Don't blink! It is the title of a song by Kenny Chesney. And, it goes on to say that "just like that" your babies grow... so don't blink! I'm feeling that way right now. My babies are grown. Young women. I am seeing them this coming Labor Day weekend - which leads into the first question:
1. Can you believe we're rolling in to the Labor Day weekend? What's a project you'll labor over this fall?
Can I believe it? No! Time goes by so quickly sometimes. Especially summertime. Don't blink!
A project? I have my usual projects (the layette program, church WELCA activities, community band) and they are a 'labor of love.' This weekend is my daughter's "Babies shower" to help her prepare for her twin boys. My other daughter and I are hosting it. I'm excited about it! Getting it all together has been fun, and seeing all the gifts she receives will be exciting. It will be a great time of family and friends together.
2. Tell us about the best perks you ever had in a job?
This is an easy question to answer! I worked at 98 ROCK in Baltimore, and as Promotions Manager it was often part of my job to go to concerts! Sometimes I was going with the DJ who was MCing, or I was meeting some winners/listeners to take them backstage to meet the band. But, sometimes I was given tickets as a perk from the record reps or the concert promoter. Oh - and often I got a backstage pass!
It is certainly where I got my love of experiencing live music! But, I also got spoiled - and now I like to be 'up close and personal' at concerts...and now I have to pay for it!
3. August 31st is National South Carolina Day. Have you ever been to SC? Any desire to go? According to Southern Living, these are the top ten things to do in South Carolina...
Explore Charleston, bike, golf or relax on Hilton Head Island, see
the beach and the boardwalk at Myrtle Beach, visit the state museum in
the capital city Columbia, observe the wildlife and natural beauty of
the Ace Basin, take a walk or hop on a trolley and check out
Greenville's charming main street, visit Fort Sumter where the Civil War
began, stroll through Pearl Fryar's Topiary Garden in Bishopville
leaving time to check out The Button Museum, also in Bishopville, see
Morgan Island (also known as Monkey Island)-home to nearly 4000 Rhesus
monkeys.
Which is most appealing to you today? If you're a SC native, resident, or frequent visitor what would you add to the list?
Happy South Carolina Day! My home state! Yes, I live here - and I love it!
But, here's the interesting part: some of the places on the list above I have never even heard of! I live on the east (coastal) part of the state and I have not explored the western areas. So, I have yet to see Greenville, but everyone says it is a beautiful city. And Ace Basin?? What is that? Morgan Island?? I never heard of it until reading it here. But, I think it would be quite an amazing place to visit! I better google and find out where it is located!! lol
4. Beef, pork, country-style, barbecued, baby back, spare or
short...your favorite kind of rib? What's a dish you enjoy that really 'sticks to your ribs'?
Here's my advertisement for the day: Best ribs I have ever eaten can be found at The Corner Stable in Cockeysville, Maryland (a northern suburb of Baltimore.) They are pork baby-back ribs, slow cooked in a secret sauce, and they are tender and fall of the bones. They are amazing!
A dish that sticks to my ribs? Anything made with potatoes! Mashed potatoes are my favorite but I rarely have them anymore... because, darn it, they stick to my ribs!!
5. What's one important skill you think every person should have? Why?
I am not sure if I would call it a skill, but I think everyone should have some education in money management. It is said that high schoolers graduate without knowing anything about how credit cards work, and how to budget their money month to month. I think that's an important thing to know - more than knowing how to solve an algebra problem.
6. Insert your own random thought here.
So, most of you know that we are trying to sell a home. It is a beautiful place, but it has been difficult to sell because it has lots of steps, and it is a big family home but does not have a big yard. People who have gone through it have been impressed but continue to have 'something' that holds them back. So, it's been frustrating....VERY frustrating.
On Monday we had a realtor come with clients to see it... and they opened the front door, and were greeted with a SNAKE in the foyer!! Yep, a snake!! So, they shut the door and left. According to the realtor the clients have NO interest in coming back to see the house. So, here is the thing: it is the lowcountry. Yes, snakes and alligators live here. They pop up from time to time. The house has been empty (little activity) and it was raining.
Sometimes I want to scream... plus, I want to tell realtors to be honest with clients. Tell them it's part of living in marshy, coastal areas. Hey - I hate snakes. I really do. But, a snake can show up in any house... but, of course, it happened in mine. Grrrrrr. Will the house ever sell???
Ok. My rant is over. In reality my problem is so very minor when I think of the thousands of people in the Houston area who have NO house now. I can't get over the devastation there. My heart breaks for all those who will be displaced for so long. For those who have lost all their possessions. For those who will not have a job anymore. For those who can not get basic needs of life.
Pray for them. Give if you can.
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
"Over the moon" in more ways than one.
Another Tuesday, another Hodgepodge! Let's get started!
1. Did you watch the solar eclipse? Your thoughts? Sun Chips, Moon Pies, Starburst candies, a Blue Moon beer, a Sunkist orange, or a Milky Way candy bar...what's your favorite eclipse related snack on this list?
