5 Questions from Shannon

I stopped by Shannon's yesterday and saw this meme. You know I'm never one to pass up talking about myself so thought I'd play along! Let me know if you answer the questions too or just leave your answers in the comment box! I'll be waiting with bated breath.

1. If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I crave meat all the time so I would choose to live on steak forever. And with all the different marinades and sauces it wouldn't always taste the same. I'll take mine medium please. Could you pass the salt and pepper too? Thanks!

2. What's the most nerve-racking "close call" you've ever had?

In 2004 I had a shoulder replacement. I was lying on the surgery table and hearing everything that was said. I could also feel the tube they were pushing down my throat. They were having a hard time getting in correctly and they kept pulling it out and sticking it in. I realized then that I should be completely under by now and not knowing a thing!

No matter how hard I tried to talk or move or even open my eyes there was no way for me to let them know that I was still awake. I even heard my doctor's voice and I was scared that they were going to start cutting me open and I would be able to feel them cutting my bone off. You can imagine how scary that would be! I just prayed and pleaded with God to let them realize what was happening.

When I woke up I didn't feel a thing and I honestly thought I died and went to Heaven. Usually after surgery I wake up to pain and vomiting. I thought to myself, "Hey, that wasn't bad at all!" Then I heard a small child crying and I knew then I hadn't died because there is no sorrow in Heaven. I was bummed at first because what better place to be than with Jesus, but then I stopped and praised Him for this miracle and saving me from what could have been.

3. Name five features your ultimate dream house would have.

A. All on one floor with no steps anywhere and hallways and doors wide enough for a wheelchair. Counter tops and cabinets low with easy access. I saw a cool bath tub where you just step inside it and sit and it fills up with water! Oh how I would love to take a bath again. Okay, you got the point, make it handicapped accessible. I didn't want to waste all my turns on explaining what I need and would love to have. I know, I'm cheating!

B. A huge family room with shelves full of board games, all of our books in alphabetical order, and a terrific sound system with every cd I could ever want, a huge movie screen with theatre seating, and a popcorn maker of our very own, and then a candy counter with all of our favorites, a fireplace in the corner, huge bean bag chairs everywhere and a two bathrooms. One for boys and one for just us girls. I'll have my doll collection down there and hubby can have his toys. And we'll have a disco ball too when The BeeGees and Abba are playing! I am the dancing queen you know.

C. A deep freeze with an endless supply of meats, ice cream novelties, and wheat bagels. And a fridge filled with never ending gallons of milk, sugar free drinks and deli meats and cheeses. Oh yeah, and an ice dispenser on the front with both cubed and crushed. And how about shaved too in case we want to make sno cones. Otherwise I'll just get out my Snoopy Sno Cone maker. What flavor would you like?

D. My master bedroom suite will have his and hers walk in closets full of the hippest clothes (or at least some that fit) a fireplace in the corner, a HUGE bed with at least a dozen pillows for me and two for hubs. It will be a beautiful shade of blue, of course. The walls will be filled with special pictures of family and framed art - like the pictures the kids made all through school. My bedroom will never smell like my dog because she will have her own suite. And there will never be clothes on the floor because the minute hubby starts to throw his socks on the ground that song from Hanson, you know....MmmBop will come on. It won't take long for him to put things away because he hates that song! And because I rarely get any privacy (even when I go tinkle) the kids will have to earn a special pass in order to enter my queendom.

E. I want my ultimate dream home to be a place where anyone and everyone feels welcome to stop by anytime. I want my future grandchildren to be excited when they come, not because of all the cool stuff but because it's a home filled with laughter and lots of love!

4. Who has been the most influential non-relative in your life?

I don't remember her last name, but her first name was also Amy. We met at Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago. I was ten, just diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. She was 17, also living with JRA. Amy already had had multiple surgeries, but was fiercely independent. Through her I could see what my future could be like. I was in awe of Amy. She drove to the big city all by herself, held a job and managed her life at 17. And she was on crutches and in a lot of pain. I saw Amy about every six months for a couple of years. The last time I saw her she was getting ready to go to college. She was off crutches and doing well. I never saw her after that, but what an impact she made on who I am today.

5. What one non-physical feature would you most like to change about yourself?

Okay, I know I just wrote about independence and how in awe I was, blah, blah, blah. I love being independent, but I also need to learn to ask for help. I'm very stubborn to the point I push myself so much and then I end up in so much pain I can't do the little things for myself. Then I really have to humble myself and ask for assistance when I know my family, bless their hearts, are thinking, "Why didn't she let me do it for her in the first place?".

Friday's Feast

Appetizer

How many pieces of jewelry do you wear most days?

Anymore I just wear my wedding rings. But when I am able to get out and about again I will put in my nose ring, my belly button ring and make sure all my tats are showing! ;o)

Soup

What is your favorite instrumental song?

Pachebel's Canon in D Major. I could listen to this ALL day long and never tire of it. My bridesmaids walked down the aisle to this beautiful piece of music.

