I don't know what kind of animal this comes from but every time I look at this bone I think of Jurassic Park, you know, the scene where they lower the goat into the trees!
May 31, 2008
Big Dog, Big Name, Big Bone
Jimmy's been waiting and waiting to get Ecclesiastes this big bone. Now that he's reached 80 lbs. (the dog) we agreed the time was right. It isn't allowed in the house because it's been basted in a sauce much darker than our carpet. Needless to say he now spends a lot of time on the deck chowing down.
I don't know what kind of animal this comes from but every time I look at this bone I think of Jurassic Park, you know, the scene where they lower the goat into the trees!
I don't know what kind of animal this comes from but every time I look at this bone I think of Jurassic Park, you know, the scene where they lower the goat into the trees!
May 29, 2008
"Unusually" Good Sandwich
Jimmy has always loved trying new foods. Since I don't like to cook my palate tends to be a bit boring as I eat the same things over and over. Fortunately, this has never stopped him from trying to widen the horizons of my taste-buds.
For instance, when we were first married he made the oddest concoction I'd ever heard of. I nearly died laughing when he sat before me a peanut butter, bacon, and pickle sandwich! I thought, "How strange can you get?" Well, his sandwich may have been weird, but what's even weirder was...I loved it.
I don't know why, but for some strange reason I got a hankering for this odd delicacy again, so off we went to get our supplies. I am happy to say that, just like the good old days, it was delicious and I encourage you to give it a try!
All you have to do is toast your bread, apply peanut butter, crispy bacon, and "Vlasic Bread and Butter Stackers" pickles. It's fast, easy, and delishy.
Mmmm! It's a perfect blend of sweet salty crunch. Let me know if you give it a try and what you think!
For instance, when we were first married he made the oddest concoction I'd ever heard of. I nearly died laughing when he sat before me a peanut butter, bacon, and pickle sandwich! I thought, "How strange can you get?" Well, his sandwich may have been weird, but what's even weirder was...I loved it.
I don't know why, but for some strange reason I got a hankering for this odd delicacy again, so off we went to get our supplies. I am happy to say that, just like the good old days, it was delicious and I encourage you to give it a try!
All you have to do is toast your bread, apply peanut butter, crispy bacon, and "Vlasic Bread and Butter Stackers" pickles. It's fast, easy, and delishy.
Mmmm! It's a perfect blend of sweet salty crunch. Let me know if you give it a try and what you think!
May 26, 2008
Memorial Day
The weathermen predicted 90% chance of rain for Kansas City on Memorial Day. By the grace of God they were wrong. Jimmy and I had invited the family over for a delicious cookout and since the deck is larger than our kitchen, it was vital the weather cooperate. We were pleased to see it did!
It was dry as we feasted on hamburgers, hot dogs, cookies, pie, and ice cream. After we caught up on all the news in each other's families, we piled into our cars and headed to the cemetery, which was especially pretty on Memorial Day.
Dad was so happy to see mom's grave. Next month they would have been married 57 years. What a wonderful example our parents have been to us kids. It is no coincidence that my sister, brother, and me, are still married to our original partners. I am the youngest of three and Jimmy and I celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary tomorrow!
It was dry as we feasted on hamburgers, hot dogs, cookies, pie, and ice cream. After we caught up on all the news in each other's families, we piled into our cars and headed to the cemetery, which was especially pretty on Memorial Day.
Dad was so happy to see mom's grave. Next month they would have been married 57 years. What a wonderful example our parents have been to us kids. It is no coincidence that my sister, brother, and me, are still married to our original partners. I am the youngest of three and Jimmy and I celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary tomorrow!
Dad
May 23, 2008
Cheap Thrill (One Dollar to be Exact)
Dani and I took my dad to the barber to get his hair cut. It's only a ten minute wait but I get bored easily so we visited the dollar store next door.
As we walked in the front door we discovered a huge display of Dani's favorite thing...Hawaiian leis! We both knew we had struck gold and since you can't find them just anywhere, I grabbed one that was her favorite color and she wore it the rest of the day. She proudly posed for the camera once we got home.
A dollar well spent!
(In case you're wondering. Her shirt says, "My Brother Belongs in the Zoo." Since she cannot speak we let her shirts do the talking.)
May 21, 2008
Did You Know?
Have you ever visited a website only to discover the font size was way to small or outlandishly large? Did you know there is a fast and easy way to adjust it to fit your very need? I love this tid-bit of information because I use it all the time and I want to share it with you.
Press and hold your "control/ctrl" button (bottom left on your keyboard) and then press your "-/+" button, depending on which way you want to adjust the font. As you do this you'll see the font size change right before your very eyes!
