as heck makes you better.

I told her that next year, because her family are seasonal campers and hope to be back next year, that we would have her on stage with us. Her eyes got really big at that point! There are songs we do that she already knows. Why not? Someone let me take the stage for the first time. It's my turn to do that for someone else.

In 7th grade, I was told by my teacher that I was ugly and couldn't sing so why try out for the school musical? That hurt me so much. But it didn't stop me. I kept at it and joined chorus in high school. I was discovered to be a natural harmonizer which I love doing. I was cultivated by people who saw something in me and helped me get better. I surrounded myself with people like me who love music and everything about it.

I may never get to the level of Taylor, Carrie or Miranda but I CAN do what I love. I still have the same dream...it's just coming true in a different way. There is still time for my original dream to come true. All I can do is keep working towards it, surround myself with people with the same dream and be happy. Now, I am writing my own music and bringing it to life with 4 great friends and a husband and family that support my dream. Maybe my voice will never be heard across the country but maybe, just maybe, my songs will.

To Jackie at Lake Pemaquid Campground...NEVER give up on your dreams! NEVER let anyone say you're not good enough! NEVER let other people tear you down just to lift themselves back up. NEVER let yourself forget that YOU are an original. NEVER try to be someone you're not. YOU deserve to be happy. YOU have the right to dream any dream you like and strive to make it come true.

And I hope it does. I truly hope it does.

A Mother's Work is Never Done...Even When She's AT Work!

We moms have a lot to do. It begins in the morning with making the bed, making breakfast, laundry, dishes and so much more before heading off to work. For example, reminding the kids to brush their teeth in the morning. In Summertime, sometimes kids are forgetful. Wouldn't you be with 3 months off to play? But, the dutiful and sometimes overbearing moms we are, we don't let them forget.

We're just being moms.

Well, last night as we were all getting ready for bed, Anderson poked his head over the railing and he had a blue object in his hand.

Last week, Aunt Wendy was able to stay with the kids while we were away on our honeymoon. And Aunt Wendy is tons of fun! I had left her a few certificates to take the kids to The Fun Park in Benton as a way to get out and not have to be home all the time. While there, they played mini golf, the batting cages and rode the go-karts. Inside they have Teddy Mountain where you can make your own stuffed animals. That's where Anderson got his stuffed Pumpkin and Beanie, who look like our cats.

While at The Fun Park, they stopped at the claw machine. Wendy had just enough money for each of them to take a turn. Brad went first and, unfortunately, couldn't grab anything. Anderson got lucky, though. He won a light blue rhinoceros! And he has slept with it ever since.

Last night, that blue object in his hand was that rhinoceros. He asked me to fix him. You see, the rhino had a hole in the back where the stitching had come undone. I told him to toss it down and I would fix it for tomorrow.

This morning the rhino went to work with me. And with help from Kathy at the front desk and Barbara down the hall, we came up with a sewing kit and needle. While spending 1:32:08 on the phone (most of it on hold) with an insurance company trying to get claims paid, I took out the kit and sewed him back together. It was a great stress reliever. It can get very frustrating when you work so hard on a patient's behalf and the insurance company can't seem to see what you're seeing. Luckily, the rhino was fixed and the rep was able to help me in a big way.

I can't wait to see the look on his face when he sees the little blue stuffed animal come through the door, all fixed, like new and waiting for a hug.

A mom's work at 4:45....shall be done. At least for a little while....

Best Out of Office Message Ever!!!

I had to do it....I just had to!!!

 

At least I have a sense of humor...and my coworkers do, too! Everyone have a fantastic week!

 

 

Our Wedding and Thompson Square....Part 1

A year of planning is finished and Saturday Chad and I became husband and wife when we took our vows at the Belgrade Community Center for All Seasons in front of our family and friends.

And we have truly been blessed.

I have never felt such an outpouring of love come our way. In the early days people were calling us 'Blake and Miranda' because of our love of music and how it brought us together. It kind of helped we were singing their songs, too.

Now, Thompson Square is a huge part of our lives. The country duo is married and each gets to make music every day with the one they love. Their song 'Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not' holds a special place in our hearts. We are both HUGE fans of David Lee Murphy and he co-wrote the song. It came out in February of 2011 and our relationship didn't start until December of 2011.

You see, I had traveled to Chad's workplace (a 45 minute drive) to have lunch with him a few days a week. We would either sit in my car or in his and talk for the hour while we ate. BOTH of us were wondering when THE kiss was going to happen. Well, I finally couldn't help myself and I kissed him.

 

"It was the best dang kiss that I ever had
Except for that long one after that"

Ever since then that song has reminded us of that day. And we've never looked back.

