Laura, Lena and Caleb too!!

Tea Time - November 14, 2010

2010-11-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

Just a few pictures from a tea party given by Noelle in November, 2010.
A lovely time was had by all!!

This is "The Gang" that attended. The girls all had beautiful dresses on for the tea, but when it was over... BAM! Off came the dresses and on went the fun clothes!

Noelle & her mom (Aunt Ruthann)

Sonya, me, and Noelle

The SWEETS table!

The pre-party table setting.

Let's get this party started!!

Two beauties!!

Someone Like Me :: An Unlikely Story of Challenge and Triumph Over Cerebral Palsy by John W. Quinn

2010-05-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

When I first signed up with Facebook, my intention wasn't to "network", make "new" friends, or even to locate old classmates. I simply signed up because a few of my co-workers (past and present) kept asking why I haven't signed up yet?? So one day while messing around on the computer I decided to check it out. Well, let me be the first to say how much I ♥ Facebook!! I ♥ how you can play games with people around the world, or friends right down the street. I ♥ reading about things people are doing, thinking... or just the stupid random thoughts that go through our minds! I ♥ leaving a "thumbs up" on posts that I have nothing to comment on... I'm sure you get the idea!

About a month ago I decided (for no real reason) to look for a common interest group on Facebook.... I searched for "Cerebral Palsy". At first I didn't completely understand why... but now realize maybe there was a reason! I ended up finding a few pages that were like support groups for people that have CP and, parents with children that have CP. Their stories touch my heart in ways I cannot describe in words... maybe it's because I have this disability, maybe it's because I feel so BLESSED to be able to live an independent lifestyle because I have it so mild... maybe it's because of the struggles I know these families have to live with every day, and the frustrations each child will be faced with on some level.

While reading through some of the pages, I stumbled on a posting about a new book that had either just been released, or was getting ready to be released. This author (John W. Quinn) had a blog that I went to and read a short excerpt from a chapter in his book. Well, after reading that "teaser"... I knew I had to get this to my mom, who in turn would immediately order the book directly from the author so it would be signed. We were all so excited when the book arrived - both of my parents had it read in a day each!! Then it was my turn!

Someone Like Me is an amazing & inspirational memoir about growing up with Cerebral Palsy and having a career in the U.S. Navy!! If you are anything like me, you may be shaking your head thinking how can a person with CP make a career in the military?!?!? How is this even possible... people without disabilities have a hard time! His story is written so clearly, and with so much feeling and emotion, you will feel like you were there, watching it all happen. His book made me laugh out loud, to the point I had tears streaming down my face... short of his military career, things he wrote about and felt... I did too! This book is without a doubt one of the best memoirs I have read in a long time. It's a MUST READ by all... you don't have to be living with a disability, or even know someone with a disability to read this book. We all live with challenges in our every day lives, and I believe this book will be an inspiration to keep pressing on!! Never give up when you have your heart and mind set on a goal!

Click HERE to visit his personal blog, and HERE to visit his Facebook page.

A Dog Named Beau

2010-03-13T10:01:00.000-08:00

The Orangutan and the Hound

2010-02-11T16:04:00.000-08:00

These are the type of stories I LOVE seeing.... I now want an Oragutan!! Lena may be too little to play like that, but she'd enjoy sharing the treats!! ENJOY!!

A good laugh to tide you over....

2010-02-04T02:36:00.000-08:00

...till I get off my butt and post some new blogs!

E N J O Y!!

Here are the lyrics:
Pants on the ground
Pants on the ground
Lookin' like a fool with your pants on the ground

With the gold in your mouth
Hat turned sideways
Pants hit the ground
Call yourself a cool cat
Lookin' like a fool
Walkin' downtown with your pants on the ground

Get it up, hey!
Get your pants off the ground
Lookin' like a fool
Walkin' talkin' with your pants on the ground.

Get it up, hey!
Get your pants off the ground
Lookin' like a fool with your pants on the ground

For you Mark... Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T09:52:00.000-08:00

Introducing.... MUFFIN!!

2009-11-21T19:32:00.000-08:00

Muffin (a 7 year old Shih Tzu) was found on a wonderful web site called Petfinder.com. On this site both breeders and rescues can list dogs for sale / adoption. Muffin was turned over to a vet in Illinois shortly after her owner died. The family "didn't want to bother with her". I can't imagine doing that to a family pet.... but, that's just me!!

The vet called her friend who has run a dog rescue for 30 years, and is also a Vet Tech. We are told that Muffin was black with fleas and had Kennel Cough. They began a radical treatment for fleas, and gave her the Kennel Cough vaccine. She now has a clean bill of health. Thankfully, since she was being fostered by Vet Tech's, they gave this little girl the royal treatment. She has been groomed (cut shorter due to the fleas), given a dental cleaning, micro chipped, had a full blood panel done, a hearing and vision test. They did say that she does have some hearing loss. The GREAT thing is that she is already potty trained, and very gentle!

My parents were so excited when they were approved to adopt this little baby doll, they quickly made arrangements to drive to southern Indiana on Thursday, spend the night so they could pick Muffin up first thing Friday morning. She has the sweetest little face, and is about the same size as my little Lena.

This picture is of Karen, the lady who runs the animal rescue. My parents say she is a wonderful lady who just has a passion for placing dogs in good adoptive homes.

My dad with his newest little baby girl.

The long 6 hour trip to her new home.

The proud new owners of this little baby... so thrilled to have rescued this dog from who knows what. Little does Muffin know the life she is going to have with these two..... boy is she in for a TREAT!!!!!!!!!!

Stupid Moments... we all have them!!

2009-11-15T09:29:00.000-08:00

Friday was my day to have a completely stupid moment. I am NOT one that is impulsive, and depending on the idea, I can easily over-think things... to the point that I usually talk myself right out of something, be it good or bad. I'm very critical of myself, and hate when I make stupid decisions. Here's my story :

For several weeks now I've been wanting to check out my cellular plan to see if I qualify for the yearly trade-in / trade-up on my cell phone. I've been looking around asking opinions from people with other carriers, various phones, and rates. Sprint has been my carrier since day one of owning a cell phone, and feel I have the best monthly rate to suite my needs. I haven't paid extra to get all the "bells and whistles" that my phone comes with. Who needs texting when I can just pick up the phone and talk? And internet... on a cell phone... seriously!! Just seemed ridiculous!! However... technology has come so far, and monthly plans that include all the "bells and whistles" have become more reasonable. I am such a geek when it comes to certain things. I'm not one that "needs" the latest and greatest toys the moment they hit the stores. I will say that certain technology does peek my interest, and I could easily fall prey to their lures. The BlackBerry has always been that item. It's nothing new... it's been around for some time, and over the years have improved greatly. I've always thought it would be nice to have one, but my lifestyle has not, and does not in ANY WAY afford me that luxury. :-( or so I thought... Until Friday.....

Friday (after work and before the Sabbath started) I decided to head over to my local Sprint store to check things out. I called to see how late they were open, and the guy on the line said if I came and mentioned his name, for that day ONLY, he would give me a FREE car charger. Well, shoot, that's roughly a $30 value for FREE... and car chargers are a MUST!! BONUS!!! I was going anyway - free charger or not! The store was packed!! They have specials galore and just in time for the quickly approaching holiday. I went to the phones I figured I could trade in for next to nothing... knowing that I wanted something that had a nice keyboard for texting. I still didn't have texting on my monthly plan, but figured in time, I would. SO many options... so many styles... it was nuts. I knew BlackBerry had a special, so I checked them out. Talked things over with one of the sales girls there.... and before I knew it I decided on the BlackBerry Curve 8330 in red (picture above). Oh yes.. HELLO beautiful!! Finally... I was gonna own all the bells and whistles, and for only $26 MORE every month. Seemed like a pretty darn good deal! And, to a person that hasn't had two pay cuts in one year, and has worked 40 hours every week for 52 weeks... sure!! Only problem is... that person is NOT ME!! What was I thinking?!?!?! I walked out of the store trying to rationalize the stupid buy I had just made. Then, when that didn't work, I tried to ignore thinking about the stupid move. I got home and played with that beauty till midnight. Yup... I was determined I was going to learn all I could, and play with all I could before the inevitable happened... the RETURN!! They told me I had 30 days to return the phone, but would have to pay a $35 restocking fee.... I knew I should have chose another phone at that point... but still didn't go with my gut feeling. So, at midnight I finally decided I needed to charge the phone and go to bed. I didn't sleep well that night. EVERY time I'd wake up or roll over, that stupid phone was on my brain... What do I do? What utility can I try and reduce? What do I spend money on that I can stop? How can I get them to waive the $35 restocking fee? Oh yes... all that kept me from sleeping. I finally got out of bed at 7:15 a.m., determined that I MUST return the phone and get one that will support my old service plan. I didn't even know what time the store opened - I did know that I had to be there when they did. I also knew I couldn't spend one more minute with that beauty!! I MUST GET IT BACK, and get my money back!! ALL OF IT! I raced to get ready, and decided to call Sprint directly to talk to Customer Service about getting my plan back, and find out what they can do for a long time, good paying customer. I got a really nice girl named Becky who completely understood my problem. She was able to re-activate my old phone, AND gave me a better plan, to include texting, for the SAME amount of money I was paying before!! (give or take a dollar). Can you believe that?!?!? PHEW, I was super relieved!! Now, I just needed to explain all this to the kids that work in those stores.

