beachgirl77

2011-12-18T07:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Jonny....I miss you so much and wish you were here. I know you are watching over me today, helping me get through my day

I miss you now more than ever before,

but, I tust that God will open a door

and show me how to go on without you

To give me some hope and comfort too

for you were my life and I loved you so dear

and it breaks my heart to not have you near

but, life goes on and I will too

I just wish it wouldn't go on without you

by Barbara Lloyd.....

I love you baby

Date of birth 12-16-85

Date he became an angel 12-21-2008

Dreaming of a White Christmas

2011-11-26T19:32:00.000-08:00

Jonny's favorite time of year was Christmas. He couldn't wait to get out the tree and adorn it with the red, green, shiny and glittery decorations. Some were homemade, some were gifts from past Christmas...My plan was to decorate the weekend after Thanksgiving, but Jonny always begged me the weekend before...I remember one year he begged and begged, but I thought it was way to early so I said "No". Well the next day I came home from work and he had the whole living room decorated. The tree was placed in front of the window that could be seen from the street by passersby, on the mantel he placed the nativity scene, along with the stockings hung with care. At first I was upset, but then I realized did he do a wonderful job and placed everything exactly the way I would each year.

Rachel Ray Give Away

2011-11-06T05:04:00.001-08:00

http://www.mommatoldmeblog.com/2011/11/mommas-mondays-rachael-ray-stoneware.html

Check out this new give away...Who would not want these beautiful stonewares......

2011-10-29T08:27:00.000-07:00

It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur more frequently in memory than in life.
~P.D. James

I spent the day in St Louis Art Museum yesterday.Monet's Water Lilies were on Exhibition. I enjoyed the day of art and beauty. Just as people are beautiful on the inside, as well as the outside, I found beauty of the grounds outside the museum on this beautiful Autumn day.

autumn leaves fall
gracefully showering down
colorful carpet

by beachgirl77

2011-10-16T06:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Clippings posted several great ideas on organizing...here is mine. I took a plastic organizer for nails, bolts, screws, etc. I bought it at WalMart and used it to organize my jewelry. Actually I have two of them, and probably will be buying a third soon, just can't part with the old jewelry, when I get the new....

Les feuilles Mortes

2011-10-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

The fin de l' ete(end of summer) and prelude to winter....what a beautiful way to connect the two seasons....colorful leaves of warm reds, yellows, browns and greens...

Yves Montand's "Les feuilles Mortes" lyrics are esquisite

I'M BACK!!!

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

Well, I am finally back.....I am done with school and graduate May 14th. I miss blogging and it is going to be good to start up again....My first plan is to revamp my blog and bring my music back...I don't know how it got lost, but I will find it....

It is a sunshine day today and I hope this stays with us til next Saturday. My heart goes out to those who have lost their homes to all the destruction from the floods and tornadoes.

All That Glitters Giveaway!!

2010-08-11T04:52:00.000-07:00

Go to www.allthatglitters.blogspot.com for the fantastic giveaway....

She is giving away a metal rooster sign, a set of Paula Deen measuring cups,and a Paula Deen skillet fried apple pie candle!

How exciting....Now I do think that Rooster sign would look great in my kitchen of Roosters and I do like Paula Deen......but I also enjoy following her blog...

So go to All That Glitters and good luck to all

TIME

2010-07-28T05:42:00.000-07:00

"Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't
own it, but you can use it. You can't keep
it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it
you can never get it back.”

Harvey MacKay

We need to make good use of our time. Time is precious. Use it wisely....

Goodwill and Decorating

2010-07-05T14:55:00.001-07:00

Our Goodwill store has moved into a much bigger building. It used to be a furniture store. Not only is the building bigger and cleaner, but the items seem to be nicer and lower priced. I obtained several frames, a beautiful painted tray, pillow pattern, and much more. The lowest price I paid was 50 cents, and the highest was $2.00....Total $27.00.....

It is hard to see in the picture, but the round plaque has a rose on it, it says "God's love is seen in a single rose"...

Lots of good finds....

I also was busy making a craft with picture frames, picture hangers and burlap that I bought at previous garage sales. The shells I have had for years, from on of the many trips to Florida to see family...

Painting and Decorating

2010-07-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

My plan for this summer (before I went back to school) was to do more blogging....that did not happen, because I have been painting and decorating and going to garage sales....and you name it....so here is a little bit of what has been going on in my world

This is the before picture of my living room. I just moved into this house last August and still need to paint the walls and get new drapes (or at least new valances)....

