Dan and I just celebrated our 17th anniversary-a whopping 17 years!
We've come a long way since the beginning of our marriage. We're both "healthier"--you can tell by just looking at us! We're both grayer-thanks, kids! And we're both WISER!!!
Thinking back on our first year of marriage, my air-headed genes must have been mingling with his genes. We lived in a very small single-wide trailer that we bought off of friends. The cost was right, and it was already set up.
One small "delimma", for lack of a better word coming to mind, was that the front door did not have a key for the lock. The back door had a key, but no porch.
We were quite poor when we first married, which is probably why we didn't splurge on getting a door knob with a key, so every time we locked the door, when we returned home, we would use the back door to get in, since we had the key to the lock. Unlock the door, give one of us a boost in the back door(since there was no porch), and whoever was inside would go and unlock the front door.
We lived in that tiny trailer with no front door key for a year.
We then sold the trailer to friends of ours, as we needed a bigger place to live for our growing family.
The new couple that moved in never had a problem with not having a key to the front door.
Would you like to know why?
Because the husband switched the front and back door knobs.
Yes, Dan and I were smacking our heads.....sigh, and as for me, I still haven't gotten much better! At least I know what to do if we ever have a missing key door knob problem again, so I'm at least a little wiser! =)
Christian living and homemaking, along with a few tutorials.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Time To Round Up The Socks
If you've been a follower of my blog for very long, you already know that I collect socks-under my pillow. Here is the original blog post about this fascinating fact about me:
http://achocolatebouquet.blogspot.com/2010/01/fascinating-facts-about-me-part-2.html
The second blog post listed below tells you further information about my sock collection. You may need to read it in order to understand my latest announcement:
http://achocolatebouquet.blogspot.com/2010/03/socks.html
And my latest announcement is......the NEW number is......25! Yep! When I realized I could only find about 1 pair of my own socks, it donned on me where to find all the missing foot warmers!
Twenty-five.....am I all alone, or does anyone else share my habit???
http://achocolatebouquet.blogspot.com/2010/01/fascinating-facts-about-me-part-2.html
The second blog post listed below tells you further information about my sock collection. You may need to read it in order to understand my latest announcement:
http://achocolatebouquet.blogspot.com/2010/03/socks.html
And my latest announcement is......the NEW number is......25! Yep! When I realized I could only find about 1 pair of my own socks, it donned on me where to find all the missing foot warmers!
Twenty-five.....am I all alone, or does anyone else share my habit???
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
A New and Simple Chocolate Bouquet!
Hi Everyone!
I have finally been updating my website, and have added one new chocolate bouquet so far! I've been on my toes, and plan to add more to the site in the upcoming week and weeks. Please drop by to see how to make this cute, simple bouquet-made of Andes mints and Rocher chocolates-I've had several compliments on it from friends and family!
http://www.achocolatebouquet.com/id140.html
I have finally been updating my website, and have added one new chocolate bouquet so far! I've been on my toes, and plan to add more to the site in the upcoming week and weeks. Please drop by to see how to make this cute, simple bouquet-made of Andes mints and Rocher chocolates-I've had several compliments on it from friends and family!
http://www.achocolatebouquet.com/id140.html
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Sorry Folks!
Sorry folks, but I had to delete my last post. Unfortunately the ads it was pulling up in my side bar were ads that I wouldn't want anyone to see!
The GOOD news is that I've added this humorous story to my website, so you can still read it! It's a story from a friend who was pulled over by military police, and you'll never guess why!
Take a look, and check out my new website additions while you are there!
http://www.achocolatebouquet.com/id134.html
The GOOD news is that I've added this humorous story to my website, so you can still read it! It's a story from a friend who was pulled over by military police, and you'll never guess why!
Take a look, and check out my new website additions while you are there!
http://www.achocolatebouquet.com/id134.html
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
The Oil Cap
Just last weekend, I was delighted to visit with my dear friend Mrs. Lanni-she was my babysitter when I was just a child. Now in her 80's, Amber and I were happy to be able to visit and lift her spirits for a couple of days.
While there, my brother came to visit too-and we reminisced about how he would pick on me, and Mrs. Lanni's daughter would make him pay for it, and how I dug into Mrs. Lanni's chocolate cupcakes, with the evidence all over my face, yet denied it....why WERE they laughing? How could they tell???
But then my brother Bryan, who is funny even when he isn't trying, talked about a story from when he had his first car. I had actually forgotten about this story, but laughed as hard over it as I have in years past, so here it is for ya!
When Bryan had his first car, one night he was putting oil in it. He dropped the cap, and it mysteriously disappeared! We searched and searched, and somehow Bryan was walking backwards around his car while searching for it.
What Bryan didn't know is that I was in front of his car on my hands and knees, looking underneath the front end. Yes, Bryan continued to walk backwards, and I was an obstacle in his path. I took him out at the knees.
Guess you had to be there, but it was hilarious, if you can just picture it!
We still couldn't find the cap, and reluctantly went in and woke our dad, who had to get up around 4:30 a.m. for work.
Dad, the car expert, came out and located the cap in under 10 seconds. It fell and landed inside the hood-apparently in a place that is common for oil caps to land inside of hoods. And then Dad headed back to bed.
Yes, a fond memory of childhood. Wish you couldn't have been there to see it!
While there, my brother came to visit too-and we reminisced about how he would pick on me, and Mrs. Lanni's daughter would make him pay for it, and how I dug into Mrs. Lanni's chocolate cupcakes, with the evidence all over my face, yet denied it....why WERE they laughing? How could they tell???
But then my brother Bryan, who is funny even when he isn't trying, talked about a story from when he had his first car. I had actually forgotten about this story, but laughed as hard over it as I have in years past, so here it is for ya!
When Bryan had his first car, one night he was putting oil in it. He dropped the cap, and it mysteriously disappeared! We searched and searched, and somehow Bryan was walking backwards around his car while searching for it.
What Bryan didn't know is that I was in front of his car on my hands and knees, looking underneath the front end. Yes, Bryan continued to walk backwards, and I was an obstacle in his path. I took him out at the knees.
Guess you had to be there, but it was hilarious, if you can just picture it!
We still couldn't find the cap, and reluctantly went in and woke our dad, who had to get up around 4:30 a.m. for work.
Dad, the car expert, came out and located the cap in under 10 seconds. It fell and landed inside the hood-apparently in a place that is common for oil caps to land inside of hoods. And then Dad headed back to bed.
Yes, a fond memory of childhood. Wish you couldn't have been there to see it!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Do You Have Ten Dollars?
Well folks, I am back from a two week trip of travelling from state to state, stopping to visit friends and family along the way, and back again until next time! Our travel stops included Indiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas.
Let me share with you a memorable event from Texas!
I was in a thrift store, minding my own business, looking thru the skirts. I could hear a very persistant little boy, about the age of 5 or 6, asking his mother for a camera. Although I don't remember word for word perfectly, this is basically what was said:
"Can I get the camera? Can I get the camera? PLEASEeeeeeee can I get the camera??????"
Mom is busy looking at clothes with who I assume is the older sister. Mom does not hear the boy for the first several questions, but eventually says something to him. Then there is silence for a brief moment.
While minding my own business, I hear, "Hello!" I say hello back to this little fellow. He begins to tell me how he really wants the camera, and that is it $10 and it is PERFECT for him. I try to be polite and say things like, "Ohh...." and "Uh-huh..."
Then the conversation turns personal!
"Do you have $10?"
Okay, now what would YOU have done or said? Chances are that perfect camera was not the best camera in the world, and may or may not have worked. It isn't that I'm stingy with my money, but I must admit I don't go handing out money to children every day, unless the last name is Anthony!
So I decided to pretend I didn't hear him, the same way his mother did! And the conversation continues like this:
"Do you have ten dollars? Do you have ten dollars? Do you have ten dollars? I'm ASKING you a question!!!"
Oh....ooops! So sorry little guy.....
I was hoping Mom would hear her little man asking strangers for money, but she continued to be oblivious. I said, "Oh, what was that?"
"Do you have ten dollars?"
It is not my policy to lie, so I said that yes, I had ten dollars.
He asked if he could have it and explained how he really wanted the camera, and I continued to sift thru the skirts. He hold out his hand and tells me that he's the money collector person-I continue to sift thru the skirts.
FINALLY Mom hears him and sweetly drags him away(she was sweet with her answers to him, she really was-always giving him kindness WHEN she heard him! lol). As she is pulling him her way, I hear, "That lady was gonna give me $10!!!" Mom kindly told him that I was going to spend my $10 on clothes!
Needless to say, I took the opportunity to escape, for fear I may run into this persistant little guy in another aisle.
No one since has asked me if I have $10, but I wonder if I will break out in a sweat, or feel the urge to run, or if I'll get the shakes when they do!
Thank you little boy.....I now have a new fear--askaforatenadollaphobia!!!
Let me share with you a memorable event from Texas!
I was in a thrift store, minding my own business, looking thru the skirts. I could hear a very persistant little boy, about the age of 5 or 6, asking his mother for a camera. Although I don't remember word for word perfectly, this is basically what was said:
"Can I get the camera? Can I get the camera? PLEASEeeeeeee can I get the camera??????"
Mom is busy looking at clothes with who I assume is the older sister. Mom does not hear the boy for the first several questions, but eventually says something to him. Then there is silence for a brief moment.
While minding my own business, I hear, "Hello!" I say hello back to this little fellow. He begins to tell me how he really wants the camera, and that is it $10 and it is PERFECT for him. I try to be polite and say things like, "Ohh...." and "Uh-huh..."
Then the conversation turns personal!
"Do you have $10?"
Okay, now what would YOU have done or said? Chances are that perfect camera was not the best camera in the world, and may or may not have worked. It isn't that I'm stingy with my money, but I must admit I don't go handing out money to children every day, unless the last name is Anthony!
So I decided to pretend I didn't hear him, the same way his mother did! And the conversation continues like this:
"Do you have ten dollars? Do you have ten dollars? Do you have ten dollars? I'm ASKING you a question!!!"
Oh....ooops! So sorry little guy.....
I was hoping Mom would hear her little man asking strangers for money, but she continued to be oblivious. I said, "Oh, what was that?"
"Do you have ten dollars?"
It is not my policy to lie, so I said that yes, I had ten dollars.
He asked if he could have it and explained how he really wanted the camera, and I continued to sift thru the skirts. He hold out his hand and tells me that he's the money collector person-I continue to sift thru the skirts.
FINALLY Mom hears him and sweetly drags him away(she was sweet with her answers to him, she really was-always giving him kindness WHEN she heard him! lol). As she is pulling him her way, I hear, "That lady was gonna give me $10!!!" Mom kindly told him that I was going to spend my $10 on clothes!
Needless to say, I took the opportunity to escape, for fear I may run into this persistant little guy in another aisle.
No one since has asked me if I have $10, but I wonder if I will break out in a sweat, or feel the urge to run, or if I'll get the shakes when they do!
Thank you little boy.....I now have a new fear--askaforatenadollaphobia!!!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Is She A....
Have you all seen my beautiful daughters in the side bar of my blog? Well, my daughter with the darker hair is Amber. She is very light complected, and has very dark hair, eyebrows, and the long black eyelashes that every woman wishes she had-except Amber's are all natural.
Well, Amber was at the park a few weeks ago, and there was a little boy there as well. He saw Amber and asked the lady he was with if Amber was a vampire! LOL So he asked why is she so white, then?
Well, Amber was at the park a few weeks ago, and there was a little boy there as well. He saw Amber and asked the lady he was with if Amber was a vampire! LOL So he asked why is she so white, then?
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Ahh....this is the life!
Well folks, we're off! We're leaving my sister-in-law's place and heading to Oklahoma-not sure where we're going to stop yet, but I'm sure something will catch our attention along the way. We'd like to go to Calvert's-the restaurant of the thrown rolls-any of you ever been there?