I was at the store at 10 a.m. when they opened... first customer, nobody else there to hear my sob story. Thankfully, I had a different sales girl (named Laura) who took her time with me. At first she couldn't understand why anyone would return such a great phone, at such a great price, with such a great plan. Then, after I told her I was stupid, honestly cannot afford an additional $26 each month, and couldn't even sleep knowing I made such a dumb move... she got it... or maybe she got nervous seeing complete fear in my eyes... not sure! Anyway... she talked me through other phones and features, and helped me make my final decision. The Lotus LG in red is what I got (picture left), the free car charger, and 15% off the protective case. A wave of happiness came over me as I walked back out to my car. My life (as I know it to be) was back to normal. I knew I could once again sleep at night. AND, she never once mentioned about me having to pay $35 to re-stock the phone!!! Yippeeee.....

I would like to say it was nice owning a BlackBerry (for 15 hours), but it would be a lie!! Maybe one day that little lovely will be mine... but until then, hey... at least I now have free texting!! All things worked out!!!

If God is so powerful and so good, why do bad things happen? - Voddie Baucham

2009-10-09T20:09:00.000-07:00

Here is yet another Voddie Baucham clip that humbles me... The truth he speaks shoots like an arrow through my heart!!

Photo Shoot

2009-10-06T17:39:00.001-07:00

Just because...

Photos compliments of :: My Dad!! (thanks pops)

Turning 40... (better late than never edition)

2009-10-06T16:44:00.000-07:00

Per usual, I have to post what my birthday theme was this year at work. Yes, it was my BIG 40... and thankfully, there was not one "Over The Hill" item. I will say this, my boss and co-workers really did a GREAT job coordinating all the festivities!

This was my desk as I came into work. Around the outside were balloons.

This is the gift that had me in tears... it was a mini photo album that the girls coordinated with my parents to get pictures of me. What surprised me to tears was the picture on the front. It's my dad holding me at 4 weeks old in his Army uniform.... yeah, they got me GOOD!! I had to leave the area to get a grip!! :-)

My theme this year was "Music". Everything I received had something to do with music. And to top it off... they wanted me to fill in the missing words to songs BEFORE I opened presents. Only problem was some of the songs were before my time.... oh yes, its true!!

Yup! Chocolate cake with BUTTER CREAM frosting!!! They made me share..... DARN!!

Our entire kitchen was packed with snack foods for our pre-lunch grazing!!

The kicker was lunch... we had filet wrapped in bacon and sirloin burgers. To top the steaks off, we had Portabella Mushrooms sauted in a red wine sauce... OH-MY-GOSH... to DIE for!!

No one can have too many cakes for their birthday! I had yet another CHOCOLATE cake with BUTTER CREAM frosting waiting for me at home from my parents.

This is my little Lena showing how old she turned today too.... a big "High FIVE"!!

Yet even more WONDERFUL food for dinner. Aunt Ruthann took me, Sonya and my parents out for dinner at one of my FAVORITE places... Salvatore Scalopini. I was able to order anything I wanted... even appetizers!! Dessert was my cake!

So, that was my day in a nutshell. It was full of family, food, fun, laughter and tears! What more can a girl turning 40 ask for?? Hmmm.......

Goodbye Amber... We love you!!!

2009-08-31T14:45:00.001-07:00

Today my parents had to put down the last of their little girls - Amber. She lived a healthy 15 wonderful years. Amber started out as my puppy when I moved out of my parents home back in 1994. However, because I moved into a condo, there really wasn't any yard for her to play in, so my parents kindly took her to live with them - and Little Megan!! They were the best of friends!!! You couldn't have asked for better girls! Both Amber & Megan were VERY well behaved. Last June, after my parents had to put Megan down, Amber seemed to sense that SHE now was the PRINCESS... and she took full advantage of that!! Such a sweet baby girl & our "little clown". She brought so much laughter with her playing and dancing... We are really going to miss you Amber Bella!!

Here are the two girls (above)... Megan (left), Amber (right)

Reflecting back... again

2009-08-26T02:52:00.000-07:00

Gosh, for several years now I've looked back at a few pictures and wondered where the time went? I've been blessed with a small but very close, loving family... to include my Godparents and their girls!! There are a few pictures that I dug up last night that bring back the most memories for me today! I've decided to scan just a few to post here on my blog. Two right off the top were the day each of my parents turned 40!! And, here I am years later... right where they were, probably feeling exactly as they felt (or darn near close). I remember making and decorating a double layer chocolate butter-cream frosting cake for my dad on his 40th. Now, its just weird to look at this and think... I'm as old as he was.... GEEZ!!Here is a BEAUTIFUL picture of my mom on her 40th birthday... gosh, she looked GREAT!!! (and still does)

And then there is me... turning 30! (just 10 VERY short years ago) Two of my GREAT friends (Sharyn & Becky) took it upon themselves (with a little help from friends and family) to give me thee BEST surprise birthday EVER!! It was flawless I tell ya!! This is a picture of me and Sharyn (my sister-in-law)... gosh I miss our fun times together! I LOVE my brother dearly, but also wanted a sister to share "girl times" with... Here is a picture of the other friend responsible for this flawless birthday party! We met in 9th grade, and to this day remain the closest of friends... well, as close as we can since SHE decided to get MARRIED two years ago and MOVE far, far away... like to New Mexico!!! Excited for the day she tells me she's moving back!!And then there is my friend, Nicole, that I have know all HER life (since I am just 14 days short of being two years older than her - YES... I count). We literally grew up together... tormenting each other about stupid stuff that we talk and laugh about now. We would come up with the most devious plans on how to get our moms to let us have a sleep-overs, and then bring EVERY stuffed animal onto the bed with us because it was our "boat", and if they weren't on the "boat", they'd get eaten by sea monsters.... oh yes... the stories go on, and on, and on......A picture of me with my parents at my 30th birthday party...And the group shot that almost didn't happen. For some reason, my dad had the hardest time trying to get everyone together on the porch for this picture. I'm so happy that it finally happened.
For me, looking back through all these photos makes me smile today... the day I turn 40. I realize it's JUST ANOTHER DAY... but am reminded by several people that it's truly a "milestone birthday".

Reflections of the last 39 years.... (in a nutshell)

2009-08-25T17:46:00.000-07:00

Well, tomorrow I turn the big 4-0! (and Lena turns the big 5!!!)

As I sit here tonight - the night BEFORE my birthday, I'm wondering why turning 40 somehow causes you to take a serious look back over your life and think about all the stuff you've accomplished... and the stuff you haven't, or just can't seem to get right?? (I don't recall feeling this way when I turned 30).

I've never been one to make a "check list" of all the things I wanted to do in my lifetime. For example: graduate from college :: check, get married in my 20's :: check, buy a house with a white picket fence :: check, go for a ride in a hot-air balloon :: check... you get the idea. Yes, I've had goals, but never anything specific! More now than ever, I feel that I haven't made the most out of every moment. I do feel I am older and much wiser!! So, I guess I intend on making the next chapter of my life even better (how... I have no idea). Right now I need to keep reminding myself that "age is just a number".

Huh.... I never knew.....

2009-08-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

I never knew the "proper" way to peel a banana open until I saw this video. I usually struggle like this guy to get it started.... Velly Intellesting!!!!!!

Do you enjoy fresh squeezed lemonade??

2009-08-04T14:54:00.000-07:00

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT!!

Hello friends! Do you enjoy the fresh squeezed taste of lemonade, but HATE having to deal with squeezing tons of lemons to get just a few drops? If your answer is YES... then let me tell you about this wonderful product available at your local Costco store. Italian Volcano Lemon Juice!! This Lemon Juice by Dream Foods International is:
- 100% juice
- No preservatives
- USDA Organic
- Single-origin juice made form Sicilian lemons
- Not-from-concentrate
- Kosher

A 1-liter bottle of Italian Volcano® Lemon Juice equals the juice of 40 fresh lemons!

So, if you enjoy fresh squeezed lemonade, but hate the fuss and muss of squeezing lemons, then get your hands on a bottle of this stuff!! You'll never have to squeeze lemons again!

You're welcome!!

(p.s. There are a few other citrus flavors available by Dream Foods International - I have only tried the Lemon Juice.)

ORGANIC LEMONADE

1 part organic sugar

1 part Volcano Lemon Juice®

5 parts spring water

Combine sugar and lemon juice. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Add water and stir again until well mixed. Enjoy!

Laura's 26 ABC's

2009-08-01T18:42:00.000-07:00

I've seen this being done on other blogs, and I thought it would be a fun thing to do. If you want, cut and paste this into your blog, answer the questions, then leave me a comment letting me know you did it too.

