On the calendar this week we find April Fool's Day and Easter, so a few of the Hodgepodge questions have to do with fooling, and with eggs. Well, not eggs-actly! Read on!!
1. In honor of the date... when were you last sent on a 'fool's errand?'
The last trip I remember without accomplishing anything was my trip to the dermatologist. I wrote about it in a blog post last month. So, I won't go into detail here, but I felt like a fool after preparing, driving there...and then finding the office closed. Yes, I felt foolish, but also irritated. It was a waste of my time - but I was not at fault. I had the date & time right, but the dermatology office never called to tell me they would be closed. By the way, it happened on a Friday, the 13th. Uh-huh.
2. Peter Rabbit, Bugs Bunny, the Energizer Bunny, the Easter Bunny, Rabbit (Pooh's friend), White Rabbit (of Wonderland fame), or the Trix Rabbit... which of these famous rabbits can you best relate to right now?
Well, my favorite is Bugs Bunny. But, which one can I relate to now? Tougher question. I think this week I like to think that I am like the Easter Bunny, thinking of springtime and re-birth and strengthening in my faith. I am a bit of the Energizer Bunny right now too because I have a busy April ahead (you know, the wedding... lots of last minute things to do!)
3. When did you last find yourself scrambling to get something done? Explain.
Those who know me know that I do NOT like to be caught off guard and have to scramble. I like to plan ahead, and I like to be prepared ahead of time. I find comfort in getting something done with time to spare. So, last time I scrambled?? Nothing is coming to me. Can I say that my answer pleases me? It does! I find my life much less stressful, more peaceful, without scrambling!
4. Last time you were up at the literal crack of dawn? Why? Last time you stayed up all night? Why?
The last time I got up at the crack of dawn was the Sunday morning earlier in March when we had the time change. "Spring forward" meant losing an hour of sleep and getting up when it was dark, and waiting for the first light of day. I am a member of our handbell choir at church and we were offering a musical piece so I had to be at church at 7:40am to quickly rehearse and be prepared before the 8:15am service.
I don't think I have EVER stayed up all night. I love my sleep - and I love being on a routine. Even back in college I studied til midnight or so, then went to bed. I have taken some overnight flights but have dozed on them...although, I guess that would probably be the closest thing to being up all night.
5. Crack a book, crack a bottle, crack a joke, crack an egg... which have you done most recently?
I started reading "Orphan Train" by Kristina Baker Kline 3 days ago. And, I am sure I have cracked a new bottle of chardonnay in the past couple of days!
6. What's your favorite part of a typical weekend? Tell us why that's so.
Just one favorite part?? I have a few. I love Friday Night Dinner Out. It's been a family tradition for years and years. When our daughters were children we always went out as a family on Friday evening. Often to Krogh's in Sparta. The girls don't live at home anymore but hubby and I still do a Friday night dinner out. He works and travels some, so Friday is a nice end of the week for him to chill, have a drink or two, and a nice dinner. We spend a few hours at dinner catching up on our week at one of our favorite places here in Pawleys Island. I have to add that during college football season: I love Saturdays!
7. What's something I'd find on a book shelf in your home? Other than a book I mean!
Family pictures! I have a few bookcases around that hold a mix of books, pictures, and some little knick-knacks.
8. My random thought.
I met with my wedding planner and the caterer - together -yesterday. I wanted them to meet each other, and to go over the arrangements. Oh, and yes, a few more things have been added to my "to do" list also. But, it will all get done. Seriously, how tough it would be to put on a wedding without help!! I am thankful to have the professionals stepping in at this point and leading the way! My daughter's wedding will be a beautiful day - and I look forward to sharing pictures. Please continue to say a prayer for a beautiful weather day! We want everything outside if possible! Also, I hadn't thought about bugs being an issue. That came up in yesterday's meeting. Might have to have the place sprayed a few days before! Ka-ching!!
Have a wonderful week, and to my Christian friends, a meaningful passion week - to Easter! He is Risen. He is risen indeed.
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
March - Madness, palms, and hope.
Sometimes time just flies by! I can't believe this coming Sunday is Palm Sunday already! Some of Joyce's Hodgepodge questions are about the day, and palms. And of course, the wedding countdown continues in this household, as the days tick by we continue to prepare. I continue to ask for prayers for a beautiful day. I hope God listens...
But, for now, here are this week's Hodgepodge questions and my answers. As always, feel free to play along. If you want to join the group go to Joyce's blog page at www.fromthissideofthepond.com.
1. This coming weekend is Palm Sunday, which marks the beginning of Holy Week. Do you celebrate Easter in your home? What's your favorite Easter tradition in your home as a child?
Yes, we celebrate Easter! And, we do our best to prepare for the celebration by observing lent, and the days of Holy Week. My favorite tradition that I remember is dying the eggs on the day before Easter. My sister, brother, and I all participated in it. We did not have plastic eggs with candy. We always used hardboiled eggs and dyed them ourselves. We each had an Easter Basket too.
I have mentioned this before, but I am a pastor's kid - so Easter was a busy time! Holy Week with Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services, then 2 or 3 Easter services. We never made big plans outside of church because by the time Easter services finished I think we all just chilled. We had a big meal at home and then Dad needed a nap (lol) !
2. George Weinburg is quoted as saying "Hope never abandons you, you abandon it." Agree or disagree? Share your thoughts on the word hope.
I agree with Mr. Weinburg. Hope is not a thing, or a person, or something that gives up... that runs out of time and rings a bell, or that says "enough is enough." Hope is inside a person, and it's a desire to keep believing, to keep positive, to look forward with anticipation. It's up to the individual to keep hope alive. Thinking back, President Obama ran for office using the word "hope" - one simple word on his campaign posters. It was a very wise "ad campaign" because everyone wants to believe in something, and to have hope...even if it's for different things. The word alone conjures up a better world.
