And Then God Said...

Fundraising for Friends

2011-07-31T22:06:00.005-06:00

My friends, the Rubenstien's, are bringing home more preciousness from China and they are in the final push of fund-raising. Soon, very soon they will receive the last paperwork OK to go to China to bring Max home. :D

Here is the link to their family blog.

Please look it over and consider if you'd like to donate and in doing so, you could win an IPad 2!!! An IPAD 2, people!! ::squeeeal::

You can win additional chances by linking your blog to theirs, or linking their blog to your FB. Remember, we are not all called to adopt, but we are all called to assist the widow and the orphan in their distress. Honestly, once you get started, it's rather addicting. :)

Dreams ... and Letting Go

2011-07-29T08:46:00.004-06:00

Since CollegeGirl was 14, she has declared she has wanted to be a realtor. Out local state university has such a program, a realdeal 4 year program. CollegeGirl has worked hard and is ahead of the curve, as far as credits, because she took many college-level courses, while still a high school student.

But, she is not happy with the real estate program. We are not surprised by this, as the coursework is heavily focused on numbers, accounting, etc. She took a elective course that really seemed like a great fit for her. She loved the creative outlet it provided for her. The photo is a project she had to present for the class. She was presenting a nursery design. I'd hire her. :)

So, we encouraged her to change majors and finish up her degree in design, vs. real estate. Annnd we thought that's what the fall would bring. But, we were wrong.

CollegeGirl will become EastCoastGirl in a matter of a few days. She feels she needs to be in NYC. She has a friend there, but nothing else. And by 'nothing else', I mean *nothing else*. No job, no school, no place to live, no money, no plan.

And no amount of logic and reasoning will dissuade her form trying her wings. She is going. And I am worried and sad and worried and sad and worried and sad. lol I do not know where God is in all this, but of course, I trust that He is.

So, if you think of my dear, sweet, treasure of a daughter, would you please pray for her ? I am concerned, most of all, for her safety. Midwest girl meets the mean streets of NY? ugh

This is a song I used to sing over BabyGirl, LittleGirl and soon, EastCoastGirl. I will lay hands on her and bless her with this verse/song, as she heads out into the big world:

"The Lord bless you and keep you,
The Lord make His face shine upon you.
And give you peace forever.

The Lord be gracious to you,
The Lord turn His face toward you
And give you peace forever".

*To be a mother, is to forever consent to having your heart walking outside your body".*

A Helping Hand

2011-07-24T22:24:00.004-06:00

EWWWW!! What *is* that creepy thing?

Hi!! I'm waving to you!! Do you see me??

Yes. We see you. What ARE you?

Oh. I see now. You're a back scratcher. hahaha

But, wait. WHY are you here? Weirdo. ::snorts::

On FB one evening, I mentioned that I had an itch in the middle of my back, where I could not reach it myself and jokingly asked it anyone was willing to either come over and scratch my back or bring me a back scratcher so I could do it myself.

Several days later, one the front porch was THIS. And I laughed and laughed and laughed. And I knew immediately which lovely friend had left the gift for me. Because really? How many friends does a person have who would do this for her?

Anyway. I love that creeeepy thing. It says 'LOVE' to me. :D

On my husband's dashboard --UPDATED with related link

2011-07-17T10:52:00.005-06:00

This is from God's mouth to my ears, if you ask me. We are looking at a very challenging upcoming school year, as budget cuts and other changes will change the way we do our jobs.

I am not in control of any thing but my attitude. I will require God's help *daily*, as I navigate the changes, live in the tension and strive to serve the children well.

Prayers appreciated. XO

UPDATED: PS here is a blog I love, with similar concerns, only she had the energy to think the problem through and do the math related to the changes in her job description. Please know that, although she and I are both school-based speech/language pathologists, we do not know one another and do not work in the same state. These problems are severe and widespread. I am sure most parents do not know what is about to hit them (metaphorically speaking) regarding their child's school-based speech services. God help us.

Warm Evening Light

2011-07-16T18:44:00.002-06:00

Glorious!!

Last Week's Offerings

2011-07-16T18:42:00.005-06:00

Came home last weekend to this ::gasp:: worthy arrangement of blooms. I love them! The bright colors, the shapes?

Magnificent job, LittleGirl.

Where I Started ...

2011-07-15T21:44:00.003-06:00

... Is (hopefully) not where I am going.

I do this once every two weeks (set up my medicines). I feel like I live in a nursing home. ugh

Cancer Sux

2011-07-14T20:44:00.002-06:00

Yeah. After Mark's brother's recent cancer diagnosis, I bought us ALL these buttons to wear or display. Love that boy's mischievous smile. Heh.

Crude? I don't even wanna hear about it. CANCER is an icky, hateful thing and we know soooo many people who currently struggle or who have lost their battle.

I pray we can help Lee fight well.

Roots

2011-07-12T21:09:00.002-06:00

I know very little about my family of origin. I have questions and no-one to ask. So, I have a new hobby: Ancestry.com.

I have few hobbies. I shop at Goodwill and drive an 11 year old car. So, I finally gave myself permission to pay the fee and have access to all portions of the site. And I have been having a blast.

Part detective, part history and part family tree ... I am into discovering what I can.

Exciting Times to be an Iowan

2011-07-03T13:50:00.005-06:00

I was able to attend the recent, hometown announcement of Michelle Bachmann's Presidential candidacy.

Yes, I really was *that* close. She is a tiny (but mighty) little thing.

Some of Michelle's family members: daughters, son, mom, etc.

It is too soon for me to know who I will support in the upcoming primary and nomination. But Michelle Bachmann is the real deal: she is a true conservative, patriot, mom, Christian, etc. I feel she is a strong contender. I had a great time at her rally, getting to know her better.

And yes, that is little ole me, shaking Michelle's hand (captured by our local paper, The Waterloo Courier).

Chia

2011-06-28T17:46:00.002-06:00

One serving per day of this stuff is supposed to help the inflammation in my body. At this point, I will try it.

Just like any Kid ...