Salad

Who has a last name that you like?

Uh duh, Donny's of course! I need to get used to being called Mrs. Osmond though! I think I can handle it.

Main Course

Name a popular movie you’ve never seen.

There's a lot of movies I have never seen like:
1. Gone With The Wind
2. Casablanca
3. The Exorcist - and never will
4. Citizen Kane

But I have seen Goin' Coconuts with Donny & Marie Osmond...hehehe!

Dessert

Fill in the blank:

Nothing makes me ________ like ________.

Nothing makes me happier than the sound of a baby belly laughing!!

Thursday Thirteen

13 Thoughts of Thankfulness & Randomness

1. My crutch went out from me yesterday and I slipped. Thankfully my card table was close and I landed on it. Bent the legs something terrible, but I didn't go completely down. Every inch of me is sore today, but PTL I didn't break anything!! Scary.

2. I'm thankful I missed Larry King Live with Paris Hilton last night!

3. I was curious to know if you are allergic to anything. I'm not allergic, but I get sick when I take codeine or morphine. I'm thankful I'm not allergic to anything.

4. Gas is down to $2.58 today!! Thank you, thank you. Keep going down!

5. I'm 42 and my wisdom teeth are finally coming in. Swell. What do you bet I'll have to have them taken out? I am thankful that I still have all my teeth. :o)

6. My dad's headstone was finally put up this week. I am thankful I was able to take my mother to see it.

7. I am thankful that my MIL got along so well with her knee replacement. She looks as though she never had surgery. She goes home tomorrow and I'm sure she is thankful too!

8. I've done pretty well this week on the weight loss challenge. I did have a few Starbursts though. Eight to be exact. But that satisfied my craving for them and I'm good to go. What's your favorite flavor? Mine is orange.

9. Has anybody watched Little People, Big World? I just love that show for some reason. I guess I identify with people facing challenges and like to see how they overcome it.

10. I have received so many cards this past week from people letting me know they are praying for my upcoming surgery and volunteering to cook meals or clean. I am thankful for their love and friendship!

11. I'm thankful that tonight's supper is already in the crockpot and cooking. Mmmm, roast!

12. Not really looking forward to my physical next week because of the stinkin' blood tests. I am a very hard stick and it can take up to six or more tries before they decide to get it in my fingers. For my surgery they will probably have to do a central line which is not a lot of fun either. If you think about it please pray that on Wednesday I will only get stuck a few times. One would be even better!

13. Barb and Rob drew my name for the recipe giveaway she was hosting! I am thankful to get some new recipes for my husband to try. I love winning in Blogville!

Childhood Memories

Kids. You gotta love 'em. I would think that as your kids got older they would understand time better. "Mom. Tell us what is was like in the olden days when you were a kid." They say this with a sparkle in their eye as they look at my ever greying hair. Sigh.

As I say with a straight face to my gullible children that we were the first on the block to have indoor plumbing I start remembering the good ole days...

Deciding between a bowl of Quisp or Golden Grahams cereal was the toughest choice I had to make back then.

Filling my new Trapper Keeper with my tie dyed pencils and bright colored loose leaf paper. Oh how I loved new school supplies! And the smell of a new box of crayons was almost as good as my yearly bottle of Love's Baby Soft perfume.

My mom letting me watch the Afterschool Special before I finished my homework.

Schoolhouse Rock

Being allowed to go to the Sunday double matinees all by myself. My mom always put my hair up in curlers on Sunday afternoon so I had to go to the movies with about a dozen pink foam curlers in my hair!

Going to the roller skating rink was considered THE place to hang out.

Inviting friends over to make snow cones on your Snoopy Sno Cone Machine. I think they still make them! Or how about Shrinky Dinks?

My dad won a television that had Pong built right in! We were the first in our neighborhood to enjoy such a luxury...lol! My brother and I would play it for hours. I can't even imagine doing that now.

Curling up in bed on a rainy afternoon and reading Charlie Brown paperbacks or Little House on the Prairie. Hey, I still do that!

Guessing which Brady Bunch episode within the first three seconds of the opening. Hey, I still do that too!

We had a bell as big as the Liberty Bell that mom would ring when it was time for us to come home. We knew that it was time for supper! Which during the summer always consisted of green beans, sliced tomatoes, corn on the cob, fried potatos, and tea.

I carried the biggest colored comb in my back pocket when I feathered back my hair. Why oh why did I cut off that long beautiful hair?

Picking out a tv dinner was a real treat. So was getting to eat at White Castle.

I always wanted to break a leg so I could have a cast and let people sign it. Plus I thought crutches looked like so much fun! Little did I know...

VBS and cherry Kool Aid. The two go hand in hand.

4H sewing projects and tears. These too go hand in hand!

My first PG movie. I say Tommy with my brother. Didn't understand a thing!

I loved rolling down the hill just as fast as I could go.