We enjoyed our stay with Dan and Jen, and I got a lesson in bugs from my niece and nephew. Apparently Breanna was saving the shell of secada bugs-and let me telll ya, they are GROSS, heebie-jeebie gross!!! She had thrown them out, but went and got one to show me, and the shell is an entire body of a bug! Breanna started walking toward me with the shell, and I started backing up. She then stuck the shell to her shirt-ugh! Oh, I seriously had the creepy-crawlies! And of couse, my nephew Connor is a boy thru and thru-he got one of the shells and with outstretched hand, was coming for me! I backed up as I was warning him that he absolutely did NOT want to stick that thing on his Aunt Josanne. He attempted a few more times, but between my warnings and his mother telling him to stop, I escaped with my wits still in tact. Phew! By the way, if you've never heard the noise secadas can make, you wouldn't believe it! The are SO noisy-they're all thru the trees, and they make quite a ruckus!
So anyway! You want to know why this is the life??? Because we are travelling in a 21st century car with air conditioning! Oh, I'm not opposed to older cars-after all, I've driven one for many years. But I must say, this is quite a luxury!
We would have had to rent a car for this trip if we didn't have this car, but I was just thinking of how it would be if we would have had to take my old car.
Can you just imagine us travelling from PA to OK in my un-air conditioned, half rusted, older than my middle child, don't look too good even if it's waxed, 1993 car? REMEMBER-we're going to OKLAHOMA, and THEN to TEXAS!!! Can you say SCORCHING HOT WEATHER??? So you KNOW we'd be travelling with all the windows down, and possibly the trunk open, if we thought it might help cool the car down! If we showed up in your rear-view mirror on the highway, no, it wouldn't be our dog with it's head out the window-it would be ME! Or it might be Dan, if he wants to share the driving with me, and I am the one behind the steering wheel at the time. And no, a thunder cloud would not be following you, that would just be my car. If we would happen to stop at the same gas station, I would appreciate if you would let me know if I have bugs in my teeth, from when you thought I was the family dog in your rear mirror. =) And by the way, my waist length hair whipping in the wind probably would have looked like we had a dark Irish Setter!
That of course, is only the ride TO Oklahoma. Since we're going to church, I'd have to brush all the knots out of my hair-and then decide if I'd curl my hair for church, or wear it up. If I wear it up, we would have to keep the windows up on the way to church because the wind will mess my hair up! I'm NOT so vain(OBVIOUSLY-if I were taking my old jalopy!), but I would like to be presentable, and if you have very long hair that you've worn up in a pretty style, you know what I'm talking about! Since women don't sweat-we GLOW-I would be arriving to the church service GLOWING PROFUSELY. Everyone might think Dan and I RAN to church, since I'd be glowing, and Dan would be looking like a sweating hog. If they had seen my car, they'd also probably just figure we broke down on our way to church. But if I would wear my hair down, we could roll the windows down, but the window side of me would look as if I had dreadlocks! I might still be glowing anyway, since we are talking about Oklahoma in August.
BUT! Since my 2002 car has air, I don't even have to worry about it!!! Ahh....life is good!
We enjoyed our stay with Dan and Jen, and I got a lesson in bugs from my niece and nephew. Apparently Breanna was saving the shell of secada bugs-and let me telll ya, they are GROSS, heebie-jeebie gross!!! She had thrown them out, but went and got one to show me, and the shell is an entire body of a bug! Breanna started walking toward me with the shell, and I started backing up. She then stuck the shell to her shirt-ugh! Oh, I seriously had the creepy-crawlies! And of couse, my nephew Connor is a boy thru and thru-he got one of the shells and with outstretched hand, was coming for me! I backed up as I was warning him that he absolutely did NOT want to stick that thing on his Aunt Josanne. He attempted a few more times, but between my warnings and his mother telling him to stop, I escaped with my wits still in tact. Phew! By the way, if you've never heard the noise secadas can make, you wouldn't believe it! The are SO noisy-they're all thru the trees, and they make quite a ruckus!
So anyway! You want to know why this is the life??? Because we are travelling in a 21st century car with air conditioning! Oh, I'm not opposed to older cars-after all, I've driven one for many years. But I must say, this is quite a luxury!
We would have had to rent a car for this trip if we didn't have this car, but I was just thinking of how it would be if we would have had to take my old car.
Can you just imagine us travelling from PA to OK in my un-air conditioned, half rusted, older than my middle child, don't look too good even if it's waxed, 1993 car? REMEMBER-we're going to OKLAHOMA, and THEN to TEXAS!!! Can you say SCORCHING HOT WEATHER??? So you KNOW we'd be travelling with all the windows down, and possibly the trunk open, if we thought it might help cool the car down! If we showed up in your rear-view mirror on the highway, no, it wouldn't be our dog with it's head out the window-it would be ME! Or it might be Dan, if he wants to share the driving with me, and I am the one behind the steering wheel at the time. And no, a thunder cloud would not be following you, that would just be my car. If we would happen to stop at the same gas station, I would appreciate if you would let me know if I have bugs in my teeth, from when you thought I was the family dog in your rear mirror. =) And by the way, my waist length hair whipping in the wind probably would have looked like we had a dark Irish Setter!
That of course, is only the ride TO Oklahoma. Since we're going to church, I'd have to brush all the knots out of my hair-and then decide if I'd curl my hair for church, or wear it up. If I wear it up, we would have to keep the windows up on the way to church because the wind will mess my hair up! I'm NOT so vain(OBVIOUSLY-if I were taking my old jalopy!), but I would like to be presentable, and if you have very long hair that you've worn up in a pretty style, you know what I'm talking about! Since women don't sweat-we GLOW-I would be arriving to the church service GLOWING PROFUSELY. Everyone might think Dan and I RAN to church, since I'd be glowing, and Dan would be looking like a sweating hog. If they had seen my car, they'd also probably just figure we broke down on our way to church. But if I would wear my hair down, we could roll the windows down, but the window side of me would look as if I had dreadlocks! I might still be glowing anyway, since we are talking about Oklahoma in August.
BUT! Since my 2002 car has air, I don't even have to worry about it!!! Ahh....life is good!
Monday, August 2, 2010
My Life These Days
Well, here it is, the month of August! Hard to believe how quickly the year has gone by, and also the months that I have not posted! This is a bit of an update post, to let you know what I've been doing, and what I would like to do in the coming months!
My break from blogging
If you read many blogs, I'm sure you've already come across a blog or two that has explained why there has been an absense in posting, and often it is because their families come first, and their families need them. It's just so easy to spend so much time on a post, and several times a week add up to several hours a week. That sums it up for me as well. I end up feeling guilt from too many hours on my "stuff", and don't think it's fair to my family.
What I have been doing
Since we've moved into our new home just over a year ago, I've kept busy regularly with having company over. It has been my desire to use my home for get togethers, and even tho I'm not a pro at it, we "entertain" quite a bit!
Chances are if you know me at all, and we happen to run into each other at the store, after we haven't seen each other in several months, I'll invite you over for dinner! And I don't hand out empty invitations-when I tell you to come over sometime, I want you to, and we need to set a date!
The biggest news!
So! Lots of company, and a whole new freedom has entered our lives! My 20 year old daughter just got her driver's license! Can you say "Thank you Jesus!!!" with me???
See, Elissa did fine driving, but she couldn't parallel park. Dan had worked with Elissa some on parallel parking, but I did not because I cannot parallel park. Yes, I am the woman you will see drive around the block in our little town--several times because I can't find a place that has a least 3 empty parking spots in a row.
When I told Dan I couldn't teach Elissa because I couldn't do it myself, would you believe he had the nerve to tell me that I needed to learn too? It's like this----listen, I'm 40 years old and have made it this far without knowing how to do it-I am NOT going to try to learn now! I'm FINE with walking 6 blocks if there are no spacious places to park. Men(rolling my eyes!)
So! It feels like my daughter just aged several years this past week! How nice it is for her to call from work and ask if I need her to pick anything up on her way home! Oh, bless you, child, bless you!
No more Saturday evening announcements of "I need to go to Walmart".
Dan and I just got a lot more freedom, as did Elissa, and even Amber, when she wants to go places, and Elissa will take her. Needless to say, we are all relieved, happy campers!
A new experience for Amber
Dan and Amber went to a church meeting in Colorado Springs, and it was Amber's first time flying! She enjoyed it, and also met some wonderful new friends from Colorado and Texas. They stayed a few extra days and went to Whit's End, the Royal Gorge, and Garden of the Gods, which they renamed God's Garden, giving credit where credit really is due. =)
Dan and Amber returned from their trip last Monday, giving Dan almost a week to recover before leaving on our trip to....
Oklahoma, here we come!
Dan and I are going to a church meeting in Jenks, Oklahoma, and then we are venturing to San Antonio, Texas! Dakota is staying with his Aunt Jen and Uncle Dan in Indiana, and the girls are back home under the care of many friends. =)
Moving up to the 21st century
After Dan got home from Colorado, he called about a car we saw in the newspaper. He knew what I was looking for in a car, and while I stayed home and did Bible Boot Camp with the church kids, he went and got me a car!
Yes folks, I have finally become a little more modern! I still like vintage clothes, but now I have a cell phone AND a 2002 car! My 1993 Cutlass Ciera has seen its better days. I mean, just because it's older than Amber, purrs like a roaring lion, is two toned teal and rust, has a broken air conditioner and broke down two days after I got my new car, doesn't mean it's a complete rustbucket junker! The mechanic called today and after replacing the gas tank that was SO rusted, along with the original problem of the fuel pump, and then whatever else he said just disinigrated when he went to remove it, it's good to go! And hey, it's PAID FOR!!!! So you know what that means??? It means....
A gift for Amber
When Amber turns 16 in October, it's gonna be HER car! Yes, I know she is thrilled that she will be driving my old classic. I'm sure there are some lessons in humility and other things that she'll appreciate that she will have learned-when she is about 50. Plus, in the learning process, she'll probably know more about cars than most mechanics out there, and she won't even have to pay for the college course!
What is up and coming
Just a few short weeks after our trip, the kiddos will be starting school again. And this too will be something new for them-they are cyber-schooling this year!
I am really looking forward to this new adventure-and I'm sure I'll have some stories to share with you all!
My blog
While the children are schooling, I am going to try to work on regular updates on my blog. Blogging has been something I have thoroughly enjoyed.
My website
I am very excited about updating my website! Months ago, before I took a break from my blogging and web writing, I bought supplies to make several new chocolate bouquets. They are waiting on a shelf for me to finally pick them up and do something creative with them! I have several ideas, and look forward to sharing them.
I am also planning on adding a lot of new content to my website. I am adding content by other writers, and am anxious to add their creative writing skills to my site. I am also hoping to share some of my brother's photography-his latest passion that he so ably and diligently works at.
So there you have it!
So here is my latest update, and I am hoping to update during my trip as well. I'm sure just me and my one man comedy act that I'm married to will have new adventures to share!
My break from blogging
If you read many blogs, I'm sure you've already come across a blog or two that has explained why there has been an absense in posting, and often it is because their families come first, and their families need them. It's just so easy to spend so much time on a post, and several times a week add up to several hours a week. That sums it up for me as well. I end up feeling guilt from too many hours on my "stuff", and don't think it's fair to my family.
What I have been doing
Since we've moved into our new home just over a year ago, I've kept busy regularly with having company over. It has been my desire to use my home for get togethers, and even tho I'm not a pro at it, we "entertain" quite a bit!
Chances are if you know me at all, and we happen to run into each other at the store, after we haven't seen each other in several months, I'll invite you over for dinner! And I don't hand out empty invitations-when I tell you to come over sometime, I want you to, and we need to set a date!
The biggest news!
So! Lots of company, and a whole new freedom has entered our lives! My 20 year old daughter just got her driver's license! Can you say "Thank you Jesus!!!" with me???
