Two 4 Tuesday

My friend Sandy tagged me for a cool meme. It was hard to choose only five things though because He is so amazing! If you have not done this meme, please take some time and do it. This meme has made me think and fall deeper in love with my Savior.

5 THINGS I DIG ABOUT JESUS

1. First and foremost, how could I not love the fact that He willingly gave up His life for each and every one of us? He died so that we might live! John 3:16

2. I love how Jesus treated women and children. With women he never talked down to them or put them in their place. He was honorable and respectful at all times. And with children he never shooed them away. He must have been so loving for all the children to want to be with Him and follow Him.

3. I love that Jesus has experienced being human. He has also been hungry, tired, lonely, angry, rejected, afraid and experienced pain. When we pray to Him about these things He fully understands.

4. I love that He is my Shepherd and when I need to go out of my comfort zone He will provide the necessary means for me! What better place to be than in the center of His will. I can have complete trust in Him.

5. I love the fact that Jesus is and will always be the ONLY man I need in my life.

He is the Way ~ John 14:6
He is the Truth ~ John 14:6
He is the Life ~ John 14:6
He is Bread ~ John 6:48
He is Living Water ~ John 4:10


WHAT'S IN A NAME?

Another good friend, Christine, has tagged me for a fun new meme...well, new to me anyway.

1. You have to post these rules before you give the facts.

2. Players, you must list one fact that is somehow relevant to your life for each letter of their middle name. If you don’t have a middle name, use the middle name you would have liked to have had.

3. When you are tagged you need to write your own blog-post containing your own middle name game facts.

4. At the end of your blog-post, you need to choose one person for each letter of your middle name to tag. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

My name is Amy Diane; although I always dreamed of being either Amy Marie or Amy Lynn!


D ~ Donny Osmond. Christine, does this surprise you? From the time I was about twelve I discovered him and have loved him ever since! If it wasn’t for my husband I would probably have a poster of him up in my room. Yes, I am that immature! Hey, I’m just being real here peeps! At least when I wear my purple socks he doesn't realize why...lol!

I ~ Indecisive. I drive my husband crazy! He’ll ask what I want to do or where do I want to have dinner and I honestly don’t care. I’ll say whatever or wherever. I’m the type of person that if you’re happy, then so am I! As long as we're together having fun you can decide what we do.

A ~ Artistically challenged. I can’t even draw a good stick person! I would so love to be creative and paint, draw or even decorate. But that was not my calling. My philosophy is if there is a nail in the wall then hang the picture there! I’m also musically challenged. Can’t carry a tune even if it only weighed an ounce! And I so want to play the drums. Sad, isn’t it? Please don’t tell Donny!

N ~ Naive. Yes, even at 43 I am still quite naive to the things of this world. My daughter has come home from work and asked me what certain things meant and I’ve not had a clue. We’ve had to go ask my “worldly” husband and in one case my mother what something meant! But I think I’d rather be naive of the silliness of this world than to be an expert.

E ~ Excitable. My husband laughs at me because I get excited over the smallest of things. A free sample in the mail or a good coupon makes my day! When we go to the SEMA show in Las Vegas it’s almost too much for me to handle because we come home with suitcases full of free stuff! And what’s even more fun is that we give most of it away to the kids at church and they are as excited as I am!

Now I have to try to find people to tag with the same letters of my middle name! Let’s see…how about…?

De and Donetta

It Coulda' Been Worse

An Island Life, Anna and Amy

Nice friends: #1 and #2 and #3 and #4 and #5

Exceedingly Mundane

Monday Madness

But it's not the meme! Just checking in to say I am here and working on my tags for meme's from Sandy and Christine. I also am writing some emails to a couple of you as well!

And for some reason today of all days when I thought I would have time for all of that my family needs me! I guess it's nice to be needed so I shouldn't be whining, but poo, couldn't they have waited until blogging time was over? Love ya kids!

Even my mom came over for me to tell her how to use her new blood glucose monitoring system. She needs me too!

And since I'm on a roll today is there anything I can be doing for YOU? Seriously! Just leave me a comment and I'll get to it as soon as possible....after I help one daughter with boyfriend troubles, the other daughter with her resume, my son with his geometry homework (yeah, right!) and my mom with her new machine. And I'm sure hubby will be calling soon for something he needs. BUT it's okay! LOL! As I was typing that my mom called to see if I figured out her thingy yet and my daughter is calling from the other room needing something!

Calgon~take me away!

1000 Blessing's Friday

I almost forgot it was Friday! Continuing on with my many blessings...

41. I was released from therapy on Wednesday! Now this doesn't mean that I'm not exercising anymore. It just means that my therapist has shown me all she can for now. When I have the other hip done she will be back!

42. Speaking of exercising...I am so truly thankful that I have exercises I can actually do! They are quite simple and I know it will take a long time until I could ever go to a gym or anything like that, but for now there are so many things I can do to get better circulation and maybe even build up a muscle or two!

43. My dear, precious mother thinks that since the church is no longer providing meals that she needs to step in and feed us. She has already made us three meals this week and my daughter just left to go get the vegetable soup she made. Mmmmmm! I'll be thrilled the first time I can drive and go see her and treat her like a queen!

44. I received the hospital bill from my hip surgery. It started out a little under $31,000! After insurance paid their part I will owe around $1500. So I am assuming my next surgery will cost about the same. Very blessed indeed!

45. I'm making several more friends in Blogville this week! It's such a pleasure to get to know so many amazing women.

46. I am spreading my pain medicine further apart and going down on my prednisone! I'm almost certain that by the end of the year I should be close to being off prednisone. I've been on it so long you have to be very careful when tapering off. But I will work hard at it!

47. I managed to collect a huge box full of pet food and treats to send to the animal shelter this week just by sending away for samples and coupons.

48. The sound of laughter and singing from my three kids as they watched High School Musical. It's nice that even as old as they are they still watch good, clean, family movies. You can guess what we're doing tonight if you have younger children!

49. I'm blessed to have such a hard working husband that gives his all every day he goes to work. I'm so thankful he enjoys what he does too!

50. I was also blessed this week with one of my friends spending five hours sitting on the bed with me laughing, crying and sharing what God is doing in our lives right now.

'Cause You Gotta Have Courage

Michelle honored me with the Courageous Blogger Award the other day. Thank you!

I think we all understand that it is Christ that gives us the courage and strength to tackle and overcome our trials. He allows difficult circumstances to enter our lives for our own good. I'm not saying I always like what is thrown at me, but I cling to the fact the He knows what's best in my life and His plan is perfect. It's up to me as a christian to seek His will and to follow it.

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.

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!

Thursday Thirteen

13 Things I Want To, Need To, Have To Do!

1. I have several memes I've been tagged for that I need to finish.

2. I want to go to the grocery store and get my family some food. I'm nice like that!

3. I need to finish paying the bills for the month.

4. I want to eat some cranberry-orange muffins my friend, Bridget, just brought over. And they're still warm! Even better!

5. I have to do physical therapy three times today.

6. I need to go get blood work one for my next surgery. :o(

7. I want to watch High School Musical 2 with my kids tomorrow night!

8. I need and want to finish writing my thank you notes for all the delicious meals my church provided this past month. They spoiled me completely!

