Empty Nest in Illinois

Wednesday Hodgepodge - Volume 67

2012-02-22T07:40:00.000-06:00

1. February 22nd is National Be Humble Day...what makes you proud? What keeps you humble?

I am very proud of all those that are serving in the Armed Forces to protect our rights - I come from a long line of military service - from Grandparents, uncles, dad, brother, and now my son - I'm proud of them all. The thought of what many of those servicemen (and women also) have given up in order to protect those rights keeps me humble.

2. Where is the catch-all (aka dumping ground) in your house?

The computer desks seem to always be cluttered, no matter how many times I clean them.

3. Do you make it a point to visit State/National Parks when you travel or even in your own hometown? What's your favorite?

Haven't been to many State Parks but I do enjoy them. The Smokey Mts. or even the Blueridge Parkway would be my favorites of the ones I have been to.

4. How would you define honor?

To honor would be to show respect for, to put on a pedestal, reverence.... It is a great honor to be a Sentinel at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where we honor those that have fallen. Those chosen to serve in this way lead honorable lives, for the rest of their lives. - Interesting facts about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Sentinels of the Third United States Infantry Regiment "Old Guard"

Q: How many steps does the guard take during his walk across the tomb of the Unknowns and why?
A: 21 steps. It alludes to the twenty-one gun salute, which is the highest honor given any military or foreign dignitary.
Q: How long does he hesitate after his about face to begin his return walk and why?
A: 21 seconds, for the same reason as answer number 1.
Q: Why are his gloves wet?
A: His gloves are moistened to prevent his losing his grip on the rifle.
Q: Does he carry his rifle on the same shoulder all the time, and if not, why not?
A: No, he carries the rifle on the shoulder away from the tomb. After his march across the path, he executes an about face and moves the rifle to the outside shoulder.
Q: How often are the guards changed?
A: Guards are changed every thirty minutes, twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year.
Q: What are the physical traits of the guard limited to?
A: For a person to apply for guard duty at the tomb, he must be between 5' 10" and 6' 2" tall and his waist size cannot exceed 30".
Other requirements of the Guard:
They must commit 2 years of life to guard the tomb, live in a barracks under the tomb, and cannot drink any alcohol on or off duty FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES. They cannot swear in public FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES and cannot disgrace the uniform {fighting} or the tomb in any way.
After TWO YEARS, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on their lapel signifying they served as guard of the tomb. There are only 400 presently worn. The guard must obey these rules for the rest of their lives or give up the wreath pin.
The shoes are specially made with very thick soles to keep the heat and cold from their feet. There are metal heel plates that extend to the top of the shoe in order to make the loud click as they come to a halt. There are no wrinkles, folds or lint on the uniform. Guards dress for duty in front of a full-length mirror.
The first SIX MONTHS of duty a guard cannot talk to anyone, nor watch TV. All off duty time is spent studying the 175 notable people laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery. A guard must memorize who they are and where they are interred. Among the notables are: President Taft, Joe E. Lewis {the boxer} and Medal of Honor winner Audie Murphy, {the most decorated soldier of WWII} of Hollywood fame. Every guard spends FIVE HOURS A DAY getting his uniforms ready for guard duty.

5. Angel's food or Devil's food-which cake do you prefer?

Devil's Food

6. What's the most recent road trip you've taken? Where did you go and how many hours did you spend in the car? Do you like to zoom to your destination without stopping or leisurely wind your way there with stops along the way? What is your car snack of choice?

Can't remember the last road trip I took - probably last summer with my daughter when we went down home (VA) - we always drive straight through and car snack - COFFEE! - ok not really a snack but all I need!

7. Recent headlines told how a preschool child in NC had their packed lunch from home taken away and a school lunch substituted by a school inspector who deemed the homemade lunch unhealthy. Reportedly the parent was then billed for the school lunch (chicken nugget meal) although an update to the story says the parent was not billed. The inspector was conducting a routine inspection of the classroom-he/she was not there solely to peek in the lunchboxes. The packed lunch contained a turkey and cheese sandwich, an apple juice box, a bag of chips, and a banana. You can read the story here. Your thoughts?

I read the story and it made me mad - just what was wrong with the lunch? Was it just because it didn't have milk? I personally do not drink milk - never have!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Still no grandbaby! I think he's going to wait till the last minute before he decides to put in his appearance!

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch

2012-02-21T15:28:00.003-06:00

It is once again time to head over to Patrice's from Everday Ruralty for our weekly chat.

This Week's Questions:

What's you favorite kind of salad?
How old were you when you learned to cook?
What's your favorite kind of store? (grocery, garden, department, cooking, bookstore, etc)
If you could have lived during another time in history, what time would that have been?
I'm looking forward to_______________.

My Answers

Taco salad! Love it.
I really don't know - seems like it was just always something you did.
I love the cooking stores - but then I have a sort of thing for all the kitchen gadgets.
I've always thought that I would have liked to live back in the 1800s - in a time when women didn't have to work and got to stay at home with their kids. I know it was a hard life back then but I think I could do it - after all I love to garden, can my own vegetables, cook and clean - although I'm not sure about living without my washing machine.
I'm looking forward to being a grandmother!!!!!! - now really did anyone think I would say anything else? Grandson due on Feb 29th!

See the little heart they made!

Six Word Saturday

2012-02-18T07:53:00.001-06:00

To participate all you need to do is describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, go to Show My Face. and Cate will explains it....feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing.

Heading to get my oil changed

Five Question Friday

2012-02-17T07:25:00.000-06:00

Time to head over to Mama M's at My Little Life for 5 question Friday!

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear and LINK UP!

Questions for Friday, February 17th: (Special thanks to Gasfamily (@gasfamily) from The Gas Family, Courtney (@mom2xover2002) from Mom Times Two , Jennifer (@jenniferovery) from The Days of a SAHM, Sandy (@PardonMyDust) from Pardon my Dust, and Amy (@amy_mcmommy) from Mac or Cheesy for their question suggestions! Mama M. would love to link you in a future 5QF, so go on over to her community or watch for her Thursday afternoon shout out for questions on Twitter and offer up your best question suggestions! Remember to @5crookedhalos her and use hashtag #5QF if you go the Twitter route!)

1. What do you do when you are really upset to calm yourself down?

I clean something - doesn't matter what room, closet, floor, garage.... just something.

2. Do you go all out for V-day or is it just another day?

Just another day here.

3. Are you more or less productive when Hubs is away?

No hubs - but I tend to get a lot more done when the Biz is gone.

4. What is your favorite time of day and why?

When I crawl into my bed at the end of the day and can finally relax.

5. What is your go to karaoke song?

Karaoke? That would be a definite NONE.

Follow Friday Four Fill-in

2012-02-16T20:16:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 50th weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

<center><a href="http://feelingbeachie.com/" _mce_href="http://feelingbeachie.com/"><img  border="0" src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></"/></a></center>

Each week, Hilary over at Feeling Beachie lists four statements with a blank for you to fill in on your own blogs. This week’s co-host is Irene from me, myself and I she came up with the last two statement.

Hilary would LOVE it if you could please help her spread the word about this hop…. So, please tweet, FaceBook share, and add the linky to your post…

This week’s statements:

1. Sometimes I __

2. I ___ high school

3. Deciding what to _____ before I ____ is such a pain sometimes

4. ______is my favorite______

My Answers:

1. Sometimes I wish I wish I'd have moved back home when I got divorced.

2. I hated high school (and graduated in 3 years to just to get out).

3. Deciding what to do with my hair before I go to work is such a pain sometimes.

4. Green is my favorite color.

Pondering With a Purpose

2012-02-16T07:25:00.001-06:00

Thursday is here again and it's time to do a little "pondering" with Brenda from Fiction With a Purpose.

I've been tagged - Again

2012-02-15T20:12:00.001-06:00

This is my second tagging in as many weeks. Brenda from Fiction with a Purpose has tagged me and I have to pass it on. So here goes:

The Rules:

You must post these rules.
Each person must post 11 things about herself on their blog.
Answer the questions the “tagger” listed for you in her post, and create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer.
Choose 11 people to tag and link to them in the post.
Let each blogger know that you have tagged them.

11 things about myself:

I'm old
I come from the hills of TN/VA
I lost one sister to a bad car accident she was 16 and I was 12
12 years later I lost my other sister - she was 26 and I was 24
12 years more and I was 36 - didn't think I would make it through that year but I did.
I have 2 wonderful kids,1 wonderful sil and 1 wonderful dil.
I am about to become a grandmother for the first time.
I work at a state university
Pizza is my favorite food
I love to can my own vegetables in the summertime
Green is my favorite color.

Here are the questions I was asked: (with my answers)

1. Wine or beer? I can drink a beer in the summer when it's really hot but have never really acquired a taste for it. I do enjoy a glass of wine now and then.
2. Hot or cold? - hot
3. Black or white?- black - makes you look thinner
4. Spring or Fall? - spring - love when nature starts to come back to life
5. AC or windows? - I much prefer windows.
6. Heater or fire? - Fire - I soooo miss my woodstove!
7. Carpet or hard-wood floors? Hard-wood - it's the first thing that I noticed about this house.
8. Roses or Tulips? - Tulips (see #4)
9. Dog or cat? - Hard one - I love dogs and have one but I also have 2 cats. I actually didn't like cats until I let my kids have a kitten and it of course became mine - I've had cats ever since.
10. Curtains or shades? - I like curtains but I have to say that I prefer shades - I like to let the light in.
11. Shoes or barefoot? - Barefoot!

So here is whom I am tagging......

