Darlene Wofford's Newsroom

This was not the tv show "High School Reunion," but it WAS REAL.  Last Saturday I had the best time with about 300 of my "bestest friends" at my high school's multi-class reunion.  Fulton High was the first public high school in Atlanta, Fulton County back in 1915, and it served in that capacity until it was closed in 1994.  In 2003 they demolished the old brick building that meant so much to us for so many years.  In its place they built a brand spanking new middle school, but the spirit of the ole Fulton Hi still lives in our hearts. 

We had about 300 folks gather in Tucker last Saturday.  They were mostly from Fulton's classes in the 60s-70s, but there were some there from the 50s and the 80s.  I'm one of the '66ers in the photo attached in my photo album titled "Fun People and Places".  There were 40 or more from our class and that set a new record as having the class with the most in attendance.  We had a blast as we reminisced about the past.   You know, our memory is among our most valuable assets and it doesn't cost a dime.  Sharing good memories with others provides some of the best entertainment around, and you certainly can't beat the price of "free"--(no senior discount required).    For old times' sake, a group of us even ventured down to the Varsity for some good ole chili-dogs, chili-cheesburgers, fries, onion rings and frosted oranges.  Mmmmmm.   (Of course, I had Diet Coke.  Wouldn't want to break my diet!)  smile     Now THAT's what I'm talking about in how to top off a great night!!

Until next time,

Just call me Dah'lin!

Darlene Ford Wofford, aka 'The Spirited Southerner'

www.SpiritedSoutherner.com  or   www.JustCallMeDahlin.com

I am so excited to announce that I finally can say I have a granddaughter.  Her name is Molly.  Carl and I even got to go with our son, Kenneth, to pick her up.  She has golden blonde hair, big brown eyes and her face lights up when she sees us.   Oh yeah, and she has four legs and a tail.  Yep, she's my granddaughter dog, a golden blonde lab mix.  Sweetest personality and disposition you've ever seen in a 9 month old.  Her previous owners took her to the Cherokee County Animal Shelter because they said she was too rough  with their 2-year old son.  After witnessing her calm, well-behaved nature, and having had THREE 2-year old boys of our own, Carl and I would guess it was more like the "2 year-old son was too rough with the dog."    When you see the attached photo in my album called "Fun People and Places" you'll wonder how anyone would give away a sweetie like this.  She weighs about 45 pounds and the vet says she is about as big as she will get.  She is crate trained, house-trained and loves her new master and home.  He takes her running in the park after he gets home from work and she's a hit with all the kids there.  Let's hope Ken and Molly enjoy a happy life together.  (But I STILL want the two-legged kind of grandbaby!  SIGH).

Until next time,

Just call me Dah'lin!

Darlene Ford Wofford, aka 'The Spirited Southerner'

www.SpiritedSoutherner.com  or  www.JustCallMeDahlin.com

Next to my wedding and births of our sons, last Thursday goes down in history as one of the most exciting days in my life!  That was the morning of my interview on Good Day Atlanta, and I owe it much to our blog site here.   I’m pretty comfortable on the radio since I co-hosted a talk-show on Atlanta radio every Saturday in 2006.  But TV is an entirely different animal!   The idea of being in front of the camera made me as nervous as a cat in a dog pen.  I barely got any sleep all week and especially the night before.  Nonetheless, this ole bird had to rise and shine at 4:30 in order to made it to the Fox 5 studios on Briarcliff by 6:45.  I’m happy to say I made it with 2 whole minutes to spare! 

I was led to the “green room” back stage to await my interview with Deidre Dukes, who was filling in for Suchita while she’s away on vacation.  (And yes, the room really is green).   I appreciate the producer’s assistants making me feel at ease while filling me in on what to expect.  Then the make-up artist made me so comfortable while getting me “ready for my close-up.”    I was told the interview would take place at 7:50 and run four minutes, which I know from experience goes by in a flash!   I had almost an hour to kill, so in between running to the ladies room because the butterflies flitting on my bladder,  I spent the time getting acquainted with the back-stage staff.  When they came to retrieve me for the interview I had only one thought—if  only I could put together a coherent sentence on the air I would consider myself ahead of the game.   My biggest fear was to respond to Deidre’s first question by looking like a Bambi in the headlights of a Ford F-150 pickup.   

Deidre was great!  She made me feel as comfortable as possible in the fishbowl with 3 cameras pointed at us, the prompter running beneath each one.  I caught a glimpse of myself on one of them and wasn’t particularly excited about the view, so I just decided it best to direct my conversation toward Deidre.  First out of the starting gate she said how I am no stranger to many because I’m a frequent blogger here on our My Fox Community site.   I didn’t discover the site until June, although I’ve been an avid Good Day fan for the past 5 years or more.  I said how much I love the site, but I could have and should have said how much I enjoy blogging with others, and mention names like Morning Maniac,  Suchita, Vctroll, Centauri65, Gdanes, and egglady, etc., because I do. However, you’ll understand if my foremost thought was to get on to Deidre’s next question.   Once the butterflies flew away I felt more comfortable and continued without any snags.  