9. I want, need, have to spend some time with my hubby~just me and him!

10. I need to get some actual work done this afternoon. I've been visiting with a friend for the last five hours!

11. I want to get up and walk without crutches~soon, very soon!

12. I have to get ready for Awana that is starting in just a few weeks! I will only be able to go the first night and then will miss at least a month, but I am excited to see what kind of group I have this year!

13. I want to, need to, have to visit all of you this evening~after I get my work done, of course!

Back To School Time!

I cannot believe it's that time of year again, can you? Remember back in the good old days when we started school after Labor Day? Whatever happened to that? Why do our poor kids have to start in the middle of summer? And why do I keep questioning everything?

Here are just a few of my favorite school memories....

1. Kindergarten - I was so scared to leave my mommy that first day and she didn't want to leave me either so she took me home! I have a feeling dad had a talk with her because I had to go to school the next day! My teacher was Mrs. Rose and she was beautiful.

2. First grade - Milk~YUCK! We had to have a milk break every morning and I would pretend to drink my milk. I was very sneaky and would toss my carton in the trash the same time some other kid did because I didn't want to get caught not drinking my milk. I still hate milk. Hmmm, who woulda thought I'd get arthritis ;o) My teacher was Mrs. Bromley and she was beautiful.

3. Second grade - Billy! Sigh. The new boy was named Billy and he had the biggest brown eyes and the prettiest smile ever! I also remember that I raised my hand and asked to go potty and the teacher wouldn't let me. I kept asking to go and she said to hold it until recess. I couldn't hold it anymore and well, you can guess. My teacher was Mrs. Lawton and even though she was beautiful she wasn't very smart for letting me wait. She was the one that had to clean it up ;o)

4. Third grade - I learned so much this year! I heard the f-word for the first time in my life. I didn't know it was bad and I asked my teacher what it meant. I will never forget the look on her face! I also learned I could steal candy from my teacher's desk when she left the room. She had these little foiled covered chocolates that were so yummy. My desk was up front and when she would leave the room me and my friend, also an Amy, would take them. Yes, it was wrong and I am ashamed for doing it, but please don't let this tarnish your image of me! My teacher was Mrs. Heiss and she was old and crabby, but had good candy!

5. Fourth grade - I felt so grown up in fourth grade. My mom let me grow my bangs out and I had the grooviest clothes ever! I even wanted to change the spelling of my name to Aimee. I wrote it once on a paper and the teacher marked it wrong! I remember mom buying me the cool colored paper~thanks mom! I still buy it for myself. I'm that immature. My teacher was Mrs. Worth and she was beautiful and very sweet.

6. Fifth grade - A huge turning point in my life. The beginning of the year my wrists started hurting. My folks figured it had to do with all the climbing and tumbling I did. Then my knees began to ache. Again, I was always jumping out of swings so why wouldn't they hurt?! I believe it was October (doesn't really matter) that the doctor tested me for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis and it came back positive. This was the first time I would be on crutches. But I also loved fifth grade. Back then we were allowed to read out of out little red New Testament Bibles every morning! We had a boy in class that still pooped his pants :o( But there were three Amy's and we were the best of friends! My teacher was Mrs. Cochran and she was elderly, fluffy, loved the Lord and the most beautiful teacher I had thus far!

7. Sixth grade - Middle school. Changing classes. Our own lockers. P.E. and having to take showers with other girls. Starting my period at ten years old. Going up and down three flights of stairs on crutches, carrying books-not fun! Boys! And lots of them to choose from. Horrible school cafeteria food. Winning the class spelling bee. My favorite teacher was Mr. Hammond. I think because he was young and cute.

8. Seventh grade - I still feel bad about this, but I cheated on a science test. I had missed a lot of school and thought I had studied enough for it, but I was lost once I got the test. My notes were right there and I peeked...over and over. My notes weren't that great either because I got a "C" on the test. Serves me right, huh? I also won the spelling bee again. My favorite teacher was Mr. Rubenstein because he raved about a poem I wrote and used it for an example for many years!

9. Eighth grade - Tough, tough year. Lots of pain. Splints for my wrists. Learning how to write left handed so I could wear my splint. And the drama! This is when I started hanging out with just guys. They were so much easier to be with. No fighting and no jealousy! Plus guys always stick up for ya! My music teacher didn't believe that I needed to be on crutches or wear splints. (Yeah, like I was doing it for fun.) She was giving me what for one day when my dear friend Mike stepped in and let her have it! He's still one of my closest pals. And I hate to brag, but I won the spelling bee yet again! My favorite teachers was Mr. Don (for some reason I can't remember his last name right now) He just recently passed away suddenly. Very sad because he wasn't that old.

10. Freshman - High school! I had finally got off crutches before I started school only to go and break my leg! So I started off my high school years on crutches. I stayed on them all four years so I won't mention it again! I was scared to go at first, but once I got there I loved it. I made some wonderful friends that first week. And some of them were even girls! And I had great teachers that were so willing to work with me because I missed so much school. And our high school cafeteria served the best food of any of the schools. My favorite teacher this year was Mr. Crowe. He taught algebra and back then I was quite good at it. We won't mention how good I am today though!

11. Sophomore - Typing and business classes. I may have had crippled fingers, but boy could I type faster than anybody! Sunshine Society. Spanish Club. Donny Osmond was hotter than ever! Laughing at lunch with the girls and pointing to all the cute guys. I got my first perm. Hated it! I had my favorite teacher, Mrs. German, for three classes...Spanish, English and imaginary lit!

12. Junior - Driver's Ed. Slumber parties. The kind where boys show up! I didn't do anything bad peeps! I was asked to all the dances, but I wasn't confident enough to go since I couldn't dance. Looking back now I would have gone in a heartbeat and had a blast! Oh well. My best friend's parent were going through a nasty divorce this year. We drove to school together everyday. Some days she would want to talk and I would listen. Other days she wanted to just be quiet, but I would still listen to her silence. I know she needed me to be sitting beside her feeling her pain. My favorite teacher was Mr. German. He didn't make me take my final exam when he found out my kitty died!

13. Senior - Enjoyed every minute of it! I loved all my friends and my teachers. Had no idea what I wanted to do in life besides being a wife and mom. I did miss a lot of school and usually went half days so my grades weren't particularly the best. But I remember just being really, really happy. Plus I was able to get off my crutches about a month before I graduated! That was exciting to be able to walk up and receive my diploma! I still loved Donny with all my heart. Some things never change...lol!

What is one of your favorite school memories?

Less Than A Month

Hi All! I realized I forgot to share some exciting news...well, for me anyway! I get to have my right hip replaced on September 10th!! It won't be long until I am doing the Hokey Pokey again. Boy, have I missed that ;o)

And even though I have just been through it a month ago, I am a little nervous. I know I shouldn't be considering how well I am doing, but it is still surgery! Ahhhh, but then I lean on my left side and realize how pain free it is now!!!!! PTL!!!!!

I do have a short list of prayer requests:

1. That I don't get sick when I wake up from surgery!
2. That my hemoglobin stays at a level I can still have the surgery. I'm taking iron to help.
3. That the docotrs don't twist my right knee so much that it is permantly damaged.
4. And that they can find veins easily this time.

I appreciate all your thoughts, prayers and encouragment. Just think, if I ever meet any of you I can run (okay, walk...but briskly) and meet you with open arms! That would be nice.

Happy 1st Blogiversary, 1000 Blessings Friday & Friday's Feast!

