Pittsburgher

Although I think I will forever refuse to be called a "Pittsburgher" (the name sounds completely awful), I am really liking my new city. I never really had a NEW city- except for San Marcos. Waco, Texas has been my wonderful home for 25 years of my life- an entire quarter of a century! And San Marcos was wonderful- but it was definitely a transition period- and I was planning a wedding for an entire year.

So Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania- with it's many bridges, heinz ketchup, Pirates, Steelers, Penguins and Primanti's Sandwiches- is my new home. First of all- the people make the place- and I have met some incredibly welcoming people among my co-workers, new family and new church.  Everyone wants to hear how in the world I came about moving across the country- and my story gets better with each person that hears it.  Also - I love being in a bigger city- there is so much more to do and multiple places to go get groceries, and household needs.

Every week feels like an adventure- whether it's learning how to ride the bus into downtown, or finding our way to a new church- everything is unchartered territory for me and Jonathan. There really hasn't been any downside to Pittsburgh (I've been in a really good mood for about two straight months - maybe this is the honeymoon period?) but there are things I miss from Waco, Texas.

Things I miss:

1. Definitely my family
2. Mexican food
3. Measuring distance in minutes
4. Friends that I was able to see very easily no matter what city
5. Going to Mom's on Sunday for Family Lunch and Dinner
6. Sibling bonding time
7. BBQ
8. Chicken Fried Steak
9. Flat land to run on
10. "Y'ALL"

Things I don't Miss:

1. Allergies
2. Heat
3. Seeing someone you know everytime you go out of the house
4. Driving from San Marcos to Waco every weekend
5. Allergies & Heat

Well mostly my list of things I miss centers around my family - which I would miss even if I lived in Dallas- and the good ole' southern charm of Texas in general. But for now, I am excited about the daily adventure that Jonathan and I go on, which is Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET VIOLET

Twenty six years ago today I became a MOTHER. Violet might (mistakenly) think that this is only HER birthday. But this is THE day that I became who, I believe, I was meant to be. Being the mother to all of my children, began with one small little 6 lb. bundle born on May 8, 1986. Violet Susanna Fuller's first day of life. It might as well of been MY first day of life (certainly as I now know it). Violet entered our lives with screams and laughter. We had no idea what we had gotten ourselves into, but we were certain that our little Violet was unique and special in every way possible. We surrounded ourselves with loving granparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Violet was loved by all who knew her.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET VIOLET CHILD! You will always be loved by all who know you!

Yankee Lady Lawyer

Violet got married. Violet moved to Pittsburgh. Violet is now a Yankee Lady Lawyer. This is her first day of work and I am anxious to hear how she is doing. She actually had the luxury of having two weeks after the move to Pittsburgh before she had to report to her new job as a crimanal defense lawyer. So she has been unpacking moving boxes, unwrapping wedding gifts and finding the local grocery store to prepare evening meals for her new husband. I have received many calls and texts these past two weeks with questions and comments about all sorts of things. I cannot wait to hear stories about her new workplace. Several of the lawyers are younger (less than 30) and a few are actually members of her sorority (Chi Omega). So she should have a built-in network of friends and colleagues. Each stage of a person's life is meant to prepare you for the next stage so I am looking forward to seeing what being a yankee lady lawyer is set to prepare her for next.

Newlywed Movers and Shakers- by Violet

I GOT MARRIED!!!! Yes- I cannot believe it still! But there are pictures to prove it. See--

Anyway- I am convinced I need to start blogging again- Yes, after a year hiatus from spreading my words on the internet. So I've changed my blog layout, updated what has changed (insert husband and new life in Pennsylvania) and have decided to just start typing. The wedding was incredibly- so many loved ones to help and so many hands willing to help make my day absolutely perfect. I think that touched me more than anything, the people who worked to make my day picture perfect. Everything from the beautiful brooch bouquet that my fairy godmother, Carolyn, made for me, to the handmade garter that my Aunt Cindee made for me. Every piece that I wore and every moment that was planned culminated into the perfect wedding. And not just the perfect wedding, but the perfect party! And that is exactly what I wanted to happen- I wanted all of my loved ones to be blissfully happy, as I was, and dance the night away- with full stomachs and plentiful libations. I think my absolute favorite moment of the wedding was the vows, and second was seeing my entire family, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles- all on the dance floor. Now it's already been almost three weeks since the wedding day, but I've had a lot to do before I could sit down and narrate the happenings. I absolutely HAD to get away to COSTA RICA, with my fabulous husband, Jonathan Silko.

Although it was hotter than Texas, he sweated through the week of paradise with his new bride because he knew I wanted to be on a beach! It was so great after a year of long distance (phone relationship) to get to spend time just talking to Jonathan, and BOY did I talk. We loved the resort we stayed at (Playa Conchal- Westin) and we loved the relaxation- but we definitely loved getting to finally spend more than just a weekend hanging out with each other- and starting to work on our day-to-day relationship.

And after our families gathered again in Dallas to see us off (with BBQ OF COURSE - we are all Texan), we drove my VERY FULL car to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to start our new lives together. I love the trip- mostly because Jonathan drove the whole way. I got to be a passenger of life and play DJ the whole way. I sang, I played drum on the dashboard, but (probably to Jonathan's dismay) I never slept! I was too excited! I wanted to be at my new HOME!!! Then, when we finally drove up to the apartment building in which we reside, we collapsed on the couch and watched two hours of HBO GO (best thing ever). We were invited over to Jonathan's aunt and uncle's house for a nice welcome home Italian meal (everyone is Italian up here). I loved the sense of family that we immediately came home to, and I love how similar our families are. That must be why he struck me as such a well rounded man- because our families have shaped us and molded us into incredible interesting people (if I don't say so myself). So for the past week and a half I've been unpacking a hoarders amount of clothes that I have accumulated and trying to turn this bachelor pad into a home. But next week I start work, and I think I'm about settled in. I will start working as a criminal defense lawyer for Allegheny county and will continue to do what my Uncle has spent the past year Mentoring me in. I'm ready to hit the ground running and start becoming a fabulously successful LADY LAWYER wife. I've always been ambitious, and now that the house is somewhat in order- I cannot imagine not going to work immediately and these last couple days are going to kill me. That's one very important thing about my husband, he calms me down and TRIES to teach me how to relax. Sweet Jonathan, he just doesn't get why I can get so WOUND UP! Doesn't he know who my mother is???!! Although she would promptly say that she doesn't know where I come from- because I work myself up into a complete tizzy. Well good news- since the honeymoon I've been super relaxed! See the only cure is COSTA RICA, or some other beautiful beach location- EASY PEASY. Well I hope to be more regular about writing but hopefully my mom will start back again and let me know how everything is going in BEAR COUNTRY. Until then! ADIOS!! -Violet, Baby Bear

Texas Western Swing Festival by Violet

One of the great things about San Marcos is that there's always a party to go to. Living on the square makes my habitation right in the middle of all of the action. I get to hear music playing all hours of the day- but I have learned to sleep through it and appreciate it during the waking hours.




