the patience of Job

Weekly Contest from Carol

2011-05-30T08:20:00.005-06:00

I haven't posted in SUCH a long time. You'd think I was busy or something . . . NOT. I just need to get back in the habit.

Here's a quick entry since I'm on my way to Texas for the week and I need to go pack!

Carol Tuttle does a weekly giveaway with some A-M-A-Z-I-N-G products. She specializes in EFT and and energy clearing techniques. If you haven't tried either, you're missing out!

Click here to enter!! You won't regret checking out her blog. Thanks, Carol!!

Miss Manners

2011-03-11T06:00:00.003-07:00

It's that time again . . .

FIVE QUESTION FRIDAY!!

Which means it's almost the weekend and I'm doing the "happy dance" for that one! I missed 5QF last week because of one WHOPPER of a migraine that put me in the ER for an IV cocktail that was heavenly.

So . . . here are the questions. Hook up from Mama M's page and join this enlightening meme!

1. Do you know what your REAL hair color is?

You bet! Brunette . . . with a bit of red when the sun hits it just right. Is that the color right now? Oh wait . . . that wasn't the question. *Wink* *wink*

2. Do you plan ahead for summer, or fly by the seat of your pants?

Summer is just like any other season. I go to work. I come home. I go to bed. I get up. And repeat. WHY I don't go on a vacation I'll never know!

3. What is your favorite meal to cook?

I have a killer recipe for homemade creamy chicken soup . . . with dill and red wine vinegar. It's easy and it's awesome when the weather outside is frightful . . . which it HAS been for MONTHS! My family is probably sick of it this winter, but I LOVE to make it.

4. Do you get offended by not receiving thank yous?

I didn't think so, until a family member got married a few years ago. I couldn't attend, but sent a nice gift in the mail. It just would be nice to know the gift got there. And for whatever reason, it made me feel like this individual was being spoiled and snobbish about it all. What ever happened to manners??

5. How did you meet your best friend?

I'm sure quite a few people will put this, but my best friend is my husband. We met online, then he did some work for me and the rest was history. But . . . it's always bothered me that I've never had a best GIRL friend. I never have . . . period. That makes me sound like I'm a snob or maybe not likeable. NOT TRUE! I think it just takes a long time for me to let loose and be myself around people and most women just haven't wanted to stick around long enough. I'm actually pretty fun . . . and funny . . . at least according to my husband (and sometimes my boys will admit this!). Oh well . . . maybe some day.

Ok . . . Your turn!

Green Peppers and Volkswagens

2011-02-25T05:30:00.010-07:00

I'm with just about everyone else I know . . . I'm SO glad it's the weekend! With one exception: we woke up to 5 inches of snow . . . AGAIN!!! I want to hunt down Punxsutawney Phil and strangle the little varmint. I think he lied!!

Here's this week's Five Question Friday, and once again Mama M has used one of my questions (did I really submit this many?? haha). Link on up and join in. I love going through the entries and reading what others answer. At times it let's me know I'm not so CrAZy!

1. Can you drive a stick shift?

I certainly can. The very first car I drove when I was 13, out on the country roads (as if that makes it ok!), was a 1963 Volkswagen Beetle. Then when I finally got my permit, we had an old brown pickup with "3 on the tree" and I learned to drive stick. I didn't realize there was any other option. Now days, it seems like it's a rare thing if someone knows how to drive a stick. I LOVE driving a stick . . . you can be SO much more of a hotrod if you have one.

2. What are two foods you just can't eat?

Green peppers and sauerkraut. Not together . . . well, I guess, not alone either. I love the taste of green peppers but they sure don't like me. I'm allergic and they make me SO sick. Even if there are little pieces of them in something or even if the juice from the pepper gets on my hands . . . watch out!

Sauerkraut on the other hand is just plain AWFUL! The smell, the look, the taste . . . there is nothing appealing AT. ALL. Not to mention I have a painful memory from when I was 5 or 6 years old and I was staying with my Aunt for a few days and she made me eat a LARGE bowl of it because I wouldn't try it at dinner. I was sick all night long after that. Even just smelling it makes me do that disgusting gag reflex. Ugh.

3. Do you buy Girl Scout Cookies? What is your favorite kind?

Yes. And yes. Oh...I have to pick one? Thin Mints . . . hands down!

4. How do you pamper yourself?

This is a rarity. When I do, I get a massage. Have you ever had a hot stone massage? If not, do it! It's one of the best things EVER.

5. What is your nickname and how did you get it?

I just blogged about this. Ever since I was about a year old (maybe younger) my mom has always called me "Tweet." It all started with her calling me "sweet." And of course, baby talk comes in to play and it turned in to "Tweet." Variations of that: Tweeterbug, Tweetie, and Tweeter. But with the invention of Twitter, my nickname means something MUCH different. I used to have a personalized license plate with "Tweet" on it. If I had that now, people would think I'm just an avid Twitter user. I really think I should have copyrighted my nickname!!

Ok . . . your turn!

Speedy Gonzalez Five Question Friday

2011-02-18T13:45:00.008-07:00

Yikes . . . I forgot to do my blog last night, so here is my 5QF . . . speedy version. And Mama M used one of my questions AGAIN! Woo hoo!! Thanks, Mama.

1. Have you worn the same outfit more than one day in a row?

Yes . . . yes, I have. I used to think this was the most disgusting thing in the world. And my brothers and I would always laugh when my mom would do this very thing. However . . . the older I get the more often I do. BUT . . . I ONLY do this on weekends. I would NEVER . . . EVER . . .

. . . EVER do this during my work week!

2. If you had to choose any LARGE city to live in, which would it be?

I've lived in Washington, D.C., Sacramento, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, and Madrid, Spain. I love them all . . . for a while. I grew up in a small town and I'm a country girl at heart. But this is a no brainer for me . . . I grew up in the Pacific Northwest. Duh! Seattle would be my city, hands down. I've lived in the desert for more almost 30 years and I really miss the beautiful greenery. And I don't mind the rain (although I DO mind the slugs that come with the rain)!

3. Fly or drive with the kids on vacation?

I'd rather drive. I didn't used to have a fear of flying, but after 9/11 I've really had some issues there. I've had to travel quite a bit for work and I get pretty anxious. However, once I traveled across country . . . in the largest U-Haul possible, with 3 people and a dog in the cab. NEVER again.

