Sunday, January 5, 2020

If you are looking for me, I am now at.....

https://wordpress.com/stats/day/500words500days.wordpress.com

happy new year!

Friday, August 30, 2019

THE BELOVED HOPE CHEST

I think the last generation of the beloved Hope Chest, was my generation. I am not sure if my generation did it for their girls, but I know that one of my aunts did it for hers. To be sure you are aware, a Hope Chest is something that moms did for their daughters for when they got married. It’s a chest containing household linen and clothing stored by a woman in preparation for her marriage. Today, young women are living on their own first before getting married, and it’s sad that the Hope Chest tradition hasn’t continued. My sister and I were talking one day, and she said “I wish I would have started a hope chest for the girls when they were smaller”. She is an amazing mom with above the grid taste, and she has passed that on to her girls. She said that she would like to start something now, even though they are out and on their own. No one knows if they will ever go the marriage route, but all I could think about was that was a great tradition!! For those of you who don’t really know, or haven’t ever heard of a hope chest, here are some of the things a mom (or grandma) includes: Practical Items may include things such as • Towels • Table Cloths • Silverware and dishware • Cookware • Cooking utensils • A tool box or bag filled with tools • Silver and Gold • Books • Sewing kit. At 58 I still don’t have one. And they are often needed! • Things such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and good flash lights. • Bedding could be included, but styles change, bed sizes and moths…might be a deterrent for these things. • Something that is popular today. It would be interesting to see the difference between the taste of today, and the taste of when your child receives the box. • A cast iron pan • A framed family photo • Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace book • A good set of white dishes • An ice cream scoop • A recipe book that contains favorite family recipes and a few goofy pictures added too! Things from the heart • Their Christening gown • Old diaries and cards • Christmas ornaments • Family Recipes • Family bible ( take into consideration that they have maybe accumulated a few bibles over the years) • Photo album • Handmade things • Notes about the significance of some of the things in the chest. Traditions 1Hope chests are an ancient tradition to prepare a girl for her future as a wife. These wooden chests are also known by other names, like glory boxes, dowry chests, trousseau, and cedar chests, though they got their most popular name because of the 'hope' that they provided to unmarried girls for a good future. Check out the history behind the glorious hope chest tradition. The idea behind these wooden chests was to provide the newly-married couple with the basic necessities for their daily life. An industrious wife was considered as an asset, and this chest also helped girls pick up essential skills like sewing and embroidery at an early age, which were required later in life. Renaissance Era Hope chests reached their peak of popularity during the Renaissance in Europe. This period saw the rise of different styles of chests in various kingdoms. In Germany, it was customary for a man courting a girl to give her a wooden chest. These chests were used for storing gifts, such as jewelry and notes from the suitor. European Settlement in America The hope chest reached the Americas with the large-scale emigration of Europeans from kingdoms such as Great Britain, Scandinavia, and Germany, beginning in the 18th century. This journey across the oceans was long and tedious, and many families packed all their belongings in a single wooden chest. These chests were later used to store blankets and clothing, as a bench since chairs were a luxury in those times, and at times even as a bed. By the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th, hope chests had become a common tradition among low and middle-class girls too in the United States. Most of the production of hope chests was centered on the region of New England. Recent History The tradition of hope chests began to decline in the US after the early 20th century. The First World War changed all that. When World War I began in 1914, Virginia-based Lane Furniture Company received a profitable contract from the government to manufacture pine chests to store military ammunition. Immediately after the war, the company diversified its operations to produce cedar boxes for domestic use, which had a reviving effect on the custom of hope chests. During the 1930s, the company began offering free, miniature hope chests to girls graduating out of high school in hope that they would want the larger and more expensive chests. During the Second World War, the company tried to attract American GIs, saying that hope chests were the perfect gift for the time they spent away from their wives or girlfriends. Thus, in a few decades, Lane Co. had rewritten the entire history of hope chests in the United States. This tradition faded after the Second World War. This time saw the rise of women's lib, as, for the first time, women had gone out into the workforce during the war. While most hope chests in modern homes are family heirlooms relegated to storing old blankets, this tradition is seeing a gradual revival by supporters of healthy Christian traditions. If you recall, in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, the daughter received a wedding head piece that was worn by both her grandmother and her mother. In that scene, the smaller box was holding the contents of her grandmother’s personal things. I just wanted to thank my sister, Meg, for reminding me of this beautiful tradition. I just know that whether they marry and start a family, or stay single and live as career women, the receiving of a hope chest, will be one of the things that will stay with them forever, and perhaps if they have children, or nieces and nephews, they might pass tradition on to them as well.

ANXIETY

Anxiety. If you don’t know me, you don’t know I have it. If you DO know me, YOU probably don’t know I have it. For my entire life I have been the biggest child in our home. The biggest cousin in our family, the biggest among my friends and the biggest wife either of my husbands ever had.

Today I am going to a shower, with all of my family and then some. I will be walking in alone…first fright, then I will be entering a room of a few hundred mostly women who NONE will be as big as i am. Second fright. Everyone looks at who is coming in the door now!

