Not of this World

My IndyFringe Experience

2011-08-20T16:36:00.002-04:00

Want to learn more about the IndyFringe Festival on Mass Avenue in Indianapolis?

Check this out.

What I've been up to lately . . .

2011-07-25T11:59:00.000-04:00

HELP MAKE A FAMILY COMPLETE!!

2011-03-24T12:20:00.000-04:00

Please read these posts about helping to bring Kameron home.

http://ourjourneytohome.blogspot.com/

http://theadoptionshop.blogspot.com/2011/03/ipad-fundraiser-prizes-added.html

And most importantly - please read this blog post (and the linked post) about TEARING THE ROOF OFF to help someone!!

Step out of your comfort zone today and help bring this precious little girl home to her forever family!!

THEY HAVE THREE DAYS LEFT TO RAISE THE MONEY!!

It is our mission to help 'the least of these.'

Finally!

2011-03-07T09:06:00.002-05:00

A blogger background that I LOVE! What do you think? Is it me? ;-)

Thankful Thursday

2011-01-20T15:27:00.000-05:00

This week, I have a lot to be thankful for.

In November, I had a surgical procedure that threw me for a loop both physically and emotionally. After that, I got a really bad sinus infection - which is JUST NOW finally starting to get better.

For the first time in months, I actually feel pretty good and positive about life. And I am so thankful!

I am thankful for my family, for our puppies and our kitties, and our friends.

I am thankful for GOOD HEALTH and I am thankful for the chance to make 2011 great.

And hate me if you want - but I am thankful for SNOW!! I just love it when the world is covered in white. I think it looks beautiful.

What are you thankful for today?

Living trumps blogging

2011-01-03T11:50:00.002-05:00

I haven't had a lot of time to blog about my life, I've been too busy living it. And I think that's okay. :-)

I'll try and update soon.

Oops! Gotta catch up! Month of Thanksgiving - November 6-10

2010-11-10T10:01:00.000-05:00

November 6th: I am thankful for weekends spent with family and furries. Even if it is just lounging around the house in our jammies - it is always fun.

November 7th: I am thankful for HunkaHubby's day off. He finally has a day off to spend with us - and we are all thankful.

November 8th: I am thankful for milestones reached at a job that hopes to make a difference in the lives of many animals.

November 9th: I am thankful for giggle girls and smiley boys, best friends who are always there for you, and marriages that last (Michelle & Francisco AND Dad & Susanne! Happy Anniversary!)

November 10th: I am thankful for warmer weather and the ability for lives to change when you never thought it was possible.

What are you thankful for?

Month of Thanksgiving - November 5th

2010-11-05T08:28:00.000-04:00

I've mentioned that the past year has been rough for many reasons. Over this year I've renewed old friendships and drifted away from others (and drifted back again). I've also had a lot of eye-opening and brain-exploding experiences.

I grew up in church. I had a few people in the rough high-school/young adult years that I would turn to for spiritual advice or questions when I didn't understand something I read. Over the past year - I've found that more than one of those people no longer attend church and struggle to even believe. This turned my world upside down. I didn't know what to think or what to feel. These people who were my "pillars" - no longer believed what they had for so long. Did it make me stop believing? No. But it has made for some great conversations!

On the opposite side, there have been a few people who were NOT raised in church and who used to scoff at the idea of religion of any form who are now attending church and having spiritual conversations with me. I think this is wonderful, but it is surreal to me.

It is ALL blowing my mind.

But then I realize how thankful I am that God has given me the gift of listening without judging. I didn't always have this gift - and sometimes still slip into wanting to close my mind to what I am hearing. But through all of these experiences, I have learned a lot about who I am. I LOVE having conversations with people. And it doesn't matter if we disagree - what matters is that we are willing to respect each others' opinions.

As a young child through a teenager - my Dad and I would always debate issues. Politics, religion, social issues . . . he always had a strong opinion - and many times, my opinion differed from his. We would have these great big conversations, arguing our points, disagreeing, but in the end - we never had hard feelings toward each other. We loved and respected each other and could laugh at agreeing to disagree. I wish that everyone could be like that. There would be a lot less tension and a lot more willingness to work together for the common good.

We all have to fight prejudice every day in some part of our lives. Often - we have to fight our own inner prejudices. I know I do. But I have realized one major thing . . . it doesn't matter if you agree with someone, their beliefs, their lifestyle, their religion . . . what matters is listening . . . respect . . . and LOVE. We are commanded to love ALL - not just those who share our beliefs.

So today - I am thankful for the great diversity of people in this world. I am thankful that God gave me the gift of listening, and that he gave us the Greatest Example of Love.

Be thankful for our differences today . . . and strive to listen without judging, and love with everything in your being.

Month of Thanksgiving - November 4th

2010-11-04T09:23:00.000-04:00

Okay - this one is going to be controversial. Everyone always complains about how holiday merchandise comes out sooner and sooner every year. My aunt always said that people seem to miss Thanksgiving because it is overshadowed by Christmas. Well - because I have decided to make ALL of November Thanksgiving - I think it is okay for me to be listening to . . . CHRISTMAS MUSIC!!

Yes, today I am thankful for Christmas music and this entire holiday season. Christmas music is so uplifting and it makes me happy and brings back so many wonderful memories. Last Christmas wasn't so fun - and I am so thankful for this Christmas and the opportunity to make it so much better.

Some of my favorite Christmas songs are:

Oh Holy Night
Stille Nacht by Manheim Steamroller
Strange Way to Save the World
Breath of Heaven (and pretty much ALL Amy Grant Christmas music)
Sleigh Ride
Silver Bells
Pretty much all Trans-siberian Orchestra music
The Bell Carol

Oh - who am I kidding? I LOVE IT ALL!!!!

So - I apologize Auntie Linda . . . but I'm listening to Christmas music!!!

What are you thankful for today?

Month of thanksgiving - November 3rd

2010-11-03T09:42:00.000-04:00

Today I am thankful that I have an understanding boss. The past year has been pretty crazy for me, I've had to be off work for kid issues, I've been an emotional mess, my health is kind of 'eh' and I've had to be off for testing, etc. But he is super supportive of me and that makes me want to work that much harder.

So I am thankful that I have a good paying job and an understanding boss!!!! :-)

A Month of Thanksgiving

2010-11-02T16:02:00.000-04:00

Several Facebook friends challenged others to use the WHOLE month of November to find things to be thankful for. So - because I just saw this - I have to catch up from yesterday and then add today.

1. I am thankful that I know what unconditional love is.

2. I am thankful for pets who show me that unconditional love every day. I've never seen it said better than the video attached below.

I challenge you to find something to be thankful for EVERY DAY.

Wow - I suck. LOL

2010-10-21T12:38:00.000-04:00

I haven't updated this in a while. I've been super busy!!! I always think it is a good thing to neglect your blog if you've been out living life. :-) I'll do a picture update soon!!!

Are we doing enough?

2010-09-30T14:48:00.000-04:00

I had to share this post that I found through my friend Rett's blog.

Please read it - and pray about what you learn. Is there something you can do?

http://onceuponamooncake.blogspot.com/2010/09/statistics.html

Living

2010-09-27T10:00:00.000-04:00

I haven't updated my blog since the end of my FaceBook experiment, but I've been busy!! I've been busy . . . LIVING. Which is awesome.

I'm having tons of fun supporting and spreading the word about Hunkahubby and his art and the group of artists that he is a part of - The Artists Upstairs. Check them out - you'll be inspired!

Now do something creative and inspirational today!!

Facebook Experiment - Part 6 - STILL GOING

2010-09-10T08:44:00.000-04:00

I'm going on 80 hours without Facebook. Woohoo! I'm proud. I do have "willpower" after all. Next week - I AM transferring this willpower to my penchant for eating things I shouldn't . . .

Last night, I ALMOST caved. Simply because a dear old friend who has known me most of life was EVIL and texted me with this - "Oh my gosh, if you're on a Facebook vacation, no wonder you didn't text me! You haven't seen my Facebook page today!" Okay - first of all, this guy ALWAYS plays the gullibility card on me and I almost always fall for it. Secondly - it took me FOREVER to convince him he should use Facebook and he very rarely updates. Third thing - he is a very "keep to himself" kind of person and there is no way he would post something personal on his page that I would HAVE to see. Then he says that he didn't actually post it, that someone else did. Ugh. He's mean. But I didn't cave. I didn't look. But he KNEW it would drive me crazy. What a brat.

Finally - I think the vacation may end today - simply because I'm afraid of the "notifications" I might have when I log back on. Of course - what if there aren't ANY? What if no one missed me? Will I be able to handle it???? LOLOLOL

Thank you for going on this journey with me during my Facebook Vacation. I recommend it to anyone who is addicted to Facebook. It really helps to put things in perspective. The world WILL go on if you don't update your status every time you go to the bathroom. The world WILL go on if you don't water your farm. The world WILL go on if someone ::GASP:: unfriends you. Facebook is entertainment and a great networking tool . . . use it wisely.

Facebook Experiment - Part 5 - GUEST POST - UNFRIENDING!

2010-09-09T16:01:00.005-04:00

I asked my dear friend, whom I frequently nickname "Oh Wise One", and she agreed to do a post on Facebook Unfriending. Now OWO has a knack for saying what she thinks and I absolutely love that about her. However, because my blog is family-friendly . . . I am going to "censor" some words in her post (notated in red). . . BUT - if you want to see the post in all of its uncensored glory - you may view it on her blog - here.

The Dreaded Facebook Unfriending, by Dr. Yoda, Oh Wise One

Dealing with the DREADED FB UNFRIENDING is the sad connundrum we ourselves have placed upon us. Why is it SO terminal when we are minding our own business on Facebook...checking out what people are doing, and GASP! We realize in horror that we have been UNFRIENDED, or (EVEN WORSE) BLOCKED!!!!!

Is it the fact that this was SUCH a public display of a diss? Personally, I have been unfriended a few times, blocked a few times, and each time, I simply have to laugh. Sure, there is the initial "shock and awe" of HOW DARE THEY?!?!?!!?!? But really, this all boils down to the equivalent of a group of 5 year olds on the playground taunting each other. And it is - because Facebook is the adult playground.

This year in fact, I had an UNFRIENDING, which to this day, leaves me cackling....

I was sitting on my computer, with Facebook up, doing homework, and typing on Yahoo IM (multi-tasker!!!!). I was chatting on Yahoo IM with a male friend who was having some issues with me...and I was listening, rather, pretending to listen, as he ranted on and on. It ends up he gets SO pissed with me, he signs off IM abruptly. I think to myself, well, ok, he needs to cool off, ok fine.

So back to my homework I go...

Next thing I know, my phone starts buzzing continuously as this fellow is rapid-fire texting me...as I pick up my phone to look at it, I do believe I said aloud, "Are you kidding me!?!???" To be honest it was so long ago I forget the conversation exactly, but I do know that me replying just added fuel to his fire.

He said a few choice words and I thought - geez, no way I can do homework with this going on - I KNOW!!! I will play on Facebook! And so I procede to click on people and check out what they are doing. I happen to click on the very person I was talking to (yes - I actually wanted to see if they had changed their status to reflect the current happenings, lol) and HOLY HECK, I WAS NOT A FRIEND!!!!!

I started giggling at that point, and was cackling by the time I had texted "Did you just unfriend me on Facebook?" into my phone as a reply to him.

Silence. (because no sooner than 2 seconds after you did it, I caught you, you big dummy!!!)

So I send another text. "Real mature for a 30 something adult there pal"

Silence.

So I cackle to myself and NATURALLY go to Facebook to update my status 'I WAS UNFRIENDED ON FACEBOOK AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS LOUSY T-SHIRT'

About an hour later, I receive a friend request with an email following asking my forgiveness, how stupid and immature he was, he was just so mad, etc, etc, etc

We are still not FB "friends". And I still cackle about it.

Dealing with unfriending and being unfriended:

1. If you are unfriended, it is NOT a diss, nor is it a reflection on you as a person. If you are basing your ego on being unfriended, you seriously have more issues than that.

2. If you are unfriended, I would suggest a "benefit of the doubt" refriending, whereby you send a friend request to the culprit. If they accept, you know it was a casual mistake. Technology DOES fail. If they don't, do not begin to 'friend request stalk' - that just shows how pathetic you really are and will potentially cause them to block you (and then you can't even view their activity from your common friends walls!!!)

3. If you decide to unfriend someone, THIS is a big decision. You literally can be sending someone into a mental breakdown of sorts. Make sure you are FINAL in your unfriending.

