Time for Another Random Dozen

Okay before we get to the answers, I need inspiration people!  Comment with a topic that I can blog about.  I am at a loss here!  Also, join in the fun by clicking the picture above!

1. Have you, or has someone close to you, ever won an award for anything?  I won 2nd place in a pageant when I was younger.  Other than that, I can't remember ever getting an award for anything else.

2. Who is the nearest relative to you who has served in the US Military?  My dad was in the Air Force, and served in Vietnam.

3. Share something that stirs the patriotic spirit in you.  The National Anthem does it every time.

4. Where are you in the birth order in your family? Do you think your "placement" made a difference in your personality?  I am the youngest in my family.  I definitely think it made me more independent because I had to fend for myself a lot.

5. Name one trait you hope you carry that was evidenced in your parents or grandparents.  My mom had compassion out of this world.  I want to be like that.  My dad is the hardest working individual I have ever met.

6. If female, do you prefer wearing a skirt or pants? If male, shirt and tie or polo?  I am a female and I prefer wearing pants.  But the thinner I get, the more skirts I wear.  Funny how that works.

7. Approximately how many times do you wake during the night? What do you do to go back to sleep?  I need to have a sleep study I think.  I wake up a lot, and then it takes me FOREVER to fall back to sleep.  Usually I try counting to keep my mind from turning on and racing away.

8. Share a favorite movie quote.  "We're off to see the wizard, the wonderful wizard of Oz!"

9. What is your favorite Fall candle scent?  Warm Vanilla Sugar

10. What is one Fall activity you're looking forward to?  As the weather cools down, I tend to migrate outside more.  So I'm looking forward to spending more of my time outside.  Also, I love all the holidays that come along with the cooler weather season.

11. Tell us about a pleasant surprise that happened to you recently.  A friend bought me breakfast this morning.  That was nice!

12. What was it like when you first met your in-laws-to-be?  Interesting.  That is all I'm going to say.

IN GOD WE TRUST

It's Random Dozen Time Y'all!

 Time for another Random Dozen!  I am lost on anything to blog about on my own, so thanks Linda for giving me SOMETHING to say!  All others, join Linda at 2nd Cup of Coffee to give your own answers!

1. Do you do garage sales? If so, tell me about one great find. If not, tell me why not.  I used to do garage sales with my mom when I was younger.  She even used to take us "dumpster diving" quite often.  You would be amazed at her talent for restoring things!  I guess I don't do it now, because I don't make the time.  Also it is something my mom and I used to do together, and now I would be by myself.

2. Name the last thing you fixed.  Does dinner count?

3. Name your A) Favorite item of makeup OR B) Favorite tool  My favorite item of makeup would have to be mascara.  If I don't have time for anything else, I try to at least swipe my eyelashes.  But sometimes I can't even get to that point.  My favorite tool is a screwdriver.  I can fix anything with a screwdriver.

4. Which room in your home needs organizing more than any other?  YES.  Oh you want me to pick one room?  I guess it would be the den.  It is a hodge podge of computers, workout stuff, toys and files.  Not exactly the relaxing den I thought it would be when we moved in.

5. Which room could use re-decorating?  Our bedroom.  I would like if it were more relaxing and inviting.

6. Share something unique about your town.  If you want to eat something other than mexican, steak, or chinese food, you should probably look in some other town. 

7. If you could send a one-sentence message to your great-grandchild, what would it be?  Enjoy life and stay close to Jesus.

8. Do you Facebook? Yes!

9. Describe your favorite shoes.  They are a pair of slip-ons that look like black tennis shoes.  So comfortable and I can just slip them on and go!

10. Do you listen to more talk radio or more music radio? What kind of station is it?  Music!  I listen to anything and everything.  But mostly contemporary christian.

11. How far would you travel for a really good (favorite) meal?  I would travel into Houston, which is about 30 miles away.  Although our area is growing so fast, I usually don't have to go that far.

12. If you were totally honest with yourself (and us) what should you probably be doing right now instead of blogging?  Bible study.  Need I say more?

Random Dozen Labor Day Week

Can you tell my creativity is at a zero?  If not, look at the title of this post.  Also, think of a great title of your own and join in with Linda at 2nd Cup of Coffee!


1. Describe the best sandwich in the world, according to you.  A muffaletta is pretty good, in my book.

2. Which inspires you more: a good conversation, a song, a book or movie? I love music, so a song will get me every time.  However, I could always use a good conversation.

3. What is your favorite board game?  Monopoly.  Although I haven't played it since my mom passed away.

4. As you grow older, are you more or less patient with small children?  Definitely more patient.

5. Name one item you never let yourself run out of.  Deodorant.  Need I say more?

6. Do you agree with Tennyson's assertion, "'Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all?"  Absolutely.  I cannot imagine going through my life without love in it.

7. Name one national treasure or monument that you have visited.  Texas Battleship, San Jacinto Monument.  Also, if we have vacationed somewhere where there was a monument in a 50 mile radius we've been there.  My husband loves monuments and museums.

8. Which is more painful, to be disappointed in someone else or to be disappointed in yourself?  I'm constantly disappointed in myself.  I feel like lately I don't seem to do anything right.

9. What makes your kitchen uniquely yours?  Our kitchen is filled with an assortment of wedding gifts we received 11 years ago.

10. Are you a crafty person?  Absolutely not.  I have not one creative gene in me.

11. What is your favorite traditional picnic or bbq (cookout) food?  BBQ.  I like a BBQ that I can get my plate and still eat indoors.  I hate to eat outside.

12. Name one leisurely activity you enjoyed over Labor Day Weekend.  I didn't relax.  I ended up cleaning all day.  Although I did take a nap.  So I guess that would be it.

Evolution of Dance Part 1 and 2 - Enjoy!

Random Dozen 12

Time for another Random Dozen.  If you would like to participate, visit 2nd Cup of Coffee to link up!