I’m a fatty that has no sense of style. So, everyone will be put together beautifully and me… not so much. Third fright. Is my gift going to be alright. Will I have someone to sit with if my sister isn’t there yet? Can I face the women who look pretty and amazing and aren’t fighting any sort of ‘oh my gosh Im going to die’ feelings’?.Probably not.

I never visited my sister or brother when they were away at college. Guess why. I never visited my niece who went to Mt Union…a minute away. Guess.

In 2000 I shed a lot of weight. *enter eye roll, for as many times as I’ve told the story.I was so proud! Right today, I am lighter than I was in 2000, but being 40 and being 61… big difference in my body. I have about 10 pair of jeans in the back of my closet from THAT weight loss. I have a fear of trying them on. You know when you gain some weight and you don’t really want to put on those jeans? There is even a fear of trying them on when you lose.

I can hang with my sister because she is my sister!! And my brother because he is you know, my bro. But going out to face the world, is terrifying.

I always would write when faced with this problem. But I haven’t sat down at my laptop in over a year. Today, as I was crying in the shower, I lost it. Totally. I thought I would write. Even though I STILL have to go get a card, I write.

So, when you see this big girl today, I have funky hair and a distinctive limp, red eyes and sweating because I live in hot flashes, be kind. This is the hardest thing I’ve had to do in awhile. I’ll be at church tomorrow but they all know me and now they know I h ave anxiety… but its total acceptance and no one cares about my fashionista side! But truly, be kind to the fat guy or gal. They’ll never let you see them cry, but its a real anxiety for us to even be out there.

Have a great day, and thanks for letting me be me , here, where you can’t see me.

FINDING HAPPINESS

FINDING HAPPINESS…

Finding Happiness When You Don’t Feel Happy… But YOU CAN DO IT!

It happens, every day. We get up, we do our routine and then we strive to be happy in this world full of unhappiness. It’s something we long for, but sometimes, seldom find. Some try and find happiness in relationships, even if we know they are dead end relationships. We keep trying that road. Some find it in going to places we KNOW, but don’t want to admit, are places we shouldn’t go. Maybe tonight I’ll leave feeling happy. There are many ways we search, but end up that it is only momentary.

What would make YOU happy, if only for a time? A dream vacation? Sun. Sand. Water. Oh yes. But here comes reality. I’ll never afford that, then bang. The happiness is shot down. A new location might just do it! But if you are taking that same old you with you, you are going to still be searching. A new car? Making more money? A new wardrobe. Sometimes those things give you momentary happiness, but now you have a car payment, have to work more hours and you have to pay off those clothes.

Happiness is not found in things, and sadly there are some that don’t have family to be with. Some don’t have friends that they truly trust. Some just don’t think they have the ability to know happiness if it were right in front of them. Hint, you can’t find it in and ‘thing’ or even any ‘body’. We face heartbreaking things every day. All of us. Loss of loved one is one of the hardest. Loss of a job, or we can’t afford to move to a better neighborhood. Bullying. And the NEWS. Ugh. News can depress you from the time you put your radio on!! But…

Find it within. Really. You thing you can’t. You don’t feel pretty, or skinny, or have money, or anything. But don’t dwell on things you THINK others may think, dwell on you. Maybe get an old note book, and write ONE positive thing about yourself. I’m sure there are hundreds, but if you take the time to think, you’ll think harder.

SLOW DOWN. Some people think in race mode constantly. Take 3 little minutes of your day and sit down, close your eyes and breathe. When you find your mind wandering, stop, and think about your breathing. Try one new thing today. Watch a YouTube video of babies laughing. But my favorite thing, do something to make someone else happy. So you don’t have much money, but when you go to the store, buy one small thing for your neighbor! Bake a loaf of bread for someone that could just use a visit. Pick some flowers, and give them to a friend or coworker, just because. Do one positive thing every day for someone else. Send a text. Give a hug for no reason. Sure you are doing something for someone else, but in doing that you are bringing happiness to your own life through them. I just bought 2 Bread Baking for Beginners. One for myself and one for my sister. Now we can feed ourselves, and feed our souls.

Saturday, July 7, 2018

Chains

Welcome to Saturday 9. What we've committed to our readers is that we will post 9 questions every Saturday. Sometimes the post will have a theme, and at other times the questions will be totally unrelated. Those weeks we do "random questions," so-to-speak. We encourage you to visit other participants posts and leave a comment. Because we don't have any rules, it is your choice. We hate rules. We love memes, however, and here is today's meme!

Saturday 9: Chains (1962) Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) The song is about a woman who is in love with her boyfriend, but still attracted to someone else. Do you believe a woman can be in love with more than one person at a time? Yes, although you didn't hear that from ME!

2) What about the male of the species? Do you believe a man can be in love with more than one person at a time? Of Course, what's the difference.

3) This lyrics were by Gerry Goffin and the music by Carole King. Carole was a favorite guest of David Letterman's. When she appeared on his show, he often commented on how impressed he was by her firm handshake. She credited her memorable grip to time spent milking goats on her Idaho farm. Have you poured goat milk on your cereal? Eaten goat milk yogurt or cheese? Nary one goat has ever passed through these lips... baaaaa

4) When it first came out, "Chains" was a favorite of 18-year-old George Harrison. It was at his recommendation that the Beatles added it to their early stage shows and even recorded it on their first album. When you were in high school, what was one of your favorite songs? Anything and everything Disco and Rock and Roll. I'm going to have to go with Cat Scratch Fever, on the R&R side, and Lots of Donna Summer!

