The Year 2007 in Retrospect

Well it's been another one of those wild and wooley years however there are many things to be thankful for.
Like:
Good health in spite of 2 operations!
A job with good health benefits and retirement
A good season for Sarah's business
Good friends and neighbors
A roof over our heads
A new business for my sister Jan

Things to look forward to in 2008~
Continued healing for my niece Michelle
A new baby (great niece or nephew)
Katie graduates
Going to FLORIDA in February
Maybe a few snow days...
Finishing my scrap book projects & starting new ones
Turning 50............................ (no comments from the peanut gallery please!)

It's Nigh Onto the End of the Year

And I Still Haven't:
*Started eating sensibly
*Started riding my exercise bike
*Stopped complaining about the things I cannot change
*Lost any weight
*Finished Katie's scrapbook
*Gone to the Melting Pot
*Been to Hawaii
*Started Mom's scrapbook
*Started a walking plan
*Given up caffeine
*Bought myself a teapot
*Let my nails grow
I could go on but really what is the point. Maybe on Tuesday I will make a list of things I'd like to do and then see how many I actually accomplish. That sounds too much like a New Years Resolution though doesn't it?

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Other Stories

Tonight I tried my new Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer tea. It was quite a production since I don't have a teapot. (That is another story) I heated water in the microwave in a 4 cup bowl. Then I carefully measured out the tea with my new tea spoon thingy and let it steep a good 5 or 6 minutes. Then I strained it into a big mug that I got for Christmas. Yummy, sweet good tea. I stirred in a rock candy thingy that I also received from my sistopher.
Sarah and I played my new Risk game tonight. I got skunked by a rookie, I surely was not a happy camper! Anyway, tomorrow I have to meetings for work so I am probably going to bed early.

Two Blogs Today

My 10 Favorite Gifts I Received for Christmas
1. Rachael Ray knife
2. 3 good books to read: John Grishom, Amy Grant & a new author for me from Karen
3. 20 Question game - i love 20 questions, right karen & kristen?
4. Wicked Good slippers from LL Bean
5. Movie Tickets
6. Really cute retro egg nog punch bowl set
7. Cheese Grits (yum-O), tea that everyone raves about & tea measuring spoon
8. Scrap Bookin Kit
9. Christmas Coffee from the Beanery
10. Classic Risk game

Trans-Siberian Orchestra (100th Post)

Yesterday we went to see the TSO at the Palace. It was very good- awesome seats. The light show was amazing, the singing great! I wasn't sure beforehand if I was going to like it or not, but I really enjoyed it.

I don't know about you all but I am wacked out since all this holiday business. It probably doesn't help that I never get a full nights sleep. AND I still have a million things to do. Dentist today and then I want to go to Michael's and get some containers for all my new do-dads. Tomorrow I am meeting a friend for lunch, then I have to conduct an orientation for work. Then between Saturday and Sunday I will be helping Sarah balance the business books, cleaning at dads, having my little sis over, grocery shopping, spend my $5 coupon at Borders etc... Whew! Some time I plan to get some scrappin done. A little birdie told me Renee got a what-cha-ma-call-it uh, oh yeah cricket for Christmas. I will help her break it in. :-) Oh yeah and taking down the DECORATIONS! Oh wait and I forgot we are having a lunch meeting for work at Fire Mountain on Saturday.
Hey, I thought I was on vacation???

Christmas Eve

Had to get up early and put the baked beans on. I am using Aunt Hazel's authentic Boston Baked Beans recipe. One year my brother Rob & I went on vacation with my parents and visited where Mom grew up and met some of the relatives. Aunt Hazel being one of them. I think we went to her house for a picnic and she served these awesome beans. Mom got the recipe and started making them for Christmas day. She bought a real bean pot and everything. We're also having a glazed him, cheesy potatoes, some kind of veggies, salad and rolls. That is a far fetch from the Christmas Eve dinner of my childhood. Chinese - take out style. I'm sure my mom was taking a break from cooking. I often went with my dad to pick up the dinner at Moy's little take out joint. Christmas Eve was very special. I remember just loving it. All those kids! We would turn out all the lights and watch the tree lights sparkle. Then our parents would make us practice for the upcoming church program. (treat!) We always had this mix of Christmas hard candy including these huge chunks of ribbon candy. Someone always read the Christmas poem, the one about sugar plums. Then we opened 1 gift - pajamas or slippers. Then is was off to bed. I would try hard not to fall asleep, but that never worked very good. Oh yeah, I forgot we pinned up our stocking to either a couch or arm chair. That's were our pile of gifts would be the next morning, right under our stocking.
I love talking to people to find out how their families traditions are similar or different.

WINTER SOLSTICE

Put in your George Winston "December" Cd and veg out on the couch. Today is the darkest day of the year. I'm sorry Marlene. I doubt we will even see the sun today. I feel like I live in Alaska. I don't even think I'm going out. I'm going to clean up around this messy house and put on a big pot of White Chicken Chili. Yum-O. Oh and I still have presents to wrap. However, the grocery shopping is done for Christmas Eve (here) and Christmas Day.
Last night we had fun celebrating Christmas with the Aurands. The kids were so excited. We could see them waiting at the front door, running back and forth. We quickly scarfed down three pizzas and an order of cheesy bread from Hungry Howies. After opening gifts we decided to play games. Bad idea. We all got spanked by Tom playing Win, Lose or Draw and then Scene It. I of course had to babysit the babies (dolls) for most of the night.

p.s. This is the most number of blogs i have written in a month.

The Sun

The Sun's energy output (3.86e33 ergs/second or 386 billion billion megawatts) is produced by nuclear fusion reactions. Huh, I never knew that, did you? All I know is that I feel much better when the sun is shining. It doesn't matter how cold it is, the sun makes going outside bearable. It warms up the car. I think it even makes me more cheerful. The poor sun is trying to shine today, but the clouds keep coming around and getting in the way. These cloudy days we've been having are getting old.

Still Haven't Plowed

Our road is a mess. There are tire tracks going every which way. Then you can basically only drive straight down the middle and you better hope another car doesn't come! I thought they would have plowed by now. The sun was out today here in Flint, I hope my sister in Livonia got to see some rays as well.
Probably going to go see neighbor Alissa's 6th grade band concert tonight. Hope they're in tune! The count down is well on it's way. 3 more days until Christmas Vacation, YEA!

SNOW DAY

Snow day today. We really didn't even get all that much snow. Maybe 6 or 7 inches. But it was very windy yesterday, I don't think they could keep up with the roads. It's mainly due to the back roads and side streets they said. It's a nice surprise. I'll get to watch morning tv (go for it Kristen) and finish my laundry and clean up around the house. Maybe I'll even make something yummy for dinner. It's snowing again, imagine that - just flurries though. Would be nice to see the sun today.
We had to go out yesterday in the middle of that mess. It was Sarah's moms family Christmas. We didn't have to go far, thank goodness. The roads were pretty slick. We saw a guy who was driving too fast (of course) spin out and almost hit a bunch of cars. Somehow he managed to miss everyone. It was crazy!

P.S. I decided to make Florentine Meatballs w/Cheese sauce.

Food Network Junkie

We just got cable back so now I am able to watch my favorite channel, the Food Network! I just love to see whats cookin. Sometimes I even try the recipes. You should be so lucky to be the experimentee. I must admit Sarah and the girls are pretty patient. I few weeks ago I made a pasta with pumpkin sauce. It was ok. Nothing to write home about. It sounded better than it tasted. Of course if I don't have alot of the stuff they put in their recipes I improvise. Maybe it's the improvising that doesn't work so well. Tonight there were 2 recipes on Rachel Ray's 30 Minute Meals that I'm going to try. Papa al Pomodoro - otherwise known as "stale bread soup" and Florentine Meatballs. Think I will try those over the Christmas break. Check out the recipe on http://www.foodnetwork.com/ After I try them and if I like them maybe I'll post them.

Right now I'm waiting for "Paula's Party," at 9:00 p.m. She is going to have the rock-ets and also Amy Grant.

The Scent of the Season

Is....... Twisted Peppermint from Bath and Body Works. Ummmm. Delicious. First, take a bath and pour some of the bubble bath/shampoo/body wash into the water. Then wash your hair with it-- as you rinse take in the minty frothy bubbly scent. Then scrub your skin and wake it up. Upon exiting the bath, lavish several squirts of the body lotion all over your body.
You are now refreshed and ready to start your day.