Now give it a try on my blog and see if it works. You don't have to highlight anything.
(Waiting...)
Did it work? Did you like it? If so, congratulations! You now have the world by the tail and can go out and surf the web with greater skill and dexterity!
Let me know if this works and how well you like it.
*If you find this tip didn’t work try these problem-solving tips.
Go to your browser header, click on view then text size. You should see an option to increase or decrees your text size. If you have a newer Browser you’ll see symbols telling you how to use your keyboard to change font size.
If you’re using Windows and Internet Explorer version 6 (click help to find your version) the keyboard option is not available.
You can download a new version here for free:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=9ae91ebe-3385-447c-8a30-081805b2f90b&displaylang=en
A great browsers to use is Firefox, which you can get free at:
http://www.mozilla-us.com/firefox.htm
You may wonder why you need to update your browser if it works fine. One reason and is newer Browsers have better security features, which is very Important if you make purchases on the web. Another reason is they work faster and give more viewing options. Try updating your browser and see all the great improvements.
Press and hold your "control/ctrl" button (bottom left on your keyboard) and then press your "-/+" button, depending on which way you want to adjust the font. As you do this you'll see the font size change right before your very eyes!
Now give it a try on my blog and see if it works. You don't have to highlight anything.
(Waiting...)
Did it work? Did you like it? If so, congratulations! You now have the world by the tail and can go out and surf the web with greater skill and dexterity!
Let me know if this works and how well you like it.
*If you find this tip didn’t work try these problem-solving tips.
Go to your browser header, click on view then text size. You should see an option to increase or decrees your text size. If you have a newer Browser you’ll see symbols telling you how to use your keyboard to change font size.
If you’re using Windows and Internet Explorer version 6 (click help to find your version) the keyboard option is not available.
You can download a new version here for free:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=9ae91ebe-3385-447c-8a30-081805b2f90b&displaylang=en
A great browsers to use is Firefox, which you can get free at:
http://www.mozilla-us.com/firefox.htm
You may wonder why you need to update your browser if it works fine. One reason and is newer Browsers have better security features, which is very Important if you make purchases on the web. Another reason is they work faster and give more viewing options. Try updating your browser and see all the great improvements.
May 19, 2008
Spring in Eden
I absolutely love spring in Kansas City, especially on my deck in the mornings where I do Bible study. With the sun rising on the horizon and the busyness of the squirrels and birds all around me, it's like sitting with God in the Garden of Eden. It brings peace like nothing else can.Did you know Eden means delight? At the dawn of creation God created this special place so He could commune and fellowship with man. It was where He walked with Adam and Eve in the cool of the evening surrounded by the beauty of all His handiwork. (Genesis 3) Nature was made for us to enjoy and I suppose that is why it brings such joy. God loves His creation, He made us in His image, so we naturally enjoy it as well. Perhaps this is why I walk out my kitchen door each morning and say to the Lord, "Look at your beautiful sunrise! Thank you for letting me see the work of your hand."
May the Lord bless you this day in your own Eden. May you find pleasure in His creation and delight in Him your Creator!
Psalm 37:4 "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart."
May 17, 2008
The "Grinch" Graduates
Today Ecclesiastes graduated from intermediate dog training class and most likely saw his friends, Teddy (German Shepherd) and Bella (Dachshund), for the last time. Though each dog is very different from one another, as a trio they get along great and were a hoot to watch and train. All three have been in class together for the last four months, so today was bitter sweet.
Teddy was the guard dog of the group. Forever watching what was going on beyond the class, he never hesitated to show his dislike for a particular person and as a result, I always felt a little safer with him around. Bella, on the other hand, was an irresistible flirt. You'd never guess this confident young pup was once shy and reserved. With a cocoa brown coat and milk chocolate nose, she showed impeccable taste by wearing a green leash and collar that coordinated perfectly with her olive green eyes. She's as cute as a bug's ear and I do believe she knows it!
Then there's Ecclesiastes, the lover of the three. While Teddy kept guard over the group, Ecclesi often entertained Bella by bowing down to her level so they could wrestle and play on equal standing. Somewhere between his 80 lbs. and her 13 lbs., they found a common ground that sustained a fun and friendly relationship both enjoyed. All three dogs were great buddies, which is why it's a little sad to say good bye.
There's one thing sure about this graduating class, each dog lives in a very loving home. The owners give the best of care to their animal and in return receives lots and lots of love. I believe this is one reason God created animals. They are wonderful companions, fabulous friends, and a joy to be around.
Here's a few pictures of our day!
Ecclesi (Look...no green paws! Thanks Daddy)
The Graduation Class of 2008!
