Happy Birthday to..........

Grampa Wood, aka Grumpy!Hope you enjoye your day!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 91:1-2 (King James Version)
1He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

Happy Birthday to..........

My brother Al! This picture is of him playing with his son and the new dump truck Austin got for his birthday. He is a good dad! Hope you enjoy your day!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 107:1 (King James Version)
1O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

Update on Sara ~ 11/28/08

Well, Sara is doing awesome!
She has been out of the hospital for three weeks now. This past Saturday, she went to her own home having spent a little more than two weeks at her parent's home.
She is up walking like a pro and looking real good.
She returns to work on Monday, December 1st.

Thanks again for all your prayers for Sara and her family during her ordeal. Continued healing for the leg would be something you could continue to pray for.

Happy Birthday to..........

Happy Anniversary to.................

Grama & Grampa Wood! They celebrate sixteen years today! Congratulations and hope for many more!

Scripture of the Day

Romans 5:1-2 (King James Version)
1Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
2By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Favorite Foto Friday ~ 11/28/08

This week, I am going to post pictures of the many animals (or as Kersten would say, aminals) in my life. None of these are owned by me, they belong to family or friends. They can all be cute and cuddly one minute, and rascals the next. Enjoy!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 100 (King James Version)
1Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

Happy Thanksgiving!

So I posted the normal picture on the food blog, here is the fun one!

Happy Turkey Day!!

Traveling

So, I will be traveling to Sterling this weekend and then on to my Mom's. I'll be there for most of December. I was granted five weeks medical leave from work to regroup as things have been a little out of control.
So I probably won't be blogging as much in December, though I do have the daily scripture posts ready to go and will get online from time to time.
Pray for me to have safe travels and good regroup time.
Thanks!

Prayer Needed ~ Jen

My blog friend Jen is pregnant with her fourth child. There are some complicating factors this time around and it is possible she may not carry this child to term.

She is on bedrest right now, and could be for the remainder of the pregnancy, which is still quite a long time.

Please keep Jen in your prayers. Pray that baby will hang in there. Pray that she won't go crazy on bedrest. Pray that her other three children will be able to deal with Mommy being on bedrest. Pray that they can line up some helpers for the kids.

Thanks once again for your faithfulness

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 119:11 (King James Version)
11Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

Soles4Souls

Well, I read over on Angie's blog that she is helping out a special project and I decided, this was something I could do too.

And to that end, I wanted you to know about it because really, $5 for two pairs of shoes is ridiculously cheap. And you can help kids who have no shoes at all. The goal is 50,000 pairs of shoes in 50 days.

Please consider donating to the Soles4Souls campaign this holiday season, donate yourself, donate in someone's honor, whatever, it is a worthy cause, just do it.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving week!

Scripture of the Day

Hebrews 11:6 (King James Version)
6But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 103:1 (King James Version)
1Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name

Not Me Monday! 11/24/08

It is time for my second installment of "Not Me" Monday. I enjoyed the first one and linking to MckMama's blog, she had almost 300 people signed up as doing this. I think it caught on!

So to start off this week...........

I did not go to the store to buy a turkey for Thanksgiving based on the super awesome price of $0.68 a pound only to discover upon checkout that I had not read the fine print and you had to buy $50 of groceries first. This was my last stop of the day, I had already bought my groceries elsewhere. RAR! I had to pay $0.88 a pound instead.

I did not watch Anne of Green Gables for the 100th time and cry when Matthew died.

I did not go through all the things I have collected this year for CHRISTmas gifts and start wrapping those I had completed. **Please note, I am a last minute kind of girl on the wrapping thing usually and I am never this prepared with having gifts so early either.

I did not ask my neighbor if I could put a bag of garbage in his can this week because I forgot to pay my garbage bill.

I did not groan when I found out for the fourth time in as many years, my desk is once again moving down the hall. (I guess its a good way to clean out the clutter, right?)

I did not do a "happy dance" at my desk on Monday because my PTO accrual is finally getting a bump after ten years. The equivelent of an extra week over a year is now added to my balance.

I did not laugh when the ten-year-old brought up a topic that a ten-year-old should not know about and then continue to explain that the topic was not appropriate for her age while trying to not laugh. Mommy and Mamie were so NOT prepared for that comment and Mommy couldn't even get a word out!

I did not do a half "happy dance" while sitting in my car driving to the store because Kristin called to tell me that after ten very long years, we have finally been granted parking on campus at work!!

