3.31.2007

A Special Saturday

No, it's not anyone's birthday or anniversary. No, I am not going anywhere special today or even tonight. It's just been a really special day, that's all.

The weather has been a little rainy, but warm. We've had the windows and doors opened letting in the nice breeze. All the animals have laid next to each other with their little noses stuck out just enough to get a rain drop or two on them.

My husband and son are gone to Ohio today and won't be back until very late. Of course with today's technology (cell phones and text messaging) I hear from my dependent husband A.L.O.T. It's sweet to know how much he needs me though. I know I am loved.

My daughter and I have been home alone today. It's been ever so peaceful! I've been playing on the computer stopping for a minute or two to do some actual work. She's been reading a book and taking the dog for a walk. Aahhhh! What a relaxing day!

Tomorrow evening our church is having a social. We have one the first Sunday evening of every month. This month's theme is Mexican! Ole! We are supposed to bring a favorite Mexican dish. I looked at what we had in the cupboards and then I tried to find a recipe. Guess what I came up with? BROWNIES!! Ha! Not everybody likes Mexican, but who doesn't like chocolate? Okay. Okay. In all honesty we were just too lazy to go to the store on such a fine day!

Michelle, I hope you are feeling better now! And DeeDee, um....well, yeah...um, good luck with Jensen!! I'll be thinking about ya when we sing Showers of Blessings tomorrow at church ;o)

Have a great weekend everybody!

3.30.2007

Friday's Feast

Appetizer

What are you proud of?

Oh, so many things! I'm proud of my husband for working so hard at his own busineess. I'm proud that my daughter is ranked 23rd in her class of 137. I'm proud of my Awana girls, especially the unchurched ones, that come to class and have worked hard at learning their Bible verses. I'm proud that my three children are so loving and kind and have a heart for people.

Soup

What is the best thing you’ve ever won as a prize?

I am usually pretty luck when it comes to winning things. I've never won anything like a car or a trip, but I recently won a book, "Gifts" that I am anxiously waiting for. I recently won some kind of car part that sells for over $200 so I am going to e-Bay it and see what happens! I've won jackets and Nintendo games and stuff like that. I would have to say the best thing I ever won was a pecan pie! It was at our Spring Fling in elementary school. My father loved pecan pie and so did I. Remember doing The Cake Walk at these things? I patiently walked and waited for the music to stop. My heart pounded out of control as they reached in to pull a number. I looked down to see where I was standing. I looked at my daddy with a big grin! YES! They pulled my number out! I knew exactly which prize I wanted. I was so happy I won that pecan pie for my daddy and me!

Salad

Name something you do that is a waste of time.

Scratching. I should have others scratch my itches while I blog!!!!

Main Course

In what year of your life did you change the most?

Hmmm, that's a really good question. I suppose it would be in 1982 when I graduated from high school and got a job on my own. I started becoming a little more independent. I also met by future hubby in November of that year!

Dessert

Where is a place you consider to be very tranquil?

I dunno, the Sea of Tranquility? Okay, not funny, huh? The best place I can think of is on my grandmother's porch in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. I spent many summers sitting on the porch swing just watching, listening and smelling the great outdoors. Beautiful country!

3.29.2007

Thursday Thirteen

After being inspired by The Great American Dream last night with my future husband Donny I decided to list my top thirteen dreams in no particular order. Scroll down to yesterday to see a gorgeous pic of my hubba hubba!