Well last weekend was one of my first weekends to stay in San Marcos and not go back home to Waco. And I was determined to make it a memorable first weekend. When my aunt sent me an email about the festival to be held in town square- I knew that I would make it the focus of the weekend. After going to sleep early on friday, I woke up early on Saturday to investigate the fair grounds. Later that afternoon I went to see the blue hairs in square dancing costumes, blacksmiths, covered wagons and a beautiful farmers market. That night I strolled down to the fish fry and enjoyed all-you-can-eat catfish while listenin' to old western swing.

Who knew discovering things by yourself could be this much fun? I loved taking everything in. There were people from all over Texas that came to hear their favorite western swing song, dance, and eat wonderful Texan foods. Old and young alike, these people were enjoying a leisurely Saturday starting in the square and ending down by the river.





Things like this are why I want to spend more weekends in my new town of San Marcos, Texas. The culture and people of this town are so rich- but more importantly - it's new to me, and that's just about as exciting as the most historical town in Texas.

I can't wait till the next hoe-down.

Se Habla Espanol? by Violet

I am proud to say that I am now a San Marcos citizen- and I'm lovin' it. Though I have not yet mastered the #1 language here- I hope to become fluent on being an independent lady lawyer in this small Texas town.

It was kinda hard to leave the nest.. and the free food- but this is my first "college" experience away from home and I'm finding out how to be alone for the first time in my life.

After graduation and that horrible Bar Examination- I moved down to San Marcos to start practicing criminal law with my uncle Tom at the Law office of Tom E. Garner. Or as my mother likes to call it "TGLO" for short. I've been quickly learning the ropes, meeting the right people and greasin' the wheel for when I start on court appointed cases.

Besides enjoying actually working and using my degrees, I also love this city. It's so full of culture, Texan hospitality, and outlet malls. Per Ace's request, I'm trying to find the best street tacos and the best Mexican fare in the city for his next visit. The bar-b-que is also out of this world. But enough about food...



I really had no idea how much I would enjoy alone time. I have yet to make serious friends down here because I'm having too much fun learning more about myself. Going to sleep early, watching movies alone, taking time to read- I missed all of these activities in law school and undergrad. I've been able to start the process of de-cluttering my life- digging through packed boxes and tote bags and throwing away alot of things that need to be thrown away.

As I've discussed with mom- I think this is the first time in my life where I've been able to give any life decisions some actual thought. I've always been on the go, and finally I can learn more about myself and have the time to be introspective. Not only has it given me more time with God, but it's also given me more time to ponder things. I've gotten completely different meanings out of parts of scripture that I never saw anything in before- I've been able to think through parables and lessons and I actually have time with no excuses.

I know as I become more rooted in the city, things will pick up once again. But I hope that as I continue to live alone- I continue to discover myself as an independent lady lawyer and thrive in this wonderful slow pace that matches the city.

SENIOR YEAR.....again

This is Anabeth's senior year of high school She is sooooo excited...as am I! This is my third senior year -- if you don't count my own. Each of my children have celebrated the entire year of their last year of public school education as the true rock star that they are. Violet was our first; smart, talented, and eager to get her higher education started. Then came Ace. Our second child, first son, ready to get the party started in higher education. Each totally enjoyed their senior year of high school and wrung from each moment every memory and opportunity that they possibility could.

But I have to say that my favorite senior year to date (I still have a 16 year old son at home)has to be Anabeth's Senior Year. I think this year benefits from NOT being my first and frankly, by just belonging to Anabeth. She is my third child, a classic middle child. She is content is so many areas of her life. Which makes her a delight to be around! And every event, party or reception honoring Anabeth is met with joy and is embraced as the celebratory occasion that it is meant to be. Gotta love that! No drama, no tears (happy or sad). Only confidence that she truly is as great as everyone says she is and don't try to tell her differently! Because you would lose that fight.

Amidst all of the parties and receptions that this Senior Year has brought is an incomplete softball season. Our Lady Pirates are currently in the middle of a three game series for Regional semifinals. With equal aplomb Anabeth can pitch a no hitter in softball and be presented in a beautiful ball gown in an historical pageant. With out missing a beat she can go to a party with her friends or conduct a meeting as chairman of Waco Youth Council. I could not be more proud of her!

I will miss her living in my house next fall as she journeys 20 miles east to Baylor University to begin her career in higher education. But I know that she will make it a better place just as she has made our home a better place the past 18 years. I love her. As does everyone that knows her.

Go with God sweet Anabeth!

BRING IT!

For the last 7 years I have been moving along my paved out road, simply creating a new to-do list for every week and checking things off. Finally- I am getting to the end of that to-do list, and it feels so odd. I have exactly 7 days of school left EVER (which after 19 years of school seems a little odd), two Final exams left (7 hours of exams), and THE BAR (which is just as ominous as it sounds).

In less than two short months, I will be done with all of my educational goals I ever had. And man, am I ready to work.

Last week I just finished my last "practice Court" trial- our largest one to date- called "BIG TRIAL". This trial we had been working on since we filed our petition the Monday after Thanksgiving after spending our (me and my practice court partner) Thanksgiving holiday preparing for it. So for November, December and the first two weeks of January we have been sending faux discovery requests and information, replying to faux opposition requests, taking faux depositions of faux people and representing faux clients. It's actually exhasting, to get so wrapped up in a fake case and to not even have anyone to give you positive affirmation- except for my mom of course.

So we finished our trial, Winters v. Town Hall Estates- Whitney, Inc. (we were the inc.- a nursing home), and we only had to pay out $1800 in lost wages and medical bills to a plaintiff who originally received millions in punitive damages in the real life case that ours was based on.

Well now I shift my focus to Bar review- hours a day spent listening to a video professor on a different subject every day. And also to the PC III final exam, which I will take in two weeks.

Although my list still has some things to tick off, I am SO excited about working. I can never be still for long, so immediately after I take the Bar- I want to start. I will be working as a criminal defense attorney in the great city of SAN MARCOS, also trying out other cases to see what I have a heart for. Although I have a love for business law, I want to be useful and right now I know that I can get out there and provide representation for whoever needs it.

Who knows what's in store for me in the future and that's the first time I've ever felt this way. I always thought that I wasn't a spontaneous person, but rather a person who needed a plan for her life. But lately I realized that maybe I just had it all planned out to achieve this goal- of my MBA/JD. And that now, who knows what I can do with it!! I have the tools now I just have to go do work.