I did not do a "happy dance" when the price of gas came down to $1.69 for the first time in four years! This is something I was sure I'd never see again. Hoping to see the continuance of the prices lowering, and staying this way.

I did not laugh when the 19-month old walked into the living room carrying two drawers from his Sissy's makeup table and literally chuck them at his ten-year-old sister. I didn't! And neither did Mom or Dad.

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 62:7 (King James Version)
7In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.

Contest

MckMama is having a contest and to enter, you have to have a blog and make an entry that links to her blog.
Well, I have done that many a time, so why not today, right?

Please check out MckMama's blog sometime, they are living with a miracle, baby Stellan, and enjoying life to its fullest.

Have a good weekend!

Scripture of the Day

John 17:17 (King James Version)
17Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

Scripture of the Day

2 Corinthians 5:17 (King James Version)
17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Scripture of the Day

Matthew 22:37 (King James Version)
37Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

Gianna Jessen ~ Abortion Survivor

You really need to see these videos!

Part 1

Part 2

She is an amazing testimony of life.

Scripture of the Day

Isaiah 41:10 (King James Version)
10Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Prayer Needed ~ Fleming Family

My blog friend Adrienne and her husband Jim and son Owen need your prayers.

They are in the process of adopting a baby girl and all things indicated they would be bringing her home today and so far, the mother has not signed papers and has actually taken her home with her at this time.

Adrienne is heartbroken and devastated. While they do not know if this will be permanent or not, the limbo is tough and all the dreams are being crushed.

Please pray that the birth mother will make the right decision about this child. This baby is loved by two mommies and one way or the other, one will be missing a chunk of her heart.

Thanks for your faithfulness

Tag! You're It!

I was tagged by my friend Elisabeth. She is a friend from White Bear.

Here's how it works.
1) Link to the person who tagged you.
2) Post the rules on your blog (copy and paste 1-6).
3) Write 6 random things about yourself (see below).
4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them.
5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

So six random things............
1) I have worked at Mayo Clinic for ten years now.
2) I have seven siblings, well, if you count my sisters-in-law, that makes for eleven.
~Mark & Ashly
~Ted & Sharon
~Mario
~Don & Kris
~Al & Brenda
~Marissa
~Elijah
3) I blog daily now, it is amazing the things you can find to write about!
4) My favorite candy is the bananas from Runts. You can buy just bananas at specialty stores and MMMMMM, yummy!
5) I have owned three brand new cars in my time on earth thus far.
6) I would love to travel the world, especially where my roots are over in Europe.

So now I am tagging the following:
Wendi
Doni
Heather
Cayman's Mommy
Jessica
Rachel

Scripture of the Day

Isaiah 12:1-2 (King James Version)
1And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.
2Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

Olive Garden ~ Pittman Style

So this weekend at the Peaslee's, I decided since we love Olive Garden so much, we'd do our own soup, salad and breadsticks night.
I started researching the web for recipes a couple of weeks ago after a girl at work brought in a version of Zuppa Toscana that was awesome. She gave me that recipe, and then I went searching for a Pasta Fajoli recipe, and the salad dressing recipe.
The recipes were close to the Olive Garden version, and we had a plethora of food to go around since I made two kinds of soup, so we actually had it for dinner Saturday night and again for lunch on Sunday.
I meant to bring home a bowl of soup for my lunch today, but I forgot it, so I imagine Fred will take it or Laurie will eat it.
It was so yummy, we all enjoyed our "Olive Garden" feast, for a much more affordable price!
I keep forgetting to take pictures when I make these things, so maybe I'll remember the next time.

Ten Years!

Holy Cow!

Ten Years!

Ten years at one job!

I cannot believe I have been here for ten years already. Time kinda flies right by.

I remember when I first started that I wasn't sure I'd even stick it out for one year. I didn't know a soul when I moved to Rochester, but that sure has changed!

So, Congrats to me, for ten years of dedication, of blood, sweat and tears.

National Adoption Month

Did you know November is National Adoption Month?

I didn't. But I do now!

This year they are promoting teen adoption. And while I feel that is a worthy endeavor, I also feel it is not for everyone, and thus, the reason I would like a child under two.

Please consider adoption this month. If you don't feel like your family is complete or if you are having trouble starting or adding to your family, this is such a wonderful gift, for both you and the child.

Not Me Monday!

