Pay it Forward (or is that backward?)

I was just going to PM this to Kippy- who will really appreciate it, but it was too good not to share with everyone. I was in line at a fast food place today and when I got to the window, the lady told me that the car in front paid for my food.

"Why?" I asked. "Did she know me?"

The window lady told me no, that actually I was the 7th car in line to have this happen. Someone started it by paying for the person behind them, then that car paid for the person behind them, and so on and so on until it got to me. She was smiling big, obviously enjoying being the bearer of good news to one car after another.

Unfortunately, there was no car behind me to keep it going. But I think I'll try it next time I'm in line- see if we can start it all over again!

When is Nana Coming Home? The eulogy.

I haven't been here much this week because, if you didn't know, my grandmother died on December 23. She was 87 and had Altzheimer's, so it was a blessing that she is no longer trapped here on earth. It was still sad, but more a time of celebration and remembrance for us all. I had thought about posting this earlier, then Scott suggested that I do it. This is the eulogy that my brother and I gave at my grandmother's funeral on Sunday, December 27, 2009. (My brother's parts show up in red type- we handed this back and forth.)

When is Nana coming home?

When I think back over a lifetime of knowing this wonderful woman, one phrase sticks out in my mind- When is Nana coming home? You see, she lived with us- kinda. She really lived with whoever she thought needed her the most but our house was her home base. She lived in Charlotte during the week, with Uncle Elmer, or Wanda, but she would usually come home, to my house in Denver, on the weekends. Usually. Some weekends, I would spend all weekend asking “when is Nana coming home?” because she would never show up. She was really bad at calling, and several times I remember my mother saying that something was going to happen, she was going to be lying in a ditch somewhere and we wouldn’t know it until she didn’t show up for work on Monday morning.

You see, I looked for Nana because, I have to tell you, she was FUN! She took my brother and I lots of places, out to eat, to the Ice Capades, to the Circus, to Mr. Zollycopher’s store for gum, oh and don’t forget that time we went to Carowinds. Mom and Dad would take us to Carowinds and put us on rides and meet us at the end.. Mom never rode anything faster than the carousel. But not Nana! She would get off one ride and head for the next almost faster than I could keep up. She was having just as much fun as we were.

That is true- she was tireless. She built homemade see-saws out of logs and boards. She made fishing poles from bamboo and taught us to catch fish with bread and worms, we built tinker toy towers, and she taught to appreciate playing with our cousins. Because often, she would include our cousins in these adventures. Whether we went over to Wanda’s to play with Lara and Scott and Heather, or we took Ken and Greg with us to the lake, or took Ginny’s grandson Tommy with us on an adventure, or went to Aunt Louise and Uncle Pink’s to learn how to play Rook the “Sifford way” Nana was the catalyst. I suppose we were lucky in a way that there were only two of us, but she had enough energy for more and she managed to include our cousins and friends on a pretty regular basis. So “when is Nana coming home” was something you heard around our house a lot.

But it didn’t start out that way. You see, I had an “older sister.” She took you places but forgot that, although I was the baby, that I was getting older and might want in on the fun. So one day, I was maybe 3 years old at the time, when she was bundling you off to the lake once again, I stood up and emphatically stated “I GO TO LAKE, TOO!” but from then on, she had two children or more in tow wherever she went.

She was a strong and independent lady. It wasn’t too common to see divorced women in the 1940’s and at the time it carried a real social stigma. You see, she had my mom 10 days after she turned 16 and was quietly divorced soon after. But she had the strength to raise my mother as a single parent.

When Mom was about 6 months old, Nana had to have her appendix taken out. The doctor who did the surgery asked if he could adopt Nana’s baby girl. She emphatically told him “no.” When he remarked that a 16 year old girl couldn’t raise a baby on her own, she told him “well just watch me!” And she did an incredible job!

Nana was strong, determined, independent, and, to tell the truth, just a wee bit bossy sometimes. The only time we didn’t ask “When is Nana coming home?” was when we were sick. She was the true Florence Nightingale of the family, taking care of whoever needed her most at the time. I always said she should have had a degree in nursing. When Aunt Bessie had her first stroke, she decided Uncle Elmer needed her- so in she went (whether he wanted her to or not!) Then Uncle James got Altzheimers, so it was off to Aunt Cille’s to help her with his care. And Aunt Louise- you guessed it, she was right there. And Uncle Albert Franklin- yes, she cared for him too. But there was a catch- you see, for as wonderful a nurse, and as helpful and generous a person as she was, we hated to have her around if we were sick. Why? Because she had some of the smelliest cures known to man for whatever ailed you. Cold? Well Vicks Vaporrub was the best cure. Sore throat? Chloroseptic was the answer!. A cut must have mecurichrome. Sore muscles or a bad bruise? Have you ever smelled Absorbine Jr? Ick! They may have worked, but when you’re a kid and you don’t feel good, you don’t want someone rubbing smelly stuff all over you. That’s the only time I remember saying “Nana’s not coming home, is she?”

There was that one time though that I was glad to have her around. Right after college, I got mono. It was right before Christmas, and I had had it for about a week. I’d spent the first half of the week afraid I was going to die, and the second half of the week afraid that I wasn’t going to die, when Nana came to the rescue. She came to my little duplex apartment in Greensboro and bundled me up and took me home. She spent probably the next week putting cold washcloths on my head, feeding me what little I felt like eating, and trying to get my fever to stay down. I would have welcomed any smelly thing she had if it would have made me feel better!