This is how I start my day. You should try it too! It's almost better than a Peppermint Mocha from Starbucks!

10 Reasons Why I'd Rather Stay Home Today

1. It's starting to snow.
2. The weather is going to get worse.
3. I don't want to get dressed up.
4. I miss morning tv. Racheal Ray
5. I'm warm and I don't want to get cold.
6. I don't feel like talking to people.
7. I could wrap Christmas presents.
8. It looks icky out.
9. I feel sleepy.
10. Just Cuz!

Yea Gas Went Down

For about 5 minutes... I just saw on tv a gas station in Flint has gas for $2.73/gal. Hurry run to the gas station. The next time you look it will probably be up again! Well also on the news they are saying that we're getting nasty weather tomorrow morning. That will remain to be seen. We must've had sun and above freezing temps. today because the snow on the lawn and driveway has melted.
Tonight's dinner is lasagna. But it is Stoffer's family size. Can you believe it? I actually broke down and bought frozen stuff for dinner. It's just too hard to work and then make homemade lasagna.
By the way yesterdays' blog (mine) has a record number of comments. (6) Lisa where are you? Ok here is a list. My sister Jan is always making lists.

Favorite Christmas Movies

1. A Christmas Carol
2. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
3. The Christmas Shoes (A real tear-jerker)
4. Charlie Brown (the one where Chuck is the play director)
5. Christmas With the Kranks
6. Elf
7. Jack Frost
8. How The Grinch Stole Christmas - The cartoon
9. Santa Claus I
10. The Walton Family Christmas

A Very Busy Day

I picked up Alyssa (my little sis) at 11:00. We drove straight to Kroger's and proceeded to buy cookies to decorate and also some cupcakes. She wanted to take cookies to her class and we all wanted to eat the cupcakes! We did the baking and decorating and then had pizza in between. (Whew what a mess!) All at once Niki noticed an animal up in the tree out back. It was a big Opossum. Sarah ran out onto the deck and snapped a few pictures. It's actually kind of cute.

After all the baking I decided to let Alyssa open her Christmas gifts in case Of bad weather or whatever I don't see her before Christmas. She got a summer backpack with a water bottle, frisbee and beach towel. I also got her a big coloring set because she loves to color. There were markers and crayons and all sorts of things to color. I took her home around 3:30 and then I make a big pot of yummy chicken soup. I"m probably just going to chill out and read for the evening. Supposed to get some icky weather but I'm not sure if it's coming or not.

Oh wait, I forgot, we are going to watch "A Christmas Carol" tonight.

Frozen Doggie

We heard a bark at about 7:00 a.m. this morning. This from a dog who never barks unless being threatened by another dog. He was not in his doggie bed. He was not out in the living room or kitchen. NO, he had been left out in the garage by some un-named people since they got home at about 10:00 p.m.. Poor buddy, he was frozen like a popsicle! Needless to say he is curled up in the bed wrapped up in blankets.

Today is our annual trip to Frankenmuth. We'll be eating the sumptuous family style chicken dinner at about 4:00 p.m. Then we usually walk down to the candy store otherwise known as the "pickle store" and browse. They also have a lot of variety of teas. hmmmm Then continue on to the fudge store where the kids spend the $20 that grandpa gives them to buy fudge. A jolly time will be had by all.

I Saw The Sun Today

I got home early and I was in the office checking my e-mail AND talking on the phone and I looked outside and the sun was shining on the snow. It sure didn't last long though. I had a very frustrating day today. Of the 3 appointments I had all three cancelled! Here's the great thing about that. I can wear the same outfit again tomorrow, cool huh?
Thought for the day: 3 weeks from today Christmas will be all over...........

Mobile Concert

Today I listened to the entire CD of "Young Messiah" in my car. I felt like a traveling salesman today. Let's see I was in and out of the car 14 times today including the gas station and grocery store. I think that might be a record. At least it was not windy today. I am going to make a nice big pot of chili for dinner. Bought some nice crusty grainy bread to go with it. Having a cup of decaf with pumpkin spice cream right now--yummy! I should start riding the stationary bike tonight. Got to exercise. WB and let me know if you think I really will.........

Didn't Make The Ham

Can you believe it? I got talked into going out in that rainy, foggy messy mess last night and going to Fudruckers for a burger. I got a 1/3 lb. burger and fixed it just the way I like it, side of onion rings and a pop. MmM So I am making the ham and scalloped potatoes tonight.
Boy it was cold and oh so windy today. I swear I almost blew away. I only had 4 appointments plus a stop at my office, so that makes 10 trips in and out of my car. Yuck! I guess I just need to be thankful that I have a job in this unemployed town.
The mailman just buzzed down the road which means he will be here soon. It's 4:45 p.m. Usually means a sub. I have received 3 Christmas cards already and it's only Dec. 3. Wow I better get a move on. Lisa, e-mail me your address!

Snow Storm - December 1st

This is a picture looking out the front door Sunday morning. It wasn't as bad as some. Officially we got 2.3 inches of snow at Bishop Airport. The weather dude said they got 9.1 inches in Gaylord. Wow! Definitely too cold for a Catfish Stomp! (Read my sister's blog) Anyway, later on today we are putting up the decorations. Then I am making a delicious ham (turkey of course) and scalloped potatoes dinner. Thank you Marlene for telling me how to do colors and other cool stuff.
P.S. I could fly down to visit my sister anytime now!! This weather is not for me, or the birds!

December 1st - Can't Believe It

Well, it finally happened. I got talked into a fake Christmas tree! I've held out all this time. But, alas it's just getting to be too much. Tomorrow is the big decorating day. Yuck. I hate putting out the decorations. Going to put up my Dickens Village this year. I will take a pic. Going to a card party tonight. I hope I win. Taking little weenies. Big storm coming - so they say. Went from a Winter Storm Advisory to a Winter Storm WARNING. Must be the real thing. Good thing the card party is just down the street.

I Couldn't Agree More

A lot of truth in this CBS Sunday The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday.My confession: I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees Christmas trees. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are: Christmas trees.
It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, "Merry Christmas" to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu. If people want a creche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away.
I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat.
Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship Nick and Jessica and we aren't allowed to worship God as we understand Him? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there are a lot of us who are wondering where Nick and Jessica came from and where the America we knew went to.
In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking.
Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her "How could God let something like this happen?" (regarding Katrina) Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said, "I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?"
In light of recent events...terrorists attack, school shootings, etc. I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found recently) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. lt; /SPAN> And we said OK.
Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said OK.
Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their c lassmates, and themselves.
Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with "WE REAP WHAT WE SOW."

Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire but when you start sending messages regarding God, people think twice about sharing. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace.
Are you laughing?
Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it.
Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us.
Pass it on if you think it has merit. If not then just discard it... no one will know you did. But, if you discard this thought process, don't sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in. My Best Regards.

Honestly and respectfully

My Cough is Suddenly Better....

So we drove down to Laurel PP mall today. I wanted to get a refill for my Franklin Planner. I ended up going with the next size up from what I had so I got a whole new planner and a new brief case - on sale of course. The highlight of the trip was of course eating at Olga's! We started with the snacker appetizer, then I had the soup and salad. Yummy! I wish we would get an Olga's in Flint. On the way out we passed the Saunders soda shop. Had to stop and get a Cream Puff. I got a little teary-eyed because I remember going with mom when I was a kid to the same kind of place. I think it was at Wonderland Mall. I wonder if that was before I started school because I don't remember any of the sibs being there. I'll have to ask brother Rob if he ever went there.

I Feel A Cough Coming On...

cough, cough, sniff, sniff. Huh, I might just have to call in sick tomorrow. Let's see. I have 12 Sick Days and about 6 months of work days......
It it Freeeeezing cold today. Too bad I still have to go out to an appointment tonight. This weather makes me want to curl up on the couch with any kind of hot beverage and read a good book or watch a movie. Tisk, Tisk, not tonight. I came home for a couple hours because I have the late app't. Good ole flex time.

