Only 24 hours in a day...

I don't know how to do it!

2009-06-24T19:17:00.000-07:00

I am emptying my sewing room completely, any of you that have seen that knows that is quite a feat. To put it in a house already full. I should have thought through buying the new floor. So I decided to look at cabinets and storage to see if I could make it look better and neater...I have only organized in cheap hand-me-downs and whatever is available...I don't even know where to start. Guess I'll use what I have and sort through everything, well until I run out of time or get sick of it. But hey the floor should look great!
Sewing is a messy occupation. Lots of stuff on hand and available to make works of art look effortless. Whew! back to unloading the room.

Midnight Repairman

2009-06-17T05:18:00.000-07:00

No he doesn't exist and I am not it. Last night at midnight my sewing machine was skipping stitches sooo bad and the check spring was broken again. So, I decided to fix it. The repairman showed me how last time he was here because I was prone to this. Well, I think I forgot something because I can't get it back together and I couldn't call him, after all, it was by then about 1 am. I am waiting for him to return my call this am, because I still have a ton of work to do before I have to empty out my sewing room next week. That is another story.

I should have started my diet last week

2009-06-15T11:49:00.000-07:00

My whole life I have loved cinnamon. I put it on rice, on oatmeal, in cakes and cookies and pies. Life is truly better with cinnamon. I thought I could eat almost anything with cinnamon on it.
I watched a show on the food network about cinnamon. While they were teaching about cinnamon they were making beautiful foods loaded with cinnamon. Cinnamon is a wonderful thing.
So I pose the question, can you ever have too much of a good thing? Can you ever have too much cinnamon. 2 days ago I would have said "no".
Yesterday for Sunday dinner I made a recipe for fresh peach pie I found online. It called for nutmeg, didn't have it. Well cinnamon works well in the recipes that nutmeg does, so I dumped it in. Measure cinnamon, no you can never have too much remember. The thought crossed my mind, "too much?" Nope because I already told you, cinnamon rocks!
After my lovely Sunday dinner (with guests of course) I pulled out a lovely peach pie. It was a little leaky, fresh cut peaches ya know. Well it didn't set up, but hey how can you go wrong with fresh peaches, cinnamon, and pie crust.
My daughter said "this doesn't taste right where did you get the recipe?"
"Online" I replied. "Isn't it beautiful?"
My daughter didn't want to insult me, but was making suggestions,etc.
I tasted it, humpf, not too bad....then the cinnamon kicked in.
Well, I like cinnamon I can handle it. by the third bite "TOO HOT!"
My husband ejected it out of his mouth into the garbage disposal.
That is where the rest of the pie went. Yes, you can have too much cinnamon.

If you back up a little that was the second dessert I messed up that day. The filling for the coconut cream pie never cooked together.

I guess someone is telling me to stop making dessert.

We settled for a chocolate pudding pie, sort of yum.

Dirt. part 2

2009-04-24T10:19:00.000-07:00

I've been getting all of my work done so I guess that means I have to clean the dirt.

polka dots

2009-04-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about this post for the past few days. Why do I like polka dots so much? Perfectly rounded geometrically organized dots! So simple and organized yet fun and festive! When I look at polka dots they make me happy. I'm not sure I understand why...just go figure I guess.

I don't know it all!

2009-04-20T05:38:00.001-07:00

I read an article the other day and it has started a school of thought. Failure. Any failure can be turned into success. The article related several stories of people who have turned their failures into success.

When you fail, your brain becomes more focused and set on the task at hand, the learning curve is greatly improved and more knowledge is gained through failure.

I have told my daughters, you remember the answers you missed on a test more than the ones you got right. Life is about learning and growing. I guess that is why it is called "growing pains".

I remember the day I realized I didn't know all the answers and that I didn't have to. It was like a sun ray from the heavens shone down on me and gave me an epiphany. My learning curve definitely shot upward and it felt like a big burden had been lifted. If you are finishing others sentences, if you are thinking ahead of them when they talk to you, if you already think you know it all, then you are missing out on alot. My suggestionn is to learn from others.

Do I want more failure? heck no. I'm not sure I could handle the genius status!

Atmosphere

2009-02-27T15:31:00.001-08:00

By the way, I like my new blog atmosphere. Thanks to the pro, also known as K1.

Faster is better!

2009-02-27T15:25:00.000-08:00

This is just an update to the last post. Faster is better. Still have to work out a few bugs and better lighting, but I like it!

Faster is better when you are hungry.
Faster is better when you need to get somewhere on time.
Faster is better when you are getting ready to go somewhere.

There are occasions when faster isn't better.

...but this isn't one of them so I gotta go faster!

How fast is fast enough?

2009-02-26T10:24:00.001-08:00

To this date I am able to turn out sewing and costumes faster than anyone here in town, not bragging....that is a fact.

Today I moved things around in my sewing room to make room for a sewing machine that sews three times faster than the one I've been using. Does that mean I can work 3 times as fast? I've got four days to see if I can tame the thing.

I hope so, then I get to do some other things in all my spare time.

Stand back and watch the costumes fly out of here!

Brace face

2008-12-16T21:01:00.001-08:00

For all of you that wore braces and your parents fussed at you to floss, brush, floss, brush and repeat and repeat, and don't forget all the forbidden foods, well I apologize on their behalf. Big ouch! I've had them on two years and no one will say looks like they'll be off soon. At times they are a little claustrophobic, and knowing they would come off in two years gave me a deadline. They are so sore tonight, new wire and new chain all in one day. Feels like a couple are being slowly pulled out...I know suck it up! Guess that is how I will be eating the next few days..sucking it up. Enough said.

