The Keys to Your Heart

You are attracted to those who are unbridled, untrammeled, and free. In love, you feel the most alive when things are straight-forward, and you're told that you're loved. You'd like to your lover to think you are loyal and faithful... that you'll never change. You would be forced to break up with someone who was emotional, moody, and difficult to please. Your ideal relationship is lasting. You want a relationship that looks to the future... one you can grow with. Your risk of cheating is zero. You care about society and morality. You would never break a commitment. You think of marriage as something precious. You'll treasure marriage and treat it as sacred. In this moment, you think of love as commitment. Love only works when both people are totally devoted.

What Are The Keys To Your Heart?

Craft for the New Year

I have always wanted to learn how to knit. My mother taught herself. My aunts and cousins knitted but I never learned. My mother tried to teach me and but nothing ever come of the dreaded chain. I didn't have the patience to go any further. I hope I have learned patience and will learn much more since I am paying someone to teach me because today, I drove myself down to a place called Stitches & Scones. This business is no more than 5 minutes away from my house and I gave them my $45 to learn the basics. My first official lesson is on Thursday. I hope I get to knit a scarf! I have always wanted to knit a scarf! Here is wishing I have a nice new scarf to wear before the heat over takes the earth in my little piece of the world. Wish me luck!

When I Grow Up

I just came to realize this morning (at almost 40 years old) what I want to be when I grow up. (It is about time don't you think??) Anyway, I want to be a Carmel Housewife. I am sure every state has what we call an area where there are "Carmel Housewives"...It is a woman who lives in luxury and is allowed to do whatever she pleases. She can sleep all day, while the maid cleans up the house. She can shop all day, while her husband earns the dough. She can go get a manicure, pedicure, hair done, massage or whatever she feels like whenever she wants to. (Wait, that last one does sound like me...) Anyway, after taking today off and having to take calls from work anyway, I decided my goal is to become a Carmel Housewife. I don't care that others will make fun of me for being one. I can handle the jokes and the criticism because I am a strong woman and I could turn the other cheek (while my facial was being completed). I just want to do what I want to do without having to answer to anyone except myself and of course "big daddy". (big daddy = GOD) I would even start becoming more of a leader in my community...I have it in me to do so. I just can't find the time to do it all. I know there are those who seem to find the time, (damn them) but it is difficult for me...(As I do have to have time for all those massages and facials...ha!)

The point is I have finally found a purpose and I am sure my high school guidance councilor would finally be happy that I have found something to aspire to be...So when I grow up, I want to be a Carmel Housewife. How about you?

Wrong Butt Being Kissed

The cleaning crew in my building is now bowing to me. (LITTERALLY BOWING!) I had a Korean person I knew ask me if my building would be interested in quoting out its cleaning? I asked the building manager and he said yes, so I go the 2 parties hooked up. This crew got the job. Now after a few weeks of cleaning, people who work in my building are complaining about the job they are doing. There is a communication problem with the Korean workers and the military (my building is 98% US government military personal). I have also spoken to the building manager regarding our bathrooms being a mess and he has told me he had left word for the crew but nothing got resolved. Last Friday, the owner of my company saw one of the cleaning crew managers and told him we had issues...And that I would have a talk with him next week. WHY ME? Do I NOT HAVE ENOUGH issues to deal with?? I told the owner of my company that it is not my responsibility to have to deal with the cleaning people. I am NOT in charge of the building...Why do I have to speak with them?? He didn't see it this way...So,today I had one of the Korean owners come in and asked me not to be mad at him and he bowed. I was like "what?" I am not mad at anyone. Then I had the manager of the cleaning crew (Korean also) come in and bow at me. Okay, now I have to say, I like men bowing at my feet... but not for this reason....NEXT, I have a Korean woman call me and on and on she went how sorry and how thankful...I wanted to say, "You are kissing the wrong butt here!" Guess what, the cleaning crew actually came in and wouldn't look at me. Normally, they wave and say hello. Nothing today. So it is one extreme to the next. Bowing or Ignoring...Somedays you just can't win.

Memory Found

Okay, said a few prayers while I was looking for my memory and it was found! Thank you angels!



I went to spend one of my gift certificates I got this year and man was Barnes & Noble packed! It was like going shopping the day of Christmas. I thought to myself if one more person runs into me or cuts my path off I might just have to leave without purchasing anything. That would be such a same! I would have had to go out another day to shop. Anyway, I picked up 2 items. One was Wisdom Cards, which I am looking forward to using and the other was The Joy of Conflict Resolution. I don't know why I picked it up. It isn't like I haven't read these types of books before but I figured maybe it would speak to me and maybe something new could be developed and learned. Can't hurt! I have another conflict to deal with tomorrow. I just can't wait to get back to work tomorrow....