Same Old Grind

I'm not talking about coffee beans. (miss those Starbucks beans!) I got up early for an 8:00 a.m. meeting that was not to be. A mix up in schedule for the first day back. Blah Humm Bug! Now I am tired. I sneaked out early to go to Niki's first Freshman BB game though. They lost badly. Then came home and fried up the bacon. Literally. I made bacon, scrambled eggs & toast (with jelly) for dinner. Did the dishes, now I"m blogging. Better quit soon though cuz I keep spelling things wrong! It started snowing today at around 12:30 and is still snowing. We would probably have a foot except for the fact that it's 35 degrees so it's melting when it hits. No SNOW DAY tomorrow.

Got off to an early start today. Went to the "Valley" for breakfast and then picked up the carpet cleaner at HD and picked up Nik at Lisa's house by 10:00 a.m. Caught up with Lisa for a few minutes. I miss her. Dropped Niki off at her grandma's to go to the Piston game. Then we had to pick up Katie's car because she said it was stalling. Turns out she was very low on gas and there must be some water in the gas line. Filled it up with Premium and put some anti-freeze stuff in it. Moral of the story don't let it get too empty. Came home cleaned the carpet and started the laundry. Took the carpet cleaner back, ate at Three Amigos and came home. The Aurands were putting up their Christmas lights so we couldn't be outdone. Put up the lights that actually worked. Sid and Evan helped me put up the Candy canes along the sidewalk. Still have to buy 1 strand of lights because we threw away 3 that wouldn't work. Came in and rested for a bit then took my bath. Now I am making spaghetti for dinner. Will probably read my new book by Debbie McComber after dinner.

Friday Finds

A feather bed for the camper $22
Paper plates .99
Christmas Cards - buy 1 box get another FREE
3 pack scotch tape - .99
A $9 razor with a $9 dollar rebate
A Playstation2 controller w/ 2 games - $19.99
A bag of bows - .99
3 candy cane pens - .99

I need to go back to Walgreens though because we forgot to pick up a new dog bed for Bailey $7.99 I might run up there this afternoon.
Tonight we are going to dad's to clean. Having Turkey A-la-king, yams, stuffing, cranberry and pumpkin pie. Sound familiar?

Movie Review

It might be the best "feel good" movie of the season. It is called "August Rush." It is wonderful, joyful, inspiring and really awesome. Of course there is a really cute kid. I'm a sucker for cute kid movies. But, I think you will really enjoy this one. I highly recommend it. Marlene, you will love this.
***** (Five Stars) I think I might become a movie critic. Wouldn't that be a fun job?

So anyway, it is freezing out, (22 degrees) but sunny and really pretty with the sun making the snow and ice glitter. Didn't get up and go shopping. The girls left at 10:00 p.m. with the neighbor to go to Birch Run last night and didn't get home until 6:00 a.m. CRAZY!! They are still in bed sleeping. Sarah had to get up at 4:30 a.m. to be at the Shack at 5:00 a.m. We may venture out this afternoon or tonight to see what shopping extravaganza's are left.

Over The River and Through The Woods

Wow, we have at least 2 inches of snow and it's still coming! This is like an old fashioned Thanksgiving. I think I remember eating dinner at Grandma's house. But, mostly I remember eating Thanksgiving dinner at Creager's Restaurant in Detroit. How about that parade? I wouldn't be going today with all that snow blowing around.

I'm getting ready to make breakfast, French Toast and Sausage. (turkey of course) I only have to make a salad for dinner today. I got off way easy.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

Back From the Windy City

And it was windy & getting cold! IT took a while to get out. Waited at least 30 minutes in line on the runway. Longer than the actual flight took! It's taken me all weekend to recover.
Today I took Alyssa to the Big Brother Big Sister bowling activity. We had fun. It's hard to bowl with my ouchie leg. (torn hamstring from last year) We got a piece of pizza and a pop for our efforts. Afterwards we came home and Alyssa played with toys and rode the scooter. I did laundry. Only 3 work days this week, yea! Thanksgiving will be at Sarah's brother's house this year. I am hoping for some leftover turkey to we can do it all over again on Friday. (with my own stuffing! --- well mom's recipe really) That's about it for now. Safe travels Marlene & Don.

Bye

Today I'm heading for the Windy city. See ya Friday!

Scrapin' Good Weekend

Well we are not going to a B & B like Marlene and the girls but we are going to a beautiful location in Tawas right on Lake Huron. It will be warm and cozy and all about scrapbookin'. Unfortunately there will not be anyone to serve our meals or turn down our beds. However, we did make up all the food ahead of time so we won't have to cook!

FYI

The book I'm reading now is an older Mary Higgins Clark. I missed it somehow. "A Cry In the Night." I hope it's not the one that someone told me not to ready because it is too scarey!

Upcoming Events ~
Going on a girls weekend with Sarah, Chris and Renee up to Sarah's Mom & Dad's cottage in Tawas to do some mega scrap booking! Should be fun. Leaving on Friday and coming back on Sunday.

Going to Chicago the 13th through the 16 for the AmeriCorps VISTA supervisor training. Staying at the Wyndam O'hare. Not crazy about it , but we'll see. I hope it doesn't snow!

Catchin' Up

So, where have I been? Working I guess. I was pretty tired last week. Saturday Sarah and I went to visit my old friend (not that she's so old, but more that I've known her a long time!) Laura Therrien and her 2 boys Ken & Tom. Ken is married and has an adorable daughter named Kenzie Rose. She is really cute. We had a good time remembering old times.
Today we cleaned the house and then went to a Campground Place called "Outdoor Adventures." You have to buy into the place. The price is $8000.00 bucks!! But, you have "free" camping for the rest of your life. I say free, because of course there is a yearly maintenance fee of $360.00 And then if you want to go to locations outside of Michigan it is an additional $150 bucks. Needless to say we did not "buy" into the program. But, we did get 21 days of free camping at their campgrounds for the next year and a $40 gas card to Speedway.
I think I'm going to start a new book tonight. I will let you know what it is.

Feeling Better

I am feeling much better today. My body is still in recovery mode, but over all I do feel better!

They Said It Would Be A Snap

My gallbladder surgery, that is. Well, it was not. My blood sugar went sky high and they almost didn't let me go home. Then there was the nausea. Started from the minute they sat me up on Monday until this morning. But, I am happy to say I am feeling better today. My stomach, heartburn, etc.. still is kind of yucky! (By the way the Doc said my gallbladder was full of infection.) It was no "snap" that is for sure. Three year old Sydney wanted to know why the Dr. keeps giving me "ouchies". Good question I said. She was very careful to not bump my tummy. I went across the street to get my "Syd time." We read her new books and played Cinderella. I of course am the fairy god-mother.
Well, it's more R & R for me. I don't plan to do much for the next couple days.

Friday, Fish Day

Aren't you supposed to eat fish on Friday? Oh maybe that is just for catholics during lent. Well, anyway I had some good fish today for lunch. There is nothing much new. It's too cold to do anything. Too bad we have to go to the "last" football game tonight. It's the senior candlewalk. Well, we're just going to the 4th quarter and then be there for the candle thing. Brrrrrrr! I could never sit through the whole game. Tomorrow I have to work, ugh! A Men's group at a church. I'm doing a presentation. Then I'm coming back home and going in my beddie bye. Not really, but wishful thinking!

Pooped Out

The soccer mom for a day is all pooped out. The birthday party (for the dogs) was later than expected. By the time we got the kids settled down it was 9 p.m. I fell right asleep. But, then the girls came home and Sydney woke up. It took a long time to get her back to sleep. But, she was quick to get up at 7:30 a.m. Evan too. And, they were hungy. I had to feed them. I think I was half asleep. I gave them Sugar Pops and Pop Tarts. Put in a movie and "tried" to sleep on the couch. At about 9 they were bored so I swapped places with Sarah. I took a "nap" from 9 to 10. Man, little kids are a lot of work. But, we had bunches of fun!

