Jim & Sandi's Place

2011

2010-12-25T12:40:00.002-07:00

It's so hard to believe it's just a few days away. I can remember when 2000 seemed like a lifetime away and I guess in a way it was, haha...but here I am in the lifetime. Life is good and there are about 3 things I'd change, but for whatever reason this is where I am suppose to be--so what do you do? You embrace what you can't change and make the most of this thing called LIFE.

2011, I will let go of the things I can't control (cuz, quite frankly it's exhausting and scripture says, I am not in control anyway, haha, so whats the point).... In 2011, I will work on me, in the physical, mental, and above all the spiritual. God has given us this one life and I don't what to waste what He's given me...

Jim and I are looking forward to a new year as it's a time for new beginnings. We will continue to love but let go of the things that hold us back in the 3 things mentioned above....We are excited about what the Lord has in store for us as He has been so good to us...

Blessings to you all....Jim & Sandi

Cinnamon Pecans

2010-11-06T19:22:00.003-06:00

What a day!! I am NOT a cook but I love to bake... Jim and I are starting to enjoy fall (I know a little late) but in South Tx fall doesn't usually visit us until the end of Oct and sometimes as late as the end of November.....well it's here...It's beautiful and that bug that makes me want to bake is all stirred up.....

I've had these before and always loved them and wondered why I couldn't make them myself...well there is absolutely no reason why I couldn't....oh my, soooo easy....thought I'd share with ya and since ya live so far and can't just come across the street, here's the recipe I found...one lady came up with adding the extra brown sugar and it is so yummy.....i am sure they are fat free, so enjoy, cuz Jim and I are.....

CINNAMON SUGAR PECANS

1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg white
3 cups whole pecans (walnuts, brazil nuts, almonds)

Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine sugar, cinnamon and salt. Whisk egg white until frothy and add the nuts. Toss until well coated. Add dry ingredients and stir well.

Spread nuts on a cookie sheet lined with foil, in a single layer.

Bake for 20 minutes.

Cool and store in an airtight container. Can be frozen.

Fall's here!!

2010-11-01T07:57:00.002-06:00

Now in most places, you know that fall is here by the changing of the colors outside and by the coolness that is felt when you walk outside....Now here in South Tx we know fall is here by two things: the calendar and newsman tells us AND the 1st Methodist Church of Harlingen has it's annual Pumpkin Patch set up. It has now become a tradition (or at least for Jim and I , haha) to pick up Jay and Dev and take them to pick out there pumpkins....It is something I have started to look forward to every year...this year the punkin pickin was fun for the boys but not quite as fun as the slide that was there, haha...we about NEVER got Jay off the thing and into the car....he has a rebuttal to everything...yes, I know, Jim says he gets it from me, haha, I on the other thinks he gets it from his Grandma Minerva....yes???? haha

Anyway, Happy Fall ya and enjoy lookin at Simpson nephews...we just love them...oh, and btw, we do have a great niece, Daniella (aka as Danlilla by Dev, haha) but she won't venture out with us just yet...Dev says she's too much trouble...i don't know, but next year, she's ours!!! Adios for now!

The Story of Jimmy Lee

2010-06-04T16:17:00.003-06:00

When I met first met my husband he was Jim. Then we had Stevie and he became Daddy. Ahh, and once upon a time just after this, I was trying to make a funny with his given name-James Lee- and decided to put a some-what asian spin on it, haha...I called him Jimmy Lee Wong and boy did that one moment in time start something.

The first time I called him that, I had 2 little nieces, Miss Kathleen (aka Kat) and Baby Baby (aka Kristyne). For whatever reason, something in that name made Miss Kathleen giggle and I can still hear that innocent giggle in head even today, haha!! From that time on Jim's name was replaced first by the nieces, then by our nephew Bubba who had just been born. To Bubba he has always known him as Jimmy Lee. My sister in law and brother started calling him Jimmy Lee as easy as if that were his given now without even a thought. At family gatherings where others are included he is known as Jimmy Lee. What had I started? haha!!

Fast forward some 18 years later (yes, it has been that long) and we have 2 great-nephews and 1 great-niece. When the boys began to talk, we noticed a slight change in their version of Jimmy Lee--our Jimmy Lee was now, JimaLee and spoken with a very southern drawl especially by Jay. Upon the first glance of Jim, depending on what generation you are, my Jim is either Jimmy Lee or JimaLee. What started out as a sort of joke is now a term that says love.

WHERE HAVE I BEEN???

2010-02-12T10:53:00.003-07:00

It has been a wonderful past few months. Steve and Amy got married and are so happy it almost just makes me cry. Their business seems to be prospering and they are planning for a wonderful future.

We spent Christmas with the Simpson clan and it was so much fun as usual, as those little boys kept us on our toes. Santa made his yearly visit (I'll post the pic soon) and we were so thrilled Jimmy Lee was able to pull off another year without being detected, haha....

Jim and I are getting ready to head to the St Louis area for a quick trip to check on his parents and then I will be thrilled to be "bringing back" my bestest friend in the world back home with me. We have lots of plans to create and maybe see the valley through a visitors perspective. I have lived in the RGV for many years but there is so much I have never seen. I know it's here, and I know people come from all over to see it, but its just been something I "was going to do" someday. WEll , someday is coming, haha!!!

I am off today, so Jim and I are headed to the movie and out to dinner to celebrate Valentines Day. Yes, we know its a few days early, but honestly, I am way too old to stand in line and besides don't have much patience for that, haha.... At any rate, i am going to enjoy being with my sweetie for an afternoon....

blessings, Sandi

Punkin time in Harlingen

2009-10-23T15:47:00.007-06:00

Deven and his punkin choice..............................

Jayden picks not one, but 2 punkins...ahh was a fun time!!!

Now I know this is not a punkin patch like in many other places, but here in the valley it's what we have, and we love it, year after year. The Methodist church sets this up yearly and it is becoming a holiday tradition for our family...A couple of years ago I took the great nieces and Deven and I went last year and now this year not only did Dev go, but we took Jayden also. I am not sure who had the most fun Jayden or the ladies working the punkin patch...Jayden talks to everyone (well, unless your family and then he ignores you, haha,,,thats a whole other post, haha). He talked to them not only about the punkins but the ghourds, to which he had never seen these before. They fascinated him. We were at the patch for almost hour...We looked and held literally every size, shape, or color of punkin you can imagine..haha..he could have chosen any punkin he wanted and the above is what he came out with....2 smalls ones....gotta love him....I am going to do the layouts of these pics soon so you can check them out on my crafty blog: snipsofpapershadesofink.blogspot.com

until next time----Sandi

Looky, Devin's sissy, Daniella

2009-10-13T20:20:00.004-06:00

I've been busy working on the house lately in the playroom and working on a few projects that have taken a back seat wayyyyyy too long, hhahaa...I have missed my nephews so much lately, I decided to go pick Deven up from daycare early..Now before you start gettin on to me about showing favortism , its not, his Mom doesn't allow anyone to pick up Jay ( and thats a whole other story, right Kat???, haha)After taking Deven to visit Grandma Josephine we ended up playing at my house for a few hours and then it was time to head to our old stomping grounds, Raymondville. Minerva and her sisters threw a birthday party for their oldest sister, Janie and guess who got invited...yep me...hahaha woohoo....anyway, that just opened the door to spending time with all my nieces and nephews from my brother's family....and what a night we had...I have the cutest 2 nephews and the youngest niece, Daniella, well, tell me, is she not just beautiful????I know, her looks come from her mom, can't ya tell!!!! Don't have much to post lately but thought i'd share a few pics from the party....the cute ones are: Deven, Daniella, & not to EVER be left out, Jayden...and he's a post in himself..hahaha....enjoy!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY , STEVE!!!

2009-10-03T13:21:00.004-06:00

Stephen Christopher Runyan, aka, Stevie

Our little 4.7 lb baby turned 30 today. Jim and I can't imagine where the time has gone. It seems like only yesterday we were bringing our little premie baby home and we were scared to death to hurt him, haha.....Now he still scares us!!! hahaha..just kidding...We were blessed with just one child and Jim and I both agree, we are so forunate we were blessed with Steve. He is funny, cutting and darling all at the same time. He is a good blend of both Jim and I, but, oh my, he is so his own person also, haha...which has kept life very interesting for those 30 years. As a child we just adored him, as a teenager, its a wonder we didn't kill each other, and as an adult, we are so proud God gave him especially to us... Happy birthday, Steve...We love you!!!

Mom and Dad (oh yeah, and sometimes he calls me Sandra, haha)

WHO WAS I KIDDIN'

2009-03-01T20:23:00.003-07:00

Seriously..when I used to wallpaper I was in my twenties & thirties and here I am 50 and I can tell you getting up and down is not easy, nor is it purdy with an overweight woman getting off the floor..hahahaha..here I had a plan to get the kitchen wallpapered by 1 and have it all put back together by 5...Well that didn't happen, but I am almost through----hanging that is....Jim is lovin the white, but between you and me, its cuz he doesn't want to paint...haha...but tomorrow morning when I walk out the door, i am going to leave knowing when I come home its going to be a beautiful clear yellow...don't say yuck..its a very light, but clear yellow...Kim picked it out, cuz she knows these things..don't ask me why I would trust someone else with this, but TRUST ME when I say, I really shouldn't be picking out colors all by myself..I don't even want to show you the picture of the pretty light rose I chose to paint it last time..it wasn't not what i had envisioned....in fact, the vision of it has been a nightmare since almost day 1 and thats been about 8 years ago..how I've lived with it this long is beyond me..haha!!!! At any rate, out with the old and in with the new!!!!! Jim has been hanging the blinds & curtains and oh what a difference they make...when I say curtains, I mean shears.....no one really does curtains anymore do they?????? And as I said before, the windows would go naked if it were up to me...haha....Well here we are 4 1/2 hours past deadline, but its ok, I am almost done...I will go to bed with a new kitchen tonight...ahhhh...sometimes, change is very good.......

SPRING CLEANING

2009-03-01T09:12:00.005-07:00

Aww for some of us it feels like spring....Its been in the 70's and 80's for the past few weeks and today its a brisk 51 degrees..The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and it just feels like its time to clean..My motto is "housework makes you ugly" but reality is if I don't want adult services to come in and take Jim away from me, haha, I must get ugly today....haha.....We made a quick trip to several stores yesterday...we started off getting things ready to wallpaper and we stopped..I needed a few more things...We headed out and got all new sheers for the breakfast room, kitchen, livingroom and hallway...woohoo.....I am so excited except for the fact that Jim has to put miniblinds up in those areas also..I know, I know, so 80's but for some reason Jim has issues that date back to his childhood for whatever reason..He has this thing that people will be looking in the windows...well, I've never seen anyone attempt to do this, but if he'd stop wandering around in his underroos then maybe he wouldn't worry so much about that....at any rate, Jim won the battle...new mini's are going up today and he said he'd hang the curtains as well...well can't really fight with that too much..I do so prefer naked windows though...
I will start wallpapering the kitchen so he can get it painted...Oh, yeah, did I mention this is paintable wallpaper...Don't even mention this to Jim or it will start him off on this....double work, crazy, yada, yada, yeah I've heard it all since about noon yesterday..haha...oh well, I won this battle and thats what counts, we're even..I mean a girls place is in the kitchen right???Ahhh WROOOOOOOOOOOOOONG...but it is her's to decorate any way she wants..haha...I am having way too much fun with all of this....I will post a pic of the kitchen once I get it done hopefully by late tonight...
I am hoping next week that Jim will lay the old laminate floor in the livingroom & hallway.,,,technically its not old but Jim says I can't call it new cuz I bought it when he left for Iraq the first time..when did that war start???? Oh well, yes, its been stacked in the spare room since that time, but I am hoping that since Jim is not working away from home anymore we can get this done....his priorities are so different than mine. Jim is actually such a good sport that I have to poke fun of him every now and then....He's in the kitchen getting everything ready so I can hang..my goal to have it hung by 1 and he can have it painted and we can put it back together by 5 ( yes my fingers are crossed).....I have to give him extra time cuz I will call him at least 100 times to help me with other projects..thank goodness he's patient....
All work has to stop by 5 cuz I have a project or two i need to do to post on my other blog..its been sitting empty over there for quite a while.....Now don't feel too sorry for Jim, cuz when I leave tomorrow I am leaving a gift card on the cabinet by his coffee to go get a pedicure....don't laugh...REAL MEN get peds...and he's got the best lookin male feet around..haha...See you on the flip side....

TEA PARTIES..NOT JUST FOR LITTLE GIRLS!!!

2009-02-21T19:46:00.004-07:00

I am still just flying high about my recent trip to the cornfields of Indiana. I love the midwest...wouldn't make a good midwesterner myself, but I love it from the open fields to the antiques to the warm friendly people i have met over the years. As I have said over and over I hit fifty a few weeks ago. Jim took me to see my friend Kim and she and her girls in turn, introduced me to some of their really good and special friends. Let's see,,,,there was Lindsey, Joy, Samantha, Trevor, Stephan, Grace & her parents (sorry, its a known fact if you have children you no longer h ave first names, just known as their parents, therefore I have omitted your names ON PURPOSE, HAHAHA!) and Kay (WOW, what a girl!!!)..I am sure I not only missed a few but totally messed up the spellings of your names....Now I know the only reason Kim & Steve still live in Nowhere, USA....its their friends..They are amazing!!!

Now Kim has always, always made me feel special even during times when I'm not, and I am sure she oversold me to her friends...haha..but who cares..I loved it... Kay made me feel so special on the day before we left Indiana--she threw a tea party and INVITED LIL OL ME!!!!....What a blast that was...She set the table and Joy (her daughter and might I just add she totally fits her name, she is truly a joy and darling as well) folded the napkins just like MARTHA would...the table was darling...We all had our own individual tea pots with tea (well except me, we drink ICED tea in Texas, haha) and she had the best little sandwiches and desserts that were to die for, complete with lemon curd!!!! Oh my..I felt like I had died and gone to the big tea party in the sky.....It was such a lovely morning and Kay, you truly have the gift of hospitality...Thank you for not only sharing your tea sets, your beautiful home and your daughter Joy with me, but it was so clear Jesus is the guest of all that goes on amongst your home. Thanks again for a memorable time in Indiana. I will always remember it and you!!!

Happy Anniversary

2009-02-17T22:25:00.005-07:00

to the love of my life.... Wow, its been 31 years, can you believe it??? Where has the time gone? Are you as amazed at how fast its gone by and what we've bundled into those years as I am? Its been a great 31 and I am looking forward to the next 31. You are still the kind, caring man I fell in love with so many years ago. The blonde hair has been replaced with a few scraggly gray ones and there are now lines around your eyes, but your heart has remained the same. I love you for many, many things but mostly because you are you and you gave me Steve. I love you Jim...Happy Anniversary and may our journey continue. Love, Sandi

FINALLY HOME!!!

2009-02-17T07:26:00.007-07:00

The next time I want to take a vacation for more than a week, would someone please STOP ME!!! haha! I love vacation but I love being home. Now don't get me wrong, vacation is great and friends are even better but being away from home for too long is not a good thing for me. I was never one as a child who enjoyed going to others to "spend the night"..I loved going to play or hang out but I always wanted to be back home when it was time for my head to hit the pillow. Now so much for that but here's to the fun stuff of my vacation....FRIENDS!!!!! Kim & I have been BFF'S for about 25 years, wow!!!! It was great to just go hang out, kick back and experience some of life's simple pleasures with her....like for instance---my 50th birthday..did I say thank you for making it so special and to Katianna for making me the most fabulous Italian b'day dinner complete with wine!!!! Oh yummy....and then there was that late night hot cocoa experience and I do say experience....that cocoa recipe was so much better than Starbucks....and lets not forget Rachels birthday gift to me...a great gift certificate to YOUR FIRED!! where she works and I got to pick out my own gift and shall we say "create" its outcome...haha!!! I do hate to brag so I won't go on and on about the wonderful footrub & manicure i got from Kati and Rachel except to say that sounds came out of my mouth from that that should not have...hahaha... At any rate, this was a very fun and relaxing part of our trip. Jim was thrilled to be with "his girls" once again..I happily share a piece of his heart with these 2 special girls..there are none like them.. Here's a quick couple of pics of my birthday party....now just a quick funny...Kim only had 25 of the 50 birthday candles needed for my cake...funny girl was going to light them twice...well, by the time she lite all the candles & I finally got them all blown out, the icing on the top of my cake was melting....hahahaha...meaning, she couldn't relight for fear we would set the house on fire...hahahaha....Thanks again, Mingles for the great and memorable birthday......

