Wednesday Hodgepodge ~ Right on Time!

1. When the children of today grow up, what do you think they'll say about this period in time? What do you most hope they remember? 

Well, this is a toughie...I had to think about it, but here goes:    I'm hoping they will be enjoying the freedoms our country has stood for and will be saying something like, "Our parents had to struggle with a meddling government, but we've  managed to turn it around!"    I'm hoping they remember that although there were struggles they lived through (financial, moral, political) that God was watching and waiting the whole time and always in control.
  
2. National Teacher's Day is celebrated in the US of A on the first Tuesday in May, this year May 7th...share how a particular teacher positively impacted you.  
Only one?  Ok, I'm choosing Miss Spalding :-)  She was pretty old when I had her but she still had lots of patience dealing with those rascally boys in our 4th grade class!  She was patient with the talkative girls in class as well.  She was kind and caring... letting me soothe my little friend when another classmate hurt her feelings in a terrible way. My brother had her, too, so she was familiar with my family and would come to our restaurant once a week for supper... usually on the same night I was there :-)  She loved nature and taught us kids all about flowers and trees having us bring in different specimens for a contest in the springtime.  I didn't win, but that was ok because  I have retained a good portion of that education in nature being able to share with my own children. She came to my high school graduation and hugged me to pieces. 

3. What's a dish your mama made, that if set in front of you today would whisk you right back to childhood? 

Meatloaf. Definitely meatloaf!  ... and "cornstarch pudding" for dessert.                                                                         
4. Mother May I was a game we played when I was growing up...no pieces, parts, or plugs required. What games from childhood do you remember loving that were also pieces, parts, and plug-free?

Red Light! Green Light! was a favorite; Freeze Tag, TV Tag, and acrobatics on the lawn ... I'm telling you, we rivaled some of those Olympic participants!

5. Besides your own mother, tell us about a woman who influenced you as a child?

My sister, Barbara, was already grown up, married and had two children by the time I can really remember ... my nephew was 3 months older and my niece was 2 1/2 years younger than me. Her life was difficult for many reasons but I got to watch her continue to mature into a loving mother, working girl, caring wife and daughter and as always, a faithful sister.  She included me in so many activities with her own kids. We had only a few disagreements in our adult years, but love has a way of gluing relationships back together!   Though I was no longer a child, I watched her miraculous comeback from a stroke at age 69 and her successful determination to be independent! She died suddenly, two years from complications involving osteo arthritis and a weakened  heart. I miss her very much.

6. Mamma Mia! What's the best play or musical you've ever seen? 

Phantom of the Opera ~  

7. What are three smells that make you feel nostalgic?

Specific perfumes, popcorn, and hyacinths

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

My friend, Loretta,  died today. I made this my Facebook status for the day and kept reminding myself throughout it:

How can our hearts be heavy and filled with joy at the same time? By the power of the Holy Spirit! Thank you, dear Lord, for the life and homegoing of our dear friend. She has fought the good fight that is spoken of in the scriptures and has finished her race. May we learn from her example and be found as faithful. 

Wednesday Hodgepodge ... on Wednesday!

     Thanks, Joyce!

1. April showers bring May flowers...what have you been showered with this month? 

Light snow.  More days of light snow than all of winter.  Nothing very deep, just ... there... when it should have been sunshine!

2. What is the nature of compassion?  Is it learned or innate?  Can compassion be learned?  If you're a parent is this something you've purposely sought to instill in your children, and if so how?  

I think compassion is innate and can not be learned, but needs to be developed.  Its one of those things that separates us from animals. Little children understand things like compassion, love, respect by watching and imitating.  If this is what they see, they are more apt to show it as they mature and seem to show compassion much more easily/more quickly than older children and adults. If a child is raised in a home with no compassion, it is still possible for them to be compassionate; just takes longer to develop.  I believe that adults who do not  appear to possess compassion, actually do, but choose to follow their sinful nature and ignore it. 

3. Do you prefer to watch romantic comedy or romantic drama...or are you rolling your eyes saying bring on the action flicks?  

I'm not much for watching romantic anything, but would probably prefer comedy over drama. Action flicks usually bore me. I'm more of a documentary person.

4.  It's April which means baseball season is officially upon us here in the US of A. Humphrey Bogart is quoted as saying "A hot dog at the ballgame beats roast beef at the Ritz." Agree or Disagree?  

Well, I've never been to the Ritz or a pro ball game, but I DO love a good hot dog (all beef) with spicy brown mustard and sleeping in a potato roll.  I also love roast beef ...  So,  I believe that each destination deserves it's own food .. hot dogs at the ball park and roast beef at the Ritz!