Wow! I cannot believe it has been a whole year since I learned what a blog was and decided to do my own. Where did that time go? Let's take a quick peek into the past, shall we?

A year ago I was in a tremendous amount of pain. So bad that I became bedridden for six months. A year later my pain is reduced by half! And in September that pain will diminish for hopefully a very long time!

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.

A year ago my father was also bedridden and unable to speak, eat or drink. But he was alive.
Five months later he passed away. Now he can walk and talk. And he is living with our Heavenly Father!

Philippians 3: 20, 21 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

A year ago I had a lot of friends. I still do, don't get me wrong!
A year later I have even more friends that have helped me get through a difficult year. What an encouragement you have all been to me.

Romans 15:5-6 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

A year ago I faced many trials. Life wasn't hopeless, but I was experiencing the toughest time ever in my life. I wasn't my usual happy self. I couldn't understand why God was allowing such sorrow into my life.
A year later my eyes have been opened. While I don't have the complete picture yet of why certain events had to take place this past year, I know that His plan is best.

Romans 5:3-5 We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.



Carrie is the creator of 1000 Blessing's Friday. It's never to late to join in and share. In fact, it may be just what you need to get you out of the dumps!

This weeks blessing are:

31. Visits from dear friends. How nice to sit around the kitchen table and laugh and catch up on all the latest news. Not gossip though!

32. Finding bargains. I love the thrill of a good deal. I actually get goose bumps!

33. Blue. I just love the color so much. We have a Mustang in our shop that just got painted the prettiest blue I have ever seen. Oh how I would love to be the one driving. But then again I would probably wreck because I wouldn't be able to keep my eyes off the car!

34. The sense of smell. I was thinking about my dad this week and remembering how he always had to have the oxygen tubes up his nose. And not being able to eat or drink he never got to smell anything different. One day I took over all kinds of things like chapstick, a candle, perfume, glue, a rose, etc. and held it up for him to smell. He was happy I did and then we laughed about the things I could have brought for him to smell that would not be too pleasant!

35. Instead of taking my pain medication every four hours I have been able to increase it to every six hours! My prayer is that soon I will be off vicodin and prednisone and down to only tylenol.

36. Blessed with a husband who works hard all day and phones often to check in on me and see if I am okay and if I need anything!

37. Received a "personal" birthday card from Donny Osmond this week! Hey! Don't rain on my parade. If I want to live in my own little world, than so be it!

38. My dear friends at church provided meals again this week! Today will be our last meal, but we have been blessed with an abundance of good food and a nice break for my family from doing all the cooking.

39. I was able to schedule my next hip replacement for September 10th. That's just one month people! Yikes! But I will be happy to have it done and over with and now I'm sure I will be off crutches and walking on my own by Christmas...maybe even Thanksgiving!! :o)

40. Just being happy and content. Sure I have lots of issues I need to deal with. I'm not perfect. Close though...lol! But right now I am just really happy and knowing how truly blessed I am.

Appetizer

What is your favorite kind of pie?

Oh, why does it have to be a food question this morning when I am so hungry?! And it is hard to choose a favorite. My friend makes a delicious minced meat pie. Never in a million years would I have thought I could eat that, but hers totally rocks. My daughter makes a 4H grand prize winning pineapple pie. I know! Sounds different, huh? And who could resist a chocolate or banana cream pie? I know I couldn't. But if I have to choose I would say pecan pie is my favorite. And heated up is even better!

Soup

Name something that made you smile this week.

Well, if you knew me at all I tend to always have a goofy smile on my face. It doesn't take much to make me grin. Some things that me me smile this week have been funny cards I got for my birthday, my bulldog sleeping (she has to stick her tongue out when she sleeps), and my husband brought me home 4 cans of NOS last night!

Salad

What do you do to cool off when the weather is hot and humid?

I have my kids fan me and feed me frozen grapes while I sip on a mint julep. Doesn't everybody?

Main Course

You receive $1,000 in the mail with a letter that says you can only use the money to redecorate one room in your home. Which room do you pick, and what do you buy to spruce it up?

I am going to be selfish and pick our bedroom even though the whole house needs a makeover. I would replace the carpet, paint the walls, get two new lamps that don't look like they are from the 70's, and get a new bed! We used to have a water bed but it got to difficult for me to get in and out of so we bought a California King mattress to fit the frame. Only trouble is the wooden frame hurt my hips and knees getting in and out of bed so I asked my husband to saw it off on my side. It works, but it looks hideous. Any chance we could raise it from $1000 to say, maybe $5000? I know I've already gone over the limit and I didn't even get to add all new pillows!

Dessert

Fill in the blank: My _________ says __________, but I __________.

My body says it's old, but I say I'm still young at heart!
My husband says he loves me more than our dog, but I know better than that!
My son says he wants to join the army, but I hope he becomes a physical therapist.
My friend says I make her laugh more than anyone else, but I think it's only because I'm the biggest dork she knows!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday Thirteen

Simply 13 Things About My Week That Made Me Happy

1. Cards. Everyday I receive at least four cards in the mail! They are such an encouragement to me since I haven't been able to go to church in such a long time. They show me how much people care and miss me. And that is a nice feeling!

2. Birthday. I celebrated my 43rd on the 7th. I still can't get into my van so we borrowed my MIL Crown Victoria and I was able to get out for a few hours. Freedom feels so good!

3. Coupons. I wanted to stick close to home so I chose to go to Staples and use my $15 rewards coupon. I was able to get my son his scientific calculator for FREE! Then I wanted McDonald's cinnamon melts. I had a buy one get one free coupon. I'm a cheap date!

4. Movie. On Tuesday night if we bring our own bowl we can fill it with popcorn for only 50 cents! And I have a HUGE bowl that holds 32 cups ;o) I love popcorn, but we can never finish it so we bring it home for the birds. I love a bargain. We watched Bourne Ultimatum again!

5. Purse. My girls gave me a new purse for my birthday. I did take it back and picked out the cutest purse. It's actually and iPod holder, but it looks like a little backpack. It's blue, of course! And it holds everything I need and it will clip on to my crutches so I don't have to carry it. I love it!

6. Forgiveness. I do the accounting for our own business and I made a major mistake that is going to cost us some money. My husband was cool, calm and collected and said just do what you need to do and don't worry about it. I'm not sure I could be so calm!

7. Showers. I've always taken for granted my daily cleaning! I wasn't able to take a proper shower for over two weeks. Gross, I know. I did get a sponge bath most everyday, but it just isn't the same. It is still a little difficult to stand in the shower since I am not allowed to put much weight on my new hip, but I have learned to take my crutches in the shower with me for a little extra help!

8. Entertainment. My husband and kids are always doing something to make me laugh. I appreciate the fact that they will make fools of themselves to see me smile. Oh, if you could be a fly on the wall at my house!

9. Independence. Everyday I am able to do at least one more thing on my own! I still have a lot of restrictions as far as bending over to far and things like that, but it feels so good to be able to go to the bathroom and pick out my clothes. I'm sure the family is happy too because that's one less thing they have to do!

10. Treats. I love to drink NOS, but my daughter brought home a new energy drink to try. It's called Blue Demon. Sounds bad, I know, but it has the word BLUE in it! Anyway, I love it just as much as my beloved NOS!

11. Tetris. I got out my old gameboy and started playing Tetris again. I am beating all the high scores! I dare you to take me on. I double dog dare ya!

