Caroline's Place

Happy Trails To You...Until?

2012-01-20T17:25:00.000-08:00

I'm taking a blogging break. Not sure for how long, and I'm really not sure if I'm coming back. That's what the break is mostly about- to decide if I want to continue on or not. You've probably noticed that I haven't been posting too much in the last few months; that's because I really haven't had my heart in this for a while. And, when you lose heart, you stop writing interesting posts and just

Da Na Na, Da Na Na,..

2012-01-17T18:53:00.000-08:00

I ain't no Rocky Balboa (thank God!), but I got me a victory to chant about. You remember that silly little incline I posted about here awhile back, you know, the one that's at the end of my walks? Yeah, this one. Well, yesterday as I turned the corner to walk up it, tired as I was, something just came over me. I looked around right quick (I've never done this in public before so I was kinda shy

Dinner Party Anyone?

2012-01-16T12:48:00.000-08:00

In a word, quick oats are repulsive! Slimy, sticky, wallpaper paste, yuck! And, they are made even worse when one finds a hair in them! Instead of throwing up, I threw it out- much more civilized, I think. Thus began my Monday morning, and I'm hoping that it has not set a precedence for the rest of my day! All of the quick oats in this house will be disposed of posthaste...no matter how free w/

You looking for me?

2012-01-08T22:06:00.000-08:00

I went thata way -----------------> Or maybe <---------------------- thisa way either <-----------------> way, I won't be back till this Saturday. I'm taking a break to focus on prayer and fasting week at my church.. Blessings :)

Operation Move--It's about TIME!

2012-01-05T14:09:00.000-08:00

About a year ago I started a Blog called Now I Weigh Me Down for Keeps, but I never ended up getting it up and running. But in riding along on the wave of a brand new years motivation, I am excited to be starting another blog. And although I liked the old name (rather catchy I thought), I have begun a whole new blog with a different name. It's called Operation Move. Oh, it's still about losing

So THAT'S what's wrong with me...

2011-12-30T19:07:00.000-08:00

I was listening to Focus on the Family today and thought it good enough to share. It's all about strong-willed children, and adults. I figure I was/am a strong-willed child/adult and was glad to hear that having a strong will is only a bad thing when it's headed in the wrong direction. Here are the links to both parts if you're interested. Part 1 Part 2 You can also check out Cynthia Tobias's

New Year--New Beginings

2011-12-29T16:42:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you noticed that I changed the title of this blog a few weeks back. It was time for a change. And the name wasn't the only change. A lot of posts went into the delete pile- they needed trashed. And some things that stayed, got relabeled. I'm not where I was when I started this blog, in fact, I'm not where I was even a year ago. There's been a lot of changes in my life the last two years,

Helmet Head

2011-12-28T11:03:00.000-08:00

Now all I need are some uber cool riding clothes to match.

The Very Best Gift!

2011-12-26T16:57:00.000-08:00

How was your Christmas this year? Did you get everything you put on your wish list? Did you get to spend the day with family and friends? I hope so! I truly do. Kathy over at McMoments and Memories gave her readers permission the enjoy Christmas to the fullest-- sans any guilt, and I did just that. Sweet Guy and I spent the most of the day at Steph's house, along with Kate, a few friends, and

2011-12-24T10:14:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS! FROM: METO: YOUMay your Christmas be rich with gifts that money cannot buy. Much Love, Caroline

Christmas Song Wars

2011-12-21T20:34:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of my favorite Christmas songs, and my favorite folks to sing them. Let it be Christmas by Alan Jackson O Holy Night by Celine Dion The Prayer by Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion I heard the Bells on Christmas Day by Bette Midler Jingle Bells by Rory Mac Silver Bells by Ray Conniff singers It's the Most Wonderful time of the Year by Andy Williams O Little Town Of Bethlehem by no one

YOu've gOt 2 B kIdDinG mE!

2011-12-16T12:44:00.000-08:00

Christmas...is only how many days away? and I've only bought one gift! and the only decorations in the house are the lovely cards I've received from friends (that really would be enough IF it were just me) and a circle-of-cranberries candle holder on the piano. Pitimuss! Somebody crack the whip! Somebody get me some major caffeine! Somebody write me a list and rob me a bank! Heeeelp! Christmas

Choose your color...

2011-12-12T17:19:00.000-08:00

Rory spent the night with me Saturday. On the way to Sunday school the next morning, we were listening to Christmas music. Bette Midler was in the middle of belting out 'I'm dreaming of a white Christmas', when Rory pipes up in the back with a loud,"I wanna hear a blue one." "May your days be merry and bright, and may all your Christmases be white!"

Hello, God? It's me,______.

2011-12-09T16:33:00.000-08:00

Knock, knock. Nobody's home. Have you ever felt like you've prayed and prayed your guts out, sometimes for years and years, and God's not hearing you? Or maybe you know he's listening but it seems like it's taking forever for him to answer? Have you ever felt like you're the only one who knows and understands your situation, and you wonder if anybody is helping you pray? I'm sure we've all felt

Prayer for 2012

2011-12-07T17:34:00.000-08:00

One of my friends from Tops sent me this in an email today. Dear God, My prayer for 2012 is for a fat bank account & a thin body. Please don't mix these up like you did last year. AMEN!

