Christmas decorations packed away for another year

Christmas has come and gone once again.  It seems to come faster and faster every year.  With all we have been through this year, we are truly blessed.
 Christmas was wonderful because of the mere fact of being with family and friends, and seeing the looks in the eyes of the kids when they opened their presents.
I look back on the New Year's goals I made last year about this time and realize that I haven't held to them very well.
This year has really put life in perspective.  We almost lost Chris in the car accident, but thankfully from it he has stayed off of drugs since it has happened.  He's still not in church but the seed was planted what short time he lived with us.  So I know it's just a matter of time before he completely turns his life over to the Lord.
Then we almost lost Linda (my mother-in-law) her stroke has left her blind.  We complain about the small things, yet when I visit with her I am so humbled as to how thankful she is.  She says she tries not to be selfish, because God has been so good to her.  And if it's His will that she doesn't regain her eyesight back she accepts that.  But she believes in His timing it will come back.  Christmas Eve she told Scott what time it was while he was holding his cell phone in front of her, and then she told her other son what color shirt he had on.  She says she can't explain it, that it's fuzzy and it's not always there.  But she's trusting God for His will to be done.
She lost her husband while in the hospital and  she says it seems so surreal to her.  She's just ready for closure.  I told her that most people their closure probably comes at the time of the funeral, but we haven't had that.  His wishes was to be cremated so when she's gets out of the hospital and feels up to it we're going to have a Memorial Service. 
In which by the way, she is suppose to get out of the hospital this Thursday.  She will be coming to stay with us however long it may be.  I asked her if she was worrying about that and she says no.  So I told her that we all know the stigma that goes along with in-laws.  But that with her she's like a second Mom to me.  
I started off thinking I was going to post about Christmas and New Year's goals, but I guess that will wait for another time and another post.

Merry Christmas

I first heard this on the radio yesterday morning and just had to look it up.

1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style

©By Sharon Jaynes

If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family – I’m just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals, and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family – I’m just another cook.

If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family – it profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the choir’s cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.

Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.

Love is kind, though harried and tired.

Love doesn’t envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.

Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of your way.

Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can’t.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.

Love never fails. Video games will break; pearl necklaces will be lost; golf clubs will rust. But giving the gift of love will endure.




Merry Christmas to all my family and friends!!!

Give This Christmas Away

How Many Kings?

It seems like it's been so long since I've blogged.   I miss catching up with all my bloggy friends to see what's been going on in ya'll lives.
Linda (my mother-in-law) is still in the hospital in the rehab wing.  She amazes me each time I visit with her.  Her mind is becoming clearer and clearer.  There is still things short-term, and long-term memory that she doesn't remember.  But at our age there's things we don't remember either.   She says the first thing she wants to do when she gets home is sleep in.  That it feels like they get her up at the crack of dawn to get her therapy started.
I hope to post a Christmas song each day leading up to Christmas but if not.  I hope each and everyone of ya'll have a very Merry and blessed Christmas.

TSMSS...................Sometimes Christmas Makes Me Cry

S

Just a quick update on Linda (my mother-in-law) she should be moved to the rehab floor possibly by Monday.  Her memory is slowly coming back more and more each day, but their not giving much hope for her to regain her sight.  But we know that's not left up to the Doctors.  As she told me Thursday God's timing is not our time and it's all in His hands.
The first song is in memory of my step-father-in-law (Dave)  He had suffered in so much pain for at least a year.  Between the heart problems, COPD, and finally cancer but all that pain is gone now.




Then one of my favorite Christmas songs that goes right along with all that has happened this week.



For more great music join Amy and the others at  Signs, Miracles, and Wonders.

Linda and Dave

Just a quick update, Linda (my mother-in-law) is still in ICU, recovering from the stroke she had last Friday after her surgery on Tuesday.  For those who may not have read it on my prayer and praise blog.  The stroke has left her blind and the Doctor said this morning that their not very hopeful of her regaining her sight.  Their major concern right now is keeping her off the respirator and her breathing on her own.  In which she has been doing that today for the last couple of hours.
Also her husband Dave who has been battling cancer and other health issues passed away last night.  So please keep us in your prayers as we tell Linda this afternoon.  Her doctor said this morning as long as her breathing stayed stable it would be okay to tell her.
Thank you so much for all your prayers through all this.

Winner Mozaik Service for 8 Giveaway

According to random.org the winner for the  Mozaik Service for 8 Giveaway is  Stacey at 4everMom.
Congratulations Stacey, I will email you to get your mailing address so blogsparks can send this package out to you.   
Thank you to all who entered.

TSMSS................Where's the line to see Jesus?

I'm sure there will be plenty of Christmas songs being posted today on TSMSS over at Amy's so go check them out and join in.  I will be back later to listen.


I'm not sure if this is a new song or not.  Seen it  being posted on facebook and even shared it on there myself.  The words are awesome.