12. Answered prayers. I have several friends going through some really tough times right now. I see God's hand working in their situations. One of them received some good news from the doctors when we were fearing the worst. She does having something wrong with her, but it is treatable!

13. Discovery. I have discovered some new blogs this week that I am thoroughly enjoying. Head on over and check them out. Let me know what ya think! Little Red Hearts From God, My Journey Home, and Family Doin's.

What is something that makes you happy?

The Blog Crush Meme

I've been tagged by newcomer Kirstie for this meme. Kirstie has only been blogging for a few days and I can already tell I am going to be encouraged by her. She has a heart for the Lord and desires to be closer to Him. Oh, and she's starting a prayer request page which I think is so awesome! Please stop by and welcome her to Blogville and let her know your prayer requests. She even has a cool button made! Thanks guys!


1. What was the first blog you read?

Lisa Whelchel had a weekly Coffee Talk post which led me to read Sarah from In The Midst of It. Addison's story just drew me in instantly and I was hooked. I didn't even know what a blog was last year!

2. Do you still read that blog?

Definitely! And if you never have never read her you MUST! She writes so beautifully. Be sure to take an afternoon and read her archives. You'll be glad you took the time, I promise!

3. Do you have a blog crush, in other words, is there a blogger you’d love to meet?

Do I ever! I have several friends that I would love to meet someday. Please don't ask me to choose just one! I love them all in their own unique ways.

4. Upon meeting, would you crumble and mumble under the pressure, blurt out something incoherent, or blush madly?

I'd probably laugh and give each of them a huge hug! I'm usually not at a loss for words ;o)

5. If you could have a long, leisurely lunch with one blogger whom you’ve never met, who would it be?

Do I really have to choose just one? This is so not an easy meme to do! I honestly cannot choose just one because you are all near and dear to my heart. Each of you are an inspiration to me in different ways. I do know that it would not be a leisurely lunch though! It would be so full of laughter and one story after another. I'm pretty sure we would have to turn it into a slumber party! And yes, that would include a few songs on the record player by Donny Osmond ;o) Hey, if you are a true friend you take all of me, not just the part you liked in the first place!!

Happy Birthday Me!

I woke up thinking about my daddy. From the time I could count I would let him know how many days it was until my birthday. I usually started telling him oh, around February! He didn't mind though. I think he got a big kick out of my excitement and anticipation.

He spent the last week of his life in a nursing home. My last visit with dad was very special. He was feeling well and we laughed and reminisced about good times. Even though dad had a lot of trouble communicating due to his Parkinson's he managed to ask me how many days until by birthday. His blue eyes just sparkled. I laughed and immediately got out my calender and started counting! I knew it would be my last time to tease him about it.

Well, daddy, today's my 43rd birthday! I'm missing you like crazy and would give anything to spend one more day with you. I'm not sure what the day holds for me, but I know it will be different without one of my dearest friends. But honestly, the best gift I could ever receive today is knowing that you are in Heaven with Jesus and are no longer suffering. It does my heart good. And someday when we meet again rest assured that I'll be letting you know that my birthday is just around the corner!

The best gift you could give me today is to let ALL your loved ones know how much you care and love them. We never know what tomorrow will bring, do we?

Sugary Sunday

What have I done to deserve such treatment? Nothing! I sit here and boss people around. I don't contribute to the household chores. I don't cook for my poor hungry family. And I don't do windows.

But yet I always have someone asking me if there is anything I need. And nine times out of ten I have a request. Whether it be a fresh, icy cold drink or a back scratch I will take advantage of their generosity.

I know I often write about how good my family is to me and they are. Not that it makes a difference, but my children are adopted. I always think to myself how easy it would be for them to say, "You're not my real mom and I'm tired of taking care of you." They didn't ask to be put in this situation. They've had a lot of responsibilities thrown at them and they've handled them beautifully. My daughters have never ever complained. Not even to each other. I know this because they tend to tell me everything the other one says.

My son has a huge heart for people. He took tremendous care of his grandpa and he happily stays at home if I need him while the girls are working. Not too many teenage boys would pass up the movies or hanging out to take care of their mom!

I am blessed beyond measure. I look back and see the miracle of how God placed these children into our lives. It all happened within four months. My husband and I thought about becoming parents and boom within a short time we had two daughters! Our son came a year and a half later. God's timing is always perfect. I need to post our adoption story sometime.

The kids are at church this morning and should be arriving shortly. They will burst through the door and come straight to see me. I'll be greeted with a hug from my son and a "How are you doing Mom? Is there anything you need me to do or get?" My oldest will kiss me on the top of my head and rub my back and say sweetly, "Do you want me to make you a treat for lunch?" And my other daughter will sit down beside me and start scratching my back without me even asking. She'll lay her head on my shoulder after kissing me on the cheek and say, "I love you Mommy."

I know them that well. And even though it may sound routine, their words always come from the heart. They're genuine. Real. Their love is unconditional. I see Christ in them each and every day. They are my inspiration.

Bloggy Love & 1000 Blessings Friday

Stacy sent me a little lovin' the other day. She thinks I'm a thoughtful blogger. *blushing* She's sweet! I wonder if it has to do with the fact that I can't leave a short comment anywhere? I have noticed that since I started blogging more and more ladies are leaving longer comments. I think that means we're all becoming very good friends, don't you? Ahhh, can you feel the love?

Continuing on with my 1000 Blessings....

21. Both my nurse and physical therapist are christians! They've both commented on my good attitude and sense of humor during each visit and I explained that if it wasn't for my Lord and Savior I'm sure I would be a totally different patient. It's been a joy getting to know them both.

22. Showers! A true blessing indeed for not only me, but my loved ones that have to smell me!

23. My dear husband who works so hard during the day and comes home and gives me back scratches and helps me in the bathroom and wakes up every four hours to make sure I have my pain medicine. I am truly blessed and don't deserve such a great guy. He will surely have some of the biggest crowns in Heaven :o)


24. Good friends that show their love over and over again. Thank you Tina, Michelle, Marica, Bridget, Kay and Theresa for your company, nourishment and entertainment!


25. My dear precious mother. She's not feeling well herself and her main concern is me. Please pray for her as she tries to get her diabetes under control and she starts feeling herself again.


26. Quiet time. I haven't had much of it for quite awhile and actually had a half an hour with nobody around and no phones! I just sat and soaked up the peacefulness.


27. Fans and air conditioning. It's been hot and muggy here in Indiana and I am truly thankful I am staying cool and dry thanks to these two wonderful inventions!


28. My mother-in-law. She owns a Crown Victoria and she is going to let us borrow it tonight so I can go out on a date with my hubby! She so totally rocks. Thanks Mom!


29. Chocolate. I know, I know! I normally crave meat, but ever since surgery I am craving chocolate like crazy. I'm trying so hard to be good and eat sugar free pudding and small bites of cake, but it's been rough. At least Edy's sugar free ice cream is awesome! So thank you Edy for saving my hiney which is not so tiny, but thanks to you someday it might!


30. And as always I count YOU as one of my many blessings. You bring smiles and laughter to my face each and every day! Thank you for sharing your lives and letting me part of them. I am sending a big virtual hug to each and everyone of you today.

What are you blessed with today?

Thursday Thirteen

13 "B" Things That Rock!