Painting the table black made such a transition from the country look...

Love the "Fern Green" paint I got for free, it really made a difference on this plant stand.

I have had this book case since 1998, I was ready for a change.

Much better, same "Fern Green" paint used on plant stand.

In addition to painting furniture, I have been decorating the walls. One of the projects was the cute idea that I found on someones blog site. I can't remember which one it was, but I liked the idea. If it is from your site and you are reading this, I apologize for not recognizing you, but yours looked so good, I thought I would try it.

Summertime, Garage Sales and Flea Markets

2010-06-23T16:55:00.000-07:00

Summertime is here and I have been to a local flea market....I had a garage sales the Saturday before Memorial Day to get rid of the old and bring in the new.....or "new to me".....

I found burlap, a picture frame, window sheers, home decor, three accent pillows to go with the new bedspread in the master bedroom....and much, much more.....I even found a free-standing garden trellis for $15.00, original price was $112.00.....looks great in the garden....I have not decide what viney flower I will grow, yet....All in all I spent $30.00 including the trellis...

I am still looking for more window treatments for the master bedroom, but there are more garage sales and flea markets out there waiting for me.....Happy Hunting everyone...

Memorial Day

2010-05-30T05:30:00.000-07:00

Well I thought when the semester was over, I would have time to post on my blog....busy, busy, busy.....

Well I had my rummage sale, a great sunny day for it...did pretty well. That is one thing to check off the list. Now I am off to see my son Brandon today, then visit my friend Joanna.....tonight I am going to HerrinFesta Italiana with my co-workers....lots of good food and good entertainment. Luke Bryan is playing tonight at 9:30, or as my friend texted me Vt0 (she forgot to use the function button on her cell phone, thought it meant she was going to veto me from going....so now that is her new nickname)

Tomorrow I will place flowers for Jonny....I miss him so much.

To everyone, safe travels, safe Memorial Day and remember those who lost their lives for our freedom.

Garage Sales

2010-05-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

Well the semester is over and I finally get to blog again. The first weekend in May, holds one of the biggest Garage Sale in this area......I never miss it, but unfortunately the semester was winding down, and stress got the better of me. I stayed home like an obedient student..So I thought, I will go this weekend....what a bust, not because the community had bad sales, but the rain spoiled every ones plans....so I took my friend Debbie's advice, I went home and watched movies.....At least it was relaxing....

However, I still have the garage sale bug, so now I want to have one. I moved into my new house last August (3 days before Fall Semester began) and I have yet to go through the closets and organize. My pile of "get rid of" began to grow.....Purging is so much fun.....so as my friend/co-worker Sandy always says "therefore, henceforth, there forth"....I decided to have a garage sale....The good news is that I can get everything in the garage ready the night before, and then the next morning just a push of the button (garage door button) and wallah...instant garage sale...So until then I am cleaning out the closets and probably making room for more junk...

You Grow Girl

2010-04-10T15:14:00.000-07:00

I was at Menards the other day getting gardening supplies and window shopping,looking at all the goodies I would love to put in my yard. I came across a book called "You Grow Girl" by Gayla Trail, for $6.00. I figured I can't go wrong at that price. It has everything from planning to planting to cute little projects. The projects are marked from "easy peasy" to "get down and dirty". It is a handy little book, since my gardening expertise is at a minumum. I am fortunate to have two neighbors who help me out. Both have beautiful yards. One looks like an English garden, the other is more formal. Myself, I am kinda in between. I like both, so mine is a mixture. My plan this Spring is to landscape the side yard and have a patio poured in the back yard. I was given free patio furniture and it needs a place to sit. So I am taking advantage of the beautiful weather we have been enjoying the last several days, and digging in the dirt.....

So, how does your garden grow....

New template

2010-03-26T06:32:00.001-07:00

Well everything old is new again....so the saying goes. It was time for a change. I wanted something Spring like. I may change it around a bit, still playing with it. Like a kid with a new toy, it has my attention right now. It is kind of fun, but I may need to change some of the colors around. I got an email from the blogger team and it did not take much to convince me to try it out. My next step is getting my music back on. I guess I lost it when I took a break from blogging.