I did not make my doctor order me another CT scan for my left lower quadrant pain which turned out to be completely normal. I did not ask him to order me a kidney ultrasound, but he did order it, and it too was completely normal. I am normal, can you believe that? I am still flabbergasted at what could be causing my pain. Scar tissue is about the only thing I can figure is left as a problem. GI doctor is testing a theory of my colon spasming by treating with a medication for now, I'll let you know how it goes.

I did not make the kids do a scavenger hunt for our Harvest Party. I then also did not scold Joey for being a butthead about not properly participating. I didn't. Teenagers I tell ya!

I did not forget to mail a card to my brother for his 15th birthday. I didn't. I love you buddy!

I did not go to the doctor for my sprained hand just so I could get the splint as part of the cost of the visit. I didn't.

I did not raid my niece's Halloween candy for my sweet tooth craving this weekend. I didn't.

I did not fill up the gas tank on my Honda and do a "happy dance" right there when it came to only $25.

Nope, not me!

Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 15:33 (King James Version)
33The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

Prayer Requests for 11/16/08

I thought I'd do a catch-all post to consolidate all the current requests I have out there to make it easier for you to be praying.

Sara ~ Out of the hospital, at her parents house continuing to heal.

my brother Mario ~ he is going through a divorce. There is a child involved. Things are a little rough for him right now.

my brother Mark ~ Still without a job, actively looking, but trying to seek God's will in what he should do. Also, an unspoken.

my brother's friend and his wife ~ still dealing with infidelity issues and possibility of divorce. A child involved, plus one on the way.

me ~ continued good health, stress management, time management, the adoption process and an unspoken.

an unspoken request from a family friend

baby Emmalina ~ got transferred from Mayo to Mankato, almost ready to go home, about another week or so they hope.

My mom ~ hoping to get the pregnancy center idea off the ground. Pray for confirmation and support.

Michelle ~ still in the hospital on bedrest, but remaining stable. Doctors say baby is viable at this point, of course, I say he was viable quite awhile ago as I have seen many micro-preemie miracles. Pray that Baby Robbins stays put for as long as possible to have as few issues as possible once on the outside. And pray for Rob, running ragged trying to be with Michelle and take care of their daughter and working.

Grama Connie ~ still fighting the brain tumor and the effects of radiation. Last MRI didn't show anything different. Holding stable on treatment for now. Pray that the next MRI will show improvement.

Wendi, Joia, Melannie and Sooki ~ Pregnant friends and family. Pray that things continue to go well for them and they have safe deliveries.

Adrienne & Jim ~ Meeting their daughter today. Pray that the adoption process is quick and smooth.

Updated Baby Boom

**originally posted 10/8/08, updated to reflect those that have been born and some new additions, I tinted the new updates pink. *******************************************************
Well, it seems like a bunch of people I know are having babies this year. Is there something in the water? Not sure that theory would work since most of these people live nowhere near the others. That being said, I cannot believe I know this many kids born this year.

January thru June:
Gwyneth, born 1/8/08, parents are Nate & Tricia
Tori, born 2/5/08, parents are Jim & Doni, siblings are Tanner and Ty
Ella & Beck, born 2/20/08, parents are Debbie & Brandon, siblings are Hannah and Ben
Cayman, born 3/8/08, parents are Mike & Kristen
Abigail, born 4/3/08, parents are Sonia & Jong, siblings are Isaac and Angel Rachel(Isaac's twin) Ethan, born 4/11/08, parents are Eric & Priscilla
Isaac, born 5/7/08, parents are John & Wendi
Olivia, born ______, parents are Paul & Heather, siblings are April, Amanda, Daniel, Michael and Emma

July thru September:
Carson - born 7/4/08, parents are Jen & Bob, sibling is Dylan
Jameson - born 7/13/08, parents are Todd & Melisa, siblings are Nicholas and Zachary Emmalina - born 7/22/08, parents are Sandy & Larry
Jolie - born 9/8/08, parents are Kim & Josh, siblings are Cody and Zoe
Brooke - born 9/23/08, parents are Kathy & Scott, siblings are Hannah and Brandon
Siri - born 9/26/08, parents are Kevin & Lindsey, sibling is Kaia
Max - born 9/26/08, parents are Jen & Tony, siblings are *Angels Emily, Alexander and Christopher*(triplets)

October:
Helen - born 10/1/08, parents are Jess & Kevin
Jasmin - born 10/7/08, parents are Russ & Kelly
Colette (aka Coco) - born 10/13/08, parents are Jen & Chuck, siblings are Samantha and Ben