Soccer Mom

That was me today. I had to take Evan to his soccer game and bring Syd too. We grabbed a water bottle, put the chair in the trunk, Syd in her carseat and started out. It was a 10:00 a.m. game. Whew it was a hot morning. We forgot Syd's little folding chair so she had to sit in my lap. Evan's team won, 3 to 1. Then we went back home for about an hour. Evan took a shower and Syd played. Then we piled back into the car, picked up Sasa, then Alyssa (my little sis) and we all went to Chuck E. Cheese. After that we went to the pet store. It was adopt a pet day.........Yikes! Eveyone wanted to take a doggie or kitty home. NO WAY!!
That was exhausting. Syd fell alseep on the way home. I sure wish I could have too. Then we chilled out for about an hour. Evan, Syd and I made a birthday cake for Bailey and Phoebe (his sister). Now we are waiting for Phoebe and her mom and dad. We are having a BIRTHDAY PARTY for them. CRAZY!! Then the dogs will open presents and eat birthday cake. They are seven years old. 49 in human years.......same age as me. I hope they don't feel the same way I do!!! Anyways, we are having brownies.

Cholecystectomy "To remove gallstones and prevent new ones from forming."

On October 22nd. A snap, no big deal said the doc. "Ok", said I. I'm starting to feel like a pincushion!! Too bad they can't recut my incisions from my earlier Nissan-Fundo-plas-whatever surgery. But, that would cause too much scar tissue. So, anyway that are the facts. I can still enjoy my weekend trip up North.

October 1st

Wow, hard to believe. I am home for lunch and I don't want to go back to work because it is cold and raining cats and dogs. That is one thing I don't like about my job--I have to get in and out of the car alot. It really stinks in the winter! I hope the rain doesn't knock all the leaves down. I hope we can still go up north on the 19th. I am really looking forward to that.

Number Three

Surgery that is. In a 13 month time span that is. The Doc says my gall bladder must come out. Soon! Very Soon! I many small gallstones and apparently I am passing them. So he is afraid they might get lodged. Going to see surgeon on Tuesday. Can you believe it? My body is falling apart. I'm just trying to catch up to Marlene, HA! So, I guess it's a no big deal surgery, but it's just the whole process of getting the surgery. Unbelievable!

Homecoming Dance

Last nite was the Swartz Creek Homecoming. Niki's first and Katie's last. It was a beautiful day. Pictures at 5:00 p.m. at our house.

It's the first day of fall, and it's supposed to be 80 degrees! I wanted to go to the cider mill, but it's still too warm. I like it to be cool and crispy. Besides the Bees are wack if you go when it's warm. I told my little sis Alyssa that we would go in a few weeks. I remember going to the Franklin Cider mill with mom and dad every year. You could watch the cider being made inside and then go outside and watch the huge water wheel that powered the machinery. Those were the days!

What's Next?

My doctor's medical assistant called to tell me that my bone scan results were fine. And, oh yes, my abdominal ultrasound shows I have gall stones! I need to make an appointment to see the good Dr. I'm not sure what he is planning but I can tell you this, I am not being cut open again this year!!
By the way, my stomach pains have already subsided since I stopped taking the Evista. (Marlene)

It's been a busy week. Homecoming week in the Creek! Monday was powder puff football. Katie played of course. Wednesday was Pride and Spirit. Went to watch the neighbor girl Elissa because she is in Poms. Last night was the parade and the Homecoming game. Tonight is the Homecoming dance. Niki is all excited because this is her first "formal" dance. They are doing nails and hair and all that stuff.

HI

So, I just thought I'd say "hi" to ya'll. That is southern speak for everyone! Lisa are you still alive? Call me sometime. Kristen and Karen and Marlene have all signed up for some new fangled something or another called "Facebook." I haven't even had time to check it out. Maybe I will do that tonight.
I made Shrimp Creole tonight with fresh shrimp from Donlan's Seafood market. It was pretty good, very spicy. Work is very busy with trying to get last year's mentors back in the schools, and at the same time recruit new mentors. whew!
Nothing else much new...

Totally Unmotivated

That's what I am. I can't believe it's already 9/5/07 and I haven't written for days. Back to work and all that, I guess. Well, over the weekend Sarah and I took the camper out to Holly Rec. area for a relaxing couple of days. We cookded some awesome steaks and then chicken kaboobs with the Renee's tripod grill. The girls were at their dads....... :-) Then we came home and cleaned and winterized the camper and completed other odd jobs. Of course I didn't cook all weekend!! I've been quite busy at work the last couple of days. We are scurring to get the mentors back into the school, PLUS recruiting new groups and individuals. Tomorrow we have a big meeting with several local pastors. That should be interesting. I bought a new outfit so I could look SASSY!
Looking forward to Renee's scrapbooking birthday party on Saturday. It's going to be wild and last into the wee hours of the night I bet. I think I might start a new book. Either a vacation book or the "mom" book I've been wanting to make. Stay tuned.

Scrapbook Extravaganza

Late yesterday afternoon, Renee (my neighbor) and I drove to Marlene's to sort through Marlene & Karen's scrapbook stuff before they took it to the resale shop. We sorted through the piles, picking out armloads of goodies. We both ended up with a trunk load of goodies for a very fair price. Marlene said that she set garage sale prices. After driving through Fenton (see next para.) and stopping at Subway for a quick sub, we arrived home and quickly decided to reorganize my scrapbook materials. I dragged my stuff across the street and the fun began. Renee helped me organize and set up my "stuff" so I can better access my things. We then did a few pages. I pooped out about 11:00 p.m. I have to go get my stuff today because I was too tired to drag it home last night!

Even though the signs on the expressway said, "all exits to Fenton closed," we decided to see how far we could get. We were actually able drive right down into Fenton. It was devastating. Roads were closed to neighborhoods that had massive trees down in the streets, and on rooftops. The downtown area had a massive amount of trees twisted and broken. We couldn't really see the worst part of the damage because those areas were blocked off with yellow tape. It was pretty scary stuff!

p.s. Thanks for sharing the paper, Renee!

Slow Start

Well we are slowly getting things back together at work. We had to attend a district meeting on Monday morning. Then yesterday a meeting from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. Today, another meeting from 2:00 pm to probably 4:00. Maybe by next week we will be back in full swing. There is some talk about moving our office down to the admin. building. We're hoping to stay put at the lovely Zimmerman building. You know the one where the alternative ed. classes are. With the lovely children. But at least no bosses breathing down our necks! We have computers that need to be installed. Data lines, etc.
On a more personal note, I am reading John Grishom's latest novel and we are watching the HBO movie series "band of brothers." It's a war movie, which I don't normally like but it's pretty good. It makes me wonder if that's what dad went through during the war. Probably so. In case you didn't hear Nicole made the JV squad in volleyball for this her freshman year. Pretty good!! Can't wait till they go back to school. Can you feel me on this issue?

Update Your Blog

everyone has been saying. Well, what if I really have nothing to say? Which is the case for why I haven't written. This is my last day until I go back to work. I haven't even heard from my boss as to what the schedule is for tomorrow. So, maybe I won't even go....... ha ha
Got up early today (7:30) and straighten up the house, did some e-mail, stuff like that. Hopefully I will be tired enough to go to bed at a decent time. But, I still doubt I will sleep. I never do on Sunday night. I am making tacos for dinner tonight. Now there is something exciting!

Now Can I Start the Count Down?

So, I have to go back to work next Monday. I'm trying to make the most of my last week, but I seem to keep getting caught up in the mundane. Tasks that must be completed before I'm too busy to do anything about them.
Two Dr.'s appointments
Pick up my new glasses
Take the dog to the vet for shots and heart worm
Get an oil change in the Blazer
Call the insurance company about the crack in the windshield
Get my tire replaced (ARGH! There was a nail in it, and it was non-fixable!)
Wait for the mattress people

However, on a much "brighter" note, Monday night we stayed up late with the Aurands to watch the meteor shower. It was touted to be the biggest and the best because of the New Moon. (No light to interfere) We saw a fair share, we "ohhhhhed" and "Ahhhhhed", but nothing prepared us for what happened next. There was a bright flash in the sky, we all screamed. (yes, even Tom!) We saw the hugest meteor, complete with firey ball and swooshing tail. It even hung in the sky for several seconds. Even Bailey saw it. :-) It was really worth the yawns the next morning! We all decided it was a once in a life time event!

Having Fun At The Cottage

Well we are having the usual great time at the cottage. The Aurands (our neighbors) were here Tues. and Wed. It was a bit crowded but we managed quite well. We did lots of boating and tubing. It was almost too quiet when they left! Last night we had a grilled dinner. Chicken, veggies and "JohnnyCheck" corn all on the grill. Yumm-O! The corn was awesome as usual. Should be great for Marlene & Don & Karen and Riley next week. It's a cloudy start to the day today and there is a small chance for showers. I'm thinking of going into Boyne for some good coffee and maybe a small pastry at the Boyne City Cafe...