3. Weigh in a yay or nay on the traditional Easter candies. A solid milk chocolate bunny? Cadberry creme Eggs? Peeps? Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs? Jellybeans? Coconut Cream Eggs? Of the candies listed, which one would you most like to find in your Easter basket?
Well, lately I can take or leave chocolate. I do not crave chocolate - and I suppose I have a mindset of it being empty calories and unnecessary. I'm trying to be healthy!! I know Peeps and Jellybeans are not chocolate but they just seem to gross to me. But, if I would want one of the above candies in my basket, I would pick the Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs. I love peanut butter, and PB and chocolate is a pretty good combination!
4. When did you last feel "like a kid in a candy store?"
I love music experiences, and I have written about this event before, but I truly feel like a kid in a candy store when I go to the CMA Festival in Nashville. It is the epitome of experiencing live country music by MOST of the national artists, morning to night, and being surrounded by like-minded people, there for the music and the experience. It's sweet - 4 days of "music love" for me. In fact, so much goes on, I have to pick and choose where to go and who to see. 5 stages at one time! Other events and appearances! It's like a kid on candy overload!!
5. What's something you know you do differently than most people? Does that bother you? Does it bother other people?
Why am I having a tough time coming up with an answer? I know I have my quirks, and I am sure that some are quite bothersome to others!
Let me think...I am a morning person which is annoying to those who are not. And, I suppose I get annoyed with them because I wake up early, rarin' to go. I am a punctual person, and others are not. So, I get annoyed when someone wanders in late without a good reason - and they most likely think I am too exact and unbending.
The tricky part of this question is the word "most." In today's world is there any one think that "most" people do - by choice? I guess I'll just have to wait and read my blogger friends answers on this one!
6. Palm Springs CA, Palm Beach FL, or the PALMetto state (SC)... of the 3 mentioned, which sunny spot would you most like to visit right now? Which have you visited at one time or another?
Is this a trick question?? Ha!! I live IN the Palmetto state, and as I type this it is not sunny here. ) : But, it's been an usual season so far. More cooler temps and cloudy days than we usually have here. So, since I live here (and love living here by the way), I will say I would like to VISIT Palm Beach, Florida. I'm not a desert person (Palm Springs, CA) and prefer to be near water.... and it's a shorter trip to get to Palm Beach, FL.
7. My random thought.
Are you watching the NCAA play-offs? Did you fill out a bracket? I am not a big basketball fan during the schools' regular seasons, but when it comes to March Madness I do get involved and fill out a bracket. It connects me with what is going on, and I tune into the games and root for those who I put winning - and get to move on to the sweet sixteen...then 8, then final four....and finally the Championship Game. I took Kentucky to win it all - that's not a surprise. I think millions of others did too. But, we have already seen some upsets, so maybe another team can play hard, play tough - and take down Kentucky. Your thoughts?
Another kind of March Madness is the weather! Here's to a spring-like week ahead everyone!
But, for now, here are this week's Hodgepodge questions and my answers. As always, feel free to play along. If you want to join the group go to Joyce's blog page at www.fromthissideofthepond.com.
1. This coming weekend is Palm Sunday, which marks the beginning of Holy Week. Do you celebrate Easter in your home? What's your favorite Easter tradition in your home as a child?
Yes, we celebrate Easter! And, we do our best to prepare for the celebration by observing lent, and the days of Holy Week. My favorite tradition that I remember is dying the eggs on the day before Easter. My sister, brother, and I all participated in it. We did not have plastic eggs with candy. We always used hardboiled eggs and dyed them ourselves. We each had an Easter Basket too.
I have mentioned this before, but I am a pastor's kid - so Easter was a busy time! Holy Week with Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services, then 2 or 3 Easter services. We never made big plans outside of church because by the time Easter services finished I think we all just chilled. We had a big meal at home and then Dad needed a nap (lol) !
2. George Weinburg is quoted as saying "Hope never abandons you, you abandon it." Agree or disagree? Share your thoughts on the word hope.
I agree with Mr. Weinburg. Hope is not a thing, or a person, or something that gives up... that runs out of time and rings a bell, or that says "enough is enough." Hope is inside a person, and it's a desire to keep believing, to keep positive, to look forward with anticipation. It's up to the individual to keep hope alive. Thinking back, President Obama ran for office using the word "hope" - one simple word on his campaign posters. It was a very wise "ad campaign" because everyone wants to believe in something, and to have hope...even if it's for different things. The word alone conjures up a better world.
3. Weigh in a yay or nay on the traditional Easter candies. A solid milk chocolate bunny? Cadberry creme Eggs? Peeps? Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs? Jellybeans? Coconut Cream Eggs? Of the candies listed, which one would you most like to find in your Easter basket?
Well, lately I can take or leave chocolate. I do not crave chocolate - and I suppose I have a mindset of it being empty calories and unnecessary. I'm trying to be healthy!! I know Peeps and Jellybeans are not chocolate but they just seem to gross to me. But, if I would want one of the above candies in my basket, I would pick the Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs. I love peanut butter, and PB and chocolate is a pretty good combination!
4. When did you last feel "like a kid in a candy store?"
I love music experiences, and I have written about this event before, but I truly feel like a kid in a candy store when I go to the CMA Festival in Nashville. It is the epitome of experiencing live country music by MOST of the national artists, morning to night, and being surrounded by like-minded people, there for the music and the experience. It's sweet - 4 days of "music love" for me. In fact, so much goes on, I have to pick and choose where to go and who to see. 5 stages at one time! Other events and appearances! It's like a kid on candy overload!!
