Wednesday Hodgepodge

1.  With that being said I think I need to dive right in to some Christmas related questions, don't you? Which do you prefer-pretty gift wrap with a bow or a pretty gift bag with/without a bow?  What percentage of your holiday gifts are currently (as in right this very minute) wrapped in some form or fashion? 
Pretty packages with  a bow.  I enjoy wrapping presents and like to decorate the packages.
 0 %.  I usually don't start wrapping presents until the second week in December.

2.  What is one item on your Christmas list this year?
Absolutely nothing!  If I could have anything it would be for all in my family to be healthy.

3.  What makes a home?
Family




4.  Motown founder Berry Gordy celebrates his birthday on Hodgepodge Day-November 28th. Are you a fan of the Motown sound?  If so, who's your favorite Motown artist and/or song? Here's a list in case you're stuck. 
I love the Motown sound.  It is hard to choose a favorite artist, but I must go with Smokey Robinson and his song 'Cruisin.'


http://youtu.be/ifhe6GQsxUo
5.  Red or green-which one is more prevalent in your closet?
Red is my favorite color.  I have a red Christmas Tree downstairs.
 
6.  True or false-bacon makes it better? If you answered true, what's your favorite dish made with bacon? 
I don't really know the answer to this one.  I like eggs and bacon!

7.  Share a favorite holiday memory.
I don't know if I really have a favorite one.  I remember Christmas as a child and my parents made it seem so special.  I remember hub and my first Christmas and daughters first Christmas-sometimes I can still hear their footsteps and giggles coming down the steps.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.
#1 daughter is on rotations and Monday she was performing CPR on an 83 year old man.  The man did not make it and daughter was devastated.   Later daughter was told the man had an DNR on his chart.  I tried to explain to her that  God was watching over her, but she still felt terrible.

Weekend Rewind

Weekend Rewind...

First, I must tell a little about my Thanksgiving.  For the past ten + years, our church has delivered food to families less fortunate.  I signed up to  bring many pounds of cole slaw and pies.  The food is brought to the church early that morning and then the people who sign up to deliver the food arrive at 10.  This has become a family tradition for us.  After delivering the food, we all return to church for a little meal.  It is so heart warming to see the smile on the elderly's face as well as the children's face when the meals are delivered.  We delivered over 200 meals this year-so it does take a better part of ones Thanksgiving Day-but it is well worth it!

As you can see, it takes a lot of people to pull this off and much organization.

Daughter #2 made these special treats-she doesn't take her skills from me.

Since delivering food takes much of Thanksgiving Day, I have always pre-ordered our Thanksgiving Dinner from Cracker Barrel.  This year, hub forget to tell me his uncle had invited us to dinner.  So I just took part of the Thanksgiving Dinner there.  Let me tell you, it wasn't needed--I have never seen a spread like this.

Charlie's uncle owns his own restaurant and his wife and daughter love to cook.  The food was delicious and I did what most people do-over stuffed myself.  We all helped clean up and I caught hub doing something he very seldom does at the house...

He seemed to be enjoying himself here. ahem...

Last year was the first time I have ever went to Wal-Mart on Thanksgiving night.  I had a ball and went again this year.  Just watching people is something else.  People are standing in line for hours just for a special bargain.  This year was also a first because as I was talking to a friend the manager of Wal-Mart says on the intercom and I quote..."If I can have your attention and you all cut out the chatter-the sale is about to begin so step back"  Well I lost it at this point because my mind went racing to-step back from what?  Is this a gun shoot out?  She meant to step back from the merchandise my friend later told me.   I couldn't help but laugh.  However, I don't know why people stand in line for hours because later the store always puts out more of the merchandise out  one was standing in line to get.  Another fun night at Wal-Mart for me!

Friday morning, Hub, daughter #2, and I went to see #2 daughter's boyfriend.  Boyfriend plays college basketball (4 hour drive) and we had promised daughter we would go-What were we thinking????  We did do a little shopping while there.  I love going to the Mennonites' store. and seeing where they live.

Gorgeous farm land and fantastic homemade food, jellies, jam, butter,  and fudge.  I couldn't resist and had to purchase  some.

Enjoyed the basketball game.

But honestly, I don't remember living in this type of housing in my college days....

Times have changed.....

We decided to travel Saturday after the game to beat the traffic.  Traffic was horrible...we barely missed three accidents.  The last one, I was banging my elbow against the window yelling at the other driver,  Whew!  I was glad to reach home.  I did mention to hub and daughter that I personally do not think any college games should be played on Thanksgiving weekend-too much traffic as it is and this only adds to it. My feet  was extremely happy to touch ground.

Now it is time to return to work tomorrow and begin counting down the days to Christmas break!

Hope all have a great week.

Wednesday Hodgepodge

A gobbling Hodgepodge.....