1. I would love to have an RV just big enough for me, my hubs and Wensley. I would love to be able to just take off anytime we wanted and travel the world!
2. I know it will never happen, but boy would I enjoy it if my house would stay spic and span for more than a day! Why does that never happen around here?
3. I would, of course, love to have my own giraffe farm! I would have others do the yucky work. I would teach them a trick or two like giving high fives or pretending to be dead. Also, it would be me and only me that they loved the mostest!
4. Since I have to be in a wheelchair (for now) I would love to have a blue scooter with really cool pin striping that was all decked out with a cup holder and a built in laptop table (for blogging y'all!) and a mirror so I could see how cute I look at all times, and some nice comfy pillows so when I lean back to look at my Donny poster on the canapy (so I don't get burnt y'all!) and probably a cash register to hold all the money that people with give me because they feel sorry for me...not because I'm in a wheelchair, but because they think I have no life!!
5. A 1967 black loaded out Mustang with a speedometer that reads 140! Fastback or convertible...I'm not picky!
6. World peace-it's not all about me!
7. Now back to me~where was I? I won't wish for zillions of dollars, but it would be nice if I didn't always have to think, "Is there enough money in the checkbook this week for me to buy this?". Know what I mean?
8. Wouldn't it be just the coolest if we could have a blogging convention? How neat it would be to meet in some really cool place (Hawaii, Swtizerland, or even a spa) where we would all finally meet one another! We would have plenty of time to talk and we wouldn't be rushed and thinking we need to move on to the next friend so we can get to know everyone. Who would like to be our guest speaker? Anyone?
9. I'm a fairly simple kinda gal so my next dream would be that I would love to go shopping and find THE outift! I would have my hair done and it would look perfect (no gray hair). My hubs would send a limo for me and when the chauffer opened the door inside sat.....my husband (who did ya think I was going to say?). He is dressed to the nines! We head off to the symphony to enjoy an evening of beautiful classical music. After, we go on a carriage ride around Indianapolis. The stars are bright and it's cool enough that we need a blanket to snuggle under. Then we head to a fancy restaurant where they don't have a dollar menu! The hostest is professional. The waiter is charming. The food - perfection! My husband - can't take his eyes of me. Me - well, I'm in heaven at this point. Sigh!
10. I wish that Cold Stone Creamery carried watermelon sorbet all year long!
11. I would love it if someone would invent a self cleaning toilet so none of us would ever have to do that chore again! Or if you are someone that loves it - would you come do ours?
12. How do I wish that I could go back and capture my life on film. Yes, even the bad times. I would love to see my husband and I meeting for the first time or what did my face look like the moment I heard about my kids. I would love to have more video of my father and my grandparents telling their facinating stories of the depression and other times. I would love to see me as a little girl and being able to run and jump and do cartwheels all the way down the driveway. I would love to watch myself at my first Donny & Marie concert. Or how about my first kiss? I wish I had it on film the first time my kids called me Mommy. I know I was beaming with pride! Oh, there are so many things I can think of right now that I would love to see again. How about you? Would you want to see your life on film?
13. I wish that I could make all your dreams come true!

3.28.2007

Did Ya See Him?


Did anybody see my boy last night on The Great American Dream? Ladies, you have to admit that this former teeny bop idol is looking G.O.O.D. He will be the BIG 5-0 this year! SIGH!
And then Donny was on Jimmy Kimmel later that night too! BONUS!
I need to go pick out my wedding dress now. I hope they come in purple!

3.27.2007

Nothin's Gonna Get Me Down

I haven't been my usual self lately. Being in a constant state of pain with no escape can make even the happiest person a little~shall we say~GROUCHY! People aren't used to seeing me this way. Even on my worst days I've been able to suck it up and put on that fake smile that says all is well with the world.

I know we're supposed to be real. We need to let others know how we truly are. I shouldn't fake it. I tend to do that alot. I'm just careful who I share it with. I do have friends, like you, that I can share my physical pains and my spiritual needs and know that I will be prayed for. There is no need to have a conversation (and I use that word lightly) that leads to negativity. On their end or mine for that matter.

I know people that thrive on bringing you down. When these annoying people see me you can almost see them shaking with excitement. They practically leap with joy as they head my way. The so called conversation went something like this:

Them: Hi, Amy! How are you doing today?
Me: I'm fine! How about you?
T: You know you are not fine. If you were fine you wouldn't be sitting in that wheelchair.
Me: No really, I'm having a pretty good day today!
T: So all the other days are pretty bad, huh? (as they tremble with excitement)
Me: No, not necessarily. I just have to be careful at how much I get out and about so when I am at home I can still get around well enough to take care of myself.
T: Oh, you poor thing. You are too young to be disabled already. You're missing out on life. And your kids have to help you alot, don't they? I bet they have alot of chores to do. Do they ever get to go have fun? (By this time they are practically foaming at the mouth!)
Me: My family and church is my life. I make sure I get enough rest so that I am able to go to Awana and Sunday services. We go as a family. If I had only one choice of where I wanted to go each week I would still choose church. I can always go shopping on line! And yes, my kids do help alot. They always had chores even before I had to get a wheelchair. I am still capable of helping them do their chores. We've always done it as a team effort.
T: But I bet they get tired of helping, don't they?
Me: Why don't you ask them?
My Kids: Well, nobody likes to do their chores, but no, we actually fight over who gets to help mom. We like it!
Me: (smiling)
My Son: I'm glad I get to help mom. And I used to help my grandpa too! They are the reason I want to be a physical therapist.
My Daughter: And I know God is calling me to be a nurse because of them.
My Oldest: I may not want to have a career, but watching my mom I know I want to be a mom just like her someday! We love spending time as a family. Most kids don't nowadays, but we do. And if we want to go hang out with friends we can if we want.
Me: (still smiling)
T: (wiping foam from their mouth) Yes, but I bet it can be a drag to always have to help your mother.

She walks away shaking her head. The kids and I look at each other with puzzled faces. Did she even hear what we had to say? My son asks why people act that way. We discussed how perhaps she doesn't have anyone to call on if she needed anything.

I feel sorry for her. Maybe if that really is the case she will remember my kid's attitude and she'll call us if she needs something. Hopefully I will see her out again and I can let her know our phone number. I don't even know her name and I have no idea if she knows our last name.

There are days, I admit, that I get down. I worry that I take up too much of my kid's childhood. I still have a hard time asking for things even though I know they enjoy helping. I can be selfish and stubborn.

