Just a thought & another perspective

Changes

2011-02-18T18:23:00.002-05:00

As you can see, I've changed my blog design. So, what do you think?

Changes. There are all sorts of changes we make in our life time. Some for the better and some prove to be for the worse. There are things I'm changing this year, things I believe will be for the better. I'm learning to simplify! Mostly because it's a necessity. I believe that the hardest thing to do, is to take that first step. After that, it gets easier. It's the learning to let go. If you treasure something, and it's buried in a box in the corner of the attic or basement, then it's not really treasured. It's time to let others find enjoyment in things I stored away. As they say, "Easy come, easy go."

Here's to Change!

Look Who's Here!!!!!!

2011-01-15T12:46:00.005-05:00

Have you seen the new American Girls Doll for 2011????? Her name is Kanani and she's from Hawaii. Kanani is only here for one year, but there's an opportunity to win this doll for yourself, or a little girl in you life.
Hop on over to: http://www.coffeewiththemrs.com and read all about Kanani. Just follow the simple rules to enter Amy's give away.

While your there, check out the rest of Amy's blog!

Amazing Blessed!!!!!

2010-12-31T09:53:00.003-05:00

Hubby and I went to Minnesota this year, to spend Christmas with our daughter, Irene & her family. While we were away, we had our neighbor bring in the mail & feed our cat. A couple of days after Christmas, I got a phone call, from our daughter Amy. She was at our house and said all was well and that she had brought in the mail. Good kid.

When I leave for a trip, I make sure that things are pretty well straightened up, so I wont have so much to do when I return home. When the kids were small, I us to tell them and their father..."It's pretty well clean now and I expect it to be that way when I get home". I also remember the days it was like pulling teeth, to get the girls to clean their rooms, let alone help with the house work.

Let me tell you what I didn't realize when I came home this time. Not just a straightened up house, but clean house!!!!! What Amy neglected to tell me, was that when she came to my house, she cleaned my house....vaccumning, cleaning the bathroom, scrubbing the grout in the kitchen. I should have realized, when I had to rearrange my coffee & tea containers, that I was not the one who put them out of order.

I am truly amazed and blessed by all that Amy did. She knew we were having company for New Years Eve, and decided to help, because she knew I would be tired after the long trip.

I guess my telling my family "It's pretty well clean now and I expect it to be that way when I get home" paid off in the must wonderful, unusual way.

THANKS AMY!!!!! I am truly Amazingly Blessed!!!!!

A lot!!!

2010-11-13T22:38:00.013-05:00

It's been some time, since I was here to write. Since the last entry, I've completed my Cancer 3 Day challenge in raising the funds and doing the walk. While I didn't walk the entire 60 miles, 48 miles is nothing to sneeze at. I had a wonderful time with my daughter Irene, though we did experience some sore muscles. Irene & I did agree that I'm a pompom short!

Back in March, I started knitting hats for my granddaughter Eliana. I posted pictures on http://www.kathy-institches.blogspot.com. I've started working with a photographer, making photo props.
I took the hats into work and they are on display, being sold & ordered. This month, my boss made them a Facebook entry. So, if you're a Facebook fan, check out The Sewingroom Utica. Needless to say, it's turned into a small business.

In September, I entered a quilt contest through The American Sewing Expo. This years theme "Classic American Automobile". While my quilt didn't win, it did make ThreadMagazine.com That was accomplishment enough.

With the encouragement of the workers at Joann's Fabric in Utica, I am entering Joann's Fabric quilt contest. This time, I entering the dog quilt I made as a shower gift.

John & I also got to spend time with Amy and her family in Florida & Tennessee. It was great trip and a wonderful to share with our grandkids. We went to Disney World by doing the "Give A Day, Get A Day". We hadn't been there in 19 years, at which time, our son Eric was 3 1/2 years old. This time, it was our grandson Alex, who was 3 1/2.

This is a view of the road our cabin was on. This is not fog, just the clouds of The Great Smoky Mountains! We were so high up that the clouds would roll over us. Though the view, when visible, was grand, we were to early for the fall colors.

A lot has been accomplished, but still have lots to do.

Sometimes I think.....

2010-08-04T00:04:00.006-04:00

Sometimes I think it's all a waste! A waste of time! A waste of space! I'm not sure what I expected, but I know what I got.....Nothing!!!!!

I write and no one comments.....OK, my daughter will. I have 3 followers. I guess that's better then none.
So, I guess I'll just use this as a place to vent right now, as no one will respond and it wont matter.

I've written twice about my walking 60 mile in 3 days for breast cancer. That was a waste of time. My daughter Amy even wrote about it on her blog http://www.coffeewiththemrs.com/ . The only comment was mine! There too, a waste of time. Thanks for trying Amy!
I've sent e-mail, facebook messages and sent letters to raise the require $2,300. Some have responded and to you I say THANK YOU!!!!! But no comments.

I will not say my training has been a waste of time, or the fact that I get to spend 3 day with my daughter Irene, sharing a pink tent and 60 miles of memories. Every step will be worth it.

I will believe that God will show me how to raise the money. If by September 15th, I haven't reached goal, the remaining balance will divided into 4 equal payments that I have to pay.

Well, the venting is done....not such a waste, as I do feel a little better.

After the 60 Mile walk, August 13- 15th, I will have to rethink this blog! To blog or not to blog, that will be the question to answer. If blogging, then maybe a new approach to "Just a thought"! Maybe more on http://www.kathy-institches.blogspot.com/ "In Stitches" where I can display my creativity in sewing & knitting. Only time will tell.

2010-06-10T19:57:00.001-04:00

I have taken on an incredible challenge. On August 13-15, 2010, I'll be walking 60 miles over the course of three days, camping out at night with thousands of other women and men taking this journey with me.
It's for an event called the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure. Net proceeds are invested in breast cancer research and community programs. Komen for the Cure works hard to build a future without breast cancer and I plan on raising $2,500 to help bring us closer to that goal.
Please consider making a donation to help me reach this goal. If you can't give this amount all at once, you can spread it out over four months, using the payment plan option, if you donate online at The3Day.org. Please also ask your employer if they will double your donation with a matching gift.
I will be walking in Memory of two women who died from breast cancer, Susan A. Johnson and Sandy E. Garvaglia,. I am walking for Amy Garvaglia who was diagnosed with breast Cancer in 2009 and in Honor of Linda Forgacs, a breast cancer survivor.
I am pleased and proud to be walking with my daughter Irene who is coming from Minnesota to be my walking partner. While none of the women in my family have suffered from breast cancer. I had a scare eight years ago and Irene this year, when we both discovered a lump! Thankfully it was a benign cyst that was aspirated. However, it did make us wonder about the one in eight women in the U.S. who will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. That's why I'm walking in the 3-Day for the Cure. Because everyone deserves a lifetime.
To make a donation on line, simply go to http://www.the3day.org/ and go to the "Donate to a Participant". If you don't want to donate online, go to the same web site and download and print a donation form from the "Donate" button at the top of the page and mail it to the address on the form. Or you can call 800-996-3DAY to donate over the phone. I would like to reach my fund raising goal by July 31st so don't delay!
Thank you for taking the time to read this and thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Kathy Goldenbogen
P.S. Don't wait. Donate today!
For more information about the Susan G.Komen 3-Day for the Cure or Susan G. Komen
for the Cure, visit The3Day.org or call 800-996-3DAY.

Looking Back......

2010-03-08T16:57:00.012-05:00

First Birthday

About 5 years old
Sorry, not to many school pictures to choose from.....at least that I wanted to post

Here's my Senior Picture

21 Years old

Wedding Picture...I was 23

About 24 or 25

Here I am at 51

Not too bad for 60!!!

Looking back can be scary, especially in photos!!!! In general, looking back isn't to bad!

I celebrated my 60th birthday on March 7th. I actually started celebrating on the 4th having breakfast with my parents, my brothers Paul & George and my sister-in-laws Robin & Cheryl.

Saturday the 6th, My hubby & I went with my parents to South Haven, Michigan for the weekend. The main reason for the trip was to hear my youngest brother( who will remind you that he is 11 years younger!!!) give a lecture at the Great Lakes Maritime Museum. This gave me the opportunity to celebrate with Pat & my sister-in-law Joanie. So, all in all, I got to celebrate this all my family.

As for my children, Irene is in Minnesota and gave me a wonderful gift, a donation to my fund for the Cancer 3 Day walk, Eric gave me his WII(we) and I get to stretch this birthday to the 14th, when I will spend time with Amy, Mike, Alex & Eliana, Yay!

My brother George was so thoughtful to give my picture to Boy Scouts of America....now, when they see me, I can expect them to help assist me across the street!!!!!

Pat & Joanie gave me a new Journal and color gel pens, as I love to write. They also gave me 4 cute little dolls made of spools & buttons.

All in all, entering a new decade is exciting. The past 50 years have been rewarding and I look forward to what is yet to come.

Something New.....

2010-03-08T16:23:00.003-05:00

I have started a new blog!!!! I've decided to keep all my creative work seperate from this blog. So, check out the new addition at http://kathy-institches.blogspot.com/

How to see you there! Don't forget to grap my button so you can follow along!!!!

The First Step In The Right Direction

2010-02-27T14:37:00.017-05:00

Today I attended my "Get Started" meeting for the Cancer 3 Day walk. This is a challenge that I've taken on for myself this year, to walk 60 miles and raise money for Cancer research. On March 7th, I will be 60 years young and figured that I could walk one mile for each year of life!

On August 13-15, 2010, I'll be walking 60 miles over the course of three days, camping out at night with thousands of other women and men taking this journey with me. It's for an event called the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure. Net proceeds from the Komen 3-Day for the Cure are invested in breast cancer research and community programs. Komen for the Cure® works hard to build a future without breast cancer, and I plan on raising $2,500 to help bring us closer to that goal. Please consider making a donation to help me reach this goal. If you can't give this amount all at once, you can spread it out over four months, using the payment plan option, if you donate online at The3Day.org. Please also ask your employer if they will double your donation with a matching gift.

I will be walking with my daughter Irene. We've formed a team called "Pom Pom Shakers", as we are former cheerleaders! While none of the women in my family have suffered from breast cancer, I had a scare about 8 years ago. I discovered a lump! Thankfully it was a benign cyst that was aspirated. It made me wonder about the one in eight women in the U.S. that will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. That's why I'm walking in the 3-Day for the Cure. Because everyone deserves a lifetime.

Just follow the link below to visit my personal fundraising Web page and make a donation. If you don't want to donate online, please download and print a donation form from my Web page and mail it to the address on the form. Or you can call 800-996-3DAY to donate over the phone. I would like to reach my fundraising goal by May 31st, so don't delay!Thank you for taking the time to read this e-mail and thank you for your support.Sincerely,[Name]P.S. Don't wait - donate today!

Click here to visit my personal page.If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:http://www.the3day.org/site/TR/2010/MichiganEvent2010?px=4314366&pg=personal&fr_id=1467&et=moyS0axP7UjtwGHi0u5wug..&s_tafId=237695

For more information about the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure or Susan G. Komen for the Cure, visit The3Day.org or call 800-996-3DAY.

From time to time, I will be keeping you up dated on my training and my fund raising achievements.

© 2009 Susan G. Komen for the Cure. 205 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 2640, Chicago, IL 60601

Completed & Shipped

2010-02-10T00:11:00.010-05:00

After many hours, I have sewn the last button and clipped the last thread. All the costumes are finished for Belhaven University's production of "The Importance of Being Earnest". They where packed up and shipped out to Jackson, Mississippi today. Mind you, I only did the women's costumes(See last 2 posts). I worked on 4 characters, 2 of which had 2 costumes each. 19 pieces in all, to complete all that was needed.

I am no Edith Head, but I'm very thankful for the opportunity to put my God given talents to work. I also love working on Period pieces! It was a challenge to work with only measurements and sketches supplied by the university. I would have loved to work directly with them, but trust all is well in what I did. I can't wait to see pictures of the costumes on the actors.

I'd like to thank:

my boss Kellie, for including my work on costumes & quilts on her website www.thesewingroomutica.com and for her assistance and critique

my co-worker Villa for her assistance

all those who sent me words of encouragement

especially for those of you who prayed me through this endeavor.

I can't wait to see what new door God will open for me in the future!

The Importance continues

2010-01-28T23:59:00.007-05:00

Well, after sometime of figuring and writing, I finally had my list of supplies ready for shopping.
My first stop was a great place called "Fabric Warehouse" in Warren, Mi. The next stop was Joann's Fabric in Utica, Mi. Finally at 3:45 I grabbed a quick bite before I headed back to work.
As my list of supplies was not complete, I headed back out to Joann's in Rochester, Mi and from there the Joann's in Auburn Hills, Mi. With most of the supplies purchased, I headed home for the day.

Let me tell you, trying to find the right fabrics to complete a task isn't always easy. I would pull fabrics( in the warehouse, this would be large, heavy bolts)and compare them to the sketches and to each other to make sure I had the right look. I would put fabrics in the basket and go up and down the aisles. Sometimes, I felt like a plane in a holding pattern for landing! I should wear one of the gadgets that let you know how far you walk. I sure I put a couple of miles in.

Anyway, I said all that to say I've got my supplies and today I'll be the "Cut Up" ;) as I start putting patterns to the fabric and cutting out the pieces.

So what do you think?

Soon they'll be more then just drawing on paper. They'll be completed costumes for the play.

"The Importance of......"

2010-01-26T22:49:00.008-05:00

Thanks to where I work, I get to do something I love...sewing Historical reproduction clothing.
http://www.thesewingroomutica.com/ is the website for the alteration shop I work at. The boss received an inquire from Belhaven University in Jackson, Miss. for costume work. To make things even more exciting for me, the play is "The Importance of Being Earnest". Can I just say YEAH!!!!

I had a conference call with Kris Dietrich and I believe the director(?) today. I wanted to do a Happy Dance when I got off the phone, but I restrained myself and went back to work.

I was able to get the sketches for what needed to be done

Then I pulled my reference books:
The Evolution of Fashion

and: Janet Arnold Patterns of Fashion 2

Next, I went and pulled patterns from my archives:

Past Patterns

and: Historical Patterns of Fashion from Simplicity, Butterick & McCall

Now, to figure out what patterns and or pieces I'm going to be using, then figure out the yardage. Tomorrow, I shop for fabric.

Here's the thing, I did "The Music Man" & "My Fair Lady" for our local high school and "1776", "Guys & Dolls", "Oklahoma" for community theatre. I know what it is to shop on a budget or no budget. I shop sales and bargains.