Still to come anytime now:
Baby Girl Fleming, parents are Adrienne & Jim, sibling is Owen
Baby Christensen, parents are John & Sooki, siblings are Wyatt and Marshall

Coming this winter: (these are people I work with)
Baby Girl Meier, parents are Daniela & (don't know her husband's name), siblings are Nathaniel and Sebastian
Baby Oglesbee, parents are Devin & (don't know his wife's name)
Baby Quade, parents are Marie & (don't know husband's name)

Coming in 2009:
Baby Wyatt, parents are Melannie & Angus
Baby Elijah, parents are John & Wendi, sibling is Isaac
Baby Dooley, parents are Philip & Joia, sibling is Keenan
Baby GIRL Norlien, parents are Josh & Angela, siblings are Shelby, Julia and Mylee
Baby GIRL Scrabeck, parents are Dave & Alissa
Baby Charles, parents are Tre and Jenny, siblings are *Angel Catie* and Izzy
Baby BOY Robbins, parents are Rob & Michelle, siblings are *Angel Hannah* and Brenna


Unfortunately, most of these babies live far, far away and I don't get to see them, so hopefully someone nearby will have a baby for me to spoil soon!!

Scripture of the Day

Romans 5:15 (King James Version)
15But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.

National Adoption Day

Today is National Adoption Day.

Being that I am in the process of adopting, I flet it was worth noting.

I have many friends that have adopted as well. What a gift!

Scripture of the Day

Matthew 7:7-8 (King James Version)
7Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
8For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Emma's Benefit and Celebration is TODAY!!

If you are going to be in the St. Peter area of Minnesota today, please stop in at Emma's benefit! It is a good cause, celebrating the life of a miracle!

If you cannot make the benefit, please consider going online to make a donation. Have a good weekend everyone!

To be healthy or not?

My friend Rachel sent me an article about MSG and aspartame the other day. And while I know they are not healthy, it is really hard to find foods that do not contain these and other harmful products in them to eat.

There is no way I can possibly afford to be as healthy as I want, but I am trying, with baby steps, to be more healthy.

Please be vigilant in looking at product labels and consider the things you are putting in your body. The only person that can protect you is you. The government is certainly not looking out for our best interest.

Happy Birthday to..........

Laurie!!!

This picture is of her with her son Jess, aka, my nephew Jess, the naughty boy! Hope you enjoy your day!!

Scripture of the Day

Romans 15:7 (King James Version)
7Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.

Scripture of the Day

Philippians 4:13 (King James Version)
13I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

For Those Wondering........

If the election turned out according to God's will? Well, noone really has that answer, but senior pastor Dutch Sheets from Freedom Church in Colorado Springs typed up a response that I think will resonate with many.

You can click HERE to read it.

As a people, we need to respect President-elect Obama, but we certainly don't have to agree with the things he does.

Please be in prayer during this time of transition. Pray that he'll pick people for his Cabinet that are worthy and will make good decisions. Pray that he'll make good decisions. And most of all, pray for our country to turn their hearts toward God.

Restaurant Update

So a few months ago I blogged about the lack of new restaurants coming to Rochester.
Well, not that I probably had anything to do with it, but, two new ones are in the works!
Two of the restaurants I was hoping would consider Rochester even!

What are they you ask?

Texas Roadhouse
&
CiCi's Pizza

YEAH! Really looking forward to the new editions. Keep them coming!

Scripture of the Day

Acts 17:27 (King James Version)
27That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:

Prayer Needed ~ My Mom

Hi everyone~
My Mom asked me to post a request on here about her. She is currently looking for a new job now that she has her Master's degree, and so far, the search has not been fruitful.
She was praying the other day about a job she had applied for over by Mt. Carmel, which if she had gotten, they would have moved there, and she felt God saying she was needed to be a light in Princeton.
So, she is pretty sure that job is a bust.