1. What insect are you most afraid of? Feel free to post a picture.  I hate hate hate cockroaches.  They are nasty and I don't see the point of them in this world.  I'm not going to post a picture, because they are so disgusting they are not worth my internet search time. 

2. What is the greenest/most organic thing about you or that you do?  I, unfortunately, am not very green.  I guess the greenest thing I do right now is recycle the grocery plastic bags to hold my son's poopy diapers.

3. Tell me about a recurring dream that haunts you.  Funny you should ask.  I keep having this dream where I move into this huge house and I keep trying to find a room for me, but every room I look in is occupied.  What does that mean?
 
4. Have you ever missed a flight? What were the circumstances?  I have yet to miss a flight.  I haven't flown much, but I am ridiculous when it comes to being on time for things.
 
5. What do you consider your best feature?  I've been told that I have an infectious laugh and smile.  I'm also a good listener.
 
6. What was the last concert you went to?  Hmmm.  It was Chris Tomlin.  Very uplifting!
 
7. Describe the most embarrassing church moment you ever experienced.  It takes a lot to embarrass me.
 
8. Are you a whistler, hummer or singer?  Yes.  I love to sing, but I can't do it very well.
 
9. George Washington Carver said, "I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in." What is God saying to you through nature today, or this very minute?  That he cares about even the minute details of my life.
 
10. On September, 1, 1752, the Liberty Bell arrived in Philadelphia. What memorable event will take place in your life on September 1, 2010?  Um, I have a playdate with a friend.  So that's about it.  I also have a weigh-in at church.  That may be very memorable.  
 
11. Taco Bell or the Liberty Bell? (You must choose.)  Would I be unpatriotic if I said Taco Bell?  I'm hungry and I haven't had breakfast.
 
12. Do you believe men and women can have purely platonic friendships?  To an extent.  I don't believe married men and women should hang out with opposite sex without their spouse around.  There is too high a chance either a rumor could get started, or the relationship could go past the friendship stage.

Comments, Questions, Criticisms?  Leave a comment!

Kids DVD on Trucks - Excavator

For all the parents of little boys. You will appreciate this. But it is hard for me to not bust out laughing every time my son watches this.

I'm BACK

Well it's been a wonderful summer, but I'm ready for fall now.  Ok?  No more heat waves, no more freak storms.  Just lovely fall.  Ok we are in a part of the country where we don't really get to experience true fall, but a girl can dream!

I'm a little nervous about little one's school.  Hopefully it will be better organized than it was last year.  That's all I'm going to say on that topic.  I'm excited about church activities starting back up and getting back into our normal routine.  The summers seem to throw me for a loop now that I'm a SAHM.  How many days can one play on the indoors playground?  No one in their right mind would take their kids out during the day in the heat of July and August around here, unless they want to melt into the ground.

So I'm looking forward to cooler weather.  Yes a girl can dream.  I'll check back with you on that subject in January or February.

I hope to be participating in my own blog again for awhile and maybe even update some pictures...eventually.  But the more comments I get, the more I am motivated to blog!  No comments means no one is even looking.  *Sniff*

It's the Dad Life

I love this video!  I found it on a fellow blogger's site and just had to share.  Enjoy!


Dad Life from Church on the Move on Vimeo.

It's a Random Thing on Cinco de Mayo!

So papa bear is going to Kansas City, Missouri soon for his second round of training.  I'm thinking of taking  baby bear up there with me for a couple of weeks.  Does anyone know of any fun things to do with kids?  Any advice is appreciated!  Just leave your tips in the comments section.  Now on to the Random Dozen.  Oh and don't forget to join in at 2nd Cup of Coffee!

1. What was the last thing about which you procrastinated?
I'm not sure.  I'll have to answer this one later.  ;-)

2. How long does it take you to fall asleep, and do you sleep through the night?
Ugh it takes me forever to fall asleep.  I usually sleep well unless some noise wakes me up, or I have to pee.  Then it takes me forever to fall asleep again.

3. Which decade would you choose to exemplify your favorite fashion styles?
Hello?  The 80s.  You could do anything and get away with it.  But actually I love the look of the 50s dresses.  I would love if those came back in style.  But I don't see that happening.  Modesty is out the window these days.

4. What is your personal best dish to feed a crowd?
I like my chicken spaghetti.  Not sure if anyone else feels the same way.

5. Are you an impulse shopper? What was the last thing you bought on impulse?
Almost three years of my husband being under-employed have taught me not to impulse shop.  Maybe the last thing I got on impulse was a pair of sunglasses from Target.

6. What is one wish you have for your own funeral?
Geez.  How depressing.  I guess I would want it to be more of a party than a sad, goodbye type of thing.

7. If it's true that joy is in found in the simple things in life, what does your joy look like today?
My son getting a kick of throwing his tennis ball up the stairs and watching it roll down.  (He's three.)


8. What is your favorite type of bread?
Yes.  Oh, do I have to pick just one?  Sorry...can't do it.

9. What trait do you fear developing the most? (Laziness, greediness, grumpiness, etc.)
Laziness is a real issue for me, considering I've been sick for awhile.  Until I was diagnosed with Vitamin D & B12 deficiency, I thought I was so lazy.  Now I realize that there is a medical reason for my exhaustion.  It is very freeing.

10. What trait would you like most to develop?
Calm grace.  Hubby's grandmother is someone I want to be like.  She is very calm & graceful, but totally approachable.

11. Which room in your house best reflects your personality? Why?
Hmmm.  My house is overrun by toys.  Maybe the guest room, because sometimes that's how I feel.

12. How do you maintain balance in your life regarding, work, family, church, other organizations and activities, and blogging?
God first, hubby second, son third.  Whatever else I have time for usually falls into place.