In construction, there's a difference between theatre costumes and Historical Reproduction street ware. With Theatre costumes, I don't have to be so accurate and I have to consider quick costume changes. Either way, I'm in my element.

I'll keep you posted as the work progresses.

What Christmas Isn't

2009-12-24T21:03:00.007-05:00

They say that it's the most wonderful time of the year.

This is true, but over the centuries, it is so far from what it is,

that it is hard to keep it what it is.

One thing that it's become and is not, is a Martha Stewart Christmas.

The one with the perfect decorations and coordinating wrapping paper & ribbons!

It's not about the perfect dinner with all the trimmings.

Like this Norman Rockwell painting.

It's not Hollywood or Hallmark idea of what it is.

It's not about Santa Clause or shopping until you drop. or maxing out your credit cards.

It's about a world in darkness and sin.

It's about a loving God and a promise of redemption.
It's about the greatest gift ever given

"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." John 3:16

"And there were shepheds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the lord. This will be a sign to you:You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

"Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
When the angel had left them and gon into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Behtlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them." Luke 2:8-18

"The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told," Luke 2:19-20

This is what Christmas is about,
a loving God,
a promise,
a hope. a future .

Now, I am not a shepherd, but I have heard and I have found the promise that was foretold so many years ago. Yet, like the shepherds, I will spread the word concerning what had been told about this child. I will tell of the promise of God who so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

So I celebrate what happened in a manger and was completed on a cross.I too glorify and sing praises to God for His promise and His great gift!

"Comfort Ye, comfort ye my people.......

2009-12-09T23:35:00.000-05:00

"Comfort ye, comfort ye my people..... these were the word George Frideric Handel read from a manuscript that he received from Charles Jennens. The manuscript was a word-for-word collection of biblical texts about Christ, his life, death & resurrection.

On August 22, 1741, Handel closed the door of his home in London and started to compose music for the words. The results "Messiah", was written in twenty-three days. Trying to describe the experience, Handel later said, "Whether I was in the body or out of the body when I wrote it, I know not."

Have you ever listen to "Messiah", I mean really listened? I thought I had. After all, I was apart of the Chorus many years ago. What I realized was that I paid more attention to the breathing, notes, the coming in, other parts and the orchestra. The Hallelujah Chorus gave me a thrill and still does, but I never really paid attention to the complete work.

This past Sunday, my husband and I were blessed with tickets to "Messiah" at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor, Mich. First of all, the auditorium is spectacular and our seats where 8 rows from the stage! When we came in, we were given the music for the "Hallelujah Chorus" if we wanted to sing along. I was of course thrilled with that. The program showed the three parts with the title of the sections and the scriptures.

PART I

Comfort ye Isaiah 40:1-3

Every Valley Isaiah 40:4

And the Glory of the Lord Isaiah 40:5

Thus Saith the Lord Haggai 2:6-7

But Who may abide the Day of His coming Malachi 3:2

And He Shall Purify Malachi 3:3

Behold a Virgin shall conceive Isaiah 7:14 (Matthew 1:23)

O Thou that tellest good tidings to Zion Isaiah 40:9

For behold, darkness shall cover the earth Isaiah 60: 2,3

The people that walked in darkness Isaiah 9:2

For unto us a child is born Isaiah 9:6

There were shepherds abiding in the field Luke 2:8

And the Angel said unto them Luke 2:10,11

Suddenly there was with the Angel Luke 2:13

Glory to God Luke 2:14

Rejoice Greatly, O Daughter of Zion Zechariah 9:9 (Matthew 21:5)

Then shall the eye of the blind Isaiah 35:5,6

He shall feed his flock like a shepherd Isaiah 40:11 (Matthew 11:28,29)

His yoke is easy Matthew 11:30

PART II

Behold the Lamb of God John 1:29

He was despised Isaiah 53:3

Surely He hath born our griefs Isaiah 53:4,5

And with His stripes we are healed Isaiah 53:5b

All we like sheep have gone astray Isaiah 53:6

All they that see him laugh him to scorn Psalm 22:7

He trusted in God Psalm 22:8 (Matthew 27:43)

Thy rebuke has broken his heart Psalm 69:20

Behold, and see if there be any sorrow Lamentations 1:12

He was cut off out of the land of the living Isaiah 53:8b

But thou didst not leave his soul in hell Psalm 61:10 (Acts 2:27)

Lift up Ye heads, O ye gates Psalm 24:7-10

Unto which of the angels said He at anytime Hebrews 1:5 (Psalm 2:7)

Let all the angels of God worship Him Hebrews 1:6b

Thou art gone up on high Psalm 68:18 (Ephesians4:8)

The Lord gave the word Psalm68:11

How beautiful are the feet Romans 10:15 (Isaiah 52:7)

Their sound is gone out Romans 10:18 (Psalm 19:4)

Why do the nations

so furiously rage together? Psalm 2:1,2 (Acts 4:25-26)

Let us break their bonds asunder Psalm 2:3

He that dwelleth in Heaven Psalm 2:4

Thou shalt break them Psalm 2:9

Hallelujah Revelation 19:6

PART III

I know that my redeemer liveth Job 19:25,26

Since by man came death 1 Corinthian 15:21,22

Behold, I tell you a mystery 1 Corinthian 15:51,52

The trumpet shall sound 1Corinthian 15:52b-53

Then shall be brought to pass 1Corinthian 15: 54b (Isaiah 25:8)

O death where is thy sting? 1Corinthian 15:55-56 (Hosea 13:14)

But thanks be to God 1Corinthian 15:57

If God be for us Romans 8:31, 33, 34

Worthy is the Lamb Revelation 5:12, 13

Amen

Even though "Messiah" was written 268 years ago, it is still prevalent today. To hear the scriptures song was beyond words. My favorite song was "Worthy is the Lamb"

Revelation 5:12, 13 "In a loud voice they sang:

"Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain,

to receive power and wealth and

wisdom and strength

and honor and glory and praise!"

Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them singing:

"To him who sits on the throne and to

the Lamb

be praise and honor and glory

and power,

for ever and ever." "

But the best, the one that brought tears to my eyes and a pull on my heart........"AMEN"

Why, you may ask? Because of what Amen means. Amen is Hebrew for "So be it!"

So be it, "To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power for ever and ever." Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

So be it! So be it! so be it!

During this Christmas season, remember it's about the Messiah. I know He, my Redeemer, lives! Amen!

Reasons to be Thankful

2009-11-26T00:09:00.008-05:00

I have many reasons to be thankful this year.

These are just a few.

Eric came home safe from Iraq

in December 2008

Alex became a big brother,

to his sister, Eliana,

in October 2009

We have two other

beautiful grandchildren !!!

My parents are still with us,
sharing memories, wisdom
&
love!!!!

These are only a few of my many blessings.

"Praise God, from whom all blessing flow"

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

Give a fun Christmas gift

2009-11-14T22:41:00.003-05:00

As a grandparent, I like to give my grandchildren gifts that are not only fun, but educational. At www.leapfrog.com you can find such gifts. Zippity is just one of their many selections.Disney and Leap Frog teamed up to create a fun, interactive, learning system for children ages 3-5. There are 8 games included with the system in 2 different levels of difficulty. The games are lead by characters from favorite Disney shows like Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny, Little Einsteins, and My friends Tigger & Pooh. I like anything that gets kids off the couch , gets them active and lets them have fun!

Why don't you grab a cup of coffee and head over to www.coffeewiththemrs.com and check out her GIVEAWAY on this system. Find out about the Leap Frog offer of free shipping on this system or compatible games if you want to buy it now. Also where you can get a $5 off coupon.

What could be better.

Coffee, one cup at a time!!!

2009-11-06T18:56:00.002-05:00

Do you LOVE coffee as much as I do???? Well, check out www.shoffee.com . They're the webs favorite coffee shop and they have the largest selection of Keurig K-Cups.

I really like the B30 Mini Brewer, in white of course to go with my kitchen.

"The Keurig Mini B30 brewer is a great solution for gourmet coffee lovers in locations where a compact size, and minimal features is ideal. It is an excellent companion for vacation homes, cabins, college dorms, boats, RVs, or home office desktops. The Mini is compact, easy to use and brews an 8-ounce cup anywhere you can take it along and plug it in. The mini heats 8 ounces of water in about 3 minutes and then brews just like our regular brewers with no water remaining in the brewer. Now you can enjoy consistently brewed gourmet coffee tea and hot cocoa, virtually anywhere."

Now lets talk about what you can brew! Coffee!! Tea! & Hot Cocoa. They have over 70 varieties of coffee and tea from companies such as Green Mountain, Caribou Coffee & Gloria Jean Coffee.You can even have a Cappuccino, Chococino & Lattee Macchinto.

While you're enjoying your coffee, might I suggest you check out www.coffeewiththemrs.com !

It's a delightful website geared toward those who love to sit and chat and those who have children. Amy has great reviews and fabulous giveaways.

So, grab your cup of coffee and check out both websites!

What do I do?

2009-10-30T23:48:00.003-04:00

Letters on a keyboard.
Words on a page
Desires of the heart
Thoughts in the mind
A drive
A need
A wanting
A longing
To write or not to write?
Would anyone read?
Or care for all that matter?
Would I feel accomplished?
Maybe released?

Ideas dance in my head. Notes scribbled on pieces of paper. Hours of research and investigations that drive me even more. For what?
What is better, to write a monologue, story or play and have no one ever see it, or to just think about it and never write it down?
I have a journal of things God has taught me through everyday happenings over the years and thanks to my daughter, it now has a copyright. But for what? Do I dare share with others?
What about the monologues of Hymn writers or the almost finished play "Tug of War" (The Plea of Heaven and the Pull of Hell)?

Am I wasting time writting, or wasting time on other things when I should be writting?

Look who's here!!!!!!

2009-10-20T15:47:00.003-04:00

I'd like to introduce you to my 4th grandchild and my 3rd granddaughter.

Eliana Grace Clary made her debut at 10:47 am, today, 10-20-09.

She weighed in at 6 lbs. 7oz and is 20 inches long.

Daughter of Mike & Amy Clarey

Sister of Alex Clary

All are doing well.

Eliana is Hebrew for: God has responded.

1Samuel 1:27 " For this child I prayed and the Lord granted my petition that I made to him."

God has truly responded to our prayers. It is my pray now, that Eliana will respond to the God as she grows. That she will fore fill the call and purpose that the Lord has for her life.

There will be many more pictures to follow, but I just had to share her birth.

Not anchored to a due date

2009-10-19T22:51:00.003-04:00

It's 10:52 pm and I'm anxiously waiting for a phone call from my son-in-law. Amy & hubby went to the hospital about 1 hour ago. It seems that Eliana Grace is not anchored to a due date and is about to make her grand entrance. Frankly I glad, as I can't wait to meet her.

You can be sure that I'll be posting photos and details as soon as I have all the info. So, please keep Amy & hubby in prayer as they too wait for the grand entrance of their daughter.

Car 54 where are you?

2009-09-13T21:32:00.012-04:00

Back on July 28th & 31, I blogged about a project that I was starting. On the 31st, I gave you an idea of the process that I go through to accomplish the task. Today, I want to share with you the finished project "Car 54".

The idea for this project came to me after I finished the baby quilt of the Semi Truck (See the blogged dated April 6th & 21st). You see, I am the only girl in my family which has 3 boy. So for years, I've endured conversations about cars!!!! I know, it's a guy thing, but even conversations on where to get a cardboard liner for a 1952 Chevy while we where having breakfast is a bit much. So after doing the Semi Truck quilt, I decided to do one more special quilt.

My brother George is a Macomb County Deputy Sheriff and has a 1952 Chevy Styleline Deluxe that he's restored to be a reproduction of a 1952 Sheriff Patrol Car and also a D.A.R.E. car.
As you can see, he has his own collectors card which is 2.5" x 3.5" and my source of inspiration.

I scanned the card and printed out an 8.5" x 11" color copy

After making this copy, I took my 54" width roll of paper and drew out a 44"x 35" rectangle on it. I taped that to my dining room wall and put the color copy on the opaque projector and displayed it on the paper taped to the wall. I then traced the image.

After tracing the image onto the large paper, I now have to retrace each section onto tracing paper to make the patterns. Don't ask how many pieces as I didn't bother to count, as I didn't want to be overwhelmed by numbers.
You have to start with the back ground and work your way up from there. I try to give texture and detail. I wish you could see the real thing. The steering wheel is black vinyl, the seat cover is corduroy, the body of the car is satin to give it it's shine, and a thin plastic for the windows. I used gabardine for the uniform pants, vinyl for the shoes, silver lame' and silver dance fabric for the chrome as well as gold satin for the lettering. If you feel the uniform shirt, it is cotton and the pockets, pocket flaps and shirt cuff as individual pieces ans his tie is like a silk tie. The red lights and spot lights are dance fabric and iridescent sheer. I used calico's for the sky, hills and ground and a marbled black for the ground.
Back in July, my family got together for breakfast and I decided to surprise my brother with what I had at that point of the process. "All these years of car talk, glass pack mufflers, intake manifold, card board trunk liners, drag racing, demolition derby's, Indy 500, Dayton 500. I decided if you guys can build cars, well, so can I and from the ground up mind you. Here's my problem, when I'm done with it, where do I park it?" "Park what?" he answered. With that, I reached next to me and brought up the folded quilt. "This"! I replied as I unfolded it.

I got him!!!! I got him good. He was speechless and tears started to well up in his eyes.
It took a few more weeks to finish as I had other things to attend to, but now it's complete and ready to be parked anywhere he chooses.

I included this picture of me standing next to it so you get an idea just how big it is. A far cry from 2.5" x 3.5". I have no idea how many hours I've invested in it. When it's a labor of love, time doesn't matter. I guess all that car talk paid off over the years, especially when I can use my talents to give back.

The Time Machine . Confessions of a computer game junkie

2009-09-13T12:06:00.002-04:00

I have found a 21 century Time Machine. It's a computer, as it sucks time away from you. Once you've logged on ans completed all that you wanted to do, you come to realize just how much time you've spent on the thing.
I must confess that I've become a computer game junkie. I have 2 farms, one on Farm Town and one on Farmville and I also live in an apartment on Yoville. That is, I did have these things. As of today and the conviction on God, I've turned all 3 off. To some of you, you may think I've lost my mind and to others, you will understand the conviction of God in you own lives.
When it gets to a point that you are adjusting your schedule at home to harvest a crop or work in a factory, then life has become sad. I found myself working on virtual reality places for hours and for what.....more money, experience points, the next level. How sad it's truly become for me. I'd go to bed late and get up to get ready and hurry out the door for work. I no longer took the time to sit and read the word of God and do my devotions in the morning because I had been up way to late the night before.
I've been asking God for more of Him and less of me. For more of Him and less of the things of this world. I can no long let the things of this world take precedent over what God has for my life. I'll still be on Facebook and still do my e-mail, but will no longer sit for wasted, empty hours to play games. These are my convictions and I just want my neighbors on those games to have a fully understanding as to why I'm no longer their neighbor.

