Everyday Randomness

Pinterest - find your interest!

2012-01-26T13:50:00.000-08:00

Flowers in Bloom - from a Stampin' Up! SU4Me Challenge

Simple All Occasion card

Pinterest ----- Any one besides me getting "addicted" to this awesome site? I love all the great ideas, thoughts, tips, tricks, ideas, memories, inspiration and dreams that are so easily shared!

When I first "heard" about Pinterest I didn't think I would be interested in this relatively new social outlet. Boy, was I mistaken. I have total interest in Pinterest! I've created boards for things I like: food, stamping, organization, cats & dogs, etc. I've learned that I'm not an odd duck; that others like the same random stuff I do.

I'm particularly drawn to hand stamped cards, memories of childhood and food. I've made a small effort at uploading some of my own pins also and not just pinning others pins. I am flattered to have several people re-pin some of the cards I shared. There are so many talented, interesting people in the world.

Big Shot Cup Cake Card using Designer Papers

Go check out Pinterest I am sure you'll find a passion to pin. If you need an invite let me know!

Happy pinning!!!

Under Construction

2012-01-04T09:53:00.000-08:00

You'll notice some changes and weirdness going on for a bit; but when the dust settles it will be beautiful.

So grab your hard-hat; pull up a chair and enjoy visiting.

Update: I'm loving the new background - we're still messing around with the layout and header. Don't get rid of your hard hat yet.

Christmas dream come true

2012-01-03T18:44:00.000-08:00

Amanda has been wanting a KITCHENAID for what seems like forever. And, knowing how much she enjoys baking, cooking and creating tasty treats in the kitchen my hubby and I really wanted to make that wish a reality. But .... they are so expensive!

I entered every contest possible to win one; but alas someone else hoping, wishing and dreaming of owning a wonderful KitchenAid took home each prize.

My husband and I decided that even though we usually do not do retail Christmas (meaning we do NOT shop for our immediate family: My husband; my daughter and myself at Christmas time) and gifts that are given between the 3 of us are supposed to be handmade or other. (I always ask for the same two items: 1) that we decorate the tree together as a family; and 2) that we embrace and enjoy our family and friends during the Christmas season and enjoy special meal times together.) ......that although we don't do retail Christmas --- having a KitchenAid would be a dream come true for our 19 year old.

She is not a needy type of girl. She shops at WalMart and thrift stores; doesn't do name brands just because they are name brands and puts value in people and happiness. She is a great student and is doing really well in her first year at Sac State. (yes, I am a proud mom!)

So we decided that her dream needed to be come a reality!

Here is her reaction:

She was so excited!!!! And, she has used it every day since Christmas! She has baked butter cookies and pumpkin bread; made salad dressings and pancake mixes. We are so glad we made the investment in her passion for cooking.

Quick and tasty recipes

2012-01-03T13:58:00.000-08:00

Here are 2 Quick and Tasty (EASY!) Recipes:

Vegetable Alfredo:

Heat frying pan; add a teaspoon off Olive Oil; sautee Asparagus, yellow onions, mushrooms, zucchini and spinach. Add in alfredo sauce and heat till warm. Serve with freshly grated romano sprinkled over the top. Add a side of your favorite salad: Spinach and tomato is our favorite with this; and a slice of toasted french bread. Delicious and super easy. Left-overs for lunch the next day are easily reheated.

Sausage Stuffed Won Tons

Heat frying pan; add 2 pounds sausage. (I like Jimmy Dean, but YOUR favorite sausage will be perfect.) and brown completely. Add Marscipone cheese (small container) 2 cups of Bread Crumbs (Progresso or Panko crumbs both work well in this recipe) Season with fresh Garlic, Parsley or Italian Seasoning. If you would like add 1 tablespoon of Chardonnay. Stir together. Mixture will be chunky but creamy.

Line mini muffin pan with won ton wrappers. I prefer the square ones but the store was out of them so I settled on the round ones. Seriously, there is no difference; it was just me being picky. But I digress.

Fill each won ton with a small scoop of the warm sausage mixture. Top with grated cheddar cheese and bake for 10 - 15 minutes at 325*

We made 3 pans of these and they were GONE in under an hour when I took them to work. (and there were only 6 of us in the office that day.)

Enjoy!

More easy and tasty recipes to come.

I admit it .....

2012-01-03T13:20:00.000-08:00

I totally enjoy the Twilight Saga.
I enjoyed the books
I've seen each movie in the theater at least 2 times
My daughter and I own each DVD (that has been released)

and ..... I was totally excited to see this:

YES!!!!!! Coming to DVD on February 11! We'll have to add this to our collection. I can't wait to see it again. Breaking Dawn (part 1) has been my favorite Twilight Saga movie to date.

Of course, I am anxiously awaiting the release of Part 2 to the theaters in November of this year. (even if that means my precious daughter will be 20!) Yikes. Yes, that is right - so far each of the Twilight movies have been released to the theater on her birthday weekend.

Yes, I am a Twilight fan. I admit it.

Remembering 2011

2011-12-31T21:26:00.000-08:00

As 2011 draws to a close there are so many photos I want to share. Some will be pretty random; others will be obviously focused on events. Three momentous events occurred in a very short period of time between May and August of 2011:

1) Manda graduated from Oakmont High School
2) We had a WONDERFUL celebration of her graduation that included meeting my oldest brother Rod for the very first time. What a special event!
3) Manda started CSUS…..

I know it seems strange that those are the high points; but honestly I love my daughter and am just so very proud of her.

This 1st group of photos are from shopping for her Senior Ball gown which was a present from our very special friends Heidi Bebb and Pammy Morgan. Manda was treated to a shopping trip that included finding the dress of her dreams; the shoes and the accessories followed by a wonderul lunch at Olive Garden. I can not even begin to tell you how much this meant to my precious girl. Senior Ball was momentous and wonderful because of Heidi and Pammy.

Senior Ball is naturally followed by …… GRADUATION! My father passed away on May 26, 1990. He never saw me get married or meet his grand daughter whom he would have adored; but he was with her in spirit on her graduation day: May 26, 2011 at 7pm. Manda was honored to have Aunt Suzette and cousin Jessica; Heidi Bebb; Grandma Gail; Aunt Jill and daddy and I at graduation. We were honored to be there celebrating with her.

Graduation on Thursday, May 26 was followed by a WONDERFUL graduation party on Saturday, May 28, 2011. The party was held at the club house of the Deer Valley Apartments because our home is just not big enough for nearly 100 people to gather.

My mom (grandma Gail) helped to prepare appetizers; Heidi Bebb did the decorations and our guests provided the best conversations and hours filled with love!

Approximately 2 years ago an older cousin of mine was drunk-talking on Facebook and he revealed a long held secret: My brothers Rob, Rich and Ron and I have an older brother Rod that we knew NOTHING about. Long story; but to cut to the chase; I may be the youngest but I was the quickest to pick up the phone, call Rod and introduce myself. I am so very glad I did. I knew right away that he is definitely my brother. He sounds just like my brothers, laughs like our father and when I saw pictures ------ I KNEW! He has my dad’s hands and walks like my dad.

Rod and my sister in law and niece and I had tried several times to meet up; and failed to do so. BUT --- we convinced him to join us for Manda’s party. WHAT A JOYFUL moment!!!!!!!

Graduation Party 2011

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Manda and I have also spent LOTS of time in the kitchen. I plan on posting recipes SOON.

My lil HORNET joined a pre-law sorority: PHI ALHPA DELTA and was “pinned” in December:

And, for Christmas this year Manda received a very special, very wanted KITCHENAID!!!!!!! Oh my goodness; she has been begging; dreaming; wishing and hoping for one for several years. She loves to cook and loves to bake and just “needed” to have one. So far she has used it every day since Christmas!

Thanks for reading this long recap of a few special moments of 2011. May 2012 be filled with happiness and good health; and may you always have “enough.” Happy New Year!

Christmas at the Gas Station

2011-12-23T09:36:00.000-08:00

I have been supremely BAD about updating my blog this year, and for that I apologize. My goal for the upcoming year is to become re-inspired by the creativity that lurks within me and start sharing what I create; even if it is NOT perfect.

For those of you who happen upon my blog; THANK YOU for visiting. I am a regular blog stalker of many and find so many hours of joy and inspiration from each of you. Thank you for SHARING!

As Christmas is fast approaching --- I'd like to take this opportunity to wish you and yours a very Merry CHRISTmas and a HAPPY New Year. May our Lord bless you with good health; much love and laughter and a joy that shines through you like a beacon in the fog. God Bless you.

I received this from my mom and KNEW I had to post it to my blog.

Please read and send on to your friends, while thinking about your plans for this coming Saturday evening.

The old man sat in his gas station on a cold Christmas Eve. He hadn't been anywhere in years since his wife had passed away. It was just another day to him. He didn't hate Christmas, just couldn't find a reason to celebrate.

He was sitting there looking at the snow that had been falling for the last hour and wondering what it was all about when the door opened and a homeless man stepped through. Instead of throwing the man out, Old George as he was known by his customers, told the man to come and sit by the heater and warm up. "Thank you, but I don't mean to intrude," said the stranger. "I see you're busy, I'll just go." "Not without something hot in your belly." George said. He turned and opened a wide mouth Thermos and handed it to the stranger. "It ain't much, but it's hot and tasty. Stew ... Made it myself. When you're done, there's coffee and it's fresh."

Just at that moment he heard the "ding" of the driveway bell. "Excuse me, be right back," George said. There in the driveway was an old '53 Chevy. Steam was rolling out of the front.. The driver was panicked. "Mister can you help me!" said the driver, with a deep Spanish accent. "My wife is with child and my car is broken." George opened the hood. It was bad. The block looked cracked from the cold, the car was dead. "You ain't going in this thing," George said as he turned away. "But Mister, please help ..."

The door of the office closed behind George as he went inside. He went to the office wall and got the keys to his old truck, and went back outside. He walked around the building, opened the garage, started the truck and drove it around to where the couple was waiting. "Here, take my truck," he said. "She ain't the best thing you ever looked at, but she runs real good."

George helped put the woman in the truck and watched as it sped off into the night. He turned and walked back inside the office. "Glad I gave 'em the truck, their tires were shot too. That 'ol truck has brand new ." George thought he was talking to the stranger, but the man had gone.

The Thermos was on the desk, empty, with a used coffee cup beside it. "Well, at least he got something in his belly," George thought.

George went back outside to see if the old Chevy would start. It cranked slowly, but it started. He pulled it into the garage where the truck had been. He thought he would tinker with it for something to do. Christmas Eve meant no customers. He discovered the the block hadn't cracked, it was just the bottom hose on the radiator. "Well, shoot, I can fix this," he said to himself. So he put a new one on. "Those tires ain't gonna get 'em through the winter either." He took the snow treads off of his wife's old Lincoln. They were like new and he wasn't going to drive the car anyway.

As he was working, he heard shots being fired. He ran outside and beside a police car an officer lay on the cold ground. Bleeding from the left shoulder, the officer moaned, "Please help me."

George helped the officer inside as he remembered the training he had received in the Army as a medic. He knew the wound needed attention. "Pressure to stop the bleeding," he thought. The uniform company had been there that morning and had left clean shop towels. He used those and duct tape to bind the wound. "Hey, they say duct tape can fix anythin'," he said, trying to make the policeman feel at ease. "Something for pain," George thought. All he had was the pills he used for his back. "These ought to work." He put some water in a cup and gave the policeman the pills. "You hang in there, I'm going to get you an ambulance." The phone was dead. "Maybe I can get one of your buddies on that there talk box out in your car."

He went out only to find that a bullet had gone into the dashboard destroying the two way radio. He went back in to find the policeman sitting up. "Thanks," said the officer. "You could have left me there. The guy that shot me is still in the area." George sat down beside him, "I would never leave an injured man in the Army and I ain't gonna leave you." George pulled back the bandage to check for bleeding. "Looks worse than what it is. Bullet passed right through 'ya. Good thing it missed the important stuff though. I think with time your gonna be right as rain."

George got up and poured a cup of coffee. "How do you take it?" he asked. "None for me," said the officer.. "Oh, yer gonna drink this. Best in the city. Too bad I ain't got no donuts." The officer laughed and winced at the same time.

The front door of the office flew open. In burst a young man with a gun. "Give me all your cash! Do it now!" the young man yelled. His hand was shaking and George could tell that he had never done anything like this before.

"That's the guy that shot me!" exclaimed the officer.

"Son, why are you doing this?" asked George, "You need to put the cannon away. Somebody else might get hurt." The young man was confused. "Shut up old man, or I'll shoot you, too. Now give me the cash!"

The cop was reaching for his gun. "Put that thing away," George said to the cop, "we got one too many in here now."

He turned his attention to the young man. "Son, it's Christmas Eve. If you need money, well then, here. It ain't much but it's all I got. Now put that pea shooter away." George pulled $150 out of his pocket and handed it to the young man, reaching for the barrel of the gun at the same time. The young man released his grip on the gun, fell to his knees and began to cry. "I'm not very good at this am I? All I wanted was to buy something for my wife and son," he went on. "I've lost my job, my rent is due, my car got repossessed last week."

George handed the gun to the cop. "Son, we all get in a bit of squeeze now and then. The road gets hard sometimes, but we make it through the best we can." He got the young man to his feet, and sat him down on a chair across from the cop. "Sometimes we do stupid things." George handed the young man a cup of coffee. "Bein' stupid is one of the things that makes us human. Comin' in here with a gun ain't the answer. Now sit there and get warm and we'll sort this thing out."

The young man had stopped crying. He looked over to the cop. "Sorry I shot you. It just went off. I'm sorry officer." "Shut up and drink your coffee " the cop said.

George could hear the sounds of sirens outside. A police car and an ambulance skidded to a halt. Two cops came through the door, guns drawn. "Chuck! You ok?" one of the cops asked the wounded officer. "Not bad for a guy who took a bullet. How did you find me?" "GPS locator in the car. Best thing since sliced bread. Who did this?" the other cop asked as he approached the young man. Chuck answered him, "I don't know. The guy ran off into the dark. Just dropped his gun and ran."

George and the young man both looked puzzled at each other. "That guy work here?" the wounded cop continued. "Yep," George said, "just hired him this morning. Boy lost his job." The paramedics came in and loaded Chuck onto the stretcher. The young man leaned over the wounded cop and whispered, "Why?" Chuck just said, "Merry Christmas boy ... and you too, George, and thanks for everything."

"Well, looks like you got one doozy of a break there. That ought to solve some of your problems." George went into the back room and came out with a box. He pulled out a ring box. "Here you go, something for the little woman. I don't think Martha would mind. She said it would come in handy some day." The young man looked inside to see the biggest diamond ring he ever saw. "I can't take this," said the young man. "It means something to you." "And now it means something to you," replied George. "I got my memories. That's all I need."

George reached into the box again. An airplane, a car and a truck appeared next. They were toys that the oil company had left for him to sell. "Here's something for that little man of yours." The young man began to cry again as he handed back the $150 that the old man had handed him earlier. "And what are you supposed to buy Christmas dinner with? You keep that too," George said. "Now git home to your family."

The young man turned with tears streaming down his face. "I'll be here in the morning for work, if that job offer is still good." "Nope. I'm closed Christmas day," George said. "See ya the day after."

George turned around to find that the stranger had returned. "Where'd you come from? I thought you left?" "I have been here. I have always been here," said the stranger. "You say you don't celebrate Christmas. Why?" "Well, after my wife passed away, I just couldn't see what all the bother was. Puttin' up a tree and all seemed a waste of a good pine tree. Bakin' cookies like I used to with Martha just wasn't the same by myself and besides I was gettin' a little chubby."

The stranger put his hand on George's shoulder. "But you do celebrate the holiday, George. You gave me food and drink and warmed me when I was cold and hungry.

The woman with child will bear a son and he will become a great doctor.

The policeman you helped will go on to save 19 people from being killed by terrorists.

The young man who tried to rob you will make you a rich man and not take any for himself.