Dirt

2008-12-10T15:38:00.000-08:00

When is the right time to clean under the washer and dryer and the refrigerator and the stove? If you are on the same schedule as I am...not too often.

Believe

2008-11-30T15:01:00.000-08:00

We often hear this comment during the holidays. I think it is a good one for all the time and about many things. A simple word to encompass....well start believing and you'll figure it out.

Dinner with the stake president

2008-11-08T05:29:00.000-08:00

How to have dinner with a stake president and his wife. I have two ways to do this, show up at my daughter's house for dinner when the inlaws are visiting. The second was to show up at Outback for an early dinner. We went to sit on the "wait here" benches. Right next to Pres and sis. After a few minutes of visiting, we were on a double date. Fun right? Yes it was. Old friends and very enjoyable.

charitable or sucker?

2008-11-08T05:16:00.000-08:00

The other day I was on my trip to Goodwill to drop off some nice donations. I slowed in the parking lot and a lady ran up to my car. I only rolled my window down an inch. She asked if I had a couple of dollars she had come over here for a job interview and needed money to get home. I'm a sucker! I dig through my purse for a couple of dollars, all in change of course. Who carries cash these days?
I continue with my donations and as I pull out I see she is hitting up everyone in the parking lot.
Does that cheapen my donation? She is just begging for money, that probably is the job she was referring to.
I think I'll find a new place to donate, because I don't feel good about that experience.

Voting

2008-11-04T10:24:00.000-08:00

Yes we have the right to vote and should do it every chance we get. However when you go to cast your vote today, take your coat, a bottle of water, and a snack. If you think you can't stand for 3 hours, take a chair, a book, or a craft item to work on. Take this opportunity to get to know your neighbors. You are all in the same boat and you can laugh about it with them.

Being not smart

2008-10-31T06:11:00.000-07:00

When I was growing up, I thought shingles were on the roof of the house. I since have come to know that they are also uncomfortable pock marks that appear on your body and cause a high degree of discomfort. I wish I didn't have this first hand knowledge and have it repeatedly. The Rx is so expensive. They have a vaccine that is affordable if you can make it a year without an outbreak. As of this week I'm counting down again. Wish I weren't so smart on this subject.

Help! I'm addicted!

2008-10-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

To swim suits that is. I have a bunch waiting and hanging ready to wear but as soon as I hear there are some on clearance I have to go and see what they have. I don't look that great in them, I guess I'm afraid I'll wear them all out in water aerobics class and not be able to go. You know I could even sew one, but the draw is so strong ... humph what to do? Well, go shopping of course!

Baby's names

2008-10-21T16:10:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed the names people are naming their babies today? I embroidered a baby blanket today for a....."Gunther". Tell me when you look at the beautiful new little baby does he look like a GUNTHER? I sew for lots of different people and the names I come across...well somebody might read this whose name I would include so...I'm sure you've come across a few yourself. Admit it. One school I went to I couldn't spell one name. I think you are giving your child either a burden or a help by how you choose to identify them.

Walking on the Sunny Side

2008-10-20T05:48:00.000-07:00

I was reading an article about raising a child who loves life. I was wondering if some of the same ideas could be used to be a happy adult. In a word, yes. Here are a few things I gleaned from it that I thought might be useful to me. The first and fairly easy to do, is have a strong sense of authentic gratitude and appreciate what the world offers free of charge. Lead the way by simply stopping what you're doing and express thanks for the moment. "Gratefuls" at bedtime, take a moment to reflect on the things you have to be grateful for every night.
Secondly, be a good listener without passing judgement.
Having a routine? I wondered about this with adults we seem to like adventure and variation in routine. However, there is a certain sense of security that comes from knowing things are a certain way and will be that way.
Failure...handling stress or disappointments, admitting mistakes, and changing direction are some of the most crucial skills for living a happy life. So we will not be successful at everything...kind of makes it possible to "Be Happy Without Being Perfect".
Whew, that is good to know cause perfection is not around the corner it is several miles away, but I can be happy and whistling as I stroll down the sunny (or shady) side of the street.

Be Kind, Be Gentle

2008-10-19T20:07:00.000-07:00

My girls are familiar with this saying. They grew up with a large picture of Jesus Christ stuck on the refrigerator with this saying next to it "BE KIND, BE GENTLE". Today some special letters were read in RS, from a husband to his wife and family. He counselled then to be kind and to be gentle. Even as his life was in peril he advised his family to be kind and gentle to one another. What a wonderful example of how we should speak and act in our families. Family members pray for, comfort and strengthen one another. It is nice to know that someone else cares about us no matter what is going on around us. "Tongue cannot express the gratitude of my heart, for the warm and true-hearted friendship you have manifested in these things towards me."
Tender and beautiful words of the heart and important lessons for all in relationships. I am grateful for my family relationships and I intend to follow my advise I gave to my children, Be Kind, Be Gentle.

Birthdays

2008-10-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

I went to my grandson's birthday party this morning. What fun! Construction party with a bunch of three year olds. :) It was very cute and it looked like they had fun. When do birthdays take on a different tone?

The Roof, The Roof, The Roof is on Fire!

2008-10-18T10:52:00.000-07:00

I was reading an article this week. The woman was describing packing to evacuate her home and some of the stupid choices she made in the spur of the moment and not thinking clear. This, of course, started me thinking. So I pose the question, "what five personal items will make it out of danger with you?". No cheating, your children and spouse all are in the safe zone. "What five things are the most important THINGS you want to have with you and you couldn't stand if they were destroyed?"

My roof nor my house is on fire. But if they were, I'd like to think I might have given some thought to the process. So you ask, "what were my five things?" I'm still working on that. Like I said it just started me thinking, it's a process.