Teddy was the guard dog of the group. Forever watching what was going on beyond the class, he never hesitated to show his dislike for a particular person and as a result, I always felt a little safer with him around. Bella, on the other hand, was an irresistible flirt. You'd never guess this confident young pup was once shy and reserved. With a cocoa brown coat and milk chocolate nose, she showed impeccable taste by wearing a green leash and collar that coordinated perfectly with her olive green eyes. She's as cute as a bug's ear and I do believe she knows it!
Then there's Ecclesiastes, the lover of the three. While Teddy kept guard over the group, Ecclesi often entertained Bella by bowing down to her level so they could wrestle and play on equal standing. Somewhere between his 80 lbs. and her 13 lbs., they found a common ground that sustained a fun and friendly relationship both enjoyed. All three dogs were great buddies, which is why it's a little sad to say good bye.
There's one thing sure about this graduating class, each dog lives in a very loving home. The owners give the best of care to their animal and in return receives lots and lots of love. I believe this is one reason God created animals. They are wonderful companions, fabulous friends, and a joy to be around.
Here's a few pictures of our day!
Teddy
Bella
May 15, 2008
May 14, 2008
Don't Worry...Trust, Pray, and Soar!
Of all things in the world I awoke the other night at 3 am concerned about the price of oil. Not greasy oil itself, but the ripple affect of its soaring price. I was extremely concerned how it would affect our son who is about to embark on his new journey as an adult in the world. Then, I wondered what it would do to those who are already poor and in need. Would it usher in more desperate and violent acts by those unable to make ends meet? Surely the future holds many trials and tribulations for each and every one of us. So, I began to worry.
Peering into the darkness of the bedroom, I mulled over a multitude of troublesome scenarios. As my mind whipped into a tornado of concerns, the Lord spoke truth to my heart saying, “I have never forgotten my children in the past and I will not fail to provide for them today. Do not worry, simply trust in Me and everything will be alright.”
Like a fresh and Holy wind, His words parted the menacing clouds of worry that had begun to steal my hope in the wee hours of the morning. After all it is true. God has never forsaken any of His children, and He isn’t about to begin now. The Psalmist believed then what we must trust in today, “Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever. (Psalm 125:1)
Think of worry as an opportunity to pray. When you watch the news reports of cyclones, earthquakes, tornados, and terrorist attacks, choose not to worry and opt instead to pray for those in need. And when tempted to fear what the future holds for your children, use it as an occasion to ask God to protect and provide for them, then trust He will do it.
Worry never builds up. It only serves to deplete and tear down. But, when we trust in God, He lifts us up on the wings of eagles and grants us His peace that passes all understanding.
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” Matthew 6:25-27
“…but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
Peering into the darkness of the bedroom, I mulled over a multitude of troublesome scenarios. As my mind whipped into a tornado of concerns, the Lord spoke truth to my heart saying, “I have never forgotten my children in the past and I will not fail to provide for them today. Do not worry, simply trust in Me and everything will be alright.”
Like a fresh and Holy wind, His words parted the menacing clouds of worry that had begun to steal my hope in the wee hours of the morning. After all it is true. God has never forsaken any of His children, and He isn’t about to begin now. The Psalmist believed then what we must trust in today, “Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever. (Psalm 125:1)
Think of worry as an opportunity to pray. When you watch the news reports of cyclones, earthquakes, tornados, and terrorist attacks, choose not to worry and opt instead to pray for those in need. And when tempted to fear what the future holds for your children, use it as an occasion to ask God to protect and provide for them, then trust He will do it.
Worry never builds up. It only serves to deplete and tear down. But, when we trust in God, He lifts us up on the wings of eagles and grants us His peace that passes all understanding.
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” Matthew 6:25-27
“…but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
May 11, 2008
Mother's Day
(Picture) Drew, Nancy, Dani, and Jimmy (behind the camera) at Union Station, downtown Kansas City, MO.
With Drew home visiting from college, we enjoyed Mother's Day by going to the Country Club Plaza for lunch at P.F. Chang's, and then walking Crown Center. We stopped at Union Station where we saw at least five wedding celebrations and a child's birthday party. It was a cloudy and misty day, but that did not hamper everyone from having fun.
I hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day!
May 9, 2008
Twice Tagged
I have been tagged for a "personal" themed Meme by a dear friend Dr. Boucher.
Here are the rules:
1. List these rules on your post.
2. Answer the following questions in your post.
3.At the end of the post tag 4-5 people. List their name with blog link and leave a comment on their blog to tag them.
4. Let the person who tagged you know when you've posted your answers.
QUESTIONS:
1. What were you doing 10 years ago?
I was working as an RN in a school for children with communicative disorders.