Wax lips, candy necklaces, Freshen Up gum, Now & Laters, giant Pixy sticks!

The whole neighborhood used to wait on my front porch for the school bus to come. My mom would come out and talk and they all thought she was a cool mom.

Seeing Donny Osmond for the first time and wondering, "Who is that?!!!" Forget Steve McQueen, there's a new man in town!

Blue eyeshadow and clear lip gloss that tasted nasty. I thought I was so pretty. After all, it was blue!

Reading "Are you there God, it's me Margaret?" with my friends and laughing and giggling wondering when will I get my period? Ten years old is just too young to start.

Christmas was very special. Until the age of thirteen I always got a brand new baby doll. When I was going into high school I still had a baby doll on my wish list and my mother told me I was too old to play with dolls. Bah humbug! I still have alot of my dolls. My Thumbelina's are by far my favorite and then my anatomically correct little boy. I'm so juvenile!

Do you remember getting the book order forms in school? Oh how I would go over and over it and spend my money wisely. We didn't have a lot of money, but I was always allowed to spend three dollars each time.

My folks use to let me order the box of seed packets from the comic books so I could go door to door selling them. I was never able to sell very many of them and dad always ended up buying the rest.

My first computer was a Commador 64.

Family nights of board games and watching Charlie Chaplin or Ma & Pa Kettle movies were THE absolute best and still are!

Oh I could go on and on. This was fun reminiscing today. What's something about your childhood that brings back fond memories?

Answered Prayers

Laurel Wreath is our hostess this week for In "other" Words. I've never participated before, but when I read the quote she chose I knew I wanted to share my heart. Please stop by and see what she and the others have to say on the subject of prayer.

"When there is little awareness of real need there is little real prayer."

~ Donald S. Whitney ~

Spiritual Disciplines For the Christian Life

My husband was leaving for London in less than two hours. We live forty five minutes away from the airport. How could I have misplaced his passport? We had literally torn the house apart all morning trying to find it. Panic set in. My husband, naturally, was quite upset with me. I had promised him that I would have him packed and ready to go. I failed.

I could see the clock ticking away. I was in tears. He had to leave in less than fifteen minutes if he was going to make his flight. I knew in my heart that I had put his passport in the top drawer on the right. I knew it. But it wasn't there. I feared the worst. Would my husband lose his job because of me?

I felt helpless and hopeless. I was ready to give up. I threw myself on the bed crying. As I lay there sobbing I thought of Philippians 4:6-7.

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

I remember thinking is it really okay to pray about something like this? I knew He would listen, but I felt like asking God to help me find the passport was taking away from the real needs of others. I pondered over the verse again and then begin to pray.

Lord, I know you know this already and I honestly don't know if I should be asking for this kind of help. I'm scared Lord. I've lost my husband's passport and I have no where else to look. I know You know where it is. Please God give me direction. Amen.

I continued to cry. Mainly because I was feeling sorry for myself. I didn't want my husband to be mad at me. I was scared for me. It was my fault. I went to my husband and told him I was sorry. He hugged me and said not to worry.

I stood in the middle of the bedroom still not sure what to do. I walked over to the chest of drawers and took out the top drawer completely. I bent down to take a peek and what do you know~I see the passport! That's when I REALLY let the tears flow. I immediately cried out, "Lord, you are so good to me. Thank you for allowing this to happen. I see now that You care about all our needs no matter how big or small they seem to us."

To me it's a miracle. I was healed that day, not from physical ailments, but from pride. Who was I to think that I can do anything on my own? God knows every detail of every situation. I have a desire to glorify Him in all I say and do. How am I to reflect His glory when I didn't even trust Him with my need?

I consider it a privilege being allowed to call on God anytime. I don't want the focus of my prayers to be on my needs, but rather honestly talking to Him and asking Him to guide my every step. There's no better place to be, but in the center of God's will.

I Am Touched

I received the Blogger Reflection Award from my dear friend DeeDee yesterday. This is what she had to say about me:

"I correspond with Amy frequently. I don’t know that I’ve ever met someone who makes the phrase “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” more real. And she throws a great party doing it. She is very transparent about her struggles, yet holds onto her faith with ferocity. And I imagine that she has a very hearty laugh. She’s a breath of fresh air. And she is not ashamed to admit that she “hearts” Donny Osmond. Because of her, I’ve come out of the closet as well. I “HEART” DONNY OSMOND. So there. Amy, you are a sweetheart. And I’m glad you’re my friend."

I know many of you love Donny already, oops I meant DeeDee. But, if you have never been to her place you must visit her today. And be sure to take the time to read her archives. To me DeeDee is the best writer in all of Blogville. I can't remember how I stumbled upon her site, but am I ever glad I found her. Most of her posts will leave you rolling on the floor laughing. I'll admit I've learned to go to the bathroom before I read her in the morning. Yes, she is that funny! But more importantly DeeDee has become a true friend. When I am down I send her an e-mail spilling my guts and in no time she replies back with words of encouragement, scripture passages to read and tells me she loves me. Who could ask for anything more?