I need to let God work in their lives through me, if needed. I'm raising a future nurse, physical therapist and mother! When I start thinking about that I realize what a privilege it is to be handicapable. Maybe I can help make a negative person a little more positive. Help them see the brighter side of any situation.

My kids didn't ask to be part of this situation. But they are part of the solution. And through all this God will use them in big and mighty ways!

3.26.2007

Enough Already!

Okay peeps. I must apologize. I have come to the realization that all I am ever doing is meme's. Not that they aren't fun and all~and not that I have anything interesting to write, but it is time to STOP! At least until Thursday when I do my Thursday Thirteen!! hehe!

Now having said this I better think of something to write about, huh?

I am very thankful that this afternoon I am sitting at my desk at the shop! Yep, that's right, I said shop. I haven't been able to come to work in almost two months! I have missed the smell of paint fumes, the noise of grinding, the screaming at employees, the men hogging the bathroom when I have to pee. Seriously, I have!

I am wondering how they have survived all these months without me. The moment I set foot (and crutch) in the door I have a thousand (okay, only two) people asking me to call this person or find this and find that or make me a shipping label. Ahhh, to be needed and loved again. Well, at least needed.

Little do they know I'm not getting much done today because at the shop we have DSL!!!! I only have dial up at home and since I don't know when I will be at the shop again I must manage my DSL time wisely! Y'all know what I'm talkin' about! I am having a hard time deciding which new blogs to visit after I stop by your place. Must. Meet. New. Friends.

Who thinks me need ice cream since it is a beautiful day out with a slight breeze? Me do! Me do! No offense, but I don't really care if you said no! Plus I have my most precious Woo with me and she deserves a vanilla cone for being such a good girl and staying home with me all this time! Yeah, that's the excuse I'm gonna use for being a bad girl!

I love you all. I will visit as soon as I post this non-meme!

3.24.2007

A Stolen Meme and Benefits Of Being Handicapable

I stole this from DeeDee. Me thief.

1. What time did you get up this morning? 1:30 am, 3:00 am and then for good at 5:30 am when my oldest was just arriving home. Now, now. Don't get the wrong idea! She was at Relay For Life that benefits cancer.
2. Diamonds or pearls? Like LaKisha sang the other night~Diamonds Are Forever!
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? Shooter~last night with my hubs! See what I wrote after this meme.
4. What is your favorite TV show? Little House On The Prairie. I know it's in reruns, but I can find it at least three times a day to watch. You didn't say it had to be current!
5. What did you have for breakfast? Well, since everyone was sleeping because of being out all night I had to survive on my own. I managed to find some popcorn on the floor, but when my dog saw me going for it she ran over and ate it. Grrr! The weird thing is she doesn't even like popcorn!
6. What is your middle name? Diane. I always wanted to change it to Marie.
7. What is your favorite cuisine? Italian men.
8. What foods do you dislike? I usually say no thank you to eel and lima beans.
9. What are your favorite chips? I like plain potato chips, especially if they are curly. And I like to dip them in ketchup.
10. What is your favorite CD at the moment? 4Him. Any of their cd's at anytime.
11. What kind of car do you drive? Dodge Caravan. But in my dreams a 1967 black Mustang!
12. Favorite sandwich? Chicken salad on wheat bread. And I wouldn't be upset if I found a hidden suprise either. Say a chocolate bar or something along those lines!
13. What are characteristics you can’t stand? When someone is self absorbed. If they are not into me than I don't want to have anything to do with them! LOL!
14. What are your favorite clothes? I so wish I could go anywhere I wanted in my pajamas. I have one night gown that I bought over twenty years ago at Disneyland. It has Minnie Mouse on it. It has been washed a thousand times probably. It is so thin I can't wear it in front of my son anymore.