Update on Linda (my mother-in-law) is on my prayer blog.   Headed up to the hospital now to see her.    Please pray for her and Dave.

Wednesday Hodge Podge

It is so hard to believe it's already December, time is flying by so fast.  Slow down for a bit though and join Joyce and all the others for Wednesday Hodgepodge.



If you haven't already please enter my current giveaway for a Mozaik service for 8. 


1. What is the most interesting thing you've done in the last year?
Well my husband says I don't get out enough and it must be true because I can't think of anything too terribly exciting. 
2. What is your most meaningful family heirloom?
I don't have anything that has been passed down through the generations. But I do have a quilt that my Grandmother made me, all by hand. She gave it to me when I graduated from high school.


3. What food festival would you most like to attend? If you're not sure click here to see a list of possibilities.
Cooking contests would be so much fun.  Especially those where they decorate cakes.

4. Snow...do you love it or is it considered a four letter word where you live?
Love it don't get it often enough to consider it a four letter word.

5. Can you ski? Do you ski? Are you any good?
No, not on the water or the snow.

6. What quality in your spouse or best friend are you most thankful for?
Hard worker.


7. Describe the coziest spot in your home.
My bed, love sitting in it with all my pillows, reading a good book, with a cup of hot chocolate.


8. Insert your own random thought here.

Of the non-traditional Christmas songs I think this one has to be my favorite.  Not sure why, because it always brings tears to my eyes.

Mozaik Service for 8 Giveaway

Blog sparks has offered another wonderful giveaway.  Just in time for the Christmas parties and dinners.
When I showed my set to my son he had to look twice to realize they were plastic. 

To prove that your table’s appearance can be stylish and sophisticated when you use plastic, Mozaik expert Jennifer Lucas appeared on WEtv’s Designing Spaces in mid-November to share tips on how to entertain with more style. Visit designing spaces to view the segment online.

Mozaik is the perfect solution for those occasions when you don’t have enough dinner ware. For under $10, Mozaik’s new Service for Eight kit will help you stop scrambling for extra place settings when your guest list is larger than your china and flatware collection. The 40-piece “party in a box” adds eight place settings (forks, knives and spoons, salad plates and dinner plates) and is great for every holiday gathering from a small cocktail party to a large holiday buffet.

Designed to look like real permanent ware, Mozaïk is actually plastic party ware that can be washed and reused, or simply disposed of. It provides a fashionable, affordable alternative to paper plates and fine china. Available in both Classic and Contemporary styles, Mozaïk products range from round and square plates, to silver-look cutlery and serving items to mini appetizer ware, creating a nicer impression at any occasion.

Mozaik offers the ease of using disposables without sacrificing style; simply toss the mess for an easier clean up. You can also opt to reuse Mozaik, just hand wash or place the party ware in the dishwasher on the gentle cycle. The more care they are given the more times you can reuse them.

To find out more about the Mozaik line, visit mozaikbysabert. 

Now to win a set of your own, please leave a comment telling if you won
how you would use Mozaik to help ya'll entertain during the holiday season?

Deadline to enter is Monday, December 6th.

Disclosure:  The Mozaik products, information and additional prize pack to give away were all given to me from Mozaik through MyBlogSpark.)

TSMSS..................He Will Carry You

I have posted this song before but I wanted to re post it for my Mother-in-law (Linda).  She's having surgery again Tuesday.  This will be her third one in a little over a year, not to mention the countless times her husband has been in the hospital the last couple of years.  I will be writing more on my prayer and praise blog.


Visit Amy at Signs, Miracles, and Wonders for more great songs.

Happy Thanksgiving !!!

It's amazing to me the songs you can find on YouTube.  I wanted one for today and typed in Thank You Lord and came up with this one.  I have never heard it that I can recall but the words pretty well sums it all up.





I hope all of ya'll have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!

Wednesday Hodge Podge

I hope everyone has a safe and happy Thanksgiving!!!  Megan is cooking this year, she cooked Easter lunch a couple of years ago.  So when she suggested she cook for Thanksgiving I told her to go for it.  So it will be us, my Mom, and my Son-in-laws parents.  I know it's going to be wonderful, because she is such a great cook.

So now on with hodgepodge, take a break from all that cooking and grab the questions from Joyce .




1. If you had known what they knew then, would you have boarded the Mayflower?

Probably so.  Those that did probably didn't give it much thought they just did it.

2. How far have you traveled on a boat and how do you feel about boats in general?
I haven't ever been out in the ocean in one, only a river, pond that sorta thing.  It didn't bother me.  I think it would be pretty awesome to go on a cruise. 

3. What traditions have you kept, acquired thru marriage, and/or tossed? If you're single what are some of your family's favorite Thanksgiving traditions?
That there always has to be turkey, dressing and pecan pie.  Personally I prefer ham over turkey.  But for most, Thanksgiving wouldn't be right without at least those three things. 