"That is the spirit of the season and you keep it as good as any man." George was taken aback by all this stranger had said. "And how do you know all this?" asked the old man. "Trust me, George. I have the inside track on this sort of thing. And when your days are done you will be with Martha again."

The stranger moved toward the door. "If you will excuse me, George, I have to go now. I have to go home where there is a big celebration planned."

George watched as the old leather jacket and the torn pants that the stranger was wearing turned into a white robe. A golden light began to fill the room. "You see, George ... it's My birthday. Merry Christmas."

George fell to his knees and replied, "Happy Birthday, Lord Jesus"

This story is better than any greeting card.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND GOD BLESS!

Now clear the lump from your throat, blow your nose, and send this along to a friend of yours or someone who may need a reminder as to why we celebrate Christmas.

Sam Rotolo Obituary: View Sam Rotolo's Obituary by San Jose Mercury News

2011-11-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

Sam Rotolo Obituary: View Sam Rotolo's Obituary by San Jose Mercury News

Students Create Mural Commemorating Andy Warhol Art - Video - KCRA Sacramento

2011-10-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

My "niece" Tori worked on the Pepsi bottle cap!

Students Create Mural Commemorating Andy Warhol Art - Video - KCRA Sacramento

Here is a link to the photos on SacBee.com

http://www.sacbee.com/2011/10/21/3997879/country-day-students-create-warhol.html

Community gathers to search for missing Roseville man - Roseville Press-Tribune

2011-10-20T13:44:00.000-07:00

Community gathers to search for missing Roseville man - Roseville Press-Tribune

I'm walking on 10/22/2011 to show my support

2011-10-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

On November 17,2011 two milestones occured.

1) my daughter turned 18!

2) my niece was diagnosed with non Hodgkins Lymphoma.

In the space of a year lives have been changed; changes have brought more milestones and hearts have continued to love family and be grateful to God for creating modern medicine.

On Saturday, October 22, in Sacramento, CA in support and honor of my wonderful niece Jessica; I am going to participate in the Light the Night walk for Luekemia and Lymphoma.

Please, join me in support by clicking on the link below to make a donation. It does not have to be a big donation. $1.00, $5.00 -- even $10.00. Whatever God places on your heart to share in support of finding a cure.

http://pages.lightthenight.org/sac/Sacra11/RGreenslade

Thank you.

Yes, this is a BIG ask. I am asking for your support. I am asking for your support of people you do not even know.

But I am not asking for me. I am asking for the health and hope of others. Your donation will touch a life. It may even be a life you do know.

Please help me to make a difference for others.

Thank you!

FREE Community BBQ / Family Fun Night

2011-09-22T09:49:00.000-07:00

This Friday, September 23,2011 from 7 - 11pm at 8127 Auburn Blvd. Citrus Heights, CA

There will be:
Food
Snow Cones
Music
Face Painting
Bounce Houses
Prize Drawings
Dinner

and .... at 9:00 pm FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT!!!!!!!
That is right! Bring YOUR family to see SOUL SUFER!!!!!
No standing in line to buy tickets
No need to FANDANGO to buy tickets

Just come to the FREE Community BBQ and FAMILY FUN NIGHT!!!!!

Sponsored by:
Church of the Harvest

Social Networking

2011-08-25T10:44:00.000-07:00

Social Networking

CSUS Orientation

2011-07-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

was AMAZING!!!!!!

I suffered from information overload by the end of the day, but it wasn't a bad thing. Once Manda and I had a moment to unwind and chat the information all made sense again.

Amanda is back on the campus (which is BEAUTIFUL!) today to officially register for her classes, get her student ID card, and possibly her parking pass. It looks like she will be taking 15 units her 1st semester. YIKES!

I had the pleasure of touring the campus yesterday ---- it is HUGE and almost a complete city in and of itself. There are approximately 25,000 students enrolled; and more than 1/5 of them are business majors.

Manda is a business major with a minor in criminal justice.

I think she'll love every minute of being a freshman on a university campus. Best of all .... it is right in our own back yard!

CSUS..... Here we COME!!!

2011-07-19T15:58:00.000-07:00

Manda and Brittany just before Graduation

Manda and Chloe...these two make me laugh out loud they are so fun!

I have been looking forward to this day all summer long.....

tomorrow Manda and I attend her orientation for
California State University Sacramento!!!!

We'll spend the day touring the campus and attending seminars and workshops. Then on Thursday she'll go back and start registering for classes.

Since neither Russ or I attended college (the little I attended community college can't possibly count!) we are super excited and a bit overwhelmed by this process.

Hopefully I will have lots of pictures to share detailing our orientation journey!

Congratulations Miss Manda!!!! Dad and I are so very proud of you!

Good Advice!

2011-07-12T13:24:00.000-07:00

I saw this on the delightful blog of Rebekah Westover Photography and HAD to share:

Busy weekend! Busy week! Where has June Gone?

2011-06-27T16:49:00.000-07:00

Life has been busy. Good, but busy. It seems as if we can not quite catch a breath and find time to just relex. But...at the same time, being busy keeps us from being couch potatoes and that is definately a good thing. Although my cat would tell you that a good cat nap is what makes life "purrfect!"

Our church had a rummage sale and street fair this last week. It was HOT HOT HOT and a great rehearsal for this week's Fireworks booth. I love our chuch family. Unconditional love and acceptance. The word of our Lord and Savior and fellowship time. AWESOME!

Manda had dance rehearsal and recital this weekend. I was a BAD mom and FAILED to take pictures. Not that I didn't want to.... I just failed to put the camera into my hand and click the button. Yeah, the camera sat in my purse the entire weekend.

I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED each of Manda's tap dances, and once the pictures come in, I'll see what I can do about remembering to post them.

And -- this week is shaping up to be a real fire cracker!

Yup! That is right! Fireworks booths open tomorrow! Our chuch has a booth located near the corner of Manzanita and Fair Oak in the Wells Fargo / Big Lots parking lot.
Should be lots of fun!!!

Come out and see us at: 7225 Fair Oaks Blvd, Carmichael, CA 95608

Just in case I don't hop back on this week ... Happy 4th of July my friends!!!!

Church of the Harvest Summer Sale and Street Fair

2011-06-21T10:09:00.001-07:00

Yes, that is a mouthful!!

Church of the Harvest in Citrus Heights, California is having a Summer Sale and Street Fair. The purpose of the street fair is to raise $10,000.00 in just 7 days.

Why?

Because at Church of the Harvest our mission statement is who we are and what we want to do for Christ:

Our Mission Statement

To be, and develop committed Christians with a passion to please God, a desre to fulfill their purpose on the earth, and a compassion for the lost. To proclaim God’s truth to our neighborhoods, our cities and our world. To bring healing and help to the victims or sin, loss and pain. To build people in their knowledge and relationship with God. To place people in service for God in His church, to further His kingdom. To train and send ministries for future harvest fields. To keep our lives and ministry focused on God and His plan for us. To be a church where the hurting get healing, the lost get found, and those who are down, get up!

Please, come out and see us! We'd love to enjoy your company!

Congratulations, Amanda!

2011-05-30T16:13:00.000-07:00

I am super proud of my precious Manda! She is officially a high school graduate!

Amanda's last day of school was on Wednesday, May 25.

She graduated on Thursday, May 26, from Oakmont High School. The ceremony was truly beautiful! It was held in the high school's outdoor quad which is fairly intimate and very tranquil.

(pictures coming ..... blogger was being difficult!)

On Saturday, May 28 we hosted a graduation party so we could celebrate with our family and friends.

Let the countdown begin!

2011-05-23T09:31:00.001-07:00

In just a few short days, my precious daughter will graduate from high school!

I am extremely proud of this young lady who God blessed my husband and I with. She is kind, intelligent, funny, caring, unique, shy, and truly one of the nicest people I have ever met. (Yes, there is maternal pride there, but there is also nothing but the truth in that statement.)

Kindergarten seemingly happened just a few short weeks ago. Third grade a week after that, sixth grade and then junior high wre all just last week. Only the day before yesterday Amanda was a freshman in high school ..... and now, this week in the time that it takes to blink, Manda will be a high school graduate.

Her road through life has never been easy, but it has been full of grace, love and laughter. Manda is shy by nature and (there is always one) is the kid who never really "fit" with the "in" crowd and became the target of bullying. Amanda herself over-came the bullying .... she just one day decided that those who weren't kind to her needed her forgiveness and for someone to believe in them. Not that she told them that. She just kept a smile on her face and concentrated on being the person SHE wanted to be.

Yes, I am a proud mom. She never let me fight her battles, but always allowed me to comfort her. She never allows me to hold a grudge, but always allows me to share a conversation about what she would do different.

When her classmates would tease her about being a good student, she would just smile and thank them.

Now, we have reached the end of the road. There have been bumps, twists, and turns. There have been happy days and days where happiness has been elusive. But through it all .... Manda has been a young lady to be proud of.

Celebrating her graduation this week is not just a celebration of her graduating from high school, but a celebration of who Amanda Christine is.

Congratulations sweet girl! Mom and Dad are EXTREMELY proud of you! You are a wonderful example of a life lived as Christ would have us live. Enjoy each and every moment of this week. You have worked hard to reach this point. The next stage of your life is just around the bend. I only hope it doesn't happen in a blink! (But I know it will!)

Love and hugs,
Mom

Because She Does... from Shelby Osmond

2011-05-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

I'd like to direct your attention to a blog that I find to be UPLIFTING, FORTIFYING and INSPIRATIONAL.

This blog is written by a young, vibrant woman who I have come to admire from her posts. I do not "know" her in the true sense of the word; I have never met her, but I am frequently touched by what she shares.

Shelby Osmond is wise beyond her years. We can all relate to her posts. She posts about everyday life. There is no pretentiousness. She is a real person who speaks from her heart. And, her heart is very evident in EVERY post.

Some days her posts are about items she has crafted; some are about cool ways that she and her husband have found to give each other meaningful gifts. Some posts are light-hearted, but through ALL of her post shines her love of life, Our Savior and her appreciation for those she is surrounded by.

Today's post is about her sister Shae. If this post does not touch your heart and remind you to always, always, always relate to other people with love and an open mind and heart .... then, I hope it inspires you in another way.

I hope that you hear the voice of our Heavenly Father in those quiet moments of your life and that you know how YOU are loved unconditionally as a perfect creation of our maker.

May God bless you. May His light shine like a radiant beacon through you that others may know the joy of Him through you.

Thank you Shelby for giving me inspiration when you didn't know I needed it, and for allowing me to share your blog with others.

Too funny not to share!

2011-05-12T12:19:00.000-07:00

I have to admit to having several favorite blogs that I LOVE to read.

One of my FAVORITES is Tanya at SUNDAY BAKER. Reading her blog is like sitting down with your best friend; catching up on conversation and watching all your favorite cooking, craft and life shows. You know your going to have a great time, laugh out loud and pick up a great recipe or household tip. And, we all know that time with our best friends is precious, no matter how it is spent.

If you don't already follow Tanya; I urge you to click on over and enjoy.

While reading Tanya's blog today I laughed so hard I was sure I was going to pee. (Yes, I did just post that for the world to read!) Since I can not stop giggling, I decided that I needed to CASE her blog post and post it here.

Thank you Tanya for the laughter!

One day I met a sweet gentleman and fell in love.
When it became apparent that we would marry, I made the supreme sacrifice and
gave up beans.

Some months later, on my birthday, my car broke down on
the way home from work. Since I lived in the countryside I called my
husband and told him that I would be late because I had to walk home.

On my way, I passed by a small diner and the smell of baked beans was
more than I could stand. With miles to walk, I figured that I would walk
off any ill effects by the time I reached home, so I stopped at the diner
and before I knew it, I had consumed three large orders of baked beans.

All the way home, I made sure that I released all the gas.Upon my
arrival, my husband seemed excited to see me and exclaimed
delightedly:

'Darling I have a surprise for dinner tonight.'

He then blindfolded me and led me to my chair at the dinner table. I took a seat
and just as he was about to remove my blindfold, the telephone rang. He
made me promise not to touch the blindfold until he returned and went to
answer the call.

The baked beans I had consumed were still affecting me
and the pressure was becoming most unbearable, so while my husband was
out of the room I seized the opportunity, shifted my weight to one leg
and let one go.

It was not only loud, but it smelled like a fertilizer
truck running over a skunk in front of a pulpwood mill. I took my
napkin from my lap and fanned the air around me vigorously.Then, shifting
to the other cheek, I ripped off three more.

The stink was worse than cooked cabbage.Keeping my ears carefully tuned to the conversation in the other room, I went on like this for another few minutes. The pleasure was indescribable.

When eventually the telephone farewells signaled
the end of my freedom, I quickly fanned the air a few more times with my
napkin, placed it on my lap and folded my hands back on it feeling very
relieved and pleased with myself.

My face must have been the picture of innocence when my husband returned,apologizing for taking so long. He asked me if I had peeked through the blindfold, and I assured him I had not.

At this point, he removed the blindfold, and twelve dinner guests
seated around the table chorused: 'Happy Birthday!'

I fainted.

Now tell me who is laughing? Come on! You know you are!!!!!

Bittersweet milestones!

2011-05-06T10:23:00.000-07:00

Manda's Senior Ball is this weekend!

Oh my goodness she is super excited and I have to admit; I am excited for her.

But, each of these precious milestones is a step closer to graduation and a step closer to me needing an entire box of Kleenex.

Wasn't it just yesterday she started school?

A conumdrum...

2011-04-28T11:01:00.000-07:00

So... okay... maybe I should NOT blog this, but I am going to. After all the name of my blog is "Everyday Randomness" and this post, it is about as random as they come.

I get migraines. They are horrible. I dislike them as much as they are horrible.

For about a year I was taking an Iron supplement which really helped. But it causes a bit of intestinal awkwardness. (That is a delicate term!) When I had my gall bladder attack, I quit taking my iron for a while and didn't notice an increase in migraines, so I decided to not take them for a bit.

After my gall bladder was removed I was cautiously optmistic that I would be able to go without the iron supplement indefinately.

NOT!

The migraines have returned with a vengence......

Not wanting to suffer needlessly, I have returned to taking the iron supplement, but I have to say....... the intestinal awkwardness has gotten MUCH more awkward.

Now to decide which is worse .... pain or awkwardness.... I am going to have to "run" and say: AWKWARD is better than pain.........................................................................

Wow! This is totally cool!

2011-04-22T14:59:00.001-07:00

So my daughter kept talking about her high school doing "Lip Dub." I didn't understand, but I do now!

Way to go OHS!!! This is an awesome expression of school spirit and talent.

Time is flying!

2011-04-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

The CHOICE is YOURS!

2011-03-31T14:58:00.000-07:00

Read this LET IT REALLY SINK IN.......THEN CHOOSE .

John is the kind of guy you love to hate.

He is always in a good mood and always has something positive to say.

When someone would ask him how he was doing, he would reply, 'If I were any better, I would be twins!'

He was a natural motivator.

If an employee was having a bad day, John was there telling the employee how to look on the positive side of the situation.

Seeing this style really made me curious, so one day I went up and asked him, 'I don't get it!' 'You can't be a positive person all of the time. How do you do it?'

He replied, 'Each morning I wake up and say to myself, you have two choices today. You can choose to be in a good mood or...you can choose to be in a bad mood I choose to be in a good mood.' Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim or...I can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it. Every time someone comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaining or...I can point out the positive side of life. I choose the positive side of life..

'Yeah, right, it's not that easy,' I protested.

'Yes, it is,' he said. 'Life is all about choices. When you cut away all the junk, every situation is a choice. You choose how you react to situations. You choose how people affect your mood. You choose to be in a good mood or bad mood. The bottom line: It's your choice how you live your life.'

I reflected on what he said.. Soon hereafter, I left the Tower Industry to start my own business. We lost touch, but I often thought about him when I made a choice about life instead of reacting to it.

Several years later, I heard that he was involved in a serious accident, falling some 60 feet from a communications tower. After 18 hours of surgery and weeks of intensive care, he was released from the hospital with rods placed in his back.