Yes! Yes I did! I was fortunate to live in the center of the path as it came across South Carolina. So, hubby and I went out on our riva cabin dock and watched the eclipse from there. I have to say going into the "big day" I was a bit tired of all the hype, and the traffic around here. I figured I would watch it - la dee dah - and then be happy when it was all over. As we got to just a few hours before the start of the beginning of the eclipse it became somewhat cloudy, and so I thought maybe we would not see anything. Oh well.
But... the clouds moved on and the sky cleared enough for us to watch - as the moon started to block out the sun. For an hour it was glasses on, glasses off. on again, and off, and repeat. We had a few drip drops but still we hung in there and waited....and watched. And I have to say that the moment we saw the full 'totality' of the solar eclipse, it was quite something special to see! When we could take off our glasses and look directly up at the full eclipse it was a pretty awesome moment! An 'aha' moment!!
As for the snacks, hubby and I should have thought ahead and had some! My daughter's company had everyone go out on their outdoor veranda, and they served Blue Moon Beer, and Moon Pies - with other goodies. They also provided the glasses for everyone. Of the candies on the list above, I would probably go for a Milky Way bar. It's always been one of my favorites!
2. What are you 'over the moon' about these days? What's something you enjoy doing every 'once in a blue moon'?
What am I 'over the moon" about? Ha! I think you know! The answer: The fact that I will soon be a first time grandmother - to identical twin boys! I am very excited! Just earlier today I was in a second-hand store and found a cute little bathroom step up stool - for little ones to reach the sink. The boys are not even born yet and I'm already thinking of how they will need the stool! !! Oh, yes, I bought it!! It's very sturdy - and just needs a fresh coat of paint. It won't be but a year and a half and they will be needing it... right? lol
'Once in a blue moon' actually means very rarely. So, I think I will say I rarely fly in an airplane. I will because it's convenient, and can be quick if all goes well, but I don't like particularly prefer it. I'm limited to what I can bring, and I am at the whim of the airlines and the weather... and I just don't get HOW that huge, heavy thing gets up in the air anyway!?! I'm not good with turbulence. And I'm not a fan of such close sitting. I have long legs so I'm always crammed. I only enjoy it if all goes well - that means that it is in time, people were kind, and it was a nice smooth ride.
3. Tell us about something in the realm of science that interests you. How do you feed that interest?
This is a funny question to answer right after admitting I don't get how airplanes fly! lol What kind of science interests me? I guess I like horticulture (is that science??). I like playing with plants and flowers...... and I love when I can make them thrive!!
4. What are a few things you remember about going back to school as a child?
I have said this before, but I remember 'back to school' time not being until AFTER Labor Day. So, I'm still sad for all the students who head back in mid-August. It just seems too early. Summer isn't over yet. I remember my mother taking me shopping for new school shoes - and I think they were often new penny loafers (and yes, I put a penny in each!) I would get a new dress or outfit too.
I remember being excited on the first day back to school, seeing who was in my class, and starting off with brand new school supplies!
5. I've seen several versions of this around the net so let's make one of our own...share with us five words that touch your soul and briefly tell us why.
Five words that touch my soul? Five separate words? Or a sentence/line of five words. Wow... this is the first I have heard of this, so let me think...
Music - It's a direct avenue to feelings. It can bring out emotions to love, to dance, to feel sadness... or to jump around and act silly. Music touches and moves me.
Peace - it's allusive but I think we all strive for it. I hope so anyway. When people get together disarmed - and share in a moment, it's a beautiful and soothing experience. A feeling of oneness and a shared humanity brings peace.
Passion - I admire those with a lot of it. A person with passion for an art, or a belief, or a cause... they live 'strongly' and care deeply.
Children - They are precious, and innocent, and untouched by the bad in the world. They often just live in the moment and therefore change their emotions quickly. Honestly. A hug from a child (when not told to do it by an adult) is just the best thing ever! Children are fun to watch as they explore and learn new things.... we need to remember how we were once that way.
God - I've had "God moments" as an adult. Things that have been so lovely, or where the dots have connected just right, that it is God giving me a 'gift'. I appreciate it. It certainly makes me smile - and believe. I've seen God in unexpected moments... and they really are the "aha" times.
6. Insert your own random thought here.
If I could add on to my list above of the words that touch my soul... I'd add nature (because I have God moments there) and pets. Both nature and pets add depth to living and bring joy to an ordinary day.
Have a great week ahead! I'm off to a wedding this weekend... which is another thing that sure can make the soul sing! It's wonderful to watch two people express their love and commitment, and. for family and friends to be there to witness it - and to paaaaarty!?!!!! ( :
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
The dog days of summer
It's that time again. Another week flew by. Is it just me, or does summertime seem to go by faster than winter? And, even though it's hot and humid here in these parts, it's the time of year I love. There is something lovely about walking outside at 10:00pm and not feeling chilled. Seeing the stars, hearing the deafening crickets and tree frogs! I love a summer night! (Winter nights start at 4:00pm and I find I hibernate inside. Oh, what a difference.)
Anyway, I am off subject to this week's Hodgepodge. Let's get back on track!