Deidre is even prettier in person than on the screen, and she’s also genuinely nice.  I also met Denise Dillon back stage, and is she ever petite and pretty as a little picture.  I’m posting some photos taken that morning in my “Good Friends and Good Times” album.  You’ll see Deidre, Denise and Donna—the makeup artist.  (Hmmm Deidre, Denise, Donna and Darlene—The Four Ds.  We should start a singing group!)   

I owe a lot to this community blog here at Fox 5 for my being invited as a guest on Good Day.  I was already a fan, but now while I’m watching the gang on my boob tube here at home I’ll feel like REAL family after being on the show.     Thanks to Deidre, Denise, Donna, Joy, Jan, Amy and everyone on the staff at Good Day!  You’re a GREAT group of folks and you made my new year begin in SUCH a GREAT WAY!    If you missed the show, here's the direct link to the interview:

http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/myfox/pages/InsideFox/Deta
il?contentId=5379666&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=
VSTY&pageId=5.2.1 

Give it a few seconds to download then click on my picture that looks like they caught me in mid-word saying "shitowsky" and the video should begin. 

Until next time,

Just Call Me Dah'lin!

Darlene Ford Wofford, aka 'The Spirited Southerner'

www.JustCallMeDahlin.com  or  www.TheSpiritedSoutherner.com

Embrace Life With Spirit and Keep Moving Forward!

spirit (noun): energy, courage, strength, determination, fortitude & faith

The excitement I feel at this moment pales in comparison to three days ago.  Friday morning I answered the phone to discover none other than the Executive Producer for Atlanta's Fox 5 TV Morning News and Good Day Atlanta calling with an invitation to be on the show and talk about my novel, "Edgewise: An Assignment to Remember"!  People call me 'The Spirited Southerner' because I'm an Atlanta native so, of course, I'm 'southern' to the bone, and I AM full of good old-fashioned spunk and 'spirit'!  I define spirit as: energy, courage, strength, determination, fortitude & above all, faith, so I'll gladly accept my aka, but my friends just call me 'Dahlin.'    The producer asked if I would be available to be interviewed on the show this Thursday morning, January 3rd, and even though I tried to maintain composure I all but jumped through the phone when I accepted.  Why, I didn't even flinch--that much--when she instructed me to be there by 6:45 AM because I will be interviewed during the 7:00-8:00 segment.  In order to get dressed, make it to the station, and be ready for my close-up by then on a workday--in the ATL traffic--that means a 4:30 rise and shine for this ole gal, but you can bet your sweet bippie I'll be there on time.  They can call me 'Spirited Southerner' or 'Dahlin, or whatever else they deem fit, but I will assure you they won't have reason to call yours truly 'Late!'

She asked if I would share the events which led to writing my novel based on true events, as well as discussing my recovery and dealing with ongoing bouts of depression.  “An Assignment to Remember” is the first of three novels in my “Edgewise” series, with the second and third installments scheduled for release in 2008-10.  I use the term "edgewise" to describe the book's protagonist as a young Atlanta woman whose mind has shut down to block out back-to-back traumatic events, however other memories of her life are blocked, as well. Told through the eyes of my alter ego, "An Assignment to Remember" is not as much about the events as it is the inspiring story about triumph over tragedy, her healing progression and the prevailing strength of unconditional love.  Don't get the idea it's all about the sad and less-than-good times, because there are a heap of good times and laughs throughout.

We will also be chatting about the upcoming ‘Make ’08 Great!’ event on January 12th, in which she is featured speaker along with two nationally renowned authors, Carolyn O’Neil and Patrice Dickey.  The event is results of a partnership between Wordsmiths Books and the Dekalb Medical Center.  The seminar begins at 2:00 in the Women’s Center Auditorium there at Dekalb Medical Center, 2701 North Decatur Rd, Decatur, GA 30033.  The seminar is free, however in order to attend this empowering afternoon, registration is required and can be done quickly and easily by calling   404-501-WELL, or  online at: http://www.dekalbmedicalcenter.org/ClassesEvents/tabid
/54/Default.aspx . 

Every weekend since June of this year Carl, my patient and loving husband of 40+ years, has accompanied me to speaking engagements and book-signings throughout the area.  He's like other men in that his head can at times seem like it's hard as a rock, but this man is truly my rock in every facet of our life together.  It is through his unconditional love, encouragement and support in being there with me along the way that we are able to direct a portion of the proceeds to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta in our son's memory.  Whenever we assign a purpose to any project it brings added value and ignites more passion, so each and every time we sign those checks we feel our son's presence stronger and love lives even more within our hearts.   My life's mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of others, and I've discovered that the more lives I touch, the more positive my life becomes.  It's a universal law--what you put out is what you get back.   We are blessed in so many ways.   This television interview is just one more blessing as it provides an incredible opportunity to share our story and touch others in a positive way, inspiring the message: "Always Remember the Good Times, and NEVER Allow ANY Less-than-Good Times Define Who You Are in Life!"  

Here’s wishing you a HAPPY NEW YEAR!  May 2008 be the BEST and MOST BLESSED year EVER for EVERYONE!  Until next time,

Just Call Me Dah’lin!  