4. What time is dinner and how many will be round your table? And what is the one side dish you cannot do without on Thanksgiving day?
 Probably around noon or so.  Not really sure how many will end up being there, close guess I would say nine. Cornbread dressing if it's made the right way (like my Mom use to make it).

Yes, I know it goes against all I believe in to ask for 'just one', but I made up for it by asking three questions here.
5. Have you ever used a fire extinguisher? Do tell....
Not that I can recall.  I have used baking soda on numerous occasions.  Mostly from sitting a frying pan in the oven and preheat the oven forgetting it was in there.  Or either from something spilling in the oven and when turned on it caught on fire.

6. Tell about a situation that caused you dreadful trepidation and feet dragging, only to realize later it was a true blessing.
The only thing recently would be my son moving out.  He is nineteen and moved in with two other nineteen year old guys.   I begged, pleaded, argued for him not to move out but he did.  But so far they are doing just fine.  It will definitely be a learning experience for them.  You wonder how that could be a blessing, well if you have or have had teenagers then you know it's much quieter these days.
7. Baked, sweet, mashed, hash browned or french fried...which one's your favorite?
Baked, mashed, or fired.  For Thanksgiving definitely mashed.  Any other time most like baked.  Will have them fried once in a while but not often.


8. Insert your own random thought here.
It seems like only yesterday I was posting New Year's goals.  Now I have to look back and see if I actually accomplished any.
Definitely no way no chance in going shopping Friday.  Hopefully will do most of my shopping online.  So much easier.

TSMSS.........Stay Strong

My Mother in law asked me had I heard this song.  I didn't recognize it by the name but I knew it once I heard it.  For more inspirational music join us over at Amy's.
I will be announcing the winner of the prayer shawl tomorrow over on  my prayer blog.  If you haven't entered yet, check it out.

Extreme Home Makeover Savannah

As most of ya'll know I lived in the Savannah area until three years ago.  And anyone that knows anything about Savannah usually would think of  who else but Paula Deen.  Megan was there and snapped a picture real fast before they yelled no pictures inside.

But this week the buzz was all about this.
Yes, Ty and his crew choose a much deserving family to remake their house.  They moved to Savannah to be closer to their son's Doctors.  The house they bought was in much need repair.  They were having to cook at their neighbors and wash dishes in the bathtub.

From this...........

to this.

My son-in-law (Denny) and his brother are electricians and was chosen to work in the therapy room for the youngest son.  Megan spent two days down there mostly taking pictures.  So I was so excited when she called me Wednesday afternoon needing a ride back home.  So I was down there for a few hours that afternoon.  It was so amazing to see 100's of volunteers coming together and working.  Giving of their time and talent for a family they may have never even met.  Everyone knew what they were suppose to be doing and worked together so beautifully.

 

Winner of the cookbook is....................

The winner of the Blo Spark package which includes an autographed copy of Michael Chiarello's cookbook is Cindy.
Congratulations Cindy and I will be emailing you shortly to get your mailing address.
Thanks to all who entered.

Hodge Podge Wednesday

I couldn't  get the button to show up last week, but look and you will see this button on several blogs today.  To join in,  just hop over and visit Joyce at From This Side of The Pond.
It's a great way to get to know other bloggers.
Also I will be drawing for the cookbook giveaway later today.  If you haven't entered please do so.  I also have a giveaway on my prayer blog that ends Sunday. There's only a couple of entries to that one so far, so your chances of winning is pretty good.





1. What is the most amazing weather you've ever seen?
Not amazing to most I'm sure.  But we very rarely see snow in South Georgia.  So Valentine's weekend this year to wake up to snow was pretty awesome.

2. What is a sound or noise you love?
rain falling,  I can also remember when I was a little girl and would spend the night at my Grandmother's if it would rain and she had an old tin roof.  So relaxing.



3. Do you like seafood? What's your favorite seafood dish?
Yes well some of it, fish, shrimp, and crab.  And I would have to say low country boil is my favorite.
If you've never had it your missing a treat.  It's awesome.


4. What part of your day requires the most patience?
Mornings,  the alarm goes off and I'm up and ready to go.  But the rest of the house takes them a few minutes to get going.  Some mornings Makayla will come to breakfast and say "Mama, please stop singing".

5. What's your favorite shade of blue?            

Need I say more?

6. Do people underestimate you?

Sometimes I think they do because I'm generally quite and not very out-going.

7. When was the last time you had butterflies in your stomach?
Not really sure, last time nervous I guess the  last time I went for a job interview.

8. Insert your own random thought here, and remember...I have a wooden spoon and I'm not afraid to use it.
I can't seem to get it together this morning.  I keep jumping from blogger, to facebook, to email.  Need to get this post finished TODAY.