5) In 1962, when this song was released, epic movies were popular on the big screen. The Longest Day was three hours long, and Lawrence of Arabiaran more than three hours and a half hours. Today's most popular movies are nowhere near that long. Do you think the average American has a shorter attention span today than he did in 1962? I believe we are SO DISTRACTED these days. Remotes flip channels and we don't stay focused. Fast Food, we drive through and pick up supper rather than take the time to cook. Our entire lives are made up of not staying focused.

6) In 1962, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy went on a two-week goodwill tour of India and Pakistan. She received a ceremonial "welcome necklace" in India. Made without jewels or precious metals -- just beads, sequins and paper -- it was valued by the First Lady for its delicate appearance and craftsmanship, and today it's on display at the John F. Kennedy Library. Tell us about a piece of jewelry that means a great deal to you, and why. Well, I lost them about 3 years ago down a sink, but my brother and sister in law got me gold loops back in 2000. I never ever took them off. Probably for 4 years. I LOVED those earrings.

7) In Pakistan, Mrs. Kennedy made headlines by riding a camel. Have you ever ridden a horse, donkey, camel or elephant? Just a horse, and that didn't go so well!!

8) Also in 1962, the New York Newspaper Guild went on strike, so the nation's largest city went 114 days without a single daily paper. In 2018, how do you get your news? VIA the net.

9) Random question -- Complete this sentence: Before I go to sleep, I always

Ask God to change my heart so that I am a different person.

Friday, June 29, 2018

Day 2. Unchangeable.

Can be seen on www.

https://500words500days.wordpress.com/

Day 2

One of the most important moments in life is the moment you finally find the courage to let go of what can’t be changed. Because when you are no longer able to change a situation, you are challenged to change yourself—to grow beyond the unchangeable. And that changes everything. What’s one unchangeable reality you’ve been resisting recently? What can you do right now to ease your mind into the acceptance of this reality?

   I was notified a few weeks ago, that the Social Security Disability Check I receive, will be reduced by $300. Yep. I was one of the lucky ones of the people I new that received $800 a month to survive on. I heard a comment that 'what the hell are you bitching about, you're married'. And.... I pay my own bills, my credit card, I pay for the internet and the TV and the cell phone. I buy all of the household products ( soap, laundry, bleach, shampoo, deodorant and little essentials. I spend (spent) $200 a month on all of those and spending money.

So, this is the situation I cannot change. BUT... I don't have much of a choice. I have an upcoming lung exam and in August, I will be having my knee replaced. After that, everything changes. I am hoping I will be able to find a decent job doing whatever, until I can feel okay again. I have realized that I am stuck with trying to deal with $500 per month until then.    This morning I realized that there have been many many times in my life time that my life didn't go as I had hoped. Divorce, job loss, relocation of my life, divorce, inability to stand or lift anymore, job loss.... I could go on, but I won't.

This morning, like every single time I have faced what seemed to be the end of my world, the Lord was leading me to a direction He wants me to go. I realized this was just going to be another learning experience for me. And that I am going to just do what I can , with His guidance, and follow His lead. He hasn't lead me wrong yet. IF... you are a prayer, I ask that you would mention my name in your prayers , and just ask that I remember every day, that this is a place that He is leading. I'm sure a few thousand tears will be shed even in lieu of the realization that I am being led. I'm still human. Thank you.

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Shut Up and Dance

Shut Up + Dance

Saturday 9: Shut Up + Dance (2014) Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here. 1) This is about a man who meets the woman who is his destiny on the dance floor. Do you think we each have One Great Love preordained by fate? Or do you think life offers each of us many opportunities for romance? I think we have to WANT to have romance in our lives. I think, as far as love goes, if we find it, we are blessed. I have an aunt and uncle married 68 years. Still hold hands, still kiss each other and they truly love one another. I am married to my now third husband who WAS my first husband. I had a marriage in between that burned me for life. My now husband and I married for practical reasons. Health and financial. He was here to help me as my health was declining. But...we were divorced for a reason and I have to keep reminding myself that I knew this going in. My heart breaks as I type this because I would love to have a passionate marriage to him. BUT...back to preordained or fate. I'm not sure what I believe anymore. If there is that one passionate lover for each of us, you could not prove that by me. I am beyond BLESSED to have someone who takes care of me, health wise, financially and in daily things, but to have someone that would be excited to see me, or come up behind me when I am unaware, of just really love the hell out of me...

2) Lead singer Nick Petricca says this song is inspired by a true story. He was all keyed up and his girlfriend dragged him onto the dance floor, insisting that dancing would cheer him up. Therefore he considers this song an "anthem to letting go and having fun." Think of the last time you really had fun. Who were you with? What were you doing? This past weekend my sister took my 2 nieces and I to see Shania Twain at the Q in Cleveland. Although I was in a wheelchair and couldn't 'rock it' like the rest of the place, it was a perfect weekend. We stayed at my nieces place about 2 blocks away, we at at Margaritaville and I loved it. Fun... not really in my cards.