Darlene Ford Wofford, aka ‘The Spirited Southerner’

www.JustCallMeDahlin.com  or   www.TheSpiritedSoutherner.com 

 Embrace Life With Spirit and Keep Moving Forward!

spirit (noun):  energy, courage, strength, determination, fortitude & faith

My distant cousin, Willy (Wonka, that is) has nothing over on me these past few days.  He may have a chocolate factory but I have been a one-woman chocolate FUDGE-making MACHINE since the first of the week.  Ever since my good Georgia BULLDAWG-fan friend, Steve Barton, emailed a selection of various chocolate and pastry recipes I have been DYING for some good ole fudge—like my sister and I used to make years ago.  I decided to try one that sounded infallible and ‘fool-proof’ for someone like me.  But I know how I am around chocolate, much less fudge and homemade fudge with pecans, at that, so I decided to make my fudge ‘sugar-free’ enabling me to eat more and not pay the price of the conventional recipe.  I had the BRILLIANT idea to substitute the powdered sugar with artificial sweetener and WHOA, suffice it to say it was NOT the irresistible results I anticipated.  In fact, I’ve never actually EATEN dog poop, but I would imagine it couldn’t taste any worse.  So out the door went that batch and back on track with the original recipe as it was intended. 

Alas, I am happy to report the recipe really IS fool-proof, even for ME, so I’d like to pass it along to other fudge lovers.  It makes for a wonderful gift and I bought those little tin holiday canister boxes, lined them with Glad Wrap and poured in the fudge to harden.  I even took some little plastic knives and broke them off to shorten the handle and placed the knife inside atop the fudge.  (Hold the plastic knife handle over a lighter or match for a few seconds and run your finger over the edge to smooth out the jagged edge).   OR, I suppose you could always buy some shorter knives if you can find them.   Anyway, enjoy the recipe and may you have wonderful holidays and dreams where visions of sugar plums and fudge squares dance in your head.

Willena Wonka’s Infallible Fool-Proof Fudge

 (Originally from the kitchen of Erica Wilson)

Ingredients

1 pound powdered sugar

½ cup cocoa

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ cup milk

1 Tablespoon vanilla extract

¼ pound butter/margarine

1 cup chopped nuts

Directions

Mix all dry ingredients together in an 8x8 inch microwave safe pan (important to use this size pan).  Add milk and vanilla extract.  Place stick/chunk of butter/margarine in center. (use butter for better results) (Leave butter as whole—do not chop up).  Microwave on high for 2 to 2 ½ minutes until bottom of dish feels warm.  Stir vigorously and blend in chopped nuts.  (I use good ole Georgia pecans, but I would imagine walnuts would be good, too).  Pour into mold or whatever and chill for 1 hour.  After about an hour it’s hard enough to cut into bite-size squares and savor every morsel, right down to the last pecan bit picked from between your teeth.   (WARNING:  Do NOT eat this fudge while working at your computer.  Drool has been known to short out a keyboard).  Take it from one who knows.   Smile 

Until next time,

Just Call Me Dah’lin  (or  Willena Wonka)

Darlene Ford Wofford, aka ‘The Spirited Southerner’

 www.JustCallMeDahlin.com   or   www.TheSpiritedSoutherner.com

Embrace Life with Spirit and Keep Moving Forward!

 spirit (noun):  energy, courage, strength, determination, fortitude and faith

What does it mean to be ‘southern’ or a ‘southerner’?  That question was posed to me last night via email from my good friend, Greg, who is originally from New York but relocated to Atlanta several years ago.  Rather than answer him directly I responded to his email with the same question, “What do YOU think it means to be considered ‘southern(er)’?”  My aka as 'The Spirited Southerner' is what initially sparked his question, but since he is a man of color from the great state of New York, I was curious if his interpretation of the term/s carried a positive connotation or otherwise. 

My friend, Greg informed me his father is from Lake Hartwell, Georgia and his mother is from North Carolina.   His family traveled to his parents’ hometowns often through the years so the south was not ‘new’ to him.  In fact, he shared early memories of the area.  He recalled the country stores with the screened doors, and driving down the two-lane roads where people would wave from their front porches, whether they knew you or not.  His early impressions were that the folks down south were polite and friendly, open, very trusting, and very laid back.  He was born in New York but actually moved to Atlanta from Virginia twenty years ago.  Since becoming an Atlanta resident he came to realize two things of ‘modern day’ south.  #1:  Most of the people who are here now are from everywhere else BUT the south, so everyone is not as hospitable as he remembers.  #2: Some of the southerners who were born here are not as openly hospitable because they’re more aware of the southern “transplants” that brought their more reserved cultures with them when they moved here.  Southerners are still very forgiving folks, but to a certain extent unforgiving, which is a softer way of saying resentful of the past.   He also shared with me that shortly after moving to Atlanta back in 1986, he had a business appointment in Gainesville, Georgia.  This was shortly after Oprah Winfrey had aired a show where she visited Forsyth County’s city of Cumming, GA.  In order to reach his destination he had no other choice but drive through Cumming and he was very wary of doing so.  He made it a point to complete his business in order to get back on the road well “before the sun went down.”  When asked if he feels ‘at home’ in Atlanta now, Greg’s response was “Absolutely.  I really miss it when I go back to Virginia or New York and I’m always anxious to return home to the southern hospitality.  I just wish there was more of it still around.”    

