Friday, December 21, 2007

Best of Intentions for Christmas

I've had the best of intentions about posting here on the blog... and sending out Christmas cards... and having my presents wrapped early... and making my house spotless so I can return to a neat and clean place after being with my family. But, no. None of that has been accomplished. And, I sure have a lot to do in the next 20 hours before heading home!

You see, I've tried to be ambitious in other ways this year, and I have made many of my gifts. So, I've had my very own little Christmas workshop going on. But, here and there, there have been little snags, and the domino effect set in to cause me to be a little (and then a lottle) behind in other parts of my life.

Unfortunately, I can't post any pictures of the gifts here. Not yet! Because I wouldn't want any of the Christmas surprises to be ruined. But, maybe I will be able to post a few after the new year. I know some of you are on the edge of your seat. :)

Please forgive me for the lack of posts lately and the lack of Christmas card in your mailbox. I have given my notice at my 2nd job, and I will end my work there by the end of January. So, I have high hopes some things will get back to normal soon (namely, sleep), and I have high hopes you will receive a Christmas card from me next Christmas. (I just might need all twelve months to prepare.)

Thank you, blog friends, for being so wonderful. It has been a blessing to share notes and emails and to learn more about your life. Even though our communication is almost 100% electronic, your kind words, humor and encouragement mean so much to me, and they brighten my days.

And, thank you family and friends who continue to read my crazy posts and try to keep up with me. There hasn't been anything very fascinating that has been happening lately, but I'm "hopeful for the future" and excited to see what God brings in this new year. Even if nothing knock-your-socks-off fabulous does happen, I pray for contentment and peace for all of us who are trying to seek the Lord's will in our lives... that we may walk more closely with Him each and every day and know we are exactly where He would have us to be.

I hope to post more next week if my computer connections work. However, if my intentions about that don't come to fruition, I want to wish each of you a very merry Christmas and the happiest of new years!

Monday, December 17, 2007

Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas...

Too bad I couldn't see it this morning.

Today, the drive in to work took almost one and one half hours... much longer than usual. It was because of the terrible fog. For the majority of the ride, I could see the distance of only two and three car lengths in front of me. There were some very scary moments with lots of folks slamming on their brakes at various points, and I saw one wreck occur. Nothing serious, thankfully. What I can't understand is how someone can be out in a situation like that... merging in and out of traffic on a highway with that low of visibility... and not turn on their lights!!! It's been a law for a while now to have lights on when one has turned on their windshield wipers, and seeing cars in the rain is difficult enough. This fog situation is ten times worse. I think some people don't get the point as they think the lights are a waste because it doesn't help them see any better in the fog. The point isn't for them to see better. The point is for all of us to better see them!

By the time I reached work, I had gone pretty far west, and the fog was disappearing in the sunlight here on the Missouri side of the river. And, now, I can see what arrived on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The sections of the St. Louis metro received between 6 and 8 inches of snow over the weekend. The plows have been busy at work. The snow is too dry and won't pack very well for anything bigger than a softball size snowball. So, no snowman for me yet. Wish I had a water hose. :)











Sadly, church services could not be held. And, two churches farther north in Illinois where my family attend also had to call off services because of the ice and drifting snow. But, thankfully, by this morning, many more roads were cleared, and we pray for safety as the snow will surely melt and refreeze back and forth in the upcoming days.

While some of the readers of this blog are not big fans of the snow or "winter cheer", I have to admit that I would love for the snow to stick around a little while. Going home for Christmas while there is snow on the ground always makes the trip seem extra special. Of course, I can't be satisfied, and I have to be picky... as I don't want there to be TOO MUCH snow. I can't help recall two Christmas trips which were quite "interesting", to say the least. Let's see... there was the time in 2002 when it took me almost 7 hours to get home (usually less than a 3 hour drive) through the snow storm (12 inches) on Christmas eve... and I ended up in the ditch out in the country where my cell phone wouldn't work. (I thank God there are good Samaritans.) And then there was the time back in 1999 when I was returning to work on New Years Day after being home for Christmas, became trapped in a blizzard (result of 14 inches), and was snowed in at a hotel in Hannibal, MO for two days before I could be plowed out. (Was thankful for receiving the absolute last delivery of the weekend by Domino's Pizza on Friday the first night, Hardee's being open for a short while the next morning, and the hotel owner's stash of change for the vending machines for the rest of the stay.)