5. What's something in your community or city that needs fixing or improving?

My first thought was "My city; period" but that was kind of flippant of me ... so let me say, I appreciate the hard work SOME of the people in my neighboring city do.   Urban blight needs to be dealt with BIG TIME and there are codes in place but not enforced...  Welfare fraud has been dealt with to some extent, but I'm afraid the problem is rooted at the State level and that's beyond my community's reach. However, the SOME I was referring to are involved with volunteer organizations and are doing a wonderful job! The politicians could take a lesson...

6. Share a song you enjoy that mentions flowers or a specific flower in its title.

Only one?  OK ... waxing nostalgic and going back to my 60's roots and The Kingston Trio with "Where Have All the Flowers Gone?" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Qt57c7rnHM  But my all time favorite is one my mom used to sing to me when I was little; then I sang it to my kids, and I know one of mine has sung it to his:

Dandelion! Dandelion! What golden stars are you. 
Shining in the meadow grasses, sparkling with the dew.
Did you shine up yonder, dears, all the whole night through
and then come dancing down with the sun...
because little Peggy loves you?

How I wish you could hear the tune!

7. April 22nd is Earth Day...do you believe there's life on other planets?  That wasn't the question you were expecting was it?  

No, and no! Oh, there could be micro-organisms, but intelligent life would have found each other by now, I'm pretty sure.  But for the sake of imagination, I'll leave a spark of "maybe" in my mind...  :-)

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

It's been a rough week in the USA ... how anyone can go through this life without a compassionate God is beyond me.  He's there to comfort and care; to save and to share ... he's all powerful, all knowing, all seeing  and just because he doesn't intervene when sin over takes this land and troubles arise from fire, flood and storm does not mean he's mean, or doesn't exist, but he lets the life he's created, live. He lets us make our own choices, and our choices affect all those around us ...  He leads and directs, but we don't always follow. When we do follow but bad things happen, is it His "fault"?  Of course not, we are not puppets and this world is not our stage. It's our home...but only for awhile. When people die, it's only for this period of time; in this place.  There's more to come; So much more.  I don't have all the answers but I know who does and He has the peace that surpasses all human understanding.  I've got it! Do you?

Wednesday Hodgepodge... on Sunday (oops!)

1. Share one fun thing you did last week, while the Hodgepodge was on 'spring break'.

I made some venison stew; took a walk up on our hill; did bare minimum housework and read a book during spring break. 

2.  April 10th is National Sibling Day...do you have siblings, and if so are you close? Share a favorite story featuring one or all of your siblings. If you don't have siblings, did you ever wish you did? 

I have 3 half brothers and 1 half sister. 2 of my 1/2 brothers were much older than me so our relationship was a distant one for the most part, simply because of time and well, distance :-)  They were my father's sons and have both passed from this earth to heaven. My mom's son was 8 years older than me, but we were as close as a big brother and baby sister could get. We are separated by distance, now, but keep in touch. My mom's daughter is my 1/2 sister and she was much older than me. However, we were pretty close in that we did lots of fun things together and even argued as we got older!  My sister's children are my age, so my niece and nephew were more like a brother and sister to me.  People have asked me if that felt strange and my answer is always, "Not at all. We all had a great time growing up together and I didn't know any other way!"  My sister has since passed, but I am still in touch with my niece and occasionally my nephew. 

3. Is it important to you to 'buy American'? Why or why not? How much of an effort do you make to 'buy American'? If you're not American, insert your own country in the blank. 

I look for quality. If I have a choice between 2 products that are of equal value, I'll choose American made every time...if the quality is there.

4. Besides The Bible, what book has impacted your spirituality in some way?

Probably the first book to impact me as a very young woman (other than the Bible) would be  The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom (also her book, Tramp for the Lord.)  In more recent history, I have been inspired by the writings of Patsy Clairmont ... one book being, "God Uses Cracked Pots"  .. I also remember a book titled, "Change Points" by Joyce Landorf that had an impact on me over 25 years ago as I was working my way through motherhood with 3 boys ... probably still a good read!

5. April showers bring May flowers or so the saying goes.  Do you find rainy days calming or depressing?  When were you last caught in a rainstorm? What's blooming in your neck of the woods today?

The first rainy day of spring or late winter is awesome! I love to hear it hit the windows and watch the droplets run down our window panes.  If those skies stay gray and drippy for a 2nd day, though, I become antsy... especially in the springtime!  In the fall, a rainy day is fine ... again, as long as there are not too many of them! A cold rain in November reminds me that snow will be coming ...maybe any minute! 

I was caught in a real "gully washer" one summer; no umbrella; had to wade through ankle deep water and then made it to the neighboring business' car port to wait for my husband to pick me up.  There was lots of thunder and lightning and NO WAY was I waiting in our little mini golf clubhouse with all those big pine trees towering over head! I was soaked and scared!