1. Turkey-love it or leave it?  White meat or dark?  What's your favorite thing to make using leftover turkey?
I like turkey--white meat.  Leftover turkey-there is usually not anything left.  For the last 4 years, I use to send all leftovers back with #2 daughter-and her basketball team because many didn't get to go home for Thanksgiving and games were always played the Friday and Saturday afterwards.  So, this year with no basketball team to send leftovers to.. I may have to be creative.

2. Gotta burn off all those carbs the day after a holiday feast so which would you rather do-run a 10K or climb a mountain?
How about Zumba-I have been going on Monday evenings.  Since you need to make a choice, climb a mountain-this way you can stop and rest as you climb to the top and hopefully at the top will be a breath taking view.

3.  Do you feel like social networking has made your relationships better or worse?  Explain.

Better--sometimes just reading others blogs-helps me to realized I am not the only one experiencing something or I am not the only one 'crazy' and the words of encouragement mean a lot.  I have met many friends through the blogging world. :)

4. How do you find and express gratitude for the hard things in your life? 

During the tough times of my life I always say to myself-God does not put anymore on me than I can handle.  When I look back now on some of life's hard times, I am grateful that God chose me because the hardships I have faced have made me a better person.  Sometimes instead of asking God-"Why me"?  Maybe we should ask him--"Why not me"?

5.  In the US, the day after Thanksgiving has been dubbed 'Black Friday'.  Is most of your holiday shopping done live and in person, or is it done more through the magic of the Internet? How do you feel about stores opening at midnight Thanksgiving night? Will you be out amongst the masses on Friday?

Last year was the first year I went shopping Thanksgiving night.  I enjoyed it--just watching the people made me laugh!  I didn't buy nor did I plan on buying anything, I just wanted to go and see what the 'fuss' was all about.  I plan on going this year---just to watch the people---do I live a boring life?

6.  Speaking of the color black-which black item in your wardrobe would you say is your favorite?
My 'little black dress'.  I think all should own one-just for those special occasions.

7.  What do you appreciate about your life today?
Everything!!!!  I have truly be blessed!

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

I will be preparing items for our yearly Thanksgiving delivery at church.  This has been a family tradiotion for  10 years!  

Weekend Rewind

Weekend Rewind.....

Friday evening, family (hub, daughters, and I-for once) were able to go out to dinner.  We ran into some ole colleagues of mine.  We chatted for a while; it was so nice seeing ole friends whom I use to teach with.  The older I get, I have realized that friends mean so much more than just friends--you know what I mean?  I truly miss my colleagues.  We talked about how much education has changed over the years as well as parenting skills.  When  I look back over my teaching years, 31 years as a matter of fact, I am scared for  our younger generation. This really saddens me.  On the way home, family joked with me-"So instead of a family dinner,we experienced a teacher reunion." :)  Yeah!

Saturday, I went shopping for some last minute Thanksgiving 'stuff'-napkins, etc.  Low and behold-when what do my wondering eyes should appear but ----Santa Claus.  I love Christmas, but let's take this one holiday at a time and enjoy Thanksgiving! I enjoy Thanksgiving too much to try and get ready for Christmas. I have never decorated before Thanksgiving-a tradition I have had-not even listen to Christmas music till Thanksgiving is over.  It was too difficult to tell grandson he couldn't sit on Santa Claus's lap.  Could you have told him "No?"  The tradition ended here....on this day...

He enjoyed a Christmas cookie.

Then #2 daughter had join in on some fun...

Sunday at church, grandson and another cousin was dressed alike-by coincidence of course!

The pictures don't exactly show but they both were wearing the identical shirts and pants.  I did have to ask cousin if he shopped at the Children's Place--haha.

Then off to a Christmas Parade....What?  It is amazing how a little one can change your mind and...well, I went to the Christmas Parade.

Grandson was so excited.\

Beautiful floats....

Personally, I could listen to bagpipes for hours.....This group is amazing to hear.

I am waiting for a snowfall to go riding in one of these.....

When I was growing up, Dad and I would ride-I miss those days.

and now the moment all children are ready for.....

 
Happy Thanksgiving!

There have been so many blessing this year I can be truly thankful for.


http://youtu.be/7NSQLMPU

Wednesday Hodgeodge

1. What rule of life should never be broken?

The Golden Rule--“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them.”  As a teacher, something we no longer teach in school. I have instilled this in both of my daugthers-- truly love and help those in need.
I also have another rule-Never leave the house or go to bed angry.

2. What's your favorite family recipe?
Oh no!  I am not known for my cooking skills.  The only recipe I can think of is--my chili-an ole church recipe but my family loves my chili.

3. Is the media manipulative?
YES!
4. Hubs and I saw Skyfall last weekend...are you a fan of the Bond films? If so, who's your favorite Bond?

Not a fan of Bond films.