So, yes, a little goes a long way, but it would be great to have just a little snow for Christmas. Just a little.

Thursday, December 13, 2007

"8 Seconds Is All You Need"

As I mentioned before, I have recently become a student of an entertainment phenomenon: the infomercial. Some seem to go on and on. Some are entertaining. Some make me question, "Who in their right mind would want that product?"

The one infomercial product that has most caught my eye - for some reason - is Tater Mitts. (You may see the infomercial on the official web site.) It may be because the commercial for Tater Mitts is the most frequently run advertisement between 12 midnight at 5 a.m. on the weekends here in our area. And, it may be because I've inherited the family fascination with kitchen gadgets. (Yes, we are one of those families who had the food dehydrator... among other curiosities.)

The point of the Tater Mitts? To avoid peeling potatoes: the risk of cutting a finger while carrying out the task, the waste sometimes created when peeling, and the torturous, I-must-sit-down-and-rest-between-spuds hard work.

"8 Seconds Is All You Need." That's what the infomercial and web site claim. And, with an 8 second rub-a-dub-dub with the Tater Mitts, your potato is supposed to become skinless.

I must admit I have been pre-occupied with the thought of this product and have wondered what crazy creation is glued on those rubber gloves to make the potato skins come off so easily. (Yes, I have even had a dream about it.)

Today, the mystery vanished. I saw behind the curtain. And, after viewing the lower right hand side of the web site home page, I have felt tricked. Betrayed. Disappointed.

*Potatoes must be blanched prior to peeling with Tater Mitts

WHAT?!?!?!?!? BLANCHED?!?!?!?!? That isn't advertised in the infomercial. There isn't one single mention of this fact. The ad should state "8 seconds plus 20 - 30 minutes is all you need." Tater Mitt Makers, do you know how long it takes for me to boil water??? (That's probably because I'm always watching the pot.) And, what if I am making a big batch of potatoes for something? I'm sure most of you could imagine it... me there in the kitchen with a full load of slippery hot potatoes. Some would be on the floor. I'd find some new way of burning myself, I am sure. It wouldn't be pretty.

In short, it seems it would be a ton of extra trouble to use the Tater Mitts with the blanching step compared to the regular way. I think I could probably just get down to work and get the entire bag peeled before my water was ready. I guess I might order a set if I were a person prone to cutting herself - Wait! I am that exact kind of person! I should probably get on the phone and order some Tater Mitts right away.

What do you think? Have any favor kitchen gadgets that you wouldn't want to live without?

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Beautiful Snowflakes, Part Two

I'm not one to waste a lunch hour, so I did it! I went ahead and made a 3-D paper snowflake. It took less than 20 minutes. Mind you, my huge snowflake has 6 branches instead of 8, but I like it. It is now hanging on the office door of my friend Laurie. Maybe we can sneak them in and hang them up in covert missions so that a little winter cheer can be brought into the office.
I can just imagine a gorgeous winter dance being decorated with these... hung from different lengths of sparkly string from the ceiling. Or, if I had children, it would be fun to spend one day making their room a winter wonderland. One co-worker even thought they'd be great for baby showers if made in light pink or light blue paper. Tracy and I thought maybe we were way out of the loop because we had never seen these. (We probably are!) Have you seen or made these?

Beautiful Snowflakes

Last night, I attended Tressa, Abi and Rian's pre-school program, and the three girls were the most adorable little snowflakes. I was distracted by the pouring rain, so I accidentally left my camera in the car. But, I hope to have some pictures I took with Jeff and Tracy's camera very soon. Stay tuned.

The programs are always entertaining, and the evening focuses on literacy. Besides the musical story presentation, they have special reading/teaching tips for parents, story time for the children, and yummy cookies. The night ends with the opportunity for the families to pick out books from tables and tables and tables of them. All FREE! Even I was allowed to pick out a couple so that some good books could stay at Auntie Em's house for the girls.

Throughout the halls of the school were these lovely snowflakes. The teachers gave me a couple, and I brought them to work to decorate my office. I had never seen homemade snowflakes like these before. Tracy is going to learn the process from the teachers this next week, but I think I found similar directions on the internet here. I always loved cutting out traditional paper snowflakes, and I've found that coffee filters are perfect for that. Even though I won't have a lot of time this week to make either kind of snowflake, look out next year!