I saw him about six months after the accident. When I asked him how he was, he replied, 'If I were any better, I'd be twins...Wanna see my scars?'

I declined to see his wounds, but I did ask him what had gone through his mind as the accident took place. 'The first thing that went through my mind was the well-being of my soon-to-be born daughter,' he replied. 'Then, as I lay on the ground, I remembered that I had two choices: I could choose to live or....I could choose to die. I chose to live.'

'Weren't you scared? Did you lose consciousness?' I asked.

He continued, '...the paramedics were great. They kept telling me I was going to be fine.

But when they wheeled me into the ER and I saw the expressions on the faces of the doctors and nurses, I got really scared. In their eyes, I read 'he's a dead man'.
I knew I needed to take action.'

'What did you do?' I asked.

'Well, there was a big burly nurse shouting questions at me,' said John. 'She asked if I was allergic to anything

'Yes, I replied.' The doctors and nurses stopped working as they waited for my reply. I took a deep breath and yelled, 'Gravity'

'Over their laughter, I told them, 'I am choosing to live.. Operate on me as if I am alive, not dead.'

He lived, thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of his amazing attitude....I learned from him that every day we have the choice to live fully.

Attitude, after all, is everything.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.

Each day has enough trouble of its own

Where did January go?

2011-02-11T11:07:00.001-08:00

I am not sure. I must have blinked. And, now it is well and truly February.

February means Spotlight Dance Cup Competition for my daughter - love this competition! So much fun. This is her 9th year of competition, and she (and I) still gets those nervous buterflies.
But once she takes the stage, they are all gone.

Good luck Precision Dance Cener!!! I know you'll rock those dances!!

Please, won't you be my (Zynga) neighbor?

2011-01-17T12:55:00.000-08:00

My hubby, daughter and I have (always) enjoyed the Zynga games on Facebook.

It is a fun way for us to interact and encourage my husband to use the computer. He doesn't really have much access to a pc during the day and doesn't really have a reason to either. But - the Zynga games on Facebook have encouraged him to get online and explore.

We play several other games as well as the Zynga games, but by far our favorite games are: Farmville and Cityville.

What is your favorite 'time waster" on line?

If you'd ever like to join in the fun (of Farmville, Cityville, Bejeweled Blitz or Hotel City) just look me up on Facebook and we can be neighbors!

from my family to yours:

2010-12-21T10:45:00.000-08:00

May your Christmas season be filled with the love and joy of time shared with family and friends. May traditions be kept alive and new ones be enjoyed. May every heart be filled with happiness and may you always know the love of our savior, Jesus Christ.

May your New Year be filled with the promise of new beginnings and may you reflect upon the past with memories that make you smile. May you recall the triumphs of the year and not just the hardships or set backs. May your health be restored, your finances be abundant and most of all may true happiness enrich your life not just at the new year, but always.

May peace be with you.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Birthdays ....

2010-11-23T14:11:00.000-08:00

should always be special.

Seriously. A birthday is a celebration of life and gives one an opportunity to express their appreciation of the person who is having a birthday.

Last week my daughter turned 18. What an amazing young woman she is! Amanda is a well-rounded, well balanced child. Her sense of humor makes me crack up and her intelligence makes me reach higher. Manda is far more intelligent than I could ever hope to be. I was a good student and worked hard to keep my GPA in the 3.00 - 4.00 range, but math and science were subjects I could barely fathom. Amanda - she is a whiz at science and math her brain is for more adept at complex theories and solutions. I barely made it through geometry alive (with 3 tutors!) while Manda is taking Calculus AB. Yes, she is challenged by it but she makes it seem so easy.

Amanda has panache. She is her own person with her own style and her own sense of what is important to her and what really does not matter. I admire her. With all my heart and soul, I admire the woman my daughter is.

Another great Scorpio that I admire is Jill. Today we celebrated Jill's birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! I love this woman. She is principled, loving, kind, intelligent, funny ..... I could go on, but finding the words to express my appreciation for Jill is like me trying to walk on an ant barefoot with out squashing it to death --- you might think about it, but it is impossible.

Jill has taught me so much about grace under pressure. About putting others needs and wants above my own desires. She has taught me that it is okay to allow others to shine while remaining in the background. And, she has taught me that it is okay to be myself and to celebrate who I am. She admires people who are true to themselves.

While being intelligent and focused and determined, Jill is also tender and caring. I love this woman! It is those little things she does: calling me if I am sick, sending me a funny text while sitting across the desk from me at the office, listening to her talk to the dogs as she shares a snuggle with them. The way she honors the special moments in every one's life. Even when her special moments often get decimated.

I am so blessed that my child was born the same week as Jill and that Manda has been able to be influenced by the person Jill is. I would walk through fire for Jill, and I know that she would do the same for me.

Happy Birthday to two of my favorite Scorpio women! Thank you both for being who you are. I love you!

It has been too long ....

2010-11-17T04:29:00.000-08:00

Yes, it has been too long since my last post. And, I don't really understand why. Especially as this has been a very busy few months with great things happening.

I'll summarize the most monumental things that have occurred in our lives since my last post:

* Manda is a SENIOR!!!!!

That is right! In August Amanda returned to school as a high school senior. Hard to believe that my baby girl is a senior and will graduate in May 2011. It truly seems like yesterday she started kindergarten at Crestmont Elementary; and in a blink of my eyes she will be an alumni of Oakmont High School.

I am very proud of my young lady. She is a remarkable person. I could tell you a million reasons why I am proud of her, but I will just keep it to the point: she is herself. And, she is wonderful!

* my gall bladder decided to make itself known.

Oh my goodness! If you have never experienced gall bladder pain, I pray that you never do. It was horrible. Shortly after Manda started her senior year I ended up in the emergency room and after several hours of lab work, x-rays, an ultra-sound and what seemed like endless waiting, I was given morphine for the pain, told to make an appointment with my primary care and released.

My diet took a radical change. I only eat what "grows" and nothing processed. No fats, carbs, excessive sodium, limited dairy products, etc. I am determined to NEVER feel that type of pain again.

My primary care referred me to general surgery, and after consulting with the surgeon it was determined that my gall bladder needed to be removed.

On October 21, using a laproscopic procedure my gall bladder was removed. And, trust me, the pain from surgery was pleasant compared to the pain from a gall bladder attack. Over all, I feel better than I have in a long time. Makes me wonder how long my gall bladder had been protesting.

* Amanda's appendix ruptured!

Far worse than my gall bladder, far more scary and far, far, far more emotional was what my poor sweet daughter endured.

Less than 7 days after my gall bladder surgery Manda started feeling ill. She was crampy, nauseated, and running a slight temperature. Trying not to get me sick, Manda kept her distance on Wednesday evening (Oct. 28) and went to bed early.

By 3:30 am on Thursday (Oct. 29) Amanda was in the restroom vomiting. Classic flu symptoms. She attempted to go back to bed but was feeling too uncomfortable to rest. Her abdomen was really sensitive. With our recent experience with my gall bladder we decided that her pain must not be normal and we called the advice nurse.

The advice nurse assured us that the flu can be very uncomfortable (I expressed that this was worse than normal pain) and she still felt that we should wait 24 hours to see if the pain becomes worse or not. (I will never ignore my instincts again.)

By 12 noon on Friday the 30th --- we knew there was a problem. A BIG problem. Manda called her doctor's office and was able to get an appointment for 3pm. Her doctor was out of town, but one of the other doctors was able to see her.

I took my sweet girl to the doctor's office where she was seen immediately and sent immediately to the emergency room at Mercy San Juan Medical Center. The doctor could not even touch Manda without her flinching with pain. Her fever was above 100* and she was obviously miserable.

By 3:15 we were in the ER and by 3:25 she had been in triage, and was having lab work done. Then began the wait .... for a CT scan. She had her CT scan about 6:30 that evening. The CT scan revealed that Amanda's appendix had ruptured and she would need surgery.

IV fluids, IV antibiotics and IV pain meds were administered. Before surgery could be done, Manda's fever had to be reduced, and treatment had to be started for the severe infection.

Paperwork was produced for my signature and authority and the doctors began to inform us of the best, and worst possible out-come that may or may not be expected. UGH!

I cried. I felt like a horrible, horrible mom! Had I listened to my instinct, maybe Amanda's appendix would not have ruptured. Maybe my girl would not have been in the severe pain she was in. Maybe she would not be full of a massive infection that could possibly take her life, or compromise her life if the surgery became more complicated and if worst case possible situations became reality.

I prayed. I prayed so hard.... I know God has plans for this child of mine .... and they don't include compromising her health.

At 3:00 am (now Saturday morning!) Manda was wheeled into surgery to have the ruptured appendix removed, and her abdomen cleaned to remove as much infection as possible. At about 4:05 am Dr. Misty Humphries came out of surgery with a big smile .... SUCCESS!!!!

The surgeon was able to use a laproscopic procedure and none of the worst case possibilities happened. Amanda was still one very ill young lady, and the surgeon cautioned that she would be in the hospital for 7 - 10 days while IV antibiotics were administered around the clock to cure the rest of the infection.

Manda did spend several days in the hospital with Sunday, October 31 being the worst. Her fever spiked, her heart rate was elevated, her oxygen saturation was too low and her pain was rampant.

But with a touch of His hand, God turned Amanda's health around. He allowed her to begin to heal and she was released on Wednesday, November the 3rd

It has been 2 full weeks since my girl has been home. Each day is better. She is more and more herself each and every day. She returned to school on the 9th and is looking forward to resuming full activity by the end of this month.

Today, November 17, 2010 marks a VERY SPECIAL day ......

* AMANDA is 18 today!!!!!!!

That is right! Today is Manda's eighteenth birthday!!!!!

I can not even begin to tell you how special my girl is .... but if you want just a small idea --- peruse through my blog. Most of my posts are about my girl.

Happy Birthday sweet Amanda Christine!

Words are not enough to begin to tell you how much dad and I love, respect and admire you. You are an amazing woman! We are blessed that God tucked you into my womb and allowed you to be our miracle child!

I really should have put this section on the top of this post .... but for just a moment I needed to deny that my baby is now technically an adult. A teenaged adult, but legally able to make decisions and sign contracts.

These 18 years have flown. I wouldn't change a moment of it. I love being Russell's wife, and Manda's mom. They make me a better person.

It's official!

2010-06-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

Amanda is teaching at her dance studio!!!!

We are so very excited, and can not thank Lisa Clement, Director of Precision Dance Center, enough for this wonderful opportunity.

To say that Amanda is excited about this is an understatement. She is really looking forward to sharing her passion for dance with others, and can not imagine a better Dance Director to teach for than Lisa Clement.

As a teacher, Manda needed to have a bio to place on Precision Dance Center's web site: precisiondancecenter.net

She was concerned that she did not have enough to put on the biography, but once she started brainstorming she discovered quite a few things. It was fun to walk through memory lane and re-discover all the places she has performed, the conventions she has attended and the great dancers she has trained with and taken classes from.
Mom and Dad are very proud of you, Amanda!!!

Her biography was a little long, and was (understandably) edited for the website. But you can read the full biography below.

Amanda Greenslade

Amanda Greenslade’s feet have not stopped moving since she attended her very first tap/ballet combo class at the age of 5 at Carrie’s Studio of Dance. At the age of 9 she was honored to become a member the dance company and attended her first competition at the age of 10.
Although she has trained in ballet, jazz, lyrical, modern, hip-hop and has even taken yoga classes, Amanda’s passion is for the cadence and rhythm of tap.

She has performed at several Sacramento King’s basketball games, Disneyland, Paramount’s Great America, Six Flags Marine World, the California State Fair, as well as the Downtown Santa Parade and Roseville’s Holiday Parade and Downtown Tuesday Night.

As a company dancer for Carrie’s Studio of Dance, Perpetual Motion Academy of Performing Arts, Cast & Company Dance Alliance and Precision Dance Center, Amanda has attended several dance conventions including SADA and Co. Dance where she has had the pleasure of taking classes under the direction of Nick Florez, Barry Youngblood, Nancy O’Meara, Gregg Russell, Chebar Williams, Judy Rice, Marguerite Derricks, Katie Scharr and Anthony LoCasio.

Amanda danced with her high school as a freshman as was honored to be the 1st ever freshman choreographer for their dance show. As a member of Precision Dance Center’s award winning Tap Company Amanda feels honored to share her passion for dance, the artistry of great choreography, and a love of music with others around her.

Amanda will be entering her senior year at Oakmont High School (with a 4.25 GPA) in August of 2010. She has been a member of her high school’s Peer Helper Program, Teens for Humanity, Mock Trial, Link Crew and has organized and facilitated the Summer Bridge program for incoming freshman for the past 3 years.

With a passion to help others and make a difference in the lives of other teens, Amanda used to be a Placer County Teen Peer Court Defense Attorney.

Amanda feels that she has had the best foundation of learning and technical training with Lisa Clement as her tap teacher over the past 12 years.

Amanda loves children of all ages and is looking forward to sharing her passion for dance with others.

It is dance recital weekend!!

2010-06-24T16:01:00.000-07:00

I am so very excited! Amanda dances for a wonderful dance studio: Precision Dance Center. PDC is located right here in Roseville, CA and is under the direction of Lisa Clement who I must say is a fabulous (I do mean, FABULOUS!) tap dancer in her own right, and who shares that passion with her students.

When Lisa choreographs a dance, you can hear the story unfold from the dancers feet. It is AMAZING! Amanda has danced for Lisa for nearly 11 years, and never wants to stop tapping.

This year's dances include the multi-award winning "Money (Makes the World Go 'Round)," "Whatcha Say'" and the fun filled "New York, New York" production number. Last week I watched a rehearsal for the new "Glee" production number, and I was in awe of each beat of the tapper's feet. Stellar!

Of course, no dance recital, competition or other performance would be complete without features from the other dance styles of lyrical, jazz, ballet, and hip-hop so you can be sure that Precision Dance Center's annual dance recital at 2:30 on Saturday at the Del Oro Performing Arts Center will have plenty of rhythm and style for every one's preference.

I personally am a purist, and just love, love, LOVE tap. Maybe that is because tap is my daughter's passion, and all she dances in. Or, maybe it is because Manda is passionate about dancing for Lisa Clement who choreographs the most amazing tap dances.

We are totally blessed to have members of our family joining us for Saturday's dance recital.

My mom and brother are here from Nevada and at least one of my other brother's will be joining us along with my sister-in-law (from Russ' side of the family!) and my neice and her fiance.

Thank you everyone for supporting my daughter's passion for dance and her love of performing!

Happy recital weekend!

Simon Sinek: How great leaders inspire action | Video on TED.com

2010-05-07T14:48:00.000-07:00

Simon Sinek: How great leaders inspire action Video on TED.com

Sometimes, you just have to LAUGH!

2010-05-04T06:01:00.000-07:00

We all know that I have a great daughter whom I totally adore. I think she is a wonderful kid, and I know without a doubt that Russ and I are very blessed to be her parents. Why God decided to give us such a miraculous blessing, I'll never know, but I give thanks for her each day.

Even when she dents the car.

I noticed a distinct vertical dent in the back of my car the other day. I knew I had not bumped into anything, and knew my husband had not driven the car in several days. That left two options: (a) a random act in a parking lot where a shopping cart, or other object backed into my car, or (b) the 17 year old driver {yes, that would be my daughter} backed into something and didn't want to confess.

Hmmm....

Having recently heard Pastor Dan's message on "refrain" I thought this would be a great time to practice what he preached and see what would happen. Rather than question anyone in my family, I just kept quiet. Each day as I saw the tail end of my car, I just giggled and kept otherwise quiet.

Mind you, the dent is VERY small, and I won't even bother having it fixed. None of us is perfect, my car does not have to be either.

Manda has been driving for 2 years. That's right. Two years ago this month she took the test and earned her permit. She immediately began driver's training and we began the process of allowing her to drive us everywhere. She needed 6 months and a minimum of 50 hours of behind the wheel experience before she could take the driver's test and earn her license.

Honestly, she had 50 hours in the first 6 weeks. We had her driving us everywhere. We quizzed her constantly on the DMV handbook, and made her practice, practice, practice. She is a good driver. She earned her driver's license in December of 2008.