5. What is one thing you hope people never say about you?
Stumped on this one.....

6. What's a nearby tourist attraction you'd like to see, but haven't gotten around to visiting?
Natural  Bridge Wax Museum only about 2 hours away-Shame on me.

7. Where's your favorite tree?
In my back yard!  Hub wants to cut this tree down, but I won't let him.  It is an odd shaping tree and beautiful in the spring.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
A busy week so far. Not only do I have bus duty all week (arrive at school before 7:30) but it is also American Education Week.  I am the SCA sponsor so, I have been helping prepare little treats for our teachers this week.  Monday-treat bags, Wednesday-breakfast, Thursday-homemade bread (no I didn't bake bread-someone else did) and Friday-Ice Cream.  Plus on Tuesday, we had professional development till 7 that evening.  Whew!!  Come on Weekend!

Weekend Rewind...

Weekend Rewind...

This past week has seemed like a month--a long week that I thought would never end!

Glad for the weekend.


Packed up our boxes for Operation Christmas Child.  So proud of having a neighbor who organized all of this.

Proud of the three & four year old children even though it took some-no a lot- of coaxing to pack the boxes without the things being theirs.


  Hub and I took grandson out to eat for breakfast; pancakes are his favorite.

  On the way I had a surprise call from my sorority sister-Susan.  I had accidentally butt called her and she had listened to Charlie and my conversation in the vehicle.  Need I say more-ahem.....

A beautiful day.....the trees are still holding their leaves-surprisingly after our first snowfall.

After eating, we headed to Books A Million.  Grandson loves this place, and he can stay for hours with no problem at all-just like me. I enjoy downloading books, but there is something about holding a book and flipping back and forth through the pages I miss.  Is this just plain old fashion?

We had to cut our 'little outing' short because hub wasn't feeling too well.  We headed home, and hub went to bed.  Nate kept checking on him and asking if he was feeling any better.  Since hub was first diagnosed with colon cancer, I must admit I get scared when he isn't feeling too well.  I was glad Nate kept checking on him; that way I was relieved.  I didn't want hub to think I was too worried -this would ease his mind.  

Hub stayed in bed, and I went to get the movie Hunger Games.  I had read the books, but hadn't seen the movie.  For once, the movie was like the book. Enjoyed the movie while hub slept peacefully in bed.

Sunday was another gorgeous day. Hub woke up feeling much better. Our Veteran's Day Program at church was superb!  There wasn't a dry eye in the building.  As a citizen of this country, I can never thank a veteran enough for what he/she has and continues to do for my country.

http://youtu.be/_gJMc2NK2WQ

Weekend Rewind

Weekend Rewind....


Was not able to post about last weekend....so need to catch up on that first.

 Hub, #2daughter, and I took grandson to Fall Festival last weekend.  He enjoyed playing the games while I enjoyed the silent auction.

He doesn't look too happy here--time for a pose then you may play.

Last Sunday, we had a young group come to our church and perform, This group was amazing,  I could have listened to them sing for hours.  We had volunteered for a few girls to spend the night at our house and it was a blessing to us.

On Tuesday, I was home sick-some type of flu bug.  #1 daughter was on her way home-she had her check-up in Charlottesville on  Wednesday a check-up I might add, she has put off for two years because of her classes at pharmacy school.  #1 daughter has had two open heart surgeries and I have never missed a doctor's appointment with her until now.  I cried all day Wednesday and worried.  When hub called to say her pressures in her heart were up and she was going through a stress test, I lost it at home.  From the time hub called until he called again-was the longest 30 minutes.  I cried, I prayed, I cried, I prayed,..So happy to hear she hit a 'home run' on the stress test and was on her way home.  I cried, I prayed, I cried, I prayed some more. I know God does not put any more on us than we can handle, and Wednesday was a very tough day for me.

The sunset was beautiful Halloween Night....

 As I looked at the sunset and took this picture-I thought to myself-this was God saying to me He has it all under control.

Grandson and #2 daughter were all excited.

They both went to church for Trunk & Treat.  Over 900 people came to church for trunk & treat!

 This weekend wasn't too exciting.  I kept grandson on Friday night.  We went shopping for Operation Christmas Child.  On Saturday, I explained to him the reason we had bought what we did-  a little boy to be happy Christmas Morning.  He helped me put the items in a shoe box and then he said, now tell me the story again Mam Mow about the happy little boy. While tears stung my eyes, I retold the story.

I must end with another story about grandson.....one that I die laughing.
I am sure your phone is constantly ringing with campaign surveys.  Grandson loves to answer the phone and he can carry on a conversation like an adult.  Last night our phone rang, and he answered it as usual.  He was just talking away and then he says, Okay, will you bring me a chicken nugget happy meal, tea, and a toy.  He handed the phone to me ( I assumed it was #1 or #2 daughter) it was a campaign worker for Mitt Romney!!  The person did get a laugh out of grandson; I think he had made her night!

Hope all is safe and well.