Connie at The Life of an Ordinary Hausfrau
Donna at My Life, One Story at a Time
Karen at 21 Wits, by Karen
Kerry at It's the Little Things
Whispering Writer at Airing My Dirty Laundry one Sock at a Time
The Family at Once Upon a Family
Brenda at It's all Good
Leigh at Poonapalooza
Cathy at Cathy Kennedy's Blog
Julie at Taking the Fat out of Skinny
Empty Nester at One Flew Over the Empty Nest

and Here are your questions:

1. City or country?
2. Laptop or desktop?
3. Grass yard or concrete?
4. Potatoes or rice?
5. Meat or vegetables?
6. Upstairs bedroom or downstairs bedroom?
7. Garage or carport?
8. Drive or fly?
9. Talk or text?
10. Shower or bath?
11. Ford or Chevy?

Have fun!

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch

2012-02-15T07:27:00.000-06:00

It is once again time to head over to Patrice's from Everday Ruralty for our weekly chat.

This week's Questions:

Did you do anything special for Valentine's Day?
What was the last craft item that you made?
Are you planning a garden? Are you swamped with seed catalogs?
What cosmetics do you have in your purse?
When there is a room to be painted in your home, who does the painting?

My answers:

1. Nope, not a thing.

2. Does crochet count as crafting? If so, it would be a baby blanket.

3. Yes, and I'm so ready to get out there and do it! Lots of seed catalogs.

4. Ummm........none.

5. I've done a lot of painting since I bought my little house and have discovered that I'm not real good with a roller - no upper body strength at all - so I do all the trim work while Biz does the walls and ceilings. Two more rooms to go and it'll be done.

Wednesday Hodgepodge Vol 60

2012-02-14T19:35:00.000-06:00

Welcome back to the Wednesday Hodgepodge! Be sure to add your link to the bottom of Joyce's post and then go visit the neighbors. After all, that's part of the fun!

1. George Washington-Abraham Lincoln-Thomas Jefferson...who would you most like to meet and why?

I suppose Washington, because he was our first president and was a part of the Revolutionary War.

2. What's your favorite chain restaurant?

The Outback - love that place.

3.Joyce spied this question on the Bears at Home blog last week and was given permission to
steal
borrow it-When you look back on your life, do you imagine you'll think about the goals you failed to meet with regret? Or will you look at what you accomplished and say: it was good?

Probably both. Some things that I should have accomplished but others that couldn't have been better.

4. Grapefruit-take 'em or leave 'em? Given the choice between an orange and a grapefruit which would you choose? Would you prefer it served as is or squeezed into juice?

Leave the grapefruit - too sour for me - give me the oranges - to just peal and eat.

5. When was the last time you cleaned out a closet? Is there a closet in your home that currently needs cleaning? What are you waiting for?

Monday, while I was home (had Lincoln's birthday off and spent the day cleaning and working on upgrading both computers)! Wow, you couldn't have picked a better week to ask that question.

6. You get to have lunch with three famous people...who would you like to see round your table?

Sam Elliott, Tom Selleck, and Pierce Brosnan in that order - and does anybody need to ask why?

7. On a scale of 1-10 how would you rate your ability to parallel park?

Probably about a 5 - I avoid it when at all possible - but I can do it - not nearly as well as I remember my dad doing it though.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Grandbaby due Febuary 29th but after talking to dil this weekend, I think it might be sooner. She is having trouble getting out of bed and off of the couch - a sure sign to me! I've been taking the phone to bed with me (I've always left it downstairs before)!

My First Coffee Chat

2012-02-14T07:59:00.001-06:00

For my very first post on the Coffee Chat, I'm going to keep it really simple-because it's almost time to start my workday. If you'd like to join, head over to Rory's at Time out for Mom. The topic is:

What is Real Beauty, or rather What Really Is Beautiful?

Beauty, for me at least, is in the eye of the beholder - what we as individuals see when we look at something - and everyone sees things differently. So my definition of "beauty" would be: a quality that brings pleasure to ones mind or senses.

My Weekend

2012-02-14T07:21:00.001-06:00

For a 3 day weekend it sure went fast! Wrote one paper, took a test and turned in my topic for the term-paper in one class, did a little work in the other. Had the "sendoff" for the local Guard Unit headed for Kuwait on Sunday and then I spent all day yesterday upgrading both computers in between doing all the normal weekend chores. Reactivated my Skype account and installed a webcam on mine so that I can "see" the grandbaby when he gets here and then installed Skype and a webcam on the other one so that Biz can see and talk to his daughter while she is in Kuwait! Went to get my taxes done last night - almost glad to be back at work.

Six word Saturday

2012-02-11T11:27:00.004-06:00

Look what my daughter got me!

To all those moms out there that are going through the bad times - like the teenage years when you hear that you're the worst mother in the world - it's worth every minute and it does get better!

Five Question Friday

2012-02-10T07:34:00.003-06:00

Time to head over to Mama M's for 5 question Friday!

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear and LINK UP!

Questions for Friday, February 10th: (Special thanks to Keely (@Keely1978) from Mannland5, Sandy (@PardonMyDust) from Pardon my Dust, Erin (@emenchho1) from The Life and Times of E1, Gasfamily (@gasfamily) from The Gas Family, and Pam (@trooppetrie) from Troop Petrie for their question suggestions! Mama would love to link you in a future 5QF, so go on over to her community or watch for her Thursday afternoon shout out for questions on Twitter and offer up your best question suggestions! Remember to @5crookedhalos her and use hashtag #5QF if you go the Twitter route!)

1. How often do you shave your legs in the winter?

Pretty much every day - just a habit to do it in the shower.

2. Valentine's Day cards for your spouse: funny or romantic?

No spouse but I used to do both back in the day.

3. What are you most looking forward to about spring?

Putting the garden in!

4. What's your favorite way to pamper yourself?

I don't pamper myself very often but my daughter gave me a day at the spa once and I must say it was pretty awesome.

5. Does your tax return go into savings or do you spend it instantly?

When the kids were at home we always looked forward to taxes. I'd give them each a certain amount to spend however they wanted to - not something I could do any other time. Now I try to save part of it and use some to stock up on household supplies. This year part of it will be going to some new storm doors and the last window for the house - and hopefully the rest will go toward my trip to England!

-------------------------------------------------

Follow Friday Four Fill-in

2012-02-10T07:24:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 49th weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

<center><a href="http://feelingbeachie.com/" _mce_href="http://feelingbeachie.com/"><img  border="0" src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></"/></a></center>

Each week, Hilary over at Feeling Beachie lists four statements with a blank for you to fill in on your own blogs. This week’s co-host is Beth Ann from It’s Just Life - She came up with the last two statments!

Hilary would LOVE it if you could please help her spread the word about this hop…. So, please tweet, FaceBook share, and add the linky to your post…

This week’s statements:

1. I don’t understand ___ and probably never will

2. I prefer ___ to ____

3. My favorite smell is ______________because ___________________

4. I suspect my neighbors of _________________

My Answers:

1. I don't understand physics and probably never will.
2. I prefer potatoes to rice.
3. My favorite smell is rain in the mountains because there's nothing else like it - it reminds me of my childhood.
4. I suspect my neighbors of being nuts - who buys a house, lives there for 6 months, have a big argument and they BOTH move out and just leave the house empty with trash bags on the front porch, boxes all over the back yard.......

Pondering With a Purpose

2012-02-09T07:22:00.002-06:00

Thursday is here again and it's time to do a little "pondering" with Brenda from Fiction With a Purpose.

Her rules are really easy:

1. Grab the Pondering with a Purpose Badge (in her sidebar)
2. Look at the week's prompt
3. Post something on your blog that relates to the prompt - it can be a story, a poem, a picture -- anything you want it to be.
4. Go back here and add the URL from your post to the linky list on Brenda's.
5. Go check out the other bloggers who have added their links to the list.
6. AND most of all.... Have fun!

This Week's prompt is: Technology

Funny that the topic is technology. I've been writing about technology ever since the semester started. Is technology a good thing? What problems does it solve? What problems does it create? Should it be regulated? What are the ethical implications? And what do I think? I think technology is great. It enables us to communicate with our kids even when they are across the ocean. As soon as my kids turned 16 and started driving, I got them cell phones so I could always get in touch with them. I know kids a lot younger than 16 have cell phones now but this was 12 years ago. There was more than once in the middle of winter when my daughter's car went into a ditch and her having that phone enabled me to get there quickly to get her. (My daughter and the ditches is a post for another day)
Anyway, technology for me is a good thing. I don't think it has caused more crime - just changed the way criminals do things. I do remember the days before all this came about and I do miss that life sometimes. But you have to keep up in this day and age. Most of us depend on technology for our jobs - in one way or another. I know I do.

Wednesday Hodgepodge

2012-02-08T07:41:00.001-06:00

1. What is something you are loving right now?
It snowed here last night and the ground is all white and pretty!

2. Paris, Venice, New York, and Rome are considered four of the most romantic cities in the world. Which one would you most like to visit?
Paris maybe, because I speak a little French.

3. Are you a romantic?
Not so much. Guess I've been on my own too long.

4. What's your favorite love story made for the Big Screen?
Sleepless in Seattle.

5. Everyone loves Pooh bear and friends...which character are you most like and why? Click here for help in answering this question.
I thought Eeyore because he just kind of plods along but when I went and took the quiz it said Kanga.

6. What's the best chocolate something you've ever eaten?
Reese's - PB is the only thing that can make chocolate better.

7. Share a favorite quote about love.
"Take away love and our earth is a tomb." Robert Browning

8. Insert your own random thought here.
Today is my nephew's birthday. Happy Birthday Chad!

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch

2012-02-07T19:28:00.000-06:00

It is once again time to head over to Patrice's from Everday Ruralty for our weekly chat.