So - she's been driving for 2 years. And for nearly 18 months she has been driving by herself. Having this be the first "bump" is pretty darned awesome. Especially as it is really minor damage. Very, very minor damage!

Last night my husband decided to wash both the cars. My car: the 2005 sturdy Ford crossover that we have Manda drive when it is raining. Amanda's car: the 2008 adorable, sporty, totally sweet 2 door coupe with tricked out rims and tires. (Can you tell she daddy's princess?)

Russ washes her car first. He polishes the rims and makes sure that "Baby Blue" is pampered and well taken care of. Then he quickly washes mine, intending just to make it clean. But wait ~ he discovers what I have kept quiet about for several days ~ "the dent."

He finishes my car, puts away the stuff he was using, cleans up the garage and comes into the house. "Ummmm, one of you want to tell me about the dent on the green car?"

Sitting on the couch surrounded by homework and trying not to be noticed is Manda. Oh ya!!! My "refrain" reward was sweet to watch. It took her only a few seconds of sputtering, turning bright red and considering her options to tell us what happened. She backed into a concrete/brick/cement pillar last week. There were no other cars, no other people and no other damage involved.

No harm, no foul. Just the sweetness of life. Why sweet? Not because I got to watch her guilt. But rather, because I was able to just giggle over the situation. Her life and confidence are more important that a bump on my car. And, besides, I was a teenage driver once.

Thank goodness for the grace of God! He forgives me for my accidents and bumps. He is a teacher of life, and the most forgiving of all. I am thankful that I know that He wishes me to forgive others as He has forgiven me. Life is never going to be perfect, but that doesn't mean I can't laugh about it and be thankful for each moment.

Have you hit a bump in the road lately? What are you going to do with your bump? Are you going to let that bump consume you? Or are you going to take a moment, and find the intestinal fortitude to move forward? Are you going to be grumpy and sullen, blaming others and holding a grudge for your circumstances? Or are you going to let it go and find a new path to a better place of happiness?

Thanks Amanda for reminding me that the little bumps in our life do not matter. It is what we do with them, and how we react that matter.

2010-04-16T15:58:00.000-07:00

"DON'T LEAVE IT ON THE DESK"

There was a certain Professor of Religion named Dr. Christianson, a studious man who taught at a small college in the western United States.

Dr. Christianson taught the required survey course in Christianity at this particular institution. Every student was required to take this course their freshman year, regardless of his or her major.

Although Dr. Christianson tried hard to communicate the essence of the gospel in his class, he found that most of his students looked upon the course as nothing but required drudgery. Despite his best efforts, most students refused to take Christianity seriously.

This year, Dr. Christianson had a special student named Steve. Steve was only a freshman, but was studying with the intent of going onto seminary for the ministry. Steve was popular, he was well liked, and he was an imposing physical specimen. He was now the starting center on the school football team, and was the best student in the professor's class.

One day, Dr. Christianson asked Steve to stay after class so he could talk with him.

"How many push-ups can you do?"

Steve said, "I do about 200 every night."

"200? That's pretty good, Steve," Dr. Christianson said. "Do you think you could do 300?"

Steve replied, "I don't know.... I've never done 300 at a time"

"Do you think you could?" again asked Dr. Christianson.

"Well, I can try," said Steve.

"Can you do 300 in sets of 10? I have a class project in mind and I need you to do about 300 push-ups in sets of ten for this to work. Can you do it? I need you to tell me you can do it," said the professor.

Steve said, "Well... I think I can...yeah, I can do it."

Dr. Christianson said, "Good! I need you to do this on Friday.. Let me explain what I have in mind."

Friday came and Steve got to class early and sat in the front of the room. When class started, the professor pulled out a big box of donuts. No, these weren't the normal kinds of donuts, they were the extra fancy BIG kind, with cream centers and frosting swirls. Everyone was pretty excited it was Friday, the last class of the day, and they were going to get an early start on the weekend with a party in Dr. Christianson's class.

Dr. Christianson went to the first girl in the first row and asked, "Cynthia, do you want to have one of these donuts?"

Cynthia said, "Yes."

Dr. Christianson then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Cynthia can have a donut?"

"Sure!" Steve jumped down from his desk to do a quick ten. Then Steve again sat in his desk. Dr. Christianson put a donut on Cynthia's desk.

Dr. Christianson then went to Joe, the next person, and asked, "Joe, do you want a donut?"

Joe said, "Yes." Dr. Christianson asked, "Steve would you do ten push-ups so Joe can have a donut?"

Steve did ten push-ups, Joe got a donut. And so it went, down the first aisle, Steve did ten push-ups for every person before they got their donut.

Walking down the second aisle, Dr. Christianson came to Scott. Scott was on the basketball team, and in as good condition as Steve. He was very popular and never lacking for female companionship..

When the professor asked, "Scott do you want a donut?"

Scott's reply was, "Well, can I do my own push-ups?"

Dr. Christianson said, "No, Steve has to do them."

Then Scott said, "Well, I don't want one then."

Dr.. Christianson shrugged and then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Scott can have a donut he doesn't want?"

With perfect obedience Steve started to do ten push-ups.

Scott said, "HEY! I said I didn't want one!"

Dr.. Christianson said, "Look! This is my classroom, my class, my desks, and these are my donuts. Just leave it on the desk if you don't want it." And he put a donut on Scott's desk.

Now by this time, Steve had begun to slow down a little. He just stayed on the floor between sets because it took too much effort to be getting up and down. You could start to see a little perspiration coming out around his brow.

Dr. Christianson started down the third row. Now the students were beginning to get a little angry. Dr. Christianson asked Jenny, "Jenny, do you want a donut?"

Sternly, Jenny said, "No."

Then Dr. Christianson asked Steve, "Steve, would you do ten more push-ups so Jenny can have a donut that she doesn't want?"

Steve did ten....Jenny got a donut.

By now, a growing sense of uneasiness filled the room. The students were beginning to say, "No!" and there were all these uneaten donuts on the desks.

Steve also had to really put forth a lot of extra effort to get these push-ups done for each donut. There began to be a small pool of sweat on the floor beneath his face, his arms and brow were beginning to get red because of the physical effort involved.

Dr. Christianson asked Robert, who was the most vocal unbeliever in the class, to watch Steve do each push up to make sure he did the full ten push-ups in a set because he couldn't bear to watch all of Steve's work for all of those uneaten donuts. He sent Robert over to where Steve was so Robert count the set and watch Steve closely.

Dr. Christianson started down the fourth row.. During his class, however, some students from other classes had wandered in and sat down on the steps along the radiators that ran down the sides of the room. When the professor realized this, he did a quick count and saw that now there were 34 students in the room. He started to worry if Steve would be able to make it.

Dr. Christianson went on to the next person and the next and the next. Near the end of that row, Steve was really having a rough time. He was taking a lot more time to complete each set.

Steve asked Dr. Christianson, "Do I have to make my nose touch on each one?"

Dr. Christianson thought for a moment, "Well, they're your push-ups. You are in charge now. You can do them any way that you want." And Dr. Christianson went on.

A few moments later, Jason, a recent transfer student, came to the room and was about to come in when all the students yelled in one voice, "NO! Don't come in! Stay out!"

Jason didn't know what was going on. Steve picked up his head and said, "No, let him come."

Professor Christianson said, "You realize that if Jason comes in you will have to do ten push-ups for him?"

Steve said, "Yes, let him come in. Give him a donut."

Dr. Christianson said, "Okay, Steve, I'll let you get Jason's out of the way right now. Jason, do you want a donut?"

Jason, new to the room, hardly knew what was going on. "Yes," he said, "give me a donut."

"Steve, will you do ten push-ups so that Jason can have a donut?"

Steve did ten push-ups very slowly and with great effort. Jason, bewildered, was handed a donut and sat down.

Dr Christianson finished the fourth row, and then started on those visitors seated by the heaters. Steve's arms were now shaking with each push-up in a struggle to lift himself against the force of gravity. By this time sweat was profusely dropping off of his face, there was no sound except his heavy breathing; there was not a dry eye in the room..

The very last two students in the room were two young women, both cheerleaders, and very popular. Dr. Christianson went to Linda, the second to last, and asked, "Linda, do you want a doughnut?"

Linda said, very sadly, "No, thank you."

Professor Christianson quietly asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Linda can have a donut she doesn't want?"

Grunting from the effort, Steve did ten very slow push-ups for Linda.

Then Dr. Christianson turned to the last girl, Susan. "Susan, do you want a donut?"

Susan, with tears flowing down her face, began to cry. "Dr. Christianson, why can't I help him?"

Dr Christianson, with tears of his own, said, "No, Steve has to do it alone; I have given him this task and he is in charge of seeing that everyone has an opportunity for a donut whether they want it or not.. When I decided to have a party this last day of class, I looked at my grade book. Steve here is the only student with a perfect grade. Everyone else has failed a test, skipped class, or offered me inferior work. Steve told me that in football practice, when a player messes up he must do push-ups. I told Steve that none of you could come to my party unless he paid the price by doing your push-ups. He and I made a deal for your sakes."

"Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Susan can have a donut?"

As Steve very slowly finished his last push-up, with the understanding that he had accomplished all that was required of him, having done 350 push-ups, his arms buckled beneath him and he fell to the floor.

Dr. Christianson turned to the room and said, "And so it was, that our Savior, Jesus Christ, on the cross, plead to the Father, 'Into thy hands I commend my spirit.' With the understanding that He had done everything that was required of Him, He yielded up His life. And like some of those in this room, many of us leave the gift on the desk, uneaten. "

Two students helped Steve up off the floor and to a seat, physically exhausted, but wearing a thin smile.

"Well done, good and faithful servant," said the professor, adding, "Not all sermons are preached in words."

Turning to his class, the professor said, "My wish is that you might understand and fully comprehend all the riches of grace and mercy that have been given to you through the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He spared not His Only Begotten Son, but gave Him up for us all, for the whole Church, now and forever. Whether or not we choose to accept His gift to us, the price has been paid."

"Wouldn't you be foolish and ungrateful to leave it lying on the desk?"

Share this with someone. It's bound to touch their heart and demonstrate Salvation in a very special way.

Oakmont High School!

2010-03-30T18:14:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the cheerleaders of OAKMONT HIGH SCHOOL for their well-deserved victory at Cheer Nationals!

"What about? What about? What about our color shout!"
A blue blue blue blue blue
and a white white white white white!!

Oh ya....

2010-03-23T10:02:00.001-07:00

I'll admit it!

My daughter has read (multiple times) each and every page of each book in the Twilight series.

When she first started reading them, I was not at all interested. Not even slightly. I could not even make myself work up enough interest to be curious about the series. I knew that it came highly recommended by her freshman English teacher. And, I knew that Manda was loving the books.

I had no idea who Bella Swan was; nor did I care why Jacob Black or Edward Cullen seemed to cause most living females into arguing over which team deserved loyalty.

It wasn't until Breaking Dawn was released that my interest was tickled into curiosity. It was as we were sitting at Borders waiting for the midnight release that I began to question what the whole "Team Edward" vs. "Team Jacob" even meant.

About 2 weeks before Twilight was to be released into the theaters; I decided I should actually read the book. I justified this as a due process any responsible parent would take since I was driving and paying for a car load of girls to see the movie for my daughter's 16th birthday.

As we stood in line at the theater, I was about 1/2 way through Twilight. I was not hooked, but I was no longer apathetic about it either. Stephanie Meyer is a prolific writer who knows how to capture a readers attention and I felt like I was inside the story, watching it unfold as a part of my life. Much like watching a bunch of people you know live their lives.

By the time we took our seats the energy in the theater was tangible and my daughter's group of friends were tingling with the energy and excitement that was radiating off of them like fairy dust off of Tinkerbelle.

By the time the movie was over ----- Tinkerbelle could have dumped a truck load of fairy dust on me, and the only thing I would have cared about was wiping the dust away from my eyes so that I could go home, devour the rest of Twilight and read the other 3 books in the series.

I was hooked.

And, by the way ---- I am "Team Edward." I love Edward's old world manners, and his protectiveness over Bella. I understand that his abandonment of her was in fact his way of trying to protect her. I adore the Cullen family - with all of their quirks and pet peeves. I love that his advanced age gives him a wisdom and knowledge about the reality of life as he has experienced it.

Besides - Jacob is just way too young for me to be on his team. He is just a baby. I'll leave him to my daughter and all of her friends.

Manda picked up her copy of "New Moon" on Sunday after church. We popped some pop corn, poured tall glasses of sparkling water, and had a Twilight festival in the comfort of our own living room. We were just going to watch the ending of "Twilight" and then pop in "New Moon" but we watched every moment of both movies.

I love spending quality time with my sweet 17 year old. And, I love that she shared her love of reading with me and got me hooked on the wonderful Twilight Saga.

I love it ....

2010-02-05T11:45:00.000-08:00

when I stumble upon a new blog that catches my attention, and yesterday - I found a great new (to me) blog to read.

Her name is Lysa TerKeurst. You can find her at: http://lysaterkeurst.blogspot.com/

I have only just started perusing her blog, but I am already captured and intrigued and inspired and uplifted and challenged.

God is good, and I find that He blesses me in just the simplest ways as I need it. I am grateful He lead me to Lysa TerKeurst.

Rain, Rain Do NOT go away!

2010-01-20T07:11:00.000-08:00

That's right! I love the rain! I love the sound of the rain falling, I love the fresh scent that rain leaves behind. I love the way it makes the ground look. I don't even mind the worms that appear when it is raining.

I am not fond of my teen-aged driver having to drive in the rain, but she is learning to be cautious and allow extra travel time. She doesn't mind driving in the rain.

The cats - well, they are not very impressed by the rain and the wind. In fact they are pretty freaked out by the combination of mass amounts of precipitation and the wind which screams across our back yard.

Russ doesn't like to work in the rain, and I can not say that I blame him for feeling that way.

But - still, I LIKE the rain.

So ...

Rain, Rain don't go away, stay to play another day!

Ah!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So nice!

2010-01-13T09:43:00.000-08:00

There is such a feeling of vibrancy and newness within my soul this morning. I can not help but to say,

"Thank you, God! Thank you for working in me, through me, and for me. Thank you for refreshing my spirit and lifting me up to a new awakening. Thank you Lord for sacrificing your life for me, that I may live and enjoy the beauty of each day."

I've got a Pointer Sisters tune playing

2010-01-08T11:09:00.000-08:00

...in my head that is!!!

"I'm so EXCITED!!!!!"

Why is that tune looping in my head, and why am I excited?? Because I signed up for my first SU4Me swap of the new year!!!! After having an emotional breakdown early last year, I am finally ready to jump back into life.

And, I have scheduled the first stamp party for our lil stampin cult of friends on January 21!!!! Oh yea!!!! I can not tell you how much each of the women in this group of friends mean to me.

We may just be a bunch of Carmen's SU groupies --- but they are such wonderful women.

Yes! Life may have changed, my budget may been stretched to the absolute limit, but I refuse to be depressed and feel unworthy of enjoying life. My God has taught me that I am ok. I can be happy with "enough" and be happy in who I am.

Whoo hooo!!!!! That is right, I am feeling like it is time to dive back into me, and relish and enjoy the creative side of who I like to be. I am determined that this year is going to be a much better year than last, and that I am going to be in control of who I am and how I feel about me.

How am I going to do this?? By faith.

That is right. By my faith in God, and by living my life with Him in control, I am going to LIVE my life!!

I can achieve my wants, needs, desires and dreams simply by turning my fears, worries and concerns over to God and letting Him guide me. With God, all things are possible, and I know that happiness is one of the greatest blessings He shares with us.

Maybe happiness seems like it should be "given" to us, but I believe that happiness is a blessing from God. I believe that He gives us what we need to be happy. I am blessed to have happiness, and I am blessed to be secure in my Christianity and know that I can walk with God.