I was happy with the way our life was. Chad had made the permanent move to Clinton. I wasn't pushing for a ring. But he sent me a text on February 27, 2012, while he was at work that asked me "What are you doing 6/14/14?' I answered "I probably have a gig." He said "It's a good day to get married." He told me it wouldn't be official until there was a ring on my finger. So for a long time we kept it a secret.

"And I knew if I wanted this thing to last
Sooner or later I'd have to ask for your hand"

May 11, 2013, at the Clubhouse Tavern at the Maple Lane Golf Course, we sang our song together and he proposed. What a surprise. He told me we were singing it for his mom on Mother's Day which was the next day. But he had me totally in the dark about the entire thing. Video was taken, pictures were snapped and suddenly, I was engaged to Chad Hood.

 

"So I took a chance
Bought a wedding band and I got down on one knee
And you smiled and said to me
"Are you gonna kiss me or not?

Are we gonna do this or what?
I think you know I love you a lot
I think we've got a real good shot
Are you gonna kiss me or not?"

 

So, we planned it all out for the middle of June
From the wedding cake to the honeymoon"

And we did. Chad made all the decisions. I'm a Libra so I am not good at deciding on anything. He really is my other half. He picked out the colors, cake, flowers, cake topper, dress, suits, invitations and now the honeymoon: Nashville, Tennessee.

He is NOT a planner. He is more of a fly by the seat of your pants kind of guy. I'M a planner. So we did a little of both. We had the IDEAS of what we wanted to do, and we headed out!

We hit Hunter Mountain, New York, for the Taste of Country Music Festival. We got our wristbands and met up for the meet & greet. We were so nervous. It was crazy. We have met people before but it's life we knew them. Chad even downloaded their albums for us to listen to on the way down. 

We were waiting and we saw them upstairs and doing an interview. When it came time to meet them, we brought with us our wedding invitation for them to see. We shook hands with each of them. We told them we just got married yesterday and they congratulated us. And then Shawna said something that blew us away...."Ya'll were the ones that sent us the video!"

She remembered us!!

We couldn't believe it. They signed our invitation and we said thank you. Then we took the picture! 

We were given VIP seats, too! Shawna saw us in the crowd and waved to us. And their last song was our song. 

What an incredible day! What a fabulous weekend. Can't wait for our next adventure!!!

Sharon Buck & Dixon Road Record Album

Has it really happened? Is my dream of almost 20 years really coming true?

 

You bet it is!

The last few years of my life I have been writing songs. Not knowing if they were good enough. Not knowing if they even made sense. Wondering at all if anyone would want to give them a listen. After recording 'Good Ol' Country Boys' a few years ago and the response from the fans, I was inspired to do more. Now, with the encouragement from my wonderful husband-to-be, my songs are being given life.

 

Dixon Road is more than just a country band that does cover songs. The men of Dixon Road, Ed Nevins, Eddie Boudreau, Bruce Burpee and Craig Stutzman, have become my best friends that see potential in me, our band, the songs and where our band can go. They tell me when something doesn't sound right, they tell me when it's rockin' and they tell me they are happy.

 

Last night in the studio with Brad Truman of B & R Studios, we laid down the vocal tracks, including background vocals, for 2 out of 5 songs. So, it's not done YET...I have to go back next Thursday and finish laying down the vocals for the other 3. Things are coming together and we are hoping to have it ready for our concert with B98.5's Waterfront Wednesday on June 25th.

 

Here are some of the pics from last night.

 

Thank you all so much for believing in us.

 

You've been anxiously waiting for the album and it is becoming a reality. All thanks to you because, without you, we wouldn't be anywhere! You, who come out to all our shows, buy our tshirts and bumper stickers, tell new places about us and get us booked without our even knowing.... YOU are the amazing part of us.

 

This is for you an anyone who has ever wanted a dream to come true.

 

 

George Strait Singing at Gillette Stadium

The concert, as you know, was fantastic!

I was able to remember to shoot a few videos while I was there. Here is George's grand entrance:

And one of my favorite songs 'Marina Del Rey'

Hope you like them!!

Sharon and Chad See George Strait's Last Show at Gillette Stadium

We had so many things to do before we could even THINK about leaving to head to Foxborough, Massachusetts. With a wedding right around the corner, we had to tie up loose ends: like buying me a wedding band. Checking Facebook, all our friends that we knew were going we saw had left around 7am. We didn't leave until noon.

We travel well together. Lots of music, laughter, singing, weird jokes...yes, I think we were made for each other. The ride was very smooth. GPS helped us get there. But when we reached 20 miles away THAT'S when traffic came to a stop...then a go....then a stop...then a go...well, you know the pattern.

When we got ther we saw great things like friends and acquaintances, smiles, George Strait items including tshirts, license plates, posters. But we did also see not so great things: men peeing on their own trucks. Classy...