TSMSS...........Resurrection Song

First if you haven't entered my giveaway for the autographed Michael Chiarello Cookbook, the deadline is Wednesday November 17th.
Also beginning today until Sunday November 21st there will be a giveaway on my Prayer and Praise blog.
It's for a ...................... Sorry you will just have to go over there and find out for yourself.   :)

Now for the music, join in with Amy over at Signs, Miracles, and Wonders for Then Sing My Soul Saturday.

Happy Veteran's Day

Thank you to our veteran's and active military.  We take our freedom for granted, but all we have to do is watch the news to realize just how great we have it.  I know we're all going through trials in our lives, but it could always be worse.  The song in this video has always been a favorite of mine.  After hearing these sing it though to me there almost better than Lee Greenwood.

Wednesday Hodge Podge

Mixing it up with a new random link

For approximately the  past year several of us has been participating every Wednesday in something known as the Random Dozen (RD) hosted over at 2nd cup of Coffee. Lid posted a dozen random questions and people answered on their own blogs. She has decided to retire the RD for now but those of us who played regularly miss it.  Joyce says she has  a lot of random in her head that needs to go somewhere.  So she has decided to do a linky of  her own on Wednesdays.


Wednesday Hodgepodge

 Wednesday Hodgepodge will be slightly different than the RD because for starters, its not a dozen. A dozen random questions on a weekly basis may not sound like much to you but I suspect it could become overwhelming for most  so she has settled on a nice even 8 with a twist. Hey, its not called hodgepodge for nothing.
She intends to post the questions sometime on Tuesday, put the Mr. Linky up somewhere in the wee hours of Wednesday morn, and then you will link your own blog with the answers on Wednesdays for all the internets to see.

And, we're off...


1. Do you think you're more like your mom or your dad?
I look more like my Dad's side of the family.  I'm also quiet and laid-back like he was.


2. Do you like roller coasters?
NO


3. How did you name your blog and do you now wish you'd thought about it maybe another five minutes before you hit publish? Would you change your blog title if it were not a huge pain in the derriere? (French makes everything sound a little nicer doesn't it?)
Once I decided to blog the two words "patiently waiting" came to mind.  Not really sure why if it was the song that goes with it, or that at the time I was waiting patiently in becoming a Nana for the first time. And as you will see in #8, I'm waiting again.
I don't think I would change the name, if I did don't have a clue what I would change it to.

4. What is the best wedding gift you received? Not married? Didn't get any gifts? Then what is the best wedding gift you've given?
Not really sure, since it was both of ours 2nd marriage we received mostly money and gift cards.  One that really sticks out in my mind was a crystal picture frame.  It was beautiful until it fell off the mantle of the fireplace.
5. What is the one bill you most hate to pay?
mortgage, its our most expensive bill.


6. Is the glass half full or half empty?
half-full most of the time

7. What is your favorite word? Okay okay. Calm down. How about one of your favorite words?
Well the favorite word to hear would be yes.  Especially when I ask someone to do something.
I say I don't know alot, that way I figure it keeps me out of trouble by just claiming IDK.


8. Now, this is where you insert one random thought of your own...maybe something that struck you as funny, something that recently had you scratching your head in confusion, something that annoyed you a teensy bit, something on your to do list, something you are looking forward to, whatever. As long as it is in keeping with the friendly tone we've all come to know and love on Wednesdays then we're good. Don't make me get out my wooden spoon.

First thing I think of is I can now announce that I'm going to be a Nana again.  Megan (my oldest daughter) is pregnant again due at the end of May.
Also I have a great giveaway going on, if you haven't entered yet please do.  Also will have a giveaway on my prayer blog tomorrow so watch for it.


Joyce also added  the idea of everyone adding a random thought of their own each week. One of the things we all  most enjoyed about the RD was getting to know lots of different bloggers. We think #8 will only add to that. We  hope so anyway.

Giveaway.......Michael Chiarello's Cookbook

Whether frying, baking or broiling, this culinary superstar adds a flavorful crunch to create simple, savory recipes. Made from the soft, tender centers of the bread, Progresso Lemon Pepper Panko combines the perfect crunch with effortless flavor to give any dish that extra punch. The large, flaky crumb has a coarser texture than traditional bread crumbs, delivering a lighter, crunchier coating or topping.

A chef known for his emphasis on creating delicious dishes with fresh, premium ingredients, Chef Michael Chiarello uses panko as his go-to bread crumb for a crunch that won’t quit. An Emmy-award winning TV chef and cookbook author, Chef Chiarello is the tastemaker behind Bottega Napa Valley Restaurant, NapaStyle and Chiarello Family Vineyards, and appears on The Cooking Channel and Top Chef Masters only on Bravo.

Chef Chiarello is helping cooks everywhere use Progresso’s panko to make flavorful, flawless recipes including Crispy Seafood Salad, Mama Chiarello's Stuffed Eggplant and Turkey Scallopini and Squash Ravioli with Cranberry Brown Butter.