4. Perhaps you actually might be really just sick of seeing all their dumbass posts, and getting all the status updates about how pathetic they are, or how they just took a big dump in Poop Row....in which case, consider "Hiding" before Unfriending. They won't know you have hidden them. And that will be one less serial murderer for me to worry about on Craigslist.

5. You may use the Unfriending as I do, as a punishment to big jerks who do you wrong. This is OK, as long as you are not just acting out of stupid anger. When I recently moved, a friend on FB sent me a message indicating they would totally be there to help me move. (I knew this person outside of FB, by the way) They said "You can count on me". And then moving day NO CALL NO SHOW. They left me hanging without an explanation. So - to showcase MY irritability with their actions, I unfriended them. That was my way of saying "scram" without actually haveing to exert the effort of typing them a message...just a simple CLICK, and they were gone. It was a cleansing feeling :)

All in all, I must say, I LOVE Facebook. I used to say it is my crack. I am better about it now as in I don't HAVE to be on it all the time, and I am not. I find it a good resource to network and laugh with people about stuff, and laugh at people about their stuff. Don't take the unfriending personally, laugh it off, you aren't 5 years old you know...

Happy Unfriending!

[Editors Note: The post really does "read better" with the original "color" - I actually had to use synonym.com to find another way to say some of those words! LOL]

Facebook Experiment - Part 4 . . .

2010-09-09T14:09:00.000-04:00

Well - I'm getting close to 48 hours of this Facebook Vacation, and I'm doing pretty well. The first day I was kind of sad. Today, I'm just kind of "eh" - I don't really NEED it. Now - once I come back from vacation, maybe I can switch this "eh" feeling to food! We'll see. ;-)

I worked on a list of the good and bad things about Facebook . . . so here they are.

Here are the things I've learned are BAD about Facebook:

It can be a MAJOR time sucker. You start looking at pictures and statuses and you just get so involved in the lives of your friends that you forget to live your own life. NOT GOOD.
The GAMES, GAMES, GAMES! Some of the games are harmless - Bejeweled, Farkle, they are kind of like Solitaire or Minesweeper on your computer. They can suck time, but not consume your soul. But then there are things like evil FARMVILLE, MAFIA WARS, etc. I admit I got sucked into Farmville initially. And I had to tend to my farm everyday. But I wasn't tending to my own "farm" while I was in this virtual world. I got over that addiction pretty quickly. (although, I currently have Zombie Farm on my iPhone - I don't have it connected to Facebook and I don't let it consume my life - I just like letting the Zombies attack a couple of times a day to let out my frustrations!) Word of advice - don't start the games so you don't get sucked in.
A LOT of people use their status updates to make passive agressive statements to their friends or in hopes that a friend of a friend will tell the person the status was actually about what was said. We've all done it. We've been frustrated and we've let a status fly that we shouldn't have. THINK BEFORE YOU POST!
Sometimes Facebook can cost you money . . . you hear a great song you've never heard, so you head to iTunes and buy it, you see a great product you've never heard of, a great book you've never read, etc. etc. etc. You end up buying things you wouldn't have . . . and as this is the POINT of these types of services - it can be hard on the pocketbook if you don't know how to curb your spending.
Facebook is legal stalking and an easy way to get gossip on your friends and acquaintances. That's the long and short of it, really.
If you aren't careful and check the Facebook privacy settings every few months - you could end up letting the world know a lot more information than you want them to. My Facebook is set that friends only can view my information, and I intend to keep it that way.
You can get bombarded by requests for this charity and that charity - so I recommend picking a few that are really important to you and don't feel guilty when press "ignore" on the other ones.
Sometimes you have something brilliant and earth-shattering that you absolutely MUST share with the world - and someone else doesn't take it the way you wanted them to - and they block you, or hide you, or heaven forbid UNFRIEND you!! (more on that later)

Now that I've listed quite a few bad things about Facebook - let's look at the good:

One of my favorite things about Facebook is that it has allowed me to catch up with old friends I had been unable to find or hadn't heard from in years. It is such a great way to renew old friendships and relive fun memories along with easily keeping up with each other's lives without having to do a dreaded Christmas newsletter. (of course, one CON of this is that when you actually see each other - you have nothing left to talk about . . . LOL)
Facebook provides really great networking opportunities, especially for small businesses! It is easy to create a business page, share it, and get your message out there.
You can use Facebook as a kind of ministry. Some people use Facebook to post a daily Bible verse, post inspirational videos, etc. I try and find quotes that speak to me and that I think will speak to others as well. And I don't know how many times, someone has sent something to me on Facebook that has made my day. It can be a great thing.
It is a place to find out new music, new books, new ideas, new projects, etc. (just don't let it take over your pocketbook!)
It is easy to control who sees what on your Facebook page so you can make sure that the creepy stalker neighbor from next door can't see your Facebook page.
It is a really quick way to update everyone you know about happy things (marriages! babies!) or ask for prayer for the not so good things.
If you have a charitable organization, Facebook is great for this as well. You can spread the word about your organization and get people to support you.
AND - if other people's statuses annoy YOU - you have the ability to hide them, block them - or if all else fails UNFRIEND them.

I think that Facebook can be good or bad, it just depends on what you decide to use it for. Of course, I do have a few pet peeves . . .

If you don't want people to give you advice or comment on your life - then don't tell people about it in your status! Geesh.
Just because someone's status may say ONLINE whether it be Facebook, AIM, Skype, etc. doesn't necessarily mean the person is actually sitting at the computer. I personally have all 3 of those accounts on 3 different computers AND my phone. One of them may be logged on somewhere - and I don't even realize it. So don't get all bent out of shape when someone doesn't answer you!
Just because someone's status may say ONLINE doesn't necessarily mean they have 4 hours to chat with you. A good way to start . . . Are you busy? If they say yes, especially during WORK hours, don't be offended!
Word of advice for adults - be wary of friending people under 18 unless they are related to you or a very good friend of the family. You just . . . never . . . know . . .
If you posted something because you KNOW it will cause drama - don't whine when it comes back to bite you in the butt.
Use as few "automatic posting" applications as possible.

Okay, okay - that's enough of that for now.

Do any of you have any great Facebook tips? Thoughts? Pet Peeves?

Next post? How to deal with a Facebook Unfriending . . . by a guest poster who doesn't know she's doing this yet . . . hee hee hee.

Facebook Experiment - Part 3 . . .

2010-09-09T08:43:00.000-04:00

Still going. Kind of liking the feeling of being unplugged from the world.

Working on my list of Pros and Cons for a later post.

Happy Thursday!

Facebook Experiment Part 2

2010-09-08T22:49:00.000-04:00

I've made it over 24 hours! I am having my hubby check HIS Facebook and tell me exactly what time I started my vacation . . . and it was (drumroll please) yesterday at 3:14 PM, EST. So at the time of writing this blog, I've been vacationing for roughly 30 hours.

I have to admit - the first part of today was ROUGH. Every website WANTED me to friend them on Facebook. Everything I saw reminded me of someone and I wanted to SHARE it on Facebook. I had to literally pull my hand away from the shiny blue and white F on the screen!!! ;-)

The bane of my existence.

But honestly, by this evening, I was actually liking the fact that Facebook wasn't ruling my life. No - I didn't get to see the pictures of the newest baby on Facebook, I didn't get to listen to a new song someone suggested, I didn't get to see which person had the wittiest status . . . but I had some quiet time.

And in that quiet time - I realized, that I really need to "unplug" sometimes. Get away from everything. No TV, no computer, no Facebook . . . and maybe even no iPhone (CRINGE). On the way home from work today - I plugged my phone in, rolled down the windows, turned up the radio and thoroughly enjoyed my ride home.

So Day 1 of the Facebook experiment is a success. But I do have to admit, that I picked up my phone in the middle of this post and out of habit, started to click the Facebook button! (Luckily, I had logged out - so all I saw was the login screen!)

Day 2 . . . will it last?

Facebook Vacation Experiment . . .

2010-09-08T13:26:00.000-04:00

So, yesterday something happened that made me want to stay away from FaceBook for a very long time. No - my account didn't get hacked. No - no one stole my identity. No, I didn't get stalked. But someone took offense to my perpetual positive attitude in attempt to be a good friend. And it hurt me. It hurt me a lot.

So - I decided to take a Facebook vacation.

And I didn't realize how hard it would be . . .

I heard a really great quote on the radio today that would have made a really great status update . . . but alas, I cannot post it.

I'd love to find out what my friends are up to - but alas, I cannot get on Facebook and find out. I have to wait and see if they text or email (or heaven forbid, CALL) me and tell me what is up.

I can't even post a link to THIS POST on my Facebook page so that people will actually know I updated my long neglected blog.

When did Facebook become such a major part of our lives?

So - over the course of this 'vacation' and I'm not putting a time limit on it - because I don't know how long I can handle this . . . I'm going to try and determine the good things about Facebook and the bad things - and see if I can use Facebook in moderation for the good and stay away from the bad.

We will see.

Wish me luck . . .

And feel free to let people know I'm updating my blog . . . since I CAN'T! ;-)

Getting Creative

2010-07-27T17:03:00.000-04:00

I spent over an hour last night at Robert's new art studio (more info here) taking high resolution pictures to use on products and on his website to help sell his work. I love doing this kind of thing, and luckily - Hunkahubby just lets me run with it, most of the time.

Last night while photographing his work and watching him paint - I got inspired myself . . .

It is amazing how the space that is there specifically for creativity can inspire all who go into it. The kids get creative too!!

So here are a few pictures that I took while I was there . . .

What do you think?

Robert's Palette

Mixed Media

The Mind of the Artist

Brushes

Go out there and get creative today!!!

Making Rainbow Cake!!

2010-07-12T16:06:00.000-04:00

This past week, we celebrated something really fun in our family!

Hunkahubby got his very own ART STUDIO and we had an opening reception/birthday celebration for him.

To commemorate the event - the kids and I decided to bake an extra special cake.

I had seen this rainbow cake online several times and wanted to try it (because I LOVE tie-dye) and thought this was a great opportunity to try it.

So following are some pictures from the cake making and then a few pictures from the reception!!

I cheated and didn't use the recipe listed in the link above - I just bought vanilla cake mix and butter cream icing. Yum!

Divide the cake batter evenly into six bowls.

Use Wilton food coloring gel and dye each bowl of batter to the desired color.

I used rainbow order:

Red (not picture), Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple

For one pan, start with purple and pour in half of the mixture. Pour in half the blue, half the green, half the yellow, half the orange and half the red. Do not mix it up!

For the other half of the cake, do the opposite. Start with red and go to purple.

Bake the cake per the instructions, let it cool and then ice the bottom half and stack the top half.

I was very sad to cover up the pretty colors!

To explain this next part - Jackson Pollock is one of Hunkahubby's favorite artists.

Here is an example of Pollock's work - "Galaxy":

So - I 'decorated' the cake with this in mind . . .

Big fun mess, right?

Also - Hunkahubby has a sculpture - HERMAN - who has appeared in several paintings

since his creation. We love Herman. He holds great meaning.

So I thought Herman should be on the cake. Hunkahubby and I did our best to make

a Herman out of fondant and toothpicks.

Then HE got painted. Herman is a part of the art, ya know!

I had bought an extra box of cake mix and the kids wanted to do their own - so we only used red and blue this time (Spiderman cake, in their words) and they helped ice and decorate a small flat cake and some cupcakes.

I was so excited to cut into the cake and see how it looked! I was not disappointed!

Here, my dear friend Mary is modeling the cake:

Taste the Rainbow, Mary!

The cake was a hit.

And the guest of honor and his studio were a hit, as well!!

Here he is in front of his studio sign. (Find out more at sketchbookdiaries.com).

And here we are - the whole family.

We are so proud of you!!!

Five years?

2010-07-06T07:11:00.000-04:00

Where has the time gone?

Last night about 6:00, I felt a wave a depression like I hadn't felt in a long time. I felt like a weight was pressing on my chest and I could barely breathe. I had no idea where it came from. And no matter how hard I tried - I could not make the feeling go away. I finally got to sleep around midnight . . . and I woke up at 4, picked up my phone and saw the date . . .

July 6th.

Grandma has been gone for five years. I cannot believe it.

And once the source of my sadness was known - it was a little easier to breathe . . . and yet it wasn't.

There have been so many times over the past five years where I wished I could pick up the phone and call Grandma and ask her what I should do. She never told me what to do - she just talked me through things, told me stories of her own life, and somehow made me feel better about things - no matter what the outcome.

And there were three things that Grandma could do that ALWAYS made me feel better - as a little girl AND as I got older . . .