Leavin Early

So we are all packed up and ready to go. Just waiting for Nicole to get done babysitting. Chris gave me the lowdown last night when we took them out to show them how to run the boat. Which by the way Rob, Chris and Abbey seemed to thoroughly enjoy. The neighbors, Tom, Renee, Elyssa, Evan & Big Girl will be joining us tomorrow. That should be fun. We will do lots of tubing and maybe even skiing. Me of course, I'll be driving. If I can even get up in the boat--don't want to rip my incision! By the way I like Marlene's new blog setup. I might be changing mine upon return from vaca.

Nothing Much New

Just washing, packing, shopping and getting ready to go to the cottage. We are leaving Tuesday morning. I have a major sinus headache today. Hmmmm, what else? Don't have to cook tonight because we're going to the neighbors for 2 of her kids birthday parties & she's having subs. Can't think of much else...

First Day of August

No, I'm not counting down, Lisa. I got up early so as I could get out while it was still cool. I took my Lil Sis Alyssa to a mini water park. It was called a "Splash Pad." It was pretty cool. They had water coming in all directions. Out of the ground, out of poles of various shapes and sizes, dumping from buckets and shooting from towers. Needless to say we got wet and it felt good. Channel 12 news was there, but apparently we were not photogenic enough. ha ha We went out for lunch at Burger King (her choice)... It was probably about 90 already by the time I dropped her off at around 1:30. Good thing the air was on at home, because I made hot roast beef sandwhiches for dinner. Just chillin now...

Last Day of July

Hot, Hot, Hot. So hot I turned the air on early. I'm stayin inside and doing "light" housework and phone calls etc... Yesterday I had my annual eye exam. Doc says my eyes are healthy, no signs of wear and tear from the diabetes. I ordered new glasses. The good news, I saved over $400, the bad news: I still had to pay $224. Go figure.

Where has the summer gone? I have to go back to work in 20 days! I must admit I'm getting used to being home. :-( Next week we're going to the cottage. Can't wait!!

Camping

We went camping at Myers Lake Campground in our new (old) little pop-up. The neighbors went also and stayed in the next lot over. Good thing because we were missing lots of stuff! Probably would have starved half to death or eaten raw food without them. A good time was had by all! We played in the sandbox, pushed the little ones on the fwings (swings) I probably shouldn't have done that because then I was sore. Swam in the lake and toasted marshmallows around the campfire while listening to a story about 4 neighborhood kids who saw a ghost. I still owe them chapters 8 thru 10!! They seemed to like it even tho I was making it up as I went along!! Anyway, here are some pics from our adventure.

Grande Iced Carmel Macchiatto

From Starbucks! I think this is my new summer brew. (thank you for this one Marlene!) By the way does that count as coffee? You know as in, will it cause the same kind of heartburn? Anyway, it is yummy-licious! I had to go to the sec. of state so I decided to stop and get a Starbucks with my gift card. When I got there I really didn't want a hot coffee. So I decided to try something iced. Glad I did!

So last night they were giving "Severe Thunderstorm Warnings" for Genesee Co. We were in the garage waiting for the show. It never came. Just a few lightning strikes and some rumbles of thunder, and a moderate rain. Well, this morning on the news they said that Durand, MI (10 miles to the West) got slammed with a storm that Hung over the area for 45 minutes. There was golf ball sized hail, apparently there was allot of damage to glass. I think the storm then went North of the Creek, which it so often does--THANKFULLY! My car was in the driveway, along with all the other cars come to think of it. We probably would have received damage if the storm had come our way. The ole Taurus was spared!

Jergens Original Scent

MmMmMmMm! Can you remember? It brings back many childhood memories. Smells can do that. I think I read somewhere that scents can evoke powerful memories. Well, i received some Jergens "Original" scent lotion from Jan in my surgery care package.

Ok, so I finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. It only took me 4 days. Don't worry I won't give away any secrets. J K Rowling is really a good author. The hype is a bit much but I have really enjoyed the series. I am not even normally a fantasy reader.

Well, that's about it for now.

P.S. I forgot to report the unthinkable. It actually rained (stormed even!) on my birthday and the temp dipped below 80. But the sun did eventually come back out.

Still Forty Somethin'

I can say that for 1 more year. Happy Birthday to me! I am Queen Bee for a day. Went out to breakfast at Bob's. Had a QPee Jr. (minus the olives cuz Katie forgot) for lunch. Going out to a new Seafood restaurant for dinner. Now that is the life. I bought a new spice rack and a MP3 player with my birthday money. The weather forecast says rain today, but I keep telling everyone it won't rain because it never (almost) rains on my birthday. I drove for the first time in 2 weeks today. It was slightly painful but not too bad.

Hangin' Out

That's what I did today. I did wake up early (6:00) and balance the checkbook, check websites, clean up the kitchen.... as well as I could in my condition. Had Blueberry Toaster Waffles for breakfast.
Then I sat outside over at "the Renee's" for several hours. We even had a makeshift picnic right in the driveway. There was bologna sandwiches, chunks of cheese, chips and dip and mini "Three Musketeers" for a treat! Came home and grilled Chicken w/ a homemade marinade that was tasty, with grilled veggies and grilled corn on the cob. Yum-O. It was like a clip from BBQ University or Bobby Flay!

Tonight I started a new Debbie McComber book, did a Sudoku puzzle and even took a 30 minute power nap. All in all a rather satisfying day.

Care Package

Today the mailman was walking up the driveway (in the rain) yelling, "package, package I have a package!" I think Sarah and Bailey were outside. Inside the box was a very cute care package jammed with fun things. A customized pair of comfy shoes, word puzzles, paper, bubbles (For me and Sydney) and other assorted cool items. All in a deco paint can that will look awesome in the bathroom!
Thanks Jan - Very cool.

P.S. Happy Birthday Kevin

Staples

Ok, so it was really no big deal. I really couldn't even feel the staples being taken out. Partially because it really is quite easy and partially because along the incision line there is some numbness. Dr. says I am doing really well, that the surgery went great and there is no cancer. I remain with only a 1% chance of getting ovarian cancer. Not bad odds, I guess...

So I have taken up Suduko and word puzzles. Thank you Corrine! Once Renee showed me how to do Suduko I quite liked it. I think I am going to start another book from my humongous stack of books in the closet. Only 1 more week of lazing. I can start driving again next Friday.

p.s. I was going to include a picture, but it was a little too revealing...

The Recovery

Doesn't that sound like a book? Danielle Steel's newest novel. Anyway, I suppose my recovery is moving along nicely. I must count my blessings and consider the alternative; laying in a lumpy hospital bed eating hospital food and being poked at all hours of the night and day. I've been feeling pretty good in the daytime. It's about 8 p.m. that the pain starts. I guess it's from moving around all day that gets to me. It's like with any illness I guess, you always feel worse at night!
It's just that I've had enough of Regis & Kelly, Rachel and the View. I read a good book about the S'Carolina low-country that was a few hundred pages. I do have a few magazines that I've been saving. That will take up some time. Someone suggested I take up Saduko or Crossword Puzzles. I just don't seem to be able to get into those. Maybe I should write a book... It's quite frustrating not being able to clean or cook. Although, I must admit it has been nice being spoiled, Thanks to Renee, Lisa, Chris S. and Corinne. We are eating in style, Yum-O as Rachel would say. So, all in all I would say "The Recovery" is going well. Tomorrow I go and get my Staples out. Yikes. All I can picture is one of those office staple removers, or the teachers best friend. ( How many bulletin boards have I taken down just to put a new one up?) Anyone out there ever have staples removed from your body?

Home At Last

Well, so all in all it really wasn't too bad. I can't believe I am at home and already updating my blog. The surgery went quickly and went very well. The Doc said good results, almost certain not cancer. I really wasn't in much pain at all. Must have been all the prayers. I'm sore now and just trying to take it easy.