She has been having a burden lately to open up a Pregnancy Center. The kind to counsel women with options for their unintended pregnancies. About twenty years ago, she volunteered at a place like this in Eau Claire. I remember being there with her some of the time and I loved the idea of helping these women make better choices than abortion.
So, in order for this to be the right decision, several things will need to happen. She wants confirmation in a Biblical form or prophesy. She feels the Lord giving her names of people who could help support or volunteer or get this started and if it is meant to be, the Lord will either minister directly to these people and they will come to her or, she'll get confirmation from someone else about the situation.
Also, the building she is considering has been empty the entire time they have lived in Princeton. As a non-profit, she is hoping that the owners of the building would consider little or no rent in order to support this ministry. And it would need renovations, so funds for that would be necessary, my Dad and other church members could assist with the labor.
And funding. She does not want to be government sponsored in any way so as to retain the right to bring God into the picture when talking with these women. She wants this ministry to be completely Christian in origin with noone being able to tell her what she can and cannot say. Please pray that local churches and ministries would step up in support of this.
And volunteers. We need more women to make this possible! More women with a heart to counsel and help the potential clients coming through the door.
And donations. We need some medical equipment to help take care of the women coming through the door. We would be providing pregnancy tests and hopefully confirmation ultrasound. Medical equipment and supplies are not cheap, so pray the Lord would make a way. We would also loan out baby furniture, so things like cribs, high chairs, strollers, rockers, etc, would all be necessary to be able to loan to these mothers.

I know this is alot of information, but I believe if we are specific with our prayers, God will provide the specifics. If this is meant to be, all these things will fall into place.

This sort of ties into me as well, as I have had a similar burden since watching my Mom volunteer all those years ago. I wasn't old enough then, but I am now and would love to be part of this ministry. If it is God's will, I believe he can make a way for me to be there to help my Mom and provide for both of us financially.

Thanks for your faithfulness.

Today's Forecast

My friend Kristin and I always laugh when this is the forecast. Today, when I walked out the door, I was greeted by it. So I logged onto the website that predicts this sort of thing, and sure enough, it was forecasted! We love ice pellets!

Tuesday Funnies ~ Ageless Wit & Observations

If you don't read the newspaper you are uninformed, if you do read the newspaper you are misinformed.

-- Mark Twain
Suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of Congress....But then I repeat myself.
--Mark Twain
I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle.
--Winston Churchill
A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul.
--George Bernard Shaw
A liberal is someone who feels a great debt to his fellow man, which debt he proposes to pay off with your money.

--G Gordon Liddy
Democracy must be something more than two wolves and a sheep voting on what to have for dinner.
--James Bovard, Civil Libertarian (1994)
Foreign aid might be defined as a transfer of money from poor people in rich countries to rich people in poor countries.
--Douglas Casey, Classmate of Bill Clinton at Georgetown University
Giving money and power to government is like giving whiskey and car keys to teenage boys.
--P.J. O'Rourke, Civil Libertarian
Government is the great fiction, through which everybody endeavors to live at the expense of everybody else.
--Frederic Bastiat, French Economist (1801-1850)
Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.

--Ronald Reagan (1986)
I don't make jokes. I just watch the government and report the facts.

--Will Rogers
If you think health care is expensive now, wait until you see what it costs when it's free!

--P.J. O'Rourke
In general, the art of government consists of taking as much money as possible from one party of the citizens to give to the other.

--Voltaire (1764)
Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you!

--Pericles (430 B.C.)
No man's life, liberty, or property is safe while the legislature is in session.

--Mark Twain (1866)
Talk is cheap...except when Congress does it.

--Unknown
The government is like a baby's alimentary canal, with a happy appetite at one end and no responsibility at the other.

--Ronald Reagan
The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of the blessings. The inherent blessing of socialism is the equal sharing of misery.
--Winston Churchill
The only difference between a tax man and a taxidermist is that the taxidermist leaves the skin. --Mark Twain
The ultimate result of shielding men from the effects of folly is to fill the world with fools.

--Herbert Spencer, English Philosopher (1820-1903)
There is no distinctly Native American criminal class...save Congress.

--Mark Twain
What this country needs are more unemployed politicians.

--Edward Langley, Artist (1928 - 1995)

A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.

--Thomas Jefferson

Scripture of the Day

Ephesians 2:10 (King James Version)
10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Veteran's Day

Today is a day of remembering.

Remembering those who have fought for our country's freedom and died.

Remembering those who fought and came home scarred and broken.

Remembering those still fighting for our country's freedom today.

Today is Veteran's Day. I am willing to bet you know at least one person in the military, past or present. Make sure you tell them you appreciate all they do. Make sure you hug them. Make sure you honor them.

Happy Veteran's Day to my stepbrother Donald, member of the Air Force.

This post dedicated to my Uncle Mitch, who survived the Marines shortly after Vietnam, but could not overcome cancer. And to my great Uncle Greg, who died while in service in Vietnam.