Birthday Girl: ABIGAIL!

Time has sure flown lately. It seems Christmas is coming way too quickly - even though Thanksgiving was early this year. I guess that is a sure sign I'm getting older. The moments and hours and days and weeks are zooming past me.

Little Abigail is just another reminder. She is now two... and has been two for over two weeks. But, with time moving so quickly, the HR Manager visit, several meetings and all of the holiday festivities, I've failed to make a post about Abi's excellent party. It's hard to believe that two years have passed since we first saw her. She really celebrated the occasion, and, as usual, her mom and dad included the finishing touches that made the party wonderful - Blue's Clues style. Here are some more of Tracy's wonderful cakes which feature Blue and Magenta, some fun blue jello jigglers and punch (with Shovel and Pail in the background), and Mrs. Pepper and Mr. Salt who were holding balloons in the middle of each table.

Around the room, we could also see Tickety Tock, Mailbox, and Periwinkle, Blue's cat friend. (I'm learning more about Blue's Clues than I ever thought I would.)



When Tracy started painting Blue's paw print on the cheek of each of Abi's friends, Auntie Em couldn't help but join in the fun. I finally convinced Isaac to do the same... and gradually, everyone else joined in. Some needed more coersion than others.









Here, Sister Barb and Brother Chris escort each other to the painting station to see who (between the two of them) would get their face painted first (rather, last. You go first! No, you go first!)

Brother Dale got a special stamp of approval. Below, the table full of reluctant gentlemen show off their paw prints. Even if their faces tell a different story, our group sure likes to have fun! :)

Tracy gave Abi a little lift to help her blow out her two candles before the guests enjoyed cake and Abi opened her gifts.


At the end of the party, the girls gathered in the big red Thinking Chair. As you can see, it had been a long day, and a nap was long overdue for each of them. But, we had a fun time celebrating Abi's birthday. Before I know it, it will be time to celebrate Rian's first birthday, and once again, I'll wonder where the time went.

Monday, December 03, 2007

Word Sweep Answers

Warning: If you didn't see the puzzle clues here, you may want to check them out before viewing the answers below.

Sweep One
exhale
exhaust
exhibit

Sweep Two
ballet
balloon
ballot

Sweep Three
caramel
carat
caravan

Sweep Four
killing (as in 'I made a killing')
killjoy
kiln

Sweep Five
masterpiece
masthead
mastiff

Sweep Six
oracle
orange
orangutan

Sweep Seven
stymie
styptic
suave

Sweep Eight
enable
enamel
enamor

Thursday, November 29, 2007

A Winning Combination?

Thank you to Other Mother who sent me this article. I promise I will stop soon with my Maid-Rite obsession, but Aaron and I were just discussing the possibility of someone opening a Maid-Rite "lunch counter" again in my hometown of Canton. Sadly, it was closed after I left for college. But, could it be that one could eventually return within our very own Hy-Vee grocery store if this joint venture succeeds in Iowa and Missouri? Hy-Vee and Maid-Rite. I think that WOULD be a winning combination!

Word Sweep

A fun part of preparing for our family Christmas exchange is trying to figure out which game I might buy my parents or my brother and sister-in-law. I don't buy each one a board game every year. Nor do I receive one. But, I can't remember a year when at least one of us didn't receive a new game.

This year, I was intrigued by many, but I have finally purchased one. (More details on that later.) Another game that interested me, however, is Word Sweep. The idea? Read three definitions taken from the Merriam-Webster's dictionary. The players must identify the three consecutive (usually root) words from the dictionary that match the definitions. And, the game provides boxes of clues in 3 levels of difficulty.

Here are the puzzles from the sample card on the game web site:
1) a long upholstered seat usually with a back and arms
2) not hard, solid, or firm
3) a game like baseball played with a larger ball

The answers
1) sofa
2) soft
3) softball

This seemed like a lot of fun, so I thought I would list a few combinations here. Some simple and some a little more difficult. Feel free to submit your answers or guesses. If you like this sort of thing, you might want to consider Word Sweep for your family (if you don't already have it!) I'll post the answers in the comments section or a new post at the beginning of next week, but I'm sure they will be answered correctly before then.