How many heads does it take???????

2009-09-05T01:45:00.006-04:00

As I've mentioned in past blogs, I work in an alteration shop called "The Sewing Room". http://www.thesewingroomutica.com/ Over the years there, I have had my challenges with different projects that customers have come in with. Let me just say, that I've just completed one, that so far has put my creative thinking to the test.

It all started when a local dentist office ( Timothy D. Rodney, DDS & ASSOC.) had a project request. I had already left work for the day, so my boss called and asked me to watch a YouTube clip and see what I thought, as she hadn't committed to the job yet. So to my computer I went and found the clip and said "Is she nuts?" I then decided to give it a second look and was formulating ideas in my head, but still couldn't figure out what to do for the foundation. So I asked my hubby to watch the clip and see what he thought. He had a profound reaction.."Turn of the clip and walk away from the computer. Don't even think about it!" Sound words of wisdom, so I followed them and informed the boss that it was beyond me and I would not tackle the project. She in turn, called the dentist office and let them know we would not take on the job and made a few suggestions that might help them out.
So, on with the normal work routine, or so we thought.

Our contact from the dentist office called and asked if we might not reconsider the request and that she had some ideas and could she come over and lets brain storm. Well, we could, but there was still no commitment at this point. Might I add here, that the contact from the dentist office is a very friendly and enthusiastic person. She came with a rough sketch and some notes on a pad of paper. I was apprehensive to say the least. A challenge is a challenge, but the time frame was less then I desired.

So here we stood, brain storming as customers came in and the boss was busy helping with fittings. "Well, couldn't you do this? Or what about that? Couldn't you use this? Back and forth we went. "Come on, you can do it!" I don't know what made me say it...."Kellie(she's the boss) what do you think?" "It's up to you, what do you think?" I inhaled and slowly exhaled.
"What would it take to start?"asked the customer. Before I could even really think about it, I said...."$200 to start, but it could go up from there, as I've never really done this before." Needless to say, she was elated and we worked out a supply list for her to pick up. This was on Friday, August 28 and she promised to have the supplies to me on Tuesday September 1. Mind you, the mascot head needed to be done and ready for pickup on September 5.
I headed home after work, wondering what I had just gotten myself into. I watched and re watched the Yo Tube clip http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-j1EmUJjZs and then Googled "Mascot Heads" to see what I could find, what I could learn and formulated a plan. Now, all I needed was the supplies so I could get started.

Can you say "things don't always go as planned!" I thought the supplies would be coming in when the shop opened at 10 am, but that arrival time would be at 3:15 pm. So, we loaded up my car and I headed home to start. I had previously pulled a costume pattern from my archives and started to work on the characters hand. Away I went re drawing the pattern to fit an adult hand, cutting the foam and fabric and starting the sewing process. Just to make one hand, both sides of the foam had to be covered, first with the outside fabric and then with the inside fabric. Each hand has a top and bottom. In other words, I was making an over sized glove (almost like Mickey Mouse with 3 fingers and a thumb). I finished one before I went to bed and was quite happy with the results, but realized that it was to tight for my husbands hand so I would have to remake it.
Wednesday morning, I happily went to work on remaking the hand bigger and our contact from the dentist office dropped off the bike helmet we needed for the inside of the head. She was pleased with the hand and agreed that it needed to be bigger and took the smaller one with her to show them at the office. I was working right along when Kellie came into work and asked why the hand only had 3 fingers and a thumb, when the picture clearly had a normal hand?

I was thinking "Character" and hadn't paid attention to the picture. To play it safe, we called the dentist office and asked. I'm sure you know the answer....do it like the picture. I was having fun with the hands, I hadn't even gotten to the head.

The reason I titled this blog " How many heads does it take?", is because, I didn't have all the answers or formulated ideas and if it hadn't been for the brain storming amongst my co-workers, I'd still be racking my brains. Liliam was a big help and Kellie's input was great (even though she can be quite KNIT PICKY, which is a good thing) Funny thing is, all 3 of us would have a idea as how to do something and most of the time it was the same idea with 3 different approaches.
This is what the head looked like Friday morning.

I was able to use the discarded hands to make the ears and nose and we spray painted foam red and shaped it like a bowl, attach it to the head and stuff it with fiber fill. We glued a scrap of foam for the lip and put black fabric in the mouth to see out of, but people couldn't see in.

Needless to say, we had 3 opinions for the hair and had to have the dentist make the final decision. At which time, he changed the hair color to blond instead of like the picture.

Liliam and I worked very hard to get the job done on Friday before we left work. I love the results. I'm only sad that I wont be there when the dentist picks it up. It will be in the Romeo Peach Festival Parade on Labor Day.

I'd really like to thank Kellie & Liliam for all their input and working with me through this project

So what do you think? Not to shabby! Will I ever do another one.....well, differently not tomorrow, but at least I know what it entails and that more time is needed so as not to be to stressed out.

Maybe I should have taken some Laughing Gas, at least I would have been happy through the stress.

It's just a game, right???????

2009-08-17T12:40:00.007-04:00

I have found that there are numerous types of games to play on the computer, especially on Facebook. Games of strategy, logic and skill. There are games like Scramble, Frarkle, Bejeweled Blitz, Fashion Wars, Mafia Wars, Farmville, Yoville and my personal favorite, Farm Town.

I enjoy games that make you feel apart of what's going on. In Farm Town, you maintain a farm. The typical plant, harvest and plow. Yet, you can help someone else on their farm. All you do is go to the market place and wait to be hired. You get paid to do the work, and the farmer makes more for his crop. There are I believe 34 levels to this game and there are lots of things to buy to maintain and upgrade your farm. If you need more money for your dreams of grandeur, then you go work for someone else.

This brings me to my blog. Yesterday, while on Farm Town, I went to the market place to see if I could make some more money. I usually stand off to the side and let the group know that I am ready and willing to do any type of work. I find begging usually doesn't pay off. Not that I've done it mind you, but I've seen many others do it. Anyway, I was hired to help harvest a cabbage crop...that's all that was growing on this farm...lots and lots of cabbage. While working, the owner hired more help and at one point we were almost on top of each other. The next thing I know, one of the works complained that the owner hired way too many workers and then would not hire us to plow what we had just harvested. Oh my gosh!!!!! Get a grip people, it's just a game!!!

It reminded me of two things...1) the job market, or lack there of it, today. People need work, but for some, instead of being grateful for any work, they complain about either the pay or the job not being big enough. 2) It reminded me of the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard Matthew 20: 1-16.

"For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire men to work in his vineyard. He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day and sent them into his vineyard.

About the third hour he went out and saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. He told them 'you also go and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.; So they went.

He went out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour and did the same thing. About the eleventh hour he went out and found still others standing around. He asked them, 'Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?'

'Because no one has hired us,' they answered.

He said to them, 'You also go and work in my vineyard.'

When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, 'Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.

The workers who were hired about the eleventh hour came and each received a denarius. So when those came who were hired first, they expected to receive more. But each one of them received a denarius. When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. 'These men who were hired last worked only one hour,' they said,'and you have made them equal to us who have born the burden of the work and the heat of the day.'

But he answered one of them, 'Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn't you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?'

"So the last will be first, and the first will be last."

So. I guess that Farm Town imitates life. Even in a game, times get rough and jobs are hard to come by. Therefore, we ought to remember, whether in real life or in a game, to be grateful for whatever work comes our way.

I don't know about you, but........

2009-08-08T22:03:00.003-04:00

I don't know about you, but I enjoy find out the story about things that interest me. I love the history of fashion, of my genealogy, place and people. One of my interests lately has been the history behind the Hymns we sing. Who were these people and what led them to write what they did? I've gone as far as writing monologues of these people and using them to introduce these people to my church. I find that you can have a deeper understanding of the words,when you know the story being it.

Over the last coupe of years, I have come to know:

Charles Wesley "And Can It Be"
Julia Ward Howe "The Battle Hymn of the Republic"
Sarah Flowers Adams "Nearer My God to Thee"
John Newton "Amazing Grace"
Horatio G. Spafford "It Is Well With My Soul"
Franny J. Crosby "Blessed Assurance"
William Booth "Send The Fire"
Carl Boberg &
Stuart K. Hines "How Great Thou Art"
Helen H. Lemmel "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus"
George Bennard "The Old Rugged Cross"
Joseph Scriven "What A Friend We Have In Jesus"

There are some pretty fasinating and amazing stories behind some of these hymns. However, there are times in my research that I come to a stand still.....maybe all I can find is the name of the author and where they lived, but there are times when I can't even find that.

This is what brings be to this particular writting. A couple of weeks ago, we sang one of those old time hymns. I asked the Worship Leader if he would like to know the story behind it. This became my next adventure. I would get to meet another person who expressed his praise to God in song. So away I went. I pulled out my reference books and began to dig and found.....you guessed it.....NOTHING! I was determined to find an answer to my quest and so I Googled it........you guessed it........once again NOTHING. You could hear others sing it, buy a CD that had the song. but there was nothing about who wrote it or even when it was written. The only thing I could find is when it was first recorded.

I guess, this will be one of those times that the song is more important then who wrote it and why. The lyrics are a request, a request that I can identify with and in "This day and Time", a request I will continue to ask.
In Philippians 4:6-7 it says:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by
prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request
to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all
understanding, will guard your heart and your minds in
Christ Jesus."

With that in mind, here's my request:

Just a closer walk with Thee,
Grant it Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to Thee,
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

I am weak, but thou art strong;
Jesus keep me from all wrong;
I'll be satisfied as long,
As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.

Through this world of toil and snares.
If I falter, Lord, who cares?
Who with me my burden shares?
None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee.

When my feeble life is o'er,
Time for me will be no more;
Guide me gently, safely o'er
To Thy Kingdom shore, to Thy shore.

Sometimes a change of plans is a good thing!

2009-08-02T23:08:00.002-04:00

Usually, I have my week pretty well mapped out at the beginning of the week. That way, I know what's up and where I have leeway. This week was no exception...
Monday: with mom...Tuesday: off from work, but starting a new project...
Wednesday: work & evening class at church...Thursday: work & grocery shop....
Friday: work & prayer meeting....Saturday: coffee with the folks and work on project(which I also worked on after work each night). Basically all went according to plan until Thursday. Eric would be finishing up his two duty with the Guard on Friday, and wanted to take his dad & I out to dinner. I almost hesitated and said I planned on going to the prayer meeting, but didn't mention it, as we haven't had a lot of time with him this summer.
Well, on Friday, Eric called and said dinner was still on, but he was bringing another soldier home with him, as he had to drive him to the airport early in the morning. "Mom, could you make him feel welcome, he doesn't have much family?" It was important to Eric that Mike had the feeling of family. I would later find out that this young man was leaving for Iraq to join up with his unit.
(Most kids bring home stray dogs or cats. My kids brought home the stray kids)
Mike was a very polite, "Yes, mam" "Thank you mam" "Roger", but other then that, quiet. Eric showed him where to put his gear and where he would sleep. The guys changed out of their uniforms and we were off to the Texas Road House. True to his word, Eric picked up the tab, but also let Mike know that his dinner was covered. We returned home and settled in for the night.
I was up early the on Saturday morning to make sure the guys were all set. I made them coffee for the trip and watched as they loaded up and drove off. I felt as if I was sending Eric off again. Before Mike left, I gave him our address and asked him to write and that we would send care packages I also gave him an Army Bible that I bought for another young man who is also estranged from his family. I was happy to give it to Mike and will order another one for Nick (who is still in Boot Camp). I guess it's being a mom of a soldier that's given me a heart for other soldiers (especially those who don't have family). So now, I've adopted both Mike & Nick and will pray for them as if they were one of my own.
So, sometimes a change of plans is a good thing.

Continuing to be Sew Excited....

2009-07-31T00:30:00.008-04:00

Get inspired! Make a plan! See what fabric you have, then buy the fabric you need!

Scan a photo and make an enlarged copy. Tape large paper to wall, the set up Opache projector. Draw out design to the correct size of 44x 35.

Retrace lines with Sharpe, the make tissue paper pattern by tracing over the design.

Cut out and sew the 4 major background pieces. Next, start adding the rest layer by layer. Press on to the set completion date.

Remember to take a few pictures of the finished project!

Can't wait to show the finished work.

Sew excited.....

2009-07-28T23:53:00.002-04:00

I'm working away on a new project. Wish I could show you my source of inspiration, but that would ruin the surprise. Sorry, you'll just have to waite for me to post a picture soon.
I can tell you this much, it is another quilt (which will probably become a wall hanging) but it's not for an infant. However, I my eyes it is for a youngin. ;) I do however have 4 quilts mapped out for Kiss Goodnight, with fabric for two of them. I just got so inspired that I couldn't wait to do this one.

From A Little Girl to A Living Dolls

2009-07-23T18:47:00.007-04:00

About 2 years ago, I decided to make my granddaughter some Disney Princess Dress-Ups. I made her Ariel for Halloween and the rest, for when we went to visit them. Sarah said, "I love Cinalalla!" So that was the first one I made. I really enjoyed sewing the outfits. Last Christmas, I made her matching dresses, for her American Girl doll. So, I guess you could say that my dolls come in all sizes.

This year at Champions for Life Kids Camp, we had a Tea Party with a special guest.... Cinderella, who came and taught the girls how to be a princess. She taught about keeping a castle clean, using their manners by remembering to say "Please", "Thank you", "I'm sorry", and "Please forgive me". Cinderella instructed the girls on how to properly drink from a crystal glass and how to curtsy.
Imagine my excitement when I was able to make Cinderella's dress. I started by getting a picture of Cinderella so I knew just what needed to be done.
Then I purchased the same fabric that I used for Sarah's dress. I used 3 different sewing patterns to get the right look for the dress. I even did the scalloped edge petticoat.

Well, here's the finished results.
What do you think? I think she'll sweep Prince Charming off his feet.

A Happy Heart & a Lot of Thanks!!!!!!!

2009-07-21T19:36:00.019-04:00

This is the 6th year that I have happily chosen to spend my summer vacation being a Camper Buddy at Champions for Life Kids' Camp. What's special about this camp is that it "continues to bring HOPE and encouragement to children caught in the web of abuse". Please visit http://www.visionhope.org/ for more information and a direct link to Champions for Life Kid's Camp. CFL is a camp for the neglected, abandon and abuse kids in the Foster Care System.