Questions

Stephanie asks, "What kind of competitions do you prefer to watch? Dancing, singing, or cooking?
My Kid's Mom asks, "Do you work? Are you retired? Are you a stay at home mom?
Empty Nester asks, "What's your favorite thing about winter?
Homeschool on the Croft asks, "What do you love most about where you live?"
Did you or your children(grandchildren too) ever have a dollhouse?
Wendell asks, "If horses have blankets, why don't they get a pillow too?"

My Answers

I must admit that I'm a sucker for the cooking competitions on the Food Network. I love watching "Chopped" and the Celebrity Cookoff was great. LDP was my pick from the start!
That's me - and I work. With my retirement portfolio, or lack thereof, I will probably keel over at my desk.
I love seeing the snow fall and build up on the trees. It's beautiful - until you have to go out in it that is.
If we're talking about geographic location - not much. It's pretty flat compared to what I grew up with. As far as my house - I love that it's close to work and closer to my daughter.
Never had a dollhouse - actually didn't play with dolls much that I can remember. My daughter did have the Barbie dollhouse though. I bought it at a yard sale and she got hours of enjoyment from it!
Wendell! Are you cold? I'm sure you have a nice stall to keep you warm!

Six Word Saturday

2012-02-04T10:53:00.001-06:00

Two more papers to write tonight!

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!

5 Question Friday

2012-02-03T06:05:00.000-06:00

Time to head over to Mama M's for 5 question Friday!

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear and LINK UP!

Questions for Friday, January 27th: (Special thanks to

Kate (@KatieB38) from Kate's Life, Gasfamily (@gasfamily) from The Gas Family, Scott (@ThisDaddys_Blog) from This Daddy, Stephanie (@Stephanielex) and Erin (@emenchho1) from The Life and Times of E1 for their question suggestions! Mama M would love to link you in a future 5QF, so do on over to her community or watch for her Thursday afternoon shout out for questions on Twitter and offer up your best question suggestions! Remember to @5crookedhalos her and use hashtag #5QF if you go the Twitter route!)

1. What have you done recently that you are proud of?

I'm pretty proud of the progress we're making on the kitchen built-in cabinet.

2. What is your favorite way to work out? Or if you don't workout, what are you wanting to try?

Tae bo! It works - sadly, you have to actually do it though.

3. If you knew you best friend was cheating on spouse would you tell?

I think I would try to be as supportive as I could while urging her to come clean.

4. If you could afford a live-in maid or nanny, would you have one?

Absolutely not - my kids were raised by ME and as far as cleaning - I wouldn't want anyone else to see my "dirt" - I'll do it myself.

5. Do you stress out about birthdays (specifically the age) or do you enjoy them?

I'm 52! Do I stress about it? Nope, never did - can't change it so what's the point?

And, a bonus question from Scott, that I wasn't brave enough to put in as a regular question...answer at your own risk, or not at all! (Or something...)

Bonus: Lights off or on?

I don't remember. Ok, maybe I do but I plead the fifth.

Follow Friday Four Fill-In

2012-02-03T06:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 48th weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

<center><a href="http://feelingbeachie.com/" _mce_href="http://feelingbeachie.com/"><img  border="0" src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></"/></a></center>

Each week, Hilary over at Feeling Beachie lists four statements with a blank for you to fill in on your own blogs. This week’s co-host is Jen from what would Jen do – she came up with the last two statements.

Hilary would LOVE it if you could please help her spread the word about this hop…. So, please tweet, FaceBook share, and add the linky to your post…

This week’s statements:
1. I never eat ______
2. I am not a ___
3. I think ______ are really weird
4. Sometimes when I __________ I always wonder if people are ___________

My Answers:
1. I never eat oysters or okra - don't like slimy.
2. I am not a "girly girl"
3. I think people who don't like mushrooms (and that includes both my kids) are weird.
4. Sometimes when I look at a sonogram I always wonder if people are really able to see the sex of the baby.

latest picture of my grandson

This Time Last Year

2012-02-02T20:18:00.002-06:00

I was just looking at some pictures and realized what happened last year at this time!

These were taken a year ago today - the morning after the big blizzard. Far cry from the 60 degree weather we're having this year!

2012-02-02T10:39:00.002-06:00

I just signed up for the A-Z of Blogging Challenge coming up in April!

2012-02-02T07:31:00.001-06:00

Thursday is here again and it's time to do a little "pondering" with Brenda from Fiction With a Purpose.

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch #28

2012-02-01T07:41:00.002-06:00

It is once again time to head over to Patrice's from Everday Ruralty for our weekly chat.

Questions

Joyful Keeper asks, "What makes you smile a happy,content smile in the course of a day?"
My Kid's Mom asks, "Are you married, single, or divorced?"
Empty Nester asks, " Do you have any home remedies for allergy or the common cold?"
Stephanie asks, "How many different addresses did you have growing up?"
I've just recently realized_____________________.

My Answers

Seeing a post on fb from my son/dil, getting a call from my daughter, getting a good grade on a paper I've written, lots of things.
Divorced and on my own since 1991.
I've never had allergies so none there but for a cold there's nothing like a "hot toddy" - my grandmother used to give us a teaspoon of moonshine (real moonshine) for a cough which is basically the same idea - some tea, some honey, and just a little bit of whiskey.
Too many to count (my dad was a contractor) but home was always Granny's house.
I've just recently realized that the school systems, even universities, are not teaching our kids what they used to. Honestly, there are some students in the classes I take that cannot even write a proper sentence! When did we stop teaching ENGLISH? Nouns, pronouns, verbs..... and WHY do these kids think it's ever acceptable to use texting language in a paper?

Wednesday Hodgepodge

2012-02-01T07:26:00.000-06:00

Welcome back to the Wednesday Hodgepodge! Be sure to add your link to the bottom of Joyce's post and then go visit the neighbors. After all, that's part of the fun!

1. It's that most wonderful time of the year...tax season! Do you complete your own returns or farm that job out to the professionals?

I always did my kid's return - they were just the simple forms - but I take mine to a professional - don't want any mistakes with the IRS.

2. This next question comes from Kansas Bob....he posed it in response to something Joyce asked in an earlier Wednesday post.

Which do you think has changed you more-love or pain?

Pain - I believe it has made me a stronger person.

3. Tangerine Tango has been named color of the year for 2012. Your thoughts? Would Joyce find this color anywhere in your house? How about in your closet? If not, will you be adding this color to your life in someway in 2012? If you're not sure what tangerine tango looks like click here.

No orange in my house, or closet since I painted the walls! The people that lived there before definitely liked color and LOTS of it!

4. Are you a collector? What do you collect and does it get admired, used, and/or dusted regularly?

I collect eagle figurines. In the wintertime here, the eagles nest by the river about 30 miles away. I love to watch them. They are one of the most majestic birds!

5. February is National Heart Month...besides a green salad what is one heart healthy dish you like to prepare?

Plank grilled salmon is one of my favorites!

6. When was the last time you had car trouble?

I've had lots of car trouble in my life but (cross my fingers) not lately. I think the last problem was with my 1995 Blazer that kept getting "carbon build up" and would knock like crazy. All they had to do was blow out some sort of line and it would run perfectly.

7. Have you been more demanding on yourself lately or less? Is that a good trend?

I'm always pretty demanding of myself - but not so much as in the spring/summer months when I have the garden. I love working the soil and canning my own vegetables but it can be a lot of work.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

My mind must not have had enough coffee this morning because I honestly cannot think of anything!

I got tagged

2012-01-31T07:24:00.001-06:00

I found a 'tag' in my mail from Brenda. After reading a few posts, I saw that some people were posting answers from the whole "family" and decided to do the same so here goes:

1. Describe yourself in 7words:

Me- Mom / honest / loyal / punctual / dedicated/ spirited / easy-going

Kimmy – wise / loving /calm / cute / patient / tolerant / protective

Pandora –beautiful /regal / elegant / sophisticated / royal / graceful / stylish

Macy – cunning / fast/ playful / vocal / hungry / sneaky / devious

2. What keeps you up at night?

Me- life in general

Kimmy – those dangfelines that think they’re royalty

Pandora – Macy, sheneeds to go away – far – far away

Macy – thinking upways to annoy her highness the Queen

3. Who would I like to be?

Me- Me, myself, and I

Kimmy – Vagrant, my friend from where we used to live, hestill gets to run and play in the country – I’m trapped in the backyard

Pandora – Why would Iwant to be anyone else, I am the queen you know!

Macy – Kimmy, then I could go outside

4. What am I wearing now?

Me- casual business attire

Kimmy – my collar

Pandora – why mybeautiful diamond necklace with the heart pendant and my luxurious fur coat

Macy – It’s a collarand nametag Pandora, just like mine!

Pandora – it’s anecklace and it has diamonds! Yours doesn’t have diamonds - peasant!

5. What scares me?

Me- I fear that my kids/grandkids will have toface challenges that we don’t even know about today.

Kimmy – I’m not afraidof anything. I am the protector of the house and will protect my family, even those pesky felines, from anything!

Pandora – that mom, mypersonal servant, might go away and leave me alone with this peasant!

Macy – any human otherthan mom or Biz – and an empty food bowl

6. The best and worst of blogging:

Me- The best would be all the people I have metand the worst would be trying to find time to comment on as many others as Iwould like to

Kimmy – I don’t reallycare

Pandora – Why the bestwould be mom posting pictures of ME, and the worst would be her not payingattention to me while she’s typing

Macy – I’m with Kimmy

7. The last website I visited:

Me- work

Kimmy – none

Pandora – whatever momwas on when I got up on her lap to try and make her pay attention to me

Macy – I’m with Kimmyagain

8. What is the one thing I wouldchange about myself

Me- I’d like to be alittle more outgoing

Kimmy – I’d lose someweight so I could have my girlish figure back!

Pandora – why would Ichange perfection?

