Potpourri

My 1st Blogoversary

2009-12-14T20:07:00.003-06:00

I just realized that today marks my first blogoversary. My first blog post recounted a humorous, true Christmas story that happened a few years ago. The incident occured about this time in December and was a story that begged to be told.

Though I haven't blogged nearly as much as I had intended to, I have already met some wonderful people and made some lasting friendships through blogging.

I've started thinking about my list of goals for 2010. Let's see, I think I shall begin with:
1) Get back to blogging...

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your families.

Fall Fun

2009-09-27T07:05:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, my Mom, Aunt and Sister attended a local fall event. The event took place in Pioneer Village, which is located in a wooded area. We really enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere as well as the sights and smells of the outdoors.

As we entered, we were greeted with these lovely mums.

We saw several primitive cabins, all decorated for fall.

We enjoyed the live music

More music...I wonder if these instruments were hand made.

Many craftsmen were demonstrating their skills.

These folks seem to be enjoying the open campfire. I see an extra chair--maybe I could join them for a spell. We had a good time. I love this time of year!

Skyline Drive

2009-09-24T18:18:00.000-05:00

This past summer, Sunshine & I took a road trip which included a visit to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. These photos are from the "Skyline Drive" we took through the park.

The route is aptly named, for it almost seems as if you are driving into the sky.

One of the many beautiful views on this scenic drive.

Another lovely sight.

Sunshine and I both love the rock formations.

This bare tree stands proud and erect against the beautiful background.

More beautiful summer sky--what an enjoyable drive.

Watch your balance!

It was indeed a long and winding road.

How green were the valleys.

We had a great time and are already looking forward to our next trip, wherever it might be!

Hello...

2009-09-22T21:07:00.000-05:00

Just dropping by to say "hello." It has been a busy summer, and I have been away from blogland way too long. But now that fall has arrived, I am hoping to get back to blogging. I have missed all of you and hope you have had a good summer.

Wedding Rehearsal Party

2009-06-28T21:27:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how quickly the summer is passing! Here are some pictures from my niece's wedding rehearsal party, which was held last Friday. We all had a great time!

The weather was beautiful and we all enjoyed this lovely sunset as we finished our meal.

Next came the breaking of the pinata, starting with the youngest first.

Just look at all that candy!

What a cutie! I think he's trying to figure out how to pick up some more candy.

All "decked" out

Pretty lights

Playing with sparklers

The grand finale!

The fireworks were much more impressive than I was able to capture with my point and shoot camera.

For more Summer Stock Sunday fun, visit Robin at Around the Island

Ten Things I've Never Bought...

2009-05-28T18:03:00.000-05:00

My cousin BJ has tagged me for a meme: Ten Things I've Never Bought. Why seems to be irrelevant. Here's my list:

1. A pack of cigarettes. I have only smoked one cigarette in my entire life. Actually, I have only taken one puff of a cigarette in my entire life. I coughed and sputtered and couldn't stand the taste. I've never been tempted by another.

2. A new car. My mother-in-law buys a new car every couple of years or so and we are able to purchase her well-maintained, pre-owned vehicle at a bargain price. I'm more interested in dependability than in keeping up with the Joneses, so I won't feel cheated if I go through life never having owned a new car. However, should I someday win the lottery and decide to buy a new car, it would be a cute little sports car and yes, BJ, mine would also be bright red.

3. A horse. When Sunshine was about seven or eight years old, she begged for a horse. I told her that when she turned sixteen, she could have either a horse or a car, her choice. On her sixteenth birthday, Grandma P gave her a 1966 Mustang, so I guess she got both the horse and the car!

4. A motorhome. Cousin BJ and I are alike in a lot of ways, but we differ on this one. I would love to take off across country in a motor home with no schedules to meet, just going wherever I felt like going and staying as long as I wanted to. What freedom. Of course, since I sometimes have trouble navigating a shopping cart, I might be quite dangerous trying to drive a motor home!

5. A motorcycle. I grew up with motorcycles--my Dad owned one even before I was born. They're fun, but I've heard of too many fatal accidents involving motorcycles to be interested in owning one.

6. Contact lenses. I've worn glasses since the early grades and think I would feel naked without them.

7. DVR. I don't really know why I've never bought a digital recorder. Maybe because we don't watch very much T.V. We tend to watch old T.V. shows on dvd. (Oh, no! Is this a sign I'm getting old)?

8. Ipod. I have an MP3 player that I really enjoy. It doesn't bother me that it is not an Ipod brand.

9. DSLR. I'm not a very good photographer so I don't feel I can justify one at this time. But, if I ever "outgrow" my present camera, my next purchase will be a DSLR.

10. A biscotti pan. I haven't bought one yet, but intend to buy one soon. Sunshine made some really tasty biscotti not too long ago, but she had to spread the dough/batter out on a cooky sheet. I want to buy the proper pan so it will be easier to make the biscotti the right size and shape the next time. (Hint, hint, Sunshine)!

There you have it--10 things I've never bought. Some I'll probably never buy, others I hope to buy sometime. I'm not going to tag anyone in particular, but please feel free to play if you would like--it's a lot of fun!

True Colours Thursday--Cobalt!

2009-05-28T05:57:00.000-05:00

This week's colour was a difficult one for me, but I found this pretty gato that I bought in Mexico when Sunshine & I visited there early last month.

True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend Blue.
Happy Thursday to all.

Two Awards!

2009-05-26T19:38:00.000-05:00

Several weeks ago, I accepted an invitation from Samantha, to pick up these lovely friendship awards. Then on Sunday, I was honored to receive the awards from BJ.

I have only recently become acquainted with Samantha and enjoy sharing in the adventures of her delightful Border Collies, Holly and Zac through her blog. I've known BJ a bit longer (all my life--she's my cousin)! She is one talented lady and a wonderful person. I am proud to call both these ladies my FRIEND.

And now, for the unveiling of the awards...........

Thank you, Samantha & BJ!

I would like to pass this award on to anyone reading my blog who does not already have it. I would especially like to mention Margaret at MargaretPANpipes. She has some awesome pictures and haikus on her blog and she always has such kind words for me. Please accept this with my thanks for your friendship, Margaret.

Sunday Scribblings #164 -- Worry!

2009-05-24T07:39:00.000-05:00

"...do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'[...] do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things." Matt. 6:31 & 34 (NKJV) (italics mine)

When I read this week's prompt was worry, I immediately thought of my mother, the consummate worrier. I think her name is synonomous with worry. Now, my mom is a good Christian lady who faithfully reads her Bible each day. However, I am concerned her Bible must be missing the above scriptures, for she certainly has not heeded these words.

I will admit that some worry can be good, but only in small doses and only when used to produce positive behavior changes. But most worry is unhealthy, both emotionally and physically, and unproductive.

Worry causes self-induced pain and robs one of happiness. Dictionary.com defines the verb worry as "to torment oneself with or suffer from disturbing thoughts; to fret." I can't imagine why anyone, masochists excluded, would want to torment oneself.

Anyway, back to my dear mother. She worries about some of the most minor things.