Peacegiver

2008-10-09T07:36:00.000-07:00

I recently read a book, "The Peacegiver". I learned a lot. It is an excellent book about the atonement of Christ and how it can help us in our human relationships. Remember the person you are sitting next to is a child of God, the person that was rude to you at the store is a child of God, and the person you are mad at is a child of God. They are afforded the same forgiveness and acceptance as you are. If you hold the rod higher for them, then it will be higher for you.

This I think was the book that started the beginning my quest for a smiley attitude. THE QUEST, it is just that a work in progress. Well the book, and of course water aerobics. :)

Gratitude Attitude

2008-10-08T06:25:00.000-07:00

Did you thank that person that gave the door a little extra shove for you to get through without getting a door in the face?
Do you thank your spouse for taking out the trash or getting the mail?
Do you thank your brother or sister for calling to check on you?
Do you take time to thank Heavenly Father for all you have? temporally? spiritually?
Do you every reflect on your life now as compared to 5 years ago? 10 years ago?
Have you ever said thank you too much?

I don't believe that can happen. If you look around you, even on bad days there are things to be grateful for. "Even if all you can say is, it could be worse". No matter how bad things look, it could be worse.

Rather than say it could be worse take the positive approach and be grateful for a bed, a roof, a meal, a job you don't care for (at least you have one). How about a tampon...now there is something to be grateful for. Be grateful to someone, anyone that helps you. People need to know they are appreciated, that what they do matters.

Remember life isn't "all about you". It is about your relationahips with others and how you treat them. It is easy to be nice and helpful to wonderful, warm fuzzies. The test comes when the fuzzies turn a little prickly. Can I still love and appreciate a cactus? If you don't what happens to the fuzzy within?

Be grateful, be helpful, be caring, be sharing, be good, be kind, be gentle,be humble, be smart, be prayerful, be like Christ.

Most of all BE GRATEFUL! Things look better from that side.

Be Bold

2008-10-05T20:11:00.000-07:00

Be a bold force for good in the world!

When life is tearing you down, wearing you out, and stressing you out, and you are asking yourself what you should do, WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

I took a few notes this weekend.

1. Avoid contention.
2. Don't judge others, you don't know their lives and challenges.
3. Be kind, be gentle.
4. Be meek, be loving, be humble.
5. Help the poor and lonely among us, there are many.
6. Be slow to take offense.
7. Have respect for others.
8. Christian courage is sometimes saying nothing.
9. Taking the high ground is safe ground.
10. Forgive those who trespass against us

I repeat be a bold force for good in the world!

Eeyore or Tigger

2008-10-04T05:27:00.002-07:00

Are you an Eeyore or Tigger? Cheer Bear or Grumpy Bear? Angry, pessimist or optimist? That's what I'm talkin' about.

I would much rather be happy about things than to be grumpy. Life is so short and challenges are just that, challenges. Even if things are difficult to do or deal with they are much easier faced with a positive attitude and a smile.

Things I've found that help: exercise, fake it til I make it, not being afraid of failure (learning is good through success or failure), and yes even buying me a "treat" once in awhile. In this day of stress and turmoil, we can have inner peace and a Happy day.

Don't worry be happy! A little cliche but good advice.

Eeyore or Tigger

2008-10-04T05:27:00.001-07:00

Today while the sunshines

2008-09-26T10:21:00.000-07:00

Since it is raining here today, that is a weird topic! Except it isn't the "sunshine" I'm speaking of, this comes from within. I've been trying to be positive and looking for the good in most everything...I say most cause it is a work in progress. Try to not let others impact my day in a negative way, "water off a duck's back". Sometimes it is a smile through gritted teeth (fake it til yo make it). That inner happiness that seems to shine through onto everything. I like it!
Even the bad when it splatters onto my sunshine doesn't seem to be as bleak. Make your own choices and make the ones that make you and yours happy.
:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

Bridal Shower

2008-09-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

The new thing among my friends at least is meeting at a restaurant, eating, opening gifts and visiting. Someone else picks up the tab, that was nice.
What is an appropriate gift for a bridal shower? Towels? Cookbooks? Lingerie? What differentiates between a shower gift and and wedding gift? More $$$$?
What about gift cards? If a couple has been living together for several years and decide to get married, what do you give them?
I was going to give monogrammed towels, my usual. However, today I went to a bridal shower and everyone gave her towels. Not monogrammed, but the useful kind. Does that make the wedding gift any less useful?
The food was good no one has to work except those who are at work already, they also take care of the clean up , etc. The games are gone (:)) Pictures add a nice touch and the stories about the couple.
And for the first time the bride and mother of the brides friends meet..interesting.

Epiphany

2008-08-17T06:28:00.000-07:00

What is an epiphany? I guess you know it when you have one. Humph. Then what is the difference between an epiphany and a good idea? Is a good idea carrying a hurricane lamp or candle into a dark room or should you just jump into bed for a little extra r&r? Does the epiphany come into play when you realize you don't have to do anything when the lights go out?
My epiphany was when Saturday came around I didn't have to do work that needed to be done, and that I could take the day off and PLAY. Now there was a new experience!
You ask what did you do to play? I'm not telling. You get to have your own epiphany. Just don't wait until you are my age.
For crying out loud, I'm a Recreation major. I guess I forgot how to have some fun amongst all the work that constantly needs to be done.
After all my travels this summer and this new epiphany, who knows what will happen to me!

World Traveler

2008-08-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

Not really but the past month, I've been to Idaho, Oregon, Arizona and back to South Carolina. No matter how much fun I had, it is always great to be home. I like my bed, my refrigerator, my computer (and keyboard)and water aerobics.
I realize that being home means work, work and more work. But hey somebody has to do it.
But during my travels, I have reconnected with my brother and sister and enjoyed the company of many other family members. Speeding down the middle of the river on jet boats and flying over the sand dunes on 4 wheelers....whew, like I said I had a bunch of fun. Even sitting and visiting is quite the treat.
Vacationing is fun! I think I might try some more of it.