15. If you could go anywhere on vacation where would you go? Back to Swizerland in a heartbeat. We stayed at a cozy bed and breakfast and it was simply beautiful!
Where is sixteen? Would I want to be 16 again? I don't think so!
17. Where would you want to retire? We own our own business which means we will never be able to retire!
18. Favorite time of day? In the evening when my joints start loosening up and I'm ready to breakdance!
19. Where were you born? Beech Grove, Indiana at St. Francis Hospital. Half of my cousins were born there too!
20. What is your favorite sport to watch? I love it that the Colts won the SuperBowl and all, but I don't like to watch sports. As you read earlier Little House is probably on so I will be watching that!
21. Coke or Pepsi? How about a Diet Mountain Dew instead?
22. Beavers or ducks? Either, as long as Chocolate Mousse cake follows!
23. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Neither. I'm an evening-er.
24. Pedicure or manicure? I've never had either one done professionally, but I do love it when my husband washes my feet and massages them and puts on all the fancy lotions on them.
25. What did you want to be when you were little? I always knew I would be a mom. I have three beautiful, caring, loving children. Ages 20, 18 and 16. They rock!
26. What is your best childhood memory? I had the best childhood ever! I would probably have to say spending an evening with my family watching Charlie Chaplin movies we rented from the library. Not videos or dvds. These were the reel to reel tapes we had to set up all our own. Mom would make popcorn and we would all laugh til we cried.
27. Ever been to Africa? No, but my hubby has and loved it!
28. Ever been toilet papering? Since my mom doesn't read this~the answer is yes!
29. Been in a car accident? Yes, Bambi ran out in front of me on my way to church. Wonder what he has against religion?
30. Favorite day of the week? Wednesday night because we have Awana at church and I love teaching the 3rd and 4th grade girls!
31. Favorite restaurant? Romano's Macaroni Grill. Ever been there?
32. Favorite flower? Snapdragons because they are just fun!
33. Favorite ice-cream? Edy's sugar free~any flavor. It is actually quite good!
34. Favorite fast food restaurant? Culver's! And we are getting one in just a few weeks!!
35. How many times did you fail your driver’s test? Yay for me...not once! I cheated. Not really.
36. From whom did you get your last e-mail? From my hubs at work. He sent me a link to one of my favorite cartoon characters as a girl~Hoshimoto. Anybody remember him?
37. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? Let's say I use your credit card and I'll shop at Kohl's. I'll make sure most of it is on sale or clearance!
38. Last person you went to dinner with? My hubs and I went last night to Dairy Queen before the movie. I'm a cheap date. Hamburgers were only .79 and we shared a drink. But I refused to share my ice cream cone! I said I'm cheap date, but I'm also selfish.
39. What are you listening to right now? My bulldog is beside me snoring, the birds are chirping outside and my tummy is saying~FEED ME!
40. What is your favorite color? Easy one! You got any harder questions? BLUE!
41. How many tattoos do you have? None, but if I did it would probably be a purple sock. Only a few of you will catch on to that. Plus I am just kidding~I would have to make it a pair!
42. How many are you sending this Email to? Do people still do that?
43. What time did you finish this e-mail blog entry? Does it really matter? Okay, it's 5:17 pm.
44. Favorite magazine: Highlights~hey, you know when you take your kids to the doctor you snatch it up first so you can go to the hidden puzzle. And who doesn't love Goofus and Gallant?
45. Coffee or tea? Hot chocolate please!
46. Do you tan easily or burn easily? Burn baby burn, disco inferno!
47. Do you color your hair? If so, how often? I don't, but I am getting so much gray I may think about it!
48. What was the first car you ever purchased without the help of your parents? A brand new 1984 blue Tempo! We were so proud of ourselves.
49. What is your most dreaded household chore? Since I am mom I enjoy ALL my chores! Okay, now that my kids aren't behind my back reading this I hate cleaning the bathroom sinks. Where does all that gunk come from?
50 Who do you tag to complete this meme? YOU! Just let me know if you do it so I can read yours. Or save it for a rainy day if you want.