MRS. RUNYAN

2009-02-02T21:32:00.002-07:00

Oh, my gosh, I just realized for the first time in my life when someone called me Mrs. Runyan I didn't correct them and say "hey my name is Sandi". After all Mrs. Runyan is my mother in law not me. Even when Steve was young and growing up all his friends called me Sandi or at worst Miss Sandi. That I could take. This Mrs. stuff just never seemed to fit me. I mean really, when you look at me don'tcha just see Sandi???Today one of Jim's fellow soldiers came in and of course he always calls me Mrs. Runyan ( I always correct, but he alwasy starts out that way, haha) but I have finally just accepted thats who I am now. All these years that name has felt so old, and so odd for me. I didn't even correct and boy is that weird for me. So weird that I am thinking, yep I am turning 50 and its goes with the territory.haha....For some odd reason when I look in the mirrow I still don't see anyone past say age 36, I mean I just don't see it..haha...I can feel it, but I don't see it..haha...At any rate, I guess I am just gonna have to own it now. I think I finally feel like Mrs. Runyan...oh geeze....what next!!!!

STIMULATING THE ECONOMY

2009-01-31T09:42:00.005-07:00

(picture we took several years ago in Indiana on one of our fast trips there)

After all its our duty as Americans to do our part, so we are taking off....

I love holidays & vacation time..I especially love birthdays that are celebrated BIG!!! This year I turn 50. Now I know to some of you that is "getting there" but for me, it is just great that at least I "got there" , haha.

Jim is taking me to see one of my BFF's in Indiana. Its snowing & icing there but I don't care. I get to go and hang out, drink hot chocolate, get pampered, and chat to the wee hours of the night with someone who probably understands me better than I understand myself..scarry---just a bit, haha!!!!

Anyway, I am looking forward to seeing Kim & her family, meeting her new friends and shopping....ok, this is HUGE!! I'll let you in on a secret of mine...Kim lives 30 minutes from IKEA and that is a dream trip for me..haha...I know, I don't get out much do I, but my wants are so small haha...anyway, got my list, been shopping online and will come home with organizational stuff for the playroom and hopefully a few surprises for Amy & Steve.

I just finalized the hotel & car rental reservations so now I really feel like I'm going someplace. YEAH!!!!!! We are first headed to Ill. to visit with Jim's family for a few days. That will be great in itself as I love the St Louis area.

Then we will head out to Indiana...depending on the weather (which isn't so great right now) we will head up to the Amish Country (my birthday present). I just love it up there...I mean I just love to gwack..is that ok???? I am just amazed at how these people live in their simplicity...so glad God has never required that of me.... I mean I am allergic to animals, being outdoors, and manual labor just to start with. I love the modern conveniences but there is something so charming about this area and the people.... I did however learn after my last visit there that I was not suppose to take pics of the Amish's faces...yeah whatever, but they make such fabulous pics....thought I'd share with you.... anyhow, I now know the rules and will respect that but am hoping the weather holds out for us...

We are also headed to Louisville to pick up Jim's stuff from Iraq (and can I just say I will be so glad when he has possession of that stuff again, cuz I am so tired of hearing about it, haha) and then back to Ill for another mini visit with Jim's parents before we head home...by that time I will be so happy to be back at our warm spring like weather in south Texas...

Anyhow, got to run get ready for work and then the packing begins...we only have 4 days left..it will fly by, especially since I am working all 4 of them...Anyway, don't know if I'll have access to a computer (not taking the laptop, too much trouble with all we are bringing home) but i will post when I get home..until then....CHOW!!!

KUDOS, RACHEL

2009-01-28T18:23:00.002-07:00

Meet our Rachel...Rachel came into our lives over 20 years ago. Wow, has it really been that long? We have watched Rachel grow from a small child into a wonderful young lady. The years have shaped Rachel into a very thought provocative person. She is a fun loving girl who enjoys life and feels strongly that those that are created be allowed to live as well.... Above is a picture of Rachel as she along with her friends and a group from a Catholic church embarked upon Washington DC the day after inauguration to let their voices speak for those who are not allowed a voice. Rachel, Jim & I are so very proud of you, not for just who you are but who you are becoming. We love you!!.Look out world, she is about to embark upon you!!!..Yes, you are our favorite...who cares, I said it..haha!!!

Transition Time

2009-01-20T22:13:00.002-07:00

Jim & I made a few changes in our lives recently. This has put him at home---for very long periods of time( did you notice I said long?)...hahaha!!! He has developed new habits that I find so interesting. He loves to watch tv but he especially likes and watches for Martha. You know the blonde entrepreneur who did time in prison??? Jim loves to cook so that part I understand, but he now tries to tell me about the latest crafties Martha does and did I know such and such. If I don't, not to worry, he'll explain it down to the last detail and I should give it a try. He is always snarking about my one & only vice---my soap opera...Now, I don't hound him about Repo man and some of the other stup--ughh I mean programs he watches, but he always talks about how wasteful it is for me to watch the Y&R, then sits down and tells me what Mrs. Chancellor is going to do next and did I notice yesterday when Phyllis was in Paris yada yada yada happened...right, buddy, this is a waste of MY time..haha!!!! He also uses the clothes dryer as an iron..yeah thats right--that 220 volt piece of equipment that sends that meter rotating faster than a roller coaster. Which brings me to the kitchen. He must have never had to do a dish growing up cuz that man uses more dishes (plates, cups, mugs, doesn't matter, he doesn't discriminate) than anyone I've ever seen. If he's having a piece of toast, well forget that a napkin might work, lets bring out the stoneware...If its a holiday and dishes are a bit backed up or in the dishwasher, don't worry, we've got china for that piece of toast. And then there are those phone conversations I have with my friends. He will have nothing to say to me for most of the day UNTIL I dial a number..then he wants to know who I am calling and then proceed to have a conversation with me the whole time I am on the phone..Now don't get me wrong, I love having him around and there is nothing like that smile but doggone it, if this keeps up I'm gonna have to be on medication..haha.....have a fabulous tomorrow!!!

A Note to President & Mrs. Bush

2009-01-19T05:43:00.003-07:00

Thank you for 8 years of service to our great country. For Jim, it was an honor to serve under your leadership. As Jim says, when that phone rings at 3 a.m it was George Bush he had confidence that could make a decision at that time and know it was right. As he left for Iraq, not once, but twice, he did so confidently knowing his "back would be covered" and knowing the mission was a just & worthy cause. Though not all share our feelings, I believe history will serve you well and you will be given credit where it is due. As with all of us, mistakes are made, it is just unfortunate that you are not given the grace we are all extended. Thank you for bringing calmness to our country during 9/11 and for always having the American's best interest at heart. But most of all, thank you for leading with conviction from your heart and a love for the God whose values our country was founded upon. And thank you so much for just being who you are. May God bless you and Laura and all that you do to continue to serve Him!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEVEN!!

2009-01-04T08:57:00.010-07:00

Have I ever told you how much I enjoy being an aunt? I became an aunt for the very first time when I was 16. I've enjoyed that title since the first time I saw this beautiful little red haired baby, it was definitely love at first sight. And I have to tell you, its even better the next generation around. I have 4 1/2 grand-nieces and 2 grand-nephews. Ah, be still my heart, grand doesn't even begin to describe it, haha!!! The girls are all in Oklahoma courtesy of Uncle Sam (can you tell I am pouting?) and we only get to see them occassionally, though I love them all the same. Then there is 1/2 pint who is due to arrive in late March, early April who is Loralee (and I am sure I misspelled it, but no worry, her mother won't see my blog anyway, haha) and who we can't wait to get here!!! Which brings me to "our boyz". Jayden & Deven. Wow!!! I love boys. I've always said since we could only have one child I am so glad it was a boy. There is nothing like them at all. Being around these two just bring back so many happy memories about Stevie and his growing up years, I think that is probably part of the attachment, besides them being so dang cute!!!

Anyway, lost my train (no pun intendend, but fight so well don'tcha think? wink, wink) of thought for a minute, or the reason of my 2nd blog for the day (yeah thats right 2, count them!!)...It was Deven's 3 rd birthday (and he does know how many fingers he is, he can pull those 3 fingers up if you ask him how old he is). So celebrate we did!!! Grandma Minerva pulled out all the stops complete with a jumping castle (was it castle????) and a real train (ok, a hot fixed up lawnmower, but it looked like one!!..It was a blast. The kids and adults all loved riding in the train and I did too..haha...Aunt Kat enjoyed being the Aunt of the day (come on Kat, now you know why I spoiled Bubba so much, don'tcha ya???? go ahead you can finnnnalllllllllllllllllllllllly admit it, and put those therapy sessions behind you!!!) and bought him the most beautiful cake for his special day. Deven loves all things animals especially those that growl and make noises (ok, jayden shares this as well, haha) so of course this cake had to be spectacular. Kat is our internet shopping queen. She can find and come up with anything as long as she has the internet at her fingers. Check out that cake!!! It was awesome not only in looks but flavorful as well. No HEB or Walmart cakes for her nephew..hhahahah...anyway, enjoy the pics and try not to drool over these boys too much. They won't be available until two thousand, well never. We will never let them go...haha....HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEVEN. You are loved by so many!!!

OOPS, I've done it again!!!

2009-01-04T08:16:00.001-07:00

(I MEAN REALLY, WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE ABOUT ANY OF THESE BOYS! HAPPY 2009!!)

I've walked away from the blogging world!!! Life has become way to busy but with 2009 here, all things are changing. Jim and I are making major changes in our lives, one that will involve him no longer working away from home. Plans are in the make for him to return to school, and he retires from the reserves in May....Yeah!!! Way to go GI Jim.....He has quite a few medical things to get ahold of and his paperwork for school wasn't received (ughhh, though this almost seems to be a blessing) so he is going to be a househusband for a few months and concentrating on getting some much needed things done. Anyway, it is so great to have him home. I've really missed my best friend (though, I have to say, getting used to living together again full time has been no picnic), haha....I'm beginning to realize its really not all about me. Sad, but true..haha....Anyway, Jim has the greatest dispostion of anyone I know and just makes my days so happy.... Ok, so, here's whats been going on for the month of December. Jim was Santa once again for him unit at the 370th Christmas party and I have to say Jim makes a fabulous Santa and I say that without any prejudice whatsoever....just ask around..haha...Also, on Christmas morning, he was no longer Uncle JimaLee as he is so loving called by his grand-nephews, but Santa Claus. To say it was magical is no exaggeration. It was wonderful and the boys just loved him. I am thinking we can get one more year out of Santa before the boys realize its really JimaLee under that suit. I will be back in the new year posting ramblings on our comings & goings and what lies ahead. We have made our resolutions and hope to keep at least 2 of them..haha...Lets face it, it never happens..haha...Enjoy the pics and come back to visit us often.

The People Have Spoken!

2008-11-05T08:18:00.006-07:00

Wow, after 2 long years, it's over in just a matter of a few hours! I would have loved to be celebrating McCain's appointment today as the leader of the free world, but it is a different kind of celebration. Though President-elect Obama was not our family's choice, he is the majority's choice. How wonderful to be an American and to know like it or not, our leader is our choice!!

Today we celebrate many things. The first being that we belong to the greatest country in the world and with that comes the privelege of being able to vote for our leader. We owe much gratitude to not only our forefathers, but the great men & women who have fought and continue to make sure we have this right.

We also celebrate that history has been made in our country. I can't deny how prideful as an American I was last night, as I saw a man stand on that stage in Chicago, be declared President-elect of the United States, and know that our country has moved forward from racial divide. No matter what party I voted for, it was really a defining moment--the black man was not secondary to the white man and it was very evident when Joe Biden joined Obama on the stage. It wasn't about the color. It was about the man and who he was. Men have died so that Senator Obama would have this privilege. We are created equal and like his politics or not, God had to be pleased that maybe "we are getting it" as a people.

I also celebrate that we are priveleged as a nation to do as God has called us to do, to pray for the leaders of our nation. We don't have to do it in secret or with fear, we are able to do as God has commanded us to do and this is huge as people all over the world suffer persucution just for seeking God out.

I also celebrate that many Americans have realized that their vote is important, it does matter. It was exciting to see a spark lite in so many people, some for the first time. Millions had registered to vote and stood in lines (many for hours) for the privelge of voting. Millions, thats incredible. I've never seen that before. It was awesome!

Whatever the future holds, its ok. As I told Steve this morning, this is not a surprise to God. He allowed it to happen for whatever reason. We will continue to pray for Obama & his family as we have as a family for President & Mrs Bush and their protection. He has a rough road ahead of him. We will do what Americans do best. Stand together and behind our new leader and unite as a country.

We may not have voted for the new president but we respect his position as President of the United States. We will not live our lives in fear but in anticipation that God is still in control, continues to have a plan for our lives, and nothing will happen that He has not allowed. So today, Jim has a new boss and we have a new President. God bless America and God bless us all!

WHERE HAS THE TIME GONE?

2008-10-30T21:34:00.003-06:00

TEXANS FOR MCCAIN/PALIN

This year has absolutely just flown by. I don't know whether its because I'm getting older or what is going on, but it seems like I was just getting excited because Thanksgiving was almost here. Well guess what? Thanksgiving is almost here-AGAIN!! We are really looking forward to it this year. I am hoping it will be nice and quiet. Jim & I are thinking of heading to San Antonio for the holiday and just eating out. No dishes to fix, clean up or put away. Am I just lazy that this is all I think about when it comes to the holidays? Or do I just like to spend my time being with Jim. Speaking of Jim. I have been out of pocket for the past 2 weeks on his days off and I have literally not seen him except once during that time. This working out of town is for the dogs but we have a plan that may just about to be changing our lives. Hey, change is good, especially if it means having my main squeeze around more. I miss having him around. He's such a good sport and lets me be queenie, but its ok cuz I let him be the king also so it works out just fine. He is missing Steve & I and everyone here misses him more I think. Anyway, changes are a coming!!

Hopefully you all have gotten out and voted. Jim and I voted early this past week and we are so praying the polls are wrong and McCain slides in for the win. We love America and all that being Americans entails so we are doing our part this weekend. I've committed to spending 6 hours on the phone trying to rally support for McCain between Saturday & Sunday. So once again, get out and vote if you've not done so. Just thought I'd share a photo of a sign I took to my gf & her hubby in the hill country last weekend. I am so proud Randy kept that sign up. He is a republican but doesn't advertise. Kudos to you Randy. You rock! If we win, its cuz of you and that sign. ;) Be blest everyone and God Bless America!

Back to blogging...

2008-08-05T20:30:00.006-06:00

Wow, I have really missed this. And I am so surprised its been this long. Lots has been going on in our lives and with our family, but mostly good. We just survived Hurricane Dolly. Jim and I left for a long weekend to Alburqueque, New Mexico (wow, what a place!!!) and imagine to our surprise that a hurricane was within 48 hours of hitting us. The tv broke the news to us (hey we were on vacation,no one watches tv), we shook our shoulders, and we headed on about our business. Steve boarded up the house for us. Thank goodness for grown children. Jim headed to Kingsville to work for the week and I to Casa de Belmont, my favorite little B&B. Ok not really, but the mistress of the house can sure make you feel like you are at one. What did we do for 3 & 1/2 days? We had a hurricane party in Connie's croproom. Her cute and charming niece had come to visit her as well. It was nothing short of FABULOUS!!...If you are interested in what we did visit my new stamping blog snipsofpapershadesofink.blogspot.com I am wanting to keep our everyday life blog separate from my creative one.

Here are a couple pics of Jim and I on our trip to Albuquerque. We redid our vows on top of Sandi Mountain just about sunset one evening and I have to say that after almost 31 years of marriage this was so meaningful to both of us. I still feel very blest to have Jim in my life. The other is a picture of the nailless staircase at one of the Catholic churches in Santa Fe (Loretto). This was especially meaningful as my grandparents stood very much where we did many years ago viewing the same staircase. I sure do miss, but everytime I am in a Catholic church I think of them and reminded of how lucky I was to have them in my life. So enjoy and come back often to visit. If you like crafting join me at my other blog. It should be up and running in the next few days.

THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES.....

2007-02-03T17:12:00.000-07:00

Here we are practically on the eve of the biggest event of the year for my son. I had anticipated several times this week on what special "SUPER BOWL" treats to throw together for our biggest fan, Steve. Wings was first on the list, as he loves these. Of course, the dreaded coke was next, can't have a bowl party without the fizz. Pizza, he has to have pizza, cuz thats what he and his grandpa had every game day!!! I had gotten that far with the menu when I got the dreaded phone call. What? Not coming home this weekend? Huh?????? What do you mean you are staying home? Why? Oh, yeah, the new big screen tv had won out. Why of course he and Amy would watch from there. His plans are to go pick up the party goods after work tonight and be ready for the event first thing tomorrow. But for Steve, the Super bowl is more than just the teams, the food, the company. Its about memories. Steve didn't get to know his grandpa for very long (we lived away most of Steve's life until he was 12), but the few years he had, were very significant ones in his life. He LOVED his grandpa, without doub,without question. And the two of them loved sports!!! They shared many Sunday afternoons and evenings with pizza, coke and a tv. Bonds were made those days between the two. Shouts and laughter were always a part of the event. They seemed to feel they were there on the field,haha!! Steve looked forward to all his time with his grandpa and I know that tomorrow when the footbal is kicked for the first time, he is going to remember one man who spent many, many Sunday afternoons sharing time with him. Thanks, Dad, for sharing your love of sports with Steve and giving him so many heartfelt memories.

SURE YOU DO~WE ALL KNOW AT LEAST ONE.

2007-01-28T16:14:00.000-07:00

The only child that thinks the world evolves only around them. I can say this, because I am the mother (no, not muther, don't EVEN go there) of an only child. It was your typical scrapbooking crop. Bright lights were on, empty tables eagerly awaiting all the scrapbooking tools and supplies,of oh say,maybe 4 per table!! The scrapbookers came in one by one, carrying or pulling overstuffed bags with supplies to help create those fabulous pages. Everyone scouted out the room to determine where and just how much space they'd each need (and yes, we do need room). There I am at the head of a table (which by the way, these tables are at 6 ft long and 3 ft deep, plenty of space) in my own little area, with room to grow. But there she comes, a newbie to the scrapbooking world,entering the room like, "here I am!!" She puts her things next to mine, or so i thought. I turn around from helping someone and there it all is, a store full of stuff totally layed out on the table, by colors, category, and tool. This newbie had a wonderful smile on her face and was so excited to be there to work on her creations....uh,,,,excuse me....whats this about ..apparently I am sharing my table with obsessive,compulsive , overly eager new scrapbooker!!!! There I am shoved in my own little corner with no place to grow.And scrapbookers need a place to grow, trust me.... Forget that other people were going to have to squeeze in somewhere else, because this one had "taken over" the table with no place for anyone else to sit.. Yes, we know, 'ITS ALL ABOUT YOOUUUUUUUU"!!!! To that I say 'TABLE HOG!!!'....yes, she has a name and I feel that to protect all my scrapbooking buddies out there is cyberspace I must report her name-----Heather----please be on the lookout for her....she's ruthless.....hahahahaha!!!! It was actually a fun day and reminded me of the fun I had when I first started scrapbooking. I think I had more fun watching her than working on my own pages yesterday....Heather, welcome to my world..I will let you shove me in a corner anytime...You are so much fun!!!!!!

THE WEATHER OUTSIDE IS FRIGHTFUL

2007-01-16T19:35:00.000-07:00

But oh, my, how delightful!!!! Its here, its here--Winter has finally arrived. I was acually cold today for awhile. The hot flashes were totally controlled by the weather--imagine that!! We are under, hot your pants on-----freeze warnings...I love it!!! My favorite time of the year. My sinus' are reaping havoc on me though, but I can deal with it. It is great---hot cocoa, movies, a soft blankie, and homemade soups---ahh winter brings all those comfort things with it. I sleep so good, and of course I always cover my head in the winter while I sleep..Don't ask why? I don't know, i just do, kinda weird, but hey, who really cares..haha...and I have to set the alarm for 3o minutes earlier, because I have to push the snooze button at least 10 times before i get up. I can't help, its like I am trying to psych myself out..The weather will be this way for over a week, and I am sure I will be happy to see the warmth come back afterwards, but for now I will be enjoying this while it lasts. Welcome, winter!!!

UHHMMMM-REMEMBER THE RESOLUTIONS?

2007-01-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are mid January and I have barely touched on my New Years Resolutions. I have the "diet" book and chart located and they are now on the desk. I don't really have plans to open that book today as tomorrow is Monday, and the rule is Monday is the beginning of any diet (yes, it is, just look at any diet rule book), and I am not quite ready to "start the dreaded diet". Oh, but news break, news break, Jim and I are joining a health club next week, so we will "have" to get started on our diets, so we are on the right track. I have conquered part of the cable problem. I am down to basic and what a challenge that is. Thank goodness for Fox News or I'd have to go cold turkey all together. I mean, really, have you really looked at the local news channel??? Paleeeze, is that really worthy to be called news. The reading is coming along. I have read a few more pages of my book and have the new one picked out. The purging continues. I am currently in Steve's room since he has moved out. This will become the study/game room. I am in the process of accessing what I can and can't get rid of....not because Steve says I can't, but because I am the Mom..I mean, how can we get rid of so many things. Two things for sure, the large arcade game and surf board must go. I am finding no attachments to them, though (I regress) Steve does. I am keeping with my promise to get rid of a large garbage bag of things a day though. Its wonderful....I have pulled out way too many things while assessing.oh, geez, what a mess , but I have vowed that from one side of this house to the other, everything will have a place and it will be in ints place by next weekend or I move. haha, ok just kidding!!!! Well, the resolutions continue and the list grows, but I am determined that 2007 will be a wonderful, productive, growing year for us all. There is much to be greatful for and to look forward to.

5 THINGS YOU DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

2007-01-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

I belong to a Scrapbooking forum and we have a weekly challenge to which I am going to participate in at various times... here are my answers to this weeks challenge....
5 THINGS YOU DON'T KNOW ABOUT ME

1. I love dark days with a touch of rain..yes, i do..i just love them!!...Whereas,
these types of days usually bring about signs of depression in some, I tend to
thrive in them. As usual, I am backwards!!!
2. At age 6 I sat down at the piano and started playing like I had been playing for years. I play by ear (ok, smart pants, not with my ear, by ear). My dad was a minister at a small church in Raymondville, Texas and they didn't have a pianist. One day while at the church as my dad was working, i sat at the bench and started playing. A definite gift from God (well, when I practiced, my brothers certainly didn't call it a gift) My parents had me take piano lessons, to which my teacher told them I had no talent. Probaby the first kid ever thrown out of music lessons,haha... Well,
here I am some 41 years later and I can rejoice to the Lord through what He gave
me. Hey , who needs talent, right?
3. I am not the mother of a small child..hard to believe, I know!!!.Everyone who hears me talk about my son, Stevie, are always shocked that he is 27 years old, and just die laughing when they find out. To you, I say thanks for thinking I am so young looking!!! hahaha
4. Since I was very young I have been fascinated ( ok, hold on to yourself here) with Winter Texan mobile home parks and living at one...I know, call me crazy, whatever!!! I don't even like camping, but as I have said before, this is not camping... I can't wait until Jim turns 55 (we are just a little over 3 years away) and we can move onto one..It looks like an absolute blast. A party going on every day of the week if you want..PARDY, PARDY, PARDDDYY!!! Woohoo!!!! I am very into tight spaces, no yard work to speak of, lots of friends to choose from, and lots going on...I am a party waiting to happen, I'm told!!!!
5. I hate WALMART....I know hate is a strong word, but I strongly hate Walmart and everything about it.I dislike shopping but if Walmart was all we had to choose from in America, I would literally never go. I probably go once or twice a year and usually I am held captive by someone who "just has to go", to you I say ughhhhhhhhhh......

THE DREADED 2007 RESOLUTIONS!!

2007-01-04T07:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, its that time again...the dreaded New Year's Resolution list is now done!!!
Will I stick to it? I am hoping that by publishing it, that I can at least make
a positive attempt at it....here we go.....

1. yes, the ever yearly popular DIET.....I figure I am getting older and I would love to see my feet again while standing upright.

2. Church...I believe Jim and I are resolved on a church and are planning to get started once again. I miss the fellowship with other believers and I know God misses us visiting Him in his house. I long to be in a place where I can worship Him with others.

3. Bible study with Jim...oh how I have missed these..we got into very bad habits when he deployed when the war broke out and never restarted them when he returned home..i have a couple books already picked out just waiting for Jim to give the "OK".

4. Simplify....yes, that is word and I do know what it means...I am so tired of stuff..It not only clutters my home but my mind and beginning this weekend I intend to get rid of one bag of stuff daily for 30 days....

5. Let go of things and people that I can't change. It exhausts me!!!! And besides, once again , i am reminded that God doesn't need my help in this area. Geez, when will I ever learn this lesson...

6. Get caught up on my scrapbooking..I am going to organize all the
photos that are still not in their protective box. I am going to strive for a
minimum of scrapping 200 pages for 2007.

7. There is an issue I want to complete and have vowed to have it done this year. Only a few people know of this--Jim, Steve, Kim, & Connie. My trusted allies...

8. I am going to love the unlovable if it kills them and it may ME!!literally.haha...YOu know there are those people that are in our path that you'd just like to get a super sudsor to get them out of your way, but I know and you know they are there for a reason. I have vowed to love them in spite of ourselves. This is no way is related to #5 though you may think it is. In my mind, and thats all that matters, I have it separated..

9. Promote Jim to King this year. He has been my prince Charming for so long and is so good to me. Secret here, are you listening..(I am saying this in a whisper). Sometimes I take advantage of Jim.. Yes I do, I know, its true, and I am going to treat him like the royalty that he is...He is love of my life and I intend for him to know that every day...I of course , know that it does take 21 days to create a new habit, and I will need to remind him of this..haha

10. Read, I am going to read more often. For crying out loud I work in the library and don't read more than 2 books a year, if that. I am in the process of reading a new book right now and its political, of course.

11. Return sometime soon to the Green's Thursday Group. How have I
let life get in the way? You know when you know you are suppose to be somewhere
but you aren't? I miss this group, who it represents and the what Jim &
Sandy (yes, they have the same names) add to our lives. I need to make this a
priority!!!

12. A trip to Oklahoma City, where it all began for Jim and I. We
have both really been wanting to take a quick trip, visit our friends and
reminisce.
13. I am giving up cable tv. I used to never watch television, but once Jim's deployment came, I was glued to it. I will let you in on a secret--I am a news junkie. I am hoping to start recovering from this during this year. We have already canceled 120 channel and downsized to 40 channels. And the only reason I haven't just dumped cable all together is because I love FOX NEWS and crime tv..there its out in the open...I feel so much better. My plan is that by March 1 I will no longer "need" these shows in my life. I must be weined, I mean afterall, heroin addicts aren't just stripped of their drugs, right?

Any way, here are some of my resolutions. I think these are doable...Well, #1 will be the hardest, lets just be honest. I was doing so good while I had my surgery and then I went back to work and thats all it took...I had been had!!!! Anyway, good luck to all of you and your resolutions and I'll let you know how mine are coming along. A new year, a new beginning and a time to start over...I love new beginnings!!!.....

HEROES OF 2006

2007-01-01T18:15:00.000-07:00

As a military wife, I know all too well the sacrifices some are asked to make. There are 4 little girls that have made the ultimate sacrifice for the past few years. While other children are out kicking ball with their dads, having a special movie date with him, or are being tucked into bed at night feeling secure knowing "their daddy" is in the other room sleeping, these little girls have given to their nation something most of our children are never asked to give. Yes, it is true, its their Daddy's profession that takes him away, but as children they pay a very big price for our freedom and security. If you know of a child who's parent is serving their country away, take the time to remember them and thank them and hey, how about a movie date with one of them. It would make their day!!! To Megan, Autum, Kylie, and our little Maddie I say thank you. You are our real heros. We are so proud of your Daddy for serving his country. I know you miss him and my prayer is that when you are reunited in about 8 weeks, that he will be with you for a very long time, before he is asked to "deploy" once again. You are such brave little girls and I am so proud of you all. You are growing into such beautiful and wonderful little girls and I know your daddy is very proud of you, as we all are. Thank you for all you have done for "your country". We love you all very much...Your Aunt Sandi and Uncle Jim

SOLDIER OR CANCER VICTIM!

2006-12-03T07:00:00.001-07:00

What does someone expect at 6 am on a Sunday morning..Did I get any appreciation out of this deal???????Nope, not any, or at least, yet. This is Jim's weekend to "play Army" and somehow this became my problem. Jim needed a haircut. I told him his hair was getting a little long. He put it off, came home yesterday and announced at dinner, "I need to get a haircut", then proceeded to tell me about Loya and how he messed up his hair and had to shave it all off. Loya's comrades proceeded to call him Uncle Fester all day yesterday. Well, for some reason Jim has decided he doesn't want to spend $7.50 on a haircut(yeah, whatever, bet you won't make that mistake again!!!). Jim is a collector of gadgets, he loves them all and believes they all work. He bought this ridiculous 1 inch haircutter to take with him when he left for Iraq. Let me assure you, it doesn't work. Here I was at 6 am ( I know, what was I thinking. I tell Jim I'll do something for him and he literally takes it as a spoken contract), doing his hair before he has to leave. Well, first off, Jim has hair like a cat. Soft, limp, and unruly(yes, that is a word). I did what he told me to do, and when I stood back to take a look at the final results of my early morning labor, I couldn't control it---I burst out laughing and couldn't stop. He looked like a cat who had gotten wet...His hair was a mess. There were patches that were cut to the skin(don't know how I did that), and some hair was scraggly. Jim just sat there and reminded me , he was going to be in formation with 30 something of America's finest in about an hour and Fester. He went into the bathroom to asess the damage. All I heard was my name in a very loud voice "SANDRA". Well, it didn't sound very friendly and Jim is not in a habit of raising his voice to me, so I tried to ignore it and went back to bed. Well, there he was at the foot of the bed telling me he couldn't and wouldn't walk out of the house looking like a cancer victim(now please do not take offense to this, he only meant that his hair looked like it had come in in different lengths all over). He had found Steve's hair trimmer and told me to just cut it off all over. I got up and did it, laughing the whole time. I couldn't help it, really, I couldn't. Alas, it was over!!! I stood back and again burst out laughing (come on, it was 6:30 and i was not fully awake yet, not to mention I had not even smelled the aroma of coffee at this point!). He had more hair coming out his nose and off his eyebrows than he did off his head. But at least it was even. My suggestion for the next time he doesn't want to spend $7.50 for a haircut, use my Nair for legs. It works perfect everytime. Well, I can't wait to hear what America's finest name will be for my soldier today when he gets home. All I can is what goes around, comes around. And Jim, didn't your beany fit a little looser today since you had no hair?????bwahahahaha...don't worry, honey, I am laughing with you, not at you...Oh i forgot , you aren't laughing...Ok, I feel like I can go back to bed now...My duty to America is over....

THANKSGIVING AND BLACK FRIDAY....