"Do you think this corn is ok? The can has a dent. Are you sure it's ok?"

"I was supposed to take my calcium pill 15 minutes ago. Do you think it will be alright to take it now?"

"I shouldn't have eaten that second piece of cake. Do you think I've had too many trans fats today?" (This coming from a 102 pound lady who has low cholesterol, low blood pressure and excellent blood counts).

And every Christmas she feels compelled to announce, "I spent the same on everyone even tho' some of you don't have as many packages." She worries that someone might feel slighted.

I once bought her the book Don't Sweat the Small Stuff, but it didn't seem to help much. She continues to sweat. Meanwhile I am searching for some extra-strength anti-perspirant formulated to protect against the "small stuff."

Me--I try not to worry so much. I'm enjoying a waffle for breakfast as I write this post. It's a homemade waffle, covered with sweetned strawberries and topped with a mountain of flully white whipped cream! Sometimes I worry that I don't worry enough!

Visit Sunday Scribblings to see what others have to say about WORRY

True Colours Thursday--Grey!

2009-05-21T06:27:00.000-05:00

A little birdie told me...this week's True Colours Thursday features GREY

Sunshine & I spotted this little fellow last night as we were walking. She took the picture for me, as I am quite frightened of birds, even small ones.

This is my dearest feline friend, Snuggles. Shh! I think she is napping--her favourite pastime. I don't think the little birdie is in much danger from Snuggles, do you?

"Aw, Mom...you took my picture when I wasn't expecting it. I'm so embarrassed!"

"Here, let me pose if you want a picture of me to post on your blog."

"Oh, an empty basket. Looks like it is just my size!"

True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend, Blue. Be sure to visit her site to see more GREY pictures. Happy Thursday to all.

Sunday Scribblings #163 -- Disconnected

2009-05-17T08:03:00.000-05:00

This week's Sunday Scribblings prompt is disconnected

I awaken
disconnected
from the outside world

My mind
unfettered
from temporal things

I call
You answer

We walk together
in the secret garden
of my soul

My spirit
naked and unashamed
before You

Your arms
Strong and Mighty
around me

I bask
in Your love

You smile
at my innocence

I emerge

strengthened, refreshed...

Connected

True Colours Thursday--Cerise!

2009-05-06T22:45:00.000-05:00

Cerise flowers from a beautiful bouquet

A lovely pink sky. This picture was taken last January. The sky was so beautiful, I had to slip away from my desk for a moment to capture the splendid sunset.

True Colours Thursday is hosted by friend Blue

Sunday Scribblings #161 -- Confession

2009-05-03T21:14:00.000-05:00

This week's Sunday Scribblings prompt is "confession."

Secret sins confessed
The naked soul emerges
Humbled by the truth

Sunday Scribblings #160 -- Follow!

2009-04-26T16:49:00.000-05:00

I had a little fun with this week's Sunday Scribblings promt: FOLLOW.

To my Blogger friends:

There are so many great blogs to FOLLOW;
Without them my life would be HOLLOW.

Your friendship indeed I do HALLOW,
And in your companionship WALLOW.

I sit in the shade of a WILLOW,
Resting my head on a PILLOW.

The joy within starts to BILLOW
Forming words which my heart would BELLOW,

"Mr. Blogspot, you're such a dear FELLOW.
You've brought me so many good friends to FOLLOW!"

True Colours Thursday-Rust!

2009-04-24T13:37:00.000-05:00

RUST was a difficult color for me....

Until I remembered the RUST colored rocks we had seen in Sedona, Arizona.

More rocks from the Arizona trip Sunshine & I took last October.

Still more awesome Arizona rocks.

Another RUST rock. This picture taken from the parking lot of my workplace.

True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend Blue. Be sure & visit her blog to see RUST pictures others have posted.

True Colours Thursday-Lime!

2009-04-16T14:25:00.001-05:00

Late again...can't believe how quickly the weeks pass!

I love spring, when everything comes alive after a long winter.

This is my One Year Bible, a gift from my husband. I try to read it every day.

We love Monty Python. This is from Sunshine's collection.

A pencil pouch with pretty LIME designs.

True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend Blue

Sunday Scribblings #158...Scary!

2009-04-12T21:08:00.000-05:00

I’ve never considered myself a very brave person. I have many fears--some common, some unusual. I am frightened of birds, mice, grasshoppers and feathers. I’m also afraid of needles, blood, closed-in places and darkness.

A couple of weeks ago, I was sitting at the computer creating a Mafia Wars character for myself. Several Facebook friends had invited me to play the game, and I finally gave in. Normally a quiet, peace-loving person, I suddenly felt empowered at the thought of being a mobster.

I was ready to become a completely different person. I wanted to be a big, brawny man, and needed a name to fit my character. Let’s see…maybe I would be Guido. I would be mean, tough, feared by all, intimidated by none. I was flexing my Mafia muscles and feeling fearless when all of a sudden, I heard a blood curdling scream!

I was scared!

Then I realized the scream had come from me—not me the mobster, but me the little girl who was terrified of darkness.

The lights had gone out!

Immediately, the macho mobster melted away as I whimpered, “Help. Sunshine, give me my flashlight. Help me, please.”

Soon the lights came back on, and my heartbeat returned to normal. As quickly as he had disappeared, Guido materialized--this time wearing a sheepish grin.

Click on Sunday Scribblings to read more scary things.

True Colours Thursday - Black & White!

2009-04-09T14:18:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone. I am a little late, but here are my black & white pics.

This is a lighthouse we visited in Port Isabel, Texas. Sunshine actually took this picture, but was kind enough to let me use it.

A "Sisters" coffee mug

A cute black & white kitty

The back of the "Sister" mug

True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend Blue at My True Colours. Play along...It's fun!

Next weeks colour is LIME.

Sunday Scribblings #156...Aging

2009-03-29T22:49:00.000-05:00

Aging
Is inevitable, or so they say,
But not for me today.

Today
I shall procrastinate
The aging process

Today
I shall indulge
My inner child

We shall laugh and play
And frolic in the sheer pleasure
Of life

Today
We have no time
For growing older

We have no time
To think of aging, as we plan
Our next adventure

Aging
Is it inevitable?
Not for me today.

Visit Sunday Scribblings to read more on aging.

True Colours Thursday on Sunday

2009-03-29T22:33:00.000-05:00

I missed True Colours on Thursday, but thought this BEIGE bunny was so cute I decided to post anyway.

True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend Blue.
Next week's colour is SCARLET.

Sunday Scribblings #155 - " I Come From..."

2009-03-22T17:58:00.000-05:00

I come from
The fertile darkness
Of earth’s womb--
A miniscule sprout,
Securely wrapped
In amniotic soil,
Protected
From battering winds
And pounding rains,
But ever growing
Stretching
Reaching
For the rays of sunlight.
Emerging finally
Bursting forth--
A tiny seedling.

To read more, visit Sunday Scribblings

True Colours Thursday-Green!

2009-03-19T15:33:00.000-05:00

I'm a little late again. Having celebrated St. Patrick's Day earlier this week, I decided to use some St. Paddy's decorations for my GREEN.

