tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34570411381738896832024-03-13T13:08:02.722-07:00Little Town Big LifeLittle Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.comBlogger214125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-41501707115793259212010-07-16T12:30:00.001-07:002010-07-16T12:46:15.546-07:00AND---4 Months Later<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/TECz-ZicL1I/AAAAAAAAA8s/l2bA248Yq_M/s1600/Alex+%26+Erin.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494589429980606290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 64px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 96px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/TECz-ZicL1I/AAAAAAAAA8s/l2bA248Yq_M/s400/Alex+%26+Erin.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:verdana;">Did I tell you my son got married in January??? This is he & his lovely wife. They are the most adorable couple--they compliment one another so well</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/TECz9tzP-RI/AAAAAAAAA8k/YTp_iEA3JPA/s1600/Engagement+1+009.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494589418239949074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/TECz9tzP-RI/AAAAAAAAA8k/YTp_iEA3JPA/s400/Engagement+1+009.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:verdana;">This is one of the engagement pics with their "baby" Smokey. </span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">And, below--the loves of my life: Hank & his little brother Mack. They have moved back to town & live within 4 miles of us, so anytime the phone rings and Hank wants to see me---well, need I even say it????? </span><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/TECz9GRRufI/AAAAAAAAA8c/bqXIgfdwn1k/s1600/Hank+%26+Mack.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494589407628474866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/TECz9GRRufI/AAAAAAAAA8c/bqXIgfdwn1k/s400/Hank+%26+Mack.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Where does the time go? Have you noticed the days spin so quickly that suddenly it's July 4 and then it's later????</div><div> </div><div>Catering has been going so well. We feel that God has really had his hand on this venture. Even as the economy slowed to the pace of a snail on valium, the orders still came. The work has been consistant. We even have 2 employees & I have to tell ya---it sure has made a difference in my days. Oh, we still work 12 & 14 hour days, 7 days a week, but I have them to help me bear up under the load! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>One of these days I'll try to get some of my recent cakes on the blog. As of right now, they are stored on the home computer & I'm sitting at the kitchen waiting for potatoes to boil. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Random thought--I have to really watch my attitude when I get bone tired. That's when the pity parties begin! Just the other day I was whining to myself things such as "I have a terrible headache" " My arthritis is killing me this week" and so forth. And would you believe, I began to think about my Aunt Dora Ann--whom I haven't thought about in years! Aunt Dora Ann had rhuematoid arthritis and died from complications of that illness at age 48, and that was a good 25 years ago. But one thing Aunt Dora Ann never, ever, EVER did was complain or think of herself! She had 6 children and she continued to sew for them & cook for them even when she was confined to a wheel chair. And as I was lamenting my aches & pains, I realized that Aunt Dora Ann would LOVE, I mean "jump up and down" love to trade places with me. Always with a smile on her dear face and a twinkle in her eyes, she would come here and visit her kids, the grandkids she never saw, hug her husband--the love of her live, and bear up under any pain to be with them for a bit. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>So, complaining--whining--boo-hooing life's challenges--BE GONE! I shall take life by the reigns & find the wonder in each day. </div><div> </div><div>If I am hurting from working the fingers to much I will give thanks! I am here and have the ability to do so. And those hurting hands can still touch the faces of my little Hank & Mack. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Life is what you want from it. Attitude is 90% of the journey. Bitterness and hatred settle into the bones and leach the life, leaving only pain and sorrow. Joyfullness and child like wonder rejuvenate the spirit and add years of life.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Ok, so much for the random thought. It's just what happened to zip through the mind.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Anyhoo--hope all are enjoying life!<br /><br /></div><div></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-20679146368350479472010-03-13T08:27:00.000-08:002010-03-13T08:34:58.849-08:00Just Stopping In ~~~~Hey blogfriends! It's been a wild ride around here. New grandson on Dec 3, hubby had stroke on Jan 8, son married on Jan 30 & shoulder surgery on Feb 18. Whew--all that and a catering kitchen to run. But, it's amazing what one can do when pushed.<br /><br /><br />I have discovered that I can function with one good arm & one in a sling. I kind of resemble a Tyranasorus Rex--two arms held up to the chest. I'm thinking I'd make a good comedy sketch! I have learned that I CAN frost & decorate a full sized sheet cake, pull homemade rolls, roll out dough, and on and on with this "handicap". It's all between the ears--what you determine.<br /><br /><br /><br />My jonquils are blooming--I think what I like best about them is their determination. It's been cold, rainy, cloudy, and yet they stick out their little yellow heads to see what's going on in the world. And the color they add to the dreary days is inspiring. I want to be a daffodil. In spite of the clouds around, I want to add color & hope to each & every day. Pansies have the same trait. They bloom amidst the snow & stay til it gets too warm. Kind of a promise of things to come. They arrive when we are so tired of gray days and yucky weather and tell us to "keep watching---the best is yet to come". And aren't they right? Soon all of the summer flowers and foliage will be in full bloom and we'll take for granted the beauty. We'll forget about the winter blahs, and fill our homes with the blooms that create such life. So right now--I"ll be a pansy or a daffodil and hope for the brighter, sunnier, more colorful days that are sure to arrive.<br /><br /><br /><br />Have a great weekend.Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-43870510576558111302010-01-24T13:22:00.000-08:002010-01-24T13:40:03.968-08:00It's Been A Month To Speak Of!!!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/S1y7LlLCFXI/AAAAAAAAA8U/jr1vEKXAzv4/s1600-h/new+year+2009.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 356px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430421058333316466" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/S1y7LlLCFXI/AAAAAAAAA8U/jr1vEKXAzv4/s400/new+year+2009.bmp" /></a> I don't think I remembered to wish all of you happy new year!! So, happy new year! And what a year. It started off with a BIG BANG in our household. On Jan 8, hubby was taken by ambulance to the hospital, where he was first diagnosed with a TIA (look it up-too much explaining for me). But after an MRI, CT Scan, Angiogram, EKG, it was determined he had a full blown stroke. Yes, those were the technical words right from the Dr's mouth--full blown stroke. It happened in the cerebellum. Because he was in good physical health otherwise, he had no lingering side effects. After much testing (blood pressure/low, bad cholesterol/120, no plaque build-up), and no answers, he was given an ultrasound scope of his heart, and lo and behold---he had ASD. Now for all of you novice medical persons (of which I USED to be one) that means he had a hole in the upper chamber of his heart which allowed a blood clot to pass back into the blood stream. Apparently he is NOT the first to have this--??? (although you'd never know that by talking with him), he probably has had this since birth. It shows up later in life. So, the treatment was to have a GORE HELEX spiral occulater (aren't you impressed???) inserted to close the hole. The procedure was done like that of a stint insert--they go in both arteries in his legs with a camera and fishing line (not really) and insert a disc on both sides that closes via a wire run through the middle. Now he's back to "good as normal". But it did make for a scary time and alot of hospital visits! <br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/S1y7LH6YjLI/AAAAAAAAA8M/8HfPTnrzxoI/s1600-h/Webb+Christmas+09+022.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430421050478857394" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/S1y7LH6YjLI/AAAAAAAAA8M/8HfPTnrzxoI/s400/Webb+Christmas+09+022.jpg" /></a><br />And, did I tell you that our little Mack (left hand side) was born Dec 3? He's Hank's brother and quite the little doll.. actually, he looks just like Hank at that age. I think they are going to be carbon copies!! Next to Mack is his second cousin, Jacob, born in Sept. The two girls are first cousins! On this side of the family there are 6 little ones under the age of 4! Second cousin, Daisy, was born Dec 21. Don't you know next Christmas will be a hoot and a holler!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>On to the next event---our son is getting married Jan 30. You guessed it---I'm preparing the reception food, cake, grooms cupcakes, and cookie favors!!! Glad I have a professional kitchen & employees to help with this!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>We just love his fiance--she's already become like our daughter! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Well, now I have to run--have a women's meeting to attend---you know, go and plan some big hoop-de-do so I'll have something to do. I really need something to do. I think I have from 1 - 4 in the mornings open, and we wouldn't want idle time!! ha ha ha</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Just checking in---will talk more later.<br /></div><div></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-85241850753349460542009-12-27T18:06:00.001-08:002009-12-27T18:18:36.502-08:00Merry Post Christmas!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SzgS8THcnVI/AAAAAAAAA8E/E6NUL6Tito8/s1600-h/snowy+holiday.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 285px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420102978673352018" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SzgS8THcnVI/AAAAAAAAA8E/E6NUL6Tito8/s400/snowy+holiday.bmp" /></a><br /><div>Yes, we had a white Christmas here in the heart of Oklahoma. It was the most beautiful day. And, we were home--that makes it even better.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Unfortunately, my son's fiance couldn't make it to her home so they arrived on my doorstep Christmas Eve and stayed two nights. What a great present for us--we got to spend some real quality time with her before the January 30 wedding. We had no preconceptions of what to do this year--as the ice & snow cancelled many plans, we just sat back & let it happen. My parents, sister & her family live close (same town) so we had Christmas Eve dinner of potato soup & gourment grilled cheese sandwiches---yes, I said gourmet! Havarti cheese, cranberry chutney, avocado, red onion, turkey, ham, pepper jack, applewood smoked cheddar--your choice. They were so yummy! And, of course, chocolate & peanut butter fudge, rum cake, and sugar cookies. But wait! We didn't stop there! Christmas morning is the "annual" breakfast at the house--blueberry pancakes, bacon & eggs, smoothies, hot cocoa. Full as ticks you might think? No way--we continued with Christmas dinner at sis's! Chicken picatta, salad, steamed veggies, desserts--and on and on. No wonder I can't fit in the clothes!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>On Saturday the kids decided to leave, and within an hour, we had a call from my daughter & son-in-law--who live far enough away that they missed Christmas Eve & Day---and they were coming for the night! So Saturday evening we opened the feed trough once again--chicken & cheese enchiladas, with choice of : black beans, avocado, onion, black olives---</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>They opened presents -- which with a 3 year old is the best entertainment in the world! And we all got to hold Mack--who is 2 1/2 weeks old! All the local family returned and we played games and laughed and enjoyed the company of a loving family.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>So, I am really sorry for the ones who missed out on spending time with family due to inclement conditions, but it worked out so well for us. I just sat back and counted my blessings--which have been many this year. In a month we will have a new daughter-in-law & we couldn't love her more---couldn't have hand selected one we were more pleased with! And we have been blessed with 2 of the most wonderful grandsons! And they are so cute to boot. And so smart. And so --- well you get the idea---we are CRAZY about them.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Many thanks to the good Lord for what He has given to us--and we are so undeserving. But so grateful. May His blessings multiply to you and yours in the New Year.</div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-60729031888960951782009-11-25T17:51:00.000-08:002009-11-25T18:02:39.475-08:00Happy Thanksgiving!!!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sw3fvh3w_0I/AAAAAAAAA78/TXnfgUyMEwE/s1600/DSC01653.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408224735180947266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sw3fvh3w_0I/AAAAAAAAA78/TXnfgUyMEwE/s400/DSC01653.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:verdana;">Well hope one and all are settled in for a day of giving thanks--don't feel you have anything to give thanks for? Well, if you have to work on this day, you are one of the minority who have a job. If you are dreading spending the day arguing with family, well, you at least have a family to bicker with. If you are already feeling the calories attaching to your hips, stomachs, thighs, do I really need to explain this? If you are away from home, do you see the beauty of nature around? Is there a friend you can take a piece of pie to? Could you at least take a walk & be thankful you can walk???</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I have so, so much to be thankful--mainly that I still live in the greatest nation in the world. That I have worked so hard today---doing what I have always loved to do--COOK for others. That I have a loving family--no, I didn't say perfect; how boring would that be??</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">That I have two additions coming to the family--little Mack Alexander the first week of December & precious Erin through marriage to my son on 1/30. There's nothing like a growing family. And we are excited about both! We begin another trail on our life's journey.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I love this time of year--I'm thankful for the red, orange, crimson leaves that fell from the trees, the Christmas decorations that are going up on houses & businesses, the Charlie Brown special, the cool, crisp air that keeps us reminded of the cycle of life, so much more.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Love the Norman Rockwell paintings of holidays. I like to imagine that's us---you just know that there are kids screaming in the background, mountains of dishes piled in the sink, burnt rolls on the counter, football games distracting men from our conversations--all of the "normality" of family life. </span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Must run for now--laundry to finish, a house to straighten, you know, make the kids think I'm the perfect (ha ha) mom.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I am also thankful for my blogging friends. I have neglected all of you so this past 6 months, but I still read in the wee hours of the morning, even tho my fingers are too tired to respond. Keep the posts coming dear ones---and have a blessed Thanksgiving!!!</span></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-33919146400462699792009-10-26T12:56:00.000-07:002009-10-26T13:10:43.496-07:00Pumpkins & Other Things<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SuX_dhl7OxI/AAAAAAAAA70/7v_f33HbRb8/s1600-h/DSC01469.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397000611172137746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SuX_dhl7OxI/AAAAAAAAA70/7v_f33HbRb8/s400/DSC01469.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Here comes the Great Pumpkin--right down Pumpkin Lane. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>That just goes to show why we don't have Halloween Carols--they're too hard to pen!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>It's been a long, long time since I've had a few minutes to post. And will probably be a while before I do again. </div><div> </div><div>But, this being my fav time of year, and being I don't have much planned for the next few minutes, and being I have missed this soooo much---here I am!! </div><div> </div><div>My little pumpkin, Hank, is ill--he has flu & pneumonia. But, they started him on meds, and the Dr thought both were in the early stages, so he's home recovering. Just hate it when kids are ill. It's difficult to be pleasant when you are adult & ill---millions of times harder when you're only 3. And to this day, moms & dads don't get that. You have to become a yaya before it totally sinks in! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Plans for Halloween? We have the annual Trunk or Treat here in town, and Friday is the Merchant's Costume Contest---I think we're going to participate this year--depends on the weather. That's right, I said the weather. We are planning to do something to the outside of the kitchen front & if it rains Wed & Thurs (as predicted) that could put the hiatus on that!!! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>I would like to take the time to carve some pumpkins--and by golly I just might. That's one of the things I miss most about having kids at Halloween--they keep you accountable for all the "traditions". Making costumes, baking cookies, carving pumpkins, fixing hot cocoa. All of those things that make this season so fun--yet are so easy to lay aside when no one is there to push the point. I think that's the reason we get old! We forget to have fun--to play--to create. And we become grouchy old blobs!!! So, get up off your tush & let's get to celebrating!!! Ok, I think I'll do some more decorating. Or maybe I'll go ahead & bake some cookies! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Drove through a neighborhood last Friday evening that was really decked out--didn't have my camera!! boo hoo Sooooo I think I'll go back one evening this week & snap some shots!! Hope they don't report me!! I'll post them too!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Have a good week all---and get to having some fun.</div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-13851613878670455232009-10-19T10:58:00.001-07:002009-10-19T11:14:59.093-07:00Apple Butter Making Days!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/StypOxdzSzI/AAAAAAAAA7s/3FOmiG122MU/s1600-h/Mt+Vernon+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394372524944608050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/StypOxdzSzI/AAAAAAAAA7s/3FOmiG122MU/s400/Mt+Vernon+003.jpg" border="0" /></a> This is my son-in-law stirring the apple butter in town square at Mt Vernon MO.