Although it is spring here in upstate NY, we have nothing blooming, yet, this year. Last year the crocuses and even some dandelions were already blooming with daffodils and tulips just ready to burst! This year? Crocuses little green shoots just broke through the ground.

6. What's your favorite yellow food?

Hands down, Butter and Sugar variety of corn on the cob and the butter to go with it!



7. April is National Poetry Month...what's a poem that holds special meaning for you, and why is it special?

I'm a bit nostalgic about poetry. Certain ones stick and always for a reason. I write my own, but often find myself  "hearing" my mom's voice as she had memorized "The Children's Hour" by Henry Wadsowrth Longfellow  and "The Landing of the Pilgrim Fathers" by Dorothea Hemans.  In her late 70's, my mom started writing her own about life on the farm and when dementia set in, she would recite them over and over and over and over ... my sister, niece and I all agreed that we could just about not stand it any longer BUT would one day miss hearing her voice and those very same poems. We were right. 
8.  Insert your own random thought here.

Long shadows at sunset on the beach...ahhhhh!

God Started It!

I've had more than just a few people ask me about my faith, recently.  Some were quizzical, some were  combatant and some were just curious where I stood on certain issues.   Let me say up front, that everything in my life revolves around my relationship with the Lord.  Now, don't get silly and ask me if I pray about what color to wear and what type of pasta to buy....   Understand that there are simple areas of life that I can take for granted simply because of the Lord's provision!  However, I thought I would share a few spiritual thoughts running around my head and heart, this day before Resurrection Sunday. 

Our families, past, held the Lord in high regard with preachers, missionaries and everyday believers abounding midst struggles of several wars, The Great Depression, a house fire, physical and mental illness and some untimely deaths,   Our families, present, have had some difficult roads to traverse but still with preachers, missionaries and everyday believers with God holding us up in spite of our downfalls. Our families, future, look forward to that Blessed Hope, being raised to everlasting life in Jesus Christ! The future is ... somewhere out there ... there's still time for thought, reason, action, *changes of heart and mind, decisions but one thing is constant and that is our salvation in and through Him.  Only one thing we can't change; *once saved, we can not change our mind.  If we have trusted Him as our Savior, we can not "be plucked" out of His hand.  

We need to have the desire to be sinless and make a conscious effort to sin less. Sounds rather obvious, but we are to avoid sin. Not just avoid it, but to flee from it. "C'mon, Peg, you're being a bit dramatic." Really? Run as quickly as we can!  Why?  Because it can grip the believer just the same as the unbeliever. FLEE!  Do we?  No! We think about it, consider it, rationalize it; NO! FLEE IT!  As Paul the Apostle asked (and answered), "Should we continue to sin that Grace may abound?" ...  Certainly not! Once we have made the decision to trust Jesus Christ as our Savior, our past is forgiven, our present is comforted and our future is secure. We may take our eyes off of Him, we may back slide, we may let the wave of popular opinion sway our thoughts, we may even start doubting our decision and even try to run away from Him, but He will still be there.  

I LOVE the "never alone" part of being a Christian! He is always with me. I got a kick out of the new "Footprints" cartoon and saying that has been going around the internet.  I would have posted it here but don't want to break any copyright infringement. It shows Jesus and some dude walking and Jesus says, "My child, I never left you. Those places with only one set of footprints is where I carried you." and the next picture shows them with Jesus continuing to talk, "That long groove over there is where I dragged you."  I can not tell you how true this has been in my life! HAHA!!!   Even in times of struggle, where I have been dragged, almost kicking and screaming, I have had a sense of His presence. Only once have I ever prayed and FELT God being silent. That's the only way to describe it.  It was a silent feeling ... as if He just stood back to watch ... and that was in the face of evil, where there was a battle going on for, I truly believe, the soul of a loved one. It was a very short period of time and it was a very long time ago, but I have never forgotten it. It would appear that the battle was won by the Lord and there is even earthly evidence (answer to prayer)  to back up this spiritual victory!

I cut my own hair last night....ooooohhhh... I know; it could have been a really bad scene, me with scissors in front of a mirror, but we're good :-)  Today, I got to thinking. We were created in His image; not that we look like Him in the physical sense, but we are His design AND we are to REFLECT Him. So in that sense, we SHOULD look like him ... at least in a spiritual way!  It is my desire and prayer that others see Jesus in me. 

Not too long ago, I had someone curious how I could justify my "celebration" of each season, as the pagans do, with my dependence on and devotion to God. They mistakenly thought that since the pagans celebrate these things, Christians weren't suppose to. Wrong. Since nature proclaims His handiwork ... and at the end, even the rocks are going to cry out, as a Christian I get to enjoy it all and I can celebrate each season, the weather within them, and I even get to see and appreciate everyday miracles, just as the pagans do! Why? Pagans do not have a monopoly on God's creation! The biggest difference in this respect, between me and pagans, is that I have a relationship with the Creator and they don't. He is my Father and I will give Him the glory!