Gas is under $2!

Can you believe it!?

Haven't seen prices like this for years!

Keep coming down big oil!!

Top Ten Personal Lists

A blog buddy posted a similar post and encouraged us to follow suit, so I did.
Enjoy!!
************************************

What I'm not crazy about
1. Crowds (especially during the holidays).
2. Not living close to family.
3. Being single.
4. Not being a mommy.
5. Mail (bill) piles.
6. Unfinished projects (which I have so many of).
7. Nasty freezing cold Minnesota winters.
8. Nuts in baked goods.
9. A wrinkle in my sock.
10. Out of state drivers (drive in Rochester sometime, it’s crazy).


Modern Conveniences I wouldn't want to live without
1. Laptop.
2. Indoor Plumbing and toilet paper.
3. Digital camera.
4. Cell Phone.
5. Disposable Diapers.
6. Washer & Dryer.
7. Airplanes.
8. Furnace (heat and AC).
9. My Car.
10. Email/Internet.


Things to see & do before I die
1. Cruise to Alaska.
2. Cruise the Mediterranean.
3. Cruise the Caribbean.
4. Visit Australia/New Zealand.
5. Tour Europe.
6. Tour Hawaii.
7. Visit my blog buddies.
8. Adopt a Guatemalan baby.
9. Tour the Eastern coast of the US.
10. Tour the Amazon


Things I would totally SPLURGE on if funds were unlimited
1. Build my dream house.
2. Brand new furniture from Ashley.
3. Regular spa treatments (to include massage and mani/pedicures).
4. Personal trainer/chef.
5. Travel the world.
6. Clothes.
7. My Lexus GS400.
8. Adoption.
9. Visiting all the amusement parks in the country to ride every roller coaster out there.
10. A Maid.


The BEST feelings
1. Strong connection to God.
2. Being with family.
3. A totally clean and organized house (I know, I know, like it will happen!).
4. Mostly good health.
5. Hearing the nieces and nephews laugh.
6. Christmas time (not the commercialism aspect).
7. Snuggling a newly born baby.
8. Getting good news.
9. The rush of riding a roller coaster.
10. Completing something.


I tag anyone that reads this and wants to create their top 10 list. If you do post your top ten I would love it if you left me a comment telling me so I can come check out your Personal Top Tens.

Not Me Monday!

So, MckMama has been posting "Not Me Monday" posts for quite some time and I laugh hysterically every week about her blogs. She has several hundred people following her blog and they too have joined in on the fun of posting "Not Me Monday" posts and link back to her blog. So much to read, so little time.

Well, I have decided to hop on this bandwagon and start posting "Not Me Monday" posts as well. I can't promise to do it every week. Like my "Tuesday Funnies" and "Favorite Foto Fridays", I just don't always have enough blog material. I'll do my best to keep you entertained as much as I can.

I'll be starting next week, but here is a taste.

I did not wake up on Friday, walk into the kitchen and do a "happy dance" because it was snowing. I did not enjoy seeing the first real snow blanket my yard, my car, my house. I did not think it was beautiful. I didn't. (cause them my thoughts went to, oh crap, going to have to start shoveling again!)

Enjoy!

Something for Fall

A blog I check daily had an interesting definition for the word "FALL". I thought I'd share it with you.

Enjoy!

FALL stands for:

Fellowship with Christ with a strong devotional life.
Abide in Christ by obeying His word.
Lean on Christ to find His power and strength.
Live for Christ!

By Julia Bettencourt

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 73:26 (King James Version)
26My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

Scripture of the Day

Zephaniah 3:17 (King James Version)
17The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

Happy Birthday to..........

Grampa Gardner! Hope you enjoy your birthday!

Love you!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 139:23-24 (King James Version)
23Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
24And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Answers to the Puzzle