See, Elissa did fine driving, but she couldn't parallel park. Dan had worked with Elissa some on parallel parking, but I did not because I cannot parallel park. Yes, I am the woman you will see drive around the block in our little town--several times because I can't find a place that has a least 3 empty parking spots in a row.
When I told Dan I couldn't teach Elissa because I couldn't do it myself, would you believe he had the nerve to tell me that I needed to learn too? It's like this----listen, I'm 40 years old and have made it this far without knowing how to do it-I am NOT going to try to learn now! I'm FINE with walking 6 blocks if there are no spacious places to park. Men(rolling my eyes!)
So! It feels like my daughter just aged several years this past week! How nice it is for her to call from work and ask if I need her to pick anything up on her way home! Oh, bless you, child, bless you!
No more Saturday evening announcements of "I need to go to Walmart".
Dan and I just got a lot more freedom, as did Elissa, and even Amber, when she wants to go places, and Elissa will take her. Needless to say, we are all relieved, happy campers!
A new experience for Amber
Dan and Amber went to a church meeting in Colorado Springs, and it was Amber's first time flying! She enjoyed it, and also met some wonderful new friends from Colorado and Texas. They stayed a few extra days and went to Whit's End, the Royal Gorge, and Garden of the Gods, which they renamed God's Garden, giving credit where credit really is due. =)
Dan and Amber returned from their trip last Monday, giving Dan almost a week to recover before leaving on our trip to....
Oklahoma, here we come!
Dan and I are going to a church meeting in Jenks, Oklahoma, and then we are venturing to San Antonio, Texas! Dakota is staying with his Aunt Jen and Uncle Dan in Indiana, and the girls are back home under the care of many friends. =)
Moving up to the 21st century
After Dan got home from Colorado, he called about a car we saw in the newspaper. He knew what I was looking for in a car, and while I stayed home and did Bible Boot Camp with the church kids, he went and got me a car!
Yes folks, I have finally become a little more modern! I still like vintage clothes, but now I have a cell phone AND a 2002 car! My 1993 Cutlass Ciera has seen its better days. I mean, just because it's older than Amber, purrs like a roaring lion, is two toned teal and rust, has a broken air conditioner and broke down two days after I got my new car, doesn't mean it's a complete rustbucket junker! The mechanic called today and after replacing the gas tank that was SO rusted, along with the original problem of the fuel pump, and then whatever else he said just disinigrated when he went to remove it, it's good to go! And hey, it's PAID FOR!!!! So you know what that means??? It means....
A gift for Amber
When Amber turns 16 in October, it's gonna be HER car! Yes, I know she is thrilled that she will be driving my old classic. I'm sure there are some lessons in humility and other things that she'll appreciate that she will have learned-when she is about 50. Plus, in the learning process, she'll probably know more about cars than most mechanics out there, and she won't even have to pay for the college course!
What is up and coming
Just a few short weeks after our trip, the kiddos will be starting school again. And this too will be something new for them-they are cyber-schooling this year!
I am really looking forward to this new adventure-and I'm sure I'll have some stories to share with you all!
My blog
While the children are schooling, I am going to try to work on regular updates on my blog. Blogging has been something I have thoroughly enjoyed.
My website
I am very excited about updating my website! Months ago, before I took a break from my blogging and web writing, I bought supplies to make several new chocolate bouquets. They are waiting on a shelf for me to finally pick them up and do something creative with them! I have several ideas, and look forward to sharing them.
I am also planning on adding a lot of new content to my website. I am adding content by other writers, and am anxious to add their creative writing skills to my site. I am also hoping to share some of my brother's photography-his latest passion that he so ably and diligently works at.
So there you have it!
So here is my latest update, and I am hoping to update during my trip as well. I'm sure just me and my one man comedy act that I'm married to will have new adventures to share!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
What You've All Been Waiting For!
Hello, my wonderful readers!
Thanks for checking back time and time again to my un-updated blog. It shows me that you are still interested, and I appreciate that!
I have just been taking a break for a bit, which sometimes feels necessary because blogging and my website can take a large chunk of time. I don't really like being on the computer so much when the children are not in school.
But anyway! Here is an update that I hope you will enjoy. It is a conversation I had on Facebook with a friend.
I must say, I never knew I could make up such good gossip!!!
Okay, here is the scoop:
I have a wonderful friend named Rhonda, and at this point in here life, she is going thru a difficult time. This is how her facebook update started:
totally amazed by people and their opinions... especially when all they know is hearsay or bits and pieces. ugh! please people, if you don't know the whole story, SHUT UP! unless you are going to be an encouragement. speaking ill of someone is NOT going to help them. :(
I do know what her situation is, and I have been encouraging her along the way-we've been great friends for around 20 years!
So after some of my comments to her, I don't know WHAT hit me, but some sort of dilerium came over me! And THIS is the rest of thread, Rhonda in red, me in blue, and others in other colors. =) .....
Me: But you know Rhonda, I wish you would just come clean! TRUST ME--nobody is going to hold it against you that you are a Hartville Kitchen girl by day, and a Rodeo Cowgirl by night! Let them say all they want about your cowgirl boots-don't let it get to you! And they may talk about your cute little hair braids and Wrangler shirts too. They'll know the whole story when they visit the next rodeo, and you are the star of the show! Then won't THEY be eating HUMBLE PIE!!!
Oh! But I won't say anything else about it on fb-I want YOU to be the one to tell everyone. Yee-HAW!!!
Rhonda: lol... YEEEEEEEEHAAAAAAAWWWWW is right! :) love it, josanne! ♥
Friend #1: Rhonda are you doing rodeo's how cool.. love it..
Rhonda: haha.. yep! :0) ...and i just don't understand what the fuss is all about! lol.. jk
thanks, josanne.. can always count on you for a laugh. thanks to the rest of you as well for your encouragement! ♥
Me: I'm just trying to earn brownie points so I can have your cowgirl boots when you're done with them! (wink, wink!)
Friend #2(Rachel): hehehehehee I like Josanne! :) And you go girl! You tell em! And if you don't I will for you, no problem ;D lol
Me: Thanks! And nice to "meet" you, Rachel! If you are friends with Rhonda, you must be pretty cool too! Do you know each other from the rodeo? (hehee!)
Friend #3(Bryan): Do you mean all that stuff I just heard isn't true? lol
Friend #2: You're welcome! Nice to "meet" you as well :) We are all pretty cool if I must say so myself :D And yes, I do know Rhonda from the rodeo! teeehehehehee! and also from the HK but the rodeo is much more fuuun ;)
Rhonda: it's true, bryan... i'm a rodeo cowgirl!! lol... ...rachel is my sidekick...partner... ahhaahahaha!
Me: All RIGHT! Rhonda admitted it! She's a rodeo cowgirl! Now we can talk about her all we want! Well, I'm off to start some rumors.....think I'll call George first....
Friend #3: That's what I heard...that cowgirl with purple streaked spiked hair.
Rhonda: No that's rachel. My hairs pink! Lol
Me: and braided, not spiked!
Rhonda: Haha yep! Just call me pink pippie longstalking! :)
Me: But Pink Pippie's hair isn't what she is best known for-it's that bull's nose ring she hooks on when goes to the national competitions. The crowd just goes wild, and wonders how that thing stays in her nostrils when her cow starts bucking and a-kickin'!!!
I know Rhonda just wants encouragement, but she's gonna get hurt one of these times! We're not spring chickens anymore, ya know...
Rhonda: I'm only 29 helloooooo! ;).
Me: Yeah, but remember that time you were riding at the competition, and your nose ring got wrapped around the cow's horn? For one, I didn't know you could sing opera, and for two, I didn't know you were a contortionist! But anyway, even if you ARE 29, and can touch the tip of your toe to the tip of your nose, I still worry sick about you! That scared me so bad, I had to stop watching! It's not fair to the kids, Rhonda!
Rhonda: Lol. Toooo funny josanne! Boy that was a scary night! Lol
Well, there you have it! I laughed until I cried. Yeah, I'm a little goofy, but hey! I'd have a really boring blog if I wasn't!
Hope you all enjoyed!
Til next time.....
Thanks for checking back time and time again to my un-updated blog. It shows me that you are still interested, and I appreciate that!
I have just been taking a break for a bit, which sometimes feels necessary because blogging and my website can take a large chunk of time. I don't really like being on the computer so much when the children are not in school.
But anyway! Here is an update that I hope you will enjoy. It is a conversation I had on Facebook with a friend.
I must say, I never knew I could make up such good gossip!!!
Okay, here is the scoop:
I have a wonderful friend named Rhonda, and at this point in here life, she is going thru a difficult time. This is how her facebook update started:
totally amazed by people and their opinions... especially when all they know is hearsay or bits and pieces. ugh! please people, if you don't know the whole story, SHUT UP! unless you are going to be an encouragement. speaking ill of someone is NOT going to help them. :(
I do know what her situation is, and I have been encouraging her along the way-we've been great friends for around 20 years!
So after some of my comments to her, I don't know WHAT hit me, but some sort of dilerium came over me! And THIS is the rest of thread, Rhonda in red, me in blue, and others in other colors. =) .....
Me: But you know Rhonda, I wish you would just come clean! TRUST ME--nobody is going to hold it against you that you are a Hartville Kitchen girl by day, and a Rodeo Cowgirl by night! Let them say all they want about your cowgirl boots-don't let it get to you! And they may talk about your cute little hair braids and Wrangler shirts too. They'll know the whole story when they visit the next rodeo, and you are the star of the show! Then won't THEY be eating HUMBLE PIE!!!
Oh! But I won't say anything else about it on fb-I want YOU to be the one to tell everyone. Yee-HAW!!!
Rhonda: lol... YEEEEEEEEHAAAAAAAWWWWW is right! :) love it, josanne! ♥
Friend #1: Rhonda are you doing rodeo's how cool.. love it..
Rhonda: haha.. yep! :0) ...and i just don't understand what the fuss is all about! lol.. jk
thanks, josanne.. can always count on you for a laugh. thanks to the rest of you as well for your encouragement! ♥
Me: I'm just trying to earn brownie points so I can have your cowgirl boots when you're done with them! (wink, wink!)
Friend #2(Rachel): hehehehehee I like Josanne! :) And you go girl! You tell em! And if you don't I will for you, no problem ;D lol
Me: Thanks! And nice to "meet" you, Rachel! If you are friends with Rhonda, you must be pretty cool too! Do you know each other from the rodeo? (hehee!)
Friend #3(Bryan): Do you mean all that stuff I just heard isn't true? lol
Friend #2: You're welcome! Nice to "meet" you as well :) We are all pretty cool if I must say so myself :D And yes, I do know Rhonda from the rodeo! teeehehehehee! and also from the HK but the rodeo is much more fuuun ;)
Rhonda: it's true, bryan... i'm a rodeo cowgirl!! lol... ...rachel is my sidekick...partner... ahhaahahaha!
Me: All RIGHT! Rhonda admitted it! She's a rodeo cowgirl! Now we can talk about her all we want! Well, I'm off to start some rumors.....think I'll call George first....
Friend #3: That's what I heard...that cowgirl with purple streaked spiked hair.
Rhonda: No that's rachel. My hairs pink! Lol
Me: and braided, not spiked!
Rhonda: Haha yep! Just call me pink pippie longstalking! :)
Me: But Pink Pippie's hair isn't what she is best known for-it's that bull's nose ring she hooks on when goes to the national competitions. The crowd just goes wild, and wonders how that thing stays in her nostrils when her cow starts bucking and a-kickin'!!!
I know Rhonda just wants encouragement, but she's gonna get hurt one of these times! We're not spring chickens anymore, ya know...
Rhonda: I'm only 29 helloooooo! ;).
Me: Yeah, but remember that time you were riding at the competition, and your nose ring got wrapped around the cow's horn? For one, I didn't know you could sing opera, and for two, I didn't know you were a contortionist! But anyway, even if you ARE 29, and can touch the tip of your toe to the tip of your nose, I still worry sick about you! That scared me so bad, I had to stop watching! It's not fair to the kids, Rhonda!