Life in Pictures

2011-12-04T22:44:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures I've taken with my phone in the past few weeks: This is Shaver Lake a few weekends ago.It has very little water in in right now... They are cleaning and repairing the dam. Seems like a totally different place.This is what I call Apple Crack. It's apple with cinnamon- and one of my new favorite snacks!This is a silly little incline that meets me at the end of every walk-

Don't Mind Me...

2011-12-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

I'm just talkin' to myself. ~~~~~~I just finished reading Rory a story about Nero the pig, who is a bully, and also, who wouldn't listen to his scoutmaster and ended up setting the forest on fire. There was a part in the story that really stood out to me. It's the part where Nero is griping about having to go on the dumb camping trip in the first place- it says: "Isn't it funny how people are

The Silver Tongued Kid

2011-11-30T17:59:00.000-08:00

Today, Rory told me that I was his best Grammy to snuggle. I was pleased as Christmas punch for about 1.4 seconds, until I remembered...I'm his only Grammy. That kid...I'll bet he says that stuff to all the girls! The Charmer

O Tidings of Comfort and Warmth

2011-11-29T14:16:00.000-08:00

When it's muy caliente in da summer, I crave salads, fruit, green smoothies, grilled something or other, and sandwiches. But now that it's muy frio, I feel the need to replace the veggies in my salad for veggie soup with cornbread in and the green in my smoothies for a spinach quiche; The lunch meat in my sammies for a sleep-inducing pot roast, with piping hot mashed taters and gravy on the side.

A New Season.

2011-11-25T13:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Sweet Guy, me, and my youngest drove over to the coast to celebrate our day of thanks. Here are some pictures, a few of them shamelessly stolen from Kate. :) Turkey for lunch...Kate got her cranberries!Beautiful! I get no respect...;-)Fish and Chips for dinner. Yum! And now...now begins a new season- the beginning of the Christmas season. In my family, it's a tradition that

My Thanks To Him

2011-11-24T08:05:00.000-08:00

For the blessings of this life: The little everyday things that bring a smile to my face. The magnificent array of thy creation that at times takes my breath away. The hugs and kisses from my lil Sugar Bunkin that cause my heart to swell till it could burst. My children/family My church. Your sweet Spirit in my heart. Breath Health Food, raiment and shelter. Mercy Hope "For He is more than

Dear Black Friday,

2011-11-22T22:43:00.000-08:00

I've never paid much attention to you before. I h.a.t.e. to shop, so you were always just a dull subject buzzing around in the background on past Thanksgivings. But this year it's hard not to notice you. Seems like there is much controversy going on about when you should begin. Well, I'm just letting you to know, that I don't care if you start at midnight, or 4am in the morning- I ain't showin'

Stuck in my Head

2011-11-19T11:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, as I was leaving the bread store, the lady in front of me held the door for me. I said, "Thank you very much." But instead of the standard, you're welcome reply, she said, "That's what I'm here for." For some reason, I can't get it out of my head....

Note this Post

2011-11-15T11:49:00.000-08:00

I loved this post! Get Rich Slowly

This one's a keeper!

2011-11-15T08:29:00.000-08:00

Tried this recipe last night on a whim and we really liked it! I've created similar recipes on my own, but this was easy and oh-so-yummy! Enjoy! Stovetop Italian Macaroni source Ingredients 1 pound of ground beef 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained * 2 cups water 1 envelope onion soup mix 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional (I

West Coast

2011-11-07T22:00:00.000-08:00

West Coast was both invigorating and exhausting. Reassuring yet convicting. Fun yet work--with very little sleep in between. All of these things combined into two and a half days = one very tired, yet renewed-in-spirit-gal. Excited about revival. Convicted about my need to do more towards that end. All the preaching I heard was good, but Friday mornings sermon by Bro. Garza was my fav! Even

I'm Here...

2011-11-07T09:16:00.000-08:00

Kinda, sorta, half-way, not really...zzzzz Be back in a bit!

I Want To Be Poor...

2011-10-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

Dirt-poor, poor-as-Job's-turkey, flat broke, impoverished. destitute, in-debt-up-to-my-eyeballs-poor, bankrupt, needful. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3 "I need Thee, Oh, I need Thee. Every hour I need Thee. Bless me now my Savior, I come to Thee."

Heaven Help Me...

2011-10-21T12:52:00.000-07:00

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, And wisdom to know the difference.~~~~~~~~~~ For by thee I have run through a troop: by my God have I leaped over a wall.2 Samuel 22:30

Crash! Boom! Bang!