Next week's colour is BEIGE.
Stop and visit my friend, Blue to see more GREENS.

True Colours Thursday-Violet (a little late)

2009-03-13T14:50:00.001-05:00

I really had a hard time finding something violet to photograph for this week's meme. But as I was eating lunch at my Mom's house today, I found some pretty cards on her refrigerator. Aha! some pretty violets.

Pretty flowers from a birthday card

With love to Mother (from me)

More flowers from the same card

Pretty violet card from one of the grandkids

Lovely violets, one of my favourite flowers. These were on another one of Mom's cards. I'm glad she saves those cards.

True Colours Thursday is the brainchild of my friend Blue. Be sure to stop by and see all the pretty violets.

Sunday Scribblings #153--Listen up!

2009-03-08T14:13:00.000-05:00

"Listen up because this is important!"

For some reason, I struggled with this week's prompt. I couldn't think of a funny story and all the serious ideas seemed either cliched or preachy. Nothing profound here--just some simple thoughts expressed in rhyme. You may recoginize the meter and rhyme of the first stanza--it was borrowed from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem "Paul Revere's Ride."

Listen, dear bloggers, and you shall hear
Some words of wisdom, truthful and clear.
On the seventh of March, in two thousand nine,
Many have posted, now here is mine.
Oh please, Sunday Scribbler, do lend me an ear.

Each day is a gift, so cherish its hours;
On this pathway of life, search the thickets for flowers.
Live in the present, on the past do not dwell--
Life’s what you make it, be it heaven or hell.

Plan for the worst, but hope for the best;
Change what you can, to God leave the rest.
Never give up, work hard and persist.
When a foe reaches out, do not ever resist.

Count your blessings for sure, but don’t forget others.
Help the less fortunate; they too are your brothers.
Try to make peace and eliminate strife.
And, most important of all, just celebrate life.

Visit Sunday Scribblings to hear the important things others have to say

True Colours Thursday--Yellow!

2009-03-05T21:13:00.000-06:00

I went to my closet to find to find some YELLOW for this week's True Colours Thursday.

I found a dress with YELLOW flowers

More YELLOW flowers from the same dress.

True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend Blue

Sunday Scribblings #152: Lost

2009-03-01T15:40:00.000-06:00

Gotten lost in the woods? Driving? Lost a child in a store? Lost something else of value -- found it again? Lost souls, lost innocence . . . write about the word "lost."

When I read this week's prompt was "lost," the first thing that came to mind were the words from the famous song Amazing Grace "I once was lost, but now I'm found." But what could I write about the song--I supposed most people already knew the story behind the song.

My second thought was about an incident that occured last fall when Sunshine and I were traveling through northern Arizona. But, no, thought I, other Scribblers are probably growing tired of reading stories like that.

So, what can I write about "lost"? I asked myself. Okay, I know--I'll write about a lost art. Sunshine is attempting to learn to tat. Surely tatting is a lost art and the subject would make an interesting post. Why, I could even include some pictures of future projects.

But no, I kept coming back to the Arizona story. Yesterday was a busy day and I was unable to write. So this morning I woke up, still pondering what to write about when I remembered a very special anecdote about my father that had been related by my uncle at Dad's funeral service.

It seems my Dad, Mom, her parents and younger brother (my uncle) were going on a short trip. My Dad was driving and at some point in the journey, it appeared they were lost! To this day, my Mom is very high-strung and easily stressed. Apparently, she started freaking out. My Dad, always laid-back, purportly replied, "We may be lost, but at least we're going the right direction."

How I enjoyed the story. It had made me smile even during the funeral service. I always meant to write about the incident, but never got around to it. Sometime later, I felt a little sketchy on the details and asked my uncle to recount the tale. He couldn't remember. I asked my husband. He couldn't remember, either.

Why didn't I write about the account when it was still fresh in my memory? I asked myself. To think I almost lost a story that was really important to me simply because I hadn't taken the time to write about it.

Perhaps that is why I like to write stories about things in my life. Maybe this is my way of keeping the memories from becoming lost.

Well, I must go now. I have a story to write. This one is about a trip Sunshine and I took to Arizona last fall...

"Lost in Flagstaff"

It was a dark and stormless night...

Visit Sunday Scribblings to read more on the subject of "lost."

True Colours Thursday & An Award

2009-02-26T21:45:00.000-06:00

I have been quite busy lately, but I really enjoy True Colours Thursday and did want to participate, even if a bit late.

This week's colour is BROWN. I have chosen a brown bear, a gift from a customer. True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend Blue.

An Award

As I mentioned earlier, it has been a busy month and I am a bit late in picking up this award. Thanks so much to BJ for sending it to me--I appreciate it very much. This award has passed many hands. I'm going to quote the person who gave me the award (BJ), who, in turn, quotes Sylvia From Over the Hill

According to Sylvia:
“This award acknowledges the values that every Blogger displays in their effort to transmit cultural, ethical, literary, and personal values with each message they write. Awards like this have been created with the intention of promoting community among Bloggers. It’s away to show appreciation and gratitude for work that adds value to the Web.”

Here is the hard part. I'm supposed to choose 15 bloggers and pass this on. However, I choose to leave it open to all my blogger friends. If you would like to receive the award, please feel free to accept it.

First Flight

2009-02-21T18:03:00.000-06:00

For Sunday Scribbling #151-Trust

I’ve always suffered from aviophobia and claustrophobia and consequently, swore I would never fly. No way! However, when daughter Sunshine began talking about us making a trip to Arizona for a writer’s conference, the little voice inside me whispered that I might indeed be forced to eat my words.

Being a mother, I know the importance of listening to my little voice. So I determined to embark on a personal self-cure mission. I Googled “fear of flying” and found one site of particular interest. It was created by a pilot who had logged many miles of safe flight. The information appeared to be beneficial, and after scrolling to the end, I decided to pay the small fee and purchase the DVD Mr. Captain Pilot had made especially for us aviophobes.

As the planned event drew closer, the pressure increased. Sunshine kept reminding me, “You’ve got to decide soon. I need to register for the conference and book the flight.” Part of me really wanted to accompany Sunshine on the trip. In addition to attending the conference, she had planned to arrive a few days ahead of time, rent a car and do some sightseeing in the beautiful state. Neither of us had ever been to Arizona and I knew the trip would be lots of fun. That is, if only I didn’t have to fly to get there.

Having procrastinated as long as possible, I scheduled a vacation day from work and promised Sunshine I would make a decision before nightfall. I spent most of the day watching the DVD. Fellow aviophobes discussed their fear of flying, and Mr. Captain Pilot sought to assuage the various concerns with comforting facts about the safety of flying. One worry shared by many was a loss of control—putting your life in the hands of a complete stranger. Yes, flying involves implicit trust in the pilot. But Mr. Captain Pilot assured the viewers that our trust would be well-placed.

It was a gut-wrenching decision, but by 4:00 p.m. I finally made the timid announcement, “I guess I’ll give it a try.”

