just breathe janis

Who's Roscoe?

2012-01-29T17:50:00.002-05:00

I came home from work the other night and Hubby was all fired up. He is telling me that the feral cats are back under the house. And there was a fight.
Mischa, our Kitty was running about slightly freaked, "hiding" from the cats she heard. And if you have ever not heard a cat fight, just take my word, cats scream & make the scariest sounds.
Our Dogs, Riley, Bandit & even little Dakota, were completely going crazy trying to locate these cats. Riley, the Coon~hound, was focused on the bathroom heat register.
Hubby said it was all so loud. The cats below, started to fight, and he could hear the insulation ripping from the crawl ceiling. and all Hell breaking loose, He said Roscoe was holding his own.
uhm, Wait a minute...
Mischa... Riley... Bandit...Dakota... those are our pets.
But "Who is Roscoe?"
Hubby, informs me Roscoe is the HUGE black cat that was among the cats.
Wait a minute...
Me:"Honey? Are you telling me you NAMED a feral cat? How long have you known, "Roscoe".
Hubby: I don't know, he's been hanging around. He's a big strong cat. Reminds me of Rocky in his prime {Rocky is our 19 yr old cat that passed in December}.
hmmm.
Did my Hubby really just name a stray?
You have to understand, he was raised not like me. He didn't grow up with pets. He loves our pets but I'm the animal person. I'm the rescuer.
Now, since I have been home I haven't seen "Roscoe", or any of the feral cats for that matter. There is evidence that they have returned. They have bent and destroyed the air vents that take them into the crawl.
But I haven't heard a peep...or should I say...
Meow?

Tim Tebow & 3:16

2012-01-13T17:36:00.001-05:00

Okay, I am sure many of you have heard of Tim Tebow and his wearing Bible verse John 3:16 on his eye blacks. In case you don't know who Tim Tebow is, he is that dreamy looking Denver Broncos football player. And (Lord help us) if you are not familiar with John 3:16, it is: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
Did you also hear these interesting 3:16 facts from the January 8th game against those Pittsburgh Steelers ?
*Tebow had 316 yards passing and averaged 31.6 yards per pass in the game
*the final quarter-hour television rating for the Bronos - Steelers game was 31.6

Incredibly MILLIONS of fans googled the John 3:16 Bible Verse withing the 24 hour following.

Tebow first wore John 3:16 during the 2009 BCS Championship game and has since become identified with the famous Bible message.

Way to witness Tim!
Very very cool!

Here We Go Again

2012-01-03T12:03:00.000-05:00

While many are taking trees down and cleaning out the Christmas cheer, hauling boxes back into the attics and basements, I have another task at hand.
Do you remember two years ago January, when I posted about cats getting into our crawl space? Click HERE for that post. A neighbor cat went missing and I crawled into our crawl because of all the meowing going on below? Apparently the Feral Cat living there was having a party.. I ended the party sending everyone home! All 3 or 4 cats. Then after we closed off the entrances, the big Ferel Cat moved into the neighbors crawl as this house was empty. He continued to visit our porch particularly when Izzy was living with us, as she was a beauty he really wanted to get to know better. Click HERE for the post and clip of Izzy and her Tom.

So anyway...
The neighbor house has been bought and occupied. Therefore the Feral moved out...


strong cat... not only bent but ripped out screen

He managed to break back into our crawl. Which, honestly, I didn't mind too much at first.

Until this morning...
When he decided to mark our crawl as his territory. Anyone familiar with male UN-neutered cats knows exactly what I am talking about...
We woke up to that unmistakable awful smell.

A plan is being plotted. I must make Tom the Feral move out, clean up that horrible smell, and fix the entrances he has made.
My dogs and cat are going crazy trying to find this cat they smell.
I think I will bring Bandit (middle dog) with me. He should be able to chase it out, (and protect me.. Ferals aren't exactly friendly cats!)
It's 19 degrees out. I am not looking forward to this. My shoulder is acting up too. Hubby wants to wait till the weekend when the weather warms up a bit, but I will be in Kentucky unable to help.
oh my goodness...
Maybe we should go get Izzy to chase him out! lol
Or anyone know the number to Feral Busters?

A Ticking Clock

2011-12-31T12:42:00.000-05:00

I know we usually take this time to reflect back and take a good look at the past year. It's New Year's Eve... that is what we do.
These are the highlights & low points of the year...
Here is what I plan to do to improve the coming year, my New Years Resolutions...
Well, forget that.
I typically do my "New Year's Resolutions" on my Birthday in June. I also prefer to keep it private.
Yes.. I do look back at 2011... the high's and low's, but the past is the past. Can't change what has happened. Had some really sad moments and some really glad ones too.

Today, I look forward to the future. 2012. What will we see? What will we do? What changes will we endure that are miniscule only effecting us personally. And what huge changes that will make modifications for us all?

I have big plans for the coming year.

I will be starting college classes... something I haven't done since the eighties.

I will have a daughter graduating from college. And another that will be going abroad.

I am turning 50... 50 years old... how odd is that in my head? I have plans for this old body to start being treated better so that it will serve me better. I will not take aging lightly. I will embrace it only if we cooperate.

I plan on having a better financial year. After the beating and change of the past couple years, we are facing the ole financial struggle and we will not let it get the best of us. We are stronger, we are smarter.

I am going to have fun. That's right, damn it, I am going to enjoy this year. I am going to have belly laughs and turn frowns into smiles.

Life is full of surprises.
No one really knows what will happen.
The clock is ticking...
I need to start enjoying this life that God has chosen for me and stop trying to change the plan. I do believe that my life was planned before I was even born. So I must trust, and appreciate what it is. Only then can I truly get it.

Sour Patch 21 yr Old Kids

2011-12-28T21:52:00.000-05:00

My daughters and I love PINTEREST. I got addicted first and then introduced my girls to this wonderful world of pining on social bulletin boards. It is a grand waste of time, but also a wonderful resource to crafts, DIYs, ideals, recipes, clothing, party planning, websites, photography, the list goes on and on.
A few of the "gifts" I gave my daughters, came from Pinterest ideals. The Baby, {mind you she just turned 21 recently}, used a pinterest ideal with a twist this evening.
And these items together...

Citrus Vodka & Sour Patch Candy

And you get this....

She let them soak in... drained them... and they are Sour Patch Candies for the over 21 crowd.

Currently being munched on as she and friends watch the Indiana University basketball team get killed by Michigan State in a big Ten game. I am about to be a DD, and take them to Broad Ripple (the fun place to be late at night if you are between 21-31. {Okay, even the 50 yr olds love Broad Ripple but we don't hang with the younger crowd there}.

So strange... I knew these kids when they first loved Sour Patch candies. BUT without the alcohol. I have known these particular friends of hers since they were in Elementary school. Now, with Christmas Break, and they are all back together from their different colleges, they are catching up and still enjoying friendships.

Well, I think they are ready for me to chauffeur them.

I'm REALLY a Writer!

2011-12-26T22:11:00.002-05:00

I have been writing my whole life.
From a little girl with Diaries, to my dear Blog. I have written newsletters, proof for marketing writers, and have always loved writing letters.
For me the words flow better on paper than through my lips. I can't always say what I mean unless I am writing it. On print, the thoughts come out, uninterrupted and more how I mean to say what I mean.

I am a reader. I escaped to storybooks as soon as I could read. The library was my friend. Everything about the massive old buildings with the hundreds of books enticed me. I loved every minute spent in the library. I still do.

I know a few real writers.
I have blogged recently about one of them. My High School Club Sister, Sherri Wood Emmons and her two wonderful novels ("Prayers & Lies", and "The Sometimes Daughter"). Her second one is about to be release to the general public and I do not doubt that it will be just as successful if not more so.

A few months back, Sherri asked me to send her a review of some favorite books. I gladly did, and to my surprise, she connected me with "Just Women", magazine, and submitted my reviews. They wanted to use them and printed in their Fall issue a full page! I can not tell you how honored and thrilled I am! And I actually got paid for it!!!

So totally cool! I feel very proud and validated. I know it's something small to many, but it is HUGE to me. Sherri truly has made me feel wonderful and I am so grateful.
To my dear Bloggland friend Linda (over at Over The Fence) is it this wonderful every time you write in your column? How exhilarating!

Have a Blessed Christmas

2011-12-24T23:54:00.000-05:00

May you all be Blessed with good health, good friends, good love, and happiness.
xoxo

POKER FACE

2011-12-22T22:09:00.000-05:00

I have always been a very expressional person. My face is very much a window into what I am thinking. If I try to tell a lie... You will know it. If I do not approve of something, oh you so can tell by my expression.

Working with Deaf people I am becoming aware of the need for a Poker Face. When I am talking to my "kids"... sometimes they can play me and read me too well. If only I could put a Poker Face on...

Had a little confrontation the other day. What started as a chat between two of my teens that were not getting along turned into a tense situation... They saw FEAR in my Face. If only I could have showed "no fear" perhaps I could have gotten a handle on things better. {BTW~ It wasn't that bad, just the first time I saw such negativity between a couple of Dears. I was a bit afraid one of them was going to get physical, which they did not.}

So anyway... I am trying to learn how to control my facial expressions. It is so important in conversation.
My Deaf friends can read me like a well known book. They can tell when I am not feeling well, when I am sensitive, when I am confused, and when I am pissed. My Deaf friends are way more in-tune with my emotions than my Hearing friends.
Another thing... I notice little things that we do so differently that are rather crucial. They can be taken the wrong way if not understood that we have these differences. Such as, looking away... the next time you are talking to someone that is hearing, pay attention to how often you or the person you are speaking to looks away.. we do it all the time, and think nothing of it.
I will be talking & explaining something, and I am not looking at the person I am talking to but rather the space just beyond them.
When speaking to someone that is Deaf, it is proper to look them directly in the face. I use to watch their hands, to see what they are saying. But I have been corrected and now know that looking at them directly into their face, you still see what they are saying with their hands .
My immerse into the Deaf Culture has been so wonderful. I am learning so much, not only about this Culture, but about myself.

So excited to start my ASL classes (thanks to our partnership with Vincennes University). They will begin in January. I do believe that this will help me not just with my signing but with expressions, my understanding and maybe, just maybe, I will learn to use a Poker Face!

Sliver

2011-12-20T12:37:00.000-05:00

December 20th 1986

Grow Old along with Me... the Best is yet to Be...

Robert Downing

So, Twenty-five years ago today, Sergio and I made the big commitment.

25 years... that is half my life! I have been with him longer than without him. I have legally been a Gonzalez longer than a Meyer.

I have been wanting to share "the story" for quite a while, as to how we "meet". It is an interesting one that isn't one many could imagine for me. But, that will have to wait.. (tee hee~ sorry, but to do it justice I need more than a few minutes to tell and today I just do not have the time). I promise with the coming of two weeks off for Christmas break, I will make the time and post it soon.

For today, there is no big celebration. Hubby is just outside of town in meetings. I am getting ready myself to hustle into work. We barely saw each other this morning and I will be leaving before he arrives. We knew getting married around Christmas may be difficult to "celebrate" as most do for Anniversaries, however we are not like most people. I don't need a party to show our love. Showing our love by gifts and parties isn't our style. Rather, showing it to those closest to us, in how we have survived the storms, how we stand by each other, and in how we live day by day.

I admit, sometimes when I see friends made a big fuss... I may feel a tug..maybe even some jealousy. But, then again, if I wanted to be fussed over, I would have picked a different man to marry! My Hubby is not a showy person. I know he loves me, I know he believes in our marriage. We took it seriously 25 years ago and still hold those vows close to our hearts.

I look around, and see many marriages that have failed. I think it takes so much to keep a marriage strong. I may seem lucky, but it has been a lot of hard work. It hasn't exactly been a bed of roses every day. There have been moments where Sergio or myself thought about throwing in the towel. But we didn't. We worked through the tough times.

I have been Blessed. But because of a lot of work, love and prayers.

and by the way... I still get GIDDY when I see my Hubby♥

she is grown up

2011-12-18T11:16:00.000-05:00

My first born daughter has turned 23 today.

Time has flown.
Wasn't she just entering college, nervous yet giddy with excitement yesterday?
Wasn't she a cheerleader full of high school drama needing my advice yesterday?
Wasn't she full of enthusiasm as she was entering Middle School, which was such a big deal because this was NOT a Catholic school which meant no more uniforms?
Wasn't she that Smiley girl that everyone loved (and she loved each and everyone back) in Catholic Elementary school? Where she and Michelle had silly adventures underneath blanketed forts, and made their edible "creations" and performed at the talent shows, just yesterday?
Wasn't she that precious Pre-schooler that refused to give up her binkie...until she trader it for her Little Minnie Mouse training wheeled bike.. yesterday?
...and wasn't it just yesterday when I gave birth to this precious perfect daughter, that showed me I had so much love to give and to receive?

Today, she lives in a nice condo with two friends (from high school). She is finished with her classes at Ball State. She is about to start her Student Teaching in a busy 1st grade class. She will graduate following this assignment and hopefully be hired in a school she will love. She has a tall handsome boyfriend that makes her smile.

I could not be more proud of the young woman she has become. She is strong, smart, beautiful, kind, creative and loving.

Happy Birthday Emily♥
I love you to the moon and back.

I love her. She is pretty darn awesome.

Rest My Dear Rocky

2011-12-17T21:51:00.000-05:00

My Sweet Rocky has passed away.
He Blessed us with 18 of his 19-20 years. Back in 1995 I had rescued a frail kitten, named Mario, and nursing it back to health, while also tending our two older cats, Baby and Eastwood. We also had a couple of dogs and my girls were in grade school. Add the 2 kids I baby-sat, and a Hubby... I had a houseful!
On Halloween night, Rocky, whom had been a stray for a while in the neighborhood, was a target for some naughty boys that lived next door. My Hubby, decided he'd let Rocky stay...just for Halloween in our garage for safe keeping. Rocky was very grateful. His muscular build with large scarred jaws, curled up on a blanket, purring loudly, showing his thanks for the bowl of kitty chow & water.
I really did not think we would keep him. He was a big ole Tom Cat! Nothing like my "housecats". He had a little "cat house" shelter on the porch. We did not let him in. I had just sold our home and didn't need the ciaos of cats becoming territorial. However, during the home inspection, the new buyers let him in... where my dogs & existing cats had a hay-day destoring the house in an hours time!
Even so, the day we moved, I dropped Rocky & Mario off to be neutered and "spend the night" at the Vet while we got settled into the new home. The next day they joined us and found their niche and the peaking order fell into place.

The Boys sharing a snooze

He and Mario became known as, "The Boys". They slept together, played and pretty much were always found together.

Rocky was laid back. He was a sweet cat. He stayed out of sight, out of the way often. Only as he got older did he prefer to be around people more.
He had a very protective side. When Hubby worked long hours, Rocky would perch himself by a window... growing (like a dog) at people that walked too close to our home. He was my Watch Cat. Always alerting the dogs BEFORE someone actually approached the door.

He never complained. Never tore anything up or missed the liter box. Even on his last days, he manage to find the liter box.
His vision failed almost a year ago, followed by loss of hearing and arthritis. He always just adapted... never fusing or complaining.

The past couple of weeks have been touchy. He started a strange cry that we have never heard. But as soon as we touched him, he'd give his sweet, "Murr". It was as if he got confused...lost. And as soon as we would get him, he'd murr and purr. He slept a lot. He ate a lot (spoiled with canned kitten chow as it was rich in protein and easy to eat). Yesterday, he had trouble eating... then couldn't get comfortable and rest. He throw up, hard. This either twisted his tummy, intestines, or my Veterinarian, suggest it may have triggered another stroke. Rocks struggled... He couldn't straighten or walk. He quickly grew labored, and showed pain or stress. We made that difficult drive to our Vet, holding and loving him to the end. My Dear Vet, is truly a man that loves animals. He spoke so softly to my old Kitty, reminding him of funner times and spoke of his dear Buddy Mario (whom past several years ago).

It is so awful to lose a pet. They are so generous and love us so unconditionally. They live such short but impacted lives. They touch us and can teach us so much.
Even my Lovies that are with me for the shortest time, I wouldn't trade those moments and memories for anything♥

♪Don't Give Up on Me Baby♫

2011-12-17T11:52:00.000-05:00

Gosh it has almost been 2 weeks since I last posted. I actually have a couple of incomplete drafts but so much is going on and my mood has been iffy.