A - Age: 39 (gulp)
B - Bed size: Queen
C - Chore you hate: Pulling Weeds
D - Dog's name: Lena
E - Essential start your day item: Shower
F - Favorite color: Purple

G - Gold or Silver: Silver

H - Height: 5'3"
I - Instruments you play: None
J - Job title: Accounting, Mom to my dog Lena & bird Caleb, daughter, sister and friend
K - Kid(s): None
L - Living arrangements: Home in Eastpointe, Michigan
M - Mom's name: Virginia (a.k.a. Ginny)
N - Nicknames: Lo, Lola, Flowie
O - Overnight hospital stay: Yes, several times growing up
P - Pet Peeve: Dirty House
Q - Quote from a movie: "You had me at hello" - Jerry McGuire

R - Right or left handed: Right Handed
S - Siblings: 1 brother
T - Time you wake up: 4:30 AM
U - Underwear: Yup
V - Vegetable you dislike: I love Veggies
W - Ways/Reasons you run late: I am never late
X - X-rays you've had: teeth and just about everywhere else at one time or another

Y - Yummy food you make: Szechuan Noodles with Pork
Z - Zoo animals you like: I just love ALL animals

Saturday afternoon with Mom

2009-07-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

Today my mom and I got to spend some fun time together. It didn't end up being as we had originally planned... but was fun all the same.

We started out headed toward a watch repair store by my house, but found it to be closed on Saturdays... which consequently threw the entire plan off. My watch that I LOVE broke a few weeks back, and rather than try to find a replacement, I thought I would get it repaired. I've had this watch for eons and HATE thinking of having to find a new one. Originally, depending on how much it would cost to repair my watch, my mom and I were going to head out to the dreaded MALL (ugh!!) to look around for a new one. She picked three up during the week, and although I really liked them, she felt it best that I look around to make sure there wasn't one that I would like BETTER! Well, the problem is that my mom L O V E S to shop... I H A T E to shop... well, for anything other than housewares.

So, since the watch shop was closed, we drove through a sub division and found an "ESTATE SALE". We decided to go in and take a look. Found NOTHING of interest. Next stop... The Salvation Army!! YIPPEE!! I love shopping at thrift stores.... its like digging for treasures! There we found a few nice tee-shirts, athletic running pants, and four really cute, small bowls for who knows what?!?!? This Salvation Army was really one of the better ones... everything was so neat and organized. Funny thing is... my mom H A T E S stores like that... and I totally L O V E stores like that! That's so funny to me....

So... on to the next stop... DINNER! Since we both LOVE Mediterranean food, we went to a little diner close to my house. We went all out... Hommus with Chicken, Kibee Nahyee, salad, garlic butter, cucumber with yogurt.... we STUNK to high heaven when we left... but it tasted SOOOO good!!! Unfortunately, we still needed to make one more stop - and after eating the garlic butter... I was feeling bad for whoever came into close contact with us! :-) My mom needed to run into the Bulk Food store to get some type of "salt-free" diet thing... and she came out with that, PLUS a few small bags of candy.... I KNOW! Go figure! (love you mom).

Radio Shack was the last stop. We wanted to run in to get adapters for our iPods to play in our cars. That was a quick in-n-out. My mom was so excited because she was able to get one for their older mini van that doesn't have an "Aux" connector. She was able to get an adapter that works from a tape player... VERY COOL!!! They think of everything! On our way back to my house, we both (literally at the same time) thought it would be cool to share and Iced Latte Mocha from Dunkin' Donuts... MMMMmmmm!! So, since I don't have a DD close to my house... we drove to one by her house, shared one as we drove back to my house. She decided it would be fun to take a little detour down memory lane. We went past a few of the homes that she lived in growing up. It's a fun thing to do, but also kinda depressing to see how BAD they look now... and how people just let them get run down... they use to be BEAUTIFUL homes. FINALLY, we made it back to my house!! Right after unloading the car, my mom took off. It's funny, because she went home, got my dad, and went back out to the mall!! She's really something!! Actually, my parents were made for each other... they BOTH love to shop - especially with each other!!

I had a GREAT afternoon Mom!!! Thanks for the memories!!!

This had me smiling all the way through...

2009-07-25T04:53:00.000-07:00

I've stood up in my fair share of weddings, and NEVER have we ever discussed entering like this (thank goodness... I don't think I could have done it). But seriously, how creative and cool!!

MacKenzie for the weekend

2009-07-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I had the PLEASURE of watching my niece, MacKenzie. What a good girl she is!! She helps my Lena guard the house while I sleep AND while I'm at work. MacKenzie is also the "Chief Yard Security Officer". Every morning and evening, she patrols the yard for critters of any sort. It's a tough job... but she doesn't seem to mind. All they ask for in return is BREAD!! They both LOVE their bread!!

I was able to snap a couple pictures of these two... what dolls!!

The Consequences of Feminism

2009-07-14T15:25:00.000-07:00

WOW! I had to listen to this audio clip by Voddie Baucham a few times. Such powerful information!! In my younger, more nieve years, I leaned heavily toward being a feminist. Although I still feel that women "can" do anything a man "can" do, I've learned through scripture the difference between what we "can" do, and what we "should" do. God has a purpose and an order to everything... and if we stray from His perfect way and order, things will without a doubt become blurry and extremely messed up. Years ago, humbling myself and my own will was not an easy pill to swallow. However, down the road... things work out so much better... and what makes understanding this truth even sweeter is knowing that our heavenly father is well pleased!!

"Then" by Brad Paisley

2009-07-08T15:01:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with this song by Brad Paisley the first time I heard it.This is the live version of "Then" that was played at the CMA's. Ahhh... just listen to the words (and look at the cutie).... this would make a nice wedding song!!!

Silver (passed away June 28th, 2009)

2009-06-29T15:52:00.000-07:00

It wasn't that long ago I had to post this about Harvey.

And then this about our little Megan.

Now, I have to post about our little Silver Boy. I found out today from the co-worker we gave Harvey & Silver to that Silver passed away yesterday afternoon. He lived to be about 18, which is a pretty good life for this type of bird. He was a sweet little bird, that enjoyed just sitting wherever you placed him. He learned to say a few words, but the best was when he called for his best buddy ~ Harvey. Silver was a special gift to my parents (mainly my mom) for their 25th wedding anniversary. Silver was a rare type of Cockatiel, who just happened to be super clumsy!! I don't think he EVER had a beautiful, full tail, and somehow he always seemed to have poop on him! Usually Harvey would sit on a top perch while Silver was at the bottom. His little feet never seemed to have much coordination or strength... but this little guy could scream with the best of them!! Although his last year wasn't spent with my family, we still feel the loss... just knowing we won't get any updates... or ever be able to hold him again... it's sad!!! :-(

Happy Birthday Dad!!

2009-06-25T03:08:00.000-07:00

Just wishing you a wonderful birthday, Dad!! Hope you just sit back and enjoy the day!!You (and mom) are always so willing to do for others!! I love you very much!

Happy Father's Day Dad!!! xoxo

2009-06-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

A Dad is a person
who is loving and kind,
And often he knows
what you have on your mind.
He's someone who listens,
suggests, and defends.
A dad can be one
of your very best friends!
He's proud of your triumphs,
but when things go wrong,
A dad can be patient
and helpful and strong.
In all that you do,
a dad's love plays a part.
There's always a place for him
deep in your heart.
And each year that passes,
you're even more glad,
more grateful and proud
just to call him your dad!
Thank you, Dad...
for listening and caring,
for giving and sharing,
but, especially, for just being you!
Happy Father's Day

June Celebrations!

2009-06-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

My family has three major celebrations in June... all relatively close to each other. My brother Mark's b-day, Father's Day, and my dad's b-day. We usually decide one Saturday in June to celebrate all three. This was yesterday for us - and it was a beautiful day! I get to see my parents all the time, but Mark lives a bit further away, so it was WONDERFUL seeing him again. I enjoy his company and really miss not living closer to him!! He and I have always been close, and I believe help to keep each other "grounded".

I wish I thought to take a few more pictures than I did, but the ones I did take are like a little story. I couldn't seem to get one good picture where both my dad and brother were smiling at the same time, and then my camera was lagging... so, needless to say I took several in a row.... laughing so hard, tears were streaming down my face (which made taking a picture even harder). They were kind enough to let me snap one after the other... but even they became slap-happy! It was too funny... so, to best illustrate the moment, I created this little filmstrip of the pictures taken.
(if you click on the picture, it should open up full size - to better appreciate the facial expressions)

Pulling Weeds (part 1)

2009-06-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

Let me start this post with the "END RESULT" picture. Maybe by doing this, you will better see all the hard work we put into cleaning the front yard of the office I work at.
Last Friday the girls in my accounting department at work were "hired" to pull weeds in the front yard of our office. Usually, they hire a crew to take care of all that, but to help save $$$, the company decided to ask us girls if we would be interested in that job for CA$H. We all agreed, and the four of us threw on our grubbies and headed out front. OH-MY-GOSH!!! I have NEVER seen (or pulled) so many weeds in my life. There were weeds taller than me - and I'm 5'2". I took some before and after shots to show off all the hard. It took the four of us from noon, till 3:30 to get it all cleaned out. We worked NON-STOP to get that job done... and I was BEAT by the time I got home. Thankfully, my knees didn't suffer any pains!! Here are the pictures.