2011-06-25T19:33:00.001-06:00

... Scout likes to lick the beaters. lol This is from Mark's Father's Day cake (which he made himself). Poor guy.

Breakfast in Paradise

2011-06-21T22:05:00.001-06:00

CollegeGirl and her friend from NYC (formerly a classmate) and I enjoyed breakfast together this AM. What a treat. <3

All My Peeps

2011-06-18T10:02:00.002-06:00

My brother, Russell, in the front, the Hubs, CollegeGirl, Mindy (CollegeGradBoy's gf), CollegeGradBoy and Michelle, Russell's wife. On my couch. Having fun.

We had a great week together. And I miss them already.

Our Naughty Doggie

2011-06-14T08:18:00.004-06:00

So, our doggie is old. Since we adopted her from the Humane Society, we don't know HOW old, but based on her health and behavior, let's just say our Scout it likely in her 'happy, golden years'. haha

Only she's not so happy. She's a bit cranky. And snappish. Unless you are leaving her alone or giving her a treat of boiled chicken breast. She especially hates to be 'messed with', which translates to holding, petting, and most of all *grooming*. She HATES that ... even bathing. Poor thing.

So, she is the naughty dog at the doggie spa. The one that requires her dog mother to be called and to come and pick her up from the groomer, half-shaved. haha Please refer to photo #1 in the sequence. Doesn't she look like a lioness? ::snort::

The groomer was mortified to send her home like that, but we had told her to please call us, if Scout was grumpy. We knew we needed to make a Plan B. So, we did. It included the doggie equivalent of valium. heh Please refer to photo #2 to see how our doggie spent her next 16 hours ... She was a MESS. Unable to walk, *wanting* to be held and near us--totally not herself.

Lastly, we told the groomer to essentially shave her. No more "Best in Show" hairstyles for Scoutie. No sir. Since she hates all things dog spa, we wanted to have her as easy care and sanitary as possible (that means her flow-y tail is shaved like a rat--haha).

She looks quite a bit different (see photo #3), but we think she will be happier. And that's what matters to us. :)

Livin' on the Edge

2011-06-12T07:55:00.001-06:00

Recent loaner car drama ^^^. 0 miles to empty? Yikes!!

Thankfully, I coasted into a gas station just in the nick of time. Phew...

For A Good Cause

2011-06-10T20:48:00.002-06:00

Not that I needed a real reason (Oh, OK ... I wouldn't normally spend this much on jewelry), but purchasing these two lovelies allowed us to help send a friend of our daughter's to dance camp.

I really like them. And I have noticed that, with jewelry, like everything else, you get what you pay for. I'm slow like that. lol

Sweet Girl

2011-06-10T14:40:00.001-06:00

CollegeGirl house sat and dog sat for us last weekend and when we came home, we found a clean house and well-cared-for elderly dog, homemade peanut butter cookies and lovely fresh flowers on the table.

What a pleasant surprise. :D

Just before I took the photo, it was 100 ...

2011-06-10T08:04:00.002-06:00

In early June, this is just too much SUMMER for me. Thankfully, a cool front came in yesterday and has made everything more spring-like. Ahhhhh ...

My Brother is Here!!

2011-06-09T17:52:00.002-06:00

My brother and I at ages (?) 1 and 3? I love our outfits, the bossy way I am gripping his waist (ahaa!!), our smiles and my blue eyes and his brown ones.

My brother and his wife are here!! Since they live and work in India, we see each other only once per yer. And this time, they are here for almost 10 days!! Yay!!

HouseGuests

2011-06-08T13:59:00.003-06:00

Mama Robin and her two (three?) babies. Aren't they so ugly, they're CUTE? I love watching them from my window.

The Hip and Historic Black Hawk Hotel

2011-06-08T09:45:00.006-06:00

This place was beautifully restored, immaculate and was staffed by the most professional, customer-service-minded people we have encountered in a looong while. Our room was comfy (though I did miss my Tempurpedic mattress) and luxuriously appointed: including a TV screen built into the vanity mirror in the bathroom and a well-stocked (and untouched, because we are CHEAP) minibar.

Thank you, Hotel Black Hawk for an awesome weekend. We would happily return!

Suiter History

2011-06-08T09:07:00.006-06:00

The Jacob Suiter House.

The John Suiter House.

The Horton-Suiter House

These are three of four homes in Le Claire (home of the American Pickers, remember?) which were inhabited looong ago by people who share my married name. They were early settlers and river pilots. Cool, huh? Here is a link to follow, just in case you'd like to read more.

Our Annual Celebrations Get Away

2011-06-06T17:46:00.012-06:00

We ate here on Sunday afternoon on the way home. It was fabulous. It is a sister restaurant to the original Vinny Vanucci's in Galena. Same menu. Same atmosphere. But, I tried a new dish and LOVED it! Sometimes, change is good.

We ate here on Saturday evening. This was the 3rd time we had been there. It is in Moline, IL., right on the Mighty Mississippi. Catfish for me and blue crab cakes for the hubs. Everybody was happy.

Friday afternoon, we stopped in this tiny little town (Wilton) for a light lunch and ice cream. The Wilton Candy Kitchen has been in the same family since 1909. The Napolous family actually waited on us--George and Thelma. They must be in their 80's. So sweet. I had a chocolate malt and the hubs went all wild and tried something called a 'Hadocal'. We also bought a homemade chocolate turtle candy to share. Yumm.

Love me some retro neon.

Yipppe!! Saturday (my birthday), I slept till ::gasp:: 10 AM and the hubs surprised me with his gifts for me while I was still in bed. Then, we got ready and headed off to the tiny town of Le Calire, IA ... home of the History Channel's 'American Pickers'.

They happened to be having their second annual American Picker's City-wide Festival. Oh. Em. Gee. The CROWDS, people. The CROWDS. lol

Only two of the three TV show stars were in town (Danielle and Mike), but the line to see them was L O N G and it was so. stinkin. HOT, we decided it wasn't worth it to get a photo with them. Maybe another day. LOL

So, we spent the weekend celebrating 11 YEARS of marriage and celebrated our 49th and 59 years of life, respectively. It was great to play and nap and eat and drive around and look at cool things with my best friend. I love that man fiercely and would marry him again. Oh, yes I would. <3

Remembering ...