As a native of Atlanta, Georgia for slightly more than 59 years now I have seen the south and ‘southerners’ change in many ways, while remaining the same in just as many others.   But what constitutes the ‘south’?   The division of the North and the South began when two surveyors, Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon, mapped out what is known as the famous Mason-Dixon Line.  It was surveyed almost 2 ½ centuries ago between 1763 and 1767 in the resolution of a border dispute in colonial North America.  However, it is most commonly associated with the division between the northern “free states” and southern “slave states” during the American Civil War-era, almost 1 ½ centuries in the past.   

After the Civil War, the Mason-Dixon Line continued to be thought of as a cultural boundary regarding literacy, financial and industrial development, as well as social progress and racial integration.   Well into the 21st Century we still refer to ourselves as ’northerners’ or ‘southerners’.   With northerners’ nicknamed ‘Yankees’, I remember my uncle explaining “the difference between a Yankee and a Damn Yankee is that Yankees just visit, while Damn Yankees move here for good.”  It’s not enough that we have racial, age and class discriminations and discord in this country—we have regional divisions, as well.       

While attending my book-signings and public events I am always surrounded by a multiplicity of accents.  There are foreign accents from every country on the planet, just as there are obvious northern and of course, southern accents.  While some northern accents may seem harsh or abrupt, bordering on loud and abrasive, there are some southern accents with the long drawl considered by many as irritating and less than literate.   The northerners make fun of the southern accents while the southerners imitate their northern counterparts.  Whenever there is a movie with southern characters they almost always are certain to ‘over-play’ the drawl, such that it grates on a true southerner’s ear-drums, akin to nails scratching on the blackboard. 

In a recent poll conducted on the website of Atlanta, Georgia’s Fulton High School Alumni, the responses were varied yet similar to the question:
“what does it mean to be southern or a southerner?”   For instance, Jean, who was born and raised in the south, spent 2 years in Boston.  Even though they made fun of her every time she opened her mouth, she always tried to show them southern charm and respect.  Jean believes being southern means showing respect for everyone, especially elders, saying “Yes mam/sir” and “No mam/sir,” and opening a door for others, especially ladies and seniors, which she says she never saw in Boston.   Jean went on to describe being southern as smiling at others and saying, “hello,”—being friendly--even to strangers, and expressing appreciation by saying, “thank you.”  During her stay in Boston she said folks just didn’t smile and heaven forbid if she asked directions.  On the lighter side, she shared her idea of “southern” as iced tea and Sunday dinner, family spending time together and taking care of one another, helping friends and neighbors, especially when they are having hard times.   And she adds, “Southern used to mean a little slower pace in life—I’m not so sure that is the case now, though.”   She closed with saying, “Being southern is a good feeling in your heart that I almost lost in Boston.”   

Another response to the poll came from Frank, who is also southern by birth.  He says "A Southerner enjoys all 4 seasons of the year, from the oppressive heat and humidity to the famous ice storms that can paralyze a city for days.   And of course, it means running to the store to buy milk and bread anytime a weather report even mentions snow. He further regards a Southerner as "being tolerant of others, always polite and respectful."  He describes a true southern man as “a gentleman who still holds a door for a woman, even in this day of feminist movements.”  He adds, “A true southern woman still accepts small favors, such as a man opening a door for them, without thinking the worst.”  

Mark Pollard is a recognized historian in Atlanta, and his expert knowledge of the Civil War and southern history is amazing.  His response was on the web site was profoundly written, “We may leave the south to study, search for love, earn a living, seek adventure or opportunities, but a true Southerner always returns home, even if it’s only in a pine box.  As anyone who lives in the South can tell you, it is a place of extremes and contradictions: we are known for our friendliness, but remembered for the Civil War, often thought of as hicks, but producers of bucket-loads of presidents, senators and noble warriors.  The South seems to savor life a bit more than the rest of the country.  I know that Moonshine is not something in the sky but out of a Mason jar and I know that all good Southerners have a hound dog in heaven.”
 

Yet another response came from Billy, obviously as proud a southerner you’d ever meet, who said in no uncertain terms, and I quote, “Being Southern is by the Grace of God.”  

For the most part, these responses could easily be summed up by the infamous term “Southern Hospitality.” That’s the term used to describe the genuine graciousness and sense of welcoming that southerners extend to “folks who aren’t from around their neck of the woods.”   Being gracious is making strangers feel comfortable while respectful of their rights to have opinions, and without causing a “ruckus,” even when a few feathers may have been ruffled.  Hospitality and manners go hand-in-hand, and while it is possible to learn those traits as adults, they’re most easily instilled in children when raised to treat others with respect.   That can be accomplished anywhere…not just the south.  However, the true Southern Spirit of Hospitality only lives as long as we keep breathing life into it through our actions.  That can only be accomplished by setting good examples for the many who are now “Southern by Choice,” having relocated here from other areas of the country…and the world.   