As good of a caregiver as she was, she was a horrible patient! I think she took it as a personal insult that a germ dared to enter her body. Like many who get the disease, when Nana got Altzheimer’s we didn’t know what was going on at first. This capable, independent woman was all of a sudden ordering the same thing three times. I think everyone we know got a copy of the Southern Living Cookbook for Christmas one year. And she became paranoid that people were stealing her things. And then one day she went on her quest to rid Hwy 16 of garbage, which was typical of her, but she got lost as she lost sight of the house. As we began to see what affect this disease was having on her, to the point that she didn’t know us, had to live in a nursing home, was back to “Baking Biscuits” with her mother, and especially after she broke her hip three years ago and could no longer walk, I began to ask “When is Nana going home?” There is a time that you know life is better in the arms of the Creator than it is here on earth. And I began to look forward to the day that she would be free of this disease, probably pestering Jesus to go heal someone, and would once again be that carefree, strong, independent and fun woman that she used to be. That day has come. I’ll never ask “When is Nana coming home” again, for now, today, she IS home.

And they went with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. (Luke 2:16)

My sweet Nana went to heaven this morning... thank goodness. The end of an Altzheimer's patient's life isn't fun for them or the family. She's at peace now.

The Great Ornament Exchange 2009

Here they are! My set is complete, well, if you don't count that I took Kat's to church for our winter sports tree in children's worship. She saved me- I was having a hard time finding an ornament with a winter sports theme, and she sends ice skates! So no picture of that, but a big thanks for rescuing me once again, Kat!

Photo Album 2009-12-20

The Christmas Quiz- lifted from Bill

1) Wrapping paper or gift bags? I like wrapping paper but there are some things that just work better in gift bags.

2) Real tree or Artificial? Artificial. Way less mess!

3) When do you put up the tree? After Thanksgiving

4) When do you take the tree down? After Christmas

5) Do you like eggnog? It's ok.

6) Favorite gift received as a child? Probably the opal ring my parent's bought me for my 16th Christmas.

7) Hardest person to buy for? My stepdad. He's one of those guys that if he needs it, he buys it.

8) Easiest person to buy for? My daughter- she wants everything!

9) Do you have a nativity scene? One full one and part of another (I have the Mary and Joseph from the Willow Tree collection- maybe some nice person will get me the others to go along with these!)

10) Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail is so fun, but I can do email too.

11) Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I really don't remember if there was a worst ever- we usually got things we needed (like underwear and socks) but I don't remember them being bad.

12) Favorite Christmas Movie? Wow- I like them all! Favorite, probably Its a Wonderful Life. And I love the Santa Clause!

13) When do you start shopping for Christmas? November

14) Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? No, but I have threatened to. Early on in my grandmother's Altzheimers, when we didn't know what was happening, she would leave gifts in their boxes and hide them. I threatened to re-wrap them and see if she noticed.

15) Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? All the good chocolate treats! Oh, and my mom makes the best party mix with Life cereal.

16) Lights on the tree? Loaded with white lights.

17) Favorite Christmas song? Do You Hear What I Hear?

18) Travel at Christmas or stay home? Home.

19) Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Not according to Trivial Pursuit. There's a question that asks how many reindeer Santa has- I rattled off Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, and Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blitzen, and Rudolph. That's nine. The answer was eight!

20)Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel

21) Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? We do a gift exchange with the entire family on Christmas Eve, so everyone gets a present, and then open everything else on Christmas morning.

22) Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Rude people crowding in the stores. I swear yesterday must have been "go really slow down the center of the aisle so no one can get by" say at WalMart.

23) Favorite ornament theme or color? I'm a traditional girl, so red and green. But I love that snow blue that is new out this year, it just doesn't fit in my traditional house.

24) Favorite for Christmas dinner? sweet potato souffle!

25) What do you want to do for Christmas this year? Enjoy it with my family and friends

I see snow! Which in this part of the world in December is unheard of! Yay!

Not enjoying my liquid snow today. If it is going to be this cold, it should snow. Oh well, at least it isn't ice!

2nd concert better than the first!! One more to go this afternoon!

Tree's up!

Now it feels like Christmas!
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Say an extra prayer- first concert is tonight! We're ready- I hope it goes well!

This is all I have right now....

I started to attempt 10 thoughts for Tuesday, but I'm so focused on my community chorus concert that it would all have been one big thought. So I grabbed this from Sea today!

1. What is your current project?
Duh- Community Chorus! I created and produced and am directing this year's show- Don't Forget the Baby. It is about a lady so caught up in the material things of Christmas that she has no joy- she forgot the meaning of Christmas. So as the chorus switches from secular music to sacred (including Rutter's Gloria- which I'm super-excited about!) she remembers the baby Jesus and comes around to the true meaning of Christmas. Thanks to nearly 100 people in the show, it's gonna be awesome (and thanks to Kat for designing my program cover!!!!)

2. Have you started Christmas shopping? Who is the hardest person on your list to shop for?
Can't think about Christmas right now- but I do have Brandon's present. He wanted a GPS. Everyone else will have to wait until after the concert. Hardest person is my mom- she has so much money that there's nothing she "needs" and most of the things she wants she just picks up. So it is hard to get her something meaningful.

3. How would you describe your personality?
I'm nice, a little naive, and will absolutely do anything for the people I care about. I think before I speak (99% of the time, anyway) and I don't get ruffled too easily. I am interested in what other people believe and why, but try to uphold my Christian values in everything I do.

4. What is your favorite hobby?
Music right now- sometimes it is reading, sometimes my computer. And in the summer it is definitely outdoor activities.

5. What charity are you passionate about?
I support my church and our mission teams. Other than that, I like Samaritan's Purse and Heifer International.

6. Who was the most influential person in your life?
That's hard- but probably my mom. She's loving, giving, and open-minded. She has taught me to listen and think, not just accept or refuse on first impressions.

7. What is your favorite comfort food when it is cold outside.
Anything that looks like soup! Stews and chili count.

8. When do you put up your Christmas tree, is it artificial or real.
I'd love to have a real one but it is so expensive to do that every year, so I got a nice skinny artificial one that fits in the corner by the loveseat.

9. What is your favorite store to shop in for the holidays.
For decorations, I love Kirklands. For presents, Walmart, Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, and Target.

10. If you could invite anyone to dinner, dead or alive, who would it be?
My dad. He died almost 26 years ago. I'd love to know what he knows now!

11. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
I'm happy right here.

12. If you could make a good living doing anything that you wanted, what career would that be?
That's a good question- one I must explore in the next few years. For now, I like what I do and I get paid ok for it.

13. What is your favorite thing to do?
It's tough to choose between sleep and eat... but I don't think that's really the heart of the question. I love to spend time with friends- either ones here or in real life.

14. If they made a movie of the week based on your life, what would be the title?
The Giving Girl- seems I'm always doing something for someone else.

15. If you could have your mama serve your favorite meal of hers right now what would you be eating?
We'd have chicken and dumplings! She makes real flour dumplings- not egg noodles. And I can't copy it no matter how hard I try!

16. What is the largest meal you have ever cooked, for how many?
I cooked Thanksgiving for 200 last year... does that count? I did have a helper, though.

17. What has been a Rainbow Connection for you? An event or a time that could be out of a movie?
It was probably when I met Scott. Have you ever just clicked with someone so fast you feel like you must have known them in a previous life? Which is funny since we've remained just best friends for 2 years. I can't decide if there is anything romantic there or not. It would almost be strange to think about at this point.

18. What embarrassing situation can you share with us?
Everyone is probably going to have one of those drunk stories. Just imagine yours and that is probably mine! Really- I just remember throwing up in the wet grass and wanting to die. It took me 20 years to be able to smell tequila again.

19. In that previously mentioned movie of the week about your life, who would you pick to play yourself, and why?
Oh gosh, I have no idea. I think I need a good casting director.

20. If you could have lived at any other time in history, when would that have been, and why?
Civil War south. Or maybe pre-Civil War south. Big hoop skirts and lawn parties. I know, it would have been hot and sticky, but I'd have loved it!

21. What would you like most to be remembered for?
Raising great kids.

22. Describe yourself in 3 words.
Funny, sweet, accepting

23. Tell us about your home. (Do you live in the city? country? Style of home?)
I have a 2 story colonial in the country suburbs. It used to be country here and Charlotte is creeping this way fast! I have 3 acres and no neighbors, so it is like my little bit of country right off the busy highway.

24. What is something you do for yourself that you love?
I love book club and Bible study. Spending time with the girls away from the kids is a great escape.

25. What is your favorite TV show?
That I actually watch on TV, House. But I've started getting episodes of Supernatural on DVD from Netflix. Now I'm hooked on that- halfway through season 2!

26. What is your earliest memory?
Getting into my parents 1965 Chevy convertible. They sold it before I was 2 and I still remember it.

27. Who is your favorite movie actor, one that you could have a crush on?
Vin Diesel. Wow. Enough said.

28. What words of wisdom have made a lasting impression on you?
There are so many! Probably if I had to choose one, it would be what I quoted Kippy the other day- take your paintbrush and paint your paradise. Meaning that you create your world- so create a beautiful one!

29. What is one food that you could not live without.
I'd have to say potatoes. You can have them so many different ways!

30. Describe your dream weekend getaway.
A cabin in the mountains, fire in the fireplace, and a ton of books to read.

31. If you could have a celebrity chef cook for you who would it be?
Curtis Stone. He cooks good and he's adorable to look at and has a cute accent!

32. When you were a child what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a dolphin trainer. Swim with the fish at SeaWorld!

I can't believe my baby girl is a teenager today! Happy birthday, Savannah!!

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I'm the Evil Stepmonster

Many of you know the trials I've had with my oldest stepson:
-wanted to quit High School in January before graduation in May (he did get his diploma from the community college, though)
-got married at 19 to a girl he'd known 6 months
- fixed up my basement so they'd haver a place to live, but they didn't respect or appreciate that
- they lived with her parents until her dad died and her mom moved to VA to live with her sister
-moved to VA because she wanted to be near mom
- he left because he hated VA and couldn't find work there
-moved in with his mom and has been laying around on the couch drinking beer for 2 months and not looking for work...

Brings you up to date to Friday. Mom's had enough of picking up after him and tells him to get out. Can't say that I blame her, but it didn't go down too well. So, he's in the National Guard and has drill this weekend. I think, good- he'll get away and she'll calm down. No. His grandma (her mom who lives there too and has always done anything for him) calls and wants to know if he can live here again. I said no- he's almost 21, hasn't been looking for work, won't talk to his wife, hasn't tried to get back on the fire dept where he used to work (actually didn't show up at the meeting where they were going to talk about reinstating him) and basically needs to grow up.

I told her to tell him to go back to the apartment in VA with his name on it and see if he couldn't work it out with his wife. They've been married 1 1/2 years. There must be something there. But he doesn't want to go. Says he won't be the one to cave in! Stupid, prideful child.

Then, I found out he didn't go to drill- and had his grandmother call in for him!

The long and short of it is I won't be the enabler. I won't give him a place to stay, even if he ends up living in his car. Because if he does, he may decide to do what he is supposed to do- look for work, go to drill- and he'll appreciate what he has more because he had to earn it.

Brandon thinks I'm being mean. Mom and Scott are telling me to stick to my plan and not give in. It is the best thing for him, but tough love sure is tough!
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YouTube - Dave Matthews Band - Everyday

This is a fabulous video! It makes me think of Kippy and her Good Mood- Project Positive work.

ABC's- swiped from Kat who got it from Boo

Ok, this one looks like fun:

A - Area: North Carolina- what is known as the foothills of the Piedmont.

B - Broken Bones: Not officially on any doctor's charts- but I think I broke my little toe once.

C - Camera:  A Canon sureshot something... it's in the car. And the horrid one on my Blackberry.

D - Dance: With my two left feet. You'd better watch out!

E - Exercise: Gym 3 times a week- elliptical and weights.

F - Flavor:  Spicy- like horseradish hot; I'm a vanilla ice cream girl; and I love chocolate caramel candy. Peppermint tea; spearmint gum. Watermelon Jolly Ranchers. Oh, and cream soda dum dums. There- aren't you glad you elaborated on the flavor thing?