Over the past month or two, this often repeated verse has meant something new and very dear to me- Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

My mom gave me a plaque that said this verse over the Christmas break and I almost burst into tears because I'm so excited and thrilled to follow the path that God has laid out for me- and saw this gift as such an encouragement to continue to have hope and faith that the Lord will guide me.

Now, come March, when I have no more to-do lists past the point of packing up my career wardrobe- I might be singing another tune. But as of now, I say, "Bring It".

STORY CORPS WHAT A GIFT!!!

Yesterday my sister, Cindee, and I went with our father as he shared his life story to a large microphone while sitting in a diner booth inside of a classic AirStream trailer. An associate at work told me about Story Corps. A group that is funded by donations that is travelling the country collecting stories of Americans....Americans just like you and me....and my Daddy. The recordings would be cataloged and preserved in the Library of Congress for future generations of Americans to hear and learn about average Americans during these times. Our local NPR arranged for Waco to have the opportunity to host this venture. The symbolic AirStream trailer is parked outside of our main library...easy access to all. I was able to sign up online for an "interview" time. The taping would take approximately one hour, with paperwork and simple instructions completed Dad was able to talk for about 40 minutes. I had printed off some sample "starter" questions from the website and had Dad look over them about a week ago. Cindee and I had collaborated to decide what we would want on tape for our children, grandchildren, etc.

What a gift this was! Daddy came prepared with notes and stories. We essentially sat across from each other in the diner booth and had a conversation about his life. And what a life it was! Anyone who is 79 years old would have stories to tell and though Cindee and I had heard most of these stories many, many times we were delighted to know that these were now captured digitally on a CD and would later be cataloged and preserved in the United States Library of Congress for our future generations to hear in Daddy's own voice.

From growing up as a young boy selling papers and shining shoes on the streets of downtown Waco, Texas to owning and running a family lumber business for 34 years to later using his gardening skills to help feed his children and grandchildren this man has had quite a life. He spent 40 minutes addressing the highlights of his life. Forty minutes to record a lifetime, seems like so little time. However, he seemed to be able to say all he felt like he needed to say. He was able to tell his wife, each of his children and grandchildren by name that he loved them and was so glad to be given the opportunity to be their husband/father/grandfather.

After being a businessman for 45 years, it was interesting to hear that he dwelt on the early boyhood years and the retired years for most of the time alloted for recording. He named childhood friends from schoolyard days and young men that he served with in the Air Force from the ages of 17-21. He recounted with wet eyes those young men that served but didn't return with him. He said again and again how much his children, and especially his grandchildren have meant to him these past years, their love and attention to an old man.

"To love and be loved is the greatest joy on earth." Daddy echoed this during his taping saying that he would like to be remembered that he loved others and that some of them loved him back. Very simple coming from the man that taught me so many things about life, business and the world. But what I have gained from This day is simply to love. That is what will be remembered.

At the end of the taping Daddy said a prayer for all of his children and grandchildren and ask, by name, for God to watch over and guide each and every one of us. Daddy has many more years of love to show to and receive from his family, but this legacy has been recorded for generations to come.... we will even have a Dewey Decimal number to be able to look up his recording if we ever get to the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. Until then the love continues. Thanks, Daddy.

Putting the "FUN" back in Dysfunctional

This article was written by Violet in 2001 and was published in the Waco Tribune Herald and selected for a High School Literary Award and published in the High School Writer that same year.



My family gathers for Thanksgiving every year. I live with both of my parents, two brothers and a sister. But somehow six people for Thanksgiving just isn't enough for my Mom. Every year at Thanksgiving our home is opened to a variety of people __ old people, young people, grouchy middle-aged people and twenty-something know-it-alls. And all of these people are related to me! Yes, i know every one of them, most of them were there when I was born. I was in their weddings, attended their high school graduations and I have fought every last one of them for the turkey drumstick. Sometimes I even win!

I am required to rise at 6:00 a.m. every fourth Thursday of November to cook the turkey. We used to have the Thanksgiving meal at Nana and Papa's house until Mom got the great idea to have it at ours. Everyone that comes contributes with food offerings so all my family is left to do is cook the turkey and make the gravy. My Uncle Bob's family is unable to come this year. His wife, Christy, makes the most delicious rice dish. I will really miss the rice.

Somehow my mother has gotten away with never cooking a turkey -- her mom always cooked the bird and Mom decided that this great honor should probably skip a generation....hers, and go directly to me. Now we know that given the present technology with Butterballs these days, there is really not much to cooking a turkey. That is if it can fit into your oven and it has been purchased soon enough to allow for proper defrosting in the refrigerator. Yes, each of these requirements have been overlooked one year or another. Yet, year after year, MY turkey graces the table for everyone to admire and quickly devour. My mother often gives me areas in which I can easily succeed. Next year, I just may be ready for the gravy.

After the noontime meal, everyone complains about eating too much. Though we are all thankful for the bounty that is set before us, we feel compelled to proclaim that it will be days, maybe even weeks, before any of us will need to take another bite. funny how a mere four or five hours later these same people will be wondering out loud when someone will be warming the leftovers for one last bite before they have to get on the road. Our next gathering will be at Christmas, this time at Nana and Papa's house with basically the same menu only this time the responsibility for cooking the turkey will be on someone else. I will make myself available for cooking tips whenever needed.

Family gatherings with my extended family are always fun. I wouldn't exactly call our family dysfunctional -- normal is such a relative term. We not only get together for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but also, Easter, Fourth of July and just about anytime there is a full moon. We probably see far too much of each other. The stories my mom and her brothers tell are spooky --do I really want to know that much about her childhood? The answer is yes. I gain great insight on how she became the woman she is by witnessing the love given to her by her family, the mischievousness of her two older brothers, growing up as a twin and being cheated out of being the baby of the family by a younger sister. When they start in on the old family lumber business stories, I usually take a break for another piece of pumpkin pie and hurry back just in time to hear a really good story about my mom. A new one, one I hadn't heard before. Most of the stories are all old, told many, many times, in many, many different ways. Depends on who is telling the story. Our family history is NOT an exact science. we are a family of storytellers. We are a family of exaggerators. Whatever makes the story better will be added. If it isn't true to begin with, it soon will be and included as a part of our oral family history.