Stress Management

2010-03-25T05:15:00.000-07:00

Can you be stress out about a stress management class???....surely not....I registered for a 2 week stress management class, this summer. (It also counts as my elective)My friend Lynne took it last year and said is was wonderful. I was de-stressing down in Florida, visiting my family...otherwise we could have taken it together. Anyways, there are only 3 other students who signed up besides me. I think we only need two more students, before they cancel the classes. I was so looking forward to it....Of course registration, just started last week, and there are procrastinators out there (not like me, who counted down the days til registration)

I guess if I miss out, I can find a yoga class somewhere.....now just take a slow deep breath......just breathe...

Rainy Days......

2010-03-21T11:16:00.000-07:00

So much for the sunny, warm days.....today is cold and rainy...but what better way to turn a frown upside down, than trying out a potato soup recipe I found.....Yummy...

Panera's Cream Cheese Potato Soup
Ingredients

* 4 cups chicken broth
* 4 cups peeled and cubed potatoes
* 1/4 cup minced onion
* 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
* 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
* 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, cut into chunks

Directions

1.

Combine broth, potatoes, onion, and spices.
2.

Boil on medium heat until potatoes are tender.
3.

Smash a few of the potatoes to release their starch for thickening.
4.

Reduce to low heat.
5.

Add cream cheese.
6.

Heat, stirring frequently, until cheese melts.

Okay, it may not be the true Panera's recipe, but it was delicious. Now that my tummy is full, back to reading my material for Wednesday night's class. So, Bon Appetit, my fellow bloggers...

Happy Frist Day of Spring!!

2010-03-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

Happy first day of Spring everyone. Well to me Spring and flower crafts go hand in hand. I went to Hobby Lobby and picked up this free craft project.....

Then I found 3 stems true touch rose bud, and a small bag of river stones...I already had the rose vase and the moss....I thought I had the natural raffia, but that will be my next trip to the craft store...

And c'est a la magnifique....

Spring is in the air

2010-03-19T11:25:00.000-07:00

"The splendor of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not rob the little violet of it’s scent nor the daisy of its simple charm. If every tiny flower wanted to be a rose, spring would lose its loveliness.”

Therese of Lisieux

Okay, the weather is wonderful today. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, the sky is a beautiful blue, and flowers are blooming. Last August I bought my house, and before winter I had the front yard landscaped with the help of friends. Now, I can't wait to start on the side of the house. My plans eventually lead to the back yard, for a relaxing retreat. I found this picture, and thought "perfect". It won't happen this year, but maybe some day. A girl can only dream. For now, I am just going to enjoy the sunshine and my day off.

Tomorrow is the first day of Spring, the Vernal Equinox. I am so ready for Spring to begin and I am already enjoying the sun being out a little bit longer in the evening.
So everyone enjoy and embrace Spring.....

Happy St Patrick's Day

2010-03-17T06:04:00.000-07:00

Happy St Patrick's Day everyone.....ready for green beer, green cupcakes, corned beef and cabbage.....We are all wearing green today at work (supposed to wear pink)but no-one wants to get pinched. In the spirit of the day I even have St Patrick's Day socks on.....Wishing all good fortune and wealth....now go and find the four leaf clovers and enjoy the day....May your day be filled with shamrock's and gold at the end of the rainbow.

Happy Pi Day

2010-03-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

∏ I hope every one enjoys Pi Day, today. Now I prefer to eat pie, than discuss the relevance of Pi. My favorite is pecan pie....I have used a wonderful recipe from Family Circle (9/1/98) called Carol Thomas's Pecan Pie....wow it is hard to believe I have been making that pie every year for the past 12 years, time sure flies. I usually make it at Christmas time, but maybe I need to make it on March 14th. I always made 2, one for work or whatever function I was attending, and then one for my boys....Of course none of my pies compare to Miss Faye's

Here is Carol Thomas's recipe:
1 ready to use--roll out pie crust (this is why my pie cannot compare to Miss Faye's)

1/2cup butterscotch chips

1 cup pecan pieces

1/2 stick unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup white corn syrup

2 eggs

1. Heat oven to 350 (degrees)

2. Unfold pie crust into 9 inch pie pan. Scatter butterscotch chips and pecan pieces in pie shell.

3. Beat together butter, sugar, corn syrup and eggs in medium size bowl. Pour over nuts and butterscotch chips.

4. Bake at 350(degrees) for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown.

Now enjoy your day and enjoy your pie....so, what is your favorite pie???