G - God:  is good, all the time.

H - Height: 5'8"- and I don't wear heels.

I - Instruments you play: saxophone; a really poor piano, and I know about 5 chords on guitar. I was a band director, so technically I can play a little bit of everything! (And yes, had a semester of cello, too!)

J - Jobs: Band director, furniture sales, church office manager

K - Kid(s): 3...Chris is almost 21, Brandon 19; Savannah will be 13 next week (yikes!)

L - Living arrangements: Right now it is me and the girl in this 4 bedroom  house!

M - Mom's name: Ernestine

N - Nicknames:  Dish... and my niece calls me Aunt Neen.

O - Owies:  I pulled a muscle in my shoulder that really hurts today!

P - Pet Peeve: mess... that I've told a child at least twice to clean up!

Q - Quiet:  I don't know when I have last heard quiet.... what is that again?

R- Right or left handed: Right

S - Siblings: 1 younger brother. My mom got remarried 10 years ago and I got 3 older step-sisters.

T - Time you wake up: 5:45 am. Get up? 6:05 or 6:10. I like to watch the news for a few minutes before I crawl out from under the covers.

U- Underwear:  Yes, I wear some.

V - Vegetable you dislike:  carrots

W - Ways you run late: Waiting on Savannah.... if not, I'm always early.

X - X-rays you've had: teeth.... ankle.... and does a mammogram count?

Y - Yummy thing you make to eat: right now it is pumpkin spice muffins.

Z - Zoo: Just the one dog. For now.

Visitors

It was a beautiful afternoon and I was enjoying sitting outside in the sun when these guys wandered through. We both stared at each other- barely moving- for about 5 minutes. Wonder if they were saying to each other "look- it's a person- aren't they cool?"
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This is Eerily Accurate.... Numerology

This is pretty dead on. Go here if you want to do it for yourself.


You entered: Janeen ********

There are 20 letters in your name.
Those 20 letters total to 79
There are 9 vowels and 11 consonants in your name.

Your number is: 7

The characteristics of #7 are: Analysis, understanding, knowledge, awareness, studious, meditating.

The expression or destiny for #7:
Thought, analysis, introspection, and seclusiveness are all characteristics of the expression number 7. The hallmark of the number 7 is a good mind, and especially good at searching out and finding the truth. You are so very capable of analyzing, judging and discriminating, that very little ever escapes your observation and deep understanding. You are the type of person that can really get involved in a search for wisdom or hidden truths, often becoming an authority on whatever it is your are focusing on. This can easily be of a technical or scientific nature, or it may be religious or occult, it matters very little, you pursue knowledge with the same sort of vigor. You can make a very fine teacher, or because of a natural inclination toward the spiritual, you may become deeply emerged in religious affairs or even psychic explorations. You tend to operate on a rather different wavelength, and many of your friends may not really know you very well. The positive aspects of the 7 expression are that you can be a true perfectionist in a very positive sense of the word. You are very logical, and usually employ a quite rational approach to most things you do. You can be so rational at times that you almost seem to lack emotion, and when you are faced with an emotional situation, you may have a bit of a problem coping with it. You have excellent capabilities to study and learn really deep and difficult subjects, and to search for hidden fundamentals. At full maturity you are likely to be a very peaceful and poised individual.

If there is an over supply of the number 7 in your makeup, the negative aspects of the number may be apparent. The chief negative of 7 relates to the limited degree of trust that you may have in people. A tendency to be highly introverted can make you a bit on the self-centered side, certainly very much self-contained . Because of this, you are not very adaptable, and you may tend to be overly critical and intolerant. You really like to work alone, at your own pace and in your own way. You neither show or understand emotions very well.

Your Soul Urge number is: 5

A Soul Urge number of 5 means:
The 5 soul urge or motivation would like to follow a life of freedom, excitement, adventure and unexpected happening. The idea of travel and freedom to roam intrigues you. You are very much the adventurer at heart. Not particularly concerned about your future or about getting ahead, you can seem superficial and unmotivated.

In a positive sense, the energies of the number 5 make you very adaptable and versatile. You have a natural resourcefulness and enthusiasm that may mark you as a progressive with a good mind and active imagination. You seem to have a natural inclination to be a pace-setter. You are attracted to the unusual and the fast paced.

You may be overly restless and impatient at times. You may dislike the routine work that you are engaged in, and tend to jump from activity to activity, without ever finishing anything. You may have difficulty with responsibility. You don't want to be tied down to a relationship, and it may be hard to commit to one person.

Your Inner Dream number is: 11

An Inner Dream number of 11 means:
You dream of casting the light of illumination; of being the true idealist. You secretly believe there is more to life than we can know or prove, and you would like to be provider of the 'word' from on high.

Lets see how honest Multiply friends are...leave a ONE WORD comment that you think best describes me. It can be only one word. No more. Then copy and paste this on your page so I may leave one word about you.

Kippy from Carson City, NV

http://www.sam-e.com/job/profile/646
Vote for my friend, Kippy, as she tries to win a job as a good news blogger. You can vote once a day per browser- so if you have IE and Firefox, vote twice! And sneak on all your co-workers' computers and vote there, too. Voting ends on Saturday!!

Sea's Blog from Susan..... all in one!

Are you a "black Friday" shopper? Absolutely not! I did that once to get a good deal on a TV- never again! Lines everywhere- and the TV was still on sale the next week. No way I'm doing that again!

Are you a bah humbug? No, I love Christmas! I'm so sad when it is all over and the decorations have to come down.

Are you cooking for Thanksgiving or traveling elsewhere? I'm actually cooking Thanksgiving dinner at church for 200! How's that for cooking? My family divides up the cooking. Mom usually does the meat, my sister has veggies, I get potatoes, my aunt the desserts, and my brother the drinks.