First Sweep
To emit breath or vapor
To consume entirely
To submit (as a document) to a court or office in course of proceedings

Second Sweep
A theatrical art form using dancing, music and scenery to convey a story
A non-porous bag of tough light material filled with heated air or gas
A sheet of paper used to cast a secret vote

Third Sweep
An amorphous brittle brown and somewhat bitter substance obtained by heating sugar
A small weight
A company of travelers on a journey through the desert or hostile regions

Fourth Sweep
A sudden notable gain or profit
One who spoils the pleasures of others
An oven, furnace, or heated enclosure used for processing a substance by burning, firing or drying

Fifth Sweep
A work done with extraordinary skill
The printed matter in a newspaper including the title, ownership, date, etc.
A breed of very large powerful smooth coated dogs, often used as guard dogs

Sixth Sweep
A person through whom a deity is believed to speak
A berry with a yellowish to reddish rind and sweet edible pulp
A largely herbivorous arboreal anthropoid ape of Borneo and Sumatra with long sparse reddish brown hair

Seventh Sweep
To present an obstacle to
Tending to check bleeding
Smoothly though often superficially gracious and sophisticated

Eighth Sweep
To make possible, practical, or easy
To cover, inlay, or decorate with metal
To inflame with love

OK. Maybe these aren't difficult at all. But, maybe they will provide a little fun for your day. Mom, with your crossword puzzle skills, you should be great at these!

By Request

I found out that some of you were having a hard time while going to my blog because it was taking a long time to load. I know that situation is due to the number of pictures I have. So, I diminished the number of posts that are shown on the front page. Hopefully, hopefully, this will help. And, I'll try to keep that in mind as I make posts in the future.

For those that don't check often, it means you may have to go over to the right column and look in the archives for posts from the past week. (That is, if I make posts.)

Also, I have a question for the tech folks out there. Is there a way to "lock" a blog so that text always lines up properly with pictures that I post? I am asking because posts on my computers will look fine... but as soon as I see the blog at my parents' house or on my friend Mike's computers (both Macs), the blog looks entirely different. It also does the same when I look at the blog on some PCs - even when the text is not magnified. Maybe this problem is also occurring because I post too many pictures. :) Thanks, in advance, for your help.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Tastes of Home

This past Saturday, I had a great day with my brother while running errands around Peoria - about 30 miles from our hometown. Because I haven't lived near home since high school, I still don't know my way around Peoria, and I have forgotten anything I once knew about the roads. Aaron was great in helping me find my bearings. (Sadly, Aaron, I believe all of the information from Saturday has already left my head, and I think I need that huge laminated map that we discussed.)

We did a little comparison shopping for possible Christmas gifts, and we made a very important stop at Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts. And, right across the Metro Center from Jo-Ann's was...... MAID-RITE. Yippeee! So, I had to take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy some food that can be found only close to home. I can't believe I've had TWO this year! (Above) I made the mistake of ordering the Mega Maid-Rite lunch special instead of the regular. I couldn't finish all of it. (My brother and I hypothesized that the cooks place the dots of ketchup and mustard on the plates to notify the servers which toppings are included. I had never seen that before. What do you think?)

Aaron seems very happy with his Horseshoe. While I was home, I was also able to enjoy the "absolute must eats" of a Monical's Pizza "Family Pleaser" dinner (thin crust pizza, salad with house French dressing, breadsticks with cheddar cheese and drinks) and Italian Express' ravioli with sweet garlic bread that melts in my mouth. YUM! Are there a certain foods you must eat at a restaurant or a family member's house each time you go home?

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Thankful for Cousins

This post will be for my family members who check in from time to time. Thanksgiving is always great because I am able to visit with my cousins and my cousins' children (which, of course, are also my cousins) on both sides of the family. There is always a lot of laughter and joking mixed in with our celebration of Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, there are many cousins I didn't capture this year, and each of them is probably very thankful that they aren't included in this blog post. :)

Below are Brianna, Emilia with Jenna and Elijah, Tim enjoying some pumpkin pie, little Carter, Adam visiting Lillie in her kennel, Soon-to-be-newlyweds David and Jennifer, Braiden standing between Aaron and Ketra, Ryan and Janelle, Izzy and Shai, and not-so-tiny-anymore Tegan. His smile makes everyone smile.








Hope everyone had a wonderful time celebrating with family and friends.

Monday, November 26, 2007

Let It Snow!