Sunshine was immediately on the computer and had soon booked a flight leaving Tuesday morning. I knew there was no turning back now. The next few days passed quickly. Sunshine took care of booking the rental car, planning our itinerary, and making hotel reservations. I was busy making my list of things to pack, finishing a special project at work and trying to get things caught up to a point where it would be feasible for me to be gone for almost a week.

I will admit that I was a bit excited. But also, I was really scared! I could envision myself having a major panic attack on the plane--gasping for air, leaving my seat, hugging the floor in the aisle while shouting, “Land the plane and let me out NOW.”

Tuesday morning soon arrived. We rose early and loaded the car. I did all the things Mr. Captain Pilot had advised on the DVD—“eat a light breakfast, don’t drink anything with caffeine and go easy on the orange juice because of its acidity.” Once we arrived at the airport, the hustle and bustle of getting our boarding passes and going through security kept my mind occupied so there was little time to conjure up the disturbing images of myself in the small, enclosed cabin of the plane.

There was only a short wait before our flight was called to board. As we made our way back to our seats, I surveyed the surroundings. The cabin did seem a little ~~cramped~~ cozy. Just imagine you are at home in your easy chair, I told myself. Consider the flight as a good opportunity to relax and catch up on some reading. (These were not my ideas—they were some of the suggestions from the DVD). At this point, however, I was willing to play whatever mind games were necessary to get me through the flight without a full-fledged panic attack.

We settled in our seats and I opened the overhead vent, allowing a stream of cool air to blow gently onto my face. (Another hint I had picked up from the DVD). I closed my eyes, took a few deep breaths and tried listening to my MP3 player. Oh, I never relaxed enough to go to sleep during the flight, but I did manage to remain pretty calm. I was quite proud of my conduct. Why, I even got brave enough to open my eyes and look out the window. What a beautiful sight.

Before long, the pilot announced we were ready to begin our descent. Some travelers do not like this part of the flight, but I enjoyed it very much. It was interesting to see the airport below and to watch the distant buildings grow larger as we approached the landing area.

Soon the plane touched down. Thankfully, it had been a successful flight and landing. Glad to be on the ground again, I heaved a sigh of relief as the passengers began filing out. The pilot stood near the exit, greeting the passengers as they departed the plane. I wanted to compliment him for the smooth flight. “Good job,” I said. “I was a little nervous since this was my first flight.”

He looked at me with an understanding smile as he replied, “Thanks. Mine, too.”

Click here to read more Sunday Scribblings.

I'm An Audrey

2009-02-20T13:29:00.000-06:00

Your result for Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz...

You are an Audrey -- "I am at peace"

Audreys are receptive, good-natured, and supportive. They seek union with others and the world around them.

How to Get Along with Me

* If you want me to do something, how you ask is important. I especially don't like expectations or pressure
* I like to listen and to be of service, but don't take advantage of this
* Listen until I finish speaking, even though I meander a bit
* Give me time to finish things and make decisions. It's OK to nudge me gently and nonjudgmentally
* Ask me questions to help me get clear
* Tell me when you like how I look. I'm not averse to flattery
* Hug me, show physical affection. It opens me up to my feelings
* I like a good discussion but not a confrontation
* Let me know you like what I've done or said
* Laugh with me and share in my enjoyment of life

What I Like About Being an Audrey

* being nonjudgmental and accepting
* caring for and being concerned about others
* being able to relax and have a good time
* knowing that most people enjoy my company; I'm easy to be around
* my ability to see many different sides of an issue and to be a good mediator and facilitator
* my heightened awareness of sensations, aesthetics, and the here and now
* being able to go with the flow and feel one with the universe

What's Hard About Being an Audrey

* being judged and misunderstood for being placid and/or indecisive
* being critical of myself for lacking initiative and discipline
* being too sensitive to criticism; taking every raised eyebrow and twitch of the mouth personally
* being confused about what I really want
* caring too much about what others will think of me
* not being listened to or taken seriously

Audreys as Children Often

* feel ignored and that their wants, opinions, and feelings are unimportant
* tune out a lot, especially when others argue
* are "good" children: deny anger or keep it to themselves

Audreys as Parents

* are supportive, kind, and warm
* are sometimes overly permissive or nondirective

I found this while visiting Blue. I notice that BJ andSunshine have also played. I was amazed at how accurately this described me.

Take Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz.

True Colours Thursday--Blue!

2009-02-18T22:51:00.001-06:00

This beautiful bow topped the white Christmas tree in my office. The tree was decorated with blue lights and blue ornaments.

I just finished baking a cake for a co-worker whose birthday is on Sunday. Sadly, she is battling cancer at the present time. I know she would appreciate your thoughts and prayers.

Nothing goes better with a piece of cake than a nice cup of coffee. Each evening after work, I enjoy some flavored coffee in this cup.

While sipping my coffee, I often enjoy watching a movie or enjoying some comedy. Monty Python is always a good choice for lots of laughs.

True Colours Thursday is brought to you by my friend Blue

Do You Wanna Dance?

2009-02-15T19:51:00.000-06:00

When I read that this week’s prompt for Sunday Scribblings was “sports,” my first thought was “I have nothing to say about sports.”

I’ve never been much of a sports fan; my idea of sports was either playing a favorite board game or listening to a baseball game while lying on a blanket and soaking up the summer sunshine. As a child, I was not particularly athletic--much preferring a good book to participating in sports. Physical Education was always my least favorite class in school. No, let’s be truthful; it wasn’t just my least favorite class—I hated it!

I was a strike-out queen, couldn’t run very fast, and, after that unfortunate event of being smacked in the nose while looking expectantly toward the descending baseball, always ducked when I saw one coming toward me. No hits, no runs, all errors—that pretty much summed up the way I played the all-American game. I was always one of the first ones out in dodge ball and was grateful to sit on the sidelines because I was scared senseless by the anticipation of the sting of the basketball being flung with herculean force by one of the big, upper classmen boys. It’s not surprising at all that I was always one of the last ones chosen in P.E.

One particular day in Freshman P.E., our girls’ class had been joined by the boys’ class. The teacher announced that today we were going to dance, and the boys were instructed that each one was to ask a girl student to be his dance partner.

I immediately wished my personal good luck fairy would wave her wand and create a hole in the locker room, thus allowing me to escape from this awful fate. At this moment, I figured the netherworld held more promise to me than my present predicament. Now I had to face not only the embarrassment of being the last one chosen, but I would probably be facing the humiliation of being partner to one of the dirtiest, stinkiest, grossest boys in the class. And it wouldn’t stop at that, for there would be the merciless teasing that was sure to follow.

”Will you dance with me?” a soft-spoken voice asked.

Interrupted by this intrusion of reality, my thoughts left the cauldron of ugly scenarios I had concocted, and I glanced timidly to see who had uttered those unexpected words.

My gaze shifted upward where I was greeted first by his charming smile. I quickly noted as many details as possible. He was about a head taller than me, with a slender build. He had a handsome, but gentle face and a head of thick, dark hair. His smiling eyes were accented with the most beautiful long, curly eyelashes.

I quickly sneaked a quick, hard pinch to make sure I wasn’t dreaming. Ouch. No dream--this was really happening! Here he stood, the cutest boy in the whole class, and he had come to ask me to dance with him. And furthermore, he had walked straight to me, without hesitation—I had been his first choice!