Do you decorate your tree with a theme? Yes- ecclectic catch-all from years past!

Do you decorate your yard with lights?  Nope. No one would see them at the end of the dead-end street!

Do you dress up for Halloween? I usually go as a stressed out single mom. No costume required.

Do you eat your kids Halloween candy? I'll snag a Snickers or Babe Ruth. Not much else I like.

What is your most memorable Christmas gift you received as a child? I got my first "real" ring when I was 16- opal with diamonds around it.

Do you enjoy holiday sales or shop early just to get it done? I shop along as I get time. I'm usually done the week or so before. If it is on sale, fine, if not and it is what the kids want, they get it. Within reason, of course!
Do you get up for the early bird sales? Did you read my Black Friday answer? No way!

Do you have any family traditions? Pickup hors d'oeuvres on Christmas Eve so that everyone can go to their different churches at different times; we have my niece's birthday on Christmas Eve (poor thing) and do Dirty Santa with that part of the family; Christmas breakfast with my mother and brother and then presents. Then the kids all take off for other families.

Do you have any holiday jewelry? I think I have a Christmas tree pin.... somewhere.

Do you have any unique Thanksgiving rituals or traditions? No, pretty normal stuff.

When do you put your tree up? Whenever I get a chance.

Fake or real tree? Usually fake.

Are you making any homemade gifts? Not really. Some ornaments and baking some things.

Do you like getting gift certificates for presents? Absolutely- send them on!

Do you make any holiday crafts? Some ornaments.

Do you make Christmas cookies? Sometimes. Depends on how much I want to bake.

Do you own any holiday clothing? I have a reindeer shirt that lights up and a Santa sweater.

Formal and fancy or casual and fun for Thanksgiving Dinner? Comfy. Always comfy.

Do you pay for gift wrapping? Nope- can do that myself.

Do you send out Christmas cards? Yes.

Do you shake the Christmas presents? Not since I was about 12.

Christmas morning…wake up at home? Yes. Then go across the street to mom's house.

Do you stock up on after Halloween candy sales? No trick-or-treaters here.

Do you take your kids trick or treating? Yes- we go to a friend's house in a big neighborhood and join in the fun.

Do you think your dh/so will get you something you want for Christmas? If he'd just send the child support that would be plenty. Jerk.

What is your favorite holiday song? Whichever one is playing at the time! I love Silent Night; Do You Hear What I Hear?; and The Happy Elf (Harry Connick Jr.)

Where do you find the best holiday deals? Usually after Christmas. I stock up on wrapping paper and decorations for next year.

Do you wrap your own presents? Yes, and mom's too. She buys, I wrap.

Bows or ribbons on packages? Depends. Usually bows unless they're going to have to be transported somewhere.

Do your kids believe in Santa? Absolutely! He doesn't bring you anything if you don't believe!

Do you like haunted houses for Halloween? Depends on how well they're done. Most are pretty cheesy!

Do your kids write a list for Santa? They tell me and I call him!

Does anyone ever buy gifts for your kids that you would rather they didn't? Not usually.

Have you bought your kids prefilled stockings? No, they wouldn't eat half that stuff.

What is your least favorite part about the holidays? The mess it makes, from decorating, to wrapping, to unwrapping and undecorating!

Have you finished your Christmas shopping yet? Finished? I have not yet begun.

Ever dressed up as Santa? Um, no. An elf? Yes.

My Day

So Kippy and Kat and Sue all did this- and it was pretty cool! Here's my day today in mostly pictures.

I slept late-- 9am is 3 hours more than I normally get. Savannah woke me up hungry and I wasn't in the mood to figure out breakfast. It was really easy to let  her talk me into going down to Ab's grill. You can get bacon, eggs, grits, and toast for $2.99. What a deal! (And I ate most of it!)



Then, it was back to clean house. Monday is my niece's 8th birthday, so the plan today is to go to lunch and have everyone back here for cake and presents. This place is a wreck! Luckily, I have a cool girl and she didn't even whine at being asked to clean. Here she is unloading the dishwasher:
\
She got the easy job- I had to tackle the laundry room!


It was a mess, especially because the shoe rack broke and half of the shoes ended up all over the room. When I get done, we'll have a nice new rack.


Then it was time to meet the family for lunch. This is my mother and my brother. He has two kids and we also met my sister and  her two kids.


Then it was back to my house for presents. Here's mom again in my kitchen:
 
Here's my niece opening her presents- well, mostly watching my autistic nephew open her presents. She's really good with him, and doesn't mind when he does things like this.


Brandon came through, telling me he needs to leave his truck here so it can have some work done on it. So, I took him back to college. Here he is unloading the back of my car:


Finally, it is back home to finish cleaning in the laundry. But look at it now!


And I finally got on the computer tonight, and Susan asked if I had anything in the mail- I forgot to check the mail! Here is my birthday present from her- "George II The Scary Cat." I love you Susan- this is so neat!


And that was my day! Whew- I'm going to watch TV for a little bit. I've been totally lame on my Bible study this week. I've missed more than I've done, which is very unlike me! I don't know if I'll get today's done or not. Hopefully I'll be back on track tomorrow! Y'all have a good night!

Stay Healthy This Cold and Flu Season

A nurse friend sent me this email and it had such good advice in it, some of which I didn't know, that I thought I'd post it. Hope it helps you this season.

PREVENTING OR AT LEAST LESSENING THE SEVERITY OF SWINE  FLU

The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's  almost impossible to avoid coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all  precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is. 

While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent  proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications,  can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu): 

1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications). 

2. "Hands-off-the-face"  approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat or bathe).

3.  Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt).  H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to  proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents  proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a  healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this  simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method. 

4. Similar to 3 above, clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. Not everybody may be  good at Jala Neti or Sutra Neti (very good Yoga asanas to clean nasal cavities), but blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with Q-tips dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral  population.       