1. Do your actions match your words? Elaborate.
I sure hope so! I am not a game player, and I do not purposely say something and then DO the opposite. Why? Well, for one thing, I am not a good liar. I am happy that I am not. Plus, I just don't think I could be happy with myself if I said something and then didn't really belief it, and follow through with actions about the belief. I don't know, but that seems like it would be a constant internal struggle and difficult to handle... and just a sad way to live a life.
2. Sick as a dog, go to the dogs, dog days of summer, dog tired, it's a dog's life, every dog has it's day, can't teach an old dog new tricks...now doggone it which saying could most recently be applied to your life?
Ha! Well, a few dog sayings probably do apply to my life, like "You can't teach an old dog new tricks." My hubby will vouch that I am not always ready to jump in to new technology, or try a new way of doing something because I was okay with how I have 'always done it.'
But, I will pick "it's a dog's life" because I know that I am blessed, and have many good people around me, supporting me, taking care of me...and loving me. Gee - should I give them a good dog kiss on the lips?? ha!!
3. Your favorite book featuring a dog in the storyline? What makes it a favorite?
I did not read the book, but I did see the movie "Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog." I loved it!
My favorite though? It's got to be Clifford books - Clifford, the Big Red Dog! My daughters had a few of them. I loved the one where Clifford went trick or treating. I just googled him and there are over 70 Cifford titles, a tv show - and a movie coming soon! Yeah for Clifford!!
4. What's something you hope to one day have the confidence to do?
Hmmm. If I don't have the confidence now, at my age, will I ever??
The only thing I can think of is to be confident enough to speak up against injustices, and - going back to question #1, then to act on them. To go the extra 'step' and not just verbalize when something is wrong, but to DO something to help make a situation better.
After this past weekend's sad events in Charlottesville, VA, I think we ALL should think about having confidence to speak and act against blatant racism, and to care for those who feel the pain of it.
5. August 16th is National Tell a Joke Day. So tell us a joke.
I could not think of one on my own, so I just asked my Alexa! Here is hers...
Why was the pizza maker so terrible at golf???
His whole round was full of slices!!
6. Insert your own random thought here.
I'm curious if where you live is already preparing for "back to school"? Here in my area, schools start up a week from Monday! I'm still "old school". (haha - get it?) when it comes to thinking schools should not reopen for the new year until September. Mid-August just seems too early!! And like I said above, summertime flies by too quickly as it is. I feel sorry for kids who have to return to school soon - AND the teachers!!
Have a good week - and enjoy these dog days of summer!!
Anyway, I am off subject to this week's Hodgepodge. Let's get back on track!
1. Do your actions match your words? Elaborate.
I sure hope so! I am not a game player, and I do not purposely say something and then DO the opposite. Why? Well, for one thing, I am not a good liar. I am happy that I am not. Plus, I just don't think I could be happy with myself if I said something and then didn't really belief it, and follow through with actions about the belief. I don't know, but that seems like it would be a constant internal struggle and difficult to handle... and just a sad way to live a life.
2. Sick as a dog, go to the dogs, dog days of summer, dog tired, it's a dog's life, every dog has it's day, can't teach an old dog new tricks...now doggone it which saying could most recently be applied to your life?
Ha! Well, a few dog sayings probably do apply to my life, like "You can't teach an old dog new tricks." My hubby will vouch that I am not always ready to jump in to new technology, or try a new way of doing something because I was okay with how I have 'always done it.'
But, I will pick "it's a dog's life" because I know that I am blessed, and have many good people around me, supporting me, taking care of me...and loving me. Gee - should I give them a good dog kiss on the lips?? ha!!
3. Your favorite book featuring a dog in the storyline? What makes it a favorite?
I did not read the book, but I did see the movie "Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog." I loved it!
My favorite though? It's got to be Clifford books - Clifford, the Big Red Dog! My daughters had a few of them. I loved the one where Clifford went trick or treating. I just googled him and there are over 70 Cifford titles, a tv show - and a movie coming soon! Yeah for Clifford!!
4. What's something you hope to one day have the confidence to do?
Hmmm. If I don't have the confidence now, at my age, will I ever??
The only thing I can think of is to be confident enough to speak up against injustices, and - going back to question #1, then to act on them. To go the extra 'step' and not just verbalize when something is wrong, but to DO something to help make a situation better.
After this past weekend's sad events in Charlottesville, VA, I think we ALL should think about having confidence to speak and act against blatant racism, and to care for those who feel the pain of it.
5. August 16th is National Tell a Joke Day. So tell us a joke.
I could not think of one on my own, so I just asked my Alexa! Here is hers...
Why was the pizza maker so terrible at golf???
His whole round was full of slices!!
6. Insert your own random thought here.
I'm curious if where you live is already preparing for "back to school"? Here in my area, schools start up a week from Monday! I'm still "old school". (haha - get it?) when it comes to thinking schools should not reopen for the new year until September. Mid-August just seems too early!! And like I said above, summertime flies by too quickly as it is. I feel sorry for kids who have to return to school soon - AND the teachers!!
Have a good week - and enjoy these dog days of summer!!