This first one shows some of the weeds that had grown along the front brick wall. The wall actually has beautiful Day Lilies that line it (which you will see in the after pictures). Below this picture is showing how LONG that brick wall actually is....
These shots below were taken from standing right outside our front door. The weeds were so bad that you can't tell that we had Tulips growing.

Now, maybe the Day Lilies actually have a chance to grow and bloom!!! (you can actually SEE them now) These "after" shots were taken from inside my car... on my way HOME!!!Our tree actually looks like a tree now...

And we can actually see out of our kitchen window. We had to leave one of the bushes alone because there was a nest with tiny little baby birds. In a few weeks, when the nest has cleared, we plan on going back and trimming it like the others.All in a days work...
Stay tuned for more "Small Jobs for CA$H" posts in the future!! :-)

Tuesday Night Dinner and a Study

2009-06-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night has become one of my favorite nights. Why you ask?? Well, two reasons, one is because I know I will be getting a GREAT home-cooked meal, and the other is because I open my home to a small bible study that provides the dinner (and dessert). We alternate weeks for cooking, and let me tell you... the menu has been out of this world good. We've all started to become a little (no scratch that) a LOT more health conscience, and try to find new recipes (or improve old ones) to bring to the table. Here is one from two weeks ago. I found the recipe in a Taste of Home magazine, and asked my parents if we could make it. Between both of us, we had all the ingredients... and it was a BIG HIT! The dinner was: Grilled Tilapia with Pineapple Salsa, Sweet Potato Fries, brown rice, green peas, and fresh out of the oven rolls.
For dessert, my mom made (from scratch) a Strawberry-Rhubarb pie, and it was to die for!! The Rhubarb was fresh from my friends yard, and we topped it with French Vanilla ice cream.

So, as you can see... Tuesday nights are filled with good food, good friends, and good conversations!

Chicken Tortilla Soup

2009-06-21T09:25:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago I decided to make one of my favorite soups... Chicken Tortilla Soup. I posted the recipe below the picture of ingredients.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

1 tsp Olive Oil
1 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast (about 10 ounces)
1 cup whole kernel corn, frozen or canned
1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper or 1 Tbls chopped seeded Jalapeno Pepper
1 tsp ground Cumin
1 tsp Worchestshire Sauce
1/2 tsp Chili Powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans no sodium (or low sodium) chicken broth
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can crushed tomato
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can Healthy Request (or Progresso) Tomato Soup
1 pkg corn tortillas or tostada shells

Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; saute 2 minutes or until tender. Stir in chicken and next 9 ingredients (chicken through tomato soup); bring to a boil. Cut or break 4 tortillas into pieces and add to soup. Reduce heat and simmer at least 1 hour. Ladle soup into bowls and top with additional tortilla pieces and a tablespoon of sour cream if desired.

Happy Birthday Mark!!!

2009-06-16T04:55:00.001-07:00

Hope your day is EXTRA special!

I love you!!!

Broken Computer :-(

2009-06-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

Ugh! Being without a computer is the worst!! Last weekend my computer decided to stop working - out of the clear blue, without any warning. At first I thought my monitor just went, but after buying a new one and hooking it up.... still nothing! I've contacted my friends "computer geek" nephew to check things out. We're thinking maybe my graphics card is shot... but not sure. I'm really hoping it's a simple fix. I've had my computer for 6 years, and never once have had any problems with it. Sure hope it didn't catch the SWINE FLU!!

Princess Lena

2009-05-26T04:25:00.000-07:00

We all have one...(or two... or three)

2009-05-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had a few goals I wanted to accomplish. I won't list them all (because I don't want to feel like a LOOOSER), but one in particular was to CLEAN OUT just one of my spare bedroom closets (but do it in a way that would NOT disrupt every other room in the house - I didn't want to spend my last long weekend day organizing every room). Oh sure, doesn't seem all that difficult... but when it's the "closet from hell", it's a big job! This closet is centrally located to both my kitchen, and my computer room (a.k.a. Caleb's Room), so as you can imagine, it catches EVERYTHING!!!. It's true that I am only one person, and one would ask oneself, how can one person have so much "stuff"? I DON'T KNOW THE ANSWER!!! (phew... that felt good)

Ok, so as to better "motivate" myself, I snapped some "before" pictures a few days prior to my big day. I just opened the door and snapped!!... YIKES!! I was glad nothing fell out at me.

Here are the pictures - feel free to click on the pictures... they will expand to a larger, more detailed picture:

Before / After TOP

Before / After BOTTOM

I feel so glad that task is over... I actually ended up "killing two birds with one stone" - sorry Caleb. One of the other "goals" I had was to also better organize and clean out my kitchen cabinets. As you can see, this closet now holds ALL of my can goods. (well, almost all of them). There is still like 50 more cans of Jellied Cranberries (tucked neatly in the BACK of my kitchen cabinet) my parents got a good sale on, and wanted to share the deal with me. I do have 8 cans neatly placed against the wall in the closet... you just can't see them. :-) (gotta love SALES - and Jellied Cranberries)

Mom's Famous Garlic Chip Dip

2009-05-25T09:33:00.000-07:00

Last night I decided to treat myself to a recipe my mom taught me growing up... GARLIC Chip Dip. When I was growing up, and living at home, my dad would CRINGE when my mom asked me if I wanted some dip!!! Oh, he enjoys garlic... cooked in food... but NOTHING like this dip!! I added the DANGER to the picture for you dad. :-)

It's simple to make, but I warn you... it's NOT for the faint of heart!!

Of course, as with any recipe, you can decide how strong you want to make it (we LOVE it garlicy)... or if you make it toooo garlicy, you can add more milk to tone it down. The recipe is below.

ENJOY!!!

Garlic Chip Dip (best on Waves chips)

1 pkg Cream Cheese

Couple cloves of garlic
(you decide how many you like... I start off with 4 large cloves)

Paprika

Garlic Salt

1/4 cup milk (you can always add more)

Put the cream cheese in a bowl, and add your minced garlic, Paprika (just a few shakes), a little shake of garlic salt, and milk. With an electric mixer, mix all the ingredients together. If your dip is still too thick, add more milk (slowly) till it reaches the consistency you like best. Taste test to see if you need more garlic. If you do, mince another clove and mix well, if you want to tame the garlic flavor down, add a little more milk.

That's all there is to it. Very simple, and VERY tasty treat for all you garlic lovers out there.

Lena and I LOVE lazy days.........

2009-05-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

My day never begins like this... I wake up with the BEST of intentions... rip-roaring, and ready to take on projects. Then, something happens (I don't know what), and Lena and I end up doing this........but I keep telling myself... the day isn't over yet!!!

Happy 90th Birthday Grandma... Sure miss you!!

2009-05-23T19:25:00.000-07:00

Just remembering my wonderful Grandmother (Ada) on what would have been her 90th birthday! She was such a wonderful lady. She totally enjoyed having a beer while listening to the Detroit Tigers on the radio. She loved to play catch with my brother, work puzzles, cook and clean. She was a tom-boy at heart for most of her life... but as she became older, she let her feminine side show through. Maybe because she had a daughter and grand-daughter who loved to do hair, nails and makeup. She was a simple lady who didn't require much... but always gave as much as she could. Her treats to me and my brother were as simple as a pack of gum... but that's what made her special! You were the BEST Grandma, and will forever be in our hearts!

Szechuan Noodles with Pork

2009-05-23T18:38:00.000-07:00

I decided to cook a meal for myself today. A friend gave me this recipe a few weeks ago. The first time I tried to make it, I had to substitute a couple ingredients since I didn't have them in my pantry (I used chicken rather than pork, and water rather than chicken broth). It turned out so-so. But TODAY, I had all the proper ingredients... YUM-OH!! I posted the recipe below. If you try it, come back and let me know what you think!!

Szechuan Noodles with Pork

12 oz linguine
1 cup NO SODIUM chicken broth
2 Tbsp low sodium Soy Sauce
12 oz ground pork
1/4 tsp rounded - red pepper flakes (or cyan pepper)
6 scallions, cut in 1" pieces
1 large carrot, shredded (I use my food processor)
1 Tbsp each minced garlic and fresh ginger
1 Tbsp creamy peanut butter

Cook linguine as package directs. (but save some of the pasta water for later in the recipe if needed)

Stir together broth and soy sauce in measuring cup.

Heat large skillet over medium/high heat. Add ground pork and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking up pork, until no longer pink. Add scallions, carrot, garlic and ginger; cook another 3 minutes.

Stir broth mixture and peanut butter in pork. Cook until peanut butter is melted and blended.

Reserve some pasta water. Drain linguine, add to skillet and toss to coat with sauce. (stir in pasta water if needed to keep creamy)

* to heat leftovers, add a little more peanut butter and water

**I like it spicy so sometimes you can add a little hot chili sauce.

Italian Sausage & Peppers

2009-05-23T18:04:00.000-07:00

It's always a good thing when you can cook a good meal at home, and share it with a friend.

On Friday, Jeff came over after work and brought over all the ingredients for his famous "Italian Sausage & Peppers". This meal turned out wonderful!! I could eat this till I got sick!