One of the kids in Bible Club at church, www.bconny.org asked our "Question Man" (Pastor George), "If God knew we were going to turn out to be sinners, why did He bother to create us in the first place?"  Good question!  (I love these kids!) God wanted a "people" (not spirit beings, like angels) to be a part of the earth He was creating.  In order for these people to return His love for them, they would have to be able to choose to do this. We are not Christian puppets.  I've got news for my pro-choice friends.... God was Pro Choice before you were! ;-) He chose us to be part of HIS creation and as soon as we chose to go against God's rules, sin entered the world. Was God surprised? "...Oh NO! How could that happen?  I never saw it coming!..."   He knew. He was prepared. Read John 1.

Some thoughts (and mental images) on the consequences of sin. First off, it separates us from God; like building a wall. Pretty soon, we're so used to doing what we want to do, we can't even see God any more because of our wall.  Happily, God has a big sledge hammer and with one prayer can break the wall down.  On the other hand, those sledge hammers can send debris flying and we (the sinner) can get hit with the shrapnel. It hurts to be wrong. It hurts to be corrected. But it hurts even more to be left to our own devices. To wonder and wander on our own instead of having God to guide us. The Bible says in Romans 6:23  that the "wages of sin is death."  Wages is what we are paid ... so for all sin, we are paid ... death.  Well, that's not a pretty painting! I thought God was love?  Oh, no! This must be one of those contradictions my unbelieving friends talk about!  Not at all. God loved us so much He had already made a way to redeem us. See, the 2nd part of that verse says that the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord.  I call that LOVE!

The Bible also shows us incidents where He stepped in and took back authority so that others would not be led astray; so that His people would be preserved. He stands presumably "idle" just so long. When sin was rampant (Old Testament), God dealt with it and it wasn't pretty. I could name specific instances (but I won't)  that are referenced in the Bible and I'm sure there are many more that aren't recorded but the bottom line is, He fulfilled His promise (New Testament) to send Messiah to be our Savior. Those who trust in Him are not only saved from the punishment of sin, but get to experience the comfort and joy that only the Holy Spirit can give. 

Now, it is my heartfelt desire that those who question my faith, might "test the waters" and pray to the Living God, and read His Word instead of just looking at my words and blowing them off. So, go ahead; you've tried other ways. Ask God for an understanding heart, then for starters, read John, chapter 10...I love this verse where Jesus is speaking: "The thief (that would be Satan) comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."  Is my Christian life perfect? Of course not. Is my walk with the Lord where it should be?  Nope.  Does He still love me and want me to turn from sin? Absolutely! Living my faith does not make me a good person, but it does make my path and convictions clearer.  I am who I am (sounds like Popeye) and God met me where I was and He will do the same for you!  

He has more to do, by the way ... Lots more.   Happy Resurrection Sunday! May it be a day of joy and reflection!

Wednesday Hodgepodge Once Again

1. My real life friends came through with another question this week so thank you real life friends. When you've eaten in a restaurant do you complete their comment card? Do you take online surveys highlighted at the bottom of store receipts? 

I will fill out survey cards at restaurants, but not the "online" surveys. I get too much junk e mail as it is! If I am contacted via e-mail for a survey (motel, purchase, etc) I may or may not respond.  
2. The (US) ban on women in combat was lifted at the end of January. It will probably be next year before specifics are worked out, but its been reported over 200,000 front line positions will eventually open up to women.  Your thoughts? 

I don't believe women belong in combat.  

3.  In looking back at all the blog posts you've written, what's your favorite posttitle? 

I'd have to actually look back ... probably one of my poems.  I'll leave that to my readers!  Just check the side bar for "poetry" and it should bring them all up!
4. What's worse-overly permissive parents or overly protective parents?  Did your own parents lean more to the permissive or the protective category?  If you're a parent where do you fall? 

Well, this is a hard call!  I'm going to go with overly permissive parents being worse. Their children tend to get  into more trouble at an earlier age than others. Children of permissive parents often expect other people to be permissive as well and this does NOT go over well at school! These children also tend to be spoiled and spoiled children have a hard time making good friends. Overly protective parents end up with rebellious children, but I think it's easier for them since they get a reprieve at school for 6 or 7 hours a day!  My dad was permissive, but my Mom was not. Therefore, I needed to ask my mom for permission for everything! What made it ok for me, was that I was not a demanding/rebellious child and was content most of the time :-)  ...MOST of the time!