Flashback Friday #7

This is a somewhat serious topic, but that is okay.  I'm in a somewhat serious mood today.



Here is the prompt for today's FF:
How old were you (approximately) when you attended your first funeral?  Did your parents shield you from death and grief or was it viewed as a natural part of life? Did you experience any significant loss(es) in your growing up years? What were your early impressions of death and dying? And while I do not intend this in any irreverent way, are there any amusing memories associated with a death or funeral? If you have kids, how have you handled this subject with them? Feel free to share as vulnerably or as shallowly as you want!  

I lost my brother when I was five.  Even though I don't have many memories from when I was younger, I remember everything about this one.  I remember visiting my brother in the hospital and seeing the tubes in his throat.  I remember I was confused, because we made him cookies and I didn't know why he couldn't eat them.  I remember mom getting a call that she needed to get to the hospital RIGHT NOW.  And I remember I was upset because during that visit my sister and I weren't allowed into his room.  Little did I know at that time, he had already passed away.  My parents did let us go to the funeral.  I remembered my brother as this wonderful, fun guy with long hair.  (He was about 17 years older than me.)  When I saw him in the coffin, all his hair was cut off and he had a mustache.  That shocked me beyond belief and I started screaming and crying.  They got me out of there fast.  I would say that was a pretty significant loss. 

I became very familiar with death during my growing up years.  Along with my brother, I lost my grandmother, my uncle, one of my nephews, a couple of my friends.  That was all before I turned eighteen.  I lost an old friend when I was around 24.  That was one of those experiences when I can pinpoint a significant change in myself.  Unfortunately, there was some unresolved conflict with us that laid guilt on my shoulders for a long time and almost destroyed my marriage.  My most significant loss to date has been my mother.  Nothing has ever struck me as hard as losing my mom.  There will never be anyone to replace her, and sometimes I still pick up the phone to call her and then I realize that she won't be on the other end of that line.

My early impressions of death and dying were those of nervousness and trepidation.  For awhile, I would say to myself "I wonder who will die this year".  Because it seemed like I was losing someone every year.

Boy that's depressing, huh?  Well this gave me a chance to open up to some of you.  I hope I didn't turn anyone away!  If you have anything to share, please click the link at the top to join in!

Random Dozen and Vitamin D

Howdy y'all!  Before I start this random dozen, I thought I would update you on my test results since I asked for prayer and didn't update!  Sorry!  Did you know that Vitamin D deficiency can manifest itself as depression?  Me neither!  Not saying that I don't have depression, but it sure does account for everything else I've been going through.  Seriously!  Google Vitamin D Deficiency and see what pops up.  It should show a picture of me.  Anyway, that is what came back on the blood work, along with B-12 deficiency.  My level is a 9 on vitamin D.  Normal is over 40, preferably between 50-60.  So I have to take supplements, as well as spent more time in the sun.  BUT, thank you all for your prayers.  This is truly a blessed diagnosis.  My hubby was actually talking to a coworker of his about my health problems, and she suggested I get tested for my vitamin D because SHE had the same problems.  Talk about divine intervention!  Apparently this is not something doctors regularly test, so I had to request it. 

People, I have been dealing with this for over 10 years and have been told that all my blood work is normal, time after time after time.  So to finally hear that something came back is the biggest blessing I could ever ask for.  I'm not crazy!

Anyway, without further ado, here is my Random Dozen.

 

 

 1. Ever had any run-ins with the "library police?"
Well I turned myself in and paid the fines.  Does that count?

2. Do you have a special organizational plan and place for wrapping paper, gift bags, etc., or do you just purchase whatever you need as you give gifts?
Well I WANT to have an organizational plan in place.  So we usually end up buying the wrapping paper or bags along with the gift.  Sometimes I've been guilty of wrapping a gift in the car on the way to the party.  Gasp!  I know!

3. Have you ever been in (first-hand witness) a natural disaster?
Do hurricanes count?  Then, yes...several.  Not a pleasant thing to go through.

4. What's your favorite Barry Manilow song?
Um..."Even Now" is a good one.  I love Manilow.

5. What's the best costume you've ever worn?
I dressed up as a rocker in the 80s.
 
6. Which do you use more often, the dictionary or the thesaurus?
I use dictionary.com.  Although I love the thesaurus, too.

7. What's your favorite breakfast food?
Bacon or sausage

8. Have you ever purchased anything from an infomercial?
We bought our house after we viewed an infomercial.  We don't normally watch infomercials, so when we did, we decided to go big.

9. Have you ever crawled through a window?
Oh yeah.  Many times when I was a teenager.  Makes me scared to be a mom of a teenager when my son grows up.

10. Do you believe in love at first sight?
Hmmm.  That is a good question.  I believe in puppy love at first sight.  But true love is something that requires commitment and hard work.

11. How man pairs of jeans do you own?
That fit?  Four.  That don't fit...about twenty.  Sad, I know.  I don't know why I think my hips will ever go back down to the pre-baby size.

12. If someone were going to bake a cake to honor/represent you, what would it be? (Think creatively, like Duff and Crew on "Ace of Cakes.")
Ooh.  It would be cool to see a cake of a lady with like six arms growing out of her back.  That would be how I feel.  Sometimes I wish I had some extra arms to keep up with everything.  I know...very weird.

Okay.  Head on over to 2nd Cup of Coffee to play along!

Flashback Friday #6

Flashback Friday Prompt #6

If you have a child in your life, your calendar for April and May is probably quickly filling up with end-of-year activities - performances, recitals, etc. Did you take lessons as a child? Piano or another instrument? Gymnastics or dance? Other types of lessons? Were they weekly? How much were you required to practice between lessons? Did you participate in recitals? If so, do any of them stand out in your memory? Did they foster a love or a hate for that activity? Did you want to take lessons in a certain thing that you never got to? And if you have kids now, how did your experiences with taking lessons like these impact the activities you had/have them do?