2011-10-20T12:35:00.000-07:00

"Not last night, but the night before, one really drunk guy, came driving by our door. As we ran out, he raced away, but he totaled eight cars along the way!" Okay, I know it's a silly song. But you know me... I never do anything the ordinary way--IF I can avoid it. ;-) Anyway, this really happened at our house the night before last--just like the song says. And when the "dust" settled, there

Buying a Smartphone...Is NOT Smart...

2011-10-15T10:27:00.000-07:00

For ME anyway. "I don't wanna grow up, I'm a Toys Я Us kid. There's a million toys at Toys Я Us That I can play with." Sometimes... being an adult, is hard. That's because adults are really just little kids trapped inside big people bodies. We have the same desire to play, similar wants, needs, and sometimes act just as immature as we did when we were 11. (I picked eleven because to me, it's

Imagination strikes again...

2011-10-13T23:19:00.000-07:00

Like most children, Rory has a vivid imagination. While playing pirate (a-gain...) on Tuesday afternoon, last, he suddenly took one ear from his Goofy pirate scarf and wrapped it around his chin. He said, " I have a beard". I took the ring from the ear and hung it on his ear so it would stay put. Here are the results... The usual "cheese" Arrrrrg!Grammy calls him a vicious pirate. He says,

The Hungry Pig Story-- Another Grammy made this up story...

2011-10-12T21:08:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a Papa pig, a Mama pig--and their son, HUNGRY pig. Now, Hungry pig was always hungry. And so every time mama pig went to the store for groceries, before she could even make one meal, Hungry pig would devour them all so that Papa and Mama pig hardly ever got anything to eat. Have you ever seen a skinny pig? Well, that's what Papa and Mama pig were... as skinny as a

Ahem...Pardon me, but I just feel like singing!

2011-10-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

This is the song I woke up singing this morning. I just had to share it... There's within my heart a melodyJesus whispers sweet and lowFear not, I am with theepeace be stillIn all of life's ebb and flow It is Jesus, Jesus, JesusSweetest name I knowFills my every longingand He keeps me singing as I go! There, don't you feel better now? Not because I'm singing, but because God is so good! So

Home Sweet Tomatoes Home

2011-10-08T15:28:00.000-07:00

Talk may be cheap, but Sweet Tomatoes is not! I really like Sweet Tomatoes, but I don't like that fact that they are a rather pricey now, even with coupons. I've been thinking about setting up a "salad bar" in my home for quite some time now, and today I did just that. I went to Fresh & Easy and bought all the same veggies and stuff I like to put on my salad at Sweet Tomatoes. And, lordy, lordy,

Memories to keep...

2011-10-07T13:55:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of Papa (aka. Sweet Guy) spending some time with Rory. As you will see, Papa is not to be outdone by a two year old...done-in maybe, but always up for the game! Fun! And yes, those are my toes sticking out in a few of the pictures. When you're in the thick of things you can' t be worrying about if your toes are in the way! ;-) Papa reading Farmer Dugal Awwww.... Papa

ReACT or REact?

2011-10-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

Someone talked about this at a meeting I was at the other night, and I can't get it off my brain. (I guess that's a good thing.) I can't remember exactly how he said it, but in essence, what he said was: Frustration + Frustration= More Frustration In other words: if we are reacting in frustration, to a frustrating situation, no matter what kind it is, all we will achieve is more frustration.

SOMETHING to say!!

2011-09-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

Today at my Tops meeting we celebrated Carlos's 100 lb weight-loss!! And just since February! Yaaahooooo!!! I'll see if I can get some before and after pics for you. AMAZING! When asked what/how he did it he said, the doctor has him on a 250mil low-salt diet (no room for processed food in that), and walking. Lots of fruit and veggies too. Rocket science folks...No wonder I can't do it. Maybe I

H E L L O Big 5-0!

2011-09-19T09:39:00.000-07:00

Ye Old Ancient One. A TURNING POINT My thoughts about this day are as such: This, is a turning point in my life.Turning 50 is a huge milestone, and I have given much thought as to which way I want my life to turn. The Bible says in John 10:10, "I am come that they may have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." And that's where I want to turn-- towards a more abundant life. More

OK, Ima preach atcha...but only because I loves ya...

2011-09-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

I was going to say FOR LADIES ONLY, but then decided to direct this post at the men who read this blog too because they're worse than the women about these things! (sorry guys you know I love ya, but it's the truth anyhow. ;-) I just had to "spank" my sister because she was whining about having to have some check-ups and blood-work done today and, that she has to have another procedure done come

Book Review--LIGHTEN UP!

2011-09-15T11:08:00.000-07:00

sourc I have taken much more than my usual time (renewed it twice) in reading this book; I was enjoying it so much. I also wanted to allow the wisdom and encouragement of it's words to sink way down in my heart. I agree with the summary on the back of the book: Ken Davis really IS a funny guy! I laughed so hard at times I thought I might choke. Then there were times I cried my heart out. This

Just thinkin'...

2011-09-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

about fear. source I remember going to the grocery store with my mom when we were kids-and as she pushed the cart through the store there would be things that somehow ended up in her cart that she didn't put there. We called 'em creeping and crawling things. It was the "good stuff", like chips and cookies and candies--stuff my mom would not have picked up. (With six kids, you bought beans and

Grammys in training...