2006-11-24T11:49:00.000-07:00

Well, we have another successful T'giving behind us....it all went without incident until about 8:30p.m. Take into mind I made the pies...after our 2nd go round of "the feast", some of us were finishing it off with dessert...Krissy yells from the kitchen, Sandra there's a nail in this pie...now, you have to understand,Krissy is our a brunette in a blondes' body at times (sorry, Kris, but its true, right Kat???) Knowing I had put cloves in the pie, i thought thats probably a piece of clove that didn't get ground up...I looked, of course it wasn't a nail, it was a screw, yes a screw!!!!!! GREAT FLYING SPAGHETTI MONSTORS, where the heck did that come from..it was lodged at the bottom of the pie,just on top of the crust, so it had to have come from the pumpkin mixture..I was sure I had solved the mystery, thinking that when i beat it with my electric mixer maybe it had come loose..i mean what else could it be or have come from?????NO SUCH LUCK..ALL SCREWS WERE INTACT UPON INSPECTION.... Poor Bubba, said" I would have a second piece but i'm afraid you might have a razor blade in there somewhere".Kenny was appalled that after he graciously invited me over for Thanksgiving that this is how I would repay them..Minerva ended it with "are you trying to screw us????"""""The ironic thing is I was very careful to make sure that none of the hair that i am loosing by the handfuls would end up in the pie....Now, we have decided it was in the can of pumkin or evaporated milk...but we have moved on, but unfortunately this is something i will be living with at least through the Christmas holiday and every Thanksgiving from now on....Now, did I mention black friday????? I had never been to a black friday event ever...how I let my nieces talk me into going (to which one didn't end up coming anyway) is still beyond me...I had just turned over early this morning thinking , thank goodness the girls decided not to go......well as soon as i entered into the sleep zone again, i thought i heard something..yes, there it is again. Yep, the dreaded phone call came...It was Minerva..are you ready????No, i don't think I should go....come on..no, you know standing in line and walking on the cement is not good for my knee...come on, we have mom's handicap parking thing, you can ride in the scooter ,, we''ll park in the handicap parking,but you have to come..are you sure i need to come...yes i'm sure..get up......ok....I DID IT!!!!!!! I can't believe I did it..We stood in line for about 30 minutes, it was a long line, i had my scooter (the thing ran so slow, i had to abandon it eventually, yes i know, but hey the crowds were crazy....).I do not shop so this is a HUGE DEAL to Jim...now rewind to 9 p.m. last night...got the call from Steve...he was headed to Best Buy to camp out...there were tents set up, football and soccer going on in the parking lot and bbq's at his spot...he was camping out to get a chance on a
$300 computer for Amy....I called him early this morning...HE GOT IT!!!!!Steve is an avid black friday shopper...he does what needs to be done to get the good deal, even if its sleeping out...So this is my life in the last 24hours...what am i doing now??? I called Minerva, we both decided we are ready to venture out again-----to WALMART...I never go---i hate that store, but for some reason we both want to go, so i am headed in for another shower and the tennies are at the front door...I am ready for the holidays...........................

NOVEMBER & THANKSGIVING...

2006-11-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

Absolutely my most favorite month and holiday. November is the promise of 2 months of holidays and in the middle Thanksgiving. The day I have anticipated all year long. I have rarely ever cooked "ole Tom" myself. Those who know and love me would just as soon I stay away from the bird. My past experiences with Tommy havn't been so good, so I do what I do best. I am the "guest". I know, I know, you think its because I adorn a tiara, isn't it? Trust me, this is an act of love that I do for my family. One of my best friends and sister-in-law, Minerva, does the spread...and once you've had her menu, well, lets just say, you'd understand why no one wants me to mess with our fine feathered friend....But I do bring desserts. That is my contribution each holiday season. I save everyone the chance of food poisoning but bless this with my sweets...it works well for everyone..Ask anyone in my family....I have been up since 7 and have 2 fresh strawberry pies cooling, and of course, I just pulled out the pumpkin pies...my house smells wonderful!!!! I called Minerva to check on her and what is going on at the Simpson compound, and well, lets just say, she's had a minor setback..Now, we didn't plan on smoked turkey, but, ummm, dinner has been delayed while my brother, Kenny put the fire out in the oven....Don't be alarmed, the firetrucks were not called, he showed up in the nick of time and saved the day with a box of salt....apparently Minerva had way too many things going on at once and the aluminum pan had a hole poked in it...the sounds she heard coming from the oven, were not the results of her basting Tom, it was her basting dripping on the heating element, thus the fire....we laughed and then I remembered my own mishap 2 years ago...Again, I was up early, hmmming christmas carols(so what, i like them). I was baking 2 lemon meringue pies. I had lost my recipe for meringue, but i clearly remembered you just add sugar to egg whites and beat till they peak..well, apparently, too much sugar is NOT a good thing...the fire alarms went off, Jim ran into the kitchen, I am wondering what is going on...I was just thinking, I should have cleaned the oven before I started baking...Jim opened the oven and there were my 2 pies---ON FIRE--flames were all over them..Jim threw them in the sink and turned the water on...did that tick me off or what? I mean I had been squeezing lemons all morning and had plans for these pies...he didn't have to throw them in the sink...couldn't he have scooped the fire in the sink instead???? He says it didn't work that way, but I could have saved those pies...I learned a very valuable lesson that day...egg whites and too much sugar can be lethal..hahaha...use a recipe!!! HAPPY THANKSGIVING everyone...

WHO IS YOUR AUNT 'REA'

2006-11-04T12:56:00.000-07:00

Every family has one, or should....You know, the aunt, when just by the mention of her name brings a smile to your face instantly and brings warmth to your heart....She's the one you can call when you're going to be in "town" and she'll leave light on..Hospitality is her middle name....On the Simpson side of our family, it is our 'Aunt Rea'. I don't know exactly when Marie Simpson Ellis got the name Rea, but I am sure it came from the mouth of one of her first nieces or nephews. She is Marie to everyone else...The name Aunt Rea brings to mind many, many things... It brings memories of the best grape jelly ever to be canned and has made its way to homes all over the U.S. Everyone looks forward to it and secretly hopes she has made a little extra for them to take home in their suitcases. Aunt Rea has the wonderful gift of patience, and, well, lets just say most of us don't have it without medication..haha!!! I've never heard her raise her voice. She is the glue that has kept the Simpson clan tied together for many, many years and family is probably the most important thing to her. I regret living so far and being a homebody (to which I must blame this on her brother, Richard, as I take after him,hehe) because I have not gotten to know her even a fraction of what I would have liked to...I do know that I am warmed by thoughts and memories of her as I am sure everyone that knows her are. I also know, that I strive to be the 'Aunt Rea' in my own neices and nephews lives. She is a wonderful role model and am so happy she belongs to "us".....I love you Aunt Rea..I know I don't tell you have as much as I should and I admire you so very, very much...I love who you are and wish you a blest and Happy, Happy Birthday......Sandra

24 HOURS WITH NO CONSEQUENCES...

2006-10-09T09:54:00.000-06:00

Ok, here's the scenario...If you could do anything for a 24 hour period and there would be no consequences what would it be....Now, I 've given this a lot of thought lately and here's what I'd do...I'd wake up early so I wouldn't waste one minute...I'd pull on my old blue jeans, throw on my sneakers and burn my bra---hey, no consequences right??? forget about it!!!!.Now of course I would have to include all those around me in this as well. I mean, I am not a selfish person....I would send Jim on an all expenses paid hunting trip to Colorado or Alaska on his private plane that I would have purchased..he, of course could take Steve, Kim's husband with him. Now, for you Kim, I would walk into Steve's work and quit his job for him----don't panic, Kim, at least for 24 hours, there are no consequences. don't wurrryyyyy about it!~OH, and I'd buy you that cute little house you saw in the city just for securtiy purposes..haha...In 24 hours, I'd have my mobile home, please don't gasp here, Connie, moved to your front yard right next to your pond at Casa de Belmont..Don't worry its not tacky and its not tin...you could say its the maids quarters.hahaha except a queen lives there......Hey, look at the bright side of it, I'd be right there...Ahh, still more time....I'd buy a home for Steve and Amy and hey, why not a few kids as well...I'm WAITING--- to be a grandma....Now here's the good part, I'd go to one of those hypnotist so i could loose weight..I wouldn't have to worry about what they'd get "out of me" cuz there are no consequences,,,who cares right??????? I would eat ice cream, brownies and not fudge all day long, cuz , say it with me----'THERE'S NO CONSEQUENCES'.....really, it couldn't get much better...well, it could,, i'd run to Hobby Lobby and tie about 10 carts together and throw in all sorts of scrapbook and stamping stuff and I'd fill those carts to the brim...all because i could...ahhhhhhhhhhh, oh no, its almost midnight, i'm about to turn back into the queen and my mobile home is back in Harlingen, my stomache really hurts and I'm bloated.ughhh....what??? you mean i had to come back?????

PURGING.....

2006-10-08T22:53:00.000-06:00

Wow, who would know how much 2 people can accumulate over the years...I have been purging the drawers, closets and tossing just about anything thats not nailed or glued down lately...Whereas I love decorating and all my country and primitive "stuff" I am liking the dusting a lot less these days...Now, I hate to admit this....In my hall, sits, well stacked are thin boxes of laminate flooring I got over 2 years ago...yes, 2 years ago..they are out of the way, thats why I've been able to live with them there that long....dirtball, go ahead and say it...i have!!!! Anyway, the goal is to get the stuff down before November1...why that shouldn't be a problem should it??? well, in order to do this we have to rearrange the furniture..Jim bought me a beautiful oak shrunk for my 23 birthday in Belgium years ago, notice I said I was 23, and it is going to house our tv in our bedroom. So we are rearranging the house....in between all of this, I have decided I want to redo the kitchen...that all started with a piece of antique ceiling tin connie gave me...Jim says , thanks Connie....(between you and me, he didn't say it with the niceness he normally does, but you are still getting "the bag" anyway!!!,,a wink goes here)haha!!! So back to the purging...Oh my flying spaghetti monsters...I have filled up another 4 bags tonight..not the white ones that go in the kitchen, those big, black monster ones for yardwork (thats another blog!!!) Where does this junk come from???? Well, I have to admit we are all collectors here, but bless his heart, Jim feels its his duty as an American to pick up every pamphlet, magazine and newspaper that has "free" on it..I won't even tell you what he does with his highlighter with these things....hahaha!!!! Now I am reclaiming part of the walk in closet in our bathroom...Jim has slowly, but surely moved me out of there???? What's with that??? Has he overlooked my tiara at some point??? It was a slow process but I did notice..I just let him hang "my things" in the closet in my "crop room" though most is fold up stuff...thank you Jim for letting me still have my drawers...anyway, my goal is to be through every closet but that one by Friday..thats how I will spend my day off...all that military junk and his "collections" are coming out....I have plans...and while I am at it, I am going to help him say good-bye to a few of his things he has had a hard time letting go of....Now, what's up with size 34 pants, sorry, Jim but its been a while since you've seen that size!!!!Those are gone..Shoes, come on, some of these went out in the 80's, platforms, please!!!..just cuz you bought them in Europe, doesn't make them a collectable or heirloom.....Knives, one of Jim's collections...we have every size knife you can imagine from the smallest of pocket knives to the full blown swords(he thinks I didn't notice that he snuck a few in with my Delft pieces in the curio, I did, they're coming out)..he's always wanted to own his own business so he's getting to----he's going to be learning ebay...they're outta here....now poor Jim you say...don't feel sorry for Jim, he's got these things in every drawer , nook and cranny in this house....Now i have been going through my things also, but remember, as I tell him, my things are what make our house a home, plain and simple....no discussion!!!! right???? There was a time I'd say its the knives or me, but at this point i'm not sure I would win out, so I won't give that ultimatum, I'll just do it all myself....hahaha..oh well, so the purge continues.....

ALL FOR THE CAUSE OF CHRIST

2006-10-08T16:21:00.000-06:00

The Amish---they've always intrigued me. Jim took me on a trip to Amish country a couple of years ago before he left for Iraq. I was in awe at how they lived their lives. Life was simple yet hard (or at least to the modern American). Everything was black and white, and never has there been more evidence of this than the past week. Black and white, not gray, clearly black and white. The world was watching. Many were interested in the story of the five little girls that had been murdered in their one room shoolhouse by a neighbor. The news media was scurring around trying to get the story and to give us a clear picture into the Amish world. A peculiar world to many. They were living their lives in front of America clearly walking what they know to be true. This queit community did more for the cause of Christ in a few short days than many of us do in a lifetime. They lived out their beliefs in front of all of us. They lived out Corinthians 4 -----"Love is patient, Love is kind,It does not envy, it does not boast,It is not proud, It is not rude,It is not self-seeking,It is not easily angered,It keeps no record of wrongs.Love does not delight in evil,but rejoices with the truth.Love always protects, always trusts,always hopes, always perseveres.Love bears all things, believes all things,hopes all things, endures all things.Love never ends. LOVE NEAR FAILS.... This community showed the world what only we can do if we have Christ in our lives---we can forgive the unforgivable. This week America saw the face of God. They have clearly "got it"--none of what we do on earth is about us---it truly is all about Him...I know for myself that I am challenged by them to represent my God just little better, to be just a little more forgiving, and to show his love just a little more. If we all did this, wow, what a world we'd have!!!

THANK YOU, ANDI....

2006-10-02T03:41:00.000-06:00

Now don't let her size fool you...she's about 38 inches tall and weighs in somewhere around 30 lbs....She's kinda a strawberry blonde and has a spark in her eyes that is very noticable!!!! In fact, let's just say its in both eyes!!! Who is this miniaure person???...Andi , of course...Now, I've heard about her (ok, braggings about her , is more like it!!!) for almost 2 years plus the nine months her mom carried her, from her "GRANDMA" Connie, and everything she's ever said about her is true and so much more...Look out world, you are going to know who Andi is..She will make her mark, trust me...she won't be living in our world, she'll be running it!!! She won't be just playing, she will be looking for adventure...Andi won't ever be driven anywhere, she'll be doing the driving, even if the wheels not attached to her hands and even at the very young age of two...She has her Moms beauty, her personality is definitely chipped off our Daddy, her need to constantly be moving around comes from you, Grandma Connie (its true!!) and I predict she'll be her Grandpa Randy's sidekick in about 1 year...yes, I can see it coming...I've seen the pictures and I''ve spent 6 or 7 hours with her, and she'll be driving Randy around in the mule on the family property.She won't be talking to those cute trees with faces at the casa, she'll be climbing them..She'll be herding the cows around, and probably leading her little cousin Adah on long walks at Casa de Belmont..They will get lost occassionally, but she'll never let anyone know she's sweating out anything..she'll be the one to inherit her grandpa's love of the outdoors, and dare i say she'll be his hunting buddy before your 1st grandson has a chance..(sorry Con, I call it like I see it!!!hahaha)..Randy, get ready, I promise, you'll be buying her, her first bebe gun in 3 years.....she's adorable, she's spunky (I like spunky), she's dainty with a tad of enough tomboyish in her to just make her cute, she's adventurous, and above all she's got that independence that will open up many doors for her.....Thank you Andi, for letting me spend your 2nd birthday with you...Connie's right, there can be nothing that matches being a grandparent...Now I know why your Grandma Connie and Grandpa Randy love you so much, they can't help it, even i fell under your spell.....You go girl!!!!!!

WELCOME HOME, JIM.....

2006-10-02T03:13:00.000-06:00

I turned the corner into the arrival area of the airport and the first thing I see is a recognizable figure (no pun intended here). I'd recognize him anywhere!!!! It's been 29 years and I still get butterflies in my stomach when I see my Jim, especially after he's been gone awhile...a week is good ( just enough time to make me remember why i married him in the first place), anything more is way too long (sort of like, i realize how spoiled he's made he, and i love it, thank you very much!!!)...Jim's been away doing 2 weeks military duty and i hope this is it for awhile, but I doubt it...I'll enjoy him while I've got him....He came home and realized just how much he is needed ( I like to make him feel good you know)...the trash needed to be taken out, groceries needed to be bought(hey, he's the one who wants to go, don't look at me that way!!!), the water cooler was empty (uhh, HELLLOOOO,its too heavy for me and i'm a queen!!), and he realized that my talking to myself was not mentally healthy!!!!hahaha!!!!! After a quick how was your trip, how was life going here, he took me to lunch and a quick trip to Michaels...ahhh, an enabler to both my weaknesses...Now maybe thats part of the reason he still gives me butterflies!!!! Bad news for me was I had to go to work, good news for him---he got to go home and get prepared for the reintroduction of life at home...gotta love it!!!!!

HIS NAME IS RALPHIE..............