Since I last wrote:

I went on a wonderful trip with my Deaf School Students;
had a grand surprise of publication;
visited my Mom;
got together with my Sis;
had some work drama;
talked to my Dad;
taught one of my ISD Girls to write a blog;
daughter came home for holidays;
precious Cat passed away;

and a bunch of other STUFF. So I have a lot to tell you... I am just very behind.

I am going to try to work on these drafts and post them today.

AT LEAST ONE!
Love you all and hope you don't give up on me.
I'll Be Back!

Christmas Cards

2011-12-03T15:04:00.001-05:00

Today is December 3rd. We have received 4 Christmas cards.
FOUR...
I remember not so long ago, December 1st was the date many of my friends as well as myself, sent out our cards. So, in many past years, by the third, I would have received at least a dozen. I run a bit behind myself. For most years past, we took a picture of the girls on Thanksgiving that would be made into our cards. It became our sweet little tradition that we enjoyed as much as my family & friends that appreciated seeing the girls grow up.

Some of my favorites...

...and last years...


my Goodness, they have grown up!

But, this year... was the one I have been dreading, as far as "the picture time".

E~ "Mom... we don't want to do a picture this year."

my head~ whatttttttttttttt?

me~ ohh, well, uhm okay, but why?

E~ "It's just, well, we grew up, it's weird now."

my head~ noooooooooooooo! It's not about you guys...its's about the family & friends that love you & never see you. It's bout Dad & I being so proud about you, and want to show you off!!!

me~ "ohh, okay, are you sure? You know these pictures mean so much to alot of folks".

E~ laughing..." no, Mom, it's you that they mean alot to. How about you let me take a picture of the Dogs to send. Everyone loves seeing the Dogs just as much."

my head~ YES! It means alot to me! Do it for ME!!!

Me~ "Okay Sweetie. I guess so"

Here is this years winning picture cards.

She did a great job with Riley's picture. Riley looks just as excited about the picture taking as the girls.

I am sad that so many people stopped doing cards. I too have made cuts. I now send about a forth of what I use to send, but I still send a lot.
Especially to those I love but just haven't had the opportunity to see or even contact. I love my family and friends.
I love getting the cards. Especially the ones with the pictures and the silly letters. I LIKE that too much info that some complain about.
I must be signing off now. I need to address my cards (yes I do that by hand too).

Feel free to send me your Christmas cards! I will appreciate them♥

The Sometimes Daughter

2011-11-30T10:06:00.000-05:00

You may have remembered me reviewing a book back in March, from my friend, Author, Sherri Wood Emmons. The book was Prayers and Lies, and was absolutely wonderful. I was so intrigued with the story and Sherri has such a gift of writing.
Well, she has done it again!
While anxiously waiting for January's release of Sherri's new novel, she surprised me with an advance copy. I was THRILLED!
Sherri Wood Emmons has not disappointed readers with this new novel, The Sometimes Daughter.
Oh my Gosh...
Ms. Emmons, you have done it again!
The Sometimes Daughter, had me riveted in my chair, relishing every page. Over the next 48 hours, I spent every available minute glued to the book. I carried it with me everywhere, trying to get a page in when I could.I ignored everything else and was swept away into the main character, Sweet Judy Blue Eyes, world.
Ms. Emmons has a true gift with words. She can capture you and quickly transform you into a place and time. I felt I could see, smell and feel everything Sweet Judy was going through.
For myself, part of this splendor, was the fact that Ms Emmons used her setting for the book, a place called Irvington, tucked into Indianapolis, back between August of 1969 through the early 1980's. I know this place well. It is where and when I grew up. Therefore, I had an extra bonus of revisiting this time and place.
From Sweet Judy's birth at Woodstock to her Hippie parents, through many interesting twist and turns, you will find this to be a wonderful page-turner. As Judy grows to understand her differences in life, the dysfunctions of her Mother, as well as the triumphs of her Father always being there for her, we watch her struggle to find herself and what is most important to her.
There are a couple of times in the book I found myself getting mad over the choices she makes. The art of a really good story, the characters, are exactly that, finding their own way, not "my way". Which intrigued me more and made me want more. Judy is not always predictable. She learns through the choices and consequences made. She is a very likeable character, easy to identify with.
As I neared the end of the book, I found myself not wanting the story to end... there is so much more I want to know. However, I must say, I was pleased with its ending. I am known to "Throw a book across the room", if the ending doesn't agree with me. I am happy to report, this book ended with me holding it tightly and sighing with a tear or two.

Oh my Ms Sherri! You are a talented writer. I absolutely, can not wait for your third book!

You can find The Sometimes Daughter coming soon to a bookstore near you or please go HERE to order now. Release date is January 31, 2012

stronger than you know...

2011-11-26T11:05:00.000-05:00

As Thanksgiving arrived I had that nervous feeling. I knew I could handle the day, and what God had in store. I had Hubby, and both daughters to spend the day with so, feeling rather ready to face the day and start my cooking frenzy.

Emily & Annie

After much thinking and missing of my parents... I picked up the phone and spoke to them both. Not as easy as it sounds, and no I will not go into it. Let's just say I wanted to tell them I love them and let them know they are in my thoughts & prayers.

I was able to reach my Sis, which always brings me love. I am saddened that we were unable to meet up for Thanksgiving. She & Hubby were going to stop by later but were unable to. Sis was able to update me on some family developments but I stopped her, as I really wasn't ready to discuss too much of these details.. not now. Not today.

As I hung up the phone, I noticed Dakota chomping on something. DAKOTA!!! That's my new Mouth guard! ugh. I already know insurance will not allow me another one, & frankly I don't have another $400 sitting around. Maybe I can "alter" it, cutting the chewed ends off and still utilize the purpose as the center seems unaffected.

My Husband's Sister, Nora, & her handsome guys joined Hubby, the girls & I for a nice Thanksgiving meal. That was good. To have their company as well as breaking bread together. I can make a mean Thanksgiving dinner and all was tasty.

Nora & Sergio

Cousins~ Emily Annie Chris & John

As the evening arrived, Emily's boyfriend had to skidadal to his family dinner. The in-laws also headed out. We visited and grazed with our girls for a while longer.
For the most part... it was pretty good. We are Blessed.

Right before hitting the sack, I opened my Laptop to check mail. That's when I saw it. A message from a ghost. A molester. Someone that I grew up believing I was to trust, that in turn, molested me.

The message was short. He had found me through a mutual person on Facebook. He said something about despite what happened, he had a lot of photographs of me and my family that he would like to pass to me.
Now, as much as I love photos, and he was an amateur photographer that took tons of us, I don't want a thing from this person.
He stirred up some painful memories. Thirty-five years later, and the pain is just as fresh when surfaced.

Just when my plate is so full of peas and they are starting to overflow off my plate, I have tripped, and they are flying off.
I felt so overwhelmed with the problems I had. I really don't think it's fair to get this thrown on top of the lot.
BUT, apparently, God knows I can handle this. He knows what He is giving me & He knows that I can handle it. I just keep telling myself to BELIEVE & to TRUST. I do realize how fortunate I am, and I am very grateful. It's just sometimes I feel... well, dang it like, OKAY! I think Ive had enough... please give me a break. God knows me better than anyone. He knows that I am Stronger than I know.
I do believe. I do trust.

Me & the Hubby

Thankfulness and Tears

2011-11-21T12:24:00.000-05:00

As Thanksgiving approaches, I reflect on all I am grateful for.
I am Blessed.
I have the most wonderful daughters, whom I am so proud of. A loving Husband that tries to understand and protect me. A Sister that I don't know what I would do without. My job, has brought me much joy and opened a new culture to me. And many family and friends that have Blessed my life along the way.
But...
It is also a time where I reflect on those things in my life that are not going so well.
I try so hard to remember not to dwell on things that I can not change, but it is difficult.
I find myself in prayer asking that God will provide me the comfort in knowing this is all part of His plan & that I need to trust in Him. However, I can't seem to be able to accept certain things that have brought such sadness. I find myself wondering why? Why God, must I endure this and if I must, please help me to accept and move forward.
When you have depression issues, the Holidays can be difficult instead of joyous. I am trying so hard.
I want to make everything perfect for my loved ones. But I also have this unbearable pain that some of whom I love so dearly can't join us and celebrate all we are Blessed with.
Life is so short...
I just want...
to be happy
to make others happy
and to learn to accept and move on.

twenty-one...

2011-11-12T20:15:00.000-05:00

My Baby turned twenty~one.

21

Annie in her "Handmade Duct-Tape" Dress

The big "I can legally have a glass of wine, beer, or mixed drink", whoot whoot!
21
Her Birthday falls on Halloween Weekend. So, on the Eve of her Birthday, dressed in her Duct-Tape Dress ( I think she was a birthday gift or a candle she made a flame hair piece), she had a little get-to-gether at her apartment with roommates & friends. Then at the stroke of mid-night they ventured into the bars of Muncie. Her first impression of Bars could not have been grand in a college town! But, it was her first. Determined not to spoil it, she refused going to the bars till she was "legal". Now, this is not to say she is perfect and I am sure this was not her first drink... but, I do appreciate that she never used a fake ID and that she was a smart girl.
The next day, Friday October 29th (her actual birthday), she came home to Indianapolis, enjoyed dinner with Hubby, her Sister and me at Charlestons, and ventured on with her Sister taking her out to the Indy Broad Ripple Village night scene. With the Halloween season in full spirits, the town was a hoping. Sergio & I volunteered to be the DD's (designated drivers).

Emily, Annie, Haley & Brittany

Birthday Annie in costume w Hubby & I

First stop was a friends parents Halloween Party... Where Annie got initiated into their bar. Here she is with her Dad, singing & dancing to "My Humps" on a little platform. I love this picture. They are both CRACKING UP!

Annie & her Dad

She had a wonderful evening with her Sis and friends. She did not overdo it, she behaved, she had a harmless fun time.

I could not be more proud of the young woman she has become. She is focused, she is motivated, she is amazing.
Happy Birthday Pooh!

November 11th, 1918

2011-11-11T22:34:00.000-05:00

In 1918 on the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the armistice signed between the Allies of World War I and Germany was signed in Compiegne, France, for the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front of World War I.
We honor those that sacrificed during this war. Those that died in order to protect and defend our great country and our allies. On this day we particularly try to show our gratefulness and appreciation.
We have since added all our Veteran's of war's post of World War I.

I have many loved ones that have served or are currently serving this great country in the military. I love our Marines, Army, Navy, Air Force & National Guard. I am forever indebted for their protection and feel I can sleep under their watchful eyes.

Thank you my dear Heroes. I so appreciate you and all you have done.

Hey There!

2011-11-11T13:18:00.000-05:00

Hey There old Friends! Remember me? I know, I know. I have been away too long. But, as you all know, life gets busy & we disappear sometimes from Blog World which is a good thing, except for when our Blog friends don't know where we go & worry.
So fret no more... I'm back!
Whats Up?
Do you remember when everyone was saying "Whatzzzzzz up?" wasn't that annoying? Glad that passed.

So... here is one of the main reasons I was ...MIA

Yes... this is my precious ASUS laptop that I am oddly very attached to. A few weeks ago, as I reached for my fresh cup of coffee (with cream & sugar), my wrist gave out right as I was reaching with it across the laptop, causing me to pour the entire cup into this ole laptop. Seriously. I tried to rescue it, but well, it went into a coma. Luckily, one of my heroes is related to me and knows a boatload of computer geek stuff as he works for HP. My dear BIL , Brent, took ASUS to his home hospital where, he performed a miracle.
heavy exhale!
I can not tell you how happy I am to not only have this baby home, but... I didn't lose data! That is huge! I am a photography whore and have way too many unprotected/un-back up-saved photos.

I am so relieved.

Second, the reason that I have been writing less in the past three months, is I am very happily busy with my job. This job is such a Blessing. It is the perfect fit, and I truly can say, I am one of those people that love their jobs & look forward to coming in every day.

And third.... there has been family drama. Not within Hubby, Daughters, & myself. But outside those safe arms... on both sides of our family, separate craziness is brewing. I found myself in a place where I knew I couldn't write my true feelings as the censorship "family" police would be up in arms and things would be taken wrong, feelings would surely be hurt (although the pain some have caused me seem to not be an issue for them). I feel so helpless when I can't "fix" things. It really stinks. The hurt cuts deep and sometimes you wonder if things can ever mend when it gets this crazy. I won't go into it right now, maybe never. There is no healing in writing about some things at this point. We will just have to see what time and prayers bring.

My beautiful youngest Daughter turned 21. I promise to do a post on her with pictures.

Also, today is Veteran's Day & I must post about it as well.

Gonna get some house work done & will return to do another post soon.

Love you all~
It's great to be back♥

It's a Beautiful Day In Indiana

2011-10-28T12:02:00.001-04:00

my backyard

Ahhh Autumn!
Cool Crisp Days, the trees are full of reds, yellows, greens, and browns. The lovely sound of leaves crunching under your steps. The blue skies with the swirls of white clouds. Even the gray days are simply beautiful here this time of year.

Despite my ickies, this day is bringing me an overwhelming smile.

My beloved ASUS, Laptop computer had a, uhm mishap with a full cup of coffee last Sunday. I have desperately tried to save it... It now is in a coma state, resting in the hands of my dear Brother-In-Law, aka~ ComputerMan! I am hoping he can breathe life back into it... If I lose all my data, including tons of photos, (and yes I know, should have backed up.... but I didn't okay! I live dangerously!), anyway, if I lose it all but still have a working Laptop... I will be thrilled! I can't stand being stuck back in Hubby's office on the old dinosaur PC (although again, GRATEFUL!). I am so uninspired back her in this windowless room with guy stuff. Work stuff, and all alone. Currently ASUS can't even power up... :( Poor thing, not even two years old yet. I love ASUS. this is true. Best Laptop ever! I want it back.

I also have some icky drama going on. I am amazed at how I have been holding up, using my coping skills, and staying strong. Last night was especially painful, but my darling Hubby stood by my side and well, we got through it together. Amazing the strength you can have with love ones by your side. I am so glad I am able to give this to God, and trust in Him to guide me through. I can't even imagine not having Him through this all.

I really want to do a post about my Annie! My precious BABY GIRL turns 21 tomorrow! ASUS has all the pictures & scanning capacity so, seriously? How can I do a post justice without posting a bunch of photos of her. Although I will post this one! I took a picture with my iphone of the proofs that came in the other day.


Andrea 2011

Ironically, they stuck the Greek letters up on the corner to give us an ideal, but they used Chi Omega letters, which are her Sister's sorority, Annie is a Delta Zeta Girl. Isn't she a pretty young lady? I am so proud of her!
I will do a post about her later. When I can access the photos.

Tonight I am going to a Lifer's 50th Birthday Party. I will take pictures & try to figure out how to post on this computer. I have known Mary for 43 of those 50 years! How Blessed I am to be able to still call her friend.

Oh my goodness! Look at the time! I must rush off. Things to do, places to go!

Sorry I have been so MIA. Thank you to all that has kept me in Prayer, and thank you for positive energy sent my way. I am such a lucky person, and so very grateful for all the love I do get.

just breathe j...

2011-10-21T18:33:00.000-04:00

I haven't been able to write lately.
I've been incredible Blessed to be busy with my girls at work...
A house calling me to cleannnnnn...
I've been working on the Baby Clothes Project...
Dogs that are demanding...
Daughters to keep tabs on...
...and I've had some family crisis to deal with.
Frankly, while writing about this would help me to breathe and clear my head, it is not an appropriate thing to write about and I must leave the sharing to those that care most about me and keep things private. In due time perhaps, but, not today.
I have actually toyed with the idea of pinning a novel. If I write this life story as a novel, perhaps it would be more accepted and I can blend some fiction into it to make it a better read. And protect the many innocent as well. If someone that knew me or family read this as "fiction", it can't hurt so much. And hopefully some would think some truths were actually the fictional parts, and not become upset.
I don't know.
The chapters are swimming in my brain. Begging to flow onto paper.