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/StypOXZerCI/AAAAAAAAA7k/wC03RG_BzbA/s1600-h/Mt+Vernon+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394372517947157538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/StypOXZerCI/AAAAAAAAA7k/wC03RG_BzbA/s400/Mt+Vernon+004.jpg" border="0" /></a> Courthouse steeple in Mt Vernon.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/StypN69kXeI/AAAAAAAAA7c/_vcFxyC1nTY/s1600-h/Mt+Vernon+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394372510313897442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/StypN69kXeI/AAAAAAAAA7c/_vcFxyC1nTY/s400/Mt+Vernon+001.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Apple Butter Making Days awards. Think these were "special order"????<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/StypNamfsYI/AAAAAAAAA7U/kXMor0x5UVU/s1600-h/Mt+Vernon+6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394372501627187586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 110px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/StypNamfsYI/AAAAAAAAA7U/kXMor0x5UVU/s400/Mt+Vernon+6.jpg" border="0" /></a> And here we are--except Erin, who was taking the picture. Daughter, son-in-law, son, me, Hank, hubby. Yes we all loaded up (even my sis & her husband--I'll have to share more pics later) and drove to Mt Vernon MO a couple of weeks back for Apple Butter Making Days. This is a festival that has gone on for several decades. It's a BIG deal in Mt Vernon & over a 3 day time period, they have around 30,000 visitors--not too shabby for a town of around 4,000!!! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Lots of crafts, talents, and food--lots and lots of food. Lots of apple butter! It sells out quickly so we got our case first! And it is delicious! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Looks as if this will be our vacation this year. The economic fall hit us pretty hard, but we are recouping! Hubby finally found a job in June, and the catering is steady, so can't complain. We are determined to stick to our policy of not owing for anything-- no vacations, no big outlandish Christmas presents, no THINGS. It's quite freeing actually. We no longer assess our "wealth" by the things we aqcuire. We've become more focused on <strong>who</strong> we are than on <strong>what</strong> we have. And it feels pretty danged good! We now know to enjoy each & every moment regardless of where we are, we take time to visit with family rather than taking time to decide what we shall do! Time will come when we can visit the country, but right now, we are so very grateful for how God has blessed us. We have health, we have food, we have a roof over our heads. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>And today, of all days, that being blatantly shined in my face. I am on my way to a funeral--a girl I was raised with, her mother is one of my mother's best friends, we spent alot of time at their home growing up. She was 4 years younger than me, so we didn't "run around" with one another. But she was part of my background. And she passed away suddenly Thursday morning--died in her sleep. Makes me stop and take stock of what is important. <em>And it sure ain't <strong>things</strong>!!! </em>It's my kids, my family, my husband, my spiritual growth, untangible items that are eternal. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Whew--enough of the "debbie downer"!!! It's a beautiful day--sun shining; I was afraid it had closed it's doors due to lack of funding! It's crisp cool--just the kind of weather that makes you feel alive. Pumpkins are showing up on all the doorsteps, fall colors are beginning to show themselves, the harvest moon is on the horizon. It's just great---I love this season!!! Best of all-The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown will be on soon---</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>And then the season of overeating!!! What more can a plump gal ask? </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Ok, enough rambling. Have a wonderful fall day!!!<br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-3541271554268487992009-09-29T15:18:00.001-07:002009-09-29T15:31:58.606-07:00Family Reunions<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SsKH9_aqxJI/AAAAAAAAA7M/hFDHEflhAEA/s1600-h/Family+Reunion+040.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387017603353592978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SsKH9_aqxJI/AAAAAAAAA7M/hFDHEflhAEA/s400/Family+Reunion+040.jpg" border="0" /></a> 1st & 2nd cousins.<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SsKH9bUGbkI/AAAAAAAAA7E/acInQqs_-RA/s1600-h/Family+Reunion+033.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387017593662369346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SsKH9bUGbkI/AAAAAAAAA7E/acInQqs_-RA/s400/Family+Reunion+033.jpg" border="0" /></a> All the gang who showed up. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Yes I know you don't have a clue who these people are--and I don't intend to list all their names. BUT--this is a family reunion from my dad's mother's side of the family. And these are the remaining few. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>It makes me a bit sad that so many of them have gone --- and that a few others don't attend. It makes me a bit sad such a one time large family has dwindled. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>My grandmother was one of 7 (I think???) children. And then they all married and had children. So at one time, this was a big group getting together. I remember 35 years ago, when I was newly married, meeting with great uncles, 2nd & 3rd cousins. I just didn't appreciate how meaningful those family ties would become. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Why do we miss those so very much when we didn't even see them that often? Well, because that's our family. It's where we came from and who we were & are. My grandmother stayed here in her hometown until she was unable to care for herself alone. I believe 2 of her brothers stayed here also. Other brothers lived only 30 minutes away; one had the nerve to move out of state. But even with all the closeness of proximity, families got so busy raising their own kids, working, keeping up with daily life, that after "great grandmother" passed, the gatherings diminished. It was too bad, cause we have such a great time when together!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>My dad had only 1 sister & i brother--he never married. I had 3 cousins, girls, that we were raised with almost like sisters. We have tried to remain active in one another's lives, but, alas, it is difficult. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Still, when we get together, we laugh til our sides hurt, reminiscise, gossip, eat, hug---we are family. We will forgive faults & failures, rejoice in triumphs, love unconditionally--we are family. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><br /><br /> </div><div></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-83358433227827057752009-09-21T15:43:00.000-07:002009-09-21T15:50:24.880-07:00If I Had Known. . . . . .<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SrgBwd8K-3I/AAAAAAAAA68/06l6ViHukQM/s1600-h/funny+card.bmp"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384055286703782770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 183px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 334px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SrgBwd8K-3I/AAAAAAAAA68/06l6ViHukQM/s400/funny+card.bmp" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> It's now been a year since I quit my stable, regular hours job & bought a catering business. What a year! A year of getting my feet wet in this business--of learning how to take really deep breaths when frustrated, cause nothing else will suffice--learning who should do what around the kitchen---so many more "learnings" but it would just bore you to tears.</span><br /><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">One major thing I have learned is how tough I really am. When I'm dead tired, but have to finish the dishes, set out the trash, make the paperwork for the next day, schedule orders in the right fashion, make a grocery list, I have learned I can keep on moving! And I have learned that I can only please one person--myself. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This "owning one's own business" is not for the frail or weak! The business never leaves--it's like a shadow, always right behind me. Even when I take a day "off" there are errands to run, groceries to purchase, menus to plan. It just never stops. And the stress of it all can be overwhelming! But, there again, I am one tough cookie.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I love the picture at the top of this post--even have a card. But it really, really has alot to say about my life! I "spot" clean, do laundry, wipe off the toilets, but my gosh--how I long to clean out the closets & rearrange the kitchen cabinets! That's how desparate I have become for "me" time!!! I'm willing to do housework to relaxe!!</span></p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Just wanted to keep in touch--hope you are all ready for fall cause here it comes!</span></p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Happy Fall!</p><br /><br /></span>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-55119662758411725462009-08-17T15:41:00.000-07:002009-08-17T15:58:31.692-07:00Where Have I Been????<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sondqldl1GI/AAAAAAAAA60/3qMI1eWdTFY/s1600-h/Pink+&+Black+Shower+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371067754296497250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sondqldl1GI/AAAAAAAAA60/3qMI1eWdTFY/s400/Pink+%26+Black+Shower+003.jpg" border="0" /></a> Wow-it's been a long LONG time since I updated my blog--hope I haven't lost any friends--It's just that summer has been long & hot, and alot has been happening. The picture above pretty much sums up what I do 24/7. I cook, bake, serve, arrange, display, and do it all over again. The above was a "pink & black" shower given for a friend of my sisters. It turned out really cute and, of course, the food was deliciouso!!