It was difficult to leave home on Sunday after such a wonderful long weekend with all of the family. But, it had to be done. So, I had a little fun with Cindy and Lennie before saying goodbye, began gathering all of my bags in the kitchen and bedroom, and took a look out the window to see the backyard and woods before heading out the front to load up my car.

And, to my surprise, there it was! SNOW! BIG SNOW! Yet another thing for which to be thankful. You might catch a glimpse of it here, and some of the flakes and clusters were as big as nickels and quarters. These pictures were taken right after it began to fall. But, by the time I left (less than a half hour later), the grass was almost completely covered. Good thing I purchased some gloves last week and had them with me. I cleaned off the top of the front deck railing and made a well-packed, wet snowball before heading out. It was a beautiful drive through the falling snow on my way out of Canton. Less than 30 miles into the drive south toward my house, however, the snow turned to sleet and then into rain. And, rain hasn't stopped falling on me since. I wonder when we'll receive some snow here in the St. Louis area. It might be a while, but it was wonderful to see it at home. Already, I'm anxious to return home for Christmas. And, I'm hoping for some snow there at that time.

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Raise The Praise

This past Saturday evening, Jerry, Chris, Lydia, Jeff, Tracy, Tressa, Abigail, Rian and I met up with my friend Mike to attend the Raise the Praise benefit concert for Beverly Farm. On the last Tuesday of each month, I meet with other ladies in a needleworking group called Violet Threads, and we meet in the basement of Eden United Church of Christ. Each time we meet, I have the pleasure of hearing the Raise the Praise Choir practice in the sanctuary, and I usually sneak upstairs to have a closer listen. Since Mike helps in directing the choirs at the church, he told me about the concert, and I am so thankful we were able to attend. Not only were we able to hear beautiful gospel music, we were able to learn more about a valuable organization within our community. In between the solos and choir selections, choir members who work at Beverly Farms recounted touching stories about the special residents.

Description from the Program:
Beverly Farm, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is a planned community designed to enhance the lives of residents, develop their life skills, and provide the required medical care and a variety of therapies. Situated on 220 acres with an abundance of green space, Beverly Farm is a pleasant place to live and work for adults with developmental disabilities. Beverly farm strives to make the environment feel like home to their residents - in face, better than home in many ways. With planned social activities, comfortable housing, and unique recreational facilities, Beverly farm is as much about quality of life as it is about quality of care. Our Mission: We are her to provide a loving, caring home for adults with developmental disabilities, providing each individual with physical and emotional security and a dignified quality of life, with opportunities and challenges, within each individual's functional capabilities.

Already, I can't wait for next year's concert and to learn more about Beverly Farm.

Martha's Tea Room

Saturday was a gorgeous day, and it seemed like the perfect time to finally go to Martha's Tea Room, a restaurant right down the road from our church building. After hearing so much about it, the Tea Room definitely lived up to all of the expectations. I had one of my favorites: chicken salad. And, the pies there are DEEE-LISH-OUS! Too bad I didn't take a picture of the dessert platter the waitress showed us. Your mouth would be watering. The decor was mostly purple and green (which I love), and the murals were gorgeous. There were bible verses painted around the room. Such a nice place to visit... especially with wonderful friends!


I never would have guessed that there would be a peacock in the restroom, but there he was! If any of you ladies from work or far away churches or my family come for a visit, we will be able to eat at Martha's if you would like. (Of course, if any of you men would like to go, you may also choose to eat there!) :)

Monday, November 19, 2007

Oh, Forgetful Me!

No matter how quickly I take out my notebook during the prayer request time in services, no matter how diligent I am at writing notes about those that are mentioned, no matter how many times I take out that notebook page during the week, I often fail to do what I should. There are prayers that should be said and people that should be remembered that fall through the cracks of my memory.

I don’t take it lightly when someone opens up to share their trials with me and I tell them that I will be praying for them. But, I can’t begin to describe that awful, sinking feeling I have in my gut when I might see that person again days or weeks or months later… knowing that I told them I would pray but haven’t… or have, but not nearly as often or as fervently as I should have prayed. I have the best of intentions, and it is important to me. But, frequently, I downright fail to do my duty.

When the days grow dim and my own trials appear, it is the realization of my shortcomings and humanity that makes me doubt that others are praying for me. And, I’m ashamed to admit it, but I so often question if our Lord has done the same: forgotten me in this deep, dark valley of life.