However, I know someone, lets just say this person has been trying to pin a book for many years....not only her perception of what happened is inaccurate, she is using false data, and dragging her family into a slippery slope of ugliness. Not pretty at all. And the saddest part is how it is written. Portions have been shared and I think she is spending far too much for a dead end story. She believes this book will make her millions.
I am not looking to make millions. I certainly am not looking to become well known. To be published, and for me not to loose money...now that would be an achievement that I would be honored to hold.

The words are all here... I lie in bed retelling it and tweaking it.

I think it's better to leave the good & happy in my blog. A whole lot of laughs & fun is better than sorrow and tears.

Anyway....
Having a lovely afternoon. Enjoying a pretty day and trying to get caught up on EVERYTHING!!!
I wanna go "play" in Pinterest Land. that is such a lovely place. So inspiring. I have so many blogs to play catch up. I fear I have lost touch with many and need to check up on my Blogettes. Hopefully all is good.

Dang... how can it be 6pm already? I guess I should fix dinner. Im only home for dinner a couple of nights a week so I really should be a dear wifey & go put some magic together on the stove.

Love to you all~

Fluff

2011-10-13T12:32:00.000-04:00

Still not in a good place, but I am extremely strong and loved. Thinking some Warm & Fuzzy is about due so I hope you enjoy.

These gave me a smile & I hope they do you too. For more click my pinterest buttom & go to the Precious Pets board.

the storms

2011-10-09T17:19:00.000-04:00

***fotenote~ to my blog friends that only like to read the good, and funny.. you might want to walk away now... this is a little of the ugly***

I have been very hesitate to write some of these feelings and thoughts. My biggest fear is to hurt or offend someone. Especially someone I love. But I struggle with... why I started my blog, how I wanted to write about the good, the bad & the ugly. How life throws different things but how we learn to cope and journey forward. Turning the negative into positive.
I have always tried to be careful what I write. Particularly because of my girls, Emily & Annie. I would never want to embarrass them. They have grown into extraordinary young women, and I could not possibly be more proud of them.
I have gotten negative response on occasion from readers not liking hearing my darker side of life. I have also gotten positive response on how some of the dark helps them as well. So weighing it out.. today, anyway, I will share some thoughts about the not so fun and exciting part of my life that I am dealing with.

I am struggling with my relationship with my parents. I love them so much. I yearn to have a close relationship.
For those of you that are fortunate enough to have a Blessed relationship, I am so glad for you! I am overjoyed to know that it does exist and can only pray that my children and their families will feel Blessed to be close to Hubby and I. I try very hard to stay focused on that and perhaps we try harder to make for a calm and peaceful "homelife" so this will be an end result of a "happier family".

Unfortunately, because of mental illnesses and things that just can not be fixed, neither my husband or myself have that with our parents. It isn't, "something that happened or something said". It isn't grudges and it isn't resentment. It isn't neglect or even selfishness.
It is what it is.

As I approach 50, I would love nothing more than to have a close relationship with my parents. I realize that they are only human and can not live forever. I have friends that have lost their parents and miss them so. Would do anything to hug them again, to have them to love again. Sometimes, I think I am heading there with my parents... I will be talking to them daily, I will be under the impression things are improving and going well. I will be at that point where I am ready to open up more and embrace them, but then IT happens.

The storm arrives.

Hello manic depressed bi-polar crazy pod person that has invaded my loved one.
The words you say.
The actions you take.
Even after all these years, I am still surprised how they hurt and affect me.
I know you are not my loved one. That person is buried deep within. That person would never hurt someone so much.

No wine. No magic pill. Nothing to make it go away.

Sometimes, I just have to sit and wait for the storm to take its course and pray the damage isn't too bad.

How dreadful.

Thankfully, I do have so much love and support. My Sis understands what I go through more than anyone can as she too has to live this. I love you Sis and grateful to have you. My Hubby is so supportive and is my rock. Poor Guy just wants to find a way to fix things for me when we know there isn't anything we can do. Then my daughters... my precious daughters. I promise I will never put you through this. Please know with the right tools, even disorders such as these can be manageable.

I don't need sympathy. I don't need advice about being positive.
blah blah blah.
I just wanna vent now and then. I will move on.

i promise to post something fluffy soon!

cat donuts

2011-10-07T15:23:00.000-04:00

posted on my daughters Facebook wall... I want these!

gimmie gimmie...please

2011-10-06T11:20:00.000-04:00

I have found myself soaking up the pleasure of Pinterest stalking. Some of you know what I am talking about... That wonderfully addicting Social Bulletin Board of "ohhhhhs & ahhhhs" . The stuff we want, like or make us think... "I can do that!" or "What a great Idea!" The dreams, inspirations, and the fantasies... As well as the bragging for few that actually have or have been blessed with. It also is a wonderful site of shared books, movies, and clothing.
I have something like 25 "boards". Stuff that makes me smile. I have many I follow and even a few that follow me.
It's strange... but ohhh so fun!

I use the quotes I find, my, "Words That Help Me Breathe", for my Girls at ISD, I have turned a few into posters for them and always use a different encouraging quote of the week.

I have a, Once Upon a Happily-Ever-After for the Babies" , full of wedding ideals because, well, one day will be here before we know it.
I'm hoping these will give us a clear helpful path for planning the big events...

One of my favorite boards is for those hilarious things that make me crack up... Good to know there are others with my sense of humor & find the same things that make us giggle.

I crack up every time I see this

But mostly... I just love to creep & pin...Especially the pretty things I want! If I had the talent that many of my Bloggy Buddies do... I would be making these for myself.

ahhhhhhhhhh...
So much Pinterest Loving going on.
Makes me happy♥

always something...

2011-10-04T13:50:00.000-04:00

"You know Janis, it just goes to show you, it's always something--if it ain't one thing, it's another."

Thank you Roseanne Roseannadanna. You give me a smile remembering this.
Today is definitely one of those days. I am grateful for the memory of Gilda Radner's character. For laughing is so much better than crying.

It seems so often things will be so amazingly awesome, I'm on top of the world, and someone has to go and give me a big push. I haven't been knocked completely down... I am hanging on by roots, determined not to fail.

I am reminding myself that I can't fix things... I can't change things... I can't make others follow the rules ... I can't turn that dang chair into a couch. No matter how hard I try.

I am remembering to pray. Really really really hard. But I am praying for forgiveness of my angry, remembrance that this pain someone is causing is not deliberate. For this loved one can't control their illness that makes them do what they do. I am praying for strength. For guidance, for understanding.

When someone is ignorant... selfish... incompetent... manic... or downright crazy. You can't feel anger. You must be full of compassion and love.
It's a hard one.
A really really hard one.

But...
It is what it is...

And Dang it, I just can't stick a band-aid on it and move on.

I must be patient, and listen to my heart.

{also...prayers...so send on the prayers my dear friends. I could really use them}.

StRAwbErRy fiELdS FORever...

2011-09-26T10:01:00.000-04:00

Let me take you down...

I can't sing. I never know the words, I have no pitch, and I have an annoying little lisp. I never could sing... but that never stopped me.

When I was in High School, my Bestie, Richie, and I were involved with a Christian youth group called Young Life. we enjoyed singing along to the songs...quietly. But when we got in the car to head home, we belted them out as loud as we could, not caring how horrible we sounded.

I have always been a singer. I sing along to the radio. Even the songs I really shouldn't know. I sing when I have headphones on, looking and sounding weird. I sang to my Babies, and sing to my pets.

Songs left me a couple years ago. Not completely... but, the songs from my heart, singing a joyful tune, singing because you are happy... were gone for too long. My depression stole that joy from me. It's been a silent couple years.

Guess what? The songs in my heart are back! I find myself singing aloud a lot once again. Whistling & humming came first...Then it happened. I found myself once again singing in the shower. Singing in the car. Singing all the time.

Happiness has arrived and I feel the joy in my heart.

It feels good to be back♥

Perfect Fall Weekend

2011-09-25T15:13:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was the first official day of Autumn.
Because I do not work on Fridays, I enjoyed an additional beautiful crisp day for my weekend.
I ran to Half Price Books to look for a couple of easy sewing books for the girls at school. I did find some good ones, then I wandered over to the Children's Books. I have ALWAYS loved Children's books. Even before having children I had a collection on a shelf. I have always been a reader & I thank my Mom for taking us to the Library every couple of weeks. During the summers of Junior High we had the Book Mobile park across the cul de sac. I was thinking about picking up Early Readers & Story Books for my Daughter, Emily. She will soon be teaching and wants to build her library supply. So hard not to buy dozens! These books are awesome! Always in beautiful condition. I picked 9.

She's excited.
I will give them to her today after Church.

Yesterday Hubby & I went back to Ball State for more tailgating.

It was great fun. I love our friends, the Boyd's, and we had fun catching up. Hanging with the "Baby", Annie, is always a treat. She showed us the house she signed her 2012-2013 lease with. Amazing she is just starting year 3 at BSU, and already finalizing plans for year 4 living. But if you want a good place, that is what you do. She and two current roommates will join four more for a house of SEVEN Roommates!

When I got home I snapped a couple of photos of a sneak peek of our lovely foliage. It's already starting and soon will be full bloom.

look at Dakota in the background

I love the pop of color

random leaves & branches daring their color

evergreens filling with pine cones

I must make sure I make a trip to Brown County this year for the full effect. It is quite spectacular and I must share it with you this year.

Today is rainy. I still love it. One of the best things about living in the Midwest is the change of seasons. We really get it all and I feel blessed.

Whoopsie!

2011-09-20T13:27:00.000-04:00

Oh Crap!
So, Hubby is out of town and I have been trying to get caught up in Blog World with this free time. Which okay, truth be known, I can get rather consumed in the reading & commenting and not pay attention to whats going on around me.
I work a 9 hour shift and give myself time to get there & back so it makes for a long day for the dogs to be cooped up in their room. I decided earlier to let them lounge outside and soak up this beautiful fall day as long as possible.
Okay, confession time... We are a little bit Hillbilly... just a little when need be. The one reason I did not want to buy this house is the stupid association rules that do not allow me to put a fence up in my backyard. Oh, wait a minute... I can put a fence up...to there liking which means a wrod iron fence to the sum of around $12,000 to surround my yard & not even give me privacy. It's my damn backyard & I really want my critters to be able to gallop about and enjoy the yard. so anyway here's the Hillbilly thing. We have a stake in the yard with a long tie down leash (actually to make it more Hillbilly, it is two leashes linked together). I then link Riley's leash to the end of it, with Bandits leash handle through the tie downed leash so he can run the length as well.
Anyway.. every now & then they will pull the stake out and wander the yard. Not very often, but it has happened. By The Way... Dakota isn't leashed, he just stays right next to Riley & Bandit.
So, I am engrossed in Blog reading with the dogs out, and I hear a dog howl...hmm, that sounds kind of like Riley. But I don't get up. There it is again.. But it sounds far. hmm. Back to reading.

Then all Hell breaks loose & I am sure that is Riley's bark, although not in the back yard, accompanied by Bandits bad ass gonna kill you bark & Dakota's little yeah...that's right! yipping.
I dart out back, hear the dogs but not in sight. I am calling them, trying to figure which direction to go. A neighbor a few homes down appears and waves telling me they are over here. I run to find my dogs tangled with the Hillbilly leash stuck in between beautiful landscaped pine trees, making a mess & still trying to attack my neighbor Tim. He had wanted to help them when he noticed them but they wont let him approach. Even with me present, they pretty much want to eat Tim. Yes, I am that neighbor with the mean dogs. The unpetable dogs in a neighborhood swarming with the friendliest dogs you'd ever meet. I thank him & apologize and we agree he needs to step off so I can get them untangled... I can only imagine what he was thinking of me, the leash tiedown, and my unruly Dogs.

To make matters worse, I get a bunch of tree sap all over my hands and my fingers keep sticking together. See? Nice how my ring finger is now attached to my middle finger. AND I have an annoying habit of running my hand through my hair... It is sticking to the hair. When I try to talk with my hands signing today, I will be a mess. Scary hands.

Hey~ did you notice the cool crackle polish? Here's a better picture with a clean hand from last night. Im petting Riley. I bought a bunch of polish for my girls at the School. Their school colors are orange and black so I did the crackle with orange & black. I know! I am so cool! No wonder the girls all love me! I also braided hair last night. I hope no one ask tonight because my sticky hands will get caught in their hair.
I have been searching turtles as we thought it would be fun to have a pet turtle. But I forgot we live in INDIANA, where little turtles are banned from selling. And the turtles over 4 inches (legal size) are so expensive. I have also realized with all this research that they really are not the pet we should be looking for. I mean come on, my animals always outlive their normal life expectation and therefore could easily out live us all! Nah... maybe I will look more at Hermit Crabs. Please don't mention gold fish..we already tried them. Long story..
Anyway...
I best be getting my butt off the couch & start getting ready for work.
Have a great one all!

No Regrets.... from now on

2011-09-20T01:53:00.000-04:00

I admit. I have had a few.
Maybe too many.
But...
Would I have arrived where I am without them?

I do wish I could twitch my nose, and POOF! that didn't happen!

But... I can't.

And that's okay.

I have learned a lot over the past few years. Particularly the past couple.

What has happened, has happened.

As Betsy has taught me... "you can't changed that chair into a couch no matter how much you want it done!" With that being said, I am ready to move on.

From writing, and reviling some scars I have thought much about some of the things I have endured. I am not looking for pity here... I just wonder how things were overlooked and I was not rescued.
...from the abusive teacher
...from the abusive uncle
...from the abusive friend of a parent
...from the abusive boyfriend
...from the neglectful friend

was it really hard to step up and protect the child? the teen? the woman?

sigh

Then, I think of the mistakes I have made on my own. Sure, blame it on someone or something, but when you get down to it, I made my paths myself.
What was I thinking?
Why wasn't I thinking?

sigh times two.

Today is a new day.
From here on, I am not going to allow myself to be a victim.
I am going to continue to be me... moving forward with a generous heart full of love. I am going to be giving and helpful. I am gonna keep smiling and laughing.

I feel a sense of relief. Like a heavy burden has been lifted.

dare i say it?

I CAN BREATHE

That's Not ME!!!

2011-09-18T09:59:00.003-04:00

Hubby & I

Have you ever got ready to go somewhere... and felt pretty good about your hair, make up, and clothes? Felt you are looking good... healthy.. grateful for the few shedded pounds, feeling comfortable. But then, later, catch your reflection, or see a photo and think... who is that? I know I left the house looking better than that!

Yesterday, I had to attend a wake service thingy, for my Brother-In-Law. I chose a brown dress that makes me feel pretty. Both my Daughter and Father In Law, commented on how I looked, that I looked thinner & pretty. Made me feel very good.

We got home made a quick change & took off for a college football game and tailgating fun.

I still felt good about looking how I felt. I thought my hair was behaving (not doing that stupid cowlick thing I catch in most photos) and was happy that my jeans were actually needing a belt.

Things aren't always the way they seem. Rather than a person with an eating disease that thinks they look worse than reality, sometimes things are flipped & you don't look as good as you thought.

My friend Carol took this photo...obviously, not a good profile of me. My waist is not that wide... I'm still a size six, but I hope that it's just the damn chair making me look like that... And the bus driver arms... please someone tell me how to rid myself of these cruel oldie reminders..

I use to embrace aging. I absolutely loved the ages 35-45. I had a rocking little body that I finally accepted. My hair was healthy, and my skin was amazing. Something started changing once I past 45 and let me tell you... it's been down~hilling ever couple of months.

Weight gain... whatever. My hair lost it's shine & has odd gray curly hairs that stick out like floral sprays. I get these "age spots" all over my body, as well as stray "eyebrows" that manage to make their way in the worst places... not to mention the occasional skin tag and sebaceous cysts. My vision has weakened and I can't always see well enough to get make up on without looking like a clown (hence why I rarely wear it).
I am MENOPAUSAL... Oh now this is quite a joyous journey. Mom had a Hysterectomy at 35 so she skipped this little phase of womanhood. My Sis, just told me her Doctor told her it can sometimes last 10 years. WTH? Seriously? Not what I needed to hear! I'm always hot... I get teary EASILY... I have to admit, I get annoyed and yes, occasionally bitchy. (I'm sorry to those in my path).

I wanna be that woman I know I can be & look. The one I see myself... in my mind... not in the mirror!