Rhonda: Lol. Toooo funny josanne! Boy that was a scary night! Lol
Well, there you have it! I laughed until I cried. Yeah, I'm a little goofy, but hey! I'd have a really boring blog if I wasn't!
Hope you all enjoyed!
Til next time.....
Monday, June 21, 2010
Past Blast 2
Looking back on my teenage years, there was a moment in time when I actually looked like a superhero! No, it wasn't a halloween costume-it was my quick actions when I was with my friend Amy, and her friend Cathy.
Yes, for one moment in time, you could actually say I was Superman!!!
Faster than a speeding bullet.
More powerful than a locomotive.
Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound.
Look! Up in the sky!
It's a bird. It's a plane. It's Superman!
Only, we all know that Superman is make-believe. On the other hand, my superhero moment was not make-believe, and Amy and Cathy were there as witnesses. This is what happened....
Amy, Cathy and I were on our way to the park to use the exercise trail that went thru the woods, instructing us to walk, run, and stop and do exercises along the way. We were walking and talking, nearing the woods.
As we began our walk down the rocky dirt hill in the woods, I was ready to start working out! So I said, "Come on, you guys, let's run!"
Somehow, immediately after I said that and took my first running steps, I managed to trip over a rock.
No, I did not fall-YET. My super powers kicked in at that very moment, and my arms shot out in front of me, holding my body like a hovercraft one foot above ground. My legs ran me at full speed down the hill, while my arms directed me. So I'm quite sure I looked like Superman(with the serious look on his face)-with the Roadrunner's legs(beep! beep!).
While I was still in full action mode, time for Amy and Cathy stood still, as they watched to see what their superhero would do.
Intently studying the path I sped down, my concerned friend Amy broke my concentration when she blurted out, "Are you okay?" And as I answered, "No.", it was that moment that I landed at the bottom of the hill "flat on my face".
Now I've mentioned that Amy is my great, concerned friend. So I'm sure you can guess what she did next.
No, she did not laugh.
She HOWLED!!! She ROARED!!! Guffaws echoed throughout the woods. I think she even doubled over at the waist, but I was too busy picking rocks out of my hands and wiping dirt off of my clothes to see her.
I don't really remember what Cathy did. I think I can guess tho.
So there you have it! My moment as a superhero.
Faster than a speeding bullet. Yeah, I was definately going faster!
More powerful than a locomotive. We were getting ready to work on that at the time of the event.
Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. Uh, no, not hardly. More like, Able to trip on a 2" tall rock.
Look! Yeah, everybody! Watch this!!!
Up in the sky! Or, down near the ground!
It's a bird! Roadrunner, maybe?
It's a plane! Or at least a hovercraft of some sort.
It's Superman! It's Goober Josanne! or A stupid plan!
Now I know that when Amy reads this, tears will most likely be streaming down her face as she relives this incredible moment in history.
I'm sure you wish you had been there too.
Yes, for one moment in time, you could actually say I was Superman!!!
Faster than a speeding bullet.
More powerful than a locomotive.
Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound.
Look! Up in the sky!
It's a bird. It's a plane. It's Superman!
Only, we all know that Superman is make-believe. On the other hand, my superhero moment was not make-believe, and Amy and Cathy were there as witnesses. This is what happened....
Amy, Cathy and I were on our way to the park to use the exercise trail that went thru the woods, instructing us to walk, run, and stop and do exercises along the way. We were walking and talking, nearing the woods.
As we began our walk down the rocky dirt hill in the woods, I was ready to start working out! So I said, "Come on, you guys, let's run!"
Somehow, immediately after I said that and took my first running steps, I managed to trip over a rock.
No, I did not fall-YET. My super powers kicked in at that very moment, and my arms shot out in front of me, holding my body like a hovercraft one foot above ground. My legs ran me at full speed down the hill, while my arms directed me. So I'm quite sure I looked like Superman(with the serious look on his face)-with the Roadrunner's legs(beep! beep!).
While I was still in full action mode, time for Amy and Cathy stood still, as they watched to see what their superhero would do.
Intently studying the path I sped down, my concerned friend Amy broke my concentration when she blurted out, "Are you okay?" And as I answered, "No.", it was that moment that I landed at the bottom of the hill "flat on my face".
Now I've mentioned that Amy is my great, concerned friend. So I'm sure you can guess what she did next.
No, she did not laugh.
She HOWLED!!! She ROARED!!! Guffaws echoed throughout the woods. I think she even doubled over at the waist, but I was too busy picking rocks out of my hands and wiping dirt off of my clothes to see her.
I don't really remember what Cathy did. I think I can guess tho.
So there you have it! My moment as a superhero.
Faster than a speeding bullet. Yeah, I was definately going faster!
More powerful than a locomotive. We were getting ready to work on that at the time of the event.
Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. Uh, no, not hardly. More like, Able to trip on a 2" tall rock.
Look! Yeah, everybody! Watch this!!!
Up in the sky! Or, down near the ground!
It's a bird! Roadrunner, maybe?
It's a plane! Or at least a hovercraft of some sort.
It's Superman! It's Goober Josanne! or A stupid plan!
Now I know that when Amy reads this, tears will most likely be streaming down her face as she relives this incredible moment in history.
I'm sure you wish you had been there too.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Blasts From The Past
Hello to all of my wonderful readers!
I know it's been a while since I have posted-it seems plenty has been going on to keep me busy!
I don't have a new story to share, but thought I would go back to some of my old posts from over a year ago, and re-share them with my newer readers. I hope you will enjoy!
The Shopping Cart Story
Doesn't it feel good to do a good deed for another person?
I'm sure you are all familiar with how the sidewalks are built at most stores, with the ramp that allows shopping carts and wheelchairs easy access from the parking lot to the store's sidewalk.
A few years ago, I was heading into the grocery store, and saw an elderly man with a cart, next to the ramp to go up to the sidewalk. I thought I would offer to take his cart so that he didn't have to push it back up the ramp, saving him the extra energy he would have to put into taking the shopping cart back to the store. It's always been nice when others have done this for me-its my turn once again to return the favor to another. I said something along the lines of, "Sir, can I take that for you?" And he said, "Sure." So I took the cart, and having done my "good deed of the day", my footsteps felt a little lighter as I entered the store to grab a few groceries.
I didn't need much, so I quickly made it up the first aisle to the back of the store, and down the next aisle, heading back to the front section of the store.
The entrance of the store caught my eye. The man I helped with the shopping cart was standing in the doorway, looking around! To my great embarrassment, I then realized that I had not helped this man at all--I had taken his cart!!! Oh boy.....
I was relaying this story to a friend, and she asked if I had apologized to him. Of course not!!! I was trying to blend in with the tomatoes---why would I make myself known again??? Hadn't I done enough already?
Well, I got all the items I needed, and headed for the checkout. He was there, with his new shopping cart, checking out too. So needless to say, I thought I'd just, you know, hang out with the frozen veggies for a few minutes.
Have you ever noticed what an interesting section of the store the frozen veggie section is? :)
I know it's been a while since I have posted-it seems plenty has been going on to keep me busy!
I don't have a new story to share, but thought I would go back to some of my old posts from over a year ago, and re-share them with my newer readers. I hope you will enjoy!
The Shopping Cart Story
Doesn't it feel good to do a good deed for another person?
I'm sure you are all familiar with how the sidewalks are built at most stores, with the ramp that allows shopping carts and wheelchairs easy access from the parking lot to the store's sidewalk.
A few years ago, I was heading into the grocery store, and saw an elderly man with a cart, next to the ramp to go up to the sidewalk. I thought I would offer to take his cart so that he didn't have to push it back up the ramp, saving him the extra energy he would have to put into taking the shopping cart back to the store. It's always been nice when others have done this for me-its my turn once again to return the favor to another. I said something along the lines of, "Sir, can I take that for you?" And he said, "Sure." So I took the cart, and having done my "good deed of the day", my footsteps felt a little lighter as I entered the store to grab a few groceries.
I didn't need much, so I quickly made it up the first aisle to the back of the store, and down the next aisle, heading back to the front section of the store.
The entrance of the store caught my eye. The man I helped with the shopping cart was standing in the doorway, looking around! To my great embarrassment, I then realized that I had not helped this man at all--I had taken his cart!!! Oh boy.....
I was relaying this story to a friend, and she asked if I had apologized to him. Of course not!!! I was trying to blend in with the tomatoes---why would I make myself known again??? Hadn't I done enough already?
Well, I got all the items I needed, and headed for the checkout. He was there, with his new shopping cart, checking out too. So needless to say, I thought I'd just, you know, hang out with the frozen veggies for a few minutes.
Have you ever noticed what an interesting section of the store the frozen veggie section is? :)
Monday, May 17, 2010
Question of the Day
I think I'm grateful that today is Monday, and my son is in school. I sure love that growing boy, but let me tell you about yesterday.
Kota had a friend over for the weekend (EJ lives about 45 minutes from us, so he came over Friday evening and stayed until after church Sunday night). Saturday had its "events", one which was our spaghetti dinner fundraiser, which Dakota decided to take a dare and stick two cupcakes in it. I happened to notice while he was piling his cup, napkin, etc. on top of a full plate of spaghetti, that he was getting ready to pitch all of his food. That's when Amber told me what he had done. I, like a good mother, told him to sit back down and eat it! I wonder whose was better-Kota's spaghetti with cupcakes in it, or his friend's spaghetti with applesauce in it! (Can you hear my loud sigh, and see me rolling my eyes???)
Not too much else was eventful, other than the Nerf gun war that was going on in his room after I told the boys it was bedtime.
Sunday is my day to worship the Lord, and then give Him the opportunity to speak to me in a dream in the afternoon between services! =D
Dan and I rode separately to church, and he got home with the boys first. He let me know that the boys went on a bike ride. After they hadn't returned for 45 minutes, I had to go find them. I knew where they were, and Kota informed me that when he says he is going on a bike ride, it also means he is stopping at a friend's house. I had the boys come home-they needed to eat, among other things.
We didn't have a formal dinner, but I must say my crock pot scalloped potatoes and ham was very good! The mint chocolate chip pie was pretty good too! And after I ate, I headed upstairs for my nap.
After about an hour, and hearing many doors slam during my nap, I got up.....to find.....
....my water spray bottles in the garage and the garage wet-the boys had a water fight.
....a mound of ants on my tile by my fireplace-and we just had our house professionally sprayed 3 weeks ago!
....a wet spot I kept stepping in on the livingroom carpet.
....a bunch of soaked clothes in the bottom of Kota's hamper.
....my vase with change on the diningroom table, emptied, with a small amount of pennies left on the table.
After I sucked up the ants with the vacuum, and then dumped the vac container in the garage trash, I continued to find more ants! And then I noticed.....a very thin line.....of.....SQUIRT CHEESE in the corner of the tile??? I wiped up as much as I could reach, but some was under the metal strip at the edge of the carpet.
After I inquired, I learned that the squirt cheese was put there on purpose to lure the ants. I'm sure it was Dakota, and not his friend who did this. I calmly let him know I didn't want him to do that again, and was grateful to learn a food fight with squirt cheese hadn't taken place during my nap.
I also learned that the wet spot on the carpet was from the boys trying to drown the ants that were previously on the carpet, that were now lured to the tile by the fireplace. Dakota let me know that the kitties had batted the squirt cheese bottle or lid on the floor, and some of it got on the carpet. That's why there were ants on the rug in the first place.
Sighing with a bit of exasperation, I was again at least relieved that they didn't have a water fight in my livingroom.
I asked about my change vase, and learned that they had used all but the few pennies to buy lemonade or tea from the boy across the street. I told him to ask next time he ROBS me, of course, but oh, the drink was SOOOO good, he says!