2011-09-08T10:22:00.000-07:00

His well-earned bicycle And so is Buggy. My "little" buggy-boy, sugar-bunkin, Rory-baby...is not a baby anymore. He's bound and determined to become a big boy, thus making Grammy both mega-proud and, heart-broken at the same time. While you're a parent raising your children, you're so busy with the excitement of seeing how smart they are becoming and how fast they can accomplish things, that

Labor Day Staycation and, Crazy... it's all in the mind.

2011-09-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

Due to circumstances beyond my control, I didn't get to go on a planned hiking trip over the weekend. I was bummed, to say the least. But my hero, Sweet Guy, came to my rescue! We spent most of Saturday and Sunday riding/driving through the mountains exploring. Saturday we took the motorcycle and pulled an eight hour mountainous ride that my backside will not-soon-forget. But oh what fun! Beasore

Lifespan Calculator

2011-09-01T12:07:00.000-07:00

I came across this lifespan calculator and took the test. It says if I eat right, exercise, am lucky enough to escape a terminal disease, and don't get hit by a mack truck, don't get eaten by a bear (more on that later), or don't get run over by some 85-year-old, I could live to 85. I like the sound of that, but 95 sounds better. I know one thing, if I keep on the tract I'm on right now, I'll be

ALL I can think about today

2011-08-28T13:41:00.000-07:00

is grace... "But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord" Genesis 6:8 It's still amazing to me.

Yo ho, yo ho, a pirates life for me!

2011-08-23T21:15:00.000-07:00

As you can see, a pirate ruled the day last Saturday. We will be singing A Pirate's Life for me, for a good while, I'm sure. I didn't take many pictures, but I got enough so you can see we had a grand time. In fact, this was one of the most enjoyable trips to Disneyland I've ever had--I'm ready to go back! Oh, I almost forgot to tell you that I finally rode Tower of Terror! No kidding, I've been

S P AC E

2011-08-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

The FINAL frontier...( source) Can I be totally honest here? (cuz like, I never am?) I value my space. Now that doesn't mean I won't get up close and personal, but that's only with people I know really well and am totally comfortable around--but STRANGERS...NO! Sometimes I feel like I'm the only person on the planet that feels that way. No matter where I go, there are folks breathing down

"Bid me come"

2011-08-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

"Turn your eyes upon JesusLook full in His wonderful face and the things of this world will grow strangely dimin the light of His glory and grace." (I've been having way too many "Peter" moments!)(source) I confess, that like Peter, I've had my eyes too long on my circumstances instead of on The One who can "walk me across the troubled waters". Oh, I KNOW (choir here...), that whether it be

Just like Mama used to make...

2011-08-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

"Nothing from nothing leaves nothing. Ya gotta have something, if ya wanna bake a cake." (source) So lets talk about the phrase, "Make it from Scratch", which means to start with nothing, or from the beginning--like the starting line for a race. Or when cooking or baking--to start with basic ingredients, which is not actually nothing, there's just no premade something or other. Got it? Yeah,

It's just another homemade breakfast in Kentucky

2011-08-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, this ain't Kentucky (and I'm no Kenny Rogers), but my breakfast WAS homemade. So what? People all over the world make their breakfast at home every day. And...I likewise. So what? Well, the what is that I tried my first attempt at making granola, and it turned out great! I looked and looked and looked at a gazillion (maybe ten 10) different recipes till I found one that was just right for

Happy Anniversary!

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

Me n Sweet Guy Today is our 24th Wedding Anniversary. To celebrate, we will be going out for a nice dinner this evening. Can't wait! It's a toss up between Red Lobster or Outback. I think I'll let him decide. The other day at work, I got to thinking about the reasons why I love this guy. I came home and wrote them down and gave him the list that night after dinner. Of course, he was a bit

Lighten Up!

2011-08-02T21:42:00.000-07:00

I was searching Ken Davis's site for some information today and found out he has a blog. It's very uplifting reading. I found this post to be most helpful--especially right now... Yeah, I was pretty hard on myself yesterday-- I always am. I don't know why, because I don't seem to have trouble forgetting other peoples mess-ups. I often I forget to stop, think, then decide to speak or not. Anyway,

Home again, home again, jiggidy jog.

2011-07-30T16:35:00.000-07:00

I'm home. Done throwing up from the ride down the hill. Ugh! Done with my two-hour shower. ;-) Not quite done with the nap but the noisy folks on the corner made the decision to get up for me-- I'll finish it later. For now I'm just sitting here pressing the delete button five thousand times in my email and google-reader accounts. Man! do I go through that much stuff in one week? Time to downsize

Going Up Yonder...

2011-07-22T11:35:00.000-07:00

I'll be MIA until the 30th of July. I'm headed up to summer camp to work in the kitchen again. Fun, fun, fun!

Tweezers Please...