Most members of our family have a great sense of humor. Or a least we think so. Woe be unto the ones that don't. Spouses that have married into this clan quickly develop a type of survivalist wit. Not nearly as quick or funny. But it does allow them to escape the day with few injuries. We are all good sports. This time I may be the one picked on, next time it will be cousin Colleen. with a family as large as mine, I may be married and living in Australia by the time it is my turn again.

some kids my age pretend to be embarrassed by or annoyed with their family. This is hard for me to understand. O, i know there are as many different kinds of families as there are people in this world. And that families are made up of not only genetically connected people, but also people thrown together for a variety of reasons. It takes all kinds to make this world go round. However, if I were to ever give my Uncle Tom the idea that he had the ability to embarrass me -- I am sure that the teasing would have no end. As a matter of fact, my mother has told me just that. But my need for constant attention by all family members present overrides her warnings. I love the fact that my mother has an identical twin. I feel very connected to Aunt Cindee, our personalities are quite similar I am told. I think it was even said in a complimentary way. My Aunt Mari is single an an avid moviegoer -- my partner in crime for all of the chick flicks shown in this town. I was named for my Nana, a definite connection of love. And Papa knows the most amazing card tricks. Many families members, many talents, much love.


There is a certain safety in numbers. A great security in knowing that if I were to ever need any of my family for anything, they would be there for me. Like I said, most of these guys were there when I was born. At the hospital cheering on the doctor and my mother, applauding every stage of labor. The waiting room was taken over by our family --they did everything but build a bonfire. They have known me from day one, I don't feel as though I have to win awards or achieve great things to obtain this love and acceptance. It is just there...for the taking. And I will take it---many times over and over throughout my life. These guys are my anchors, my touchstone....MY FAMILY !

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL

note: this is an article that Violet wrote when she was a teen correspondent for Waco Tribune Herald. Violet was a sophomore in high school. The date of the article is September 6, 2001.

What are you doing Friday Night? Well, if you are like thousands of other Texas, you will be attending a high school football game. The lights, the crowds, 22 young men on a 100-yard field to play a game with a ball made of pigskin ----It just don't get no better than this!

High school football has been around almost as long as high schools in Texas. We are known for the sport and the importance we place on it. Five-year-old boys start on flag football teams and graduate to full contact by age 7. Maybe we do start them a little young, but you can't take away the fact that participating in a team sport is a part of growing up and has some great lessons to be learned.

Team sports give children the opportunity to learn how to work with others. Taking instruction from a coach and doing as he says, no questions asked, is a lesson in humility. A guy might be very good at his position but with the wrong attitude can be sidelined indefinitely. Hmmm...learning how to take orders from a superior ---you just might use this lesson later in life.

The schools take the education of their athletes very seriously. Without the passing grades, even the best athletes on the team are benched until their grades improve. Statistically, a very small percentage of high school athletes make it into college ball and even fewer into the ranks of the professional athlete. So, academically these young men may just need to know some of this stuff that they are studying. Or at least how to say, "Do you want fries with that?" in more than one language.

Friday night football is a lot of fun at our school. It is definitely the place to be -- all of your friends are there. A large portion of the student body participates in the Friday night activities -- the varsity football players, cheerleaders, band, flag corps, dance team, Blue Crew, Panther Patrol --those are the kids that are required to be there. The entire student body comes out, in mass, to cheer on the team --Our Team--banding together against a common enemy---whoever the opponent is that week.

Men of my my father's generation can still give you a play-by-play description of the big championship game of their high school football careers. These bonds are established on the practice fields with their teammates every day of the week during football season and extend throughout their high school days and all through their lives. Being a part of a team is important all of your life.

Maybe we do take our football a little too seriously in Texas. But maybe other states just don't take their football seriously enough!

Friday Night Football is a great tradition -- so why not go out to your local high school football field this Friday night and see what all the excitement is about?!?

Last Day at the Office by Violet

So today is my last day at the office, and I have wrapped every project up and put away all my working files. I am not ready to leave the working world yet and get back to school. That’s one reason I’m glad I immediately started law school after I graduated from undergrad- because if I had any time off, I would never want to go back. So now after taking a year off of law school to get my MBA, and get 7 months of real world law firm experience- I must now go back to the institution that is Baylor Law. There will by crying and gnashing of teeth. But I’ve complained enough, and now im actually just sad to leave the office that I have been to almost every workday since February. I will miss all of the attorneys and the staff- both of whom I had great conversations and learned a lot. I will miss the daily lunches of course, but also the constant change of work and interesting cases. My stomach is actually in knots as I type because I don’t want to leave here. There is no stressful studying, only stress over real situations and real clients. I enjoyed helping people, although they were rather macabre situations for the other side: foreclosures, evictions, probate, bankruptcies. But at least now I know that I’m ready to be done with school, and that I know exactly what I want to do when I get out. Between now and then, I just have to pass Practice Court and the Bar- no biggie, right?

THIS GENERATION THINKS THEY INVENTED THE WHEEL

.....but they did not invent cardiovascular exercise. When Violet regaled me with her stories of afternoons spent in the dance studio taking ZUMBA classes I simply smiled to myself. How many years ago did I purchase the book for Jane Fonda's workout or enroll in my own jazzercise classes? Thirty years ago I, too, was extremely interested in all things new and exciting....a dance class, movie star's theory on exercise or latest movement to music fad. anything to (try) to make exercise fun.

I have to admit, having danced in high school, the exercise while dancing faze was the longest lived for me. Dancing and having fun with music was the simplest and most consistent of my cardiovascular improving trials.

My mother probably thought at the time that jazzercise and books with video cassettes showing us how to exercise was just about as silly as I deem Zumba to be. They played sports in the fifties or simply walked were they wanted to go instead of driving everywhere.

Who knows what they will come up with next? The pharmaceutical companies have become rich by developing pills to be taken for cardiovascular health. Or at least to combat the effects of poor cardiovascular health. I cannot imagine that heart health will EVER be that easy. I wish that it were but don't believe that it ever will be.


So whatever the next generation comes up with maybe we should give it a try. Whatever keeps us moving and dancing, I'm all for it!

MPRE- May Practice Relaxed Ethics?

So as I prepare to take the ethics portion of the Bar exam on Friday- the MPRE- I have begun to notice how gray the lines of ethics really are.

You CAN turn in a client who threatens to murder someone…but you don’t have to…

You CAN deny an appointment to a case because you are so disgusted by the clients course of action that you cannot logically represent him.

But heaven forbid you enter into a partnership with a non legal professional- because that sir is unethical.

I guess as a profession that always finds loopholes in claims and issues, we would also interpret ethics in a similar manner. It’s just interesting how many choices there are for what they call the federal “model rules”, that is ethical standards that the Bar Association holds their members to. Many of the answer choices on the practice exams tend to be “the lawyer can do so and so, and but doesn’t have to take on that liability if they choose not to get involved”.