3) The dance floor incident that inspired this song took place in Echo Park, an LA neighborhood located near Elysian Park and Chinatown. Tell us about your village or city. Do the neighborhoods have interesting names? I live in Canfield OH. Home to Whitehouse Fruit Farms. http://www.whitehousefruitfarm.com/ We live out in the sticks, but our sticks is close to shopping and whatever else you need. In our area we have, Stonebridge, WestFord Communities, Saddlebrook, Covington Cove, Blue Heron... Here's a little ditty about the town... https://www.bestplaces.net/city/ohio/canfield

4) Walk the Moon promoted this record by a performance on Good Morning America. Are you enthusiastic and energetic at 7:00 AM? Or do you hit your stride later in the day? I am energetic about 11 pm when the rest of the world is turning in, I am ready to roll!!

5) "Shut Up + Dance" is the biggest hit by Walk the Moon. The bandmembers met as at Kenyon, Ohio's oldest private college. Tell us about something that's old and revered where you live. The Canfield Fair. https://canfieldfair.com/press-release/ https://canfieldfair.com/

6) Walk the Moon took their name from the Police song, "Walking on the Moon." What's your favorite song by Sting and/or The Police? Hahahahah, Don't Stand So Close To Me !!!

7) In 2014, the year this song was popular, Robin Williams took his own life. What's your favorite Robin Williams performance? Mork

8) Also in 2014, the Apple Watch was introduced. Are you wearing a watch as you answer these 9 questions? No

9) Random question -- You must create a coat of arms for yourself, representing your life and spirit. Which of these items would you place at the center: a heart, a sword, or a pen?

A pen.

Saturday, May 26, 2018

GI BLUES

G.I. Blues

Welcome toSaturday: 9. What we've committed to our readers is that we will post 9 questions every Saturday. Sometimes the post will have a theme, and at other times the questions will be totally unrelated. Those weeks we do "random questions," so-to-speak. We encourage you to visit other participants posts and leave a comment. Because we don't have any rules, it is your choice. We hate rules. We love memes, however, and here is today's meme! Saturday 9: G.I. Blues (1960) Unfamiliar with this week's song? Hear it here. Memorial Day is a federal holiday that honors men and women who served and died in the United States Armed Forces. We want to make sure that message is not lost this weekend. 1) Are you a veteran? Are there veterans in your family? Do you know anyone who is active military? (We are grateful and want to hear about it.) I am not. My husband and all of my uncles and two of my cousins have served in the armed forces. I am truly blessed.

2) In this song, Elvis sings about marching, and complains that the Army doesn't give Purple Hearts for fallen arches. Do you have any aches or pains to report this morning? I have been in the hospital for a week and tried to do some things when I arrived home yesterday. I am paying dearly today.

3) This song is from the 1960 film of the same name. In the movie, Elvis is in The 32nd Armor Regiment of the United States Army. That's the same regiment he served with in real life. He had the 32nd written into the script as a shout-out to the soldiers he came to know, but realized he'd likely never see again. Is there an old friend you're missing this weekend?

I dated a guy, John. He killed himself last summer. I will never be the same.

4) Memorial Day kicks off the summer season. What's your favorite picnic food? Hot Dogs and corn on the cob. Potato salad! Yum.

5) Let's celebrate the Memorial Day holiday with ice cream. What's your favorite flavor? Cone or cup? We have Handles here in the Youngstown area. Chocolate pecan or MInt chocolate chip, or strawberry... In a Waffle cone!!

http://www.handelsicecream.com/menu.html

5) This marks the weekend when Americans step up their outdoor activity and do things they may not have been able to do during the winter months. For example, when is the last time you applied mosquito repellent? 6? Not for awhile on myself, last week on the pups.

7) Or swam? About 6 months ago at the Y

8) As you answer these questions, is there an air conditioner or fan on? Yes. My ceiling fan in on in the bedroom

9) Random question: How do you define success?

When you have your family and friends that stand by you in life. In fun times and in hard times. Someone that will always have YOU on their minds. I am blessed!

Sunday, April 22, 2018

IF

From Questions for the Game of Life

1. If you could eliminate a single type of insect in the world, which would it be? cockroach
2. If you could have personally witnessed one event in history, what would you want to have seen? The marriage of President and Mrs Kennedy
3. If you had to paint your entire home inside and out a single color other than white, what would you pick? Light sage green
4. If you could decide what will be written on your gravestone, what would you have inscribed. My body will be picked up by the College of Medicine and donated to science.
5. If you could have a secret listening device in any one room in the world, what room would you put it in? None. I prefer to be in the dark
6. If you could have any music group that no longer exists play at your birthday party, who would you want? The Partridge Family
7. If you were to perform in the circus, what would you do? Sell popcorn. But... i am anti circus, so ...
. 8. If you could master one type of cuisine, which one would you choose? BBQ
9. If you had to have one piece of music softly playing in your mind for the rest of your life, what would you want it to be? anything Kenny Chesney
10. If you could ensure one single personality trait in your children, what would you want it be? I don't have kids, but If I did, I would want it to be compassion for others.
11. If you could resolve any single dispute, anywhere in the world, what would you solve? I would want Kim Jun Un (sp) to be generous and loving to his country
12. If you could be a guest on any talk show, which would you like to be on? Ellen
13. If you were to be a news correspondent posted to any foreign country, where would you like to go? Greece
14. If you could have been on the Supreme court for any single case in its history, which would you select? Roe vs Wade
15. If you could pick one person from history to live next door to you, who would you pick? Mrtin Luther King

Friday, April 13, 2018

High Noon.