I wanted to do so many things when I was a child.  I wanted to take piano lessons, gymnastics, ice skating.  I also wanted to play soccer when I was a child.  Alas, we didn't have much money growing up, so I was unable to do those things.  I did play the Cornet in junior high though.  I loved it, and I was good at it.  I started out my 6th grade year in beginner band.  Then instead of going to concert band in the 7th grade, I got promoted directly to symphonic band.  My favorite concert was when we were going to play Wind Beneath My Wings.  I knew that was one of my mom's favorite songs and I couldn't wait for her to hear it.

I really wished I would have stayed in band past junior high.  But I was convinced that was not the cool thing to do, so I let my emotions get in the way.  My husband played the tuba all through college, and seeing now all the cool places he got to go makes me wish I had stuck with it.  Let that be a lesson to all of you young people out there!

As far as how it affects my son, I will do whatever I can to make sure he can participate in whatever activity he wants.  If I have to go without something, I will make sure that money is not the issue in deciding whether or not he can participate.

So, what's your story?  Go on over to Mocha With Linda to link up and share!

Random Dozen: April

1. Define a great relationship.
Honesty.  Effort.  Someone who chooses to make the effort to be in your life and vice versa.

2. Why is it called a "drive-through" if you have to stop? (Real question: What was the last food/drink you purchased at a drive-through?)
I think the last place I went through was good ol' Mickey D's.

3. As I type this, the Butler Bulldogs are getting ready to play in the NCAA championship game. Every Hoosier is hysterical about this except me. So in honor of the Bulldogs ... what is your favorite breed of dog? (I tried.)
My favorite breed is the chocolate lab.  So beautiful.  I have a terrier that was supposed to be a lab.  Who knows?  But he has been the best dog I've ever owned.

4. If you had to move to a state besides the one you currently live in, where would you move?
Hawaii

5. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?
I wouldn't change anything.  My parents were very loving.  The way I was raised made me who I am today.

6. Who's the funniest person you know?
My husband.  He always makes me laugh with his wit and spontaneous humor.

7. Did you get enough sleep last night?
No.  :(

8. What's the first thing you thought about this morning?
Is David awake yet?

9. Grilled or Fried? --HONESTLY
I'm from Texas.  Hello!  Fried.

10. Are you afraid of the dark?
Not usually, unless I watch a scary movie.  Then I have to make sure hubby comes to bed at the same time as me.

11.When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A teacher.

12. If you had one word to describe yourself , what would you choose?
Determined

Go on over to 2nd Cup of Coffee to join in! 

Random Dozen and Peeps

Before I get started, I'm going to ask everyone who reads this to say a prayer for me.  I've been suffering with exhaustion, joint pain, mood swings, and a variety of other ailments for quite some time now.  I have a doctor's appointment on Thursday, and I'm praying that she DOES find something.  I've been told depression, which I accept on some level.  However, after SEVERAL years on different medication I'm still having a hard time functioning on a normal level.  So I know that it has to be something else in addition to depression.


1. How do you feel about the marshmallow Easter Peeps?
Yuck

2. Chickens are notoriously nervous creatures. When you are nervous, what is the best way to calm down?
Take a hot bath, or pray.  Actually, it works best if I do it in the reverse order.

3. People say, "April showers bring May flowers." Do you enjoy Spring rains?
They are ok, I'm always grateful for the rain.

4. When I was randomly flipping through TV channels this week, I saw a show in which tattoo parlor employees received tattoos of a co-worker's face on their bodies. I can't imagine having a portrait of a colleague tattooed on me. But if someone forced you to receive a portrait tattoo (face only) of anyone, who would it be? Why?
Good grief...um...I have no clue.

5. Would you rather have a tattoo (any kind) or a nose ring?
Well if I had to have one, I would pick a tattoo because it could be where no one would see it.  I'm a pastor's wife, so people would probably look at me funny if all of a sudden I got a nose ring.  

6. Do you have any special plans for Easter?
I'm gonna try the resurrection cookies with my son the night before, to help explain it to my son.  Then we are going to church.  We used to have dinner at my mom's every Easter, but since she passed away, it has kind of fallen apart.

7. Cadbury Eggs or Reese Eggs?
Cadbury.  I'm all about the caramel!

8. What was the last thing/person you took a picture of?
My son...who had emptied out his backpack and then proceeded to wear it over his head.

9. What book are you reading now, or what was the last one?
Right now I'm reading Big Girls Don't Whine by Jan Silvious

10. What do you think is the most difficult task when it comes to Spring cleaning?
I clean all year round.  Have you heard of The Fly Lady?

11. How many pairs of flip-flops do you own?
One

12. Which color makes you happiest?
Blue, as in blue skies, as in my son's blue eyes.


Go on over to 2nd Cup of Coffee to link up and play along!

Flashback Friday: Easter

It's almost Easter. It seemed obvious to do this flashback next week, but I thought folks might either be out of pocket . . . or this might bring back some memories that you might want to do again!


What was Easter like when you were little? For example, did you receive a basket with toys and candy? Was the Easter Bunny part of your family's celebration? Did your family integrate both secular and spiritual aspects of the day? Did you dye Easter eggs. . . .and did your family eat them afterwards? Did you usually get a new outfit? (Post a picture if you have one!) Does any Easter stand out particularly? You might also share how your Easter today is similar or different to your childhood?


Easter was always a special holiday for me growing up.  That's when my nieces and nephews would come over and we got to see them.  Keep in mind I have siblings that are 20 years older than me, so I was close in age to my nieces & nephews.  One in particular was more like a sister to me.  I remember my sister and I used to decorate all the eggs with my mom the night before.  (And eat one or two right away with salt.  Yum!)  Then everyone would come over the next day for lunch and we would hunt Easter eggs together.  We didn't do the plastic eggs back then.  The real ones were much more fun!