There is one sure fire way to tell whether someone is truly southern at heart, and that is to offer them a big heaping bowl of buttered ‘grits,’ ‘crackling cornbread,’ or a ‘banana sandwich’.   If their upper lip curls, the chances are they’re not southern by birth.   But give them a chance—these dishes native to the southern region can quickly become an acquired taste.  Hospitality can rub off, and given enough time, so can the drawl, as in “Yaw’ll come back now, ya hear?”  

Until next time,

Just Call Me Dahlin'!

Darlene Ford Wofford, aka 'The Spirited Southerner'

www.JustCallMeDahlin.com   or  www.TheSpiritedSoutherner.com 

Embrace Life with Spirit and Keep Moving Forward!

spirit (noun): energy, courage, strength, determination, fortitude & faith 

They opened their doors to the public June 15, 2007, (only five months ago, so Wordsmiths Books may be considered a fairly 'new kid on the block' compared to other bookstores.  However,  the store has already made quite a name for itself as it is quickly becoming one of the area's most popular places in which to be and be seen.  The rapid success may well be attributed to their aggressive marketing plan and promotion strategy. Wordsmiths has become known for featuring authors and sponsoring events on a regular basis at their historical location at 141 East Trinity Place in downtown Decatur.  Built in the 1930s Depression era as a work project and the original post office, the unique white marble exterior is a real eye-catcher that beckons passers-by to stop in and check out the place. From the pink marble floor entry to the ¾" wood plank floors throughout, the rock-solid building takes on a welcoming personality of its own, enticing those who care to browse. The 10,000+ book titles which Wordsmiths houses within those walls likens to delicious filling in a scrumptious home-baked apple pie. Visit www.WordsmithsBooks.com  .

I'm especially excited that Wordsmiths has invited me there this Sunday, November 18th from 2-4:00.  I will be at their wonderful historical location in downtown Decatur reading excerpts, discussing and signing my novel, "Edgewise: An Assignment to Remember."    If you're in the area and reading is your "thing," then by all means, stop by and say "hi!"  The atmosphere is laid back and friendly as all get out while Zach, Russ, DeAnne and the crew always make you feel right at home...and THAT's MY kind of place! 

Until next time,                                                  
                                                       
                      

Just Call Me Dah'lin!

Darlene Ford Wofford, aka 'The Spirited Southerner' 

www.TheSpiritedSoutherner.com  or  www.JustCallMeDahlin.com

Embrace Life with Spirit and Keep Moving Forward!        

spirit (noun): energy, courage, strength, determination, fortitude & faith

I received the following story via email today.  I thought others might relate to the story...I know I certainly do, so here goes:

Have you ever been guilty of looking at others your own age and thinking surely I can't look that old!?  Well...you'll love this one.  My name is Alice Smith and I was sitting in the waiting room for my first appointment with a new dentist.  I noticed his DDS diploma, which bore his full name.  Suddenly, I remembered a tall, handsome, dark-haired boy with the same name had been in my high school class some 30-odd years ago.  Could he be the same guy that I had a secret crush on way back then?  Upon seeing him, however, I quickly discarded any such thought.  This balding, gray-haired man with the deeply lined face was WAY too old to have been MY classmast.  After he examined my teeth, I asked him if he had attended Morgan Park High School.  He replied, "Yes.  Yes I did.  I'm a Mustang."  He gleamed with pride.  "When did you graduate?" I asked.  He answered, "In 1975.  Why do you ask?"   I was shocked when I exclaimed, "You were in MY CLASS!"  He looked at me closely.  Then, that ugly, old, blad, wrinkled, fat head , gray-haired, decrepit son-of-a-sea-cook asked, "What did you teach?"!!! 

So there you have it.    Share if you relate to the story. 

Until next time,

Just Call Me Dah'lin, The Spirited Southerner!

Darlene Ford Wofford

www.TheSpiritedSoutherner.com

Embrace Life with Spirit and Keep Moving Forward!

spirit (noun):  courage, energy, strength, determination, fortitude & faith

This afternoon, Carl and I went to see our oldest son, Kenneth and his team, the "Hitmen" play for the championship of the Southeast Amateur Hockey League.  They were up against the "Thrashers," no less--the same exact team they were up against last year.  Last year they had the thrill of playing the championship game at the Philips Arena following the pro Thrashers game, and I was just as thrilled to see our boy play there(yes I still call him a boy even though he's in his mid-thirties).   This year the game was at The Cooler in Alpharetta off Mansell Road, (behind Killer Creek restaurant).  The Cooler is a multi-sport complex with no less than TWO ice arenas, one gigantic roller rink, a wrestling arena and several party rooms.  Quite impressive, but it was so cold in there they could have hung a side of BEEF in that arena.  There I was in jeans, turtle neck sweater and a shawl, leather gloves, knee socks and knee-high boots, and I was STILL freezing.   To the left of me there sat two young ladies in their twenties wearing SANDALS, and one even sported short-sleeves!  I wanted to say, are you crazy?  You're gonna catch your death of pneumonia.  But then I didn't want them to think me too much of a mother-figure--or grandmother-figure, as it were.  Of course the complex has the sporting goods place there where I couldn't find the prices on any of the items they had on display outside the store in the lobby.  I guess they were either "free" or if you had to ask the price you couldn't afford them. 