2011-05-29T22:29:00.005-06:00

My MIL's parents. We bought fresh stem-dyed flowers, because we liked the strong color. We liked it on our hands, too. NOT! lol

Mark and his mom at my FIL's grave.

We still miss him every day, especially Virginia. He will be gone 2 years on July 9th.

This is Mark's Grandmother (his paternal). She was quite a lady. I surely loved her. And we miss her, too.

Eternity beckons ...

Nom Nom Nom ...

2011-05-27T15:46:00.004-06:00

How cute and retro!! Reminds me of my teen years. Hubby brought these home.

Oh my, this was yummy. And it was on 'clearance' at Tarjay. :D

That is Nice and Plain (and hopefully, effective)

2011-05-24T19:23:00.001-06:00

Things that make me sad ...

2011-05-22T19:49:00.004-06:00

I was heading home one day last week, when THWACK!! something hit my windshield. It was so BIG (whatever it was) that I ducked (as though that would have helped) and my ears were still ringing many miles later. Hopefully, it can be repaired tomorrow. If not, it will have to be replaced.

NO COMMENT. ^^^^ Bah.

They STILL make me laugh ...

2011-05-21T19:31:00.005-06:00

Grown and gone (mostly), but they still crack me up.

Here are two recent examples, one from CollegeBoy and one from CollegeGirl.

This is the enclosure card from my Mother's Day roses (clicking on it will make it larger). This child has called me "My Good Laiden", since he was about 9 or 10. I have no idea *why* he calls me that or where it came from. It is just a family joke at this point. He told me the "Le Tummie'" part was French. ::chuckles::

This is the text I received from CollegeGirl (clicking on the photo will make it larger). Please note that the text was received at the unholy hour of !!4:26 AM!!. I read the text, chuckled (note the theme?) and invited her over. She came.

I will post those photos another time. haha

Celebrations

2011-05-15T17:18:00.012-06:00

Coach Suiter's first year coaching high school boy's tennis (he has been a life-long player) and he and his team are district CHAMPS!! We are wonderfully proud of and happy for him.

Little Miss Ayla is celebrating her 1st Birthday Monday. We celebrated Saturday. She stayed pretty close to mom.

Opening her gift from us. Love her little scrunchy face.

Like most babies, Ayla loved playing with the wrapping paper. Tearing things is fun. :)

Ooooh! A pastel shape sorter. Wow!!

It was Daddy Brian's (Mark's oldest child) 33rd Birthday, too. Mark wrapped up an old trophy of his and made a label to go over the engraving, in honor of Brian's winning season.

Grandma (Mark's mom) made both cakes. They were yummy.

Ayla is feeling a bit suspicious of all this.

This was Ayla's first taste of sugar. She was not too sure...

It's fun to play with, but doesn't seem to be her favorite.

Here, Daddy. You have some.

I think I'm all done now ...

Happy Birthday, Brian and Ayla!! We pray for many happy returns of the day!

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-09T18:15:00.011-06:00

CollegeBoy (who graduates in 3 weeks) showing off his plate that says, "I heart u" in fruit. Still my little boy.

Mark baked all morning in preparation of our brunch.

My children STILL fight over this Pokemon card and until our brunch doubted its existence (in my protective custody).

My and my blessings.

My two (mis)behaving with each other on the couch.

Mark and his Mama, Virginia.

CollegeBoy and CollegeGirl making Grandma laugh.

I am too lazy to fix the sideways-ness of this photo, but this is the cover of my Mother's Day card from Mark. HAHA

Roses from CollegeBoy and artfully arranged by CollegeGirl. Lovely!!

Mark bought me a peony bush!! I have wanted one for YEARS (since I moved from the house that had such lovely ones). I hope I don't KILL it. ::snort::

Atlas Shrugged

2011-05-07T20:04:00.006-06:00

This week, there was only one place in Iowa showing the movie and it was 100 miles away.
What were we to do??

Roooad Trippp.

"Come on, Honey. Take our picture. You do it. OK. Did you get it? Here, let me see it".
::mock smack to shoulder:: "Your eyes are closed. Did you do that on purpose??"
(the look on his face confirms this)
::chuckles::

Great movie. Very current to our nation's happenings.
It does rank as the most expensive movie we've ever seen though,
what with the 4 DOLLAR per GALLON gas.
ugh

Great Minds and all that ...

2011-05-04T03:49:00.001-06:00

My work-mate, Hollie and I were mildly amused one day last week, by the fact that we had on very similar necklaces. W felt so much amusement, that we had our picture made together.

Work friends are a blessing.

Pretty bottle ...

2011-05-03T16:55:00.003-06:00

I told you that my shallow method of choosing a bottle of wine is 90% packaging. Is this bottle pretty?

(click on the photo to enlarge) And the description sounds good, too, right? Well, pretty bottle and pretty words aside, this is no cupcake-tasting wine. Butter? Cream?? Say what?

It is a decent enough Chardonnay, I will say. But it is nooooo 'Cupcake'. lol

PS They also have a Cupcake Vineyards "Red Velvet" wine. Twenty bucks says it come home with me sometime. I am a sucker.

Itedra

2011-05-01T07:17:00.003-06:00

Mark and I have known Itedra (and her two brothers) since they were adopted by a couple in our church. We taught them in Sunday school. I taught Itedra during our church's Purity! sleepovers.

And yesterday, it was her day to SHINE at her graduation open house. It was great to see her Mama, friends and family. Wonderful to reminisce at her growing up years. Itedra is sugar and sunshine: God's very own sweetness and light.

She has plans to go away to college and maybe enter into full time ministry. I pray God's best for her now and always. Don't be a stranger, T. See ya on FB. :D

My Favorite Holy-Day

2011-04-30T12:20:00.004-06:00

The program from the church service we attended with Mark's mom (my MIL). Love, love, LOVE EASTER!