And now for something completely different:

Last night I decided to use my new wheels and go see Shooter with my husband. When we went to pay for it the little girl said there was no charge! Our movie theatre has a free policy for the person in the wheelchair and their companion. HOW COOL IS THAT? Have you ever heard of this before? I may decide to not get hip replacements after all!

3.23.2007

Two, Two Meme's In One!

Howdy Folks! For some reason my Thursday Thirteen did not post on, well, Thursday. And since it is my favorite of all the meme's I have thrown caution to the wind and am posting it on a Friday! As the say on The Price Is Right...."(Insert name here), Scroll on down! You're the next reader on Laughing Through The Tears! Boy, what a dork I am today!
13 Good Things That Have Happened This Week


1. I just found out that I won this book over at Michelle's!
If you have never been to her blog you must do so now. Skip the rest of my post even! It is a beautiful place to visit. Not only is it BLUE, but she has great recipes, Friday freebies, Grains of Gratitude and lots of pictures and videos of her daughter Kayla who has Down's Syndrome. I love reading about her and watching her grow up. She will capture your heart from the first glimpse! Michelle even has an entry in this book! How cool is that? Today is World Down Syndrome Day with a theme of Celebrating Diversity!
2. Like I said yesterday I got a new set of wheels. I realize the post probably sounded like a whoa is me attitude. I did not mean for it to be. I am very happy with my new transportation. I especially enjoy it when my hubby pushes me so fast that I just have to yell, "Whhhheeeeee!", as the wind rushes through my graying hair!
3. Out of the blue, my friend Bridget called up and said she had made beef and noodles and mashed taters for the whole entire family! Too bad they had already eaten Ramen noodles!
4. And speaking of food~my momma bought some yummy strawberries just for me. She knows I won't share anyway so why bother buying a basket full or however they come!
5. After five long agonizing months of looking at myself in the mirror, plus the fact that I couldn't walk very far and had to wait for above mentioned wheels...I finally got my haircut! Would you believe that helped me lose two pounds? It's amazing how much gray hair weighs! Plus I am adorable once again ;o)
6. We had 27 girls in Awana last night! That was a record for the year. If everybody came that was on the roster we would have about 38! I think it is time for a contest or challenge on who can bring the most friends, don't you?
7. I was able to go out for lunch with my hubby to Arni's pizza! That was such a treat because I haven't been able to go anywhere besides church (which is fine!) since the beginning of February. Do you have an Arni's near you?
8. I was able to get 4 1/2 hours of restful sleep yesterday! I only have 127 more hours to go to get caught up on what I've missed. Hey, I'll take one hour at a time any night!
9. Sanjaya was NOT kicked off American Idol! Oops, hehe! That actually was NOT a good thing that happened this week!
10. My sweet hubby rented a movie, bought kettle corn, Milk Duds and NOS and we laid in bed together and had movie night! Yeah, that's right...just me and my hubby and our dog and the kids coming in and out, in and out to ask useless questions. Sigh!
11. One of he cats puked on the carpet the other day. No, that's not the good thing. The good thing is I wasn't the one that found it by stepping in it!
12. I was able to tackle the drawers in the kitchen and managed to get them all organized and cleaned again! Question....how can toast crumbs get in your silverware holder when they are on opposite sides of the kitchen? Just wondering!
13. All three of the kids have plans for Friday night! So it will just be me and my hubby alone in this big ole house. Yeah, that's right...just me and my hubby and our dog, who will not leave our side...ever! Sigh!
FRIDAY'S FEAST
Appetizer
Who is your favorite news anchor/reporter? Why?
Wollf Blitzer. Only because I like saying his name!
Soup
Name 3 foods that are currently in your freezer.
Edy's sugar free chocolate ice cream (better than it sounds!), frozen brussel sprouts (exactly as it sounds!) and Girl Scout cookies~Thin Mints. HEY! I can't be good ALL the time!
Salad
If you were to have the opportunity to name a new town or city, what would you call it?
Osmondville! The streets would be purple. All the banks would be named after an Osmond child such as First National Donny or Merrill Federal Bank & Trust. And when you are being pulled over by policeman the sirens would play "Crazy Horses". And then all the dentists would offer free teeth cleaning so we would live up to our town's name. And no one would ever be ashamed to admit that they were a little bit country AND a little bit rock 'n roll!
Main Course
What will most likely be the next book you read?
Well, that's an easy one! It will be, of course, Gifts! That's the book I just won from Michelle, who just so happens to have an entry in it. I even asked if she would sign it. Did I just reveal how much of a nerd I am?
Dessert
What's the first thing you notice about the opposite gender?
His voice. And if he's saying, "Hey good looking. Where ya been all my life!" Then I would answer him in a sultry tone, "Honey, we've been together since 1982!"

3.21.2007

Wednesday Wheelies

Well, what do ya think? I got a new set of wheels this week. Honestly, I am not sure how I feel about them yet. For one they are black. If you know me at all you know that blue is what makes me happy!It doesn't necessarily mean more freedom for me. I am unable to roll myself around because of lack of range of motion in my arms. And strength...lack of it!

What this chair represents to me is giving up. It just got to the point that I would cry with every step I took. My doctor says I am damaging my wrists, elbows and shoulders by using crutches. Of course I still have to use my crutches because I cannot take one step without them.

I'm not feeling sorry for myself, I promise! I am grateful for my new set of wheels. It's just I didn't picture myself in them at 42 years of age. Hopefully I will be able to get my new hips soon and I will only use the wheelchair when I am feeling just too lazy!! How's that?

3.20.2007

Three Word Meme

Hi Christine! I saw this at your place this morning and thought I'd do it! If anyone else does it go to her place and sign in with Mr. Linky!

The rules are simple. Answer each question in three words. No more, no less.

01. Where is your cell phone? Within hands reach.
02. Boyfriend/girlfriend? Love my girlfriends!
03. Hair? Desperately needs cut!
04. Your mother? She just called :o)
05. Your father? Died in January. (I'm cheating) Sweet, Precious, Godly
06. Your favorite item(s)? Quilt. Grandmother made!
07. Your dream last night? Do not remember.
08. Your favorite drink? Diet Mountain Dew
09. Your dream guy/girl? Donny Osmond. Sigh!
10. The room you are in? My home office.
11. Your fear? Falling. Breaking hips.
12. What do you want to be in 10 years? Healthy. Thinner. Grandma!
13. Who did you hang out with last night? Hubby. Kayla. Kara.
14. What are you not? A giraffe hater!
15. Are you in love? Si! You betcha!
16. One of your wish list items? Hip replacements....soon!
17. What time is it? Half past nine.
18. The last thing you did? Paid a bill.
19. What are you wearing? Pajamas. Tennis shoes. Attractive!
20. Your favorite book? Anne...Green Gables
21. The last thing you ate? Grilled cheese. Pineapple.
22. Your life? Not enough time!
23. Your mood? Happy go lucky ;o)
24. Your friends? Keep me sane!
25. What are you thinking about right now? My best friends!
26. Your car? Jade Dodge Caravan.
27. What are you doing at this moment? This meme. Duh!
28. Your summer? Hot. Humid. Busy.
29. Your relationship status? Married. 22 years.
30. What is on your TV screen? Nothing right now.
31. When is the last time you laughed? Late last night.
32. Last time you cried? One hour ago.
33. School? Can't remember anything!