4. What is your idea of "spring cleaning"?

What? What's spring cleaning?? LOL

5. What is the best book you have ever read?

There are SOOOO many to choose from. I've always been an avid reader; but the one that stands out in my mind right now is "The Traveler's Gift" by Andy Andrews.
I love books that combine fiction with non-fiction historical events AND have a great life lesson to teach. This book did all that for me. I highly recommend it.

You're turn.

The things we do . . .

2011-02-11T06:00:00.008-07:00

Woo Hoo! Mama M's Five Question Friday has one of my submitted questions. Thank you, Mama!

That's a HUGE thank you to Mama M since it's been a tough couple of weeks for her family after a tragedy hit them. If you're a praying sort of person, they could benefit from them. I know they have mine.

If you'd like to join in, I'd love to read your answers. Just comment or hook on up with the linky.

And here we go . . .

1. Would you rather be on ABC's Extreme Home MakeOver or TLC's What not to Wear?

Easy choice here. I already know how to dress and look F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S!! Thanks to Carol Tuttle and her "Dressing Your Truth" and "Energy Profiling" systems. Check it out.

The only problem with Extreme Home Makeover is this . . .

His screaming drives me NUTS!!

I liked him SO much better when he was on Trading Spaces with cute little Paige Page.

He wasn't so . . . IN YOUR FACE obnoxious!

2. Do you have any tattoos?

Well . . . yes and no. I would NEVER get a tattoo . . . NEVER . . . EVER . . .

Okay . . . that was . . until 6 months ago. It started awhile back. I became SO frustrated with my eyeliner always coming off on my upper lids (I have fairly hooded eyelids) and was complaining to my hair stylist. "Oh!" she said. "I do permanent eyeliner. You'd love it! It really doesn't hurt much at all."

So after several months of asking . . . talking about it . . . waffling . . . I agreed to do it. Wow . . . was I in for a surprise.

It. Hurt. Like. HELL! And my eyes were swollen for days. And I couldn't wear my contacts. And I couldn't wear makeup. And I bruised. Shall I go on? In hindsight, I probably wouldn't do it again. But I have to say . . . I do love them! And yes . . . they are JUST like a tattoo.

3. Do you tell your kids about things you did growing up?

If it's about growing up riding cows, flinging manure, and making forts out of bales of hay . . . YES! Anything else . . . they'll have to wait until their 40s to hear those stories (or maybe their 50s). Haha.

4. If the traffic signal turns yellow, do you stop or speed up?

I always make a quick scan of the cars stopped at the cross roads and if I don't see a cop . . . I speed up. Red means go, green means stop, and yellow means speed up. Right?

5. What's your preference: chocolate or chips?

Another easy answer . . . I don't like chocolate. I don't like ice cream. I've been called "un-American" by co-workers because of this. Oh well . . . if I can have a bag of Salt and Vinegar chips I'm happy.

You're turn.

Zzzz + Snow + Mocktails = 5QF

2011-01-28T06:00:00.003-07:00

Yee Haw!! It's Friday and that means . . .

I get to pretend I'm going to sleep in on Saturday and Sunday, but I'll really wake up at 5:45am and not be able to go back to sleep! Yay!!

I SO look forward to that . . .

NOT!!

But it also means Five Question Friday . . . which I love doing. Thank you Mama M. If you want to join in, I'd love to read your answers . . . and I greatly appreciate comments . . .

. . . it makes me feel loved.

1. If you had $1,000 to donate to a charity, which would you choose?

I don't know how to choose on this one . . . mainly because I'd donate to anything relating to children. I used to be a pre-school assistant director, and I saw a lot of sad, neglected children. Some days it was hard to watch these children begging for attention and affection from their parent(s), only to be ignored and rushed out the door because Mom or Dad just wanted to get home. Whitney had it right:

"I believe the children are our are future Teach them well and let them lead the way Show them all the beauty they possess inside Give them a sense of pride to make it easier."

2. Snow days: Do you welcome them happily or are they a pain in your butt?

Snow day? What's that? Unless we get two feet of snow, life goes on. And even then, schools and businesses are only delayed 2 hours. Utahns are NOT afraid of snow. In the 30 years I've lived here, schools only closed once (that I recall). I laugh when I read about the two inches of snow in the east and they've canceled school before the storm even hits. Wimps!

3. What talent did you wish you had and why?

This is an interesting question for me. I've tried a lot of things . . . acting, singing, playing the cello (and clarinet, piano, and organ), being on TV, painting, and making stained glass windows. If I get a bug in my ear about something, I'll try it . . . and I'm usually pretty good (ugh . . . that sounds so conceited!). I believe I can be talented at whatever I want to try.

But secretly . . . I wish I could be a backup singer for [fill in the blank]. It wouldn't matter who . . . I just love singing in harmony. (shhhhhh!)

4. Are you a news, politics or celebrity gossip junkie?

All three. My college major was television and film production. I would eat, live and breathe anything on TV. I still do . . . and I secretly still wish I was covering stories at the White House or doing the hand-held roving camera at college football and basketball games. I watch programs and movies and say to myself, "I could have directed that better" or "I could have done a better shot than that!"

5. What is your favorite "cocktail"? (Are you a beer person, a kiddie cocktail junkie, or perhaps your more the "Cosmo" kind?! Anything flies...doesn't hafta be alcoholic!)

Hands down . . . Strawberry Margarita . . . mocktail, of course. Mmmmmmmm.

You're turn!

Ode to Night Sweats

2011-01-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

GO.

AWAY!

Twitter . . . I Have a Bone to Pick with You

2011-01-22T10:40:00.001-07:00

Yes . . . I have a beef with Twitter.

Why, you ask?

Look to the right . . . next to my picture. See the word "Tweet?"

That's not there so you can "tweet" me or connect to Twitter or follow my tweets.

That's my nickname . . . since I was a wee babe . . . maybe 1 or 2 years old. My mom always called me "Tweet" "Tweetie" "Tweeter" or "Tweeter Bug" . . . when I hear those names, that's me . . . I'll always answer. I even had a vanity plate in the 80s that read "Tweet."

My beef? I don't want everyone thinking you can "tweet" me. Or if I leave a comment on your blog . . . it says it's from "Tweet." Wouldn't that confuse you? I feel like I need to change my nick name on my blog now and that makes me feel sad.

But what new name fits?