<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SondpKYZAiI/AAAAAAAAA6k/H_c5Dj4XTqc/s1600-h/Dinner+@+Jen"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371067729847058978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SondpKYZAiI/AAAAAAAAA6k/H_c5Dj4XTqc/s400/Dinner+%40+Jen%27s+7-11-09+004.jpg" border="0" /></a> And then there's Hank--the apple of my eye, the treasure of my heart. I try to have him at least one night every two weeks--I'd have him over more, but his mom & dad are stingy & won't give him up. It's like they LIKE him or something!! ha ha But he is growing like wheat--and now he's going to be a big brother. Mack Alexander will be born sometime around Dec 10. We are too excited to describe. AND--the kids are trying to move back to this area. Like 5 minutes away from me. Like I will see them every stinkin day if I choose!! Nooooo I'm not glad at all!!!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SondoN9otjI/AAAAAAAAA6c/juQ6m-aAWOk/s1600-h/Cake+7-11-09+005.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371067713628714546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SondoN9otjI/AAAAAAAAA6c/juQ6m-aAWOk/s400/Cake+7-11-09+005.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This wasn't part of the above shower, but it was for another shower. Seems like all the gals are requesting pink and black! Well, I like the combo also, and I like the zebra effect on the cake. <br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SondpwyCqeI/AAAAAAAAA6s/qlJ8OZyOfBo/s1600-h/Pink+&+Black+Shower+002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371067740155193826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SondpwyCqeI/AAAAAAAAA6s/qlJ8OZyOfBo/s400/Pink+%26+Black+Shower+002.jpg" border="0" /></a> These were part of the pink & black shower. They were really cute! Oh it's so much fun to take creative license! And most of the time the shower givers let me.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>This summer wasn't nearly as slow as I had anticipated. I really thought July would be a lazy time---but NO! It was extremely busy. No complaints tho--it pays the bills! The past two weeks were a little slower but the calls have been coming in this week. One year ago today I was so afraid of jumping feet first into this venture. I was working my final days at the school and trying to understand all of this catering. Now, after one full year, it is so much more comfortable! I do miss the office crew & the comradery that we shared--I have to stop in & see them every so often. And they do call on me to provide food when needed, so the cord isn't completely severed! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>But life has definitely changed. And I am working my butt off and enjoying (almost) every moment! Except when I drag home exhausted. Which is at least 2 or 3 times a week. But after a good nights rest, I'm ready to rock & roll again.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>AND--I have become an addict. Yes, I admit it--I have joined the wonderful world of facebook. It has hooked me up with so many friends & acquaintances I haven't heard from in eons. It's been fun to have popcorn conversations. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>AND--hubby has gone back to work---yoo haw!!! We once again have insurance & steady income (from him). I'm certain he feels better about himself also. He's back in the aerospace business & we are fully aware that could change at any given moment. But for now, we'll just take one day at a time. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Ok, gotta run & email some quotes for fall events. Just wanted all of my cyber friends to know I will still be reading your blogs! <br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-36675712321084928372009-08-03T17:56:00.000-07:002009-08-03T18:00:22.394-07:00Hello August!!<span style="font-family:verdana;">Gosh, where does the time go???? Today is the first Monday in August, kids are preparing to return to school, summer is winding down and today I had a ROOT CANAL!!!! Yes, I know none of those things have anything to do with the other--sometimes I talk in circles!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I had today off & tomorrow also, then the calendar is full. Don't you just love a day off? Just the sound of it is relaxing!! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">So, not much going on--except the ROOT CANAL. I must confess, it wasn't nearly as bad as I anticipated. Well, that is, after the injection! Since the tooth was a lower one, the entire nerve had to be blocked---ouch! Then it had to be "renumbed" as I felt something! Ouch!!! After that it was smooth sailing. The Dr appeared to be something like 15 years old. It's sad how young the drs are looking these days. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">So now it's evening---I have tomorrow off---and I'm enjoying life!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">You have a good evening & I'll post more later.</span>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-10038380897015732402009-07-25T09:46:00.000-07:002009-07-25T09:55:58.912-07:00Down Time<span style="font-family:verdana;"></span>I found some pictures taken last year during our Colorado vacation & thought I'd share them--perhaps again? I don't remember! Anyway, today I have a day off. And I'm running around trying to do anything and nothing. I start one thing then decide to go to another. So, as usually happens, nothing will get finished!!! Our days are so filled with timelines, committments, meetings, etc., that we have totally forgotten how to just "be". Just sit & relax. Try it---bet your mind's voice will start to tell you the house is dirty, the laundry needs folded, dinner needs planned, projects need finished, the lawn needs mowed. And on and on and on it goes. Until sometimes one just has to say STOP!!! And see the flowers!! (Nice seguey, huh????)<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sms3dQDrCmI/AAAAAAAAA6U/GGDErcT4zcM/s1600-h/Kelsi+007.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362440756980812386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sms3dQDrCmI/AAAAAAAAA6U/GGDErcT4zcM/s400/Kelsi+007.jpg" border="0" /></a> I'd love to be looking out the front window and see this--it was soo cool (temperature) there. I'd like to just take it all in once more. Guess in my mind's eye???<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sms3dC2iUQI/AAAAAAAAA6M/lVc6XLrLr0Q/s1600-h/Kelsi+010.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362440753436053762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sms3dC2iUQI/AAAAAAAAA6M/lVc6XLrLr0Q/s400/Kelsi+010.jpg" border="0" /></a> And these beautiful poppies---we were so enamored with the colors of the mountain flowers. With all the 100 temps here, the flowers are spending all their energy here just surviving! But up in the mountains, where the days are cool and the nights are cooler, and streams flow around each and every corner, the flowers can take the time to work on those gorgeous colors!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sms3cknImhI/AAAAAAAAA6E/X35jT_qKLv4/s1600-h/Kelsi+006.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362440745318390290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sms3cknImhI/AAAAAAAAA6E/X35jT_qKLv4/s400/Kelsi+006.jpg" border="0" /></a> Aren't these lush? They remind me of velvet. Maybe a Valentine's flower, or a Mardi-gras flower. Love those combinations of Mother Nature!!! She's certainly not afraid to combine the most vibrant of colors in the most unusual of ways. Extravagance of the eye!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sms3cTyh9iI/AAAAAAAAA58/x5gkp9uMGDU/s1600-h/Kelsi+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362440740802786850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sms3cTyh9iI/AAAAAAAAA58/x5gkp9uMGDU/s400/Kelsi+004.jpg" border="0" /></a> And now, I'm thinking of a couple of other things I can run to. Oh right! Relax!!! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Have a great day!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-43835776924588112352009-07-17T03:39:00.000-07:002009-07-17T03:53:46.379-07:00But It Relieves Tension. . . . . .<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SmBVK8XMHaI/AAAAAAAAA50/0QHb-3chN9E/s1600-h/Tooth+Image.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359377203061333410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 125px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 125px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SmBVK8XMHaI/AAAAAAAAA50/0QHb-3chN9E/s400/Tooth+Image.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>My name is Pam and I am a tooth grinder---is there a Grinders Anonymous? I grind my teeth in my sleep, when I'm pressured, and sometimes when nothing at all is going on!! If not grinding, then I can sure put a "lock" on my jaw. So anyway, I guess I have been grinding my teeth while sleeping, and now one of my teeth is uber sensitive. It hurts to the touch--it hurts for no apparent reason. So badly that I must take a pain pill daily (and I don't like taking pills, thank you Jefferson Starship).</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Let me describe my day yesterday & perhaps you'll join me in a good grind. Hubby called me from the kitchen at 6:15 AM yesterday to let me know the filter on the ice machine had sprung a leak. Water all over the floor--he needed to go on to his "other" job, so I rushed down with the shop vac to sop. When I saw the leak hadn't slowed, I called my father-in-law (bless his heart) who brought his industrial sized shop vac & came to help out. We sopped and mopped til we nearly dropped, then we stopped! I had food to deliver--we sat a pan under the leak and rotated turns emptying it.