Or as I read out to nick on the plane ride home , “a member of the bar should aspire 50 hours of pro bono work a year”. Wow, I though that’s a lot- before reading the word aspire again. Sure I should do 50 hours a year for charity, but even the ETHICS book says that you can designate one lawyer in the firm to do the 50 hours for every lawyer and just be the Pro Bono guy. How does that work?
Hopefully I can at least get all of these tricky ethical standards or lack of standards into my head by Friday- but maybe if I fail I could just argue that I thought there was an optional obligation to pass the MPRE before the bar exam, and that it was merely an ethical suggestion and not my duty as a member of the legal profession.

ZUMBA AYYYYEEEE

So, I am not the most coordinated. And I NEVER claimed to be the most athletic. Especially in the presence of my overly- athletic siblings. But I have come to enjoy working out since I’ve been at college- mixing up my workouts- and just being generally active.
During high school, I stayed on varsity tennis all four years, despite my lack of ability to climb the rungs of the competitive ladder. I wasn’t even too keen on the idea of team sports, hence the choosing of tennis. But I think it was the overall release that I enjoyed by devoting hours of may day to something that wasn’t all mind consuming. And just like I stretch my mind throughout the day in Chemistry and Calculus, I enjoyed hitting a tennis ball, running lines on the courts and hours of serving practice to get the little yellow ball into the white square.
When I came to Baylor, I ran around too much freshman year with friends to worry about finding a tennis replacement- that and I was working 30 hours a week on my feet at Outback steakhouse. But once I started sophomore year I decided to check out the Baylor gym- that’s when I started running. It was something I never really liked to do, but it seems like something that people make themselves do- so I tried it. I was able to watch TV and study or read a magazine all while getting my exercises.

So for three years this is something I just made myself do about five times a week. It wasn’t till law school that I realized the correlation between the “working out” and my better moods. Especially when I had been cooped up study all day, getting to the gym to go run, or lift weights was the highlight of my day (pretttyyy nerdy).
Now I have discovered work out classes- basically the past two years- under the bearobics program and the Baylor student life center and golds gym . I started with simple weight and cross training classes and then adventured off to Zumba, Because I have never been athletic- I was extremely embarrassed to start going to these classes that require a smidge of coordination. I was never a dancer (although I took years of tap, ballet and jazz- thanks mom- and despite my hereditary predisposition to rhythm – my mother and aunt won nationals in drill team in high school ’76) but I realized that if I went to enough classes, I would at least be worked out enough that it supplemented my want to get on the treadmill that day. Pretty soon I realized it was nice to mix up my work out that way, and I was having more and more fun releasing my inhibitions in weight class or Zumba- a high energy dancing class. Zumba even has it’s own Wikipedia page- apparently it’s “ created with specific beats and tempo changes, transitions the workout from one toning, strengthening or cardio move to another, and targets every major muscle group in the body”. And that’s pretty much it. But an hour doing that goes by a lot faster than running.

I started taking my sister this summer to classes with me and she shows me up so bad. First of all, she’s an all star pitcher, once proclaimed “Crawford Hurler stifles McGregor “ in the local paper- those are some pretty bad-a descriptive nouns and adjectives for a softball pitcher. And not only is she inherently athletic- she also has had dance moves since she was born. She taught me how to fast dance before my first big junior high dance- when she was only 7 or 8. Throughout high school we would dance in our room so I would be loose enough not to make a fool out of myself when I went to dances. And this ability apparently also translates to Zumba. I was so much less inhibited whenever she would come with me to class, and now I’m having to work at it by myself because she has been very busy taking 17 hours of class this summer and working and babysitting and running the world.

While I continue to miss my work out buddy, I am definitely up for all new things now. Whether it’s sprinting around with my boyfriend Nick, playing tennis, or joining the workout classes with all the Baylor Freshman- I know that it improves my mood and gives me the push that I need throughout the week. Hopefully I will have enough time during PC to at least run a little bit. What worries me is that even my most devout gym junky friends completely abandoned work outs in favor of studying and sleeping. I hope I don’t get that exhausted. But tomorrow’s another day, and today- after work- I will be attending 15 minute ABS class as well as 7:00 ZUMBA!

ST. JO, MO

I just had a wonderful weekend to top off a wonderful week of work.

Last week at work, I was extremely busy putting some final touches on a lot of the projects I have been working on.

1. I drafted a brief for the Fifth Circuit court of appeals on behalf of a convicted felon. Usually our firm only deals with civil cases, but one of the young partners was appointed to this appeals case. Best part about the whole project was that I got to go to the scene of the action and measure out where each individual was standing when the event occurred. Almost like a CSI: Waco. Then I was treated to lunch at a Thai restaurant. I’m getting really spoiled here.

2. I spent about 8 hours this week finishing up the accounting for a guardianship proceeding. Even with only 12 months of documents, it was fun to go back and remember all my accounting information from my MBA and apply it to a personal and legal accounting situation.

3. I sat in on a couple of client meetings that were very interesting, I feel as though even the clients are starting to view me as part of the meeting, and not just some student “sit-in” that they have to be careful what they say around.

4. I worked on a motion Pro Hac Vice- which in latin means “for this occasion” or “for this event,” it is a legal term usually referring to a lawyer who has not been admitted to practice in a certain jurisdiction but has been allowed to participate in a particular case in that jurisdiction. So in this case I filled out an application for a lady lawyer who is going to come to Texas to practice a court of appeals case with an attorney in our office. I also drafted the motion Pro Hac Vice telling the court that she should be admitted. For some reason- this project took me forever- and most likely because everyone corrected my Latin pronunciation- supposed to be said “Pro Ahhhhc Veeechay”- while I simply said “Pro Hac Vice”. Hey- I only took Spanish, sorry for not majoring in the classics.

I finished all of my project son Thursday-all of which I tried to efficiently tie up early so I could get on the road to go to Dallas to start my relaxing weekend. This weekend has been planned for a while, and I was excited to go up to Missouri and meet Nick’s family, visit a new state, and see the Kansas City Chiefs up close.
When I got off work around 3 or 4, I started driving up to Dallas to meet Nick for our flight out that night from Love Field. I had never flown Southwest before- and I loved it- so much easier and faster than American. So we boarded a plane around 8:30 and got to Kansas City, Missouri around 10:15. We were picked up by Nick’s Dad who drove us 30 miles in to St. Joseph- the city where Nick grew up and still calls home. Once settled at his parents house, we were surprised to find out that Nick’s parents coordinated the entire Taylor clan to come in for the weekend. His brother, sister and sister-in-law greeted us with pizza and smiling faces. Already such a happy guy, Nick was ecstatic that his entire family was there for the weekend. He must love his family just as much as I love mine. I can’t imagine being grown up and far away from those that I see nearly every week. Mom would just die.