I did let out another sigh upon finding out that there was a bee in Kota's room, but that the boys Nerf-gunned it to its death.....this was actually after my nap. Sigh.....
So! The big question of the day is.....
With what I woke up to, did I really need that nap?
If you haven't answered my poll questions to the left yet, please do so! Thanks!
Kota had a friend over for the weekend (EJ lives about 45 minutes from us, so he came over Friday evening and stayed until after church Sunday night). Saturday had its "events", one which was our spaghetti dinner fundraiser, which Dakota decided to take a dare and stick two cupcakes in it. I happened to notice while he was piling his cup, napkin, etc. on top of a full plate of spaghetti, that he was getting ready to pitch all of his food. That's when Amber told me what he had done. I, like a good mother, told him to sit back down and eat it! I wonder whose was better-Kota's spaghetti with cupcakes in it, or his friend's spaghetti with applesauce in it! (Can you hear my loud sigh, and see me rolling my eyes???)
Not too much else was eventful, other than the Nerf gun war that was going on in his room after I told the boys it was bedtime.
Sunday is my day to worship the Lord, and then give Him the opportunity to speak to me in a dream in the afternoon between services! =D
Dan and I rode separately to church, and he got home with the boys first. He let me know that the boys went on a bike ride. After they hadn't returned for 45 minutes, I had to go find them. I knew where they were, and Kota informed me that when he says he is going on a bike ride, it also means he is stopping at a friend's house. I had the boys come home-they needed to eat, among other things.
We didn't have a formal dinner, but I must say my crock pot scalloped potatoes and ham was very good! The mint chocolate chip pie was pretty good too! And after I ate, I headed upstairs for my nap.
After about an hour, and hearing many doors slam during my nap, I got up.....to find.....
....my water spray bottles in the garage and the garage wet-the boys had a water fight.
....a mound of ants on my tile by my fireplace-and we just had our house professionally sprayed 3 weeks ago!
....a wet spot I kept stepping in on the livingroom carpet.
....a bunch of soaked clothes in the bottom of Kota's hamper.
....my vase with change on the diningroom table, emptied, with a small amount of pennies left on the table.
After I sucked up the ants with the vacuum, and then dumped the vac container in the garage trash, I continued to find more ants! And then I noticed.....a very thin line.....of.....SQUIRT CHEESE in the corner of the tile??? I wiped up as much as I could reach, but some was under the metal strip at the edge of the carpet.
After I inquired, I learned that the squirt cheese was put there on purpose to lure the ants. I'm sure it was Dakota, and not his friend who did this. I calmly let him know I didn't want him to do that again, and was grateful to learn a food fight with squirt cheese hadn't taken place during my nap.
I also learned that the wet spot on the carpet was from the boys trying to drown the ants that were previously on the carpet, that were now lured to the tile by the fireplace. Dakota let me know that the kitties had batted the squirt cheese bottle or lid on the floor, and some of it got on the carpet. That's why there were ants on the rug in the first place.
Sighing with a bit of exasperation, I was again at least relieved that they didn't have a water fight in my livingroom.
I asked about my change vase, and learned that they had used all but the few pennies to buy lemonade or tea from the boy across the street. I told him to ask next time he ROBS me, of course, but oh, the drink was SOOOO good, he says!
I did let out another sigh upon finding out that there was a bee in Kota's room, but that the boys Nerf-gunned it to its death.....this was actually after my nap. Sigh.....
So! The big question of the day is.....
With what I woke up to, did I really need that nap?
If you haven't answered my poll questions to the left yet, please do so! Thanks!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Coming Up!
Hi Everyone!
Well, I'm back from another mini-vacation! I went to a wonderful bed and breakfast for two days, ALL BY MYSELF!!! Just me and Jesus!
Now I'm back to cooking, cleaning, running errands and more! It's a good thing I came home when I did! Dan was getting ready to leave the house just a little bit ago, and he marched right over and put his slippers on! The man would be LOST without me! But I do think I shall do the bed and breakfast thing again sometime!
I am going to put three polls up on the side of my blog for you all to fill out! Please do so! I'd love your input!
Just a little note while I try to get back into the swing of things-I want to let you know that I have a few new ideas for chocolate bouquets, and will be putting them up soon! With my computer breaking, and my camera not working right, it's become a bit of a hassle to do videos and pictures, but I'm going to give it a shot anyway!
Thanks for bearing with me, and check back soon! Don't forget to fill out the polls on the side bar!
Well, I'm back from another mini-vacation! I went to a wonderful bed and breakfast for two days, ALL BY MYSELF!!! Just me and Jesus!
Now I'm back to cooking, cleaning, running errands and more! It's a good thing I came home when I did! Dan was getting ready to leave the house just a little bit ago, and he marched right over and put his slippers on! The man would be LOST without me! But I do think I shall do the bed and breakfast thing again sometime!
I am going to put three polls up on the side of my blog for you all to fill out! Please do so! I'd love your input!
Just a little note while I try to get back into the swing of things-I want to let you know that I have a few new ideas for chocolate bouquets, and will be putting them up soon! With my computer breaking, and my camera not working right, it's become a bit of a hassle to do videos and pictures, but I'm going to give it a shot anyway!
Thanks for bearing with me, and check back soon! Don't forget to fill out the polls on the side bar!
Monday, May 3, 2010
A Peculiar Twitch
Hello Everyone!
First of all, weeks ago I mentioned taking a video of Diamond sliding down the steps. Of course, after I announced that to the world, she decided it was more fun to climb the rail. She's grown up since then. She prefers to hang out in the kitchen and eat as much as possible, which is typical for teens(yes, she's a teen in kitty age-I saw it at the vet's office!). But maybe someday I'll still catch her on film, if she still remembers that she liked rolling down the stairs. It was really funny!
Now on to my topic....
I don't know what the cause, but over a year ago, I developed a bit of a twitch that became especially noticable when I would be laying in bed to sleep for the night. I told my doctor about it, because I was a bit concerned, but he felt that it was just a common occurrence that happens when people are falling asleep.
I haven't noticed it as much lately, and it has definitely lessened. But a few months ago.....
Dan and I had gone to bed, and I had my one arm extended up by our heads. Believe it or not, my hand twitched, and I smacked Dan in the head. HONESTLY, I had no control over this-it just happened! I chuckle about it because, you know, it looks like such a likely excuse!
So I got to thinking....
Does anyone realize how far I could go with this? The Bible says to not go to bed angry, but what if Dan and I were arguing, and we DID go to bed mad?
I can tell when Dan begins to drift off to sleep because his breathing changes. Wouldn't that be the PERFECT time to have an out of control twitch???
WHACK!!!
Dan: (sitting up in bed, shaking his head) What was THAT???
Me: (sitting up next to him, sounding groggy and confused) What was what?
Dan: Did you just HIT me???
Me: NO I didn't just HIT you! Oh wait....my hand is KILLING me....I bet I had one of those twitches!
Dan: (grabbing a single blanket, heading for the couch) Ugh...I'll see you in the morning.
Me: Are you sure honey? I'm sure it won't happen again!
Dan: (Silence, walking to the couch)
Me: (Smug in my victory, drifting off to sleep, with a whole king size bed to myself)
For a while, there was an involuntary jerk in my leg and hip as well(I am not making fun of people with Tourette Syndrome-I do believe my son has it, and actually, that is why I brought it up to my doctor, because I wondered if I had developed Tourette's myself).
Remember our fight over the covers, just a few posts ago? (You can read about it here.) Well, wouldn't that have been convenient to hold a grudge until the following night, and then have an episode with my leg? Okay, maybe not....if I booted Dan hard enough, and he fell out of bed, we'd have a concussion on our hands, since the wall is close to the bed(Honey? Honey, wake up!!! Are you okay??? Oh my! I feel terrible! That stupid leg twitch of mine!!! Maybe you should go sleep on the couch!). Not to mention, that would be a rotten thing to do to someone who just went thru two major back and neck surgeries!
Thankfully, the jerking has become less in the last few months, and I've barely noticed it lately. But if it ever comes back, or if you ever develop a twitch yourself, I hope you'll remember to look at the bright side, and use the twitching for your benefit! I'm pretty sure I could get it to work for me!
First of all, weeks ago I mentioned taking a video of Diamond sliding down the steps. Of course, after I announced that to the world, she decided it was more fun to climb the rail. She's grown up since then. She prefers to hang out in the kitchen and eat as much as possible, which is typical for teens(yes, she's a teen in kitty age-I saw it at the vet's office!). But maybe someday I'll still catch her on film, if she still remembers that she liked rolling down the stairs. It was really funny!
Now on to my topic....
I don't know what the cause, but over a year ago, I developed a bit of a twitch that became especially noticable when I would be laying in bed to sleep for the night. I told my doctor about it, because I was a bit concerned, but he felt that it was just a common occurrence that happens when people are falling asleep.
I haven't noticed it as much lately, and it has definitely lessened. But a few months ago.....
Dan and I had gone to bed, and I had my one arm extended up by our heads. Believe it or not, my hand twitched, and I smacked Dan in the head. HONESTLY, I had no control over this-it just happened! I chuckle about it because, you know, it looks like such a likely excuse!
So I got to thinking....
Does anyone realize how far I could go with this? The Bible says to not go to bed angry, but what if Dan and I were arguing, and we DID go to bed mad?
I can tell when Dan begins to drift off to sleep because his breathing changes. Wouldn't that be the PERFECT time to have an out of control twitch???
WHACK!!!
Dan: (sitting up in bed, shaking his head) What was THAT???
Me: (sitting up next to him, sounding groggy and confused) What was what?
Dan: Did you just HIT me???
Me: NO I didn't just HIT you! Oh wait....my hand is KILLING me....I bet I had one of those twitches!
Dan: (grabbing a single blanket, heading for the couch) Ugh...I'll see you in the morning.
Me: Are you sure honey? I'm sure it won't happen again!
Dan: (Silence, walking to the couch)
Me: (Smug in my victory, drifting off to sleep, with a whole king size bed to myself)
For a while, there was an involuntary jerk in my leg and hip as well(I am not making fun of people with Tourette Syndrome-I do believe my son has it, and actually, that is why I brought it up to my doctor, because I wondered if I had developed Tourette's myself).
Remember our fight over the covers, just a few posts ago? (You can read about it here.) Well, wouldn't that have been convenient to hold a grudge until the following night, and then have an episode with my leg? Okay, maybe not....if I booted Dan hard enough, and he fell out of bed, we'd have a concussion on our hands, since the wall is close to the bed(Honey? Honey, wake up!!! Are you okay??? Oh my! I feel terrible! That stupid leg twitch of mine!!! Maybe you should go sleep on the couch!). Not to mention, that would be a rotten thing to do to someone who just went thru two major back and neck surgeries!
Thankfully, the jerking has become less in the last few months, and I've barely noticed it lately. But if it ever comes back, or if you ever develop a twitch yourself, I hope you'll remember to look at the bright side, and use the twitching for your benefit! I'm pretty sure I could get it to work for me!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
Fa la la la la, la de da! fa la la!
It's the most, wonderful time of the year! It's the hap-happiest season of all!
Sing along with me!
Pardon?
No, I'm not confused! Do you know what season this is?
It's YARD SALE SEASON!!!!!
Yep, the time when neighbors get out and about, meet each other around several tables, give a compliment or two(ooh, that's a pretty blouse!), and honor Dave Ramsey as a hero! People are actually happy to exercise(walking 4 miles a day is no big deal when there are yard sales!), willing to give $$ with a cheerful heart, and remember the great science of math, all the way down to the very last penny in the bottom of their purse, and sometimes under the doormat in the car, on the passenger's side.
I LOVE a great sale!
Remember last year when my house burned down? I was fortunate enough to be at the laundromat with many of our everyday clothes, but we lost almost all of our church clothes, along with all of our shoes, except the ones on our feet. Elissa had two pair-she had left one pair at church!