5.  Candlelight-moonlight-firelight-bright lights in the big city...which one's your favorite? 

Ahhhh... decisions, decisions...    I'm leaning towards firelight.  We don't have a fireplace, but we do have bonfires several times a year.  I LOVE to sit out by the fire with or without my marshmallow stick, Hershey Bars and Graham Crackers!  I also love candlelight, but my husband is allergic to most fragrances so we use them only on occasion.  Moonlight in the winter is pretty cool, though ... we've taken winter walks in the moonlight! Bright city lights are pretty, but we can't usually afford the theatre, dinner, etc that goes along with them.

6. Dr. Seuss's birthday was celebrated on Saturday. What's a favorite book you remember (Seuss or otherwise) from your own childhood?  Did books play an important role in your growing up years? Explain. 

I love books. Sometimes as a teenager, I felt they were my only friends. I loved reading about horses, nurses, mysteries (but not scary things).  Besides my Bible (with pictures), the very first books I remember were, MIss Frances' (Ding Dong School) about a birthday cake;  and a Little Golden Book, called , "Out of My Window"   ...  From memory, the last verse of that book is: 

 "Out of my window, I can see 
the sunset as the sun goes down, 
the lights come on all over town 
and my Daddy coming home to me. 
That's what I see from my Window."

It's making me smile all over again...  :-) 

7.  To quote Dr. Seuss...

"From there to here, and here to there, funny things are everywhere." 

from One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish

Share something funny you've recently read, seen or heard.  

I work with little kids mostly, and they are a never ending source of funny comments.  Just today as I was tying a little boy's sneaker, he asked, "Did you take a shower this morning?"   LOL!!!!   I asked him why he asked and he smiled and said, "Because your hair still smells like shampoo!"    Love those kids!

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

I probably won't be doing Wednesday Hodge Podge next week because we are going on vacation :-)   We go every winter... here's a sneak peek!  

Wednesday Hodge Podge ... say bye to February!

It's that time of week, again!  Thank you, Joyce :-)


1.  When were you last facing an ocean? Using just ONE word, describe how you felt as you faced that ocean. 

The last time I faced the ocean was back in October; Ocean City, MD.  One word?  small

2. What are three sounds you hate to hear?

Children wheezing with asthma; very loud claps of thunder; sirens at night. 

3. This question comes to you courtesy of some real life friends. Hi real life friends! When you shop for yourself, do you try everything on in the store before buying or do you buy, try on at home, and then return what you don't like or what doesn't fit?

I do a little bit of both. Sometimes, I am just not in the mood for trying on, so I hold it up and try to judge. I can get away with this for tops but usually not bottoms. A couple of weeks ago, I got away with both!

4. February 26th is National Pistachio Day...are you a fan of the little green nut? Do you use them in cooking and baking or prefer to eat them right out of the shell?

Munch, munch, munch; salted and right out of the shell! I don't like pistachio ice cream, though. 

5. When did you last have to compromise with someone?  Were you happy to reach the compromise or slightly irritated it was necessary? 

If you're married, then you have compromised! Probably it was vacation details...do we stay in a cheap hotel where we get points or try a new place that looks great online? (last week) We were both happy! However, what type of new living room sofa do we buy? (two weeks ago)  Two big stores but couldn't find "my" color, but we really couldn't wait much longer! Honey liked the reclining sofa in the color tomato red and I was ok with it. But now we'll have to get a new rug, new curtains (already on the list) and 2 end tables :-)

6.  Have you ever written a letter to an elected official? Did you get a response?

I wrote to my state representative regarding the closure of a hospital; the only hospital in the county (where there are two ski areas and a major interstate highway.) The county to the west also had their hospital close 10 years before. He was very concerned and shared my sentiments but supposedly the #'s spoke for themselves, but that is another story....   He's a nice guy, though, and we're facebook friends. 

7. We 'March' into a new month at the end of this week...what's something on your March calendar guaranteed to make you smile?

My next encounter with an ocean :-)  See? I'm smiling already!  We're headed to the east coast for about a week, taking in the boardwalks on Virginia Beach, VA and and Ocean City, MD.  If the extended forecast does not look warm enough to us, we'll head for Myrtle Beach, SC instead. 

8.  Insert your own random thought here. 

Can't wait to find the first peek of springtime!  We'll spend about 7 - 9 days enjoying the ocean, some family and friends: 

From this ...

...to this!

Well, I'm a few days late, but ... here goes!

1.  This week marks the beginning of Lent...will you be giving something up or adding anything to your life during this season of the year?  

No to Lent. Yes to adding a day and a night away with my sweetheart.

2. The day before Lent is Shrove Tuesday... tradition states you eat pancakes on this day. In some parts of the world Shrove Tuesday is actually known as 'pancake day'. How do you like your pancakes? Or don't you? 

Real maple syrup OR hamburg gravy.