I wish Calgon could really take me away in a wonderful bath like the old commercials. I need my "Peace in the Valley".
sigh

What Happened to Kristen

2011-09-11T11:33:00.000-04:00

This is a somber anniversary. 9/11 affected us all in one way or another.
My cousin and her husband worked in the Trade Center, and I am not sharing her story. I still, even after all these years, know just bits and pieces of her story. She was pregnant with her twins. She & her husband survived. It's difficult for her to talk about it, and she shares very little of it.
My high school friend, Kristen Frederickson, was living in New York also in 2001. She and her family now live in London. Kristen has a fabulous blog in which I follow. Recently she posted two wonderfully written post on what they experienced on that date. With her permission, I am sharing her story.

Kristen in London~ What Happen to Us

Avery Curran

You may also want to read this follow up post.
Kristen In London~ Recovery

Avery Curran

I can't tell you how moving this story is. You have to read it for yourself. Let it touch your heart.

ps.. i love you kristen. you are remarkable. thank you for sharing your story.

Adventurous Michelle

2011-09-06T13:10:00.000-04:00

Michelle in the Netherlands

My darling niece is off on another adventure. If you have been following me for a long time, you may remember a couple of years ago, when Michelle went to Germany for a year of study, prior to entering College. She adapted so well, emerging herself into the German culture. Learning, growing, and even falling in love.
Since there she has been to multiple countries, embracing all she can. She attends Depauw University, in Indiana, and takes advantage of all the opportunities she can to travel abroad. Earlier this year she even traveled to Israel. Michelle knows four languages. English, French, German, and Latin.

Recently she went back to Germany to visit her Host Family and see her Dominic (the charming German she has fallen for). She visited a few places including Paris, before starting her next adventure.

She is currently studying abroad in Madagascar...

from her flight, viewing the beautiful island of Madagascar

My Sister, Julie, shared a recent letter from Michelle. She seems to be adjusting well to this interesting place. She is quite the minority... Not just as an American, but her delicate frame, with blond hair & blue eyes. Something that is not seen often there.
Here is an insert of her letter:

here is a description of the city (first impressions) i wrote right after the ride from the airport to our hotel. It was about 45 minutes down small city streets, with vendors and markets, people selling whatever they can sell (from vegetables to car seats..). Children walking barefoot, women carrying bundles on their heads, men pulling extremely heavy carts of wood. Chickens (both dead as meat and alive walking around on the street) were surprisingly skinny. I've never seen chickens that scrawny before. Hundreds of people out on the streets, in open air shops, walking, sitting, cramming together in vans (somewhere between carpooling and hitchhiking, that's how a lot of people get around i think), and not one single white person

a view of the countryside in Madagascar

a city view of Madagascar

another insert:

They have electricity and running water, they even have internet (which is surprising). Not wifi though, so I won't send this until tomorrow (right now I'm lying in bed typing on my netbook). It's not nice by american/european standards (in slight disrepair), but I'm pretty sure it's nice by malagasy standards. It's the first malagasy house I've been in though, so I can't rightly say. Running water is a luxury though. I have my own room, which I'm rather grateful for. It's nice to have some personal space.

I'm surprised at how well I can communicate in french! Not to say I can speak french well, so much as to say that I had very low expectations. But understand what the other is saying about 75% of the time which is not bad at all for the first day. It really helps that I'm in Madagascar, not in France, because it's their 2nd language, so they speak slower than French people do and use less vocab. That's good. We haven't started learning very much Malagasy yet. I know some basic words like excuse me and thank you. Other than that, shamefully, I only know how to say "No, I don't want to buy that" and "No, I can't give you money" because I get hassled a lot from venders and beggars because of the color of my skin. About giving money, little kids, who are otherwise happily playing a game, upon seeing the color of my skin, will hold out their hands for money! It's depressing to see the way race is socially constructed. I feel apologetic for the color of my skin, knowing the atrocities that my people have committed. What can I do, though? Also I've gotten more "cat calls" from young men in the past few days than I have otherwise in the entirety of my life. Having long blonde hair makes me stand out even among the americans. I get a lot of coy smiles and "bonjour madamoiselle!" and a lot of "vasa vasa!!" (malagasy for "foreigner"), and a lot of snickers. But people are just amused, not hostile.

view from the Host Family home Michelle is staying with

I look forward to hearing more of this adventure. And as I find it fascinating, I will share with you bits and pieces. Michelle has told me she doesn't mind me Blogging about her before, so hopefully she will still feel the same.
Sis~ I know you are reading this so just say the word if you think I should keep private & not share it.

It is so interesting how brave and adventurous Julies kids have always been. My Girls are more like Hubby & I, not as curious about the world. We'd rather explore the many places here in the states we haven't seen. Or just hang at a beach...

However... Annie is getting the travel bug and moving forward to her plans of traveling abroad for a Journalism program this summer to cover the Olympics in the United Kingdom. (I just wish this wasn't so costly!)

For now, I will continue to pray for my amazing Niece and this journey she is on. If you are reading this Chelle~ I LOVE YOU♥

improvising...

2011-09-06T11:41:00.000-04:00

Tried to make some Whoopie Pies yesterday...

Used my favorite Cookbook (thanks to Pammy of Scottie's Place), A SLOB IN THE KITCHEN.

I so love Karen Duffy and her humor she uses with the cookbook. Anyway here is part of the recipe.
Simple enough, right? Nooooooooooooooooooo.
I don't know. I can blame it on my oven... it's the second worst oven I have ever had and it really needs to be replaced. Nothing cooks even or correct...

Maybe it was the cake mix I used.. Duncan Hines has always been kind to me in the past...
Anyway... Mine doesn't look as tasty...

They turned out so flat. Not fluffy or rounded. I still made a couple but Hubby started snacking on the flat cakes without the filling.

I decided to try a cake with the filling as a topping.

The filling was REALLY STICKY. Marshmallow creme, butter, powder sugar & vanilla doesn't really like merging...

So I used some of this for strength to get me through the task...

It always helps when I get frustrated. I read too many blogs & watch too many Food Network programs with GOOD CHEFS. Grrr! They make it look so easy!

My end results were not pretty, but I will admit they were tasty!

an apology

2011-09-03T10:09:00.002-04:00

apology: An acknowledgment expressing regret or asking pardon for a fault or offense

Monday was a difficult day. More of a heavy heart day.

I felt sadness for my Hospice patient's death. Not really for him as much as his beloved wife. This was my first "death", in Hospice Volunteering. I knew it was going to happen. I am glad I was able to assist in the family as far as giving respice care. I tried not to become too emotionally attached (yes I hear you snickering those who know me and my ability to get emotionally attached to everyone & everything). But, still it was sad to see the widow, of 62 years of blissful marriage, say good bye to her beloved.

I am sorry for the family's sadness. For their loss.

I also attended a case conference for the student I work with at ISD. Of course I want what is best for this sweet child. I understand and appreciate all ISD has been able to do for this child. However, once again, I got myself emotionally attached and now, as it has been determined this child needs may be more than we can currently give, the child had to become a day student rather than residential, while we scramble to find ways to meet needs. At least until we are able to provide a more acceptable circumstances for the child. As I participated in this conference, I remembered to keep the child's best interest at heart, although I knew it may mean I may miss the child. It broke my heart...especially hearing the family stress the child will be so broken hearted.

I am sorry for this situation. I am sorry it wasn't able to work out as many had hoped.

Later once I got off work, I checked my emails and ran across a message from my Sister. We had both been to a high school reunion block party last Saturday. Hubby & I left before my Sis & BIL. Julie told me she ran into an old neighbor of ours. The Bully, that beat me up everyday for two years. Apparently, this has been heavy in his heart for some time. He expressed to my sister, how regretful he is about the abuse he put me through. He told her, how he would tease me, wrestle me to the ground, and beat me up.

This boy was my age. We were friends, neighbors... then one day he started beating me up. Don't sit there & think, awe, his way of saying he liked you. We were in the 6th and 7th grade. He would stand on the bus turn to face me and say with a grin, "Time for your daily beating". I would try to get away. I would beg the bus driver to make him stop (whom rarely did... usually if it got rough he would tell the boy to wait wait till we were off the bus). My parents would confront his Mom (Dad was never available). My parents then tried to teach me to defend myself. {Thanks Dad~ I still remember some of those moves}. This Bully was odd. I would get beat up, once a day & the rest of the day he'd act like we were friends. He'd talk to me, played kick ball together with the neighborhood, we had school classes together, he once rescued a puppy a man was drowning in the nearby creek, and brought it to me, asking my Dad if I could have it... One day I was to be disciplined in class, for excessive chattering (imagine that..me?) and I was going to get paddled.. My Bully stood up, told the teacher, he would take my whacks. She let him.. As he walked by me, he said, Im the only one allowed to hit you.
We all knew everyone's business in my little neighborhood. Everyone knew that he & his brothers got beatings from a drunk Dad. But, I still didn't deserve to get the beatings from him. And by the way... he only beat me up. No one else, Except maybe for those neighborhood boyhood scuffles. Few friends ever tried to make him stop. In fear they would become his target. My Sister, his brother, Bestie Mary, and a couple others would actually stop him...or he would avoid hitting me around them.
One day, he caught me cutting through a hidden shortcut to a friends house. I was terrified as he threw me down and rather than punches, he choice to start touching me inappropriately. This was different and I was scared. Some older boys heard me scream and came into action. They pulled him off, Picked me up, helped me straighten myself out and told me to run home. Im not sure exactly what they did to him, but he never touched me again. the beatings also stopped.
I could breathe again.

Back to Saturday evening, when he ran into Julie...he proceeded to take the next 10-15 minutes telling Sis to be sure to tell me that he is so very, very sorry for all the trouble he ever caused me. She assured him she'd let me know but he persistently kept on about how he had it hard with his dad being a drunk and beating him, and how the big kids on the block used to beat him up too, and how he just turned mean and took it out on me. She told me there were tears in his eyes and she know he wished he were talking to me instead of her.

I am glad he saw her instead of me.

I am glad he is apologetic.

Thirty years later... apology accepted. Thank you Jamie, I do appreciate it.

A weight has been lifted somehow from my heart. And I hope he can be at peace as well.

This apology came at a rather good time. I hadn't thought of the nightmare of getting beat for a while, however, it does come to mind sometimes. It is hard to understand why a scrawny girl would have to be the victim of such a thing. But, I am sure that it has helped mold me into the person I am.

The cheerleader of the Underdogs.
The nurturing Queen.
The Goddess of kindness

18 lives ... and counting

2011-08-27T13:08:00.000-04:00

Cats are suppose to have 9 Lives. We have all seen how a Cat has managed to escape a tragedy.. falling but lands on her feet. Surviving many adventures and mishaps. Narrowing missing death by inches..

One of my Cats fell from the 2nd floor landing feet first on tile floor some 20 feet below, without so much as a bruise (he rather jump off than allow my niece to "capture" him). He checked out fine & rather lucky from the Vet visit I rushed him too.

I have several more stories just like this one.

Rocky 1995

My Rocky came to us in 1995, a couple of nights before Halloween. Seeing how some horrid little neighbor boys killed a cat recently, my Hubby allowed this big ole Tom Cat to "hid" in our garage on Halloween to avoid abuse. Why oh why must retched souls pick on Black Cats? I knew we could not keep this Tom. I had just rescued poor Mario the week before & was desperately trying to save his sick little self. And... well, we had two other Kitties as well. How could we possibly have four cats, and two dogs???
However, Rocky, soon won our hearts over. Especially Hubby.
He was a survivor. About 18 months old, and a fighter. He had thick muscular legs, one of those thick necks with big jaws, scarred and fresh battle wounds. We would see him bravely enter a neighbors garage to fight for food. This neighbor had 10...yep, that's right, TEN cats. Rocky would sneak in the garage and steal what he could, before getting attacked by several of her males.
Rocky loved the coolness of the sinks. We would often find his snoozing away in one. While Mario regained his strength, Rocky, who was the same age, seem to become very gentle and tentative of him. Curiously, more interested in him, than our other cats. We had "the Boys", as they were called neutered and de-clawed together. (yes... I now realize the cruelty in de-clawing & we never would have had it done had we known then what we know now). The boys healed together and became sweet playmates. They always sleep together. Even as Rocky slimmed down from his Tom days, losing the big muscles, and Mario became a HUGE Fat Boy.

The Boys sharing a nap box in 2004

Rocky mourned his Buddy's death in 2007. Mario was getting sicker & sicker with a horrible cancer. He seems to care and tolerate the rest of the Fur family, but this was his Buddy.

It's thought that Rocky was born around 1993. That makes him 18 years old. His health is ailing. I thought we were going to lose him a couple of times. He is senile. He has difficulty with his joints stiffening up. He is completely blind now. And somewhat Deaf. Some days are good. Some not so much. He loves to eat. Having several small meals a day of dry mixed with canned cat food (prefers Kitten food). He is able to find his litter box daily. As well as making several trips walking around the house "murring". He will pur like crazy also. He is strangely a Happy Cat. Not ready to go.
He may be advancing in age, but don't tell him it's time for him to pass... he just isn't quiet ready.

Rocky 2011

Liar Liar Pants on Fire!

2011-08-26T22:02:00.001-04:00

I have been caught in a lie.
yep, It's true. Hate to disappoint you all, but even I have told one or two.

This time it's about something I pretty much decided I would NEVER do again.
But now I am being lured...seduced...enticed to give it another try.

CAMPING

It's not that I'm some kind of Girlie Girl that doesn't want to break a nail. It's just that I have had my share of camping.
Many years of it as a child and teen. All fun. Mostly great memories.

Camp Fire Girls Camp mid 70s. {end on knee}


sharing a soda pop w/ Diamond,Trail Ride '76

HS Student Council '78

Texas Church Camp'79

Young Life Camp "80

See? I did all this plus the dreaded "Tent" camping as well RV camping nightmare once with my Paternal Grandparents.
I "camped out" in the back yards with friends. Camped out in cars.. that's what we did for the Indy famous Indianapolis 500. And Even "camped out" in living rooms, basements & garages for slumber parties.
Then I grew up and camped out with Hubby.
I was a Happy little camper... until we had the girls camping with us.

Hubby & Annie fishing on Hardy Lake '99

This is when I started becoming a worry-wart. Partly because of our girls, fearing they'd get hurt, or get whinny. But also I worried a lot about Annie's asthma. And I started freaking out about the weirdo's you hear about and even see at our campsites.
When the girls went to CYO camp in the fall, Hubby & I joined a group of friends for fabulous weekend camping trips that I will post about another time.

don't worry the dog didnt eat me

The last time we went camping as a family, we had fun, but also it was miserable! The rain was CRAZY!

Hubby holding the tarps up

There were other issues...bottom line, felt like been there done it. I can cross it off my bucket list.
So... we haven't been back.

HOWEVER.....
Drum roll please
I have discovered a new passion.
Ran across this little Sweetheart...

and here's an inside peek...

I also stumbled onto this one...

and this one...

and here is a peek at the inside of another airstream...

VINTAGE CAMPERS!!! Oh My...
Now I understand Meredith over at Silver Saffari . She has been passionate about her airstream for years & writes of it's travels on her blog.
sigh...
I wanna go camper camping now. As long as I don't have to use a latrine or the great outdoors to relieve myself uhm.. outside.
Also, lets make sure I have plenty of coffee, some chocolate, Captain Crunch cereal, maybe a little White Zinfandel, one of our dogs, and Hubby. I am good to go!

Hello Blog World...

2011-08-21T11:19:00.000-04:00

Hello Blogettes... How are you all? I have missed you..

I have been WORKING..{yay me!}.
I worked my booty off this week! Let me tell you!
The week back to work was a grand mixture of loving excitement & grueling exhaustion. My job changed at the last minute and I was assigned one on one with a special needs student. I'm great for this as I can mix being loving and yet be tough, and I seem to have a high patience level (who'd have known?) ..but it is difficult when you are not fully aware or trained to deal with all the medical & physical demands a child with special needs have. For confidential reasons, I can't share much. Let's just say it was a truly difficult week, but I love my job.

I am adjusting to working this shift as well. I enjoy it although working second shift is a change. Especially when I come home after midnight & try to quietly shower & come to bed without waking the Hubby. We haven't seemed to get the dogs use to my schedule & they give Hubby a hard time, and get excited when I get home. I try to shhhh them but the Little Guy is a yapper.