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Proceed with the morning: I left for a delivery 30 minutes away, Karen left for a delivery 45 minutes away and we left father-in-law to deliver 15 minutes away for a bank board luncheon. As I drove away from my delivery, he called & informed me that the luncheon was not this Thursday, but NEXT Thursday. After calling the gal who scheduled it (and being told, "but I told you in my email"), I just smiled (read gritted my teeth) and told her we'd sure be there next week. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>As I pulled into a supply store I looked over and realized I had not taken the hot rolls into the delivery---back to the clinic at break neck speed to get those rolls in. After all, the delivery was for 35 & some of them would have missed the rolls.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>So, as I was driving home with the toothache, I broke down & called my dentist's office only to receive a recording that he wouldn't be back in the office til next Monday. Egads!!! Pop another pain pill. No, I won't go to another dentist---I am terrified of them all & this one has "proven" himself to me, so it's him or nobody.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Well, at this point I was as low as a snake's belly and the phone rang. I started to let the voicemail get it and ignore! But being the responsible woman I am, I answered. And I'm glad I did! It was the secretary at the bank telling me the mix-up was indeed her fault & they wanted to go ahead & purchase the food for an ill employee! Somehow, things always work out. Somehow the silver lining shows up just before the trigger is pulled--ha ha. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>And that, my dear friends, is why I am a tooth grinder. Not an organ grinder, which has no painful affect on the body, but a tooth grinder. And I shall remain in pain until next Monday. Oh heck, it's not unbearable--not with the "magic pills" but it's there. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Now another silver lining for today--I get to attend Affair of the Heart w/my BFF & Hank is coming to the house tonight. See why the grinding stops????</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Now, you go and have a great weekend and keep the teeth apart!!!</div><div> </div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-83182483582560085082009-07-13T17:48:00.000-07:002009-07-13T18:03:01.007-07:00Sizzle!!!!Wowza---it is hot, <em>hot</em>, <strong><em>HOT</em></strong> here in Oklahoma!!! Like in the 100's hot. Like eggs cooking on the sidewalk hot. Like --- well just trust me, it's too hot to move!! <br /><br />I'm going to share some family pics with you today--we had yet another dinner (we love to eat!) this past Saturday evening at my sister's house. And all the fam came out. Gotta love those family gatherings. Gotta love that food-- Anyway, here's one of my son and his precious girlfriend. They have been dating for -- hey I think it's been about a year now--- and we have certainly been smitten with her. She's a real doll--inside and out. <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlvWtEiG8nI/AAAAAAAAA5k/_TpxsBRK1JE/s1600-h/Dinner+@+Jen"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358112251486597746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlvWtEiG8nI/AAAAAAAAA5k/_TpxsBRK1JE/s400/Dinner+%40+Jen%27s+7-11-09+012.jpg" border="0" /></a> And this--well need I say this is my favorite little man in the whole entire world????? He's learning to swim and must have his goggles. And his mommy. He loves his mommy---he loves daddy too, but he LOVES his mommy. I never knew I could love another little one as much as I did my own two, but it happened! He stole my heart and I am besotted with him. Can't stand it when he's away for too long---then I find ways to get my "Hank fix". And now we're going to add another one----happy dance, happy dance!!!<br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlvWslZ3XeI/AAAAAAAAA5c/2N0bc6GPrRI/s1600-h/Dinner+@+Jen"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358112243130523106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlvWslZ3XeI/AAAAAAAAA5c/2N0bc6GPrRI/s400/Dinner+%40+Jen%27s+7-11-09+005.jpg" border="0" /></a> Oh, how sneaky of this cake to jump in!!! It was ordered for a baby shower Saturday morning. The top layer is chocolate and the bottom vanilla. They were greatly pleased with the way it turned out. <br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlvWsDAyDvI/AAAAAAAAA5U/s08k3GRe45s/s1600-h/Cake+7-11-09+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358112233898512114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlvWsDAyDvI/AAAAAAAAA5U/s08k3GRe45s/s400/Cake+7-11-09+004.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Well, after the pic of the sneaky cake--back to the fam--here's Hank's mommy & daddy---my darling daughter & her hubby. She's the best mommy a kid could wish for. And she's a doting wife. And a wonderful daughter----couldn't love her more!!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlvWtrCrPEI/AAAAAAAAA5s/bAMWuVko8zQ/s1600-h/Dinner+@+Jen"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358112261823740994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlvWtrCrPEI/AAAAAAAAA5s/bAMWuVko8zQ/s400/Dinner+%40+Jen%27s+7-11-09+018.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I, like all other parents, are sooooo proud of my kiddos. They have each turned out so very well---hard working, compassionate, funny, loving, thoughtful---all those things you want to see in young adults. So, I wanted to share them with you. I don't do that too often, but today is the exception.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Now, about these HOT days----hard to believe that in 90 days --- just 3 months---it'll be fall, the leaves will be turning, football will be in full swing, the holidays will begin!!! But today it's just HOT!!! And when you work in a kitchen, the heat is monstrous!!! Business is hopping--I've been so busy that I don't have time to think about anything else. Well, almost--</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Enough for today--my brain is baked, and I must recline!!! Have a great week.<br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-19206613091654090342009-07-05T16:56:00.001-07:002009-07-05T17:13:31.167-07:00A Happy 4th!!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlE-d9ZE7HI/AAAAAAAAA5E/j8mQCdqpxxk/s1600-h/July+4th+09+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355130116337101938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlE-d9ZE7HI/AAAAAAAAA5E/j8mQCdqpxxk/s400/July+4th+09+003.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:verdana;">My goodness! It was a day for sitting (lounging) around with family & friends at Granny's annual 4th of July cookout, swimming party & fireworks show!! Above is my nephew's son, Tucker, who just turned 2, but knows how to kick back!!</span><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlE-c2IdnJI/AAAAAAAAA40/Iwv_ApzQXL0/s1600-h/July+4th+09+009.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355130097208499346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlE-c2IdnJI/AAAAAAAAA40/Iwv_ApzQXL0/s400/July+4th+09+009.jpg" border="0" /></a> The morning started out with thunderstorms, lightning bolts & torrents of rain, but by 1:00 the sun had come out, the storms subsided & it was off to the pool. Above is Hank the Tank having a moment of total glee in the pool. With 3 little ones under the age of 5 one can only imagine the giggles & silliness that was had!<br /><div>Tucker, Hank & Natalie, along with Uncle Nate, played and played in the pool. Natalie was the big winner in the swimming pool--she can swim without a life jacket and dive off the board. Tucker & Hank splased around in the whirlpool where they could walk around the step from side to side. I didn't get the picture of all the kids (30 and under) playing with the mega shooters Granny supplied. Boy, did we have fun and get wet. I've never heard so many happy laughs!!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlE-daXliHI/AAAAAAAAA48/3W1H5illqtg/s1600-h/July+4th+09+020.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355130106935609458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlE-daXliHI/AAAAAAAAA48/3W1H5illqtg/s400/July+4th+09+020.jpg" border="0" /></a> Uncle Alex showed Hank the proper (???) stance for golfing---we only let him hit the used smoke bombs. Golf balls are toooo dangerous in large groups!! But Uncle Alex is Hank's "look up to" guy & the little smoke bomb holders were great for this!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlE-coZg-3I/AAAAAAAAA4s/Tprp4b9mjUE/s1600-h/July+4th+09+015.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355130093521927026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SlE-coZg-3I/AAAAAAAAA4s/Tprp4b9mjUE/s400/July+4th+09+015.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />And no visit to Granny & Grumps' house is complete without the golf cart ride. Natalie lives next door, but she'll jump at the chance to get on the cart with Hank & Grumps to drive to her house. Granny & Grumps live on a cul de sac, and golf cart rides around the area are one of the favorite pastimes!! Hank will to any time anyone gets on the cart & is happy with any length of ride!