2006-09-15T20:26:00.000-06:00

OK, we've all seen them....the kids that are doing a balancing act to keep their pants on..I know you've seen them...They are the ones who wear printed underwear(boxers , no doubt), no belt, and their pants hang about 12 inches below their waist. The pockets of their pants are literally at their knees...Yeah, see I told you, you've seen them...Well, I have finally figured out how they keep their pants on..just when I figured it out, one of the magazine news shows did a report on them also and observed exactly the same thing..I have been watching one person in particular and his name is Ralphie and have I had an education this summer,hahaha..Now here's the secret.It's in the knees..yes, the knees....Its all about balance and coordination. These kids turn their knees out a certain way and are slightly bent and they are just balanced on. That's it!!!! Now along with this balancing of the pants goes a whole other language, one set apart from any other. It seems they walk hand in hand....they throw their head slightly back, and to the left. Their eyes are only opened slightly. Then there's this arm thing going on where they extend from side to side and hands are pointed upwarded and then out from their mouths comes, yeah thats it, you've heard it!!!----"WASSUP"..I have to admit that I have probalby given way too much thought than anyway should to this, but hey, if a news magazine does a show on it, I can't be alone in my wonderings. hahahah!!!! so, 'WASSUP, RALPHIE!!'

ROAD TRIP, ROAD TRIP.....

2006-09-15T19:58:00.000-06:00

Well, its been quite a while since I have hit the road...Jim leaves for 2 weeks of "play Army", so I am headed out of town for 4 days...where am I going? REally, come on you know, right?.....to Connie's!!!! Where else? I mean she treats me like the queen that I am, Randy lets us play in the scraproom, and its the best B&B this side of San Antonio...We will scrapbook and make cards all weekend, with the exception of Sat where I get to be a guest at Andi Mercer's 2nd birthday...wow, how did I rate that!!!!Note to STeve: please note that you went to school with Andi's dad and he has a 2 year old child.hmmmmph...anyway,don't want to make a big deal out of it, just want to point it out in case you haven't realized how long its been!!Please feel no pressure coming from me,hehehe...now back to the trip... A friend from work and I are traveling together, she is headed to go see her sister in nearby Austin....I am waving at you Edna!!!! Over here...she wants to leave at 5 (I am anxious to go but not that anxious,know what I mean???hahaha), but we are going to take off at 6. I would hate to get to Con's before she rolls out of bed...oops....sorry, Con, did I just let your "little secret" out of the bag? bwahahahahaha, not to worry, no one reads this blog anyway..ehehehe.....i will try to finally post some pics of our trip on here if i can ever figure it out(I am not really a computer guru, you know, but really a basic picture should be doable, yes?)Well, haven't been blogging much lately, but need to get started again soon... Well, I am off to get my stamps together............

9-11-2001

2006-09-14T07:34:00.000-06:00

9-11-01 Those numbers represent a day like no other. They bring with it a vision like many of us have never seen before and one we will never forget. We all know where we were, who we were with and what we felt from the very moment we saw that plane hit the first twin tower. I saw America feeling vulnerable for the first time in my lifetime. I saw Americans in tears, on their knees looking to someone greater than themselves, helping one another, dying for their neighbor, it brought unity. Ironically, it was also one of America's finest moments. 9-11 changed our lives forever. It brought with it a new respect for our country, and many of its leaders, that our flag really did represent something, and a very real realization that we really weren't promised tomorrow. Life as we knew it was over. We had just realized something so horrific and couldn't believe that it happened on our soil. We witnessed something many people in other countries live through day after day. We saw the face of hate and what it brings. 9-11 brought a change to our military. Many of us sent loved ones to a foreign country within months to begin to put a stop to terrorism. Because of 9-11 we have buried hundreds of America's finest soldiers. We had a new found pride in those who served and represented us. On the fifth anniversary of 9-11, I didn't want to relive those moments..they are embedded in my memory forever. Instead, I chose to thank God for all the years He's had his hand upon our country. I realized that God could have stopped that day and we could have carried on. I can also see that as we wept that day, that God also wept. He not only wept for His children that were lost, but for the realization that so many of His other children were crying out to him, some for the very first time. Has America not realized it's been the hand of God all these years that has protected this country? My hope and prayer for America, is that as many of us remember 9-11 that we never forget our horror and feelings and realize where our comfort and our hope came from that day and the one who carried us through it all. Ironically, the source has always been and will always be from the one and only true God. May we never forget 9-11 but always look to the comforter of that day...........

TOXIC PEOPLE.....

2006-09-10T19:09:00.000-06:00

Why is it people can't take no for an answer? I mean what part of "we love you but can't have you in our lives" don't they undersand. Here we are 5 years later and having to deal once again with one of the biggest heartaches in our married lives all over again ...Well, Jim is having to deal with itI should say. I personally have no problem washing my hands of people who continually demonstrate bad and toxic behavior, but Jim does..Wasn't it enough to leave and know you had just been in the presence of the biggest manipulator and liar you had ever encountered? Worse when your blood runs through their veins also. Unfortunately, these people love to prey on his sensitive side (to which that is one of Jim's biggest attributes). I have personally been at the crossroads and been hit by the speeding car many times...As I tell him, after you get run over so many times, you know not to go to that intersection again or even put your foot on the road...But Jim has made stipulations this time, good for him, cause now maybe we won't have to deal with "this" person afterall. Humility isn't one of "Mr Toxic"" strongest suits afterall.... I especially dislike when "someone" says "we're all getting older" only to answer back after Jim expresses his concerns with "well if you can live with it"...ughhhh, isn't it great , well whatever i won't even go there!!!! Yeah, I can live with it and yes we are getting older, thats even more a reason , i have high pressure, I don't need the stress!!!! Do they not feel their are consequences to their actions, that their behavior can continue as long as they say I'm sorry...Well, one thing, you have to mean it!!!! Now, why do I blog this? Because this is my little escape on the net and noone but friends has this site and will love me anyway,warts and all,hahaha!!! And most of you know what its all about anyway and i wanted to get it off my chest.....thats why...oh well, now i must move on....ok, i am off to get things ready for the week..don't forget to hang and fly your flags tomorrow.....

WHAT'S THIS LIST ABOUT??

2006-09-03T21:04:00.001-06:00

THE LIST:

*empty gum wrappers (x4 wadded up, one with chewed up gum in it)
*47 cents in change
*grocery list (whose is this???I don't shop!!)
*baby picture of Deven (he's a couple days old, note to self: the kid is 8 months old, ask mother for updated picture...also, tell Kathleen I can't be expected to not show favoritism if she doesn't at least share a pic of Jayden..
*my dependent military ID card(another note to self: it expires this month, update)
*my wallet, brown leather(why are the contents all dumped in my purse)
*2 pens, now thats where my grape flavored pen is, yes that is what i said, grape flavored..
*stickers of giraffes (was going to give these to my special kids at work)
*lipstick
*tweezers (that's where they were)
*bandaid
*sunglasses
*cell phone bill from fe(what???? thank goodness it was paid!!)
*a pair of Jim's glasses (he has these cheap $2 glasses spread out all over the house and car and apparently in my purse!!
*mirror (ahhh still not broken)
*pictures
*a small piece of paper with the number 47 on it..got this at Dr. Vargas office to tell me what number i was...
*my WW journal, boy have I backslid on this special project.dont' think i'll read tonight...
*key, not sure what this is to??
*empty checkbook...
*2 single dollar bills(wow, i am not broke after all)
*contacts (well they were contacts, they are all dried up now, bummer)
*starburst (no red ones, they are my favorites)
*jim's ako email addy and password (gee thats secure)
*the top of nice and easy with the perfect color for me on it...which reminds me, i am due a coloring....

So what is this list all about????Well, since my surgery in April, I have not carried a purse..I know, I've returned to work and everything and just carry a tube of lipstick with me..thats it!! It's worked great until recently..i am getting out more and most of my clothes do not have pockets so unfortunately if someone requests the pleasure of my company and Jim is not around, well, sorry, but guess who doens't pay!!!This is not intentional, I just got used to being without that bag..i didn't really need it at the hospital and was home for so long i got to where i enjoyed being without it...besides, a queen always has someone around to carry her things don'tcha know??? hahaha
Well, I am getting this purse cleaned out and my contents under control and under 2 lbs cuz , well just cuz i'm a girl and thats a girl rule....The one thing that wasn't in my purse is my Driver License...this is in storage somewhere awaiting an arrival time from Iraq...Yep that DL went to Iraq and back, don't ask...other than Jim had it to make a deposit, not sure why he needed my dl oh well...I know, I know, but really how many times do we really get stopped....watch me get stopped in a few minutes when i head out the door....well, thanks for sharing this horrible ordeal with me, and next time you see me feel free to ask me to lunch, my treat!!!!

JUST A LITTLE TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE!!!!

2006-07-26T20:38:00.000-06:00

PETS.....wow, they bring so much to our lives, don't they? I've been contemplating on getting a new kitty or puppy. Our last pet Sidney was with us for 15 years...We have so many memories of Sid and miss him so much. He was put to sleep about a year ago due to old illnesses and it was one of the hardest things we've ever had to do...this got Jim and I to "remembering" some of our special pets from our 28 year marriage...Over the next few days, because it will take more than one blog, sorry, change channels if you aren't interested in going down memory lane with us, but its my page and I can write what I want..haha...but we have had some great pets....
I am really wanting a new pet and not a fish...fish and I don't do well. They either die from me not knowing what they need or some trip comes up and I am forced to flush them into that big fish tank in the ground...oh, stop it....everyone has flushed a fish at one time or another...and please, do not report me to any animal advocacy group because I'll delete my message and "never remember" writing it..two can play your game..haha.....I wasn't ready to fill Sidney's place in our family because he was irreplaceable and to be honest, since he's been gone, my allergies (except for today, something is going on in the world) are almost non existent, but it almost seems non American to not have a pet...Everyone needs a pet...well, Jim says no, but we'll see!!!!
Anyway, sit back, because over the next few days I am going to introduce you to Max, Elsaphant and Chicken (you'll love this one), Precious (aka as percious, you'll see why!!), Herman, Bandit, Mortimer,Shelby and, of course, our beloved Sidney. When this introduction into our family album is over, you'll either think we have no minds, or have a very strong opinion of whether or not we should be allowed to have pets..hahaha..in our defense, most of these pets were "Steve's" during his growing up years so I can't really take any credit to their names or what they brought into our lives...

Quick update on Jayden our newest nephew..he is in the hospital and is very anemic and has jaundice...Please pray for our little man and his parents, Kathleen and JP...It is hard enough being new parents but especially hard to face something like this when they are so little....

EVER BEEN TICKED OFF AT SOMEONE YOU DIDN'T PERSONALLY KNOW?

2006-07-22T10:06:00.000-06:00

Well, I am!!!! Ok, I've had it with these hot flashes.........I wish God would give me just five minutes with Eve, thats all I would need..I would not only represent myself, but every woman over the age of 45 for years past and in the future...I am so ticked at her and Adam...Why couldn't he keep his woman under control...who'd of thought men had the same problems then as our husbands have now....Here we are thousands of years later still paying for that bite of apple....ughhhhhhhhhh ...I hope it was worth it, EEEEVVVVVVVVEEEEE, I really do, because I am having a hard time forgiving you for that bite... you had so many choices, girl, why the apples of all things. They aren't even that great....I can't get the a/c down any further than it is and a girl can only take off so much without grossing everyone out, well, at least at my house.....I now sleep with not only the a/c going, but the ceiling fan and a big fan directed right at me...its only 2 feet away from my bed..The only thing left to do would be to have Jim duct tape me to a fan blade and hit the switch. hmmm, maybe I've got something here...This has me thinking, no never mind, Jim would never get me down, he'd leave me up there...I can see it now, my life spent spinning around out of control...Jim goes to bed and sleeps straight through..not hot at all....I hit the sack, toss and turn, lay there awake, kick the sheets off(I won't gross you out further with all the gory details), sit up, lay down, and just get to sleep, when the alarm goes off..Again, thanks Eve...you really tick me off....

WHERE'S MY TIARA WHEN I REALLY NEED IT!!!

2006-07-21T13:58:00.000-06:00

Ever heard the phrase, "housework makes you ugly"? That phrase is the #1 reason I hate housework..I hate very few things in life, but this type of work, is, well to say the least, ughhhhhhhh....I have spent most of my only day off this week knee deep in the stuff...It's true, it does make you ugly...I was cleaning out my lunchbox from 2 days ago, ughhhh, should have rinsed that thing out before I left work,,,I had cereal that day (I'm on a bran kick right now,haha)...I know my nose scruntched way up and i had wrinkles all over my face...Then there's bathroom duty...What's worse...Its not that it looks bad, but just the thoughts of what goes on in there, well lets just say, I had more wrinkles on my face and of course for some reason, I tend to just hold my breathe the whole time I'm working in there......I am doing laundry right now, and this is a little better.... Jim changed the sheets (chicken!!!) so at least thats over with....I am off to unload the dishwasher which brings me to another thought....Why aren't kitchen's built with 2 dishwashers..Really, who likes to unload the thing? It makes much more sense to load one, wash, take from that, and then keep the other one to reload as you use...a win, win , situation...Jim says thats laziness, I say, its common sense!!!hahaha.....Again, a man, must have been the inspirations of kitchen musts, don'tcha think? I have to vacum, and dust before I can finally sit down to play and work on Kat's birth announcements.....yeah, there are a lot of wrinkles going on on this face today and I'm wondering why I didn't do a little of this at a time...In case you are wondering why I am doing housework these days? Jim figured he did way too much while I was healing after surgery and he just isn't quite as helpful these days as he was before....urghhhhhhhhh...At least he does still do quite a lot more than most males, for that I am thankful....Well off to unload that dishwasher and thaw something for dinner....I know, oh great, just get the kitchen all under control, only to mess it up again...I feel a headache coming on, maybe a migrane, you think that will get me out of some work around here?hahaha...and another thought, if I'm the queen around here, why am I doing all the work, shouldn't I have a maid or something? OH, well, guess the jewels fell off the tiara.....hahaha!!! till tomorrow...

Have I mentioned I have a new hobby?

2006-07-20T19:56:00.000-06:00

OK, its not a full blown hobby yet....I have a friend, who shared her new interest to me and it caught me off guard...you all know I scrapbook and love it...well, i've started collecting (gasp, please don't tell Jim I have started hiding my stash,hahaha) stamps (I secretly collect many different things....I need a 12 step program with help to stop)...you know the rubber ones...once again, it's someone else's fault---again, it's Connie's...sorry , Con, got to tell it like it is...I know she didn't actually twist my arm to get into this, but she ought to know (we both have these creative veins that overflow in our bodies) that what we like, the other likes...I don't know if it can really be said that we enable each other, but it happened...I know..I know...I repent, about the hiding of stuff, that is..sorry, Jim, I sort of mean it, I think....well, anyway, back to the stamping..I have played around and come up with the most darling birth announcements...Why would a 47 y/o need a birth announcement? Haven't you been keeping up with my blog? Come on, Jayden is here....hahaha...
Ok, I go through these different stages every few years or so and dabble in a little of this and a little of that, this is just next on the list (psst....I am taking up jewelry making in Aug,--and so what if I don't wear any? Who cares, it'll probably end up under your Christmas tree, just smile and say thank you!! like your mom taught you to do?)..Once again, back to all my creative interests...I have a really great family who will smile (sometimes forceable, but supportive, come on , you know who you are, M-I-N-E-R-V-A), and they will all accept my little gifts with gratitude.. why do I bring all this up...well, when you figure that out, please let me know..haha..KIDDING.....I am off tomorrow and I am making a couple dozen birth announcements to send to our friends and family to announce Jayden's arrival....I don't know if you can tell or not.......SANDI LOVES BEING AN AUNT.....so, when I get them done i'll scan so you all can see how cute they turned out...I have never done anything like this but it is way too fun and you all know I love to have fun....................................

Oops, quick update..Jayden is going home tomorrow.....Kathleen and JP have the most darling little room all put together in their new house...I can't wait to go visit when they get there...and yes, I get to go right over...I'm the aunt, thats why????????

WELCOME TO OUR WORLD, JAYDEN...