You'll soon learn a new fact about me--I'm a tightwad. Okay, not as far as helping a friend in need if I can, or donating to a good cause, but as far as paying full price for clothing. Anyway, this was a time that was for real, even tho women all over claim this is for real for them regularly--I had nothing to wear(for church, and also not enough casual clothes). So what was I to do? My entire family needed clothing, so I shopped!!! WE shopped!
Even tho I had a true reason to shop, I STILL could barely pay full price for my stuff! The cashier practically had to RIP the dollars out of my hand when I owed $14.99 for a new sweater! Okay, that's a little exaggerated, but it DID hurt and was a battle in my mind!
I'm a thrift store girl, thru and thru! And the only thing better than the thrift store is a yard sale!
I got to hit my first one on Thursday, and it was fun! I got 5 or 6 new tops, a Tupperware stencil tracing set in it's own box, a couple of books and a few folders, all for under $15!!!
I slept dreamily that night. :)
In case you didn't know, this is a great time of year to get beautiful baby clothes(so many are in great shape, since babies grow so fast), boy's suits(worn once for a wedding), books for CHEAP compared to buying new, vintage pieces that are unique and will look lovely in your home, and much, much more!
So! Join with me and sing!
(Only sing the two lines I shared! If you throw in the rest of the song, it makes no sense, talking about caroling in the snow, and mistletoe-ing now thru September!)
Fa la la la la, la de da! fa la la!
It's the most, wonderful time of the year! It's the hap-happiest season of all!
Sing along with me!
Pardon?
No, I'm not confused! Do you know what season this is?
It's YARD SALE SEASON!!!!!
Yep, the time when neighbors get out and about, meet each other around several tables, give a compliment or two(ooh, that's a pretty blouse!), and honor Dave Ramsey as a hero! People are actually happy to exercise(walking 4 miles a day is no big deal when there are yard sales!), willing to give $$ with a cheerful heart, and remember the great science of math, all the way down to the very last penny in the bottom of their purse, and sometimes under the doormat in the car, on the passenger's side.
I LOVE a great sale!
Remember last year when my house burned down? I was fortunate enough to be at the laundromat with many of our everyday clothes, but we lost almost all of our church clothes, along with all of our shoes, except the ones on our feet. Elissa had two pair-she had left one pair at church!
You'll soon learn a new fact about me--I'm a tightwad. Okay, not as far as helping a friend in need if I can, or donating to a good cause, but as far as paying full price for clothing. Anyway, this was a time that was for real, even tho women all over claim this is for real for them regularly--I had nothing to wear(for church, and also not enough casual clothes). So what was I to do? My entire family needed clothing, so I shopped!!! WE shopped!
Even tho I had a true reason to shop, I STILL could barely pay full price for my stuff! The cashier practically had to RIP the dollars out of my hand when I owed $14.99 for a new sweater! Okay, that's a little exaggerated, but it DID hurt and was a battle in my mind!
I'm a thrift store girl, thru and thru! And the only thing better than the thrift store is a yard sale!
I got to hit my first one on Thursday, and it was fun! I got 5 or 6 new tops, a Tupperware stencil tracing set in it's own box, a couple of books and a few folders, all for under $15!!!
I slept dreamily that night. :)
In case you didn't know, this is a great time of year to get beautiful baby clothes(so many are in great shape, since babies grow so fast), boy's suits(worn once for a wedding), books for CHEAP compared to buying new, vintage pieces that are unique and will look lovely in your home, and much, much more!
So! Join with me and sing!
(Only sing the two lines I shared! If you throw in the rest of the song, it makes no sense, talking about caroling in the snow, and mistletoe-ing now thru September!)
Fa la la la la, la de da! fa la la!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Finally Home!
Almost home!
When this is posted, I will be home! Twelve days of travelling, and we're ready to see our own familiar roads, and sleep in our own wonderful beds!
A few things are in order when we get home:
1. Hours and hours of love for the kitties! I'm sure they'll sleep with us tonight-Chloe will most likely sleep with Dakota, and if Diamond will be a good girl and go to sleep without jumping up on my dresser to attack my flower arrangement first, she can sleep with us.
2. Taxes! I know, I know! They should be done by now, but to be honest, they nearly slipped our minds! But there is a reason! Remember-last year, neither of us worked much, due to our house fire and Dan getting seriously injured. Fortunately, there won't be that much to do, so it won't take long.
3. Grocery shopping! I'm not sure what is on the list yet, but I can tell you what is NOT on the list! Pop! Candy! Fattening junk foods! Time to work on the eating habits! Eating out for two weeks was a nice break, but it's not always the healthiest choices, and not quite as I as in your own home.
Here are a few travelling tips from me:
Here are a few tips that can make travelling easier and more enjoyable:
1. Get a GPS. It helps you avoid many wrong turns, and gives you an estimated time that you wil arrive to your destination. It eliminates quite a bit of stress-espeically for nervous road travellers like myself.
2. Try to do most of your laundry before you get back home. I did laundry three times, and only have one or two loads to do when we get home. Everything just needs put away.
3. Buy storage saver bags. Put your clothes in them, use a vaccuum or pump/deflater to suck out the extra air, and fill your suitcases. You fit more in your bags using these savers, needing less luggage.
4. Be spontaneous at least a little bit of your trip. The play Joseph, and our church meeting was the only part of our vacation that way planned, which left us 9 days to do whatever else we wanted. We had the general idea of where we wanted to go, and what we wanted to do, but rarely needed to be anywhere at a certain time. This is another stress-buster, not to mention that some places people choose to vacation actually have a lot of attractions, shops and entertainments that are not on brochures that you may have.
5. Don't stress when you are on vacation-try to enjoy! Have fun with your kiddos and hubby, don't stress over spilled drinks at McDonald's, or running 5 minutes late for a show. Having a good time is what you are out to do, and the little mistakes aren't really that big of a deal. So enjoy!
And I hope these tips help, if you venture out this summer, into the big, wide world!
When this is posted, I will be home! Twelve days of travelling, and we're ready to see our own familiar roads, and sleep in our own wonderful beds!
A few things are in order when we get home:
1. Hours and hours of love for the kitties! I'm sure they'll sleep with us tonight-Chloe will most likely sleep with Dakota, and if Diamond will be a good girl and go to sleep without jumping up on my dresser to attack my flower arrangement first, she can sleep with us.
2. Taxes! I know, I know! They should be done by now, but to be honest, they nearly slipped our minds! But there is a reason! Remember-last year, neither of us worked much, due to our house fire and Dan getting seriously injured. Fortunately, there won't be that much to do, so it won't take long.
3. Grocery shopping! I'm not sure what is on the list yet, but I can tell you what is NOT on the list! Pop! Candy! Fattening junk foods! Time to work on the eating habits! Eating out for two weeks was a nice break, but it's not always the healthiest choices, and not quite as I as in your own home.
Here are a few travelling tips from me:
Here are a few tips that can make travelling easier and more enjoyable:
1. Get a GPS. It helps you avoid many wrong turns, and gives you an estimated time that you wil arrive to your destination. It eliminates quite a bit of stress-espeically for nervous road travellers like myself.
2. Try to do most of your laundry before you get back home. I did laundry three times, and only have one or two loads to do when we get home. Everything just needs put away.
3. Buy storage saver bags. Put your clothes in them, use a vaccuum or pump/deflater to suck out the extra air, and fill your suitcases. You fit more in your bags using these savers, needing less luggage.
4. Be spontaneous at least a little bit of your trip. The play Joseph, and our church meeting was the only part of our vacation that way planned, which left us 9 days to do whatever else we wanted. We had the general idea of where we wanted to go, and what we wanted to do, but rarely needed to be anywhere at a certain time. This is another stress-buster, not to mention that some places people choose to vacation actually have a lot of attractions, shops and entertainments that are not on brochures that you may have.
5. Don't stress when you are on vacation-try to enjoy! Have fun with your kiddos and hubby, don't stress over spilled drinks at McDonald's, or running 5 minutes late for a show. Having a good time is what you are out to do, and the little mistakes aren't really that big of a deal. So enjoy!
And I hope these tips help, if you venture out this summer, into the big, wide world!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Day 11
Well Folks, we're almost on our way home-tomorrow night we'll be trying to get back into a routine-kiddos back in school, me learning to cook again, Elissa soon back to work, and Dan hopefully starting to work again! A person can get spoiled, going on a 12 day vacation!
Since we haven't been on a family vacation for about 6 years, I figure this is the equivalent of several two day vacations!
Anyway, let me tell you about where we went, and some more of my thoughts!
Nashville
After DC, we headed for Nashville, TN! We had a delicious meal at IHOP(have you tried their strawberry cheesecake pancakes??? Ooooohhhhhh.....yummmmmyyyyyyy!!!! And a hint from me-don't ruin them by putting maple syrup on them too!), and then we spent the night in Bristol, Virginia.
Southern Hospitality
Well, our waitress at IHOP was such a friendly gal-she gave Amber a run for her money when it came to talking! :)
The room we were given at La Quinta had a burned out light bulb in the bathroom, and since the maintenence man was gone for the day, we had to change rooms because the bathroom was pitch black. So anyway, I headed down to the motel office to get my new room keys. Let me tell ya, that young man behind the desk made me feel more loved that Dan, my kids, and every human being I've ever met all put together! I was called Darlin, Sweetheart, Sugar, Shnookums, Baby, Honey, and about 15 other endearing names, all in the space of 5 minutes! I was waiting for the marriage proposal, since he seemed to love me so much, but instead of a box with a ring, he just gave me an envelope with my keys in it.
rydid call me about 4 different endearing names. Amber had gone down to the office too, and when she came up, she commented on all the endearing names she had been called by this young man too. lol
But hey, if the whole world had southern hospitality, there wouldn't be any wars ever again! How can you attack someone who calls you Sweetheart and Darlin every other word? :)
On to Nashville, Tennessee, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel Resort
We stayed at the Opryland hotel for three nights, and went to a church meeting while we were there. Seeing friends from all over the states was a nice reunion. The services and preaching were inspiring and a time to hear from the Lord, to help with our needs of the day. It really is amazing how the Bible is the LIVING Word, and we can find help for our souls anytime-the Word is timeless and never becomes outdated!
While there, we enjoyed the beautiful atriums of the resort, but I personally did not enjoy getting lost regularly, being able to find my room one day, but not the next. CAN I GET AN AMEN, ANYONE???
Next Stop: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
This was a nice place to visit, and we will possibly come here again. But let me tell ya-the traffic on the main road is UNBELIEVABLE!!! It's bumper to bumper, for MILES!!!!!
We went to Hoot n Holler, which is a dinner show, and it was great! Family friendly entertainment, and lots of laughs! The star of the show reminded me of Dan-seriously! If you have ever been to Hoot n Holler, you will now realize why I need much prayer for my emotional well being! Comedians are fun, but living with one is a lot different from watching one on a stage for an hour! lol You need to be up for comedy everyday, ANY hour of the day! Think-the sleeping bag incident!!!
After that, we went to Magic Beyond Belief, a magic show that was fantastic! The small theater makes you feel like it may be more of an amateur show, but I assure you, it was not! Well worth our time!
On our way to the hotel, we stopped and rode go-carts. This is no exaggeration-Dan passed me THREE times on the track! Actually, I think EVERYONE passed me three times on the track! Yep, I just looked like a little elderly granny on the track, putzing along!
Dollywood
We spent a day at Dollywood, and that was a unique experience for an amusement park-a different setting with its rustic theme and mountainous surroundings. The atmosphere felt more family friendly than some places we've been. Once again, it's hard to feel a hostile atmosphere with a Tennessee accent and southern hospitality all around you!
I rode about three rides. :)
You see, as I've aged, my stomach has gotten weaker and weaker. My common sense has grown by leaps and bounds too-NO roller coasters for me!!!