5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (citrus fruits, for example). If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption. 

6. Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc.) as you can. Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They  wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they  cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.

Yay! I have a new halloween avatar! Everyone else had one so I wanted one too!

View from the patio

It is a gorgeous, sunny, almost 80 degree day with no humidity and a light breeze. This is one of those rare, perfect days where you just can't stand to stay inside. So I have spent the afternoon on the patio reading, napping, etc. Just a lovely hour back here. I looked up at the water tower- which has been there so long that I don't notice it- but they have painted the name of our town on the sign. I wonder how long it has been like that? I don't notice details sometimes!


I wasn't the only one who decided to enjoy the outdoors. Hobie followed me. He also decided to play in the mud. So he's going to be an orange dog for a few days.


The roses I planted around the pool have really grown. They're going to be really nice next year. Actually, they're still nice now! I don't want winter to come- everything is so pretty right  now. Oh well, the leaves haven't changed yet, so maybe that will make up for the blooms going away- for awhile, anyway.

The Great Ornament Exchange

Ok folks, all the participants have sent me their particulars and we're ready to go! The rules are simple- there are no rules! Ornaments can be storebought or handmade, used or new, expensive or cheap. Here's a link for some ideas, compliments of Sea!  Really, the only rule is to send an ornament to everyone on the list. Simple, huh? Some people gave me a few preferences, but most are open to just seeing what they're going to get. So, without further ado, here you go!

Janet McDonald (bubblingbrooks)
7019 River Garden Dr.
Houston, TX 77095
prefers medium sized ornaments; no Wiccan

Jenny George (oneworldgoddess)
600 Rider Rd.
Corralitos, CA 95076

Bill Shetterly (lightkeeper2007)
520 Glen Oaks Dr. Apt 3D
Muskegon, MI 49442
Has tabletop tree- so small to med. ornaments only please

Sue Kearney (blogchick)
405 Virginia Ave.
Marion, VA 24354

Lisa Liebich (leece9767)
4434 Malden Lane, Apt E
Beech Grove, IN 46107

Scott Williamson (revscott)
202 Hillcrest
Poteau, OK 74953

Kathy Wellington (magickat)
PO Box 181
Pattersonville, NY 12137

Janeen Dishman (mommadish)
3929 Wexford Lane
Denver, NC 28037

This blog is only open to the people listed here, and I think it goes without saying that we all agree to not pass on addresses. And, if anything is wrong above, please correct it in the comments. I hope I copied everything right!

Ok, have fun! I can't wait to send my first ones and am looking forward to seeing what all comes here, too!

The Bag Tag

Kippy posted this from a friend of hers. The idea is you take everything out of the bag you carry most often (laptop bag, messenger bag, purse, briefcase, etc.) and take a picture of it. Tell what it is. This was a good way to clean out my purse today!



Ok, you'll see several pens, my prescription sunglasses (in their case), my phone and headset, the book where I write down everything I eat, $0.26, my checkbook, a book to read, some bills and receipts, a jump drive, and a paper clip. Why a paper clip, I have no idea! What's missing is my wallet, because I took it out when I went to Wendy's today so I wouldn't have to carry the whole bag, and my camera because I'm using it to take the picture! In case you're wondering, it is a pretty big bag.


So there's mine- what's in your bag?

Jello Shots

Description:
Ok, Cherei said some people had never heard of jello shots and asked me to post how to make them. It is too easy....

Ingredients:
2 cups boiling water
1 1/3 cup cold water
2/3 cup vodka
1 6oz package jello- your favorite flavor.

Directions:
Mix the jello with the boiling water until it has dissolved. Add the cold water and the vodka. Pour into candy molds or an 8x8 dish. Refrigerate until jelled. Cut into squares (or pop out of the molds) and enjoy!

"When a woman steals your husband, there is no better revenge than to let her keep him." Saw this on Jeffster's page and had to adapt it a little bit- but it's so true! !

You have one more week to let me know if you want in on the Great Ornament Exchange. PM me your address and any particulars- size of tree, religious preference, etc.

Early Birthday Presents!!

Thanks Kathy! This is so neat... and you know me so well!

I got in last night after dark and must have walked right by this box on the porch. It was there in plain sight this morning. My first reaction was "I haven't ordered anything lately, have I?" Then I saw the return address and screamed! It was from Kat- and it is birthday presents!


Look what she sent me. A framed painting she made herself, a HOPE sign, a journal and pens (which I was looking at journals at WM yesterday and didn't see one that caught my eye!) and two snails for the side of my plants. And a sweet card. What a great day this has started off to be! I'm already smiling!

Thanks my friend! I love you!

The Great Christmas Ornament Exchange

Abby and I thought about this last year and just couldn't get the oomph to actually do it! Now there's a whole passle of people who think that we should exchange Christmas ornaments as gifts this year. This is neat- because it could end up being a pretty inexpensive way to let our Multiply friends know we care.

The rules, as far as I can see it, are this:
1- If you want in on the exchange, send me a pm with your address by October 15. I'll make a blog, only open to those who want to participate, of all the addresses.
2- Include your religious preference and size ornament (whether you have a table-top tree and want smaller items or a large tree and prefer bigger ornaments.)
3- Make, buy, or "recycle" an ornament for everyone who is participating. You can get creative and decoupage, crochet, or hot glue; buy identical ones for everyone or handpick based on the individuals; or choose some from your own stash that you no longer use or just want to share.
4- When you're ready, just mail them out!

I hope you'll all participate- I think it is going to be great to see what we get!

Happy Christmas Ornament Exchanging!

Had to get the boy from college today- fever of 103, body aches, chills... At least he came with his own ($80!) prescription of tamiflu.

Poem Posse Challenge

Well I don't write much poetry. I was actually reminded by someone the other day that I used to write quite a bit! I don't know why I stopped. But this challenge seemed a fun way to begin again.