My heart skipped as he took my hand and we headed for the dance floor. I smiled inwardly. Immediately I knew that, for the first time in my life, I was going to enjoy P.E. class.

To read more about sports, visit Sunday Scribblings

True Colours Thursday--Silver!

2009-02-14T18:39:00.001-06:00

I'm late, I'm late. I know it's past the date,
but here are my SILVER pictures.

This is a SILVER anniversary
gift from Sunshine

You can probably see the reflection of
my camera in the mirror.

A pair of SILVER salt & pepper shakers

A SILVER kitty ring holder

True Colours Thursday is hosted by friend Blue

Sunday Scribblings #149 -- Art

2009-02-07T19:06:00.001-06:00

The Art of...Dumpster Diving

Hubby and I decided to drive to a nearby town for our bi-weekly grocery shopping trip today. Normally we go on Sunday after church, but today we were both experiencing a little cabin fever after enduring the winter snow and extreme cold temperatures of the past couple of weeks. Besides, Hubby wanted to visit a little shop that was closed on Sundays.

Part of our bi-weekly shopping routine involves a trip to the recycling dumpster to deposit our two-week collection of glass, plastic and steel cans. We’re not really tree huggers, but we try to be environmentally conscious and it does give us a sense of satisfaction to know that our outcast items will be re-incarnated into something useful rather than accumulating in a landfill somewhere.

As we approached the area, we noticed other recyclers were also taking advantage of the balmy weather. Since the two existing dumpsters were in use by the other recyclers, we were glad to see a third one had been added to the fleet.

Hubby popped the trunk of the car and hauled our bag of recyclables to dumpster #3. When I saw him poking around, I naturally assumed the dumpster was full and he was trying to rearrange some of the existing refuse to make room for our stuff.

But no, a closer look revealed he was pulling something out of the large bin. I groaned. Now, Hubby is a wonderful person, but he has had some past struggles with an addiction to dumpster diving. He had made some remarkable progress. In fact, I thought he was cured. But, alas, he seemed to be falling off the wagon today. Evidently the temptation was more than he could resist.

I called Sunshine, who had not accompanied us on the trip. “Guess what,” I said. “George (that’s what we call Hubby) is dumpster diving. Can you believe it?”

Just then Hubby opened the back door of the car. I was afraid to look, but at the same was overcome with horrified fascination. I slowly turned my head in time to see him loading the car with his newly acquired loot—books! I braced myself for more to come. Hubby has a passionate love affair with books and I knew he would not be able to leave any orphan books in a dark lonely dumpster. Sure enough, he made another trip and yet another.

Upon returning home, I googled “the art of dumpster diving” just to see what I would find. To my amazement, there is actually a book entitled The Art and Science of Dumpster Diving. I don’t think I’ll tell Hubby about it--he doesn’t need any tips. I think he already possesses a natural talent for dumpster diving. Besides, he doesn’t need any more books at this time.

Click here to read more Sunday Scribblings.

True Colours Thursday--Orange!

2009-02-05T22:19:00.000-06:00

From the orange archives....

A lovely fall arrangement which graced Mom's Thanksgiving table.

A gorgeous tree in fall. Don't you love the street name?

You might recognize this one from my profile. This gerbera daisy was a Mother's Day gift from Sunshine in June 2004, and I have enjoyed it each summer since then. It spends the winter months in MIL's sunroom.

True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend Blue

Sunday Scribblings #148 -- Regrets

2009-01-31T18:27:00.000-06:00

While traveling down the road of life...

Mistakes-

many

Regrets-

few

Lessons-

abundant.

Visit here for more Sunday Scribblings.

True Colours Thursday--Pink!

2009-01-29T22:00:00.000-06:00

Better late than never...Here is my PINK composition.

This adorable puppy was a valentine gift from my hubby. She is sitting on a scarf which was knitted by a special niece, Patti, who has Down's Syndrome. The background is a skirt from my closet.

To see more PINK, visit my friend Blue, the host of True Colours Thursday.

My First Award - I'm So Excited!

2009-01-28T12:30:00.000-06:00

***This award is bestowed upon a fellow blogger whose blog’s content or design is, in the giver’s opinion, Brilliant.

I was so thrilled to receive this, my very first, blog award from BJ. I am especially honored since BJ is such a talented blogger. Thanks so much, BJ.

The rules:
When accepting this auspicious award, you must write a post bragging about it, including the name of the misguided soul who thinks you deserve such acclaim, and link back to said person so everyone knows he or she is real.

Choose a minimum of 7 blogs that you find brilliant in content or design. Or improvise by including bloggers who have no idea who you are because you don’t have 7 friends. Show the 7 random victims’ names and links and leave a harassing comment informing them that they were prized with “Honest Weblog.” Well, there’s no prize, but they can keep the nifty icon. List at least ten honest things about yourself. Then, pass it on!

Now that you know the rules, here are the honest random things about me: ( I ended up with 15 things).

1) I love lists. I even have a List of lists and once got really excited when I saw a book of lists for sale.

2) I'm an only mother. (My daughter is an only child, so that makes me an only mother, doesn't it)? When I was growing up, I always wanted to adopt children from different countries and cultures and have an international family.

3) A newbie blogger, I am already addicted and, yes I must admit, I am a comment junkie.

4) Sometimes I think Sunshine should be the mother and I should be the daughter.

5) I'm a vegetarian and I don't even like to kill bugs. We even keep a "bug box" at our house for catching unwanted visitors and releasing them outdoors.

6) I love detective shows.

7) I once had a major, MAJOR crush on Paul McCartney.

8) I hardly watch any television, but do enjoy the PBS network "Create."

9) I like Monty Python.

10) I love Christmas music and movies and swear I must be related to Clark Griswold.

11) I'm claustrophobic and I don't like darkness.

12) At one time I considered a career in interior decorating, but instead got a degree in English and have worked the past several years as a banker. (And I still don't know what I want to be ~~when~~ if I grow up).

13) I like cats. Yes, they do have a bit of an attitude, but I feel so special when they condescend to pay me some affection.

14) I took my first airplane flight last October--swore they'd never get me on a plane. I was so proud of myself. I did not succomb to a full-blown panic attack nor did I crawl down the aisle screaming, "STOP THE PLANE AND LET ME OUT, NOW!!!"

15) My grandmothers' maiden names were Wheat & Rice--it's no wonder I'm a carb-oholic!

And now, drum roll, here are the lucky recipients (in no particular order)...

Samantha - I love the pictures and really enjoy reading about your adventures with Holly and Zac.

Rosey - You seem like such a charming person and your posts always make me laugh.

Keith - You are such a talented writer. And I love hearing you read your work.

Gel - I love your poetry and must admit I envy your talent.

Tumblewords - I really like your description of yourself (the "left brain turned right...") and would like to learn more about you. I appreciate your comments; they mean a lot to a beginner like myself.

Linda - I really enjoy reading your poetry and also appreciate your visits and comments to my blog. I also enjoy your other blog Linda's Stuff. Feel free to display this award in either or both blogs.