*Sigh*

I should make THEM change THEIR name! Chirpy? WOT (Waste of Time)?

We'll see....

Back to 5QF . . . and sleep.

2011-01-21T06:00:00.006-07:00

To get myself back in the blogging "mood" I'll jump right in and do Mama M's Five Question Friday . . . yay! If you want to join in, please do. You can link in or just answer the questions when you leave me a comment. I'd love to read your answers. I promise I'll blog more. I have a bazillion things running around in my head right now that I MUST. GET. OUT!

1. Where did you meet your spouse and did you instantly know it was love?

I used to be embarrassed to say where I met Jake. Before you start thinking of any weird places like a bar (that would be weird for me!) or at the DMV . . . look no further than the World Wide Web. Yes, we met on a dating site. We're not alone. In 2008, over 100,000 marriages were credited to free dating sites, that is a lot of people . . . and a lot of carpal tunnel syndrome! Then we ended up doing some work together on a website project. If you can't work together . . . then could we stand living together? It worked :)

Love at first site (oh yeah...a play on words since he's a software engineer)? I didn't think so for him. In fact, as we left Outback Steakhouse after our first date, he couldn't get to his car fast enough. I thought he had a horrible time. So I was surprised when he talked to me the next day. I think I had him at "let's order cheese fries." For me . . . I think it took a little longer.

2. What is your favorite room in your house?

I don't really have a favorite room. Although I REALLY like the bathroom. Odd? Maybe. But sometimes it's the only room in the house where I can have some alone time. Many times I'll just go in there and read for 20 minutes. One thing I've learned about myself . . . at the end of a day I really need some time to decompress and if I don't get "me time" I can be a little . . . ummm . . . cranky?

3. Can you wiggle your ears?

Sure . . . if I use my hands :)

4. What is your evening ritual?

Does this mean from the time I get home from work or when I'm ready to go to bed? Sometimes they're the same! Ocassionally, I like to just get in my jammies as soon as I get home and become one with the couch. If not, I usually do the jams around 9:30p, do some Facebook and/or blog stalking, then get rid of my contacts, wash my face, brush my teeth, and get in bed. Six out of seven nights, I have the exact same dialogue with my husband:

Me: Isn't it time to turn off the TV/Computer/iPad (fill in the blank here)?

Hubby: You're really ready to go to sleep already?

Me: Yes . . . that would be why I'm in bed.

Hubby: BIG sigh

Me: Even BIGGER sigh

5. How many hours of sleep do you need to function?

I know I can function on an hour of sleep a night . . . I did it once for a year. Ugh . . . NEVER again. I do SO much better if I have 7 - 8 hours a night. That is . . . if my husband will let me (See question #4)

You're turn.

All You Need Is Love

2010-10-29T06:00:00.002-06:00

In the immortal words of John Lennon . . .

"Life is what happens to you when you're making other plans."

Well, that's been my life the last few months . . .

. . . oh wait! To be honest . . . that's been the quote for my life during the last 10 years. It's only taken me 50 years to realize "Oh! This is just life!!" Did I plan to get divorced? Did I plan to have a chronically ill child? Did I plan to be laid off twice last year? Did I plan to have 6 surgeries in 3 years? *Sigh* It's okay. I'm alive.

"All You Need is Love." John Lennon (Right??)

On to 5 Question Friday!! Woo hoo :D

Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog, answer them, then watch for the link back to Mama M. Feel free to answer in the comments if you don't have a blog or already wrote a post (although, for the record, she leaves the linky open until Sunday, so you have plenty of time!!)

1. If you could be a fly on any wall, which would you choose?

I saved this question for last, even though it's #1. Wow. This one really had me thinking. I even had to ask my husband. Since he's a Software Engineer you'd probably NEVER guess his answer (that was sarcasm, in case you didn't know!) . . . Steve Job's office, so he would know how to play Apple's stock.

For me . . . there are several: The Oval Office and Donald Trump's office. Can you imagine the secrets that would come out of BOTH those offices?

2. Do you budget your Christmas shopping or just get it done without budgeting?

Years ago . . . MANY years ago, I used to do my Christmas shopping all during the year and would have it done by October. Don't laugh . . . I really did. But as my boys have become older, their gifts have become more expensive. Now I have to SAVE all year and try to get it all done the week before Christmas. Hmmm . . . maybe I should go back to the "good 'ol days."

3. What is the craziest fad diet you have ever done?

Cabbage and Cayenne Pepper soup. Every day. Every meal. For 4 days. Blech!!! To the nth degree blech!

4. Is there a TV show that you have seen every episode/season of?

Ohhhhh, yes! Every episode! Two words: Gilmore. Girls.

"If you're out on the road . . . (doot, do, doot), feeling lonely, and so cold . . ."

5. What one song always pulls at your heart?

This exactly describes a relationship I had years and years ago. Enough said.

Link up:

Madsen Bikes . . . very cool!

2010-10-18T11:40:00.008-06:00

How fun would it be to win this?? FUN! Click on the picture of the woman I'd like to PRETEND I look like and see how you could win one of these.

Life and Five Question Friday

2010-07-23T00:17:00.010-06:00

WoW! Exactly a month since my last post and I'm going to revert to my usual "Five Question Friday" staple. Life has just been one cRaZY thing after another since the boys and I were in the play. Here are just a few highlights:

I turned 51. Woo Hoo!!
I may be losing yet another job (but positive thinking is leading me to new possibilities!)
My brother was stabbed and almost didn't live to tell the tale (a couple of flat lines in the OR and a VERY long scar from his sternum down past his bellybutton are evidence)
My youngest brother and his family were here for a visit (I haven't seen them since 2007)
And . . . I'm set for ONE more surgery on my shoulder. And this will be the last one . . . absolutely . . . positively!!

PHEW! I think that's enough for the summer.

Now . . . on to the questions for the day. If you want to play along, copy and paste the questions to your blog (or just answer them in my comments area), link back to the fabulous Mama M and you're all set!

1. What were your school colors?

♫ We are the Tigers. Mighty, mighty Tigers ♫

Can you guess our colors? Yep . . . Black and Orange. One year I decided I wanted to turn my lovely, dark, brunette hair . . . BLONDE! If you know anything about hair coloring, you just can't do that. So in keeping with school spirit, I ended up with . . . you guessed it . . . ORANGE HAIR! I tried quickly dying it back and ended up with brunette hair from my crown to my ears and orange hair from my ears to my shoulders. YAY! Go Tigers!!