Visit the Progresso website for additional recipes, tips for cooking with panko, video and a coupon for $1 off any panko flavor.



“Panko has been a major part of some of my best crunchy dishes for years,” says Chef Chiarello. “It’s exciting to bring those dishes home, where some of the best dining memories are made. To me that’s what cooking is all about – sharing meals with your friends and family, and the memories you get to keep for a lifetime.”

Now for your chance to win this cookbook and box of Progresso Lemon Pepper Panko.  Just leave a comment telling what type of dish would you create with Progresso Lemon Pepper Panko?Additionally, be sure to check out the Progresso's Wine & Dine with Chef Michael Chiarello Sweepstakes. Now through December 31st, participants can enter for the chance to win a trip for two to Napa Valley to attend the Spring Bud Break Party, an annual dinner and wine tasting event taking place on May 7, 2011. In addition to two tickets to the party, the grand prize also includes roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations. Visit http://www.progressobroth.com/ for the sweepstakes rules and entry form.

 I can't wait to use mine on salmon fillets. 

Deadline to enter is Wednesday, November 17.


DISCLOSURE:  The information and giveaway were all given to me from General Mills through MyBlogSpark.)

Winner of the Blog Spark Package

The winner of the Blog Spark package is Cathy.   Congratulations and I will be emailing you soon, to get your mailing information.
Thank you to all who entered.  I will be posting another Blog Spark giveaway later today.
It will  include an autographed cookbook.

TSMSS...............Love Has Come

I absolutely love this song.  I have heard it several times on the radio but could never find it on youtube.
For more great music  link up to Amy over at Signs, Miracles, and Wonders.

Don't forget if you haven't entered my giveaway, please do so.

Giveaway........Serving bowl and mashed potatoes

Blog sparks never fails to sponsor great giveaways.  This one is no exception.

To find a delicious side dish that´s easy to prepare and tastes homemade, look no further than Betty Crocker´s® Boxed Instant Mashed Potatoes, which are made with 100% real potatoes.

With a just-like-mom´s taste, Betty Crocker Boxed Instant Mashed Potatoes go from stove top to table in just eight short minutes. Based on a scratch recipe, the Homestyle Creamy Butter variety will have your family thinking you spent hours in the kitchen the next time you serve up a hearty helping. If you prefer an extra kick of flavor, give the Roasted Garlic variety a try. And with two pouches in every box there´s plenty to go around.

Be sure to try the Au Gratin flavor variety, too! For more information, visit BettyCrocker.com, and be sure to follow Betty Crocker on Twitter and "Like" the Facebook page to keep up with all of the latest news on your Betty Crocker favorites!

If you would like a chance to win this  prize pack that includes two boxes of Betty Crocker Boxed Instant Mashed Potatoes (one Roasted Garlic and one Homestyle Creamy Butter), a serving bowl, a trivet and a serving spoon. 

Please leave a comment telling  which busy night of the week is perfect for whipping up Betty Crocker Boxed Instant Mashed Potatoes?

Deadline to enter is next Tuesday, November 9th. 

In addition, ya'll can visit http://www.myblogspark.com/uc/main/4775/ for $0.55 off one package of Betty Crocker Boxed Instant Mashed Potatoes.

DISCLOSURE:  that the product, prize pack, information and additional prize pack to give away were all given to me from Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark.)

WINNER

I'm sorry I haven't posted the name of the winner before now.  The weekend was busy. 
But without further ado.  The winner is April from over at Straight From The Heart.   
Congratulations April, I will be emailing you soon to get your mailing address.
Giveaway coming up soon sponsored by Blogsparks.  And as we all know they always have good ones.
So keep watching.

TSMSS...............Through The Fire

I had picked out a different song earlier in the week, but then with everything going on I decided on this one.
Even though we go through trials He is still there.  I have cried and prayed this week because of a decision my son is making that I think is a huge mistake.  But as all of us parents know sometimes they just don't listen to us and have to find out the hard way.  We don't want our children to fall, but to succeed.  Prayerfully he will do this, but right now it's not looking very positive.

There is also other personal issues going on in which I won't share right now.  But we need God's direction.

For other great songs check them out over at Amy's.

Hear My Heart

I've been tagged by Cathy over at Tales of the TCKK Family.  But I just can't muster up the energy to do a real post right now.
I love listening to Jeff and Sherri Easter and this song just about sums up how I'm feeling right now.  We all have those kind of days, some just don't admit it.  Nothing goes right, pity party, whatever you want to call it.
I know my mountain isn't too big for God, but right now it's looking mighty big.



Don't forget about my latest giveaway and I have two more coming soon.

Winnings, Giveaways and more

We've all heard the saying you can't win if you don't play.  Well over the last couple of weeks or so I have won several giveaways.  So I just want to list them here and put a plug in to the blogger's  that sponsored them.  Also a couple of them has current giveaways going on, so go enter.  You may be the next winner of a wonderful prize.