1. Back scratches! I love and ask for them so much my husband finally made me my own card for free back scratches. There is a total of two hours worth and I can either take them in 15 or 30 minute intervals. After he is done scratching he uses a black sharpie and marks the time out so I can't cheat ;o)

2. Bread. Who doesn't love a fresh new loaf of homemade bread? I try hard to stay away from even the healthy kind because I could live on bread. What's your favorite kind?

3. Bulldogs, especially mine! I have the best dog in the whole wide world and I think I even love her as much as my own children. Please don't judge me. You have never met her.

4. Bourne Ultimatum. No, I have yet to see it since it opens on Friday, but this means that maybe, just maybe I get to go out for a date if we can figure out how to get me in the van!

5. Band Aids. Now don't laugh, but even at 42 I love Band Aids, especially the ones with cool stuff like Snoopy or colorful ones. Hey, if you're gonna have a booboo you might as well have fun with it, right? Haven't you people learned that's my motto yet?

6. Bedside commodes. Yes, it's gross, but they totally rock! I am very thankful for it and have only used it about three times, but still....

7. Blogging, it's kind of a given. I'm meeting more and more new friends everyday and I love every minute I get to spend on my secret adventure!

8. Baked goods. The ladies from church have been bringing some mighty delicious sweets which I so totally don't need, but I confess I have tried them all. Maybe even twice! And my daughter has made a chocolate pudding cake which is to die for! We had it again last night. Shame on me.

9. Beautiful Blue Bouquets! I had one waiting for me when I got home from the hospital and it was gor.ja.mous! I wonder how they knew my favorite color was blue?

10. Baskets. As much as I would like to be I am not the most organized person in the world so I love baskets. They're a perfect place to hide things when company is coming!

11. Breakfast. Bagels, biscuits & gravy, blueberry muffins, boysenberry syrup on my french toast, and bacon! Mmmmmmm, who wants breakfast?

12. Birthdays! My 43rd is on August 7th and my very first blogging birthday is on August 10th! Wow that year went fast. What do you buy for a blogging birthday? LOL!

13. The B-i-b-l-e! Yes, that's the book for me, I stand alone on the Word of God, the B-i-b-l-e. You're never alone. All you have to do is open up your Bible and you can find exactly what you need every time. I promise!

8 Things About My Hubby & Me

I've seen this meme floating around various places and since I haven't done it yet....


1. Both our first names mean "Beloved". One time we saw in a baby book where Amy meant "Most Beloved" and David was just "Beloved". Of course I don't let him live that one down! Ain't I a stinker?

2. My mom babysat for his sister, Marcia. When I met her she was running the Hickory Farms kiosk at the mall for the Christmas season. I needed a job and she said her brother needed a sweet girlfriend! She hired me and the day we were putting the display together David just so happened to be there too. He asked me to go on a double date to an REO Speedwagon concert with his other sister. I said yes and the rest is history. Just a little sidenote: His sister should be called Marcia Matchmaker. She also introduced her older brother to his wife and her youngest sister to her husband! Maybe she should start her own business :o)

3. Besides having the same sense of humor we are total opposites. He is a very picky eater. I am not. He is a spur of the moment kinda guy. I like to plan it out and make lists. His intelligence intimidates me. When we talk he goes over my head, especially when it comes to scientific conversations. He is very creative and a perfectionist. I am like~Que sera, sera! He is multi-talented. Great cook, artist, beautiful voice, creative writer, plays bass, drums and whatever else he picks up, photographer, etc. Me-not so much. I can play the nose flute though~but then again, who can't? (Has anybody ever seen one? They make a great gag gift!)

4. He adores me and let's face it, I'm adorable! Just kidding peeps. We are each others biggest fan and even more importantly we are each other's best friend. You have to be if you are going to work together 24/7/365! It doesn't matter what we're doing as long as we're together. We can't wait until the kids move out and we can buy an RV and just travel and do whatever we please! I'm showing my age now, aren't I?

5. We have our own language. Now I am sure that a lot of you will say the same thing about your husbands, but let's just say we could have our own dictionary we have so many words! I won't even attempt to give examples because it's too bizarre how we come up with the strange stuff we do.

6. We both HATE coconut!!! We can smell it a mile away and we can taste it in food. It makes both of us very, very queasy.

7. He comes from a family of eight kids where I only have one brother. I am so thankful I married into such a large family. And believe it or not~every single person on both sides get along famously! My MIL says she loves her daughter and son-in-laws as much as her own children, if not more so! Pssst....I think I might just be her favorite though ;o)

8. What? I'm on my last one already? What else is left to say except that my husband can make me laugh like no other human being on earth! He will go out of his way to make a fool of himself if it will bring a smile to my face. It really doesn't take much to humor me. I'm quite childish. As if you haven't figured that one out already! Oh, and he has the most beautiful voice ever ladies and sings me romantic love songs all the time in the car. Yes, I like him even more than Donny Osmond. I know! I couldn't believe it either.

1000 Blessings Friday

Carrie's Crafty Cottage started this meme on Friday, July 20th. I have a couple weeks of catching up to do, but I am blessed beyond measure so this will be a no brainer!

I think this is a wonderful idea because sometimes we can get focused on what's going wrong in our lives and forget about the little blessings we witness each day. And if you really stop to think about it, whatever situation we are in, their is always at least one person facing a much bigger battle.

Okay, here's my list....even though it's not Friday. I'll try to do better next week!

1. I didn't throw up after my surgery like I normally do! In fact when I got back to the room I was starving and asked for food. I had a lovely dinner of saltines and cherry jello!

2. My husband stayed with me all day and all night the entire week. He's so good to me, always.

3. I mentioned this before, but the food was divine at the hospital. No kidding! Looking forward to going back for the next surgery. No kidding!

4. When I got home there was a big, beautiful bouquet of flowers and a stack of cards waiting for me. I've received over thirty cards since I got home! Knowing how much they mean to me has made me realize that I need to be better at sending notes and cards to others.

5. Our church has provided meals for us every night. We have so much food around here I need to invite the neighbors over to help us eat it! I am thankful that my family is having a break from doing all the cooking. It's been enjoyable watching the kids anticipate the evening meals and devouring it before it even comes in the door! Even the dog has been excited too because of all the attention she is getting.

6. Therapy is coming to my home three times a week. This is a huge blessing because I have no idea how I could even get in the van at this point. I'm only allowed to put 1/3 weight on my new hip so that could be a problem. My therapist's name is Trish and she is wonderful. She even loves the dog which is a blessing within a blessing!

7. My friend Lori from Missouri stopped in for a surprise visit! I haven't seen her in over a year and she stayed a long time and we laughed and laughed for such a long time. I made her eat some of the desserts we had. Funny, she had no problem with it!

8. My friend Teresa was able to come twice and spend quite awhile. I met her years ago when we took a family vacation together to California. I didn't even know her or her family and we spent like a month together. But that's a whole other story! I love her to death.

9. Thankful for my dear mother who has been coming and helping with the housework and rubbing my knee when it hurts. Poor thing doesn't feel that well herself, but she has a servant's heart and just goes, goes, goes.

10. Family night. Last night we watched High School Musical with the kids. I'm thankful they still enjoy good clean wholesome movies. It was corny, but fun!