Her cooking. Probably where I developed some of my emotional eating issues - but nothing could beat Grandma's comfort food!
Her music. Singing with Grandma made you feel better about everything. You cannot stay down when your voice is lifted in song.
Her hugs. My Grandma's arms wrapped around you were the only thing you needed when you felt like you'd lost your handle on life. She grounded you and made sure you know that it would all be better in the morning.

I learned so much from you, Grandma. And I'm still learning - every day . . . and teaching my own children all of the things I learned from you.

Thank you.

I love you.

Yikes

2010-06-30T10:43:00.000-04:00

So - Hunkahubby and I are going to start doing the Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University . . .

I'll keep you updated . . .

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-02T14:49:00.000-04:00

The end of May . . .

2010-05-31T14:30:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it is almost June. Again. Time flies so fast.

We've had a fun month.

At the beginning of the month, my best friend and I took our kids to the Great Wolf Lodge. We all had a blast, and Michelle and I even got to get PEDICURES!

I took my sister, my twin niece and nephew (and my kids) to Bouncertown and my oldest won 1000 tickets on one game!

To celebrate our FIFTH Family Birthday . . . Hunkahubby and I took the kids to the zoo.

And we had cake.

And my hubby had a reception for his art that is on display with fellow artist Alix Cain at the Greater Greenfield Chamber of commerce. I am so proud of him! (Check out some pictures of the event on his artist blog.)

The puppies got to explore outside - and they keep growing, and I am struggling to stay unattached. Only two more weeks until they are big enough to leave the nest. :-(

Angelina graduated from her Kindergarten class at school and got a new Bible. She loves it.

The kids survived another year at school and I now have a 1st grader, 3rd grader, and a 5th grader. Wow.

And this weekend, Hunkahubby had a luau party for us, just for the fun of it.

And although we have had our struggles - this month has ended up a whole lot better than I thought it would. And I am SO THANKFUL.

Happy Memorial Day to everyone.

Remember those who have gone before us - and take the time to cherish those who are still here.

Thankful Thursday

2010-05-13T09:03:00.000-04:00

I have MUCH to be thankful for. Especially this week.

Our family has gone through an extremely rough time over the past year. But we are getting through it.

So today - I am thankful for:

1. The God who guides me through the storms - even when I don't realize it . . .

2. My family that God brought together.

3. My friends and family who stick with me, encourage me, kick me when I need it - and pray without ceasing.

4. Good jobs and future opportunities for Hunkahubby and me.

5. The meow-meows and woof woofs who never cease to drive me crazy and make me love them even more.

Speaking of the PUPPIES . . . they are almost a MONTH OLD!!!

And here is the one puppy that is already spoken for . . . at 3 weeks. HE IS SO CUTE!!!

Take some time today to be THANKFUL!!!

Puppies!

2010-04-20T15:16:00.000-04:00

Yes. We're nuts.

A couple of months ago - we helped out a cousin with a shih tzu. She did not have time to take care of the doggy the way she should - and since we're addicted to shih tzus, we took her in.

Well -uh . . . we had her less than a week and she came into heat.

And so now - 2 months later . . .

We have puppies!

No . . . we are not keeping them . . . (We ARE going to fix our dogs, though!)

And I'm not sleeping right now . . .

But they are so cute!!!

As for the papa?

Well - there are 3 black and white puppies and one brown one . . . and here are the possible papas . . .

(Daisy is in the middle)

And Murphy (on the left) had black and white siblings . . .

So . . . the world may never know . . .

Starting (or joining) a revolution!

2010-03-30T11:42:00.002-04:00

Check out my post on my other blog:

http://timeforachangeinme.blogspot.com/2010/03/balancing-act-begins-weigh-in-tonight.html

Thankful Thursday

2010-03-11T08:42:00.000-05:00

I haven't done a thankful Thursday in a while. I've been in a deep dark hole, struggling to get out.

I think it's funny that we have a dog named Murphy, and Hunkahubby named him because of Murphy's Law . . . well - Murphy is laughing at that right now.

A lot of not so fun things have happened in our family over the past few months. I'm not going to get into detail here - but suffice it to say that most everything is life changing.

And Tuesday morning - when I didn't think I could take one more thing - one more thing happened. And I laughed so hard that I started crying.

And yesterday morning, as I was driving to work - I was so sad because it was already 50 degrees, I knew it was going to be a BEAUTIFUL spring day - and I couldn't enjoy it. Spring always lifts my mood - and I couldn't be lifted. However, the night before, a good friend had reminded me to take things one day at a time, or even one minute at a time. So I struggled through each minute. And yesterday morning, a few things turned around. I was able to enjoy the day. And then, as I headed home, more things came crashing in to try and steal my joy. But God sent my neighbor to me to bring that joy back and help me out in the days to come.

So today - I am going to be specific in my thanks:

Thank you for my husband who is doing everything he can to make our family work.

Thank you for my forever best friend Michelle for always being there - even when she can't do anything - she knows exactly what to say (or what not to say).

Thank you to LisaMarie who is a new friend who consistently says something that snaps me out of a funk or helps me understand. I am blessed to know you.

Thank you to Kim and Christine who love so much and want to help so much and hurt with us when we hurt. You are both treasures.

Thank you to Rett and Debbie J. who are both going through struggles of their own - but still take time to check up on us. Thank you for your love, prayers, and friendship.

Thank you to Deb P. who has talked me down from the ledge, several times. Your friendship is a Godsend.

Thank you to my Dad and SuperStepMommy for loving without judging and being the best parents a girl could have.

Thank you to my brother - for being YOU. You keep your chin up too.

Thank you to my 2 sisters who I just met less than a year ago for the first time. You would never know we haven't known each other our whole lives. You have both brought so much joy into my life - and you have been there for me in this time of need. I am so thankful for both of you.

Thank you to Laurie, Auntie Linda, Unka Steve, Steph, and Kate for always checking up on me right at the time where I need to hear a friendly voice (or text.) Your prayers are always felt.

Thank you to all those other friends (I would name people, but I know I'll leave someone out) who check on me on FB, send me an email, or just do something to make me laugh when I need it most. YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE.

And I want to specifically thank Miss Shelley for being there for me yesterday and in the days to come. God knew what he was doing when he moved us into the neighborhood and you were one of the first people to welcome us. You and your family have been right there for us ever since. We love you so much.

So as you can see - in the midst of all of the things that are trying to bring me down - I have so many things to be thankful for. And even though it is supposed to rain all day . . . I can still feel the sunshine of how much I am blessed.

"One day at a time, Sweet Jesus

That's all I'm asking from you

Just give me the strength to do every day

What I have to do

Yesterday's gone, Sweet Jesus

And tomorrow may never be mine

Lord help me today, Show me the way

One day at a time."

A BREAK from theatre

2010-02-22T12:04:00.000-05:00

The show closed yesterday. I wanted to include a few more pictures that I took and a cast photo. I'll start updating you with other happenings soon. I have no theatre plans on the immediate horizon and I'm looking forward to hanging out with my kids in the evenings.

Maggie in the mirror . . .

Big Daddy

Brick & Maggie

Cast & Crew Photo

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Carmel Community Players

February 2010

(photo by Brian Koning)

GREAT JOB ALL!

Theatre Update

2010-01-20T09:31:00.000-05:00

I just thought I'd post a few pictures of current theatre happenings. I am currently AD for Carmel Community Players' "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof." I have to admit that I have totally fallen in love with Tennessee Williams during this learning experience. He is an amazing writer and all of his work is so full of emotion that it literally DRAINS you.

I'm learning so much from my friend and director, R. Brian Noffke and I'm thankful that he has allowed me this awesome learning experience.

The cast is FABULOUS. Within the first week of rehearsals - I was already crying during a scene. What am I going to do when they have all learned their lines and are able to focus MORE on making me cry???

So - I have to say that if you are in the are during the run of this show - you REALLY need to come check out this show. Here is the information: Carmel Community Players

Big Daddy making Big Mama cry.

Maggie attempting to get Brick to listen to her . . .

Brick FORCING Maggie to listen to him!

COME SEE THE SHOW!!

I need to write more . . .

2010-01-13T13:52:00.000-05:00

But my thoughts have gotten more personal. I have so many things that I NEED to write, but not things that I want to share with the world.

So I am starting a new blog that is private, that I may share with a few select people . . . but it is for ME.

2010's mantra is - NEW YEAR, NEW ME.

I will continue to update this blog with family, furry, and theatre happenings.

I hope this year is going well for each of you!!

12 Days of Christmas

2009-12-15T18:26:00.006-05:00

My friend Rett did this on her blog and I want to do it too! Wives of Faith is doing a 12 Days of Christmas Blog Carnival. See the latest post here.

So I'll catch up with the days I missed and hopefully keep up from here on out!

1st Day of Christmas: My Favorite Christmas Song
I have several favorite Christmas songs and I am unable to pick just ONE. I love "Oh Holy Night" and "Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas". They both can get me all choked up pretty quickly because of their messages. I also love the song "Silver Bells" for extremely nostalgic reasons. My mother has never been known for her singing voice - but for some reason, she could sing that song on pitch and I remember driving around in the car at Christmas time, singing Silver Bells with my Mom. It is a good memory.

2nd Day of Christmas: My Favorite Christmas Recipe
My grandma always made fondant at Christmastime. I try and make it each Christmas now to remember her. It is pretty much PLAIN SUGAR, but oh so yummy. I used to love helping her knead the fondant and then roll it into balls and place nuts in the middle. I miss Grandma this time of year.

No Cook Fondant

1/3 c. soft butter
1/3 c. corn syrup
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla
3 1/2 c. powdered sugar (TOLD YA!)
Food coloring (optional)

Blend the butter, syrup, salt, and vinalla in a mixing bowl.
Add sugar and mix again. Turn onto cloth and knead until smooth.
Wrap and chill. Divide into thirds and add food coloring.
Nuts, coconuts, or candied cherries can be added or leave plain
and put a walnut half on top. (She always made them with the walnuts.)

3rd Day of Christmas: The Best Christmas Present I Ever Gave
This one is pretty easy. I LOVE giving gifts. I often get in trouble because I can't wait until Christmas to give presents and then I end up buying more to make sure those I love have something to open on Christmas. But the best Christmas Present I Ever Gave had a little help from the family I spent most of my time with during high school. I credit this family with helping me survive some rough times in my life. Their family had a tradition of making blankets out of jean material. They are so warm and you can personalize them by using patches on the squares, etc. (The Family Mama actually made me one too, and I still sleep under it.)

When my Grandfather died, I got some of his old farm overalls - and that sweet family helped me sew a jean blanket for my Grandma. I worked day and night for a couple of days before our family Christmas. I remember all of us around their kitchen table putting the final touches on it the morning before I was to give it to Grandma. I was exhausted that Christmas, but seeing how much Grandma loved the blanket was so worth it. If you read my blog, you know my Grandma is gone now too - and I just recently got that blanket back. It is a great memory that I can share with my children.

4th Day of Christmas: The Best Christmas Present I Ever Received
I have a lot - but I don't remember the Christmas GETTING as much as I remember the other things. One of the first things that came to mind for me was during my freshman year of college. My parents got divorced that year. It was a rough time, but my Dad and I have always been close and we helped each other through it. That year, I came home and there was a leather jacket on my bed. I had always wanted a leather "bomber" jacket and my Dad got me one. I think he knew we both needed some happiness in our lives. I still have that jacket and it always makes me think of Dad.

5th Day of Christmas: My Favorite Christmas Movie
Once again, I cannot pick just one. I have several. First of all, it is a family tradition to watch "White Christmas" every year. I have great memories of that movie and now my hubby and I watch it with our children. I also love the old cartoon "Twas the Night Before Christmas" with the mice and the clock. As for newer Christmas movies? I love The Santa Clause movies, the Grinch, and probably my most favorite . . . The Muppet Christmas Carol. The music in that movie just GETS me. Hmmm. I think we need to watch it. Tonight.

6th Day of Christmas: My Funniest Christmas Memory
I can't think of a funniest right now . . . but I can think of a "funnest": Our first Christmas with the kids. These three children who had never seen Christmas like we do it. Their eyes bulging out when they came down the stairs and saw all the presents and the things Santa left for them under the tree. We went a little crazy with gifts that year, but we were trying to make up for the Christmases where they didn't have as much. It was so fun, watching them open those gifts, hardly believe it was for them. We were still getting to know each other as a family - but that first Christmas was so exciting - and I will always remember it.

7th Day of Christmas: What Christmas Means to Me
My first thought when I read this was "Lights please . . ."

Linus reminds us every year of what "Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown" and that is what Christmas means to me. Christmas is about Jesus' birth, which was about Love. Christmas is about His love for us and our love for each other.