Fat Tuesday

2010-02-16T05:24:00.000-08:00

Shrove Tuesday----Celebrating "Fat Tuesday with pancakes and doughnuts...two of my favorite meals. My church is having a Pancake Dinner tonight, with pancake races and Mardi Gras King & Queen. The Confirmands will prepare the ashes for Ash Wednesday by burning last years's Palm branches. Wish I could go, I have class tonight, but I will be there in spirit. To everyone else enjoy....Happy Fat Tuesday to YOU!!!!

Use what talents you possess: the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best.

2009-08-08T05:20:00.000-07:00

We all have talents. Some are veiled and some are in the open. I have several friends that helped me get through the first few days after Jonny's accident. Lynne helped with the logistics of getting the memorial organized, and driving me to see my son Brandon to tell him the tragic news. Crystal gathered the pictures and the stories of Jonny with me, his brother, his family, and his friends to decorate the display board. Peggy and Ruth were able to comfort me, with their empathetic abilities, having similar losses. My sister and Mom, comforting me and only wishing the plane from Florida brought them sooner. My friend Debbie, whose comforting words, caring and the ability to know what else I needed, such as bringing a wonderful stew, to nourish us and keep my strength up.

The list goes on and on. The talents and kindness continues....all of these people were put into my life at different times and different areas. I know that God put them into my life for a reason...I am forever grateful for their love, their comfort and their talents....

What talents do you possess??

Rainy Days & Tuesdays

2009-08-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

I have been without my Internet since Sunday morning....modem (Internet service) problems. I am back on board. It is a rainy evening, but at least I have power, so far any ways.

Thanks to my followers for their sweet comments on my upholstery blog.

I wrote in one of my old post, of how I miss getting ready for the school year. Shopping for new clothes, books, school supplies.....the boys were so excited to get something new...well, my church is asking for volunteers to help put together school kits for Lutheran World Relief Ingathering....How exciting, not only do I get to shop for school supplies, but I can help out a child, and bring a smile to their face.

Uphostered Chairs

2009-08-01T19:21:00.000-07:00

I bought a "Farmhouse Table" for $5.00 at a rummage sale last May. It came with 2 chairs, so I have been looking for 4 more. I found 4 chairs a week ago, for $30.00. The wood was in good shape, the padding on the seats were in good shape, however, the material was faded and stained.

This is my first time re-upholstering a chair, it was fun, easy and did not take long. I bought extra material to make window valances. I found the material on sale, that matched my decor and taste. In fact it is similar to the one already on it.

Quote of the Day

2009-07-29T04:58:00.000-07:00

What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you. Ralph Waldo Emerson

We always dwell on our past and worry about the future. But, it is what is inside us, what is in our hearts that is important. We all make mistakes, they are life's lessons. We should learn and grow from them. We cannot change the past and we cannot predict the future. We can have loving memories of the past and learn from the mistakes we have made. We can plan for the future, but we do not know what the future brings.

Live each day to the fullest and count your blessings, for they are many.

Names

2009-07-26T07:38:00.000-07:00

I went to a baby shower yesterday afternoon. Peggy's daughter Lindsay is expecting a precious baby boy in September. Jackson is the chosen name. I remember trying to pick out a name when I was pregnant with Jonny. Laura Ann was the girl's name we picked. My husband liked the name John for a boy. I went to grade school with a boy who spelled his name, Jon. I liked the way it was spelled, and we both agreed on Jonathan. I looked up the meaning of Jonathan.....

The boy's name Jonathan \j(o)-na-than\ is pronounced JAHN-a-thun. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "gift of God". Biblical: the son of King Saul, Jonathan was noted for his manliness, generosity, and unselfishness.

He was a gift from God. He was generous and giving. He cared about those around him.

With my oldest son Brandon, we could not agree on a name. Being our first born, we struggled with the decision. I bought a baby name book, wrote down a list of boys and girls names. My husband went through the list of boys and narrowed it down to 2. Justin and Brandon. I liked Brandon better. However, I was in the labor room, and we were still wondering what we were going to do if the baby was a girl. We still could not agree on one.

The boy's name Brandon \b-ran-don, br(a)-ndon\ is pronounced BRAN-den. It is of Old English origin, and its meaning is "broom, gorse hill".

Based on our research, most people would imagine a person with the name Brandon to be: A tall, American boy, somewhat outgoing.