Destroy the evidence

2008-07-18T10:59:00.000-07:00

My beloved grandmother passed away this past week. As we were sorting through her things, new info about her life was revealed to all in the room. Grandma eloped at age 18. Other sorted details are for family only.

So if you think you may be leaving mortality anytime in the near future and you have secrets. Destroy the evidence now!

Breaking News..Huber Heights Flu hits South Carolina

2008-07-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

Share and share alike that's what I say. Of course, unless you are talking about germs that make you puke and .... . It is picking us off one at a time. What does that say about our immune system? We were all exposed at the same time, however we've all gotten it on different days. I will never go there again!

Cleaning or lack of

2008-07-07T05:58:00.001-07:00

Does anybody know how to clean a house really good? It has gotten so bad I save the merry maid ad list of tasks they do, so I will know what I need to clean. Life gets in the way of a spotless house. I'm not sure I want to do much about that. Before children everything was cleaned and spotless, life has taken on a different glow or layer of dust I should say. Hope no one is allergic. Got to go make an attempt.

Challenge

2008-07-07T05:40:00.000-07:00

Life is full of little frustrations. All of which we can learn from. We can learn to be frustrated and upset or knuckle in and take care of things. Life here on earth is a proving ground. We have the freedom to do with as we will.
I see my young grand children constantly testing the line, so a teaching ground can take place in their homes. Allowing their parents to teach them to pray and to love. It is wonderful to see. Yes, even the challenging days. They're all wonderful to me.
As adults, we are expected to just suck it up. Of course, with a Christ like attitude. I've been doing a lot of reading lately about the temporal experience and dealing with the frustrations of life. I even had opportunity to tell someone the other day, "you can do anything for 3 months, it's going to be over and then on with other things". If that is the case, then all things are for our good and learning and growth.
No matter how long the frustrations of life beat you down you only have to get up one more time. Sometimes that is easier said than done. But the only alternative is not an option.
I've come to know that life is full of challenges and each individual has their own challenges and growth that needs to be done. All in all, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His true church can help us rise above the human experience and face it all with a smile. Sometimes I have to fake it until I make it, but that is OK too.

Tired!

2008-06-23T19:39:00.001-07:00

My daughter tells me my blog is tired and needs a face lift. Sounds like I have a lot in common with it. I didn't do this the first time. So...!

Water Aerobics!

2008-06-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

The pool is open again and I'm back to water aerobics. I think it is my favorite form of exercise. I can do it and not be sore for days. The moves are simple enough that you can do all the moves and degree of difficulty is only determined by yourself. You can really kick your own butt! If there is a class, I'll be there.

Twirly skirts

2008-06-21T08:58:00.001-07:00

Remember the day back in the early 90's I guess when twirly skirts with leggings were all the rage? My youngest daughter had an entire closet/drawer full of "twirly skirts". She "had" to wear them everywhere. I remember this one time when she was 4 or 5 and we were at a swim team banquet and she did not have on a twirly skirt. You say, "so?"
Swim team banquet includes music and dancing after awards are handed out. The music began and all the kids and adults started to dance except "twirly girl" (we will call her). When I tried to encourage her to participate, she told me she couldn't dance. I answered yes you can just try and she insisted she had to have her twirly skirt to dance....
Yes, I went home to get a twirly skirt and guess what she can dance and twirl. She hasn't stopped dancing yet. As she got older she changed her dancing skirts for some blue and white stripes. :)
This same twirly girl came home for some time this summer and I was making her some dresses and yes out of her mouth came, "I want the skirt to be flowy on the bottom." Sounds like she is in the mood for some twirly skirts again.
So twirly skirts for the twirly girl!

Happy Birthday physcokity!

2008-05-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday, Happy Happy birthday to you! It's a party , a party coming your way. A once a year occasion. It's a party, a party a birthday celebration...........Happy 25 th! We love you great big bunches. a quarter of a century old. whew!

Hurray for you! Hurray for me! Hurray, it's time to pee!

2008-05-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been cheered by a two year old for "peeing in the potty"? Or perhaps promised a treat for having done so? Yesterday Papaw was followed into the back bathroom and watched until he was finished. That was followed by a great big cheer and a job well done. The two year old then promised Papaw a piece of candy for going "peepee on the potty. Good boy Papaw!

More sunshine

2008-05-14T22:59:00.000-07:00

Everyone should get to enjoy two, two year old boys trying to potty train and share their favorite toys. It makes me smile.

It is so nice to enjoy grandchildren. They are so sweet. Maybe it's cause grammy has lots of treats.

No, I think they just are my heart.

Sunshine

2008-05-14T22:42:00.001-07:00

Sunshine comes in more than one form. The one we feel on our skin when outside, the one we turn our face to to feel the sunshine on our face, the one the weather man talks about, but I had a different form of sunshine this week.

I picked up my granddaughter and drove her to preschool. On the way I asked her what she would like to do after school today (it was 8:30 am). she quickly responded with " I would like to get banana splits" and then proceeded to tell me about her first one on her fifth birthday. While waiting in line to drop her off she told me "Mom lets me sit in the front and listen to the music, so I can move to the music like this." (she rocks from side to side).

When I went back to pick her up, she said " I know the way to Target from preschool" so of course we headed straight there. We found "makeup", lots of glitter included. We found cute shoes, swimsuits and a few other things. Grammy is a sucker for them as well.

We then found our selves in the snack bar with pretzels and icees.