2. What's the best compliment you ever received?

I used to be a college advisor at Purdue University. I LOVED that job and working with students is fun and satisfying. You hope you're doing some good for them and not just contributing to their weekend drunken brawls. I was 44. Most the students were 19-23 years old. One day one of the cute 22 year old grad students that I knew well, came to my office and asked me out. You should have seen the big grin on my face. When I told him I was old enough to be his mom . . . you should have seen the look on HIS face. Thanks, Tripp, for the nicest compliment a woman could ask for!

3. Do you buy cheap or expensive toilet paper?

I buy in bulk from Costco. I'm not sure if that's cheap or expensive because believe it or not, I have an allergy to toilet paper and their 2-ply brand keeps my "nether regions" happy, happy, happy.

4. Have you ever had a surprise party thrown for you? Or have you had one for someone else?

My husband threw a surprise party for my 40th birthday. I had gone to a craft fair, walking around in 100 degree weather and came home hot and sweaty. I couldn't get in the front door, nor would the garage door open. Needless to say, as I came around the back of the house I was a little perturbed. The guests were on the back patio . . . 3 couples that my husband (now ex-husband) thought I knew well. I didn't. Oops.

5. What is one material possession that you "can't live without"?

Most things I'm coming up with, I probably could live without. But as I'm sitting here in the kitchen I'm listening to my bottom freezer, french door refrigerator getting ready to dump some ice in the bin. I LOVE . . . not just like . . . or occasionally want . . . but LOVE ice. Preferably pebbled ice (the kind you can get at Sonic) but crushed ice works just as well. I don't think my family appreciates my culinary choice . . . as I DO get the "stink eye" from them when I'm crunching away.

Your turn. I'd love to read your answers. Link up, have a terrific weekend, and enjoy what's left of summer.

To Be or Not To Be

2010-06-23T21:27:00.006-06:00

Yes . . . I've taken up acting . . .

or attempting to act.

The boys and I have been rehearsing and performing Bells Are Ringing, an old 1950s musical starring Judy Holliday and Dean Martin. We started rehearsals in April and we have done performances every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday through the month of June. We only have 3 performances left, which is bittersweet--I'm tired!! But I'm really going to miss all the youngsters I've been hanging out with.

Michael as Blake Barton and Josh getting ready to do the Cha Cha

A couple of shots of the old lady . . . oh yeah...that's me in the lovely wig and red coat, too.

Where is the year going?

2010-05-21T11:28:00.008-06:00

Is it really almost June? Time flies when you're having . . .

a. Car issues.
b. Play practice until 10p or later every night.
c. Haters for Co-workers
d. Youngest child is graduating from high school
e. All of the above

Things feel out of control right now so I'm hoping some time this summer I'll get a nice vacation. "Calgon, take me away!"

Now . . . for 5QF . . . or Five Question Friday . . . or the only time I blog these days :)

1. Do you have an iPhone and, if so, how do you get apps and what are your favorites?

2. What is your fondest memory of K-3rd grade?

3. What makes you cringe at the thought of touching?

4. If you could have any celebrity show up on your doorstep who would it be and why?

5. What would you say is your best physical feature?

Copy and past these to your blog, or just answer them in my comments area. Have fun. And be sure to thank Mama M!!

1. Do you have an iPhone and, if so, how to you get apps and what are your favorites?

Yes . . . I DO have an iPhone and as much as I hate to admit it, Steve Jobs, I LOVE it! My loving husband convinced me to get one when he bought his. I struggled with spending the money and figured it was WAY to much phone for me. But now . . . I'd be lost without it! Some of my favorite apps: BEJEWELED (I'm a junky), Backgrounds (I'm constantly changing mine) and FMC (a great tracker for that lovely time of the month. This will make my kids laugh!!)! On a weird side note, I stop my DVR when an iPhone commercial comes on so I can see all the apps shown, then I look them up . . . just in case I can't live without one :)

2. What is your fondest memory of K-3rd grade?

Some of you might think this is a bad memory . . . myself included . . . but it's really not. When I was in Kindergarten we lived in a pretty rough neighborhood in Seattle. So as a 5 year old (and my brother was 4) we really had to stick up for ourselves. Needless to say, I developed quite a "colorful" repertoire of words. I got upset at my brother for something he did to me (which was nearly every minute of every day and probably all he did was follow me to school, which was embarrassing!!) and I let loose . . . "with the mother of all bad words" (A Christmas Story anyone?) and called him a little f*cker. Can you just imagine a 5 year old spewing those words? Of course, my brother ran home and tattled on me.

So my dad washed my mouth out with soap. Ewww. But my dad, the tender hearted daddy that he is, felt so awful, that he took me down to Piggly Wiggly and let me choose a whole package of cookies . . . my favorites at the time . . . chocolate covered graham crackers . . .

all for me . . . no sharing . . . yummmmmm. Have any of you done the "soap" treatment to your own children? After my experience, I vowed I would never do that to my own kids. Well . . . that lasted until I had my second son. :)

3. What makes you cringe at the thought of touching?

I cringe at touching my own wounds. All I have to do is unwrap it and I'm ready to pass out. I can look at other's stitches or surgeries or profusely bleeding wounds, but I can't look or touch my own. And I've had my fair share of things in the past 2 years!

4. If you could have any celebrity show up on your doorstep who would it be and why?

There are too many to choose from. Do I have to choose just one? Okay . . . I will :( I think I'd like to have Julia Roberts knock on my door. I think we'd be great friends . . . based on interviews I've seen she has a fun outlook on her life . . . and she knits!

5. What would you say is your best physical feature?

I'd have to say my fingernails. Weird, huh? I have awesome nails and many times I get compliments from people asking who did my nails and if they're acrylic or gel. I used to look at my parents hands and wonder where I got such great nails (not that they have bad ones, but mine just aren't shaped like theirs). Then one day I was visiting my grandma in her nursing home and VOILA . . . I looked at her hands and it was like looking at my own. Very cool that I have something of hers to carry on.

Ok...take a whack at it :)

Shocking!!

2010-05-07T07:44:00.007-06:00

It's that time again where I get to embarrass myself with Mama M's . . .

FIVE QUESTION FRIDAY (said with my game show announcer voice).