High Noon

Saturday 9: High Noon (1952) Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here. 1) What will you be (or were you) doing at high noon on Saturday? Starting to clean the yard... OR, finishing. I can't think of plants because although its 70, its going to snow again next week

2) In this song, Tex Ritter sings he doesn't know what fate awaits him. How strong is your sense of intuition? Tell us about a time you knew what would happen before it occurred. My second marriage. Too much shit was being pulled that I wasn't 'supposed' to even know about. I knew I couldn't live that way much longer

3) This song was the theme of a hit movie western by the same name. It starred Gary Cooper as a small-town sheriff. When did you last interact with a member of law enforcement? The sheriff held the door for me at the post office a few days ago. Dang, he is EASY on the eyes!

4) Grace Kelly co-starred as the "fair-haired beauty" mentioned in this song. Four years later, she gave up films to become Her Serene Highness, Princess Grace of Monaco. Which job seems like more fun -- movie star or royal? Movie star!

5) Though he cultivated a "just plain folk" persona, this week's featured artist, Tex Ritter, was really cosmopolitan and highly educated, earning a degree in economics from the University of Texas before going on to study pre-law at Northwestern. Do you think the "real you" is consistent with the image you convey?

Not by a long shot!

6) Tex Ritter was the father of Emmy-winning comedic actor, John Ritter. John is remembered fondly as the voice of Clifford, the Big Red Dog. Clifford appeals to children because he is "gentle, friendly, loyal, lovable and clumsy." Do any of those adjectives apply to you? I have red hair!!

7) Tex is also the grandfather of Jason Ritter, star of ABC-TV's Kevin (Probably) Saves the World. If you followed one of your grandparents into their line of work, what would you be doing? Grandpa Frichtel was a baker! My grandma and grandpa Dugan worked for the B&O

8) In 1952, the year "High Noon" was popular, Stopette, the first antiperspirant deodorant spray, was introduced. Do you use a deodorant spray, stick or roll on? I use GEL Antiperspirant and deodorant. Soft and Dri. 1. 75 at Dollar General

9) Random question: What's something you have always wanted to own, but never have?

Goats

Saturday, March 24, 2018

Sweet Disaster

Welcome to Saturday: 9. What we've committed to our readers is that we will post 9 questions every Saturday. Sometimes the post will have a theme, and at other times the questions will be totally unrelated. Those weeks we do "random questions," so-to-speak. We encourage you to visit other participants posts and leave a comment. Because we don't have any rules, it is your choice. We hate rules. We love memes, however, and here is today's meme! Sweet Disaster (2016) Unfamiliar with this week's song. Hear it here.

1) This video begins outside a convenience store with a sign advertising beer, produce, lotto and an ATM. Will you buy beer, produce or a lotto ticket this weekend? Will you visit an ATM?
No on the beer, yes to the produce and no to the lottery. And no to the ATM.

2) As the video progresses, fountain drinks and donuts are consumed. When you stop for a snack during a road trip, what do you usually grab?
Dunkin and a powdered sugar donut. BUT... I am on day 2 without sugar.

3) The lyrics reference "a river of champagne." When did you last enjoy a spot of the bubbly?
2001. Boy I wish I had that entire day to do over again...

Wanaka-new-zealand-lake-wallpaper-Hd-1920x1440

4) The end of the video features sci-fi/horror images. Is that a genre you enjoy? If not, what kind of books do you read most often?
Oh crap, I forgot to pick up a book for my husband and I while I was out today. I think about genre of books, kind of books about life, are what I like. Jodi Picoult and the like. My husband likes any book you set before him.

5) The trio that makes up The Dreamers are dyed-in-the-wool New Yorkers. If you could live in any city or village in the world, would you move or stay right where you are?
I love looking at Zillow, for perhaps my 'final move' in the next few years. I have temporarily settled on Cape Hatteras. Its a few years away, and with God's blessing...for now, I think that is it. ALTHOUGH, I would really like to have some family nearby. I don't know if in a few years my cousins Mary Lou and Susan will be in Florida. My cousin Felicia lives 1/2 a year in Clearwater, and my step daughter lives in Fort Myers. Where will my sister and her husband be? I get a rapid heart beat when I think about it, but then I have to stop and realize its not tomorrow.

6) The Dreamers describe themselves as "impractical." What about you? Do you consider yourself practical or impractical? Impractical. I don't prioritize, I act on a whim, too often, and you know, there is still that sociopath part of me that I deal with. I have no impulse control. BUT, I am doing research and writing on MINDFULNESS. I'm not doing much better, but I have a funny feeling this is going to take a long while. 2 years? idk.