But back to the game itself...it was phenomenal, although sadly the Thrashers stole the game from our Hitmen 4 to 2.  But hey, it was better than last year's score, which I won't mention here, but just suffice it to say 4 to 2 ain't NOTHIN' to be ashamed of.  Where did they come up with the name "Hitmen" for the team, I asked my son.  He told me it was the name of a team (baseball, football, soccer, basketball...I don't know because  the wax was frozen inside my ears impairing my hearing so it all just sounded like blah, blah, blah).  Anyway, this "team" existed a good while back as I understand it but our guys liked the name and so they adopted it. 

All I know is, better them than me out on the ice knocking that little black puck around with the sticks while maintaining balance and upright positions on ice skates travelling at NASCAR speeds.  Besides, I don't like it when I get cold...that's why I live in the SOUTH for Pete's sake!   Congratulations to both teams, the Thrashers AND the Hitmen.  You guys played one heck of a game today, and it wore me out just to watch ya!   By the way, Kenneth has another game with another league tonight at 10:00.  What can I say?  The guy's a glutton for punishment and he sure doesn't get his engery from his mom's side of the family!!!  (See photos in Album). 

Until next time,

Just Call Me Dah'lin, The Spirited Southerner!

Darlene Ford Wofford

www.TheSpiritedSoutherner.com

Embrace Life with Spirit and Keep Moving Forward!

spirit (noun): courage, energy, strength, determination, fortitude & faith

I spent last weekend at the Business Boot Kamp presented by London Image Institute where I am the Graduate Division Director.  It was conducted in the "Buckshead Room" at the Embassy Suites in Buckhead.  (That's right--Bucks--plural).  I all but expected to see Bucks' heads hanging all over the walls but thank goodness my expectations were unfulfilled.  I'm an Atlanta native, whereas 'Buckhead' has always been recognized as a fine part of town, I have NEVER heard the term Buck's'head before, but that's what they call the room, so there you have it.                                                    
                                                       
                                        

Our graduates flew in from across the nation for the course designed to help us all take our businesses to the next level.    The course was presented by Suzanne Black and Paula Harriss, president and top facilitators for nationally recognized 'The Coaching Center' based in Texas.  Our wonderful Friday evening dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse there at the hotel served as a dual celebration.  First we celebrated the launching of the Graduate Division with this, our innaugual Business Boot Kamp and secondly, in recognition of Lynne Henderson Marks, president of London Image Institute.  Lynne is highly acclaimed internationally as one of only a handful of Certified Image Consultant Masters in affiliation with  the AICI (Association of Image Consultants International).     She relocated to the United States several years ago and Lynne with husband, Frank share a lovely home here in the Atlanta area.  She’s one busy lady and doesn’t stand still long enough to gather any dust. Traveling abroad, Lynne makes several yearly transcontinental treks from Atlanta to the U.K., New York and Asia, training others worldwide to be successful professional image consultants.  I consider it an honor and a distinct privilege to be working alongside her with the Institute.   We celebrated London Image Institute’s 21st year in business and we managed to keep it all a surprise from Lynne, which is a miracle in itself considering I'm not known for keeping secrets.  The cake was absolutely to die for--chocolate cake with white chocolate icing and white chocolate mousse filling--catered by Celsos Cakes.   I'm still working off the pounds I picked up over that dinner and dessert, but it was all worth it.   (See photos at: http://www.londonimageinstitute.com/courses_schedules/
documents/LII.ppt#256,1,Celebrating 21 Years of Business ).

I stayed at my friends' condo in The Twelve at Atlantic Station—what a great place with a SUPER view!  One of the graduates stayed with me and we had a blast.  Not everyone would loan their place for the entire weekend, so I would like to say thanks to Sherri and Harry for their generosity and great friendship!  

Until next time,

Just Call Me Dah’lin, The Spirited Southerner! 

Darlene Ford Wofford    

www.TheSpiritedSoutherner.com   or   www.JustCallMeDahlin.com

   Embrace Life with Spirit and Keep Moving Forward!      

spirit (noun): courage, energy, strength, determination, fortitude & faith

I’m referring to the Cobb County’s East-West Connector where Kennesaw’s Barrett Parkway “eventually” leads into Austell.  I use that term because there are so many blooming traffic lights and traffic to go along with them.  However, when we did finally manage to reach the Borders there at the corner of the E-W Connector and Austell Road it was well worth the travel time.   It was one of my best book-signings yet, and it goes without saying but, “I had a total blast!”