Sorry for the intense blur. Wrong setting on the purse ca, apparently. Here are CollegeBoy and Mindy, who were *such* good sports to play with grandson, Caleb for almost 2 hours--hiding eggs and fake wrestling in the yard. It was great fun. :D

The Easter Feast ready to go. CollegeGirl sent the bouquet (and made it, by the way) and had no idea the color scheme of my table. Isn't it perfect?

Beautiful!!! Asiatic Lilies and Tulips. Gorgeous.

::AHEM::

2011-04-30T12:16:00.002-06:00

I am certianly *quite* behind in my 2nd round of Project 365 (or whatever it is called). Therefore, I believe I will throw in the towel for this year.

I haven't been "feeling" the blog as much lately, thus the abhorrent lack of posting a photo/entry per day. I do not know what is up that, I only know I am not interested now.

So, I have some photos I will share. And some thoughts. But the 'pressure' of the 365 thingie was just not working for me anymore.

So, I look forward to a more leisurely pace, without the guilt of missing a day (or two--or 12!--haha). Fair enough? Good.

Thanks to anyone who continues to pop over here to check the site (that means you, Sweet Delores). :)

A Mother's Prayer by Tina Fey (from "Bossypants") PG-13

2011-04-17T21:03:00.000-06:00

First, Lord: No tattoos. May neither Chinese symbol for truth nor Winnie-the-Pooh holding the FSU logo stain her tender haunches.

May she be Beautiful but not Damaged, for it’s the Damage that draws the creepy soccer coach’s eye, not the Beauty.

When the Crystal Meth is offered, May she remember the parents who cut her grapes in half. And stick with Beer.

Guide her, protect her

When crossing the street, stepping onto boats, swimming in the ocean, swimming in pools, walking near pools, standing on the subway platform, crossing 86th Street, stepping off of boats, using mall restrooms, getting on and off escalators, driving on country roads while arguing, leaning on large windows, walking in parking lots, riding Ferris wheels, roller-coasters, log flumes, or anything called “Hell Drop,” “Tower of Torture,” or “The Death Spiral Rock ‘N Zero G Roll featuring Aerosmith,” and standing on any kind of balcony ever, anywhere, at any age.

Lead her away from Acting but not all the way to Finance. Something where she can make her own hours but still feel intellectually fulfilled and get outside sometimes And not have to wear high heels.

What would that be, Lord? Architecture? Midwifery? Golf course design? I’m asking You, because if I knew, I’d be doing it, Youdammit.

May she play the Drums to the fiery rhythm of her Own Heart with the sinewy strength of her Own Arms, so she need Not Lie With Drummers.

Grant her a Rough Patch from twelve to seventeen. Let her draw horses and be interested in Barbies for much too long, For childhood is short – a Tiger Flower blooming Magenta for one day – And adulthood is long and dry-humping in cars will wait.

O Lord, break the Internet forever, That she may be spared the misspelled invective of her peers And the online marketing campaign for Rape Hostel V: Girls Just Wanna Get Stabbed.

And when she one day turns on me and calls me a Bitch in front of Hollister, Give me the strength, Lord, to yank her directly into a cab in front of her friends, For I will not have that Shit. I will not have it.

And should she choose to be a Mother one day, be my eyes, Lord, that I may see her, lying on a blanket on the floor at 4:50 A.M., all-at-once exhausted, bored, and in love with the little creature whose poop is leaking up its back.

“My mother did this for me once,” she will realize as she cleans feces off her baby’s neck. “My mother did this for me.” And the delayed gratitude will wash over her as it does each generation and she will make a Mental Note to call me. And she will forget. But I’ll know, because I peeped it with Your God eyes.

#100/365 An Afternoon Date with CollegeGirl

2011-04-09T20:24:00.006-06:00

CollegeGirl texted me early in the week to ask if I wanted to do lunch on Friday PM. Thankfully, it worked with my schedule and it was fun to look forward to the date all week. We went to a local place we had both heard about, but neither of us had been before. The place is called Barn Happy and we both loved it.

I had tuna Salad with many added veggies on some organic nut and raisin bread with raspberry tea. This was my lunch. It was fabulous.

Here is CollegeGirl's lunch. She chose peach tea, spinach quiche and cheesy soup.

After this, we even had dessert (which was also amazing).

Shopping and a trip to the beauty salon rounded out a perfect afternoon. What a treat. <3

#99/365 Walnut --Iowa's 'Antique City' (Friday)

2011-04-09T20:16:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the tree---I was being lazy. :) I think I read that there are 12 of these murals in this tiny town. Main Street consists almost exclusively of antique stores.

I promised the hubs we would only stay an hour in town, exploring shops and I kept my word. We didn't buy anything, either. lol

#98/365 Wind Farms (Thursday)

2011-04-09T20:10:00.006-06:00

There are many dozens of these wind turbines cropping up all across Iowa. They are HUGE. And they make a really nifty, quiet ::whoosh::whoosh::whoosh:: sound, as they turn. :)

#97/365 HOT!! (Wednesday)

2011-04-09T20:09:00.003-06:00

#96/365 Yummy (Tuesday)

2011-04-09T20:06:00.003-06:00

Picked these up at a Cracker Barrel on the way home from Nebraska. I would buy them again. :)

#95/365 Sunset with the Cranes (Monday)

2011-04-09T19:55:00.009-06:00

#94/365 Sand Hill Cranes (Sunday)

2011-04-09T19:48:00.008-06:00

#93/365 Raptor Cam (Saturday)

2011-04-09T19:38:00.004-06:00

Have you been watching the Eagle Family on the live web camera from Decorah, Iowa? The live footage has captured the laying of three eggs, through their hatching and now follows the little fuzzy eaglets.

We have seen Mama and Daddy bring home fish, rats, rabbits, etc., to feed their brood and then feed little bits to them. Schools have been following along and I think the site has been featured on some national morning shows.