7) They also won't "listen to those who doubt" them. Sometimes we find the ones who doubt us most are ourselves. What about you? Are you confident, or do you suffer from self doubt? Peruse #6. I think I am a sociopath with impulse control!!! Lots of self doubt.

8) Do you often remember your dreams? Always.

9) Random question: Would you rather get $100 today, or $250 on this date a year from now?

I'll take the $250 and wait it out. :)

Friday, March 16, 2018

Danny Boy

Saturday 9: Danny Boy (1956)

"Danny Boy" was selected in honor of St. Patrick's Day. Unfamiliar with this week's song? Hear it here. 1) This is a sad song of farewell. Who is the last person you said "goodbye" or "so long" to? Brenden, as he headed to Florida yesterday morning.

2) According to the 2000 Census, Massachusetts is the state with the largest percentage of residents of Irish descent. Have you ever been to The Bay State? Yes I have. I love it there.

3) "The wearing o' the green" is one way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Will you wear something green in honor of the day? Probably. My sis and I are going to a Kegs and Eggs breakfast tomorrow !

4) What color makes you look best? Im a fatty. Black

5) Will you drink something green in honor of the day (like a Shamrock shake or a green beer)? All I can say about drinking something green is YUCK!

6) A four-leaf clover is considered good luck. Do you have a lucky charm? At 59, as I look back on my life... apparently NOT.

7) Though she's singing an Irish ballad, this week's featured artist, Joni James, is of Italian heritage. Can you think of a song as identified with Italy as "Danny Boy" is with Ireland? Idk. My off the Italy boat uncle has been in a barbershop quartet for the past 80 years. One of his favorites is Danny Boy

8) Soda bread and potato bread are popular in Ireland. Are there any rolls or bread in your kitchen right now? I think there is a hot dog bun in the bowl for the birds....

9) Ireland is known for its whiskey. Do you enjoy Irish coffee (black coffee, whiskey and whipped cream)?

I have never had it. Maybe THAT could be my Lucky Drink!!

Sunday, March 11, 2018

March 10, 2018

Write from Karen

Welcome back to Sunday Stealing which originated on the WTIT Blog with Bud Weiser. Here we will steal all types of questions from every corner of the blogosphere. Our promise to you is that we will work hard to find the most interesting and intelligent questions. You may have heard the expression, “honor among thieves”. In that age-old tradition, we try to credit the blog that we stole it from, if possible. We also provide a link to the victim's questions in our "Previous Victims" widget. (It's our way of saying "Thanks!") Sometimes we edit the original meme, to make it more relevant to our global players, to challenge our players, to select the best questions, or simply to make it less repetitive from recently asked questions from a previously post. Cheers to all of us thieves!

These questions from Karen at Write from Karen. Karen is married and mom of two grown sons. She says, "I believe in Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Writing Well. (I also believe in our Constitution – Don’t Tread on my Rights, Yo)" 1. What’s the coolest item you’ve found at a garage sale, flea market, etc? I haven't been to any of the above for years. BUT... summer's coming!

2. Describe how your day went yesterday. Well, we didn't have family breakfast. I blame myself for not checking on or with my sister during the week. I did stop at her house though, today, to take her a shamrock plant, but she wasn't home. I took Brenden, Paul's grandson, to Flynns to get new tires and whatever else guys do at Flynns.... I do want to give a shout out to them though... about 3 weeks ago I had a slow leak in my tire. They fixed it for just 20. and said its guaranteed for LIFE. Brenden went to NTB for his auto things and they wanted 1000. I suggested Flynns last night, but you know kids. Well, he came home from NTB and said, would you follow me to Flynns, I should have listened to you first. Flynns was only 600. I felt 'smart' for 2.6 seconds.

3. Do you have issues with people entering your personal space? What do you do when your personal space is violated? Yes, I have trouble with people being in my space. They tend to not only INVESTIGATE my desk, my email, my shit....but they leave it, and I have to rearrange my mess!!!

4. What is the one meal recipe you think you’ve mastered? Nothing. I suck at cooking. BUT I did make my grandma's chop suey last week. With a bit of tweeking, I could master THAT.

5. If you could take back something you did to someone, what would it be? From my cousin Susan. And I'd really rather not give the details. Oh... and Mrs. Jones. I was a horrible child. Oh... and Mrs Haan.

6. Would you describe yourself as spiritual, religious, or something else? I am a follower of Christ.

7. Did you ever receive detention in school? What sort of kid were you in school – bookworm, smart kid, troublemaker, quiet … etc. Well, affirmative on the detention. I was a talker.

8. When’s the last time you ran a mile? How often do you exercise? Ran? well I have never run. Due to the boot for life on my left foot, I haven't done anything in awhile. Walking, is my exercise of choice.

9. What would you say to your 16-year-old self, and why? STOP seeking attention from the boys. Listen to gram and SLOW DOWN on the ice cream. And don't think so poorly of yourself. FINISH college when you get there, and marriage? Wait.... til your 50

10. What are you avoiding? Getting my knees replaced. But, its too far to the point of ignoring it anymore. Walking for me is hell. I should tell my 16 year old self to not enjoy eating so much. And don't be a baker. You'll end up a lard ass. "Crisco...fat in the can", as my dad used to say.