I was already in vacation mode upon arriving in Missouri- and I continued to lay around, enjoy good conversation, and eat throughout the next couple of days. I haven’t relaxed like this since I went on Family Vacation for the fourth of July- and before that even longer. Also- I probably won’t get another chance to relax for a while- so I gladly soaked in the relaxing aura of the weekend.

Friday afternoon we were supposed to attend Kansas City Chiefs training camp- but it was rained out – and fans were not allowed in the indoor training facility. So we hung out, talked, watched home videos, and ate wonderful food all day. Saturday morning we got up bright and early, determined to catch a sight of the chiefs, rain or shine. Luckily it was a beautiful day and the NFL players were out in full pads playing on two large practice fields built specifically for their new training camp location at Missouri Western. Nick and I were noticeably the only fans there not donning bright red and yellow- fair weather indeed. I have never even been to an NFL football game, so it was so incredible to see these impressive athletes practicing within yards of where we were standing. Nick got some great pictures and I just watched for players that Nick and my brothers had been telling me about. It was so much fun, I loved the excited fans, and the loud mouth players, and the coaches yelling at everyone to work harder. I now definitely have something to brag about to the firm when they take me to lunch this week. “This weekend? Oh nothing really, just went to an NFL training camp and threw passes to Matt Cassel”



Coming back completely drenched in sweat from being in Missouri Heat (not as bad as Texas, but still hot and humid) we cleaned up and Nick took me on a short tour of St. Joseph Missouri- Birthplace of the Pony express, and the town that Jesse James was shot in. I saw Nick’s high school , middle school, houses he grew up in, and his dad’s office. It was a very pretty city, and very similar to Waco.

That night, after I went on a quick run around the neighborhood, we had another wonderful meal of rotisserie chicken, and vegetables cooked on the grill. Topped off with a beautiful mixed berry and cherry tarts- it was such an amazing treat.

Sunday was by far probably the best day. I really enjoyed the church that Nick took me to that morning, and when we got back from a wonderful sermon, there was a brunch ready and waiting for us, and Nick’s grandparents and aunt there to meet us. With another amazing spread, we feasted throughout the afternoon and it definitely felt like a holiday with all the family around and stories being told.

The church we went to really reminded me of growing up in UBC when my dad and mom took us there. A very small tight knit church, where the sermon was definitely more conversational than the traditional Baptist churches I’ve been to- but not too lax to where people were dancing in the aisles and waiving their hands in the air. Just in the middle of the spectrum but with a great feeling to the fellowship- with plenty of scripture quoted- a must for me since studying with BSF throughout grade school. I’ve been visiting all over, but trying this new church really made me want a church home. And I can’t decide which one that would be in Waco.

As I came back into Waco, I felt not exhausted from the travel, but deeply relaxed because of the 10+ hours of sleep I got every night and the lounging around that we were able to take part in. I was thoroughly entertained, taken care of and pampered all weekend. And now I have pictures of NFL players to wow my brothers with next time I see them.

DNR, DTR, WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE????

I pride myself on staying au courant with the hip and groovy happenings on Baylor campus. I have four children of my own and see dozens of college aged kids every day at my office. Keeping up with the fashions is the easy part. Keeping abreast of the latest abbreviated sayings is the hard part.

Several years ago I was introduced to the term DTR (Define The Relationship). Supposedly couples who have been dating have these meetings. The least secure member of the couple will call the other and request (demand) a "DTR". Seems like they are making this whole relationship thing way too difficult. If you have to define the relationship maybe it is not worth defining.

I mistakenly used the term DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) one time when asking my daughter about one of her friend's boyfriends. Now, I am in my fifties and have signed these DNR documents for myself and my parents and made an honest mistake....the first time. After that I used the term to replace the intended abbreviation. Just to see if anyone noticed.

After all, this term may be closer to the truth. If one is having to ask to define the relationship that they are in, perhaps the relationship does not need to be resuscitated. Think about it.

Call me old-fashioned, call me uncool and unhip, but I speak the truth!

Much Ado about To Do's by Violet

July has been a complete whirlwind experience. Somehow, all of my to do lists for the summer have gone straight out the window. I think the main reason being that I expend all of my intellectual energy at work and then simply want to sleep and eat and run when I get home from work. Well that is all going to change today. Today I am going to be super productive when I get home, and bring the same work attitude home with me- with the assistance of caffeine of course.

At my clerkship I usually knock out a couple of small projects today and chip away at the large research projects that keep my open hours still busy. Not only do I research specific issues, but today for instance, I put together a spreadsheet of all the expenses and incomes of a guardianship proceeding (something my MBA comes in quite handy for- now if they could only know of the potential benefits of my power point expertise). I also looked up to see how to get a Oklahoma joint counsel attorney licensed for the 9th circuit court of appeals in Beaumont. But the majority of my day I spent researching constructor’s liability limitations in RCLA, the Residential Construction Liability Act- one of the less interesting projects that I have worked on while here. But I still love the work, reading, reading, writing, and more reading. So now, I want to project that “love” of doing something, to my to do list.

1. Study for the MPRE: In two weeks and a day, I take the MPRE, the ethics portion of the Texas Bar Exam. Most people take this right after they take the Bar, but I wanted to get it over with, and study when I had the time. I’ve been half-ass studying for about an hour or 45 minutes a day for the last 2 weeks, skipping only two days- I think. I need to kick in gear, listen to online lectures and work practice problems. I should be just as enthused to do this as I am to kick start a work project given to me by a partner.

2. Clean my room: I am a full fledged mess. My room continuously looks like not only a tornado went through it, but 4 other natural disasters of different proportions and effects. It was more exacerbated by the May move of my brother into the room where I normally kept half of my junk. Yes, May, three months ago. So another goal of mine for the past two week has been to put up a little of my room every day: throw away sheets of paper, hang up clothes, run loads of laundry. But what actually ends up happening is the very next morning I throw all of the clothes on the floor getting ready that I hung up the previous night. So it’s a constant state of disarray. And it’s not even to a point where I could hire someone to give it a once around- I don’t think anyone would actually be able to get in there to do that. Hi, my name is violet, and I’m a hoarder.