2011-07-20T12:13:00.000-07:00

If you haven't read Kathy M's. post Sometimes You've Got To Sweat The Small Stuff, I highly recommend it! (Note: The comments below are not in any way meant to expand on Kathy's well-written post. They are simply MY thoughts on the subject.) Here's my "short" take on the subject: I have come believe that the BEST way to get people to become what WE think they should be, build up their character

A Thing of Beauty

2011-07-15T11:50:00.000-07:00

I wish you could have been there. I wish you could have seen it for yourself. It was a thing of beauty! A few Sunday's ago, I was driving down the freeway on my way home from church. Suddenly, I heard a loud commotion behind me. When I looked in my rear-view mirror...I saw them comin'. A red Corvette (probably about ten years old), and a beat-up old Volkswagen from the 60's or 70's right behind

Book Review

2011-07-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

I just finished the last book in the SISTERCHICKS series last night. Boo Hoo! It's always a bit sad when a good series comes to an end. I enjoyed them so much! I won't try to give a summary of all of the books, I'll just say if you like to travel (or wish you could) and you don't mind a bit of "friendly mush", then try this series of books. I personally got a lot of encouragement from these

Look who came home...

2011-07-11T09:04:00.000-07:00

to take me for a short ride last evening! My Dear Readers, I'd like to finally introduce you to my Beloved. Say hello to one of my fav-o-rite guys!Aw, my Beloved, you handsome devil you, how I've missed you so! So comfy, and fast! ;-) My poor Beloved...he's been out of commission for quite some time and I sure have missed him. (He needs new tires and a tune up, which we are hoping will happen

Happy Fourth!

2011-07-04T21:30:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a wonderful day at the coast. It was so beautiful, and such a nice break from the three digit heat we've been having here in the valley. We found a place on the beach that evidently, few people know about, and spent several hours soaking up the sun and waves in sweet peace. Ahhhhhh! ;-) Now I'm sitting here at home listening to the sounds of freedom... M-80's. ;-P

The Broken Rose

2011-06-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

Written by Caroline June 25, 2011 The Broken Rose Petals, petals, everywhere, lying all around.Tis the picture of a broken life, scattered on the ground. The petals show the bruises, where human hands made wounds; The scars of self-reliance, that tore the flower bloom from bloom. The gardener cast his saddened eyes upon the mess that self had made;Why could they not have waited, ‘til the master

Daddy's Girl

2011-06-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

The first solid memory I have of my dad, is of him coming down the walk to the front door of the church he'd turned into a house, in Texas. It's early, and fairly dark yet; I think he was coming home from work. He's tall, so tall, and handsome in his dark green uniform and flat-brimmed hat, you know, just like Smokey the Bear wears. There was a magnificently huge grin on his face. I was so in awe

Tops Report

2011-06-17T12:52:00.000-07:00

The thought for the day was: Try to end your day with I'm glad I did, rather than, I wish I had. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Tops has been especially exciting in the last few months because we have a new member that is losing weight BIG TIME! ;-D His name is Carlos. He's in his early thirty's. His weight issues have been such a hindrance to him, that they've cost him his job in the medical field. And

Fer Garden Seed!

2011-06-15T08:28:00.000-07:00

Am I the only weirdo in the world that has done things in the past to embarrass the tar outta myself and still turns red-in-the-face when I remember them again years later? I. Hate. That.

Birthday Time!

2011-06-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

CALEBHAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE CHEETOS KID!LOVE, GRAMMY CAROLINE (Note: I think he's the only kid I know that can eat more Cheetos than I can! Love 'em!)

Domestic Goddess (HA!) at work...

2011-06-11T17:05:00.000-07:00

I've been channeling Martha Stewart for about a week now. OK, ok, more like a Marybelle Stewart, but hey. Anywho, I'm not sure what's up with it, but I've just had this insatiable desire to bake, cook, (from scratch!), spring-clean, and launder. So far, the new recipes I've tried are: chocolate chip cookies, made with whole wheat pastry flour (a disaster!), whole wheat pastry flour biscuits (

Mr. Sour Pickle -- Another Story for Rory

2011-06-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

I've been telling Rory stories since before he could understand what I was saying. I like the classics (i.e The Three Little Pigs and Goldilocks and The Three Bears), but it I like to change them up a bit into what I think, are more interesting stories. Rory loves 'em. And, he loves to hear them over, and over, and over again; so much so that I can stop anywhere in the story and he will finish

Birthday Bug

2011-05-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

(Rory with cousin Emma) BUG TURNS TWO HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

What part of NO MAN...

2011-05-24T12:36:00.000-07:00

knoweth the day nor the hour don't they get? I've read that Harold Camping has made millions running his non-prophet organization. Fascinating...

Could you spare a little CHANGE?