We had red, yellow, and orange peppers, onions, grape tomatoes, and garlic. Then I browned the sausage, and cut it up into bite size pieces. Toss them into the peppers mix, let the juices start to say HELLO to each other... then toss in the pasta. This time, Jeff picked up a more "healthy" type of pasta. Whole wheat egg noodles that were gluten free. Surprisingly, they tasted really good. When it comes to pasta... I'm pretty fussy!!

For dessert, I went out earlier to Walgreen's to get their BOGO free deal on Breyer's ice cream. We decided on Mint Chocolate Chip, and Butter Pecan. Oh-my-gosh... the Mint Chocolate Chip made my mouth happy!!! I didn't even try the Butter Pecan... even Jeff was smiling with the Mint!!

Look what you missed... yummm!

2009-05-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

Oh-my-gosh... you guys missed THE BEST dessert this side of Detroit!!

(You know who you are...)

My dad whipped up a wonderful dessert for our meeting night. Lemon pudding, Redi Whip, and fresh cut strawberries!! Simple, but to DIE for!!

I heart Craig...

2009-05-16T18:39:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love Craig??
He's got the BEST list around everyones town!!

My parents have had THEE BEST luck selling LARGE items on Craigs List. They were a little hesitant at first, but now seek out things to $ell. Oh sure, there will always be the occasional "deadbeat" emails from people who seem to be really interested, then give a bad phone number, never return your emails or let you know they changed their mind... whatever. But for every "deadbeat", there are tons of great people that email you right away (very interested), wanting the item, and schedule a pickup right away - and to those great people we say:

THANK YOU!!!!

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!!

2009-05-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

I could start my list of "The Top 100 Reasons Why I Love My Mom"... but then I risk leaving some very important ones out. Ultimately, it all boils down to this reason... She's the perfect mother for me (and my brother) because God made her ours. God knew that SHE would be THEE BEST for all the struggles we've been through. My brother and I could NOT have asked for anyone more suited to love US the way we need to be loved... (even though she would disagree at times). I love you Mom!

Happy Mother's Day (a day early)!!! xoxo

Swine Flu Prevention Tip

2009-05-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

Don't DO this!!!

Online Color Challenge

2009-05-02T16:53:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun little test to see how you do with color hues.
FACT: 1 out of 255 women and 1 out of 12 men have some form of color vision deficiency.
Click here ~ ~ > to take the online color challenge, based on the official FM100 Hue Test by X-Rite.

Drag and drop the colors in each row to arrange them by hue order.

The first and last color chips are fixed. Click on "Score Test" when done.

I scored a 24.... how well did you do??

Happy Birthday Kathy!!

2009-04-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

We had another birthday celebration at work Friday. The cake we had for her was BEAUTIFUL beyond words!!! You need to check it out! BTW... can you guess from the pictures what her "Theme" was this year??

Completely out of hand....

2009-04-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

This type of thing is so super disturbing to me, that I literally have to remove myself from all the "news" about it. I truly believe that each person has the right to feel or believe how they choose. If that differs in some way from how another person feels or believes - no big deal, right?!?!? Neither side is necessarily wrong- so LET IT GO!! What Perez Hilton is doing and saying IS becoming "offensive"!!! His words and actions are so hurtful and ugly, that NOBODY should have any "Tolerance" for this!! Miss California simply made a statement as to how SHE believed... we should be applauding her for her honesty, and encourage others to not compromise their feelings or beliefs, whatever the situation. Should she be chastised so brutally simply because she believes it should be one man and one women for life?? I think not! SHE HAS THAT FREEDOM... but for how much longer is the real question!?!?!?

And one final thought...
Is she making a big stink that an openly gay man is on the judges panel? I'm just askin'...

Happy 8th Birthday Drew... xoxoxo

2009-04-14T02:24:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to wish you a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Hope your day was extra fun!!!

Twitter is so yesterday..... Welcome: Flutter

2009-04-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

(hee hee hee..... toooo funny!! Honestly though... what's this world coming too?!?!?)

Happy 11th Birthday Jordyn xoxo

2009-04-03T19:26:00.000-07:00

Just wanting to wish you a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!
Hope you have a wonderful day!!

What I've been up to....

2009-03-27T16:41:00.000-07:00

Things have become pretty darn S L O W at work lately... Oh, I know... it's not just where I work... but everywhere. Not only has it just slowed down, but almost (at times) come to a screeching halt. I work in the steel industry, and YIKES! It's darn bad. Beginning of the year, we had an across the board 3% pay cut, along with our health insurance became one of those newer "High Deductible" plans. For a single person, the first $3000 has to come out of YOUR pocket... oh, but wait, only AFTER you pay that, you will have coverage at 100% (for the balance of that year... then it will start all over). Thankfully, they decided to offer us an HSA Plan (Health Savings Account) that allows us to put $$$ into an account (pre-taxed) for any medical expenses we may incur. NOW, to help reduce costs at our 3 plants, instead of laying more people off (which could begin happening again after Easter), they decided to actually CLOSE on certain days. We have the option to either take them as "unpaid" days, or begin to burn through our vacation time. HEAVEN FORBID they decide to close down for a week or two this summer (like they've been talking about). I don't know how I can go that long without a pay check. ALL that to say this....

What I've been up to lately...
I've been given the task (that I THANKFULLY accepted) of selling items on eBay. My Godmother is a recently retired Christian Pastoral Counselor, who had a HUGE library full of various types of reference materials... books, cd's, VHS's, bibles... etc. She "hired" me to research and SELL on eBay. I really enjoy this type of thing... Hey, every little bit helps!!!

A Pet's 10 Commandments * * Read with caution...(and a tissue)

2009-03-26T15:17:00.000-07:00

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up for punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I only have you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I chose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I may have been in the sun too long, or my heart may be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

* * Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them!! * *

Another puzzle FINISHED...

2009-03-21T16:28:00.000-07:00

Officially Trained...

2009-03-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

Today was an unusual day at work. I went in, like normal, wondering how I could spread my work out to fill up 8 hours (yup, thats become "norm" for me lately). Shortly after starting up my computer, my boss sent around an email, asking if anyone in her department would be interested in taking a CPR/First Aid class today. It was scheduled to run from 8 A.M. to 2:30 P.M. I, of course, was interested. Not so much because my job is extremely S L O W right now, but because the last time I was trained in CPR was in 8th grade. Only me and one other person was interested in taking the class... and although I was going to suggest drawing for it, my co-worker insisted that I go. So, I went. How FUN it was to stimulate my brain with "out of the norm information"... and something that I have always had an interest in learning again. Not only did we learn CPR on "Annie", but also Standard First Aid. The hardest part of the class was actually getting down on a hard cement floor, and performing CPR for 5 minutes. If you know anything about me... getting down on my knees is one thing I dread the most. I really wanted to do this without causing any more distraction than I already did... HELLO, only female in this all male class... I'm sure you can imagine the comments now and then... all in fun. I just prayed that I could do this up/down, up/down without much pain or discomfort. PRAYER was first and foremost... then actually listening and doing. Needless to say, it all worked out. I had a partner that I am extremely comfortable with, and am proud to say I "ACED" the course with two 100% on the tests. All-in-all, it was a pretty good day!!!

RE-connecting on "Facebook"... how fun!

2009-03-14T14:21:00.001-07:00

FACEBOOK - ever heard of it?? Who hasn't, right?? Well, about two weeks ago I decided to check it out. How fun it was/is to look up friends from my "younger" years. I tend to be a pretty private person, and have no intentions on making a ton of NEW friends from my past... but, the thought of reconnecting with a few of the older ones, ones that you somehow loose contact with - but aren't sure why... makes being listed on Facebook well worth it. I was able to locate a great friend I met in junior high that took me to his prom. WOW! Life really took him all over, but has ended up doing very well for himself (and his wife and 4 kids). That's the kind of stuff I was hoping to hear when I signed up. Re-connecting leaves me feeling a bit sentimental, and at the same time.... still wondering when's my story gonna start (or finish)... oh well, I still trust that God has a plan for me... whatever that may be. :-)

Inconvenient Debt - Glenn Beck

2009-03-04T02:17:00.000-08:00

The amount of U.S. dollars in circulation is skyrocketing. What does it mean for you? Watch then share this video!

Now this is true friendship... check it out!!!

2009-02-23T14:13:00.000-08:00

Talk about tugging at the heart strings.... Oh-my-goodness, I just LOVE this story!!!

Happy Birthday Becky!!!

2009-02-21T12:38:00.000-08:00

Miss you, and wish you were here!!
Hope you are having a wonderful day!!

Valentine's Day treats...

2009-02-21T10:35:00.000-08:00

If you have kept up with any of my older posts... you will see that my boss does EXTRA SPECIAL things for her team members. Every "holiday" she has special games with prizes, or gifts for us all to enjoy. This Valentines Day was no different. She packed a Valentine lunch bag full of goodies - each bag having a little something different inside. First, she had us all pick the first one, NOT open them, and then swap bags as we wanted all morning. Then, at lunch, we stopped swapping, and opened them. Here is a picture of what was in my bag. There were cute socks, Andes mints, a gift card to Target, and a FULL SIZE BAG of M & M's peanut... (that was the biggest thrill for me... cuz I never buy a bag for myself). She also gave each of us two long stem candy roses (suckers). So, although I didn't have a "special Valentine" to share my day with... my day was still fun!!