3.  I'm sure there are many, but what's one love song you really love? 

Wow!  Lets go way back to our engagement:  "Just You and Me" by Chicago


4.  What are some things you do to let others know you love them? 

Tell them! Bake, cook, buy presents or cards, too.

5.  Roses...red, pink, or do you prefer another color? Can you recall the last time someone gave you flowers? Given your choice would you like to open the door and see a dozen red roses, a dozen purple tulips, or a dozen pink peonies?

Yellow roses are my favorite but NOTHING can beat the fragrance of a dozen peonies!

6.  President's Day will be celebrated in America next Monday. Does US Presidential history and trivia interest you?  Many Presidential homes are open to the public and offer guided tours...Monticello (Jefferson's home), Mount Vernon (Washington's home), Montpelier (James Madison's home), Hyde Park(FD Roosevelt's home) and The White House (home to the sitting President) to name just a few. Of those listed which would you be most interested in touring?  Why?

I suppose the White House since so many presidents have lived there ... I really enjoyed Mt. Vernon.

7.  Are you good at keeping secrets? 

Pretty good. Better than when I was a kid! HAHA!!

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

I love how my husband and I celebrate Valentine's Day! We look at each other and say "I love you." ... oh, wait, we say that EVERY day!  Well, sometimes we make it an excuse to eat some candy... and once, on Valentine's Day we went to the movies and two of our three adult children tried to call us and couldn't find us at home and then called each other and got all worried that something had happened to us ....  YEAH, like, we went on a DATE, Kids!!!! 

A Repeat of a Favorite Poem

Playing In Winter 

Snowsuit stuffing
Huffing, puffing;
Boots too big for little feet

Mittened fingers;
Fuzz balls linger
at the tips where fingers meet

Scarf wrapped 'round;
Hat pulled down;
Two eyes, one nose now showing

All ready for
the opened door
to meet cold wind now blowing!

It might be 11:00 PM but it's not too late for ....

1.  Chinese New Year will be celebrated on February 10th, and 2013 is the year of the snake. When did you last see a snake?  Are you okay around snakes or do they give you the shivers? 

Snakes only give me the shivers when they slither up my leg; happened once upon a time when I was about 14 years old.  Never felt it til it got past my sock....  I let a scream out of me and shook my leg so hard the snake flew off and landed across the road, bouncing once.  I didn't stick around to see if it even survived the landing.  Last time I saw a snake was autumn of 2010. It was curled up in the sun near a bale of hay. I left it alone and it left me alone, as well!

2. The color red in Chinese culture usually means good luck.  Do you believe in luck? 

No. I believe all things happen for and with a purpose. 

3. sledding-ice skating-building a snowman...if given a choice, which activity would you choose?  Which of the three have you done most recently?  

Not enough snow this year, yet, but a Snowman would be 1st on my list. It doesn't take a lot of time to make and lasts a long time ... unless there is an early spring.  Sledding is a VERY close 2nd. I've been known to just whip out our grandkids' saucer and take it for a spin down the hill by our house! You are never too old for sledding :-)  Ice skating was always a favorite but I'm a bit afraid of falling. 

 

4.  Ralph Waldo Emerson is credited as saying, "The years teach much which the days never knew."  Where have you seen this quote played out in your own life?  

I suppose lots of places, but mostly in parenthood...somewhere along the line I learned how to be a parent. One year led to another and the next thing I knew, the kids were grown up and there wouldn't be any more;  Which was too bad, because I finally had it all figured out :-) 

5. When was the last time you ate a cupcake?  

Right after Christmas. My daughter-in-love, Kristen, makes the BEST cupcakes! 

6. What's something you can't say no to?

I can't say "No." to the grace and mercy provided me by God through Jesus Christ!  I also can't say "No." if Bill wants to go out to dinner! 

7.  Are you a doodler?  

I'm a bit of a doodler but not very artistic. I used to doodle more when I was a kid.  Incidentally, my nickname as a little child was "Doodles" but it had nothing to do with drawing and everything to do with another child not being able to say my name! 

8.  Insert your own random thought here.  

We're finally getting a snow storm! That's what the weatherman says :-)  I love snow and except for about 8 inches back in December and some little 1 and 2 inch squalls lately, we have had nothing to blog about!  They say at least 9 inches ... I'm hoping for a bit more. I hope my back yard and my granddaughter looks like this: 

 

Wednesday Hodge Podge to the Rescue!

1.  In the USA this coming Sunday millions will be watching as the Baltimore Ravens take on the San Francisco 49's in the Superbowl.  What was the last event you attended that could be described as super?

Well, I'm not one for big crowds of screaming people so, I think the wedding of some dear young friends this past summer can be considered a super event! Congratulations, Andrea and Tom! You guys are super in my book!