2006-07-19T22:06:00.000-06:00

Weighing in at 6 lbs., 3 oz, Jayden James De La Rosa joined our family in person tonight at 7:40 p.m. We have literally been waiting on him since May. He was 4 weeks early, but we just knew he'd be here by the end of May, then we thought anytime in June, and were surprised he didn't show up last night...Thanks Kat, I hardly slept,haha!!!......But, he came, and we are all in love with this little man. My niece, Kathleen gave us more drama in the past 8 months than we had seen in quite sometime, but true to form, she did it all in style and on her terms,haha...Sorry, Kat, just had to throw that in there and share it with 10,000 of my closest friends..lol....Mom Kathleen and Dad JP are doing great, though Kathleen looked really tired when we left...I sure hope she gets some good rest tonight....I asked her if she slept any last night and she grinned and said they gave her something to sleep...I'm glad she got some good rest, because the next 18 years plus are going to be full...Now I really believe that we do get back a little of what we gave ( God has a terrific sense of humor you know), so I am especially going to be watching this household with some interest. Not that our little Kathleen was a problem child but does the term drama queen give you any hints on whats to come? hahaha...Minerva, for your sake, I hope she gets just an ounce of it. Not too much , but enough to make us smile and reminisce just a little bit..haha...now, back to Jayden. He was going to meet his little cousin Deven tonight after we all left. Now, in my mind, I have big plans for these boys..I see them growing up and going to grandma and granpa's to swim every weekend, I see them starting Kindergarten together and I really see Jayden looking out for Deven. Why not the other way around you ask? Jayden's dad is a boxer and I don't think anyone is going to mess with him, is that reason enough?..hahaha....I also see, Kathleen and Kristyne heading to elementary school to have those "special" conferences with the teachers several times a year( you know, the ones we all get to experience, where we go in smiling and really just want to hide in shame, that kind). I am prepared even at this moment to stick up for my grand-nephews---they didn't do it....I see baseball games, soccer, birthday parties. I can already see their faces when they learn to ride their bikes and then again when Grandpa, true to form, just like with Kathleen, pulls out that little dirt bike and teaches them ride. I can see them running in the fields chasing each other, dirty faces, and looks of ut oh on those faces. I see two boys, destined to be together, to be more than cousins, more than friends---best buds.....Our world became brighter when Deven was born but the rainbow has certainly been added today with Jayden. The legacy continues and this is what love is all about.......

ITS A GAIN!!!!!!

2006-07-12T18:56:00.000-06:00

Well, its a sad day for me to have to report my failur today...Oh my gosh!! I gained 5 lbs over the weekend. I actually weighed in on Monday and had only gained 2 lbs..Well, I got brave and stepped on the scale again today and there was the extra 3 lbs gained...Well, I know, its embarrassing but it is my only gain since i started this weight loss process in March. And to my defense, it is my nieces fault, really. I hate pointing fingers but in this case I think its appropriate. She is due any moment now (with my grand-nephew, Jayden) and her shower was on Saturday....What does this have to do with my weight gain you ask? Well follow along and if you don't want to click the screen off and stay out of my site. Ok, back to Kat (that's my nieces' name aka Kathleen), she is the picky....stay with me here...I was in charge of ordering the cake for her shower...Kathleen wanted a "normal" cake (her words, I mean, what is normal?). Well, she defined that, like a cake we can make home but decoratedreally pretty like a bakery...ok, I had it..I knew just the person...stay with me here.....the cake was ordered, and was it beautiful and here's the problem. It was abnormally too delicious....I did save all my points for that day and of course those extra 35 bonus points but apparently I bonused myself the dessert table way too much..hahaha.....I mean 5 lbs? Thats like a big bag of flour...oh my goodness.....But if you had been there and seen the cake, i mean it just drew you in.....and then when you got in, you couldn't get out...it was great....no, i didn't stop the day of the shower...I went back to visit the next day....and no i didn't go for the cake...I do care about my nieces hahaha, i went to be with them....but there it was, reeling me in again..i ate 2 more pieces...and i admit, they were not small pieces.....How could something so beautiful be so destructive.....so now you know why its Kat's fault..if only we had gotten one of those yucky bakery cakes, I'd be in the minus today and not the plus....I am back on my program and hopefully it'll be gone by the weekend....i can only hope right?....anyway, Kat, I forgive you and please, can we not have a normal cake at the next shower??Thanks.....

Oh, Con, STOP IT!!!!!!!!

2006-07-03T21:01:00.000-06:00

Well finally after months, she shows up!!!! There she comes, the doors open instantly for her upon her arrival, and she tosses her head from left to right as if to move the hair from her face (yeah right!!). She looks around to make sure everyone is looking----at her....Yes, they are...She continues. If thats not enough, am I really seeing what I think I'm seeing? Yes, I think it is and she informs me she has every color...Well , the person I'm talking about is my friend Connie, aka Con or Hey Dude, and what she has on are tangerine crocs...Yes, thats what I said----TANGERINE....and every color, well of course she does, she is the most color coordinated person she and I know......And to top it off, she takes off her shoe to show me something, I mean, really, Con, I have allergies, odors tend to bother me? Duh!!!! Have you really forgotten everything since you've been gone? To add insult to injury, Con is not a real touchy, feely type of gal like I am...I go to hug her, not embrace, just hug and of course, she can't really get into it...don't know what thats about, but I've really missed her....It was so great to see her for the 3.6 minutes she was there...Well, of course while she was there, she told me what a total slacker I've become over the past month. Well, exxxxxxcuuuuuuuuuuuuse me!!!! I don't have all day to just sit around writing blogs..I know my life is so interesting and you all live life through me, but, I have a job....remember...ok, maybe not a job, but I'm employed anyway,and leave the house daily,hahahaha!!!!! I promise to start to keep up with my blog at least every other day...Dude , I didn't know you really cared but now that I do, I will no longer slack off on delivering to you my latest ramblings...also, i must plug myself here....she noticed I had lost weight....wooo hoooo....its really working......I made her say it at least 3 times, you know, like "really, you can tell?" and "like, where can you tell the most, Con?"....I know, pathetic, but ask me, do I care? Not one bit... 31 lbs and counting....Con is here for 4 days and somehow, someway, I am going to corner her for at least coffee somewhere..its hard huh, Con, everyone wants a piece of ya....so glad I got to see you for a minute...and next time don't pull away so fast, i really have missed ya...there's no one like you.......................really..........

I'M BACK....I KNOW, THANKS FOR THE WARNING, RIGHT?

2006-06-21T18:50:00.000-06:00

Ok, where have I been lately...(as I hang my head down in shame,note:this is what Jim thinks I need to do here,hehe).. well in less than 3 weeks time I have caught up with 5 years (oh please, hold the gasp) of Soprano's...yeah, yeah, yeah...I've already heard, nothing new....My son Steve has been so addicted to this for the past few years and I always wondered what his fascination is with this show, wel,l now I know..I am hooked...I have always loved movies about the mafia and I admit I laugh through the whole thing, murder and all...I know, I could be labeled sick about right here, but I don't care, its just a tv show, you guys, make believe...Now, Steve tells me the new season won't be out until the spring...what's that about? I am still waiting on Season 6 (still not out), but Steve promised to buy it so I can get all caught up as soon as its released...What a son!! Now for those of you who have never watched the Soprano's I must warn you, the language is awful, but the family,well, you gotta love em...Jim thinks I'm still dillusional from the anesthesia, but this series has sure helped me pass the time.... I went to the ortho Dr. today and my knee is still healing and has a ways to go, but I am doing great...I can add a little walking to my day now...Jim was thrilled to hear this...I almost had him convinced that housekeeping was off limits, but the Dr sure put that to a fast death for me today..Now Jim is going to expect things from me...well, i guess its been a great run anyway...I tried to convince Jim that housework makes one ugly, but he thinks I'm way too beautiful for my own good at this point (Yeah whatever) and would love for me to flush it and get busy....what's a girl to do..Well the good news today is, I have lost another 5 lbs this month, making it a total of 28 lbs since mid March when I started WW. This has been all without exercise, but I am really hoping to see some good results now that I can start the walking... One more things to report..My niece, Kathleen may be a mother by the end of the week, or so her Dr. says...I can't wait!!!!! My great nieces and nephews are bringing Jim and I as much joy as their parents did. We have always, always enjoyed our roles as aunt and uncle, and here we are with another generation and we are so young!!!!!!! hahaha....The best part of all of this....we get to visit, stir them up, and leave...hahaha....As for Deven, he's now 6 months old (in a few days) and is eating baby food....have I told you lately he's so cute!!!! Steve is so taken with this baby, and as you know, STeve loves clothes..It appears when he buys clothes now, its one for Steve, one for Deven..haha..never thought I'd see the day, but its here..hahaha...later guys..........

POST TRAUMATIC STRESS SYNDROME?

2006-06-05T17:50:00.000-06:00

Wow, today was super....I went back to work today and I made it through..I am a little sore since I've been home, but broke out those coveted meds so I should be feeling good in about 20 minutes..haha..
Today, started off with the alarm ringing at 6:15, with the snoozer being hit about 4 of 5 times (poor Jim its on his side of the bed...haha). I made it to work (ok, so I was late, only 4 minutes..we aren't technically late at work until its 7 minutes past, and no, I don't purposely push that to the limits..........)Jim drove me, as he is not wanting me to be driving just yet, but something really weird happened..When he pulled up to the curb to let me out at the library, its almost like he didn't stop. It almost seemed as though the car was still rolling and when the door opened, I felt a jolt..He swears he wasn't pushing me out of the car, but I wonder....and he had this happy look on his face and his eyes were all glazed over...Not the kind of look that says, have a great day...it was more like HAVE A GREAT DAY,BECAUSE, NOW I AM..Now, he didn't have to verbally say anything, it was more of the attitude and his eagerness to get rid of me...Now, I know this has been a long 6 weeks, ok he says loooooooonnnnnnnngggggg, but hey, when we retire we are going to be together 24/7, and I don't want to feel like I am being thrown to the curb everytime he slows down..Is it possible he could be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome? I mean, could I have been the cause of that(I really was suffering,I can show you the scar), after just a little stay at home? I mean, I try not be any trouble. Really I do!!!Oh thats just great, he returns home after 2 tours to Iraq and survives under enemy fire and spends 6 weeks at home with me, and this is what happens!!!! PTSS, like thats going to get you any sympathy from me....geezzzz, what's a girl to do.....

I AM RECOOPERATING, I AM NOT LAZY

2006-06-03T11:42:00.000-06:00

I rolled out of bed at 11:15 today...ahh, it felt great to sleep in late and I got the whole bed to myself after 5 a.m. This is Jim's reserve duty weekend (YES!!!), so I stretched out all over that bed...There is just something about the air being turned way down, a comfy blanket on top of and the covers pulled up over your head... I decided I would get up and play a bit since I had the house to myself..I have the music turned on, and the tv OFF.....wow, it hasn't been off in at least 6 weeks....so what am I going to do until Jim gets home? Well, since I only have 2 more free jobless days, I am going back to bed...hahaha......its so peaceful and I am about to rejoin life next week, so I am going to enjoy it....

Steve is an avid Sopranos fan, so he brought me the first 3 seasons to watch...I literally have many days or should I say weeks of enjoyment on these cd's and I am going to get started today and for some reason I have always loved mafia shows..don't ask me why, I just do......I had my toast and coffe, I'm going to load the dishwasher and start a load of clothes. I know, housework makes you ugly, but if I don't "do something" then Jim will have to make a comment to which I will be forced to comment back and well you know, hahaha. I guess technically he is 'WORKING' today, but as a man, is playing Army a real job?....haha.. After I've done that, then I am going to hit the sack. I will be there by 1:30 and if I want to fall asleep, which I probalby will, then I can always rewind or whatever with these cd's...ahhh, modern technology...And remember, I am not lazy, I am recovering and its my job to rest...Thats what I have to remind Jim of daily...

I am hoping Jim will make his famous soup for me tonight...He is a great cook, but soups are his specialty and since he knows I am down to the wire on my convalescing (?) he will baby me and give me his all over the next 36 hours, while he's around...I don't always whine to get this attention (ok, maybe a little to get it started) but he enjoys us all making over his soup anyway, so really, if you think about it, its for him.....hahaha.....oh well, I am not going to make the 1:30 deadline if I don't get moving............I have to set the computer up in the bed so can see up close........hmmmm, Maybe I'll take a picture of Jim making his famous soup and post it next time..I need to get the hang of putting pictures on here anyway....Oh, well, another day in the life of me......................

CHANGE, NOT ALWAYS 'A GOOD THING'

2006-06-02T09:23:00.000-06:00

Ok, I have great news to report....I am going back to work---6 weeks early...wooohooooo......am I excited? You bet your sweet potato sacks I am!!!! This has been the longest 6 weeks of my life!!!!! I have 3 days left...I will sleep in late for the next two days....

Now there is a slight problem that is going to happen come Monday morning..I forgot to mention to them when I told them I could come back to work on Monday, that 8 am really doesn't work well for me anymore, since sometimes I don't roll out of bed until 11....then, there is the issue of the Y&R that comes on at 11....do you think they'd mind me taking an hour break(because I'll still need my hour lunch break) at that time to keep up with my new addiction? ughhhhh...ahhh, ok I have many new issues now that I didn't have before...someone cooks lunch and dinner for me all the time, and dare I say, serves it to me also (said as I am hiding my face behind my hands and peeking through)...I know, spoiled, but its Jim's fault..Also, my couch...I have grown so used to the right side of the love seat...i sit on one end and my laptop sits in front of me on the other..yes, I surf all day..I am multi-tasked however, as I can do this and watch tv, and IM my friends all at the same time....Another thing, I have only worn shoes about 4 times in the past 6 weeks..I know, hillbilly, go ahead and say it....Who cares!!!!! They have this crazy rule at work that says you must wear shoes...I am a rebel, would it work if I accidentally, on purpose forgot somehow to put them on next Monday? I mean, would anyone really notice? And if they did, would they narc on me? Ughhhh...decisions, decisions....last, but not least is the bra...ughhhh...it has been wonderful to pretend I am a child of the 60's and forget wearing the thing, this is the one thing I'm not sure I can get away with doing without...darn it.....

Well, as if thinking of all of this weren't hard enough, Jim has told me that Monday morning, I have to retire my tiara for 8 hours a day..He said no one is going to care that I need to sleep in,and if I do, I can stay home permanently and can never miss another episode of Y&R (well, the nerve!!!). As for the break, who gets a break, and no one is stupid enough to not only cook lunch for me, but serve it to me and the only reason he does is because we signed a contact 28 years ago...he called himself a fool, hey, what's that about? He also said my couch and computer are not leaving the house, my surfing is going to be replaced with actual exercise, its called walking, and I will wear shoes, because no one wants to look at my feet (why?what's wrong with them, they're cute), and I must wear a bra as it will be an occupational hazard for me to leave home without it...What????
He says I'll trip over myself...some men have a lot of nerve...............oh well, I'm off to shine my tiara because I'm going to make the next 3 days a very long 3 days...hahahaha.......................

DIXIE CHICKS-PUT ON YOUR BIG GIRL PANTIES IF YOU WANT TO PLAY

2006-06-01T12:53:00.000-06:00

Why do I watch these shows???...I love a good controversy, but geez, don'tcha just think sometimes we should "just do the right thing"...I know all about principals, I have been young and dumb too, and heck no, I wouldn't go back for all the money in the world..too many lessons have been learned and I for one don't want to relearn them..haha.....

I switched to Larry King last night and there they are!!!! The Dixie Chicks..quite frankly, I never knew anything about them until their outrageous behavior in England, just before the war. Yes, we have freedom of speech in this country, and I, for one, count that as one privelege we are so fortunate to have......On the other hand, with that privelege comes responsibility. Do I think we should call for a boycott of their albums? Not especially, but I secretly have to say I was happy they experienced a little of what their behavior brought to them..Though they said last night, it really didn't hurt them in the long run, they were very careful to pick their words. And, they of course, did this at a time when our President is suffering from low support in the polls.. I also found that interesting also..Would their comments have been the same if those poll numbers reflected a higher %....I think not...They actually reminded of what small children do. They have been sticking their toes in the water a little at a time, saying more with each interview, just wading out into the water a little more each time...Just enough to check the reprocutions and get away with just a little more ..ahhh, i remembered that well when Stevie was little....memories........