Monday, August 14, 2017
Monday morning QBing
* It's almost football season... yes! Okay, actually it's already 'pre-season' and football is now on TV. August is the month to get back in the conversation... to watch the early scrimmages with the new guys. But, once September arrives, so does the REAL season!
* Rain, rain, rain. Enough. But, it's August - and it's hot and humid. That means pop-up thundershowers. Heavy downpours. We have entered hurricane season here in the lowcountry. After what we went through last October with Matthew I hope and pray that we have a quiet next few months here. Please oh please!
* Weekend ups and downs: What a joy to sit with sweet Greta at church, and to spend time with her yesterday. That girl got my heart at a very young age and she remains so special to me. Her hugs are the best!
The hate openly shown in Charlottesville this weekend by neo-Nazi's and white supremists makes me very upset. It seemed by what I saw on the News that most there, marching, and spewing hate, were young white men. How did they become this way? What did they not learn, or feel, during childhood? Or, maybe it's really what they DID get taught. Someone, a parent or someone else, must have put hate and racism into their minds when they were young. Maybe. I can't figure it out. Some come from a bad environment - but some come from Christian families. Just typing that - scares me! How can that be??
Golf! Yesterday's final day was again an exciting Sunday! A 12 second pause before the ball dropped in the hole! Golf is certainly a game of skill - but it always has an element of luck. Daughter #2 and boyfriend were there, hanging in a VIP tent part of the time - and then walking the fairways, watching the pros being so amazing!
* Confederate statues. Seriously. I can not even understand why moving them gets people so upset. But, I know it's the tip of the iceberg for some who think our country is not for them anymore. Selfish people - people who can not be empathetic to others who feel the statues are offensive to history and their grandparents.
Which leads me to think of the word 'entitlement.' What a bad word. No good comes from it.
* Have I said lately that I love my hubby and daughters? This morning seems like a good time to state it. I love my son-in-law and the little nuggets growing in my daughter too! Above all else! They are my world.
* I'm wrapped up in a book right now. "The Lilac Girls" by Martha Hall Kelly. I'm 2/3s of the way through it. I'm totally wrapped up in the lives of the 3 women. I'm appalled by the atrocities in it, and I'm hoping for happy outcomes for these tough women. What should be my next read? Any book suggestions??
Here's to a good week ahead... and to peace, and understanding. Let's live it!!
* Rain, rain, rain. Enough. But, it's August - and it's hot and humid. That means pop-up thundershowers. Heavy downpours. We have entered hurricane season here in the lowcountry. After what we went through last October with Matthew I hope and pray that we have a quiet next few months here. Please oh please!
* Weekend ups and downs: What a joy to sit with sweet Greta at church, and to spend time with her yesterday. That girl got my heart at a very young age and she remains so special to me. Her hugs are the best!
The hate openly shown in Charlottesville this weekend by neo-Nazi's and white supremists makes me very upset. It seemed by what I saw on the News that most there, marching, and spewing hate, were young white men. How did they become this way? What did they not learn, or feel, during childhood? Or, maybe it's really what they DID get taught. Someone, a parent or someone else, must have put hate and racism into their minds when they were young. Maybe. I can't figure it out. Some come from a bad environment - but some come from Christian families. Just typing that - scares me! How can that be??
Golf! Yesterday's final day was again an exciting Sunday! A 12 second pause before the ball dropped in the hole! Golf is certainly a game of skill - but it always has an element of luck. Daughter #2 and boyfriend were there, hanging in a VIP tent part of the time - and then walking the fairways, watching the pros being so amazing!
* Confederate statues. Seriously. I can not even understand why moving them gets people so upset. But, I know it's the tip of the iceberg for some who think our country is not for them anymore. Selfish people - people who can not be empathetic to others who feel the statues are offensive to history and their grandparents.
Which leads me to think of the word 'entitlement.' What a bad word. No good comes from it.
* Have I said lately that I love my hubby and daughters? This morning seems like a good time to state it. I love my son-in-law and the little nuggets growing in my daughter too! Above all else! They are my world.
* I'm wrapped up in a book right now. "The Lilac Girls" by Martha Hall Kelly. I'm 2/3s of the way through it. I'm totally wrapped up in the lives of the 3 women. I'm appalled by the atrocities in it, and I'm hoping for happy outcomes for these tough women. What should be my next read? Any book suggestions??
Here's to a good week ahead... and to peace, and understanding. Let's live it!!
Friday, August 11, 2017
Do I dare? How can I not?
Disclaimer: This is a post about politics. With a bit of religion in it too. So, if you can't handle reading my opinions, then exit now.
My blog. My thoughts.
In America you get to say what you feel.
Here goes...
You all know this: I cried on Election Night last November. I have written about it already. I hurt. Physically and mentally. I was in shock - for days afterwards. Some people told me to get over it, and to accept the results. Well, I had to accept it... even though I suppose I tried to stay in denial for a bit... but get over it? How does a person get over the sadness of knowing fellow Americans voted the way they did? Some are people I know and love. Family and friends.
It was a blow to me. It was SO obvious to me that our country was going to go backwards with this man at the helm. It was obvious to me back then that he was a fake. An egotist. An embarrassment. I knew he was irrational. Hot-headed. Unprepared for holding the office.