I finally got caught up - I'll try to do the rest of the days one at a time!

I hope everyone is enjoying this wonderful time of year . . .

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

2009-12-04T09:52:00.002-05:00

Yes, I've been immersed in drama land, again. And will continue to be - at least through February.

But tonight - The Best Christmas Pageant Ever opens. I have one line at the very beginning and then I "wrangle" children who are waiting in the wings. My kiddos are shepherds/angels.

It is going to be a great, fun, family show and I hope many people come to see it.

I really am blessed to live in this community and have so many new friends to share these things with.

It has been too long . . .

2009-10-15T12:52:00.005-04:00

I've really been neglecting my writing. :-(

Theatre has overtaken my life - and I am happy for that. Mostly because I have met so many talented and wonderful people along the way. The only thing I'm not too thrilled about?? Artistic people, their fragile egos and their constant need to cause drama OFF the stage. But it is all part of the overall package. And in the end - it is worth it.

We performed in Fiddler on the Roof as a family, hubby and I just completed My Fair Lady, the kids and I are doing The Best Christmas Pageant Ever now and there are several things lined up for next year. I've been sucked in with no hope of escape!!

But that is okay with me. We have found something that the entire family enjoys. And I think it is great!

What does your family enjoy doing together?

Cutest Dog Competition

2009-10-02T11:33:00.001-04:00

Thankful Thursday

2009-09-17T14:12:00.002-04:00

Today I am thankful that My Fair Lady opens tomorrow.

This has been a really stressful week and I have barely seen my children. I'm looking forward to seeing them on a regular basis starting next week!!!

I am thankful for the opportunity to meet so many wonderful and talented people in this show and I am thankful that my husband and I get to share this experience together.

:-)

Climbing out of the rabbit hole

2009-09-13T19:48:00.004-04:00

(internet photo - behappy4life.com)

Depression is very real. I grew up with people on all sides of the spectrum when it comes to depression. There are those who have experienced it, understand it and know how to deal with it when it happens. There are those who experience it, refuse to acknowledge it, and make the lives of those around them difficult because of it. There are those who hate the stigma of depression so much that they don't want to discuss it. And there are those who don't believe depression is real, say it is "all in their head" or "they are just doing it for attention."

Because of these things, so many people do not want to talk about depression.

I think it is important that we do. So I am. Read on if you wish . . .

My family has a long history with depression. We have had family members who have committed suicide and a large amount who have been diagnosed with some sort of depressive disorder; some who take their medicine and deal with it as they should, and others who only admit their issues when it is convenient for them.

Because of what I went through as a child/teenager/young adult - I am aware of the signs of depression. When I start to feel down, I try and decide what is causing it. Once I've figured out the reason, I try to determine the best way to deal with it. If I cannot make the sad feeling go away - I seek help. I never want to put my family through the things I had to go through. (Which is a much longer story for another time.)

We've had a rough few months. It was not all bad, it was just very hectic and busy, mixed in with some yucky stuff. I dealt with it pretty well for a while - but then I felt myself falling into that deep dark hole. I got cranky with people. I yelled at my kids and my husband when I usually wouldn't. I was mean. And I am not a mean person. Then my chest would feel heavy and I felt like I could not breathe. I knew that I had to do something different.

I'm not afraid to admit when I need help. I went to the doctor and got some "happy pills" to get me through the rough spot. I have mixed emotions about using medication. The last time I had to use medication for depression - the medicine made me feel like I didn't care - about anything. I wasn't happy, I wasn't sad - I just existed. I hated that. I HAVE TO FEEL. I am an emotional person, and that is just who I am. I don't want to change who I am - I just don't want to live in the darkness.

The other thing that is an issue with anti-depression medication is that it often causes you to gain weight. Well THAT would just cause me to be even MORE depressed, so how would that help?

The good thing: I have an awesome family doctor. I expressed all of these things to her and she was able to find something to help me that did not cause weight gain and that worked quickly. After only a few days - I started to see the light of the outside world again. My meanness subsided and I was able to smile. And I was thankful.

I honestly believe that everyone deals with depression at one time or another. The important thing is to find someone to talk to about it. Don't let it run your life and don't let it turn you into a victim. You can make it through it and come out a better person on the other side. Don't be ashamed. The only reason to be ashamed is if you refuse to deal with it and cause others to suffer along with you.

"People make mistakes,
Fathers, mothers,
People make mistakes
Holding to their own,
Thinking they're alone.

Honor their mistakes
Everybody makes
one another's terrible mistakes.
Witches can be right,
Giants can be good.
You decide what's right
You decide what's good.

Just remember . . .

Someone is on your side.
Someone else is not.
While you're seeing your side
maybe you forgot:
They are not alone.

No one is alone.

Hard to see the light now
Just don't let it go.
Things will come out right now
We can make it so.

Someone is on your side

No one is alone."

-Into the Woods

You MUST check this out.

2009-09-05T12:54:00.002-04:00

This is my Uncle Steve's new project! Check it out!!!

http://eivw.blogspot.com/2009/09/shadowland-is-here.html

http://www.shadowlandproject.com/

I think I need to change things to THANKFUL MONDAY!

2009-08-31T13:40:00.002-04:00

I have been slacking. On blogging, on being thankful, on many things.

It's been a pretty stressful couple of months. Some good stress, some bad stress, and some just plain, everyday, ordinary stress. I won't go into the details, because I would rather just put it behind me.

However, we had a very successful run of Fiddler on the Roof. We got standing ovations every night and our last two performances sold out. Hunkahubby and I are now doing My Fair Lady and the kiddos are tagging along to some rehearsals - while my bestest friend in the whole world is watching them for me on other nights. I don't know what I would do without her!! I couldn't!!

Needless to say - with working all day and rehearsing all night - it is really hard to get up in the mornings! ESPECIALLY ON MONDAY! The next few weeks are going to be pretty rough - but I am determined to keep a good attitude and do my best in everything I am involved in.

How can I keep a good attitude? Because I have a beautiful family. Three kids who allow us to indulge in this passion without too much complaining. A wonderfully talented husband who is working so hard at so many things.

And friends. Old and new. Those old friends who you know you can always count on no matter what, no matter how stupid or crazy you act, they still love you.

Those new friends who laugh at your crazy and stupidness and make life a better place to be.

For all of these things - I am so very blessed. So this MONDAY - I will remind myself of all of the blessings . . . HAPPY MONDAY!!

(And I cannot forget to mention this BEAUTIFUL PRE-FALL INDIANA WEATHER that God gave to us!!! THANK YOU!)

Thankful Thursday

2009-08-06T12:57:00.002-04:00

I am struggling to find things to be thankful for today. It has been a really rough few weeks. But I will find some things to be thankful for!

1. My youngest daughter is six today! She is growing up so fast.
2. I'll be registering the kids for school this evening, and I am excited about buying school supplies!
3. I have great friends, old and new, who really know me and make me feel loved.
4. I've been married for 8 years (as of the 4th) to my wonderful husband who puts up with me when I hit a deep blue funk that I struggle to climb out of.
5. My mother-in-law who recently had quadruple bypass surgery is doing much better and should be leaving the hospital for rehabilitation in the next few days.
6. The sun is shining, and my family is healthy. What more could I really ask for?

Thank you to Amaya for reminding me to be thankful!!

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-09T15:47:00.002-04:00

I have a lot to be thankful for.

I have a good job.

A wonderful, gorgeous, talented husband who loves me unconditionally, even on the days where he would rather lock me in a padded room.

I have 3 great, smart (sometimes with an -alleck tagged on the end) kids who are pretty good, MOST OF THE TIME.

I have a ton of little furry things running around my house who really do love me unconditionally and don't want to lock me up, who miss me when I'm gone and always listen to me.

I have great friends. Some friends that have stuck with me for over 30 years, and some who I just met in the past month. I love those friends who I can go weeks without seeing and then when we get together, it is like no time has passed. I am also very blessed by my new friends that make me feel like I have known them all of my life!

I have a God who created this world and loved me enough to give me the chance to experience all these things that I am so thankful for.

This Thursday - I am really, really thankful. :-)

How about you?

My dark day

2009-07-06T07:18:00.002-04:00

Every year, I wake up on this day and wonder why I don't feel quite right. Then I look at the date. July 6th. Four years ago today, I lost my Grandma. And it still hurts.

So today, I am revisiting all of my previous Grandma posts with you, while I am missing her.

Forever Blowing Bubbles

I wish you were here . . .

Happy Birthday Grandma

Family Resemblance

Thanksgiving

I can't believe it has been two years . . .

What I have been up to . . .

2009-07-05T15:01:00.000-04:00

http://fiddlercountdown.blogspot.com/

Thoughts on a Lost Boy

2009-06-29T13:59:00.005-04:00

Over the past few days, I have been trying to determine why a celebrity's death would throw me for such a loop. It's not like I ever met this celebrity or even attended one of his concerts.

Yes, I am talking about the biggest news story right now: the death of superstar Michael Jackson, also known as The Gloved One, Wacko Jacko, MJ, The King of Pop, and even Peter Pan.

Did I cry out when I first heard the news because Michael Jackson was born in my home state?

Am I mourning because I had a major crush on Michael Jackson as an adolescent and used to sneak into my brother's room to open up his ALBUM to this picture?

Am I sad because the music and dance world lost an icon and an inspiration?

I think I am sad for all of these reasons . . . but there is so much more to my melancholic mood over the past few days.

Whatever your thoughts on Michael Jackson, you cannot deny his talent and the effect he had on the world. I have personally always viewed him, not as Peter Pan, but as a lost boy. I think he had fame thrust upon him at a young age; too young an age to have even partial responsibility of "bringing home the bacon" for a large family. I truly believe that the only time Michael was happy was when he was making music and/or dancing. You can see it on his face, even as a child. But I cannot even begin to imagine the type of pressure he was under.

He was a young, black entertainer born into a family of musicians trying to make it. And he tasted success at the very beginning of a country's journey to a change it was not quite ready to make. Somewhere along the way, Michael Joseph Jackson got lost, and I think he stayed there, in Neverland, as a perpetual child . . . a lost boy.

While listening to some memorials to Michael on MTV, a long-standing friend said he once asked Michael about his oft-debated relationships with children and Michael said something like, "The children are the only ones who tell me the truth." For someone who stayed in a childlike world, the harshness of the real world had to have been difficult. I am not saying this in any way excuses him from some of the crazy things he did (nor will I claim I know what crazy things he DID do), but it makes me see things in a different light. How many times have we wished we could go back to our childhood when things were simpler? Well, Michael did it. Things were never simple for him, but he tried.

Even with all of these things, I still could not determine why the cloud of sadness was lingering over me. So I started remembering . . .

When Thriller came out, I was 7 years old. It was 1982. In 1982, Time magazine named its first non-human Man of the Year, the computer. A black man and and a white man recorded a song about "living in perfect harmony". Ronald Reagan was president, and even though we were in the midst of a recession, he would not back down in his belief that our country would come out okay on the other side. And we did.

Although there were some scary things going on at the time, I remember being full of hope for the world that I lived in. I believed in hope for a better day. Hope and Change were not words that people used to get elected, they were words that they used because they wholeheartedly believed that there was hope for change, for the better.

Ronald Reagan said, "Each generation goes further than the generation preceding it because it stands on the shoulders of that generation. You will have opportunities beyond anything we've ever known." Ronald Reagan was right . . . but are we holding up our end of the bargain?

My two favorite MJ songs have always been "We are the World" (co-written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie) and "Man in the Mirror." (Videos provided in an earlier post.) When I hear these songs, I remember that feeling of hope; that feeling that our country really is good and that none of us have lived up to our potential . . . but we still could.

I think I am sad because people have given up. People have started using words like hope and change to sell records, to win elections, to get people to jump on board a sinking ship. They use these words and then blame someone else when things do not go the way they planned.

But the death of Michael Jackson has made me realize one very important thing:

"We can't go on pretending day by day, that someone, somewhere will soon make a change."

We cannot wait for someone else to make things better for us. We have to be a part of change, be a part of hope, and we have to take personal responsibility for ourselves and our actions.

"I've been a victim of a selfish kind of love. It's time that I realize that there are some with no home, not a nickel to loan. Could it be really me, pretending that they're not alone? A willow deeply scarred, somebody's broken heart and a washed-out dream, they follow the pattern of the wind, ya see, cause they got no place to be . . . that's why I'm starting with ME."

I am sad, because I feel like I have lost a symbol of hope from my childhood.

But my hope is renewed because I believe that there are others who believe as I do: that Good will triumph and that we CAN and WILL make a difference . . .