11. My daughter Kara. She has been taking such good care of me. Thankfully she hasn't had to work much this week and when she is home she gives me a good old fashioned sponge bath and washes my hair. And when I go to the bathroom, well... you get the idea. Let's just say she and I have become a lot close this week. I've had some trouble getting up by myself and she is strong enough to help me up properly. I have a lot of restrictions with this new hip so it's been a little tricky, but we're learning.

12. I get my staples out tomorrow!! I have over forty of them. The scar will be at least nine inches long which brings my total scar lengths to over six feet tall! Yes, I am a sicko. Hey, if your going to have scars you might as well have fun with it, right?

13. Although I haven't tried them yet I just heard that Reese's has a peanut butter, banana candy bar. MMmm, doesn't that sound good? I shouldn't try them, but if I have a chance I'm gonna!

14. Free samples! I've been getting lots of good stuff in the mail this week including a brand new pair of panties from Hanes! Also received some samples of Clorox wipes, Prilosec, lotions and more pet food!

15. I love my dog. She's a comfort to me when I don't feel well. She stays right beside me and lets me know how much she loves me by sharing my pillows~isn't that sweet? Oh, and I am thankful for commercials. I love the one where the bulldog gets a little sister and she shares her toy with the puppy. Have you seen it yet?

16. Paula Deen. Now stop laughing. I have a lot of time on my hands right now and she's on a lot. She just makes me smile and laugh. Who doesn't get a kick out of her?

17. I received $5 plus a TV diary from Nielson ratings this week. What an easy way to earn five bucks!

18. After my last post I spiked a fever of 103.3 so I was out of commission for a few days. But the good news is it has nothing to do with my surgery. Our first fear was a staph infection. I'll admit is has been a rough three days of just feeling completely horrible, but today my temp is down to 100.1 and that helps a lot.

19. A good nights sleep. I've missed a lot of sleep, but last night I got several hours and so did my poor hubby. I think he's missed more sleep than I have because he's been too worried about me to sleep. It's nice to be loved that much. I am very blessed with my guy!

20. The sound of laughter. It's good to be able to see the humor is most situations. Especially when put in awkward circumstances. My poor daughter has done a lot of unpleasant things for me and we laugh and say What I Did On My Summer Vacation by Kara. I think the teacher would give her an A just because of what she's had to do!

I promise that next week my list won't be all about surgery and that kinda stuff. It's just for now I'm still living in my room so I haven't experienced much else. Let's all sing now~

Count you blessings name them one by one
Count your blessing see what God has done
Count your blessings, Name them one by one
Count your many blessings see what God has done!

Have a great day everybody!

Don't Hate Me For Doing Another Meme...

…time you laughed?

Just about ten minutes ago when I was walking to my bedroom. I like to make my kids laugh when I am crying because they worry so much. I saw the looks in their eyes when I was crying so I through my head back and said, "Whoa is me! There's nobody in this world as bad off as I am. Poor me!" Of course that got us all to laughing and they new I was going to be okay.

…time you cried?

I just found out yesterday that one of my favorite little girls in the world asked Jesus to be her Savior at Vacation Bible School! And I always cry when someone gets baptized too.

…time you felt guilty?

I feel guilty anytime I complain about being uncomfortable because my poor little daddy couldn't even scratch his nose if he wanted too and yet he never, ever complained.

…time you shouted at the TV?

I shouted as soon as I heard about the football player case and his cruelty to those dogs! Don't even get me started....he NEEDS and DESERVES to go to jail!

…time you had a hangover?

Never ever thank you very much.

…time you hugged someone?

I love hugs! I got to hug a cut out of Donny Osmond one time ;o) But I've also been hugging everyone that comes to see me since I've been home. And the ones that bring food get even bigger hugs! Heehee...just kidding!

…time you couldn’t sleep?

Oh, the night before we were going to go to interview about adopting our girls! I was so worried they wouldn't like me or would be afraid I wouldn't be able to care for them properly because of my arthritis. But no need to fear, they loved us!

…time you kissed someone?

Ahhhh, on my second date with my husband he walked me to the door and asked me if it would be okay if he gave me a kiss! Isn't that sweet?

…time you exercised?

Yuck! This afternoon my physical therapist came and worked me hard. A little too hard. Let's just say I am using three ice packs right now and boy do they feel good!

…time you ate something really unhealthy?

For dinner tonight I had a green apple Jones soda, Parmesan chicken, corn, cole slaw and rice krispie treats with chocolate on top and a homemade sugar cookie that is to die for. Me bad!

…time you had a dance?

Well, hello? Anytime I hear N'Sync's song Just Got Paid I have to get up and boogie and embarrass my kids!

…time you went on a shopping spree!

My mom let me skip school when I was a senior and go to Lafayette with a friend. She gave me her credit card and said to buy what I wanted! How cool of a mom is she? Of course I hit the clearance aisles and spent about $75 and got all of my summer wardrobe for that year.

…time you spoke to your mom?

January 11, 2007 at 12:30 in the morning. My brother had just let mom know that our dad had passed away. I just held the phone as she cried.

…time you said “I love you”

We say it a lot around here, but a special time was when I realized that I wanted my dearest friend to know how much I loved her, but I had never said that to a woman other than a relative. I thought about it and just told her, "I love you, you know." She smiled and said sweetly, "Amy, I know. I love you too. You're my bestest friend!"

And your last word is?

Tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it. Yes, we are going to mess up daily and do something wrong or say something maybe we shouldn't it. But don't kick yourself over it time and time again. Get right with God and the person you wronged and start anew!

I Am Woman Hear Me Roar...

and maybe whimper a time or two! I am home. Happiness and joy! I do hurt...a lot! BUT, the bone on bone, excruciating pain on my left side is gone :o) Praise the Lord!!!! I only have it on my right side now, but in a few months that will be gone too!!! Sorry, I am going to use lots if these today....!!!!!!!!!!!......I can't help myself!!

Have I told you yet how much I missed all of you? NO? I am sorry, please forgive me. I missed all of you so much!!!!! I haven't got to visit anybody since I've been home, but I promise I will soon!

Friends, I still have a rough road ahead of me. My therapy is going well, but very slow because of every other joint hurting so bad. I am supposed to only put 1/3 weight on my new hip and carry myself with the good joints the doctor said. I laughed in his face....not really. I am having trouble getting off the bed and toilet by myself, but I know within a few more days of working hard I'll accomplish that task!

I also lost a lot of blood and my hemoglobin is only at a 7 and I guess for a woman it should be about a 14. I don't know, I'm just going by what they said. So I guess I better start pumping some more iron. I do have good news though...I've been ordered by the doctor to eat lots of protein! Yay, my favorite!! Hey, when I order a side of cow medium well do not judge me.

Ahhhh, it does feel good to be home though. My pillows missed me! Okay, okay, my family missed me a little too.

I have to tell ya though I did have to get stuck many times to find a vein for the IV and my nerve block didn't work so I woke up in severe pain and my IV's closed up so I couldn't get all the blood transfusions I needed and some of the nurses were a little grouchy, but the hospital food was so YUMMY I almost didn't want to come home yesterday!

Seriously, it was that good. I had a huge menu and I could order room service whenever I felt like it!! How fun was that? I'm already looking forward to next time..heehee!! It was like I was on a vacation. Also I had like 30 new releases I could choose from day or night so I watched a lot of movies. Well, at least they were on. I was kinda like a zombie most days and not able to fully concentrate, but I do know that Akeelah won the spelling bee!