Macy – I’d get biggerso I could overthrow the “queen”

9. Slankets yes or no?

Me- Nope

Kimmy – I prefer mypillow on the floor

Pandora – What’s that?Does it have diamonds?

Macy – It’s a blanketyour Highness - why would I want a blanket

Pandora – Is it one ofthose vellux ones? I like those, they're soft, perfect for royalty to lay on.

10. Tell us something about the person who taggedyou:

Me-Brenda from Fiction with a Purpose is a friend that I found a couple of months ago. Since that time, we have discovered that our lives have gone in many of the same directions. I love reading her posts and seeing the similarities. I have also discovered that she is an author and have absolutely devoured her first 4 books and will definitely be getting the rest of them. You can find them listed here and I highly recommend them - I know I enjoy reading them!

Kimmy – he’s a dog,looks like he’s just about my size – I’d like to play with him.

Pandora – another dog!Would he let me get away with walking on him and playing with his tail likeKimmy does?

Macy – You’re nutsPandora – one of these days Kimmy’s going to turn around and take one bite ofyou – I’m not going near her – or any dog her size.

I am supposedto tag people now, but I have no idea who to tag so I guess I'll tag everyone who reads this!

We got snow!

2012-01-28T18:50:00.002-06:00

I just finished writing one paper so I thought I'd take a break and show you what it looks like here!

It snowed last night - great big, really pretty snowflakes. I tried to take a picture of it coming down out by the flagpole but this is what I got :( . Photographer I am not!

This one was taken through my kitchen window this morning - need to clean my window!

This is out the side door. By tomorrow it will probably be all gone.

Ok - break over - I'm off to write another paper! Hopefully won't take too long - seems like once I sit down and get that first sentence typed, the rest of it just seems to flow. It's making myself write that sentence that sometimes proves to be the problem.

Six Word Saturday

2012-01-28T00:00:00.000-06:00

Thursday's post made me really homesick!

6 of Granny's 8 kids in front of the old house - probably around 1980

My parent's house

A little cabin that used to be a Post Office-it sits between Sneedville, TN and Morristown, TN

Compromise Church - past Kyles Ford on the way to Clinch Mountain

The old Miller Place - right beside Compromise - close to the old home place of my dad's family. When I was a kid, there was a goldfish pond in front of this house that fascinated me. Us kids would walk down the road from Grandpa's and watch them for hours.

The next 3 pictures are views from one of the hairpin turns on top of Clinch mountain

The rest are were all taken at the Natural Tunnel at Duffield, VA - just 15 miles from my parent's

5 Question Friday

2012-01-27T07:09:00.000-06:00

Time to head over to Mama M's for 5 question Friday! She's back from vacation and I hope she had a great time!

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear and LINK UP!

This weeks questions are:

1. Do you swim in the winter?

No - but I would love to be able to! As long as I could swim in an outdoor pool/lake/ocean - never cared too much for indoor pools, just not the same without the sun beating down on you.

2. Do you love or hate winter?

Both I guess - I love to see the trees all full of ice and snow on the ground but I hate driving in the stuff!

3. Do you put makeup/actual clothes on when you know you're going to be home all day with just family?

I haven't worn makeup since my son's wedding - what you see is what you get and I often spend the whole weekend in nothing but sweats.

4. How old were you when you had your first alcoholic beverage?

Very young - I grew up in a place where moonshine was still common and my granny would keep some in a pint jar for medicinal purposes - does that count? She would give us a teaspoon full when we had a bad cough. Otherwise, I've never really been into drinking that much, although I do enjoy a glass of wine at times.

5. How many ill calls in a 12 month period do you think are acceptable?

Well - I've always had the attitude that if I'm sick I'm going to be miserable no matter where I am so I might as well go to work. I did however miss two days last week - the first sick days I have ever taken on this job that I've had for 2 years. Does that mean I'm getting old?

Follow Friday Four Fill-In

2012-01-27T07:08:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 47th weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

<center><a href="http://feelingbeachie.com/" _mce_href="http://feelingbeachie.com/"><img  border="0" src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></"/></a></center>

Nothing is better than the smell of sheets dried on the clothesline.
I put my garden in early but never before Good Friday.
Those snobs that are always acting like they're better than me make me want to slap them.
My favorite time of year is when the flowers first start poking their heads out of the ground.

Pondering with a Purpose

2012-01-25T19:21:00.000-06:00

Thursday is here again and it's time to do a little "pondering" with Brenda from Fiction With a Purpose.

My parent's house in VA

Granny's house as it stands now - this was taken last summer.


Granny - in front of the house - probably in the 1960's

But as you know, I sort of got stuck here in IL when I married and had kids.Those were days before digital cameras and I don't have any pictures handy. This picture was of my daughter's Junior Prom and was taken in front of the house I lived in right after I got divorced. It was in town and was located halfway between the grade school and the high school. It was perfect and was our home for 8 years.

Shortly after that picture was taken, I found the "perfect" spot out in the country! I loved that place and it was "home."

My kids said it was in "BFE"-they hated it at first but grew to love it as much as I did.

It was in the middle of nowhere

It was beautiful

No neighbors - wonderful views - but a lot of work for a single woman without any help once the kids grew up and left.

Sadly, I had to leave it due to circumstances beyond my control and in August of 2010, I bought my little house here. It's the same distance to work and 40 miles closer to my daughter but it is in town (if you can call 400 people a town). The longer I'm here, the more I love this place - the more it becomes "home."

I miss my truck but I really don't need the 4 wheel drive any more - and I don't miss trying to keep the gas tank full!

Just a little house - but it's plenty for me.

I have a great garden spot!

And a fenced in back yard for Kimmy!

So now this is home and I'm working on making it the way I want it. I do have a little help now from the Biz but the place is MINE and only mine and I LOVE it! So I guess, for me at least, "home" is wherever you choose to make it - although I have to admit that 9 times out of 10, when I say "home", I'm usually still referring to my granny's house in TN!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

2012-01-25T07:33:00.005-06:00

Wednesday! Time for hodgepodge over at Joyce's - From This Side of the Pond.

1. The NFL playoffs were held this past weekend and this year's Superbowl will feature the New York Giants versus The New England Patriots. How do you define 'patriot'?

A person who openly loves his/her country and is willing to serve that country in any way they can.

2. What's something in your life right now that feels like a 'giant'?

Trying to figure out the details of getting to England to see my grandson when he gets here - financially, when, work, school.........................

3. What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think back to being 18?

Young and dumb!

4. Coconut-mashed potatoes-vanilla ice cream-mayonnaise...which white food would be the hardest to give up?

I'd have to say potatoes - they are one of my main go to staples - you can do so many things with them.

5. Describe an incident or a day you remember as being the coldest you've ever experienced.

The winter of 1977 when I was going to ISU - wind chills were -70 and I had to walk all the way across campus to classes - I'll never forget it.

6. You're hosting a brunch....what's your favorite dish to prepare and serve?

Meatballs! So easy and everybody loves them.

7. How do you combat negative thinking?

I simple tell myself that I don't have time for that and try to ignore it.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Looks like a busy weekend stacking up for me - have to write 2 papers and do an online test in one class - not sure what has to be done for the other yet. Saturday night we're having a benefit at the VFW that I have to work which seriously cuts into my time. Oh well - that's life!

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch

2012-01-25T07:13:00.002-06:00

It is once again time to head over to Patrice's from Everday Ruralty for our weekly chat.

Questions

Kimberly asks: How long have you blogged?
Lana asks:What is the most difficult part of taking care of chickens?
Susannah asks: Would you prefer to live where it's hot or cold?
Farm Girl asks: What sort of things are you looking forward to in 2012?
Dreaming asks: What's for dinner?

My Answers

Since 2009, when my son and dil were stationed in England. It started as just a way of keeping in touch with them.
Chickens! Well, I'd say probably keeping the other critters out of the pen. Way back when I had chickens, there were always coyotes and one time we had a weasel!
Right now I'd say hot! I don't really mind the cold if I don't have to fight my way through ice and snow though.
My new grandson!
Well, I just picked up the hog from the meat locker so I'd have to say it will probably be pork of some sort - maybe some chops with green beans, potatoes and I just got some new bread flour so maybe I'll make some homemade bread - although it wouldn't be ready for dinner.

It's Getting There

2012-01-22T18:11:00.000-06:00

This is what the living room side did look like.

Living room side in process

Living room side as of today

Kitchen side - uncovering

This is what we found!

Stripping!

Stripped

Kitchen side today - still a long way to go.

This project is taking a looooooooooooong time! But I think it will be worth it - we're going to put some kind of onlay in the middle of the two white panels and leave the woodwork and doors natural. Have to have the bottom drawers and door built - which of course, takes money - hopefully with my tax refund!

Six Word Saturday

2012-01-21T10:05:00.001-06:00

Every baby needs Fairy Tale Books!

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch

2012-01-18T07:22:00.002-06:00

It is once again time to head over to Patrice's from Everday Ruralty for our weekly chat.

QUESTIONS

What's your favorite kind of chili? - Just my regular chili - deer burger, my own canned tomatoes and juice, onion, kidney beans, chili beans and lots of chili powder.
What do you usually do when you feel a cold coming on? - Not much you can do for a cold - I'm fighting one right now - just try to get extra sleep and drink lots of fluids
Rice, potatoes, or pasta? - Either potatoes or pasta will do for me!
What kind of camera do you use? - I have a little point and shoot that works well - would like to get a nicer one but can't really justify it yet.
Are you a night owl or an early bird? - I guess I'm an early bird - Early mornings seem to be when I can get the most done.

Wednesday Hodgepodge

2012-01-18T07:15:00.003-06:00

Wednesday! Time for hodgepodge over at Joyce's - From This Side of the Pond.