Ranchers Dinner recipe

2009-02-21T10:20:00.000-08:00

This recipe has been a favorite of mine since I was very young. It's super simple, and pretty quick to make. Here is my mom's recipe...

Ranchers Dinner

1 pkg Deluxe Macaroni & Cheese
1 lb Pork Smoke Sausage Links - browned
2 tbs Margarine
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 10 oz can Tomatoes, drained
1 cup sour cream (reduced fat is fine)
1/2 tsp salt
dash of pepper

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare Mac & Cheese (as posted on the box). Brown the sausage links with the butter and chopped onion. In a bowl, combine the mac & cheese, tomatoes and sour cream. Stir well. Add salt and a dash of pepper. Place ingredients in a baking dish (9 x 13 works great), and then top it off with the sausage and onion mixture. Bake in oven for 30 - 40 minutes.

ENJOY!!!

The SNOW STORM....

2009-02-20T15:06:00.000-08:00

One winter morning a husband and wife in Michigan were listening to the radio during breakfast. They heard the announcer say, "We are going to have 8 to 10 inches of snow today. You must park your car on the even-numbered side of the street, so the Snowplows can get through." So the good wife went out and moved her car. A week later while they are eating breakfast again, the radio announcer said, "We are expecting 10 to12 inches of snow today. You must park your car on the odd-numbered side of the street, so the snowplows can get through." The good wife went out and moved her car again. The next week they are again having breakfast, when the radio announcer says, "We are expecting 12 to 14 inches of snow today. You must park...." Then the electric power went out. The good wife was very upset, and with a worried look on her face she said, "Honey, I don't know what to do. Which side of the street do I need to park on so the snowplows can get through?" With the love and understanding in his voice that all men who are married to blondes exhibit, the husband replied, "Why don't you just leave it in the garage this time."

Shaq's got some smooth moves...

2009-02-16T02:43:00.000-08:00

As part of the introductions for this years All-Star Game was this short dance routine... the masks are a little scary, but still... some smooth moves!!! (he looks like a giant next to all the others!!)

Happy 104th Birthday Grandpa!!

2009-02-14T17:12:00.000-08:00

To the world, today is Valentine's Day... but to my family (especially my mom)... it's more than that. Today would have been her father's 104th birthday!! WOW! 104 years old. I never got the chance to know my Grandpa... he died just one month before I was born. He sounded like quite the man... somewhat of a dare-devil. I know I would have loved him... and him ME!!

Happy Birthday to YOU!

2009-02-10T02:33:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to wish you a
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Jeffrey!!

I remember getting "HAPPY GAS"

2009-02-06T14:05:00.000-08:00

This short video is so cute!!! I remember the days of getting "Happy Gas" at the dentist office.... I LOVED that stuff. This little boys expressions are priceless!! So tell me... does your dentist still give you "Happy Gas"??? ENJOY!!

It's a wash...... DARN!!!

2009-02-04T15:37:00.000-08:00

How sad is it when you receive an unexpected check in the mail - on the same day you accidentally put a little tear in your somewhat expensive $50 pants from Eddie Bauer?? Oh, and not OLD Eddie Bauer pants (no, no, NO)... ones I just took tags off in mid December!!! So, the check I just today received in the mail... will now be CA$HED, and sent directly to the credit card company!! Oh, it was going to find its way there anyways... just NOT on a "new purchase".... ARRRGG!!

HOWEVER...

Thankfully... the check DID come today, on the same day I tore my pants. THANKS GOD... you know exactly what I need every day!!!

Something I dreaded ever having to do...

2009-01-29T02:24:00.000-08:00

I do my fair share of buying used items on both eBay and Amazon.com. I have never, ever had to leave anything other than 5 stars for a seller... and dreaded the feeling of ever having to do that. I am always very careful to read the descriptions, and thankfully, have only had to contact the seller once (maybe twice) about a problem. The sellers have always been more than willing to correct the problem, or issue a full refund, without making me send the item back - on my dime.

My luck gave out the other day. I've been buying the series CSI: Las Vegas used on Amazon.com. ALL of the seasons have been arriving in MINT (like new) condition. So far I have all 6 seasons, but when season 5 arrived, the bubble envelope was a little damaged, and it sounded like broken glass pieces inside. I decided to write the seller a nice little email, telling them what happened, and asking if there was anything they could offer to correct the problem. I mentioned that I didn't necessarily want to return the DVDs, but if that was their policy on damaged items, then I would. They informed me that they have NO RETURN POLICY, and they were sorry that the post office damaged my goods. My understanding of selling on Amazon.com is that there is no option of buying insurance, and the rate to ship items is pre-determined by Amazon.com. It's up to the seller to make sure the item(s) arrive safe, and package them properly.

So, needless to say, I had to leave less than 5 stars as feedback. I feel my comment was very fair, informative to the next buyer that checks feedback, and still friendly. It still stunk having to do that to a new seller... they were at 100%, and now at 75% because of me. Arrgh!!!!

Random shots of my KIDS...

2009-01-25T14:10:00.000-08:00

Here are just some random shots of my two kids... Lena & Caleb.
Caleb was enjoying some of the egg noodles the day I made the Pizza Noodles. I LOVE how he eats with his hands (talons)... just the coolest!

ENJOY!!

Pizza Noodles

2009-01-25T13:20:00.000-08:00

I totally enjoy looking at other blogs that deal with food. They post BEAUTIFUL pictures of unbelievable foods they make... on what seems like a DAILY basis. They seem to LOVE finding & trying new recipes. I, on the other hand, LOVE good, easy recipes... that I make over, and over, and over. Oh sure, maybe if I had a family (or even a husband) to cook for, I may enjoy mixing it up a little more than I do. But, since its just me... I stick to the basics.

Here is a little dish that my mom use to whip up when I was a kid. It's SUPER EASY, and tastes SUPER good. Not a lot of ingredients (shown above)... I love that.

Pizza Noodles

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (saute)
1/2 medium onion (saute)
2/3 teaspoon Oregano
1 teaspoon of salt & pepper
2/3 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
1 can Campbells Tomato Soup
1 can water
1 can tomato puree
1 pkg grated Mozzarella Cheese
1 pkg Egg Noodles (wide)

Saute beef and onion (chopped fine). Add other ingredients. Pour over raw egg noodles in a cake pan (I use a 9 x 13 pan). Stir and bake at 350 for 20 minutes. Add grated mozzarella cheese over the top, and bake until brown (about another 30 minutes)

I enjoy it as listed above, but I found that others that make this recipe add mushrooms and pepperoni.

GREAT advice from the Bush daughters...

2009-01-24T14:00:00.000-08:00

The #1 song the day you were born??

2009-01-21T02:29:00.001-08:00

Ever wonder what the #1 song was on the day you were born? Well, wonder no more! Check out this site to find out what it was.

The #1 song for August 26, 19xx was: Honkey Tonk Women by The Rolling Stones.

What scripture kicks you in the butt everytime you read it??

2009-01-17T10:42:00.000-08:00

For as long as I can remember, there has always been one particular scripture that shakes me & wakes me EVERY time I read it... taken from the King James Version:

Is there a scripture verse that does that to you??

Are you ready for hard times??

2009-01-17T08:04:00.000-08:00

My mom sent me a link to a 4 minute Paul Washer sermon clip that really makes you stop and think... are YOU really ready? We are living in some hard times, and the Bible tells us things will only get harder. I seem to shake my head more and more as I listen to current events from around the world. I constantly need to remind myself that my reward will come one day in heaven... I DO NOT need to seek the "approval" of men here on earth (because I certainly won't find it). I NEED to study His word, seek His face, and know His will to get me through the daily grind. Click anywhere in this blog entry to take 4 minutes and listen to this very sobering prophetic warning from Paul Washer. (it will take you to SermonAudio.com where you will need to click the "PLAY" button to listen)

Commercial FREE television...

2009-01-16T19:18:00.001-08:00

I don't seem to find many shows on television that I can really get into. However, there are a few that I do enjoy, but they usually are on at the same time on the same night, or come on past my bedtime!! A few years ago I discovered how completely GREAT it was to watch entire seasons of TV shows on DVD. WOW... show after show, commercial FREE... ya gotta love it! Right now I am totally diggin' CSI: Las Vegas (just started season 4), and lovin' LOST (into season 2 thanks to a super friend loaning me her DVDs). A few others that I have watched this way are "The Gilmore Girls", "House", "Smallville", "The Office", "The King of Queens"... to name a few. I typically buy them used on Amazon.com for a ton less than at the store... and when finished watching and sharing, turn them right back into $$$$ by selling them on eBay. What shows do you enjoy??

Playing with "Snagit"

2009-01-15T16:00:00.000-08:00

I've often wondered how people could take actual snap shots of computer screens and email them, or post them to blogs. I've received a few emails from my brother with these screen shots... but never new what software he used to capture those images. So, of course I decided to look for it on the internet. Presto! I found it... a free 30 day trial of Snagit. Anyways, I didn't really know what to use as my first "snag", so I decided to post a snapshot of the local weather. It's been SUPER cold here lately... So, here it is... my first experimental snapshot off a web site. This software looks pretty cool (no pun intended)!