I spent all of Friday & Saturday free time sitting around relaxing and catching up on email, Blog World, Pinterest, & Facebook. I have a Twitter account but never pop on. Time magnets. I know. But, it was a nice way to unwind.

Hubby & I have really enjoyed this weekend. I guess he missed me a bit♥
We have gone on walks, bike rides, and even drove around a target area we would love to live. What's that you say? Didn't we just move here 2 years ago? Yes... BUT those that know us know we use to move a lot. We made a good chunk of change flipping homes. Stayed for a while in one spot while the girls grew up. But the thought of moving again is lingering. Especially with a favorite house on the market. I will blog more about that on another post.
Hanging with the Hubby has been Bliss.
Today, I work but not until 8pm. I am going to help the Hubby clean the garage. Maybe cook a nice dinner. Hope to see a daughter & give her the little curtain I made her. And, I have a girlfriend that is having a party at a Roller Skate place we all hung out at when we were kids. She is turning 50. How fun to celebrate on skates??? It's been a while... Not since the girls were little. I am not sure if I will actually skate or sit & gab. Either way, Im sure glad she is having it in the afternoon so I can pop in. Lets hope I don't break a leg!
Well, I best be going. A lot on my schedule and the day is ticking away.
Love to you all, have a blessed day♥

Mortality Preparation

2011-08-11T07:48:00.002-04:00

I'm at an interesting place.
Thinking about mortality, and how one prepares for the unavoidable, death...

end of life...

Many people can't even talk about death, let alone think about or plan.
But, sometimes we are put in a situation where we must. Maybe about ones own death, or about a loved ones.

Have you ever had a pet that was getting old, slowing down, and you knew, time was short? As a good pet owner, you take your pet to the vet, get the medications they need, and do everything we can to keep Fido or Fluffy comfortable. As he declines, we have a choice. We have all been there. Those that really loved a pet. Having to make that decision. For us, it has always been a pretty clear line. As long as the pet, is eating, drinking, pottying, and purring. As long as he is happy and comfy, we hang on making "end of life", as bearable as possible. Once suffering is involved, we go for the euthanasia option. We have done it all for our furry loves. Hand feeding, carrying, cleaning after, and loving as unconditionally as they have loved us. My oldie pets have gone blind, deaf, and had movement difficulties. But, we tended their every need until they died. Sometimes, choosing to euthanasia when they suffered.. Horrible hard place to be, but we try to be humane and do the right thing.

When the same is true with our loved human family and friends, it is a different story.
When we know one is suffering, so many of us handle it differently. While we pretty much all agree that bring on the drugs to reduce pain, but even that has many feeling differently.
When we know that death is upon us, what do we do? What would you do?

Many people react with different feelings depending on if we are talking about our own death or our loved ones pending death.
I know that some are frightened and close up. They avoid the dying having difficult seeing that person, "that way". Others step in to nurturing mode, taking over every need they can handle and then some.

As a Hospice volunteer, I am getting a glimpse into the dying world at a different angle. I'm involved, but I'm not emotionally involved. {please don't misinterpret that, what I am referring to is the fact that I am not related or know the person, other than in this situation in which I have been trained to care for. I am still a very compassionate and nurturing volunteer}.

I see people take on incredible strength physically and ability. A tiny woman, somehow managing to lift, assist and care for a Husband twice her size. A man become a gentle expert at assisting with delicate matters with his Wife.

They keep going and never stop, until they crash. I'm lucky enough to be able to step in and give a needed break or assist in some simple things we may not ever realize someone needed. The caretaker never ask for help.

In the caretakers task, as well as caring for their loved one, they have to take care of preparing for the death. Funeral arrangements, wills, insurance. A world of paperwork and task. The tiny woman, suddenly realizes she has nothing appropriate to wear to her Husband of 50 years funeral, as she has lost so much weight in caring for him. The Husband caretaker, is trying to figure out how he will take care of the children without her. Their are so many things running through there heads, and they don't dare ask for help from the family member that can be near the dying because it upsets them so.

And then there is ourself.
What do we want? We certainly don't want to be a "burden". Should we have a living will? A "do not resuscitate" order?
Will we be able to handle "knowing"?
Will we fear it?
Or will we embrace it?

I think I know how I will handle it. But until I am there, I really don't know. Every situation can be so different.

I do know, as I watch over my 18 year old cat struggling yet happily getting through each day. And as I watch patients in Hospice I volunteer with, it is something that I think about.
Something I respect.

A BIG Kahuna

2011-08-09T12:23:00.000-04:00

I have been having a bit of a Hornet situation...
I have seen one or two in the front yard, and twice I found one trapped in our screened in porch.

I know it's hard to see how big he/she is. Trust me.. it's a Biggy!
Here's a better shot, after I captured it:

Look at that Big Kahuna!!!

Don't worry, he's fine. I took him to the back of the yard & safely released it by a flowering tree.
Hubby & Annie were not pleased with me bringing it in to the house, but I wanted them to see it & help me take a picture. The stinger was huge. I imagine this guy could really hurt given the chance.

I think it's some kind of Ground Giant Wasp. I don't know...I tried to research, but actually started to get more confused.

I wonder, with this crazy weather we have had, are you all seeing rather bizarre insects too? Are you noticing things changing and, well, rather odd?

Real Life Blogettes

2011-08-08T20:38:00.002-04:00

This morning I got to meet two of my favorite Bloggers!

Very exciting!
Suspense was killing me as I waited for them to arrive.
In my little corner of the Blog World, I have a wide variety of Bloggers that I follow and enjoy. They range across the world and of different interest. I am fascinated with diversity as well as similarity. Crazy that someone is so like me half way around the world. Even CRAZIER? Finding fellow Blog Gals in my own backyard!
This morning, I drove 35 minutes to a half way location to meet two Blog friends.

Reality Jayne

and

Cindy Bee
I happily report, they are as marvelous in real life as in Blog world. No stalker weirdos here. They were genuine and I adored them!
Don't you love when you can just pick up with someone like you have known them forever? I look forward to more get-togethers and hope to meet more Hoosier Bloggers. The hours flew, and before we were ready out time was up and we had life to get on with.

I love my Blog World♥
Thank you so much Gals for meeting with me. You both ROCK!

Up In Smoke...

2011-08-08T15:39:00.000-04:00

(how many of you thought about Cheech & Chong with that title?)
Last week, was a frustrating week for me. Challenging and frustrating. What I thought was going to be an easy breezy lazy yet productive week, turned upside down.. once or twice. I will admit, I have been rather scatter-brain lately.
This is what happened when I got side-tracked with Blogger on Tuesday...

I was making garlic bread.
The phone rang, and I found my phone sitting next to this toaster oven.. with my toast on fire. Grabbing a dish towel, I yanked the plug, and pulled open the oven door... Not the best move...flames shot up to the cabinet above. So I grabbed the sprayer hose at the sink and drowned the flames. (my fire extinguisher is MIA. I have no idea where, to be honest, I think I lost it with the last move. )
We were lucky...

I do know what a fire devastation can do.
A few years ago, July 1997, my Sister's family home burnt to the ground.
They were on vacation, lightening struck, and it burned for several hours before someone saw it.

It was horrible to say the least. I am just thankful they were not at home. They lost their sweet cat, and a fish tank. Their dog was outside, therefore survived.
My Sis and BIL, didn't have cell phones. The fire was discovered while they were en-route to home. No one could reach them, and did not want them to drive up to the horror. So, driving home, as they passed a friends home, they noticed a large sign that told them to stop here before going home. They passed it, as they were tired and just wanted to get home. But something kicked in and made them turn around. Had they not, they would have been greeted by other friends, taking turns staying at their property, to assure they would not have to face it along. As they learned the news, they gratefully left the children with one of their friends and the other drove them home... Or to what use to be home.

I watch them rebuild. Not just a home. Not just the contents. But, their lives.
Timelines for them are; Before the Fire and After the Fire.
Although it was not me this was happening to, I was able to feel much of it through my Sis.
I watched it transform priorities. Pull them together, build their love and see them (Sis, BIL & niece & nephew) all become closer together. My niece & nephew are two years apart. You'd think they were twins. The closeness they share. Best friends Siblings. I have never seen them squabble or cruel to each other.
Material things didn't matter so much before, but even less now.
They adapted to living in a Bed & Breakfast, as well as a couple of rentals while they rebuild.
The gathered much strength in this tragedy.

I would never wish this on anyone. Although, how wonderful to see life through new prospective, and truly value the important things as many can accomplish through devastation.

For me, I value things as I have been able to learn through her example. I saw my little fire, and immediately realize how very fortunate I was.

I hope that the same is true through little things as well as big things, that I have been through, that perhaps others can learn through how I handle them.

something to think about..

White Picket Fences

2011-08-05T09:12:00.000-04:00

I wanted to give you a quick review on this book. I finished it last week and enjoyed it very much. It wasn't recomended, I hadn't read anything about it, I just saw it sitting on the "to reshelf" cart in the library and picked it up randomly.
I am so glad I did!
It is a novel written by Susan Meissner, published in 2009. Meissner is Christian writer, winner of the Christian Book Award for Fiction. I love being surprised to see Christianity sprinkled in a book. Particularly when unexpected.
I'm am borrowing Elizabeth Musser's praises of the book:

"Poetic prose and a 'can't put it down' plot makes White Picket Fences a great read. It is a thought-provoking look into a dysfunctional family that thinks it's functional and how an outsider can serve as a means of grace."

It's that good. Grab a copy, and enjoy.

Happily Ever After ...100 Years Ago

2011-08-02T17:07:00.001-04:00

Fred & Beulah 1911

I haven't done a Quondam Tuesday for a while. This was meant to be posted on June 28th of this year, but I missed the date. So, fitting to post today. This photo was actually taken in August of 1911...
one hundred years ago.
It is the wedding photograph of my Great Grandmother (maternal) Beulah Viola Ball Rahlmann and my Great Grandfather Frederick C Ralhmann.
Apparently, "the photograph", and I say photograph, as far from it that hundreds were taken as they are today, anyway, you were lucky if you got ONE professional photograph. They usually took the photograph on a different day as the wedding, as it was a big deal and you went to the photography studio for it.

My Great Grandparents, married on June 28th 1911.

(how cool is this that I actually have an original invitation and an equally old frame that it has rested in all these years.) I don't know how this became a possession of mine, I just know I have had it for many years. I actually used it as the basis of my own invitation...simple and timelessly eloquent.
They were married in this home:

the home Rahlmann's married in~ taken in1910

This is a photograph of what they called, "the gang". The many close friends between them that gathered prior to the wedding.

Beulah is center white dress, with Fred above her right shoulder

I believe they were truly in love. I hold a beautiful love letter Beulah wrote Fred while they were engaged. It is very dear. I love the language they used, so proper yet endearing.

love letter dated 8.16.10

They seemed to have a rather Blessed life together. Each coming from prominent families. Fred holding a well educated position, and Beulah raising four daughters as well.
I have inherited so many photographs, yet I know that there are so many more throughout our family. I am no longer in touch with cousins through that vein of my family tree, however, my Mom is. She has been close to her cousin, and always was with her Aunts as well. I remember them all from trips out to Texas as a child, but, once I grew up, sort of lost touch once Grannie (Beulah) passed. It's a shame. Perhaps we should share these treasures we each hold. How interesting it would be to see what they have as well.

One last photo for you, my Grands as they celebrated their 50th Anniversary, on June 28th, 1961.

Fred & Beulah 1961

Unfortunately, Fred passed not long after that. In 1963 I believe, I was not quite a year old. I did not get to met him, although I remember fondly my Great Grandmother who lived well up to 102 years of age. She is a sweet part of my memory of Texas visits. She even "tried" to teach me how to play the piano. I hold a passion for Fiestaware because of her. I proudly cherish three of her pieces, displayed along side my own.

Interestingly Fred attended Valparaiso College here in Indiana, in early 1900. How ironic that some 50 years later his Granddaughter would fall for a Sailor and settle her in Indiana. I am very proud to have a Grandfather that had a college degree from 1908.

100 years ago...

How interesting and different their lives were from ours today.

Sing Your Praise To The Lord

2011-08-02T00:11:00.000-04:00

{not the best copy..but it will do}

In the winter of 1988, I was very pregnant with our first daughter, Emily. Just like my 3 Musketeers Candy Bars & my 3 Taco Bell Tacos every day, I also had an incredible craving for this song, by Amy Grant. I would play it in my car cassette player very loud, over and over on my way to work. Every day to and from work. It's as if Emily would "want" it played. I swear, it felt like she moved to the beat. It has a very powerful musical intro. It's strong and moving. I am surprised she wasn't born humming this tune.

This evening I heard it on Pandora Internet radio. To be honest, even though I am still a huge Amy Grant fan, I haven't heard this particular song in a long time. I tend to play her newer CDs rather than this old favorite. To be honest, I don't believe I have it any more.
It was a very deja vu experience hearing it played. Ironic as well, as Ms Emily has been heavy on my mind, since we moved her out this past weekend to the condo. Listening to the words of a song I sang so many time before were heard in a new perspective this evening.
This song completely fits her. She wears her faith proudly and has strong convictions.

May you always sing your praises to the Lord Emily. I am so very proud of you♥

D-Liver D-Letter D-Sooner D-Better!

2011-08-01T17:43:00.000-04:00

For those of you of my generation and before, you know that little saying on my title. You may have written it on an envelope to be mailed as well. Or maybe you wrote: SWAK (Sealed with a Kiss). OR Sorry So Sloppy, Longer Letter Later... I guess our own version of the texting versions of shortcuts & codes.

As Monday arrived, I knew I must tackle at least one of my many projects that have been waiting patiently. I chose to work on Photo Organizing... Yes, yes. I know I get so caught up in the memories, good & bad. It is a task that always takes me days as I will get side tracked and I am off doing something else such as today, under-covering some long lost photos that BEGGED to be posted on FaceBook. So, 2 hours later after scanning, tagging, and writing descriptions, I got my 40-some photos up.

That wasn't the only treasure I found.
I found a shoebox stuffed with letters. From the Besties, parents, and Grandparents, written 1977-1981. That is part of High School, and my one year at Vincennes University.

big sigh...

Wow. Talk about some memories. I only opened a few. They brought tears to my eyes. Sometimes I forget how things really were. Some things not so important, turn out to be pretty important. There are so pretty heavy (in a good way) things that were brought to me. I was truly loved by my friends. And my family.
Looks like I was missed when not around.

Most of you know that I spent my summers living in Texas with my Grandparents, during my teen years. It turned out to be the best thing that could ever happen to me and I am extremely grateful that I had those wonderful summers. They were AMAZING. And what I got from my Grandparents few ever get to experience. I was truly Blessed.

The letters that I received, saved and found in this box, show some love from those that missed me. As a teen, I was also kept up on the teen drama & gossip. Some stuff that may not have been written about was in these letters. Remember Young'ens we didn't have cell phones let alone texting & emailing opportunities.
Rarely did you call long distance... Lord knows we "Thought" that was so expensive! So we would write letters, and wait a week to get one back. But we wrote back and forth all the time. Then when we went off to college, we wrote each other back & forth, back & forth.

I have some reading to catch up on tonight. Hopefully, they will be full of the good stuff and not open up some wounds... I'm hoping anyway.

I really need to start writing letters again. It is becoming such a lost art.

I think I will sign off for now and write two brave young nephews that are in Boot Camps right now. That's what I need to do.

The photographs spilled out on the tables, and the letters on the floor, can wait.

I need to write.

This & That, Here & There

2011-07-31T11:38:00.000-04:00

It has been a busy week.
I spent Monday, Thursday & Friday moving the oldest Baby Girl from Muncie, Indiana back to Indianapolis, Indiana. She has left her college town, and is to begin enjoying living in a condo with a Bestie. She still has one class in Muncie. A Teaching Math class. She will commute twice a week to "Teach" Math to elementary children. She doesn't know what grade yet, but is excited for this adventure. She also has landed her old Nanny position for the other three days a week here in Indy. At least until January, when she will begin her Student Teaching with 1st graders for a semester. Emily's condo is BEAUTIFUL! Her sweet Roomie has done such a grand job decorating it. Emily is replacing a roomate that is getting married, perfect timing, (although Hubby would rather her stay home & save the money... I think it is a perfect arrangement for now. Brittany has always been one of my favorites of Emily's friends. They have been friends since 6th grade! I love her Mom as well.