Lost Memory

I can not find anywhere the memory stick with all our Christmas day pictures. I just can not find it! I found an old memory stick, which I was looking for months ago which containes nothing of value...but no where is the one I want. Wish me luck!

My Life Quiz

I saw this for an ad for American Express. I liked it and thought it would be fun to answer.

Childhood Ambition: To be a mother
Fondest Memory: Holding my niece
Soundtrack: Corrina, Corrina
Retreat: Nashville, IN (Friends house)
Wildest Dream: Dance and Sing, Getting married, Having child
Proudest Moment: Not sure
Biggest Challenge: Recovering from depression
Alarm Clock: Old cell phone
Perfect Day: Playing with my niece
First Job: Babysitting, KMart
Indulgence: Coca-Cola
Last Purchase: Dora The Explorer (To many really to count)
Favorite Music: Pop-Opera (Charlotte Church and Josh Groban)
Favorite Movie: Many, Enjoy Pieces of April, About a boy, Napoleon dynamite
Inspiration: Comes from within
My Life: Pretty good
My Card: Amazon Visa

Happy Day Off With Pay

I used to get upset and depressed over any holiday (not just the blues like I had yesterday). One year something changed for me as one of my best friends said, "it is going to be a great day if only because we are off with pay!" That sentence was a turning point for me.

Instead of thinking how I was missing out with all the family "things", which the media tells us was so wonderful. I started using this as my way to cope. On Thanksgiving, it didn't matter if I didn't have anywhere to go. It didn't matter if I ate taco salad for my dinner. What made it a great day was because I was getting paid for it.

So, the morale to this is chose a different path and try to see things differently as it might change the outcome.

With this said, "Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy Day Off With Pay!"

Breakdown

I am having a Christmas breakdown. The thought of all the money I spent. Also I have been out of my medication for a couple days. It is cold and wet here. It is suppose to snow, rain or sleet. No one can say for sure. This causes anxiety...what if I get stuck in the house and can't get out? My computer cord is not working..I don't know what the problem is so anytime, my laptop is going to go because it is working off of the battery. This means I could be without contact with the world. AAHH! Oh well, no one is sick in my family so things could be worse I suppose...well, we all know someone worse off than we are so I am trying to pull myself up and out of my funk. But...sometimes sleeping the day away is good therapy for me...so I say, "Good night."

Party To Go To

Tonight is my Christmas Party for work. I have to go since I planned the darn thing.

Make A Bag

Started to do some creative gift wrapping this week. I made this bag out of a small lunch like sack bag. Kind a cute but I probabley will not use it. I like wrapping presents versus using bags but thought it might be fun to dress up some plan bags. I did another bag where I put white balls all over the bag. It turned out really cute too but it is in my car with a gift in it already. I was to meet a friend for lunch this week but she canned me until next week. I just didn't bring it back in to take a picture of it. Maybe I will remember to do it this weekend.

Turn Around? It's A Matter Of Time...

Hard to believe...Employee has done a 180 degree turn. Now, employee still comes in every day with some kind of illness, but employee is on time and is working! Now, how long employee can continue to go without missing a day I can't say. Employee today did instant message me to say, "I am feeling sick, I would like to go lay down in my car for a few minutes." My reply, "Clock out while you are gone." Employee wasn't gone 10 minutes. (I think the clock out must have done it for her). Employee must have really started felling better after employee left an hour later, employee called me from the mall where employee was shopping. Hum...

Reprimanding Employee

I had to reprimand an employee today for her always being absent. I had a pretty rough day. I had to keep reminding her it was "The Policy". I told her several times, the policy states this...blah blah blah. I am sure I haven't heard the last of this conversation as she was extremely mad and said she disagreed with the warning because of her reasons why she had to be absent so much.

I think if she continues to bug me, (I can't wait until tomorrow.) I will have to direct her to the owner of the company, who had to bite tongue today. Owner wanted to blast her and fire her but kept it under control. I believe she got off lucky having to deal with me. She might not be lucky if she continues with her tirade and has to deal with the owner.

I am not going to stand for her to throw things and be disrespectful. I will have to reprimand her again. I am sure it is just a matter of time....and I am a very forgiving, let's let it slide kind a girl so can you imagine what it was that will push me over the edge to be this way?