In one word, you might describe Brandon "outgoing" person.

This fits Brandon, he is very out going.

Busy as a Bee

2009-07-22T19:25:00.000-07:00

Oh, what a busy bee I have been. Working long hours, the past two weeks. Last weekend was busy, but I had time for friends and enjoyed the beautiful "fall" weather we have been experiencing, in the middle of July. I joined in my church's fellowship at a catfish dinner at a lodge on the Ohio river on Friday night. What beautiful scenery. Enjoying God' s masterpiece, the beautiful pictures. Just as Renee's son had described.

http://www.reneeswope.blogspot.com/

School semester will be starting again, and I will have to get back in my routine. I am glad I took the summer off. I worked on my scrapbook, visited with friends & family, and caught up on things around the house.

I miss getting the kids ready for the school year....going to Wal-mart to get their supplies and of course we needed a new back pack every year....going clothes shopping....and trying to get them back in the routine of going to bed earlier.....seems like just yesterday.

Personality Plus

2009-07-16T16:17:00.000-07:00

I found a new blog site ... /www.reneeswope.blogspot.com/ .....she talks about, Florence Littauer's book Personality Plus...in this book four personalities are mentioned

1. Phlegmatic

2. Choleric

3. Sanguine

4. Melancholy

I have not only read this book and taken the personality test years ago, but I had the privilege in going to a church Woman's conference and Florence was the guest speaker in 1996. She is an excellent speaker, and the book is quite interesting. I have taken several personality test, through the years either in school or through work. I have read "Please Understand Me II" by David Keirsey about temperament, character and intelligence and "Now, Discover Your Strengths" by Marcus Buckingham and Donald Clifton, PhD.

These books are interesting, informative, thought provoking and motivating. They not only tell you about your personality, but about those around you. They teach you about other's personalities. It teaches about diversity of personality. Instead of trying to change ones personality, how to learn to appreciate ones personality. You gain by appreciating and lose by ignoring or condemning. You have learn about your own character traits, before you can see others distinct traits.

Wouldn't it be a boring world if everyone looked and acted the same...???

Lynne's Poem

2009-07-12T14:20:00.000-07:00

My friend Lynne, was one of many who had helped get me through the first few days after my news of Jonny's accident. She was with me the first night, so I would not have to be alone. We had a power outage that night, and Lynne wrote a beautiful poem, by candle light, in which I asked her to read at Jonny's Memorial Service. I have been given permission by Lynne to share this with my friends and post it on my blog site.

To You…..

My spirit soars
To the golden gates
I must arrive now
For I can’t be late.

God’s arms out stretched
Bringing me into his fold
Heaven’s bounty and glory
Are a sight to behold.

I wasn’t ready
I still had dreams
I feel your hearts break
As your tears run in streams.

Know that I’m safe
Surrounded by love
I’ll now watch you
From way up above.

God needed me now
He took me and a friend
With angels around
That God did send.

My spirit is light
And full of life
Eternally I live
And with no strife.

God’s grace is felt
For all who believe
Hold your hearts open
For I’ll never leave.

By your side I stand
A pillar that’s tall
Of marble I’m made
Giving strength to all.

Again we will meet
At some future time
Live a life full of joy
While you’re in your prime.

By Lynne December 21, 2008

Warm Hearts Blog Award

2009-07-10T06:36:00.000-07:00

At the suggestion of Jackie @ Teacher's Pet, I am awarding the Warm Hearts Blog Award to my 3 amazing followers. This award is given to them, for their kindness, comforting words, benevolent characteristics.

This award should be passed on to those, for those who are bolstering, uplifting, reassuring, soothing, calming, cheering, consoling, encouraging to those around them.

1. mailto:Jackie@Teacher

2. mailto:Eileen@Umma

3. Shannon@BlessOurNest

God Bless and pass this Award on to those deserving.

Sandy

Warm Hearts

2009-07-08T18:27:00.000-07:00

So many people are gifted with warm hearts and kind words.....they express themselves so eloquently.....they use their experiences to help others understand their own trials and tribulations....we learn from our life experiences and share them with others....they help us to learn and grow

We see our loved ones through eyes of others and we understand our loved ones through their words .....