I remember one Easter when we were in a particularly playful mood, we ended up throwing the eggs at each other and kind of playing a "tag you're it" with them.  We made a big mess, but for some reason our parents didn't seem to mind.  Maybe because we were out of their hair for awhile!  Then we hot-trotted it over to the park where they had this huge "creek".  It was semi-dry so we decided to cross it.  We did that a lot and went into the woods behind the park.  (We had no fear back then.  Now I would lose my mind if my son was off running around the neighborhood, and I didn't know where he was!  Alas, things are different now.)  Anyway, my niece ended up falling over backwards in a mud puddle and got stuck.  That still is one of the most hilarious things I have ever seen in my life.  We did get in trouble for that one, though.

Anyway, I know that this story isn't at all spiritual.  But that's how it was when I was a kiddo!  So, come on and join in the fun.  Click the link at the top to head over to Mocha with Linda and participate!

Random Dozen and Poop

Before I post my answers, I have a question for all the experiences moms around.  My son is three.  No he is not potty trained.  He refuses to go.  I think it is a control issue.  For the fourth or fifth time he has decided to take his diaper off and wipe his poop all over the floor in his room.  He is supposed to be napping at this time.  And he is so quiet about it, I don't notice that anything is going on until I go to get him up.

Ok, on to the Random Dozen.  This week South Lakes Mom is hosting, so go on over and link up!

The theme is Spring . . . and any other random questions that crept in.

1.  What is your favorite sign of Spring?
Blue skies, cool breezes.  Oh and driving down the freeway and seeing the wonderful green grass separating the sides of the freeway.  Then the flowers start coming in and it is so beautiful to look at.  Don't worry I do keep my eye on the road.

2.  Did you remember to spring forward on March 14?  If not, how did it impact your day?
Yes, and we were traveling to Dallas and got to bed late anyway.  But that's okay because my three-year old slept in big time.

3.  If soil, time, talent and climate were no problem, what vegetable would you plant in a garden this year?
Can I plant the bags of salad that I get at the grocery store?  ;p

4.  If soil, time, talent and climate were no problem, what fruit would you plant?
Ooh.  Definitely berries...strawberries, blackberries, raspberries.  I love berries!

5.  What is your least favorite insect?
Big tree roaches.  They are evil.

6.  March 22 was World Water Day. To celebrate, here are some water questions. Do you drink bottled water? If so, what brand?
I sometimes drink bottled water.  I buy whatever is cheapest at the grocery store.

7.  Have you ever been somewhere that it was not safe to drink the local water? If so, how did you handle that?
Um, church?  Our church is brand new and the well hasn't been dug deep enough.  So we all usually bring bottled water to church.

8.  How many glasses of water do you drink per day?
Not enough.  I used to drink a lot, but after having a baby and still having to pee all the time, I don't drink as much.

9.  March 24 is the birthday of Harry Houdini.  Have you ever watched a professional magic show? Share.
Not live.  I've watched a few on TV.  I wanted to do magic when I was a kid...but I was way too shy.

10.  Have you ever been a participant in a professional magic show (up on stage!)?
No!  See answer above.

11. March 24 is also the birthday of Steve McQueen and Clyde Barrow. Do you like Westerns or gangster movies?  If so, what is your favorite?
No I cannot stand either one.

12. (Really random)  What U.S. state that you've never visited would you like to visit someday?
Well my hubby & I really want to take an Alaskan cruise, so I guess Alaska!

Help With Email Address

Does anyone out there know how I would change my email address for my account?  I want to change it to my gmail account instead of my old yahoo.  But it isn't letting me. 

Flashback Friday: My First Car

Flashback Friday #1

How fun!  I'm excited to participate in this, because, frankly, I just love talking about myself.

This week's flashback revolves around our early driving experiences:

How and when did you learn to drive? Do you have any particular memories associated with getting your driver license? How old were you when you got your first car and what was it? Who paid for it?

My mom was one of those moms who let me drive on her lap on the way to school.  Back then, no one thought about how dangerous that was.  My favorite learning-to-drive experience was when my sis and I were taking driver's ed together and Mom was helping us learn to parallel park.  Look at this borrowed picture of  a 1986 Chevrolet Caprice Classic to get how extremely difficult this was.  I mean look at the size of the hood.  And the seat was broken so I couldn't see over the hood.  (Thankfully, we were taught and tested on a tiny Nissan Sentra.)

My mom thought it would be a good idea to use her shoes as place markers.  Let's just say they ended up with tire marks on them.  By my sis of course, not me.

For some reason I was obsessed with learning to drive a stick-shift.  So I thought it would be a good idea to borrow my dad's truck to learn.  I assured my mom (who didn't know how to drive a stick) that I could do it.  I managed to make it to the stop sign down the road before my mom insisted that we go home.  Ah good memories.

I was so excited to get my license.  My birthday fell on a Saturday, so I thought it would be okay for me to show up a day early in order to have my license on my actual birthday.  So I got all dressed up to look nice in my picture.  Unfortunately, the office refused to let me get it a day early and told me I had to come back on Monday.  I didn't bother to go all out the following Monday and just went after school to get my license.

My first car was a 1989 Suzuki Swift. (Again, a borrowed picture.  Not my actual car.  But it looked just like this.)

I bought this car with my own money from my own job, and was so proud of this car.  I even put a larger size tire on it, which earned it the nickname "pregnant rollerskate".  I eventually had to trade it in when I started driving the freeways more, but I hated to get rid of it.

So there you have it.  Go on over to Mocha with Linda to join in and link up!

Random Dozen: Do You Remember Plinko?

Definition of plink: "Plinking refers to informal target shooting done at non-traditional targets such as tin cans, glass bottles, and balloons filled with water." Plinko is also a carnival game we play at Oneighty, but pot-luck shots fits this meme better, I think.