3.19.2007

Monday Madness

1. How many times do you wake up during the night?

Well, for the past seven weeks or so I sleep really sound for about two hours and then I am awake until 6:00 am and then I doze for about an hour. YAWN!

2. On an average, how many hours of sleep do you try to get?

I would be happy if I could get four or five right now!

3. What day of the week do you do your "major" housecleaning?

It's random. It depends on when my kids are available so I can boss them around!

4. How often do you move your furniture to clean behind it?

Never! I couldn't stand to see the dust bunnies homeless!

5. Do you do your dishes by hand or do you own a dishwasher?

Yes, I own a dishwasher and her name is Kayla!

3.16.2007

Friday's Feast

Appetizer

Name two things that made you smile this week.

DeeDee always makes me smile and laugh everyday! If you have never been there you are missing it big time! And you so need to read the archives too. Let me know what you think about her!

Also, I found out I have competition! Seems that while on a business trip with my husband, Wensley (our bulldog) has decided to nibble on my hubby's ear at night! She loves to give him goodnight kisses, but I draw the line at nibbling! That's my job Woo! She and I had a serious talk when they got home. And you know what? She hasn't done it since.

Soup

Fill in the blank: Don't you hate it when ________?

You finally have the television all to yourself and you can't find anything good to watch?

Salad

When you can't go to sleep, what is your personal remedy to help yourself drift into Lullabyland?

Every single night I fall asleep with the television on. I wake up after two hours or so. I usually take that time to pray for people and I will fall asleep for maybe another hour. I am in dire need of a good night's sleep!

Main Course

What is something about which you've always wondered but have not yet found a good answer?

I'd like to know how well singers like Josh Groban, Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey, etc. would have done if they tried out for American Idol! I've seen some awesome singers that didn't make it through before and couldn't see how they could let them slip on by. Then again what's up with that kid with the scary hair? Yikes! He gives me the creeps! How about you?

Dessert

What is your favorite pasta dish?

I love Penne Rustica from Romano's Macaroni Grill. It has penne pasta with shrimp, grilled chicken and smoked prosciutto baked under a golden crust of Parmesan cheese.

Doesn't it look delish? My hubby can make something that almost tastes just like it! And it's alot less expensive too!

3.15.2007

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Random Favorites
1. Fast Food: Culver's
2. Flower: Snapdragons
3. Candle Scent: Pink Grapefruit
4. Candy Bar: Dove (for today anyway!)
5. American Idol Finalist: LaKisha
6. Game: Canadian Racko (It's regular Racko, but we create our own rules and twists!)
7. Book Series: Anne of Green Gables
8. Television Mini Series: Lonesome Dove
9. Puzzle: Word Search
10. Talk Show: Ellen
11. Dessert: Chocolate Mousse Cake
12. Place I've Ever Been: Switzerland
13. Meat: Chicken
Okay, so it wasn't very creative today! I've been so busy this week reading blogs and trying to catch up on actual work. Go figure!
News around here is I had a doctor appointment on Monday and she's trying to find me a doctor that will replace my hips sooner because I am damaging my upper body being on crutches. She raised my pain medication to see if that will help, but I hate being on so much medication that right now I am trying to tough it out. I gave in and got a perscription for a wheelchair. It's not a scooter because it's too painful right now to get in and out of them. So it's just a regular one that if I am up to shopping someone in my family will have the privilege of pushing me around ;o)
My mom is doing well! We have our days of tears, but for the most part she is doing okay. She's even helping me in Awana and when I am home by myself she comes over to help! She does worry about me alot though. I try to ease her mind and let her know I am going to be just fine!
My hard working hubby had a nice big write up in Hot Rod magazine (complete with a tone of pics!)! So needless to say I am very proud of him!
I hope everyone is gearing up for a fun weekend. Not sure what's on our agenda yet. I'm sure it will involve a board game or two!
Hugs to one and all!

3.11.2007

My Visual DNA



This was fun to do. Please let me know if you post one too and I'll come check it out!

3.10.2007

Throwing In The Towel

Please don't take this wrong~promise? The blog party was a great idea. A chance to meet others that will inspire me to be a better wife and mom. A way to reach out and let others know that your alive and well in Blogville!

I was so excited and started down the list of names to visit. I bookmarked several that I knew I wanted to check out more thoroughly. After hours of sitting at the computer I realized that I was only on #42! I wasn't too worried though because I had the rest of the week to par-tay! Suck it up. There's always tomorrow.

By Wednesday I had only made it to #112. Because I can no longer work I don't have access to dsl anymore. I'm still in the dark ages. I confess. I have dial up. And I thought I was slow! lol!