Please follow these rules. I am allowed to choose five (and only 5) who have been an encouragement, a source of love, impacted me in some way, and have been a Godly example to me. Five bloggers who when I reflect on them I get a sense of pride and joy… of knowing them and being blessed by them. Even though I would pick DeeDee again for this award I know she would want me to choose five others that are deserving as well. It is very hard to choose only five because I love all of you so much, but here in alphabetical order (lol!) are my choices:

Carol rocks. Literally. She plays bass in a christian band, which happens to be all female. How cool is that? She's gonna let me play drums when we all get to Heaven! She, too, has been a great source of strength for me, especially when I lost my father five months ago. She reminded me that no matter what I will always be daddy's girl. Those few precious words meant the world to me when I was in such sorrow. There's lots to love about her though. Her blog is beautifully written. She can be deep and share what God is teaching her and she can be light hearted and make me laugh, which by far is my favorite thing to do. I'm pleased to call her friend.

Christine is beautiful inside and out. She is the bubbliest blogger I've met so far. From the moment I peeked at her blog I felt welcome and at home. We have a lot in common such as our love of Mustangs, we both lost our father, and we think Disneyland is the happiest place on earth. But who doesn't think that? She's a wonderful, caring mother of four beautiful children. She's a loving, supportive wife too. She's always one to write encouraging words when I am not feeling my best or even when I am. She let's me know she's thinking of me and praying for me. She makes me smile everyday when I see her picture. You can't help, but smile back. I'm blessed to have her for my friend. We so need to go to Disneyland together!

Kimmy I felt an instant connection with her. We are still getting acquainted, but I knew we would be friends. She's fairly new to Blogville so be sure and stop by and say Hi! She's open and honest with her feelings. I like that. I feel comfortable sharing my struggles with her and know that she understands. I'm never judged by what I say, only encouraged. I know she prays and is concerned just like a friend would be. Just by reading her blog you can tell what a huge heart she has for others. She's a committed mom and I enjoy reading about her boys. She shares what she is learning from her devotions and books she is reading. You never know if one of her posts is exactly what God wants for you that day! I would love to meet Kimmy. I have a feeling I would be welcomed with open arms.

Michelle is the best. I came across her blog because of her beautiful daughter Kayla. I love children, even more than laughing. She posts so many pictures and videos of Kayla. We are invited into her world as she writes about Kayla. She shares from the heart and is real about life with her daughter and husband. Michelle writes the best Grains of Gratitude every Sunday. You can tell that she is truly thankful for the good and even the trials she comes face to face with. She's such a loving wife and mother too. She's a faithful friend and always leaves uplifting and encouraging words. Once you've visited them you'll never forget them. I would love to meet her, Joe and Kayla someday. I feel honored to have them in my life.

Southern Girl is my hero. She loves Clay Aiken like I love Donny Osmond. She's faced many challenges over the years, but shines through every trial. She's an encouragement to me because I am trying to lose weight while having a disability and she's been successful on her weight loss challenge while facing some tough problems. SG is thoughtful and kind. I know we all know how funny she is, but I see a softer side. I think her mom, dad, brother, sil and nephew are blessed beyond measure to have her in their lives. SG sees the positive in every situation and that's my kind of friend. I know we could sit together and not discuss our ailments because they're is too much else in the world to focus our attention on like Clay and Donny. Right friend?

Thank you to all these ladies for their support, encouragement, friendship and love.

Thursday Thirteen

13 Reasons Why I Am Happy, Blessed & Thankful

1. My MIL had knee replacement surgery yesterday and she is doing fan.tas.tic!! I've had both my knees replaced and it was a very painful surgery. Mom is one tough cookie bcause she has only used her morphine drip a few times! Can you believe that? I am thrilled she is doing so well. I couldn't have asked for a better MIL. She loves me like one of her own.

2. I've discovered a new blog this morning and I fell in love with her instantly. Kimmie has six children and wants more. She has a heart for adoption and is open to God's calling. She writes beautifully and I can't wait to go back for another visit and read all her posts. I give you permission to leave this post and go say hello and see her beautiful kids. Go on, I don't mind!

3. I got lots of hugs yesterday just when I needed them most! Thank you friends!

4. My SIL came to see me yesterday. She was in town for her mom's surgery. She's been fighting breast cancer since the beginning of this year. She's lost her gorgeous red hair but she looks really, really good. She's always been there when I needed someone to talk to and I had a chance to share my heart yesterday. She's a great source of encouragment to me and always knows just what to say. Thank you Jesus for sending her just when I needed it most.

5. I'm happy just because the sun is shining, my kids are all peeling wallpaper and we are talking and laughing and remembering funny things we've all done. It's good to be able to laugh at ourselves from time to time.