Just another day... "24"

2009-01-09T19:46:00.000-08:00

The new season of "24" starts this Sunday @ 8:00 pm on FOX. It's a two hour, two night premier.
Here are some "fun facts" about Jack Bauer...

It takes you 24 weeks just to watch what Jack Bauer does in a single day.
Most people would need months to recover from 20 months of Chinese interrogation. Jack Bauer only needs a shower, a shave and a change of clothes.
Some people see the glass as half full. Others see it as half empty. Jack Bauer sees the glass as a deadly weapon.
Passed out, surrounded by terrorists and nerve gas, and handcuffed to a table leg, Jack Bauer laughed to himself and said, "I have them right where I want them."

Are ALL dads like this?? (mine is... and I can't imagine him any other way)

2008-12-31T10:07:00.000-08:00

So, here's the scenario... my brother and I are over our parents house Christmas day. We just finished eating our dinner, opened presents, and now it was time to clean the kitchen. Per the usual "Labby" way... nothing is ever easy. My mom pulls the sink plug out, and to our complete surprise... water comes GUSHING out under the sink. (totally gross). Thankfully, that was a fairly simple fix for dad! However, a few days later, there is more water under the sink. Come to find out, there is a pipe with small pin holes.

Over the years, my dad has begun a process of documenting EVERYTHING by taking pictures, and, if need be, Power Pointing for better illustration. But, this picture documentation is not only done at his house, he does this for me and my brother. It can be anything from a new landscaping project (before and after pics), to a full out bathroom remodel. The cool part (and funny part) is that he then emails both me and my brother the pictures... to keep the family in the loop. I'll bet you could never guess that my dad was an Automotive Engineer ALL HIS LIFE!! =)

Here is just one more illustration of my dad's handy work... a small fence behind my shed needed to be completely taken down, and a new one put up. He did a super job on the fence... SEE!! =) Front AND back views... I LOVE MY DAD!!!!!!!!!!!

Behind the scenes of "Marley & Me", and his newest "celebrity" puppy, Woodson

2008-12-29T06:33:00.000-08:00

First I blogged about reading this GREAT book. Then I blogged about the book becoming a movie (which I haven't seen yet). NOW, I want to blog about John Grogan and his blog. On his blog you will find pictures of his family with Jennifer Aniston, Owen Wilson, and others from the big premier in Los Angeles. BUT, there is one story that once AGAIN touched my heart. It's a brief article he wrote for USA WEEKEND telling of his new "celebrity" puppy Woodson, and his little secret.
Click here to check it out....

Great Christmas 2008!!

2008-12-26T15:08:00.000-08:00

I just have to post a couple "amazing" gifts I received this year. My brother Mark gave me a beautiful NEW Sony Cyber-Shot in RED (exactly what I asked for - and used to take all these pictures), and my parents all the needed accessories. I'm so excited because I have been needing to get a smaller, more advanced digital camera than the Olympus hand-me-down that my dad bought when digital cameras first came out (it was top of the line way back then...). I've been wanting to try my hand at little movies to post on my blog, and also have a camera handy at work or play. So... YEA for this gift. Thanks Mark, mom and dad... I LOVE it!! Another gift that I received that was so creative and thoughtful was a gift that my boss gave all the girls in her department. If you follow my blog at all, you may have noticed that she LOVES to shop, and is all about "Themes" when giving gifts! This year, along with a beautiful gift bag full of kitchen goodies such as spices, spatula, Sonoma hot pad, gingerbread shaped pasta, a bottle of olive oil, flour sack kitchen towels, socks, an ornament bottle of Coke, and a gift card to The Olive Garden... she made - by hand - for all four of us girls a personalized scrapbook, and filled each page with gift cards to various places around town (each girls book was designed different). I HAD to take some pictures and post them here.... she is one AMAZING boss!!!! The time, money and talent she has for gift giving is beyond words... check it out. This first picture was of the "Scrapbook Purse" that the scrapbook was placed in... (how cute)

Merry Christmas - "family photo" from 1976!!

2008-12-25T06:06:00.000-08:00

For many, many years my family attended a "Sportsmans Club Christmas Dinner" at our church. I remember always being super excited because Santa was going to be there... but you see, I had a secret that I HAD to keep from all the other kids... including my little brother Mark... My DAD was SANTA!!! I felt so "adult" knowing this secret, but I still needed to play along with all the other kids! I remember one time being able to help my dad get dressed into the Santa suit, and then hurry back with my mom to the dinner. Then, we would usually get to be the first up to see "Santa". Here is a photo of that... I think it's such a cute "Family Photo"!!!

Here is a YouTube video that you will need a tissue for (I cry every time I see it). My friend Sonya sent this to me last night... and I just needed to post it here! Listen to her voice when she realizes that here daddy was really there!! Check it out!

Merry Christmas Eve!!!

2008-12-24T10:41:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday JoAnna!

2008-12-18T13:49:00.001-08:00

We celebrated JoAnnas birthday today at work. Her theme this year was "Laundry".
She got a laundry bag FULL of various items. There was laundry soap, dryer sheets, a T-shirt, towels, note cards, magnet, soap... EVERYTHING had to do with "Laundry". It's always fun to see what our boss (Sue) comes up with!!! I hope you had a fun, relaxing day today!!!

Ever hear of "Munchausen by Proxy"?

2008-12-06T06:56:00.000-08:00

I never heard of Munchausen by Proxy until I found this memior - SICKENED by Julie Gregory.

Munchausen by Proxy is when a caretaker (often a mother) will keep his/her child sick or try to prove to others that the child is sick to gain attention for themselves. I couldn't believe that something like this actually existed. How could someone do this to their child? Unfortunately many cases simply go unnoticed because of how easy it is to hide.

Julie Gregory was abused as a child. She was abused in one of the most undiscussed ways a child can be violated. Julie was the victim of her mother's mental illness. Her mother suffered from Munchausen By Proxy Syndrome.

Julie's mother, Sandy, would feed 3-year-old Julie books of matches and tell her they were lollipops. She would give Julie pills that caused blinding migraines, all the while, taking Julie from doctor to doctor insisting Julie was seriously ill. At the height of her illness, her mother (Sandy) was trying to have open-heart surgery performed on 12-year-old Julie. And when Julie tried to tell a nurse and her school friends what was happening, no one believed her. (the stories of abuse go on and on, but I don't want to give everything away in this post... )

Julie and her brother also endured physical abuse. They were beaten and Julie was constantly starved to make her appear ill. "Sickened" is Julie's heartbreaking, but uplifting story.

Friends are friends forever.....

2008-11-30T06:33:00.001-08:00

This past Monday I had the chance to catch up with my girlfriend Becky (Erin) who just over a year ago got married and moved to New Mexico. (see My Best Friends Wedding post)

My parents came over and brought dinner... homemade Sloppy Joes!! It's always fun getting caught up with Becky... she loves to bring "show-and-tell" items. She has so much going on in her life... a husband, 5 puppies, and two jobs. I don't know how she does it... but she does.

Can't wait until you and Bill FINALLY decide to move back to Michigan!!!! New Mexico is just so farrrr away!! =(

"Marley & Me" and "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas"

2008-11-27T05:44:00.000-08:00

Dog lovers will agree... the book "Marley & Me" was LAUGH OUT LOUD funny!! The heartwarming and unforgettable story of a family in the making and the wondrously neurotic dog who taught them what really matters in life. It's finally hitting the big screen, and I can't wait!!

Here is another book turned movie that is getting GREAT reviews. I've wanted to read the book for some time, but just never order it (used of course). Check out the trailer!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-26T19:47:00.001-08:00

Christmas Survey: Would you rather...

2008-11-23T08:12:00.000-08:00

Quizzes by Quibblo.com

Thanksgiving.... T-bone style!!

2008-11-22T11:17:00.000-08:00

A VERY good friend of mine (Jeff) sent this joke to me the other day and I just HAD to post here. Anyone who knows me knows I do NOT take the subject of this joke lightly... however, I do have a rather great sense of humor... thanks to my dad!!!! I can TOTALLY hear my dad in this joke... and so can others who know him.....

A man in Phoenix calls his son in New York two days before Thanksgiving and says, 'I hate to ruin your day, but I have to tell you that your mother and I are divorcing; forty-five years of misery is enough. 'Pop, what are you talking about?' the son screams.

We can't stand the sight of each other any longer,' the father says. 'We're sick of each other, and I'm sick of talking about this, so you call your sister in Chicago and tell her.' Frantic, the son calls his sister, who explodes on the phone. 'Like heck they're getting divorced,' she shouts, 'I'll take care of this,' She calls Phoenix immediately, and screams at her father, 'You are NOT getting divorced. Don't do a single thing until I get there. I'm calling my brother back, and we'll both be there tomorrow. Until then, don't do a thing, DO YOU HEAR ME?' and hangs up.

The old man hangs up his phone and turns to his wife. 'Okay,' he says, 'they're coming for Thanksgiving and paying their own way.'

WATCH out for Illegal "MB IMAGE WORLD" charges on your bank account!!