I rode the kiddy water battle ride-which actually was a lot of fun! You go around a low riding water track, and you have a water gun, with which you shoot everyone you can reach with it, including innocent victims who are just walking by! There are also water guns for the bystanders to use as well(to shoot you). What was funny about this ride is that a little boy was shooting us as a bystander, and Dan had to be his clowning self--he started yelling, "Hey kid! Stop shooting water!" Well....the little boy got scared and ran to his mother! Dan tried to yell to him that he was just kidding, but that deep voice he had used to get the boy's attention had scared him off for good. Poor little boy-he'll probably need therapy for his unexplainable terror of amusement parks-even family friendly ones!
My second ride was an indoor roller coaster-which was for cowards like me. Not too high, and a big enough thrill to keep me content for years, maybe even the rest of my life. :)
The last ride I went on was a HUGE mistake! The yellow spinny teacups. I rode with Elissa-watching Dakota spin on his own was enough to make a person sick for days! Have you ever heard the expression, I couldn't see straight? Well, I can honestly say that when the ride stopped, I could not see straight! I was seeing multiples of my surroundings! It took several seconds to get my focus back.
And then I was nice and sick. :)
A nice dinner and off to bed after we left Dollywood.
Where We're Headed
We are on the top of the Smokey Mountains as I type. About two hours from Lexington, Kentucky, we are heading for Indiana to visit Dan's wonderful sister and beautiful family. Jen is such a dear friend to me-she is such an outstanding person-it's always a treat to see her.
We'll be heading home tomorrow. I think I will need a two day nap once we get there. :) Not really...I've been doing laundry along the way so I'm not overwhelmed when we get home. I probably won't have free hands anyway, since our kitties Diamond and Chloe will be craving our attention constantly for the next week. I've had a good kitty sitter while we've been gone tho-thanks Laura, and your helper, Mary-Kay!!!
Two Highlights, and My Thoughts
Sometimes it is the little things in life that make big differences for people. I am thankful that Amber uses her outgoing personality to help others. She has such a tender heart.
We stopped at a rest stop in TN, and a man was walking his mother to the restroom. We heard her mention she was having a hard time walking, and she was holding her arms out, as if to have the walls help her stay upright. Amber asked her if she needed help, and she said, "I sure do!" Amber helped her while in the ladies' room, and then walked her back out to her son. I went out before Amber and let the man know my daughter was helping his mother. He was appreciative since it was very awkward for him, not really being able to enter the ladies' room. As this 93 year old lady walked out, holding onto Amber's arm, she told her son that Amber was an angel that helped her.
If a child become a doctor, or a pilot, or a scientist, I do believe these are great accomplishments that make it only natural for a parent to be proud of them. But I do believe that the greatest accomplishment of a person is to care for other human beings. It makes me proud to see my 15 year old showing love to others. She's not too busy, her plans are not more important than a person in need, and it is fulfilling to her as well. The Lord loves a generous spirit, and I know that it doesn't just mean with money.
When we were at the magic show later that night, there was a little boy who had been crying thru quite a bit of the first half of the show. He was 8 years old. I was in the restroom when his mother caused him to cry, and Dan heard him being yelled at in the mens' room as well.
I know that you cannot automatically judge accurately what a person's life is like, but more than one of my family members were under the impression this boy was not favored too well in his family.
The little boy went out to the restroom, and Amber asked us if she could go out and talk to him. She went out and told him that God loves him very much, and that she would be praying for him. When he started to walk away, he turned and looked back at Amber. She asked him if he wanted a hug, and he nodded his head, so she gave him a hug.
When the show was over, and his family was leaving, the young boy quickly raised a hand to wave goodbye to Amber.
I don't know if God will show us what our small actions and gestures accomplished, but it is our hope that this small action on Amber's part will have a far reaching effect. He is now on her prayer list. Even if we don't know his name, God knows who he is, and just where he is, and what his needs are.
When We Get Home
Along with what I already mentioned about the things we will be doing when we get home, Dan and I want to do our part to reach out to others. There are so many hurting people in the world, and their future may be changed by someone reaching out to them. I need not be lifted up and thought highly of because I did this or that for so-and-so, but what a personal thrill it is to see others touched by my own actions.
There are many people who claim they don't believe in God, and don't care to regard His Word as anything but a piece of literature. But if you read the Bible, so many of the ways that it tells us to live are a benefit to US. God knew the ultimate way to live a fulfilled life is to give-of your time, you money, and your self. He always has been out for our own good, and He shows us that it is a huge blessing to bless others. We learn and change things about our own nature, and also how giving to others seems odd to many minds, until you try it yourself.
Well, I am going to close here-after Dan stops for a coffee drink, I'm going to take nap!
Since we haven't been on a family vacation for about 6 years, I figure this is the equivalent of several two day vacations!
Anyway, let me tell you about where we went, and some more of my thoughts!
Nashville
After DC, we headed for Nashville, TN! We had a delicious meal at IHOP(have you tried their strawberry cheesecake pancakes??? Ooooohhhhhh.....yummmmmyyyyyyy!!!! And a hint from me-don't ruin them by putting maple syrup on them too!), and then we spent the night in Bristol, Virginia.
Southern Hospitality
Well, our waitress at IHOP was such a friendly gal-she gave Amber a run for her money when it came to talking! :)
The room we were given at La Quinta had a burned out light bulb in the bathroom, and since the maintenence man was gone for the day, we had to change rooms because the bathroom was pitch black. So anyway, I headed down to the motel office to get my new room keys. Let me tell ya, that young man behind the desk made me feel more loved that Dan, my kids, and every human being I've ever met all put together! I was called Darlin, Sweetheart, Sugar, Shnookums, Baby, Honey, and about 15 other endearing names, all in the space of 5 minutes! I was waiting for the marriage proposal, since he seemed to love me so much, but instead of a box with a ring, he just gave me an envelope with my keys in it.
rydid call me about 4 different endearing names. Amber had gone down to the office too, and when she came up, she commented on all the endearing names she had been called by this young man too. lol
But hey, if the whole world had southern hospitality, there wouldn't be any wars ever again! How can you attack someone who calls you Sweetheart and Darlin every other word? :)
On to Nashville, Tennessee, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel Resort
We stayed at the Opryland hotel for three nights, and went to a church meeting while we were there. Seeing friends from all over the states was a nice reunion. The services and preaching were inspiring and a time to hear from the Lord, to help with our needs of the day. It really is amazing how the Bible is the LIVING Word, and we can find help for our souls anytime-the Word is timeless and never becomes outdated!
While there, we enjoyed the beautiful atriums of the resort, but I personally did not enjoy getting lost regularly, being able to find my room one day, but not the next. CAN I GET AN AMEN, ANYONE???
Next Stop: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
This was a nice place to visit, and we will possibly come here again. But let me tell ya-the traffic on the main road is UNBELIEVABLE!!! It's bumper to bumper, for MILES!!!!!
We went to Hoot n Holler, which is a dinner show, and it was great! Family friendly entertainment, and lots of laughs! The star of the show reminded me of Dan-seriously! If you have ever been to Hoot n Holler, you will now realize why I need much prayer for my emotional well being! Comedians are fun, but living with one is a lot different from watching one on a stage for an hour! lol You need to be up for comedy everyday, ANY hour of the day! Think-the sleeping bag incident!!!
After that, we went to Magic Beyond Belief, a magic show that was fantastic! The small theater makes you feel like it may be more of an amateur show, but I assure you, it was not! Well worth our time!
On our way to the hotel, we stopped and rode go-carts. This is no exaggeration-Dan passed me THREE times on the track! Actually, I think EVERYONE passed me three times on the track! Yep, I just looked like a little elderly granny on the track, putzing along!
Dollywood
We spent a day at Dollywood, and that was a unique experience for an amusement park-a different setting with its rustic theme and mountainous surroundings. The atmosphere felt more family friendly than some places we've been. Once again, it's hard to feel a hostile atmosphere with a Tennessee accent and southern hospitality all around you!
I rode about three rides. :)
You see, as I've aged, my stomach has gotten weaker and weaker. My common sense has grown by leaps and bounds too-NO roller coasters for me!!!
I rode the kiddy water battle ride-which actually was a lot of fun! You go around a low riding water track, and you have a water gun, with which you shoot everyone you can reach with it, including innocent victims who are just walking by! There are also water guns for the bystanders to use as well(to shoot you). What was funny about this ride is that a little boy was shooting us as a bystander, and Dan had to be his clowning self--he started yelling, "Hey kid! Stop shooting water!" Well....the little boy got scared and ran to his mother! Dan tried to yell to him that he was just kidding, but that deep voice he had used to get the boy's attention had scared him off for good. Poor little boy-he'll probably need therapy for his unexplainable terror of amusement parks-even family friendly ones!
My second ride was an indoor roller coaster-which was for cowards like me. Not too high, and a big enough thrill to keep me content for years, maybe even the rest of my life. :)
The last ride I went on was a HUGE mistake! The yellow spinny teacups. I rode with Elissa-watching Dakota spin on his own was enough to make a person sick for days! Have you ever heard the expression, I couldn't see straight? Well, I can honestly say that when the ride stopped, I could not see straight! I was seeing multiples of my surroundings! It took several seconds to get my focus back.
And then I was nice and sick. :)
A nice dinner and off to bed after we left Dollywood.
Where We're Headed
We are on the top of the Smokey Mountains as I type. About two hours from Lexington, Kentucky, we are heading for Indiana to visit Dan's wonderful sister and beautiful family. Jen is such a dear friend to me-she is such an outstanding person-it's always a treat to see her.
We'll be heading home tomorrow. I think I will need a two day nap once we get there. :) Not really...I've been doing laundry along the way so I'm not overwhelmed when we get home. I probably won't have free hands anyway, since our kitties Diamond and Chloe will be craving our attention constantly for the next week. I've had a good kitty sitter while we've been gone tho-thanks Laura, and your helper, Mary-Kay!!!
Two Highlights, and My Thoughts
Sometimes it is the little things in life that make big differences for people. I am thankful that Amber uses her outgoing personality to help others. She has such a tender heart.
We stopped at a rest stop in TN, and a man was walking his mother to the restroom. We heard her mention she was having a hard time walking, and she was holding her arms out, as if to have the walls help her stay upright. Amber asked her if she needed help, and she said, "I sure do!" Amber helped her while in the ladies' room, and then walked her back out to her son. I went out before Amber and let the man know my daughter was helping his mother. He was appreciative since it was very awkward for him, not really being able to enter the ladies' room. As this 93 year old lady walked out, holding onto Amber's arm, she told her son that Amber was an angel that helped her.
If a child become a doctor, or a pilot, or a scientist, I do believe these are great accomplishments that make it only natural for a parent to be proud of them. But I do believe that the greatest accomplishment of a person is to care for other human beings. It makes me proud to see my 15 year old showing love to others. She's not too busy, her plans are not more important than a person in need, and it is fulfilling to her as well. The Lord loves a generous spirit, and I know that it doesn't just mean with money.
When we were at the magic show later that night, there was a little boy who had been crying thru quite a bit of the first half of the show. He was 8 years old. I was in the restroom when his mother caused him to cry, and Dan heard him being yelled at in the mens' room as well.
I know that you cannot automatically judge accurately what a person's life is like, but more than one of my family members were under the impression this boy was not favored too well in his family.
The little boy went out to the restroom, and Amber asked us if she could go out and talk to him. She went out and told him that God loves him very much, and that she would be praying for him. When he started to walk away, he turned and looked back at Amber. She asked him if he wanted a hug, and he nodded his head, so she gave him a hug.
When the show was over, and his family was leaving, the young boy quickly raised a hand to wave goodbye to Amber.
I don't know if God will show us what our small actions and gestures accomplished, but it is our hope that this small action on Amber's part will have a far reaching effect. He is now on her prayer list. Even if we don't know his name, God knows who he is, and just where he is, and what his needs are.