7 months in to his presidency, I am saddened to say that I was not even able to foresee all the craziness that is reality now. I didn't think he would bring us into a place of war talk with one of the other crazy men of the world already. I didn't think he would devalue so many people... trans, gays, minorities, women! I didn't think he would so quickly deny climate change, and go backwards on our care for our land. I didn't think he could not bring saner people into his circle - and keep them. (Back then I hoped people around him would ring him in.) I didn't realize political posts would stay vacant because nobody can work for him. I didn't know he would tweet like he does!!
But, here we are.
I am a woman of faith. I believe in God. I know He (God our creator) has given us this amazing planet to live on... to tend it, to share with each other. We are to love one another...even our enemies. We are to feed the poor, to value our individuality, to give without judgement. These are basic beliefs - the foundation of following Him. My belief as a follower of Jesus guides my life. I fall short all the time, but I TRY to do what I think God wants me to do for others.... ALL others.
Living as a Christian woman can be hard at times. But, Jesus told the disciples that there would be those who challenge, and do not understand, and that we must dust ourselves off and keep on going. Never give up. 7 times 7... keep on going... Profess God's love and message. Live as a child of God.
I try. I pray for guidance. I ask for balance. And strength.
I am a happy person. You may think I am not because of what I write here. But, it's true. I find constant comfort in my faith. I find joy all the time!! I am fortunate. My circumstances, where I am on this earth and in America ... I am blessed. And, I live in a real world - and I speak out when I see wrongs, and I worry about innocent people getting hurt, and when I see political injustice. I feel I must. That is why I speak out about politics sometimes. I can not hide my head and heart away.
I will not, and can not, stop. Yes, politics is so very depressing at times. So much is wrong with it. So many are involved in it for personal satisfaction only, and for ego strokes. Elected officials are supposed to work for the betterment of us all...but they don't. Money, lobbys, business - all need to get OUT of politics.
Caring, and working together for a better America for ALL is possible... politics and religion can find common ground. I believe that. So, I speak out.
My blog. My thoughts.
In America you get to say what you feel.
Here goes...
You all know this: I cried on Election Night last November. I have written about it already. I hurt. Physically and mentally. I was in shock - for days afterwards. Some people told me to get over it, and to accept the results. Well, I had to accept it... even though I suppose I tried to stay in denial for a bit... but get over it? How does a person get over the sadness of knowing fellow Americans voted the way they did? Some are people I know and love. Family and friends.
It was a blow to me. It was SO obvious to me that our country was going to go backwards with this man at the helm. It was obvious to me back then that he was a fake. An egotist. An embarrassment. I knew he was irrational. Hot-headed. Unprepared for holding the office.
7 months in to his presidency, I am saddened to say that I was not even able to foresee all the craziness that is reality now. I didn't think he would bring us into a place of war talk with one of the other crazy men of the world already. I didn't think he would devalue so many people... trans, gays, minorities, women! I didn't think he would so quickly deny climate change, and go backwards on our care for our land. I didn't think he could not bring saner people into his circle - and keep them. (Back then I hoped people around him would ring him in.) I didn't realize political posts would stay vacant because nobody can work for him. I didn't know he would tweet like he does!!
But, here we are.
I am a woman of faith. I believe in God. I know He (God our creator) has given us this amazing planet to live on... to tend it, to share with each other. We are to love one another...even our enemies. We are to feed the poor, to value our individuality, to give without judgement. These are basic beliefs - the foundation of following Him. My belief as a follower of Jesus guides my life. I fall short all the time, but I TRY to do what I think God wants me to do for others.... ALL others.
Living as a Christian woman can be hard at times. But, Jesus told the disciples that there would be those who challenge, and do not understand, and that we must dust ourselves off and keep on going. Never give up. 7 times 7... keep on going... Profess God's love and message. Live as a child of God.
I try. I pray for guidance. I ask for balance. And strength.
I am a happy person. You may think I am not because of what I write here. But, it's true. I find constant comfort in my faith. I find joy all the time!! I am fortunate. My circumstances, where I am on this earth and in America ... I am blessed. And, I live in a real world - and I speak out when I see wrongs, and I worry about innocent people getting hurt, and when I see political injustice. I feel I must. That is why I speak out about politics sometimes. I can not hide my head and heart away.
I will not, and can not, stop. Yes, politics is so very depressing at times. So much is wrong with it. So many are involved in it for personal satisfaction only, and for ego strokes. Elected officials are supposed to work for the betterment of us all...but they don't. Money, lobbys, business - all need to get OUT of politics.
Caring, and working together for a better America for ALL is possible... politics and religion can find common ground. I believe that. So, I speak out.
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
Isn't life GRAND?
Hello Hodgepodgers! Welcome to this week's set of questions, and my answers. People ask me why I do the Hodgepodge, and why I blog. For me... It is a good way to keep my brain working, and my blog is my way of speaking out. I get frustrated sometimes. I don't keep secrets. I like to share life.
The Hodgepodge questions are usually not controversial. This week is fun and GRAND! So, read on and enjoy. Feel free to answer too. I love getting comments at the end of the post.