I believe very strongly in our freedom to speak what is on our minds and in our hearts...I know they wanted "the world" to know that President Bush doesn't speak for them, but excuse me, YES HE DOES........He is the President of our great country and like it or not, he does speak for America as a whole, just as Bill Clinton did for 8 years (did I like it, no I didn't, but I have great respect for the office. It is an entirely different thing to respect a person). He was elected by the majority. My problem is not that they disagreed with President Bush. I have on several things myself, but the platform in which they chose to express it. They were on foreign soil, with America on the brink of war. Whether we are Republican or Democrat or whatever, when the rubber hits the road we should remain united, whether we approve or not. Thats part of being an American, in my opinion...Sometimes, our responsiblity as an American is to not speak and no one has more trouble with that part than me, BUT, we sometimes have to do what is right and sometimes that means keeping our mouths shut....Is it hard? You betcha, especially when we feel very passionate about our beliefs.. I am reminded also, of one of the scenes from a movie, where a soldier lies dying and tells his comrades to "make it count"..Our soldiers are fighting for a cause that many of them don't agree with, but We as Americans need to "make their sacrifice count"..We need to remain United as they are, its for them. They are giving us their very best, and many have given their all, but they remained united, and this is a case where not only their position as a soldier I respect but, also, as a human being I highly respect.....Its our job as an American to remain united when that rubber hits the road, just as families somehow seem to find their way together during hardships and trying times..the may not all agree, but they stick together ..Why? Because they're family..Why should we remain a united front----because we're family, not necessarily bound by blood, but by our right as an American...........hey, just my opinion, but I'm on Texas soil!!

THAT'S JUST SICK......

2006-05-24T21:38:00.000-06:00

Well, the things you notice when you are sitting in a car waiting for someone...I went for a ride with Jim this afternoon to his Reserve Unit to pick up his orders for Iraq. I waited in the car since it would be a quick trip in. I decided to take a look in "daylight" at my eyebrows..I have been noticing a few gray brows coming in this past year..I usually try to weed them out, but since I've been home for the past month, I've not paid too much attention...Well, there they were.....oh my gosh, I had to get plucking immediately..And what was that growing on my second chin? Oh my flying spaghetti monster !!!! That is a mini goteque growing there, ughhhh in dark brown hair (there were 7 hairs, oh yuuuuckkkk). Maybe thats why sometimes peoples eyes glaze over while I am talking. I wouldn't even wait for our return trip home to Harlingen some 35 miles away...I had Jim stop immediately to pick me up some tweezers...Now, anyone that knows me, knows I am anything but vain, but I won't even let Jim grow a goteque and here i am a female and sporting one around that could certainly give my son's a run for his money......I finally get the gray hairs out of my brows, there much better, but tell me, since I pulled these hairs from my chin, are they going to come back and will there be more? It is becoming apparent to me as I reach middle age (yes that age keeps changing the older i get also, but who cares, right?) that my body might be mixed up and not knowing if I am a girl or boy...I mean I heard about things drooping but the hair, ughhhhhh, is there a pill I can take? I now know what my next Dr.'s visit will be about.

IT WAS A GREAT DAY!!!!

2006-05-22T11:30:00.000-06:00

What a day yesterday was!!!! Jim and I spent the whole day being Aunt Sandi and Uncle Jim...It was nothing less than fabulous!!!! It began with lunch...My nephew Kyle, is currently serving our country in Iraq and his family (wife and 4, yes I said 4, of the most beautiful girls you've ever seen) met us for lunch. We stopped by and picked up my mom, their Great-Grandma and had a fun time at lunch. The girls are leaving soon for their home in Germany. I for one am really going to miss them. My older brother Jim, who died over 20 years ago would have been their grandfather, so they are especially important to us. There is never a dull moment with Megan, Autumn, and Kylie around. Now, Maddy is just over a month old, so she can't even hold her own yet..hahaha...It was wonderful holding that little bundle of joy and oh she smelled sooooooo good...nothing like the smell of a baby....Their Mom's name is Priscilla and today is her birthday,,,,Happy Birthday, Priscilla..I'm waving at you!!!..This is the first time they've been around for any length of time so it has been so great to get to know my brother's granddaughters...He would have been so proud of them...
Then, off to shop for a bit...Anyone who knows me, knows I hate shopping....but my dr. says its ok to venture out just a little bit as long as I don't overdue it...Well, our niece, Kathleen and JP are buying their first home and will start moving this week. Well, until the showers begin, we just had to be a small part of their "special" day. It was such fun and Jim had just as much fun picking things out as I did. Kathleen was the first girl in our family, so to say she is special is an understatement....Ahh, finally I could sit down again...took the "stuff" to Kathleen and she loved it...I am so glad..can't wait to get a picture of them in front of their 1st home..It's so exciting...
Now, as if that wasn't enough, Deven was there yesterday, the whole time....What a treat!!!...2 babies in one afternoon....he is starting to roll over..gosh that brought back memories of Stevie...As we were getting ready to go home, Uncle Steve showed up and took over..We think he's as attached to Deven as we are...haha,,that love thing getscha just when you least expect it...

REALLY WHAT HAPPENS WHILE I WAS SLEEPING

2006-05-19T07:40:00.000-06:00

Are you like me? I mean what goes on in the bed while I'm sleeping?...I can go to bed in cute jammies and then wake up looking like I've run through the jungle half the night fighting off animals. And before you think Jim is the animal I am running from, forget it, he hits the bed and is out for the count, not him!!!!haha. My finger has been bandaged up (I can't look at owies) since I cut it. What's the first thing we do when we wake up...head to the bathroom..there I am sitting on the throne and look down at my hands and realize the bandage is gone...oh no, I am forced to look at the cut...not too bad on day 3, but there is blood all under my thumb nail..oh how gross!!!! Go to wash hands (why are there mirrors above the sink?) and look up, ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh.....I just about scared myself, but snap back into reality when I realize its only Me!!!! Really, what happens while I am sleeping? My hair is straight as a board and has no body whatsoever, but when I wake up, it is shooting straight out of my head in all directions, at full attention......geez........and where do all those crease marks come from? I don't know about you, but I'm begiinning to wonder if I perhaps enter another dimension while I am suppose to be resting..Its really unsettling if you think about it.....hahaha...oh well, time to go wash my face and try to straighten out the mess I've been left with since I went to bed last night...and just fyi, I looked pretty cute when I headed to bed last night...Oh well.....

IT'S OFFICIAL

2006-05-18T11:47:00.000-06:00

Yep, it finally happened yesterday...Here for over a month now, Jim has been waiting on me hand and foot (and yes, I like it,haha), but he has so much on his plate as I am a full-time job, hummmmhmmmmm,,,,Anyway, decided to help him make lunch yesterday..Jim makes a fabulous soup that no one can go up against...Well, he has made so much of this for my dieting lately that we were out of a few ingredients. Off he went to the store..I thought, wouldn't it be a nice surprise if I cut the meat and veggies up for him so he wouldn't have to..I mean, its almost, and I say almost, embarrassing just sitting on the couch while he runs around getting everything ready for me before he heads to work everyday...I did it..I was going to surprise him...got the knife out...I am very funny about knives...they must be sharpened..I refuse to struggle with them..Where did he put that sharpner...He has totally rearranged the kitchen since he finally admitted that this is his room...ahhh, found it...sharpened that sucker and off i was...had the music turned up, was singing away, and i was feeling really good that I was up on my feet for more than 10 minutes...all of a sudden, I screamed....Why did I do that? Where did it come from? Well, I looked down and realized I cut the tip of my thumb off!!!! When I realized that, I screamed again and of course, the eyes welled up..Jim will be the first to tell you that a knife in my hands always, always ends up in disaster...When we first got married, I was always sporting some sort of cut on my fingers..I don't know what the problem is, probably that royalty thing I was suppose to have been brought up into...hahahaha...I know in my heart of hearts I'm not to be a Cinderella but a Queen.....hahaha....anyway, Jim gets home and immediately tells me to please not help him out anytime it involves a knife..I am to stick to my scissors and paper cutter and away from the kitchen. Well, I never!!!!!! Hey, if thats the way he wants it, then he can have the kitchen and all that comes with it...Now, how do we incorporate kitchen knives into doing the laundry? Sooooryyyyyyy....just a thought..........but for now, I am only going to walk through the kitchen.....it truly is good to be queen......Jim says its his cross to bear..hahaha

WHERE DOES IT REALLY COME FROM??

2006-05-17T08:40:00.000-06:00

I was thinking it all began with a box of crayolas, playdoh and dirt. Yes, dirt!! I was sure of it!!!! I can still see and smell them (ahh, can't you smell them?) as if they were right here in the room with me...There is nothing like it, right? This has got to be the root of all that creativity that is boxed up within me!!!! I love creating things.

Creativity has taken me different routes throughout my life, from sewing,cooking (I certainly lost interest in that one quickly,haha), rock painting (remember that one?), decorating, crocheting, ceramic, decorative painting, building things(yes, I have power tools, just ask Jim,haha), scrapbooking and so much more.

I can remember as far back as age 3, playing in a chicken coop (yes, that is what I said, and I can't believe it myself, my allergies are stirred up just thinking about it,haha) pretending it was my playhouse. I would stay in there for hours (it was at my babysitter's house) and make mud pies. They were the most beautiful mud pies in the world. And I can even remember trying to get that mud to the right consistency so that when I turned the cake out, it would hold its shapes. haha.... I also remember decorating them with grass and little rocks..And yes, if they were undecorated, I remember tasting them. I know, I know, probably where my love for sweets began.haha.....

Then there were the crayolas. I loved coloring in color books. The brighter the colors, the better. It, of course, didn't stop there. I love the muted look and wiping down the wax from the colors with a tissue. The pictures weren't completely done until I applied that last technique. Well, that and my beloved sinature. I loved thinking I was an artist. I also loved giving away my paintings to anyone who showed an interest, bless them....Ahhh, a Picasso in the making and I didn't even realize it..haha

The playdoh. Now this was a designer's dream. Those little round boxes gave me hours and hours of enjoyment. I designed everything from little boxes to jewelry to animals. A sculptures dream!!!.... I especially like mushing it between my hands before turning out my creations. I tried to keep the containers separate but it would eventually wind up all molded together creating some really unique colors....I can still see the purple tortillas I use to make..didn't taste so great, but they were oh so pretty.............

Where do we get the creativity we are born with. Could it really be that because we are created in His image that is where it really began? I am thinking so, just look around at the creation around us, God was one creative dude!!!! Now next time, you think you have no creativity in you, remember those childhhod years, but especially remember, the creative One who designed you and the world you live in. And don't forget we were created in His Image----a creative dude indeed.......

AHH......IT'S GOOD TO BE QUEEN.....................

2006-05-10T18:42:00.000-06:00

Ahhh, Mother's Day is Sunday...another special day that I get to be queen of the earth. I love it!!!! I love holidays and especially those that celebrate ME, hahaha!!!! Is that wrong? Now, I have not always been this way. Steve agrees, Jim is the person who put the tiara on my head and most the time Jim doesn't object to my status(except if you count the second day I was home from the hospital and he took my tiara and bell away from me, thats a whole other story). Steve most certainly does not appreciate my royal lineage and tries to de-throne me at every opportuniy,haha...Not to worry, I don't let him..haha...Anyway, I was giving Mother's Day some thought today and know that time is not something Jim or Steve have much of these days. So, I decided to help them out and order my gift for them. Of course I did ask Jim if this is what he'd like to "get" me and he seemed thrilled to know he'd not have to head to mall to shop on his days off. I am, after all, trying to "help" my boys out. They are so good to me all year long, I just wanted to take one thing off their to do list. So, the gift is ordered and on Sunday, I'll let you know how I liked it. I mean I can't spoil the surprise now can I?haha...

WHERE DID I GET THIS KID....

2006-05-09T16:03:00.000-06:00

Granted my child is 27, but regardless, I sometimes find myself wondering just where did he come from? I mean, I know where he came from, but you know, really, WHERE did he really come from? If Steve didn't look exactly like his Dad, I would wonder if he was really mine. I was working quietly at my table today going through pictures for his albums. Now remember this is my self proclaimed quiet day ( had only had a few mishaps till I came across the following). There in front of me were pictures of his senior prom. All of a sudden I couldn't be quiet any longer. I just burst out laughing...Now the Dr told me to keep my voice at a steady even keel. Not whispering and nothing above normal talking and the laugher that was coming out of my mouth was anything but average. What was I laughing at? Well let me tell you how he ruined his Sr. Prom for me. Yes, me!!!!
As moms we envision all sorts of special occassions for our kids, right? Having an only child we only got to do this once , so we needed to do it right. There would be no repeats. Well, Sr. Prom was like right up there. Everything was falling into place. His tux was absolutely beautiful and I could hardly wait to him in it. Well, of course, if I remember right, he kept shooing me out of his room (so what, I wanted to watch him get dressed, this was a special occassion) saying he didn't need my help. We didn't have a daughter but I still liked hanging out with him. He was ok with this until he turned 14. Well, I remember his door opening and hearing him come down the hall. I could hardly wait to see what he looked like. He was always in jeans or shorts and tennis shoes even for church so this was a big deal. Steve steps inside the l/r and I could literally feel my mouth hit the floor, just like it was yesterday..He looked great, all the way to his ankles, that is. Instead of dress shoes, he had on his white and orange tennis shoes.(yes I said orange) What's up with that? So of course, I being Mom and wanting wonderful pictures, told him to go chang his shoes. Well, he wasn't going to change his shoes. Jim just laughed and as usual was no help here. I tried to expain the "rules" of dressing up but he just let me know he'd be back with the date so I could see them together. Of course, I thought, well once they get back, she and I will be able to convince Steve to change shoes. I hear the car pull into the driveway, and when they came I, I let them know I'd like to take some pictures. "Steve go change your shoes, please". He said no, he was dressed and she giggled. GIGGLED...Not quite the response I had hoped for. Where was that understood allegience we women have with one another? She was dressed in a beautiful peach dress and all of a sudden she raised it up to her knees. The girl had on high top tennis shoes. How could they ruin Sr. Prom for me like this. One of the biggest days of my life for him, ruined. And here they are just laughing.........
Well, here I am 8 years later just laughing my head off and realizing just how classic that is of Steve. He is who is is. The way he was dressed is so reflective of his personality and what great memories those tennis shoes brought back. Gosh, I love that kid....

HAVE I NO SHAME?

2006-05-08T16:14:00.000-06:00

SHEESHHHH. I totally humiliated myself once again today...I have been rotating between 2 therapists (physical, not psycho, just fyi). Well, one decides she needs a vacation in the middle of my therapy, the other, not sure why he didn't come today, maybe he thought I was french. Anyway, had a fill in therapist and I knew this, I had fair warning..Why don't I learn. I get to where I have eased the therapist into seeing a tiny little stubble to needing to shave my legs. I've had to gradually work them & myself up to this. I had been comfortable with this,finally. No one seemed really grossed out or scared. Kind of like the comfort level you have to work up to once you get a husband.. You finally don't care if they see your hairy legs nor care if they think its time to bring the lawnmower out before you shave them..Well, what was I thinking..I mean i had knee surgery. Not only does he have to "see" the evidence, he has to touch my leg. Did i mention he is on the floor and brings my leg within to eye level? I couldn't wait for the 22 minutes to end..ughhh.....I think women therapist understand this better don't you? Women should have women, and men, men..If this ever happens to me again, I will only accept a female..There is time to redeem myself, however. He is visiting 2 more times this week, so I am sending Jim to the store for some Nair. What's worse is I think I've seen him before, and I think it was at church....ughhhhhh.....I don't even want to go there. This is the only time in my life I wish I were a different nationality--I wish I were french. They do not worry about these things like we have to. Never give it a second thought. The women literally don't care if hair grows on their legs, pits, or chin. I don't understand, why when most of us consider it a chore to shave our legs don't we embrace this part of their culture. Never mind, I know...forget it, I will have hairless legs come Wed., but not one hour before he gets here. I so feel my pain.................

WHY CAN'T I BE QUIET?!!!!