3. Read for Practice Court: My hardest two quarters of law school are only 4 weeks away. I can already feel the fire and hear the gnashing of teeth. I don’t normally get intimidated by other’s warnings that something is “hard” or “stressful”, and usually wait to find it out for myself, while working a part time job. Practice Court, or PC as it is more affectionately termed, is different. I have been hearing the woes of PC since I was considering Baylor law school in undergrad. And I have to say, I have lived with a PC student, been friends with many, and they look like absolutely death for the 18 weeks that they are put through this education hell. My friend Brent Ivy, would actually throw up in the mornings before 7:45 class because he was so terrified of being kicked out of class. Two girls last semester were actually carted away from the room because they fainted when called on. The two practice court professors actually make grown men cry during class. Every night a range of 100-400 pages of reading is assigned, on top of advocacy exercises that take anywhere from 4-10 hours extra starting at 4 in the afternoon once or twice a week, this is besides the 5-8 hours of school a day (depending how long the professors keep you). And the kicker is that if you do get called on, and you do not perform to the expectation of the professor on that day, you receive a memo, which is a write up on the subject that you could not effectively expound upon- these are then re-written again and again until the professor is satisfied with the answer. Needless to say, I desperately need to get a head start on the reading so I can work away the nerves of the unknown.
I have been telling my family about this anxiety ever since summer starter but no one in my family ever believes me- they think I am crying Wolf- or channeling Chicken Little. But I found a write up of a recent Baylor Lawyer graduate that explains the experience very similar to all the stories I have heard:
“If you spend a few minutes researching Baylor Law you will undoubtedly uncover the mantra, “Baylor Law School is the boot camp of law schools.” The Princeton Review first wrote that line in their brief summary of the law school. At most law schools, the third year is the easiest, but at Baylor the third year is by far the most intense, because all students are required to spend two quarters in “Practice Court.” Practice Court is the crown jewel of Baylor’s juris doctorate program, consisting of about six months of exceedingly intense study of civil procedure, evidence, and all aspects of trial procedure. In the program, students frequently have daily reading assignments in excess of 300 pages (and when we are talking about statutes and cases, that takes a long, long time to read). At the same time, there are trial exercises to prepare the students to handle all aspects of trying a case. When a student graduates from Baylor Law School they know precisely what to do from the time a client walks into the office door, to filing the paperwork for a trial, to participating in discovery, to selecting a jury, to trying the case, to writing the jury charge, and even what motions to file once a judgment has been rendered. Baylor students know not only the law and theory behind all of those aspects, they actually done it. There are few educational experiences that will define and shape who you are and how you perform the way that Practice Court does. At times, the tremendous work load is feels like it is simply hazing—when I sit down with any Baylor Law graduate, the first thing we always do is compare Practice Court stories (for example, I once heard this exchange: “Well, you may have gone three straight days without sleep, but when I was in Practice Court, the old Professor Underwood became so irritate when I couldn’t dictate a proper ‘no-evidence motion for summary judgment’ that he threw his coffee cup across the room! He called on me for the next five straight classes!”).
- AND THIS IS A POSITIVE SLANT! I hope you all are feeling very bad for me right about now. I will be expecting food delivered to me in the Fall.


So my to do list turned into a worry list, at least it will light a fire under my butt and get me to be active once I get home. My mom often makes fun of me, because in my head, if I think about the “to do” action, I sometimes cross it off as done, just because I have given it a single thought. The actual doing is the hard part for me- I can make lists all day long. I simply cannot waste time sleeping anymore, I need to ACTUALLY do my TO DO's.

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

Whoever names these days as "dog days" was very descriptive. I feel like I spend the entire month of July with my tongue out panting. Everywhere I go I am HOT! I have lived in Texas all of my life. You would think that I would get used to this muggy, hot weather. But, year after year, I continue to think that maybe this year will be different. Maybe this will be the year that I will be able to use my outdoor patio for more than just one month (April) of the year.

I actually grew up in a house without air conditioning. A fact that I simply cannot imagine now. If our cars had air conditioning in them back then, we never used it. I have vivid memories of riding in the backseat of our family car, with all the windows rolled down and the vents opened wide. Every hair on my head would be swirling around the car as if animated on its own. Oh, there was air in our car....it just wasn't "conditioned".

When did we all get so spoiled to constant a 70 degree temperature? Heating and Air Conditioning companies have us believing that we should keep our doors and windows buttoned up tight, conditioning our air to a constant and comfortable temperature. As a kid, we all slept with our windows thrown open wide, cool breezes waking us in the morning and the smells of wildflowers and freshly cut lawns....or even the nearby ranch's cattle ushering us into the day. The screens kept out the mosquitoes and bugs, God kept out the Bogey man. I never felt uncomfortable or afraid...of course Daddy was only on the other side of the wall, a few steps away. I remember the curtains actually blew in the breeze. What happened?

Last year our A/C unit had to be replaced. We limped along for a few week's trying to decide what was actually wrong with the unit and what direction to take in fixing it. Should we just replace compressor, add freon or replace the entire unit? But because we had had the screens removed from all of our windows ( they just look better) and most of the members of our family are allergic to pollen we sleep with our windows and doors closed and locked as usual. Well, many hot, sleepless nights and several thousands of dollars later we got cool again. I slept with ice bags laid across my body and everyone woke in grumpy moods. The lack of cool air put us all off of our game. I never use my car without using the a/c or the heater. "Artificial" air is the norm. I cannot even find the "vent" button on my newest car. Is there a way to get outside air into my car without turning on a fan or temperature button?

Air conditioning is probably the best invention since sliced bread in my opinion....as long as it keeps working. Although I feel a bit spoiled given how I grew up. But I really think that it is hotter now than it was thirty years ago. Of course, I can always blame global warming or old age. Both of which are a reality. Maybe I will just go find a sprinkler to run through.

Bob Loblaw's Law Blog by Violet

I absolutely love my clerkship this summer. Although most of my MBA friends, have “internships” or “residencies”, most law school students obtain “clerkships” for a summer hiatus between either their 1st and 2nd year, 2nd and 3rd year or both. Like most internships, these clerkships provide not only experience but also sometimes the prospect of future employment. However, times are tough, and many, many of my law school classmates are still unemployed after they pass the bar. But I still have a semester to worry about that right? I have to pass the Bar first.

Well the impetus for this entire blog this summer is to explain my experience outside of my MBA/JD educational experience and share my real work experience in my time as a Clerk of a law firm. Clerks are usually just researchers. We use our power and knowledge of education and solve some of the tough problems that cannot just be talked out with a slick lawyer tongue. However, I was hired specifically for the bankruptcy section- which I LOVE, and only do other legal work when I am not focused on Chapter 7, 11, or 13 bankruptcy plans.

I started working for my current firm back in February. I went in for an interview February 4th, and started two weeks later. I still remember it was the week of a huge finance test, because Nick stopped me in the hall because I was looking so frazzled (trying to start working 25 hours a week on top of taking midterms and finals, working for my graduate assistantship and clerking over at the law school for Professor Guinn) and asked if I needed someone to study with. Since the beginning with this firm, I was loaded up with work, and loved every minute of it. There are some lull weeks, but most of the time I have 5 or 6 legal projects at a time, and that is what I enjoy- because my brain can hop around on subjects, sleep on some, and pick them back up once I finish another menial one. So I started part time, hoping to get the summer gig, and once April rolled around I was asked how long I could work this summer, “every single day before practice court start” I replied. And I have, but for one day I took off for Fuller Family Retreat on the Fourth of July weekend and another day or two that I will take off to visit Missouri in a couple of weeks.