Lilibeth - I really enjoy your blog. You seem like a really sweet person and I would like to get better acquainted with you.

Snow, Snow Go Away....

2009-01-28T08:31:00.000-06:00

This picture was taken through the windshield of my car as I drove to work this morning. As you can see, the road was completely covered.

Sunday Scribblings #147--Phantoms and Shadows

2009-01-25T19:29:00.000-06:00

I stared out the window of the quiet room where I sat with my family. It was a lovely spring day, the first day of May, and I watched as the birds outside the window flitted happily from one shrub to another. Outside, the world was bursting forth with life; but death loomed heavily within these walls. I glanced at the old man on the bed, with his gaunt face and scrawny arms. “That is not my Dad,” I mentally screamed. My thoughts turned to the father I had known for most of my life...

Dad worked in a factory and was a backyard mechanic. I remembered his muscled arms and sinewy hands, always black from grease and oil. I smiled to myself. “I don’t think I ever saw Dad with clean hands until he came to the nursing home,” I mused. Dad’s favorite place was his garage, where he spent most of his spare time. It was like his den, a place he could escape from the responsibilities of raising a family and do the mechanic’s work he enjoyed so much. The garage was large. Dad had built it himself and wanted plenty of room to work. Having a self-expressed hatred of “dungeons,” he had left the entire south side of the garage open. Dad almost always had a radio playing and, as kids, my brother and I always enjoyed listening with him to the Grand Ole Opry, various radio ministers and especially the Indianapolis 500, which took place every Memorial Day. Often, Dad would be working at the bench grinder which he had mounted on a large wooden post set in the ground just outside the garage.

Since he had known nothing but hard manual labor all his life, Dad’s only hobby was work. So when he “retired” from the factory, he became caretaker for the local cemetery in order to keep busy. And the month of May was always the busiest one of the year. After a long winter’s hibernation, the young blades of grass pushed enthusiastically through the warm soil, eagerly soaking up the rays of sunshine and gentle spring rains. The little wisps grew rapidly, soon carpeting the cemetery grounds with a plush green cover. Arriving toward the month’s end, Memorial Day always brought a host of visitors who came to decorate graves of loved ones. And, of course, these annual pilgrims expected the grounds to be well manicured. So, early in the month Dad would stand at the bench grinder and sharpen the mower blades, preparing them for the grass cutting task ahead.

I was only vaguely aware of the television which was playing in the background for my attention stayed focused on the bed where my father lay, his life slowly ebbing away as we all sat in silence listening to the shallow breaths grow weaker and farther apart, wondering which one might be the last. Suddenly the melancholy of the moment was interrupted by the sound of engines revving as the sportscaster announced the latest reports from the time trials. I had almost forgotten—it would soon be time for the Indianapolis 500. If Dad were still able to work, he would no doubt be at the bench grinder right now, sharpening the mower blades in preparation for yet another season of grass cutting.

Monday morning we received the call we knew was inevitable—Dad had passed away at 1:00 a.m. We spent the rest of the day taking care of the usual necessary tasks—calling other family members, making arrangements for the services, finding something to wear, etc. By night, we were tired and slept soundly, no longer concerned that our slumber would be interrupted by “the call” we had so dreaded to receive.

Tuesday morning was ushered in by a call from Mom, who said she had just heard from the country neighbors. Mom and Dad had moved to town several years ago, but had kept the family home place, a ten-acre plot in the country consisting of the house where we grew up as well as Dad’s garage. The neighbors had become self-appointed guardians of the property, quickly reporting to my parents any unusual sights, sounds or activities they observed. That was the reason for the phone call this morning. After the usual condolences, the neighbors reported they had heard a noise the night before and thought, perhaps, we might want to check it out.

My husband was conscripted to perform the investigation. After arriving at the property, he parked his vehicle and began to look around. He saw no one and, for that matter, found no evidence of any recent visitors. However, he did hear a noise which sounded like that of a piece of machinery running and appeared to be emanating from the vicinity of Dad’s garage. He continued following the sound until he found the source—it was the bench grinder! The grinder had not been turned on since Dad had last used it about three years ago, but it was running now.

Chills raced up and down my spine as my husband related the story to me. Who would have turned on the grinder and why? Was the whole incident just some sort of strange coincidence? Or was it something else? My heart beat rapidly. Was it possible Dad had asked St. Peter to take a detour on their voyage to the Pearly Gates? Could the episode with the bench grinder have been Dad’s way of saying “I was here for one last visit?” You decide. I know what I think.

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True Colours Thursday--Turquoise!

2009-01-22T19:08:00.000-06:00

Better late than never! I had a little trouble locating some turquoise for this week's meme, but a more careful look around the house yielded these finds:

An assortment of wrapping paper & gift bags purchased at an after-Christmas bargain price.

My nice, warm jammies. Really cozy on cold winter nights.

My MP3 player. It has 30 gig of memory and can store lots of music, audiobooks & pictures.

True Colours Thursday is hosted by friend Blue

Sunday Scribblings #146 -- Pilgrimage

2009-01-18T20:46:00.000-06:00

The brilliant orange sun painted the western horizon as we pulled out of Williams, Arizona and began the eastward journey to Winslow. We reminisced about the lovely day we had spent at the Grand Canyon, marveling at its majestic beauty, chuckling at the humorous remarks of Thomas, our tour guide and conversing with the four other couples on the tour.

Dusk arrived swiftly, but was soon overtaken by night as darkness descended over the desert landscape and cloaked the beautiful scenery in blackness. The blazing sun was now behind us and the chill of the desert evening was upon us.

Despite the gloomy night, we were still in high spirits as our thoughts turned to our next destination—Winslow Arizona, a town made popular by the Eagles’ song “Take it Easy.” As we contemplated our pilgrimage to visit “The Corner” in Winslow, we began humming the song, and then broke into a duet. The song had a laid-back feel about it that we both enjoyed. What would Winslow be like, we wondered? Nestled between the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest, Hubby imagined it would be a pretty little southwestern town, with glimpses of mountains in the distance. Daughter and I both envisioned a small town, Mainstreet USA setting.

The journey seemed long and the desolate darkness was punctured only by pairs of headlights from cars and trucks on the highly traveled road. But finally we arrived in Winslow and located a Pizza Hut where we enjoyed a good meal. As we headed back to the car, we noticed a nearby Wal-Mart store. “Pizza Hut and Wal-Mart--makes you feel right at home, doesn’t it?” I asked. Daughter, Sunshine, agreed and noted that we should stop at Wal-Mart in the morning so she could purchase a memory stick for her camera.

After a good night’s rest, we arose early for some sunrise pictures. We packed the car, enjoyed some breakfast muffins and were ready to start the day. Sunshine had planned our trip beforehand and I had printed MapQuest directions to all the places we intended to visit. All the MapQuest pages were slipped in sheet protectors and placed in a vinyl notebook which I kept in the front seat at all times. We also had our trusty GPS Unit, Gabriella Poppadopolous Smith, whom we affectionately referred to as “Gabby,” so we should have no problem locating “The Corner.”