Champions for Life Kids Camp

We have many activities for the kids, horseback riding, kayaking, archery, swimming, technical tree climbing, wood shop and more. We have several special events which include "CARNIVAL DAY, EVERY BODY'S BIRTHDAY PARTY, BEAUTY SHOP, PHOTO STUDIO" and the yearly favorite the "MUD WALK".

Our cabins

As Camper Buddies, each cabin chooses a theme and decorates accordingly. In the past, my cabin themes have been:

"Cinderella" (From cinders to a Princess)

"You Grow Girl" (Encouraged to grow in God's ways)

"Beach Theme" (Walk in Jesus foot prints)

"Flamingo" (Finding Love And Mercy In Needing God Only)

"Princess". (I am a Princess! My Father is the King of Kings!)

With each theme, I use scriptures to reinforce who they are in Jesus. I also try to have a different theme as there are 8 girl cabins and 8 boy cabins.

Back in December, my daughter Amy and I went to Frankenmuth, Mi. for her birthday. We wandered through the shops and one in particular caught our attending, "Here comes Treble".Visit www.frankenmuth-riverplace.com/StoreDirectory. It was a unique shop dedicated to music. Past the Beatles & Elvis was counter with jewelry. What girl doesn't like jewelry? Any way, there was a bracelet, earrings & a necklace that caught my eye. They had a guitar pick that read "Pick Jesus."(the bracelets also had real guitar strings) I was so excited!!! "That's it!" I told Amy. "That's the theme for camp!" I thought some more and came up with "JESUS ROCKS". I like the colors of silver, purple and black. So, needless to say, after Christmas, I bought silver & purple garlands and black letters to spell out "Jesus Rocks." I also bought the "Pick Jesus" guitar string bracelets for both the girls and Camper Buddies in our cabin.

Mind you, I had some help with the theme. Amy wasn't going to be able to attend camp this year as she is expecting her second child. If you're interested, you can follow her blog :http://www.coffeewiththemrs.com/ Any way, she found some really great decorations on line...cardboard guitar forms, silver & purple stars, curtains made of cardboard records, inflatable microphones and inflatable guitars She also help me design t-shirts for the girls.

Unbeknown to me, Amy did just a little bit more. She researched and found out that Kerusso made the t-shirts we had seen at "Here comes Treble". She sent them an e-mail with a request and all the links to her blog and Vision Hope and CFL Camp. They contacted her back and said they were interested in the camp and in her request. Here's the kicker,the company is in Arkansas and Amy got that e-mail about two days before I was leaving for camp. Amy didn't hesitate to reply back with the camps address and my name and asked if they could have it there by Thursday July 16th. So off to camp I went, having faith that I would get the shirts. It was Thursday @ 12:25 pm when I saw the Fedex truck pull up to the Lodge. I was as excited as a kid on Christmas. Mind you, Thursday is the "Beauty Shop," "Photo Studio," & "Every Body's Birthday."When the kids get back to their cabins, their Birthday gifts are waiting on their beds. We also had a pile of mail, but what the girls saw, was the big box on my bed. "Who's that for?" What's in it?" Well, I told them that someone in Arkansas had heard about them and our cabin theme and wanted to send them something special. "Open it up" "Please"!!!!!

Here's a picture of what was in the box.

True to their word, Kerusso delivered not only shirts, but Witness Bands for our cabin. Please visit www.kerusso.com and see what other wonderful t-shirts, gear & jewerly they have. I'd like to thank Jason Anzalone for his help.

Jason,

You made the girls in Cabin #5 very happy!!!! I couldn't believe the scripture on the t-shirt as it was one that we had for our theme. Once again, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!!!!!!!

Take a walk in my garden

2009-07-20T00:22:00.044-04:00

It sould have come with a warning label!

2009-07-07T20:50:00.003-04:00

It's 8:33 pm and I should be working on the banner for CFL camp, but here I sit writting. Usually when I'm sewing, I watch a TV program or pop in a DVD or Video and this evening was no exception. As I have to return the DVDs from Hollywood Video on Thursday, I decided to watch the last one.

Movies today come with a rating, but I think they should also come with warning labels. What's that you may ask? Well, they tell us what they believe is age appropriate, but they don't warn us on what it heart appropriate. As I was working away and watching the movie, I should have know how it would end. Any movie involving a family and a dog usually pulls at the hear strings. Marley & Me did just that...pulled at my heart strings so hard, that my eyes sprung a leak and my heart broke again. Mind you, it was a good movie, but it was hard on my heart. I never had a Golden Retriever, but the movie called to mind, the Cockapoo, "Harrison", the Carin Terrier, "Chester" and of the Bedling Terrier, "Crackers". Very loving and affectionate dogs, that now are only memories.
So, as I said in the opening of the blog, the movie should have come with a warning label. Something like "Rated PG" "WARNING: Will pull on your heart! Kleenex Recommended"!
If nothing else, I've warned you. Now I'd better get back to the banner.

Flash of Lighting and a Flashlight

2009-06-28T23:31:00.007-04:00

Last Wednesday was rough for me. I had one of those headaches that just wouldn't go away no matter what I did. Finally at 10 pm, I had relief. Thursday I still did not feel quit up to par, but I went to work anyway, enduring until 1:30. I just wanting to lay down for a while. So that's what I did, drove home, parked the car, went in and laid down.

Then the rain came. John checked in on me when he got home, then went out on the porch and watched the storm. I was content to stay in bed for a little while longer. I eventually came down stairs and turned on the TV. Then I heard that old familiar noise. You know the one....the buzzzzz, crackle, buzzzzz of the transformer and then the lights go off. Oh well I thought, I join John on the porch. He told me how he watched the leaves fly off in troves from the tree across the street. "By the way", he said, "as it was pouring, I noticed that you left your car windows open so I closed them."

The rain passed and the lights where still off. I told John that I didn't feel good when I came home and didn't even think to close the windows, as I went to my car to see how wet it got. Oh my gosh!!!! There was about 1" on water on the floor, even in the cup holders. John got old towels and we started to clean up the mess. There was so much water.....then I remember the Shamwow's my parents gave us. What a life saver. It was amazing how much water they soak up. Unfortunately my Bible was soaked through about 1". So, now the car is somewhat dry and we finally decided to try Sonic to eat (in John's car). Upon returning home, I pulled out a book that I had been meaning to read. I sat in my wicker rocker on the front porch and started reading. Along about 9:35pm, the sun had set and it was getting hard to read, but the story was getting good. Oh well, there's nothing to do but go to bed.....prop up some pillows and get a flashlight and read.

I felt like a little kid who was suppose to be sleeping but just had to read. I finally turn the light off at about 11:30. I proud to say that I read 8 chapters. Makes me wonder if, just from time to time, I should just act like there's not electricity and just sit and read.

Taste & See

2009-06-20T00:00:00.006-04:00

(This is something I wrote on March 14, 1989)

There on the table, sits a gift for you. It's a beautiful wrapped, very expensive, box of chocolates. Upon opening the box, you find a wonderful selection. Oh wonderful, you think, a sampler.
You reach out and after a long scanning, select one. Every so carefully, you place it in your mouth and begin to chew slowly. Your taste buds tell you that it's your favorite, a gooey chocolate covered Carmel. You continue to chew slowly as you want the flavor to last as long as possible. You decide to make the box of chocolates last as long as possible, so you will eat only one a day.
For the past few days, you have enjoyed each and every piece. Today, however, you selected a dark chocolate....oh, the aroma.....you place it in your mouth and slowly begin to chew. UCK!!!! You don't like what's in your mouth.... a chocolate covered cashew. You remind yourself that the chocolates, after all, where a gift and an expensive gift at that. So, despite the faces you're making and how fast you are now chewing, you eat it anyway.

Did you ever realize, that God has given us a box of chocolates? No? Think about it. The Bible is like a box of chocolates.(An expensive gift at that as it cost Jesus His life.) It's full of the teachings of God. There are the teachings of God that we love and relish the flavor of and seek out. Then, there are the teachings, that make us uncomfortable and we would rather not take, because it leaves a bitter taste in our mouth. (Meaning it make us take a good hard look at ourselves. Something we don't want to face.)

Just as the sample box of chocolates is well balanced with the bitter and the sweet, with favorites and unfavored, so too is the word of God. Chewing on God's word, whether it is that which we always receive or that which we try, but would rather not have it all the time, makes us a balanced person with God.

So, as the box of chocolates is set before you, receive it all and "Taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him." Psalm 34:8

Section A, Row 6, Seats 7 & 8

2009-06-06T23:25:00.017-04:00

Yanni Voices Concert at The Palace

(Not to bad for a camera phone picture)

Up until now, Amy & I have been to two plays,"Wicked" & "Legally Blonde". However, on Friday night, we attended our first concert, "Yanni Voices". Thanks to http://one2onenetwork.com/ , we had seats on the floor, 6 rows from the stage. We were excited to say the least. Seating to the left of us was Beth and to the right of us was Michelle & Courtney...guess you could say it was the Blogger Section.

Two odd things of the evening:

#1 The selling of Ear Plugs! I don't get it. It isn't as if it were a rock concert. However, to my amazement, I did see one man actually buy some.

#2 Adoring fans who pick odd moments to yell out their adoration's. Yanni was sitting at the piano and all was quiet, until a lady yells "I love you, Yanni"! He was polite and said "I love you too." Well, if that weren't enough, a man then yells "I love you, Yanni", to which everyone laughs. Yanni, smiles politely and says, "This is the quiet moment of the show."

We not only enjoyed the vocalists, but the orchestra, especially the violinists, harpists and drummer.

Not only did we have great seats, but we also had a "Meet & Greet" after the concert. A very large man, dressed in black, ushered us across the main area, to the stairs an up two floors. This led us to the Club Section, where we waited for everyone to come up. (One little man in the group was impatient and started to try and open up all the doors in the hallway) Our escort finally entered and led us through the glass doors to where we would have the "Meet & Greet".
We were able to meet with the 4 vocalists and get pictures and autographs (They even supplied the Sharpies, silver ones at that.)

Ender Thomas (Favorite song: Desire)

Ender was very friendly and greet us with a hug.

Leslie Mills (Favorite song: "Before the Night Ends")

Amy was able to talk to Leslie for a few minutes and was asking her where she got her inspiration from.

Chole (Favorite song: "Kill me with your love")

Chole has a wonderful voice and she also loves to dance.(Something you get to see her do during the concert).
One lucky lady got her own personal duet of "Happy Birthday" from Ender & Chole.

Nathan Pacheco (Favorite song: Unico Amore (Enchantment))

Amy getting Nathan's autograph on her CD insert.

Can I just say "What a voice"!!!!! He could sing the yellow pages and it would be wonderful. Needless to say, he was our favorite.

The PR people made sure that everyone got their pictures and autographs, before they whisked the vocalist away, to their waiting bus that would take them to their next destination, Grand Rapids.

All in all, it was a great evening. Another memory for Amy & I to relish.
Amy, if I forgot to Thank You, "Thank You!" If I already did, well, "Thank You" again.
You can read more on:
Amy's blog http://amyclary.blogspot.com/
Beth's blog http://teaandthree.blogspot.com/
Michelle's blog http://skinjunkie.blogspot.com/
Courtney's blog http://thedigitalmommy.com/

As I see it, when I grow up, I want to be just like her!

2009-05-30T22:24:00.012-04:00

Mom as a toddler.

(Isn't she cute?)

Mom in grade school

Mom's prom photo.

Graduation

Her wedding day

A real bathing beauty!
(Sorry Mom, I couldn't resist)

Mom & Dad
(married 61 years)

She was secretary to 3 Superintendents
Has 4 Children
(I'm her favorite daughter!)
14 grandchildren
9 1/2 great grandchildren
Loving & Caring
Worries maybe just a little to much
Makes the best bread when she's upset
(Don't ask her about school buses)
Enjoys gardens
(Especially day lilies)
Loves thrift store shopping

(Especially Salvation Army)

There is much more I could say about my Mom, and in the future I will share some of her life with you. As for today, I just wanted to pay tribute to her on her 82ND birthday (Amy will tell you she's 65). I am blessed to be her daughter.

When I was a little girl, mom gave me singing lessons every time we washed & dried the dishes. She taught me to dance, when we watched Lawrence Welk. I got my interest in sewing from her, though she'll tell you I far surpass what she did, but I got her interested in quilting. Our relationship has grown and prospered over the years. My Mondays are not the same if we don't spend it together, and my Saturdays are just a little gloomy if Mom & Dad don't share coffee with us.

Happy Birthday Mom!

When I'm feeling Overwhelmed

2009-05-29T23:45:00.002-04:00

Recently, within the last few weeks, I find that if I dwell on all that has taken place in the lives of loved ones, I become overwhelmed.
"Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
John 14:27
There's a song we use to sing:

I will cast all my cares upon you.

I'll lay all my burdens down at you feet.

Anytime I don't know what to do.

I will cast all my cares upon you.

I chose the above picture because it gives me a sense of holding on to the only one who can make sense of it all. This is the place of peace, in the arms of Jesus.

God, my God, I cry out

Your beloved needs You now

God, be near calm my fears and take my doubt

Your kindness is what pulls me up

Your love is all that draws me in

I will lift my eyes to the Maker

of the mountains I can't climb

I will lift my eyes to the Calmer

of the oceans raging wild

I will lift my eyes to the Healer

of the hurt I hold inside

I will lift my eyes, lift my eyes to You

God, my God, let mercy sing

her melody over me

and God, right here all I bring

is all of me

Your kindness is what pulls me up

You love is all that draws me in

by Bebo Norman

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Hebrews 11:1

I will cast my cares. I will lift up my eyes. I will hope for things not seen.

Capture a memory

2009-05-07T22:58:00.003-04:00

I'm so excited to tell you about a giveaway that is going on at "Coffee with the Mrs", a http://www.amyclary.blogspot.com/ . Amy did a review for Photofiddle.com and now has a $50 gift certificate to give away.

Photofiddle.com has many wonderful way to fiddle with your photo and give you some amazing results. Check out Amy's blog to see the photo she had fiddled and the beautiful results that she got. Whle you're there, don't forget to enter.

If I were to win, I would use this photo as 1 of the 29 it would take for the 29 picture collage-square. Now to figure out the other 28.

Mother's Day 2009 Give Away

2009-04-23T17:38:00.004-04:00

Here's you opportunity to enter 5 Minutes for mom's giveaway for Mother's day. Just use the button on my side bar and check out the fabulous things they have to give away.