The whole gas experience, well now that is something else! I have more pain from gas than from my incision. I thought they were going to have to hang me upside down from the ceiling this morning! It was getting to be quite a serious issue. But, I did the deed and they let me come home.
(by the way Jan, it's only 2 weeks of no driving)

Today is the Day

Thank you to everyone praying for me--- I had a great night's sleep! I was calm and relaxed.
Had a good time last night at brother Rob's Old Fashioned 4th of July Picnic. See Marlene's Musings as I'm sure she'll have a full story complete with pictures.

Won't be back until Sat. or Sun. so TTFN

Third of July

So last night all the neighbors gathered for the spectacular fireworks show. A couple of the guys put on a show every year. There were probably 25 or more people lined up in the driveway and on the lawns. The kids were all lined up on a blanket laying on their bellies. I have to say it was the best show yet. While we were doing our little show one of the neighbors further down starting shooting the BIG ONES. You know the kind that go "boom." We were all "oohhhhhing" and "aahhhhhhhing."

July 2, 2007

Didn't do too much. I really didn't feel too good. I didn't even do anything around the house. That's pretty bad. I guess it was a catch-up on rest day.

T Minus 7, 6 5, and 4 Days

Thursday and Friday I spent getting ready for camping over the weekend. Washing, packing, shopping, etc...
We left Friday evening for Seven Lakes State Park/Campround. We camped with our neighbors Friday thru Sunday. Ah, there is nothing like sitting around the campfire competing to make the best toasted marshmallow! I have to say six year old Evan is a master already. He really has the patience to wait and make a perfectly tanned toasty, squishy marshmallow. Mine of course kept flaming up...
We swam, read, ate, hiked, slept and rested.
I of course tried to tell scarey stories by the monlight campfire. I was doing pretty good with my own version of the headless horseman. Evan was pretty mezmerized until Katie grabbed him at the scarietst part. He was scared and started crying as we were all laughing so I quickly changed the story to have a humerous ending. Something like, "so he grabbed his head out of the bag and put it back on his shoulders." Evan quickly forgot his scare as everyone started cracking up.

Sunday night we went to dad's to clean and have dinner. I made a pretty tasty Sweet and Sour Chicken. Went to bed really early last night cuz I was beat!

T Minus 8 Days (Wed. June 27)

A hot and stormy day today. Had to wait for the washer man to come and fix the NEW washer. They said between 8 and 12. He came at 11:30. But Syd was here to entertain me. Three year olds can be so much fun. We watched Kiyou, played on the computer and chatted. Then we decided to take her out to lunch and then to the airport to pick up Niki. We got her car seat and everything. We went to Don Pablos. I think Syd enjoyed it very much. She loved the airport seeing the planes on the runway and taking off. But she loved surprising Niki even more.

Later in the afternoon it was off to the Detroit Shock game with my little sis Alyssa. She had never been to the Palace so it was quite exciting for her. By the third quarter she really got into the game whopping and hollering like everyone else. We ate hot dogs, chips, popcorn and cotton candy! The game was sponsored (free) from the BBBS organization. We had to ride down to the Palace on a Flint School bus though. It was storming on the way home. All the kids screamed every time the lightning flashed. (which was about every 20 or 30 seconds) The bus was cramped. The were putting 3 kids to a seat, 2 adults. Well, behind me there was 3 boys probably 5th grade sitting together. Now you can imagine that. They were off the chain. I finally had to give them my best "stern" teacher lecture. Even that didn't work with one little guy. Finally, I had them switch seats and I sat with the rowdy one. Now I have a new little friend named Christian who is a very hyper 11 yr old. He likes Ninjas and does well in school. I tested him on his time tables and asked him how lighning is formed. He did very well on both. He just needed some attention I think. He was quite a bit calmer by the time we pulled into the BBBS parking lot.
Check in later for T MInus Day 7

T Minus 9 Days (Tuesday June 26)

Another HOT one! Ninety something today. whew. But today I cranked the air on early. (First time it's been on this year.) Early in the morning I dropped a hardcover book on my toes. Ouch! The only way I could walk without pain was to wear my gym shoes. Probably broke a toe. I had to spray my hanging baskets with insectiside again. I seem to have a Japeneese Beetle problem. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I'm thinking about just throwing the plants away. Because these bugs seem very invasive and they are grossing me out!

Photo Show Attempt

Happenings - T Minus 10 Days (Mon. June 25th

Didn't really do a whole lot cuz it was hot!!
In the afternoon Sydney from across the street (age 2 1/2) came over to get me to go swimming in her pool. It was a sweet relief. Mind you there was barely room for Sydney, me and brother Evan. (age 6) The pool is one of those inflatable jobs, probably 2 feet deep. It still felt cool and relaxing. We grilled chicken/veggie packets on the grill--they were very yummy & easy. After that I just lounged around and sat in the driveway. On a chair of course!

Mini Vacation

Finally got away for a mini-vacation. We packed allot into just a one night stay.
Got to the B & B in Whitehall, MI at around 4:00 Friday afternoon. We stopped at the visitor center, cruised around town for a while and then checked in. It was an old Victorian with beautiful woodwork and furniture. It has a wonder screened in porch complete with comfy wicker furniture. The room was also really nice with a claw foot jacuzzi tub.
After discussing dinner options with our hostess (Cathy Russell - picture of her and me) we decided to go to a local hangout, the Old Channel Inn. Sarah tried the Salmon and I got the Grouper. Both were delicious! I ate too much and got a bad stomach ache so after walking on the beach (Lk. MI.) we went back and vegged at the B & B. Oh, I forgot, we took a short drive down the channel and ended up across from the White River light station. Could not get to it because we were across the channel.

Breakfast on Sat. a.m. was scrumptious. Homemade apple muffin, fresh fruit Brulee', Yummy! (She gave me the recipe) The main course was yummy french toast that had soaked all night and toasted then baked, and sausage. We left and did some shopping in the local shops then went to the other side of the lake where the lighthouse is. It had a little museum and Sarah walked up to the top of the tower. I of course was too chicken.

In the afternoon we drove to Muskegon and nosed around there. We actually ran into a submarine and lifeguard boat that we had seen from across that channel several years ago. We had a good laugh about that. As we were driving along the beach road we saw a cute little place called "Captain Jack's. It was so cool. We secured a table in the shade overlooking Lk. Mich. and the channel. Well, we were sitting there listening to the music (live) and all of a sudden I looked over toward the channel and my eyes bugging, said "oh my gosh!" There was a huge freighter heading down the channel. It was awesome. No picture though cause we had left the camera in the car. Trekked through a few shops and got some neat stuff. Our idea for this year's Christmas gifts and some birthday stuff for someone who has a birthday pretty soon...

Later, in the afternoon we drove to Grand Haven to check stuff out there. Of course we hit a few shops again. Then headed out to the lighthouse/beach area for a few pictures. Eventually we parked the car and just sat and watched the boats coming up and down the channels. It was fun to people watch pretend which boat would suit us next. We left around 6:00 p.m. and stopped at one of our favorite spots for a quick meal: Steak and Shake! There is a new one in Lansing. We managed the whole trip with major water bottles and not one ice-cream cone. ( I still can't believe that.)

Longest Day of the Year

First day of summer! But, tomorrow the days get shorter........ Ok, Ok, don't dwell on the negative!
It promises to be a beautiful day with a high of 80 degrees.
Here is Kathy's Top Ten List - Best Way to Spend the first Day of Summer:
10. Cook out on the grill for dinner
9. Go to a softball game
8. Go on a picnic
7. Buy and plant a new flowering plant
6. Swim in your pool - or someone Else's!
5. Stay inside and crank up the air if you live somewhere
where it's really hot!
4. Take the kids to the beach.
3. Park your chaise lounge in the shade and read a good book
2. Take a trip to the zoo
1. Enjoy the day!

Two More Weeks of Freedom

Hmmm, what will I do with my next two weeks?

Probably wake early. I got up at 6:00 a.m. today for no reason at all. (At least I slept through the night.)
Going on a mini-vacation this weekend to a B & B in Whitehall MI.
Going camping to Seven Lakes State Park with the neighbors the next weekend.
Take a nightly bike ride.
Take my little sister to the BBBS outing. (Detroit Shock Game)
Get my hair cut SHORT - really SHORT. So I don't have to worry about it.
Have Karen & Riley over for Taco Salad.
Appreciate my mobility!!