5. What's something you know you do differently than most people? Does that bother you? Does it bother other people?
Why am I having a tough time coming up with an answer? I know I have my quirks, and I am sure that some are quite bothersome to others!
Let me think...I am a morning person which is annoying to those who are not. And, I suppose I get annoyed with them because I wake up early, rarin' to go. I am a punctual person, and others are not. So, I get annoyed when someone wanders in late without a good reason - and they most likely think I am too exact and unbending.
The tricky part of this question is the word "most." In today's world is there any one think that "most" people do - by choice? I guess I'll just have to wait and read my blogger friends answers on this one!
6. Palm Springs CA, Palm Beach FL, or the PALMetto state (SC)... of the 3 mentioned, which sunny spot would you most like to visit right now? Which have you visited at one time or another?
Is this a trick question?? Ha!! I live IN the Palmetto state, and as I type this it is not sunny here. ) : But, it's been an usual season so far. More cooler temps and cloudy days than we usually have here. So, since I live here (and love living here by the way), I will say I would like to VISIT Palm Beach, Florida. I'm not a desert person (Palm Springs, CA) and prefer to be near water.... and it's a shorter trip to get to Palm Beach, FL.
7. My random thought.
Are you watching the NCAA play-offs? Did you fill out a bracket? I am not a big basketball fan during the schools' regular seasons, but when it comes to March Madness I do get involved and fill out a bracket. It connects me with what is going on, and I tune into the games and root for those who I put winning - and get to move on to the sweet sixteen...then 8, then final four....and finally the Championship Game. I took Kentucky to win it all - that's not a surprise. I think millions of others did too. But, we have already seen some upsets, so maybe another team can play hard, play tough - and take down Kentucky. Your thoughts?
Another kind of March Madness is the weather! Here's to a spring-like week ahead everyone!
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Are you lucky?
Happy Hodgepodge Day! Here are this week's questions with my answers. Feel free to play along.
1. Share a favorite song, book, or movie that contains green in it's title?
Immediately I thought of Kermit singing "It's Not Easy Being Green". I googled "song titles with green" and found many! Who knew?!? SO, I will say I absolutely love Barbra Streisand singing "Evergreen."
2. Ralph Waldo Emerson is quoted as saying 'Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect.' Would you agree? Are you a believer in luck?
I guess I first have to think of my definition of "luck." Sometimes in life things go our way, sometimes they don't. When they do go well - is that just good luck? Or opposite? Bad luck? No, not really. It's just "life."
I do agree with Mr. Emerson's quote though in terms that it is more likely for good things to happen if you work for them, and put thought behind consequences. Waiting around and doing nothing and hoping for good luck is silly, and wasteful.
3. Spring water, Hot Springs, handspring, spring fling, spring break, spring fever, offspring... which 'spring' word best applies to something in your day, week, or life right now?
Right now I have two 'spring' words that apply BIG time to me! First....Spring fever!!! I am loving the sudden turn of season, and the warmer temperatures! I am loving the blooms popping on the trees and nature coming back to life! And, I love the fact that I am back to wearing shorts and flip flops!! The other 'spring' word is offspring, because I am only a little over a month away from my first-born's wedding and I have been doing much of the planning. (See my blog post below this one.)
4. What's something you do to make you look or feel more confident?
I know it's vanity, but I put on make-up before I go out the door! I try to look my best... and that helps me feel confident to face the day. But, I will say that once my morning make-up routine is done, I kind of forget about it. Unless I look in a mirror later in the day... and wonder who that is looking back! lol
5. It's National Celery Month... are you a fan? If so, what's a snack or dish you enjoy that calls for celery?
I like celery and I have some in the fridge right now. For me, celery is best dipped, or with a dab of peanut butter on it. I don't like it plain. I also love celery in a Bloody Mary drink! Oh, yes, I DO enjoy it that way!! ( :
6. What's one thing you wish you'd learned sooner?
Well you know that giving only "one" thing is impossible for me. So, here's a short list... I wish I had learned that saying "no" is okay. I wish I had learned that I can make a difference in the world and done more early on. I wish I had learned that cliques in school are stupid, and that everyone is the same. I wish I had been more expressive at a younger age.
7. Would you like to own a second home? If so, where yould you want that home to be?
Hubby and I do own a second home. We bought a "fixer-upper" cabin on a river about 40 minutes from here a few years ago. Why? Hubby loves boating. He grew up for awhile living on a river with a dock - and wanted that experience again. He found this place via Zillow, and it's been a fun adventure for the both of us - with help from some professionals. We have steadily made improvements - like a new screened porch and deck, some new flooring, etc. I have enjoyed the cosmetic decorating of the place. We added a fire pit and have done some landscaping.
We love having family and friends over - and sometimes stay there. It's a great "get-away" that is easy to get too, so we actually use it! We wanted a place that was "reachable" and even though it's not far to drive, it truly feels like it's a million miles away.
(Since hubby went back to work after 6 months of retirement, he turned the master bedroom into his office and works from there often. He "commutes" back and forth but sometimes just stays the night and chills on the dock. Not a bad work environment!!)
8. My random thought.
I'm not a big reality show viewer, but I got caught up in "Southern Charm" last year and last night was the 2nd season premiere on Bravo. Anybody else out there watching it?? Besides April! I know she's with me on the love of watching T-Rav and the cast of rich Charlestonians. I love it because I live "up the road" from Charleston and yes, Thomas Ravenal really did run again Lindsey Graham last year - and it is part of this season's show. He's quite the obnoxious, rich man... and as much as I'd love to see someone beat Graham, T-Rav would not be the guy! Another reason I love the show I love watching all the clips of the city in-between scenes.
Hope your week ahead is springy!!!