I snuck a couple of pictures...Emily, like her Dad, hates me snapping pictures, but I wanted you to see how darling this condo is. Isn't it snazzy with the browns & reds? Brit did this and a grand job. She said she is debating on changing it now. Getting tired of the brown. Emily will be ready to help if she does want to change it.
She took Izzy with her. Izzy's new "litter mate is Ava. Brittany's kitty. We miss them both. Izzy...well she has lived her this past year since Emily couldn't have her in her last house. It's a love/hate relationship (I love her/ she hates me). Our other ark pets wonder where she went... Emily & Izzy joined us for dinner last night which was great for all the pets to see she is fine.
Hubby is out on business this week. Teaching classes on Grievances. It's an interesting turn of his usual work actually handling grievances and negotiating. I think he makes a good instructor.
I am hoping to get much accomplished this week, unlike my do nothing week a while back. Busy Busy Busy is what I must be this week!
Projects to work on (Annie & I have some great ones we are hoping to finish this week!), friends to meet up with, Hospice family to visit, practice of my sign language, and the usual housework to boot. I MUST get some letters written. Catch up on a new book, and gets some Bible reading in too.
With that in mind & seeing that I have already spent too long in Blog World, I must bid you goodbye for now. Have a Lovely Sunday. Blessings to you all♥

whew... thank goodness for Sunday

2011-07-31T10:57:00.002-04:00

Ah Sunday.


St John's Catholic Church

I love Sundays. Sunday is a glorious day. I use to be be a very good Catholic that went to church regularly. Although I do not attend regular Mass anymore, my heart is filled with the Lord, especially on Sundays. I want to return to Mass... Just need to make a decision on which one. At Catholic churches they flip our priest around and sometimes that is good, sometimes just sad. You get comfy and wham! Time for change. I understand. I get it. But, I also am being a tad stubborn.

I need to be back in church. I need church.

This is the church we most recently attended. After years with a closer church, that the girls attended for grade school & we followed throughout their high school, we ventured to this lovely favorite downtown. It is wonderful. Fr Steve Giannini is so similar to the priest that brought me into the Catholic Church. I felt an instant connection with his preaching & teaching the Word. But, he has moved on to another church :(... We need to give the new Priest a chance, but with the current downtown construction, particularly at the church, we have made a rare appearance here and there. Also, I hate going by myself. I feel ...pitied. We are a church that meets & greets during the service & I always feel lonely when solo, during this. Hubby is traveling much (en-route as I type, to Michigan again), and the girls, would go if I ask, but, Em doesn't even live here, and Annie, cherishes sleeping in on the rare occasion.
I am a Godly Woman. I am proud to serve our Lord. I live my life accordingly to His plan for me. I follow His lead.
I know, I know... stop making excuses.
I know in my heart where I should be. Here, enjoying services, looking at this:

My Wonder/ Resurrection Lily Update

2011-07-26T20:38:00.000-04:00

Resurrection/Wonder/Surprise Lily

I promised to post pictures of the mysterious bulb that was blooming last week. Thank you for all that commented. I had forgotten that I did have foliage that suddenly disappeared a few weeks prior to the bulbs sprouting. I had a great response of it being a Wonder Lily, more specifically a Lycoris bulb, some call it Naked Lady, Resurrection Lily, or Surprise Lily. (thank you Judy).

Pretty thing isn't it? So glad I didn't pluck it from the ground.

You Look Just Like...

2011-07-23T13:04:00.000-04:00

Do people ever tell you that you look just like someone?
I must have one of those faces. I get it a lot. Interestingly I have been linked to some celebrities. For your "entertainment" I decided to share and see what you think.

Back in the 70's... some people said I looked like Marcia Stassman. Remember her? It's Julie Kotter! Remember "Welcome Back Kotter"? I had the same glasses too. Didn't every "cool" girl wear these?

Once when I had a Paper Route, a sweet little boy would wait on his porch, every week for me to deliver at his house. He would just smile & smile. Finally one day, he spoke to me. I will never forget what he said;
Little Boy: "Gosh... Are You HER?"
Me: "Who?"
Little Boy, pointing to one of the women on his T-Shirt of Charlie Angels:"HER!"
Me: "Oh, No Sweetie, I'm not her, that's Jaclyn Smith!"
Little Boy: "Well, YOU look just like her!" Bless his little heart... Someone needs to get the poor child some glasses!

I often got mistaken for this gal~

Leann & Jan 1979

This is my cousin Leann. My partner in Crime during my visits to Houston.
Today I look more like her sister Janet.

Jan & Janet 2010

My sweet Hubby use to tell me I looked like these two celebrities:

Stephanie Seymor

Stephanie Seymor in the 1990's

Stephanie Seymor... Do you remember her? This is a more current photo. You might remember her better before the four kids...when she was a model for Victoria Secret. Let me refresh your memory.
And theres this lovely actress...

Elizabeth Hurley

Isn't he the sweetest Hubby? Telling me I look like them? It did always make me smile (although I know I have never really resembled them).

I was also told this actress reminds someone of me...

Katherine Helmond

I was told, "even though you are much younger than her, I can see you looking like her when you are older." Hmm Remember when she was in "Who's the Boss?" How about the sitcom "Soap", for you oldies like me.

Maria Shriver

My Mom has always told me I look and have the characters of Maria Shriver. I actually see this. And I find it a wonderful compliment as I have the highest respect and admiration for her.

I get pissy when I am told (and it is why I stopped wearing my glasses when my hair is in a bun), I look like this person...

Sarah Palin

ewe....really?

I have ALWAYS wanted to look like this woman, that is just a couple years older than I. Michelle Pfeiffer . She is AMAZING! Is she really in her 50's? Gosh to have her genes!

Now, back to reality...
I think I look most like this gal~

Julie & Jan

And I am perfectly content with that. She is my wonderful big Sis, Julie. We always have resembled each other. As we age, even more so.

What is It?

2011-07-22T14:55:00.000-04:00

This afternoon I watered my Zebra Grass and Ferns and noticed a couple of these spouting from the ground. No leafage, just a stem with a flower bud.
I have two of them.

What are they? Some kind of day lily? The timing is right, and the lack of leaves. But where did they come from? I haven't planted them. They just started popping up.

Any thoughts?

A Sad Loss

2011-07-21T01:08:00.000-04:00

Please keep my dear fellow Blogger Rosaria, of Sixty-five What Now? in your prayers. Many of us here in the Blog World have been touched by her incredible gift of writing. Her journey has been one of amazement. She has shared her knowledge and wisdom and I for one, am truly Blessed for finding her and following for the past couple of years. She is always encouraging and never selfish.
This week she has lost her precious son, Brian. I can not even imagine what she and her family are going through. I do know that if this happened to me, I could count on her to be praying for me and sending me positive energy.
Please join me in keeping her and her family in thoughts and prayer.

we love you Rosaria

may you be graced with peace.

Lazy Hot Summer Days

2011-07-20T10:38:00.000-04:00

I have been Home Alone (plus critters) all week. I will not lie...it has been blissful. One morning I slept in till 11am. Seriously? When was the last time that happened? In my defense, I stayed up watching trashy reality shows till 2am the night before.

I have this wonderful opportunity to get so many "projects" done, cleaning done, and catching up. I have many draft post that are begging me to complete & post. I have friends & family I could go visit and enjoy. Books calling me to read.

I have sat around mostly...vegging in the heat. Watching crap on television, eating junk, laying around, surfing the web, and doing NOTHING.

I haven't worn makeup all week. My hair is in a ponytail. I'm wearing comfy ugly clothes. I have barely left the house.

Gosh it feels marvelous!

How often do we get these opportunities? Me? Never!

The Baby daughter comes home today. I should clean up. (House & myself). I should maybe tackle a couple of those things calling me to take care of. Maybe the easier ones at least. I texted a couple of friends to go check out a new antique shop later today. It's trash day... maybe I should cut the big tree branches down to have out for trash pick up... (nah it's already 90 degrees with a heat index of at least 10 higher).

Whoops...Baby Girl just texted me that they are on there way back, that means she will be home this afternoon instead of this evening. I guess that's my clue to get out of my comfy chair and get moving.

ugh...back to reality!

Magic

2011-07-19T21:28:00.002-04:00

I know this is naughty, but it really made me giggle. Have you ever wished you were magic to do just this? Or maybe twitch my nose & make someone nicer. Make good things happen. Especially to those that so deserve it.

Malfunctioning!

2011-07-17T14:20:00.000-04:00

Thursday evening I had a hard time getting to sleep. Usually, for the past couple years anyway, I pretty much fall asleep within an hour of hitting the pillow.
Nothing new on my mind, nothing new to be stressing over. Feeling okay health-wise...except for allergies (which I haven't been bothered with since 2008...until this summer). But this particular evening I tossed & turned. I also had a persistent little cough. You know the kind... like something is tickling the back of your throat. Just that barely there.. cough cough. I went into the living room with a cough drop as I didn't wait to wake the Hubby (poor thing rarely sleeps well & I certainly didn't want to be a culprit that kept him up). I laid trying to sleep, finally, once I got that cough quieted. I returned to bed. And went to sleep.

I woke up, Hubby already off to work. As I swung my legs off the bed and went to stand, my left leg completely collapsed. It wasn't hurting, but it wasn't "working" either. It's like no muscle control at all. I couldn't move it. I could manipulate it with my hands, and locked it into a standing position, but I couldn't make it move on it's own at all. I tried to take a step with the right leg and as soon as weight was put onto the left leg, down I collapsed again.
weird...
scary!...
I tried massaging it, slapping it around, begging it. Eventually I started getting some control and soon enough it was functioning normally.
But, seriously? What the heck?

I have always had some circulation problems. My legs would get that tingling "falling asleep" problem and not function well. Arms and hands too. For as long as I can remember.

On occasion, my leg will give out from under me. I've had some painful and some embarrassing moments. It always frightens me but I have been living with it for as long as I can remember.

A couple years back this was happening a lot more frequently, especially with my hands and arms. I went through some testing at the hospital (I was sure I had Restless Leg Syndrome). That was ruled out as well as anything "major". But I never got an answer as to what was going on. We kind of dropped it once we realized it wasn't anything major.

But, now, after Friday morning's incident. I am concerned. Is this getting old? Is this going to continue to get worse? Is this going to affect my walking, driving and daily functioning?
It was a tiny tiny window into my friends with Multiple Sclerosis and other muscular diseases daily living. Not being able to use your limbs or control them. To lose something we take for granted so easily. I don't even "think" about movement.. I just do it. To lose movement, it would be so imprisoning and frightful.

My adoring Doctor has recent moved far away to begin a new wonderful journey. I am in the process of setting up a new Doctor's care and doing the transfer stuff. I have been so Blessed that our "old" Family Physician was also one of Hubby's best friends. He knew us better than any other Doctor possibly could. Maybe new Doctor will have some fresh perspective of what is happening to my aging and changing body. Or maybe, she will think I am a hypochondriac. Either way, eventually I will have to bring it up. Oh well... it can wait, for now.

life breaths

2011-07-12T08:43:00.000-04:00

http://www.timgrayphotography.com/

Sometimes, things are going so splendidly~ You find yourself actually smiling every day. Feeling giddy. Enjoying the little things. You see the world with a brighter attitude. You are proud of yourself for the first time in a long time. The way you handle the bumps in the road and the coping skills you have learned.
Life is good...
you are happy.

Then in a blink of an eye, something flips. Just like a light switch.

Maybe it is the weather...
Maybe it is financial...
Maybe it is just too many harsh words from someone you love...
Or maybe, it is all the above.

I look around me, and see so many things to make me happy. So many reasons to rejoice.
but sometimes I can't stop the vortex sucking me in, feeling myself spin, getting that sick feeling in my stomach, my head gets hot, and my heart starts to crumble.

I think about those less fortunate and carry many larger burdens. How impressive it is that they can manage and be so positive.

I try so hard to not carry a self pity for myself. I remind myself that I must trust God's plan for me and not question it. To have faith that God is in charge and WILL see me through everything always. I can't change what is my destiny and instead embrace and try to better understand what I am to learn through each experience given to me.

My beautiful breeze has left us. In it's place is horrible hot humid days with a heat index of 111. Yesterday, I feared I would have a heart attack as I cut the grass in this heat. I know that the lawnmower stopped those three times to force me to catch my breath and to hydrate myself.

I am anxiously waiting to get back to work (not until mid-August), so I can receive my much needed paychecks to contribute to our cost of living. Also my work makes me happy.

I struggle with not being able to "fix" things for those I love. I want to make things easier, I want to give comfort. I want to give reassurance. I keep trying to "turn that chair into a couch".

The Hubby's work is very intense and grueling lately (actually always).He is a tough negotiator and doesn't get contracts completed by being gentle. The tougher the situation the more likely it will trickle home. Which makes life at home hard for me.

There are other problems within those walls that is putting too much pressure within. In respect of my family, I don't write about this, but it doesn't mean it isn't there. Part of my biggest problem is the fact that I know I will never live up to high expectations. Nor be loved as much as I give. It is a harsh, taxing, and destructive walk. Sometimes I feel so ready to give up. But, God keeps me going. I know He's got my back.

If you are a reader of Faith... I would appreciate some prayers. If you are not, any positive energy sent my way would be appreciated. I know I will get through this all, but I feel a definite struggle with this.

Life is so short...

My Mouning Dove

2011-07-09T21:41:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I buried a Mourning Dove. It was sitting upward in the yard, with it's tail up, and it's head down. It didn't have a mark on it, but it was very dead.
I buried it because it seemed like a friend. It, and it's partner, have lived here in my yard longer than we. I have grown very fond of the pair, and the familiar cooing song they made together.
They hung out beneath my finch feeder, eating the spillage on the ground. They lived in my trees, my neighbors trees, and hung out on the roofs as well. I don't know what happened. But as my family says, "it's nature Mom". It happens every day.
I can't tell you how sad I was seeing it had died. I scooped it up and gently placed it in the bushes. But then I worried about the little body and the elements decaying it. I worried about it's partner, seeing it there and not being able to do anything about it. I worried about my cat, Mischa, and my dog Dakota, getting a hold of and the possibility of getting sick (I don't know how this little guy died, and also we all know that a decomposing bird can harbor disease.)
I went to this little guy, and decided to bury it. As I would a pet. The catch... I buried it next door. Don't be getting all in my face telling me I can't do that... The house is vacant. It's for sale (bank owned). The previous owner would have wanted me to bury here as well. I picked a nice quiet spot under a tree, where nothing will bother it, nor be planted there. I buried it deep, and flattened the ground. You can't even tell something was buried there.
Meanwhile, it's devoted partner came to visit me today. It sat under the finch feeder and watched me. I spoke to it. It spoke to me. And then it was gone. I hope it will return.

It is said that a Mourning Dove has a lifetime of 5-7 years when living free.
It is also said that they take a partner for life.

They spend their whole lives with the one partner. Taking care of each other. Being exclusive and faithful.

A Naked Cat

2011-07-07T00:33:00.000-04:00

Yesderday was the day Izzy got her grooming...
I picked up an Acepromazine (a tranquiler) from our Vet. Frustrated as the counter girl was a biatch to me. (hey little girl...I have been coming to this Vet since before you were born! He knows me well & knows I take good care of my pets. I don't need you to lecture me about being behind on shots, or argue with me about dosage). I would so rather had talked to the Vet, or someone that has been here for a while & knows what they are talking about... Whatever.

I give Izzy her pill (the too low dose, but okay...) and head to the Groomer.

Janna's Doggie Dos and Kitties Too

Janna is my new Hero... so is her daughter Carlye.

Izzy...poor girl. Didn't realize what was about to happen. The mats have been clearly uncomfortable. She has been a rather grumpy girl.

Her tranquilizer did NOT kick in.
She was ticked off. Too say the least...

This was her during the grooming... remember, she has been sedated... kind of..
The groomers did a great job considering she was completely turning into a wild cat. We had agreed to get a clean shave, avoid her tail area (no mats & it's such a pretty tail (Emily did not want the Lion cut tail) and leave her neck fluffy too. It took three groomers to handle, calm and groom her. Also a muzzle. (oh and lets not forget that $10 tranquilizer..which btw cost .60 at petmeds.com)

This is her results...