6. I'm once again thankful that the May Day challenge is not a challenge for me right now. It's been ever so easy to eat healthy and often enough. Food is my source of energy and when I eat right I feel stronger, my skin is prettier and I go to the bathroom a lot more...hehe! TMI.

7. Less than a month until I get my new hip and then maybe only eight weeks after that until I get my other new hip! You put your new hip in, you put your new hip out, you put your new hip in and you shake it all about. You do the hokey pokey.................

8. I know, I know I say this all the time and I'm sure you are tired of reading it BUT...my Blogville friends mean the world to me. You really have no idea how this whole thing has been an encouragement to me. I have met so many wonderful ladies and I can't wait to meet all of you. It may not be on this earth, but boy what a meeting it will be! You'll know me right away because I'll be the one wearing my Donny Osmond concert tee shirt and doing flips and cartwheels and basically showing off!

9. Oh, and I will also be playing drums because down here I can't quite get the hang of it!

10. In all seriousness, I know that I will be on my hands and knees and praising God for all the wonderful things He has done for me. If it weren't for Him I would not survive another day.

11. I'm looking forward to my daughter's 19th birthday tomorrow! I can hardly believe it. She moved in when she was just 3 1/3 years old. She was the tiniest thing. She's only 4' 11" now so she's not that much bigger! She's my little nurse and takes great care of me. Happy Birthday Kara. I love you!

12. Even when I feel like I can't take one more burden I look at these three kids and just get that warm fuzzy feeling inside. I know it's corny, but it's true. God placed His trust in my husband and I to raise these children. I know I've made many mistakes, but the one thing they know more than anything is how much they are wanted and loved and appreciated for who they are. I am blessed beyond measure!

13. I am thankful for the trials that come my way. I'll admit I've been struggling a lot lately. It's not me and my health. That's nothing. I will get better. But I have had a long year of watching others suffer terribly. There are many things I don't understand in this world and maybe I never will, but I have to trust in God and remember that He does know what's best for us. He loves my kids, my father, my mother, my friends more than even me. And boy is that a lot of lovin'!!

What kind of things makes you happy, thankful and feeling blessed?

Ever have one of those days? Well, I am having one of those weeks. I need a hug. Anybody?


Thank you. I needed that.

May Day Challenge ~ :o)

I am thankful that it has been an easy week as far as food is concerned. Things are happening in my home that have caused some major stress. It would have been easy for me to eat my troubles away by consuming Dove chocolates with the little promises on each wrapper, or maybe a roast or two! Sorry, I'm a carnivore!

I have learned this week that food is just my energy source. It keeps me alive and ticking. Yes, I can enjoy what I am having, but in reality there are other things I enjoy more than food. My husband and kids. Spending time with my mother and being a comfort to her. Guiding my kids as they patiently get my house back in order. See? There's plenty that can occupy my time more than food!

I've been eating very healthy this week. I haven't had as many fruits as I need, but other than that I've done well. My precious mom is on her way to the store right now to buy me a variety of fruits. I'm keeping the fluids in and they are making their way out-mostly at night!

I don't know if I can have this make any sense, but I actually feel a little stronger. My pain level is still high, but I feel strong. Yeah, I'm sure that makes no sense to anybody, but oh well.

I go to the doctor on July 2nd for my physical before surgery and I know they will weigh me then. I'm curious to see if I have lost anything. Even if I haven't I won't let that discourage me because I know I am doing what is best for me.

Right now my goal is to keep eating healthy. Whether or not I have lost anything is not a concern to me at this point. My way of thinking is I need to keep all the nasties out of my body, stay feeling strong and keep eating right. Now I know this doesn't mean that tomorrow Daisy the Cow or a Snicker's bar won't be calling my name, but I'll stand my ground the best I can. I know this will make for a faster and easier recovery. And besides that I'm worth it!

Less than a month for my new bionic hip!!

Dear Dad,

I've been looking at photo albums this week. I love the black and white photos the best. The smile on your face as you hold me is priceless. I can see it in your eyes how much you love me. Did you know I was going to be a daddy's girl?

I loved being in your arms as a toddler. No wonder it took so long for me to walk! I insisted that I be carried all the time. And you happily obliged. I don't recall ever having to sit in a baskcart.

Your breath always smelled like the Doublemint gum you chewed. You always brought home a brand new pack of either Fruit Striped or Juicy Fruit gum just for me. And they were the big packs too!

And I can't forget about all my treasures from the vending machines. I still cherish the little black cat, the bouncy ball all covered in something sticky, the cheap spoon ring that made my finger turn green and the Scotty dog keychain. Is this where my love of simple things came from?

You and I went out on many dates-so to speak. Our favorite places were the dump (my personal favorite), the hardware store and the lumber yard. Do you remember the rocking chair that someone threw out as garbage? You knew you could fix it and paint it and make it brand new. I spent many days rocking my baby dolls in that chair.