"If you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make a change."

Remembering Michael . . .

2009-06-25T20:07:00.001-04:00

Thankful Thursday

2009-06-25T13:19:00.002-04:00

Today, I am thankful that God is in charge and not me.

And I am certainly glad it is not the A/C guy who STILL hasn't fixed the drippy ceiling above my desk at work. Will I ever be able to put my things back where they go without the chance of them getting wet?

I guess I can pretend I am on vacation and the sound of water is a waterfall, but it sounds more like a drippy faucet and that makes me feel like I need to pee. (Sorry if that was an overshare!)

So thank you God for being in charge of my life - if I would just give it over to you (and NOT take it back), I wouldn't get myself into the messes that I do.

But the drippy ceiling is not my fault . . .

What are you thankful for?

Thankful Thursday!

2009-06-18T18:13:00.002-04:00

Today was a rough day. I didn't get much sleep last night, I was late to work, my finances went haywire and it isn't even near payday, I hit my head, my two youngest children have decided that their ears don't work and truth doesn't matter . . .and one of my cats got out!

I thought it was going to take a lot of digging to find something to be thankful for.

But the people I work with are caring and helped me through the day. Whether they realized it or not, God made them my angels today - and things are on the way back to normal. Sometimes it takes hitting rock bottom to realize who is holding you up.

So I will praise Him in the storm as well as in the sunshine.

Thankful Thursday (late) and Furry Friday all rolled into one

2009-06-12T11:04:00.003-04:00

I am thankful for our animals. Although they drive us insane, they are such a stress reliever when you just need to cuddle.

I've noticed that the kids gravitate toward them when they are having a bad day. Each of the kids have at least one animal that likes to sleep with them, and they LOVE that.

So this week, I am thankful for the furries that God gave us for so many reasons. :-)

Here is Murphy making himself at home on our bench. And yes, he needs a haircut, and yes I took this picture with my phone.

I'll do better next week . . .

:-)

Furry Friday (a day late)

2009-06-06T09:09:00.006-04:00

I thought I would include ALL of the Furries this week.

This is a complete roster of the Animal Planet that lives at our house.

Our newest additions - Murphy and Riley. Very much PUPPIES.

They LOVE to take rides.

Baby Willow who is probably almost a year now- is growing up

into a proud fat cat like her sisters.

Gracie is around 2 years old.

She is attempting to help me grade papers.

Max is Hunkahubby's kitty (or was, before the traitor got DOGS).

He is 3.

Max likes to get in our drawers . . .

The only furry who is absolutely without a doubt, MINE. My big boy Rufus.

He was my 30th birthday present, which means he will be 4 this year

(and yes, I just confessed my age.)

The beautiful white/calico kitty is Cali.

We got her from our friend who had an overabundance of kitty cats

(seriously, a TON). She is about 6, I think.

Rufus and Cali have a love/hate relationship.

This beauty is Britney. She was Hunkahubby's kitty before we met.

He found her in a snowstorm. She was tiny. She is definitely not tiny now.

She is about 12 years old.

And this ornery thing is Lily, the office cat who comes home with me

on long weekends and vacations. She is a people cat, NOT a cat cat.

I have no idea how old she is.

So there you have the furry side of our family. Go ahead, you can say it. We're NUTS!

But if you ever need animal therapy . . . come to our house! :-)

Thankful Thursday: Birthday Edition!

2009-06-04T09:04:00.005-04:00

Today, I am thankful for my brother who was born THIRTY-EIGHT years ago.
This post is for him . . .

I am thankful for all the wonderful memories we have of our childhood,

especially the times we spent with Grandma and Grandpa.

I am thankful that you forced me to play school when I was 2, so I could read by 3
and helped me learn to love reading so much that I now use it as a procrastination tactic. (hmmm . . .)

I'm thankful that we still remember all the "silly ditties" we learned
or made up when we were kids.
(Especially our very clever answering machine messages that we sang in harmony.)

I miss singing with you . . .

I'm thankful that we survived our sibling rivalries when I was your bratty kid sister,
and learned to love and support each other even more
after you ABANDONED me and went away to college.

I am especially thankful for the way you love your nieces and nephews.
They are crazy about Uncle Bobby.

I know we don't always agree, but I know that because of what we have been through together that we will always get through whatever comes our way.

I love you.

P.S. - YOU'RE OLD!!!!

Win a Wii!

2009-06-02T21:49:00.002-04:00

Our Wii is one of the favorite gadgets we own.

Go here before June 4th and you could win one too!!

Happy Tuesday!!

It's Furry Friday!!!

2009-05-29T07:32:00.002-04:00

Gracie has the right idea. But I guess I should go to work.

Thankful Thursday

2009-05-28T07:23:00.002-04:00

Today is the last day of school for my kiddos.

So today I am thankful for SUMMER VACATION!! (Ask me in about 2 weeks and I'll be ready to be thankful for school again.)

This is the last summer before all 3 of my kids will be in school. Where did the time go?

Take some time today and every day to be thankful, it might help to slow things down . . . even if only for a moment.

[will update this later with pictures]

Furry Friday

2009-05-22T19:11:00.003-04:00

I think, because I've been attempting to do Thankful Thursdays each week, that I need to do a FURRY FRIDAY.

Each Friday, I will try and post a picture or two of the Furry Things that have taken over our house.

At present, if we add one more furry - we'll have twice as many furries than we have humans.

Our latest addition?

Riley

Murphy is SO happy.

(And I think the cats are too. Thank goodness the DOG is going to leave US alone!!)

Thankful Thursday

2009-05-21T18:24:00.004-04:00

Today I had to go to the doctor for a consultation on a procedure I have to have next week. It isn't a big deal as I've had this procedure before. While I was waiting, I had some time to think about what I am thankful for.

I am thankful that we have doctors who are able to make us feel better, when years ago most things were not possible, and many unthinkable.
I am thankful for those people who were called to go into the "healing" profession of medicine and are there because they want to help people feel better.
I am thankful for those friends who have had medical scares this past month and are finding new reasons to be thankful every day as God answers prayers.

The one specific thing I want to talk about this week, doesn't have a lot to do with medicine - but I thought of it in the doctor's office, so it counts.

While I was sitting in the waiting room - there was a couple who obviously got to the office early. I assumed it was a husband and wife. They sat there and discussed their lives (not at all quietly), not caring who heard anything and everything about them.

At first, I was a bit annoyed. Didn't they see that the waiting room was full of people who didn't really want to know the inner workings of their everyday lives? But after a few minutes, I had a change of heart. These were obviously very caring people who had been together a very long time. Maybe their lives were busy and this was the one time they had together to catch up. It brought to mind my own grandparents and a time that was much simpler.

Maybe when my grandparents were young, they didn't have as many medical breakthroughs and people had to deal with a lot more pain . . . but everyone knew everyone. And if you were in a waiting room - you didn't have to explain your lives, because everyone pretty much already knew. The doctor knew your name, your husband's name and profession, and probably delivered each of your children. Back then, people trusted people with the 'guts' of their lives.

Some people might say that people were nosier and we had less privacy (party lines, anyone?), but that is not true. (What is FaceBook but legal stalking, anyway?)

Honestly, even when I was little, I remember that we couldn't go anywhere without running into someone that we knew - and it was always nice. It was nice to have people who cared about you and wanted to know how you were doing. I miss that.

As I was thinking about my grandparents, the nurse came out and asked for "Virgil". I was physically startled, as that was my Grandpa's name. A nice older man stood up and went through the door with her, chatting all the way about how he was doing "okay" and laughing, although it was quite obvious he was not "okay".

I had to hold back melancholic tears as I took a minute to miss my eccentric Grandpa. My Grandpa, who went to just about every local funeral, because he had lived in our county so long that he pretty much knew everyone. Some people might think it is morbid that someone would like to go to a funeral home - but this was where Grandpa got to catch up with his friends, hear about people's families, and remember. Remember the 'good ole' days'.

There are a lot of people who never got to know their grandparents, and I know I am lucky that I got to have most of mine for as long as I did.

So today, you might laugh, but I am thankful for FaceBook and other social networking sites. In a weird way - they allow us to go back to the 'good ole days' in a virtual way. We can still be nosy and not have to peer over the fence to do it. It allows us to connect and talk to people without having to travel to our childhood grocery store. It allows us a feeling of community that so many people have forgotten about.

And most of all, I'm thankful for my grandparents and the legacy of love and caring for people that they left behind.

What are you thankful for?

Doubly Good

2009-05-10T11:53:00.006-04:00

Today is a "doubly good" day for me.

May 10, 2009.

For all mothers, today is Mother's Day.
But for me, this day is so much more . . .

(Mother's Day, 2009, even Murphy got in the picture!)

Let me take you back a few years.

August 4, 2001.

Two people pledged their lives before God, their families, and friends
to love, honor and cherish each other, no matter what.

We knew in the beginning that having a family (beyond the furry children)
would be a challenge.

But we were up for the task.

In 2003, Hunkahubby and I started discussing our options for having a family.

After much prayer and discussion, we decided to become foster parents in our county, in hopes of giving a home to children. We wanted to adopt, but knew we would wait on God.

During this time, I got to go to Costa Rica for a Spanish trip.
Our caseworker said we could start our parenting classes when I returned from my trip.
While I was there, I was drawn to the Hispanic children in a major way.
I knew that somehow, these children would be a part of our lives.

While I was gone, my wonderful Hunkahubby moved us into our new house.
A house that had room for the hope of a family.

He even decorated a child's room.

This is what I got to see when I got home from my trip.
I remember sitting in that room at night, crying and praying.
I wanted to be a Mommy so bad, but I knew God was in total control of the situation.

I was not worried . . . only anxious.

And then, we found out that there was a "family" for us. Not just a "child" but a family. Three beautiful children in need of a loving home, together. And they were of Hispanic heritage.

Yes, God was in this.

This is the very first picture we had of our babies. Hunkahubby and I kept this with us through all of our parenting classes. Knowing it was possible that we would not get to be their family, but praying the entire time that God would allow them to come to us.

My how the time has flown. And boy, was our God faithful.

This sad and lost little girl . . .

. . . is growing, way too fast, into a beautiful young lady.

This quiet little boy . . .

. . . has a zest for life and a heart of gold (and is not so quiet anymore.)

And this chubby cheeked little angel, with an ornery spark in her eyes . . .

. . . is still ornery, and a ray of sunshine in our lives every day.

You see, today is a doubly good day for me,

because May 10, 2005 - we became a family.

On this day, four years ago, I was OFFICIALLY a Mommy and these beautiful
blessings were officially a part of OUR FAMILY.

So, on this day - I thank God for allowing me to be a Mother and allowing us to celebrate the wonder of families that HE puts together.

Only God can take two broken adults and help them find wholeness through Him, in the love He gave them for each other. And only God can then take three lost, lonely, and neglected children and give the five of them more love than any of them ever thought was possible.

And because of that:

I will thank the Father for the things that He has done
And thank Him for the things He's yet to do
Because we found a love that's tender, and we found someone who's true
We thank the Lord,
He's been doubly good to us . . .

(Words paraphrased from "Doubly Good to You"
- written by Rich Mullins and sang by Amy Grant)

Check him out!

2009-05-08T20:07:00.002-04:00

I love my Hunkahubby.

Sketchbook Diaries

Do you like Chinese food?

2009-05-01T08:53:00.006-04:00

Our family loves Chinese food. And sushi.

This is probably my favorite restaurant right now.

But why should we be the only ones who are allowed to enjoy this?

Shouldn't our pets be allowed to enjoy Pan-Asian fare?

Now they can!

Check out these cool cat treats!

And because we are equal-opportunity pet-lovers . . .

Check out these cool sushi treats for dogs!

Do you think they will like them?

Thankful Thursday

2009-04-30T19:15:00.003-04:00

My good friends over at Two + Two = FOURever Family try and post every Thursday for what they are thankful for. I think it is a great idea, so I need to do it too.

What am I thankful for today?

I am thankful for rain that causes grass, trees, and flowers to grow.

I am thankful for a good job, when so many do not have one.

I am thankful for the laughter of my children as the puppy attacks them.

I am thankful for my artistic husband who is at school tonight, but I am also thankful that when he comes home, I will have an even bigger reason to be thankful.

And this Thursday, I am especially thankful for my best friend Michelle, who loves me and fixes me dinner on Thursdays when I'm too tired to do it myself. :-)

And I owe every single one of these blessings to the One who made the rain, allowed me to have a job, and brought my family and friends together.

Tiptoe through the tulips with me . . .