11. Describe a “Hah! I told you so” moment you had recently. This morning, with Brenden going to Flynns ;)

12. What’s more important, where you live or what you do for a living? Why? What you do for a living. Make that money and save and spend wisely, then when you get to the point you can do your job better than anyone, pick a place where you can take that skill and live where you love.

13. Swear words: Are you pro or con? Why? Well, as a Christian, I should be con. BUT I have always questioned 'Why' are certain words swear words. Shit, for example... I revisit that word at least once a day! Damn. Hell. Idk.

14. Paper or plastic? Do you prefer to pack your own groceries? HELL no, I don't like to pack my own groceries. But I do it at Aldis. But, I prefer paper, personally. But Brenden can hook all my plastics onto his arms and make one trip!!

15. Do you have a shoe fetish? How often do you buy new shoes? Do you ever get rid of a pair of shoes?

I have a ton of shoes. In fact, I keep buying new ones, but I can only wear ONE shoe. So I've stopped buying and took quite a few pair to the Rescue Mission. When I am bootless, I'll shop again.

Saturday, February 24, 2018

sunday stealing

February 24, 2018

From Smellyann

Here are some questions Smellyann found on Pinterest.
(Thanks!)

1. What is more difficult for you, looking into someone’s eyes when you are telling someone how you feel, or looking into someone’s eyes when they are telling you how they feel.
I wish I had an answer for this. I don't .... well, I don't think I have a hard time with either. Took me a minute to remember the last, well the only time, that has happened.
2. Think of the last time you were REALLY angry. WHY were you angry? Do you still feel the same way?
Its been a long while since I've been angry, and God put His hand on that and took it from me. I now realize that I have to hand my anger over to God, before I make myself batty.
3. You are on a flight from Honolulu to Chicago non-stop. There is a fire in the back of the plane. You have enough time to make one phone call. Who do you call? What do you tell them?
I call my sister, and tell her that if she didn't already know, I love her with all of my heart. And I ask her to call a list of people and tell them the same thing.
4. You are at the doctor’s office and she has just informed you that you have approximately one month to live. Do you tell anyone/everyone you are going to die? What do you do with your remaining days? Would you be afraid?
Well, I don't WANT to tell anyone...but I'm a jabberjaw, so I probably will. But ideally, I would not tell anyone, and spend one entire day and night with the people that I love the most.
5. You can have one of the following two things. Which do you choose? Why? Love and Trust.
Trust. I lost it in 2006. And just for a time, I'd like to remember what it felt like.
6. You are walking down the street on your way to work. There is a dog drowning in the canal on the side of the street. Your boss has told you that if you are late just one more time you are fired. Do you take the time to save the dog’s life? Why? Why not?
Save the dog. There are other jobs.
7. Would you rather be hurt by the one you trust the most or the one you love the most?
I can't say. I have been through the wringer with both. I couldn't handle it again.
8. Your best friend confesses that he/she has feelings for you more than just friendship. He/she is falling in love with you. What do you (or did you) say?
Okay, my best friend better be a guy. If its same sex, FORGET IT. I've had that with a guy. It all works out in the end.
9. Think of the last person you know who died. You have the chance to give them 1 hour more of life back, but you have to give up one year of yours. Do you do it? Why? Or Why not?
This is tough. They are already gone... I'd have to live through losing them again.
10. Are you the kind of friend that you would want to have as a friend?
Not lately .
11. Does love = sex not that I recall.
12. Your boss tells your co-worker that they have to let them go because of work shortage, and they are the newest employee. You have been there much longer. Your co-worker has a family to support and no other means of income. Do you go to your boss and offer to leave the company? Why or Why not.
No. No one is supporting me, so ... I have to look out for myself. ew, do I sound selfish.
13. When was the last time you told someone HONESTLY how you felt regardless of how difficult it was for you to say? What did you have to tell the person?
Its hard for me to talk about that. He shot himself last fall.
14. What would be (or what was) harder for you to tell a member of the opposite/same sex – you love them or that you do not love them back.

I am not sure if I have ever .... thought about that. I don't say I love you much. A few times a day with my husband. When I didn't love someone back, I usually just walked away.

sounds like I'm bordering on being a sociopath!!!!!

The Love Club

Welcome to Saturday: 9. What we’ve committed to our readers is that we will post 9 questions every Saturday. Sometimes the post will have a theme, and at other times the questions will be totally unrelated. Those weeks we do “random questions,” so-to-speak. We encourage you to visit other participants posts and leave a comment. Because we don’t have any rules, it is your choice. We hate rules. We love memes, however, and here is today’s meme!

The Love Club (2013)

Unfamiliar with this week’s song. Hear it here.