1. A new Miss America was crowned on Saturday night-did you watch? If you were a contestant what would your talent be?

No - I never watch them - and talent - maybe something on the piano?

2. Do you have houseplants? Real or fake?

I do have a lot of houseplants, real ones, that I'm trying to keep alive until they can go back outside on the porch where they do really well.

3. When you were in school did you speak up or were you more of the hide your face, avoid eye contact, and pray the teacher didn't call on you type of student?

I was more of the avoid eye contact kind of girl unless nobody else would speak up and then I thought I had to.

4. Next Monday marks the Chinese New Year....what do you order when someone suggests Chinese food?

My favorite is cashew chicken.

5. How would you define a miracle? What would it take for you to consider something a miracle?

Something miraculous that cannot be explained without belief in God and his power.

6. What's your favorite Disney song? If you're stuck you'll find a list here.

I'm going to have to say that mine is also Feed the Birds-Mary Poppins.

7. I should have __________yesterday.

stayed home ( I have a terrible head cold and went to bed last night at 6 pm and got up at 5:30 am.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Classes start today or I would have stayed home!

Making home-made noodles

2012-01-16T09:38:00.001-06:00

Every time I do this I have to wonder if it's really worth the mess - but then when I eat them I know that it is!

Six Word Saturday

2012-01-14T13:12:00.002-06:00

They really do like each other!

This project will never be done!

This Stupid "Reply" Button!

2012-01-13T11:45:00.002-06:00

Ok - I simply cannot figure this out. I can "reply" to comments on other people's blogs but I can't reply to any comments on mine! If I hit the "delete" button it does come up and work (at least I think it would, I always cancel because I definitely do not want to delete anyone's comment) but absolutely NOTHING happens when I hit reply! Does anyone have any ideas? I know it's working for some of you since I've seen some replies posted on other blogs.

5 question Friday

2012-01-13T07:37:00.003-06:00

Time to head over to Mama M's for 5 question Friday! Except this week we're actually going over to Kate's Life since Mama M is on vacation!

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear and LINK UP!

This weeks questions are:

1. What's the last thing you bought for yourself?

Books - been buying quite a few Kindel books (thanks to Brenda)
2. What is your favorite meal on a cold winter day?
Biscuits and sausage gravy - nothing like a good breakfast to warm you up in the morning - although I usually only have time for that on the weekends.
3. Have you started looking at swimsuits for this year, and do you buy a new one every year?
I do actually buy swimsuits but only at the end of the year when they go on sale - I have one of those quick set pools that I put up in the back yard.
4. If you could be any candy what would you be and why?
Reeses? I guess because if I had to be a candy, I might as well be the best.
5. What are you most passionate about?
Easy one - you should probably all know by now that I am passionate about my children!

As far as pinterest - I just recently checked it out so I haven't really pinned much - it will probably be crochet items or recipes.

Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun

2012-01-12T21:13:00.001-06:00

Welcome to the 45th weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

<center><a href="http://feelingbeachie.com/" _mce_href="http://feelingbeachie.com/"><img  border="0" src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></"/></a></center>

Each week, Hilary over at Feeling Beachie lists four statements with a blank for you to fill in on your own blogs. This week’s co-host is ME! The last two statements are mine!

Hilary would LOVE it if you could please help her spread the word about this hop…. So, please tweet, FaceBook share, and add the linky to your post…

This week’s statements:
1. I have never eaten ___
2. I like to ___ in ___
3. If I could go back and change one thing, it would be _______.
4. My greatest _____ for my ______ is ______.
.
My Answers:
1. I have never eaten turtle - although my kids have and they say it is good - I just can't do it.
2. I like to "garden" in the warm months - and I'm ready!
3. If I could go back and change one thing, it would be nothing - not that I haven't done LOTS of things I regret but I'm afraid if I changed anything, I may not have the things I cherish the most - my children - and I honestly believe all the trials and struggles have made me a stronger person. (sorry, I'm sure that was more information than was needed or wanted).
4. My greatest desire for my children is that they never have to go through some of the struggles that I did.

Pondering with a Purpose

2012-01-12T07:34:00.001-06:00

Thursday is here again and it's time to do a little "pondering" with Brenda from Fiction With a Purpose.

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch

2012-01-11T07:40:00.005-06:00

It is once again time to head over to Patrice's from Everday Ruralty for our weekly chat.

QUESTIONS

How often do you wear a skirt or dress?
Did you feel unmotivated after Christmas and New Years?
What was the last thing that made you say "Wow"?
Do you shop with a list, or do you "wing it"?
I enjoyed this so much that I will ask this again. What questions would you like me to ask on our Chat?

My answers:

1. Quite often. I have to "dress" for work and I've always loved dresses and skirts.
2. If anything, I'm more motivated now that the holidays are over.
3. Wow? I guess that would be when I found out I could get e-textbooks for like a fourth of what a paper book costs - should have done this a long time ago!
4. Not only do I shop with a list - I guesstimate the price of everything I need and generally have a really good idea of what I'm going to spend. Sometimes I make a sort of game out of it to see how close I can come.
5. Let's see - I really enjoy these chats. I guess I would like to know a few more "details" about everybody - married/single/divorced/kids/pets/work/retired/stay at home mom/ geographic locations?

Wednesday Hodgepodge

2012-01-11T07:27:00.005-06:00

Wednesday! Time for hodgepodge over at Joyce's - From This Side of the Pond.

1. Lake Superior University has once again banished a list of words/phrases they think should be banished from the Queen's English in 2012-

amazing, baby bump, shared sacrifice, occupy, blowback, man cave, the new normal, pet parent, win the future, ginormous, trickeration and thank you in advance.

Which of these words/phrases would you most like to see banished from everyday speech and why. Go here to read more about how the words were chosen.

I'm going to say "win the future" because I don't think that's possible - the future has to be earned.

2. Are you easily embarrassed?

I too, am not so easily embarrassed as I was in my younger years.

3. what is your go-to snack?

Sour cream and cheddar potato chips - they are the best!

4. Have you ever been to Washington DC? if not do you have any desire to go? What site/attraction would you most like to see in that city? If you have been what's your favorite site?

I've never been to DC. I wouldn't mind going but it's not on the top of my priority list. I would like to see the Vietnam Memorial.

5. sit ups-planks-lunges-squats-which one do you hate the least?

Lunges would be the one I dislike the least.

6. What's a small act of kindness someone did for you that you've never forgotten?

I've had lots of kindness in my life thankfully. Years ago, right after divorcing I was so broke I didn't even have money for Christmas for the kids. My brother loaned me the money to put presents under the tree for them.

7. Have you ever been a blood donor?

I've been a blood donor for years. Every 56 days.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Our wonderful weather is about to change back to normal January temps. Forecast is: cold, snow, blowing snow advisory :(. It sure was nice while it lasted.

5 Question Friday.

2012-01-06T07:34:00.002-06:00

Time to head over to Mama M's for 5 question Friday!

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear and LINK UP!

1. What is the weather like where you are and do you like it?

Right now it's in the 40's and I'm liking it a lot - next week is supposed to turn cold again but I guess it is January.

2. When you're sick what do you seek comfort from?

When I'm sick, I always want potato soup - don't know why.

3. What do you need to do before the end of the month?

I have to get 2 crowns put on my teeth this month - really not looking forward to that!

4. Have you ever served on a jury?

Thankfully - No.

5. If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?

A horse - they are both beautiful and graceful (when they have been cared for - sadly around here we have had some people who have really frightfully mistreated some).

Follow Friday Four Fill-In-week 44

2012-01-06T07:17:00.003-06:00

Welcome to the 44th weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

<center><a href="http://feelingbeachie.com/" _mce_href="http://feelingbeachie.com/"><img  border="0" src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http:// s1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/?action=view&current=followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" _mce_src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h363/feelingbeachie/followfriday_edited-2-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></"/></a></center>

Each week, Hilary over at Feeling Beachie lists four statements with a blank for you to fill in on your own blogs. This week’s co-host is Sarah from the Mama Pirate
Hilary would LOVE it if you could please help her spread the word about this hop…. So, please tweet, FaceBook share, and add the linky to your post…
This week’s statements:
1. ________ is not my strongest virtue (patience)
2. _________ is my favorite meal of the day
3. ___________ is my ____________
4. Whenever ____________ happens, I always _____________.

My Answers:
1. Patience is not my strongest virtue
2. Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day
3. The Natural Tunnel in Duffield, VA is my favorite park to visit.
4. Whenever I realize I am wrong happens, I always admit it right away.

Please add the Follow Friday button to your post, or your blog.
Please follow Hilary. If there is a co-host, please follow them as well. Leave a comment!
Please link your Follow Friday Four Fill-In Fun post to the linky below. PLEASE grab the linky and post on your blog…

Pondering With a Purpose - Wallow

2012-01-05T07:36:00.001-06:00

Thursday is here again and it's time to do a little "pondering" with Brenda from Fiction With a Purpose.

Her rules are really easy:

1. Grab the Pondering with a Purpose Badge (in her sidebar)
2. Look at the week's prompt
3. Post something on your blog that relates to the prompt - it can be a story, a poem, a picture -- anything you want it to be.
4. Go back here and add the URL from your post to the linky list on Brenda's.
5. Go check out the other bloggers who have added their links to the list.
6. AND most of all.... Have fun!

So this week the subject is: Wallow

As I read Brenda's post this morning I was once again amazed at how much our lives have followed the same direction. We both went to college, got married, had kids and were divorced at 34. Being a single mom of young kids is hard - although worth every sacrifice. Anyway, today's subject is "wallow." I have been known to wallow in self pity a few times in my life but I discovered a long time ago that it doesn't do any good, doesn't make you feel any better, basically just doesn't get you anywhere. One of my dad's favorite sayings was: if you don't like the way things are going, get off your *** and do something to change it. How right he was and that is what I try to do anymore. I've gone down a lot of roads and hit many roadblocks. When that happens, you just have to change directions - come up with plan B - or plan C... Every obstacle you get by helps you to grow - to make better decisions - to be a better person. The point is - when you feel like "wallowing" (and we all do at times) - just get up and do something!