There is a hymn we rarely sing at our Sacred Harp gatherings. But, each time we do, these few beginning lyrics make me catch my breath. (Kedron, 48b)
Thou man of grief, remember me,
Thou never canst Thyself forget.


It becomes too easy to place conditions… “If He really cared…,” to place blame “He allowed this…,” to have doubts “Does He even know me?” and treat Him as less than He is “He doesn’t understand.” It becomes too easy to hold him to human limitations… “He has way too much to do.” and “He surely has forgotten me.”

So, forgetful me must be reminded over and over. First of all, He has sent others to pray for us and help us in our walk. He has comforted them and, in turn, they will comfort us with the love and wisdom they’ve received from God. But, even in the rare occasion it seems as if no one is there, God is there. Remembering. Never forgetting.

Sacred Harp Hymn (Sweet Union 424)
But though I have Him oft forgot,
His loving kindness changes not.

No matter how hard the trial, He really cares. No matter the difficult lesson, He is beside me. No matter how large the doubts, His love is steadfast. No matter how large the trial, He understands what I am experiencing and doesn’t turn away. No matter how many troubles in this world, His promises to me, his child, are kept. No matter how many human limitations I try to place on him, His mercies and love are unending. Never failing are His remembrances of me.

While, one day, I can remember this and hold on to this, so easily the next day will I forget. Time and time again.

We sing a special hymn that pleads, “O Lord, remember me!” and I love its sentiments. But, I need a hymn that cries out, “Forgetful me, remember our Lord”… remember all of whom He is… all of which He is capable… all of which He has accomplished for me. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, He will never forget or fail…no matter how many times I do so.

He remembers. And, each time I remember this, may I fall at His feet to worship Him as I should.

How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds
But when I see thee as thou art,
I’ll praise thee as I ought.


Heb 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

De 31:6 Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, He it is that doth go with thee; He will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Isa 41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Sunday, November 18, 2007

What I Have Learned At The Hotel

In the short time I've worked at the hotel, I've learned a few things.

1) I will never ever put a glass or bottle of liquid in the garbage but will first dump out the drink. Some poor soul has to tote that bag of garbage outside to the dumpster.

2) When wearing black clothes (which is almost a constant for me), cleaning out the lint compartment of an industrial sized dryer is tricky business.

3) No matter how many times I fold fitted sheets, the finished product still doesn't look very good.

4) A vending machine will often jam causing a bag of chips to become suspended, but a vending machine can do it repeatedly and suspend 4 bags without dropping a single one.

5) Newlywed couples are the most kind, courteous guests, and they smile from ear to ear. Guests who check in after midnight have usually had a very difficult day and should be greeted with caution.

6) Never take a guest's word on what room number in which another guest is staying... especially on the night shift.

7) Smoke detector batteries die at the most inopportune times.

8) Even when the nextdoor Sonic is closed, they keep that funny Sonic radio station playing on each of their drive-up order boards. Sometimes softly. Most of the time, loudly.

9) The same infomercials play on various channels during the night and wee hours of the morning... sometimes up to 4 channels at one time.

10) The most common noise complaint has not been about pets, loud partying or TVs... but snoring!

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Catching Up

As of 11:00 pm central time this evening, benefits open enrollment is complete, and I'm hoping to return to my usual schedule. I haven't been able to post very often. At the same time, besides being at work and sleeping, there hasn't been much happening about which to write. Still, I hope to pick up with the posting in the next week.

To get started, I thought I'd follow Other Mother's lead and post her meme. These little quizzes make me chuckle - as they are usually created by and for teenagers... and I don't exactly know how to answer certain questions.

1. Name one person who made you laugh last night? I made myself laugh.

2. What were you doing at 0800? Pulling into the parking lot at work.

3. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? Rushing to get to the hotel after a short nap.

4. What happened to you in 2006? I would say the most significant things that happened last year were some major shifts in beliefs. It was a big time of exploring, and I read and read and read. I also joined the St. Louis Shape Note/Sacred Harp group and tried to return to a lot of hobbies that I had dropped in the busy-ness of leaving Indianapolis.