She is too still beautiful!!!
Poor Baby... (Don't look at her tummy rolls).
She is adjusting well. A little flinchy. A little chilled. But she seems so happy to have the mats a=off. They were so close to her skin... I know they were painful.

The day was stressful for our little girl. But... Annie let her up on her bed, and Izzy took a good nap.

It will take about three months to grow back. I am pretty sure we will keep her brushed regularly to avoid this again!

Fireworks VS Godworks

2011-07-03T12:57:00.000-04:00

I hate fireworks.

I am one of those "weird" people.
I don't find them beautiful.
Not even pretty.
I do think they are incredible.
Powerful and interesting.
They are loud. They are dangerous. They are expensive.

For years our neighborhood, where the girls grew up, had an outrageous firework exhibit. I had a neighbor, who had a rather large love for fireworks. He spent thousands... tens of thousands on his firework displays. He hired crews. Hired firemen, and hired police men to handle the powerful illuminations and the crowds of people that came to our neighborhood to watch. We, as well as all our neighbors, took an advantage of this spectacular show to have massive cookouts and enjoyed the show. Mike spent an average of $16,000 per 4th of July. Seriously...

While we enjoyed our cookouts, and the entertainment that my neighbor provided. And while we deeply appreciated the precaution he took...I couldn't help but think of what all that money spent on a two hour firework show could do.

Now...
Let me tell you what I find truly incredible and beautiful.
God's natural fiery displays.

I could sit for hours and watch a lightening show.
To me there is nothing more powerful than this.

Now, that is remarkable.

Isabelle's Diliema

2011-07-02T20:24:00.003-04:00

Isabelle aka Izzy

Remember Izzy? My daughter Emily's cat? The one that doesn't like me even though I took her in when Emily moved into an apartment that wouldn't let her bring her cat(she will take her back in August)? The one that after I feed her, clean her litter box, "try" to be lovey to her, she hisses and swats at me? But will purr and love on my Hubby? Also will be sweet to my younger daughter. The only cat I have ever met that didn't love me back... That Izzy.

She has a dilema.

She had a little mat in her fur on her hip. She doesn't let me brush her. Although I tried. Emily and I even tried to cut it out. Also Hubby tried. The mat, instead of shrinking or getting brushed out... it grew. Make that multiplied. Over the past week or so, it is migrated across both hips and spread wider. AND now it is to the skin.. I can't get a comb between the hair and her skin. It also seems to be uncomfortable (she is sleeping flat on her tummy now instead of the kitty curl).

We decided she needs help. Professional help.
It's a Cat Grooming Emergency.

So...we franticly searched for someone that will see her ASAP.
Do you know how hard that is? Groomers want you to make appointments 2 weeks in advance. Some don't even want to touch cats (hmmm, I can imagine why). I finally found a Vet clinic that will take her Wednesday, but they didn't even ask her name, and wouldnt give me prices. They want me to drop her off at 7am, and they will call me when they look at her to give me an idea what it will cost... Not feeling good about this... I also found, through the magic of Facebook and networking through a friend of a friend...found a Groomer, that not only took the time to call me back (and on her birthday!) she was honest and upfront about her thoughts about the situation. We scheduled for Tuesday morning. If she doesn't think she can handle her (let's face it Izzy is a bit of a mean cat), then she will send me along. Then I will have to make the scary appointment.

We are thinking since she must be shaved...
might as well make her somewhat cute with a lion cut.

Have you seen them?
Let me show you what I am talking about...

Now, even though I think these are hilarious... I would not have this done to one of our cats, unless they HAD to get shaved. I think the natural hair, long or short looks best. We had an elderly cat that got mats and I tried shaving with a razored letter opener. I thought I was so smart, zipping this through his mats and doing it myself. He was a sweet old cat and flinched only once....
WHEN I ACCIDENTALLY SLICED HIM OPEN WITH THE RAZOR AND HAD TO TAKE HIM TO THE VET TO BE "GLUED" BACK TOGETHER.

Bad memory. Bad, bad.. Also why I refuse to try that again...

So, you see our diliema.
We have no choice.
She has to be shaved... might as well try to make her somewhat cute instead of having her hips alone shaved as if she had surgery.
Right?

July?

2011-07-01T09:38:00.000-04:00

Today is July 1st?
Really?
How did that happen so quickly?

We are still enjoying the cool summer breeze that I am obsessed with. However it is raining west of us and heading this way. I believe it will hang out all weekend. I'm fine with that. Better than the heat.

This birdhouse is the one I got from my Aunt last year. I was so disappointed that no birds would use it. Then I moved it to the front yard and placed it in the Magnolia tree. I have a perfect view of the activity it now has. Some sweet little Momma nested in it.

This summer is really flying by.
June was but a blink of the eye.

Happy July everyone! Hopefully it will slow down just a bit.

Sweet Tea

2011-06-29T16:12:00.000-04:00

It's a Sweet Tea kind of day.
I made mine with Good Earth Sweet & Spicy Herbal Tea, and threw some cherries and an orange slice in. I guess it's not really sweet tea... Sweet tea is Southern sun tea with a ton of real sugar thrown in. But this will have to do for today.

There is a gentle warm breeze, high temps...
My neighbors empty hammock.. (why oh why do they NEVER use it? I wanna go jump in with a book and some sweet tea...) One of these days I'm gonna do it. They are so nice, they wouldn't mind... However, I would rather just have one myself & not lay around their yard...

My weekend at the Bestie was Fabulous. We didn't do much. That is what made it so fab. We did exactly what we intended... laughed, ate, and was lazy.

Something about completely vegging with a Bestie... It is heavenly. It was plenty hot down in southern Tennessee. We lounged in the pool on Saturday morning. Until it got too hot. Then ran off to see a movie (Bad Teacher...cute predictable chick flick. Not grand, but fun). We also grabbed a bite out. But, mostly just talked the days away, watching HGTV, sipping on wine, and eating fabulous cupcakes. Early Sunday I was back on the road for my 8 hour drive home. I love her dearly and wish she was a few hours closer at least.

Monday, Hubby left for a business trip. Gave me a great opportunity to clean the carpets. Then I watched a bunch of goofy Lifetime Movies.

Tuesday, I visited a couple of Hospice patients and had a funeral to attend.

By 6pm I was starting the Yoga class, breathing for the first time all day.

After class, some of us went out to a nearby Italian Restaurant. Iozzo's Garden of Italy. Oh Baby! Made that workout worth every struggle! Ohhhh old Italian Restaurants are the best! We sat outside, again, enjoying this amazing gentle summer breeze we have been blessed with lately.

Carol, Me, Jill, Joann & Jerrilee

What beautiful women.
Inside as well as out.
They have incredible souls and I feel such joy being in their presence.

The Hubby is home from his business trip early. I am trying to catch up on blog readings. Boy, its easy to get side tracked then takes forever to catch up!
I just wanted to let you all know that I am well and busy. I guess that is good. Even though I have a lot I wanted to blog about & never seem to enough time.
Love to you all~

Going to Merino Manor

2011-06-23T21:16:00.000-04:00

Merino Manor

Heading to the Manor in Tennessee tomorrow.

It's a grand house...

Which houses the Darling Duchess Deborah and her sweet Family.

It's nearly an eight hour drive from my casa to her manor.

I'm so looking forward to the drive.

It is peaceful and well, fun.

You see, when you drive solo...

YOU choose the music, and you can sing along...

LOUDLY.

I can eat all the munches I want.

notice the healthy stuff too please

(The York Pieces are in the freezer, Raisinets and carrots & grapes in the fridge.

Coffee will go with me as well as Diet coke & my McAllisters cup for ice.

Yep... I am pretty stoked.

Gracie & Greta will greet me

But I am most looking forward to seeing this Bestie.

Hanging in the Kitchen..most definitely!

I think we will hang a lot here to watch HGTV...

(Gracie is keeping my seat ready)

and here too...

(I actually am bringing a bathing suit... no pictures will be taken)

It's all about the girlfriend time...

sit back...

laugh a bunch...

eat a bunch...

and embrace my dear girlfriend♥

I leave in the morning...

and will be back in a couple days.

So excuse my absence please...

I promise to be back soon.

ta ta♥

Patience Sweet Patience

2011-06-22T11:33:00.000-04:00

Romans 5:4

"And endurance produces character, and character produces hope."

Patience has always been a challenge for me. Always! As a little girl, and as an adult. I may appear to be a woman of peace and patience...but those who know me, know another side of me.

For as long as I can remember, I have prayed that God help me in this department. However, the old saying, "be careful what you wish for, or pray for." Is so true. I think God puts more challenges in front of me to build my tolerance and my character.

Ironically, once again, patience is trying me... as I am writing this post, something is askew and it will not allow me to add photographs. Grr! Could this be from dropping my laptop last night? oh crapola!

Last night, after a trying night of yoga (Jerrilee introduced Tibet Yoga and my body wasn't quite ready.), I had to run a quick errand. Stop at the drug store and pick up a case of bottled water. No problem.

HOWEVER~ 1st I pull in and noticed the Redbox station (for my non-American friends~ Redbox is a national DVD movie rental franchise. Simple concept..Plug in your credit card, pick your movie rental, and on your way. Quick and easy. Just $1.00 per movie per night. AND the coolest feature is you can return it to any Redbox kiosk. Doesn't have to be the same one you got the DVD from. We love it because of the quickness and simplicity of it.)

Anyway, back to my story~

There was a boy around 10 standing there looking through the selections. He had a service dog with him. No car near him, no adults. I figured his parent must be inside the drugstore.

I'm thinking, great, I will pick up a movie for Hubby and I on my way out.

I get my case of water and get in line... There is one cashier, and six people in front of me.

Come on! Patience Janis...

They opened a second checker as it was my turn (naturally).

I make my purchase and out to the Redbox Kiosk . Oops little boy is still there. I drive over to the Kiosk so he knows I am waiting for my turn. He glares at me. I wait. I now have my Credit card in hand, car off parked in front of him. That is when I notice he is freaking playing with the Kiosk! He is clicking each movie, reading the synopses, and then moving to the next movie. He turns to me, I make that friendly nod, and hold my credit card up (my way of saying~ Im waiting for my turn.) "Mom" finally shows up and boy is begging her to let him get a movie... they argue about it being PG-13. I have now waited too long and am standing outside my car, so Mom see I am still waiting on my turn. A car pulls up with another customer so I stand behind Mom and boy in line. Mom is now freaking doing the SAME thing boy was. READING each movie, one by one. And Boy is having a rather long conversation with the new people about his service dog. Through me as I stand between them. I am so annoyed, I say, "oh never mind!", and get back in my car and leave without a movie.

Okay~ lets stop for a minute.

There are no written rules about using a Kiosk that I know of. It's kind of more of a common courtesy thing. BUT not everyone has common courtesy. So, for anyone reading this that doesn't have this, let me explain the unwritten rules when using a Kiosk...particularly a DVD rental one.

*1~ Already have an ideal of what movie you are interested in. You can go online & read about current movie releases. At least decide what category or rating. In fact go here: REDBOX to find out what is avaible near you.

*2~Make your selection, and move on

*3~ If people are waiting, and you don't know what you want, step aside, so people can return there movie, or get their selection. especially when they have been waiting for a long time (I was there 15 minutes waiting)

*4~ No one wants to hear your argument about movie selections.

*5~ If you don't have a credit card...you can't get a movie.

I know this is terrible rude of me. I apologize now for any feelings I hurt. I just have to vent this because IT DRIVES ME CRAZY!!! So if you are one of those people...STOP IT! PLEASE STOP IT NOW!

Which brings me back to patience. Was this one of those things God throws out to me to give me endurance? Is this something that needed me to get back to my center of peace?

Maybe, just maybe, I need to go do some yoga and meditation♥

Ohmmmmmmmmm

Unleash Your Fingers

2011-06-20T09:40:00.000-04:00

I wanted to share this amazing commercial from Samsung.
This is called Finger Tutting.
My understanding is this young man was discovered on youtube & Samsung snatched him up for their new Samsung Galaxy cell phone. "For the launch of the Galaxy SII in France, Samsung brought JayFunk, the internet Finger Tutting phenomenon, from Los Angeles to Paris to deliver an incredible and surprising choreography."
Pretty darn impression! Turn on the volume to get the full effect.

...49

2011-06-19T20:24:00.000-04:00

This stared at me the other night at the concert. The chair in front of me. Ironically, not only was it the number of my own chair, but the number my age is...today.

forty-nine

Will I be old next year? Am I old now? I guess that depends on who you ask.

I do believe you are as old as you feel and act...to a point. I feel pretty much the same person I was 35 years ago. However... my body doesn't physically feel the same...that's for sure. I have more aches and pains than I ever imagined. BUT... I am healthier than many.

me @ 2 yrs

Reflecting can be interesting, I seem to dwell on a lot of the past. But, I am getting much better at embracing what the future has to bring. Seeing how I can bloom in my surroundings and grow...even at nearly half a century old.

Today has been grand.

what's up w/ my hair?

I enjoyed my Hubby and a big breakfast. (had to share my Birthday w/Father's Day.. Not the first, not the last time).

again w/ the hair?

And I loved getting time with my sweet Daughters. I was thrilled by an early morning Thunderstorm ( love the rolling rumble, especially when it rattles the house).

I got this wonderful hand painted wine glass from Annie.

it says, "I Love My Pets", so true

Annie & I enjoyed Starbucks & Antiquing (where I found a fabulous Green Depression Glass Princess Cracker Jar.. at a fair price).

We had a wonderful cook out~ Chicken, Brauts (pork & turkey for Em {Baby~ I'm so sorry you got a pork one by mistake... I promise it won't kill you}, roasted corn on the cob, fresh Green Beans, Rice & Red Beans, saluted mushrooms, and Red Velvet Cake. yummmmmmmmmmmm

Hubby also got the official photograph from meeting President Obama in May from the White House staff.

He looks pretty proud (and easy on the eyes too Hottie Hubby!) You have to know my Hubby... he rarely will smile for the camera... And this is a priceless moment where I see his smile.

President Barrack Obama & Sergio Gonzalez 5/6/2011

Not to shabby! Sergio said he was just lovely to chat with (okay...he did not say lovely...more like very interesting, personable and extremely respectful).

I got about a hundred birthday wishes... Thanks to the social network of Facebook, as well as email and the telly. I picked out the sewing machine I am getting from the Girls & Hubby. And look forward to a get together with a Bestie next weekend.

I am sitting outside, enjoying the evening breeze. Got Riley by my side & crazy Izzy playing in the grass. Hubby is on the phone with business. Emily is back in Muncie now and Miss Annie is off to watch movies with her girlfriend. The birds are chirping, and there is this wonderful peaceful feeling.

This Birthday tops them all so far. Nothing major, but... I am learning it is more about the minors. The peaceful, loving, simple minors.

♥Life is good♥

America & Poco With Two Favorite Men

2011-06-18T12:59:00.001-04:00

Last night I had a wonderful evening with two of my favorite men. My Darling Hubby, Sergio. And My Dear Bestie, Richie.

We went to Anderson Indiana, Hoosier Park Casino & Racetrack to the Outdoor Stage to see Poco & America perform. The last time I saw America in concert...May 1982. A few years ago, and ironically, I saw them with Sergio's sister, in Daytona Beach Florida.

The weather was perfect. It was a clear day, a perfect temperature with a light breeze kissing us. We bought the cheap seats...and got invited to move up as the concert was not a sold out (love it when you get seats worth twice what you paid!)

Poco played first... remember the song "Crazy Love"?

It happens all the time
This crazy love of mine
Wrapped around my heart
Refusing to unwind
Ooh-ooh, crazy love, ah...

If you don't remember this, then you were not an American teenage girl in 1976 .

Ohh the memories of us singing this song... and with tears!

Rich & I were into singing the lyrics this evening.

We may have embarrassed Sergio a bit.

Finally, America begins...

The acoustics were perfect!

They sounded AWESOME!

How old are they now?

Dang...not a scratchy voice among them.

Daisy Jane... Sister Golden Hair... Ventura Highway... Don't Cross the River... You can do Magic... (hey, they didn't play a favorite~ Horse with No Name)

Poor Sergio...

We knew all the words to all the songs. Hubby isn't a singer. Rich & I aren't really either, but we are equally bad so we didn't care.