Next on the agenda I was thinking about heading to her house. She wanted to go to Grammy's house. She said the boys are going potty all day. So Grammy's house it was.

Followed by her favorite "Tom and Jerry" cartoons, lots of giggles inserted here with snacks and lounging around like she owned the joint.

I found out she "hates" it when Mom says"what did you do in school today?" I asked her why and she responded with I can't remember everything. So we had a conversation with specific questions to help prompt her memory. That is a fun time. Dress up is her favorite (shocker). We also discussed erosion. Every five year old should have a working knowledge of that.

All in all a very successful day of 5 year old activities. We all could do with a few more of those.

Provident Living...

2008-04-12T10:19:00.001-07:00

What does that mean? Well according to webster online it means making provision for the future, prudent, frugal, saving. Today I went to the church cannery and canned dry good for food storage. It was fun. We probably would have been there the whole day but they were out of all the staples: wheat , flour, sugar, and milk. So I ventured my provident living skills in new and interesting directions. The items have the freshness packets put in. Keeps most items fresh for 30+ years, so I've got time to figure out how to use some of them.
Are you really being frugal if you buy things you don't ordinarily use? Are you being prudent saying well we can eat it if we have to? I let someone else take my share of the onions! It was so much fun I think I'll make trips to develop more provident living. There goes the whole frugal part of the plan. Apple slices are Yummy!

Remodeling

2008-03-25T11:26:00.000-07:00

The bathroom is done. It's been done for a while, but I'm just now getting to the pictures. My favorite daughter took the pictures and uploaded them for me. She's also going to teach me how to do it... she's the best. We also had the kitchen floor redone...

Simple Pleasures

2007-12-08T15:32:00.000-08:00

Today as I was driving across town, I noticed I was happy and grinning from ear to ear. Mindless thinking you ask...NOPE. I was thinking about my sweet grand babies. A song that brings one of them to life no matter what she is doing or where she is...bring on the Backyardigans. A four and a half year old grand daughter that thinks her Grammy has a "magic car". A little boy that idolizes Mickey Mouse and is a fan of the Mickey Mouse club. Another one that roars every time anything dinosaur is said or seen. Many wonderful and beautiful thoughts. I would like to take this time to thank my beautiful daughters that have made wonderful mothers and given me such GREAT GRAND BABIES!

Problem Child

2007-12-07T15:51:00.000-08:00

putting off the inevitable.....that is what I seem to want to do lately. I was talking to a friend and she said we should find us a job where we could get paid to sit and get paid well. I think that will be my next job. I'm blogging tonight to avoid going into the sewing room to work.
...and what is with not spending money at Christmas, to be more careful and not spend...... it's not my nature....I'm a problem child? Every time I go into a store I drop a hundred dollars, oops! The plan was to stay home and not spend, I'm failing miserably. My kids and grand kids should like that. OOOOOO!

Mirror mirror on the wall...

2007-12-07T15:45:00.000-08:00

I don't have a mirror yet but my new bathroom is looking pretty spiffy. I always had plenty of mirrors with four daughters that was a necessity (especially the vain ones, you know who you are). As I age, I find the mirrors especially the magnifiers are not my friend. Even though, it will be nice to have one in the bathroom. Now .....what is the next project? After this season of sewing I think I'll build a playground with my old deck.....Yes, me. I've got tons of ideas and want to build something. That way the house won't get torn up. Positives on both counts, even though my kids are all gone.

I have indoor plumbing!

2007-11-28T05:17:00.000-08:00

The bathroom is done except for a mirror (necessity for vanity) and a TP holder. Now to get all the towels out of the crib and all of the sheet rock dust out and I should be in working order for the houseful of Christmas elves that will be dropping by. It is Pretty! and it Plushes!

friendship

2007-11-19T05:12:00.000-08:00

How to make a friend. That is what I've been thinking about lately. To make a really good friend takes lots of time and effort, which is always in short supply. A few cinnamon rolls, cookies and any other treats also help. I've been making a new friend. She is stuck in bed so at least one of us is captive, makes the friendship process a little easier. My bestest friend ever was made years ago when we both had young families. A stay at home mom, new to the area needs a good friend. You have a lot of time on your hands and kids that need distraction. Those friends that end up being your bestest friends feel like kindred spirits. This friend was sent to me when we moved so far away from family, because that was hard. Thought for today...make a friend.

1,2,3,4,5,...

2007-11-09T06:51:00.000-08:00

Have you ever counted how many different products you use on yourself when you shower? Face cleanser, shampoo, conditioner, soap, shave gel(for rare occasion), then moisturizer, face moisture, eye drops, toothpaste, extra moisture (aging takes more) hair products (that may consist of 2-3). Then when you move to the makeup level, makes the head swim! On a regular day I've counted about 10 products(chemicals) and makeup days I loose count. Makes me think of that movie the Incredible Shrinking Woman with Lilly Tomlin and Steve Martin. It's to bad rubbing creams and moisturizers on doesn't make you shrink, I could use some of that.

There's a stranger in my house...

2007-10-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

That's what happens to the computer when working like a dog kicks in.
The only computer time I 've had lately was to find out which song was playing on the CVS commercial. Ordinary Miracle by Sara Mclaughlin. It is BEAUtiful. Ballerinas are dressed! Cloggers are dressed! Cheerleaders are dressed! Chorus members are dressed! NOW...the rest of the world. All the other few hundred dancers in multiple costumes. Lots of work to do. I love it! It pays the bills. I'm going to acquaint myself with the stranger mentioned before. Ideas for Christmas?

chitty chitty bang bang

2007-10-05T23:28:00.001-07:00

I've got new wheels!... and all the other things that come with a car payment. It's fun to drive if I don't think about the payment.

to work or not to work...