I am excited that I can be happy and feel like being me. Being me is important. It means that I am living life how I feel it should be lived, and that I am not ashamed to be who I am. Who I am is not more important than who others are, but who I am means being true to my beliefs and feelings and not having to pretend that life is perfect.

This quote came over in a Facebook "chain" letter of fun. I really liked it, and found it appropriate to what I was blogging about right now, so - here it is:

'May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others.. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are.. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us..'

I am me. And, today - I am EXCITED!!

Happy New Year! ... and those silly things we do ...

2010-01-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

First off ~~~ HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! I hope that our lord Jesus Christ will rain down His blessings upon your life this year. May He work within your life to provide you with all you need for true contentment and happiness.

So last night I decided that omelets sounded great for dinner. After all they are warm and tasty.

I concocted an omelet for Manda and slid it onto her plate - piping hot from the frying pan - it looked DELICIOUS! I was excited to start mine. I was hungry and the scent of the golden cooked egg with melted cheese and sausage was making my stomach growl and my mouth water.

Well, I should have reigned in my sensory overload ... and I might have realized sooner that I was holding the blazing hot ring of the metal pan (the connection piece between the actual pan and the safety cooled handle) on the side of my left hand. All of a sudden my left hand pointer finger felt like I had melted it clean off!

Yikes! So not smart of me. My finger has a 2 - 3 inch blister on it today, and it burns like heck. But - in the light of day it is pretty funny.

Oh and my omelet -- it didn't get made. I am left handed and could not use the pointer finger at all last night. But - I had great scrambled eggs with egg and sausage. My stomach was still satisfied.

Life - sometimes you just have to laugh at the silly things we do.

Have a great day!

Merry Christmas from Church of the Harvest!

2009-12-23T11:38:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned lately that Manda and I attend Church of the Harvest?

If I have not, then I have been super remiss. We have been attending since August, and feel like we have found a wonderful church home where we can worship God and rejoice in Him.

Pastor Dan is an amazingly wonderful open hearted man of God who really wants everyone to have unconditional acceptance and a love for Christ.

This Ustream video is from Sunday. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

Merry Christmas!

In loving memory .....

2009-12-23T09:46:00.000-08:00

Six years ago on Christmas morning; my father - in - law passed away.

It has forever changed the way my family and I feel about Christmas. It has reminded us that Christmas is not about the presents, nor is it about the parties or the glittering decorations that make one smile in wonder at their beauty.

My father - in - law had experienced several health concerns; and then the first week of December, on a beautiful Saturday morning, he was rushed to the hospital with concerns that he had suffered a mild heart attack. As our family gathered together in support and concern, we learned that he would need a valve replaced. And, the surgery was not without risk. But, without the surgery - well - surgery was the only option.

The surgery was performed, and my father - in - law made it through. He had a new pig valve in place, and the doctors were cautiously optimistic that he might make a full recovery. Their cautious optimism was unfortunately misplaced. Although my father - in - law made it through the surgery and regained consciousness, he never regained his strength and remained in the CICU for two weeks.

Having been through two heart surgeries with my own father, I knew what to expect in the term of recovery, and there was nothing about my father - in - laws recovery that was going as expected.

On the afternoon of Christmas Eve, our family was told that Mercy General would be transferring my father - in - law to Kaiser in Roseville within the next 12 hours or so. Kaiser was waiting on bed space in the CICU.

On Christmas Eve while waiting for the transfer to happen, my mother - in - law was overcome with emotion and was rushed to the emergency room with an extreme shortness of breath and heart palpitations. She was taken to Kaiser in Roseville. Having seen my mother in law stabilized, and deemed in need of rest, the doctors decided that mild sedation was necessary for the benefit of her health, and they advised us all to go home and rest.

The phone rang early Christmas morning, about 6:45 am. We were asked to come to the hospital. Our family gathered in my mother - in - law's hospital room. The doctors told us that Bob had been transferred, and they wanted to send my mother - in - law up to see her husband, but her doctor had not released her .... UGH! Frustration wore upon all of us as we stood helplessly by for about 45 minutes.

I knew in my heart that his time on this earth was drawing quickly to a close. All the signs were in place. My heart was so heavy.

Pleading with the staff of the telemetry department where my mother - in - law was finally got a fire lit under the hospital staff, and they placed her into a wheel chair with her heart monitor and IV attached to a rolling pole so that we could take her upstairs to CICU.

As we entered into the quiet of the CICU, I knew. I could read the faces of the nurses. And, as we entered into the room where my father - in - law lay so peacefully, I heard the quiet. There were no monitors attached. No beeping, no rise and fall of the breathing machine, no metered drip of the IV. Just silence.

My daughter turned to me with WIDE eyes, and began to silently cry. Her grandfather had passed, and her grandmother had not yet realized it. Even at 11 Manda was wise enough to understand that concept.

My mother in law was babbling incoherently to her beloved husband, begging him to open his eyes and see her. The doctor stepped forward and gently told her that he had passed just moments before.

The shattering of the silence and the shattering of hearts was simultaneous. Our family reacted as any family would, with despair and sorrow.

Bob was a quiet man. He lived a good life. He was kind and respectful and had a great sense of humor. He was a wonderful husband and father. I could not have asked for a better father - in - law or grandfather. Manda adored him.

As Christmas approaches again this year, I dedicate this post to my wonderful father - in - law whom I will always love, and always miss. My life was richer having known him.

When I turn on the Christmas lights, I always think of Bob. How could I not? Christmas is bittersweet. I miss him daily, but even more so at Christmas and hope that he knows his family loves him and misses him.

Love ya Dad!

RETARDED GRANDPARENTS

2009-12-15T15:31:00.000-08:00

(This was actually reported by a teacher)

After Christmas, a teacher asked her young pupils how they spent their holiday away from school.

One child wrote the following:

We always used to spend the holidays with Grandma and Grandpa.They used to live in a big brick house but Grandpa got retarded and they moved to Arizona .

Now they live in a tin box and have rocks painted green to look like grass. They ride around on their bicycles and wear name tags because they don't know who they are anymore.

They go to a building called a wreck center, but they must have got it fixed because it is all okay now, they do exercises there, but they don't do them very well. There is a swimming pool too, but they all jump up and down in it with hats on.

At their gate, there is a doll house with a little old man sitting in it. He watches all day so nobody can escape. Sometimes they sneak out, and go cruising in their golf carts.

Nobody there cooks, they just eat out. And, they eat the same thing every night --- early birds.

Some of the people can't get out past the man in the doll house. The ones who do get out, bring food back to the wrecked center for pot luck.

My Grandma says that Grandpa worked all his life to earn his retardment and says I should work hard so I can be retarded someday too..

When I earn my retardment, I want to be the man in the doll house.

Then I will let people out, so they can visit their grandchildren.....

PRICELESS
Forward to all your "retarded grandparent" friends

Rest In Peace, Lori

2009-12-07T16:25:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone for your love and assistance. Lori has been called home by the Heavenly Father. Please continue your prayers for the family, that they may find comfort in her memory.

MISSING!!!! LORI McELYEA

2009-12-07T12:00:00.000-08:00

Please help us find: LORI McELYEA

She was last seen on:

Saturday, December 5, 2009

in Roseville, California.

LORI McElyea needs daily medication and is considered at risk.

Her family and friends appreciate any help you can give us.

Even if that help is just to post this to your own blog or facebook.

If you have seen Lori McElyea

or her blue Ford Edge,

please contact the

Roseville Police Department at

(916) 774-5000

THE OLD PHONE

2009-10-20T15:44:00.000-07:00

THIS WAS ONE OF THE 'GOOD OLD DAYS' WHEN PEOPLE REALLY CARED ABOUT EACH OTHER

When I was quite young, my father had one of the first telephones in
our neighborhood. I remember the polished, old case fastened to the
wall. The shiny receiver hung on the side of the box. I was too
little to reach the telephone, but used to listen with fascination
when my mother talked to it.

Then I discovered that somewhere inside the wonderful device lived an
amazing person. Her name was 'Information Please' and there was
nothing she did not know. Information Please could supply anyone's
number and the correct time.

My personal experience with the genie-in-a-bottle came one day while
my Mother was visiting a neighbor. Amusing myself at the tool bench
in the basement, I whacked my finger with a hammer, the pain was
terrible, but there seemed no point in crying because there was no
one home to give sympathy.

I walked around the house sucking my thro bbing finger, finally
arriving at the stairway. The telephone! Quickly, I ran for the
footstool in the parlor and dragged it to the landing climbing up; I
unhooked the receiver in the parlor and held it to my ear.

'Information, please,' I said into the mouthpiece just above my head.
A click or two and a small clear voice spoke into my ear.

'Information.'

'I hurt my finger,' I wailed into the phone, the tears came readily
enough now that I had an audience.

'Isn't your mother home?' came the question.

'Nobody's home but me,' I blubbered.

'Are you bleeding?' the voice asked.

'No,' I replied. 'I hit my finger with the hammer and it hurts.'

'Can you open the icebox?' she asked.

I said I could.

'Then chip off a little bit of ice and hold it to your finger,' said
the voice.

After that, I called 'Information Please' for everything. I asked her
for help with my geography, and she told me where Philadelphia was.

She helped me with my math. She told me my pet chipmunk that I had
caught in the park just the day before, would eat fruit and nuts.

Then, there was the time Petey, our pet canary, died. I called,
'Information Please,' and told her the sad story.

She listened, and then said things grown-ups say to soothe a child. But I was not
consoled. I asked her, 'Why is it that birds should sing so
beautifully and bring Joy to all families, only to end up as a heap
of feathers on the bottom of a cage?'

She must have sensed my deep concern, for she said quietly, ' Wayne,
always remember that there are other worlds to sing in.'

Somehow I felt better.

Another day I was on the telephone, 'Information Please.'

'Information,' said in the now familiar voice.

'How do I spell fix?' I asked.

All this took place in a small town in the Pacific Northwest. When I
was nine years old, we moved across the country to Boston . I missed
my friend very much.

'Information Please' belonged in that old wooden box back home and I somehow never thought of trying the shiny new phone that sat on the table in the hall.

As I grew into my teens, the memories of those childhood conversations never really left me.
Often, in moments of doubt and perplexity I would recall the serene sense of security I had then. I appreciated now how patient, understanding, and kind she was to have spent her time on a little boy.

A few years later, on my way west to college, my plane put down in Seattle I had about a half hour or so between planes. I spent 15 minutes or so on the phone with my sister, who lived there now. Then without thinking what I was doing, I dialed my hometown Operator and
said, 'Information Please.'

Miraculously, I heard the small, clear voice I knew so well!

'Information.'

I hadn't planned this, but I heard myself saying, 'Could you please
tell me how to spell fix?'

There was a long pause. Then came the soft spoken answer, 'I guess
your finger must have healed by now.'

I laughed, 'So it's really you,' I said. 'I wonder if you have any
idea how much you meant to me during that time?'

'I wonder,' she said, 'if you know how much your call meant to me. I
never had any children and I used to look forward to your calls.'

I told her how often I had thought of her over the years and I asked if I could call her again when I came back to visit my sister.

'Please do,' she said. 'Just ask for Sally.'

Three months later I was back in Seattle a different voice answered: Information.' I asked for Sally.

'Are you a friend?' she said.

'Yes, a very old friend,' I answered.

'I'm sorry to have to tell you this,' she said. 'Sally had been working part-time the last few years because she was sick. She died five weeks ago.'

Before I could hang up she said, 'Wait a minute, did you say your
name was Wayne ?'

'Yes.' I answered.

'Well, Sally left a message for you. She wrote it down in case you called. Let me read it to you.'

The note said, 'Tell him there are
other worlds to sing in. He'll know what I mean.'

I thanked her and hung up. I knew what Sally meant. Never underestimate the impression you may make on others.

Whose life have you touched today?

Why not pass this on? I just did....

Lifting you on eagle's wings. May you find the joy and peace you long for.
Life is a journey. NOT a guided tour. So don't miss the ride and have a great time going around. You don't get a second shot at it.

I loved this story and just had to pass it on. I hope you enjoy it and get a blessing from it just as I did.

(I received this from my mommy today. It touched my heart and I had to share it on my blog.)

It's beginning to ......

2009-10-20T06:35:00.000-07:00

feel like Fall may finally be arriving! Yipee! That is a change I will welcome with open arms. I love the colors of Fall, the cooler air, the changing weather, the rain, wind and even the fog. I love the cooler temperatures of Fall.

There are several "things" upon my heart and mind, so I will just touch each subject, and hopefully come back later and expand upon them:

1.) Our 18 year old niece, Bonnie, is ill. She is hospitalized with complications from the flu (not the swine flu.) that lead to pneumonia. Please pray that she will make a full recovery.

Bonnie is a freshman in college this year. She has her entire life ahead of her. She is a nice girl, very intelligent, out going and responsible. Her parents and sister are deeply worried.

Bonnie is the daughter of Russ' brother Jim. Jim, Martha and the girls live on the east coast. Charlotte (Bonnie's older sister) is a newly wed with two adorable boys, one of whom is just a new born.

Please help us to lift this family, the doctors, nurses and medical staff up in prayer.

On Russ' side of the family there are 4 grandchildren. All girls: Charlotte, Jessica, Bonnie and Amanda. The dynamics are (in my mind) pretty cool:

Two girls on the east, 2 on the west. There are 2 blondes, and 2 brunettes; with one of each living on each coast. Charlotte and Jessica are the two oldest and close in age; Charlotte is on the east coast; Jessica is on the west coast. They are the brunettes. Bonnie and Manda are close in age, and both have blonde hair. Manda is my daughter, and Bonnie lives on the east coast. All of the girls are intelligent, loving and kind. We have great off-spring!

2.) About a month ago one of my cousins (who is considerably older than me, and whom I didn't know well) who located me on FB (love you, Frank!) revealed a long lost skeleton from my father's closet. My older brothers and I have an older brother!

Well, let me clarify - we have an older brother whom my brothers and I did not know about. His name is Rod and I am looking forward to getting a chance to meet him and his wife and daughter soon.

3.) My father's family (the Caravelli side) is having a family reunion this weekend. Russ has to work on Sunday and can not go. Manda and I will be attending. I am nervous. I have not seen most of my father's family in more than 15 years. Please pray that Manda and I will have safe travel, and that we will have open minds and open hearts and that we will accept those around us as we wish to be accepted, without judgement and with a loving and kind heart.

4.) I am trying to put together a celebration of thanks for my family. I have invited our immediate family. Russell's and my mom (of course!) Russell's brother Bob and our wonderful sister in law Suzette, their sweet daughter Jessica and her fiance'; my brothers: Randy, Rich and Allyson and Nicole, Rob and Melba.

I so want to have Rod and Kathy and Caitlyn there too - but the rest of the family is not comfortable with it. (Short of stomping my feet and throwing a tantrum, which I do not really want to resort to!) I am not at all sure how to solve this situation. I pray that my heavenly Father will guide me on this and give me clarity and resolve.

I treasure each of my brothers completely and want each of them to know that I love and respect them with all of my heart. We may be a family that needs a "Family Forrest" and not a family tree to track our genealogy, but I love my family. We may only be 1/2 related, but I love them wholly.

Hope this post finds you all in good health and much happiness!

New details in Alizadeh bankruptcy - Roseville Press-Tribune

2009-09-23T16:29:00.001-07:00

New details in Alizadeh bankruptcy - Roseville Press-Tribune

Shared via AddThis

Life, and giving thanks to God!

2009-09-22T16:29:00.001-07:00

has been wonderful lately!

I know I have not been posting, and I am not sure why I have not been. But, I am trying to get back into the routine and trying to be more focused and task oriented.

Although it is just near the end of September, Manda has been back in school since August 10 - and has already received her first report card! She is doing a great job balancing her junior year of high school and it's load of classes. And, of course, she loves being able to drive herself to and from school every day. (Only the upper class students are able to get parking permits which allow them to park on campus.)

Parking passes - oh yeah! That was pretty stressful in and of itself. The school only issues each (junior or senior) student 1 parking pass which is assigned to a specific vehicle and which can not be transferred between cars. Let's just leave it with: 4 phone calls and several conversations later - we were able to find a resolution that satisfies everyone.