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Sof after all the swimming, we "dived" into hamburgers, hotdogs, corn on the cob, coleslaw, pasta salad, fresh tomatoes, apple dumplings, blackberry cobbler, chocolate cake, home churned ice cream, lemonade & iced tea. Yummy!! So much to eat it took the entire day & night!! Sounds like alot of food no? Well, there were around 20 people there --so alot of food was required!!! Oh, forgot to add the fruit pizza made with fresh strawberries & blueberries!! Even the corn was fresh! Love summer's bounty!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>The sun finally went down, and the fireworks began. Everyone in the cul de sac had their own loot, so we got 4 times the show for one price!!! ha ha ha And several neighborhoods on acreages within the mile area were adding to the send off. Booms & blasts & colors galore! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Would you believe---we cleaned up the carport, took down all the folding chairs, moved all the food indoors, picked up all the trash, shut down the happening AND the rain began once again!! Just as we arrived at home--safe & sound!!! We didn't have to wash off the drive way on Sunday after all---</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Hope you all had a joyous 4th---we sure did. Thank you Lord for our family with all their quirks and our friends. We are soooo blessed!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-88273519565492907962009-06-22T16:48:00.000-07:002009-06-22T16:55:18.135-07:00What's A Gal To Do?????Blogging, facebook, twitter------email, IMs,-----wow--one could spend all day & all night on the computer just commenting & posting. Do you suppose we will begin to talk like robots, with no voice inflection whatsoever? Will we become so used to the computer scene that we forget expressions of the face, body language, etc? Say it ain't so!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I am as guilty of the next about sitting down to check up on all my cyberfriends & ready my fav blogs. BUT don't ya just miss seeing those sparkling eyes across the table from you? And aren't friendly hugs great? And the ups and downs of the human voice when excited, tired, angry, and so forth?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I love cards--real paper cards. Could spend hour after hour in a card store just picking out cards to send to friends and family--for no reason at all. I love writing with a pen or pencil; love to receive snail mail and send it too. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Hey--make a deal with me--no matter how cyber intelligent we get, let's not forget good old Hallmark---or Bic for that matter. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I love looking over the letters received from years past --- especially those of long gone relatives. Great Aunt Sophie, Granma Tommy, Granny Mae---looking at that handwriting reminds me of a time which I long to return. Somehow, I don't think printing out emails will have the same affect on my spirit.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />So, tho I love checking the posts, let's not forget to take pen in hand. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />And read more real books!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Have a great one!!!Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-65390103055779644802009-06-16T11:41:00.000-07:002009-06-16T11:43:36.818-07:00A Brand New Me!!!<span style="font-family:verdana;">Hey friends & foe---I have another blog! It's all about the kitchen, so go over to: threesisterskitchen.blogspot & check it out.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Now remember, I haven't had alot of time to customize this site--bear with me & it'll get better & prettier with time.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I'm still keeping up with this blog-but it's going to continue to be my "personal therapy" while the kitchen blog will be "scenes from a caterer's life". </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Come on over!!!</span>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-13101359362519460152009-06-06T18:06:00.001-07:002009-06-06T18:22:51.798-07:00A Royal Delight<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SisSwNH7wqI/AAAAAAAAA4k/6hBr1Qmzv0s/s1600-h/pink+princess.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344386002171183778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 164px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 137px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SisSwNH7wqI/AAAAAAAAA4k/6hBr1Qmzv0s/s400/pink+princess.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:verdana;">Wow! What a fun day I have had. This morning I co-hosted a "Princess Tea" at the local library. It was the brainstorm of mine & another young lady who lives near my in-laws & has a daughter 4 years old.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">We started talking about how fun it would be, how it could benefit the library in signing kids for the summer reading program, etc., etc. So--we limited it to 25 young ladies under the age of 10 years who would be required to attend with their mom or another adult. The library put a blurb about it in the local news & told the "storytime" group, and within a few days, the event was full.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Most of the young ladies were ages 4-7--and they dressed like princesses! They were sooooo cute in their princess dresses (some complete with wings!!), and upon their arrival, they were each given their tiara, which they wore with pride!!!</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Clear plastic teacups were at each place setting, which they were instructed to decorate with sticky-backed foam shapes. They were also given foam wands to glue sequins onto. They were instructed in the proper way for a princess to wave, curtsey, and walk. After having a storytime (which was interactive!!), they were treated to mini-muffins & crown shaped sugar cookies. Their "tea" was actually punch--we didn't think the little ones should have tea!! They ate and talked, moms took pictures, and then for the really fun event--we had a "princess parade" through the library (upstairs) to the delight of patrons who happened to be in the library. The young "princesses" waved with their most royal wave, walked like they owned the kingdom, gathered for a group photo and curtseyed good-bye.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">It had been such a long time since I had interacted with youngsters like this that the fun was actually all mine!!! Reading to the princesses was so much fun--and they were the most well-behaved group I have been around in a long time. I'll post some pics later. You just HAVE to see some of these princesses!! AND--we all decided this should be an annual event--along with a Christmas Tea. Of course, the library (being politically correct) must do something for the young lads, so in August, we will attempt to have a Pirate Gathering! Not quite certain what this will entail, but I'll bet it's every bit as fun!!</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">After having a delightful time with the princesses, I rushed home & had lunch with my daughter & Hank. One of Hank's little 2nd cousins was celebrating his 2nd birthday, and they came early to visit. So the first thing we did was take Hank to eat at his favorite place in town--Jalapeno's Mexican. It 's yummy, yummy, yummy and he loves the salsa, rice & quesadillas. </span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Then it was off to a playground park where we met the rest of Tucker's family (on both sides) and played til we almost, really! almost, dropped from exhaustion. The playground is new, has lots of "little" kid slides, walls to climb, bouncy cars, etc., and the three 2nd cousins, Hank, Michael & Tucker, had a great time. It was all outside, so they could be as LOUD and BOYISH as they wanted! </span></div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I can't imagine anything that is more refreshing than spending a day with children, watching them play with "imagination", hearing them talk to one another, seeing the twinkle in their eyes and the laughter in their voices. It's been a day of true wonder---from princesses to little boys who love dirt. </span></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-39646439411523358722009-05-29T15:09:00.001-07:002009-05-29T15:21:31.233-07:00Way To Go Penny!!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SiBdNuzUVJI/AAAAAAAAA4c/-vBIKdc4wps/s1600-h/retirement.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341371648544363666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 160px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 125px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SiBdNuzUVJI/AAAAAAAAA4c/-vBIKdc4wps/s400/retirement.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Penny the Queen has retired from her career as an elementary teacher. She spent 30 years in the classroom as a special ed teacher & then as a 2nd grade teacher. Wow---way to go!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Now, Penny isn't "old" by any means!! She just took advantage of the earliest she could retire. I am envious! To have the leisure of picking & choosing what you do with each & every day. I don't know if I'll EVER retire--but I may quit-ha ha ha!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>It's a shame that more people can't depend on retirement anymore. Many, many companies have done away with retirement funds, opting instead to let individuals manage their retirement through 401Ks & such. I truly don't understand alot (or even a little) about all of this, but I do know that persons of my dad's age could depend on retirement--without managing their own. And they could depend on continued health insurance along with the retirement. Today, we all just feel lucky if we don't receive pink slips on Fridays. Or if the companies haven't sold, declared bankruptcy, etc., etc.