We got to our seats and Judy Bard, the winner from B98.5's Stand Up Strait and Smile contest, was there with her 2 friends and Chad and I introduced ourselves. We all got along famously! Nothing but fun and laughter!

The concert started just after 6 and we were VERY surprised by the opening act: Cassadee Pope! She sang about 5 songs. What a voice she has! No wonder she won The Voice a few years ago on Team Blake! She did a wonderful job!

Then, Tim McGraw took the stage! We saw him walking up the ramp with his blue jean shirt and jeans and signature black cowboy hat. He did plenty of his #1 hits and he did mine and Chad's favorite song 'Mexicoma'! Who would have thought we would hear that one?

Faith Hill joined him for their new single 'Meanwhile, Back at Mama's' and it was really sweet how they held hands at the end and kissed. Awwwwwwww...

Then Faith Hill did a few songs... Let's not talk about that....

After a 15 minute wait when she FINALLY ended, George Strait LIT UP THE STAGE!!  LITERALLY!!  He started out with 'The Fireman' and the entire stadium had fake flames going around it!

Many stars start out with hit after hit but only a handful can sound just as good as they did in 1979. NEVER missed a note! NEVER missed a beat! He used the stage, something I heard he said it took a long time for him to get used to. He also gave away another house to a veteran, a hero. George Strait has given away over $10,000,000 worth of home and housed over 750 children.

I have to say, being able to see a man whose voice I have loved ever since I was 6, he has not lost his voice at all! He was completely incredible! George Strait is known as 'KING GEORGE' and he SHOULD be! Over 60 #1 hits, 28 albums (not including Christmas albums) and a slew of awards! He has another show to do before his FINAL show in Texas this Saturday. He'll have plenty of friends there to help him celebrate including Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Tim McGraw, Jason Aldean and a whole host of others. Because THAT is where the cowboy will ride away....

Our Memorial Day Weekend!

It really is amazing how fast time goes by. And crazy how fast children grow up. Becoming a blended family is never easy but we have been very lucky. Chad and I are two parents that love children (Especially our own) and when all three get together our beginning thoughts are "Here we go!" But end up being "How did we get so lucky?" These kids are incredible. 

While driving to Duckpuddle Campground in Nobleboro, by the time we reached Augusta they started a countdown to how long it would take to get there. Brad told the time by his watch while Anderson and Jayden talked the entire 40 minutes. When it got down to 16 minutes Anderson said "Wow, time is going by so fast!" and it was! Because they were having fun!

We set up our tent and Chad took the kids fishing while I helped my band, Sharon Buck & Dixon Road, set up to play. The kids played all evening long. Chad built a fire and they had s'mores for dessert. By the time I reached the site, Anderson and Jayden were passed out in the tent. The trick was getting us all comfortable! Let's just say Chad and I didn't sleep very well! LOL There are just some sacrifices you make to make sure your kids are happy! But we did find out these 3 things while at our first time camping as a family:

#1: Always make sure to bring an egg crate mattress for the bottom of the tent (we adults were sore Sunday!)

#2: Kids steal all the covers

#3: Chad and I both fit in his single survival sleeping bag

I LOVE #3!

Yesterday we came home in the morning because Chad had yardwork to do. It was the first mowing of the year and the grass and dandelions were so thick. I know how much we said we hated the rain but the lawn drank it up and came back so nice this year!

The kids road their bikes, played basketball, jumped on the trampoline and helped Chad with the yardwork. They even made their own lunches! Then we took them fishing! They had been begging to go so we loaded up the car again and took them to a small pond. I think all but Bradley caught something. Poor guy.

We were so hungry we went to the Benton Fun Park. While I ordered dinner, Jayden and Anderson went on pony rides in the field. When a little girl sees a horse...well they instantly fall in love! You can't say no that look!

Back at home, Chad said for me to stop doing laundry (load #3) and to come outside and relax. He had set me a chair in the sun in the garage so I could watch the kids play their made up version of kickball while he played and sang me songs on the guitar.

If someone had told me 8 years ago life could really be this way, I would have cried. I never thought I could have this kind of life. Is it perfect? No. We still struggle with money sometimes ( who doesn't? ) and when we don't see eye to eye, we have to talk things out. Times like those don't last very long, though. 

When we first started dating, Chad told me I could talk to him about anything. And I really can. He sometimes laughs at my questions because, well, being almost 40, he would have thought I knew the answers to some already. It's amazing how being brought up 60 miles apart 2 COMPLETELY different ways and families make us each know about COMPLETELY different things!

But I wouldn't have it any other way.

This Memorial Day weeekend, I hope you find time with YOUR family. Acknowledge the veterans who have served and spare a moment to give thanks. And take a moment to realize that what you have now is all thanks to them.