1. Do you try to set rules for yourself about how you use your time? Explain.
Yes, I definitely am aware of time and how I use it. I keep to a schedule if possible. I wake up the same time each morning (within a half hour), and I think about my day ahead - and what I want to accomplish. Most things are not life or death! But, I plan my day around things that are already at set times, and I plan the best way to use the hours of the day.
I am a 'rule follower.' If I set one - then I do my best to follow through. Time is valuable!
2. Monday was National Lighthouse Day. Have you ever visited a lighthouse? If not, do you have any desire to see one up close? Of the 10 Most Beautiful that made this list which would you most like to see in person-
Lindau Lighthouse (Germany), Fanad Lighthouse (Ireland), Portland Head Light (Maine), Yaquina Bay Light (Oregon) The St. Augustine Light (Florida), Peggys Point Lighthouse (Canada), Start Point Lighthouse (England), Tower of Hercules (Spain), Bass Harbor Head Station (Maine), and White Shoal Light (Michigan)
When you've been away, what's your 'lighthouse' telling you you're on the right road home?
Yes, I have visited a couple of lighthouses, up close and personal. I have gone in and up into the Marblehead Lighthouse on Lake Erie in Ohio, and the Tybee Island Lighthouse near Savannah. I have boated by others, including the Georgetown Lighthouse, at the entrance of the Winyah Bay in South Carolina.
Of those listed above, I would like to visit Maine (in the summertime) and see both the Portland Head Light and the Bass Harbor Head Station.
What does a lighthouse say to me? Is that the last part of this question? Coming home is always a warm feeling. A comfort feeling. Lighthouses gave the mariners the same feeling - of finding a warm home, and a safe harbor. A light in the dark, and the direction to follow to get to solid ground.
3. What have you unintentionally stopped doing? Is this something you need to pick back up and begin again, or is it something you need to let go of for now (or even permanently)?
Ha! Thanks for making me feel guilty! lol Well, I have stopped walking for exercise and I need to get back to it! I also need to remind myself to drink more water every day. I know I feel better doing both, and both keep me healthier. So... yes, I need to get back at it!
4. We've had a full week of August. Share a GRAND moment from your month so far.
Congrats to our leader Joyce on the birth of her first GRANDbaby, a little boy, with a head full of hair! He's beautiful. That's tough to beat for a grand first week in August!
For me, August has brought me closer to my daughter's arrival of her twin boys. Sorry readers! You will be hearing about this for a long time! The boys are due in November. The first week of August also brought my other daughter and some friends to our riva cabin for a weekend get-away. It was grand to see her and I am glad they all had a wonderful time.
5. Tell us one song you love with the word 'baby' in the title.
Nice segway Joyce! So many GRAND songs with the word 'baby' in it's title! Here's a few...
The Supremes "Baby Love"
Amy Grant's "Baby Baby"
and
Britney Spears "Hit me Baby One More Time"!
Okay... now I will be singing these all day today!
6. Insert your own random thought here.
So, "baby oh baby" is the theme of my daughter's upcoming shower as she has TWO on the way! I'd love to hear from you all on fun games or food for a baby shower. We are planning one for Labor Day weekend (seems like an appropriate time, right? ha) and I have a few ideas. But, if you know of something I should include, please tell me. Double the fun - double the babies!
As always, thanks for visiting me here. Have a GRAND and safe week ahead!
The Hodgepodge questions are usually not controversial. This week is fun and GRAND! So, read on and enjoy. Feel free to answer too. I love getting comments at the end of the post.
1. Do you try to set rules for yourself about how you use your time? Explain.
Yes, I definitely am aware of time and how I use it. I keep to a schedule if possible. I wake up the same time each morning (within a half hour), and I think about my day ahead - and what I want to accomplish. Most things are not life or death! But, I plan my day around things that are already at set times, and I plan the best way to use the hours of the day.
I am a 'rule follower.' If I set one - then I do my best to follow through. Time is valuable!
2. Monday was National Lighthouse Day. Have you ever visited a lighthouse? If not, do you have any desire to see one up close? Of the 10 Most Beautiful that made this list which would you most like to see in person-
Lindau Lighthouse (Germany), Fanad Lighthouse (Ireland), Portland Head Light (Maine), Yaquina Bay Light (Oregon) The St. Augustine Light (Florida), Peggys Point Lighthouse (Canada), Start Point Lighthouse (England), Tower of Hercules (Spain), Bass Harbor Head Station (Maine), and White Shoal Light (Michigan)
When you've been away, what's your 'lighthouse' telling you you're on the right road home?
Yes, I have visited a couple of lighthouses, up close and personal. I have gone in and up into the Marblehead Lighthouse on Lake Erie in Ohio, and the Tybee Island Lighthouse near Savannah. I have boated by others, including the Georgetown Lighthouse, at the entrance of the Winyah Bay in South Carolina.
Of those listed above, I would like to visit Maine (in the summertime) and see both the Portland Head Light and the Bass Harbor Head Station.
What does a lighthouse say to me? Is that the last part of this question? Coming home is always a warm feeling. A comfort feeling. Lighthouses gave the mariners the same feeling - of finding a warm home, and a safe harbor. A light in the dark, and the direction to follow to get to solid ground.