Such a cool thing technology is, huh? How could we all have ever seen such miracles before the camera was placed? The camera runs 24/7, 7 days a week and is pure magic. Hatched in Iowa.

#92/365 My Furry Baby (Friday)

2011-04-09T19:32:00.003-06:00

Poor Scout. She has been sick and traumatized by all the tests and the boarding.

She was reportedly "not herself" with the groomer because of it. She will not likely forget, any time soon, the injustices she perceives and remembers.

Poor furry baby. She has had such a hard life for a little dog.

#90/365 A(Lo)aner Again, Naturally (Thursday)

2011-04-09T19:27:00.003-06:00

When you drive an almost 12 year old car, well ... a lot of time in a loaner car is inevitable. We seem to attract Ford Fusions lately. :)

The Blog ... it Mocks Me

2011-04-08T21:13:00.002-06:00

This poor empty, boring, uninspired blog.

Why is it empty? Because I am boring.

Why am I boring? Because I am uninspired.

Why am I uninspired? Because I am empty.

Wait. What?

Now, I think we're onto something ...

::leaves to ponder her serendipitous profundity::

#89/365 Museum Quality Hoarding

2011-03-30T20:07:00.005-06:00

I have gone to the same accountant in the same small town for 20 years. He is a big farmer-type, who collects all things farm-related. And when I say 'collect', I mean on a L A R G E scale.

He currently has his office in the small town's former library/fire station. Yes, in small towns people tend to multi-task their buildings. :) And the building is FULL to the rafters of collectibles. Not junk. Really cool things, related to the history of agriculture.

Until our most recent trip the the accountant (yay, taxes!--- bah), I had never seen the garage (former fire truck garage bays) full of machines and antique creamery memorabilia and butter and milk packages/bottles, magazines, calendars, signs, farm toys, etc., etc., etc. Such cool stuff.

Of course, we asked him if he watches the History channel's show "American Picker$". And of course, he does. Would he part with any of his treasures? Nope, he says. He is happy to keep collecting.

And doing our taxes. :)

#88/365 Planes

2011-03-29T17:38:00.004-06:00

Another CollegeGirl Project for her Design Class. The assignment is called, "Planes" and was to be a 3-D representation of a photo, displayed in a shadow box. CollegeGirl chose a photo from her trip to Cambodia and Thailand last Christmas.

It is really hard to see in the photo, but each of the figures is cut out, mounted on foam board and stacked, to give the 3-D effect.

It looked really sweet, when she was finished. I hope she will display it in her new place ... or I hope she'll give it me. tee hee

#87/365 Timing

2011-03-29T17:34:00.002-06:00

This came in the mail while we were on vacation.

I imagine this will be a hard post to fill now. Makes me sad. :(

My sis-in-law lived and taught in Japan for years and loved it.

Chance to Win a DSLR Camera and Help a Cutie Pie Come Home

2011-03-27T10:54:00.008-06:00

This is Max. Is he not the cutest thing ever??

He is waiting, in China, for his Mama to come and get him and take him home to where he will always belong.

Here is a blog of a family I know through the land of international adoption.

They are a niftykeen family, blended in many special ways: bio kids, step kids (though they do NOT use that term), internationally adopted kids, domestically adopted child, special needs kids, Jewish husband, Christian wife, who makes a MEAN matzo ball soup. I told you. Niftykeen, right?

Check out their blog ... and then, for chances to win, you may donate to PayPal, link to your blog or your FB page, for additional chances to win a DSLR camera. Help them help Max to come HOME. :)

#86/365 Serendipity

2011-03-27T09:46:00.009-06:00

We went to the local fish market (which we have not visited for ... not even kidding ... probably 15 years), because I have had a craving for fresh fish, since our recent vacation. The market is in the shadow of the vacant and decaying part of town, which used to house the enormous packing plant owned by Rath. Not much traffic through this dead and dying part of town.

Not at all central to this post, but interesting nonetheless, is the fact that we were witnesses to a high speed, 6 car police chase right past us. Seriously, the speech limit is likely 20 mph in this area and the police cars --- and vehicle being chased, were likely going 65 mph---YIKES.

The policemen apprehended the young ummm ... person at the end of the street, after he crashed his getaway car into a car parked in a driveway. ::blinkblink:: BIG EYES

The next stop (after the fresh catfish) was to purchase a new lab coat for the hubs. He is a PT and wears one to work each day. As we entered the strip mall parking lot, we saw this sight... ^^^ And it made us laugh and immediately think of this SNL skit.

It has only been open a few months and it looked a little sketchy. But, we decided to give the Honey Garden a try. We each had a gyro. They were EXCELLENT.

Man, that whole Spicy Lovers section on the menu makes me giggle. We are not lovers of spicy food, so we didn't go there, so to speak. Bwahahahaha!!

But, we will be back to the Honey Garden and will try other greek dishes. Yummmm. :D

#85/365 Sicker than a ... Dog

2011-03-27T09:36:00.003-06:00

It took awhile to realize that our little Doggie-Daughter was sick, not herself. Really sick, it turned out. She was NOT eating at all.

The results of her overnight stay at the vet indicated (through X-rays and blood draws) that Scout has an enlarged heart and liver, elevated liver enzymes, dehydration, tonsillitis, dirty teeth (::ahem::) and a herniated/bad disc in her back. Poor doggie.

The prescribed course of treatment included: IV fluids, a course of antibiotics and after she recovers from the tonsillitis, we will make a plan that may include heart medication and watching the liver situation.

It has been several days, since she began the antibiotic and we can certainly see the improvement. We will see what comes next, but the vet seems to think we can probably plan on several more good years with our aging dogdog. :)

#84/365 CAUGHT UP (again!)

2011-03-25T21:52:00.003-06:00

#83/365 Funny, but True

2011-03-25T21:42:00.005-06:00

Don'tcha just love Wallflowers from Bath and Body Works? I do. So many fragrances. Such fun.

But, the last TWO Wallflowers I have had, did not work. No matter what I did (changing outlets, making sure the fragrance globe was fastened tightly, etc.) nothing seemed to work. No fragrance could be detected. NONE.