Confidently, we left the motel and pulled onto Route 66.
Yes, we were actually traveling on the famous road, the Mother Road, the ultimate symbol of freedom and independence. But, the scenery was not exactly what we had imagined. The buildings were old and run down and the area looked like a desert ghost town. Suddenly the fresh innocence of early morning gave way to an inexplicable sense of foreboding. Was “The Corner” just an evil scheme masterminded by some diabolical being to lure unsuspecting tourists into the town for God only knows what wicked purpose? I almost expected Rod Serling to materialize at any moment, announcing we had just entered the Twilight Zone.

Undaunted by the bleak surroundings, however, we continued driving and, happily, soon reentered civilization. Our hearts began to beat a little faster—it appeared we were approaching the downtown area. Surely our destination could only be around “the corner.”

“Just look for Kinsey Ave.,” I said to Sunshine, all the while watching the street signs myself. I just knew we must be very close by now. The directions were so simple—take I-40 exit 252, then east on Route 66 (Second St.) to Kinsey Ave. Apparently we were already on Second Street, so all we had to do was locate Kinsey Ave. and turn left. Easy street! Well, it should have been easy to locate had we not encountered the dreaded road work sign. As we approached the next intersection, we saw the street was blocked off for repairs.

“No problem-we’ll just take an alternate route,” I said while turning the only direction possible without going the wrong way on a one way street. “It can’t be too hard to find.” Winslow seemed like a fairly small town and, besides, Sunshine and I had always prided ourselves for our keen sense of direction. We would simply try to go a couple blocks south, turn right and continue westward until we reached Kinsey Ave., which would now be to our right.

We had driven only a short distance, however, when we once again encountered the unwelcome street closed for repairs sign. It's nice that Winslow wants to maintian the streets, we mused, but why couldn’t the town wait until we had visited “The Corner.” Then, once we were happily motoring down the road again, Winslow could have begun its street repair project.

We continued driving around town, but were never able to locate “The Corner.” We either came across another street closed sign or found ourselves back where we had started. Our quest for the fabled corner now seemed an increasingly difficult mission if not an outright impossibility. When we found ourselves in a rather seedy-looking part of town, I suggested we try and find that Wal-Mart store we had seen last night. Sunshine could purchase the memory stick and we could ask an associate for directions to “The Corner.”

Fortunately, we located the Wal-Mart store with little difficulty. Sunshine purchased her memory stick and the kind lady in the camera department gave us directions. Soon we were winding through a pleasant residential area. But there was no sight of downtown or “The Corner." We were both concerned that these directions might also lead to yet another dead end. Finally, I verbalized what we both already knew. “Sunshine, if we don’t find it this time, I’m afraid we’ll have to head on to the Petrified Forest.” Our tight schedule had left us little time for cruising the streets of Winslow. But, even if we couldn’t visit “The Corner,” I reasoned, we had already had a great time and there was the promise of more exciting things to come.

“Yeah, I know,” she said. We each tried to keep a stiff upper lip and hide our disappointment from the other. But in reality, we were both quite discouraged at the thought of coming over a thousand miles and being so close, yet not being able to actually visit the site.

It was at this instant we looked up and saw THE SIGN—the beautiful green sign which read “Kinsey Ave.” Our gloom turned to joy! Rays of sunlight broke through the clouds and from the heavens we heard the majestic strains of “The Hallelujah Chorus.” (Well, it may not have happened quite like that, but we were really excited and simultaneously shouted in exuberance, “There’s Kinsey Ave!”).

We found a parking spot and approached the hallowed ground. There was time for pictures and even for a short visit to the corner gift shop across the street. Soon we were back on the road, elated that we had been able to visit the “shrine.” Now we could sign with gusto “Well I’m standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona and such a fine sight to see.” Happily, we pulled onto I-40 and headed east toward the Petrified Forest.

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True Colours Thursday--Black!

2009-01-15T06:47:00.000-06:00

Here are my BLACK offerings for this week's True Colours Thursday.

This is the front of a tote bag I recently purchased which features none other than Oscar the Grouch . Like shoes, a girl can't own too many totes!

This building is just across the street from "The Corner" in Winslow, Arizona and shows our rental car parked in front.

Here is a closer view of our rental car, Penelope Tocarra "PT" Cruiser.

And finally, this is Black Baby, a dear friend who passed about 2 1/2 weeks ago. We miss you, Beebie.

True Colours Thursday is hosted by my friend Poopsie Blue at My True Colours

100% Organic Horse Hockey

2009-01-10T13:14:00.000-06:00

Now, don’t think from the title that I am anti-organic. Quite the contrary—I have always been interested in adapting a healthy life style. In fact, several years ago, my husband and I became very attracted to organic gardening and self-sufficient living. ..

At that time, he managed the sewing machine store we owned in a nearby town and I worked in the office of a local manufacturing company. One of my co-workers, MJ, was a very frugal older lady who was both an avid gardener and an unabashed animal lover. She was quite pleased to learn that I, a member of the younger generation, was also interested in gardening and so she volunteered to bring me some organic fertilizer.

Friday arrived and, knowing I would have the whole weekend to work in my garden, MJ decided to bring the fertilizer to work. I was ecstatic—she had brought me three large plastic bags of horse manure! You would have thought it was gold. As we lifted the heavy bags into the trunk of my car, I could envision my hard clay soil miraculously transforming into rich dark loam and producing mouth-watering crops of corn, tomatoes, and green beans.

The work day was rather uneventful. I spent my time processing orders and answering customer complaints. Since our shop stayed open until 8:00 on Fridays, I planned to go there after work to help my husband and keep him company. Four o’clock finally arrived. After spending nine hours indoors in a windowless “dungeon,” it would be great to step outside into the sunlight and enjoy a breath of fresh air.

As I opened the door and descended the steps, my nostrils were assaulted by the most horrid stench imaginable! I immediately clamped my hand over my face. “What in the world could produce such a sickening odor?” I wondered. Just then I realized the awful aroma was emanating from the trunk of my car where the organic fertilizer had been cooking (or rather, decomposing) in the hot sun for the past nine hours!

Hoping for some small relief from the stench, I quickly opened the car door only to find the smell had become even more concentrated, permeating every inch of the small, enclosed space. The obscene odor, I feared, might have even penetrated to the molecular level. Not knowing what else to do, I started the engine and began the twenty-five mile trip to our store.

Once on the open road, I rolled down the car window. By this time my lungs were desperate for some fresh, clean air. But, alas, there was none. For the stagnant putrid air inside the car had co-mingled with the noxious fumes erupting from the trunk, producing a malodorous monster which re-entered the car with a vengeance and attacked my nauseous nostrils.

I pinched my nose, clamped my mouth shut, and held my breath as long as I could. Eventually, however, the survival instinct took over and I sucked in a breath of the noxious air. As quickly as possible, I again covered my nostrils and lips, gasping for a quick breath only as a last resort. This process was repeated for the entire trip. It was unquestionably the longest 30 minutes I can ever remember.