Join in. Just copy and paste the questions to your blog, or you can answer them by posting a comment at the end of my entry. Link up if you want to learn more about all these wonderful bloggers!!

1. What is your worst memory of your siblings?

2. What was YOUR naughtiest childhood memory? (Must be something YOU did, no pawning it off on someone else!)

3. Where do you like to go to relax?

4. What was the last thing you won?

5. If you could be on a game show, which would you choose?

Here goes:

1. What is your worst memory of your siblings?

I'm the oldest of 3 . . . 2 younger brothers . . . that, alone, should get your imagination going! My brother just 15 months younger than myself has created a lifetime of . . . ahem . . . "choice" memories. Here's one: have you ever been poked on the back of your knee, the most tender spot EVER, with an electric cattle prod??? No?? I hope you never do.

2. What was your naughtiest childhood memory?

Again, this involves Brother #1 (and I'm really picking one of my tamer incidents). When I was in Kindergarten, my parents both worked and we went to a sitter. My memory of this sitter is sketchy . . . but then . . . so was she! She used to let us do whatever we wanted and go wherever we wanted, while she watched TV and took naps. Can you imagine letting a 5 and a 4 year old have complete control over their day?? She always had matches lying around the house, so I talked Brother #1 into grabbing a book of matches, running in the bathroom, locking the door, and trying to light whatever we could get our hands on. Someone must have been watching over us, as the only thing that we really lit on fire was my thumb nail!

3. Where do you like to go to relax?

Most of the time it's this room:

I can shut the door and have some peace and quiet. Even if I'm not doing any "business." :)

4. What was the last thing you won?

My family knows . . . I'm a junky for radio contests. Most times when I call in I'm the correct caller. I've won round trip airfare to anywhere in the U.S., diamond rings, food, concert tickets, LPs (yes, I'm that old!), and money. The most recent was a wonderful book by Carol Tuttle "It's Just My Nature." If you haven't read it . . . get it. It's changed my way of thinking about my body image and personality. Thanks, Carol!

5. If you could be on a game show, which would you choose?

"I'd like to buy a vowel, please."

I'm sure it's much harder in person, but when I've watched this (which really hasn't been in a LOOOONG time . . . really!) I can guess the word or phrase with only 1 letter on the board; sometimes I can guess it without any letters. I LOVE puzzles and word games! As I'm driving everywhere I look at license plates and make up words from the letters on the plate. Of course, the letters in the word have to be in the same order as they are on the plate. Weird, I know.

There you have it! Join in and leave a comment if you want. I love those :)

Spring has UN-sprung

2010-04-29T12:49:00.004-06:00

Everyone here knows the saying, "If you don't like the weather in {insert your hometown here}, then wait 5 minutes."

HA . . .

HA . . .

HA . . .

We've had snow storms and cold weather since the beginning of October 2009. I'm tired of having cold toes, blue fingers, and a frosty butt!! Mother Nature is playing a cruel joke on us. 75 degrees for two days and then this is what we woke up to this morning:MORE snow!!!

And then as we drove to school and work, this is what we saw:

Snow really IS beautiful!!

Spring has sprung!

2010-04-24T21:20:00.020-06:00

Since I was such a tomboy growing up, no one would have guessed that underneath the manure, back tag glue, hay, and wet horse smell, that I liked girlie things. I'm not sure I even realized it until I was in my 30s. Who doesn't love flowers, glitter toes, and massages?!

Here's what we did today to satisfy my girlishness for the week: The Tulip Festival (my most favorite flowers EVER!)

Grover, and Gaga, and Pintos . . . Oh My!

2010-04-22T21:27:00.006-06:00

Five Question Friday here I come!! Join in. It really is fun getting to know other bloggers. Here's what you do: Copy and Paste the following questions to your blog and answer them, and if you want to link up using the Link at the bottom (formerly known as McLinky) so that others can read what words of wisdom you have to impart, feel free. Thanks, Mama M!!

1. What was the first car you owned?
2. What song are you embarrassed to know the lyrics to?
3. Have you ever had stitches?
4. What was your first job?
5. Who is your favorite Sesame Street character?

Here's my two cents:

1. What was the first car you owned?

This will TOTALLY give away my age (ok, my previous post did that, not this question!). I had a Ford . . . wait for it . . . PINTO. Woohoo!! And boy, did I feel cool driving around in THAT!

2. What song are you embarrassed to know the lyrics to?

I've mentioned this before, but I DO like Lady Gaga, even though some of her lyrics are a little dicey. So right now I know the lyrics to most of the songs on both the CDs we have. But, as a 17 year old (even for my 21 year old) to have your mom sing: "Cause I'm bluffin' with my muffin . . ." is just a little TOO much.

3. Have you ever had stitches?

Oh, yes. I'm including surgeries in this one, since I'm just slightly accident prone. I've fallen down the stairs one too many times and have had to have 3 knee surgeries and 1 ankle reconstruction (probably more than 30 stitches there). My last mishap was from the garbage. NEVER, EVER, push the garbage down in the can to make room for more. You might find a can lid that wasn't dropped in to the can properly. That little space saving measure cost me feeling in the side of thumb and several stitches.

4. What was your first job?

I always tell my kids I started working when I was 9. In spirit, I did, but wasn't legally paid until I was of age (15?). We had a family business and my brothers and I all worked there until we left home (some of us even came back after college). We did everything from filing papers to shoveling manure. Guess which one was my favorite? :)

5. Who is your favorite Sesame Street character?

I didn't grow up with Sesame Street, so didn't ever watch it much until I was in my late 30s (I worked for PBS and didn't have a choice then!). I'd have to say it's a toss up between two: Grover and the Cookie Monster. They're both so goofy and deep down, they care about others (yes, I know they aren't real!).
Have at it!!

AARP or Bust

2010-04-11T16:52:00.007-06:00

I'm only 50 (ok, 51 in 3 months). That's not that old, but according to my boys "I'm older than dirt" and according to society I'm past my "prime." To both statements I say: HA!!!

Of course, most days my knees hurt when I sit too long or when I get up from my comfy couch (OKAY, so if I got OFF that couch more often, they might not hurt as much!).

My memory isn't quite as sharp as it used to be; but then, there are SOME things I'd LIKE to forget (ummm...the year 2005!?).

Looking in the mirror (or through the eyes of my "observant" children, I have more gray hair every day. . . even in my eyebrows!