First I won a $40.00 gift certificate at CVS Stores on Susan's blog.  Susan's blog is one I can go to for inspiration but also a laugh.  She's a wonderful christian woman that loves to go motorcycle riding with her husband.
 I didn't realize that it was going to be so hard to choose what I wanted to buy with it.  I knew it would be something for "me" and something I wanted and wouldn't normally buy.  So by the time I finally decided what do you know it was out of stock.  I have never owned an oval platter, so I figured with the holidays coming up, why not.  I found this one that I absolutely love.    http://www.csnstores.com/Pfaltzgraff-5065153-PFZ2034.html   Sorry it wouldn't let me save a picture of it. 

Also I have been wanting to make a  Texas chocolate sheet cake and didn't have a jelly roll pan, so I'm also getting one of these.


Then I won a family organizer on Lynn's blog over at Midday Escapades.  Lynn was one of the first blogger's I followed when I began blogging.  She helped this newbie alot.  On Sunday's she has Sunday Giveaways Escape.  So click on over and see all the giveaways listed there.             


Next was the book Broken on the Back Row by Sandi Patty.  I won it over at Kim's blog To Know Him Jesus.  She is another wonder christian blogger.  So when you have time go check her blog out I don't think you will regret it.

I read the book in two days, so I have decided to pass it on as a giveaway. 

If you've made mistakes,
and long for restoration,
If you've lost your way
and are seeking a new direction,
If you've given up on yourself
and have forgotten how to believe,
this book can be a new beginning...
In it you will find a gentle message
of hope and healing,
of love and forgiveness,
of grace and redemption.    Except from book.

You have until Friday October 29th to enter.

Last but not least over at Marina's blog I won a Wahl Color Pro Kit.  When I told my husband he said your not trying it out on me.  I told him it wouldn't be hard to use on yours.   Your getting so many bald spots, we just shave it all and get it over with.  :)  She is always having giveaways so go enter and maybe you will be the next winner.
Also some of you may remember last year I had 12 days of giveaways.  Beginning on December 1st I had at least one giveaway a day for 12 days.  Just curious if anyone is interested in me doing that again this year.  I know that's like asking a kid if they want candy.  But I loved doing it even though it was alot of work.  But I would just like ya'lls imput. 

TSMSS..............Let Go Let God

Have you ever searched for a certain song only to find one you have never heard before?  That's what happened to me this morning.  I went on youtube looking for a certain song and clicked on a couple of songs on the sidebar.  And this one, WOW!!!  I have never heard it before and totally different from any I usually listen to. My heart has been so heavy this week for Chris.  He left Thursday to live with his brother and sister-in-law, and possible his girlfriend.  The same girl he had been with  the weekend of the wreck.  He said himself he wasn't strong enough to go back.   But he went anyways.
I just pray what little time he was here the seed has been planted and conviction will be too strong for him to go back to the life he had before the wreck.

Now for more great music join Amy over at Signs, Miracles, and Wonders.

Random Dozen

No it's not Wednesday, but Linda has had a rough week, and mine has been pretty busy also.
So we're doing Random Dozen today.





1. Do you prefer to read the book or see the movie?
Read the book.

2. What is your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas, Not only because of the birth of Jesus, but getting together with all of my family.

3. Which do you like better - the mountains or the beach?
I've always lived close enough to the beach to visit when I would like so I guess I would be more partial to the beach.

4. If money were no consideration, what vehicle would you drive?
Not really sure, but I have joked about a Mercedes convertible.
5. What is your favorite cold-weather beverage?
hot chocolate

6. How do you communicate most often with your friends: phone, email, text, face-to-face, or Facebook?
in real life friends through facebook, blogging friends through email.

7. How do you receive your mail? Mailbox on the porch, at the end of the driveway, down the street, or post office box?
At the end of the driveway.

8. Of the four basic personality types - sanguine, phlegmatic, melancholic, and choleric - which is your strongest? Which is your least evident? (See definitions below.)
I see my strongest in two of them.  I'm shy and receptive as mentioned in phlegmatic.  Other than that I'm definitely a sanguine.
Least evident would be choleric.
9. What do you miss the most about being 20?
No bills.  I was still living with my parents, and the only bill I had to pay was my car payment.

10. How long from the time you get up, does it take you to get ready to walk out the door in the morning?
Probably about an hour.  Even though it wouldn't take me that long if I hurried.  But I like to go at my own pace.

11. Who handles the car maintenance and pays the bills in your family?
My husband handles the car maintenance, but I pay the bills.

12. For those in the US, how many states have you visited? For those outside the US, how many provinces/other countries have you visited?
Nine,  I didn't realize that many until I started counting them.  Three of which I only traveled through though didn't stick around long.