Among the many wonderful customers was Regina with her nine-year old nephew, Jimmy Lee (buying a book about Einstein no less) and his 13 year old tall drink of water brother, CJ.   Susan was there with her cute as a button young son, Jonathon.  Courtney and her grandfather, Jerry were there searching for the perfect book to buy Nana, and I was honored they chose An Assignment to Remember—the first of three novels in my Edgewise series.  I always love it when someone I know drops by to say hello, and so there we were, Darlene x 2--two Darlenes under one roof.  She is an expert in the field of intuition and inspirational photography and writing, with two great books already published while she is working on her third.  Kudos to my dear friend, Darlene Pitts.  Then along came Karen Stone, and we were like two long lost friends, though we had never met before.  Turns out we have a lot in common.  She’s also a writer, as well as a trainer and a speaker, and like me, she has a great guy in her life, too.  In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if Karen and I collaborate on some projects in the near future.  I’m an Acworth/Kennesaw  resident and she lives in the Austell area.  There is no such thing as coincidence, particularly when you meet someone with whom you resonate to the point you connect as we did.   I suspect we'll look back at the irony of that October Saturday afternoon when the East-West Connector was the site of our friendship  connection in the first place.  (See photos in my album titled “Good Friends & Good Times” ).

I always meet great folks in the bookstores, especially Borders.  The Austell staff lived up to the chain’s standards in the friendliness department.  Portia, Misty and the sales manager, Amber, like the other Borders locations, made me feel right at home.  I greatly appreciate their gracious hospitality and I look forward to an encore event there as soon as the schedule allows. 

Carl and I enjoyed the remainder of the gorgeous Saturday T-birding down the road and we stopped to eat dinner at a great little place called the "VARSITY!"   Brings back memories of our teens growing up in Atlanta and the big red "V" always makes a great day even better! 

Until next time,

Just call me Dah’lin, The Spirited Southerner! 

Darlene Ford Wofford 

www.darlenewofford.com

Carl and I had a full day this past Saturday.  After my book-signing at Barnes & Noble, we drove up to my nephew's lakehouse on Lake Alatoona and helped him celebrate his 50th birthday, which was Sunday, the 23rd.  I can't BELIEVE Jeff is half a century old.  How can that be?  Seems like only yesterday he was driving the go-cart his handy Dad built for him when he was only four, but he took to it like a duck takes to water.  I can still see him behind the wheel with Bugs Bunny sitting next to him, while he whizzed around their yard in Warner Robins.   His Dad, Harold, started him off early and he's never lost his love for cars.   Although he's a mechanical engineer by profession, his hobby is anything and everything to do with cars.  He and his dad both could sit in front of the tv watching cars race around and around the track--over and over again, which is beyond me how ANYONE can sit through that.   His collection of auto books and magazines would give any library a run for the money.  Through the years he has built and rebuilt cars--Mustangs in particular--and he even built a bona fide racecar from the ground up.  He loves his vintage Harley and you can catch Cynthia and him tooling around mountain roads whenever they get a chance.  An avid water skiier from a very young age, he competed for years winning numerous awards, and in fact is one of the primary reasons they live right on the lake.  Although the walk down to the lake is a little farther these days since the lake level is down about 11-12 feet due to the drought.  

I would say Jeff Kilby has led a pretty doggone good life and I'm proud to call him my nephew.     His mother is my sister, Pat, who would tell you Jeff can fix or build just about anything--takes after his Dad, Harold,  in that department.  Both of them were always what we call "piddlers"--piddling around with one thing or another.   I wish Jeff many more years of piddling with cars, boats, or whatever floats his boat!   Here's to Harley-riding, mountain-biking, water skiing, snow skiing and anything else that makes him happy!  Just keep moving forward, my nephew, and know that you're loved!

Until next time,

Just call me (aunt) Dah'ling, The Spirited Southerner!

Darlene Ford Wofford

www.darlenewofford.com  

It was brought to my attention by a newly acquired friend on MySpace from Washington State that Saturday, September 22nd was the last day of summer.   In recognition of the first day of a new season she emailed asking my favorite things about “autumn.”  My first response was WHERE the HECK did SUMMER go?  My mother always told me time would go by faster as I got older, and it not only goes by faster—it’s a dadburn BLURRR!!  Makes me wonder if MyFoxAtlanta friend, Gabe Newman knows whether there is a scientific reasoning to back that theory, or if it is just a mystical fact of life.  Anyway, autumn is my FAVORITE time of the year, but, of course, we call it "fall" down here in Georgia.  Don't recall hearing many folks refer to it as "autumn" much at all around here...that is, unless they're what we call "transplants" from other parts of the country.  I guess if my friend Edie May, says yesterday was the first day of autumn way over and up there in her neck of the woods, it was also the first day of "fall" down here in the South. Sure didn't seem like it yesterday OR today in Acworth. The temperature approached the 90 degree mark and the humidity has been so thick we could cut it with a fork (don’t even need a knife)!  

Carl and I were out T-birding enjoying the beautiful day and I can tell you without hesitation, fall is OUR favorite time of year. To me it means the most vivid blue skies and a sense of cleanliness in the soft fresh breezes that carry the leaves from their branches to their final resting place around the yard. There was a time long ago passed that I had a feeling of excitement rush over me during this time of year, as I knew my birthday would be coming soon. Alas, my birthday still comes every year around this time, (October 12th to be precise), but that excitement of long ago has waned to a sigh and more of a mere acknowledgement that another birthday is better than the alternative. Then I remind myself of all the many blessings Carl and I have shared over the past 40+ years and how much MORE there is for me to do before I check out of Life's Hotel for good.