5. What was the last thing you said out loud? I found myself singing a hymn... which is pretty much a constant.

6. How many beverages did you have today? Orange juice, diet coke, lots of ice water.

7. What color is your hairbrush? Black and silver

8. What was the last thing you paid for? Over $45 for gas. I pray the price goes back down soon.

9. Where were you last night? Right here at the hotel.

10. What color is your front door? As my neighbors say, "lemon lime green"... which matches my shutters.

11. Where do you keep your change? In my billfold, in the pocket with a broken zipper. A new wallet is long overdue. Guess I need to save up my change.

12. What’s the weather like today? Sunny and surprisingly warm.

13. What’s the best ice-cream flavor? I love vanilla.

14. What excites you? Lately? The opportunity for a nap. :)

15. Do you want to cut your hair? Yes, a haircut is also long overdue. As of this morning, I have an appointment set.

16. Are you over the age of 25? Yes, even though I don't feel like it.

17. Do you talk a lot? If you know me, you know the answer. But, I'm doing it less and less these days.

18. Do you watch the O.C.? No. Never have.

19. Do you know anyone named Steven? Yes, many.

20. Do you make up your own words? Yes, as often as possible.

21. Are you a jealous person? Not usually. But, I'm sure it is one of the many sins I commit.

22. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter 'A'. My brother Aaron is my friend. My "niece" Abi is my friend. Those are the first two of many that came to mind.

23. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ‘K’. Other Mother posted this first, and she's my friend.

24. Who’s the first person on your received call list? My cousin David.

25. What does the last text message you received say? It's from my friend John, and I shouldn't repeat it.

26. Do you chew on your straw? I hardly use a straw to sip (I'd rather chug), so I rarely unwrap them to chew on them. If anything, I twist them up so someone else can flick them and make them pop.

27. Do you have curly hair? Enough so that it is right between curly and straight... which means it is just frizzy.

28. Where’s the next place you’re going to? Home to my house.

29. Who’s the rudest person in your life? I have no idea. I'd rather not try to figure that out.

30. What was the last thing you ate? A veggie burrito from Qdoba.

31. Will you get married in the future? I pray God will bless me with marriage, but I have no idea. I wouldn't ever want to get married just to get married.

32. What’s the best movie you’ve seen in the past 2 weeks? I saw part of Babe again the other day. I never get tired of it.

33. Is there anyone you like right now? Sure, and I hope to pass them a note during study hall. (Just joking.)

34. When was the last time you did the dishes? Wednesday evening, and I have a ton more to do that are waiting for me at home on the counter.

35. Are you currently depressed? Nope. Pretty hopeful.

36. Did you cry today? Yes, during a deep discussion with a co-worker.

37. Why did you answer and post this? Because I thought I'd join in the fun with Other Mother.

Let me know if you post this on your blog.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Celebrating Their Service

My friend Alan had a great party for his sons this weekend. Both were home from active duty - Seth from a sub, Kyle from the Air Force - and neither will return to battle again. Knowing this was such a relief to all of that family, and Alan thought it was time to celebrate. So, he hired our co-worker's band, rented a hotel banquet room, ordered food, and sent out the invitations. It was a great time Saturday night, and I was so happy to catch up with Alan's parents, his sons, and all of their family besides making some new friends and celebrating with work pals. My pictures really captured the essence of the event.

But, trying to save time today, I messed up. When trying to copy them from my camera card to my picture files, I CUT (my first no-no), I DELETED the file they were in (my second no-no), and then tried to paste the pictures where I wanted them. POOF! And, they vanished... not to be retrieved. I've never done that before, and I hope to never do that again. It's very important to COPY, PASTE, and then go back and delete the originals, if desired. Oh well. Just take my word for it. The party was a good time, and I think Alan's sons really appreciated being home.

We've been praying for them, and we pray they have continued safety as they carry out the rest of their duty here in the U.S. We are so thankful for the sacrifices both young men have made to defend us!

Friday, November 09, 2007

Rushing and Reflecting

I've been working around the clock, but it has been an energizing week. It's been great to interact with the employees on the "off shifts" and help them determine which benefits plans are best for their families. I have been getting so much done at work, but I feel like I'm getting very little accomplished for myself. Hopefully, this weekend can provide some time for catching up... with sleep, with bills, with study, with taking a few deep breaths.