It is hard to believe Amanda has been a CA licensed driver since December of last year. Soon; she'll be able to have friends with her in the car. That is pretty scary. Right now when she is out and about it is just her in the car. I have to admit to being a little nervous of allowing her to drive her friends around. That is a HUGE responsibility. Hopefully her friends will respect her while she is driving and understand that it is a privilege to have friends in the car, not a right.

Stamping - I have not been stamping at all lately. I was in a funk and had lost sight of myself for a bit. But - I think I am headed back into that happiness which is normal for me, and that means the creative energy should be starting to flow again soon.

Speaking of losing myself and not coping with it very well - I have to say that I am very grateful that I work for amazing people who genuinely care about the people around them. It is because of Jill that I put on my big girl pants and went to the doctor to see "what the heck?" was up with me. Turns out I was severely anemic. It has been a month and following the good doctor's advise I am on the path back to happy.

Of course that is not the only reason I am feeling better. The main reason is that Manda and I have found a spiritual home for worship and praise!!!!! Hallelujah!!! We used to attend church on Sunday because that is what you are supposed to do. But, it felt meaningless and empty. Now we are attending Church of the Harvest and feeling the blessing of Him all the time!!!! The difference in our lives is already noticeable. So wonderful! Thank you Church of the Harvest for accepting us with open arms, and thank you God, for loving us as we are.

We've been chuch every Sunday for several months now, and attended meetings and an inspirational concert by Red Rain that was ..... oh my goodness wonderful! Their spiritual message at the end of the concert was fabulous.

Manda and I attended a woman's conference through the church. It's title was "Shattered but Not Broken." I was in awe at the message I received and touched to my core at the feelings that I experienced. I may be shattered, but I am not broken and I do not have to be perfect. I can do the best I can, hold my head up high and know that I am God's child and perfect in His eyes ---- awesome!!! Talk about giving me power over my life, it restored my faith in me. It freed me of the burden I was carrying and helped me to focus on each and every day. Pastor Cindy was very inspirational. I loved every moment.

I thank God for the way He works in our lives. He has touched my family and blessed us so many times over the years. Recently He reached out and blessed us as my brother Randy became a pastor for his chuch in Nevada. Manda and I attended the ceremony which had been timed to coincide with my brother's 50th birthday. For those who don't know, my brother is a recovering alcholic with 8 years of sobriety and 8 years of walking in obedience of God. Without Him, my brother would not still be alive. Without Him, my family would have been devastated.

Because of God, our family was able to celebrate my bother, and in turn we celebrated the Lord, our God.

Thank you God for paying our price. Thank You for Your sacrifice.

Generation Wii?!?! No. Generation WE

2009-09-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

Amazing Love; how can it be?

2009-09-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

How is it that my King died for me? He paid my price so that I could live. So that I could live. That is an amazing love. I am grateful for Him

Hillsong --- The Potters Hand ---

2009-09-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

Having heard and worshipped with this song which touced my soul and heart on Friday night during the Church of the Harvest's Women's Conference: "Shattered but NOT broken, this song has quickly become one of the praise and worship songs I listen to everyday. In many ways, my evening prayers to God mirror the lyrics.

I have given myself to the Potter's Hand. He is my maker, He is my savior. He is my provider, He is my King. He gave His life for me, and I will worship Him and rejoice!

My niece Jessica .........

2009-07-14T18:52:00.000-07:00

whom I love so very much has just announced her engagement to Casey Hood!!!!!!

Can you tell that I am totally excited by this? I am.

Jessica and Casey are both wonderful people in their own right; and together they are adorable and one of those couple you just know will be together for all time.

I have been waiting for this day.

Congratulations Jessica and Casey!!!

Wishing you and yours ....

2009-07-03T09:16:00.000-07:00

A wonderful and safe 4th of July!

I hope that you and yours share the Independence Day holiday doing something you love. My family and I are going to have a simple BBQ and watch the fireworks from the near-by shopping mall.

Have a Happy 4th of July!!!

I miss you so much!

2009-06-16T16:08:00.001-07:00

My poor Blog. I have not been visiting you nearly as much as I used to. I still love and appreciate you dear Blog. You listen to me, laugh with me and seem to enjoy when I pour my heart and soul out to you.

Dear Blog - you are still precious, and won't be neglected forever. Time is just flying by quicker than I can catch those snatches of time I need so that I can create and cards other wonderful hand stamped lovelies with paper and adhesive.

There are a few stories that I also want to share with you for laughter's sake, but - alas my window of time is already shutting.

Dear Blog, I promise I'll be back soon, and we'll spend some time together.

It is ....

2009-06-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

June 1 already!??!?!?!?!?!!?

Yikes! I am not sure where this year is going, but please - can it just slow down a teeny bit?

Need stamp time desperately, need to upload photos, need time to share some new pics of Manda, need time to go and visit my mom.

My needs are simple - it is finding the time that is tricky!

Happy Monday - hope you are having a great day.

Happy ....

2009-05-26T08:59:00.000-07:00

Monday, I mean, Tuesday, I mean --- oh! what the heck!
Happy I am confused day!

I loved the long weekend. It was very enjoyable to be able to share some extra time with my family. We shared laughter and played cards, went to a BBQ, and even managed to get some chores done around the house.

Now, it is Tuesday, and the start of the work week. But, doesn't the work week begin on Monday? I am confused. LOL!!

Happy Friday ...

2009-05-22T10:09:00.000-07:00

it is date night Friday with my wonderful hubby! Whoo hooo!!! Love time shared with Russell. After almost 19 years of being his wife, he still makes my heart flutter with happiness.

I am so relieved!

2009-05-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week I posted that Jenn Diercks, who is one of my very favorite bloggers, was going to be closing down her blog.

But - Jenn has reconsidered and will be coming back to sharing her wonderful works of the heart!!!! I am so excited. If you want see her beautiful work, and get to know Jenn, click here and you will be magically transported to her blog: Stamp Your Heart Out.

Jenn and her family could use your kind thoughts and prayers. Her father has recently been in a very serious accident.

The Economy is so bad . . .

2009-05-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

CEO's are now playing miniature golf.

Jewish women are marrying for love.

Hotwheels and Matchbox stocks are trading higher than GM.

McDonalds is selling the 1/4 ouncer

Parents in Beverly Hills fired their nannies and learned their children's names

A truckload of Americans got caught sneaking into Mexico

The most highly-paid job is now jury duty

Dick Cheney took his stockbroker hunting

People in Africa are donating money to Americans

Mothers in Ethiopia are telling their kids, "finish your plate, do you know how many kids are starving in the US ?"

Motel Six won't leave the light on

The Mafia is laying off judges

And finally...
Congress says they are looking into this Bernard Madoff scandal. Hey, great! ... the guy who made $50 billion disappear is being investigated by the people who made $750 billion disappear.

Oh my!

2009-05-08T07:51:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness!!

Just watch.....

I full on admit that I am a great big chicken. I like my feet on the ground. Rubber bands have plenty of purpose, but I can definitely say that I would never use one like this.

Do you ever wonder ....

2009-05-07T07:01:00.000-07:00

...... why the digital camera and the USB cord are never in your purse at the same time?

That is what I am wondering about today. Why is it that my digital camera is in my purse holding captive some really cute photos of my daughter (which I would like to post,) but the USB cord that I need to use to do so is not ever in the camera bag when I want it.

Hmmm.... I KNOW that the camera, my memory stick holder and the cord all fit in the little protective case that I bought for the camera and it's accessories. But, for what ever reason, the cord never gets put back in the case.

Guess I'll have to find the cord later.

Later .... what is the definition of later. It is later now than it was when I first typed the word later, but is it truly later, or is it not really?

Yes, I know - my brain and I are weird today.

Hope you are enjoying a happy day filled with moment that make you think, laugh, smile or reflect upon the simple things that make life special.

Life is busy!

2009-05-05T07:45:00.000-07:00

Whew - we are currently on one of those tracks of life where everything is happening at once. Mind you these are all great things going on. They have all just occurred with in a very short period of time:

extra dance practices
after, during and after school meetings
annual truck inspections
special dance practices
dance competition
lots of birthdays
mother's day
teen peer court
SADA practice
SADA performance

What has not gone on:

stamp time
restful sleep
chore time
laundry
house cleaning
grocery shopping
time to post recent photos of Manda
posting of cards I have created

What I am looking forward to in the next few weeks:

watching Manda as a defense attorney with Teen Peer Court
watching HairSpray at SADA
Russell's birthday
time to relax with my husband
time to relax with my daughter
time to put the house back in order
stamping with Carmen's Groupies at Melisa's
time to catch up on the laundry

I hope you are enjoying days full of happiness and activity! I don't know about you, but I'd rather have an action packed schedule that keeps me busy than have nothing to do at all.

Happy Tuesday!

To the Moms of the blog-world -

2009-04-30T06:16:00.000-07:00

My good friend Deb sent this to me. That she thinks I am an awesome mom is a total compliment. Seriously. Deb is an AWESOME mom! She was a mom when most of our friends weren't even thinking about raising a family. Deb was blessed with 4 wonderful children, all of whom are equally blessed to have her as their mom. Just as I am blessed to have her friendship.

I am placing this on my blog in the hope that others will read it - I read many blogs (see the right hand side of my blog for a list) and each of you are amazing women who live life with heart and soul. This is for you.

Before I was a Mom,
I never tripped over toys
or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not
my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind
and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held down a screaming child
so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night
watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because
I didn't want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces
when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small
could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,
I didn't know the feeling of
having my heart outside my body..
I didn't know how special it could feel
to feed a hungry baby..
I didn't know that bond
between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small
could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth,
the joy,
the love,
the heartache,
the wonderment
or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much,
before I was a Mom .

Send this to someone who you think is an awesome Mom.

May you always be overwhelmed by the Grace of God rather than by the cares of life

........ Good Morning!

2009-04-27T08:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday! Hope you had a great weekend and enjoyed every moment.
Life has been busy, but I did get a chance to create several cards and a gift tote this weekend.

If I can remember, I'll take photos and post them before they are given to their owner tomorrow.

Off I go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The following was found posted very low on a refrigerator door:

2009-04-27T06:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Dogs and Cats:

The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.

I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort, however. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.

For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required.

The proper order for kissing is:
Kiss me first, then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough.

Finally, in fairness, dear pets, I have posted the following message on the front door:

TO ALL NON-PET OWNERS WHO VISIT AND LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT OUR PETS:

(1) They live here. You don't.
(2) If you don't want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture.
That's why they call it 'fur'-niture.
(3) I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.
(4) To you, they are animals.
To me, they are adopted sons/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours and don't speak clearly.

Remember, dogs and cats are better than kids because they:
(1) eat less,
(2) don't ask for money all the time,
(3) are easier to train,
(4) normally come when called,
(5) never ask to drive the car,
(6) don't hang out with drug-using people;
(7) don't smoke or drink,
(8) don't want to wear your clothes,
(9) don't have to buy the latest fashions,
(10) don't need a gazillion dollars for college and
(11) if they get pregnant, you can sell their children!

Stamp Your Heart Out 300,000 blog candy

2009-04-19T20:17:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite bloggers is Jenn Diercks.

Her blog: Stamp Your Heart Out always features crisp, beautiful creations that make me want to get my fingers inky, and my brain creating.

Recently Jenn posted a 300,000 blog candy "challenge." All I had to do to enter was follow her very simple and concise instructions:

1. Make a card with the following color combination: Chocolate Chip,
Pumpkin Pie, Kiwi Kiss and Whisper White or Very Vanilla
(if you do not own Kiwi Kiss you may use Old Olive).

2. This must be a new card, you can’t link to an old post that contains a card with these colors.

3. Post your card online (SCS, your blog, etc.) and then come back to this
post. Post the direct link to your creation in the comment section.

Good Luck and have fun creating!
Jenn

So - following those wonderful instructions ---- my card appears below:

I used the the following supplies and tools
(All supplies Stampin' UP! unless otherwise noted):

"Bloomin Beautiful" stamp set

Card stock & Ink:
Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, Kiwi Kiss & Very Vanilla

Big Shot Embossing Plate: Flourish
(very vanilla card stock sponged with Kiwi Kiss, Pumpkin Pie and Chocolate Chip)

Ribbon: Old Olive Polytwill (retired)

Aqua Painter
( with Kiwi Kiss, Pumpkin Pie & Chocolate Chip re-inkers)

Punches: 1 3/8" square; 1 1/4" square; 1 1/4" circle
(Stampin' UP! / EK Success)

1" square (Creative Memories)

I love entering challenges and blog candy opportunities which make me create. After all, isn't that why I have a craft room, so that I can create to my hearts content?

Thanks Jenn for sharing your wonderful works of art on your blog! I love what you create and inspire to one day be as talented as you are.

Garden Tote ----- Totally Adorable!!!!

2009-04-19T19:50:00.000-07:00

Can I say two things:

1. that Becky Roberts (Inking Idaho!) is a wonderful designer! If you have not already seen or made her Garden Tote, head on over to her blog and order a copy of the instructions, you'll be glad you did!

2. Carmen Johansen is an AMAZINGLY talented and totally patient teacher! Carmen and I have been friends for a long time. I first met Carmen way back when I was a CM consultant ~ Carmen was an avid scrapbooker with an eye for color and design that is just breath-taking.

Carmen designs and creates the most wonderful crafts. It is a pleaure to be her friend and her customer. I ALWAYS love the projects Carmen shares with us. She makes our lil' group of happy stampers reach for that next level while reminding us of the techniques and tips we have learned.

Both Carmen Johansen and Becky Roberts do Stampin' UP! PROUD!

I first saw Becky's tote about a month ago on her website. I knew I wanted to buy the tutorial, but frankly was just a lil' leery --- would I take the time to make it? Would I make it as pretty as hers?

Then MY very wonderful, totally talented friend Carmen, who just happens to be my very favorite SU demonstrator told me about this great tote she had made .... and when I saw it, I started drooling .... I KNEW I had to have one of my very own!

So - I bought the tutorial from Becky; ordered all of my supplies from Carmen and then got to spend this afternoon with Carmen at her house in Lincoln creating my own Garden Tote!

I used the "To the Nines" designer series paper from Stampin' UP! and I have to say. I totally love my tote.

Thanks Becky for the design, and a HUGE Thank YOU to Carmen Johansen for sharing her afternoon with me.

Carmen Johansen's April Challenge

2009-04-19T11:55:00.000-07:00

Several years ago 6 or 8 of my friends and I formed a stampin cult (big grin!)

I love the girls I stamp with. Carmen, Tami, Kathie, Sarah, Melisa and I have been stamping together for 6 or 7 years. Jenn moved to Elk Grove, and Samantha moved to Texas - but other wise our group has stayed really close. We've been through 3 demonstrators as our talent and passion for new projects has increased. Not that we are experts by any means .....

Last year, knowing that we needed a change in demonstrators - Carmen signed up, and became our Stampin' UP! demonstrator. It is AWESOME to have her at the head of our group - not only is she nice, funny, easy to be around and talented - she understands the needs of our stamp group and she caters to us. We are truly spoiled by the time, talent and devotion she shares with us. Love ya!, Carmen!

Carmen recently started a monthly challenge. Last months was paper piecing, and when I get that card back I will post a pic of it.

Our challenge for April: Rock N Roll. My card is a little blurry, but here is a picture of my submission for April:

Fiskars Give a Way

2009-04-17T11:13:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves to have the chance to win ~ and this was one that I thought I'd share with everyone:

Lisa of Paper Fashions is doing a sweet Fiskars give a away - no tools, just some really great consumables.

Check out her blog for your own chance to win!

Dream Makeovers - A Wish Fulfilled

2009-04-15T12:14:00.000-07:00

I am so excited, I can barely contain myself!!!

Once in awhile something happens that is so exciting, so wonderful it makes you smile. Especially when the people it happens to are awesome people who deserve to have nice "things" happen to them.

A few months ago a family that Amanda and I are friends with had the opportunity to participate in a "Make A Wish." Nicole and Amanda have danced together for years.