Some people consider autumn or fall as the season when trees lose their leaves and prepare for dormancy-- an END to the fun of summer—whereas spring is considered the season for new growth and beginnings. As the old saying goes, 'there is a reason for every season', I believe the reasons to enjoy autumn/fall are many, including the end to Daylight Saving Time as we fall back an hour, thus getting more sleep. I for one could ALWAYS use more sleep! We usually leave Daylight Saving Time behind us the weekend before Halloween, but this year we’re not changing over until the first weekend in November.  Carl says it goes along with the theory that longer days contribute to global warning, but you’ll need to ask Fox 5’s Ken Cook or Jeff Hill about that one.  (grin)   Speaking of Halloween, if not for October, when would the little witches and hobgoblins go trick-or-treating? And don't forget Thanksgiving is in autumn/fall, when we gather together with family and friends in the spirit of love and give thanks. Come to think of it, I'm just thankful to still be around to enjoy this time of year, so bottom line--autumn/fall means loving and living life, whether it's sitting in here alone at my puter or T-birding with Carl down the road with the top back!  If you see a blur before your eyes, it’s either us going down the road in our little T-bird living it up…or the blur just might be life in general, if you’re over 35 and counting!  Make the most of it and keep moving forward!

Just call me Dah’ling, The Spirited Southerner!

www.darlenewofford.com

From 1967-69 I worked at the Atlanta Gas Light Company on Moreland Avenue at the corner of Caroline Street.  My dear departed uncle Hubert Bennett had retired as a big shot there, but alas his passing was so early on my dropping his name carried little-to-no influence didn’t do me one bit of good.   I worked in the secretarial pool and upstairs in the credit department.  I was one of about six employees that opened and sorted the monthly bill payments.  Sounds pretty boring?  Well, it was EXCEPT when I was lucky enough to run across an envelope with a stamp that missed being canceled by the Post Office.   I considered those little 8 cent beauties as a bonus and my mother was thrilled when I brought home a handful. This past Saturday, the 22nd, I had an occasion to revisit the site of the old Atlanta Gas Light Company building, but sadly it was no more. 

In its place is the beautiful new Edgewood Retail District, there less than two years.  It even has a covered parking deck.  I was amazed at how the place had been re-developed with beautiful condominiums, town-homes, new and refurbished homes in the surrounding area.  I was there for a book-signing at the enormous Barnes & Noble, and as usual, I had a blast greeting and meeting some pretty amazing folks. For example, I met the Montgomerys, Gerri and her husband, Rodney and his mother Louise—the salt of the earth.  Gerri and I bonded as she shared how her eldest son died suddenly in May just prior to his daughter’s graduation. I encouraged her to write about the good times—and how cathartic it was for me.   Then there was Kwabena, just the nicest young man you would ever want to meet.  He is an elementary school teacher who really and truly loves his job, helping young students discover their talents and develop their minds.  I wish ALL teachers could be that passionate about their life’s mission!  And Terry was another super nice lady I met by chance, just as I was leaving the store.   (See photos in my “Fun People and Places” album).  

I would like to thank Swann Marsh and David at B&N, and all the customers there for making my two hours fly by while I was having so much fun!  If you’re ever in the Moreland Avenue area outside of I-20, stop by and check out the Edgewood Retail District.  You’re sure to be impressed! It’s most DEFINITELY an improvement over the old Atlanta Gas Light building of days gone by, but not forgotten. 

Until next time,

Just call me Dah'ling, The Spirited Southerner!

Darlene Ford Wofford

www.darlenewofford.com

Carl and I had an absolutely gorgeous afternoon for T-birding with the top back.  The only problem was that we spent well over an hour sitting almost still and going nowhere fast up Piedmonth to Peachtree Rd and over to The Buckhead Triangle at Wieuca.  We were on our way to Borders there for a book-signing and I was SUPPOSED to be there 3-5:00.  We thought we would take a "short cut" but that actually brought us back to Piedmont Rd at a point about 2 blocks BEHIND where we started.  It felt like we were in the Bermuda Triangle--how could a short cut wind up being the long way around, adding another 30 minutes to our trip? We didn't reach Borders until 3:30 and were lucky to get there then.  Atlanta traffic is the PITS! 

Once again I met an awfully lot of good folks and the Borders gang--Pete, Angela, Brannon, and the manager Harrison--were all fantastic and made me feel right at home.  Of course there was one "mature" woman, (even more "mature" than little ole me), who was rude, rude, rude!  I just thanked God I'm not that way.  I could have let her hurt my feelings but instead I had to chuckle about it, thinking 'surely this woman's not for real' as I looked around to make sure I wasn't on Candid Camera.  We left a little after 5:30 and it was a pretty good day after all, and as always I had a blast!  (Photos in my album "Fun People and Places"). 

When we left we avoided most of the traffic by taking 400 to 285 and then up 75 North.  With our caps in place, the top back and the windows down we were T-birding home at a steady pace--all the way to our local Marietta Captain D's--as they say, "a great little seafood place."  

Until next time,

Enjoy Life's Blessings and Keep Moving Forward!

Darlene Wofford

www.darlenewofford.com