On my way to and from work, I've had a special time listening to some hymn CDs that I dug out of my collection. So often, I get in a rut of listening to what I've had in my car for weeks. So, this past Sunday night, while reflecting on the blessed church meeting we had, I took the time to choose some new music for my time in the car. There's nothing like a capella hymn singing!!!! While listening this morning, I realized I had failed to post some pictures from last weekend because of the recent rush.... so I thought I would post them today. Unfortunately, I didn't pull out the camera early enough to catch all of the pictures I wanted, but here are some great ones! We had wonderful worship services and a fun time fellowshippin', as usual.

Brother Jim & Sister Delores, Brother Neal and Sister Debbie



Sister Marlene and Brother Chris (who's about to crack up), Elder Clayton and Sister Nancy Nowell



Sister Tasha and itty bitty Rian, Abi with some bananas (???)












Brother Tom enjoying some fellowship. We're not Lambert's, but we've got our own throwed rolls. Brother Dale is having a good time demonstrating.












We're a big FAN of John's special smiley face throwed roll. Here's Piano Man, John and Uncle Roger after the roll exhibition.



Most of the Corn Family... along with Sister Michele's sister, Daphne, and nephew, Hayden.

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

Things In Common

What common items are measured in lignes? (ligne = approximately 1/40 of an inch)

The tops of what common items are known by pan, button, dome, round, truss, flat, and oval?

Bobby T Plympton invented and manufactured what common item for men in the late 1800s?

Ferdinand Magellan kept 18 of these common items on his ship to track time.

What common item has the length of 0.250 inch, a leg thickness of 0.020 inch, a leg width of 0.030 inch, and a crown width of 0.500 inch?

What common item has the chemical formula C5 H5 NO2 ?

The plastic or metal end of this common item is called an aglet.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Benefits Orientation & Enrollment

Remember the funny stories from last year? Well, it is that time again. Time for Benefits Enrollment. But, this year, there are some drastic changes going on in our medical plans, so yesterday we had visitors from the national Benefits department who were with us all day....and I mean all day! I woke up at 3 a.m. to make it into the office before 4 a.m. to set up food for the Benefits Orientation sessions, print out some presentations, arrange the conference room, and complete various other tasks before the first meeting started (for 3rd shift) at 5 a.m. It wouldn't have been so bad except that I had to be in very early the previous day to prepare for other out-of-town guests. Already, by Wednesday afternoon, I have worked almost 40 hours this week. Thankfully, that allows a very light schedule for tomorrow, and I am taking a vacation day for Friday. YIPPPEEE! But, enrollment begins soon, so I'll be working altered hours again next week. I think my head might be spinning and I'll need various machines and people to keep me straight on what day and time it is, but I know it is worth it. Healthcare is important - especially to the many employees we have who have seriously ill children and long-term conditions. So, I want to do everything I can to help them make educated decisions for 2008. If some funny stories come up through these processes like they did last year, I'll be sure to post them... but change any identifying information to protect the innocent.

To those of you who are going through Benefits Enrollment in the upcoming weeks, my thoughts are with you. It is a very important process, but it can be a very nerve-racking process.

Monday, October 29, 2007

The Big 6 - 0 Party

Saturday afternoon, we held an open house in Canton to celebrate Dad's birthday, and I think everyone had a great time. Most of the decorations were black and white which surrounded the theme of music. We had one table where everyone could sign small notes for Dad that will be placed in a scrapbook, and Mom did a great job of greeting everyone. Another table featured black and white photos of Dad through the ages - along with little known trivia facts about his life. Aaron worked on a "soundtrack" for the party that included great jazz music from Dad's repertoire. Ketra and her Mom worked very hard to keep the party going by supplying cake and punch to everyone. It was such a nice occasion to catch up with family and friends and to participate in Dad's special day. And, it would not have happened without the efforts of our cousins Steve and Chris - who reserved the church building for us - and numerous others who pitched in to clean and pack at the end of the party.

Photos below: The picture and trivia table, before anyone arrived, Aaron and Uncle Roger, Tina and Ketra, Mom and Dad with a group of Mom's high school classmates, Aunt Norma and Uncle Dick, Great Aunt Libby, Dad's first cousins Carol and Ron, Aunt Billie and Uncle Dick, Cousin David, helpful hostess cousin Lauren, hardworking cousin Stephen...











This is a very special picture of Dad and his siblings... Roger, Richard, Dennis and Norma.
Happy, happy birthday, Dad. We know we were a little early in celebrating, but we hope you have a very special day Tuesday. We are so very thankful for you, and we think you're a treat - not a trick!!