Side note:  This reminds me of the game on The Price is Right.

So here are your random plinko questions lined up in a row just like tin cans:

1. How old is the oldest pair of shoes in your closet?
Probably at least 20 years old.  I don't wear them.  They don't even fit because my feet got fat during pregnancy and never went back down.  Why do I keep them?  I don't know.  Maybe it is because they remind me of my youth.  Who knows?

2. Did you buy Girl Scout cookies this year? If so, what variety?
No!  Because I would eat the entire box of Caramel Delights all by myself.

3. Do you know how to ballroom dance? If not, would you like to?
A little.  My hubby & I took lessons for our wedding.  I would love to learn more.

4. Were you a responsible child/teenager?
Not as much as I should have been.  I was a bit rebellious.  I hope my son is nothing like I was.  My poor mom.

5. How many of this year's Oscar-nominated movies did you see?
I don't think I saw any.  I don't get to the movies that much.  In fact, there are so many movies on my Netflix list that I'm just now starting to get the ones from 2004.  Sad, sad.


6. If you're going to have a medical procedure done, such as having blood drawn, is it easier for you to watch someone else having the procedure done or have it done yourself?
It doesn't really bother me either way.  I've had so much drawn over the years that I don't even notice.  Blood doesn't bother me either.  I thrive on the Discovery Health Channel.

7. What is your favorite day of the week and why?
Saturday.  Because the whole family can be together and do whatever we want.

8. Do you miss anyone right now?
Missing my mom.  She passed away in 2007.  I don't think it gets any easier.  I just learn to think about it less.  Also, for all you stalkers out there, I'm missing my hubby who is out of town. But people know where I am at all times, so don't even think about invading my space!

9. Do hospitals make you queasy?
No they scare me.  Don't get me wrong and I don't mean this in an insulting way, but the elderly there scare me.  I had a scary experience when I was a kid and now being there freaks me out.  It was very difficult for me to visit my mom in the hospital when she was sick.

10. At which store would you like to max-out your credit card. Not that you ever would, you responsible person, you.
Ok, I know I should say a clothing store or something along those lines.  But I'll say an auto repair shop because it sure would be great to have a car that is in tip-top shape that I don't have to worry about breaking down.

11. Are you true to the brand names of products/items?
No.  I'm all for the cheapest.  Unless they have done something publicly that I don't agree with.

12. Which is more difficult: looking into someone’s eyes when you are telling someone how you feel, or looking into someone’s eyes when he/she is telling you how he/she feels?
Definitely looking into someone's eyes when I'm the one talking.  I have a really hard time sharing my feelings face-to-face.

OK ... ready, aim, PLINK!

Go to Linda's blog to link up and share your answers!!!

Seven Little Known Things About Me

Lovely Amanda tagged me to list seven things about myself that you don't already know.  I'm too lazy to check my previous posts, so I may repeat myself.


1.  Ever since I was a little child, I have to sleep with the covers over both ears.  Amusing I know.  One day a fly flew in my ear and I didn't know.  It sounded like my Mrs. Pac Man game.  I was so mad that someone was using it without me.  I looked all over the house but couldn't find it.  I finally found it and it was off!  Then my sister yelled "Bonnie you have something black in your ear!"  Just then the fly escaped.  But the damage was done and I was scarred for life.

2. Driving to me used to be enjoyable.  Now I see it as a giant obstacle course that I have to maneuver around.  I don't know when that change happened, but it did.  I'm weird.

3. I am terrified of cockroaches.  I can't be in the same room as a live one.  Even if it is dead, I wonder if it is really dead or just playing dead to torture me.  One time (again when I was little) I was trying to kill one and it turned around and came after me.

Man I'm making my childhood sound wonderful, aren't I?

4. I'm gonna copy Amanda on this one.  My birthday is March 21st and I haven't been to Gringo's lately.  I'm just sayin'.

5. Even though I live in Texas, I hate the heat.  I would love to have cool weather all year round.  In fact, during the summer one will rarely see me outside.  I usually hop from my house-to car-to store-to car-to house, with as little walking outside as possible.  If you saw my blinding-white-cancer-prone-freckle-laden beautiful milky-white skin you would understand.

6. I have this thing where if I'm in a group of people, my ears tend to focus on the background noise instead of the person talking to me.  I have to really concentrate and focus on the person in front of me to know what he/she is saying.  I don't know if that is because my mind is always going 90 miles a minute or what.  But I'm not trying to be rude if I tend to go off course in my conversation.

7. I've always wanted to be a mom, and I'm so thankful that I am able to stay at home with my son.  Most days are challenging, and it is the hardest thing I've ever done.  But I wouldn't change one thing.

There you have it.  I'm tagging everyone who reads this!

Random Dozen in Honor of the Irish!

1. Do you prefer even or odd numbers? Any particular reason?
Even numbers.  That's a good question.  I guess because the even numbers feel complete to me.  Hmmm. 

2. On a scale of 1-10, with 1 being "not at all" and 10 being Carly Simon-worthy, how vain are you?
Maybe a 4.  I've learned there are more important things in life.

3. Among these Irish stereotypes, with which do you identify most closely? Talkative, Proud, Inquisitive, Love to party, Hot-tempered
All of the above.  I'm Irish and proud of it. Just ask my husband.

4. How lucky do you consider yourself?
If you mean lucky as in blessed, I'm very.

5. What is the subject of your favorite post that you've written?
Anything about my son.  I guess it is way back when I was listing all the things I loved about him, adding one to each month of his life.

6. Describe March weather where you live in three words.
Cool, crisp, perfect Texas weather.  It's my favorite month.  Maybe the fact that my birthday falls in March helps, too.

7. How apt are you at detecting blarney when you hear it? (Smooth talk, flattery)
I used to be very naive.  The older I get, the better I am at detecting it.