I recently received an e-mail from the mother of Jonny's friends, she expressed to me how Jonny's smile lit up a room, of his compassion for others and of his kindness....I always observed these characters in Jonny, but to know that others appreciated these qualities, is so comforting

Although Brandon and Jonny had completely different personalities, they both demonstrate these qualities and characteristics....these are deep and sincere...both my sons are forever in my heart and I cherish my time with them....

2009-07-05T15:07:00.000-07:00

I get so much information from these blogs sites....especially the frugal shoppers...like..http://www.moneysavingmom.com/.. which gave the great tip of double coupons at K-mart.....saved $26.00 http://www.stretchingabuckblog.com/ ..... lots of Target, CVS and Walgreen tips and coupons....

Of course there is a lot of work to couponing....lots of clipping, organizing, and it takes a little longer to shop....some of these sites give tips and suggestions....try not to get trapped into buying something you don't normally use, or something that might be cheaper in another brand without the coupon.....I have received a free quart of paint from "Glidden" ......I have also received a free box of Kashi TLC bars (tasty little cereal), along with 5 - $1.50 coupons towards more boxes of TLC bars...

Another money saving site is....http://www.5dollardinners.com/about-me ........I just tried the taco salad (posted 6-4-09), even made my own taco seasoning (already had the ingredients).....it was delicious and under $5.00......I am going to try the Beef stirfry and the balsamic chicken pasta salad...

And if you like crafts.....http://www.favecrafts.com/...is a great site.....I downloaded a gardening e-book from this site in addition....

This will keep me busy til the fall semester starts and I am hitting the books....
Enjoy these sites...

Sandy

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone.....it is raining this morning, but hopefully it will quit tonight....

I used love to take the boys to see the fireworks...some times we would go to see the local fireworks, sometimes we would go to my sister-in-laws for the big family get together...

When Jonny was 7 months old and Brandon was 4 years old, we lived in Northern Indiana and went to the park, laid out a blanket.....Brandon and I watched the fireworks while Jonny slept....how he slept amongst the loud noise of the fireworks and the "oohs" and "aahs" is beyond me, but as soon as the sun went down he fell asleep....I guess he could not figure what all the fuss was about, and sleeping seemed the thing to do...

Have a safe and spectacular 4th....

Sandy

Memorial Tree

2009-06-29T17:43:00.000-07:00

I have been receiving some very kind comments on my last post about my scrapbook for my Jonny.....yes it is very therapuetic....along with the book and this blog I have done a balloon release with a grieving support group and bought a tree to be planted at my church....I still go through the stages of grief, and will for quite some time, but I still have the support of family, friends and co-workers...

I check Jonny's My Space to read the messages his friends continue send...he loved his friends and they love him....

Scrapbooking

2009-06-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

Busy working on Jonny's scrapbook....on top of that the frig went out.....trying to remedy that situation.....

I am working on the high school aspect of my Jonny's life.....the football, track and wrestling....football was Jonny's favorite....after months of grueling practice....finally getting to play the first game in his freshman year, Jonny broke his leg in the first practice afterward.....but that did not discourage him.....he played varsity his sophmore, junior and senior years....making all confrence and all south.....he won awards in wrestling and track......one of his friends wrote in the questbook at his memorial service .."to the man who couldn't be stopped".....but Jonny was modest about his awards, he just loved the game and being part of the team....he wanted everyone to be a part of the team...and no one to be left out...and like his big brother Brandon, he made friends easily...I am proud of both of my sons....

Food, Food, Food

2009-06-22T19:22:00.000-07:00

Well the slumber party was a blast, we did karaoke, played games, watched "He's Not That Into You" and "New in Town"....along with that we had tons of great food....I brought three appetizers that I tried for the first time....

Spinach dip.....the ultimate stuffed mushroom and festive crab cakes.....Yummmy!!!!!!!!!

Spinach Dip:

frozen spinach drained

cubed velveeta cheese

cubed cream cheese

1 can diced tomatoes with chiles

real bacon bits

Mix and microwave....2 - 5 minutes on high, just enough to melt the cheese.....you can serve with crackers or tortilla chips

Crystal shared a new recipe of frozen grapes....shown in the picture above...I thought I would try it....it is so easy...

Frozen Grapes:

Place a packet of cherry flavored jello into a plastic bag, add red grapes.....shake grapes around ( you know shake and bake style) .....then freeze the grapes....they are delious....