Let me just wet your appetite

HP Mini 1000 PC

Purses from Coach & Elliot Lucca

300.00 Gift Card to The Four Seasons Hotel and Resort

This is just a small sample of what they have. I don't know about you, but I'm putting in my entry. Who doesn't like to win something?

Finally where it belongs

2009-04-21T23:31:00.003-04:00

From semi photo to fabric quilt
On April 20th, the semi truck quilt finally went to it's rightful home.

The quilt was for Peter & Kristine Whyte's son. It was a promised Baby Shower quilt that I didn't start until the baby was born as I did not have an idea for a girls' quilt because I was so sure they were having a boy.

I only have Peter's reaction to the quilt as Kristine was working. Peter was amazed with the detailing that I had done. I was happy that he was so pleased. He said he wants to hang it on the wall.

Trucks & Orange Barrels Part 2

2009-04-06T13:28:00.007-04:00

As I said back in my post on February 22, the dad is a semi-tuck driver, so therefore a truck & orange barrels. A truck driver runs into continuing road constructions. I wonder how many orange barrels have been hit.

He needs to know where the next Rest Area is.

He needs clear directions!

This has been a labor of love.

The back of the quilt is a print of the Historic Route 66

Mom...can you make this?????

2009-04-05T20:59:00.006-04:00

A little before Christmas, my daughter Irene sent me a e-mail with an attachment of this pretty red sweater. Irene had a request. Mom, can you make this? My family and friends know that I knit and I love a challenge. I also knew I could do it, but not in time for Christmas, maybe Easter.

I had remembered seeing this knitting pattern, which is similar to what Irene wanted, in a Lion Brand knitting catalog. It was easy enough to download and print out. Off to Joann's for the yarn and yes it was on sale! I set out to accomplish my goal and worked on it as often as possible. Mind you, I had projects in between.

I completed the sweater today. I have no idea how many hours it took. After all, when it's made with love, who cares how long it takes.

So, what do you think? No, I am not taking any requests at this time as I have other things on my plate. Irene, if you're reading this, you'll have it for Easter as promised. With the weather being the way it's been, you just might need it.

2 coffees down and maybe 5 to go.....

2009-03-27T22:30:00.002-04:00

As I stated in an earlier blog, I was given a Starbucks Gift Card for my birthday. As I'm not to well knowledgeable in Starbucks, I ask for suggestions. Unfortunately, I only received one suggestion. Fortunately for the one making the suggestion, there was a free home delivery of a Carmel Mocha Decaf Latte! I made the delivery this morning on my way to work.

I chose to have a Peppermint Mocha Latte and enjoyed it very much. In fact, I made the coffee last almost all day. Yes, it had lost it's warmth, but not it's flavor. What started out as a hot coffee, ended up being an almost ice coffee. Like Maxwell House coffee, it was good to the last drop.

Ultimate Blog Party

2009-03-21T00:25:00.008-04:00

Well, here's what you've been waiting for, The Ultimate Blog Barty going on over at http://5minutesformom.com/5808/ultimate-blog-party-2009/ .

Way too many prize to list, but here are my favorites:

#1 $50 gift certiciate to Target sponsored by Shoot-Me-Now
#2 $30 gift certificate to Christian Book Distbutors sponsored by A High and Noble Calling
#3 $100 gift certificate to Home Goods sponsored by HG Openhouse

These were some others that caught my interest:
$100 gift certificate to Pedal Cars & Retro or A Rocking Horses to love sponsored by 5 Minutes for Mom's
Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred DVD & Biggest Loser Family Cookbook sponsored by Pudget: Losing weight on a Budget
$40 gift certificate to Carrabba's Italina Grill sponsored by The Divine Miss Mommy
$100 gift certificate to Home Goods sponsored by HG Openhouse
$25 gift certificate for Shutterfly sponsored by SanwichINC.com
$25 Certificate for Old Navy sponsored by Manic Mother

There are over 100 prizes to win . Check it out for yourself.
The party goes on until March 27th. Come join the fun

Eighty MPH Mom: Spring is in the Air! SEE'S CANDY REVIEW and GIVEAWAY!#links#links#links#links#links

2009-03-20T23:40:00.000-04:00

<center>Eighty MPH Mom</center>: <font face="Tahoma" color="Magenta"><center>Spring is in the Air! <br>SEE'S CANDY REVIEW and GIVEAWAY!</CENTER></font>#links#links#links#links#links

Chocolate lovers listen up....

2009-03-20T23:30:00.002-04:00

If you love choclate like I do, then here's your opportunity to win some.

Go to http://eightmphmom.blogspot.com and check out her giveaway from See's choclate. I've entered, so what are you waiting for? The more entries the more possiblities of winning. If you snooze, you loose, which means more opportunities for me!

Happiness is being.......

2009-03-17T23:16:00.006-04:00

For those of you who do not follow my daughter Amy's blog http://www.amyclary.blogspot.com/ or follow her web page www.thoughtfromthemrs.com, then I would like to share her news......there's a baby on the way.

Expected delivery date is early November.

Happiness is being a Grandma!

Here's to Garage Sales, Rummage Sales & Mom to Mom Sales!

Thanks Mike & Amy to adding to my joy of being a Grandparent!

And the person I thank for my Starbuck's card is..........

2009-03-15T23:41:00.006-04:00

My Starbuck's Coffee Card & Birthday card came from..........my son, Eric. He had planned to come home for my birthday, but called to let me know that he would not be able to make it. It's a good thing that he called, as I was in Kansas City, Missouri, at The International House of Prayer, to attend their Passion for Jesus conference. Eric was certainly glad I answered my phone and let him now I wasn't home. Yes, I did tell him I was going out of town, but he forgot.

Which seems to be a little problem, as he forgot to sign the card. That's ok, at least I know who sent the card and I'll certainly enjoy the coffee. As I am really haven't been to Starbucks much, any suggestions as to what to get? Eric was very generous.

Thanks Eric!

Who do I thank?????

2009-03-13T21:25:00.004-04:00

Imagine my suprise when the UPS man knocked on my door after leaving a large envelope. The envelope was marked 2 day delivery and addressed to me. I opened the delivery envelope to find a card size envelope inside. This is the card that was inside the card envelope.

If you can't read the inside texts "I know we couldn't be together for your birthday, but I did not forget...HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY!!!! There was a nice Starbucks gift card inside.

I've written all this to say that the card was not signed. Therefore, who do I thank????? I appericate the gift and card and being thought of, but I'd like to know who to thank. Therefore, I sincerely hope that you let me know who you are. If you wish to remain unknown, then I respect your wish and will just say "Thank you very much!" I will remember that I was thought as I enjoy each cup of coffee.

Smartshopper Giveaway

2009-03-02T23:34:00.012-05:00

Go to Coffee with the Mrs at http://www.amyclary.blogspot.com/ a check out her new giveaway.

Amy has a review and giveaway for the "Smartshopper", which is a neat product that will make your grocery shopping a much better experience.

So don't hesitate, go check it out for yourself.

Trucks & orange barrels

2009-02-22T23:43:00.003-05:00

What could a semi-truck & an orange barrel have to do with a quilt? Well, it just so happens that it's part of a design that I'm working on for a baby quilt. Strange, right? Well maybe, but the father of the baby drives a semi and when I heard that he & his wife where expecting a baby, I automatically got this great idea for a baby quilt with a map, semi-truck, orange barrels, road side rest sign, I 75 & US 23 signs a badly paved roads.

Needless to say, that baby (a boy thank goodness or else there goes the design) is a couple of months old, but the quilt isn't quite finished. When it's finished, I'll post a picture.

2009-02-13T23:52:00.003-05:00

HAPPY

VALENTINES

DAY

THE LOVE IN YOUR HEART

WASN'T PUT THERE TO STAY,

LOVE ISN'T LOVE

TILL YOU GIVE IT AWAY

"GIVE, AND IT WILL BE GIVEN TO YOU.

A GOOD MEASURE, PRESSED DOWN, SHAKEN TOGETHER AND RUNNING OVER,

WILL BE POURED INTO YOUR LAP.

FOR WITH THE MEASURE YOU USE, IT WILL BE MEASURED TO YOU."

Luke 6: 38

One of my other dolls?

2009-02-08T22:59:00.003-05:00

I really can't say that Alex is one of my dolls. He is however, definitely is one of my grandchildren who will be 2 soon. I enjoy having the opportunity of babysitting for him ever now & then.

Alex's is a truck, car & train man, definitely all boy. I know he is happy to see me when he brings me his big yellow dump truck to play with. We watch Thomas the Tank Engine together as well as The Fisher Price Little People and The Bear in the Big Blue House. He also loves his books.

Warm weather will be here before you know it and then we can enjoy the out of doors together.

As My Dad Tells it #3 in the Series

2009-02-07T16:27:00.011-05:00

Adventures of a Seabee

As I stated in the first of this series, my dad was a Seabee and was stationed for a time at the training base in Davisville, Rhode Island. Dad's rank was a Seaman 1st. His job at the time was serve as an SP (Shore Patrol) as he awaited his shipping out orders. SP duty was a duty everyone had to do. Dad had drawn the 12:00 am to 8:00 am shift.

Now, the transport trains came right onto the base. The various passenger cars came from all over to bring the service men to Davisville for Military Training. On this particular duty shift, there where 3 Sp's on duty and each was given one of the 3 passenger cars to check in. Dad's assigned car was from the Great Lakes Training Center near Chicago. Each SP had a Muster List which had the Name, Rank & Serial Number of each in coming sailor. The SP's would go aboard the Passenger Car and give directions. "OK, let's line up and go out this door. As you come off the train, I'll check you off against the list." So, dad got off the train first and checked each name against his list. After they where off the train, they lined up in formation and where re-verified against the list.

Dad noticed that they where all wearing their combat boots as they where just out of military training. In those days, the training was only 3 weeks long, where as today it's about 10 weeks.
Also, in those days you where given your rank according to your trade and experience. Where as today, it's given through training and tests. So, most of these guys out ranked my dad, but his rank was not displayed on his pea coat, just his SP band.

As dad went back through his list, he asked each individual his name, rank and serial number. When he got to one individual, the response was "Anthony Krall".

My dad asked "Where do I know you from?" "Don't know sir".
"Where's your home?" "Michigan".
"Where?" "North of Detroit".
"Roseville or Mount Clemens?" "Why did you ask Mount Clemens?"
"Cause I'm from Mount Clemens."
Dad gave him his name, but it didn't mean anything.
So Krall asked "Who's your dad?" "George Pointer" Still didn't recognize.
My dad gave him his mother's maiden name "Charbeneau". Krall happened to live on Rathbone near the Charbeneau's. My dad asked "Do you remember High Speed Gas Station ? Rene Denewith is the owner?" Krall said that he took all his business there. "That's where I know you from. I worked there after school." (You see, dad was 17 and Anthony Krall was about 31.)
Krall said to dad "No one knew this wouldn't be easy." "No it's not, you're here for Military Training."

"OK, let's move down to the Mess Hall." With only 3 weeks training at Great Lakes, some still didn't know their left from their right, so it was not a tight formation. Some complained that it was to early for breakfast. I forgot to mention that the train pulled in at 4:15 am. Dad said they had to eat now because the next meal wasn't until noon.

(What the barracks looked like before the base closed.

When dad was there, the barracks had only 2 floors)

They went to the Mess Hall to eat. Dad couldn't eat until the last guy in line was served. They where told to get food or milk or coffee, something so he could make out his report that they did get chow. After Mess, they went to the barracks where the Chief officer would give them bunk assignments and then later they would get their training assignments.

Training lasted 6 to 8 weeks according to the Battalion. You could be shipped out any day after training.

About 2 weeks went by before Dad saw Anthony (Tony) Krall again.

Tony: Can you get a pass?

Dad: I think so, but you can't. You haven't completed training.

Tony: I know, but I know how I can get out of here.

Dad: How's that?

Tony: Fence Liberty!

Dad: What's Fence Liberty?

Tony: Over by the Motor Pool is where the main road comes by.

That's where the taxi comes If you get a chance, go check it out.

Dad: What do you do, climb the fence?

Tony: Nah, the fence rolls back. You don't notice it unless you look closely.

Taxi driver keeps his mouth shut if you give him a good tip.

So everyone chips in who's going. The taxi takes you into Providence.

Dad had been on the base over 6 weeks and never heard of this.

Tony: All we have to do is make sure you get your pass.

Dad: I'm not going in any taxi, I'm taking the bus to the bus station in Providence.

After Dad got his pass, he told Tony when he was leaving and that it would take 30 minutes to get there. They set up the rendezvous at the bus station. First one there would wait on the bench outside of the Restrooms.

Dad: Tony, you realize what you're doing don't you? You'll be AWOL

Tony: What will they do, put me in jail?

Dad: No, the Brig.

So dad took the bus to Providence and went into the Bus Station. Thinking he was the first one there, he sat on the bench and waited. Not to much later, Tony came strolling out of the Restroom where he had gone in for a shoe shine and to buy a razor for a shave.

Tony: Have you got any money?

Dad: I have $25 dollars, my return bus money and my weekend pass.

Tony: I don't have my dog tags.

Dad: I know! (They take the dog tags & id cards the first couple of weeks of training.

It was how they kept them out of semi-restricted areas on base)

Tony: I have to find a bank. (This was Saturday mind you and almost noon)

Dad: I have no idea where a bank is. Let's ask an SP!

Tony: I don't want to ask them, they'll ask for my id.

Dad: Just kidding. Let's ask a police officer.

They walked a couple of blocks and came upon a police car at a traffic light. They went up to the car.

Tony: We've just come in from Sea Duty and we're looking for a bank.

Officer driving: Not gonna rob it are you?

Tony: No, I just want to cash a payroll check.

The police officers gave them direction to the nearest bank. As they walked along dad asked Tony what he was gonna do. He was just going to cash a Certified Check from home, from a construction job he had done.

Dad: How much is it for?

Tony: $6000

Dad: Tony, you're gonna have trouble trying to cash that.

Tony: Nah, I know what to do.

They went to the bank and asked for the Bank Manager. Tony showed the Manager the check and told him he wanted to cash it. The Manager ask for an id card. Tony told him he didn't have it. The Manager question him about it, thought they where to have it at all times. Tony gave him a song and dance about just coming in from sea duty and didn't have it. Tony told the Manager that he would pay for the phone call to his bank so the check could be verified. The Manager finally relented and called the bank. He came back and said he'd cash it, but suggested that Tony didn't carry all that cash on him. Tony agreed and had a cashiers check made out to his wife for $5000 and had it sent from the bank. Tony kept the balance of $1000 though the Manager felt that that was still to much.