When We Get Home
Along with what I already mentioned about the things we will be doing when we get home, Dan and I want to do our part to reach out to others. There are so many hurting people in the world, and their future may be changed by someone reaching out to them. I need not be lifted up and thought highly of because I did this or that for so-and-so, but what a personal thrill it is to see others touched by my own actions.
There are many people who claim they don't believe in God, and don't care to regard His Word as anything but a piece of literature. But if you read the Bible, so many of the ways that it tells us to live are a benefit to US. God knew the ultimate way to live a fulfilled life is to give-of your time, you money, and your self. He always has been out for our own good, and He shows us that it is a huge blessing to bless others. We learn and change things about our own nature, and also how giving to others seems odd to many minds, until you try it yourself.
Well, I am going to close here-after Dan stops for a coffee drink, I'm going to take nap!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Travelling-Day Six
Hi Everyone!
Well, we're on day 6 of our trip-I'm in the van on my way to Nashville-aren't laptops great?!
It seems I've had a few serious posts the last few times I've posted, and this one is actually going to be the same. If I didn't put any serious posts on my blog, you all might think I'm I'm 100% ditz! So I have to show you otherwise! :)
This has been a good trip so far, but we've had some serious happenings, along with visiting some serious places in Washington DC. I won't bore you with all the details, just stuff that I think you might find interesting, and thoughts I want to share. :)
Our Hotel
First of all, we stayed in Alexandria, VA at the Residence Inn-let me tell ya, if you ever go to DC, the Residence Inn is the place to stay! Top notch place to stay, and with Priceline.com, the price was great too! We were shuttled to the subway, and picked up as well, compliments of the hotel!
The Subway
We rode the subway to DC. They don't allow food or drinks, which equals NO RATS!!! THANK YOU, LORD!!! They actually have posters up with a picture of a rat, that compares thier subway to another subway that apparently has rats the size of cats! The subway will take you to just about anywhere you want to go in DC, as far as the attractions. Our visit to the Arlington Cemetary was postponed until yesterday, due to a bomb threat at the Pentegon, which shut down the subway Saturday. We could only go so far, and everyone had to exit at that stop. It opened back up later.
The Spy Museum in Washington DC
The International Spy Museum was probably what our kiddos felt was the funnest part of our trip so far. It's definately worth a visit! We went on a one hour adventure of our own, trying to solve a mystery. The rooms are simulated to be outdoors, in the back of a delivery truck, in a room to interrogate someone, and other rooms. They also offer mysteries around DC, where you walk around and look for clues. Our poor little tootsies were too tired to consider the outdoor adventure. We also watched a short film on the life of spies, and you could literally spend several more hours reading all of the information on what spies have done over the years, weapons they've used, ways they've been disguised, and more. Very, very interesting!
The Art Museum
The Smithsonian Art Museum was huge and interesting, although I wish they didn't consider nakedness an art! Embarrassing enough for me, but goodness! I had to hide Dakota's eyes to some of the stuff!
Sad Life News
While on vacation, I learned that my expecting sis-in-law lost her baby(I hope she doesn't mind me mentioning it here). I was shocked and sad to hear this news.
And to protect the family that is suffering, I will not mention names here, but an old friend lost her son, who was only 22, on Saturday. This same friend lost her oldest son in February at the age of 29. Her middle son survives. We're in shock and there is great sadness to those who know this family. None of us can even imagine what it is like to lose 2 children in less than 2 months time, unless we've been there.
Remember!!!
This is one thing I want to share my thoughts on. I guess I just want to repeat what I've said to my family many, many, many times. Life is fragile! Tell your kids you love them! Make amends with those around you. Treat everyone with respect and kindness. There are no regrets in these actions.
My dear friend, Brenda, lost her son 3 years ago in an accident. I am a bit of a backwards person, and I remember walking past Nicholas after church one night. My regret is that I didn't walk over and shake his hand and tell him that I thought he was a good young man. I can't change the past, but I've changed me. I try harder to reach out to others and let them know they are noticed, appreciated, cared for.
Dan and I work with our church youth group, and I want them to know that I am so proud to be a part of the same congregation as they. I want them to know we love them and care for them! This goes beyond just young people. And more than ever, people just need to know that they someone cares for them. I am trying to make sure I do my part to reach out to others.
The Changing of The Guard in Washington DC
The other thing I want to mention in this post is the greatest event we experienced in DC-the changing of the guard at Arlington Cemetary. There was an extra ceremony while we were there, I believe honoring other soldiers that had recently(?) passed away. Amber stood there and cried while we all watched the ceremony.
Shortly after the ceremony, the guard continued to march, and then came the changing of the guard. It is quite a ceremony. I would imagine that it can be seen on youtube or somewhere else online, if you'd like to see it-I may be able to post my daughter's video if it turned out good, but I'll have to see, and then post it later.
Anyway, what I noticed about this ceremony, and what has stayed with me the most, is the first guard that was on duty when we arrived. The young man was African American.
Why Did I Notice?
Obviously, this is nothing out of the normal in America, as it shouldn't be. But I thought back to the way this race of people was treated years ago in America, and believe it is one of the most shameful acts of American history. Can you imagine what President Lincoln was facing, to stop this monster practice? What an honorable man!
Back to the young man-he is a guard, protecting the tomb, and today, he can do it with pride and dignity in his country. His race is recognized as human beings, as they should have been all along. This young man now has a reason to honor and protect his country.
When President Obama was elected to office, did anyone notice the tears of many when he won? Whether you agree with his policies or you don't, this was a major moment in history for a race of people who were treated worse than animals many years ago, and now are able to look at a President with darker skin, along with his lovely wife and adorable little girls, living in the White House.
Racism
Racism is still alive today, but thankfully there isn't too many people I'm acquainted with that judge a man by his color. I looked at some of the footage of the Haiti earthquake on youtube, and some made comments about not caring about the victims because of their skin color. How sad that people are so callous. When did ANY of us choose which country to be born in? Or what color our skin was going to be? Or if we were born male or female? Or if we were born with a disability?
History Lessons
Travelling to history museums and learning history is very sobering. The Arlington Cemetary shows thousands of tombstones of men and women that dedicated their lives to this country-and we are so blessed to be free. The museums show us who the true heroes are-the hardships and chances that brave men and women took to help those who couldn't help themselves, and who deserves to be honored.
Well, these are my thoughts for the day! We've only got a few more hours to go before we are in Nashville! I will be in touch again! My posts aren't usually this long, so if you've read this entire post, thanks for reading!
Well, we're on day 6 of our trip-I'm in the van on my way to Nashville-aren't laptops great?!
It seems I've had a few serious posts the last few times I've posted, and this one is actually going to be the same. If I didn't put any serious posts on my blog, you all might think I'm I'm 100% ditz! So I have to show you otherwise! :)
This has been a good trip so far, but we've had some serious happenings, along with visiting some serious places in Washington DC. I won't bore you with all the details, just stuff that I think you might find interesting, and thoughts I want to share. :)
Our Hotel
First of all, we stayed in Alexandria, VA at the Residence Inn-let me tell ya, if you ever go to DC, the Residence Inn is the place to stay! Top notch place to stay, and with Priceline.com, the price was great too! We were shuttled to the subway, and picked up as well, compliments of the hotel!
The Subway
We rode the subway to DC. They don't allow food or drinks, which equals NO RATS!!! THANK YOU, LORD!!! They actually have posters up with a picture of a rat, that compares thier subway to another subway that apparently has rats the size of cats! The subway will take you to just about anywhere you want to go in DC, as far as the attractions. Our visit to the Arlington Cemetary was postponed until yesterday, due to a bomb threat at the Pentegon, which shut down the subway Saturday. We could only go so far, and everyone had to exit at that stop. It opened back up later.
The Spy Museum in Washington DC
The International Spy Museum was probably what our kiddos felt was the funnest part of our trip so far. It's definately worth a visit! We went on a one hour adventure of our own, trying to solve a mystery. The rooms are simulated to be outdoors, in the back of a delivery truck, in a room to interrogate someone, and other rooms. They also offer mysteries around DC, where you walk around and look for clues. Our poor little tootsies were too tired to consider the outdoor adventure. We also watched a short film on the life of spies, and you could literally spend several more hours reading all of the information on what spies have done over the years, weapons they've used, ways they've been disguised, and more. Very, very interesting!
The Art Museum
The Smithsonian Art Museum was huge and interesting, although I wish they didn't consider nakedness an art! Embarrassing enough for me, but goodness! I had to hide Dakota's eyes to some of the stuff!
Sad Life News
While on vacation, I learned that my expecting sis-in-law lost her baby(I hope she doesn't mind me mentioning it here). I was shocked and sad to hear this news.
And to protect the family that is suffering, I will not mention names here, but an old friend lost her son, who was only 22, on Saturday. This same friend lost her oldest son in February at the age of 29. Her middle son survives. We're in shock and there is great sadness to those who know this family. None of us can even imagine what it is like to lose 2 children in less than 2 months time, unless we've been there.
Remember!!!
This is one thing I want to share my thoughts on. I guess I just want to repeat what I've said to my family many, many, many times. Life is fragile! Tell your kids you love them! Make amends with those around you. Treat everyone with respect and kindness. There are no regrets in these actions.
My dear friend, Brenda, lost her son 3 years ago in an accident. I am a bit of a backwards person, and I remember walking past Nicholas after church one night. My regret is that I didn't walk over and shake his hand and tell him that I thought he was a good young man. I can't change the past, but I've changed me. I try harder to reach out to others and let them know they are noticed, appreciated, cared for.
Dan and I work with our church youth group, and I want them to know that I am so proud to be a part of the same congregation as they. I want them to know we love them and care for them! This goes beyond just young people. And more than ever, people just need to know that they someone cares for them. I am trying to make sure I do my part to reach out to others.
The Changing of The Guard in Washington DC
The other thing I want to mention in this post is the greatest event we experienced in DC-the changing of the guard at Arlington Cemetary. There was an extra ceremony while we were there, I believe honoring other soldiers that had recently(?) passed away. Amber stood there and cried while we all watched the ceremony.
Shortly after the ceremony, the guard continued to march, and then came the changing of the guard. It is quite a ceremony. I would imagine that it can be seen on youtube or somewhere else online, if you'd like to see it-I may be able to post my daughter's video if it turned out good, but I'll have to see, and then post it later.
Anyway, what I noticed about this ceremony, and what has stayed with me the most, is the first guard that was on duty when we arrived. The young man was African American.
Why Did I Notice?
Obviously, this is nothing out of the normal in America, as it shouldn't be. But I thought back to the way this race of people was treated years ago in America, and believe it is one of the most shameful acts of American history. Can you imagine what President Lincoln was facing, to stop this monster practice? What an honorable man!
Back to the young man-he is a guard, protecting the tomb, and today, he can do it with pride and dignity in his country. His race is recognized as human beings, as they should have been all along. This young man now has a reason to honor and protect his country.
When President Obama was elected to office, did anyone notice the tears of many when he won? Whether you agree with his policies or you don't, this was a major moment in history for a race of people who were treated worse than animals many years ago, and now are able to look at a President with darker skin, along with his lovely wife and adorable little girls, living in the White House.
Racism
Racism is still alive today, but thankfully there isn't too many people I'm acquainted with that judge a man by his color. I looked at some of the footage of the Haiti earthquake on youtube, and some made comments about not caring about the victims because of their skin color. How sad that people are so callous. When did ANY of us choose which country to be born in? Or what color our skin was going to be? Or if we were born male or female? Or if we were born with a disability?
History Lessons
Travelling to history museums and learning history is very sobering. The Arlington Cemetary shows thousands of tombstones of men and women that dedicated their lives to this country-and we are so blessed to be free. The museums show us who the true heroes are-the hardships and chances that brave men and women took to help those who couldn't help themselves, and who deserves to be honored.
Well, these are my thoughts for the day! We've only got a few more hours to go before we are in Nashville! I will be in touch again! My posts aren't usually this long, so if you've read this entire post, thanks for reading!
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