1. Share a favorite song, book, or movie that contains green in it's title?
Immediately I thought of Kermit singing "It's Not Easy Being Green". I googled "song titles with green" and found many! Who knew?!? SO, I will say I absolutely love Barbra Streisand singing "Evergreen."
2. Ralph Waldo Emerson is quoted as saying 'Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect.' Would you agree? Are you a believer in luck?
I guess I first have to think of my definition of "luck." Sometimes in life things go our way, sometimes they don't. When they do go well - is that just good luck? Or opposite? Bad luck? No, not really. It's just "life."
I do agree with Mr. Emerson's quote though in terms that it is more likely for good things to happen if you work for them, and put thought behind consequences. Waiting around and doing nothing and hoping for good luck is silly, and wasteful.
3. Spring water, Hot Springs, handspring, spring fling, spring break, spring fever, offspring... which 'spring' word best applies to something in your day, week, or life right now?
Right now I have two 'spring' words that apply BIG time to me! First....Spring fever!!! I am loving the sudden turn of season, and the warmer temperatures! I am loving the blooms popping on the trees and nature coming back to life! And, I love the fact that I am back to wearing shorts and flip flops!! The other 'spring' word is offspring, because I am only a little over a month away from my first-born's wedding and I have been doing much of the planning. (See my blog post below this one.)
4. What's something you do to make you look or feel more confident?
I know it's vanity, but I put on make-up before I go out the door! I try to look my best... and that helps me feel confident to face the day. But, I will say that once my morning make-up routine is done, I kind of forget about it. Unless I look in a mirror later in the day... and wonder who that is looking back! lol
5. It's National Celery Month... are you a fan? If so, what's a snack or dish you enjoy that calls for celery?
I like celery and I have some in the fridge right now. For me, celery is best dipped, or with a dab of peanut butter on it. I don't like it plain. I also love celery in a Bloody Mary drink! Oh, yes, I DO enjoy it that way!! ( :
6. What's one thing you wish you'd learned sooner?
Well you know that giving only "one" thing is impossible for me. So, here's a short list... I wish I had learned that saying "no" is okay. I wish I had learned that I can make a difference in the world and done more early on. I wish I had learned that cliques in school are stupid, and that everyone is the same. I wish I had been more expressive at a younger age.
7. Would you like to own a second home? If so, where yould you want that home to be?
Hubby and I do own a second home. We bought a "fixer-upper" cabin on a river about 40 minutes from here a few years ago. Why? Hubby loves boating. He grew up for awhile living on a river with a dock - and wanted that experience again. He found this place via Zillow, and it's been a fun adventure for the both of us - with help from some professionals. We have steadily made improvements - like a new screened porch and deck, some new flooring, etc. I have enjoyed the cosmetic decorating of the place. We added a fire pit and have done some landscaping.
We love having family and friends over - and sometimes stay there. It's a great "get-away" that is easy to get too, so we actually use it! We wanted a place that was "reachable" and even though it's not far to drive, it truly feels like it's a million miles away.
(Since hubby went back to work after 6 months of retirement, he turned the master bedroom into his office and works from there often. He "commutes" back and forth but sometimes just stays the night and chills on the dock. Not a bad work environment!!)
8. My random thought.
I'm not a big reality show viewer, but I got caught up in "Southern Charm" last year and last night was the 2nd season premiere on Bravo. Anybody else out there watching it?? Besides April! I know she's with me on the love of watching T-Rav and the cast of rich Charlestonians. I love it because I live "up the road" from Charleston and yes, Thomas Ravenal really did run again Lindsey Graham last year - and it is part of this season's show. He's quite the obnoxious, rich man... and as much as I'd love to see someone beat Graham, T-Rav would not be the guy! Another reason I love the show I love watching all the clips of the city in-between scenes.
Hope your week ahead is springy!!!
Monday, March 16, 2015
Random post? Not really... it's all about the wedding.
It's been a loooonng time since I blogged randomly. But, this morning I find a few minutes, and have more than a few thoughts in my head. Mostly wedding thoughts, as we get ever closer to my daughter and her fiance's big day next month.
I have not wanted to write too much about the wedding plans ahead of time because I think it's fun for the guests to come and experience it without knowing too many of the details beforehand. So, I will not go there, but I will say that tomorrow is my first official meeting with "the wedding planner" and I have a list of questions for her. I really look forward to hearing her advice, and know she has years of experience to pull from, and I find comfort in that. I look forward to her going over everything with me.
Tomorrow I pass over to her the "wedding notebook" I started, which has gotten rather fat, full of papers with names, contact numbers, and contracts. Having a wedding away from a usual "wedding site" takes extra work because NOTHING is there. We are renting everything from nuts to bolts as they say... tables & chairs, decorations, a generator for electricity, a two-stall bathroom, tent, etc.
But it will all be worth it, because I know it will be beautiful - and fun! And emotional... and it will go by too fast (every parent of a bride has told me this),...and it will be hard to see everyone - and take pictures (wait, I'm leaving that to the professionals!)
So - right now, I'm asking everyone reading this to stop, say a prayer and ask God for a beautiful weather day! (April 25th) Tomorrow when I meet with the wedding planner we will put together "Plan B" in case of rain, but....but, but oh, it will be so much more beautiful if the weather co-operates!!! Did I tell you it's an outdoor wedding AND reception?
Here's something I have learned about sending out invitations...not many people immediately fill out the RSVP card and return it. I am in that "waiting period" to see who says they can come and who "sends their regrets." Lots of things for me hinge on the RSVP's.... how much food, how much alcohol, how big the cake, how many hotel reservations, shuttle service, and goodie bags.... and the list goes on. I realize some people really don't know yet if they can attend, and are looking at their calendars, and some are deciding if they are coming alone or bringing someone.