1) Lorde has said this song is about a time when she fell into “a bad crowd.” Her high-maintenance new friends were all about their romantic dramas and it overwhelmed her. Have you ever had a friend who was just too much work?
Yes. We don’t see much of each other.
2) She sings that she longs to be alone. Where do you go when you want peace and quiet?
My life IS peace and quiet, for the most part
3) Lorde credits her mother for encouraging her verbal skills. “Mum” let her join a theater class when she was just 5 and was always giving her books. Tell us about an encouraging, understanding adult who assisted you when you were growing up.
My grandma Dugan. I miss her so much.
4) Lorde is not the only celebrity from her class at Belmont School in Auckland, New Zealand. Olympian Eliza McCartney was a classmate who went on to win a bronze medal in Rio for the pole vault. Did you participate in any sports in high school?
noooooooooooooooooooooo
6) Lorde wrote music for one of the Hunger Gamessoundtracks. Have you seen any of the Hunger Games movies, or read any of the books?
I am not aware of seeing any. The guys watch so many movies, but I just read or play a game on my phone.
7) Her favorite candy is Peanut M&Ms. Do you prefer Milk Chocolate, Peanut, Almond, Mint or Cripsy M&Ms?
Almond. And, although you didn’t mention it, Peanut Butter.
8) When Lorde was on stage at Lollapalooza, a sudden storm interrupted her set. The music festival was evacuated and her performance was cancelled. Can you think of a time when the weather had a major impact on your plans?
Seriously I live in Ohio. You know, its snowing when we get up, sunny by mid day, and raining in the evening… or you could change them anyway you want to. So no, weather doesn’t ruin plans.
9) Random question: Please complete this sentence — Before I leave the house, I always __kiss my husband and dogs (not always in that order ;))

Friday, December 22, 2017

Happy Holidays!

ON DECEMBER 22, 2017 BY 500WORDS500DAYSIN CHRISTMAS, SATURDAY 9LEAVE A COMMENTEDIT

Happy Holidays!

Saturday 9: Happy Holidays! (from the archives)

1. As you can see, Sam loved giving her annual wish list to Santa. Yet some children are reluctant to climb into Jolly Old St. Nick’s lap. Did you enjoy the tradition or were you shy? Or did you by pass it altogether — either because you wrote him a letter or because your family didn’t celebrate Christmas?
I remember every year our neighbor dressed up as santa and went up and down the street passing out a gift.
2. Are you currently on the Naughty or Nice list? How did you get there?
Nice, because I have no life!!! hahahah
3. Did you ship any gifts to friends and family this year? If so, which one traveled the farthest?
I didn’t. I didnt even send cards!
4. Did you buy yourself a gift this year?
Nope.
5. What’s your favorite holiday-themed movie? Have you seen it yet this year?
The Grinch and I haven’t
6. Thinking of movies, Christmas is lucrative for Hollywood. Have you ever gone to a movie theater on Christmas Day?
My second husband is Jewish. I believe we went to see a movie on Christmas when we lived in Whittier (CA)
7. Have you ever suffered an embarrassing moment at the company Christmas party?
Heck no! I was young and NOTHING was embarrassing!!
8. What’s your favorite beverage in cold weather?
DD Hot Cocoa
9. Share a memory from last Christmas

Last Christmas, nothing. My husband had just come home from rehab after back surgery. I’m sure we had a ham!! But it was quiet, and he slept most of the time.

Sunday, August 13, 2017

Make A Difference Today

Make a difference today

Welcome back to Sunday Stealing which originated on

WTIT: The Blog authored by Bud Weiser. Here we will steal all types of questions from every corner of the blogosphere. Our promise to you is that we will work hard to find the most interesting and intelligent questions. You may have heard the expression, “honor among thieves”. In that age-old tradition, we try to credit the blog that we stole it from, if possible. We also provide a link to the victim’s questions in our “Previous Victims” widget. (It’s our way of saying “Thanks!”) Sometimes we edit the original meme, to make it more relevant to our global players, to challenge our players, to select the best questions, or simply to make it less repetitive from recently asked questions from a previously post. Cheers to all of us thieves!

These questions were on a site by Debbie Hodge, which apparently once had more blog content, but now seems to be mostly devoted to scrapbooks — content, supplies, etc.

The artwork is by Picasso.
1. What is the favorite piece of art you own. The one my friend Carla painted for our wedding gift. xo
2. The most expensive bill you paid last month. Phone bill. 124.00
3. What’s the last thing you apologized for? I cannot remember
4. If you could do today over, would you change anything? Yes. I would have gotten up earlier and drove.
5. What is the largest TV screen in your house? We only have 2, I think Brenden’s is twice the size of ours
6. What did you buy today? Insulin and bandaids
7. I wish I had _another day with Spikey___
8. How many photos did you take today? One. The dogs laying with me with my cast on! ugh, but they are adorable
9. Last thing you wanted and didn’t get. Nothing. I never really ‘want’ for much.
10. What was the last new thing you tried? Hmmmmm idk.
11. Who is your hero? Jesus Christ
12. Today I feel really secure knowing _that I am saved, and going to heaven___
13. Whose life did you make a difference in today? My husband and my grandson. I try to always do the best for both of them. And one of the people I sent out a morning text to replied… I really needed this today. So, theirs.
14. What would have made today perfect? Every day that I wake up, is a perfect day. I have a husband that loves me, and a grandson that is amazing, and a wonderful family that God blessed me with. It doesn’t get better than that.
15. Did you thank anybody today? A young man, last week, left me a 20 . tip for a five dollar ride. Today I looked up his address and sent him a thank you note. He told me ‘here, let me help you with your gas today’. God sends angels into my world everyday.

Bonus: If you were a Muppet, which would you be? Cookie Monster