June 17th ~ Happy Father's Day, Happy Birthday Sarah & Riley Rose

"Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you.Deuteronomy 5:16 (New International Version)

I've been thinking about this verse as I thought about Father's Day. To honor means to give respect. Respect is something that seems to be missing in todays society. But that's another topic for another day. Let me just say I miss it. Anyway, Happy Father's Day Dad. Hope it is a good one.

Happy 39th Sarah! and Happy 3rd Riley!

The rose is from my rosebush

My Little Sister

I met my "little sister" for the first time on Tuesday. Her name is Alyssa and she is 6 yrs. old. She's cute and really smart. She wanted to go to Red Robin for our first outing because she had never been there but the "Red Robin Chicken" had visited her school. We chatted throughout the meal and there was even a magician who came to our table to do tricks. We were both amazed and dazed! Afterwards, we went to McDonald's for desert. (she has quite a healthy appetite) I ran into someone from LCA (Brent and his daughter) and while we caught up, the girls played in the play area. We went back to the house and talked with mom and grandma for a little while. I'll probably be seeing her again in a few weeks. We already have a list of "Things to Do."

Roller Skating (Yikes!)
Go to the park
Ride bikes at my house
Go to the beach

Memorial Day 2007

The White House Commission on Remembrance is an independent government agency whose missions include:
 Promoting the spirit of unity and remembrance through observance of The National Moment of Remembrance at 3 PM local time on Memorial Day;
 Ensuring the nation remembers the sacrifices of America's fallen from the Revolutionary War to the present;
 Recognizing those who served and those who continue to serve our great nation and reminding all Americans of their common heritage

Thanks Dad and others who serve(d) our country.

Not just a day to picnic and plant flowers. Have a Great Memorial Day!

The Nickerson Inn

If you read my last blog you would see that I was asking for suggestions for a place to go for a "mini-vacation." Marlene recommended the Nickerson Inn in Pentwater, MI. So I went online this AM to check it out and probably make a reservation. When I got to the website I saw in big red bold letters. "The Nickerson Inn was Destroyed by Fire on Monday, May 21, 2007." I sent the article via e-mail to Marlene, I knew she would want to know. I guess I won't be going there. I was really looking forward to it. Marlene had told me lots about it. I'm sure she'll be writing all about it in her blog.

"Do You Concur?"

"Yes, Yes I concur." Said Leanardo DiCaprio impersonating a doctor in the movie "Catch Me if You Can." Well, Dr. Hicks ( a real Dr.) has also concurred with Dr. Lapa ( another real Dr.) that all my gizzards (female parts) must come out. The scheduler will be calling soon with the surgery date. It seems we have quite some bad cancer genes passed down on the maternal side. Dr. Hicks is checking into genetic testing for me. If the insurance will pay for it I will have it. It's only a blood test, but a very expensive one at that. $4000.00 Maybe they send it to outer space and back. I can't imagine why a blood test would be so costly.

Anyway, I'm thinking it sure would be nice to take a vacation or even a "mini-vacation" before I have to go in. Any suggestions? Please log in with your answers!

Stayed Up Too Late Last Night

I was in my robe, half asleep when there was a LOUD pounding on the door. (It was 10;20 p.m.) I couldn't even get my thoughts together fast enough to figure out what was going on. It was the neighbors. They were all at Toni and Josh's house and wanted us to come over. I had to get re-dressed and fix my hair. We ended up staying way too long. 1:30 a.m. Which by the way the best part of the evening was watching Tom and Toni do Dance-Dance-Revolution. I felt sorry for the little kids who stayed up so late. But I'll tell ya this they look way better than I do this morning. I slept in until 10:30 a.m. but somehow that never seems to work for me. Went out for breakfast to try and wake up. Probably didn't help that I carbo-loaded on Biscuits and Gravy. Even the coffee hasn't worked yet!

After we got home I went up to Rich's Farm Market, I love that place and it's only about a mile from home. I got the last Rosemary plant because I want to make roasted rosemary potatoes with the pork chops tonight. However, the thing is so tiny and spindly that I would have to strip it completely to have enough herbage for the potatoes. Now I have a real predicament. I also bought 2 little ($5.99) hanging baskets. They are so cute. Going to figure out a way to hang them on the deck somehow. While I was there I got a bright idea for a "new" look for the front porch. Gonna have Sarah put in a couple of hooks for some hanging baskets of the porch roof. Whew, that's enough for today. I think we'll rent a movie and crash early this evening.

Ho Hum

Not much to report really. I saw Cherethe Hollinger today, that was fun. (Private joke for Lisa) Got home from work a little early, sat in the sun. Why I don't know because I'm still peeling skin from being out too long during the garage sale days!

Had ribs at Logans, ate a few peanuts and threw the shells on the floor. Finally got the freezy pops for Evan who'd been bugging me for the last 3 weeks to buy them. (little guy across the street) Evan had blue, Elyssa choose red and Syd took yellow. Ah, the first freezy pop of the summer.
Anyway, then 2 seconds after I got out of the tubby, Sarah broght the neighbors in for a "tour" Hmmm, that was fun, my undies were on the bed. (and probably my clothes, towels) Oh well, I guess she didn't know that. That's what I get for leavin' my stuff out.

Dad is coming for dinner tomorrow. Going to grill Chicken and veggie kabobs. I guess I better pick up my stuff now! Don't get lost dad, I hope my directions were good.

Storm Tracker

Last night was the first "Big" storm of the season. We were watching the front move in from the south. All of a sudden it was dark as night, the wind started whipping the trees and the rain was vertical. Storm Tracker on Channel 12 (7 for you Wayne/Oakland people) said that the storm was approaching with winds at 70 mph. We saw some of the clouds rotating and decided to head downstairs.

That so reminded me of when we were kids. Mom always made us head downstairs at the mention of a storm.
Suddenly, the phone was ringing. The new neighbor next-door was alone and scared. She asked if she could come over. She was soaked just from running the few feet to our garage. J R Kirtek was showing us golf-ball sized hail from some of the storms in the Mich. "Thumb" area. I would hate to have those pounding my head or my car! LOL
There actually was a sighting of a Tornado in Vernon which is about 10 or 15 miles West of Swartz Creek. The sirens were sounding in Flint because someone at the airport noticed some rotation in the clouds. 30 minutes later, the storm had passed and all was calm again. I think the biggest part of the storm thankfully missed us!

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to my sisters, (in-laws) and neices.
I bought a beautiful hanging Southern Fuchia and instead of putting it in the cemetary, I figured mom would want me to enjoy it. So happy Mother's Day in Heaven, Mom! I miss you more than I ever dreamed could be possible. However, as you know, Marlene is doing a great job in your place. :-)

In Regards to...

the nodule on my (left) ovary, the Gyn would like to take it out and then take out everything elso too! (Hysterectomy) Am I really that old already? Anyway, I have a consult in 2 weeks with Gyn/Oncologist to see if he concurs. If so, they will be scheduling surgery. Yipee. Apparently if they do the surgery the gyn/onc. dude will be there to assist and in case, well by chance the nodule is cancer.

So, not to be whining or complaining or anything, but I am NOT looking forward to another miserable summer of surgery recovery. Oh, well I shall try and remain thankful in all things...

New Flower Garden

Well tonight we're out in the backyard planning for a new flower bed. After all, got to get ready for the BIG party next summer. (Katie's Graduation) I decided to put in 3 peony plants behind the house. I love peonies. We had some on Oporto. I really loved walking by them. They looked and smelled so awesome. I haven't decided what color yet. I probably won't decide until I get to Home Depot.
Last year we put in a Pink Dogwood. (Because it reminds me of mom, although I should have put in a Red Bud because it reminds me even more. Can't you just hear mom saying "Red Bud" :-) Anyway, it's not doing so hot. The winter was bad. The bottom branches are dead. But the top branches are still alive and getting ready to bloom. I hope the tree makes it.

Macinaw Island Peanut Butter Fudge

Doesn't that sound yummylicious? Single dip from Gurnsey's in Northville. Yup! I ate the whole thing. Big chunks of peanut butter. I think though that I'm going to have to put into my goals for the "Spring Into Healthier You" group something about ice-cream. It gets addicting with the warmer weather upon us. How about the goal of " One ice-cream serving per day?" I'm sure my highly competitive neice would like to see that. A couple weeks ago she served me a huge ice cream sundae that I could not pass up. Then she giggled about how she was setting me up. Not fair! I wonder who else she has tricked? Watch out girls!!