Nicole is an amazing young lady. She is a gifted dancer with a talent and appreciation for the art of dance that entrances me when I see her on stage. She is a great student, a wonderful sister, and a caring person. Nicole is hard not to like. On top of all that .... Nicole has cystic fibrosis.

But that does not stop Nicole. Nicole enjoys life, laughter and facing challenges head on.

I could go on for hours about Nicole and her family - our family loves and admires them. They are a wonderful family. BUT ~ the entire point of my post is ......

Check out Oprah's O magazine (the May issue) on sale now .....

Starting on page 69 is an article titled: A Wish Fulfilled

on page 70 is .............................................

Cathy Austin and Nicole Taipale

I went to the O Magazine website and the link for their article features a great picture of Cathy and Nicole:

Mind you this photo was taken at their photo shoot in New York, but I have to say - even in every day "real life" and not "all made up" both Nicole and Cathy are beautiful --- both inside and out. Love ya girls!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

May your Easter be shared with those you love, and may you find joy in the time you share together.

May your Easter eggs be filled with good blessings!

Happy Easter!

Starving Artiststamps

2009-04-08T16:26:00.000-07:00

Blog Candy Give A Way!!

While reading the messages over at SU4Me (my favorite Yahoo Group!), I found a post from the wonderfully talented Darlene LeMar (who is excellent at finding the coolest blogs on the net!) about Starving Artiststamps.

StarvingArtiststamps
is having a really cool (yes, I mean really cool!)

BLOG CANDY give a way.

I couln't help but want to enter, so ---- please indugle me as I post in hope that you too will visit their blog, see what the excitement is all about, and maybe even enter yourself.

You'll have to go to their blog to see what is so cool. It wouldn't be nice of me to steal their images and show you myself, but there is a stamp which is called DoodleFactory Super Parents --- it is adorable! I can think of several of my friends (who are becoming parents this spring) this stamp would be great for.

So, click on over to Starving ArtiStamps - home of the DoodleFactory & other fine stamps & things. Don't forget to mention that you learned about them here on my little corner of the world: snaps2scrap.blogspot.com

Happy Wednesday!

Blog Candy give - a - way!

2009-04-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

While wandering through my google alerts, I stumbled upon a blog which by title alone intrigued me: Paper Therapy

And then I discovered that she is hosting a blog candy give - a - way! I love blog candy give - a - ways. Even though I never win them, it is fun to follow the rules of entry and see what happens. Blogs fascinate me; I feel like I learn so much for others.

Anyway - click on over to Paper Therapy and throw your hat into the ring. Someone will win her special treat, and it just may be you. (But, let's face it, I hope its me!)

Stampin' and loving it!

2009-04-03T07:34:00.000-07:00

I've had a little time lately to spend in my craft room. I have been doing some cleaning, and re-organizing to make better use of the space. Obviously being more organized and having my favorite supplies at my fingertips makes craft time more productive. And, more productive means more fun, right? Right!

Here are a few of the cards I have made recently. The quality of the photos is horrible. I really should use my camera or scan the cards and not be lazy and snap photos with my cell phone.

This first card was made on the fly just before I had to run out the door to a baby shower. My friend Kim is going to be a grandmother. The grand baby will be born in May. The baby's parents are Kim's son Ryan, and his adorable girlfriend, Cara.

Cara is not into pink; she likes sweet and old-fashioned with natural colors and bold accents. This card was made with Kraft card stock, and the paper pack from the Sell A Brations catalog. The colors fit the nursery just about perfectly: certainly celery, deep rich burgundy, and the naturally gentle rich warmth of the Kraft card stock.

The next card I started when Mom was here a few weeks ago. It is a swap card for the wonderful yahoo group: SU4Me. I love the girls over at SU4Me. They are an amazing group of talented and warm hearted ladies. We are not your typical yahoo group - we are like long time friends connected via our Internet connections.

Norma is our swap moderator, and she posted the "polished stone technique" swap. I was so glad she did! It is one of my favorite techniques. I love seeing all the different ways the ink and alcohol blend to create wonderful background colors. I used shades of blue and a silver metallic ink with mine.

Speaking of SU4Me, Sue-Lynn issued a challenge to our group. She sent those of us who were up to the challenge an assortment of card stock pieces, buttons, chip board, and a cute little clip. We had to use 6 of the items on a card. My embellishments were a cheerful orange, and with the help of my daughter and the cat, this card is what I came up with.

Thanks Sue-Lynn! This was a great challenge, I loved created with the items you sent.

This picture is obviously NOT a card. This is Harley. He is the craft room supervisor. It is his job to make sure that everything is being put to the best use possible.

Of course his idea of best use and mine differ. I think the table is best used when I can spread out and use all of the table for my supplies.

Harley is certain the table is for his comfort and relaxation. He loves to stretch out and take a nap while I attempt to work around him. Because he is totally adorable, has a great purr and is a wonderful cat, he almost always gets his way.

While Mom was here she and I had the opportunity to spend some time in the scrapbook room. I wanted her to have the chance to enjoy creating some cards she could share with her friends.

Mom is active with the hospital axillary, and this year she is the Sunshine chair person. As such, she frequently sends out cards to people in her community. Mom likes bold dashes of color mixed with subtle simplicity, so we created cards that reflect her sense of taste and style.

Hello Monday!

2009-03-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

It is a sunny, windy, and cold morning here in my little corner of the world. The sunlight is beautiful with its cheerful rays of light trying to embrace the morning in warmth. However, the wind is winning the war against warmth.

Yesterday, I was in the living room watching the cats. They were in the front windows, looking out and trying to catch the leaves which were blowing across their field of vision. Once in awhile, a leaf or twig, or other object would strike against the glass panes, causing the curious cats to jump back, hunker down and jump off the window sill, and run wildly through the house to try to figure where that noise came from. Then the other cat would give chase and WWF cat smack down would begin.

The cats are hilarious, and their simple pleasures of life make me laugh and smile. Whether they are sleeping or playing, sitting in our laps, or getting into mischief the cats entertain our family.

Simple, I know. But, I like that I can enjoy simple pleasures. I love the innocence of their play, the depth of their cat naps and the way they engage in conversation with their humans through their meows, purrs and other antics. I love that they have to be in the middle of everything we do.

I love being owned by our cats.

Where did the week go?!?

2009-03-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

Wow! I am not sure, but I think this week flew by faster than last week did. Time flies ....

Last weekend Mom was here and we had a great time! We were on the go most of the day Friday. We started out by having lunch at the Pita Pit (fresh and healthy!) The weather was warm with a nice breeze so we ate our lunches out on the patio while we shared a great conversation. Then we headed off to Walmart to gather flowers for my grandmother's grave site. We found the best flowers! Bright and cheerful colors. Grams loved bright colors, and these were orange, pink, white, yellow and vivid purples.

After we left Walmart we ventured down to South Sacramento. We decided we wanted to see the house Grams had lived in when I was a young girl. The house is in the Lemon Hill area, off of Stockton Boulevard. We had tried to find it by memory the last time Mom was here, but we kept getting turned around. This time, I had found the house on Google, and we were armed with directions.

Looking back to my childhood years, I remember Grams house as being a large, solid square of a home that sat on an over-sized yard with acres of green grass. My mother and my brother Randy used to mow the grass weekly, and it took hours for them to do. I would play in the house with my Grams, or sit on the back porch steps with my dolls and pass the time of day while they did the yard work.

There was a little parking area for Gram's car off the the right of the property and beyond that a small duplex. Out in the far back left there was another small house, but I was never allowed to go out the the house in the back. It was too far away from Grams' house, and she didn't really know the people who lived there. I did visit with the people in the little duplex, they were both older couples like my Grams and Poppa.

Grams house was always well cared for and had a clean, strong scent of pine sol, Ajax and spray starch from the hours of ironing she did. No one could iron like my Grams. Her kitchen always smelled delightful and she always had something scrumptious for us to nibble on. I have fond memories of the house and yard, and the times our family shared there.

Fast forward back to the present day (about 33 years since Grams lived on the property.) The property is actually no more than 1/2 of an acre in size and completely and totally over developed. Besides the tiny little house at the front of the property (the house Grams lived in that I remembered as being a lot bigger!) and the duplex to the right, there is now an additional duplex in the back right corner, a row of 4 apartments that from the outside look like they are no bigger than a small hotel room, an over sized parking structure that is falling apart, and another square dwelling which looks like it was intended to be housing, but looks vacant. The entire property is over grown, depressed and in shambles. The are yard cars, refuse and other items strewn about. Sad, very sad. Thank goodness for memories!

After our visit to the old property, we went to the cemetery to share some love with Grams. She passed away 2 years ago, just six weeks before I turned 40, and she would have been 100. My birthday was on the 17th of March, and hers was the 18th. She used to pretend she was mad at me for not being born on her birthday.

Mom put the beautiful flowers on Grams grave site, and we spent some time chatting "to" Grams. My Grams was a wonderful woman, and we miss her very much. I know she is watching over us.

After visiting the grave site, we headed back into Roseville. We stopped at Costco and enjoyed an afternoon of tasty samples and stocking up of yummy treats and good things to eat. Then it was home for dinner, and time to teach my Mom how to play Wii.

Mom quickly got the hang of the Wii and enjoyed bowling. Let's face it, Wii is hard not to like. What a great way to have fun and interact with your family at the same time.

On Saturday Mom and Manda ran a few errands, then we all met for a delicious Chinese food feast. I was able to spend some great time with Mom in the scrapbook room, where I helped her to create half a dozen hand stamped cards. Mom is the Sunshine chairperson for the hospital auxiliary this year. As such she sends out greeting cards to those who are ill, lost a loved one, celebrated a birthday, etc. I thought it would be nice for Mom to be able to send out cards she herself had created. She and I had a great afternoon creating cards!

On Sunday we met my niece Kayli in Auburn for breakfast. Kayli has just moved back from Oregon, and it was great to see her. She is adorable, and a wonderful, caring young lady. While we were enjoying breakfast and wonderful conversation, Mother Nature delighted us with a beautiful snowfall that dusted the landscape but did not stick to the ground. So pretty!

The weekend went by entirely too fast! Before I knew it, it was time for bed on Sunday night, and back to work on Monday.

Now it's Friday again, and I can't believe it. Hope you have had a great week!

Happy Friday!

I am so excited!

2009-03-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

It is Friday!
My Mom is here!

Need I say anything more? I am so happy, it is Friday, my mom is here and we are going to spend a totally wonderful weekend together.

Have a great day!

Photos from 29 years ago

2009-03-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

Having shared my rough draft of the "Thank You!" note that I am sending twenty nine years late to a person who more than deserves my appreciation, I thought you might like to see the pictures connected with the event of a lifetime - meeting Donny Osmond for the first time.

I was having difficulty getting the images to load nicely here on my blog, but you can see them in my facebook album: 29 years ago

A long over due "Thank you!"

2009-03-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Mr. Ken

Re: A long over due THANK YOU!

Dear Ken,

Twenty nine years ago, a young; not quite mature as she would like to have believed young girl lived in a small city seventy miles out side of her beloved Sacramento where she had been raised until she was twelve years of age. Transplanted from the large metropolitan city where all her family and friends were, to living in this small town of Colusa was quite a shock, and this young girl did not react well.

The girl was, quite frankly, miserable in Colusa. None of her friends lived in this tiny town so far removed from what she was used to. None of her friends were there to bolster her confidence, or share laughter and tears with. Not even her best friend was nearby, and long distance phone calls were only so great at helping the young girl feel connected.

Colusa seemed so small! During those final few precious last weeks of summer, the girl explored her new town with open eyes, and much fear. The young girl immediately liked the park, swimming pool and tennis courts. But, she was lonely. She knew no one, and every person of her own age she came across seemed reluctant to take a moment to extend a friendly greeting. The word “clique” had a strong meaning to the girl. The cliques existed, and she was on the outside looking in.

The first day of school arrived. The young girl hearing the whispers of, “Who is that?” ringing throughout the hallways of the middle school, felt like a fish in a very small bowl. And that bowl had been placed in the depth of the ocean for all the native Colusa teens to feed upon. Surprisingly enough, she did not get eaten that day, just nipped at, and put in her place several times that day, and for many weeks to come. She was reminded that she was the outsider, and that although she may live in Colusa – she was not “from” Colusa and was therefore not worthy of belonging to the teens.

There were notable exceptions to the rule. A few brave, kind Colusa teens who had obviously been raised by loving and kind parents, parents who knew there was a world beyond the boundary lines of Colusa, and who raised their children to accept people for what is in their heart and mind, accepted the new comer, and tried to make her feel as though she belonged. The young girl was too naïve to see or understand this at the time. But she never forgot their kindness, and even as she carried her dislike for Colusa into adulthood, she appreciated those few people. They had made the difference. They had made those months of living in Colusa not so painful, and not as lonely as it could have been.

One of the young girl’s favorite people was a prince among the teen-aged boys. He was her age, and had manners, a sense of humor, honor and insight. He had the wisdom and knowledge of an older soul. He befriended the girl and tried his best to ease her unhappiness. He offered his ear to her soul and encouraged her to talk. He participated in active conversation with her. He made her laugh! He made her smile. He made her feel a contentment that no one else had. He offered her his young heart and they became “steady” boy friend and girl friend. Being the young and immature teen that she was, it would be many years later, and only through the vision known as hindsight; before she would fully appreciate the innocent relationship of that 7th grade romance, and the depth of maturity he shared with her. He was wise beyond her years. She was the one from the big city – but he was that one with the knowledge of life and maturity.

During the time the young couple “dated” the young man learned the girl had a teen idol ~ Donny Osmond. The teen idol was the epitome of “Puppy Love” and was known for his wholesome values, clean family entertainment, good looks and wonderful voice. The girl had learned that her teen idol and his family would be performing in the California bay area city of San Carlos at a venue known as the Circle Star Theater, and she really wanted to go. Her parents; they were not so certain that a not quite 13 year old girl needed to be at a concert.

The young girl tried everything she could to change her mom’s mind so that she could go. But the young girl’s mom was not budging. The concert would be expensive and they would have to drive several hours to and from the concert. Maybe if the venue had been local and not several hours away, then maybe she would have been allowed to go. Maybe.

The young girl’s boyfriend – he had more than just his heart to offer when the young girl shared her unhappiness at not being allowed to attend the concert - he had magic! That magic was a direct connection from his parent’s place of business to the manager of the Osmond Family! And, in no time at all – not only was permission granted, but given with joy for the young girl and her 7th grade boy friend to attend the concert. The young girl’s parents would provide transportation and chaperone the young teen couple to and from the concert.

The Saturday morning of the concert arrived with stormy grey skies that unleashed torrential rains upon California. The heavy rain clouds dumping there load upon the land could not dampen the young girl’s spirits as her parent’s root beer colored Honda wagon traveled down the state to the concert. Nothing could take the happiness from the girl – she had her 7th grade boy friend beside her, and they were on their way to enjoy a real live concert. The girl’s step father was an award winning newspaper photographer, and he had given the young couple his press passes for the concert, so they couple would be allowed to take a camera with then during the concert, thus enabling them to capture the memories for posterity.

Arriving at the venue, the young teen-age boy and girl went to “Will Call” to pick up their tickets, which were being held for them under the name of “YAMAHA.” But the tickets were not there. After some confusion, the kids were sent around to the back stage door, and upon telling the security at the door their names and explaining the confusion, they were admitted to the back stage area ….. Oh my!! This was even better than just going to a concert, they got to walk through the back stage area, where the Osmond Family could be seen getting ready before taking the stage. Wow! The girl was flabbergasted and speechless (which did not happen very often.)

Escorted by a member of the Osmond’s staff, the teens were shown to their seats (near the front, and in the center!) and instructed to return to the back stage door after the concert so that they would have the opportunity to meet a few of the Osmonds and maybe even get autographs and pictures. Oh my!!! The teen-aged girl was in for the experience of a lifetime, and she was thrilled! Every moment of the concert was magical, and each moment was captured in indelible ink in her mind. This – this was “something” she would never forget.