3. What have you unintentionally stopped doing? Is this something you need to pick back up and begin again, or is it something you need to let go of for now (or even permanently)?
Ha! Thanks for making me feel guilty! lol Well, I have stopped walking for exercise and I need to get back to it! I also need to remind myself to drink more water every day. I know I feel better doing both, and both keep me healthier. So... yes, I need to get back at it!
4. We've had a full week of August. Share a GRAND moment from your month so far.
Congrats to our leader Joyce on the birth of her first GRANDbaby, a little boy, with a head full of hair! He's beautiful. That's tough to beat for a grand first week in August!
For me, August has brought me closer to my daughter's arrival of her twin boys. Sorry readers! You will be hearing about this for a long time! The boys are due in November. The first week of August also brought my other daughter and some friends to our riva cabin for a weekend get-away. It was grand to see her and I am glad they all had a wonderful time.
5. Tell us one song you love with the word 'baby' in the title.
Nice segway Joyce! So many GRAND songs with the word 'baby' in it's title! Here's a few...
The Supremes "Baby Love"
Amy Grant's "Baby Baby"
and
Britney Spears "Hit me Baby One More Time"!
Okay... now I will be singing these all day today!
6. Insert your own random thought here.
So, "baby oh baby" is the theme of my daughter's upcoming shower as she has TWO on the way! I'd love to hear from you all on fun games or food for a baby shower. We are planning one for Labor Day weekend (seems like an appropriate time, right? ha) and I have a few ideas. But, if you know of something I should include, please tell me. Double the fun - double the babies!
As always, thanks for visiting me here. Have a GRAND and safe week ahead!
Friday, August 4, 2017
Rainy Friday morning...
Hi readers. It's a rainy Friday morning and I have some time to write on my blog before starting my day. So, here goes...
* I'm sitting here with the morning news on. I'm once again questioning my need to know what is going on in the world, and I'm questioning how we Americans got ourselves to this place. I just saw our president at another "love fest" for him, staged of course, in W VA - a part of our country hurt by a dying coal industry, hanging on to some hope for a 'savior' and looking at our president for it.
Every single day Trump shows off his pompous ignorance and embarrasses me more. There really isn't anything new I can say about him, except I pray that he does not jump into a military action. I don't trust him - at all.
I know some people who still - S T I L L - support him. I can't figure them out. Except, I did hear that their allegiance is similar to when you love a football team... a blind love for them in bad times and good.
* I'm now watching CBS and they are doing a report on the Chicago gun violence. They are interviewing gang guys... and it is frightening.
*. Okay... I've got to turn my thoughts away from the woes we have. It's important to focus on all the good we know. So, here's a list of awesome-ness:
I'm enjoying all the pictures of our NJ friends' daughter's wedding on Facebook! What a beautiful day and the bride was just beaming! I love how the wedding and reception - and all the happy people having a blast - are shared on FB.
Before I go further, my daughter continues to feel good and is carrying her twin boys well. Absolutely NO issues to worry about at this point. Thank God! She is embracing this time, and is preparing for the boys' arrival. She and hubby have settled into their home, and will soon start with a series of childbirth and infant care classes. My other daughter and I are hosting a babys shower over Labor Day weekend. I'm having fun looking on Pinterest for ideas, and getting my thoughts together for the day!
Speaking of my son-in-law: yesterday was his birthday. So, here's a little toast to him. Hubby and I have said often how perfect he is for our daughter. He is dedicated to her and to his work and his family. He knows how to have a good time - and has a quick wit. People enjoy being around him. He has patience - and is a calming voice to our daughter when she needs it. They enjoy sports together, and they love going out to dinner for a good meal. Gee - as I write this, I realize how he is similar to hubby. So, maybe it's true that a daughter picks a man that reminds her of daddy!
I can't wait to see both of them as parents! Fun times ahead!
* Football season. I think I heard that the first pre-season pro game is today! Each year it seems like football starts so early. But, by September I am ready for it! I root for the South Carolina Gamecocks (through bad and good - see above! ha) and I love watching SEC games. I also root for the Carolina Panthers. So, Saturdays and Sundays are filled during football season!!
*. Another topic on the news right now: tattoos. I'm watching a report that the local police can not have a tat of something violent, or words that are racist. Really? duh. I am curious about tattoos. Most used to be a sign of toughness endured by a guy in the military. A badge of honor in a way. But, of course now, all kinds of people get them. Even I have thought about what I would want if I decided to get one. A Christian fish (like Tim's), or a musical note, a heart... or my daughter's initials. I know myself well enough that 1. I don't like pain, 2. I change my mind over time (I'm not who I was when I was 20 years old), 3. I wouldn't want it showing all the time. So, then... where to tat? I also know tattoos are expensive. I can't help it, but I see young people with all kinds of tats and wonder "this is how they spend their money?" I see some on people that are grotesque and I can't imagine WHY that picture was chosen. I know that tattoos are becoming more common place BUT it still is a statement - a forever statement. I don't always think those who get them realize it.