2011-05-20T12:42:00.000-07:00

Change: (noun) the act, process, or result of making different.Synonyms: alteration, difference, modification, redoing, refashioning, remaking, remodeling, etc...Insanity: (noun) Always doing the same thing and expecting something different. The topic at my TOPS meeting today was: If you are in a rut, change ONE thing in your life. Our leader told a story of a woman who was stuck in a rut so

Phone Call From Bug, and a "Sharper Image"

2011-05-18T17:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Rory was not feeling too hot, actually, he was feeling REALLY hot, that was the problem. I was concerned about him (as any over protective Grammy would be). But, after a visit to the Doc, it turned out to be the usual toddler immunity-building-fever, so I was glad that's all it was. I was also very glad to get a call from him later in the evening allowing me to really know for sure

Pages

2011-05-18T12:14:00.000-07:00

You may have already noticed that I have put some page tabs at the top of the Blog. I wanted to clean up the the front page, and I also wanted to have room to update links and information when needed. So check out the pages often and you will see (new!) beside all of the latest links and information on each one. On to the next post------->

Revisiting frugality and other news

2011-05-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

I've just been sitting here reading back through some of my earlier posts on Frugality. I've even found myself chuckling a time or two! Seriously though, I needed to revisit those posts! I may have written them, but even I need to revisit them now and then. In other words, I need to remember to practice what I "preach". I thought maybe if you've never read them you might like to do so, and if

I owe, I owe.....

2011-05-16T15:13:00.000-07:00

For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required... Luke 12:48Because He gave, I have: An Advocate The Holy GhostHeaven in my view Grace ForgivenessLaughter Love JoyPeace Because He is my provider, have: WorkFoodRaimentShelter A nice car Because He blesses me, I have: FamilyFriendsGrandchildren An awesome Church The Best Pastor Because He wants me to have an abundant life,

If there was a Heaven for Dogs....

2011-05-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

then ShuShu would be there! Had to take her this morning and have her put to sleep. One of the hardest things I've ever had to do! I will be composing a longer post about her soon.....as soon as I compose myself. The world will never be the same...

Morning Chat with God...

2011-05-09T07:29:00.000-07:00

This morning I opened my eyes to another beautiful day. As I lay there savoring the moment; I said, "Good morning Lord, Thank You for another day!" My next response was habitual in nature, although I've never asked God this question before, I asked, "How are you today?" Then I grinned and answered the question for Him; I said, "GOOD!"

Things I have because of my Mother.

2011-05-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

A love for music A sense of humor A talent for sarcasm *grin* Primo Housekeeping abilities. (Shameless advertising...) Cooking skills (Although I think I lost them somewhere along the way... "Here cooking skills, here cooking skills--whistle, whistle-- come to mama, I won't hurt you darlin'.") Thanks Mom! And a Happy Mother's Day to all of the mom's out there in Blogville too! Take it easy

Have your wood, and eat it too!

2011-05-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

My oldest used to make a crack about the dog's food. She'd say, "Here Shu, come eat your wood chips." She was joking, of course. But unknowingly, was probably telling the truth. Gross! Read this article and you'll understand why I say that. Did you read it? What do ya think? OK, here's what I have to say about it: I've been eying a homemade recipe for Ranch dressing of late and I think I may be

No More!

2011-05-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

This poem is meant to be humorous. Humor is my way of dealing with life's sorrows. I know, that may sound Psycho, but that's the way I am... No More!No more dogs, no more cats, no more people to love.Let me finish with those that I have!Tis too hard on the heart, all the losing.For I get too entirely attached. I've had enough kitty's to cuddle. All the dogs that a person doth need.As for

This girl was made for walking...

2011-04-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

THIS is the face of a VERY happy walker! In the last--not quite two months, I have walked about four times--and then not very far. AND at the end of those walks I was in major pain. I am so glad to report that I have walked two days in a row now and have had little to no pain! (Can you hear the MTC singing HALLELUJAH?) Like I've said before, THIS girl NEEDS her walks! Besides prayer, it is the

What I Eat

2011-04-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wed 4-27-11 4 tbsp creamer 2 pts 1 c Fage yogurt 4 pts 1/4 c All Bran 1 pts 2 tbsp strawberry jam 2 pts 1 srv spaghetti 7 pts 1 c baby carrots 0 pts 1/4 c veggie dip 2 pts 1 Weight Watchers Fudge Bar 3 pts 13 Cheetos 4 pts 1 banana 0 pts Total=25 pts (no activity pts) I'm thinking I may break even on the scale this week--At least, I hope so. I need a new activity goal to get me motivated. I've

He's Alive!

2011-04-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

He is not here; He has risen,just like He said.Matthew 28:6 Hallelujah Jesus is alive Death has lost its victory And the grave has been denied Jesus lives forever He's alive! He's alive! He's the alpha and omega The first and last is he The curse of sin is broken And we have perfect liberty The lamb of God is risen He's alive, He's alive!Jesus is alive! Have a victorious Easter Everyone!