On a side note - I've spent the past week with my nose buried in books. It's been so long since I've done any pleasure reading I can't seem to stop. I was up till 1 a.m. this morning because I simply couldn't put the kindel down - it's going to be a long day!

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch

2012-01-04T07:51:00.001-06:00

It has turned cold over at Patrice's fromt Everday Ruralty and she is having to cook without an oven! That would be hard to do for me as I use my oven ALL THE TIME when it's cold out - nothing like being in a nice warm kitchen. We hope that she gets out and finds a replacement soon!
Here are this week's questions:

What's your favorite kind of tree?
How did you celebrate the New Year?
Do you have any family traditions for the New Year?
I'm so glad I____________ in 2011.
Did you have a nickname as a child?

My Answers:

I'd have to say that a Weeping Willow is my favorite. I've never had one and I've heard that they can be messy but I just love the way they look.
I sat in my chair and read my first book on my new Kindel.
Not really.
I'm so glad I started remodeling in 2011. (Although sometimes I think I may never be done.)
Yes I did - I was "supposed" to be a boy so my dad tried to turn me into one. I was called "Jo-..." (we won't go into the rest of the nickname).

Wednesday Hodgepodge

2012-01-04T07:22:00.001-06:00

Wednesday! Time for hodgepodge over at Joyce's - From This Side of the Pond.

1. What are three words you would use to describe your 2011?

difficult - financially
enlightening - as in my job (and not necessarily in a good way)
over! - 2012 will be better!

2. Do you like shrimp? What's your favorite way to have it prepared?

I like shrimp just about any way. Breaded and fries is probably my favorite.

3. Is your house de-Christmased? If so, when did you tackle that job? If not, when will the decorations come down?

Yes it is and has been since the day after Christmas.

4. Do you like to watch scary movies?

Depends on the subject matter - I don't mind the sci-fi or ones that couldn't ever happen but when there are psychotic killers running around it bothers me - those people are really out there!

5. ice skating~sledding~ skiing~snowboarding...of the four listed which wintertime activity do you most enjoy?

Ice skating - although I haven't been in years.

6. Did you have a childhood hideout? Describe it.

No hideouts - as an adolescent we spent a lot of time driving in circles around town. From the high school to the other end of town at the bowling alley, back to the "Tastee Treet", back to the high school to do it all over again.

7. What's a place or space that motivates you?

I guess that would be my house - either early in the morning or late at night when all is quiet and I can think.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Went on Facebook last night to discover that it's time for my 35th high school reunion. WOW, where did those years go?

Procrastination

2012-01-02T19:35:00.001-06:00

Nothing like waiting for my last day off to start working on the kitchen cabinet. Thought it was a matter of lightly sanding before I could start painting the inside and it turned into quite a project. Biz decided to scrape all of the old paint off. Needless to say - no painting has been done yet but it will get there.

The cats spent the day curled up on the couch - together. Guess they wanted to stay out of the way.

These two would never admit they like each other - notice how they are back to back! Also notice how the Queen gets the fuzzy blanket!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T11:37:00.002-06:00

Just a small post to say Happy New Year to everyone. I've just gotten into this blog this past year and have enjoyed it immensely. It's been a great way to meet new friends. I feel that I know some of you personally, though we have never met. I'm looking forward to the coming year and meeting even more people. Hope everyone has a great day.

Tami - more commonly known as "My Kid's Mom"

Six Word Saturday

2011-12-31T11:03:00.005-06:00

The new grill is put together!

The pillow is done!

2011-12-30T15:37:00.004-06:00

"Trace" will be the nickname of my grandson!

Follow Friday Four Fill In

2011-12-30T08:38:00.001-06:00

Welcome to the 43rd weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

Each week, Hilary over at Feeling Beechie lists four statements with a blank for you to fill in on your own blogs. This week’s co-host is Irene, from Me, Myself and I – she came up with the last two statements.She came up with the last two statement!

Hilary would LOVE it if you could please help her spread the word about this hop…. So, please tweet, FaceBook share, and add the linky to your post…

This week’s statements:
1. Lately, I have been feeling a little___________
2. I am usually a ______
3. ________________________is always the best feeling at the end of the day
4. _________________________is the first thing I do in the morning

My Answers:

1. Lately, I have been feeling a little frustrated because I can't seem to get things done that I want to do as far as remodeling goes - everything takes so much money!

2. I am usually a better listener than speaker.

3. Getting the dishes done and my kitchen back in order is always the best feeling at the end of the day

4. Going straight to the coffee pot is the first thing I do in the morning (My body doesn't function without coffee.)

Please add the Follow Friday button to your post, or your blog.
Please follow me. If there is a co-host, please follow them as well. Leave a comment! I will follow back!
Please link your Follow Friday Four Fill-In Fun post to the linky below. PLEASE grab the linky and post on your blog…

Five Question Friday

2011-12-30T08:28:00.001-06:00

Time to head over to Mama M's for 5 question Friday!

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear and LINK UP!

1. What's the oldest piece of clothing in your closet?

Probably a pair of size 3 jeans that I save just to dream that someday I might get back into them! They're probably about 10 years old.

2. How many random blog readers have you met?

None - but I would love to meet any of them.

3. Do you let your kids stay up till midnight on New Years Eve? (Or, if you don't have kiddos yet, did you get to stay up until midnight as a child?)

I did when the kids were small - we made a party out of it with sparkling grape juice for them to toast the new year in!

4. What are the gas prices where you live?

$3.25 right now and that's really good for this area.

5. What is one resolution that you know you should do but are too afraid to try?

I don't make resolutions.

Pondering with a Purpose - Superstitions

2011-12-29T10:02:00.003-06:00

Thursday is here again and I've been off work for a week! Being that its Thursday it's time to do a little "pondering" with Brenda from Fiction with a Purpose .

Baby Quilt

2011-12-28T13:08:00.001-06:00

Well here it is. The Precious Moments blocks were done way back in 1993 by me and my daughter. I had 24 of them. They were the project that I used to teach daughter to cross stitch. When I found out I was going to be a grandma, I decided to use half of them to make a quilt for the baby and save the other 12 for when daughter has a baby. She chose which ones to use and which to save. I am a very novice quilter as you can see but it was something I wanted to do.

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch

2011-12-28T07:31:00.000-06:00

Patrice over at Everday Ruralty says it is very wet there. Same here although I believe it may turn to snow before long.
Here are this week's questions:

Questions for this week's chat:

Who makes the best cookies in your family?
What was the most satisfying or pleasing thing about Christmas 2011?
How many photo did you take while your family was together for Christmas? Tons? A few? What pictures?
Do you have a fireplace, wood stove, or pellet stove?
What time did you get up on Christmas morning?

My answers:

I have to say that I do.
Having daughter and SIL over and being able to talk to son and DIL by phone.
Just a few - this is what I get when I try to take pictures of daughter!
I had a wood stove when I lived in the country and I MISS IT! There is nothing like wood heat.
I can't sleep late - always up by 5 a.m. - even though there was no one here:(.

Wednesday Hodgepodge

2011-12-28T07:09:00.000-06:00

Wednesday! Time for hodgepodge over at Joyce's - From This Side of the Pond.

1. Share something you loved about your Christmas day.

SIL loves my meatballs so that was one appetizer that I fixed when they came over Friday night. When they got ready to leave I dipped most of them out into a container for them to take home - went into the living room to say something to the daughter and when I went back to the kitchen there SIL was standing there at the crockpot with a fork trying to eat as many as he could before they left. All I could do was laugh.

2. You get to put five items in a time capsule to be opened in 100 years, what items would you choose and why?

Hard one - let's see...

a smartphone since they seem to be the main communication mode these days - I don't own one by the way.
a laptop - so they can laugh at how primitive our technology was.
a pressure canner (not many people can their own vegetables anymore, 100 years from now nobody may even know what it is)
pictures depicting ordinary life - lots of them
Crochet hooks - for the same reason as the canner

3. What do you like on a cracker?

Cheese - just about any kind

4. Do you make resolutions? How'd that work out for you this past year?

No resolutions for me - I try not to make promises (even to myself) that I know I may not be able to keep.

5. What's a song or song lyric you'll associate with 2011?

I really have no idea on that one.

6. How will you ring in the new year?

Sitting in my chair, crochet hook in hand, watching TV

7. What is something you look forward to in 2012?

MY GRANDSON!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Is it not sad that I am sitting here at 7 a.m. on my day off? Why is it that I cannot sleep past 5 a.m.?

So much for getting things done

2011-12-27T07:15:00.003-06:00

Here it is Tuesday already. I had such big dreams of getting things done while I was off this week and so far that has not happened. Yesterday was spent taking down Christmas decorations. I did manage to get two squares done on the baby quilt - 10 more to go. I am just 1/4th done with the pillow (to match the quilt). The kitchen cabinet has not been touched and neither has the computer room. Of course I have to wait for Biz there because I can't paint the ceiling and that has to be done first.Then there is the pillow for my co-worker's baby that is due like two days before my grandson! It hasn't even been started yet! And today might as well be written off because I have to go into town to officiate at a VFW funeral - not how I wanted to spend the day but that of course could not be helped.

I hope everybody had a great Christmas! Daughter and SIL were here Friday because daughter had to work on Christmas day - oh the joys of being in the medical field! My Christmas was wonderful. Daughter got me a new grill and son sent me a Kindel! I was hoping they would pool their money and get me the Kindel - I really wish they would not spend so much on me. They're young and just starting out - they should spend it on themselves!