What is a girl to do?

UPDATE: I got half way to the party and decided "Why are you doing this to yourself?" I didn't feel good so I turned my car around and called my mom and then my brother to let them both know I wasn't coming. I came home and went to bed. I slept until 5 minutes prior to them coming home. I am feeling a little better now. Head is not pounding as it was but still a little sore.


Going to a family reunion today. I can't wait for all the loud noise and smoke filled room. I got a splitting headache and need to stay at home. Do I forgo the festive activities and lay in bed? I just don't like to commit and then back out. What is a girl to do?

Zen 2 Remember

Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either. Just pretty much leave me the hell alone.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and leaky tire.

It's always darkest before dawn. So if you're going to steal your neighbor's newspaper, that's the time to do it.

Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted.

Always remember that you're unique. Just like everyone else.

Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

If you think nobody cares if you're alive, try missing a couple of car payments.

Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes.

If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you!

Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.

If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably worth it.

If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.

Some days you're the bug; some days you're the windshield.

Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.

The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket.

A closed mouth gathers no foot.

Duct tape is like 'The Force'. It has a light side, a dark side, and it holds the universe together.

There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.

Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving.

Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.

Never miss a good opportunity to shut up.

Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.

Turkey Day

This is my brother wearing Olivia glasses, which my niece made and a santa hat, which is to small. Silly man.

Pretty good day today. Well, any day is a good day if it is a day off with pay. You gotta love that.

Family came to the house. It was a nice time. No one over stayed their welcome so that was even better.

My mom went all out, like she normally does, prepairing food. Thanks to her, we had quite a spread. Thanks Mom!

Communication Breakdown

Meeting with coach went pretty well today. It always goes pretty well. I can open up to him and he can use what I say against myself later in the conversation.

I have realized I have a communication breakdown with many people in my life. Not just people I know. Strangers who I have never met too.

So I have to fix me. I am broken. (Isn't everyone?) I need to be glued back together. It might take some extra duper super glue but I am willing to fix me. I just want to be fixed quickly.

I realize it has taken me 39 years to get this way, but does it need to take another 39 to fix me? I sure hope not. If memory serves me, my attention span will wave and I will be onto the next step in my life in a short time. I just remember, it seems this is a pattern....having a short attention span....Oh No, another issue to have to fix.

Maybe I should just continue to ignore it and try to forget everything. Deal with it next time I am on earth.

Calgone take me away...far far away...some place with padded walls might be nice.

Another Darn Candle

I got my anniversary gift!

I do admit, or rather a friend informed me, that employers do not give gifts to employees each year just for sticking around another year.

Well, I say to that....La De Da!

I know she is right but darn it...I wanted attention...I got it alright...With yet another candle. I got 2 huge ones from my employers for my birthday. One of which just sits in my office unopened.

Have I ever told anyone that I don't burn candles...Or I don't heat them using a burner? I have allergies. So I normally stick them on a shelf. I thought I everyone knew that...

I am seriously thinking about regifting them but the guilt comes over me in huge waves. I have thought about taking them to Goodwill but then the guilt sets in again. I am not even Catholic. Where does all this guilt come from?

I could blame my mother...But it wasn't from her. (I guess I could blame her anyway.)

Hum, I will have to give this some thought. Surely I can find someone to blame (other than myself.)

Linoleum Block Printing

Here is my block carving creation. The end result didn't turn out so well but I am showing them to my family and friends anyway. I really, really enjoyed the process of carving the block so this...I will continue and hopefully, the end process will get better and better. I do have to admit, I enjoy making the carvings much more than just stamping other people's stamps. I also haven't really created anything I was really excited about using rubber stamps. Maybe, just maybe I have found what I really like to do craft wise.




Okay, so let me explain what is what in the pictures. The white dove with the blue background would be the end result. The pictures were taken with a digital camera and not scanned thus the bad lighting....The beige block with the black and some white ink is the actual linoleum block, which I carved.

Those of you who do not know what to get me for a gift, a gift certificate to Prizm Art Supply Store would be a great gift. Just a suggestion...

I am stuck today

Do you know how old people get when they get old? You know what I am saying. Stuck in their ways and don't want to change their habits. Well, I experienced being old today. Not that I am old, just experienced the being stuck part.

My coach called me and wants to change my meeting with him to tomorrow. Can I say how upsetting that was to hear? I was so looking forward to leaving that hour and a half early to go have work therapy! On top of that, I have some complaining to do about one of my employees who is driving me to want to drink! (LOL!)