8. How "green" are you, environmentally speaking?
Not as green as I should be.  Do you know it is expensive to be "green"?

9. What is your favorite song this week?
A hymn "At the Cross".  Because my son has been singing it and it sounds so sweet coming from his lips.

10. You are walking along and see a coin on the ground. What denomination does it have to be before you will stop to pick it up?
Ok I'm not superstitious, but I'll pick anything up as long as it is heads up.  Yeah, it's more like tradition.

11. Complete the sentence: "Every time I look outside my window ...."
I see a big backyard with a swing set, and sometimes there is a little boy in the swing.  :)

12. What was the #1 song on the day you were born? See this site to find out.
Rich Girl - Daryl Hall & John Oates (HAHAHAHAHAHA!)

Please join in!  Go to 2nd cup of coffee to link up!

Random Dozen: I'm a Texan Y'all!

Time for another Random Dozen!  Do your own and link up to Lidna at 2nd Cup of Coffee to join in the fun!

1. Have you ever fired a gun or shot a bow and arrow?
No, and I really have no desire to do either of those.  Surprising, huh?

2. Do you know where your childhood best friends are?
Some of them.  I'm still looking for a few.

3. Do you usually arrive early, late, or on time?
By myself, early.  With my hubby, usually late.  Hmmm.

4. Are you more of a New York or California type?
Neither, I'm a Texan type.

5. Do you have a special ring tone?
Just one of the default ones that came with my phone.  I'm too cheap to buy a ringtone.

6. What is your favorite type of chip?
Doritos or Cheetos.  If it stains my hands, then it is a winner.

7. Best comedy you've ever seen is ....
Can't think of a movie, but AFV is hilarious to me because I like to see the misfortune of other people falling all over themselves.

8. Have you ever cut your own hair? To quote Dr. Phil, "How'd that work for ya?"
Absolutely not.  I'm not that skilled.

9. If you were going to have an extreme makeover, would you rather it be about your house or your personal self?
My self I think.  I would like to have a few nips here and tucks there.

10. Are you allergic to anything?
Nothing that I know of.  Maybe a very light seasonal allergy which makes me cough sometimes, but I'm very fortunate in that regard.

11. Why is it so hard to change?
The familiar is comfortable and routine.

12. One last question dedicated to February love: CS Lewis said, "To love is to be vulnerable." Please share one example of that assertion or share any thought you'd like to about this topic.
To truly love is to open yourself up to another person.  You make yourself vulnerable in trusting that person to not throw your faults back in your face.

How It All Started

 

So I received a suggestion from Amanda for a blog describing how my hubby and I met.  So buckle up, hang on and prepared to be bored to tears.

We first met May 22, 1997 when I started my first job after school.  On a side note, I was really proud of myself for starting work a day before graduation.  Even though it was technical school I felt I had really accomplished something.  Anyway, I remember being introduced to him and the first thing he said was "Hi".  Normally that wouldn't be funny, but he said it all Casanova-like.  He would disagree with me on this, of course.

If it hadn't been for email he never would have asked me out.  That's how we communicated most of the time because we were both so shy.  We were friends for awhile before he invited me to spend New Years' Eve with him.  But since it was last minute we decided to have dinner at The Olive Garden.  Then we drove around looking for a place to get a drink.  But the parking lots were all full, so we decided to go and get chocolate milkshakes for our midnight toast.  (I was very relieved at this, because I was under 21 and was terrified they would card me and I would be embarrassed.  He is 8 years older than me after all.)  So we rang in 1998 with the McDonald's employees at the drive thru window.  A great first date, I might add.

So when was our next date, you ask?  Not until FIVE MONTHS LATER when he asked me out again.  I thought he wasn't interested, because every time I nonchalantly asked him what he was doing, he would say he was going to visit his grandmother or some other family member.  Really, what guy spends that much time with their family?  Well after I got to know him and his family, I realized he really was spending time with them.  Anyway this entire time I had been praying for God to send a good Christian man my way.  When I finally gave up and said "I give up, God.  It is in Your hands."  Bryan asked me to a Bible study the very next day.  Imagine that.  So it was May of 1998 when we really started dating and spending time together and going to Bible study together.  By August of 1998 we were engaged and exactly a year later on August 21, 1999 we were married!

And, as they say, the rest is history.  Thoughts, comments?

Oh I'll be happy to blog on another subject.  Just leave your request in the comments section!

Random Dozen from BonBon

1. Do you use the labels various charities send you as “free gifts?”
Yes, it's better than throwing them away. Right?


2. What is your favorite time of day (or night) for skywatching?
I love looking out of the passenger window, up at the stars when we are driving home late at night.


3. What is the most adventurous you've ever been with trying a new food? (Keep it G-rated please)
I tried sushi at a Chinese buffet. Not smart...I know.


4. Have you ever heard a rock sing? (Trust me, there's a reason for this one!)
Um, no? But I really want to know the answer to this one!


5. If you could learn a language you don't presently speak, what would it be?
I NEED to learn Spanish.


6. Al Capone's tombstone read, “My Jesus, Mercy.” If you could write your own epitaph, what would it say?
Um. "What are you doing standing here? She's not here anymore!"


7. If you were a famous musician who was known by one name, like “Cher,” “Sting,” or “Jewel,” what would it be? It doesn’t have to be your first name, but it can be, if you’d like.
BonBon


8. Have you ever been inordinately “into” a television show?
Hello? Lost started last night!


9. When you sneeze, do you go big, or do you do that weird “heenh!” sound that makes people think you’re going to blow your brains out? Any other variation we should know about?
I can go either way. I have an amazing talent where I can sneeze and no one even knows I did.


10. Do you still read an actual newspaper that you hold in your hands, or do you get your news elsewhere?
Well usually the internet, or my hubby fills me in. He still reads the newspaper the old-fashioned way.