Do you remember building the tree house for Jimmy and I? I was tickled to death to wear your tool apron with the big pockets and hand you nails when you needed them. I felt like we were a team. And I loved it that you would climb up and play house or cowboys and indians with us!

On Christmas Eve you and I would drive around looking for Santa as mom and Jimmy were putting the gifts under the tree. Your imagination was even bigger than mine! Funny how we always managed to see him right before we went home :o)

You were always soft spoken and gentle. You never raised your voice. I was never afraid of making you mad or angry. I always felt safe enough to come talk to you about anything. Thank you.

I so enjoyed going to the Ice Capades every year with you and mom. You always bought me a program that I would look at over and over until they fell apart. I still have them all!

You always held my hand tight as the technician tried to draw blood. You knew that was what I hated most. When I cried you cried harder.

Thank you for taking me to the Donny & Marie concert! That is a night I will never ever forget.

All the trips back and forth to Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago made for long days. You made them special. I loved talking on the cb radio and people watching while we were waiting to see the doctor. Do you remember that little thrift store we would walk to in between appointments. I always managed to find a new treasure to bring home. And what a treat it was to eat at Red Lobster on the way home!

Family devotions were very special. All of us in our pajamas sitting on your and mom's bed. You both taught us His words and explained salvation to us. You led by example. You never waivered from your faith even in dark times.

Parkinson's came out of nowhere and took us all by surprise. You could have been bitter and ugly, but you were strong and brave. Never asking why. Never complaining. Always thankful for the care mom gave you. She loved you more than anything.

All the town's people loved you dad. Did you know that? I've never heard an unkind word on your behalf. Only words of high praise and adoration. Even from one of the men you had to fire once! He said it was the kindest firing he ever received.

As a grandpa you ROCKED! All the grandkids knew how much you loved them. You made time for them just like you did us. They knew you would listen and offer good advice. They miss you.

As a husband you were supportive. You always put mom's needs before your own. That one line speaks volumes in and of itself.

As a father I couldn't have asked for anyone better. I cherish every moment we spent together and know how blessed I am to have been your daughter. Thank you Dad.

Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and wonder what you are doing. It's only been five months since you left, but it feels like a lifetime ago. I miss you terribly. I am thankful you are no longer suffering! I look forward to seeing you again. I love you Dad and I am still your little girl!

This Is What I Need Right Now

There is nothing--no circumstance, no trouble, no testing--that can ever touch me until, first of all, it has gone past God and past Christ right through to me. If it has come that far, it has come with a great purpose, which I may not understand at the moment. But as I refuse to become panicky, as I lift up my eyes to Him and accept it as coming from the throne of God for some great purpose of blessing to my own heart, no sorrow will ever disturb me, no circumstance will cause me to fret, for I shall rest in the joy of what my Lord is--that is the rest of victory!

Sunshine Blisters

This post will be short and sweet. I'll explain in a day or two. Let's just say that the tops of my hands are sunburned and blistered which makes it hard to type right now. Love you all and I'll be back as soon as the pain and swelling are better!

P.S. I have done really well on my weight loss challenge this week!

Friday's Feast

Yesterday's post was about all about my precious Woo and I forgot to tell one of the funniest things she does. We adopted her when she was six weeks old and I guess I started doing this because I am a mom and this is what mom's do. When she would start to wander off or jump on people or just general naughtiness I would start counting...one....two... and for some reason when I would get to two she would stop! To this day if I want her to stop licking the floor or quit doing anything I do the one, two count and she stops. If only kids were that well trained!

Appetizer

What do you consider to be the ultimate snack food?

Easy question....hot buttered popcorn with fresh Milk Duds! I love salty and sweet things together and the stickiness off the carmel in my teeth is the best. Let's just say I have to spend a long time brushing and flossing my teeth if I ever eat this ultimate snack, but it is SO worth it.

Soup

On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 as highest), about how popular is your last name?

My maiden name was Williams and of course that is a very popular name, but my married name is probably about a two. And that's only because my hubby comes from such a huge family!

Salad

Who is your all-time favorite sitcom character, and why?

Probaby Barney from The Andy Griffith Show. To me Don Knotts was so believable in that character. It's one of my all time favorite shows!

Main Course

Do you shop online? If so, name some sites you like to browse for goodies.

I like to collect unusual Noah's Ark items so when I have extra money I like to shop on e-Bay.

Dessert

Fill in the blank: I think ___________ should be ___________.

I think dessert should be eaten first.
I think gas prices should be lower.
I think my surgery should be sooner.
I think Donny should be my next husband!

Tricky Thursday Thirteen

13 Tricks, Phrases and Interesting Facts About WensleyDale

1. Woo can stand on her hind feet and twirl like a ballerina. Nothing funnier than a 5o pound bulldog in a tutu!

2. Wensley knows she gets fed twice a day. Even on days when she has had treat after treat she insists on eating at night. We've learned that we can put like a 1/2 cup of IAMS in her bowl and she'll be happy just because she's eaten twice.