Go to Poem Posse to read the rules. Ok, Bill pointed out that I didn't have all the rules quite right. I still don't- it is supposed to end on a positive note! (I don't think I'd call this positive, except that is usually the most positive response you get from a teenager who is losing an argument!) Sorry! I'm also not worrying about the voting, but after you read everyone's, if you still like mine send me a pm.

This poem comes from a conversation I had yesterday with my son, who is a freshman in college.

Whatever

I want
I want
I want
I want
A PS 3

You need
You need
You need
You need
New tires on your truck.

I want
I want
I want
I want
To spend money on me.

You need
You need
You need
You need
to learn to be an adult.

I want
I want
I want
I want
Whatever.

I just realized that on my friend's list, I have two people named Bill, two named Sue (plus two Susans!), two Lisa's, and two people named Kat (plus one more on my FB page.) Thankfully, Dai is Dai, or I'd have two Tony's!

OK, I did it.

Alright, enough is enough. I have fought my weight my entire life. Sometimes I win, sometimes my stomach(s) win. Gone through times when I was totally in shape and times when I felt more like the marshmallow man. Today, I'm taking back over!

I lost nearly 50 lbs about 4 years ago (ironically, before the ex left for another woman) but somehow, got distracted from the things I know how to do. (I know, divorce, two kids graduating- I have great excuses!) But, I have put 15 lbs back on. I'm not happy! My clothes don't fit right anymore and I can start to see the appearance of another chin.

I know what to do. Eat right. Exercise. Drink plenty of water. Journal. I've been thinking about doing those things for a good three months. Well, yesterday was the day I decided to start doing what I'd only been talking about doing.

So I got me a cute little journal/notebook. Got my calorie counters out. And- gasp- rejoined the gym! Since softball season was over, I haven't lifted a leg or crunched an ab. That's like 3 months! Feeling ashamed and hopelessly out of shape, I drug myself back to the gym yesterday. I survived 24 minutes on the elliptical machine and was feeling so good about myself, I made an appointment with a trainer for today.

Trainer- torturer- they both start with T! Ouch! The guy was great- complimentary, even. Wanted to know what I'd been doing. Um... sitting at the computer, eating? I used to swim- I used to work out- I used to do a lot of things I haven't been doing. So he did a full assessment. Turns out, I'm not in quite as bad a shape as I thought. I'm still strong. 24 min on the elliptical at a 145 stride per minute pace isn't bad.

I know, I can do this stuff at home. But obviously, I won't.

So he has me on a schedule. I've dutifully written down everything I've eaten- and stayed within my 1200-1400 calorie allotment. The only thing I haven't been real good at is water. 3 out of 4 isn't bad. Just leaves room for improvement.

So if I haven't mentioned the gym for a bit, prod me, ok? I'd like to lose the last 30 lbs left for ever!

If you have my cell number, call me. My phone died and I lost all my contacts!

I've noticed that everyone who is for abortion has already been born. ~attributed to Ronald Reagan on a sign I saw today.

New Constitution- Preamble and Bill of Non-Rights

We the sensible people of the United States, in an attempt to help everyone get along, restore some semblance of justice, avoid more riots, keep our nation safe, promote positive behavior, and secure the blessings of debt-free liberty to ourselves and our great-great-great-grandchildren, hereby try one more time to ordain and establish some common sense guidelines for the terminally whiny, guilt ridden, delusional, and other liberal bed-wetters. We hold these truths to be self evident: that a whole lot of people are confused by the Bill of Rights and are so dim they require a Bill of NON-Rights."

ARTICLE I: You do not have the right to a new car, big screen TV, or any other form of wealth. More power to you if you can legally acquire them, but no one is guaranteeing anything.

ARTICLE II: You do not have the right to never be offended. This country is based on freedom, and that means freedom for everyone -- not just you! You may leave the room, turn the channel, express a different opinion, etc.; but the world is full of idiots, and probably always will be.

ARTICLE III: You do not have the right to be free from harm. If you stick a screwdriver in your eye, learn to be more careful; do not expect the tool manufacturer to make you and all your relatives independently wealthy.

ARTICLE IV: You do not have the right to free food and housing. Americans are the most charitable people to be found, and will gladly help anyone in need, but we are quickly growing weary of subsidizing generation after generation of professional couch potatoes who achieve nothing more than the creation of another generation of professional couch potatoes .

ARTICLE V: You do not have the right to free health care. That would be nice, but from the looks of public housing, we're just not interested in public health care.

ARTICLE VI: You do not have the right to physically harm other people. If you kidnap, rape, intentionally maim, or kill someone, don't be surprised if the rest of us want to see you fry in the electric chair.

ARTICLE VII: You do not have the right to the possessions of others. If you rob, cheat, or coerce away the goods or services of other citizens, don't be surprised if the rest of us get together and lock you away in a place where you still won't have the right to a big screen color TV or a life of leisure.

ARTICLE VIII: You do not have the right to a job. All of us sure want you to have a job, and will gladly help you along in hard times, but we expect you to take advantage of the opportunities of education and vocational training laid before you to make yourself useful. (AMEN!)

ARTICLE IX: You do not have the right to happiness. Being an American means that you have the right to PURSUE happiness, which by the way, is a lot easier if you are unencumbered by an over abundance of idiotic laws created by those of you who were confused by the Bill of Rights.

ARTICLE X: This is an English speaking country. We don't care where you are from, English is our language. Learn it or go back to wherever you came from! (Lastly....)

ARTICLE XI: You do not have the right to change our country's history or heritage. This country was founded on the belief in one true God. And yet, you are given the freedom to believe in any religion, any faith, or no faith at all; with no fear of persecution The phrase IN GOD WE TRUST is part of our heritage and history, and if you are uncomfortable with it, TOUGH!

Sometimes "goodbye" is a second chance.

God is.....