2007-10-05T23:23:00.000-07:00

When you say working like a dog, what does that mean? My dog sleeps on the sofa til noon then moves to where I am, stretches a little then goes into the second napping phase. If someone drops by she musters up the energy for company, then falls into a heap after the visit. Where does the work part come in? When I work, well lets just say it doesn't involve napping. It involves work and a lot of it!

"Big Toe Blues"

2007-10-05T23:10:00.000-07:00

Do you work for a living? Well we have lately hired men to do jobs that only need to work occasionally, I guess. In that whole process the furniture has been moved out of the room everyday this week. The first day the workmen were to come and work and didn't show up, I was moving the table back into the kitchen. I pulled it rapidly and the leg of the table facing me jammed my big toe so hard it popped! I then proceeded to DANCE! and SING! My daughter referred to it as the "Big Toe Blues". Speaking of blue.....well maybe it looks more black and purple. Yes it is broken and I've got drugs (Rx of course). Last night it was rivaling the Goodyear blimp in size. Shoes? not for awhile. Darn it exercise on hold again. Looks like I'll miss the next marathon as well. Anybody got a footstool?

what is it?

2007-09-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

Did you ever have a day where you felt like you were forgetting something really important and can't think of it? I feel like my shoe is untied or something and I'm barefooted.

CHANGE

2007-09-25T06:16:00.000-07:00

This post has pending for several days in my head. How to deal with change that you aren't really in favor of. Some change is good...like changing your underwear, changing your sheets, and changing your toothbrush. However the things in life that you get used to, when forced to change cause internal stress. We are faced with choices daily that force us to change. How do you get rid of that T-shirt that is full of holes and feels so comfy? How do you get rid of your favorite car that is not as dependable as it used to be? How do you go to church the same as last week when half of your friends are gone? I remember getting new and updated sewing equipment and resist using it because it was different than what I was used to. I find myself thinking and doing things to laugh off change until I can find a way to deal with it. Usually it isn't as bad as I thought it would be, that of course is after the adjustment period. They say change is good...but I say a big OUCH! So every time you change your underwear ..... well keep doing that.

just another day...

2007-09-17T07:49:00.000-07:00

Have you ever called someone knowing you were to leave a message and identified yourself as your dog??? If that isn't bad enough, it was the dog groomer so she knows you represented yourself as your pet. What a way to start a Monday!

Pretty is as pretty does.

2007-09-16T22:52:00.000-07:00

Well it is back to that time of year - dressing the neighborhood. Cheerleaders, chorus singers and dancers.. no one has earned a pin in the crotch yet. I know be nice. Which brings to mind, how do you handle someone who just really gets under your skin and secretly you'd like to put a bag over them , smack them and shove them down. But instead you smile sweetly and pray under your breath they will leave quickly or come and finish remodeling your bathroom. A true test of whether or not you are a nice person. I've taken all of K2 tests and I rate PG, 1980's girl next door, and back in black is my theme song. However I think there is a little not so nice girl next door hanging around the corner.

Can you smell that?..be careful what you eat.

2007-09-14T13:41:00.001-07:00

Today I was standing in my kitchen and I smelled, yes you guessed it BO. I did a quick armpit sniff check. No, not me. So I was trying to figure out what reeked. I remembered yesterday my friend brought me a sandwich we split. I removed the onions from my half, of course, and tossed the napkin in the trash. Onions=BO. Why would you want to eat anything that smells like BO? Before and after eating are both negative experiences. If you like to eat BO maybe you should learn to lick your armpits!

Holding my breath...

2007-09-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

An obstacle course is what my house looks like. You enter the front door and there is a large pile to go to Goodwill, car is in the shop so that won't happen for a few days. As you enter the kitchen past the toilet, a set of two islands fill the center of the room, one beautiful the other beat up. Then into the sewing room, the UPS man has been stopping by everyday. In one of the guest rooms(the bathroom annex) you have to step over wood trim and bathroom accessories. The other guest room is the hospital wing for the baby dolls and empty suitcases. What am I doing about it? Absolutely nothing. Sitting on my touche in front of the laptop. (In my defense I'm taking a short break from cutting cheerleader skirts.) UPDATE: I finally got a hold of Todd and he says he will be here Monday or Tuesday, I'm holding my breath!

Six weeks

2007-09-10T07:57:00.000-07:00

6 weeks to a better butt! That is the title of an email I just received. Is that an ad for appearance or behavior? Either way how can it be anything other than an insult? ....but (hehe) since I'm not thin skinned, I look at it, of course my appearance. If I walk and drink lots of water and exercise, I will be thin and beautiful...humhumhum. Hasn't worked yet, but hey I'll give it "6 weeks".

Home again, home again jiggety jig...

2007-09-10T07:14:00.000-07:00

When ever you get home from vacation there is always so much to do. So then why do I just sit on my ____ and do as little as possible?

Have a good day!

2007-09-09T18:21:00.000-07:00

Last night I was listening to a tele-evangelist. He had some good points. He was talking about letting go and not holding grudges, or even just getting upset with people. By doing that, you don't allow them to determine the kind of day you are having or going to have. People are a result of their experiences, if they weren't, we'd all be the same. I like having good days and sometimes that means accomplishing something and sometimes it means I just enjoyed myself. I like people and I like doing things for people (4 daughters and 10,000 costumes later). Does that mean I'm a slow learner? .....yes I think it does! "I am the creator of my own destiny."

Shopping for Mom

2007-08-31T17:36:00.000-07:00

I spent a couple of hours this morning with two special kids. We were in the dressing room at Kohl's calling each other on the cell phone from booth to booth, crawling under doors, eating goldfish, climbing out of the buggies, getting run over by carts and just total and general chaos. Should be good until Mom's birthday shopping next year. Just kidding!