What I Eat

2011-04-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

Wednesday April 20, 2011 2 tbsp creamer 1 pts 2 pc whole wheat toast 2 pts 1 egg 2 pts 1 tsp butter 1 pts 1 pc sliced cheese 2 pts 1 cup grapes 0 pts 1 can tuna 2 pts 1 Bagel Thin 3 pts 1 tbsp mayo 3 pts 1 cup popcorn 2 pts 1 apple 0 pts 1 oz cheddar cheese baked potato chips 3 pts 1 tbsp ranch dressing 1 pts 1 Boca Chix patty 4 pts 1 med salad w/ red peppers, cukes, carrots 0 pts 1 Weight

Why Me Lord?

2011-04-19T18:18:00.000-07:00

Update: The little birdy lived a lot longer then I thought it would. I had to go to bed so I don't know when it finally died. Sometime during the night. I buried him in the flowerbed close to where I found him this morning. Poor little fella... As I'm typing this, I'm sitting here holding this tiny baby bird while it slowly dies. All I can say is: Why me Lord? If there is a stray dog or cat,

Maybe you can...

2011-04-19T13:03:00.000-07:00

help me shed a little light on this . Well... as long as the light does not shine in my bedroom window and keep me awake! Here's the deal. My neighbors leave their porch light on every night. (I think it's a 10,000 watt bulb!) It lights my room up like it's daytime and makes it very hard to sleep. I have asked them politely a few times to please turn it off but they either don't care, or forget

What I Eat

2011-04-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wednesday April 13, 2011 2 tbs creamer 1 pts 1 cup Fage 4 pts 1 tbs sugar 1 pts 1 cup strawberries 0 pt s 4 oz ground turkey w/ taco seasoning 3 pts 2 oz 2% shredded cheese 4 pts salsa 0 pts 2 cups shredded lettuce 0 pts 1 mini bag popcorn 1 pts 2 slices sourdough bread 2 pts 1 tsp butter 1 pts 1 string cheese 2 pts 1 apple 0 pts 10 M&M's 1 pts 1 sm banana 0 pts 1 Weight Watchers Smart Ones (

A Letter

2011-04-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

My Dear Friends, I wanted to tell you how much it hurts me to see you hurting. How my tears flow at any given moment when I think of what a cruel blow that life has thrown your way. How I wish that it was not so! And how I wish that I could wave a magic wand and make it all go away! Oh how frustrating it is, that I can not do so! I know some of life's horrid pain, but it was not your pain. I

Good + Good + Good = Great!

2011-04-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed a very pleasant weekend. Saturday, we threw a 90Th birthday party for our famous Mee Mee (Sweet Guy's mother)--And what a wonderful celebration it was! This time last year we didn't know if we were going to have her around much longer (you can read about why here), but she rallied back for another crack at this thing called life--and for that we are very thankful! Below is a picture of

What I Eat

2011-04-07T22:45:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 4-6-2011 2 TBS Creamer 1 pts 1 pancake 2 pts 1 Morning Star sausage 2 pts 1 tsp fig jam 1 pts 1 tsp country crock spread 1 pts 1 cup strawberries 0 pts 1 tsp sugar 1 pts 1 sm tortilla 2 pts 1-1/2 servings rice and beans 4 pts 1-1/2 cups grapes 0 pts 3 cups popcorn 3 pts 1 WW fudge bar 3 pts 2 eggs 4 pts 1 sm potato 3 pts 1 TBS Country Crock spread 1 pts 11 crackers 4 pts 1 cup Silk soy

So funny it hurt...

2011-04-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've been on my soap box a bit strong for the last few posts, so I thought maybe you could use a funny to break up the seriousness. This one made me laugh so hard at a time when laughing was not a good thing. But I appreciated the quick wit mucho none the less! Last Tuesday afternoon, whilst keeping Rory, I turned to look at a bird he wanted me to see and my back when out. I didn't scream in

And Do What?

2011-04-04T09:53:00.000-07:00

These are the scriptures that caught my attention this morning: Proverbs 25 Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. 26 Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.27 Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil. I spoke for a few minutes last evening with a beautiful young girl in our church. I don't mean to

What I Eat--And The Empy Nest Syndrome = A Cooking Dilemma

2011-04-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 3-30-2011 3/4 c cottage cheese 3 pts 1/4 c mandarin oranges 0 pts 1 Venti Cinnamon Dolce Latte (skinny) 5 pts 1 c cantaloupe 0 pts 1.2 c blueberries 0 pts 1 c strawberries 0 pts 2 tsp sugar 2 pts 1/2 Subway ham sandwich 7 pts 20 M&M's 2 pts 20 BBQ Kettle chips (low fat) 3 pts 1 egg & bacon burrito 8 pts 1 med potato 3 pts 2 tsp whipped butter 2 pts 1 TBS LF sour cream 0 pts 1 WW fudge

Zzzzzzzz...

2011-03-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

Just can't seem to get enough sleep. Be back soon, with some new posts. Zzzzzzzzz.....