So I am now stuck. Stuck. Stuck without being able to leave early. Stuck with all my negative feelings. Stuck about being stuck.

I am taking big breaths and breathing in white light...Positive Light. I let go and grap hold of my employees neck...and...just kidding there...

Block Carving

I finished my first (well technically second) block carving today. This doesn't really count last week either...Although I guess it should. So three carvings I have done. Anyway, I only rammed the sharp cutting tool in my skin once so I thought it was a pretty good go. The first time I block carved was in jr high school...7th grade I think...I really enjoyed carving (the block, not my finger). I think I will post a picture of my design in a few days. I need to get some white paint or different type of paper first. I am pretty uptight about my work, any creative thing I do I get uptight about. Silly. But that is who I am.

Hum, what else did I do today? Well, I did a load of laundry and took a shower. That was about it. It was a great day for a little R and R. The family went north to have a family get together and although I was invited, and appreciated the invitation, I thought I would enjoy the day to myself.

I have high hopes for myself next week! I plan to attack my closet. I need to hang up clothes and tidy my room. I need to throw out my old clothes, which I will never wear so I can have room for the ones I do wear. It is a small closet and space is not infinti and beyond. It is tight quarters in my little room but I love it. It is my room and my little part of heaven.

I hope to have a great week. I only have to work 3 days and 2 of those days I am leaving at 4 pm. On Monday I have my meeting with my coach and on Tuesday I have a facial scheduled. Not a pampering facial. The kind where the top layer of your skin is scrapped off. Kinda like a bandaid coming off a wound when you where little and there was hair underneath stuck to the gooey part. Ouch!

Anniversary Morning Call

Received a call from the owner this morning on my cell phone. "Today is your anniversary is it not?" "Happy Anniversay". Thanks. "There is also a call on the pager, he didn't leave a phone number, do you want to handle the service call?"

Anniversary Kick

I am still on the work anniversay kick. I haven't even received a freaking card! It isn't like I didn't tell the owner SEVERAL times that my anniversay day was coming up...he knew...and yet, he is OUT OF TOWN and I didn't get a present! Did I mention that I want a present?? I want a PRESENT! My inner child is kicking and screaming. I want a damn present! I don't want a cake. I don't want just a card. I want a present! I want a present! I want a present! Phew! All this kicking and screaming, hitting the floor with my hands and feet is starting to hurt a bit! Also, in our last meeting I asked if I should plan a party for ME. He laughed a bit, kinda shook his head yes like he was going to take care of it! I am being a spolied little brat here I know...but I want a present. Nothing big like a new Mercedes or that cute little $284,000.00 condo I just looked at...how about some cash? $500.00 bonus would be nice.

Well, not all is lost YET. Even though my anniversay day would be over, he does return on Sunday from his trip and I know I will see him this week.

I gotta tell you though, if I don't get a present, I am going to be mad. I might have to stomp my feet and walk a little louder.

(smiles!)

6 year anniversary

No one said anything to me about my anniversay date. Just because you are the boss shouldn't mean the owner of the company shouldn't say anything...right??? Well, unless your anniversay date is actually on November 19th....




Today is my 6 year anniversary with my company. WOW! It feels like 600 years not 6 years! This company has had some changes...good, bad and ugly changes. We are a manufacturers rep for some larger and smaller manufacturing plants. One of our larger lines was bought out by a large "CORPORATE AMERICA AT ITS FINEST" corporation. It has been the worst time of my life! I have never worked with so many difficult people. It makes me sick to think what this larger company once was and where it is now. Makes my stomach ache. I can't even believe how so many people can be put into such high paying jobs. I truly believe CORPORATE AMERICA WILL PUT AMERICA OUT OF BUSINESS! I see it every day with items I quote out. Product coming in from other countries are taking our business and what does CORPORATE AMERICA do, they continue to raise their prices. Who gets the profits, the big heads sitting in those high paying jobs. I would love to throw up on some well polished shoes!

Stupid is as stupid does

I made some stupid mistakes this morning at work. I didn't get to drink my normal breakfast drink which is full of vitamins. I was starving all morning because I ran out and didn't get to the grocery to get more. Come to think of it, I didn't go today either so I will have to go without tomorrow unless I get up earlier than usual and get some. UGH! It is amazing how different you feel when you get up and put something into your body. I usually drink a SlimFast or the Kroger brand mineral and vitamin chocolate drink. It is easy to carry. It is healthy and it taste pretty good. The best part is I am not hungry and don't even think about food until lunch time. The days when I don't drink I am famished at 9:30. Then I make stupid mistakes and every call I receive erks me. I need a drink!