The good news - when I was talking to DIL, she said that I should wait a few months after grandbaby is born before going to England to see them. That gives me more time to save for the trip! She wants the baby to have a passport when I go so we can visit SCOTLAND! I've always wanted to go to Scotland! AWESOME!

Follow Friday Four Fill In

2011-12-23T11:01:00.004-06:00

Welcome to the 42nd weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

Each week, Hilary over at Feeling Beechie lists four statements with a blank for you to fill in on your own blogs. This week’s co-host is Brenda from Fiction with a purpose She came up with the last two statement!

Hilary would LOVE it if you could please help her spread the word about this hop…. So, please tweet, FaceBook share, and add the linky to your post…

This week’s statements:
1. I have a love hate relationship with_____
2. I have been buying a lot of ___ lately
3. If I hear _____________ anymore I swear I will _________________
4. Whenever I see_____ makes me ____________ and then I ____________
My Answers:

1. I have a love hate relationship with my job - I love that I can take classes for free and that I HAVE a job in this economy but I'd like to do more.
2. I have been buying a lot of groceries ( Christmas parties, dinners, baking ) lately.
3. If I hear anyone complain about being broke and then go out and use a credit card to buy lots of needless THINGS anymore I swear I will probably tell them to quit complaining and stop living out of their means.
4. Whenever I see a baby it makes me happy that I am going to be a grandmother and then I get sad because I won't be able to see said grandbaby much.

Pondering with a Purpose - Winter Solstice

2011-12-22T09:20:00.003-06:00

Thursday is here and it is the first day of my vacation - 12 days off of work - was supposed to be 11 days but I ended up taking an extra one! Being that its Thursday it's time to do a little "pondering" with Brenda from Fiction with a Purpose.

Her rules are really easy:

1. Grab the Pondering with a Purpose Badge (in her sidebar)
2. Look at the week's prompt
3. Post something on your blog that relates to the prompt - it can be a story, a poem, a picture -- anything you want it to be.
4. Go back here and add the URL from your post to the linky list on Brenda's.
5. Go check out the other bloggers who have added their links to the list.
6. AND most of all.... Have fun!

So this week the subject is: Winter Solstice

I love reading Brenda's posts because it seems that our lives have gone in basically the same directions. Today however, our memories of the short winter days are somewhat different. When my kids were little I lived in town and my house was basically "Grand Central Station" for all the neighborhood kids which I didn't mind at all because I always knew where mine were and what they were doing. The main reason I moved to the country was because when the kids got to the high school years I basically had no privacy at all. I had 2 of my sons friends who were "dating" and their parents didn't approve so they would meet at my house. I tried to stop it but these kids were like my own - had grown up being at my house all the time. They would be there when I got home from work - and I HAD to work.

But that is another story. Back to the winter solstice - In the winter there was no "outdoor" playing and I would have all these kids in my house EVERY night. I think I fed at least two extra kids every night for about 6 years. Not that I minded but as any single mother knows, sometimes it's tough making ends meet. But we made it through and although I sometimes felt that I was losing my sanity, it is now a good memory. They were all good kids. The boys would even have the snow shoveled from the drive to the house when I got home. Then they'd be in my son's room "building" something or making circles through the house with their cars and trucks. The girls spent time in the kitchen - but mostly in front of the mirror "fixing" their hair or trying on clothes. The house was never quiet. Unlike now - my house is VERY quiet and I really miss those years.

2011-12-21T08:09:00.004-06:00

Patrice over at Everday Ruralty has a surprise for us today. We get to visit in her living room and see her beautiful tree and some of her ornaments. Go check it out!
Here are this week's questions:

1. Patrice asked today, " What is my favorite Christmas tradition?"

I would have to say just watching the kids open their presents is what I look forward to the most.

2." Patrice also wanted to know if we were ready for Christmas?"

I am - as ready as I am going to get.

3. Patrice also wanted to know what we would like to talk about if we were over at her house.

First, I would want to see Wendall and give him a carrot. I'd like to see the green houses and would love to watch her make one of those ornaments out of okra!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

2011-12-21T07:43:00.002-06:00

Wednesday! Time for hodgepodge over at Joyce's - From This Side of the Pond.

1. Are you cooking Christmas dinner? How many will be round your table this year? What are we having?

Just four at my house - daughter, sil, me and Biz. We are having meatballs (for sil), ham rollups (for daughter), turkey, green bean casserole, noodles (homemade), potatoes, and gravy of course. My plan is for none of us to be able to move after eating so much.

2. What is one must-have Christmas cookie in your house?

I like them all - anything with peanut butter and chocolate is my first choice.

3. Santa likes a glass of milk with his cookies. Do you? What kind of milk is on tap at your house-skim? almond? soy? full fat (Gasp!)

I don't like milk. I used to have to take notes to school saying I would not drink it.

4. Time magazine recently named their 'Person of the Year' for 2011. This is the person the editors believe had the greatest impact, for better or worse, in the past year. This year they chose 'The Protester'. Your thoughts? Who would you name Person of the Year for 2011?

I have to agree with the people that are naming the military. Their sacrifice is for all of us and our freedom.

5. December 21st is National Flashlight Day... when was the last time you needed a flashlight and did you know right where to find one?

I use the flashlight a lot to look into dark cupboards and I know exactly where it is.

6. candy canes...yum or yuck?

Somewhere in the middle of yum and yuck - I can take them or leave them.

7. What Christmas carol lyric means the most to you?

Means the most? Probably Silent Night. Can't really think of any deep reason why but it just seems to really convey the true meaning of Christmas to me.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
Today is my last day of work for 12 days and I almost didn't post today. I have so much to do before I leave here - day should go very fast.

Christmas Dress Challenge - Final

2011-12-19T10:49:00.003-06:00

I was thinking last week was the final but I guess not.

Last week's wt.      158.6
This week's wt.      159.0
Difference               +.4

Starting wt.            170.0
Ending wt.             159.0
Difference               -11

In my defense - I did have TWO Christmas parties last week so I don't think the .4 gain is terrible.

Follow Friday 4 Fill In

2011-12-16T07:20:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the 41st weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

Each week, Hilary over at Feeling Beechie lists four statements with a blank for you to fill in on your own blogs. This week’s the co-host is - Jen from What Would Jen Do.

Hilary would LOVE it if you could please help her spread the word about this hop…. So, please tweet, FaceBook share, and add the linky to your post…

This week’s statements:

1.       ____ is my ideal winter night.
2.       I don’t remember the last time I ___ but, I really want to.
3.       I will never turn down __________
4.      To save money I like to ____________

My Answers:

1. Sitting in a warm house (preferably one heated with a woodstove) watching the snow come down outside is my ideal winter night.
2. I don't remember the last time I drove around looking at Christmas lights but, I really want to.
3. I will never turn down the chance to spend time with my kids.
4. To save money I like to have a freezer full of vegetables from my garden, deer, beef and pork.

5 Question Friday

2011-12-16T07:10:00.002-06:00

Time to head over to Mama M's for 5 question Friday!

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear and LINK UP!

1. What's the best Christmas present you've ever received?

I'd have to say my flagpole that the kids got me last year. I had one at the old place and it was the one thing I could not take when I moved - just about broke my heart. But the kids came through and got me one for the new house!

2. Worst/Funniest White Elephant gift ever received?

I've been pretty lucky with the white elephant gifts and haven't gotten any really bad ones - although I've seen a few - like the "coon penis bone" - yes you read that right and it is really just that.

3. Is your Christmas tree plain and simple (white lights and matching ornaments) or is it wild and crazy (colored lights with lots of ornaments collected over the years)?

Colored lights and lots of snowman ornaments.

4. "How" do you iron your clothes? The old fashioned iron/ironing board way, the shower, back in the dryer, etc.

The old fashioned way - but only when I absolutely have to - in other words when I have nothing to wear to work unless I actually do it.

5. How much baking do you do for Christmas and what are your "must make" items? (I'm looking for recipes here, peeps...)

Fudge is the one "must have" item around Christmas for me!

Pondering with a Purpose

2011-12-15T07:28:00.001-06:00

Thursday means it's time for Brenda's Pondering with a Purpose .

Her rules are really easy:

1. Grab the Pondering with a Purpose Badge (in her sidebar)
2. Look at the week's prompt
3. Post something on your blog that relates to the prompt - it can be a story, a poem, a picture -- anything you want it to be.
4. Go back here and add the URL from your post to the linky list on Brenda's.
5. Go check out the other bloggers who have added their links to the list.
6. AND most of all.... Have fun!

So this week the subject is: Close Calls

So I read Brenda's post today and this is the first thing that came to my mind:

Way back (at least 20 years ago) before my parents moved back to VA, my mother decided she wanted to go home (VA) for a visit. My dad could not take off so me and my husband (now the ex) said we would drive her down. We were in a 1984 Blazer - I guess that makes it closer to 30 years ago - with both my kids in car-seats in the back with my mother. It was in the middle of the winter and it there was what we thought was a light mist coming down. Everything was fine until we got close to an exit and the semi ahead of us went to change lanes. The "mist" was freezing and the semi jack knifed. It ended up completely sideways. A pickup truck in another lane hit it. Jery (the ex) somehow got the Blazer stopped - literally 2 inches from the cab of the semi. The semi driver was ok, and thankfully so was the pickup driver, although the pickup itself was totaled. Not a scratch on my babies. I will always thank God that Jery was driving and not me because I honestly don't know how he managed to get stopped. All I know is we ended up with 2 wheels off of the pavement - he said he did that to get traction.

I don't think I've ever been so scared in my life. I had already been through one bad car accident that killed my older sister but thankfully I was knocked out and really don't remember much about how it happened. Brenda is so right. Your life can change in seconds.