Personality type definitions courtesy Wikipedia:
Sanguine

The Sanguine temperament personality is fairly extroverted. People of a sanguine temperament tend to enjoy social gatherings, making new friends and tend to be quite loud. They are usually quite creative and often daydream. However, some alone time is crucial for those of this temperament. Sanguine can also mean very sensitive, compassionate and thoughtful. Sanguine personalities generally struggle with following tasks all the way through, are chronically late, and tend to be forgetful and sometimes a little sarcastic. Often, when pursuing a new hobby, interest is lost quickly when it ceases to be engaging or fun. They are very much people persons. They are talkative and not shy. For some people, these are the ones you want to be friends with and usually they become life long friends.



Choleric
A person who is choleric is a doer. They have a lot of ambition, energy, and passion, and try to instill it in others. They can dominate people of other temperaments, especially phlegmatic types. Many great charismatic military and political figures were cholerics. They like to be leaders and in charge of everything.



Melancholic
A person who is a thoughtful ponderer has a melancholic disposition. Often very considerate and get rather worried when they could not be on time for events, melancholics can be highly creative in activities such as poetry and art - and can become occupied with the tragedy and cruelty in the world. A melancholic is also often a perfectionist. They are often self-reliant and independent; one negative part of being a melancholic is sometimes they can get so involved in what they are doing they forget to think of others.



Phlegmatic
Phlegmatics tend to be self-content and kind. They can be very accepting and affectionate. They may be very receptive and shy and often prefer stability to uncertainty and change. They are very consistent, relaxed, rational, curious, and observant, making them good administrators and diplomats

Random Dozen............Minus 1

It's Wednesday so of course it's time for another Random Dozen. 

And it shows how alert I am, I didn't even notice that she skipped number 4. 

 

1. Is there a word which you initially mispronounced? Were the circumstances in which you made the faux pas embarrassing? By the way, that's not "foax pass." (I know you know that. Just jokin' with ya.)
The only one that stands out is one that aggravates my husband when I do it.  We all know how we pronounce Houston, as in a name or Houston Texas.  But there's a county in Ga, that is spelled the same but they pronounce it as in HOWSTON.  And it bugs me because why you going to pronounce it differently when it's spelled the same.

2. How do you feel about the use of texting shortcuts and trends? (ex: "I've got ur notes. Get them 2 u 2morow.")
Personally I think it's ruining teenagers knowledge of spelling.  Years from now when they have a job will they remember how to spell and talk correctly.

3. Tell me about your high school senior picture. Please feel free to post.
Nothing special about it.  Thankfully I don't have a copy of it on my computer.  I guess one day I'm going to have to scan alot of pictures on here so I will have them.

5. Share a high school or college homecoming memory.
I think it was my senior year homecoming not really sure.  Our school colors were black and gold.  And I wanted a gold shirt to wear.  So my Mom made me a bright gold satin shirt to wear for homecoming.  Definitely no pictures of it around.

6. Linda at Mocha with Linda wants to know: "Do you prefer sunrises or sunsets?"

Probably sunsets.  Sometimes the sky is several colors and so beautiful.


7. Lea at Cici's Corner asks, "What is something you have not done that you desire to do?"  Go to New York.



8. Carol at Wanderings of an Elusive Mind ponders, "If you could come back [in another life] as an animal, which would it be?"
I've never really given it any thought.  Maybe an indoor cat or dog, wouldn't want to be outside when it's bad weather and have to find shelter.
9. Joyce from This Side of the Pond is curious: "Where were you 10 years ago?" Please feel free to elaborate more than just your physical location.

I was living in the house that I had lived in all my life until I got married in 1984.  My ex-husband and I bought it from my Mom in 1999.  Makayla would have only been four months old in October 2010.   So I was still home with her.  I didn't go back to work until November. 

10. When you are proven to be correct in any contentious discussion, do you gloat?

If it's with someone (my husband, or children)  that thought they were right I might gloat a little.

11. What is your favorite food which includes the ingredient "caramel?"

I have an aunt that makes an awesome caramel cake.  It's just your basic cake with caramel icing but it's so good.

12. From my 17 year-old daughter to you: "If you could be part of any fictional family, which family would you choose and why?" (She's so cute. And clever.)

One that has all their bills paid on time and never have to worry about money. 

Then Sings My Soul Saturday.........Precious Lord Lead Me On

It's time for another Then Sings My Soul Saturday.  I don't remember how I first came across Amy's
 meme but I love listening to everyone's choices of wonderful music every Saturday.  

Prayer Blog

I didn't realize until now that it had been a month since I posted on my prayer blog.   The last couple of updates I gave about Chris I posted here.  So for prayers and praises please go visit.
There is an update on Chris there a praise and a prayer request. 

Random Dozen............Happy Birthday

Monday was Linda's birthday so she asked everyone else to come up with the questions for this week.  Honestly I don't know how she comes up with questions every week without repeating some she has asked before.
I couldn't believe it when I saw that she had included my question in the dozen.