2009-04-27T10:12:00.004-04:00

I love spring.

Forever blowing bubbles . . .

2009-04-19T06:00:00.001-04:00

Don't have a heart attack. I'm posting two days in a row.

Yesterday was a beautiful day in Indiana. We spent much of the day outside. Part of it . . . blowing bubbles.

Who doesn't love bubbles? Seriously. How can you not be happy when beautiful iridescent bubbles are flying all around you?

There are contests for the biggest bubble, the most bubbles, and the ever-elusive bubble within a bubble.

It is so much fun that even Daddies have to give it a try.

I love bubbles. And I love spring.

And it is the beauty of God's creation and my blessed family that get me through each day.

Even on a day like today.

My Grandma would have been 83 today.

And I'm guessing she enjoyed watching her great-grandkids blow bubbles just as much as I did.

And I bet they have some awesome bubbles in Heaven.

Happy Birthday Grandma.

April Updates!

2009-04-18T11:53:00.004-04:00

Yes, I update my FaceBook page daily, and my blog has been suffering. I will try and do better.

So here is our very busy April with a few words and pictures.

We visited the Children's Museum and the new Lego exhibit.
Here are my princesses and prince int he Lego castle.

The Children's Museum also has a temporary Star Wars: Clone Wars exhibit -
and we (geeks that we are) loved it!

My youngest got her picture taken with the kinda scary looking Wal-Mart Easter Bunny.
I had nightmares.

Our favorite cousin came down and helped us color Easter eggs.

The finished product!

My beautiful blessings before church on Easter Sunday.

The love of my life, worshiping with the kiddos at Club 252 on Easter.

Us.

And - unbelievably, this little girl - my best friend and cousin's daughter
turned TEN this month! TEN! I can't believe it.

She is growing into a beautiful young woman, and it makes me want to cry
at how fast the time has flown.

And Murphy? Yep. Murphy is still the cutest puppy ever.

Spring is here and summer is right around the corner. Wow.

Homemade Personal Pizzas - Cheap Family Fun!

2009-03-21T20:02:00.003-04:00

A month or so ago (so I’m BEHIND!) we decided to make homemade pizzas. We bought the already made personal size crusts for the kids, and a healthy thin crust pizza for the parents. We let the kids decide what type of ingredients they should put on their pizzas (we were concerned, but it turned out better than we thought!)

Here are the children eagerly awaiting the pizza-making frenzy!

First we brushed olive oil on the crusts.

Then we gave them a scoop of pizza sauce and a spoon for spreading.

(My oldest wanted to use sour cream for her pizza sauce, mmmmm.)

Then we slowly gave them toppings to spread round on their pizzas. Cheese, baked potato,

cheese,

bacon bits,
ham, pepperoni, more cheese,
and even more sour cream.

. . . and, uhh, more cheese.
Oh – and the boring adult pizza got a lot of healthy yummy things like tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, chicken, and light cheese. (It was NOT boring, it was YUMMMMY.)

Then we baked them and wasted no time in gobbling them up.

There were smiles all around – but we were too busy eating to take a picture of the enjoyment of pizzas made by our own hands.

This is a great activity to do with your family that doesn’t cost a lot of money.

The kids can’t wait to do this again!!

Spring has sprung again!

2009-03-16T17:53:00.005-04:00

I can feel it in the air. I even have a SPRING in my step. I love the Christmas season, and I even love snow - but about mid-February, I am ready for the sun, for flowers, for the smell of the air at this time of year. (I admit it, this picture is from LAST spring, but this post needed some FLOWERS!!!)

I sometimes wonder if I have Seasonal Affective Disorder, because I get kind of down on things in the winter time. And, in case you didn't notice . . . I don't blog as much!!!

So - I am trying to make some changes. I am organizing a bunch of things at work, and figured I need to organize some things in my life as well!

Even though I LOOOOOVE sleep - I'm going to try and get up an hour earlier each day and not go to bed as late as I usually do. (We'll see how well this goes, by body is whining for a nap right now.)

And I will try my best - to take some time each day and write . . . :-)

Thank you Lord for the seasons and the feeling of renewal that comes with Spring!!

60 Years of Laughter

2009-03-08T19:49:00.004-04:00

Today my Dad is 60. As I've posted on this blog, he has had some health issues the past few years (which are under control now, thank goodness). So when we had his birthday party yesterday - we didn't do an "over the hill" party - we did a celebration of his life. Honestly, I don't know what I would do without him.

I asked several people to share some memories about Dad - and every story was filled with fun and laughter. That is one of the biggest things I've learned from Dad. A sense of humor can help you overcome just about anything.

So on this day, Daddy - I want to say thanks for being who you are, for being a hard worker, for never giving up, for loving your family, and for keeping us laughing.

No matter what happens in your next 60 years (yes, I want you to live that long!), I hope you know how much you are loved.

HAPPY 60th!!

Oh my, what have I done?

2009-02-04T19:03:00.002-05:00

I can't concentrate on anything but this . . .

He's so tiny, so needy, so absolutely trusting and adorable . . .

And yet, so cool at the same time. ;-)

Do you think my cats will ever forgive me for falling in love with a puppy?

For Rufus at least . . . the jury is still out.

And they called it puppy love . . .

2009-02-01T10:37:00.003-05:00

What have I done? :-)

Helping others . . .

2009-01-23T19:28:00.003-05:00

Please go here, read the story, and do what you can to help out.

Thank you.

Reflecting on 2008

2009-01-20T21:34:00.021-05:00

I've been working on this post for several weeks, but have not had time to put it all together until today. I reflected back on 2008 and realized we got to have a lot of fun last year!!

The two oldest children got to play Upward Basketball at our church.

They had a great time!

We witnessed a cool lunar eclipse, and I got pictures.

It snowed.

We broke child labor laws (not really).

The kids got cute haircuts (and they keep growing, no matter how hard I try to stop it.)

The Easter Bunny visited our house, as we celebrated the Sacrifice that we do not deserve.

We dressed up in pastels (Hunkahubby is wearing a purple shirt, isn't he handsome?)
to go to church.

We got to dig for dinosaur bones at the Children's Museum. And experienced other hilarity.

Daddy and #1 Daughter went on a Daddy/Daughter date - out to eat (CHINESE) and to school for a Math program.

I fed the other two kids McDonalds and them spun them around at the park until they yakked.

(Just kidding on the yakking thing . . .)

We celebrated our Family Birthday (Adoption Anniversary) by going to a WaterPark Hotel . . .

. . . and to the Children's Museum for their comic book exhibit.

The kids goofed off outside for a great photo opportunity.

We celebrated my 4th year as a Mommy.

My son lost all his teeth!

It got warm enough to play in the sprinkler!

We took our almost annual trip to Holiday World.

My oldest rode her first (and last, according to her) real roller coaster with Daddy.

The kids found their favorite ride, and rode it over . . .

. . . and over, and over.

On our way home, we visited the Gus Grissom Memorial and learned about astronauts.

We visited the Children's Museum . . . again . . . (gotta love memberships).

Grandpa gave his grandson a hair cut. BZZZZZZZ

We got a new kitty. I am now banned from any and all animal shelters and pet stores.

We went to the Zoo and Boo had a butterfly land on her head.
(I can't believe she held still long enough.)

Willow continued to be adorable, and I was forgiven for bringing another animal into the house.

We watched fireworks with our new neighbors!!!!

Best friends pretty much since birth, we've worked together, lived together, and now we get to raise our children just down the street from each other.

We went swimming . . . a lot.

Daddy had another birthday (and the candles are dyslexic.)

Hunkahubby and I went on a date to see the American Idols in concert. Hunkahubby drooled over Carly singing Heart.

And I screamed my head off for David Cook!

My oldest went to church camp for the first time, and loved it!

Boo turned 5 and had a Mexican Birthday Party.

And my oldest turned 8 and had her first big slumber party.

Her party was High School Musical/Basketball themed.

The two oldest started school and left Boo home with Daddy for ONE MORE YEAR.

We took matters into our own hands and took our own family photos.

And saved a ton of money by having them printed at Wal-mart.

As a special treat, we went to the local pizza/arcade place that also has outside rides and rode this ride over and over and over.

My oldest learned about gardening.

And Boo was eaten by a fish. (She survived, just like Jonah.)

We took a family vacation to Shipshewana over Labor Day
and took Michelle's daughter with us.
(Gosh they're cute.)

And they got their gangsta on . . .

The kids gave up their allowance at the orchard to ride a horse for the first time.
(And Hunkahubby snapped an incredible photo.)

We visited Uncle Bobby at the Antique Mall. (and purchased some cool old school lockers for the kids to keep their books and backpacks in at home.)

We relished Indiana in the fall.
(and again Hunkahubby got some great photos.)

I love the fall . . .

My son turned 5 and had his twin buddies spend the night.

I dressed up my cats for Halloween and they're just now starting to speak to me again.

The kids had a great time trick or treating in our neighborhood.

We ate too much at Thanksgiving, but were so thankful for what we had.

I survived another year. (this is my yummy birthday cake that Hunkahubby made me.)

Hunkahubby finally made me a BLUE Christmas tree (complete with matching presents!)

Willow played Santa, but was kind of a Scrooge about it.

We made Christmas cookies. A LOT of Christmas cookies.

Santa came to our house!

We had our family Christmas, and snapped a photo of the whole motley crew.

The kids camped out in the living room and had a blast.

We visited the Zoo and marveled at all the really cool lights they put up in December.

(These three are the best gifts I could ever receive . . .)

We had a Build-a-bear outing and added to our fuzzy family.

And we celebrated the new year in a laid back way - together.

All in all, we had a really good year. Even though there were some stressful times - the good outweighs the bad. And we are so thankful.

We're thankful for each other and for all that we have.

So if you're reading this - the one thing I hope you take away is that you don't have to have a lot of money to make some great memories that last forever. It isn't the "stuff" you give to your children . . . it's the time . . . and the love, that will make the biggest difference.

So here's to 2009 - and more great memories to treasure . . .

Update on Hunkahubby's Gorgeous No Matter What Face

2009-01-09T19:41:00.004-05:00

In an earlier post I talked about Hunkahubby's diagnosis of Bell's Palsy. I thought I would show you how it has affected him so far - he is doing so much better, but you can tell it is not 100% back to where it was.

Here is Hunkahubby in July of 2008.

And here is Hunkahubby a few days after his diagnosis - this was probably the worst it got. In this picture he is trying with all his might to smile, but as you can tell, one side of his face is overcompensating, while the other side is doing nothing.

This is Hunkahubby today.

He still has issues with one of his eyes, and he isn't completely back to the way he was - but I think he is more beautiful today than he's ever been. We are so thankful that it wasn't something worse than it was.

Take time to tell the ones you love that you love them - and count your blessings - as even in stressful times . . . there are many things to be grateful for.

-Izzy

Soon to be back at it . . .

2009-01-09T10:54:00.002-05:00

I have one long 2008 update post coming soon, and a promise for more frequent postings thereafter.

Stay tuned . . .

I'm so behind . . .

2008-12-09T20:56:00.006-05:00

I'm trapped under a lot of papers. Can someone dig me out?

Until then - I'll give you a few pictures to update you on our lives . . . can someone please get me out of here? ;-)

A short recap -

a month or so ago - my oldest ended up in the hospital overnight with pneumonia. I had such fun sleeping on a hospital cot with a night nurse who I swear was typing a novel on the room computer at 3 a.m.

A couple weeks after that - my Daddy had to go and scare us all and have a mild heart attack. He is doing TONS better now and we are all really glad he is still here to be ornery and make us laugh.

About a week later, Hunkahubby woke up with no feeling in one side of his face, which was (after a fun trip to the ER) diagnosed as Bell's Palsy. (Of course, he is still sexy even when half of his face isn't cooperating.) He is doing better - and if I can get him to hold still long enough - I'll add a current picture of him.

Somewhere in all of this - we destroyed a turkey. (And boy was it GOOD.)

My children decided what they want to be when they grow up.

My awesome talented husband participated in two art shows.

We had another baby.

I got a BLUE tree in my bedroom this year. (YAY!!!)

And I grew out my hair . . .

Okay - a couple of these aren't exactly correct . . . but it makes life interesting, right?

Hope you are all enjoying this holiday season - and just in case your friendly neighborhood retail clerk hasn't told you - I will . . . MERRY CHRISTMAS!

It's Elfin' Time Again!!

2008-11-18T11:08:00.000-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Oh my gosh, I can't believe I won something!

2008-11-13T07:20:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite blogs The Pioneer Woman had a contest in her photography section yesterday. And I actually WON!!!! Woohoo!!!!