One's Man's Treasure...

This weekend was the BIG Garage Sale. Friday was not too nice but Sat. and Sun. were warm and sunny. Friday started out with a huge scare. A man in a big white van was driving around the neighborhood at 7:00 a.m. trying to supposedly ask kids about the sale. But, he went about it all wrong. Someone called the cops on him because he tried to call her daughter to the van. Duh, you just can't do that in this day and age. I still say he was a perv and just using the garage sale for an excuse. The cops pulled him over right in front of our house!
Sales were slow on Friday because of the weather. Saturday was really the best day. We made a couple hundred bucks altogether. It's funny what people pass up and then all of a sudden someone will buy. There was this halloween decoration that's been in several sales. I finally marked it down to 25 cents and a lady finally bought it on Sunday. I sat out in the sun too long and got a pretty wicked sunburn. Tried to sell Hot Dogs and chips on Saturday. It was kind of a bust. I probably only broke even. Oh well. I guess I bought too much.

Catchin' Up!

Ok, ok so it's been a while. I guess I'll have to catch you up on the latest. I'm still waiting to become a "Big" sister. Getting impatient though. I've been calling my case worker weekly. We're trying to sell the boat. See photo. Big subdivision garage sale this weekend. Hoping it stops raining in time for the big crowds.
I am working from home this afternoon, which is very nice on a rainy day. I made a pot of coffee (mini) and have some yummy carmel cream. (or shall I say "yummylicious" as is the Henderson way.) We don't have any computers in our office yet, so if I have a lot of typing to do.

Health Wise: hmmmm, let's see. Here are the latest issues:
1. My Thalecemia (sp?) is kicking in again (a weird type of anemia) so I am taking iron
2. I now have carpel tunnel - very painful! I will be wearing those funny wrist support things.
3. My sugar is a little high so the good Dr. is changing my meds. Some new med I never heard of. In fact neither has the pharmacist.
4. I have a small nodule on my [left] ovary so I am going to a specialist for further consideration. It may be endometriosis or whaterever else, who knows at this point.
Wow getting old is rough!

Mystery Pain Diagnosed

Well, this morning I got up early to head off to Genesis Hosp. for an EMG test. If you're thinking that doesn't sound fun, you're right! At 8:15 I was having major electrical impulses jolting through both my arms. (one at a time) And if that wasn't enough after that I had (ummmm let's see what did the good Dr. call them) electrodes or something [I call them needles] inserted into the muscles in my arms and hands. Ouch, I still have puncture wounds! I was however able to receive immediate results. I have Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. Didn't Mom have that? I remember her wearing wrist braces on and off for a while. I will probably have to see the Dr. again to find out what torture I mean treatment will be needed. I may have to lay off the computer typing for a while. I don't think it helps. Maybe I'll get a "voice" activated computer. Is there such a thing? I hope it doesn't affect my newly found hobby of scrap-booking...

For the Birds

This weather is for the birds! No not even them. I mean come on, really. I'm trying to count my blessings and all, but..............
This is my spring break. I was planning on sitting out in the sun, playing outside with the neighbor kids, flying my remote control airplane, washing my car.
Instead I will be playing computer games, scrap booking, sleeping in, watching daytime tv, trying new recipes... Ok, maybe I can salvage the vaca. somewhat.

Good Friday (God's Friday)

I was thinking today that I wonder why today is called "Good Friday." When it seemed to me that perhaps "Bad Friday" would be a more fitting day. Since after all it is the day that Jesus died. So I decided to look it up. Wikipedia shows the following:
It is likely that the name "Good Friday" came from the earlier English name, "Godes Friday," meaning "God's Friday." In much the same way as "God be with ye" was shortened to "goodbye," so did "Godes Friday" become "Good Friday."

According to the Word of God, Good Friday is the day Jesus Christ was crucified on a cross to die for the sins of the world, taking on the punishment each and every man deserved, and thus becoming a bridge between man and God. Jesus' most desparate moment was the instant when the sins of the world came upon Him, and God, His Father, had to turn His face away from Him.

Well, that explains it. Man in all his wisdom "shortened" or altered the word thus altering the meaning. Now at least when you think of "Good Friday" you will remember "God's Friday." Wouldn't it be something if even for 1 hour during the day the world would stop rushing, bustling, etc. and stop and remember what Jesus did.

April Fool's Day - Russell's favorite day

Whoever invented that I wonder? But as a child it was a favorite day. With 5 brothers and sisters there was always some kind of prank going on. My brother Mark who was a prankster by nature was always sure to pull a few. Did he ever put water on the top of the door? I seem to remember something like that. How about rubber snakes in the bed? Or short sheeting? I bet my sisters have some stories to share. Is it my imagination or has April Fool's day fallen by the wayside,like so many other traditions from back in the day?
Ok, well let's hear your stories about April 1st.

"Free" Fish

So, yesterday we picked up the "free" fish and fishtank from one of the "Repo" houses that Sarah had to lock up. Actually, the company even paid $50 to have the stuff removed. So, now we are the proud owners of a 110 gallon tank complete with barbs, platys, placto and even an eel. (ewwww) No one likes that one. Today we took a trip to the pet store to get a few items. Hmmmmmmmm. Left the store with some $60 of "stuff". Plants for the fishies to hide in. A new filter pack. A net, vacuum but no new fishies. The girl suggested waiting a week because we had to change the yucky water.
It is kind of peaceful to sit here computing and listen to the water gurgle. If we get sick of it we can always sell it in the BIG spring garage sale.

P.S. I just heard they found the scout that was missing in the woods in N.C. What in the world was he thinking? Well I'm glad they found him!

Daylight Savings Time

Daylight savings time was a good idea. Starting it 3 weeks early was an even better idea. It's 7:45 p.m. and the street lights haven't even come on yet. It just makes me feel better. You get the feeling that you have more hours of sunlight. I guess maybe it's that you do actually have more sunlight during your "waking" hours.

I have a movie review. Go see WILD HOGS! It's a little silly, but it is a feel good just laugh your head off movie. I laughed so hard, out loud right in the theatre. Every one in the theatre was laughing which I think just made everyone laugh even harder. And, if you're worried that you've gained a little weight lately, don't worry because John Travolta and Tim Allen have both put on a lot of weight. Well, that's my 2 cents!

Nearly 50...

The temperature that is! What a great day. Slept in. (because of the time change of course!) Got up and cleaned up the house a bit. Then went outside to do the first chores of spring.
pick up the dog poop in the front yard
sweep the garage
take down the Christmas lights
clean up inside the car

The best part was playing outside with the neighbors. We blew bubbles, played ball, even sat in the sun for a bit.
All in all as I said it was a GREAT day!

P.S. Should have grilled dinner...

New Recipe - Chicken Carbonara Deluxe

I'm always trying new recipes. This one I got from Betty Crocker online. It was delicious and very easy to make. Try it you'll like it. I added mushrooms which were a yummy touch! I also, made it less fattening by using turkey bacon. It was a hit! The recipe is below.


1 package (7 ounces) spaghetti
8 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
2 cups cut-up cooked chicken
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup whipping (heavy) cream


1. Cook and drain spaghetti as directed on package.
2. While spaghetti is cooking, cook bacon in 3-quart saucepan over low heat 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until crisp. Remove bacon from saucepan with slotted spoon; drain. Drain fat from saucepan, reserving 1 tablespoon in saucepan.
3. Cook onion and garlic in bacon fat over medium heat about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until onion is tender. Stir in spaghetti, chicken, cheese and whipping cream. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Toss with bacon.

My Selection for the Oscar, "Cutest Baby"

Here she is my great-neice Maddie. Isn't she adorable? I think she should get this year's Oscar for "Cutiest Baby, 2007." I saw her for the first time on Friday. (By the way Marlene & Karen the Chicken pizza was fab!)
I enjoyed getting to know her--she didn't even cry when I held her! I'm glad I went to see her, otherwise I probably wouldn't get a chance to see her until she is one year old.
New Topic.......... It's starting........... the snow. It rained all morning and now a kind of icy snow is pinging against my window. Well, at least the major snow has missed us this time. I think it landed mostly north of us. Will we have enough precip. for ANOTHER snow day? Stay tuned!