So I wait...
Here's a question for you, if you have some local friends that you want to come but were waiting for replies from others - so, you can see where the total count stands, is it okay to invite them later? I feel bad doing that - but there are some local friends that I would love to come and be a part of it all. I suppose my wedding planner will have thoughts about this tomorrow.
This whole wedding planning for me has been a labor of love. My daughter and her fiance are both working 50 hour weeks at their jobs, and they live in another state. So, it's been my pleasure to do so much of the preparation for them - and thank goodness my daughter and I have been seeing eye to eye on just about everything! We have the same vision for the day. My "almost son-in-law"is involved too, and level heads have prevailed among us all. Whew!
After the wedding I will be done with this "part-time" job. My hubby says I have learned so much I should go into the wedding planning business. Ohhhhhh, no thank you!!! Only for my daughter(s) can I put myself into it like this, and see it through!
( :
I have not wanted to write too much about the wedding plans ahead of time because I think it's fun for the guests to come and experience it without knowing too many of the details beforehand. So, I will not go there, but I will say that tomorrow is my first official meeting with "the wedding planner" and I have a list of questions for her. I really look forward to hearing her advice, and know she has years of experience to pull from, and I find comfort in that. I look forward to her going over everything with me.
Tomorrow I pass over to her the "wedding notebook" I started, which has gotten rather fat, full of papers with names, contact numbers, and contracts. Having a wedding away from a usual "wedding site" takes extra work because NOTHING is there. We are renting everything from nuts to bolts as they say... tables & chairs, decorations, a generator for electricity, a two-stall bathroom, tent, etc.
But it will all be worth it, because I know it will be beautiful - and fun! And emotional... and it will go by too fast (every parent of a bride has told me this),...and it will be hard to see everyone - and take pictures (wait, I'm leaving that to the professionals!)
So - right now, I'm asking everyone reading this to stop, say a prayer and ask God for a beautiful weather day! (April 25th) Tomorrow when I meet with the wedding planner we will put together "Plan B" in case of rain, but....but, but oh, it will be so much more beautiful if the weather co-operates!!! Did I tell you it's an outdoor wedding AND reception?
Here's something I have learned about sending out invitations...not many people immediately fill out the RSVP card and return it. I am in that "waiting period" to see who says they can come and who "sends their regrets." Lots of things for me hinge on the RSVP's.... how much food, how much alcohol, how big the cake, how many hotel reservations, shuttle service, and goodie bags.... and the list goes on. I realize some people really don't know yet if they can attend, and are looking at their calendars, and some are deciding if they are coming alone or bringing someone.
So I wait...
Here's a question for you, if you have some local friends that you want to come but were waiting for replies from others - so, you can see where the total count stands, is it okay to invite them later? I feel bad doing that - but there are some local friends that I would love to come and be a part of it all. I suppose my wedding planner will have thoughts about this tomorrow.
This whole wedding planning for me has been a labor of love. My daughter and her fiance are both working 50 hour weeks at their jobs, and they live in another state. So, it's been my pleasure to do so much of the preparation for them - and thank goodness my daughter and I have been seeing eye to eye on just about everything! We have the same vision for the day. My "almost son-in-law"is involved too, and level heads have prevailed among us all. Whew!
After the wedding I will be done with this "part-time" job. My hubby says I have learned so much I should go into the wedding planning business. Ohhhhhh, no thank you!!! Only for my daughter(s) can I put myself into it like this, and see it through!
( :
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Spring has sprung!
It's Tuesday and Hodgepodge time... here we go!
1. What's the first image that comes to mind when you hear the word 'spring'? Which phrase best describes the season of spring where you live right now (today) - sprung!, almost there, or still waiting?
My first image of spring is always daffodils opening up! I have planted them in every yard at every house I have lived in over the years because when I see them I know spring has arrived. Around these parts we don't have too many forsythia bushes but they also speak out "spring!" to me! I guess the color yellow = spring!
Around here Spring has SPRUNG!!! The temps are warmer, the spring flowers are blooming, the trees are budding and are about to flower, and soon the pollen will be everywhere! lol
(Side note to Joyce: Get that house sold and move on down to South Carolina!)
2. Bed, couch, stapler, garage door, computer mouse, recliner, flashlight, door knob... which household item containing springs most needs replacing in your home? Speaking of springs... did you ever own a Slinky?
Man, I was wondering where Joyce was going with this question when I started to read it. Things with springs!! Well, the bed box springs are pretty new and the stapler works just fine. The garage doors are operating, and I don't use a computer mouse (I have a laptop.) The recliner goes up and down, and all the door knobs seem to function just fine. So, I will go with flashlights... but not because the springs don't work. I think some of them around the house need new batteries.
A Slinky? I don't remember having one as a kid - but my daughters had one as a toy.
3. March is Women's History Month. Share a favorite quote by a woman.
"Sometimes your only available transportation is a leap of faith." - Margaret Shepard
4. What's a question that looms large in your mind right now?
Well, I have a family member with some health issues. That is looming large right now. I also have my daughter's wedding next month - and my biggest question/concern is the weather! We plan to have the ceremony and reception outdoors at a beautiful plantation nearby. So, what will the weather be??? (Can you all stop here & say a little prayer for gorgeous weather on April 25th?? Thank you!)
5. Are you a sugar freak? By that I mean how much do you love sugar? With all the bad press sugar gets these days, have you made any efforts to reduce the amount of sugar you consume?
Everything in moderation! Too much of any one thing is never good. We need a balanced diet to get what our body needs. So, no, I have not made an effort to change my sugar consumption. I don't consider myself a sugar freak anyway.