2.  Share something you're a fan of these days? 

A fan devotes time and energy to something they really like.  I'm definitely a fan of Biblical Christianity and though the question asked for "something" and several things I am adding:  marriage, parenthood and chocolate. 

3. How do you feel about wings?  In case anyone is confused, I'm talking the edible appetizer kind.  What's your preferred seasoning on a wing-hot, mild, teryiaki, sweet and sour, other?  Do you make your own or is there a favorite place you like to go for wings?   

We seldom have wings and I have never made them. However, we have a favorite restaurant in the summer time where wings are often on the appetizer menu *mouth waters* and for the most part, I like them mild...maybe a touch of honey.

4.  As long as we're talking sports today...have you followed the Lance Armstrong story?  Did you watch his interview with Oprah and if so what was your reaction to his confession and subsequent remarks?  

I did not watch Lance Armstrong's interview with Oprah, but watched news clips after the fact. What I heard left me feeling very sad, mostly for him. His confession was not with remorse. He appearance while giving this confession (what I saw of it) was one of resignation at being caught not being sorry. I understand he apologized to his charity... now nice of him. I don't make it a point to put people on pedestals and it's a good thing. 

5.  What's a question you hate to be asked?  

"Have you lost weight?"   No! I haven't! I've gained weight! If you think I look thinner now, what on earth did you think I looked like the last time you saw me!!!!   

6. The coaches in this Sunday's big game happen to be real life brothers.  Jim Harbaugh coaches the 49er's and his older brother John Harbaugh coaches the Baltimore Ravens.  Were you and your sibling(s) competitive?  In what way? Are you still?  If you're an only child how did you handle competition growing up?  

I wasn't an only child but was the youngest (by 8 years) and did not have any competition in the family. Even with a nephew the same age as me, we did not compete.  However, I did compete with the other kids in my neighborhood and we all had our strengths and weaknesses.  As little kids, I was the hula hoop champ. As a teenager, I managed to land all the baby sitting jobs... no one else wanted them, so no competition there! As a cheerleader in high school, I had to compete with many other girls. It was hard not to win a spot on the JV team as a Freshman and I cried terribly. I managed to get on as a sub for my Sophmore JV year, and also my Junior year on Varsity, finally making it to the team "for real" (3rd from the top) my Senior year.  As an adult, my only competition has been musically with a women's barbershop chorus. We had lots of fun and I don't even remember where we placed, but it wasn't near the top!

7.  What's your favorite game involving a ball and when did you last play?   

My favorite game to play would be softball and I honestly can't remember the last time I played. I think it was several years ago with my church. A bunch of us would get together on the school's diamond and play whomever showed up. Lots of fun! If one team or the other was short one, we would "loan" or "borrow" a player!  Oh... wait a minute... I forgot I played catch with my little granddaughter last summer; that should count, right?!  I think playing catch is my favorite, now....  

8.  Insert your own random thought here. 

Sports are important to children but I think "awarding" kids for simply being on a team is not a good idea. Awards are supposed to be special; for those who win, not for those who just participate.  A certificate is ok, but I've seen kids sports where everyone gets a little trophy... what?  No one wants to hurt a child's feelings.  Well, this is where they learn how to handle those feelings!  Not everyone wins. The incentive should be to try again next year, next week, whatever the time frame is. We should not be awarding or rewarding our children for every little thing they do. Simple praise from their coaches and the love and support of their families should suffice.  ... that is, if their families care to be involved... but that's another random thought...

It's time for Wednesday's Hodge Podge!

1. The popular saying, 'All is fair in love and war' is originally credited to English writer John Lyly. Is he right?

I've never given that quote much thought, really. The word "All" can be disturbing ... someone trying to steal away another's spouse in the name of "love" would not be fair or proper, though it is done all the time. It would appear this problem has been around for a long time, though... War is something that involves death and destruction and there is nothing "fair" about that.

2. Are you a cereal eater? What's your favorite kind?

Mmmmm... as I listen to my husband munch away on Frosted Mini Wheats ... :-) I believe, today, this is my favorite!

3. A five year old in Pennsylvania was recently given a ten day school suspension for talking with a friend about shooting one another with a Hello Kitty Bubble gun (the gun blows bubbles). She did not have the gun with her at school. A psychological evaluation was also ordered and the incident was recorded on her permanent record. The suspension was later reduced to two days and her parents are suing to have the incident removed from her file. Your thoughts? (If you missed the story click here for details)

I just checked on this story and it is utterly ridiculous! Water pistols and super soakers are meant to be aimed and shot at each other. If all the child did was talk about shooting it and not about killing there should have been no problem. Psych eval? That should have revealed something ... Suspension? How about some counseling instead! Even counseling sounds a bit weird to me... It's OK to have video games with shooting, TV programs with shooting, then we need to let the kids speak about it in school. They better start watching little boys when they play with their Lego Men... Really, this country needs to get a grip on what is important and makes sense at the same time. I didn't find the link to the story in the question, but here it is: http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2013/01/kindergartner-suspended-over-bubble-gun-threat/

4. Whatever happened to_____________________________?

Uh, oh. I read an answer on another blog ... and I have "Common Sense" on my mind. If only the rest of our world, especially politicians, could have it on their minds as well.