I smell, I look horrible and my pajamas don't match in the slightest, but one of my bestest friends in the whole wide world is coming tonight for a visit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She won't care. Knowing Teresa she will offer to give me my sponge bath. And who knows? I may even take her up on it. Yes, I have lost ALL modesty!

I'll be around to y'all and catch up this week! Thank you for all your prayers and words of encouragement! Love you all!

Birthday Wishes

Who here doesn't know Christine? You don't? I think today is the day you need to stop by and meet her and wish her a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! Christine has got be the happiest gal out there in Blogville and it's contagious so be forewarned. This is for you my friend:

Child of God

Happiest girl in the whole USA :o)
Reasonably sane!

Instant friend. You are greeted with open arms.

Smile that lights up the darkest room.

This girl is so creative! Check out her scrapbook and her food blog too.
Invested in her family. She's a loving mother to 4 beautiful children!
Never leave her blog feeling blah. If you are grouchy and want to stay that way, then don't visit!

Exactly what I want in a friend and I'm proud to call her just that!

Happy Birthday Christine!

Christine, in honor of your birthday I was thinking about getting a tattoo today. I've decided to get one that looks like a scar and I might get it on my left hip. LOL!

Yep, I Should Have Guessed

I've had eight surgeries in the past 20 years. And of those eight surgeries I have started my period every.single.time. a day or two before surgery. And this one is no exception. Mrs. Noah has made her appearance eight days early. Why does she hate me so?

In other news...remember my Thursday 13 post in which I mentioned I so needed a new purse? My oldest daughter came home from work that same night and had bought the cutest little drawstring bag for me! It has a hawaiian print with BLUE flowers y'all. I am filling it up with stuff like my Bible, a deck of cards (mini size-they are so cute and tiny), a sudoku book, my hand held Yahtzee and Tetris games, gum and mints, and maybe I'll sneak a Donny poster in it so I can hang it up at the hospital! Hey, don't scold me and roll your eyes. I just want it to feel kinda homey, ya know? :o)

And yes, I have made most of my lists and got a long of things accomplished. Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. I was having a hard time concentrating because of the anticipation of surgery. My mom called me with this comforting verse:

Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isn't that a good verse? I'm working on memorizing it so as they wheel me away I can keep quoting it!

I am still getting cards from friends letting me know they are thinking of me. I've realized how much that means to me and I want to make a commitment right here and now to show others, especially shut-ins, how much they are thought of and prayed for. I know what an encouragement it has been for me. Makes me feel kinda loved too!

Speaking of love...I was blessed to be able to get out last night and go with my hubby to the movies! I do love getting in for free. Would it be wrong of me after both of my surgeries to still use the wheelchair so I can get in for that same low, low price of FREE? Yeah, that's what I thought too. Sigh!

And if you must know we saw Transformers. And before you laugh it was actually a lot of fun! I love action movies and it was full of it. And it's even more funner when you're just a big kid yourself!

YIPPEE! Guess what I just got in the mail? I won a set of recipe cards from Barb at A Chelsea Morning. I so wish I had a camera for you to see them. They are so pretty I don't want to touch them with my filthy flesh! She is just that creative I'm tellin' ya. To make a recipe look so elegant and beautiful. I don't feel worthy enough to look at it with my naked eye! I'm just sayin'.

I am so going to miss you, my bloggy buds! You brighten my days and I thank you for that. Just so maybe you'll remember me in your prayers (how's that for sounding whiny?) my left hip replacement surgery is Monday, July 16th at 2:00 pm Indiana time. No! Me bad. I don't know exactly what time zone I'm in. Please don't scold me again...I'm going to have a bone cut off...that should be punishment enough for being ignorant!

Specific prayer requests are:

1. That the hospital food tastes yummy! 2. That the lab technician is able to find a good vein on the very first try! I'm hoping to not have a central line put in this time. 3. That the anasthesiologist puts me under enough that I don't have a clue what's going on. 4. To give the doctors wisdom and guidance and not forget to put in anything like a screw or something important like that. 5. My dear, precious husband. He wants to spend the entire time with me, day in and day out. I know that will wear him out so I am hoping he'll come home and sleep in his own bed.

And I was just teasing about #1. That's because right down the block from OrthoIndy is a Cold Stone Creamery (watermelon sorbet, peeps!) and a Romano's Macaroni Grill! Just watch this new hip in action come Thursday or Friday. I better go and make reservations!

Love you all! I really and truly do.

Friday's Feast

Appetizer

What is your favorite fruit?

I love it all, but pineapple is at the tippy top of my list! And then there's bananas and strawberries and fresh Florida oranges or how about a juicy peach? Slurp! I got a great idea let's get crazy and just mix it all up and have a fruit salad. That way we all get our favorite fruit! Everybody grab a fork...we'll have a

Soup

Who is someone you consider as a great role model?

Someone that not only talks the talk, but walks the walk. And they have to be human! If they mess up they admit it, seek forgiveness and move on with it. I have several people in mind that I look up too. Nobody famous though. Mostly folks from my church. They are the same on Sunday as they are on a Thursday afternoon at Wal-mart. Just remember there is always someone watching you. Our goal should always be to glorify Christ in all we say and do!

Salad

If you were to spend one night anywhere within an hour of your home, where would you choose?

At the Indianapolis Zoo! I would love to spend the whole day and night laughing at the penguins and feeding the giraffes! But please leave a light on because I might get a little skiddish around the lions and tigers and bears. Oh my!

Main Course

Name something you do too often.

It doesn't show in my blogging, but in real life I am very sarcastic. I love teasing people, especially when they're not sure if I am teasing or not. I can keep a straight face. I was walking outside with our new youth pastor and he noticed the neighboring house had several rabbit hutches out back. He asked me if they raised them for 4H. I looked him dead in the eye and said "No. They raise them for food." He said, "Really?" Unfortunately one of my friends walked by at the time and said, "Pastor Derek, don't believe a word that comes out of her mouth!"

And you thought I was sweet and innocent! ;o)

Dessert

Fill in the blank: I really like ___________ because ____________.

I really like Friday's because they are typically date night with my hubby!
I really like the feel of the squishy pillows because it is comforting to me.
I really like making my kid's favorite meals for their birthdays because it is their special day.
I really like blogging because I've made some wonderful friends.
I really like Donny Osmond because, uh hello? Just because!
I really like mentioning Donny Osmond at least once a week because it is expected of me now.
I really like to ramble on because sometimes I don't know when to shut up.
But I really like to listen to you because I'm here if you need me!

Have a great and wonderful weekend everyone!

13 Reasons Why I Can't Concentrate And Get Anything Done Around Home

13. Let's face it, my bum hurts! My mom bought a piece of fleece for me to sit on during the day. It must be working because I am wanting to go outside and graze. Baaaa!

12. I love my family. I do, but I have yet to spend 10 seconds to myself without one of them needing to talk about something. I am a good listener, but c'mon peeps I've got stuff to do too!

11. If you know me at all you know I am obsessed with my pillows. Well, my dog has also developed this obsession. She keeps rearranging my pillows to HER liking and it drives me insane. Maybe I need to buy her some pillows too. The girls got taste I must admit!