6. Would you rather have less work to do or more work you enjoy doing?
Is this a trick question? If I'm doing something I enjoy it's not really work.... right? I don't know if Joyce is asking about "paid employment"...vs. an activity that I do. But, truly, if I am doing some sort of work that I enjoy - then bring it on!!
7. Ever been to Texas? Of the top ten Texas tourist attractions, which would you most like to see - the Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk, the State Capitol, Dallas World Aquarium, Padre Island National Seashore, Houston Space Center, Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Moody Gardens, or Galveston Island?
My only time in Texas was flying into Houston's Airport to take a shuttle to the commercial docks to get on a cruise ship. We were supposed to cruise out of New Orleans but the port was quickly changed because Katrina hit the week before! So, my opinion of my experience in Texas is not good. I basically went from an unimpressive airport, past miles of huge oil holding tanks, to a busy dock area. I was not impressed with what I saw in Houston.
Now, I know Texas is a HUGE state, so I know not to judge it all by my one experience. But, I must say that Texas has never been on my "states I want to see" list. I should not stereotype but I am not a fan of certain people that come from there, or of the policies. Nuff said.
Of the places on the list in the question above, I think I would enjoy the River Walk in San Antonio very much - and also the Padre Island National Seashore.
7. My random thought.
So, yesterday I heard a commercial on the radio for a new kind of smoke alarm, which is now available at Home Depot. The ad said that batteries don't need to be replaced and THEY NEVER BEEP!!!! I thought to myself..."finally!!! I should have been in on that discovery because it will make people rich AND happy!!"
I hope Spring has sprung where you are...and that snow is melting! Have a good week friends!
1. What's the first image that comes to mind when you hear the word 'spring'? Which phrase best describes the season of spring where you live right now (today) - sprung!, almost there, or still waiting?
My first image of spring is always daffodils opening up! I have planted them in every yard at every house I have lived in over the years because when I see them I know spring has arrived. Around these parts we don't have too many forsythia bushes but they also speak out "spring!" to me! I guess the color yellow = spring!
Around here Spring has SPRUNG!!! The temps are warmer, the spring flowers are blooming, the trees are budding and are about to flower, and soon the pollen will be everywhere! lol
(Side note to Joyce: Get that house sold and move on down to South Carolina!)
2. Bed, couch, stapler, garage door, computer mouse, recliner, flashlight, door knob... which household item containing springs most needs replacing in your home? Speaking of springs... did you ever own a Slinky?
Man, I was wondering where Joyce was going with this question when I started to read it. Things with springs!! Well, the bed box springs are pretty new and the stapler works just fine. The garage doors are operating, and I don't use a computer mouse (I have a laptop.) The recliner goes up and down, and all the door knobs seem to function just fine. So, I will go with flashlights... but not because the springs don't work. I think some of them around the house need new batteries.
A Slinky? I don't remember having one as a kid - but my daughters had one as a toy.
3. March is Women's History Month. Share a favorite quote by a woman.
"Sometimes your only available transportation is a leap of faith." - Margaret Shepard
4. What's a question that looms large in your mind right now?
Well, I have a family member with some health issues. That is looming large right now. I also have my daughter's wedding next month - and my biggest question/concern is the weather! We plan to have the ceremony and reception outdoors at a beautiful plantation nearby. So, what will the weather be??? (Can you all stop here & say a little prayer for gorgeous weather on April 25th?? Thank you!)
5. Are you a sugar freak? By that I mean how much do you love sugar? With all the bad press sugar gets these days, have you made any efforts to reduce the amount of sugar you consume?
Everything in moderation! Too much of any one thing is never good. We need a balanced diet to get what our body needs. So, no, I have not made an effort to change my sugar consumption. I don't consider myself a sugar freak anyway.
6. Would you rather have less work to do or more work you enjoy doing?
Is this a trick question? If I'm doing something I enjoy it's not really work.... right? I don't know if Joyce is asking about "paid employment"...vs. an activity that I do. But, truly, if I am doing some sort of work that I enjoy - then bring it on!!
7. Ever been to Texas? Of the top ten Texas tourist attractions, which would you most like to see - the Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk, the State Capitol, Dallas World Aquarium, Padre Island National Seashore, Houston Space Center, Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Moody Gardens, or Galveston Island?
My only time in Texas was flying into Houston's Airport to take a shuttle to the commercial docks to get on a cruise ship. We were supposed to cruise out of New Orleans but the port was quickly changed because Katrina hit the week before! So, my opinion of my experience in Texas is not good. I basically went from an unimpressive airport, past miles of huge oil holding tanks, to a busy dock area. I was not impressed with what I saw in Houston.
Now, I know Texas is a HUGE state, so I know not to judge it all by my one experience. But, I must say that Texas has never been on my "states I want to see" list. I should not stereotype but I am not a fan of certain people that come from there, or of the policies. Nuff said.
Of the places on the list in the question above, I think I would enjoy the River Walk in San Antonio very much - and also the Padre Island National Seashore.
7. My random thought.
So, yesterday I heard a commercial on the radio for a new kind of smoke alarm, which is now available at Home Depot. The ad said that batteries don't need to be replaced and THEY NEVER BEEP!!!! I thought to myself..."finally!!! I should have been in on that discovery because it will make people rich AND happy!!"
I hope Spring has sprung where you are...and that snow is melting! Have a good week friends!
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
what's good about March? How do you see this month? Do you go with the wind?
Our Hodgepodge leader Joyce has a great list of questions this week. Prepare yourself because a couple of the questions will send me into a lengthy answer, and you might need to sit down, and grab a cup of coffee.
1. 'In like a lion, out like a lamb'...does the first part of this saying describing March weather ring true where you live?