It's a good day!!

Thanks Ree!!

Promised Halloween Pictures

2008-11-10T15:07:00.002-05:00

The kids had a great time Trick or Treating - especially because their cousin is close and can go trick or treating with them again.

Here they are on our first Halloween together in 2004 with their cousin when we all lived in a different town:

(yeah, I have a much better camera now . . .)

And here they are this year . . .

(she is so getting locked in a closet . . .)

Great fun was had by all!

Excitement - and not necessarily the fun kind . . .

2008-10-27T19:51:00.002-04:00

This weekend was pretty exhausting . . .

My dear 8-year old daughter who was just a little bit sleepy on Thursday night, woke up with a fever, coughing, and wheezing so much I could hear her from across the room on Friday morning. SCARY.

I went to work while hubby took her to the ER - he later called me to tell me they were keeping her overnight for observation because she had pneumonia.

It was so scary to see my beautiful daughter looking so little in that big hospital bed, but she took it all in stride. All 3 of her nurses commented on what a polite and sweet girl she was. Mommy got to spend the night in the room on a very (NOT) comfortable cot. Neither of us slept much - but it was a bonding experience. She apologized for keeping me awake with her coughing and I apologized for keeping her awake with my snoring.

Sunday I declared it stay at home in our pajamas day and we vegged out and watched movies all day long. It was nice. And we all had naps. I love naps.

She is doing better - but I'm still being overprotective and not sure I'm ready for her to have outside recess at school. Luckily - her fall break is this weekend, so she only has 2 more days of school. I'm taking Thursday and Friday off as well so we can all have family time.

All the kids are looking forward to Trick or Treating, they've had their costumes for almost a month. Me . . . I love this time of year - and even though my aunt would be upset with me for jumping the gun . . . I started listening to Christmas music today . . . I can't help it!!!

Well - this post jumped around quite a bit - but I wanted to catch up . . . AGAIN. I'll be back soon to post pictures of the kids in their costumes.

Have a great week!!

Something to think about

2008-10-23T17:24:00.003-04:00

Today Mark Salinas posted this about how we should not let things like politics ruin friendships.

I agree wholeheartedly with what he had to say in his very timely post. As I read through the comments though, someone else had something very profound to say.

Audra Krell from Krellfish said, "One other point is for people to look inward. As we get closer to the election, people become desperate and do and say things that they normally wouldn’t. We should all do an emotional check and see if possibly, our fears and other emotions are coloring our words and actions a little too much."

So far, in most of our conversations - those on the opposite side of the political fence have been able to have civil conversations with me, even when we disagree. And then there have been those times where I just wanted to enjoy being with my friend and I've said, "let's not talk politics today, okay?"

This election seems to be more charged than any other that I remember, and I hope that some people are not forgetting that we are all Americans and in the end - we have to all figure out how to work together whether we are liberal, conservative, democrat, republican or some combination of all of these things.

So in these last 2 weeks before the election I urge you to:

be informed and research everything - if a story seems biased, it probably is - so check the facts yourself
feel free to be passionate without being nasty
don't steal signs out of people's yards (I'd like mine back please!)
respect the opinions of others, whether you agree or not
Pray for our nation, its leaders - and whoever is destined to be our next President - we all have an uphill climb ahead of us.

Okay - political discussion done. For real this time. Maybe.

Would the Last Honest Reporter Please Turn On the Lights?

2008-10-22T13:55:00.002-04:00

If you have a moment - please read this article - and spread the word . . .

This article was written by Orson Scott Card, a democrat and newspaper columnist - and I agree with what he has to say . . . (I'll say no more, because he says it all.)

http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/081017light.html

Tag, I'm it! (And you might be too . . .)

2008-10-20T19:10:00.003-04:00

My good buddy Rett tagged me - so I HAVE to do this for her (which yes, this means if I tag you then you have to do it too!)

The objective? List 7 random/weird facts about myself, then tag 7 others to do the same. I am really not sure I want to do this . . . but I will . . . for Rett.

1. I used to be able to write with my toes. I'm not sure I can do it anymore - and I'm afraid to try.

2. I don't mind some smells that others usually hate - like diesel fuel and . . . dare I say it? . . . skunks.

3. I am addicted to the crook in my husband's neck.

4. I am terrified that when some people look at me, they only see my mother.

5. I'm actually pretty shy sometimes and don't like being in social situations where I know very few people.

6. I dream of someday writing a best-selling novel, but fear that my procrastination and self-doubt about my abilities will keep me from doing it.

7. I have this reoccurring feeling that none of us actually exist and we are really just an overly elaborate dream that someone somewhere is having - even though I KNOW this is not true.

Yeah - that got a little deeper and weirder than I had planned . . . but oh well! Those were the first 7 things I thought of!!!

Now let's see - who do I want to know weird things about????

1. Barry @ Pike Speak
2. Kristen @ Shoutin from the Rooftops
3. Don Crane
4. Jaya & Arya
5. Beth @ The Funny Farm
6. Memaw @ Memaw Bake's Memories
7. Mizfit

I can't wait to hear how weird the rest of you are!!!

A lesson for those who didn't pay attention in high school . . .

2008-10-16T10:57:00.004-04:00

I am trying to stay away from politics in my blog - but I had to post this because it is informative and may help people to understand some of the things they keep hearing about in the media.

Recently, Senator Obama spoke to Joe the Plumber who had asked him why he would get more taxes for a small business that just happens to make more than $250,000.

This was Senator Obama's response:

“It’s not that I want to punish your success, I just want to make sure that everybody who is behind you, that they’ve got a chance at success, too. I think when you spread the wealth around, it’s good for everybody.”

Those words "spread the wealth around" have said to confirm some people's feelings that Senator Obama has more socialist policies than democratic.

What I've realized in my conversations with people my own age is this: no one paid attention in high school civics or government class and they don't have any idea what socialism is. And they really don't care! So I ran across this blog this morning which had a great excerpt from Mike Huckabee's book.

I wanted to share this lesson with you here:

“I once heard the various forms of government described this way:

Communism - you have two cows and the government takes both cows and gives you part of the milk.

Socialism - you have two cows and the government takes one of the cows and gives it to your neighbor.

Fascism - you have two cows and the government takes both cows and sells you the milk.

Nazism - you have two cows and the government takes both cows and shoots you.

Bureaucracy - you have two cows, the government takes both cows, shoots one, milks the other, and pours the milk down the drain.

Capitalism - you have two cows, you sell one and you buy a bull!

Our system, based on the capitalist idea, is intended to create incentives so there is a return on one’s endeavors. It has it’s flaws, but ours is still better than any other system on earth.”

I am hoping that this short lesson has helped some people understand these things they keep hearing on the TV but don't take the time to learn about.

I will leave you with a quote from Former President Ronald Reagan (which reminds me of a time when people had a respect for the one holding the office of the President of the United States . . .)

“All systems are capitalist. It's just a matter of who owns and controls the capital -- ancient king, dictator, or private individual. We should properly be looking at the contrast between a free market system where individuals have the right to live like kings if they have the ability to earn that right and government control of the market system such as we find today in socialist nations.”

Main thing: God is still God.

Be informed.

Vote on November 4th (or you do not have a right to complain).

(I am now finished with my political comments . . . until the next election.)

More Fall Photos

2008-10-13T23:10:00.002-04:00

Rearview (by IzzyBeth)

(Photo by Hunkahubby)

(Photo by IzzyBeth)

Oh - and this is me attempting to get organized,
but Gracie wouldn't let me because she liked my new organizer too much. Bummer. LOL

Have I mentioned how much I love the fall?

The leaves are changing and I'm so excited

2008-10-11T20:51:00.002-04:00

More pictures to come in the next few days!

No dropped calls!

2008-10-08T21:51:00.001-04:00

My cousin Laurie sent this to me and it really made me go OUCH. So I thought I would share my "pain" with you. In these kind of frightening and unsure times - this is something I needed to read . . .

Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?

What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?

What if we flipped through it several time a day?

What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?

What if we used it to receive messages from the text?

What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?

What if we gave it to kids as gifts?

What if we used it when we traveled?

What if we used it in case of emergency?

This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?

Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.

Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities?

And no dropped calls!

I love the fall!

2008-09-28T19:29:00.002-04:00

Our family went to the orchard on Saturday. We had not been to an orchard in our area since we moved here. We got apples, apple butter, Amish popcorn, and of course caramel apples. (We'll go back and get pumpkins closer to the end of October.)

MMMMMMM.

Oh yeah - and they had horse rides for $3. We weren't going to do it - but all three kids said they were willing to give up their allowance for the week to ride the horses.

They loved it!!

And I LOVE THE FALL!!!!

Adorable kitties

2008-08-27T07:58:00.001-04:00

I haven't given you cat lovers your kitty fix in a while - so I thought I'd better post some kitty pictures . . .

Happy Wednesday!!!

Catching Up

2008-08-18T10:49:00.002-04:00

Here is what you might have missed in these past weeks where I haven't been posting . . .

My oldest went to church camp and loved it!

My youngest turned FIVE. :-(

My oldest turned EIGHT!

First day of school! (1st and 3rd grade)

Doing the happy dance because school started. (Daddy and daughter get to spend one more year at home, because she missed the kindergarten cut-off by FIVE DAYS.)

And finally - this weekend, we grabbed our tripod and camera and took our own family pictures. It was quite fun!!!

There . . . you're caught up . . .

Happy Monday!

7 Years of Blessings

2008-08-04T08:23:00.001-04:00

My darling Hunkahubby . . . .

Can you believe it has been 7 years? At this time 7 years ago, I was probably just finished getting my hair done in preparation for walking down the aisle into your arms. I can remember waiting until 11:00 for pictures and being so anxious to see you in your tux. And that first moment . . . when you saw me in my dress and I saw you - we both cried. Although we had only known each other for a few months - we KNEW. We knew that God meant for us to be together. Isn't it amazing?

One of my favorite memories of our wedding is while Katie sang "If you could see what I see" - you prayed for us.

It all went so fast. And the next thing I knew - I was your wife. YOUR WIFE. And you kissed me for the first time as a Mrs.

The wedding reception didn't go by fast enough . . . although I was happy to see all the friends and family who came to share in our joy - once I was your wife, I just wanted to be with YOU!

And I still do!!

I love you more than I ever thought it was possible to love another person. You are my friend, my lover, the coolest Daddy to our 3 beautiful children, and the person I want by my side until I take my final breath.

Thank you.

Thank you for choosing me. For being you. For everything.

Here's to another 7 years, my darling love.

Happy Anniversary!!!

Really cool video

2008-07-28T14:24:00.002-04:00

My buddy, Don Crane (who just started blogging) sent me this video today and I had to share it with you guys. Pretty cool!!

Happy Monday!

The American Idols in Concert

2008-07-24T07:47:00.006-04:00

So, as you know - I saw the American Idols in Concert on Tuesday evening. The top ten contestants from this season's American Idol performed at Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Before we left, I told Hunkahubby that I hoped I would not be disappointed. Oftentimes, things don't come through quite the same way on TV that they do live and in person.

I was right.

But in a good way.

TV did NOT do them justice.

They were AMAZING. Honestly. I was only disappointed with one contestant - which I'll get into in a minute.

During the 'warm-up' before the concert, we were treated to an appearance by POP-TART (Pop-Tarts sponsored the concert).
He was fun. (all pictures by Hunkahubby and IzzyBeth, Copyright, 2008)

Not so sure about the implications of a giant fuzzy Pop-Tart though . . .

Right before the show started, there was a little bit of activity in front of the stage and we realized that Hoosier top 24 contestant Luke Menard was in the audience.
Yes, the picture is fuzzy, but it is him. Several of the contestants pointed him out and one even dedicated a song to him.

The concert started and each performer from 10 to the winner was given the chance to sing at least 3 songs by themselves on stage.

The first performer was the contestant who finished 10th: Chikezie

I was extremely impressed with him. He talked of how blessed he was to be on the stage. He had awesome stage presence and he hit some unbelievable notes. He did not deserve to be 10th. He also did a great job of starting off the show and getting everyone pumped up. After Chikezie performed three songs (for a complete set list, click here) Ramiele Malubay got her turn.

Now I have to admit, that I really liked Ramiele at the beginning of the competition this year. But as time went on - she didn't show much personality. Well, unfortunately - that carried through to this concert. She is a tiny, cute girl - but she was not that great. And she acted bored to be there. I was disappointed in her stage presence and in her voice. :-( And I'm not even sure she knew what city she was in. But anyway - I made it through her 3 songs and cheered loudly when she was done.

Next up . . . a contestant that never should have finished 8th . . . Michael Johns.