11. Are you a good speller?
Yes.


12. At what time each day do you start thinking about Lost lunch?
Before breakfast. Hey I'm a planner.


Your turn!

February Goals

How did you do on your goals for January? Let's just say that I'm still working on it. It is incredibly difficult to get to bed at a decent hour, for some reason. Maybe because I have a three-year old in the house.

Have you thought about a new goal for February? I had a whole list in mind I wanted to do, but I feel like the Lord is leading me in a specific direction. I've allowed myself to be distracted by other books, when my focus needs to be on the Bible. I've felt it, too. I can feel myself pulling away and it is completely my fault. So my goal for February is to not read any book that is not related to the Bible. For an entire month at least. Actually I'm going to start a few days early. I feel the Lord is telling me to get on this NOW.

What about you? Do you have any new goals for February?

Random Dozen: Patience is a Virtue

Once more, thanks to Lidna at 2nd Cup for hosting!

1. How good are you at delaying gratification?
Pretty good these days. It's really easy when you don't have any money! ;)

2. Maybe a marshmallow wouldn't be too difficult a temptation for you. What food (or anything else) would be most tempting?
Chocolate or anything with cheese on it is hard to pass up.

3. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being saintly) how patient are you?
Maybe a 4. 'Nuff said.

4. Have you ever waited for something in life only to be disappointed upon realization of the goal/object/etc.?
I've actually been pleasantly surprised with my life. Maybe because I have low expectations. Hahaha.

5. Are you a person who takes shortcuts?
Not really. Usually I have to end up starting all over and doing whatever it is the right way.

6. Which line is hardest to wait in?
ANY line where I can't see the beginning and what is going on up in front. This is a control thing, I know.

7. Did you wait to discover the gender of your unborn child until its birth?
NO! I wanted to plan, plan, plan.

8. Are you more patient with children or the elderly?
I'm more patient with my own child than with anyone else.

9. Did you ever sneak a peek at a present?
No. I love, love, love surprises!

10. What is the longest you've ever waited for anything?
Seven years to finally be able to have a child. Before you get the wrong idea, this was our choice.

11. Who has more patience, you or your significant other?
Depends on the situation. We balance each other out. If I'm impatient, he is usually the patient one, and vice versa.

12. Which of the following songs about waiting is your pick for the best?
I like the waiting song in the Fireproof movie. What is the name of that song???

Feel free to comment. I love comments!

Random Dozen

So I decided to join Linda at 2nd cup of coffee for the Random Dozen. So, enjoy!

1. So I was thinking about how Jon Bon Jovi never seems to age much. His hair is smaller nowadays, but he still manages to look like a boy somehow. I mean, look at him in this pic with a finger in his ear. Young! And then that made me think of the story of Dorian Gray. Question: If you physically lock in one age for yourself, which would you choose and why?
Speaking strictly physically, I would pick about 20. I worked out like crazy and was at my most physically fit and strongest. Although, mentally I would pick the present. I wasn't saved then, so I wouldn't want to go back to that point in my life.

2. What is the best dish that you cook or bake (your piece de resistance?)
Well I only recently really started to attempt cooking, so I'll have to get back to you on that one someday. Maybe my husband would be a better judge of this question.

3. When you feel blue, what is one strategy you use to help yourself back to normal?
I usually pray about how I'm feeling. Depression plays a big part in how I feel, and I usually notice the signs when it is coming on. So I pray about it. Also, talking to my man helps too.

4. When was the last time you danced in public?
Too long ago. I think it was a wedding. I seriously do not remember. How sad is that?

5. Do you consider yourself a realist or dreamer?
Typically I am a dreamer. But life is making me into a realist.

6. As a parent, what is one thing that you have done well?
As the mom of a 3 year old, I don't feel like there is much I do well these days. Time will tell if I have totally screwed up my child or not.

7. Which is your favorite character on the Andy Griffith show?
Andy Griffith of course.

8. On a scale of 1-10, how much do you know about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.?
Maybe a 3. Shameful, I know.

9. What is your #1 driving pet peeve?
Slow, erratic drivers on cell phones.

10. Which color best represents your mood today? Care to elaborate?
Gray because that's what I'm wearing.

11. If your spouse were an animal, which would he/she be?
A monkey.

12. What activity takes up the bulk of your time on an average day?
I'm an SAHM. Need I say more?

So that's it! Comments, questions?

Just Because

Well I don't really have much to say, but thought I would check in. So this post is probably going to be totally boring. But aren't they all?

I had a bunch of photos to add, but my computer crashed. Weee! Tomorrow someone will be performing CPR on it so I can get my pics back, I hope. One would think I would learn to back up my files. On that subject, I need some recommendations on online backup sites. Anybody?

How are you doing on your goals? You may notice my post is after 9pm. I'm trying, really. I'm getting better and I'm usually in bed by 10pm. But is it possible for a mom to get to bed at any decent hour? That is the question of the month.

I hope to have some pics up soon! I've learned my lesson, I tell you!

New Year, New Blog

Howdy strangers! What has everyone been up to? I hope everyone had a blessed Christmas and wish everyone a Happy New Year. Since it is the new year, I thought I would try to keep up with my blog a little better.

So I'm curious to know...what are your New Year's resolutions? I've decided rather than try to start a whole new list of things I want to do, which by the way never works, I would try to develop one new healthy habit at a time. Since it roughly takes 21-28 days to create a new habit, I'm going to try to add one each month. I'll keep y'all posted on how it's going. My new habit for this month will be trying to get to bed by 9pm-10pm. Believe me, that will be an accomplishment since my normal bedtime hours have been 12-1am! I know! No wonder I'm exhausted all the time.

I know I haven't been around for a while, so I'm going to try to update at least every 1-2 weeks. AND I'm expecting everyone to keep me to it!

Happy New Year and Blessings to All!