I still have radar hearing, which is terrific . . . except at 11:30pm when my neighbor starts her laundry and then jumps on the treadmill for 45 minutes!!

I'm not going to let the world OR my family put me in a nursing home just yet. I'm still going to get glitter toes and dance around a stage in a musical with a bunch of 20 somethings and listen to Lady Gaga . . .

. . . and to all the AARP mail I've been getting . . . thanks, but no thanks . . . I. AM. NOT. OLD!! (well maybe for $16/year I can start getting those AARP discounts on cruises)

2010-04-09T18:50:00.010-06:00

It's Friday!!! I was looking forward to 5QF and wanted to get this posted early so someone would have a chance to read it, but alas . . . SLACKER!

No, really . . . I forgot. I'll be lucky if anyone even reads this post this week because I'm so far down on the McLinky list, but I've been working hard on creating positive thoughts this week so my positive thought is . . .

AT LEAST 10 PEOPLE WILL READ THIS. :)

So here goes . . . if you want to participate copy and paste the questions. If you want to link up using the McLinky, you can do that at the end of my blog. Thanks, Mama M!

1. Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?

Wow . . . I get a movie made about ME? Hahahahaha. I'm pretty boring. But since we're dreaming, I'll go with Demi Moore. We have some of the same features. And since we're dreaming . . . I'll just play HER and have that cute Ashton Kutcher on my arm :)

2. Did you ever go to summer camp?

I picture summer camp as being something only rich kids did because their parents didn't want them around for the summer. That wasn't me . . .

But our family went camping almost every summer for 1-2 weeks and THAT was better than any summer camp.

3. What sends you running and screaming in the other direction?

ANY . . . and I mean ANY kind of creepy, crawly thing will send me bolting in the opposite direction. I know they're all God's creatures and have a purpose here on Earth . . . but really . . . what purpose does a a tiny mouse scurrying out from under my stove have, except to scare the pee out of me?!?!

4. What is something you do that drives your spouse nuts?

HA!! There are too many to choose from when I look at this, but if you were to ask my loving husband, he'd probably tell you that he can't come up with anything . . . cue the "awwwwwws."

Since I'M choosing, I'd have to say I drive him nuts with the sheets. I can't stand wrinkles in my sheets at night. If there is the slightest little bump or roll in the sheet, it keeps me awake. I'm like the story "The Princess and the Pea" to the nth degree. I have even made him get up in the middle of the night to help remake the bed. Thanks, sweetheart!!

5. What is currently your favorite song?

This is tough, since when I listen to music I pay attention more to the beat and rarely notice the title or artist. Since I have two young men in my house who listen to all the latest music, I'd have to say "Just Dance" by Lady Gaga. I know . . . weird that a 50 year old would listen to her :)

You're turn!

Another Five Question Friday.

2010-03-25T20:33:00.011-06:00

Woo hoo! It's Friday. Although the week has gone by fairly quickly, I'm really looking forward to the weekend. Three words: Festival of Colors!! We're going to go hang with the llamas and Krishnas :)

It's 5QF again. Thanks Mama M. And thanks to everyone who commented last week. That was fun!

1. Did you pass your driver's test on the first try?

Not only did I pass it on the first try, I got 100%. And it was scary! One of the testers in our little town, was missing an arm, but he had this large, cold, steel hook where his hand should have been. EVERYONE who had to take the driving test hoped, prayed, lit a candle, or whatever religious affectation they could muster, wishing they'd get any instructor but "The Claw." As luck would have it, I got "The Claw." I couldn't look at him, so I pretended it was my dad, and I passed with flying colors.

2. What is your most embarrassing moment?

I must be pretty boring, because I honestly can't think of anything embarrassing. I'll just have to live vicariously through other 5QF participants :)

3. What TV show would you like to be on- Oprah, Biggest Loser, or What Not to Wear?

Since I'm Dressing My Truth I wouldn't want the makeover. I have weight to lose (WAY more than 10 lbs), but I'm not obese like the participants they choose. So I guess that leaves Oprah. And if I was on Oprah I'd want to be there because in my imaginary life, I'm one of the "rich and famous" :)

4. Would you ever get plastic surgery and what kind?

As members of my family grow older, we get jowls. I probably started getting them about 5 years ago (at least, that's what I like to convince myself!). If they get too bad, I may have to plastic them away.

5. What are your favorite jeans to wear?
My favorite jeans are whatever pair I'm wearing. I LOVE jeans! I grew up on a "farm" and to me, jeans mean "home."

2010-03-19T08:55:00.015-06:00

It's Five Question Friday again. How does this happen? I think I'm going to blog something wonderful and profound during the week and I get busy with other things. This week it was being sick again. I don't think I'm too happy about getting old!!! Anyway, have a crack at the questions Mama M has put up for us. If you want to join . . . I'd love to know more about you. Or just leave a comment for me :)

1. Have you ever had a celeb sighting?

I've had several. Layover in Chicago O'Hare . . . sitting in a new construction area of the airport . . . hardly any people . . . coming up the escalator an older gentleman bracing himself up on either side of the rails and swinging his legs . . . Bob Hope. My brothers followed him in to the Men's room and got his autograph . . . which I still have.

A few others: All the members of Spinal Tap (Christopher Guest, Harry Shearer, Michael McKean); 60's group Jan & Dean; Wolfman Jack; Magic Johnson (I followed him around Venice Beach, once); worked once with Donny & Marie; was in line at the DMV with Gene Hackman; met Charlton Heston, as well as Boss Hog from Dukes of Hazzard; country singer Gary Allen (I was the Asst. Director of the preschool his children attended); when I worked for PBS I interviewed Jim Brickman and met the cast of Sesame Street; and when I worked at CNN I met Pres. Regan, Pres. Carter, Pres. Ford, Anwar Sadat, Ted Kennedy, and a whole list of other famous politicians. Probably more than y'all wanted to know, but not many people know about my long list. Now you do!

2. What temperature do you keep your house?

Ok . . . this is another one of those things in our house that is a constant battle. The thermostat usually says 68 degrees in Winter, but if you're upstairs it feels more like 80 and downstairs feels like 50. I will turn it up if I'm home so it's around 69, but as soon as the dear husband comes homes he'll turn it down to 65, OR LOWER! In the Summer I like to keep the A/C at 72 because we don't get direct sun downstairs and it stays pretty cool. Again, as soon as the dear husband gets home the A/C goes down to 65. UGH!!! Last year on Good Morning America I remember they did a story about men and women and how the thermostat causes problems at home. I SO related to that!!