After they left the bank, dad suggested that they go to an Army/Navy store and purchase a money belt. Which they did to keep all of Tony's 100's in.

Tony: How long is your pass?

Dad: I have to be back on base at midnight Sunday.

Tony: Well, we'll need a place to stay.

Dad thought that this was out of the question. It also would be hard to find as Providence was the hub of the general Military Area(Seabees, Naval pilot training, sub base, army bases and the Newport Naval Base). Tony looked around and saw a big sign down the street "Biltmore". He decided to try there first.

(The Providence Biltmore Hotel)

They went in and up to the Desk. The Lobby was full of Military people, mostly officers and all different branches of the service.

(Providence Biltimore Hotel Lobby)

Tony: We'd like a room for 2.

Desk Clerk: I'm sorry Sir, we're booked solid.

Tony: You can't be booked solid, this is a big Hotel.

Clerk: Sir, this is the hub. All kinds of Military come from all over.

Tony: (Raising his voice) That's a fine kettle of fish. We've just come off of

14 months at sea and this is the way you treat us!

The Manager now enters the scene because of Tony's raised voice.

Manager: What's the problem? And Sir, can you please keep your voice down?

Clerk to Manager: These 2 have came in wanting a room. I told them we're booked.

Manager: Are you sure we don't have anything?

Clerk: (Looking back through the book) No Sir, we have nothing.

Manager: You might try a little later this afternoon for a possible cancellation.

Tony quited down and they agreed to come back. They where almost to the Lobby door, when the Bellhop caught up with them, telling them that the Manager wanted to talk with them. So, they went back to the Desk.

Manager: We do have one room left if you are interested, but it will be costly.

Tony: What are you talking about, we got a lot of money when we got off the ship.

Manager: The Bridal Suite has not been taken.

Tony: Where's that?

Manager: Top floor, over looking the city.

Tony: How much?

Manager: $100, but for you, I'll cut it to $75 (Still a lot of money at the time)

Tony: (Reaching into his money belt and taking out his cash) We'll take it.

Clerk: The Bell Hop will take you to the room (They had no baggage to take up)

Dad said the Bridal Suite was very elaborate. Before the Bell Hop left, Tony asked him

Tony: Send up some beer and a couple of ham sandwiches.

Bell hop: How much beer?

Tony: A few.

Bell Hop: You have a fridge.

Tony: Send up a case.

Bell hop: They wont put that on your tab, you'll have to pay up front.

So it went, 2 sailors on a weekend leave and staying at the finest hotel. Dad said they didn't do much sightseeing. They just kind of went from bar to bar. Dad returned to base at the proper time, leaving Tony back in Providence. Dad didn't see Tony until Tuesday or Wednesday of the next week. Apparently Tony didn't get back to base until Monday at 4:00am, entering the base the same way he had left....Fence Liberty. He got into trouble with the Barracks Chief , but to what extent, dad didn't know.

Some time later, dad shipped out. Before he left, Tony was on the obstacle course. He went up this big wall. Not seeing the rope on the opposite side, he jumped down an broke his ankle. Apparently they where not told that there was a rope on the other side to lower themselves down with. It was something they where suppose to figure out. Tony returned home to Mount Clemens on a Medical Discharge. He walked with a limp from that time on.

Dad went to Hawaii from Rhode Island and then onto the Marshall Islands.

5 Minute Chocolate Mug Cake

2009-02-07T15:09:00.005-05:00

5 minute Chocolate Mug Cake

Well, here it is, the quick and easy chocolate dessert.

4 Tb spoons flour

4 Tbspoons sugar

2 Tbspoons cocoa

1 egg

3 Tbspoons milk

3 Tbspoons oil

3 Tbspoons choclate clips (optional)

a small dash of vanilla extract

1 large coffee mug (MicroSafe)

Add dry ingredients to mug and mix well

(I followed this, but suggest doing it all in a bowl to get it well mixed then pour it into a mug that you've sprayed with cooking spray for easier removal from mug)

Add the egg and mix thoroughly

Pour in milk and oil and mix well

Add chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla extract and mix again

(I didn't have vanilla, so I used almond extract & it was just as good)

Pour into mug and put mug in the microwave and cook 3 minutes at 1000 watts

The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed!

Allow to cool a little and tip out onto plate if desired.

EAT! This can serve 2 if you want to feel slightly more virtuous

And why is this the most dangerous cake recipe in the world?

Because now we are all only 5 minutes from a chocolate cake at any time of the day or night!

Enjoy....I did!

A Very Special Christmas Gift

2009-02-02T19:24:00.002-05:00

This is a very special Christmas gift. I meant to post this earlier, but I was still getting aquianted with my scanner.
This was the gift that Alex gave us for Christmas, an original designer mouse pad. Notice the fine centering. The choice of colors and the fine blending.
As a proud grandparent, I took it to the computer room and placed it under the mouse. A few days later, I went to make myself a cup of coffee and notices a perfect blue dot on the tip of my pinky finger. I thought nothing of it and washed it off. 2 days later, I once again noticed a perfect blue dot on my pinky, but now there was also one on my ring finger and an oblong mark along the side of my thumb. "What the heck"? "Where did that come from?" It took a couple of minutes to figure it out. You see, the only clean finger tips I had were the ones that rested on the mouse and not on the mouse pad.
So, as awsome and wonderful our Christmas gift from Alex is, it is now a wonderful, awsome, unique work of art that is on display in the computer room.

3 of my dolls

2009-02-01T20:42:00.002-05:00

These are only 3 of my dolls who are very dear to my heart. They live in a land of many lakes and plenty of snow. As I wish that they lived closer, I know that a long trip is well worth the drive, as we've done it over the last 3 years.

What's great about my dolls is that I get to dress them up with things I've made them. Now, I even get dress up the dolls dolls.

Baby Shower

2009-01-24T23:02:00.006-05:00

I'm encouraging everyone to check out "Thoughts From The Mrs" web: http://thoughtsfromthemrs.com sight as she is hosting a Baby Shower. She has a tremendous list of sponsors who donated gifts, which by the way total about $1400.00!!!! You can use either her web button or the Baby Shower button at the side of my blog.
I'm sure there's someone you know who could use this Baby Shower....maybe even you.
So, what are you waiting for? Don't wait to long or you'll miss out.

Oh My Gosh You Guys!!!!

2009-01-12T23:56:00.003-05:00

Oh My Gosh You Guys! Oh My Gosh!!!!

I had to type this in pink. After all, Pink is the new black!

Even though it's suppose to snow, Amy & I are going to East Lansing to see "Leagally Blone The Musical. This is our second adventure to the theatre (the first one being Wicked). Correction. this is our third adventure. Phaton of the Opera was the first, not Wicked.

I recieved an e-mail from the theatre that Becky Gulsvig (who plays Elle Woods) broke her toe and would not be preforming. Instead, Laura Bell Bundy (who recieved a Tony nomanation) will be playing the lead role. How cool is that?

I'm so excited!!!!! Can't wait!!!!!!

2009-01-09T20:42:00.008-05:00

As My Dad Tells It #2 in the series

A Spoonful of Sugar?

Due to my grandparents separation, my dad and his 2 sisters lived with their grandparents. Because Aunt Thelma still lived at home, my grandmother had to live in an apartment close by. Dad's grandparents (Mim & Pip as he called them) where loving, but also strict. There where rules to follow. However, Dad broke a few along the way.

This is one of those times.

(Dad at about 9 or 10. Isn't he cute?)

Dad grew up during the Depression. His grandparents had a garden, a small orchard, pigs and chickens. My great grandfather was experimenting with worms (but that's another story).
My great grandmother made her own cough syrup and one of the ingredients was rock candy. Rock candy is sugar crystals that form on a string. Mim kept the rock candy strings hanging in her sewing closet. After all, out of sight, out of mind right? That is until Pip tells the children where it's hidden.

On Wednesday nights, Mim and other women got together to play cards. While Mim was away, Pip and the children would play. Pip would either make fudge, pretzels (though only once..something about to much salt) or homemade potato chips. They always cleaned up their mess.

One particular Wednesday, my dad had been sneaking into the sewing closet and helping himself to the rock candy. After Mim had left, Pip and the children gathered in the kitchen to make potato chips. Needless to say, the smell of the lard melting in the pot made my dad sick to his stomach. So sick in fact, instead of helping, he went to bed. Upon Mim's return, she found that dad was sick in bed.

Dad could hear Mim scolding Pip for giving the children to much food before bed. Mim then went upstairs to check on dad. She left his forehead for fever, but noticed that dad kept holding his stomach. She asked him why his stomach hurt. Dad confessed that he had been sneaking into the sewing closet and helping himself tot the rock candy. Guess she figured that he was suffering enough and just let him ride out his stomach ache, because she left him and went down stairs to talk to Pip about what dad had done. Pip then confessed that he had been the one who told the children where the candy was.

It was a lesson well learned, as dad never again had rock candy except in cough medicine as needed for a cold.

I've been awarded

2009-01-06T23:24:00.005-05:00

Amy from "Thoughts from the Mrs."

has given me this reward

The Lemonade Award

Once You've Been Award, The Rules Are:

.Thank the person who was so thoughtful

for giving you this Award

by linking their blog to this post.

.Put the logo on your blog or post

.Nominate 10 blogs which show great attitude/gratitude

(I only did 8 cause I don't have that many I know)

(I also nominated those I knew hadn't already been Awarded)

.Link your nomiees to your post

.Comment them to tell them about the Award they've won

Here's who I'm sharing this award with:

1. The Green Grass Grows All Around

2. Keri Sheerer

3. Nina Bunk

4. Berry Morins Bits & Tips

5. Just another mommy blog

6. Linda's Life

7. Walking With Y"shua

8. Jeni Carlson

(See my blog list for all their posts)

As Dad Tells It / GuessWho Took Me Dinner

2009-01-03T22:23:00.003-05:00

As My Dad Tells It.
My parents join John and I for coffee on Saturday mornings. Lately, my dad had been sharing some wonderful stories. So, I'm adding a new section to my blog that I hope you will like. I say, let the stories begin.

Guess Who Took Me To Dinner?

The year is 1944 and my dad was temporally stationed in Hawaii. He's waiting with others for a Battalion to be formed and a Troop Transport to take them to their next destination. With a restricted leave (which means back to base at 1700) dad and Arvin ?, a sailor from Tennessee, went to Waikiki Beach.

Can you imagine Shore Leave in Hawaii? My dad had never been anywhere other then Pennsylvania to visit family. Now, here he is at 16 and on a tropical island in the Pacific.
At the time, there were only two main hotels on Waikiki Beach, The Moana Hotel & The Royal Hawaiian. In between the two hotels, on a public beach, was a bar called The Merry-Go-Round, which is where the guys settled.

I said "Public Beach" for a reason. The Royal Hawaiian had it's beach blocked off to the public with a camouflage fence so high, you couldn't see over it.
The bartender asked my dad and Arvin if they had their swim suits with them. They said they did, but that stretch of beach had big rocks and was bad for swimming. The bartender told them he had a way around that and told them where to change and what to do. They guys changed and left their uniforms with the bartender. They followed his directions and made their way down the fence, into the ocean and swam around and came up on the private beach of The Royal Hawaiian. Ah, to be young and adventurous.
After a while of laying on the beach, the guys needed a bathroom but weren't sure where it was. Looking around, they saw the patio area and walked over and sat at one of the tables. They glanced around and saw the sign for the bathrooms and realized that they could reach it without having to go directly into the hotel. Coming back to the patio area, they sat at a table with an umbrella as they had gotten somewhat of a sunburn. A man came and sat at the table next to them and would look at them from time to time.
The guys wanted a Coca Cola, but they barely had $1 between them and didn't think they could afford it.

The man at the table next to them kept looking over and the guys thought they were in trouble as they were not guest at the hotel. In a little while, a waiter brought the guys 2 Coca Cola's and a pitcher of ice. Needless to say, the guys were dumbfounded and asked the waiter where it came from. The waiter indicated the man at the next table. A short time later, the man came over and joined them and said, "You don't belong here do you?" They feared that he would call the authorities. The man asked where their clothes were and how they got there. He also asked them where they were stationed. They weren't allowed to give the exact location, so they said that they were near the Sub Base. The man told them to go get changed and to come around to the front of the hotel and he'd meet them in the Lobby. They did, still not knowing what to expect.

After they changed and came around to the street, they noticed the MP's and SP's stationed there. They thought for sure that the MP's would pick them up. Still, they went into the Lobby and the man was waiting for them. "Come on in," he said. "Want some dinner?" They told him that they were on restricted leave and that it was getting late. He asked where they were stationed again. "Next to the Sub Base," they replied. "I know the Commanding Officer there, he's a friend of mine. Give me your names and Serial Numbers." They didn't want to because they thought for sure that he would turn them in. They realized with the MP's right outside, that he could have done it already. So, with a little more persuasion, they gave the man their information. The man made a phone call and cleared them and told them that he would take them back to the base.

So, there they were, in The Royal Hawaiian and heading for the Dinning Room. The man had a "Reserved" table. Reading the Menu, dad noticed that the most expensive thing was the steak. "Order whatever you want! The steak is the best."So, they had steak and Coca Cola and conversation. The man asked where they were from and upon hearing that dad was from Mount Clemens, he said he had been there to visit friends at one of the hotels. (For those of you who don't know, Mount Clemens, Michigan was know as The Mineral Bath City in it's hay day. People came from far and near to enjoy the mineral baths, but that's another story)

The man said, "I know who you are, but you don't know me. Let me introduce myself." He did, but dad didn't know who he was.

After dinner, the man called for his car & driver. Can you imagine, dad was escorted back to the base in a Cadillac LaSalle? The man took them back to the base as promised and by now, it was 2100 and the Marine at the Guard House greeted them with,"State your business." "Have you a pass?" They stated their business and their pass had expired at 1700. The man told the Guard "These men are my guests." The Guard replied, "You're both under arrest!" With that statement, the man said, "I want to talk to the Commander, he's a personal friend of mine." The Guard allowed the man to use the phone, which the man then handed to the Guard, who finished the conversation and upon hanging up allowed the car to enter the base. The man took the guys to their barracks' as he promised. As the guys got out of the car, the man said, "I sure enjoyed your company. You were very interesting. One from the South and one from the North."

The next morning, the fellow sailors asked "Weren't you on a restricted pass?" They said they were and told their them the entire story, including the name of the man. An older sailor said, "Don't you know who that is?" They said they had no idea. The older sailor said,"He's just one of the most famous song writers we have!"