10. The ringing in my ears isn't helping matters much either.

9. I haven't made a single list yet! I need to make a list of things to pack for myself and one for my husband since he will be staying with me after surgery. A chore list for the kids so I know things will get done. A list of what to mail on what days so I don't bounce any checks while I'm gone. A list of phone numbers of people wanting to know how surgery went. A list of phone numbers for the kids if they need something. And a list of do's and don'ts for the kids while I'm gone. Yes, they are older, but we all know the saying "If the cat's away....." That applies to my precious angels as well!

8. Besides the family talking non-stop, my phone has been ringing off the wall. And it hasn't been from friends either. Lots of sales calls and I tell them we are on the No Call List and to please remove our name. A few minutes later another call from the same people! Uh hello? What did I just tell you? LEAVE ME ALONE!!! Pretty please?

7. Ahh, seven. It's my favorite number. What's yours?

6. I can't rest until I know everything there is to know about David and Victoria Beckham! It's a good thing this couple is plastered all over the telly. But I'm sure there's more to the story. I need to tune in tonight and watch Extra and Entertainment Tonight. I'm sure they'll have the latest gossip!

5. I'm typing this TT and knowing I should be taking this time to start making my lists, but yet I keep typing because I want to finish this because I am so close to being done. Rambling, I know!

4. Four reminds me that it is only 4 days until I'm hip again ;o) But then realizing it's only 4 more days makes me cringe and think, "Do I really want to go through with it?" This then makes me think of Phillipians 4:13 I can do ALL things through Christ which strengthens me.

3. I can't get the Macarena song out of my head. Do you know how hard it is to do the macarena on crutches? But hey, a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do! Ahh macarena! I got you thinking about it too ;o)

2. I want a new purse. It's silly I know, but for some reason I want a new one and I can't stop thinking about buying one. I don't even have a clue what I would be looking for since I don't really go anywhere to use one. But I want one. I need to get a reality check, huh? I wonder if there would be a nice pocket for that reality check to fit in when I get my new purse..heehee!

1. The voices in my head are telling me to get off the internet and start making lists so I can get at least one thing accomplished today! Maybe I'll start with a list of stores where I can buy a new purse!

HAPPY THURSDAY EVERYBODY!

Thank you Iris for hosting this weeks addition of In "other" Words. I love the quote she picked:

“Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing yet had been done.”

~C.S. Lewis~

This quote reminds me of the line from Anne of Green Gables when Anne says to Marilla, "Isn't it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?" How true this is!

I lost my cool yesterday I admit. Things weren't going my way and I made sure everybody knew I wasn't happy. I tried to justify my attitude. "The accountant is coming tomorrow and the house is a mess and I need a shower and I don't know how I'm going to get it all done with nobody here!" I pouted.

Yep. I blew it big time. My desires were all about me, me, ME. I didn't start the morning with thanksgiving and seeking God's direction for the day. I had a goal and it was to make everyone's life as miserable as mine was. I succeeded.

I went to bed and opened my Bible to Ephesians 4:22-24. You were taught with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires, to be made new in the attitude of your minds and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

It struck me like a two by four. I cried because I was ashamed. Lying there in bed I asked the Lord's forgiveness for my attitude. I knew in the morning I needed to apologize to my family as well. I studied the passage for awhile longer and worked on memorizing it. I knew I could definitely quote this each time I started thinking about me, myself and I!

My mornings need to start out with devotions and prayer. Not blogging! How am I to glorify Christ in all I say and do if I don't begin my day with Him? He's there for us 24/7! All we have to do is seek Him.

This morning I quoted Ephesians 4:22-24. I've asked God to help me accomplish what needs to be done. I've asked Him to guide me and let me do His will, not mine. I've promised Him that I will put off my impatience and temper and put on patience and self control today. I will ask my family for forgiveness once everybody starts waking up. I want people to see that God is my strength that gets me through each day because I am relying on Him and not myself.

It's only a little after 7:00 am and so far so good. I just spoke with one of my girls and she said, "Mom, remember frog." I looked at her puzzled and said, "Huh?" Fully Rely On God = FROG! Got it!

Thank you Lord for fresh new beginnings!

For some reason I can't put in a title today for this mind blowing post! I so need to take time to learn this stuff. Seems like a lot of work though..lol! I'd rather focus on my friends.

I lied. Not intentionally. My blood work came back yesterday and I am quite anemic. I have a little over a week to get it up; otherwise I don't get to have surgery. Bummer! I need to start pumping iron I guess.

I'm lonely today. No one is home with me at all and it will be awhile before they get home. After slipping the other day I am scared to even get up. I did go to the bathroom once and survived that! And I am hungry and the kitchen is at the other end of the house. Too risky. I guess I will probably wither away to nothing today! I need to watch the food channel because that helps me when I am starving. Weird, I know. I've heard that a time or two.

Started watching The Inside Man with Denzel Washington, but I heard the "F" word too many times for my liking so I turned it off. My daughter and I watched Anne of Green Gables last night. I have it memorized, but I never tire of it. If you have never watched it I highly recomend it. I don't see how anyone could watch it and not laugh at Megan Follows playing Anne Shirley. Too funny!

So much going on in Blogville. So many people need our prayers right now. Whether it is family trials, pregnancies, or health issues please remember all our friends this week. Sometimes we're not sure what to say or we want to help, but don't know how, but we can always pray. And pray without ceasing!

I hope everyone is having a great weekend and enjoying their family time! I love you all.

What Color Am I?

You Are A Blue Girl

Relationships and feelings are the most important things to you. You are empathetic and accepting - and good at avoiding conflict. If someone close to you is in pain, it makes you hurt as well. You try to heal the ones you love with your kind and open heart.

What Color Girl Are You?

I know blue is my favorite color, but I promise I did not cheat!

13 Truths That Suggest I Am Getting Old

1. Besides the fact that I have about 247 gray hairs (yes I counted them!) my hair is changing texture. What used to be soft and silky is now coarse and crunchy.

2. Out with grape and orange juice. In with prune and tomato juice.

3. When calling for one of my children I tend to go down the list of names until I get to theirs. And yes, I even call out some of my pet's names too. My son really hates it when I call him Fluffy.

4. When trying to read anything I've learned that my face can stretch in all kinds of ways in order to see. First I start out with the head tilt. Soon it turns ugly when my jaw drops lower and lower and I twist and turn my head until voila! Just call me Stretch Armstrong-anybody remember those from our younger years?

5. Even if the prize in the sugared cereal box was a set of Donny Osmond teeth or a play figurine I won't eat them now. I want my maple brown sugar oatmeal or a toasted wheat bagel. Hey, maybe the prize in the oatmeal box is a poster of Wilfred Brimley. Now we're talkin'.

6. My mother is starting to ask me if I've had a bm everyday. Okay, I'm old, but not THAT old. Leave me a little dignity, please.

7. The kids at the fast food restaurants ask me if I want the senior citizen discount now. You betcha! I'm not one to turn down a bargain even if kids think I look 65.

8. The top of my stretchy jeans and the bottom of my bra are now one. This is not good.

9. One of my favorite prized possessions is my pill holder. Sad, but true. I only wish it was blue.

10. When shopping in the antique stores I am transformed back to my childhood. I didn't realize that my Coke machine radio and Thumbelina dolls were considered antiques.

11. My birthday wish list consists of orthopedic socks, a long handled grabber, a bedside commode and someone willing to clip my toenails!

12. When the bladder calls I must answer it immediately. Be back in a minute.

13. I'm back. Now what was I doing?