I felt a duty, an urgency to party my brains out. I laid in bed many a night and wondered what was happening in my absence. I missed posting my Works For Me Wednesday and my favorite Thursday Thirteen, which is back!!! While I was enjoying the good eats and the warm welcomes I was missing my friends that I visit faithfully.

I'm usually not a quitter. When it's painful I push that much harder. But ladies, I've lost my spark. It's too overwhelming right now. I'm throwing in the towel. For now.

I want to continue building on my friendships that I have now. It's not that I don't have room for one more friend. I know I will keep visiting new blogs and posting comments and starting new friendships. I promise to be here if a stranger stops by and needs a shoulder to cry on! But for now I need to visit some familiar faces.

I thank you for your hospitality. I'll try to stop by sometime in the future. Please don't hesitate to leave a comment. I will stop by and thank you in person~maybe even bring a box of chocolates to nibble on while we get acquainted!

Now I'm starting to feel a little guilty. Maybe I'll go check out just a few more blogs today. But only after I reacquaint myself with my old blogging buddies!

Here's a (((HUG))) just for stopping by today!

3.09.2007

Friday's Feast

Appetizer

What is your usual bedtime? Do you like that, or would you rather it be different?

I go to bed around 11:30. For the past month I only sleep about three hours a night. I'm pooped! And, no, it doesn't help to go to bed any earlier!

Soup

When it comes to advice, do you give more or receive more?

I've always been told I'm a great listener. I'll be there if you need a shoulder to cry on or to vent. I usually offer advice when I think you are asking me otherwise I tend to just listen and maybe even cry along with you!

Salad

Describe a memorable meal you've had.

I tend to brag on my husband, but ladies, he is amazing! One day he invited all my lady friends over to be Queen For A Day! He bought a beautiful boquet of flowers for the centerpiece and made a couple different types of teas and coffee. We then had to choose between french onion and tortilla soup. Then we had some kind of really, really expensive roast that melted in your mouth. Honestly, I probably could have eaten the entire thing it was that good! I can't remember the veggie right now, but I guarantee it was delish. And then we had a huge variety of desserts that were all personally made by my hubby. His six layer chocolate mousse cake and chocolate souffle were among the most requested, but he had other little fancy things such as lemon tarts and tiny cheesecakes. The food was all wonderful, but I love it that he thought of me and my friends as Queens and he made all of us feel like one that day too!


Main Course

Name a work of fiction that affected the way you think about something.

Redeeming Love by Francine (spelling?) Rivers.

Dessert

What is your favorite type of fruit juice?

I love grape juice and wish our communion cups were bigger!

3.05.2007

Will The Madness Ever Stop!

Wow! This party is C.R.A.Z.Y.!!!! I am having a B.L.A.S.T.!! Can you believe there are over 700 signed up right now? I don't know how I am going to make it to all the invites. Maybe I'll have to politely invite myself over for the next few weeks in order to catch up. Hope you don't mind! And my home has an open invitation~any day, any time...day or night...come rain or come shine...okay, enough already! You got the picture!

And now for a little Monday Madness

1. From beth: What's the most unusual hobby you have? How did you get started with it?

It's certainly not unusal, but I love signing up for any kind of free samples I can get~even if I won't use it! Then when they arrive I have a BIG basket I keep them in. It's like Christmas to me and I enjoy looking through them and see what I have! Once in awhile I cave and try something I haven't before and sometimes when I run out of something I just so happen to have a sample or two until I can get to the store! I need a life, huh?

2. From briar: How many different kinds of music do you listen to? Name a few favorites, if you please.

YES! A music question~my favorite! I have a wide variety of tastes. And I like it loud~and not because I am deaf! My kids usually ask me to turn it down!! 4Him as far as christian music goes, musical soundtracks are fun, Queen is awesome, there's Josh Groban, I love the TimeLife series like the '70's and 80's, Abba-'mainly because I am the original Dancing Queen, and I relaz to classical, but if you know me at all you know who I love always~SIGH! My man Donny Osmond....stop laughing! Hey, he's still in the biz after all these years! He must be doing something right! Scroll down a bit and you'll see another great meme called The Soundtrack of Your Life. It was so much fun to do. If you decide to do it please let me know so I can read yours too!

3. From iris: Do you take advantage of the outdoor areas where you live? What's your favorite thing to do outside? What's your favorite local bird?

We have many state parks that are just beautiful, but I have never been one to go on trails and hike. Must have something to do with my bum joints, but anyway my favorite thing to do outside is go to the waterparks. I'm great at floating in the lazy river and the slides are so much fun too! My favorite local bird is the Blue Jay. At least I think it's local! All I know is they are blue and that's my favorite color, soooo....

4. From kristy: Children: Do you have any?

Yes, I have three! Oldest-daughter (20), Middle-daughter (18), Youngest-son (16). We adopted all of them and they are biological siblings and the bestest thing that every happened to me and my husband!