2008-11-22T09:02:00.000-08:00

I am one that balances my checkbook to the penny each week. As I balanced my checkbook this morning, I noticed a funny electronic check posted to my account on Monday this week. I printed the almost totally unreadable check out, and racked my brain trying to remember where I was or what I did that cost $39.99. After really digging into the depths of my brain, I decided to call my bank for any further details of this transaction. They were NO HELP WHATSOEVER!! They referred me to a "Customer Solutions" phone number, and they referred me to a "Claims" phone number. The "Claims" department at my bank is only open Monday - Friday... so, my claim would have to wait. I decided to call the phone number listed on my electronic check that I printed, and give them the reference number for this transaction. Took me three times to finally get through. The lady on the phone was MORE helpful then my bank, and told me that this transaction was for a "Web Subscription". I know I didn't subscribe to anything web related (Hello.... money is tight right now), so she was more than willing to issue a dispute with the company, and told me that I should call my bank and file a claim. The claim would take 7 - 10 days to go through. After I got off the phone with her, I still questioned my memory... so I decided to do a little "Google Search" for this company MB IMAGE WORLD. Come to find out, this is a HUGE SCAM that has been happening to people all over, using all different banks. I wanted to post this here to ALERT you to this scam.

The details to watch for on your checking account are as follows:

The check amount can be anywhere from $25.95 - $39.99, and its made payable to PAYMENT SYSTEMS. Upon reading all the comments, this is a web based porn site.

The company they use for these electronic payments is: MB Image Word Customer Service, and the phone number listed is 1-866-878-7962.

WATCH FOR THIS!!

Here is a link to a discussion thread I found thru Google: http://800notes.com/Phone.aspx/1-866-878-7962 There is actually a few out there, but this one had the most information.

Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies.... MMMmmmm!!

2008-11-20T16:19:00.000-08:00

Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies
Ingredients:
• 1 (19.5 oz.) package Pillsbury® Classic Traditional Fudge Brownie
• 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup Jif® Creamy Peanut Butter
• 1/2 can Pillsbury® Chocolate Fudge Frosting

Directions:
1. HEAT oven to 350°F. Beat brownie mix, melted butter, cream cheese and egg in medium bowl 50 strokes with spoon until well blended (dough will be sticky).
2. DROP dough by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets to make 24 cookies; smooth edge of each to form round cookie.
3. MIX powdered sugar and peanut butter in small bowl with spoon until mixture forms a ball. With hands, roll rounded teaspoonfuls peanut butter mixture into 24 balls. Lightly press 1 ball into center of each ball of dough.
4. BAKE 10 to 14 minutes or until edges are set. Cool on cookie sheets at least 30 minutes.
5. SPREAD thin layer of frosting over peanut butter portion of each cooled cookie.

High Altitude (above 3500 ft.):
1. FLATTEN cookies slightly before baking. Bake at 350° F for 11 to 15 minutes.

Yield: 24 cookies

What would you look like on a SOUTH PARK episode??

2008-11-15T08:40:00.000-08:00

Let me first say that I am NOT a South Park fan!!! However, I did find this fun site that lets you create how YOU would look if you were a character on the show. It's kind of fun for a few minutes... so, go here http://www.sp-studio.de/ and check it out. This is how I would look if I were on the show!! Let me see what you would look like.... go on... have some fun!! If you create yourself, save it and email it to me... I will post all the characters here. Let's try and have a little fun with this!!

Here is my "alter ego" shot:

Here is Jeff Aliotta:

And then his Indiana Jones "alter ego":

Here's Sonya:
Here's my mom... Ginny:

~ ~ Happy 42nd Anniversary Mom & Dad ~ ~

2008-11-12T02:32:00.000-08:00

Just a little post to wish you two a VERY HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! I love you both so much, and thank God all the time that he gave me to you! I couldn't ask for better parents. Thank you for always being there for me... I don't know what I'd do without you!!

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Mallow Bars (from Kraftfoods.com)

2008-11-07T15:43:00.001-08:00

What you need:
1 pkg. (2-layer size) devil's food cake mix
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
2/3 cup milk, divided
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1 jar (7 oz.) JET-PUFFED Marshmallow Creme
1/2 cup PLANTERS Salted Peanuts
6 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate, coarsely chopped

Make It:
HEAT oven to 350°F. Mix dry cake mix, butter and 1/3 cup milk until blended; press 2/3 onto bottom of 13x9-inch pan. Bake 12 to 14 min. or until center is almost set; cool 3 min. Meanwhile, mix peanut butter and remaining milk.

SPREAD peanut butter mixture onto crust; top with small spoonfuls of the marshmallow creme and remaining cake mixture. Sprinkle with nuts and chocolate; press gently into cake mixture.

BAKE 18 min. or just until center is set. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

KRAFT Kitchen Tips:
Make Ahead
Prepare as directed ; cool completely. Wrap tightly; freeze up to 1 month. Thaw before cutting into bars.

These birds are AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-07T02:12:00.000-08:00

Check these out!!! Meet Groucho and then Einstein....

Awwww man.... gonna miss Chauncey!!!!

2008-11-03T15:39:00.000-08:00

Lena and I are really sad today because the Pistons traded Chauncey Billups for Allen Iverson. Allen Iverson is a good player, but we really appreciated the professionalism that Chauncey brought to the team. Was this a good move?? I just feel bad... he was always a class act to watch on the court.

Hopefully, this trade will work out for the best, and bring home another CHAMPIONSHIP!!! Lena and I wish Chauncey the best, and look forward to watching him play (once again) even if it is against the Pistons.

Enjoy the sunshine Julie!

2008-11-03T15:09:00.000-08:00

Hope you had a memorable "last day" at Plymouth... well, your last day for about 6 months! We're really gonna miss you while you're gone!! Hope you and Ron (and Crystal too) have a very relaxing, fun filled time!

Easy Parmesan Garlic Chicken & Red Lobster Garlic Cheese Biscuits

2008-10-26T09:44:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe on another blog, and just had to post it here. I haven't tested it yet, but it sounded way to good to forget about.... So, here it is:

EASY Parmesan Garlic Chicken
1/2 Cup grated Parmesan Cheese
1 packet of Good Seasons Italian Salad Dressing & Recipe Mix
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
6 chicken breast halves

Mix cheese, dry dressing mix & garlic powder. Put half of the mix into a small bowl to add back in as needed. If you leave it all in the bowl, you'll end up with the first three breasts coated really well and the last three will be coated sparsely. Moisten chicken with water and coat with cheese mixture. Put in shallow packing dish. Bake 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature in 170 degrees.

Here is one more from the same blog. We all LOVE the biscuits they serve at Red Lobster... well, here is the recipe:

RED LOBSTER Garlic Cheese Biscuits
2 cup Bisquick
2/3 cups milk
1/2 c shredded cheddar cheese
1 clove garlic
1/4 c melted butter
1/4 t garlic powder

Mix Bisquick, milk, cheese and garlic (minced).Drop onto foiled or greased cookie sheets (desired size).Bake 8-10 minutes on 450. (larger=longer, smaller=shorter) Mix butter and garlic powder in a dish and brush over golden biscuits.

What do you know about Mona Vie?

2008-10-24T10:42:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of Mona Vie? Have you or someone you know experienced any great results from taking this product?

I've recently become very curious about the affects of anti-oxidants. Several months ago I was told that I have severe arthritis in both of my knees, bone-on-bone friction, and, will one day require complete knee replacement on both. I'm not one to complain about my pain or discomfort, but at times the pain is beyond words. I HATE taking medicine, but find myself popping a couple Motrin IB's to help make it thru the day!! Each day brings aches and pains to some degree, and have become more and more common in my everyday activities. My wonderful chiropractor says "YOU can do something to help reverse this pain" and educates me each visit. He explains how everyones body "oxidizes" (thru what we eat and our activities), and "anti-oxidants" are what help to "re-oxidize" (strengthen and build back up) your muscles. Of course, this "miracle drink" isn't cheap, and there can be pressures to become a "distributor" when buying your "miracle drink".

I've decided to give this juice a try... other than hurting my pocket book a little more, I have nothing to loose... and everything to gain. I would love to hear any feedback you may have about this product, or any other product (like this one) that could be worth checking out. I've tried a product by NOW called "Acie", and from what I've been told, dollar for dollar (and ounce per ounce), Mona Vie is the better value.

I laughed my butt off!! (oh how I wish that were possible)

2008-10-23T02:25:00.000-07:00

I found this video several days ago, and just had to post it. I honestly found it laugh out loud funny... I hope you do too!!

Two stories that touch the heart!

2008-10-17T19:05:00.001-07:00

No matter what side of the political arena you're on, you have to admit... she is one fantastic lady!!

And here is another story that makes my heart swell up.... Kristen Pass, the high school senior in TX who was just voted homecoming queen!

What SUPERHERO are YOU??

2008-10-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

I am SUPERMAN (75%)
I am mild-mannered, good, strong and I love to help others.
I guess I have more "guy" traits than I do "girl" traits... how come it wasn't "Wonder Women"?? :o) Oh well.... what Superhero are YOU?

Click here to take the "Which Superhero am I?" quiz...