In addition to olfactory anguish was the dread of breaking the news to my husband that I had despoiled our primary means of transportation, probably rendering it worthless. He was unable to protest since the foul odor had left him semi-conscious and in a completely passive state of stupor. (Well, maybe that last sentence is a bit of an exaggeration). Anyway, we did grow a wonderful garden that year. And, despite my misgivings, the organic produce was scrmptuous and didn’t taste a bit like equestrian excrement!

Visit Sunday Scribblings for more organic reading.

True Colours Thursday - Purple!

2009-01-08T13:21:00.000-06:00

I had a hard time finding anything purple. I searched and searched and finally found this cute little fellow:

He was a gift from a customer/friend. Isn't he adorable?

True Colours Thursday is hosted by friend Blue

Sunday Scribblings #144 -- for richer or poorer

2009-01-03T12:49:00.000-06:00

It was Monday, the 29th of May, our wedding anniversary. Having just turned 21 a few months earlier, my husband and I were now officially adults, albeit still poor college students. Since there was no school, we had the whole day to celebrate our first anniversary.

My thoughts turned to our lovely wedding. It had been a very simple outdoor ceremony, attended only by close family members. There was no money for a lavish wedding, though my unpretentious husband would never have agreed to any such copious event had our budget allowed it. The weather that Saturday had been picture perfect – fluffy cotton clouds floated in the cerulean blue sky and the spring sunshine smiled upon us, basking us in warmth as we said our vows. There was no money for a honeymoon--that would have to wait till another time.

“How do you want to celebrate our anniversary?” my husband asked. The question brought me back to the present.

“Hmm….. I don’t know.” (I never did like to make those important decisions). "Maybe we could just go for a drive.” I said, ignoring the ominous-looking rainclouds that were forming in the sky above us.

So we hopped into hubby’s 1966 Dodge Charger, which he had purchased for the whopping sum of $96, and headed for... anywhere.

As we neared the local grocery store, hubby said, “Do you want to stop and get a snack?”

“Sure, let’s do.”

A few minutes later, we returned to the car with a bag of chips and some pop. The Charger seemed to point in a westerly direction, so we obliged.

“How about we stop at the ‘rez’ and feed the ducks?” Hubby asked.

“Sounds good to me.”

As we started to enter the reservoir area, the grey clouds began to release the rain they had been storing all morning.

“Guess we’ll just have to watch the ducks, today,” I said, not letting the rain dampen my spirit.

So, we sat in the car, eating our chips and drinking our pop. Observing the circles created by the drops of rain as they plopped onto the surface of the water, we mused how wonderful it was that ducks were waterproof and basked in the warmth of each other’s company. The drip-drop of the rain on the windshield reminded us of the pitter-patter of tiny feet that was sure to greet us when we returned home. (No, we didn’t have any children yet-- I refer to Tabitha, our first kitty).

Fast forward several years:
We were blessed with a lovely daughter. Tabitha lived to the ripe old age of 19, and we have adopted and loved many other cats since her. We still live in the bungalow where hubby grew up. And although we have never yet taken that honeymoon, we are still enjoying our life together as best friends. Tell me, am I shamefully rich or what!

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True Colours Thursday--Gold!

2009-01-01T12:54:00.000-06:00

Angel with star

Music note bell

Cross

Angel holding candle

This is "Elphie," my GOLD colored camera which I acquired in mid-November. "Elphie" and I are still getting acquainted, but hope for lots of good shots in 2009. Happy New Year to all!

True Colours Thursday is hosted by friend, Blue.

Sunday Scribblings #143 - I Believe....

2008-12-27T07:46:00.000-06:00

I believe in...
the glory of sunrise
the miracle of birth
the opportunities of each new day.

I believe in...
the importance of faith
the strength of hope
the power of love.

I believe in...
the joy of laughter
the value of smiles
the delight of friendship.

I believe in...
the existence of God
the presence of angels
the beauty of sunset.

I believe in...
the peacefuleness of night
the anticipation of dawn
the celebration of life.

For more Sunday Scribblings, click here

True Colours Thursday--Green!

2008-12-26T19:07:00.000-06:00

Better late than never.........

The above pictures came from a forest green sweater I wore today. My daughter let me use her new tripod to get these shots. Thanks, Sunshine!

True Colours Thursday is hosted by Blue

Sunday Scribblings #142 -- Late!

2008-12-20T09:23:00.000-06:00

Late is a child of our ancestor Time,
A threat that will always loom;
Covering my dimensional existence,
It imprisons me in a time cocoon.

Could I but penetrate those supple walls
How far my soul could soar
Free from earthly time constraints
To be late no more!

Ah, but enough of this ethereal musing
On these thoughts that are confusing.
I must stop, I’ve got to go…..
I’m late for work again—oh no!

"It gets late early out there." ~ Yogi Berra

For more Scribblings, go to Sunday Scribblings

True Colours Thursday--Red!

2008-12-18T20:35:00.000-06:00

I really enjoy True Colours Thursday and decided to play along this week.

This is a picture of a gourd Santa which was painted by my mother-in-law.

As this meme's creator, Blue, is sick this week, True Colours Thursday is temporarily being hosted by BJ. Get well soon, Blue!

Sunday Scribblings #141: I Knew Instantly...

2008-12-14T19:17:00.000-06:00

My daughter and I independently recounted this incident. My version is below. For her version, click here

I was excited! Christmas was just a week away and, though an adult in years, I was still a child at heart. Today was the annual “treat Sunday “at church. As my daughter and I left the building, we received a small paper bag containing various treats—usually candy, popcorn and an orange.

As we rounded the downtown square, I turned to my daughter and asked, “What’s in your treat bag?”

She opened the bag and found it contained the usual assortment of goodies. She picked out one of the candies and sighed, “Oh, it’s a Farley candy.”

Farley candy reminded me of Chuck & Betty Farley, a couple we had "met" on a previous trip to South Dakota. But, that is another story. Anyway, for some reason I have always had an affinity for spoonerisms. In my strongest, most ho! ho! ho! liday voice I shouted “Well, F…k Charley!”

I knew instantly that I should have silently rehearsed that spoonerism before blurting it out. Time stood still as many thoughts raced through my mind.

Oh, my gosh! Did I really say that? Here I am only two minutes away from church and I’m already shouting the “F” word to my 12-year old daughter. I must be a really unfit mother. And poor baby Jesus…what will He think? I didn’t mean to be irreverent. I really didn’t mean to say that.

As I sat frozen at the steering wheel wondering how to explain my outburst, both of us were struck with the humor of the situation. Simultaneously we burst into uncontrollable laughter. These were no giddy giggles, these were gargantuan guffaws that gave you a bellyache and made you cry so hard you couldn’t see. We carried on like this the remaining 10 miles home, hoping we wouldn’t meet a cop. He would surely accuse me of sipping too much eggnog.

Well, they say all’s well that ends well. And things did turn out just fine. My daughter was apparently unaffected by that unexpected encounter with the “F” word, I know Jesus understood and forgave my foolishness and I learned to quit using those spoonerisms.

Crappy Histmas to all!

For more Scribblings, go to Sunday Scribblings