Rich also entertained us with his dance moves.

He rocked it. As always.

I watched instead of danced. That might have been too much for Hubby, had I danced.

I am so glad Rich talked Sergio into this. It was a lovely fun evening. We also ate a little, and played a few slot machines on the way out. Win a little, lose a little.

All in all, a great night out. Well needed for Hubby & I. And always a pleasure to have my amazing friend Rich with us.

...For Me? ♥

2011-06-17T14:51:00.000-04:00

A big Whoo Hoot to my Blogging Buddy Pammy in Texas @ Scotty's Place . I just got a package from her and this was inside.

(photo by Pammy~ borrowed from her Blog)

Aren't they FABULOUS!!!!
With my job at the Deaf School, they are especially going to come in handy. We have to walk from building to building on campus, come cold wintery snow season, gloves are a must. But it's harder to sign with my gloves on. Now I can talk away with these lovely Fingerless gloves!
I'm so excited!
I made Annie be my hand model because she has such pretty hands.

Awe~ She is signing "I love you"♥

Aren't they scrumptious? I am going to be the envy of everyone.

Hey... did you notice Annie's nail polish?

Here, let me show you a close up....
This is Katy Perry's OPI line. It crackles. You paint it over any polish, and it crackles like this. It looks like black polish, but when you go over the other polish, it separates like this. Pretty cool. The Easter Bunny put it in both Annie & Emily's baskets this year. That Easter Bunny has always tried to stay with current fashion trends.

So back to the Romantic Fingerless Gloves... Pammy was participating in a Pay It Forward thingy we did in Blog World a while back. I was one of her winners!

Which reminds me.. I haven't completed my crafts to my winners yet.
ummmm.

I'm on it now. I promise! So Mark over at A Pirate Looks at 50 . And Rosaria at Sixty-five, What now? . Don't give up on me! I will get it done :)

Love to all~ Enjoy the beautiful day♥

Sleeping In on Lazy Mornings

2011-06-17T10:58:00.001-04:00

I love going back to bed, sleeping in late.
For years, I had that internal clock that made me wake up everyday at 5:45am. Sleeping in late back then was 8am. I always got up before everyone else in the family. Had my morning coffee in peace, then woke the family accordingly to schedules (school, work, whatever).
But things change.
The Babies went to college and no longer had me as their alarm clock.
Hubby's schedule changed as well, and his sleep habits did too.
Me? Well, a couple things changed me. 1~The medication I take for depression, allows me to sleep better than ever before. 2~ get laid off and not be needed to wake early and slowly your internal alarm clock starts changing.

Now, I wake when Hubby does, let the dogs out, then return to bed (with the dogs) and cuddle.
The above picture, with all three dogs and one cat, has me wedged under the covers as well.

It is complete bliss to sleep in for another hour. So relaxing and sweet.

I think it makes for a better day too. I have that little extra boost, when I have the extra hour.

Now with the new job. My sleeping in will continue. I won't be getting home till after midnight, and after shower & all, bedtime is more like 1am. So, hello bed. hello morning sunshine with your warm kisses.
I love this sleeping in business. I don't think it's lazy at all. Just lucky.

Girls Night

2011-06-14T10:18:00.000-04:00

Everyone needs to get together with friends.

I especially am a fan of Guys Night and Girls Night out.
My Hubby and I always realized how important it is for us to be individuals and to enjoy friendships outside of our marriage.
Hmm.. that sounded strange. What I mean is to get out with friends without spouses.

Hubby works way to hard and way to many hours. He always has. Giving him a night out with guy friends is a rare but necessary step for his sanity. When the girls were young, he went on a yearly Ski Trip with guy friends, that totally re-amped him. Later, he would jump on the Harley and go for a ride with a friend. Sometimes it's just grabbing a bite with a buddy.

For me~ I use to take a yearly trip with Besties, Have a Margarita night once and a while, and a favorite night out for me was BUNCO (which I have written about HERE ). Lately though, I am embracing girl friends and making every effect to spend more time with those who make me smile.

Mary, Bev, Maureen, Lee, Leslie, Me, Julie, Lisa, Norma

Last night I was Blessed to join some dear friends for a lovely evening.
I sent a message out to 20 girlfriends for a dinner get together and was pleasantly surprised that half were able to make it out on a Monday evening. (Julie L is missing from photo). The above photo shows you some of my high school classmates of the class of 1980. It was a joyous evening of laughter & random conversations all going at the same time.

♥The clatter of friendship.

It was heavenly♥

Part of the wonderful thing about this group of woman, is that even though we went to school together, and all knew each other, we did not "run" together in the same cliques. I considered them all friends, however, there were different points in my life that I was closer to one or the other over those years. Some I have been blessed with knowing well and not losing touch over the years. And some I hadn't seen in twenty-some years. Yet, we all picked up like it was yesterday. No awkward pause... no regrets...no tears. Just a bunch of belly laughs and even some gentle loving advice. Some have been widowed, some divorced, some celebrating 20-31 years of marriage. Some have children, some do not. But we all share a common love and desire to have girlfriends.

Life is short and unexpected. I have had too many things pull me down or knock me over. I am learning, you get what you get... make the best of it. There is no time to waste feeling sorry or second guessing. For me, I am going to grasp the golden ring, I am going to enjoy.

My 50 Before Fifty

2011-06-12T23:05:00.002-04:00

In one week I will have my last birthday of my forties.

I've been thinking a bit about it. More like embracing it. The past couple years have been, well, not the best. I've made some changes. Some readjusting. Some tweaking.

This past month has been pretty darn good. Especially mentally.

I am finally learning to breathe.

I have seen some great list on Blogs. I have tried to give myself one. Although mine isn't as cool (graphic wise anyway) as many I have admired. Mine is important to me. I have decided to put it up on my side bar. To help me see daily, and attempt to cross them off. (Well, a heart next to the item means it's completed or now a regular part of my life).

Maybe, I will even inspire others to improve their lives as well.

Although some of these are simple, they are just as important to my better living as the major ones. Each one can only bring me a better quality of life.

A happier me.

Enjoy my list and those who know me...help me achieve my goals.

Fifty Before 50

have a job i love

love the skin i'm in
buy a cruiser bicycle

develop a budget that works for us

walk 3 miles a day

perfect my ASL
write more
learn to keep my house CLEAN
cook healthier meals
grow a garden
read my Bible
train my pets to behave
bake more often
take a baking class
finish my Baby Clothes Tree Skirts
trip to see Deb again
trip to see Janet
trip to see Shari
learn to Kayak
improve my marriage
start yoga again
be a better friend
go to a museum
go to a craft fair
spend more time with my daughters
write more letters
learn to knit or crochet...correctly
work out regularly
lose 10-15 pounds
relax more
read more
listen more-talk less
have more belly laughs
at least 6 dog walks a week (that's 2 each dog)
organize our photographs
learn to let it go
pray more
pick a church that I go to regularly again
always be kind
smile
learn to enjoy working in the yard

know & accept my limits
enjoy the parks
go to an outside music concert. maybe jazz or symphony

take more bubble baths
frequent flea markets & antique malls

go swimming
de-clutter my life as well as my house
make decisions I can be proud of
Love myself as I do others

Ohmmmmmmmm

2011-06-10T10:29:00.001-04:00

Yoga (Sanskrit, Pāli: योग yóga) refers to traditional physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines, originating in ancient India, whose goal is the attainment of a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility...wikpedia

This week I joined a Yoga class. I use to LOVE Yoga. Back when I was super limber, thin and healthy. That was twelve years ago. My dear friend Jill forced me to go because I use to make fun of her..especially the whole "Ohm" part.
Well, dear Jill has re-entered my life. I am tickled she has moved back to Indianapolis (in fact we live in the same neighborhood). She is getting me back on my toes. Jill's my Buddy that I worked for/with many years ago at our children's school as lunch room ladies. I also helped out on ocassion when she ran a catering company at a private college. Then she moved away...Bad Jill!. Ahh but wait... the birth of her precious Grandson made her come back to Indy. (Yay! Thanks Dalton!) She is the Buddy that had the English Tea Party for the Royal Wedding (go HERE .
So anyway....
Jill is still into Yoga and I feel so stiff, restricted, and well old. I have been wanting for some time to find another class but without Jill, I seem to find the crappy ones. Jill let me tag along on Tuesday to
Healing Arts Indy. A beautiful old building downtown with, drum roll please... the BEST YOGA class ever! Now if you go to this link, it will show you some instructor I don't know... Jerrilee Lucas is my absolute fabulous instruction, whom, dare I say, I have fallen in love with her after just one session. Jerrilee's business card has several locations so I am guessing she travels a bit to teach her classes.

Yogis hold the belief that the body, mind, and spirit must be in balance in order for a person to be in harmony with themselves and their environment. This is achieved through exercise, breathing and meditation- the three main yogic structures. Yoga poses improve circulation, stimulate abdominal organs, and put pressure on the glandular system of the body, which generally results in less stress and better health.

I think I'm a natural once again. Check this photo of me out:
Don't be jealous..

lol.. Serious is that a real person?
or how about this one:

This is more like my favorite pose:
Ironically it is titled "corpse pose" .

I am really enjoying this class. I still giggle when they make you do the Ohmmmm. I am trying to respect and understand the meaning of the mantra. But still feel silly therefore must giggle.

Another great thing is this amazing Deli across the street. So if it gets to be too much I can always be this person:
(warning..this cartoon is rated R due to language). It so made me crack up. That's Jill the blonde & me in pig tails.


A Natalie Cartoon

Happy Happy Joy Joy

2011-06-10T08:36:00.000-04:00

I am in a good place. Very happy lately.
Lots of good stuff crowding out the yucky stuff.
Figured time for a background change and some cleaning up on the blog. Which I will try to get finished over the weekend.
I have a bunch of stuff I want to share & blog about, but have been busy (isn't being busy wonderful?) I am going to try & get caught up soon.

Until then~ I hope you all have a lovely day/weekend. The sun is shinning & the birds are singing her in my neck of the Blog.
Love♥

Toys in the Attic

2011-06-07T11:30:00.000-04:00

The past couple days, I have spent some time in the attic. I am preparing for a Neighborhood Yard Sale, and trying to say goodbye to ...stuff.

My Attic holds a lot of memories. Hubby freaked when he realized how many items that probably should have been parted with, that are still hanging around.

My girls had great toys.
They took wonderful care of their toys.

They ~~had~~ have a lovely American Girl collection. In total, they have 6 dolls (don't worry, they are not in the attic), a HUGE collection of clothing, accessories, furniture, two complete mini pin collections, three or four of the Mini room collections... and a whole bunch more American Girl paraphernalia.

These containers house Annie's Pony Collection, her 101 Dalmatian collection, both Emily & Annie's Polly Pocket Collections & Pet Shop Collections.
We have Beanie Babies and many other Stuffed animals & dolls in those big black bags sitting around the attic.

We have given away hundreds of VHS tapes, but I have two big bags full of the "Keepers".

I have donated wonderful children's books...But kept three book bags full of favorites.

I also have normal things up here... Here's some Holiday decorations, and stuff...

...but I admit most of the Attic contains toys.
I have pulled a few things down for the sale, and a few things to go to the trash. (Annie kind of freaked that I still had her head gear from her braces. I agreed not to take a picture per her request. I also agreed to retire it to the trash.) It seems the longer you hold on to things the harder to let go. Take this advice my young Moms...THROW IT AWAY WHILE YOU CAN! Better yet Garage Sale, and donate! Twenty years later, it is so hard to let it go. And even though I like to believe I will recycle for Grands one day... truth of the matter, my girls didn't love my toys that I hung on to. So I'm not so sure my future Grands will. Especially if I get Boys!

My New Not so Quiet Silent World

2011-06-05T12:30:00.000-04:00

As I have already said...
I LOVE MY JOB!
I have been very busy these past two weeks getting into the groove, quickly polishing my American Sign Language skills, and getting acquainted with the students.

Even though I had previously worked here (same position) 25 years ago, things have changed a bit.

First, previously I had 1st to 4th graders.. Now I have Kindergarten to 12th grade. The school has closed the Elementary Dorm and moved these itty bitties over to the Middle School & High School Dorms. So.. now those Dorms are Boys Dorm/ Girls Dorm but Grades Kindergarten to 12th Grade. The Dorms are connected with shared common areas in the center. (Candy Store, Media Room, Work Out room, Dean's offices).

Second, these dorms are so much better with individual rooms for the students, opposed to big rooms where 10-20 kids share a sleeping dorm. They are divided by age/grades. Elementary, Middle School, and High School floors.

This time around I am one of very few hearing staff. Most everyone is Deaf. It's interesting being a minority. I am often isolated and trying to catch up on conversations (that are most often too quick for me to follow.. I get bits & pieces of the conversations and have to concentrate hard to follow). Therefore, I am picking up my signing skills quickly or left behind. I have had a couple of miscommunication, but, makes me pay better attention!

Many of my new Deaf friends. co-workers, and students, have some hearing and use their voices while signing, some are easy to understand, but others not so much. Many can lip read.

ALL are patient with my learning. Willing to help and teach me. Eager for me to fully join this new world of communication.

Although not all can hear, they can all feel vibrations. It is interesting how other senses are enhanced when one of our senses are not strong. We rely on other senses to pick up and carry through.
One evening we watched a movie. "I am Number Four". Pretty good flick. But I saw it different than any movie I have seen before. The students wanted to turn the volume (Vibration) up. WAY UP. A Deaf Supervisor stopped the student reminding him that our new Supervisor, Janis, was Hearing, and it would be difficult for me to tolerate the sound. All heads turned to me... I said, No, that's fine, turn it up".. So they did... then turned to me again waiting for me to approve it higher.. I did... two more times. It was as high as it could go. Talk about feeling the vibrations! The kids all quickly appreciated my tolerance. I guess that upped my cool factor.
I also watched/listened/felt "Gnomeo & Juliet" with the younger kids.
Mega Audio Headache/Hangover following these evenings. But I survived. (I need to remember to pack earplugs in my bag).

It's also an interesting adjustment to the noise factor with the sounds that some deaf people make. There are many high pitched shrieks, moans and clickings. When things are moved, unlike hearing people, Deaf do not mind sounds like a chalkboard scratch or dragging sounds. Door slams, bangs, and crashes are common place. I am learning to block out these distracting sounds. But, it isn't easy.

My World of silence is by far, not a very quiet world at all. I love every single sound of it.

Thank You To Our Service Men & Women

2011-05-30T09:17:00.000-04:00

This is a re-post from a couple years ago.

I just want to say thank you to all the Service men & women

and their wonderful families for sharing them.

Thank you & God Bless.

On Friday a group of us went to lunch on the circle. There were hundreds of service men & women gathered for a parade and celebration. I felt a certain joy in my heart. I wanted to say thank you to each one of them. AJ, whom I work with is enlisted in the Air Force and will head off to basic training soon. I asked him if that was weird. He said, no, I think that is fine. I think we do not thank them enough.

My father, Thomas Meyer, was enlisted in the Navy. He served four years. He left in 1955 before graduating high school. He traveled the world. He met my Mom while stationed in San Antonio, Texas.

My Grandfather, Edward Wright, served our country with the Navy, during World War II. I can't imagine what he went through, or my Grandmother & Mother, worrying about him. Our technology was so different, can you imagine not hearing anything for months? The fear of has he been killed or became a prisoner of war? We were lucky. He came home safe and sound.

My Uncle Dave was in the Navy during the 70's.
My Grand-Grandfather Marquis Peters served World World I.
I know I have countless other relatives that served as well.
Sergio's brother, Homere, served the Marines, during the Vietnam War. Then re listed in the Army and served our country for an additional 21 years. He was a drill Sargent that prepared our military for service.

My daughters have friends today that enlist, and serve our country. Emily's High School sweetheart, Eddie Waltrop, has been a Marine for 4 years. He has volunteered to go overseas and to continue this fight for freedom. I worry about him. I pray for him.

I am very thankful of what these brave service men and women are doing for us and our country. Regardless to your views on the current war issues, because these brave souls enlist, we do not have to have a draft. I don't want anyone fighting for me that doesn't want or believe in it. I feel these Service men & women don't get enough recognition and I think we need to thank them more.

SO, join me in thanking them, praying for them and embracing them.