And after trying to talk to employees on two occasions (and getting nowhere), I had an epiphany one day, as I walked past the blasted, non-working Wallflower. For the first time, I had purchased a Wallflower with a *colored* globe. ::coughcough::

The thing had been EMPTY for at least 2 months, with me, (duh!) thinking that the color indicated it was FULL of fragrance goo.

OWHA-TA-DOR-KIAM.

#82/365 Project

2011-03-25T21:36:00.007-06:00

CollegeGirl has been coming over to work on school projects. I think she likes our printer and large work surface. I hope she likes our company, too.

The projects are for one of her classes, called Design Interiors (or something like that). She is so creative. And she is soooo much more conscientious than I was for any of my college classes. haha I believe she said she got an 'A' on this one. Yay for CollegeGirl!!

#81/365 Airport Shopping

2011-03-25T21:24:00.004-06:00

Not a big believer in voodoo (obviously) but this little Harry Potter-type wizard (also not a fan) was perfect for CollegeGirl, who loves Harry Potter and *needs* help with her studies. I thought he would look cute clipped to her backpack. :D

These are sheer genius as far as I am concerned. Here is the Amazon website to check them out. Also, purchased for CollegeGirl. :)

#80/365 Making Memories of Us

2011-03-25T20:59:00.011-06:00

We hit the beach, on our last night in Navarre, about an hour before sunset. It's become a tradition. Here we are, getting things set up. See the remote?

Cheesin' it up for the camera on the tripod.

Wow. That is one white woman and one bright sun.

Getting the sea gulls bathing in the background.

He had just pushed me over. HAHA

The sun is getting lower.

Snuggle up.

Meet me back here next year?

Celebrating another awesome vacation and the super moon in the background. :D

#79/365 One Week Ago ...

2011-03-25T20:54:00.003-06:00

Walking on the beach, before supper, enjoying the sunset and the moonrise.

#78/365 Creatures Unseen

2011-03-25T20:49:00.006-06:00

I love the beach. So many cool little creatures, burrowing, digging and building. Never did see any of them, only the evidence of their homes.

#77/365 Endangered Kitsch

2011-03-20T21:13:00.005-06:00

The Crystal Ice Company. The top photo shows the various hand signal customers chose, when requesting ice from the drine-in attendant. The internet lists this site as the last of the roadside kitsch left in Pensacola.

#76/365 My People

2011-03-20T20:50:00.017-06:00

Lovely lillies of the valley.

The road leading to Cold Water Church Cemetery.

Gates.

Sad, broken stone. So ornate.

This is my great-grandmother. We called her "Mama".

This is my Uncle Frank. WW I veteran. Likely gas victim. He had severe tremors.

This is my Aunt Ted. Her real name is Eddy Lea. She was dynamic and a big HOARDER.

All my relatives, on both sides, were confederate soldiers.

The stone marking the family plot.

When I first saw the plot, my heart sank. It looked like vandals had been there.

But, after inspection, we decided that the plot is part of a sink hole. So sad. I hope to find the church/county that is in charge. The Cold Water Church (Was there one? I assume so) is long gone. It was an RLDS church, I think. No evidence remains.

It would just be nice to have things put back together.

#75/365 Blue Angels

2011-03-20T20:39:00.007-06:00

Straight UP!! Love it.

I wondered if this little boy dreams of being a pilot one day. So cute.

Wow. Screaming through the skies.

Pilots on the ground.

Amazing formations.

We were told that we were part of the largest opening day for the Blue Angels practice season and we found that easy to believe. The cars. The parking. The full bleachers. Over 3K people and then, they stopped counting.

We were proud to be there. It is mighty exciting to hear the sounds, see the show and feel the power!!

#74/365 Eats and Treats

2011-03-20T20:04:00.011-06:00

I am a P I G., when I am on vacay down south. :D

#73/365 Day 1--Of back aches, Head colds and Jelly fish

2011-03-20T19:56:00.007-06:00

See that woman? Her back hurts. She cannot stoop to shell. Her head is stuffed with snot. Her beach is full of jelly fish. And her skin is white as a fish's belly. Awh, poor lady.

At least, she is in HEAVEN!! lol

#72/365 Our little piece of HEAVEN

2011-03-20T19:35:00.014-06:00

Now, THAT'S a proper entryway. Light, open, airy and clean.

Cool living room.

The master bath. There were a total of 3.

The master bedroom. There were a total of 3. ::coughcough::

Beautiful, bright, CLEAN kitchen.

Eat in kitchen with an impressive view of the island--both sides; the bay and the gulf.

The view from the front of the condo. All bedrooms had a balcony and a water view.

The spectacular balcony, accessible from the master bedroom and the living room.

And THAT is one HAPPY woman in a muumuu!!! LOL

God saved our bacon and blessed our socks off!! This was by far the nicest place we have ever stayed. Wow.

#71/365 This made us laugh, too!!

2011-03-20T19:32:00.004-06:00

On our way back to the beach to find a place to stay, we saw this gem.

Couldn't agree more. :D

#70/365 World's Worst Song

2011-03-20T19:28:00.004-06:00

The Fusion had Sirius radio and that was kinda fun to play with. It just so happened the world's worst song came on, as we drove through the night, toward our hotel room.

It seemed fitting and glum, until .... suddenly, it appeared just plain funny!!! And we sang along and asked the question that all listeners ask, "What the hen is this song even about?" over and over and over. :)

#69/365 The DIVE

2011-03-20T19:05:00.008-06:00

Would YOU cook your morning eggs in this?

Sweet dishes, huh?

NASTY mess in every drawer.

See this long, depressing hallway? This is the hall from the entrance to the living room. Freaky.

This dirty tub that would not drain was the final straw. We had even purchased cleaner and a new shower head to TRY to 'get along'. When the tub (with the bug carcass) wouldn't drain, we were OUTTA THERE. Never mind that it was after 10 PM. ugh

This little gem ^^^^ is where we were to stay, after our usual condo complex found itself without electricity, which was not projected to be powered up again until the day AFTER we returned home. It was MORE expensive than our usual place and we had been told repeatedly how fortunate we were to be placed here.