Every convenience!

2007-08-30T22:22:00.000-07:00

A toilet in the kitchen you say? How long is it appropriate for the receptacle to sit next to the kitchen table? ... I say today is long enough. My grandson lifted the seat, pulled off his shorts and was working on his diaper as he said poop! I believe in potty training but keeping it this handy is ridiculous!

to work or not to work

2007-08-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

When you have to rely on others to finish things so the next thing can get done - irritating. Especially when they don't get things done on time. Remodeling a bathroom, lets just say -no more large jobs for a while I can't deal with the mess for extended periods of time. I've stumbled into the dusty empty bathroom several times in the past few days, especially in the middle of the night, only to find dust, tools, and a light bulb hanging on a wire. I think I've found the paint color. I still need to find the perfect faucet! Humpf! Let's see who shows up tomorrow. Right now all three workman are supposed to be here. The room isn't that big, but I refuse to say no. Guess they will just have to work around each other.

How to eat an elephant

2007-08-28T18:32:00.000-07:00

Did you ever have a day, well two or three days in a row where everything seems to go not quite right? Then they pile on top of each other and everything else seems to overwhelm until you seem to be buried by a mountain of rubble. True most of it is of your own creation and response to things that are happening around you. My advice to others and I should listen to myself is to take small bites and eat slow. That is how to eat an elephant, one bite at a time. Hard to remember that tip when you are surrounded by a buffet of issues.

Past time

2007-08-24T05:26:00.000-07:00

Hey I just tried something new. I was introduced to Family Search Indexing by my visiting teacher. Curious, I decided to check into it. I got all signed up, did the tutorials (I didn't print off my certificate of completion, where would I put it?) then I did my first set of names. Can I just tell you - addicting! Now for some reason I can't get back in there, I'm waiting for my resident (well closest living) computer expert to show up today and help me figure it out. They have scan documents that are on the millions of rolls of microfilm and people are entering the info online for ease in genealogy work. I guess I can work on my genealogy! Then by going to familysearch.org, you can research ancestors. A whole new past time when TV sucks as it so usually does as of late.

Fashion plate?

2007-08-21T13:23:00.000-07:00

What is a fashion plate? Is it a plate that is fashionable? I've heard this term used many times to describe someone who dresses well. Is it good to be a "fashion plate"? Aspiration or no no?

Extreme Home Makeover!

2007-08-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

Extreme home makeover....when they demo the house on TV that has to be pretty emotional. I had my bathroom gutted this week. My stomach has been weird ever since Sunday night when I had the realization the workman was coming the next day. He threw a board over the joists so you couldn't see the ground under the house. I'm experiencing some trauma over this. What if I stumble into the bathroom in the middle of the night? The four foot drop would definitely wake me up. How about turning on the light switch hanging on a bare wire? Whew! Like I said it makes for some internal turmoil. I shut the door when he leaves so I can pretend it doesn't look so bad. He made two trips to the dump yesterday, I guess it is too late to change my mind. OOPS!

Gumm or ice cream?

2007-08-19T16:52:00.001-07:00

I love my grandbabies! The stuff life is made of: their energy, imagination, unconditional love and their unending zest for life. That jabbering in the other end of the phone line...precious. Cute pictures and videos of stuffing things in their faces, noses, ears; jumping up and down and spinning around and around until they fall down; climbing, throwing, screaming, whining; yes all of it is precious. Who would of thought I would have answered to being called "Gumm"? The day you can sit down with a toy and pretend it is driving the house is truly amazing, of course all of the balls have to stay in it or you stop. It's kind of like making ice cream on the wheel of a hot cycle with a stick????

Chill pill......

2007-08-17T18:43:00.000-07:00

I've never had so much time on my hands and accomplished so little. I'm used to being busy and accomplished. Surgery recovery is not my choice of vacation. I was talking to someone today that actually gets to take vacations. What a life! My advice to my kids is take them once in awhile, it is bonding and a lot of fun. We did different things than costly vacations: visited family, joined the pool and swam a lot and everyday. We had good and fun times just not "vacations". I don't mind that we didn't, I just find it hard to relax, chill and do nothing. Time for a chill pill.................

Home cookin'

2007-08-17T18:30:00.000-07:00

Beware of restaurant food. Tonight my sweet husband and I headed to our favorite restaurant for a luscious chicken salad, O'Charley's (we have a gift certificate, thank you kids). Much to our dismay, there was a very large red C on the door. We did a 180 and headed for the car. We headed for a much healthier A type restaurant. Did you ever think what might be in the local restaurant you frequent, other than the food? EW, yuck! The options are endless and awful. We'll give O'Charley's a chance to clean up the place. Until then I think we'll eat some home cooking. Time to break out some healthy recipes and start eating things we know the contents of. My kitchen isn't grade C for sure!

DC

2007-08-16T20:39:00.000-07:00

Why do Diet Cokes taste different? Isn't diet coke, diet coke? I find myself driving out of my way to find a diet coke that tastes good. My favorite Diet Coke comes from Sonic, the ice is pretty good too. However, some fountain diet cokes taste like something they should have drained out of the machine before filling it. Do other fountain drinks have such inconsistant flavors? I know, I know...stop drinking it.

Give a Hoot!

2007-08-12T11:42:00.000-07:00

How much nature is too much nature? A couple of nights ago we were considering letting our small dog out in the backyard, the sun was going down but it was not dark. I was standing in front of the sliding door looking out and an owl swoops down and rests on the rail of the deck. Ok, is he looking for a friend or food? My daughter has already nicknamed our dog "Owl Bait". Just as another owl was ready to join the first, we made motions to discourage them both. We are not Steve Irwin so why all the attention from the owl kingdom? I believe they may have gotten the squirrel population under control however, do you know another wizard like Harry Potter that might need his mail delivered?