*.In case you have been wondering... we still have a house for sale. But, we now have heard some comments like "it's on the short list" and "they plan to come back again for a second look." Progress! ha
*. Speaking of homes: I love where I live so much! The house we "down-sized" into is just perfect! The square footage is less, and much more manageable (only 2 bathrooms to clean! yeah) I love the yard - because I love to be outdoors and garden. There is plenty of space to plant. Some spots of sun, and some of shade. Yesterday I tried out a new battery-operated hedge trimmer - and it worked great!! Simple pleasures.
* So - random thought. I downloaded Snapchat and for the life of me, I have not been able to understand how it works. And, I don't get why people put up pics that don't last. Guess that's why I like FB and Instagram... and really, that's enough for me. Some people probably think I'm on social media too much anyway! ha!!! Oh - and don't forget, I blog too! lol
If you have read down to here... thank you. If you want to comment back, I welcome it.
Have a great day! Think of the awesome-ness!!!
* I'm sitting here with the morning news on. I'm once again questioning my need to know what is going on in the world, and I'm questioning how we Americans got ourselves to this place. I just saw our president at another "love fest" for him, staged of course, in W VA - a part of our country hurt by a dying coal industry, hanging on to some hope for a 'savior' and looking at our president for it.
Every single day Trump shows off his pompous ignorance and embarrasses me more. There really isn't anything new I can say about him, except I pray that he does not jump into a military action. I don't trust him - at all.
I know some people who still - S T I L L - support him. I can't figure them out. Except, I did hear that their allegiance is similar to when you love a football team... a blind love for them in bad times and good.
* I'm now watching CBS and they are doing a report on the Chicago gun violence. They are interviewing gang guys... and it is frightening.
*. Okay... I've got to turn my thoughts away from the woes we have. It's important to focus on all the good we know. So, here's a list of awesome-ness:
I'm enjoying all the pictures of our NJ friends' daughter's wedding on Facebook! What a beautiful day and the bride was just beaming! I love how the wedding and reception - and all the happy people having a blast - are shared on FB.
Before I go further, my daughter continues to feel good and is carrying her twin boys well. Absolutely NO issues to worry about at this point. Thank God! She is embracing this time, and is preparing for the boys' arrival. She and hubby have settled into their home, and will soon start with a series of childbirth and infant care classes. My other daughter and I are hosting a babys shower over Labor Day weekend. I'm having fun looking on Pinterest for ideas, and getting my thoughts together for the day!
Speaking of my son-in-law: yesterday was his birthday. So, here's a little toast to him. Hubby and I have said often how perfect he is for our daughter. He is dedicated to her and to his work and his family. He knows how to have a good time - and has a quick wit. People enjoy being around him. He has patience - and is a calming voice to our daughter when she needs it. They enjoy sports together, and they love going out to dinner for a good meal. Gee - as I write this, I realize how he is similar to hubby. So, maybe it's true that a daughter picks a man that reminds her of daddy!
I can't wait to see both of them as parents! Fun times ahead!
* Football season. I think I heard that the first pre-season pro game is today! Each year it seems like football starts so early. But, by September I am ready for it! I root for the South Carolina Gamecocks (through bad and good - see above! ha) and I love watching SEC games. I also root for the Carolina Panthers. So, Saturdays and Sundays are filled during football season!!
*. Another topic on the news right now: tattoos. I'm watching a report that the local police can not have a tat of something violent, or words that are racist. Really? duh. I am curious about tattoos. Most used to be a sign of toughness endured by a guy in the military. A badge of honor in a way. But, of course now, all kinds of people get them. Even I have thought about what I would want if I decided to get one. A Christian fish (like Tim's), or a musical note, a heart... or my daughter's initials. I know myself well enough that 1. I don't like pain, 2. I change my mind over time (I'm not who I was when I was 20 years old), 3. I wouldn't want it showing all the time. So, then... where to tat? I also know tattoos are expensive. I can't help it, but I see young people with all kinds of tats and wonder "this is how they spend their money?" I see some on people that are grotesque and I can't imagine WHY that picture was chosen. I know that tattoos are becoming more common place BUT it still is a statement - a forever statement. I don't always think those who get them realize it.
*.In case you have been wondering... we still have a house for sale. But, we now have heard some comments like "it's on the short list" and "they plan to come back again for a second look." Progress! ha
*. Speaking of homes: I love where I live so much! The house we "down-sized" into is just perfect! The square footage is less, and much more manageable (only 2 bathrooms to clean! yeah) I love the yard - because I love to be outdoors and garden. There is plenty of space to plant. Some spots of sun, and some of shade. Yesterday I tried out a new battery-operated hedge trimmer - and it worked great!! Simple pleasures.
* So - random thought. I downloaded Snapchat and for the life of me, I have not been able to understand how it works. And, I don't get why people put up pics that don't last. Guess that's why I like FB and Instagram... and really, that's enough for me. Some people probably think I'm on social media too much anyway! ha!!! Oh - and don't forget, I blog too! lol
If you have read down to here... thank you. If you want to comment back, I welcome it.
Have a great day! Think of the awesome-ness!!!
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