2. What are five things on your to-do list today?
Have my morning cappuccino (I am still not awake), then a cup of Starbuck's Verona coffee. It's the best!
Walk
Take my book "Freedom" to Mardel's for them to place on their bookshelves.
Mail eleven books of "Freedom" to various book reviewers across the country who have requested it. Thanks guys!
Enjoy lunch with Jimmy (my husband) who is off today!
3. What snacks do you enjoy?
Chocolate covered pretzels
4. What would you do if you became a billionaire?
The same thing I am doing now, writing and teaching women the Word of God.
5. What are your bad habits?
I often battle taking time to rest from work.
6. Where have you lived?
In Kansas City, MO all my life, and I love it!
7. What are five interesting jobs you've had?
My first job was working at Zarda Dairy as a clerk and ice cream scooper. This job taught me I didn't like sales.
Then I was an orderly/aid at a hospital Recovery Room. (I loved playing frisbee with other orderlies in the O.R. hallways. Specimen lids fly quite well!)
I have also worked in ICU (this was my favorite job of all), hospital supervision, and as a school nurse with children with disabilities.
8. Who have you tag to continue the meme fun?
Kaytlynn
Valerie
Connie
Mommyluann
Here are the rules:
1. List these rules on your post.
2. Answer the following questions in your post.
3.At the end of the post tag 4-5 people. List their name with blog link and leave a comment on their blog to tag them.
4. Let the person who tagged you know when you've posted your answers.
QUESTIONS:
1. What were you doing 10 years ago?
I was working as an RN in a school for children with communicative disorders.
2. What are five things on your to-do list today?
Have my morning cappuccino (I am still not awake), then a cup of Starbuck's Verona coffee. It's the best!
Walk
Take my book "Freedom" to Mardel's for them to place on their bookshelves.
Mail eleven books of "Freedom" to various book reviewers across the country who have requested it. Thanks guys!
Enjoy lunch with Jimmy (my husband) who is off today!
3. What snacks do you enjoy?
Chocolate covered pretzels
4. What would you do if you became a billionaire?
The same thing I am doing now, writing and teaching women the Word of God.
5. What are your bad habits?
I often battle taking time to rest from work.
6. Where have you lived?
In Kansas City, MO all my life, and I love it!
7. What are five interesting jobs you've had?
My first job was working at Zarda Dairy as a clerk and ice cream scooper. This job taught me I didn't like sales.
Then I was an orderly/aid at a hospital Recovery Room. (I loved playing frisbee with other orderlies in the O.R. hallways. Specimen lids fly quite well!)
I have also worked in ICU (this was my favorite job of all), hospital supervision, and as a school nurse with children with disabilities.
8. Who have you tag to continue the meme fun?
Kaytlynn
Valerie
Connie
Mommyluann
May 8, 2008
Thankful Thursday
With Mother's Day approaching I've been feeling a little sad. I didn't feel it much last year, because I was so tired and numb after months of caring for my mother who died of breast cancer in October 2006. This year, however, it's different. I am more rested and have time to reflect on this loss, which can surface in rather odd ways. Yesterday, for example, I pulled into my driveway and wondered what it would be like to see her standing there waiting for me. I don't know what prompted this thought other than she was simply on my mind.
Fortunately, as if to redirect my focus, God reminded of the blessings of being a mother. Pointing out the sweet spirit of each of my children, what a wonderful father my husband is to them, and the honor I have as their mother, I couldn't help but smile with delight. After all, I have nothing to be sad about. Mom is in heaven with God, fully restored, and I have a wonderful family to enjoy as I do what God has called me to do here on earth.
It was gracious of God to replace my sadness with joy and to remind me of all He has given. For this reason I am thankful and eagerly anticipate celebrating two things this Mother's Day: all the good thinks my mother taught me and the chance to raise my children to love, honor, and obey the great I AM!
Ecclesiastes 12:13b "...Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
Fortunately, as if to redirect my focus, God reminded of the blessings of being a mother. Pointing out the sweet spirit of each of my children, what a wonderful father my husband is to them, and the honor I have as their mother, I couldn't help but smile with delight. After all, I have nothing to be sad about. Mom is in heaven with God, fully restored, and I have a wonderful family to enjoy as I do what God has called me to do here on earth.
It was gracious of God to replace my sadness with joy and to remind me of all He has given. For this reason I am thankful and eagerly anticipate celebrating two things this Mother's Day: all the good thinks my mother taught me and the chance to raise my children to love, honor, and obey the great I AM!
Ecclesiastes 12:13b "...Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
May 4, 2008
A Dog-On Good Day
I actually once said Ecclesiastes would "never" be allowed on the furniture.
Then, I fell in love with him!
Then, I fell in love with him!
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