Niece Is Shocked

Everyone in my house (See post "Ain't we pretty")has put these glasses and teeth on and we have taken our picture. My niece never wanted to put them on even when on occasion, we practically begged her. Finally on her own last evening, she wanted to wear the glasses and teeth and allowed us to take a picture. PRICELESS! That evening when I uploaded the pictures to the Myth box, she got to see herself large and full screen on the TV screen. I almost wet my pants at her look of disgust. I don't think I have ever seen that look come across her face. I hope I don't get to again because I don't know if the next time will have the same outcome, which was laughter.

Four - Four Year Olds

I put together a little party for my niece and there were only four children total. We played games and did several crafts. Sister-in-law helped with a big craft and I was thankful for her doing that! I don't know how the time space would have been filled AND with only 2 hours for the party, I thought I had planned out time pretty well. Not for these children! We were completely finished with all planned in an hour and a half and that is with taking a break. Not that free play is a bad thing, I just wondered how many games and crafts it really would have taken to fill 2 hours. Thank goodness for the moms who helped because I would have lost the little amount of structure there was if it hadn't been for their help....AND I want to do this again...I guess happy (prescription) drugs are a good thing.

Meeting with Coach today

I went to see my mentor or life coach or whatever you want to call it today. I am working on making some positive changes but when will I see those changes? It has been 2 weeks but it seems life forever. Baby steps, baby steps. I want giant steps! I must keep focused. I have been doing the homework given to me. I actually obsessive about what is told to me but I need to put the theory into practice and I am having a difficult time doing it! "Falling on the sword" and "playing dumb" isn't something, which comes easy for me. Willing to want it is one thing. It has cost several thousands of dollars for me to speak to this man and I want to see results and I want to see them now. I just hope I can make the changes I so desperate need and want and continue to be the person I need to be in my role at work. I don't want to disappointment myself.

More Pumpkin Carving Pictures

Pumpkin Carving

This was our first pumpkin carving. I carved the cat and my brother Paul carved the skull. It was really fun and I hope we get a chance to get this every year. I was really surprised at how easy it was to do. Next year, I am going to try something more difficult.

Size 12 Freak

I am looking online for a cute pair of shoes. In my size, there seems to be numerous amounts of freak shoes. Now, I am not saying only freaks wear these, but why then does the heading of the ads of these shoes state this information? I just wanted a cute pair of "no heeled" mary janes to wear this winter. What I found opened my eyes to the extreme.

My Favorite Person

My favorite child in the entire world is sick. She has been feeling a little ill for the last few days. Last night she had a 103 degree temp and just rested on the couch. It hurts me so when she isn't well. When the one you love is sick and there isn't anything you can do for them it hurts.

Costume party has been post-phoned until next Saturday.

Calm and Rational?

What Your Sleeping Position Says

You are calm and rational. You are also giving and kind - a great friend. You are easy going and trusting. However, you are too sensible to fall for mind games.

What Does Your Sleeping Position Say About You?

The Paradox

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers; wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families; more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense; more knowledge, but less judgment; more experts, yet more problems; more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom. We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion; big men and small character; steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce; fancier houses but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete.

Remember, spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.

Remember to say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.

Remember to say "I love you" to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.

Give time to love, give time to speak, and give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Dr. Bob Moorehead is former pastor of Seattle's Overlake Christian Church. He retired in 1998 after 29 years in that post. The essay appeared in 'Words Aptly Spoken,' Dr. Moorehead's 1995 collection of prayers, homilies, and monologues used in his sermons and radio broadcasts.

Ain't We's Pretty?

My brother brought home some funny glasses and teeth. I haven't laughed so hard in awhile. These glasses and teeth completely and totally changes your appearance. It is unbelievable how different you really look with and without wearing them! I recommend anyone to try a different look and then take pictures of yourself. It is a fun experience and will make generations to come wonder what the hell happened to us.

Pumpkin Patch

Went to the pumpkin patch today with sister-in-law, her mother, her brother, my brother and my niece. It was fun except for the attack of the bee's. One of them ended up in our car and half way home it stung for the last time...Unfortunately it claimed it last victory on my 4 year old niece's face. It broke my heart to see big tears run down her face.

Do I Need To Quit?