5. From amy: What is your favorite part of spring?

Sniff! Mmmm! I love the smell of that first cut grass after a long winter and seeing green at long last!

And now for some randomness...

I've been busy working all day and my mom suprised me with some chinese food just now! Hello broccoli beef! Thanks mom, I needed that boost of energy!

Last night at church we had a suprise party for our new pastor. We had a popcorn theme and folks brought their favorite flavored popcorn. We brought lime and strawberry flavored popcorn. All you do is pop some buttered popcorn and add some jello to it~whatever flavor you choose~and then just shake it up real good! Your welcome!

Tomorrow night is American Idol!! Who is your favorite? I think a girl is going to win this year, don't you? I have not been as impressed as I was last year. Hopefully someone will suprise me though!

I'll leave you with a funny. When my son was 3 1/2 and we were shopping in the toy aisles at Target or Wal-mart he would pick up something he liked and yell, "Oh, I wish I could want that!" Isn't that cute?

3.02.2007

Let's Get Ready To Rumble~uh, I Mean Par-Tay!!



How should I introduce myself? What should I say?
Hello, I'm Amy and thank you for coming today.
Kick off your shoes and let me take your coat.
Check out my archives and see what I wrote.
Let's get acquainted! What would you like to know about me?
I'm married to my best friend and I am a mother of three.
Blue is my favorite color and I love giraffes!
I think Donny Osmond still rocks. And yes, it's okay to laugh!
I am crazy and silly, but can behave when needed.
You can share your heart and nothing will be repeated.
I have my share of daily challenges, this is true.
But without my Lord and Saviour, I couldn't make it through.
He's my source of strength, my rock, my guide.
God helped me survive the day my father died.
I love this new world of blogging and meeting people like you.
Thanks for stopping by today and don't forget your shoes!
Be sure and sign my guestbook and let me know you were here.
I'll be sure and stop by your place the rest of the year.

3.01.2007

Why Doust Thou Bloggest? Huh?

Yep, I've been tagged again! DeeDee asked me to list 5 Reasons I Blog. Okay, thinking, thinking..

1. When I was a young girl I loved Lisa Whelchel on The Mickey Mouse Club. I always felt there was something different about her. Years later I learned that she was a christian! I knew it!! Sometime last year I googled Lisa and came across her site and started reading her weekly journal. Awesome, by the way! One day she had a substitute writer, Sarah. Oh my! I ate up everything she had written. Her writing was amazing. Her story was inspiring. A true testimony in the darkest of times. Lisa had mentioned at the end of one of her posts about blogger and I decided to take a peek. And so it began....

2. Okay, so I get my own blog set up courtesy of Heather who BTW is a hard working med student and a true sweetheart. My first thought was~What in the world am I going to write about? I have always been more of a listener than a talker. Then I discovered things like Works For Me Wednesday, Thursday Thirteen, and Friday's Feast. Okay! At least they gave me a start. Easy to do~yay! But I really enjoyed reading everyone's answers. "Wow!", I thought, "There are so many people like me. And there are so many christians too." I was hooked.

3. And then came the comments! Not too many, but people actually checked me out and started asking questions, or saying~been there, done that, and letting me know they were praying for me! Again the thought, "Wow! Who couldn't use more prayer?" And with my dad being so sick I just knew that if I could get the word out there that more and more people would be praying for my folks. And boy did the prayers come and more comments and e-mails. I am very thankful for them all. You helped me get through the toughest time in my life.

4. Pamela became my first real blogging friend. I couldn't have asked for anyone better! I thought that even if I don't connect with anyone else through this new world I would keep in contact with her. She lets me leave long, lengthy comments (LOL!), but I know she prays for me and is encouraging not only through her comments, but also her blog. You always leave her place happy and feeling blessed. And I've made so many more friends like DeeDee who is just as weird as I am and the funniest girl I know, then there is Carol who is a talented writer but she and her son, Ruben are true prayer warriors, and I also love Michelle. She is also a great encourager and she shares about her beautiful daughter, Kayla. Kayla always brings a smile to my face every single day! And Christine is great too! Just look at her picture. Doesn't she have a great smile? She's so friendly and sweet. She's a great commenter and we all know that we thrive on comments! Admit it, you know you do!

5. And lastly, you know how when you visit a sick friend or go visit a nursing home in the hope that you will be an encouragement to them but it turns out that you walk away being the one encouraged by them? That's how it is for me everyday! I wake up and think that maybe I'll pay you a visit. See how your day is going. Maybe I'll leave a funny comment or a cheery note just to let you know I'm thinking about you. Then you welcome me into your world and you pour your heart out. Whether it is funny, sad, inspiring or thought provoking I always close your door behind me with a laugh, a tear, a great idea, a feeling of motivation or even a sigh of relief knowing that I am not the only one facing challenges that daily come my way. With God's help and yours I can make it through each day!

And that's what keeps me blogging!