3. This dog is a smart one. Just like the kids, she learned to make her presence known when we go to the bank. She knows that if the bank teller sees her she will get two dog bones!

4. When we pretend to make our hand into a gun and say bang she rolls over and plays dead.

5. She can do the easy stuff like high fives, shake, roll over, stay, speak, and kiss.

6. When we say get your baby she will find one of her stuffed animals and bring it to us. And when we tell her to get her toy she gets her squeaky ones and she also knows when we say go get your ball!

7. Being a bulldog she has a hard time giving herself a proper bath. When she sees one of us geting the baby wipes she immediately jumps on the bed and rolls over so we can clean her bottom. Poor thing. And when she is in heat she gets really gassy. She will by sleeping soundly and when she toots she gets up and leaves the room! Smart girl.

8. She tattles on herself. It rarely happens anymore, but if we forget to tell her goodbye she gets a little miffed and finds something to chew up. When we get home she greets us all and is happy to see us, but then she immediately runs back in the house and hides under the end table. That's when we know she did something! Once we find it we hold it up and ask, "Did you do this?" She always looks away from it and ignores us. We die laughing at that point.

9. She tell us she's sorry. When she has done something naughty she avoids us at all costs. If my hubby and I look at each other and say, "She's not even sorry." then she will run over to us and lick us to death as if to say she was sorry.

10. She LOVES to wear her bandanas. She gets all excited when we get them out and runs to us and stands still until we tie it on her. If we take it off she tries to stick her head back in the hole of the bandana. I personally think she feels pretty when she wears them!

11. My kids and I were bored one day and wrote down all the phrases she knew and understood. Our list was well over 100 when we got bored. I never knew dogs were so intelligent before we got her. I've always talked to her like she was a human and sometimes it gets creepy with what she understands.

12. Here are a few examples of the phrases she understood the very first time I said them. You'll understand why I got creeped out and wondered if she was reincarnated or something. But I don't believe in reincarnation so I just got the heebie jeebies instead. When I said these things I didn't yell, I just sorta said them casually.

A. When she was about 2 months old she was laying on my foot and I said scoot back and she moved about six inches away.

B. I used to pick her up and put her in the van. One day she was too heavy and I couldn't lift her anymore. I told her she was going to have to do it herself if she wanted to go. Then it was as if she took a deep breath and she jumped as high as she could. She didn't make it the first time, but she did the second. She also realized that my husband could still lift her and if we went anywhere together she still made him pick her up!

C. There isn't enough room in the hallway for me, my crutches, and her to walk beside me. One day I told her to back up and she did! If I say excuse me, she will step out of the way and let me through first.

D. She is used to going everywhere with us. Seriously. She's been all over the U.S. When we had to go to my father's funeral she was all happy because she could tell we were getting ready to go bye bye. I just looked at her and said, "Not today." She really did understand and she went off and laid under the end table without any begging.

E. She will eat absolutely anything that you drop and one day I accidentally dropped a pill. She of course saw it and instead of yelling NO at her I simply said, "That's not for you." And she didn't even sniff it. I tend to drop my medicine a lot and she just looks at it and leaves it alone. NOTE: I do not leave my medicine on the ground, I have a little grabber that I can pick it up with. She's well behaved, but I would never ever want ot harm her.

F. One afternoon she really wanted some treats. My husband said to her, "You know what to do." All of the sudden she is rolling over, trying to shake, twirling like a ballerina. She was going through all her tricks she had learned!! Needless to say she got severl treats for being so smart.

13. WensleyDale is the sweetest, most lovable dog you will ever meet. She loves people and animals all the same. She believes that we exist for her! She really is the most well behaved dog I have ever seen. She gets compliments all the time from strangers on her behaviour. She is loved like one of our own children and if at all possible she goes with us wherever we go. She provides me with love and laughter everyday. How could I not love her?

Recipe Exchange~Favorite Main Dish

Tales from the Scales is hosting a recipe exchange today. Ooooh, when I typed the word hosting I started thinking about Hostess products such as HoHos, Ding Dongs and Spice Cakes.......... yummers! I love salty and sweet things together, don't you? On road trips my SIL and I had to have a box of Ding Dongs and a can of Pringles. We would take a bite of the chocolate and then stuff a Pringle in our mouth. Slurp! In all honesty I know that if you put that in front of me this morning I would not eat it. To me that's good to know. Some old bad habits are no long desired. Yayness!

Around our home we love, love, love chicken! We buy truckloads of frozen chicken breasts so we never run out. We eat it practically every night, but after awhile our beloved chicken starts tasting the same. My creative hubby was in Kroger one day and bought several different marinades like lemon pepper, teriyaki, santa fe, caribbean jerk, bbq, you name it they got it!

He put about six chicken breast in the crockpot, added one bottle of marinade and cooked it on high for one hour and then low for another three to four hours. The chicken is ever so tender and tastes ever so good! We usually serve it over brown rice along with a couple of veggies.