1. From "Men Are Dumb ....": If you had a theme song that played whenever you walked into a room full of people, what would it be?
The only song that keeps coming to mind is You Are So Beautiful.  Because everyone needs to know just how special they are.
2. From Pam of "Alert And Oriented x 4": Which of your shoes are your absolute favorite, and which are of the object of your most painful shoe-buyer's remorse?
My favorite no doubt are my flip-flops.    I have a pair of closed toed black heels, they look great.  But they hurt so bad I can't wear them.

3. From Susanne of "Living to Tell the Story": Tell about your favorite birthday celebration that you've personally experienced.
None of my birthdays stand out more so than others.  They have all been with family, especially since I've had kids.  Last year we surprised my Mom and all showed up at her house with lunch already cooked for her birthday.  That was alot of fun.  This year we celebrated her birthday but it wasn't a surprise to her that it was going to happen.  She's not big on surprises.
4. From Lori of "Just me and My Life": If you were a flavor of ice cream, which would you be?
Definitely something with chocolate in it, no doubt.  My favorite lately is Cookies N Cream.
5. Cindy Swanson of "Notes in the Key of Life" asks: Have you ever had a crush on a movie star? Who was it, and are you still crushing?
I can't say that I have.  I admire some for their morals and values, but can't say I had a crush on any.
6. Jill from "Jill Boyd's Place" inquires: Glasses or braces--if you had to wear one, which would it be?
I have worn glasses in the past but now wear contact lenses.  Fortunately I never had to wear braces.
7. Nel from "Fasteneau Facts" asks: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
That's a hard one because where we live now were close to most of our family.  All is within driving distance of a few hours.  And amazingly all of my siblings but one live in GA.  Well two if you count the one that has already went on to Heaven.

8. Thena from "Patiently Waiting" wants to know: If money were no obstacle, what would be the perfect birthday gift to receive?
I can't believe I came up with this and then find it hard to think of an answer.  I'm not a materialistic person at all.  I would love to travel, at first I thought maybe a cruise, because I've never been on one.  But what would really be fun is just to travel through all 50 states. 

9. From "Life Through Bifocals," LynnMarie asks: What is your favorite birthday meal?
Birthday or not I could eat pizza almost everyday and never get tired of it.  But for a special occasion a low country boil would be great.
10. Debby at "Just Breathe" checks in with: Do you still send hand-written thank you notes?
If there's an occasion for a thank you note, yes I would hand write, and make it personal, not just a generic thank you.
11. Linda from "Mocha with Linda" poses this question: What is something you've done that you never thought you'd do?
Wow!!   My mind keeps drawing a blank on this one. Even after reading some of ya'lls answers.  I guess it would have to be going through a divorce.  I believe a marriage is forever, permanent.  But my first husband decided after 17 years and 3 kids that he wanted out. 

12. Jewel, my home girl from Indiana who writes at "Musings from the World of Jewel," is very insistent that we answer this: Mount Rushmore honors four US Presidents: Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt. If you could add any person to Mount Rushmore, who would you add and why?  I cheated on this one and looked at other's answers.  I agree Ronald Reagan would be a good one to add.

Congratulations to the winner of the $15.00 gift card and pillsbury package

Congratulations to the winner of the Pillsbury and Blogsparks package.  The winner is Janis from Life According to Jan and Jer.
I can't remember how I first came across her blog but I do remember her's being one of the first one's that I began following when I started blogging.
Jan please email me your mailing address so I can get it to blogsparks and they will get your package out to you.
Thank you to all who entered.

Then Sings My Soul Saturday..............Our God is Greater

If you haven't entered my giveaway, please do so.  Deadline is Monday.

It's been almost two weeks since Chris got out of the hospital.  He is doing so good.  I talked to the nurse at the clinic in Macon last Monday where he has to go for a follow-up, this week.  She said if he was doing good with the Popsicle's without any coughing, then start adding more soft foods slowly.  So this week we have added pudding, ice cream, grits, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes.  She said like a baby if that doesn't make him cough then add other foods.  If he coughs then cut back but take everything slow.  He wants a steak so bad but I told him there was no way we were trying that yet.
He goes back to the throat specialist Wednesday for a swallowing test and speech therapist so we will see how it goes.

Now for some great music, join Amy and all the others over at Signs, Miracles, and Wonders.

Megan the Photographer

It's been a while since I blogged about Megan.  Probably not since she had Emily and that's almost 19 months ago.   WOW!!  That made me realize I haven't posted any new pictures on here lately either.
Anyways Megan has decided to go into the photography business.  So if you will go check out her new photography website.  We all remember what it was like just starting out on a new venture.  So go show her some love.
I may be just a little bias because I'm her Mom, but I think she takes wonderful pictures, and has a lot of potential.

Don't forget about my current giveaway ending Monday.