I keep buying more and more supplies for a hobby which I suck at. I love being creative but the outcome of my fruits is crap. I am very upset. What do I do? Should I try to sell my rubber stamps to see if I could, maybe get 1/18th of the money I spent back? Or do I keep trying in hopes I will make something I like? I am so frustrated with what I produce. I am not just hard on myself. I see other people's work and it's crap but they seem okay with putting out crap. Why can't I? I normally do not like to quit but this is really getting the best of me. I am thinking I need to quit and find something I am good at. But what if I don't find anything and I continue down the same path. Being a hobbiest is expensive.

What I Am Listening To

Give this artist a try!

This is her first album. She is a fantastic piano player and her voice is wonderful. I really hope the album does well. We have way to many Britney, Lindsey's and other b-bobbers in the world. This album is the real deal.

Your Hidden Talent

You're super sensitive and easily able to understand situations. You tend to solve complex problems in a flash, without needing a lot of facts. Decision making is easy for you. You have killer intuition. The right path is always clear, and you're a bit of a visionary.

What's Your Hidden Talent?

Vanity And The Tattoo

I have always been high maintenance. During my school years, I would wash and curl my hair at night before I went to bed. If I had to work in the yard, I would shower, put my makeup on and get dressed in my nice clothes prior to going out to the chores at hand. It should not be surprised to anyone growing old is not setting right with me. Now, I know I look young and much younger than some of my dear friends who are the same age as I am. Neverless, I am trying to beat the clock of life and I know sooner or later, the alarm is going to go off.

I have been thinking about when I get old, how am I going to be able to see how to put on my makeup? Who will take me to get my hair colored? What will I do if I need my eye brows waxed? These things have been running through my head. One step at a time I told myself. First on my list, I will get permanent eyeliner. This way, when I can't see to put my eyeliner on, it will be there.

OMG!!...I had NO idea (because I didn't do my homework) that it was a tattoo. I had NO idea it was going to hurt like, like, well not that I ever had given birth but I am sure the pain was pretty close to giving birth to twins AT THE SAME TIME. I also had NO idea that the next day, I wouldn't be able to be on my merry little way and do what I normally do on a Saturday afternoon...which is usually shopping or visiting with friends...I just was clueless.

Today is Sunday, 3 days after my procedure and my eyes have finally stopped looking like I was in a fight with Mike Tyson. The swelling is almost gone and you can hardly see where the redness was and were the tattoo begins.

What was I thinking? Well, I don't know what I was thinking before having this procedure but I can tell you now that I have learned my lesson. For now, no more procedures. I must learn to grow old gracefully. I know this is going to be hard on me but I just don't think I can go through the pain of cosmetic procedures again.

Losing A Friend - Lucy

Losing a friend


It's hard to say goodbye to those so loved. Your friend who greets you in the morning and is there for you during the good times and the bad. How do you fill the empty days ahead? How do you breathe knowing she will never wake you by nugging you. Never barking at you when it is time to leave and you will never have those warm, wet kisses on your face. Saying goodbye to a dear friend is hard. It is one of those moments when you hope you gave your friend as much as she gave you. Lucy Allspaw will be missed. I loved her dearly.

Anxiety

Why would a 4 year old have anxiety about getting sick? Have we talked to much about the fact she was very sick when she was born? Tonight my niece was asleep when her mommy said, "daddy, would you take her up to bed now" and my niece started crying and said, "but I have to take my medicine." We reassured her that she wasn't sick and would be okay but her little tiny legs just shook. Seeing her this way just hurt my heart. How would you handle this?

ARBONNE

It is official! I am now an Arbonne representative. I put my first order in tonight and was very pleased with how the ordering process went. I also am very amazed at how the product is made of all natural ingredients. This alone makes me very happy on top of NEVER having to make a minimum purchase at any point! I can't wait to get my goodies. Chelesa at work gave me some samples and my skin never felt better....I am not going to get carried away with purchasing product like I did with the other line. I did a great job picking only those items I needed and will wait until my other stock runs out before purchasing any more. I even deleted a few of those "items" I really wanted but didn't need until next time...I am so proud of myself! (lots of laughs!)

Birthday Girl

Birthday Party at Aunt Jackie & Uncle Dennis Home

It was good to see everyone at the party. Mags was very happy about getting the chance to meet her new cousin. The disappointment came when she realized she would not be bringing home the gift (Strawberry Shortcake Kit and Painting Kit) she brought for Alyvia.

Alyvia and family lives in New Mexico. Pictures are Victoria (Baby) and her mother (Lydia) and the Alyvia is the Birthday Girl! Daddy (My cousin Denny) was participating at an art show and could not join us. It was a very fun day and the weather was beautiful!