Slumber Party

2009-06-20T06:07:00.000-07:00

My friend Crystal is having a slumber party this weekend......Instead of "Girls Night Out" we are having "Girls Night In".....we have been trying to get together, but between floodings, inland hurricanes and holidays, we have yet to make it....soooooooooooooo Crystal, Lynne, Peggy, Lisa and I are going to eat lots of good food, play games, and have great converstations......you know catch up.....

Yesterday I was fortunate enough to go back stage and watch Melanie Walker tape her christian show on "Come on In"....how exciting....just as exciting as seeing her up on stage at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville next week....she is so gifted in voice and ministry.....

http://www.melaniewalker.com/

Honest Scrap Award

2009-06-18T20:13:00.000-07:00

I have just recently started my blog and Eileen from Umma's World, was the first to post comments. Through her blog and her comments to my post I can tell she is a very gracious and kind woman, who loves her family. I am honored to be awarded the "Honest Scrap", and hope to carry it on to seven of the many inspiring blogs that I follow. I am grateful and thankful that Eileen and my paths have crossed through our blog sites.

Now on to the rules of acceptance.

1. Say thanks for the award and give a link to the presenter.

2. Share ten honest things about yourself.

3. Present this award to seven other blogs.

4. Tell them of this award and the rules.

Here are 10 honest things about myself:

1. I have learned to let people help me, and I can still be independant, without trying to do everything all by myself.

2. I am truly blessed with friends and family. I always knew how much they meant to me, though I had not realized this til six months ago, how much I meant to them.

3. I agree with ...."The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. "
-Benjamin Franklin.....however, I often times forget this.

4. I used to want a career that I could do a lot of traveling with, and move to a bigger city....now I want to settle......

5. Although I don't expect others to be perfect (well, maybe a little) I expect myself to be.

6. I am a Pollyanna....

7. I miss my son Jonny, very, very, much....and feel my life will never be the same.

8. I stress the small stuff....but I am working on it.

9. I don't know what I want to be when I grow up.

10. I hate clutter.....

I will greatly enjoy passing this award on to seven of my favorite blogs, who inspire me and I look forward to reading their new post...

Bec @ Beyond the Picket Fence

Nicole @ Graves House

Margo @ Margo's Junkin' Journal

Shannon @ Bless our Nest

Sarah @ Thrifty Decor Chick

Nora @ Faithful Days

Kari and Kijsa @ KariandKijsa

Grand Ole Opry House

2009-06-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

Back from a weekend in Nashville, TN....Sunday Morning Country 30 year celebration, at the Grand Ole Opry House....what a treat....such great voices....great music...and great fellowship....

This is my second year and I am ready to go back, next year....all these talented people donating their time....there to serve the Lord

It was a beautiful drive to a beautiful city....a nice get-away....

Crafty Days

2009-06-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

It has been so long since I have enjoyed doing crafts, but after viewing this site....http://www.favecrafts.com/ ...I have been bitten by the "craft bug"...I have sent this site to my sister and friends who also revel and delight in crafting....

I also came across a free recycling crafts ebook on this site ....http://www.moneysavingmom.com/ how green is this....

My sister got me started on scrapbookking....I am making a scrapbook of the memories of my son Jonny....it is a slow process...so many memories....when I am done I will make one for my son Brandon, we have so many new memories to make...you do not realize all the aspects of your children's lives until you view all the pictures....

I'm Back

2009-06-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

What an exhilarating, exciting, jubilant weekend.....the Laughter Yoga Workshop has brought my friend and I such a delightful weekend....

I did not know laughter could be such a great workout, and bring so much energy and relaxation at the same time....my stress was alleviated......and yet I felt I could take on whatever life brings me....

In addition, I made new friends.....a group of awesome people....there was so much positivity (is that a word), affirmative, optmistic encouragement....to feel that you can throw your inhibitions to the wayside....and reach out to people....

I would encourage any one to go join a laughter yoga group or class.....to de-stress and re-energize and improve your mental/physical health...

Laughter Yoga

2009-06-05T05:19:00.000-07:00

I am on my way to Chicago this weekend with my friend Lynne, to attend a Laughter Yoga Workshop....they say laughter is the best medicine...it is a great way to destress....70% of illness such as heart disease, high blood pressure, anxiety and depression are stress induced...in addition laughter is infectious, free and does not require thinking ......what a concept...