5. January 23rd is National Handwriting Day, billed as a day to reacquaint yourself with a pen and pencil. Do you like your handwriting? Do you prefer to print or write in cursive? This date was chosen because its the birth date of John Hancock. What's the last thing you signed your name to?

I like my cursive handwriting but it begins to deteriorate in 3 - 5 sentences. I used to enjoy hand writing letters to friends, but typing is so much faster! I like to print as well. I probably won't be celebrating National Handwriting Day with a letter, though. The last thing I signed my name to was my time sheet for work. I even remember thinking that my signature looked pretty nice for the time it took! I know, I'm strange!

6. Speaking of John Hancock...ever been to Philadelphia? Do you have any desire to visit the city of Brotherly Love?

I've been there but never to sight see. I have family just outside of Philly and that was where we spent our time. I suppose it would be nice to take in Independence Hall.

7. Share something funny you've heard a child say.

I've spent the last 24 years in elementary education and raised 3 boys, too. I have a ton of funny conversations tucked away in my brain but none of them are coming to mind!

What did pop into it, was "Shishyhock" ... This was a term our oldest son used when he was barely 18 months old. The first time, we could not figure out what on earth he was talking about but whatever it was, it was on the other side of the gate that barricaded the living room from the rest of the house. "Shisyhock!" he yelled...over and over, and the emphasis would be on "hock". We had no clue. We finally took the gate down and he barreled down the hall, into his bedroom and came out with his... shoes and socks! He wanted to go next door to visit his grammy and he was in his bare feet; problem solved!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

If we can't have a good 'ol fashioned snow storm, than I will focus on Spring. It is coming. The temperatures might be in the negative this morning, but without a doubt, we WILL have warmer temperatures in the not too distant future!

Where Oh Where Did Christmas Go?

Well, so much for for my Thanksgiving post! I haven't a clue how time flew by so quickly, but flew it did! I stand in awe of my blogging friends who, even with babies bouncing all around, can still find the time to blog! Christmas has come and gone with nice memories of family gatherings; celebrating with newly engaged Kelsey and Steve! Christmas Cantata performed at Sacandaga Bible Conference that complemented their superb banquet; choral selections that enhanced a wonderful program on Christmas Eve; and one of my favorite things of the season...celebrating my husband's birthday! Every time his birthday rolls around, his mom and I get together and figure out what funny thing we can do to his cake that hasn't already been done :-) In the past we have decorated with simple things like a tiny level on top of a dancing Santa's head...to commemorate the occasion of Bill getting knocked out while helping a friend build a stockade fence...long story, funny, now, hahahaha! Oh, and there's the time we put lots of little deer all over the cake and Bill had to figure out which one was "Robo Bambi"...which was easy, 'cause just like the decoy deer for work (as the game warden) it had an antenna and it's poor little head was almost off. (The robot decoy because of an illegal hunter, the decoration because of a very sharp knife!] Let's not forget all those little deer who made a return appearance to thank the gamewarden for all his hard work the year he retired...who couldn't figure out what the tag on the back of his jacket was for ...and why he was carrying a rifle hahahaha! I'm sorry, I shouldn't laugh so hard at my own jokes but this stuff has been going on for almost as many years as we have been married! This year was more cute than funny. There was a long legged snowman holding an open Bible and a congregation of reindeer and gingerbread men :-) You see, Bill will be a guest preacher for a local church for the rest of winter and part of the spring. I am very excited for him as he loves the Lord very much and cares deeply for these people! I had the opportunuty to go with him this past Sunday since my choir at our home church was on a break. I'll get to join him about once a month. Well, that's the excitement from this neck of the woods. I would have posted a picture of his cute little cake, but all those candles made it one big blur =-O I'm adding a sentence because I see that this appears to be all one paragraph, complements of Android. *sigh*

Something Different This Year

Every year we send Christmas greetings via a card of some sort, usually with a letter that contains some pics of our family and the usual information of the goings on in our busy lives.  Occasionally we have enclosed a regular picture and one year, took the time to print cards at home using our own photographs.  This year we are bowing to peer pressure and ordering a photo card from Shutterfly. It was easy to 'create' and as not as expensive as I thought it might be.  We managed to get free shipping, so that was a plus :-)  Here's a preview: 

Photo Card

View the entire collection of cards.

In the meantime, I'm working on a Thanksgiving post or as I may call it: A Thankful Giving post :-)