You see, this 16 year old from Mount Clemens, Michigan had no idea who Irving Berlin was! Just in case you don't either, Irving Berlin wrote many songs. He's famous for writing "White Christmas."
Dad shipped out a few days later. He's destination was the Marshall Islands. He never saw nor heard from Irving Berlin again.
Now you have the whole story, just the way dad tells it.

More Things to win!

2009-01-03T00:20:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Amy & "Thoughts from the Mrs." I have another place for you to win things. Just Click on the "Bring in the New Year" button and check it out.
Here's to winning & Happy New Year.

Want to win a prize

2008-12-27T21:40:00.007-05:00

Do you like to winning a prizes? Do you have a DS? If so, amyclary.blogspot.com is giving away 2 games from The Game Factory called Zensus. "Thoughts from the Mrs." is a really neat blog. So what do you say, why not check it out and enter?

Silent Night????

2008-12-24T22:41:00.007-05:00

They said it was a silent night....it might have been in the beginning.....but think about it.....There were shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Suddenly....a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying.

"Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace to men on

whom his favor rests"

How could they not be somewhat terrified? It was something they had never seen nor heard.....and yet, the Bible goes on to say:

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

So they hurried off.....

and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who had heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Have you found the Savior that the angels declared? If so, have you returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that you have seen and heard which were just as you have been told? Are you sharing this precious gift with others?
I truly believe that this is not the time to be silent.....but to declare the Glory of God....

O come let us adore Him,

O come let us adore Him

Christ the Lord

The hug I was waiting for

2008-12-22T23:19:00.004-05:00

A picture speaks a thousand words. The hug I was waiting for finally came on Sunday December 21. It wasn't hard to find the redhead in the group. I had my eyes fixed on him and the minute they were dismissed, I made a beeline for him. I did exactly what I said I was going to do. I threw my arms around the neck of my 6ft 2in son a cried. I hugged him real tight ....didn't want to let him go, but there were others there who wanted to do the same.

Thank you to all who sent cards, letters and care packages! Thank you for all your prayers.

Please continue to pray for all who are still serving, especially during this Christmas season.

Merry Christmas to all

It finallly came!

2008-12-15T23:48:00.002-05:00

The one thing I've been waiting for finally came today @9:08 pm.

It didn't come as"Unavaliable". It didn't come as"Restricted". It came "Eric's Cell". That could only mean one thing....he was finally stateside. The count down has almost reached it's end. There is light at the end of the tunnel! In a few days, I will throw my arms around the neck of my 6ft son and probably cry.

Up until this time, I have not thought of where Eric was or what he was doing. I would not allow my mind to wander. You see, when we got the call that Eric would be going to Iraq, I wrapped my arms around his neck and we just held each other. I prayed and at that moment, I placed him in God's hands. From that moment, I've been at peace. There has never been room for "What if". It strange though, since I knew they were getting ready to come home, the reality of it has been just a little overwhelming.

So, to all of you who prayed for him, Thank You! For all who wrote, or sent a package or took a phone call at odd hours, Thank You! Let us remember, that there are many more mothers and wives, for that matter, who are waiting for the call that lets them know their loved one is stateside. Let us continue to pray for them.

13 Hours on Saturday

2008-12-15T00:02:00.006-05:00

So, how do you spend 13 hours on Saturday? First of all you have to have a plan. One that has been scheduled, so you can build the excitement by the anticipation. Then it's just a matter on carrying out the plan. In years past, the plan centered around Great Lakes Crossing. This year, however, the location was changed to Frankenmuth. After all, the Birthday Girl gets to choose how she wants to spend the day.

For the past several years, my daughter Amy & I have celebrated her Birthday by spend a day together. This year was no exception.

#1 I picked Amy up around 8 am with an Egg Nog Latte in hand.

#2 We drove to Birch Run to have breakfast at Tony's. Now, if you've every been to Tony's, you know that a side order of bacon is actually 1 lb. of bacon. Needless to say, Amy & I choose to split a Cheese Omelet. The plan was to eat at Tony's and walk it off in Frankenmuth.

#3 Drive to Bronner's. This place can be overwhelming. There are many displays to see....none so strange then the snowman holding the light up Santa face. (Maybe Amy will share the photo on her blog). When the Birthday Girl says she's had enough of Bronners, you move on.

#4 River Place was the next stop on our tour. We searched out the shops...had a few laughs..even came up with 2 cabin themes for next years CFL camp.

#5 At about 1:30 we decided to stop for lunch and headed to The Bavarian Inn. It was a 30 minute wait for a table, but worth it. We choose a Frankenmuth combo plate so we could have both chicken & sample some German food. Remember, if you eat, you must talk it off.

#6 We strolled through Frankenmuth and stopped in a few shops and made a few purchases.

It started to snow little ice pellets and the wind blew the snow off the roofs which just added to the pelting.

#7 After we picked up some flavored ground coffee at Zenders, we got in the car and headed to Birch Run to finish off the plan. We went to Phaltzgraff's to find they were having a closing sale. Yippy!!! We got some great buys. Next, we looked for our favorite store that combined The Gap, Banana Republic & Old Navy clearance, only to find it was closed. Bummer!!! Amy searched for boots, but the ones she really liked had a price that was more then she wanted to spend (Haven't we all been there?) We Checked out Pottery Barn, American Eagle & Areopostale. My mom phoned me to find out how we enjoyed our day only to find that we were still at Birch Run! Yes, at around 7:30 pm we finally headed home. The roads weren't too bad...well that is until we got on 53 near Almont. (I decided to take 75 to 69 to 53 instead of 75 to 59) 53 south was a sloooooow go Can you say 30 in a 55. The road wasn't to bad, but the lead car was an overly cautious driver. So...

#8 I dropped Amy off around 9:30 pm ( what usually take 1:30 to 1:45, took 2 hrs)and headed home.

It was a long day, but the conversation, the laughing, the food and fellowship was worth every minute of the 13 hours. I wonder what we'll do next year.

What Inspires me?

2008-12-14T00:04:00.002-05:00

What inspires me? This was a question from Matt Bunk's Blog post.
Well, many things inspires me. Take for instance my son Eric. He inspires me to have his favorite food on hand and the house ready for his Home Coming.
Winter inspires me to knit.
My granddaughter Sarah inspires me to sew doll clothes and dress ups.
My daughter Amy inspires me to shop.
My mom, to just take time and enjoy our Mondays together.
Pastor Bob inspires me to seek God's face.
Alieen inspires me to want an intimate relationship with God.
A good book inspires me to read more.
Sundays, after church, inspire me to rest.
Color inspires me to be creative.
Music inspire me to sing, or dance or worship.
A moment, a person or an incident can inspire me to write a scene in a play or a monologue.
A tee shirt with a slogan on it can inspire a cabin theme for next years CFL Camp.
An a reality TV show can inspire me to develope another theme for another cabin.

So Matt, I guess there is alot that inspires me. The question remains Will I act upon the inspirations?

5 Minutes for Giveaways

2008-12-10T23:22:00.004-05:00

Who doesn't like a giveaway? Well,

5 Minute for Moms have introduced a new site called 5 Minutes for Giveaways

So far, they have 3 giveaways listed:

#1 Kodak Digital Frame

#2 Everflo Symphony all in one Car Seat

#3 3 Disc Collection Edition of The Chronicles of

Narnia Prince Caspin.

Check it out and while your there, enter. Also check out their other site shown on the sidebar.

www.5minutesforgiveaways.com

New Layout

2008-12-09T01:04:00.002-05:00

just another mommy blog...: Brr and frack

2008-12-01T23:07:00.000-05:00

just another mommy blog...: Brr and frack

One more snowman

2008-11-29T23:14:00.004-05:00

Today we decorated our front yard for Christmas. The weather was great and snow is predicted for Sunday night. There will be a Holiday Walk Tour on our street this weekend, so the neighbors out bustling about getting their homes decorated too.

I can't wait for Eric to see the 9ft snowman in the front yard. You see, I have this snowman collection that he kids me about. He reminds me that I don't need any more. Mine all fit on and around my bakers rack.

I think Alex will really enjoy it! Oh well, now to decorate inside.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T07:49:00.005-05:00

Thanksgiving is a time of year for more then just feasting or getting ready for Black Friday. To me, Thansgiving is more about being thankful. It's a time to count your blessings! When we take time to pause and reflect, we will find that we are more blessed then we thought.

In this day and age, the world has become all about me, mine & stuff. Here in America, you can own a car, own a house, have a tv in every room along with a dvd combo vcr player. You can wear the latest fashions, shop till you drop and have fast food or a fresh brewed coffee latte. You can own 50 pair of shoes and still feel like you don't have enough. We have the freedom to cross into another state with out being stopped at their boarders. You can have a higher education, become a doctor, lawyer, excutive or become president of the United States.

In America, we have freedom of speech, the right to go to church, the right to bear arms. We have young men & women who have volunteer to serve our country to keep our freedoms free.

My son Eric being one of them.

I have a home, a car, a job. I have stuff and clothes and shoes. I have food on the table and heat and running water. I am priviledged to live in America.

I am thankful for:

My husband

My children

My son-in-laws

My grandchildren

Having time with my parents

The health of my family

For friendships

The many freedoms we have here in the United States

But most of all my salvation through Jesus Christ and the freedom to talk about it

So, take time to count your blessings and see just how blessed you are.

Returning the favor

2008-11-21T23:47:00.007-05:00

1954 / 2008

Back in 1954, my mom, my brother Paul & I traveled by train ,from Detroit to New York City, to see my grandmother. While we were there, my mom took us to Radio City Music Hall to see the Rocketts. Well, this year, in fact today, I am taking my mom to see the Rocketts. I realize they will not be the same girls we saw 54 years ago, but I enjoy the fact that this time, I'm taking her.

I remember being mesmerized by the music and costumes and dancing. I sure that 54 years later, I'll still be in awe.

As The Thread Flies

2008-11-16T00:44:00.006-05:00

What do the above pictures have in common? The fact that Christmas is coming and I have work to do. Granted, it's work I love to do. My granddaughter Sarah is getting an American Girl Doll and she loves the Disney Princesses, espically Sleeping Beauty & Cinderella.

Over the past year, I have made Sarah dress-ups of 5 of the Disney Princess, so I thought this year, I would make doll dresses to match. Now, she'll get Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella for Christmas, and then I'll do the others for her Birthday in January.

I always loved playing with dolls. My dad said that's why I had two girls first. I've sewn for them over the years, even made their wedding dresses. Now I have two granddaughters to sew for.....and their dolls. So, I'm still in a way playing with dolls and I'm having fun. May the sewing continue!

Twelve Days of Christmas

2008-11-09T17:46:00.008-05:00

Who doesn't know the "Twelve Days of Christmas"? Well, on "Thoughts from the Mrs"., there's a 12 Days of Christmas giveaway and it starts on the 15th!!!!! So check my side bar for the link on both the "12 daysof Christmas Giveaway" and "Thoughts from the Mrs". blog.

This is a fun way to enter and have a chance win great gifts. The first giveaway is from Snapfish, but I also read on her previous blog that Hasbro and Matell will also be involved. Do you have any little one that you'd like know would like something? Go visit the web site and check it out for your self. Enter while your there.

History in the making

2008-11-04T20:07:00.004-05:00

History in the making!

I'm proud to be an American and have the opportunity to vote.

Whatever the out come of todays election, there will be history in the making. We will either have the first women Vice President or the first African American President. More people have registered to vote and more people who are already registered will actually vote and according to the news, there's been a great turn out at the polls.

There are many factors that decided the choices that have been made today. One thing for sure, whatever the out come of the person I voted for, I will not fret nor be afraid,

In God I Trust!

Music to my ears....and heart

2008-10-24T00:04:00.000-04:00

Tonight, I received a phone call from my daughter Irene, who passed the phone, to her daughter, Sarah. "Hi Granma. Thank you for my dress. It's beautiful. I'm beautiful. I'm going to get into the rocket."

Ok, let me translate. I made Sarah's Halloween costume, as she wanted to be June from Little Einsteins and of course, her wish is my command. I made it as frilly as possible. There is four layers of netting in the skirt and the sash and headband are made of satin.

Now that thats done, on to Christmas presents and a Pocahontas costume to add to her Disney Princess dress-ups. Sarah called me a couple of months ago and told me "I love Pocahontas" I got the hint.

Needless to say, I'm glad I'm still not to old to play with dolls!

Care to join the countdown?

2008-10-16T00:07:00.001-04:00

It's official and the countdown begins!!!!!

In about 69 days, Eric will exchange his deployment uniform for a wardrobe of college clothes. He'll be home for Christmas!!!

He still has 3 years in the Army National Guard, but at least deployment will be behind him.

Wasn't that nice?

2008-10-11T23:18:00.000-04:00

I came home form the women's weekend, amazed to find that my hubby had done some cleaning. He cleaned the bathroom (even put a hook for my robe on the back of the bathroom door), did the dishes and put them away and vaccumend the house. Wasn't that nice?

I remember a time when I would go on these women get aways, only to return home to a messy house that I would then have to clean. I guess over the years, my hubby has learned that that doesn't make for a good end to a great weekend. He also helps with the laundry, and yes, he does do windows.

How Precious?

2008-10-02T23:17:00.000-04:00

You know the saying "Curiosity killed the cat?" Well, I think that's the reason cats have 9 lives.

Take for instance the other day. After cleaning up the familyroom and putting away the dvd's, I heard an unusual noise. At first I couldn't discover it's source. The cat wasn't behind the entertainment center, and ther wasn't anything outside in the yard. Yet, by the third time I heard it, I investagated further. As I approached the entertainment center, I heard the noise coming from the lower cabinet. I opend the doors, to see our cat trying to find her way out. Apparently, she went in one side of the cabinet when I was in the other. I closed the doors unaware that she was there.

Monday, when we came home from getting Eric at the airport, I expected the cat to meet us at the door.....no cat. I looked in her hiding places.....no cat. I took out her food container and shook it....no cat. I took the container to the food of the stairs and shook it again.....no cat. I went into the kitchen and ran the electric can opener. Precious (that's the cat's name) will come running because she thinks I'm opening tuna fish.....no cat. John said not to worry, but I had an uneasy feeling.

A little while later, John called me to the kitchen. There he stood, holding Precious. "Guess where I found her?" "I can't imagine." "In the shed in the backyard!" The shed? The shed? How did she get in the shed? Then I remembered. Eariler that morning, I noticed that John had left the shed door open. I went out and closed it before I went to work. Apparently, Precious followed me out and went around me as I went over to close the door and latch it. There she was, for 7 hours. I'm glad it wasn't hot and she didn't have a long wait. I glad John went out to the shed. Has Precious learned her lesson...probably not, after all, she still has 7 lives left.