With last week being one of my busier weeks, I am surprised that this week has come to such a lull. I just finished two of the huge projects that I’ve been working on this week and I have absolutely nothing left to do. So as usual when I have nothing to do, I went to all of the floors starting with 6 and working my way up to 9- asking for work. I don’t particularly like asking for work, I’d rather it come to me- but at least this way I look eager. Usually I get something at the first floor I go to, but today I got a lot of ”let me think about what I have for you to work on and get back to you”- which means I got nothing now, but I’ll be hella busy later. So I got one letter to proofread, when I finally reached the ninth floor, but am sure that this means the rest of my week will be pleasantly busy.


I am really getting used to this 8-5 routine, or even sometimes 7-6 or 7, I like staying busy and I love the firm I am working for. Choosing to implement my law degree instead of just trying to go look for management jobs with the MBA was definitely the right decision. I enjoy the challenge of legal problems, and researching is basically like studying all day- which excites the nerd in me. I wish the looming practice court wasn’t in my near future, I feel about ready to be done with school (I know my parents have to be glad about that) and I am ready to be a big girl now.

Also- the title is an Arrested Development (sitcom) reference if you didn't catch it and think I'm crazy.

Horse Races by Violet

Every year, the firm that I work for takes their summer clerks to the races. In particular, they take them to Lone Star Park in Fort Worth, Texas. This is such a great Southern Tradition, and a fun night out to be wined and dined. I had prepared for this day though, knowing that I KNEW nothing about placing bets (as a good Baptist girl, I had never gambled in my life), I asked a fellow MBA classmate who announces horse races. Not only did he send me 20 sheets worth of stats about the horses on each specific race, he also sent me his pics- which I held close until the betting began.

So the firm rented a 15 passenger van, and 10 grown adult men, one other female clerk, and I climbed into the caravan to trek to Fort Worth. It was fun to get to know the attorneys away from the office environment. This was a new fun, after work event, and it was even different than the relaxed lunches we take every day.

Once at the races, I loved it. This was a beautiful venue and was even bigger than I thought it would be. I loved the large stadium seating right in front of the tall windows overlooking the track. We were seated at dining tables with a perfect view of the track. We started eating some of the wonderful food, but I made sure to rattle off my bets before the first race started. I was pleasantly surprised with my winnings, because I am normally an extremely cautious person. I doubled my money, and stopped before the last race, because I didn’t want to lose any more.

Overall it was a wonderful new experience, and a great way to have fun with my co-workers and the firm that I have been working for since January.

FULLER FAMILY RETREAT

For the past eighteen years our family has taken a retreat and visited a resort in San Antonio. Even if we went somewhere else that year we would spend at least some time at the resort. Close enough to drive to -- when the kids were younger I would go with the children and Roger would follow when he could. Usually my sister and her family join us for a Cousin's Extravaganza, but this year the Fullers went solo.

I am continually amazed as the kids get older that they still want to go with the family for this low key vacation. Yet after 18 years, the memories only continue to grow and each child will not be the one to miss out. Each year I take a mental snapshot (of course there are numerous physical snapshots)when we are there just in case this is the last year they all want to be together--- I realize that they will grow up and move away, physically and emotionally. I try to prepare myself for that eventuality.

My idea of a vacation is lying on a deck chair reading magazines that I normally wouldn't and drinking fruity drinks. "Doing nothing" is an art form and I am still perfecting it. Just about got it down.

This is a time for me to renew and refresh for the year...no dishwasher to unload or laundry to fold. Just my children to love and enjoy. I always make the time to spend an afternoon with each child to reconnect with where they are at this time in their lives and where they want to be going. We discuss past successes and challenges and plan for future opportunities and goals. You can image that over the years these discussions have been varied with each offspring. Though, it should be noted that some things are experienced by each child at the same stage. Which makes me smile as my last, Harrison, brings up a challenge that he thinks to be uniquely his. Which it is...to him.

The younger two still run around the resort all day making new friends and taking part in the planned activities. They usually are taking part in a water volleyball game or a watermelon eating contest. The Fullers are competitive and if the word contest is used....we are in! This year Violet and Ace were parked by me in deck chairs in the sunshine. I can see that Violet, taking after her mother, uses this time for respite from her demanding clerkship and everyday responsibilities of a twenty something. Ace has decided that a jacuzzi/hot tub will definitely be a fixture in his future home. Smart guy. I will visit often.

Rarely do I have all of my babies together in one place anymore. Much less when all are in a good mood and in vacation mode. What a happy time for the Fuller Family. Maybe we can make it to nineteen years in a row next year. Here's hoping!

DIAMOND JUBILEE FOR THE QUEEN OF OUR HEARTS

My mother turns 75 years old on July 1st. She should be greatly celebrated. Not only because she has managed to stay alive for 75 years, but because she has done it with joy and determination unmatched in anyone else I know.

This woman was born in Michigan,worked on a farm, married a military man when she was a mere 17 years old, follow him 1000 miles south to live with his parents and delivered her first of five children on her 18th birthday. Happy Birthday, indeed! The importance of family to this woman cannot be overstated. This woman has spent her entire life doing for and loving others. Our family is as close and loving as it is BECAUSE of my mother. She deserves all of the credit. Whether she admits it or not.

My mother is a diminutive woman, but what she lacks in physical size she makes up for in sheer will and energy. She raised five children and saw them all achieve what she was unable to...a high school and college diploma.... many even went on to earn advanced graduate degrees. Our education was important to her and she would spend countless hours quizzing us on vocabulary, history and math. As her oldest children started college, she also worked to complete her GED and take courses in college. Something she said that she thought she would or could never do. She helped my father earn his BBA from Baylor while he attended night school in the 50's, my brothers earn their degrees in the 70's and my sisters and I in the 80's. She says, and rightfully so, that she has six degrees from Baylor...just not any with her name on them. I think my entire family would agree that hers is the name that should appear first. For without her love, support, and persistent none of us would have achieved all that we have.

She was a young mother, she always said that she grew up with her children. Her grandchildren came along at just about the time that her own nest was emptying. She was a grandmother at age 40 and relished her new found role. Nothing suits her more than being the Grandma and Nana of our growing brood. The second generation numbers 13 now and the third generation 2. She is always available for lunch or shopping with any of her grandchildren that call. She is always available for anything for her grandchildren.

My mother's legacy will live on long after she has hugged her last grandchild. Hers is a legacy of love and family. A legacy that is worth mentioning every day.....not just on her birthday. My mother is loved by many. My mother IS love.