3. Do you notice dust at other peoples homes?

I don't think I really do . . . except maybe when I go home to my parents. Weird that I notice it there and nowhere else.

4. What's the worst job you ever had?

Hmmm . . . this is a tough one for me. I've really liked my jobs; it's been the people I work with on a couple of jobs that made it really difficult. But if I had to choose ONE job I'd say working my job in high school where I had manure flung at me, glue used for putting tags on cattle thrown in my hair, and ketchup packets exploded in my face. These guys were really just flirting with me . . . but they sure showed it in immature ways!

5. What is your most sentimental possession?

My grandmother passed away in 2006 and I was lucky enough to get her "Grandchildren" charm bracelet. She had this bracelet from the time she had her first grandchild. Each of us had a boy or girl profile charm with our name and birthdate engraved on it (there are 38 charms). I loved that bracelet growing up and now I own it . . . thanks to my mom :)

Your turn.

Five Question Friday

2010-03-12T17:32:00.008-07:00

Rules for Five Question Friday: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then go to Mama M's page and link up (Thanks, Mama M!).

How much time do you spend on the computer a day?
Will you pay for your children's college or raise them to pay for their own way?
Have you ever been in a car accident?
What is your favorite book?
Do you make your bed everyday?

Here are my answers:

1. How much time do you spend on the computer a day?

Well . . . do I have to really admit how much? I work all day on the computer and you would think I wouldn't want to touch the thing when I get home. But, alas, I'm hooked on one thing and I guess I WILL admit it here . . . FARMVILLE! I need to get those crops harvested and my eggs collected. So, to answer the question, I probably spend about 8-9 hours a day. That sounds awful!!

2. Will you pay for your children's college or raise them to pay for their own way?

I have a unique situation. I've worked for several universities where a benefit of employment is reduced or free tuition. If my boys want to go somewhere other than where I've worked, I agreed to help them with what my portion would have been had they gone to school where I worked. I now work at UVU where tuition is free, so how lucky are my boys??? (You hear that M & J???)

3. Have you ever been in a car accident?

I've been incredibly lucky. I've never been in an accident; other than the time I hit a deer (see my previous 5QF entry), but I don't consider that to be a true accident. That deer hit ME!

4. What is your favorite book?

I'm not really sure I can name just one. I've been an avid reader since I was in grade school and when I find a book I like I will read and re-read until I can quote it almost word for word. But if I had to choose, I'd say Anne of Green Gables. I always wished I was more like Anne; not afraid to speak up or try anything new. Maybe some day :)

5. Do you make your bed everyday?

Ohhhhhh, boy. This is something that bugs me EVERY DAY! I get up earlier than my husband. I have to leave the house by 7am and he doesn't have to be to work until 10a. He gets to sleep in. How unfair is that?? And every day I come home, the bed is unmade. I'd love to have the bed made every day, but I'd say it gets made 1 or 2 days . . . A MONTH! That's even worse than spending 8-9 hours on the computer!!! Please don't judge me :)

Your turn.

Reflections of a Mother

2010-02-28T16:57:00.011-07:00

I'm not sure why the death of Marie Osmond's 18-year old son has touched me so. Maybe it's because I've followed the Osmond's since the beginning of their careers and had posters plastered on my "tween" bedroom walls; I was a part of their family. Or maybe it's because I identify with Marie's weight and depression issues. But I have a feeling it's more because I'm first and foremost a mother of two wonderful young men.

A mother lost her son to a terrible illness. Mothers in Chile and Haiti have lost their children as well, and I can only imagine all the pain these women are enduring and will continue to endure for the rest of their lives. So this has caused me a lot of reflection over the past two days on my guys and no matter what . . . I LOVE THEM!

I love them when they tease me incessantly about my "ranting" while I drive. I love them when they hide in the hall closet and try to scare the pee out of me (that HAS happened!!). I love them when they act as if they can't make their own sandwich (don't get any ideas you guys that I'll be doing that every day for you!). I love them when they unexpectedly say "I love you, mom." And no matter what they say or do or how angry I may get at them or how busy life becomes, they will always be my babies . . . and I LOVE THEM!!!

Wordless Wednesday: Yummy!

2010-02-24T22:36:00.007-07:00

Doctor's Orders

2010-02-20T14:48:00.008-07:00

Soooo . . . . Do you ALWAYS follow doctor's orders? We pay big money for their expertise and we sit there and nod our head that we "promise" to do as we're told, but how often do we REALLY follow exactly what the doctor says?

Case in point . . . the doctor made me "promise" not to lift anything heavier than 5 pounds for the next 6 weeks or I could possible blow out one of the tendons in my shoulder. What?!? Ok, I can do that, because I definitely don't want a blown tendon.

However, upon further scrutiny of this order, do you realize how many things in our daily lives weigh 5 pounds or more?? Here are just a few:

My purse. Ok, maybe I should clean it out. Do I really need 2 umbrellas, 1 journal, and an orange in there?
When emptying the dishwasher I don't take 1 dish at a time. I stack before putting them in the cupboard. Our dishes are WAY heavy!
The laundry basket. Oh no! Maybe someone else will have to do laundry :)
My laptop and case. Thank goodness I only have to carry it 3 or 4 times a week.

So how do I keep my promise? I'm trying; I really am. Only 5 weeks to go. Ugh . . .

Five Question Friday

2010-02-19T20:56:00.010-07:00

Soooo . . . . I saw this on a blog last week and followed the link. I thought it looked fun, so if you're interested in joining in, here's what you do:

Copy and paste the following questions to your blog and answer them. Link this back to Mama M's blog (if you want, but I bet she'd appreciate it!). My answers are below the asterisks. Happy reading; you may discover something new about me and I hope to read something about you.

1. Have you ever hit an animal with your vehicle?

2. When you see a string on your clothes do you pull it off or cut if off?

3. Did you have your own room or share a room when you were young?

4. Would you rather wear the same thing for the rest of your life or eat the same thing for the rest of your life?

5. What was your favorite TV show as a child?

*****************************************************************

1. Have you ever hit an animal with your vehicle?

Oh boy, did I ever!! I t-boned a huge deer, totalling my car and throwing the deer 30 feet in the air. The deer walked away--I didn't--only because it was 10 degrees and I had my Christmas jammies on (penguins wearing a santa hat), which really seemed to amuse the Sheriff.