Lounging is a state of mind

2007-08-04T09:05:00.000-07:00

Good day for lounging. Yeah I decided not to fight it. Today instead of not being able to do much, I'm lounging. Then when people say I'm looking good, I can answer I'm working at it. "Goal accomplished." When the six week recovery is over, everyone is going to expect me to jump up and get to work so for now I'm trying to be content. I think when 6 weeks gets here I'll feel better but not 100% and that is the part I won't like. Some things people take for granted like good health, comfortable living situation, friends and yummy treats; well lets say, you don't necessary appreciate them until they are gone. Enjoy each day like it was your last. Last what? Good question!

Go for the goal!@#*!?

2007-08-03T09:56:00.000-07:00

I feel a little blue today! I was feeling quite perky recovering and yesterday I took a few steps back. I am one that likes forward progress, others slip and it's OK, but not for me. Goal oriented and hard worker, I consider myself one of the worker bees, work hard so the queens (in this case the divas) look good. Guess I'm going to have to make some blogger friends, I've finished reading all of the Harry Potter books and find myself twiddling my thumbs. I want to get back to sewing but don't feel quite up to it yet. I'm at the point in my life when I need to realize some new goals! I know how to make them and accomplish them, just not sure the direction I want to go. Guess I'll wait until I feel better.

4 weeks out

2007-08-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

Hey it has been four weeks since my surgery. Do I feel better you ask? Well most of the time, which makes things frustrating. Feeling good enough to go shopping only to find out when you get there you really need a place to sit down. I guess working at home will be the perfect answer-sitting and being close to the bed. I finished reading all of the Harry Potter books, couldn't put them down towards the end. Now what to do? What do you do when you feel fairly good but not really? Don't feel like eating, cooking,exercising, and pretty much anything else I can think of.

Post Op

2007-07-25T22:36:00.000-07:00

Well here it is almost two in the morning. This surgery has messed up my sleep patterns somewhat, come to think of it they weren't that great to start with. When I planned activities while sitting around, I set up smocking, crocheting, reading Harry Potter books and a bunch of other things. After I got home from the hospital, nothing seemed to occupy me for too long. Then I started on the Harry Potter book, can I just say I'm hooked. I just finished #5 a few minutes ago. Let me explain with the last 100 pages to go I could hardly read through the tears. Now I'm not so sure I want to go see the movie that was recently released. I'm starting #6 in the morning and will probably read all day it makes the time go by and I don't miss all the other things I used to do: Sew, shop, see people, walk and whatever I wanted.

Christmas in July

2007-07-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

Is it every too early to start decorating for Christmas? I had a stack of HO,HO,HO door knob hangers with bells on them sitting in my sewing room. They fell off the shelf and were sitting on the floor. Since I'm not supposed to pick things up they sat on the floor. Leave it to my grand daughter to take care of them (she occasionally tells me my house is messy). GUILTY!

Well her mom pointed out the fact my house was in early stages of Christmas decoration. Every door knob in my house dons a HO,HO,HO door knob decoration. Then I remember the angel is still in the tree in the front yard. If I don't turn on that light switch you can't see her, the leaves are out. (Whew)

Hey by time I can do something about it, it is almost time to start decorating for the holiday season.

Life through the eyes of a child--life is always interesting! I love my grandchildren.

Life is a process

2007-07-21T08:47:00.000-07:00

I thought I would try to make another entry. I've been watching my daughter's blogs; music, pictures, all kinds of pretty formats and layouts. Boy I've got a long way to go and a lot to learn. Gotta get it done before the busy season kicks in.
When my friend gets home I'm going to start playing with the embroidery software and my computerized sewing machine. Boy, my daughters made fun of me when I brought that one home. They said you don't even know how to use the computer how are you going to sew on a machine that runs by computer. It's a process and one that is aiding computer use.
Everything is a process, life is about learning and growing, they never said we had to get it right. You learn just as much if not more from a good failure as you do from success. The fact is that you try and try and try again.
The thing I'm having trouble wrapping my brain around right now is....when you walk into the hospital feeling fine and knowing what is going to happen, then 3 days later leave feeling less than A-OK with a life changing list of things you can and can't do. The mind is willing but getting the body to cooperate is another story.

2007-07-19T08:06:00.000-07:00

Embryo blogger!

One of my daughters suggested I start a blog. I laughed. You see I bought the first computer for this house when my four daughters were still in school and lived at home. I realized they would need computer proficiency the way things were going. I was never allowed to get near the monster in the corner. The few moments I did well.....let's just say the girls mocked me. First I didn't know where to go or how to start and my typing skills learned in high school on a manual typewriter. You ask what is that? That is something you have to pound the keys on really hard to get the key to strike the paper listen for the ding to push the return arm on the left and return the carriage. Sounds like the dark ages! Well that is where I got my typing skills the dark ages. Pounding keys hard and watching for the end of a sentence to hit the return. The popular electrics had this feature but you still had to listen for the ding to hit it so you didn't type off of the page requiring - yes- a "start over". Do overs today consist resting your finger on the backspace. And mistakes, well you didn 't want those because, correction fluids and tapes well, let's just say I don't think they exist any more.
Now I'm trying to keep the same font and color I started with it keeps changing on me.
My favorite color is pink and I tried typing in pink but that even makes me sick and it is hard to read. With my recent surgery, I've been forced to checking out and trying to overcome the "dark ages".
And for the title....only 24 hours in a day....well, what works for Jack Bauer and his crew I find I want more!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!