After the concert, following the instructions they were given, the young couple returned back stage, bringing with them the young girl’s mother and step father, the step father’s professional camera, their autograph books, programs and immense excitement.

An Osmond staff member greeted the 7th grade teens saying, “I am not sure how much time we have, or who is available, but I am pretty certain that we can get Donny to come over and talk to you, would that be okay?” Oh my …… YES! The girl began to tremble with pure excitement … her steady reminded her to relax, calm down, and just be herself. She needed that reminder.

Merrill and Wayne Osmond stopped by, chatted for a moment and signed their autographs. Marie, Alan, Jay, and Jimmy were off in another direction greeting fans and unwinding after the wonderful performance they had shared with their fans. And, then, making every wish and dream come true for the young girl, Donny joined the foursome from Colusa. Oh my! He was just as charismatic and friendly in person as he was on the television, his voice as warm and layered as it is on records… only he was standing right there with the teens, his arm around the young girl’s shoulders. Her smile was full and true, exhibiting a depth of happiness she could not even begin to believe. Pictures were taken of Donny with the young teen-aged boy from Colusa and his young teen-aged awe struck girlfriend. Conversations were shared between the teen idol and the teen-aged boy and girl; memories were seared into the mind of the teen-age girl. She would never forget this moment.

Several months later, the school year ended. The young girl went off to her father’s in another state for the summer and dreaded her return back to Colusa. For although the girl had made several friends in the tiny town of Colusa; her heart and soul longed to return to her beloved Sacramento. At just thirteen years of age, she was not wise enough to appreciate the true value of those few friendships she had made. She could only feel that she belonged elsewhere – some place other than that tiny town, where every one knew every one, and if you weren’t from there, you belonged elsewhere.

While enjoying the sunshine and happiness of summer at her father’s the young girl received a phone call during which she was told it was time to come back to Colusa. The young girl’s mother had decided to move. The girl would have to help pack the duplex they had lived in during their time in Colusa, and then unpack and establish their household in Roseville, California. It was with much excitement and without looking back twice that the girl joyfully arrived home, packed her belongings, and gleefully said goodbye to Colusa.

In her haste to “move on” the girl was shallow and selfish. She did not take the time to express her appreciation to the young man who had given her a priceless gift - unconditional friendship and acceptance. Roseville became the home of her heart and soul within mere weeks of arriving and unpacking boxes. She has never regretted the move to Roseville, and to this day loves living there and calls herself a native of Roseville. But – she also has never forgotten the true friend who tried to make a difference – Kenny.

Kenny has frequently crossed her mind, leaving her to reflect upon his kindness with both joy and sorrow. A true friend should be appreciated. The young girl that Robin was did not realize this until several years down the road, and then she could not find her way back so that she could say, “Thank You. I appreciate you. I appreciate your family and the kindness and joy that were shared with me during a time in my life that misery was my best friend. I appreciate you for trying to show me the value of taking life one day at a time, and for trying to get me to take each moment of happiness and appreciate the value of that happiness. Thank you for sharing your friendship with me and for sharing your young heart with me. You have carried a piece of my heart with you, as I gained knowledge and eventually maturity in my life. Thank you for being my friend, and for making my dreams have value, and for making my dream of meeting my teen idol a reality. Thank you for accepting the new kid in town and for not treating me like the plague”

Recently, through a social network, the young girl found out that the young boy had relocated. Using a Google search engine to search his name, and finding a connection, the girl knew it was time. Time to finally, many years later, have the opportunity to thank the boy who made an impression on the girl.

Ken ~

This thank you is 29 years late, but I hope that you can see how much your kindness - being a true friend to a young girl - meant to me. I have thought of you often over the years. My husband and daughter, having heard me tell stories about my time living in Colusa, wanted to know if I had ever thanked you properly for being my friend during those months that I lived there.

I was shamed to admit that I never had.

Thank you for sending me your address so that I could do what should have been done years ago – say, “THANK YOU!”

Warmly,
Robin

Busy, Busy day...

2009-03-13T07:45:00.000-07:00

It's Friday the 13th and shaping up to be a busy, busy day.

I want to share a few stories about:

* what happend this morning (iron!)
* a story about Colusa and some friends I have re-connected with
* a story about my 7th grade boyfriend and a long over due "Thank YOU!" note (with photos to be included!)

But, I don't have time to do it now, so --- basically --- this morning's blog is my ribbon tied around my finger to help me remember what I want to share.

Have a totally terrific Friday the 13th!

Scrapbook room fun!

2009-03-12T06:57:00.000-07:00

Last night after work, I ventured into the scrapbook room, where I fully intended to finish the cracked glass cards I had started on Monday. I cut all of the card stock, stamped all of my images and embossed and cracked the main image for all six cards on Monday with the help of Manda who was sweet and helped me by transferring the freshly embossed images to the freezer for quick cool downs.

So, there I was - sitting at my scrap table with the big, bright lamp illuminating my table and the blinds pulled up to allow the late afternoon sun into the room. Harley jumped up onto the table - he loves to lay on the table when the light is on. I can't blame him. It is a BIG, bright lamp, and it does create a circle of warmth.

First Harley stretched out, and allowed me to start working with my project. Then I started to unroll a length of ribbon so that I could cut the proper length, cut it and accessorize the cards.
But, Harley had other ideas and began swatting at the ribbon. No claws, just the soft pad of his paw, batting the ribbon and making it sway enticingly in front of his face. I don't mind him playing with my ribbon, but this was SU ribbon, so I took that roll away from him and located "his" string for him to play with instead.

In the meantime, Miss Harvest decides she is missing out on the fun and games, and joins Harley on the table. She decided that my pen rolls perfectly when she swats at it, and she proceeds to repeat her kitten cute playfulness with my pen until it finally rolls off of the table. Harvest then decides she wants to share Harley's string and she takes it from him.

Harley takes exception to that, and decides it is time for Cat WWF. Harley tackles Harvest and they tumble off of my table to the ground. Being cats they land on their feet and the chase is on.
"Safe" appears to be my scrap table as they take turns advancing and evading each other, and return time and time again to the warmth and brightness of the table.

Harvest tried to "hide" behind my rotating ink caddy, but even as she hides, she can not resist showing her cute little head and keeps popping out from behind the cover of the caddy to "see" where Harley is. Of course Harley being older and wiser was sitting just to the other side and immediately pounces on her.

Their antics kept me amused for at least 30 minutes and by that time, I had lost all focus on finishing my cards. The cats had paper, pens and ribbon knocked off of my table and my shelves - but do you think they offered to clean up their mess? Nope! Oh well, at least they had a good time, and I have to admit - I enjoyed watching their antics.

Do you have pets? Are you a sucker for their cuteness like I am?

It was a wonderful weekend!

2009-03-09T06:53:00.000-07:00

Friday night Manda and I ran to the used bookstore; and then to Safeway. We came home and made a yummy (very simple!) dinner and just relaxed and enjoyed the evening with Russell.

Saturday was family breakfast morning. Russell and Manda made scrumptious bacon (I always burn it) while I did scrambled eggs with bell peppers, tomato, corn and onions. After breakfast, Manda to Russell to pick up the truck - the 77 Ford needed its very first clutch replacement after more than 110 thousand miles. Then Manda ran a few errands before coming home.

Saturday evening we joined Susie Immanschuch, and Alena Trimble at Strikes in Rocklin for dinner. Susie, Alena and I went to high school together. We have not seen each other in years and years, but we had a wonderful time catching up and getting to know each other all over again. Both of them are just as sweet and fun as I remember.

Sunday afternoon Manda and I headed over to hang out with Paula and Danielle. We spent a relaxing afternoon sharing great conversation and just enjoying the afternoon. Then it was off to Bible study for Paula (I am going to go with her one night,) and off to help Marla Ellis celebrate her birthday.

Marla is turning 40 this week. Her family really wanted to do something for her birthday, and as luck would have it - it is going to be a crazy week, so they decided to celebrate her birthday at John's Incredible Pizza. At 5:00 pm on a Sunday evening, the lines were actually not too bad, and the noise level was bearable.

Marla was joined by her mom, Marla's daughters Brittani (14) Madolyn (9) Brittani's best friend, my daughter Manda (16) Madolyn's best friend, Karissa (9) Marla's brother Fred and sister in law Dawn and their son Colin who is also 9, Marla's nephew Austin (16) Marla's boyfriend - Dave (who is really nice!) and myself.

It was a joyful bunch that crowded around the table sharing in the celebration. There was lots of good food, loud conversation and laughter. The kids enjoyed being able to use some of their energy in the game room, and the adults appreciated being able to share conversation.

It was a really busy weekend. Of course the things like laundry and cleaning house did not get done, but - oh well ----- I think we can get that caught right back up this week.

Happy Monday - hope your weekend was fun and that you are enjoying the bright sunshine outside today.

What?!?!?

2009-03-05T06:59:00.000-08:00

What do purple lions, pink elephants and green skies have to do with each other? And, more importantly, WHY were they in my dreams last night? Why did I have such a mryiad messed up mix of dreams last night? I even had the strangest dream about a former boy-friend. It was a very clean dream, but I kind of felt like he was trying to talk to me..... I guess I'll call his sister and see what is up.

I could understand the dreams if any of those "things" had remotely crossed my mind during the day, but they didn't. And, last night was one of those totally perfect nights when the t.v. never got turned on before I went to bed.

It is not like I ate dinner late, over ate before going to bed, or was over stimulated.

Manda and I shared an awesome chicken salad for dinner last night, nice and simple:
lettuce, carrots, advocado, and chicken with a balsamic vinegarret dressing. Tasty, simple and yummy.

I was in bed by 9pm.

By midnight I was restless and waking from strange dreams. I got up and drank a big glass of water, and went back to bed; only to continue to have these whacked out dreams that made no sense what so ever. None.

And, I can usually figure out dreams. Not these.

Oh well! Happy Thursday! Hope you are having a day full of love and happiness.

Happy Wednesday!

2009-03-04T09:35:00.000-08:00

Well, "Hello Mr. Sunshine!" Yes - it is one of those beautiful pre-spring days in the Sacramento valley --- we had an abundance of rain yesterday (which we need more of,) and today the skies are full of puffy clouds in varigated colors ranging from pure white to dark and dank grey - and those clouds are being chased by brilliant clear blue skies and sunny sunshine. It is chilly out, with a hint of the rain still to come, but it is a beautiful day.

Happy Wednesday! Have a beautiful day.

Happy Monday!

2009-03-02T06:52:00.000-08:00

It is Monday - the first week of March, and I am feeling so much more like myself this week. YIPEE!!! Yes, I am that excited about feeling better.

We spent the entire weekend around the house, resting, cleaning cubby holes, and reading. My scrapbook (okay, it really should be stamping) room looks fabulous! It has taken me several weekends to go through each and every little bit - but it is so worth it. Now my space is much more organized than it has been in a while.

I really wanted to stamp this weekend, but I could not get a creative vibe flowing. So - when I could not create, I cleaned. Harley helped me. He laid on the table underneath the warmth of my big lamp, and took long cat naps. Once in a while, he'd open his eyes, and stretch his paws out - reaching to be patted, then with a contented sigh of the truly loved, he'd rev his motor and slip back into a slumber.

Harvest likes to investigate the scrapbook room, but her kitten-ness youth makes her mischevious and playful, and she is not content until she can bat everything about and chase a piece of ribbon or knock something off the shelf. Good thing she is adorable and has very loud purr.... Cuteness keeps her from getting in trouble.

Now - if I can find my creative vibe this week, that would be wonderful. Carmen sent out a challenge to our stamp group - Paper Piecing. That should help inspire me.

Happy Monday! Hope your week is off to a great start.

Oh my ....

2009-02-25T20:15:00.000-08:00

I had no idea this cold was going to sneak up and smack me right along side the head. But it did, and life has been miserable this week. I tried to be strong and work through the couging and sore throat - but I caved in. I was weak. I allowed the misery to take over.

It has been several nights - since last Thursday - that I have had a good (Or even fairly decent) amount of sleep. I am exhausted, can not keep my train of thought focused, bored out of my mind, and restless. Not a good combination.

But I have a good feeling about tonight - and just as soon as Russell is home from work, and Manda is home from dance, I am off to bed.

Mr. Sandman - PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!! If I could have a decent night of sleep, that would be wonderful.

It's SU Stamp NIght Thursday!

2009-02-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

It's Thursday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, I am very excited that it is Thursday - it means I get to see my friends and go play with inky fingers, stamps, paper, scissors and adhesive.

Our group is so much fun! We have been stamping together for several years, and each of the women in the group are so wonderful. We lost Jenn to Elk Grove several years ago, and Samantha to Texas, but recently we've picked up a few new friends along the way. It is so much fun to share and enjoy wonderful company. I love our Thursday night stamping sessions.

We had been stamping with one demo for about 3 years, but then we decided that we needed an even bigger challenge and more room for individual creativity -- so Carmen became our Stampin' Up! demonstrator last year. That took our group up to an even higher level of wonderfulness!

It's Thursday and I can not wait to see my friends this evening.

Phoenix rising?

2009-02-13T13:18:00.000-08:00

Where can ...

2009-02-12T12:00:00.000-08:00

I find the best price on Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism contacts??

Manda needs a new prescription and I need to do some good price comparisons. So far I am seeing prices of $48.00 per box.

If there are 6 pairs in a box that equates to 12 weeks of wear per box. So in all reality; she'll need at least 5 boxes of contacts per eye for the next year of use.

YIKES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Why is it...

2009-02-11T20:22:00.000-08:00

.... that my daughter had an appointment at the eye doctors this afternoon at 4:00 pm (we checked in a 3:45 pm) and she was not even called back into the offices until almost 4:30pm?

Why is it that most medical offices schedule their appointments so tightly together that there is no way they can possibly stay on time?

Why is it that most medical offices find it perfectly acceptable to be tardy by more than a half hour in seeing their patients?

Why is is that most medical offices will wait until they are late for your appointment, then call you back into their offices, put you in a room, and let you wait for an additional period of time before the medical professional finally has the time to see you?

Most medical professionals are highly intelligent people - who obviously care about their patients well-fare.... why don't the doctors all stand up against the medical group administrators and the insurance companies and allow better patient scheduling?

Why is it? Because -- it just is!

Make it STOP!!!

2009-02-10T10:20:00.000-08:00

Ugh ----- the alarm for the suite next door is going off. It's driving me crazy. Someone, please make it stop.

YUM!

2009-02-09T13:41:00.000-08:00

So after the dance dress rehearsal last night, Manda was craving pasta. Our favorite is tortellini Alfredo. We had a family sized refrigerated package of tortellini, but only a teeny bit of Alfredo sauce.

Hmmm.... what to do?

Get creative.

I decided that balance and nutrition could suffer this time, and I grabbed a stick of butter, two fresh cloves of garlic, a can of evaporated milk and 2 cups of freshly grated Colby-jack cheese.

In a nice hot frying pan, I began by melting the butter, then I minced the garlic and tossed that into the melting butter. Next I decided to add two teaspoons of dry mustard, and the can of evaporated milk. I warmed that to a slow rolling bubble - not quite a boil, and then tossed in the grated Colby jack cheese, and a can of sliced mushrooms.

It started to smell divine, so I turned it down and allowed it to simmer for about 15 minutes while we boiled and drained the tortellini.

Yum!!!!

I have to say - it was pretty delicious. It was really rich, so a little bit of pasta and sauce went a long way.

Numbers

2009-02-05T06:53:00.000-08:00

just a touch of randomness:

Russ was born in 1957
He graduated from high school in 1975

Russ moved from Maryland to California in 1985
I graduated from high school in 1985

Russ was born on the 15th of the month
Our anniversary is September 15

I was born on the 17th of the month
Amanda was born on the 17th of the month

In keeping with my randomness of everyday

2009-02-03T17:12:00.000-08:00

http://www.randomthingstodo.com/

this link has been stolen from a blog that I frequently read. =0)

Happy Monday!

2009-02-02T08:51:00.000-08:00

Hope you have a fabulous week!