Yes, it rings true here. I know I live in an area that doesn't get the extreme cold temps and snow like many of you do, but for here, yes, March has come in like a lion. It's been a very cold and unusual winter for these parts because normally we get some "warm-up" days mixed in. I can recall wearing shorts in January for a few days in past years. But, the arctic air dipped down low this season. My plants have been zapped badly this year. I am looking forward to spring more than ever after this winter. I'm praying that March goes out like a lamb!!
2. March 4th is National Grammar Day. What common grammatical error bothers you the most?
I'll be the first to admit I am not an expert when it comes to grammar, and I find that I write like I talk... like right now. I don't always make a perfect sentence! lol So, I think I have more of a question than anything when it comes to grammar. Teachers out there, please give me the answer! When closing quotes, and then a period at the end of the sentence, in what order do they appear? I always thought it was the period first, then the quote mark. But I have seen it both ways. Is there a right and wrong way??
3. William Arthur Ward says "the pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails." (note: period, quote mark) Which one are you?
Ok. Prepare for a long answer! I have had similiar discussions on several occasions when it comes to peoples' outlooks on life. I think the first thing to say is that one way is not necessarily better than another way. I think each person has some sort of genetic make-up, that along with life experiences, makes them see the wind a certain way. And, the vision of the wind each person has causes them to react a certain way.
I am an optimist for sure. I am happy to be an optimist, and I generally see the world in a positive way. I know the wind will change and I am content with that knowledge... and look forward to seeing the change. I have been told on numerous occasions that I wear rose-colored glasses. When told that I feel like it is said in a negative way - that perhaps I am spacey, or live a "favored" life. Perhaps it is true. But, it is my truth. It is who I am.
I have grown into being an optimist. I don't think I was an optimist from Day One. But, I have chosen through my life experiences, and through learning, and through my faith, to believe in the wind...to let it change as it must.
I tend to think people who see the wind in the same way understand each other better. Optimists hang together. Pessimists do too (or do they hide away, afraid & sad?) It's easy to get judgemental. It's hard to accept the differences.
4. What's something you need to 'march forth and conquer' this month?
Well, not to be too redundant, I let the wind carry me - but I also prepare the best I can too. So, I need to continue to conquer the upcoming wedding plans. The days are ticking by and April 25th is getting closer. I am very excited about it all, and am doing my best to conquer the hundred and one things on the "to do" list!
5. An on-going debate around here... do you dust first, then vacuum...or vacuum first, then dust? Of the two routine household chores, which do you dislike the least? How's that for wording?
Definitely DUST FIRST, THEN VACUUM!! When you dust you can't help but scatter some of the dust - and it falls on to the carpet. So, to get the most dust picked up, it is best to dust first, and then vacuum. (duh) Of the two I don't have a "least favorite".... it depends. (See, I'm an optimist - I try and see the best in everything! lol) I like to dust to music or the TV on if it's a show I want to see. Then I vacuum (after dusting) but because it's noisy, I wait until I don't need to hear anything. My dogs go crazy when I first turn on the vacuum. They quickly settle down. But, each and every time, when it's turned on they want to attack it! What is it with dogs and vacuums??
6. According to thrillist.com, the ten most photographed sites in the USA are - Cinderella's Castle in Orlando, the Southernmost house in Key West FL, the Space Needle in Seattle, the site of the Boston Massacre in Boston, the Bellagio lake/fountains in Las Vegas, the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., Coit Tower in San Francisco, the Art Institute of Chicago, Niagra Falls, and snagging the number one spot - the Guggenheim Museum in New York.
How many on this list have you photographed? Which one on the list would you most like to visit and photograph?
Been there and took the picture: Cinderella's Castle in Orlando, the southernmost "spot" in Key West (the buoy thing that tells how far it is to Cuba), the Lincoln Memorial in D.C., and Coit Tower.
Been there but did NOT take a picture: Boston - but not where the massacre took place. New York City - lots of spots. I have driven by the Guggenheim but didn't take a picture.
I visited Niagra Falls as a kid. I don't know if we had a picture taken there but I am guessing we did.
I also visited Chicago when I was in college. The Art Institute outdoor sculptures count?
So, the only place I have yet to be is Seattle. I am a bit of a picture-taking nut these days thanks to my iphone, so I'm guessing I would definitely take a pic of the Space Needle if I saw it!
7. Fifty years ago Monday (March 2, 1965) The Sound of Music premiered at the Rivoli Theatre in NYC. Have you seen the film? Do you own a copy? On a scale of 1 to 10 how much do you love it (or not)? 10 = best movie ever. If you're a fan, what's your favorite scene or song in the movie?
OMG! The Sound of Music IS my all-time favorite movie! It's a 10 in my book! It's perfection. This movie features the best music, the best actors, the best scenery and cinematography! It's a classic - and EVERYONE should see it. And, who doesn't already know the music?? Come on... it's amazing!
Yes, we own a copy. And yes, I showed the movie to my daughters at a young age - it's like making sure your kids know the Beatles. It's a must.
My daughters and I had an opportunity when they were in high school to travel to Salzburg, Austria with the county orchestra. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me to walk where it was filmed - to see the familiar sites. Aaaahhh. sigh.
Obviously, the movie is also an important history lesson. We can't forget that too. And it is the REAL life story of the Von Trapp family - and Maria.
My favorite scene and song? I love them all. That's hard. Too many choices...all wonderful!!
8. My random thought.
Dang. I have deep thoughts today. So, none that are really out there and just random. I'm thinking about living as an optimist and looking forward to spring...and the wedding... and summer concerts, and summer in general. March is a "turning point" in each year. It's the time of Lent before Easter. It's reflection...and about finding joy in new growth and in birds singing.
It's all good!
1. 'In like a lion, out like a lamb'...does the first part of this saying describing March weather ring true where you live?