This is from my Bible study tonight. An amazing list of all God is by Priscilla Shirer:

God is...
the first and the last
the beginning and the end
the keeper of creation and the creator of all
the architect of the universe and the manager of all time-
always was, always is, always will be:
unmoved, unchanged, undefeated, and never undone.
He was bruised but brought healing;
he was pierced but eased pain;
he was persecuted but brought freedom;
he was dead but brings life;
he was risen to bring power
and he reigns to bring peace.
The world can't understand him;
armies can't defeat him;
schools can't explain him;
leaders, they can't ignore him;
Herod couldn't kill him;
Nero couldn't crush him;
the New Age cannot replace him;
and Oprah cannot explain him away.
He is life, he is love, he is longevity, he is the Lord!
He is goodness, kindness, faithfulness, and He is God!
He is Holy and righteous and powerful and pure.
His ways are right;
His word eternal;
His will unchanging and his mind is on us.
He is our Savior, our guide, our peace, our joy, our comfort, and our Lord,
And he rules our lives.
We serve him because his bond is love,
his yoke is easy,
his burden is light,
and his goal for us is abundant life.
We follow him because he is the wisdom of the wise,
power of the powerful,
the Ancient of Days,
the ruler of rulers,
the leader of all leaders,
and his goal is a relationship with us.
He'll never leave you,
never forsake you,
never mislead you,
never forget you,
never overlook you,
and never cancel your appointment in his appointment book.
When you fall he'll lift you up,
when you fail he'll forgive you.
when you are weak he is strong;
when you're lost he's your way;
when you're afraid, he's your courage;
when you stumble, he will steady you;
when you're hurt, he's going to heal you;
when you're broken, he will mend you;
when you're blind he will lead you;
when you're hungry he will feed you;
when you face trials He's with you;
when you face persecution, he shields you;
when you face problems, he comforts you;
when you face loss, he will provide for you;
and when we face death, he will carry us all home to meet him.
He is everything for everybody, everywhere, every time and in every way.
He is your God, and that is who you belong to!
 

Kathy's Birthday

Start:

Sep 7, '09 09:00a

Happy Birthday my friend! I hope today is wonderful for you!

I've Come to Realize...

I haven't done one of these in awhile... ok, I haven't posted anything for awhile. My muse is silent. Anyway, have fun with this one!

1. I've come to realize that my chest-size ... doesn't matter.

2. I've come to realize that my job ...is awesome!

3. I've come to realize that when I'm driving ... I daydream. Driving is boring. And I try not to talk on the phone or text!

4. I've come to realize that I need ...nothing but God... but I want a lot!

5. I've come to realize that I have lost ... the freedom that youth brought to just pick up and go somewhere.

6. I've come to realize that I hate it when ... I have a free night with nowhere to go, but when I need to go somewhere one night, it isn't free.

7. I've come to realize that if I'm drunk ...I don't know how I got that way!

8. I've come to realize that money ...isn't everything, but it buys a lot.

9. I've come to realize that certain people ... mean a lot to me- like my friends here!

10. I've come to realize that I'll always... have to fight being an enabler.

11. I've come to realize that my sibling(s) ... may be smarter than me, but that isn't necessarily a good thing.  

12. I've come to realize that my mom ... is way totally awesome and I'm lucky to have her for a mom and a friend.

13. I've come to realize that my cell phone ...is permanently attached to me. I'm addicted to it.

14. I've come to realize that when I woke up this morning... Savannah had crawled into bed with me at some point- and I wonder if this is the last time she'll need her mommy like that.

15. I've come to realize that last night before I went to sleep...I didn't take my allergy pill. I'm all stuffy this morning.

16. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking... I have other things I should be doing besides filling this out!

17. I've come to realize that my dad...still shapes who I am, even though he died 25 years ago.

18. I've come to realize that when I get on Multiply... I lose track of time!

19. I've come to realize that today...I really want to get some landscaping done.

20. I've come to realize that tonight...I have no plans.. and that feels good.

21. I've come to realize that tomorrow...I get to spend some time with Scott- our schedules have been so crazy that I haven't see him all week.

22. I've come to realize that I really want to...get back on an exercise program, eat right, and lose this last 20 lbs.

23. I've come to realize that the person who is most likely to re-post this is...probably Kat.

24. I've come to realize that life... is too short to live it grumpy, or sad, or mad. I want to live life happy.

25. I've come to realize that this weekend... may not be much of a holiday, but that extra day off sure is nice.

26. I've realized the best music to listen to when I am upset... is classical.

27. I've come to realize that my friends... are important to me.

28. I've come to realize that this year... is going to be different with the boy at college. I'm already missing that extra taxi driver!

29. I've come to realize that my ex... is never going to pay his child support, and there really isn't that much the courts can do about it. So I'm rich on paper, but will never see a dime of it.

30. I've come to realize that maybe I should... think more about my future and what I want to do when the girl goes to college. I'm going to have a lot of free time!

31. I've come to realize that I love... everyone.

32. I've come to realize that I don't understand... the liberal agenda. What happened to working hard for what you have?

33. I've come to realize my past... is in the past and dwelling on it won't change it.

34. I've come to realize that I'm totally terrified...of nothing. God is with me and together, He and I can face anything.

35. I've come to realize that my life... is pretty good!

Photo Album 2009-09-04

I'm in the mountains this weekend at an ARE workshop. Only have spotty cell phone service, so I won't be able to answer much!

Is this bad? I'm so excited- they're issuing a warrant for the arrest of my ex for non-payment of child support. He's over $20,000 behind.

Best Chicken Salad Ever!

Description:
I'm going to try this tonight- might make a sandwich or just eat it out of the bowl!

Ingredients:
1/2 c mayonnaise
1/4c sour cream
1 T sugar
1 t lemon rind (zest)
1/2 t ginger
1/4 t salt
2 c chopped, cooked chicken
1 c grapes, halved
1 c celery, chopped
1/4 c toasted sliced almonds

Directions:
Mix together first 7 ingredients. Add remaining ingredients. Refrigerate.