Well Lynne and I are ready for this workshop weekend, after a long week....a time to destress, relax and get caught up on friendships....maybe we can bring back what we learned and teach it to others....watch, do, teach.....spread the laughter...

Rain, Rain, Rain

2009-06-03T05:57:00.000-07:00

Another rainy day....I love to sit and read when it is raining outside.....when my boys were little I used to read to them, before Brandon was school age, I would take him to the weekly story-time at the local library....he enjoyed hearing a new story every week.....but enjoy reading again until he was in Jr High.....his class assignment was to read the book "The Outsiders".....and now he reads James Patterson novels.....I have enjoyed reading all my life....my sister and I would walk to the library and get a stack full of books, every week.....she always liked the classics, and would tell me all about what she read.....my 5th grade teacher introduced our class to Little House on the Prairie, after reading to the class I went to the library and checked out all the Laura Ingalls stories....as a young child I read all the Bobsey Twin stories.....now I mostly read text books.... but I still find time to squeeze in a little novel or too

Independence

2009-06-02T05:43:00.000-07:00

My friend broke her ankle, while cleaning up from our storm on May 8th. We don't realize how much of our independence is taken from us when we are injured. How much we have to rely on others to help us out. We are so used to coming and going as we please. We take these things for granted. Four years ago I had gall bladder surgery, and Jonny was taking care of me instead of me taking care of him. Although I was fortunate and grateful for my sons deeds, it was very frustrating to have to rely on some one. Well my friend is on the mend, and is able to get out of the house, even if it is for a small window of time...she is blessed with family, just I was blessed with family and friends.....and in the end we, through the days, we have yet another chapter in our book called "Life"

Rummage Sales

2009-05-31T13:06:00.000-07:00

As much as I enjoy going to rummage sales, I do not like having them.....luckily our church is getting ready to have one next weekend....donating was much more rewarding, and it was exciting to see what everyone else had to give....I went to several sales over the weekend, in between raindrops....there was something for everyone....

I am off to Chicago (area) with my friend Lynne, next weekend for a laughter yoga workshop....we could both use the stress relief, right now....

2009-05-27T16:51:00.000-07:00

I bought this 33 inch rattan trunk (a Jennifer Farrell collection) at Big Lots a few months ago...it was marked down to $72.00, with an additional discount, bringing it to $55.00. Since there was a small (fixable) flaw it was again marked down to only $27.00. I was so excited at the bargain, that I did not look at the original price of $240.00 until I brought it home. It is used as my coffee table.....it also stores extra pillows, afghans and blankets in it.

I bought a picture at Good Will, liked the frame, but the picture was faded. I took a piece of gold, textured scrapbooking paper to replace it. I then used a transfer on the glass. I like the new recycled look. It reminds me of my friend Lynne. She not only has the word "smile" on her license plate, but she is always smiling and sees the good in everything.....

2009-05-26T15:04:00.000-07:00

Back from Florida, just made my second flight....had a wonderful time, the sun finally came out so we could play.....lots of good food, good company, and reminiscing....

Even found a sign with my name on it...I thought all beaches are sandy, even when I am not there....

Brought back a T-shirt from a unique shop called GoFish....and a free bookmarker with the saying "There is no growth in a comfort zone and no comfort in a growth zone." Anonymous....there is so much truth to this...and I am as guilty as the next....but knowing God's is with us and will helps us grow, will help us when we are out of our comfort zone...

2009-05-20T05:34:00.000-07:00

Florida Bound

2009-05-20T05:28:00.000-07:00

I am off to Florida tommorrow to visit family. Hope to get a little sunshine. Hopefully, it won't rain the whole time I am there. Looking forward to rest and relaxation, before I go back to school in the fall.

2009-05-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite pictures of Jonny....He looked so handsome in his tux, my little boy was growing up......."Between the innocence of babyhood and the dignity of manhood, we find a delightful creature of a boy" (Allan Beck) This quote is so befitting of both my sons. I enjoyed being part of their journey from babyhood to manhood.

Miracle Sunday

2009-05-17T11:31:00.000-07:00

Such a beautiful weekend after last weekends "inland hurricane". I was very fortunate to have such little damage. Thankful...for all the volunteers in the community and surrounding communities. Thankful...to all the hardworking men and women getting everyone power, food and shelter.

I am especially thankful, than Jonny's flowering Cherry Memorial tree (that we planted 2 weeks prior) is still standing. It is strong just like Jonny.