Yes, it rings true here. I know I live in an area that doesn't get the extreme cold temps and snow like many of you do, but for here, yes, March has come in like a lion. It's been a very cold and unusual winter for these parts because normally we get some "warm-up" days mixed in. I can recall wearing shorts in January for a few days in past years. But, the arctic air dipped down low this season. My plants have been zapped badly this year. I am looking forward to spring more than ever after this winter. I'm praying that March goes out like a lamb!!
2. March 4th is National Grammar Day. What common grammatical error bothers you the most?
I'll be the first to admit I am not an expert when it comes to grammar, and I find that I write like I talk... like right now. I don't always make a perfect sentence! lol So, I think I have more of a question than anything when it comes to grammar. Teachers out there, please give me the answer! When closing quotes, and then a period at the end of the sentence, in what order do they appear? I always thought it was the period first, then the quote mark. But I have seen it both ways. Is there a right and wrong way??
3. William Arthur Ward says "the pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails." (note: period, quote mark) Which one are you?
Ok. Prepare for a long answer! I have had similiar discussions on several occasions when it comes to peoples' outlooks on life. I think the first thing to say is that one way is not necessarily better than another way. I think each person has some sort of genetic make-up, that along with life experiences, makes them see the wind a certain way. And, the vision of the wind each person has causes them to react a certain way.
I am an optimist for sure. I am happy to be an optimist, and I generally see the world in a positive way. I know the wind will change and I am content with that knowledge... and look forward to seeing the change. I have been told on numerous occasions that I wear rose-colored glasses. When told that I feel like it is said in a negative way - that perhaps I am spacey, or live a "favored" life. Perhaps it is true. But, it is my truth. It is who I am.
I have grown into being an optimist. I don't think I was an optimist from Day One. But, I have chosen through my life experiences, and through learning, and through my faith, to believe in the wind...to let it change as it must.
I tend to think people who see the wind in the same way understand each other better. Optimists hang together. Pessimists do too (or do they hide away, afraid & sad?) It's easy to get judgemental. It's hard to accept the differences.
4. What's something you need to 'march forth and conquer' this month?
Well, not to be too redundant, I let the wind carry me - but I also prepare the best I can too. So, I need to continue to conquer the upcoming wedding plans. The days are ticking by and April 25th is getting closer. I am very excited about it all, and am doing my best to conquer the hundred and one things on the "to do" list!
5. An on-going debate around here... do you dust first, then vacuum...or vacuum first, then dust? Of the two routine household chores, which do you dislike the least? How's that for wording?
Definitely DUST FIRST, THEN VACUUM!! When you dust you can't help but scatter some of the dust - and it falls on to the carpet. So, to get the most dust picked up, it is best to dust first, and then vacuum. (duh) Of the two I don't have a "least favorite".... it depends. (See, I'm an optimist - I try and see the best in everything! lol) I like to dust to music or the TV on if it's a show I want to see. Then I vacuum (after dusting) but because it's noisy, I wait until I don't need to hear anything. My dogs go crazy when I first turn on the vacuum. They quickly settle down. But, each and every time, when it's turned on they want to attack it! What is it with dogs and vacuums??
6. According to thrillist.com, the ten most photographed sites in the USA are - Cinderella's Castle in Orlando, the Southernmost house in Key West FL, the Space Needle in Seattle, the site of the Boston Massacre in Boston, the Bellagio lake/fountains in Las Vegas, the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., Coit Tower in San Francisco, the Art Institute of Chicago, Niagra Falls, and snagging the number one spot - the Guggenheim Museum in New York.
How many on this list have you photographed? Which one on the list would you most like to visit and photograph?
Been there and took the picture: Cinderella's Castle in Orlando, the southernmost "spot" in Key West (the buoy thing that tells how far it is to Cuba), the Lincoln Memorial in D.C., and Coit Tower.
Been there but did NOT take a picture: Boston - but not where the massacre took place. New York City - lots of spots. I have driven by the Guggenheim but didn't take a picture.
I visited Niagra Falls as a kid. I don't know if we had a picture taken there but I am guessing we did.
I also visited Chicago when I was in college. The Art Institute outdoor sculptures count?
So, the only place I have yet to be is Seattle. I am a bit of a picture-taking nut these days thanks to my iphone, so I'm guessing I would definitely take a pic of the Space Needle if I saw it!
7. Fifty years ago Monday (March 2, 1965) The Sound of Music premiered at the Rivoli Theatre in NYC. Have you seen the film? Do you own a copy? On a scale of 1 to 10 how much do you love it (or not)? 10 = best movie ever. If you're a fan, what's your favorite scene or song in the movie?
OMG! The Sound of Music IS my all-time favorite movie! It's a 10 in my book! It's perfection. This movie features the best music, the best actors, the best scenery and cinematography! It's a classic - and EVERYONE should see it. And, who doesn't already know the music?? Come on... it's amazing!
Yes, we own a copy. And yes, I showed the movie to my daughters at a young age - it's like making sure your kids know the Beatles. It's a must.
My daughters and I had an opportunity when they were in high school to travel to Salzburg, Austria with the county orchestra. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me to walk where it was filmed - to see the familiar sites. Aaaahhh. sigh.
Obviously, the movie is also an important history lesson. We can't forget that too. And it is the REAL life story of the Von Trapp family - and Maria.
My favorite scene and song? I love them all. That's hard. Too many choices...all wonderful!!
8. My random thought.
Dang. I have deep thoughts today. So, none that are really out there and just random. I'm thinking about living as an optimist and looking forward to spring...and the wedding... and summer concerts, and summer in general. March is a "turning point" in each year. It's the time of Lent before Easter. It's reflection...and about finding joy in new growth and in birds singing.
It's all good!
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