Ummmyeahno. We packed up, after dinking around with the rental company for FIVE hours. We drove 30 minutes to a trusty Country Inn and Suites and stayed the night, preparing to do battle (and find a place to stay for the week) in the morning.

#68/365 Sweet Ride

2011-03-20T19:02:00.004-06:00

This was the first time we had flown to Pensacola Beach, so of course, we had to rent a car. This was a Ford Fusion and it was GREAT. We both really liked it.

#67/365 On the Way ....

2011-03-20T18:59:00.001-06:00

To our much-anticipated Spring Break. Whoo-hoo!!

Neglect

2011-03-11T04:56:00.002-06:00

The blog is being neglected this week, kindasorta on purpose. My camera things are packed and I hate to unpack them, only to repack them. Make sense?

Anyway. I will resume blogging, once we reach our beach-y destination ... later TODAY!! :D

PS Prayers for Japan, Hawaii and the west coast. Such devastation.

#66/365 Old Book, Old Friend

2011-03-08T21:10:00.004-06:00

My only grandparent (my father's mother) died when I was 9. This was a book I was allowed to have from her home.

I've seen the movie (of course, I have!), but the book? I have never read it ... is that weird?

#65/365 Decline of the Shrine (Monday)

2011-03-08T20:43:00.007-06:00

A former local fire station, turned Shriner hangout, now empty and for sale.

Cool neon sign.
Old wooden fire house doors, painted with Shriner symbolism.

Interesting old mailbox.

It is sad that the place will no longer be the Shriner's hangout. I wonder where their new building is? Surely, they didn't disband ...

Well, if you put it that way ...

2011-03-06T22:30:00.002-06:00

(Tim Keller, graphic by Natalie Askren)

Borrowed from this blog ...

#64 Works for Me (Sunday)

2011-03-06T20:29:00.004-06:00

The cookies and cream flavor was nothing to write home about, but this one was pretty dang good.

150 calories. $1.00 for the portion control serving size.

Since I have no self-control, I must PAY for some. HAHA

#63/365 Big, Green Jelly Bean

2011-03-05T23:03:00.002-06:00

Awwwh. How cute is this? ^^^^^

Not very, in my humble opinion. I am trying to loosen up and strengthen my low back, with this thing. It durn near went out on me this week. I even stayed home one day from work, trying to baby it.

Now, it is time to be pro-active. I feel silly and uncoordinated when I am rolling around on it, but if it helps ... I will be ok with looking like a fool.

I guess. ::snort::

#62 New Chapters for CollegeBoy (Friday)

2011-03-05T10:52:00.003-06:00

I had the special treat of doing dinner with CollegeBoy. We talked, just he and I, over our Greek salads, for 2 hours. As I listened to him talk about resumes, interview etiquette, job markets, his girlfriend, etc., I was overwhelmed with the reality that CollegeBoy is really, truly, *REALLY, TRULY* gonna be a MAN.

With a job. And a plan. Wow.

I am in awe.

I ... I ... am very proud.

#61/365 Gun Show (Thursday)

2011-03-05T10:44:00.006-06:00

Nothing says, "Gun Show" like a hot pink hand stamp of fuzzy dice?

A gentleman who had a booth at the show had this rat prominently displayed. I asked him if there was a story that went with it. It was an "R" rated, politically-based, comedic diatribe that we actually enjoyed. PS The rat is making a naughty hand gesture.

This is the self-defense kit I bought for CollegeGirl. Alarm key chain, pepper spray, stun gun, date-rape tester card and a cute kangaroo kit to throw in her purse.

Her response? "That's creepy". haha And then, she left it here at the house, as she went out, unprotected, into CollegeWorld.

Oh well. The hubs loves to play with the stun gun. LOL

#60/365 Fairy Tales (Wednesday)

2011-03-03T07:34:00.003-06:00

Hey, back with there was only black and white TV and black and white pictures, "In Living Color" was a big deal. :)

This was a gift to me from my Uncle Charlie. He was a news writer. He loved literature and reading and writing. And so do I.

#59/365 Bejewed or Bedazzled? (Tuesday)

2011-03-03T07:27:00.005-06:00

Recent Goodwill treasure. Is it so ugly it's kinda cute?

IDK, but that's what I'm goin' with. ha

#58/365 ::closes eyes, inhales deeply::

2011-02-28T22:38:00.002-06:00

Smells like the BEACH to me!!!

#57/365 Rediscovering Treasures

2011-02-28T21:28:00.006-06:00

Recently, a friend asked to borrow a book. No problem, I said. I love to loan books to others.

Exceptttt, I couldn't find the book I was looking for. That should not be surprising, as I have a TON of books. I have a difficult time parting with them, in some ways they are like friends.

So, while I looked and looked, I found several books that have now made their way from the basement (overflow) to the main floor (the big time). This book was one of them.

Have any of you ever read this? It is the sweetest book, written by a mom, about the life of her family and their second child, Karen, who was born with CP. It was very inspirational reading for a tween (me) who knew she wanted to work with special needs children someday.

If you ever see a copy at Goodwill or the church rummage sale, etc., I can highly recommend this book as worth the .25 you are likely to spend.

PS Or I can loan you my copy, since I re-read it. :D

PPS I never DID find the book I was looking for. (chuckles)

#56/365 SPRINGing for Spring Clothes

2011-02-26T22:23:00.005-06:00

Wow. Ya think someone is ready for spring?? lol

I found all these wonderful florals, pastels and white sandals at my recent trip to Goodwill. Love.

PS Why, yes that is a portable grill and BBQ brush, peeking out from under the chiffarobe. Doesn't everyone store their kitchen overflow in the bedroom?? Bwhahaha!!!

#55/365 Attitude of Gratitude

2011-02-26T22:18:00.005-06:00

This Mary Engelbrecht print is something that I have had and moved from house to house for about 15+ years. I love it. And its sunny yellow frame. It resides on my kitchen counter, where I see it frequently.