With all the different flavors out there we found it just adds a little ZING and ZEST to our foul friend. Of course you can marinade just about any kind of meat you want, but this is our preference. Enjoy!

May Day Challenge~Week Four

I touched on this in yesterday's post, but since it was so enticing I'll share once again.

If you remember last time I was struggling with being on a higher dose of prednisone and feeling like I could eat all the live long day. And. I. Did. Even though I felt better I knew there was no way I could continue doing. I'm already a BIG girl and need help up from my family. I know they want to get muscular and fit for the summer, but I also realize they don't need to get a hernia either. I'm sweet like that.

I started taking my prednisone all at once instead of once in the am and once in the pm. Well, I do hurt more and my physical limitations have increased again, but I am not eating! Hallelujah! Now my trouble is that when my pain is increased I don't want to eat anything because I simply am not hungry.

My struggles this week are making myself eat several times a day and drinking water. I normally love water, but this week it does not taste good so I've been drinking a lot of Diet Mountain Dew. I know. I know. I shouldn't have allowed it in my house in the first place. I guess I justified it by saying it is diet, but it is still not good for you. Especially when you have bad bones.

But the good things I've done is resist kettlecorn which I would probably give my right arm for. Hey wait, I'm right handed so I change that to my first born! I've been good and sticking to about 7 ounces of meat a day. I've had lots of dark green veggies thanks to my hubs who keeps me eating healthy. Thank you Love.

I'm trying my hardest to do my exercises they have given me before I have hip surgery, but it is only making me hurt more. I have so much energy though and I don't know how to get rid of it except for bossing people around! Before you advise me to lift weights or things like that please know that I have arthritis in every joint and my whole body is in a flare up. I can make my shoulder hurt for days on end of I lift a glass that is too full. Is Diet Mt. Dew lighter than water? Just checking! What if I leave out the ice? Okay, fine.

Begrudgingly I vow this week to give up my Dew and drink lots and lots of water. When I want flavor I will have a glass of Crystal Light or a piece of Chocolate Mousse Cake. Gotcha!

I'm Baaacckk!

I'm sorry for not posting about my exciting life lately. I've spent much of my blogging time visiting y'all and trying to catch up on comments. Your lives are much more interesting than mine, but I do have a few things to share.

My baby girl graduated! She was 23rd in her class of 156 and graduated with an academic honors diploma. She worked hard and I am so proud of her. This girl knows how to study and will have no problems in college. I say this because my son doesn't have to do anything to make an A in a class and I fear he will be lost in college because of his study habits~or lack thereof. Right now my daughter is going to take her prereq. classes at Ivy Tech and get her CNA training this summer. She's still praying about where to go to college for nursing school. I am thankful she is going to be around for awhile I must admit. With me having surgery here soon she is a huge help when it comes to taking care of me.

Her open house was held at the church and it went over great. My daughter isn't in to all the thrills and frills so it was very simple. I was thankful for the simplicity of it all. My main concern was a yummy punch and another blogger gave me a great recipe but my daughter said let's just take blue Hawaiian punch, ginger ale and crush up ice and viola! And you know what? We got more rave reviews about that so-called punch. I'll remember this for when my son graduates in two years!

Let's see, what else? Well, I took my mom to the cemetery on Memorial Day to set out flowers for dad. They still don't have his headstone up. Because my mom did so well that helped me to not just break down completely. I, personally, am not one to visit a cemetery because I know that my dad is in Heaven and it is just his shell that is in the ground. But I always want to take my mother when she wants to go.

My hubby was in Pennsylvania for the weekend so I had the opportunity to keep my kids busy. They were a huge help and we cleaned out drawer after drawer and three closets. We managed to take two van loads of stuff to Goodwill! My son was very busy peeling wallpaper in our bathroom. Our home was built in 1976 and, ummm, yeah, we still have the same wallpaper up. Let's just say it was really ugly! Does anybody remember foil wallpaper? 'Nuf said.

Hows does a family of five manage to gather so much junk? It's ridiculous the things we have saved over the years. My kids are going Wednesday to the local thrift shop and opening up an account so they can start making a little money on some of their old clothes and things. I think when I'm back to moving I need to do that too. Hey, if it will help pay for a tank of gas then I guess it's time to sale my size 3 jeans that I will never ever fit in again! I just kept them so I could prove that I used to have no figure. I was so tiny people, but thanks to Chocolate Mousse Cake I've fluffed up a bit. :o)

Speaking of which, I was taking my prednisone twice a day and all I wanted to do was eat everything in the world. Seriously. Even the stuff I dislike sounded good! Anyhoo, I switched to taking it all in the morning and while I do hurt more at least I am no longer hungry!!!!!! This is a HUGE deal folks. Actually I am back to making myself eat every few hours. I guess I should have waited and posted about this tomorrow, but that's okay. I'm happy!

I'm really anxious to visit you guys so I am gonna hush and come say HI!