Doin the happy dance!

2008-09-30T22:18:00.000-04:00

Eric's home! Eric's home! Eric's home! Eric's home.

Doin the happy dance!!!!!!!! You might even call it a jig! After all, there was a layover in Ireland. There were hugs & kisses and more hugs. I said I'd even fake a headache just to get one of his headache kissess.

So we'll dance and hug and be happy if only for a few days.
Doin his laundry. Getting him his favorite food. Let us eat steak!
We rejoice in the fact that he's here and healthy. Though the visit maybe short, his tour of duty is almost done. We're thankful for all of you who have continued to keep Eric in your prayers.

Eric update

2008-09-28T22:12:00.000-04:00

Hey!!!!
Uncle Eric is on his way home!

For those of you interested, Eric is on his way. It's not a direct flight....you might say it takes a couple of days. Expect to get the "Pick me up from DTW" on Tuesday. It's a wait but we couldn't be happier!

Slight delay

2008-09-27T20:13:00.000-04:00

As I expected, Eric did not get off right away, therefore a slight delay. What's the saying...."All good things come to those that wait?" Well, it's worth the wait only if for 2 weeks, part of which will be spent at Spring Arbor University. It seems like just yesterday that I was helping him with his braid at Boot Camp Graduation....it's been 2yrs. Two weeks doesn't seem like enough time, but to me it's enough to know he's ok and having time with family & friends.

I'll admit, it's been a time of trusting God. The day Eric left for Boot Camp wasn't an easy one. I remembered praying, "God, I've raised but the child in the ways he should go, now it's your turn to raise up the man.

I remember the Sunday that Eric came into church wearing his ACU's. I wasn't prepared to see a boy leave my house for weekend duty and a man come into the church. I am thankful and grateful for the boy, the son and the man!

Will let all know when we get the call that he's state side. Thanks for all your support and prayers.

Something new

2008-09-19T00:47:00.001-04:00

This is something new I heard about from my daughters. Like so many other bloggers, you like to know you're connecting with others. This is why I'm trying http://rssHugger.com, to see if I can get some more readers who share my interests.

As this website explains:"rssHugger aims to help visitors be able to easily find blogs that write about subjects they are interested in. These subjects include:Internet marketing, making money online, charity, sports, gambling and many more. If the visitors find a blog that they had not previously heard about, they can easily add it to there rss readers or bookmark it."

If you'd like to sign up, you can go to http://rssHugger,com and register. It's free if you write a review on your blog about it or a one time fee of $20 otherwise.

So what are you waiting for? Come join us!

Coming Home/ counting the days.

2008-09-16T22:17:00.000-04:00

Like Eric, we (his dad & I) are counting the days till he's home for a two week leave. Eric has been in Iraq since Feb. and away from home since Jan. To think we'll see him in the flesh and not this nice night vision picture, is hard to believe. I have mixed emotions. I really haven't allowed myself to think about his being gone. We couldn't be prouder of him and all who have chosen to protect and defend this country. We have a sign in our yard that says "Our Son, Our Soldier, Our Hero".
I sure the two weeks will fly by before we have had time to think. He'll return to Iraq to finish his tour of duty. We pray that his mission is on schedule and he is back in January, which will be just in time to return to Spring Arbor University. Back to a normal; school, and home one weekend a month for Guard duty(this is when I get the pleasure of doing his laundry). What I wouldn't give to do it today!
I'll be patient and continue to trust God to protect Eric, to mold and make him the man God would have him to be.
Please continue to pray for our troops and their loved ones who wait for their return.

Somewhere in Time

2008-09-15T23:41:00.001-04:00

Photographs by Lisabeth Conger

Somewhere in time, that's were we were September 6th. I had invited family & friends to join me in Greenfield Village for the Antique Car Show, but there were rules.

Rules you say....

1. Wear period clothing
2. Participate in choir practice
3. Ride the Merry-go-round
4. East frozen custard.

Simple enough rules don't you think? I let them know that if they don't want to be followed or photographed, not to come because it will happen.

And what's with choir practice....in a public place yet.....? Well, you see, I wanted a way to be a witness and decided that people will stop and listen to singing, so we sing Blessed Assurance, How Great Thou Art & Amazing Grace.

What do you think of the attached photos? I had so many to choose from that it was easy to make a choice. Thank you Lisabeth for helping capture a moment in time for us. Your work is breath taking.

I'd also like to thank those who went with me. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. I know some of you expressed a desire to go back next year. It's something I haven't done in 3 years and I'm glad I went back.

I can no longer procrastinate!

2008-09-09T22:58:00.000-04:00

I can no longer procrastinate! I have been work on a play for more then ? years. I was going strong in writing. I found a wonderful script writing program and went to town typing. All was going well… say “All was going well”, until I tried to download something on the computer and it froze my computer. I figured all was not lost, after all, I saved everything as documents and backed it up on a flash drive.
When we bought a new computer, I transferred my files over and was content to see the play title listed in Documents. That was until I opened the file. Horror of horrors, it was not the new program, but the first script.
Try as we might, we have not been able to get the program off the E drive and printed. The program will not open. I’ve procrastinated long enough. I can’t use the excuse that my computer ate my work. I typed it before, so I’ll type it again.
I’m putting the script program on our new computer and I’ll start again and remember to save it as a document.
I believe that God will tweak it and form it as He did before. After all, it’s His work, His vision. I’m just the instrument that He’s using.

So, the guessing begins

2008-09-09T00:15:00.000-04:00

Remember the abandon silo I wrote about? Well, today on the way to pick up my mom, I noticed that it had been removed from the lot. To my surprise, later on my way to baby sit for Alex I noticed that the lot was now staked out with the black plastic border and a large hill of dirt was now some what in the middle of the lot. So, I guess now the guessing begins. What will they build? What will they put there that they feel we can’t possible live without? Can’t imagine. There’s a Home Depot, a Target on the back section, a strip mall with an Arby’s at one end and an Ink Stop at the other. So now what? I guess it remains to be seen.

The tradition continues

2008-09-06T23:05:00.000-04:00

This week ended on a happy note. I returned to Greenfield Village for the Antique Car show and a picnic lunch. This is something I’ve done on and off for the past 25 years. It started as a fluke. I had been doing costumes for Mt. Clemens High school and the Macomb Theatre for Performing Arts (now the Emerald). I’m a history buff, though I’ll admit that I wasn’t into history when I was in school. Any way, my favorite time period is the late 1880 - 1911. I had costumes in storage and thought that the Antique Car Show would be a good place to use them. The first time we went, it was just my daughters (who were 5 ½ & 3 ½ at the time) 2 of my neighbors and myself. What an experience. We did a kick line to the music of a jazz band, which gained great applause and a theractial bow from Amy. We are photographed constantly throughout the day. Over the years, I have been give an award photo from Robinson's photography and 2 oil paintings (actually Irene has 1) from Morley Hasson of Trenton, Michigan.

(This photo is of stroller at Greenfield, not my costumes)

Over the course of the past 25 years as few a 4 have gone and as many as 22 and I’ve costumed them all. I even gave a personal Victorian Shower for a friend. We dressed to attend and paid to get in. I started a new tradition that year…choir practice. We sang songs from the early 1900’s.(Blessed Assurance, Amazing Grace & How Great Thou Art).

This year, after a 3 year absence, there were 8 adults and 10 children who went. Only my daughter Amy and grandson Alex had new costumes. The rest chose something from my vast collection. I was a bit discouraged because my favorite costume no longer fit. Imagine that, after 25 years….time for a new one…next year.

So far, the feed back from the group that went this year has been good. Some even request costumes of their own for next year (oh happy sewing!!!) So the tradition continues…fun, fellowship, antique cars, choir practice and a picnic lunch and endless pictures taken. I will share some of those pictures in the future as we had an amateur photographer join us this year.

I don't remember seeing that before

2008-09-02T22:38:00.000-04:00

Is it me, or has anyone else noticed that this world is in a mad rush? I try to stay calm and at easy when I'm behind the steering wheel, but there are times I get pulled into the fast flow of traffic.
I believe that if I keep the calm edge as I travel to work, that I’ll maintain a calm edge at work. If I feel I really need the calming edge on the way to work, I purposely take a different route that requires calm! Or I’ll take my favorite scenic route to enjoy the view and relish the creation of God. Lately, my alternative routes are under construction, so I take them only if I really feel the need to slow down.
Anyway, last week as I was caught in the flow of the fast track as I traveled west bound on Hall Road (M59), I was astounded to see something I hadn’t noticed before. There in the middle of what use to be a clump of trees,(now a cleared lot) stood an abandon silo. It looks out of place as it stands as a reminder of a farm that is no more. Behind this lot, which by the way is for sale (no surprise there) stand a new Target (not yet open) and a Home Depot.
I remember when Hall road was a two lane road and it took forever to go from Gratiot to Van Dyke. It was a boring trip with nothing but farms to see. What I wouldn’t give for even one of those farms today. Progress has pushed farming out of this area. Ah progress! How many strip mall and gas stations can we have? How many malls for that matter?
I guess I’ve said all this to just say…..remember to take the scenic route, the calming route once in a while and relish what little scenic nature progress has left us.
Drive calm, take a deep breathe and enjoy the gift of nature that God has given us, as you inevitably get pulled into the fast track.

Out of Chronicalogical Order

2008-09-01T22:32:00.000-04:00

Ah, the love of a good book.

You may think this silly, but I’m reading the Chronicles of Narnia. The desire to read it came after seeing the movie “The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe.” Then they released “Prince Caspian”. I didn’t want to see the second movie until I read the book. Yeah, I know that the book and movie usually aren’t the same, but that’s ok.

So, I picked up my son Eric’s book and started reading “The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe”, which is the second book in the chronicles. Ok, ok, so I read it out of order, but that was the first movie. What difference does that make? Actually none, but that’s where I started.

I did go back and read the first book (The Magician’s Nephew) and when I finished it I was glad to know how certain things came about in Narnia. I’m now in the third book (The Horse and His Boy). It’s been a great challenge, but worth it. Sometimes a book is better then turning on the TV.

This past August, I had the opportunity to visit the Botanical Gardens in St. Louis and took a lot of pictures. I took this picture because it reminded me of the lamp post in Narnia after the snow melted.

Well, 3 more books to read and then the chronicles will be complete. The next book is Prince Caspian. Then I rent the movie.

Let me end with this, there's just something about Narnia and Aslan, that stirs my heart. I'm like a kid in a new adventure, and I'm greatful for authors like C. S. Lewis. I could only hope that one day something I wrote would stir the heart of man

Transformation / Transition

2008-08-31T23:08:00.000-04:00

Today, the church service was about "Transformation and Transition. These are two things we go through in life. We as individuals, make transformations for one age group to another.

Exp: infant, toddler, youngester, preteen, teen, young adult, adult & senior citizen.

We make transitions from elementary to middle school, to high school, to college. We make transitions in jobs and in locations. Each transformation and transition brings adjustments to change. Some adjustments come easily, while others take time.

Look at the butterfly. It wasn't always a butterfly, it went through transformation. Can you imagine if a butterfly decided to stay in the pupa stage? To go through 3 transformations, form a cocoon and decided that that was far enough in life. How tragic never to transform into what God called it to be.

Tell me, are you set in your ways, or are you willing to transform yet again into what God has called you to be, or make a transition to get to the place God's called you to?

It's given me something to really think about. What about you?

A different prespective

2008-08-30T00:18:00.000-04:00

They say “The grass is always greener on the other side”. The other side of what? The fence? The other side of the grass? The other side of grass is dirt and roots and bugs. The other side of the fence is probably grass envy.
This summer, I had a opportunity to really look at one of my favorite flowers…though some would call it a weed, but I really took time to look at Queen Anne’s Lacy. I’d seen it from a distance as it danced in breeze and I seen it grace the roadside or an open field, but I never took the time to really look at it.

Queen Anne’s Lacy is just that, God’s lace. If you turn it upside down it looks like the inside of an umbrella this it’s green ribs. The flowers themselves are very intricate. It’s not just a flower, but several tiny little flowers that make up the one.

I was amazed by it’s beauty and it’s delicacy. I was stunned by it’s intricacy. In this vast universe, God in all His Glory, created this extraordinary flower. If He took the time to put all of this into what we deem a “simple weed”, then think about all He took time to put into each of us. We are His workmanship, uniquely and wonderfully made.

I sat in amazement and awe as I studied this flower. I held it gently in my hand as I examined it. It made me wonder, how much more of God’s creation had I taken for granted?

“Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.(Matt.6:28-29)

So, take time, not just to smell the roses, but stop and take time to really enjoy the beauty of God’s creation.

Can you say STRESSED!

2008-08-29T00:41:00.000-04:00

Did you ever have an idea that you thought might be a possible opportunity in life? You know, the WOW idea that could bring in some money? The creative thing you like to do that could become something great? Well, until this week, I always thought I could do something more with my sewing…..something on a grander scale then what I’m doing now. My experience with week with running a business changed all that!
My boss went to Mexico for her sister’s wedding and left me in charge of the shop. I’ve run the shop before…a couple of hours here….a day there, but never for a business week. Mind you, I had help from my co-workers, but the thought of making sure all went well was overwhelming.
Actually, I was stressing out over nothing. I was being overly concerned. Through it all, I discovered a couple of things.
1) God is in control.
2) The bible says that being anxious does not add to your life. That’s true. It only gives you headaches!
3) I’d rather create and let someone else handle the business end of things.
In conclusion, as for this week, I’m gonna lay it down! Gonna let it go! Gonna let it be!
(Words of Natalie Grant) I’ve learned a lot. I also know that if called upon to do it again, I would with more confidence and less stress.

Second entry......?????

2008-08-27T23:48:00.000-04:00

I just finished writing my second post and noticed a misspelled word. I went to edit and try as I might, I had problems. When I finally thought I had it worked out, I hit the button....and poof.....all I had was the opening sentences and the rest was gone.
I guess bloging isn't as easy as I thought it would be. I still have a lot to learn.

Tooooo tired to redo the post. I'll try again tomorrow.
Till then.

To blog or not to blog, that is the question

2008-08-26T23:24:00.000-04:00

Well, here goes nothing. It seems the thing to do these days is to blog. First it was "Myspace" and then "Facebook" now it's blogging. Well, I don't want to be behind the times, so this is my debut.
I love to write, and there are those who say I love to talk....true, that is one of my faults. I read somewhere if you think it, blog it. My aim is to share from the heart. There are everyday thing that God shows me and these are the things I want to share.

So, here I am world! The first of many blogs.