2006-05-08T11:26:00.000-06:00

I've been told that I learned to talk at age 2, & since that time have never stopped..My husband is inclined to believe that & at times so am I (I am all about honesty, so I am just stating the facts here, haha). After a procedure in November left my vocal chord damaged, my voice has really changed & I sound like I have a constant cold. And yes, I do get tired of being asked that by everyone, including you,hehehe. The Dr's thought my recoop time from surgery would be a great time to "rest" my vocal chords..Now what does that mean exactly? To stop talking? Well, I can say I have given it my best shot. My voice is stronger than it was, but I don't think its humanly possible for me to stop talking? I mean I have tried for over a month. I spend about 8 hours alone everyday so you'd think that would do it right? Well, you are wrong!! It appears that I not only have an opinion about what you say but even to myself!! haha!!! I am catching myself talking during the day and no one is here. No one, but "ME"...what does that mean exactly? Well, don't answer that, I know what it means.... I must be talking to myself!!! Now, today I have set tomorrow aside as a talk free day..Ok, not from sun up to sun down...only from 8-5. I can't go cold turkey afterall ( I have to work up to it you know), but I really want to give my voice a chance to heal. I liked my voice. I had it for almost 47 years..thats a long time. So, tomorrow, no phones will be answered while the "boyz" are gone. We are praying for a devine intervention because we know thats what it will take. Ah, for once, I realize I can't do something alone...its sinking in.....

FRIENDSHIP, ONE OF GOD'S GREATEST GIFTS

2006-05-07T10:53:00.000-06:00

Jim and I were sitting around realizing just how blest we are when it comes to "friends". Most are really an extension of our family.....There are many we don't see very often, but they are part of our lives and bring a smile to our face when the Lord brings them to mind.....
Jim has a friend that he's had for about 50 years...Though we don't see him, he is someone who Jim touches base with several times a year. He was so special , we named our son after him. I was reluctant at first. I am not superstitious at all, but hey, you never know..I have heard stories about Jim and Steve my whole married life..I didn't want a repeat, just in case..haha....I have not "kept" in touch with any friends from my childhood, but I love to hear them talking on the phone..They just pick up where they left off last time... What has been especially intresting is seeing where the Lord has brought them in their spiritual walk.
We have friends that we met on our travels in the military. Some we keep in touch with on holidays, but there are those special ones who's lives has been intertwined with ours for over 20 years. The phone was our connection with each other...We still share in birthdays, anniversaries, graduations as if we were "together". We have also cried through our children's struggles and illnesses and of course the victories when they come out on the other side. Though miles separate us, we are connected through a bond formed many years ago. I can't imagine a life without Kim and Steve, no matter how far they live from us...
Though we feel we can contact any of our friends when we are in need of prayer, there is that "special" group of God's intercessors that the Lord gave us over 6 years ago. Our home group at Jim and Sandy Greens has been a source of strength to us for many years..They remind us when we forget, that God is God, and He holds us in the palm of His hand. That He and He alone is in control. There are many times I need to be reminded of that, but they always remind me Who I really belong to.
Then there are those special friends we are given during certain seasons of our lives that extend throughout. When Jim left for Iraq, I was so alone or so I thought. I knew Connie from a few years back, but it is still amazing to me the way God re-entered her into my life at a time when I needed her "special" friendship and what she would sow into it.. I would have never imagined the friendship that would come out of this one, but its been one of greatest adventures (this is how I have to describe Connie, haha, or maybe us together..who knows, haha)...I knew and know that no matter what, I can count on her. There is Viv and Joe and the kids. Wow, what a source of inspiration you are to us...Joe, Jim and the boys are shooting buds and have such a connection and I with Viv. I can talk to her about anything and I do mean anything. They are 2 that check on me still today..When I need a pick me up, there is Viv on the other end of the phone.We know if there is anyone we can call at 2 in the morning, it is Joe and Viv. What a gift indeed!!! Their children are great, and you can't say that just about everyone's kids, can you? hahaha...This family is nothing short of a blessing to us...I can't end this without one of my very favorite friends in the whole world, my sister in law , Minerva. She inspires me. She is more than an inlaw.. She is the greatest gift to our family, ok, now its a close call between her and Deven. haha...She is just pure goodness. I have a whole other blog about this one but had to include her here...this is really a short list, but the Lord really brought you to our minds and hearts today and we really wanted you all to know what a blessing and treasure our friends are to us. We are so much better because you are all a part of our lives...truly one of God's greatest gifts.......

IT'S MY PARTY AND I'LL STAY IF I WANT TO...

2006-05-04T21:53:00.000-06:00

Insomnia is setting in....ughhhh...its going to be a very long night...I don't know what it is, but after I've had surgery, I always, can count on insomnia being a part of the process for about 2 months...I go to bed anywhere from 12:30-5 a.m. What is it I do? Absolutely nothing!! Well, except for Lifetime tv (my son says anyone who watches it needs to get a life, I don't know maybe he has something there,haha) and computer surfing..I think after a month I've probably surfed from one side of the world to the other. I have to admit I am finally getting tired of "looking" for things to keep my interest. May I say, I can hardly wait to go back to my job. But, tonight I am getting ready for my next 3 days of full time scrapbooking. The pictures are spread out all over the place as I've been working on Krissy's album, and of course, I am committed to getting 10 pages done in my own personal albums. I can't wait to get started..I've got all kinds of new ideas and its so fun to go down memory lane as I start looking at them.I'm having a solo crop where me and mine will be the only attendees..Well sort of solo. I have a new friend who lives in Alabama and she is joining me on this venture. Only thing is she'll be there...I know its a little crazy, but hey don't knock it till you've tried it. We have challenged each other. We are new pacing partners in both our scrapbooking businesses (and please don't be shy everyone, feel free to ask me how I can help you get started,haha, what are you waiting on) and in our weight loss journeys. Its great to have someone that needs to attain the same goals you do and you can do them together....Are you ready Freda? Ready , get set, go.........last one done is a rotten egg....just kidding!!!!

JUST CALL HIM "UNCLE STEVE"

2006-05-02T18:56:00.000-06:00

Have I mentioned that we are crazy about our new grand-nephew, Deven? He is absolutely the cutest little baby. He could be on commercials he's so cute. I'd love to share a picture of him, but his mom, Krissy, knows that you are all a bunch of internet axe murderers, so I cannot share his picture at this time.haha!!!
Our son, Steve likes to visit him weekly. When he talks to Deven, he calls himself Uncle Steve. Now theoretically he is his great cousin, right? Well, Steve is not one who really cares if he's politically correct or not. He says he's tired of being a cousin and he is Uncle Steve to Deven.
As the parents of an "only child", we have always worried about Steve not having brothers or sisters. We worry because we think he'll not "have anyone" when we are gone(not that we are planning on going anywhere, anytime soon, but hey, it happens, right?). Yes, he will have a wife and children, hopefully, but its different with siblings, don't you think?
My sister-in-law and I just laugh and smile because he is so funny when it comes to Deven. When I heard him call himself Uncle Steve to Deven the other day, it occurred to me, he will have someone when we are gone. I realized as I sat and watched him act and react (hey you have to know all of them to understand this one...haha) with his cousins, he most definitely will never be alone. These kids who are all growing up,( all horrible rugrats with each other during their growing up years, and including and especially mine,haha) know they can count on each other. It brought back memories of the past couple of years when they've all had things going on in their lives, and I remember the phone calls between the two houses of them checking upon each other. Memories of the 4 of them started to run through my mind and made me smile. Those thoughts still warm my heart even today. They all really care about each other. I would hate to use the love word here, still don't know if they'd admit that one.haha!! But, He is Uncle Steve, and I realize that we don't have to be born into a family to be an aunt or an uncle to make a child feel loved. The best part of it all, he got a brother and sisters the easy way, from his aunt and uncle. Ahh, and they'll be the ones to make him an "uncle" and I didn't have to do a thing.... Wow, one more reason its good to be the aunt....

I AM ON A ROLL.......

2006-05-01T11:41:00.000-06:00

Great news on the homefront...I had my post-op appointment with my Dr since my surgery on April 11 and I could hardly wait to get to his office. I was intrested in how my knee is progressing, but I was more anxious to get on the scale. I know, I was shocked at this also. Now usually, I walk clear around the building to keep from coming anywhere near that piece of equipment and if that doesn't work, I try to pretend I don't hear the nurse when they ask me to get up there. I know rude, but hey, why's it their business anyway. I'm there for my knee, you know? But today, I had to stop the nurse and ask for a weight check. YES, I ASKED TO BE WEIGHED. Its true, there is a first for everything, I guess.
Now I started WW 6 weeks ago, and I had lost another 9 lbs since my surgery. That is a total of 23 lbs. Talk about putting a swing in my step!!! This was indeed exciting news. I have finally found a diet that works for me and am motivated for the first time in years. I don't have to count calories, just points..its the easiest thing I've ever done...I just had to share my good news.
Ok, now for the knee. It has healed up wonderfully, thanks to the Great Physican and his assistant, Dr. V. They work so well as a team. God is good....My bend is great so far but I am having trouble with the extension part. I am doing therapy 3 times a week and then on my own for the other 4 days for about 6 hours a day...ughhhhhh...I have graduated today from the walker to the cane..Yeah....baby steps, but I'm getting there!!! Thanks for sharing in my exictement.....

WHY DON'T MEN JUST CARRY PURSES!!

2006-05-01T00:07:00.000-06:00

I know tomorrow I will probably wonder what in the world I thought I was doing at 1 a.m. in the morning, but right nowI thought it was a pretty good idea. As I was clomping through the house on my walker today, there was all of Jim's "pocket items" laying on the table. Now this is really not unusal but the red cat collar holding his wallet together caught my eye. You ask why was that on there? That seems like a valid question to me, since I said it outloud. His wallet is so full, and we are not talking full of good old American cash, but full of "stuff". The red collar has been taken off of the wallet and things reshifted since the comments came bursting out of my mouth. He apparently reshifted stuff before he went to work. Well, here I am with insomnia, and there is that wallet and all his pocket items just staring at me. You guessed it. I went to the kitchen, got my scale (I am on a diet, and btw, thanks Viv for the scale) and weighed his stuff. 2 pounds ladies and gentlemen, 2 pounds. And this is a light day I can tell you..I have seen his pockets bulging. Well, I decided to help him out tonight and rearranged and cleaned out his wallet. Apparently he is feeling lucky these days as he has a nice collection of Texas Lotto papers accumulating in there...cleaned those out, put them in the drawer, just in case we get the "call". Now Jim loves business cards, doesn't seem to matter whose they are, he appears to like them. I've never even heard of some of these people or places that are on them.I hope he doesn't mind that I only left mine in there for him to hand out. Now that brings me to the pictures...come on, our son Steve is 27 and his only picture of him in there is when he was 4. Come on, I know Steve had a picture made in the 8th grade. I am sure of it! He should keep up with this, afterall we only have 1 child. Now I know military personnel are suppose to carry their leave slips with them, but his leave was up in June 2005. I can now file that away with his used up calling cards from Iraq.
Well his wallet is looking pretty nice and organized at this point. His keys are a whole other subect(really, why do we need 2 miniature flashlights attached to it) as is his separate ID holder. My question is why don't men just carry a purse. I mean it would make things so much easier. For some reason when I am out and about with him he loves to hand me the things from his pocket to carry. Why? I don't want that stuff, I have 10 pounds of my own junk to carry around!!! I sure hope Jim likes how I organized his wallet today...I'll let you know.....

MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL

2006-04-28T16:51:00.000-06:00

I am my mother afterall!! How did this happen? Is it destiny, genetics, or did somone just turn the lights on for me? I have never shared my mother's love of the outdoors but as I am getting older, I find that I am becoming more and more like my mother. This is not a bad thing, its just, well can I say, SHOCKING?
This brings me to the point at hand. I grew up with a Mother who absolutely loved nature and the birds and animals that came with it. She actually found beauty in South Texas and the foliage that grows throughout the Rio Grande Valley...She and my brother, Jim were known to come back from visits to West Texas with a loaded down trunk full of oversized rocks, and on the visits to our Gulf Coast, and she'd drag home driftwood. .There were also times she'd come home with cactus different people would give her from the ranches she'd visit. Now what exactly would she do with this stuff you ask? She'd put it in our yard. Looking back now, I remember just how beautiful that yard was. I also picture my mom sitting on the front step of our home (wearing her long rainbow robe) enjoying her yard after she watered it in the early evenings. All of a sudden I want to do something with my yard. Right now there is very little out there, so I am starting with a blank canvas. I can't plant things right now because of my recent surgery, but I started searching the internet today and am keeping a list of plants to purchase once I am back on my feet. I also have come up with a "to look for" list. What is on it you ask? Of course, oversized rocks, native plants, and some driftwood. The yard won't be complete without a birdbath and a small area designed to attract her favorite bird, the hummingbird. I also envision a small sign dangling off the birdbath called "Mom's garden". Ok, I know this is weird, but I am also going to keep my eye open for a tumble weed that I can wrap in clear Christmas lights and turn on in the evenings. Ok, I know its a little weird, but lets just blame it on my Mom, ok?

GETTING THE HANG OF STAYING HOME...

2006-04-27T10:55:00.000-06:00

It's now been just a few weeks since I had knee surgery. I can only describe my days as B-O-R-I-N-G!!!! But today is going to be different....I am going to spend my time in between therapy sessions today doing what I love best ----Scrapbooking!!! I should be making the most of my time, don'tcha think? I am a Creative Memories Consultant, so I have a whole room stocked with stickers, colored paper, cutters, etc. that are just sitting there. I have decided I will be "raiding" "the room" today. The room is calling me.
That brings me to the subject of my latest scrapbooking venture. There is only one thing I love more than being a wife and mother and its big and i mean HUGE...I love being an aunt. There is absolutely nothing like it!!! I became an aunt the first time when i was 16 and each niece or nephew is just as exciting. I only have 2 nieces in the mix of all the boys, so you can imagine what i think about them!!! In Dec., my niece Kristyne blessed our family with a beautiful baby boy, Deven. We got the call that Deven was born early, early in the morning and it was all i could do to keep from going up there and introducing myself to the newest member of our family. But I was there, the next day complete with camera in hand. Those pictures are now sitting in front of me and i'm ready to start taking the boring out of my days. Can't wait to see Krissy's face when I give her the baby album!!! Did I mention I love being an aunt?!!!

2006-04-26T19:29:00.000-06:00

I HAVE MY GRANNY'S KNEES.....

Like many other little girls, I grew up in love with my Granny. She lived 9 hours away and we only got to see her and our Papa a couple times of year. Though many miles separated us, absence did make the heart grow fonder. She passed away 23 years ago, but if I close eyes and concentrate, I can still see her sitting on the edge of her bed, wearing one of her "dusters". I can feel her soft skin that she rubbed daily with baby lotion, and even smell the White Shoulders perfume she loved to wear.

As a child, I watched as my Granny suffered with rheumatoid arthritis. It affected her hands, feet and her knees. I used to lay with my head on her lap and she'd rub my head with her deformed hands, and I in turn would rub her knees. She had a long scar on both knees from knee surgery and somehow in my mind, I thought if I'd just rub them, she'd not hurt anymore. I don't really know if it worked or not, but it sure made me feel good to do something for her.

Whereas, I don't have rheumatoid arthritis, I did inherit osteoarthritis. I am going through physical therapy right now after surgery for my second knee replacement. As I was changing the bandage today, I looked down and smiled and realized I have my Granny's knees. So now, when I want to remember special days gone by, all i'll have to do is look down at my knees. What a reminder!!! haha...

2006-04-25T17:23:00.000-06:00

Well, we've decided to join the rest of the world, and start our own blog..the name just seemed appropriate. Welcome to our place on the web.....

Jim and Sandi.....when exactly did we become Jim and Sandi? Was it the first time I met him 29 years ago and caught him winking at me through his sunglasses? Or was it a few months later when we became engaged? Or would it have been in Feb 1978 when we walked down the aisle after they pronounced us man and wife? Hmmmm, I'm not sure when it was, but it seems like its always been just Jim and Sandi.

We've been married for 28 full years...
We have been Jim and Sandi through good times and bad, through happy times and sad times. Where you find one, you find the other. We can finish each others sentences and know what the other is thinking.

Ahhh...Jim and Sandi, I love the way that sounds..it sounds like it should always go together,,,don'tcha think?