During this season - I went back and forth on Michael. He seemed kind of cocky. But he was an amazing performer - and in this concert he did justice to favorites from Queen and Aerosmith. And he dedicated Aerosmith's "Dream On" to Luke Menard. Even Hunkahubby who was not a fan of Michael, said that he redeemed himself. He did a great job. (Plus, who couldn't love his Australian accent?)

Next up - the country girl, Kristy Lee Cook.

She had an on again/off again season and I really think it was nerves. She was often pitchy and I wasn't certain how good she really was. Well, she did a GREAT job performing. I didn't hear any pitchy notes either. And of course - she knows how to get the crowd by performing "God Bless the USA". Kristy is also the first contestant (beyond the top 2) to get a record contract. So look for her country album to come out within the next year!

Next was the performer that Hunkahubby and I were VERY excited to hear live: Carly Smithson!!!

She did NOT disappoint. :-) Go Carly. Carly has a magnificent voice. And she sang some pretty powerful songs. She opened with "Bring Me to Life" by Evanescence. And then she talked in her beautiful Irish lilt for a little bit. Then she caused my husband to drool and sweat a little bit by singing "Crazy on You" by Heart (He LOVES Heart). And she KILLED it. (Killed in a good way, obviously). She finished with Cyndi Lauper's "I Drove All Night." Awesome job Carly. Some idiot had better sign her to a label. She is amazing. (And all those people who are hating on her over the "previous contract controversy" - GIVE HER A BREAK, she was REALLY YOUNG. She's paid her dues. Geesh.)

Next up was finalist number 5 - Brooke White.

Brooke has the Carole King/Carly Simon vibe, which I love. I was a little worried about Brooke during the competition because I was afraid the pressure was going to make her CRACK. But she survived the tv season and did a beautiful job performing for us - including accompanying herself on piano and guitar.

Just before intermission - we were reminded about Idol Gives Back and how we can continue to help. The finalists who had performed so far came together to perform U2's "Pride (In the Name of Love)". Again . . . awesome. (I have to find a new adjective.)

During intermission there was a Guitar Hero: World Tour commercial featuring the idols - but I was busy standing in the horrendously long women's restroom line. But I searched for it on YouTube and was able to see most of it. (I won't post a link here, because none of the videos are great quality).

Hunkahubby and I got something to drink to help our parched throats (yes, we scream) and got back to our seats - and were graced with Mr. Pop-Tart's presence for a few more minutes. Then - BACK TO THE SHOW WITH . . . Jason Castro!

I love Jason Castro. He was always really laid back, and just a little bit awkward. But you could not deny that he was talented. He also did my favorite song of his from the season - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's version of "Over the Rainbow." With a ukulele no less. :-)

The next contestant is a stunning girl and has a beautiful voice - but I wish she'd worn a little bit more clothes. Holy cow Syesha Mercado!

Syesha sang very well, and knew her way around the stage - but I wasn't DAZZLED the way I was with some of the other performers. Maybe I was too busy watching the security guy who thought he needed to police how far people's toes stuck out into the aisle. Or listening to the four adults who had way too much to drink in the rows behind us. (You couldn't NOT hear them, unfortunately.)

After this - the high pitched scary screaming started. The pre-teens were IN THE HOUSE. And they were there for David Archuleta.

Here is another one where I cannot deny this kid's talent. He has an incredible voice for a 17-year-old. He seems very comfortable "working" the stage - but when he stops to talk - he still seems really nervous and completely blown away that everyone is screaming for him.

David Archuleta (or "Archie") got to sing 4 songs, and my favorite was the last one where he sang Josh Groban's version of "When You Say You Love Me."

Now - the moment I had been waiting for . . . Yes - I am a "Cookie". I loved this contestant from almost the very beginning of last season. He was consistently good - and always did something unique with his songs. (And it doesn't hurt that he seems to be a genuine nice guy - AND has family from Indiana!) Yes - it was finally time for - DAVID COOK!

He was BEYOND amazing. He did a great job - and he was so REAL. During one part, he realized that his pants were coming 'un-tied' -- I think it was more on the side than anything that would have caused embarrassment. But after a song, he sat down and said he was going to fix it (and everyone booed) and he said "I can't believe you guys would BOO safety!"

He also talked about his guitar and that he bought it in Indiana. And that his Dad and some other family members were in the audience. (He made his Daddy proud!)

David got to sing five songs including:

His version of "Hello" by Lionel Richie.
His first official single - "The Time of My Life"
Aerosmith's "I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing"
The Foo Fighters' "My Hero" which he dedicated to his brother Adam (from Terre Haute, Indiana) who is battling brain cancer.
And Chris Cornell's version of Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean".

Hello and Billie Jean were definitely my favorites.

Everyone screamed the loudest for the 2 Davids (Carly, Castro, and Michael Johns got a lot of love as well.) And I thought the coolest thing was this gray-haired lady a few rows in front of me who tried to stand on her chair to get a better look at David Cook. When you've won over the Grandmas AND the teenagers - well, what else could you want??

All of the idols came out for one last song - Rihanna's version of "Please don't stop the music". Again . . . amazing. (heard that word enough?)

Oh - and I almost forgot to mention the fact that at the very end streamers shot out of the ceiling and I GOT TO KEEP A PIECE. (I'm weird, I know.) Hunkahubby is working on a collage for our wall from our AI Concert experience and the shiny streamer will just make it that much cooler.

It was a great evening and I didn't want it to end. I wanted to stay after to see if I could meet some of the idols - but Hunkahubby thought we should get home before it got too late. ::sighs:: OH WELL. I got some great pictures - and hopefully several of these people make it big and I can say I knew them when.

And the best part? An evening with Hunkahubby all to myself. I am so blessed.

Happy Thursday - TOMORROW IS FRIDAY!!!!

We were in the 18th row . . .

2008-07-23T17:54:00.003-04:00

And it was awesome . . .

A sneak peek:

(Photo by IzzyBeth, 2008).

Here David Cook is pointing to the AC on his guitar that stands for his brothers Adam and Andrew Cook.

I'll try and update more tomorrow!!!

I am so excited . . .

2008-07-22T12:34:00.005-04:00

Because tonight, Hunkahubby and I are going to Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis to see . . .

(image from latimes.com)

Yes, we're going to see the American Idols Tour. And I am really excited.

I am interested in hearing how they sound live in comparison to how they sound on TV and in studio recordings. It should be a great show!

I'll update tomorrow!!

They are growing up so fast!

2008-07-19T11:13:00.004-04:00

This was last week at our friend Kim's pool. I wish I could be as brave as they are . . .

And this was just a few minutes ago.

Now all of my babies can ride their bikes without training wheels.

Why do I feel happy and sad at the same time??

Belated Birthday Post

2008-07-17T21:57:00.003-04:00

So - Hunkahubby had a birthday this week.

And I've been too busy to post about it -- so I'll let you see the highlights . . .

Here he is on "party" day. Isn't he handsome??

Opening an ornery gift from my Dad.

the cake

the cheese bread (which accompanied the pizzas)

the brownies (are you hungry now? I am!)

the opening of presents (just for Sandy!)

Grandpa and Grandson (just cause they are so cute with their matching hair)

And a glimpse into what I gave Hunkahubby for his birthday on Monday.

I hope you had a great day honey! I love you so much!!!

Pet . . . Shark??

2008-07-09T07:00:00.003-04:00

The Indianapolis Zoo has a pretty cool exhibit right now. When we went last week (in the rain) we visited this exhibit (because it is enclosed!)

In the Oceans section - you have the opportunity to pet a shark! Yes, I just said "pet a shark."

There is a pool of dog sharks, that the guide told me are perfectly harmless and that they would never put something out there that could harm us or our children. (Because zoo animals are so safe . . .) We were asked not to touch the sharks fins or tails, but to use two fingers to pet the back of the shark. I think this was meant to protect the shark, as the fins and tails are really fragile.

Here are the sharks.

And here are the kids attempting to pet the sharks.

Yes, we each got to pet a shark (or two). It took some coaxing for the kids but they finally were brave enough to complete the task. The texture was kind of weird. Not quite slimy, not quite rubbery. Strange would be a good word.

But it was a great experience for the kids and they talked about it the rest of the day.

Me? I can't get the image of this alien looking flower out of my head . . . it gives me the creeps.

(photo by Hunkahubby)

Sleepy Kitty

2008-07-08T14:47:00.004-04:00

Willow has definitely won over the cats in the house. She is rambunctious and playful and they had no choice. One of my favorite things about having cats is when they buddy up to each other and sleep together. I just think its so sweet when they trust each other enough to do that.

With every other cat we've ever brought into the house, it has taken at least a week for the older cats to warm up to the new kitten. Well - it hasn't even been a week . . .

And look at this (forgive me, these pictures were taken with my camera phone). . .

Here is our oldest cat, Britney. She is usually the crankiest about adding new kitties to the house. She doesn't seem to mind this one.

And this picture just melts my heart . . .

Our second oldest cat, Cali is also usually pretty grumpy about new kitties. NOT THIS ONE!

Isn't that just the cutest thing?

And why is it that my other cats now look HUGE? :-)

Happy Tuesday everyone.

I wish you were here . . .

2008-07-06T09:37:00.003-04:00

It has been three years. I can't believe it. I really can't.

And even though it has gotten a little easier - it still hurts knowing I can't just call you and get your advice. I would love to hear you say, "Don't worry your pretty little head about it," or "It will be better in the morning," or just have you hug me because that would always make everything feel a little bit better.

When I have issues with my kids, and I feel like I have no clue what I'm doing as a parent - I long for a way to talk to you and ask your advice. But instead, I try to think back and figure out from your example to me - what you would've done. You taught me so much. I don't know if you ever realized how much.

Even now, I can't imagine how you did all that you did. So many children came through your doors and you blessed each and every one of them in some way or another. That one summer when you were watching 5 12-year-old boys, along with lots of other kids - how did you not go crazy? How did you keep your sanity? My kids are still several years away from those teen years . . . but I get scared now just thinking about it! (and I only have 3!!)

The thing is - I really do know how you did it. You knew what was most important. You knew what was worth getting worked up about and what wasn't. And you praised God no matter what the circumstance. You were able to sing in every situation. Even hours before you took your final earthly breath, when your body must have been in so much pain - and you were facing leaving all of your loved ones behind, you were able to put everything aside and do your best to sing along with us as we gathered around your bed and sang all of those old familiar hymns. What a legacy. I just hope I can live up to that.

So even though I miss you and it hurts more than usual on this day - I will sing. I will praise God. And I won't forget everything you taught me.

Until we meet again, Grandma.

April 19, 1926 - July 6, 2005

Oh no I didn't . . .

2008-07-04T17:19:00.003-04:00

Oh yes, I did.

Meet Willow!! :-)

I'm a sucker. I admit it. My husband isn't speaking to me, but I had to do it.
I rescued another kitty.
Which brings our total to (drumroll please . . .)
SIX kitties at home and one kitty at the office.

Seven total.

I know, I'm nuts.

But honestly, how could I resist this little spitfire?

She has already won over all five of our cats,
which is a record in our household.
I guess they've given up on me,
and they're just used to me bringing another fuzzy thing home.

I promise that now I'm done.
No more kittens.

I think.

No - if I want to keep my husband, I have to be done. ::sighs::

(To be honest, he wasn't that upset,
he pretended to be -
but he is just as crazy about the purry furballs as I am.
And I think he's crazy about me too - THANK GOODNESS!)

Happy Independence Day if you are in the US. Happy Day to everyone else!

Lions, Tigers, Bears, and The Chosen Ones

2008-07-03T20:42:00.003-04:00

I took today off to take the family to the zoo. And of course, as it has been doing more often than not lately, it rained. A LOT. But we had fun anyway.

We went first thing in hopes to see the lions, as they usually sleep during the middle part of the day. We got to see two female lions, AND a tiger today. It was very exciting. (but it was raining so much, we didn't get a picture).

We also saw this beautiful polar bear . . .

And we couldn't help but snap a picture of this emu and the well placed sign.

But the coolest part of the day (in my opinion) was our visit to the White River Gardens. They have a butterfly conservatory. We spent a lot of time just sitting and watching all the different colors of butterflies flit from flower to flower . . .

. . . and other things!

A large gorgeous butterfly landed on Hunkahubby's back, but of course, he had the camera and I didn't get a picture.

Then this happened . . .

My poor son sat really still for about 10 minutes with his finger stuck out in hopes that a butterfly would land on him - but alas, we were not the chosen ones.

It was a great day, even if it was really wet!

Happy Thursday everyone!