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Which brings me to this question--why the heck didn't I just marry a rock star???? By the age I now am, the rock star would have either been stashed in a rehab home or slowed down and quit the vices! They could have ended up talking/thinking like Ozzie---but I think Sharon has him pretty much under control. Now consider that--she put up with several years of bad behavior, but now she enjoys the bank accounts and she can tell him what to do. Ah, she must be feeling sweet revenge. Ok, so my mind is going off on it's own "trip"!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Today is Friday & the weekend is a bit full, but not near like last weekend. I may actually have a chance to sit on the back porch & enjoy the heat. Or pull some weeds from the garden. Do you supposed Ozzie & Sharon ever set on the porch--ok, ok enough with the Ozzie & Sharon questions--they just got stuck in my brain & won't leave!!! I wasn't even an Ozzie fan. Until the reality show & commercials. OK I PROMISE no more talk of O & S!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>The weatherman just said it would be a boring weekend weather wise---that means none of the shows will be interrupted---and all the season finales are done. We can watch reruns in their entirety!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Well, must sign off for now. I'm rambling & am aware of it!!! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Maybe something major will come through my head that makes alot of sense, and is worth sharing tomorrow!! One can only hope!!!</div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-12613125451222241152009-05-20T18:13:00.000-07:002009-05-20T18:24:19.333-07:00Spiderman Came To Play<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/ShSq3G6hshI/AAAAAAAAA4U/H3LOFCGpPSg/s1600-h/Spiderman+Hank+@+Taboulifest+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338079322066498066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/ShSq3G6hshI/AAAAAAAAA4U/H3LOFCGpPSg/s400/Spiderman+Hank+%40+Taboulifest+004.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Spiderman came to my house this weekend! He spent Saturday & Sunday night. His mom came down with strep & she needed to rest---hey! I don't care what the reason is---I love to play with Spiderman!! ha ha ha</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>He actually had his face painted at a "Tabouleh Fest" a couple of weeks ago--I just thought it was so cute I wanted to share it with you.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>And, as we weren't booked on Monday, I got to stay home with him. We played, went on a walk, planted flowers, took a nap--when Hubby got home from the kitchen I told him this was a BAD idea for me to stay home & keep Spiderman. Now that's all I want to do. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>I truly think this is what I was created for--to stay home & care for my children, grandchildren, home & yard. This is where I excel--this is where I am the most content--this is where I find the most reward. I stayed home with my children til they were in middle school; at that time our family business went south, and I had to find employment to supplement income. I think that was the saddest day! I used to have dinners on the table, volunteer, make gifts for all, bake for others, and on and on. I was a regular Aunt Bee! And I loved it completely--without reservation! I keep thinking one of these days I'll get to do that again. Except there won't be little ones under my hem. Maybe I'll get to have the grandkids more often. Anyway, Spiderman needs an Aunt Bee type Ya Ya! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Yesterday I cleaned out a much ignored flowerbed. It took lots of sweat and muscle, but today it looks soooo pretty! And I have moved some fern, and now I have some canna from my mother's garden waiting to be planted. Ah, spring--how we love rebirth-- the promise of a flourish of life. Spring & fall --those are my most favorite times of the year. It has been raining alot here the past few weeks, and now the outside has really greened up---and the plants are raising their heads from deep winter slumber. It gives a soul such hope. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Well, must go for now. Tomorrow through Saturday are going to be busy work days--have a wedding for 350 to prepare a full meal for, along with 2 lunches on Thursday and one on Friday. But it sure was nice to have a reprieve from work.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Happy spring!</div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-55481295034641138112009-05-14T18:11:00.000-07:002009-05-14T18:18:11.150-07:00The Graduate<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SgzBnVS2JkI/AAAAAAAAA4M/U-mydkKTsi8/s1600-h/Jennifer"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335852540002444866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SgzBnVS2JkI/AAAAAAAAA4M/U-mydkKTsi8/s400/Jennifer%27s+Graduation+002.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>This is my sister; she graduated from OSU-Tulsa on Monday night. I am sooo very proud of her. After high school she, as did I, married & began a family. She had some unfortunate set-backs which delayed her goal of a degree in finance.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>But perserverence, which is one of her strongest traits, served her well. She attained her goal and now has her degree in finance. All the while working 40+ hours a week, raising two wonderful children (one a Jr in HS, one a Jr in college), volunteering, and succeeding in marriage.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>She is awesome--I can't say enough about how proud I am of her. Of course, I would be proud of my lil sis even if she didn't finish this chapter of her life, but knowing the effort she devoted to this, I can't beam enough!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>I never finished my degree; perhaps that adds to my pride in her. I got my associate's and, not knowing what I wanted to do, and being so caught up in being wife &mother (no, I don't regret that one iota!), I just didn't finish. And anyway--I'm a caterer! I have certifications in areas that relate to that & I'm happy with that. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Way to go sis!!!</div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-5686947193078194772009-05-08T00:24:00.000-07:002009-05-08T00:33:50.220-07:00Has Anyone Seen An Extra Mind Floating Around???<span style="font-family:verdana;">Sometimes I wonder how in this big ole world I get through another day!! Sometimes I wonder where in the world my mind went!! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">This evening we had a big catering event--in addition to two lunches, a cookie order & a cake order. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Well, things were rockin along so well. The lunches went out without any problems, the cookies were done WAY ahead of time, the cake is on schedule, and it appears that the evening is going to be all ahead.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">As we are loading, the contact person calls and asks if things are going well. Well yes, I said, in fact we're loading now. This is at 4:45. I had us down to arrive at 6:00. Since she called I began to wonder--hmmmm, so I called her back to confirm eating time and she said 6:00!!! WHOOPS--I had the time on the schedule board ONE HOUR late!!! Luckily we were all loaded and I YELLED "let's roll!". We took off like Flash Gordon on his way to save the universe and we made the 30 minute trip in a mere 20---don't tell---we did break some speed limits!!!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">So, we pull up and they have some help unloading and she asks "Do you have tablecloths" and I reply, of course, for the serving table. She replied "You are supposed to have them for the other tables". </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">It all comes back in harsh reality---she wanted to use my tablecloths. I had it on the order sheet and forgot to transpose it to the schedule board. I was soooo embarrassed!!! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">The good part was, this was a high school sports banquet, they were in the cafeteria, and she wasn't upset at all. Bless her heart!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">And we sat up in 15 minutes and had the serving line going on time. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">So to make up for my faux pas, I bussed all the tables and served all the dessert to the tables instead of the buffet line.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Ever feel like you just missed the mark? They loved the food, and we had nothing but compliments, but I felt like such a dork! Forgetting the time AND the tablecloths. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I suppose accidents will happen, and things like this will occur. I think they happen to keep us on top of the game, but I will mentally beat myself up all next week for this!!!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Where oh where can my little mind be? Or where oh where did it go???</span>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-45721317397940216722009-04-29T08:43:00.001-07:002009-04-29T08:54:29.441-07:00Did You Miss It????<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sfh2D5O7QCI/AAAAAAAAA4A/VG4nkK34IhA/s1600-h/Hank+&+Cat+Wall+005.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330139968268091426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sfh2D5O7QCI/AAAAAAAAA4A/VG4nkK34IhA/s400/Hank+%26+Cat+Wall+005.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:verdana;">This is a wall at the local Barnes & Noble store. Just a stone wall; the kind they use at lots & lots of shopping centers. Just a wall you walk/drive by weekly or more. Now, look, really look at the wall. Do you see it? Some one had the creative vision to look at the wall & SEE more than stone & mortar.