Happy Crappy Day

First day back from a long weekend and today sucked at work. I am behind in my work as usual and I don't see a light at then end of the freaking tunnel for it.

The girls at work seem to hate each other. If one of them isn't talking about the other than I would know something major was happening in the world. I just don't like hearing about it all. I know deep down when they are not talking about each other then they are talking to each other about me. I guess I am better off just letting it all go out one ear. Drives to me want to drink....maybe today is the day I will start!

Birthday Weekend

Shot my diet!

Friday night we went to Bub's and I had cheeseburger and french fries. Very tasty! Saturday, went out for late dinner at Michaelango's and had italian food...very yummy. Sunday, my parents came over and we went ate out again! This time at Mitchell's Fish Market and I had fish and chips and it was delicious! I definately will get back to normal, healthy eating tomorrow I can promise myself this!

All in all, other than all the bad for me food, I had a great birthday weekend because I got to spend the time with my family.

Happy Birthday to me!

Highlights of my day off

1. Woke up at 5:30 anyway.
2. Went downstairs and ate a pop tart because it was the only thing I had to eat in the house.
3. Watched an episode of Gilmore Girls.
4. Went back upstairs and played Word Mojo while lying in bed.
5. Fell asleep.
6. My cell phone rang twice while I was sleeping. Work calling me on my day off. Turned my phone off.
7. Was woken up by room mate at noon asking if I planned on sleeping all day.
8. Took shower than met friends with small children for lunch.
9. Decided to see the movie Walking With Penguins with friends and small children. First bad idea.
10. Did NOT buy candy or popcorn for the children. Second bad idea.
11. Should have gotten up and bought popcorn for the children.
12. Had major diarrhea in the movie theater restroom.
13. Movie finally starts after 30 minutes of stupid commercials.
14. Children would not be still, be quiet or watch the show.
15. Stress level at an all time high as theater was packed.
16. First friend with small child left the theater as child would not stop crying.
17. Second friend with small child left the theater crying because first child left and realized play date was over.
18. I sit all alone in the dark theater as I sit and think about...the second friend and small child waiting for me in the lobby to take them home.
19. Left theater without seeing the ending.
20. Traffic was horrendous.
21. Child would not stop crying.
22. Nerves were shot to hell.
23. Stomach was still upset.
24. Came home and went to bed.
25. Wondered why I thought a day off would be a good thing.

Seeing Is Believing??

As I get older, I see more people I know. I also see people who I think I know, but really don't. The most freakish thing to me is I also see people, famous people, all the time. I mean, how many famous people do you think are pumping gas or buying drinks at the BP station in Carmel? It isn't like I live in California or even New York City. I live in, or rather very near, Indianapolis Indiana. (Where corn fields used to grow but are now replaced with strip malls and new housing additions.) Isn't Elvis suppose to be dead? I swear I saw him and Christian Slater at Wal-Mart. I am either working to hard or it is time for me to get my eyes checked.

Getting her toes done for the first time!

Great looking toes you got there!

First professional toe job


My niece is all girl! She had her first toe nail painting this year and she LOVED it! The next morning, she asked "Auntie, how come you don't have any colors on your toes?" I told her I preferred a French manicure. "Why didn't I get my feet cleaned like you did?" I almost had to laugh at that one because she was SO SERIOUS. Because of her age, they will not do a pedicure, but they will polish so I said, "Well, maybe your feet were already clean?" She came back with, rather sternly, "NO THEY ARE NOT!" The white looking thing sitting with her is Bonnie Bunny. She has to go with her everywhere she goes you know!

I saw Elvis!

I was on earthcam.com and clicked on the Las Vegas site....I couldn't believe my eyes! I saw Elvis and he was singing and dancing while performing a wedding!!! It was so FUNNY! At the end, he encouraged all the family and guests to come up and sing and dance to Viva Las Vegas. Then he asked everyone to dance, sing and wave at everyone on the internet...and they did! It was great! What a great bunch of happy people!! (or nutty)

If I ever get married, I think getting married by Elvis would be fun!

Nana wants to be Strawberry Shortcake

Nana wants to be Strawberry Shortcake


I have proof! Nana will do virtually anything for her granddaughter! It was a Strawberry Shortcake Birthday party and Nana played her part! It is my hope Nana only wears this kind of get up while at home or with immediate family members. I will have to definitely keep a sharp eye out to make sure this doesn't happen in public. I wouldn't want people to think she has lost her mind!