I remember the first time I saw it, I felt it perfectly conveyed how I feel when I worship (which, frankly, is not confined to church).

Makes me happy to just look at it now. :D

#54/365 She Tried to Tell Us ...

2011-02-24T00:27:00.004-06:00

CollegeGirl tried to tell us that we would not like this movie, but we didn't listen. We thought, "What's not to like? Psycho-thriller, dance movie? We'll love it".

Ummmm ... yeahno.

Shoulda listened to the youngster.

Petition for Prayers

2011-02-23T22:04:00.002-06:00

Here is my friend, Beth's blog post about her son, Manny's need for prayer. Manny is currently hospitalized and is listed as 'critically ill'.

Would you please read the post, then be sure and comment on her blog to let her know you are praying? It is such a comfort to know that people care and pray, especially when your loved one is ill.

Thanks so much ...

#53/365 (un)Paid Product Endorsements

2011-02-22T20:38:00.006-06:00

Best harispray evah! Saw it on another blog and wowza, it's great. Inexpensive and hold well, without making my hair look like a helmet. lol Not the best scent, but nothing like the aqua net of my youth. LOL

I did a loooong stint with the mineral makeups and felt that maybe for winter in Iowa, a cream make up routine might be better. I love the blush for sure!! Better, deeper color than powder and more youthful (maybe?).

The foundation is kinda cool, too. It has a sponge applicator tip under the cap that you use to apply the liquid makeup. Genius. Not need for makeup sponges.

#52/365 It was a REALLY good sale

2011-02-21T22:31:00.006-06:00

(too bad I cannot learn to focus a point and shoot camera, huh?)

#51/365 Dream Man

2011-02-20T11:04:00.004-06:00

One week after Valentine's Day, look what my wonderful husband made for me. Dark chocolate covered strawberries, displayed on a cake stand.

Grow old along with me!

The best is yet to be,

The last of life, for which the first was made:

~Robert Barrett Browning~

#50/365 Welcome, "Toby"

2011-02-20T10:55:00.004-06:00

Look at what my sweet, talented, kind-hearted CollegeGirl has made for her friend, Haley, who is welcoming a little boy soon.

This beautiful quilt has many colors and textures and cute, whimsical buttons (glued and sewn on tightly). She had such a joyful time choosing fabrics for her friend's baby boy. She put such time and love into piecing this all together.

We pray health and happiness for Haley and her baby (who is not really named Toby, by the way). His name is not yet known. That is just how Haley and her friends have nicknamed him, until they meet one another. :D

#49/365 Rockin' the Retro ...

2011-02-19T00:42:00.003-06:00

At least, I *think* I am. Am I?

Well, if I'm not, no need to let me know.

Let me live in bliss.

Old lady shoes are the best. :)

#48/365 Weird Weather

2011-02-17T23:41:00.008-06:00

We had two, maybe three, days of this extreme fog. Some schools delayed their start time. Some canceled school altogether.

Here is the Mental Health Institute, encased in the fog, as I came into work this morning. I love this building, but it does look a bit spooky here.

By late afternoon, most of the fog had lifted. This was the view of the MHI on my way home.

And here is the temperature as I arrive home. 64 degrees in February? Unheard of! And almost all the snow is GONE!!

I wish Spring was here to stay, but something tells me that will NOT be the case. But for now? I LOVE IT!!!

#47/365 Pain at the Pump

2011-02-16T23:03:00.003-06:00

Since I drive quite a bit for work, I am not happy with the recent price increases. Bah

I think gas should cost 29.9, because that's what it cost when I was a child. :)

#46/365 My WorkLife is a Cartoon

2011-02-15T22:15:00.002-06:00

It's like the writer is inside my head, my cubicle, my hallway, my stylin' minivan. LOLOLOL

#45/365 Valentine's Dinner (Monday)

2011-02-15T21:31:00.007-06:00

For Valentine's Day this year, we decided to forgo the gifts and cards, flowers and candy and just go out to a special dinner. But where? Hmmm ... I was up for something new. Remember this post? Well ...

I saw this advertisement for a local establishment on a FB page and was intrigued. I read the description to the hubs and he was intrigued, also. I told him I would call and get more details.

When I heard the price per person, I nearly laughed out loud. For a couple of cheapsters, I was pretty sure that this would not fly with the hubs. Surprisingly, he pointed out that we were not exchanging gifts, cards, flowers, candy, etc., so he saw no problem with the price. I was actually impressed with his logic and quickly made reservations. :)

Here is what we had, in many, many courses over 2.5 hours : 1). a single scallop--YUM 2). a hearts of romaine salad, with bacon, 3). lobster bisque 4). lime sorbet 5). entree--I had walleye and he had beef short ribs 6). cheese plate and 7). chocolates. We also had champagne and moscato!

The cheese plate. I am aware that the thing in the upper right quadrant of the plate appears to be a squid, but it was some sort of deliciously soaked-in-something pear. Delightful.

I *assumed* that we would share this, since there were two of each confection. Ooooh noooo. We each had a dessert plate of our own. I am pretty sure I ate an entire DAY'S worth of calories at dinner last night. But it was sooooo good and we were both so glad we went.

I love my husband. He is truly one of the good guys. Smart, handsome, funny, generous, handy, loving ... my cup runneth over, Lord. Thank you for the blessing of his life to share.

#44/365 We Heart Dance Team (Sunday)

2011-02-15T21:26:00.005-06:00

Although, CollegeGirl asn't been part of the dance team for 2 years, we still love many of the girls on the team. Sunday afternoon, the dance team held their annual event called "Dance and Dessert".

Lovely girls. Lovely routines. Lovely desserts. A lovely time.

#43/365 Voting with our Dollars

2011-02-12T18:02:00.003-06:00

It took us an hour to get to our nearest Chik-Fil-A, but we wanted to show them some love (with our dollars and words), in light of the people protesting against them and their Christian values.

Yummm. Freshest salad I have ever had at a fast food sort of place. Delish.