</span> <div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sfh2Dvhw0AI/AAAAAAAAA34/C-YD5ws-4OM/s1600-h/Hank+&+Cat+Wall+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330139965662744578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sfh2Dvhw0AI/AAAAAAAAA34/C-YD5ws-4OM/s400/Hank+%26+Cat+Wall+004.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:webdings;"> </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">There you go! Now you see it! Someone looked at the pattern of this plain old, ordinary stone & saw the soul within!! This kitty cat came to reside at Barnes & Noble when the place was built, and has hidden for all these years. Well, I don't actually know when the kitty was released, but I've been going to the store since it opened & didn't see it til hubby pointed it out. And I thought he wasn't into the arts!! ha ha </span></div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">This makes me wonder how many millions of opportunities we miss in the ordinary. How many insights we walk right by on our way to "getting there"! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Remember as a child lying on the ground and seeing the visions in clouds? Well, hallelujah! They aren't just in the clouds. They are in the each & every day that we glide through. They are in the trees, the stones, the clouds, and possibly, the faces of those around us. You know, the ones we hurry past--don't want to take any more time than necessary to get where we are going; so we can turn around and not take any more time than necessary to get back---just so we can turn around and get there again!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Well, I challenge you to seek out the opportunities for blessings today. And every day. Look further than surface value--or look at the surface more intently. Peer into what the wall, nature or the eyes looking back at you are really like. And, in the process, reveal yourself. Don't be afraid to take a picture, give a hug, truly care "how it's going".</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Open your mind to the possibilities.</span>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-11851703612002581122009-04-17T10:05:00.000-07:002009-04-17T10:28:13.862-07:00All Quiet?????<span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sei4AefwUSI/AAAAAAAAA3w/YZFaUfi_lwA/s1600-h/Sleeping+Tabby.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325708877691375906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 130px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 97px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sei4AefwUSI/AAAAAAAAA3w/YZFaUfi_lwA/s400/Sleeping+Tabby.jpg" border="0" /></a> A friend mentioned on my facebook page that all had been quiet around my place. NOT!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sei34z0RjcI/AAAAAAAAA3o/3XQ-S7CLcgk/s1600-h/stressed+out+cat.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325708745975631298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 125px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 125px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sei34z0RjcI/AAAAAAAAA3o/3XQ-S7CLcgk/s400/stressed+out+cat.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This is what it looks like inside my head--ha ha! Over the past 4 weeks my mother in law has had 4 ambulance rides to the hospital & one lifeflight ride. She has had a mild heart attack, and a week later, a serious heart attack. She went to the ER all times with excessive nosebleeds and didn't even know that she was having the heart attacks. In fact, the last "serious" one was pointed out by the EMTs on the ambulance ride!!! </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Well, (fingers crossed) we think all is well. The serious heart attack involved 99% blockage of a major artery that was the result of taking her off her Plavix for 6 days to stop the nosebleed! No damage but she did have a stint put in.</div><div></div><div></div><div>As for the bleeds? Well the ENT Dr has a plan. She must take the Plavix, and they can't give her anethseatic (sp) to cauterize the nose, so they have adjusted her blood pressure meds, and at keeping the pressure to 120 or under, her nose won't bleed.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Now aren't you glad I shared that with you????? The really stressful happening is that hubby is the "go to" child & is the one who goes to the house in the middle of the night, rides to the hospital, and stays to hear Dr reports. Bless his heart, he hasn't had much rest the past 4 weeks. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>And this has been another BUSY catering time. For which we are extremely grateful! But it does take away from times that could be used for catching up on "zzzzz's". </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>And ---the <strong>GOOD NEWS</strong>---- Hank is going to be a Big Brother!!!!! Yea!!!!! I am sooooo excited. And so are Hank's parents! I've been so blessed by having Hank in my life that I am ready for more! The arrival will happen around the 6th of December--which happens to be my son's birthday!! Can't wait to find out what it will be so I can start the "packrat" syndrome for babies! So many sales right now & so much I want to begin making. I can feel the projects keeping me up into the wee hours. Yippee!!!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>I just read an article in an area newspaper that was entitled "Making Memories". I always want to plan these "big events" to make memories for family & friends. And then I'm so tired that I don't even remember them!! But it is important to make memories--that's all we can really hold on to. Today Hank & I took a walk and talked about all the things we saw. I know at 3 he won't remember that, but I will---it's one for my books! And then we sat and put stickers in proper places in his Hot Wheels sticker book. Talk about fun. Just listening to the words of a child can be so uplifting (and doggone funny!).</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>He put a sticker on his wooden table and when I told him not to, that it would ruin the table he looked me straight in the eye and said "It will not wuin it! What;s a wuin anyway?" Good question!! What is a "wuin"!!! I'm certain my kids said the same cute phrases, but I've learned to pay closer attention to Hank. I want to hang on his each & every word. They go by so quickly. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Well, I feel I've captured your ear long enough with my boring recounts of life as I experience it. So I'll close for now and wish all of you a memory filled weekend!<br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/Sei3Fh1hz5I/AAAAAAAAA3g/0ol2fHtO59I/s1600-h/Sleeping+Tabby.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3457041138173889683.post-12137371702046584722009-04-10T20:05:00.000-07:002009-04-10T20:15:36.042-07:00What Movie Are YOU Watching????<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SeAJQZ5dLMI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/bLVZBvpl1aA/s1600-h/monstersvsaliens.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323264936986356930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 108px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 160px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BY5o7i4HT_4/SeAJQZ5dLMI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/bLVZBvpl1aA/s400/monstersvsaliens.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Tonight Hank has come to spend the night---and we went to watch this movie. It's cute, but not up to the Pixar standard. However, Hank liked it and that's what matters.</span><br /><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I hope everyone is going to have a blessed Easter. After the past week, I have plenty of blessings to count! My mother in law suffered a serious heart attack on Monday; she was released on Thursday and is doing quite well. Makes you stop and take stock of priorities and important issues. And it makes me stop and appreciate the lives that are so entertwined with mine. Family, friends and acquaintances. I am so blessed to have family that is close by, that we love, that are active parts of our lives. I have friends that are ready to stop & listen or kick up their heels in fun at a moment's notice. And I have acquaintances who bring such interest into my life. I can't imagine being secluded from family, not having close friends, and not having all the characters who round out this life. The old adage "others come in to your life for a time, a reason, or a season" is true beyond belief. And we can learn so very much from all those who cross our paths. And I give thanks for each & every life I've had the privilege to cross paths with!</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;">And I am so thankful for this Easter season to stop and be reminded of the resurrection. And what it means to me. And what it has given to me. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Tomorrow morning we're having chocolate chip pancakes and hot tea---Hank's request! And while he's eating breakfast, I'm going to hide plastic eggs and then we'll have a private Easter egg hunt! Without all the hoopla that will happen on Sunday with all the family around. Not that I don't want that too, but this year I have Hank captive for a time and I'm going to take full advantage!! Making memories!</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Well, it's time to call it quits for the night & convince Hank that it's bedtime. That should be fun!! And then--off to bed for me.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Have a happy Easter!</span></p>Little Town Big Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11546690682122855859noreply@blogger.com1