What I Eat--And a Tale of Sorrow

2011-03-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 3-23-2011 1 Skinny Cinnamon Dolce Latte 5 pts 1 pancake 2 pts 1 tsp fig jam 1 pt 1 Morning Star sausage patty 2 pts 1 bag popcorn w/ 1 TBS butter 6 pts 2 crackers w/ cheese 2 pts 1 cup strawberries 0 pts 1 Boca chicken patty 4 pts 1 Whole Wheat hamburger bun 4 pts 1 slice cheese 1 pt Cheetos 2 pts 1 string cheese 2 pts 1 apple 0pts 20 Jelly Bellys 2 pts 1 cup grapes 0 pts Total 33

A MUST

2011-03-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you don't read anything else today (besides your Bible that is...), I highly recommend you read this: The Ballestero Blog. And while you're there, check out the rest of Bro. Ballestaro's Blog. It will truly be a blessing to you! Happy Monday!

What I Eat

2011-03-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wednesday March 16, 2011 2 pc Sourdough Toast 2 pts 1 TBS whipped butter 2 pts 3/4 cup strawberries 0 pts 1/2 cup grapes 0 pts 1 bean burrito 6 pts 2 tsp oil 2 pts 13 cheese puffs 4 pts 1 1/2 apples 0 pts 15 M&M's 2 pts 1/2 salmon patty (gag!) 1.5 pts 2 pc toast 2 pts whipped butter 3pts Total = 24.5 pts I came down with the Flu on WED. and food just hasn't been a priority. Too bad I have to

Rufus finds a Friend--A Story for Rory

2011-03-17T16:46:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, there was a little monster named Rufus. Rufus was sad because he didn't have any friends. All the kids in his neighborhood were afraid of him simply because he RAWRed all the time. One day Rufus said to his mommy, "Mommy, I'm so lonely. I haven't any friends because everyone's afraid of me". "Oh Rufus, said mommy. I'm sorry, I didn't realize you were so sad. How about I take you

Learning the Coupon "Game"

2011-03-14T18:37:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, I finally started learning how to use coupons. For a beginner, I'm not doing too bad. My pantry is filling up fast with all kinds of soaps, toothpastes, deodorants, razors, shampoos, Kleenex, dish-soaps, candies, cleansers, Ziploc bags, air-fresheners, etc... And all for next to nothing! I'm lovin' it! Today's the first time I have taken a picture of my loot, here it is: (

When Life Gets Broken...

2011-03-09T07:04:00.000-08:00

When life gets broken The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. And you're in despair He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He'll carry your burden he leadeth me beside the still waters. When it's too much to bear He restoreth my soul:He leadeth me in paths of righteousness for his namesake. It's down in the valley Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, Where He'll

Double Whammy!

2011-03-07T08:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my beautiful, talented, hard-working, goofy, fun loving, good hearted, Kate!Have I told you lately that I love you? ;-) Mom Happy Birthday Laurie! My sister, my best friend.You mean more to me today then ever! Love you, Care.

Caroline's Place

Happy Trails To You...Until?

Da Na Na, Da Na Na,..

Dinner Party Anyone?

You looking for me?

Operation Move--It's about TIME!

So THAT'S what's wrong with me...

New Year--New Beginings

Helmet Head

The Very Best Gift!

Christmas Song Wars

YOu've gOt 2 B kIdDinG mE!

Choose your color...

Hello, God? It's me,______.

Prayer for 2012

Life in Pictures

Don't Mind Me...

The Silver Tongued Kid

O Tidings of Comfort and Warmth

A New Season.

My Thanks To Him

Dear Black Friday,

Stuck in my Head

Note this Post

This one's a keeper!

West Coast

I'm Here...

I Want To Be Poor...

Heaven Help Me...

Crash! Boom! Bang!

Buying a Smartphone...Is NOT Smart...

Imagination strikes again...

The Hungry Pig Story-- Another Grammy made this up story...

Ahem...Pardon me, but I just feel like singing!

Home Sweet Tomatoes Home

Memories to keep...

ReACT or REact?

SOMETHING to say!!

H E L L O Big 5-0!

OK, Ima preach atcha...but only because I loves ya...

Book Review--LIGHTEN UP!

Just thinkin'...

Grammys in training...

Labor Day Staycation and, Crazy... it's all in the mind.

Lifespan Calculator

ALL I can think about today

Yo ho, yo ho, a pirates life for me!

S__ P__ A__C__ E

"Bid me come"

Just like Mama used to make...

It's just another homemade breakfast in Kentucky

Happy Anniversary!

Lighten Up!

Home again, home again, jiggidy jog.

Going Up Yonder...

Tweezers Please...

A Thing of Beauty

Book Review

Look who came home...

Happy Fourth!

The Broken Rose

Daddy's Girl

Tops Report

Fer Garden Seed!

Birthday Time!

Domestic Goddess (HA!) at work...

Mr. Sour Pickle -- Another Story for Rory

Birthday Bug

What part of NO MAN...

Could you spare a little CHANGE?

Phone Call From Bug, and a "Sharper Image"

Pages

Revisiting frugality and other news

I owe, I owe.....

If there was a Heaven for Dogs....

Morning Chat with God...

Things I have because of my Mother.

Have your wood, and eat it too!

No More!

This girl was made for walking...

S P AC E