2. When you see a string on your clothes do you pull it off or cut if off?

Pull it off. Although I've learned by doing that, I sometimes end up with a lost button or a big hole in my clothes!

3. Did you have your own room or share a room when you were young?

Being the only girl, I had my own room. That totally rocked!

4. Would you rather wear the same thing for the rest of your life or eat the same thing for the rest of your life?

Since I don't know what food I'd be stuck with (because if it was saurkraut, I'd die from starvation!!), I'd go with wearing the same thing for the rest of my life. I sometimes do that on the weekends, so how different could that be?

5. What was your favorite TV show as a child?

When I was really young, I liked Romper Room and hoped that someday I would be chosen to be on the show so I could be best friends with Miss Julie. A few years later, I was a huge fan of The Brady Bunch. Greg had NOTHING on Peter. Woo hoo!

Tawanda!!!

2010-02-17T20:45:00.005-07:00

Soooo . . . every 6 weeks "young son" and I make a trek up to Primary Children's Medical Center for a 3-4 hour treatment for his chronic illness. And ever 6 weeks I go through the same anguish . . .

. . . UTAH DRIVERS!

I wish I had an old beater car. I'd put it in "ramming speed" mode and do this:

TAWANDA!!

Living with Three Men . . .

2010-02-13T17:59:00.006-07:00

. . . . need I say more?

Clowns are Supposed to Make You Laugh

2010-02-07T13:38:00.008-07:00

Soooo . . . . I've never understood why some people fear clowns. Clowns are funny and entertaining. Aren't they?

This commercial makes me laugh histerically EVERY time I see it. Now I think I know where the fear comes from for some folks. This would have put me in therapy for years if my parents had planned a party like this one.

"The Blind Side" Makes You See

2010-02-02T20:36:00.006-07:00

Soooo . . . . I had the chance to hear Leigh Ann and Collins Tuohy speak today; second row in front of the podium (kinda makes you really pay attention when she's looking you right in the eyes!).

Honestly, I figured they'd talk all about how the movie came to be and funny stories from behind-the-scenes. There WAS some of that, but the Tuohy's just want people to know you can make a difference in the world. I left the event, not wanting to adopt a 6'6" 320 lb. African American, but believing that I CAN make a difference. All I need to do is stop making judgments about people I see.

Is that all??

Coincidence? I think not.

2010-01-31T20:34:00.004-07:00

Soooo . . . . I've been transferring all my old scripture markings into a new set of BIGGER scriptures (that's what happens when you get old!). There was a bit of tension tonight while we were all in the living room and some angry words were said.

I resumed my scripture marking. The first scripture I started with?

Proverbs 15:1:

"A soft answer turneth away wrath; but grievous words stir up anger."

Hmmmm . . .

"Titanic" only has two good parts?

2010-01-23T16:56:00.007-07:00

Soooo . . . I'm sitting in the living room watching "Titanic" for the 100th time, only because I'm being forced (by my loving husband) to stay off a badly sprained ankle and there isn't much else to do on a cold, snowy Saturday when you can't get up. As my loving husband came downstairs, this is how the conversation went:

Loving husband: "Oh, you're watching a chick flick?"
Me: "Yes. And since you're making me sit here, you have no say in what I'm watching."
Loving husband: "Did I miss the boob part?"
Me: Disgusted look.
Loving husband: "Well, that and when the guy bounces off the propeller are the only good parts."

I wonder how James Cameron would feel about that comment.

MEN!

Theater or Living Room?

2010-01-19T21:14:00.010-07:00

Soooo . . . the boys and I went to see Avatar 3D . . . again. I liked the movie the first time I saw it in Imax 3D, but do you realize it's almost 3 hours long? We went expecting the theater to be mostly empty since we were there in the early afternoon, but who knew . . . it was sold out and the last two seats available were right next to me. The elderly couple looked nice enough and since it was dark and the previews had started, I hollered to the end of the row that we had 2 seats open. Sometimes elderly people can be deceiving.

If you've seen Avatar you know there are some scenes that are action-packed and some are emotional. From the first scene where we see the main character in his wheel chair the "movie etiquette handicapped" lady started off with an "Oh no!" and an "Oh my gosh;" not in whispered tones, but in a "I'm sitting in my living room so I can say whatever I want" voice. After the 3rd or 4th "Oh no!" I happened to see Josh holding his hand over his mouth snickering, which set me laughing. I seriously wanted to ask her how long it had been since she'd been out of the house. And did I mention the movie is almost 3 hours long??

After all her vocalizations, when the movie ended her final comment was, "Hmmm. That was . . . interesting." Wow. Oh no! Oh, my gosh! Interesting???

Blog Naming 101

2010-01-18T17:58:00.007-07:00

Soooo . . . after browsing through hundreds of blogs, I started to wonder how people came up with their blog names. I’ve seen people who write from the perspective of their pets (“Saucy and Snooty”) or “The Adventures of the xxx Family” (add the family name of your choice) or NUMEROUS titles about a “simple” life (who has a simple life anymore???).

I wanted my blog name to be original (it probably isn’t, but I don’t have time to browse through EVERY title!) so I went back over events of the past 10 years hoping a name would magically pop into my head. Here is a “short” list of happenings:

5 moves (4 different states and 1 move intra-state)
2 layoffs
Several beatings
2 marriages
2 divorces
1 Ankle reconstructive surgery (after falling down the stairs for the 100th time)
2 Rotator cuff surgeries
1 Knee surgery (from an injury that happened on the Rockin' Rollercoaster at DisneyWorld. Woo hoo!!)
A breast cancer scare
1 broken hand
11 stitches (7 in a ring finger, 4 in a thumb)

Read enough? I have. And through it all, I’ve discovered I’m a strong person and I’ve never asked “why me?” (well, maybe once) and I fought through it all (with a lot of praying and crying) and I kept moving on.

Thus, “The Patience of Job” was born. Enjoy ☺

Bloggity Blog Blog

2010-01-17T16:24:00.008-07:00

Soooo . . . a few years ago, I created this blog just so I could leave a comment on my friend's blog. The past few days I've gone through page after page of blogs (my family says I'm 'blog stalking') and I guess at this point, I feel compelled to really start. We'll see; I don't think I'm interesting.