Chuck E Cheese

Chuck E Cheese Birthday for a 4 Year Old
R Phillips 053005

"I love Chuck E Cheese!" exclaimed the birthday girl! I was surprised. When she saw Chuck she looked at me to see if it was okay to go see him. I said, "Go see him!". She ran and hugged him! I missed the picture of her giving him a hug but I did get this one and another of her running back to us with the biggest grin. It was so sweet and I was very happy to see she wasn't scared or shy.

Engine Light

My engine car light came on so I took it back to the dealership today. By the time I got back to work, I got a call stating my car was ready to be picked up. I was really impressed! When I picked up my car I read what the diagnostic test said. "Gas cap was not on tightly. Mechanic tighten cap and test was completed." I felt like a total idiot. I am just glad the car was under warranty because I would have been very mad at myself if I had to have paid to be told this information!

Beautiful Memorial Day


I had a wonderful day with SIL and niece in Kokomo! The weather was absolutely beautiful.

Rose from Grandma Eleanor's Garden

Grandma Eleanor's Flower Garden

Trip To Kokomo Indiana

Going north today. Sister-in-law get together and my brother doesn't want to go. SIL asked if I would go with her so I am going so she doesn't have to go it alone. I think I would rather stay home and sleep but I have already committed and it would be a disappointment for her. So off I go to spend the day with a family who I don't really know. I don't need to sleep anyway because then it will be really hard to get to bed tonight. 5 a.m. will come around very early tomorrow. It will be really hard not to take a nap on Tuesday during the middle of the day at work as it is now!

Ring and Wave

I told my sister-in-law if anyone hoots and hollers at me while I am riding my bike, I am going to RING my bell and WAVE! What better way to tell those people, "YEAH! I am old and I am riding my PINK BIKE whether you like it or not! How is that for a take it and shove it! (Smiles!)

I'm A Biker!

And it's pretty too!

Remember when you first start dating someone? You feel so giddy and giggley? That is how I feel about my new bike! I love my bike! Yesterday I went to Matthews Bicycle Store and ask the salesman, "If your grandmother came in and she was 90 years old and she wanted to get a bike for exercise, which bike would you pick out for her?" The salesman walked right over and picked out the bike of my dreams. Rich went with me to buy the bike and he wanted me to get a blue one but I had to have PINK! It was for me, the girlie girl and since they didn't have purple....I had to settle for pink! Then I saw the basket so I said, "My bike needs a basket!" The salesman, said, "Do you need a bell?" "Yes! My bike needs a bell too!" I don't know if it was the excitement in my face that Rich saw, and wanted to be apart of but Rich bought me the basket and the bell! I love both of them. It really makes my bike look cool....(LOL!) The next thing I want to get is lights and maybe in the future some mirrors. I have asked for a bike rack and a bike lock for my birthday. Maybe my wish will come true.

Point A to Point B

My New Ride 

My SUV died. I had to mourn. I hadn't had a car payment in several years. I bit the bullet and bought a new car. Something I hadn't planned on. I am really happy with the car and glad I found one I could afford and liked. I am getting ready to pay my first payment. The first of many. It really sucks. I wanted a Mercedes really, really bad but I didn't want a $500+ car payment. It isn't a Mercedes but it will serve and get me to point A to point B. Isn't that really all that matters in a car?

Vacation Over!

Today is officially my last day of vacation and I am extremely sad about it. I thought I would be really relaxed and stress free by now. During my vacation time last year, I was in a totally different place. I think I need at least 1 more week to get relaxed....And I also need another $1,000.00 to spend while I am off. Might as well dream big.

Namesake

"Namesake" Museum Display Piece 

When my grandma’s health was failing my mother took her into her home and cared for her. One day a week, my niece (my grandma’s great-grandchild) would come for the day for a visit. One afternoon after a book was read a kiss was shared and my mother was there with her camera.

When my grandma died shortly after, the funeral home needed pictures to display. Normally only one picture is blown up and framed. On their own the funeral home displayed two pictures with one being the kiss between my grandma and my niece. The picture created quite a stir within the heart. For me it was looking at two of my favorite and most important people in my life.

My mother’s cousin, Ellen Sue, saw the picture and was instantly drawn to it. She asked if she could have a copy and my mother emailed one to her. Little did we all know that the picture would turn into a piece of art, which will be around forever.

Ellen painted the picture on porcelain. She has told us it was the fastest thing she had ever painted in her life and the outcome is breathtaking.

The porcelain portrait named “Namesake” will be on display in the Oklahoma Museum for one year.