Hodgepodge week 57

2011-12-13T15:59:00.003-06:00

Wednesday again - time to hop over to Joyce's at From this Side of the Pond for the weekly

hodgepodge.

1. Do you put Christmas decorations in every room of your house? If not every room, what rooms do you decorate?

I think I have something everywhere except the computer room.

2. If you could visit one of the Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) which one would you choose and why?

I'd love to see Iceland - it looks like a beautiful country.

3. What does the word faith mean to you?

Faith - believing in something without being able to see, hear, touch, smell, or taste it - just knowing it's there.

4. You can go back to your childhood for one day...what day and age would you choose?

I think any of the summer days spent with cousins at my grandmother's house would be nice.

5. When did you last have 'punch'? If it's not too much trouble share your favorite punch recipe.

Punch? Probably at my daughter's last "Miche" party. Can't think of a recipe off of the top of my head.

6. Do you fill stockings at your house? Are stockings opened before or after the bigger gifts?

I did when the kids were young but not any more. The stockings were always emptied first.

7. What takes your breath away?

Sonogram pictures of my first grandchild!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Random thoughts - it's getting closer and closer to Christmas and it's getting harder and harder to come to work every morning. I am soooooooooooo ready for the Christmas break ( I get a whole 11 days off)!

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch

2011-12-13T15:22:00.001-06:00

Time to go over to Patrice's at Everyday Ruralty for our weekly chat!

1.Where is your favorite place to think, reflect, or pray?

I've always found that the mountains are the best place to think, reflect, or pray.

2.Did you believe in Santa as a kid?

Until I was around 8 and the family was going shopping on Christmas Eve. My Dad kept saying that maybe Santa would have been there by the time we got back but then he made us kids wait in the car for what seemed like forever before he and my mother came out. They were inside putting out the presents and I wasn't that dumb!

3.What's your favorite kind of Christmas cookie? You can add a recipe if you have time.

I like them all but anything with peanut butter and chocolate is always a favorite.

4.Did you grow up around any of your grandparents?

Mostly my maternal grandmother.

5.What's your favorite winter sport-skiing, skating,sledding, other(?) ? If you are in a warm place, what is your favorite winter sport to watch when the Winter Olympics are televised?

Love to ice skate! Haven't been in years though ;(.

Meet me on Monday

2011-12-12T07:43:00.001-06:00

Every Sunday Java from Never Growing Old will post five get to know you questions that you can copy and paste into your own Monday post and we can all learn a little more about each and every one of us!!

Java will add a linky so we can follow who participates and get to know them better!! Be sure to link the POST and not just your whole blog!!

Questions:

1. Tomorrow I'm going to _________?
2. Pudding or Jello?
3. What book are you currently reading?
4. What is the first concert you went to see?
5. What is your current weather?
---------------------------------------------------------------
My Answers!
1. Tomorrow I'm going to ship my son's packages to England.
2. Pudding - definitely.
3. Just took my last online final last night so now I have time to read Brenda's new book Disrupted Lives.
4. The Beach Boys - way back in 1976.
5. 30 degrees but clear and no wind chills so not too bad.

Christmas Dress Challenge

2011-12-12T07:25:00.001-06:00

Christmas Dress Challenge - final

Last week's wt.      159.8
This week's wt.      158.6
Difference              -1.2

Starting wt.            170.0
Ending wt.             158.6
Difference               -11.4

Not nearly the loss I was hoping for but still a loss! Now if I can just KEEP it off through the holiday season!

Follow Friday Four Fill in Blog Hop

2011-12-09T07:25:00.001-06:00

Welcome to the 40th weekly Follow Friday Four Fill-in Fun Blog Hop!

Each week, Hilary over at Feeling Beechie lists four statements with a blank for you to fill in on your own blogs. This week’s the co-host is - wait for it - ME! I came up with the last two statements.

Hilary would LOVE it if you could please help her spread the word about this hop…. So, please tweet, FaceBook share, and add the linky to your post…

This week’s statements:

This week’s statements:
1.       When I ___ I feel that ___ paid off
2.       I just realized that____
3.       My _______ come from _______.
4.       If I had _____, I would ______.

My answers:

1. When I see the people my children have become I feel that all the struggles of being a single mom have paid off.
2. I just realized that I tend to talk about my children a lot!
3. My values come from my dad.
4. If I had the time and money, I would really like to travel to Scotland, Ireland, Australia, and of course ENGLAND.

Now don't forget to link up!

5 Question Friday

2011-12-09T07:16:00.001-06:00

Time to head over to Mama M's for 5 question Friday!

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear and LINK UP!

1. What is your favorite Christmas cookie?

Reese bars -or maybe just decorated sugar cookies - or chocolate chip - wait - peanut butter - ok - I just like them all.

2. What's your favorite holiday movie & why?

It's a Wonderful Life - hands down - wouldn't be Christmas without that movie - I tend to watch it at least once in July - why do I like it so much? Not sure, I guess it just tells such a great story and reminds me of a much simpler life.

3. Is there a gift that you bought for your kids that you wish you hadnt after they opened it?

Lots! Usually the really noisy ones that they drove you crazy with.

4. What is the messiest room in your house right at this moment?

The computer room - it always seems to be the place that Biz puts everything. I probably have about 20 drums in there right now with various drum paraphernalia scattered all around (if I haven't ever mentioned it before Biz is a drummer. He plays in a local band and "collects" drums of all sorts).

5. What is the furthest you have driven for the holidays?

Down home - 749 miles - one way.

Pondering With A Purpose

2011-12-08T09:58:00.001-06:00

Thursday means it's time for Brenda's Pondering with a Purpose .

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch #20

2011-12-07T07:28:00.001-06:00

Time to go over to Patrice's at Everyday Ruralty for our weekly chat!

Have you ever had a blog slump?
What's your favorite way to serve hot chocolate (cocoa)? Marshmallows on top? Whipped Cream? A cinnamon stick?
How do you handle it when you see someone you think you know, but cannot place? Do you approach them and ask, shy away, or just go home and hope you don't think of it at 2am?
What was your position in your family? Were you the oldest, a middle child, the youngest or an only child?
How do you handle accumulated possessions (stuff)? Are you a pack-rat, a minimalist, or somewhere in between?

My answers:

Yep! Pretty much the whole year of 2010! Was all caught up with a new job.
I like hot chocolate but I don't love it. Usually if I do drink it, it will be mixed with my coffee!
I usually just ask them. A lot of the time they turn out to be people I have worked with in the past.
I was the baby of the family.
I'm not a pac-rat but definitely not a minimalist so I guess I'm somewhere in between. I have a friend that I would describe as a "semi-hoarder" - I honestly don't know how anyone could live like that. I would describe my house as being "lived in" but I can't handle things being out of place for long. How do people ever find anything when it's piled all over?

Hodgepodge Volume 56

2011-12-07T07:12:00.001-06:00

Grandma Got Run Over by the Hodgepodge-Volume 56

Wednesday again - time to hop over to Joyce's at From this Side of the Pond for the weekly hodgepodge.

1. Will you be hosting any house guests between now and the end of December? Does that thought make you happy or crazy? Do you do anything special to make your house guests feel welcome? How long should a guest stay?

No guests this year :( - would love for my son and DIL to be able to be home but that's just not possible. Do I do anything special? Nope - anyone that would be a guest at my house knows me pretty well and knows they are welcome. How long should they stay - as long as they want to!

2. Walter Elias Disney was born this week back in (Dec 5) 1905...what's your all time favorite Disney movie? Here's a list in case you're struggling...and yes, you have to pick one.

The Santa Clause - it came out the year my daughter was born and we watch it every year!

3. What's the last thing you purchased that you realized was a mistake after the fact?

I can't really think of any right now.

4. What percentage of your Christmas shopping is done online?

Probably about half.

5. Amaryllis...snowdrop...poinsettia...your favorite winter blossom?

Don't know what Amaryllis or snowdrops look like so I guess it would be poinsettia.

6. What is one thing on your personal wish list this year? I think we all want peace on earth so let's make this an actual item.

An e-reader.

7. If you could only use one word today what would it be?

Determination - I could really use some right now.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Does anyone else get annoyed by the "voluntary" surveys that we are asked to fill out by employers and government agencies - just how much information do they need and what do they do with it?

Christmas Dress Challenge

2011-12-05T08:30:00.001-06:00

Christmas Dress Challenge

Last week's wt.      161.0
This week's wt.      159.8
Difference              -1.2

Barely! But I'M IN THE 150'S!!!!!!!!

Meet Me on Monday

2011-12-05T07:17:00.001-06:00

Today I am joining Meet Me on Monday for the first time. Java over at Never Growing Old hosts this each week and it looks like a good spot to meet and get to know more people.

Questions:

1. Monday's are _________?
2. What is your favorite kind of milkshake?
3. What monthly bill do you most dislike paying?
4. How many email addresses do you use on a regular basis?
5. What color lights are on your Christmas Tree?

My Answers:

1. Monday's are always kind of crazy. It is the first workday of the week and usually the busiest; it's also the day I have VFW meetings at least twice a month. On those nights, I usually don't get home till almost 10 p.m.
2. Why chocolate of course! I truly believe that chocolate makes everything better-except our waistlines.
3. The cable/internet/phone. I have DSL but have to have a land line phone to get it. Can't tell you how much it annoys me to have a phone sitting there that is never used - can't even call out on it.
4. Well there's the work e-mail, the facebook e-mail, the blogging e-mail, and another one I had to set up for a class project - that's 4.
5. Multi colored. I have used all blue lights in the past when I decorated the tree with all crocheted ornaments. The blue lights and white ornaments were really pretty together but I think the multi colored looks more like Christmas.