THIS IS A MOST REMARKABLE PUZZLE. IT WAS FOUND BY A GENTLEMAN IN AN AIRPLANE SEAT POCKET, ON A FLIGHT FROM LOS ANGELES TO HONOLULU KEEPING HIM OCCUPIED FOR HOURS. HE ENJOYED IT SO MUCH, HE PASSED IT ON TO SOME FRIENDS. ONE FRIEND FROM ILLINOIS WORKED ON THIS WHILE FISHING FROM HIS JOHN BOAT. ANOTHER FRIEND STUDIED IT WHILE PLAYING HIS BANJO. ELAINE TAYLOR, A COLUMNIST FRIEND, WAS SO INTRIGUED BY IT SHE MENTIONED IT IN HER WEEKLY NEWSPAPER COLUMN. ANOTHER FRIEND JUDGES THE JOB OF SOLVING THIS PUZZLED SO INVOLVING, SHE BREWS A CUP OF TEA TO HELP HER NERVEES. THERE WILL BE SOME NAMES THAT ARE REALLY EASY TO SPOT, THAT’S A FACT. SOME PEOPLE, HOWEVER, WILL SOON FIND THEMSELVES IN A JAM, ESPECIALLY SINCE THE BOOK NAMES ARE NOT NECESSARILY CAPITALIZED. TRUTHFULLY,
FROM ANSWERS WE GET, WE ARE FORCED TO ADMIT IT USUALLY TAKES A MINISTER OR SCHOLAR TO SEE SOME OF THEM AT THE WORST. RESEARCH HAS SHOWN THAT SOMETHING IN OUR GENES IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DIFFICULTY WE HAVE IN SEEING THE BOOKS IN THIS PARAGRAPH. DURING A RECENT FUND RAISING EVENT, WHICH FEATURED THIS PUZZLE, THE ALPHA DELTA PHI LEMONADE BOOTH SET A NEW SALES RECORD. THE LOCAL PAPER, THE CHRONICLE, SURVEYED OVER 200 PATRONS WHO REPORTED THAT THIS PUZZLE WAS ONE OF THE MOST DIFFICULT THEY HAD EVER SEEN. AS DANIEL HUMANA HUMBLY PUTS IT "THE BOOKS ARE ALL RIGHT HERE IN PLAIN VIEW HIDDEN FROM SIGHT." THOSE ABLE TO FIND ALL OF THEM WILL HEAR GREAT LAMENTATIONS FROM THOSE WHO HAVE TO BE SHOWN. ONE REVELATION THAT MAY HELP IS THAT BOOKS LIKE TIMOTHY AND SAMUEL MAY OCCUR WITHOUT THEIR NUMBERS. ALSO, KEEP IN MIND, THAT PUNCTUATION AND SPACES IN THE MIDDLE ARE NORMAL. A CHIPPER ATTITUDE WILL HELP YOU COMPETE REALLY WELL AGAINST THOSE WHO CLAIM TO KNOW THE ANSWERS. REMEMBER, THERE IS NO NEED FOR A MAD EXODUS, THERE REALLY ARE 30 BOOKS OF THE BIBLE LURKING SOMEWHERE IN THIS PARAGRAPH WAITING TO BE FOUND.
GOD BLESS.

Focus On The Family

Focus on the Family did a two day series response to the outcome of the election and I just thought they had a really good message.

If you get a moment, please go to their site, www.focusonthefamily.org and click on Listen to Broadcast. Look for the title "Election 2008 Response". There are two parts, be sure to listen to both.

Have a good weekend.

Scripture of the Day

Matthew 5:14-16 (King James Version)
14Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Happy Birthday to..........

my super cute nephew Austin!

He is one year old today!

Can't believe how fast it went, I am sure his momma is thinking the same thing!

Happy Birthday buddy!!

Love, Auntie Mamie!

Icarumba!

I cannot believe that Christmas is "here" already. I saw my local Walmart setting up weeks ago. It is completely crazy!

Laurie and I were in Walmart in Winona on Saturday, you know, one day after Halloween. They were playing Christmas carols already.

Seriously!

Nothing Christmas is allowed until Thanksgiving in my book! Wish the retailers saw that way. I think they are starting earlier and earlier due to the bad economy.

What is your opinion?

Update on Stellan ~ 11/05/08

I can't remember if I ever posted about baby Stellan or not.

Stellan is a miracle. He proved it by being born last week.............................healthy as a horse.

The doctors are in shock to say the least!

This miracle baby was supposed to have several medical conditions that should have killed him in the womb. If he did make it to birth, he wouldn't live long.

Stellan is perfect. Perfectly healthy. Perfectly beautiful. Perfectly part of God's plan!

Thank you Lord for your healing powers!

Scripture of the Day

Ephesians 1:9-10 (King James Version)
9Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
10That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:

Out of the mouths of babes.........

Now, you have to know that for the most part, political talk of any kind, does not happen around the children. They might hear or see a commercial, but we try to not discuss it in the house as Mommy, Daddy and Mamie all have differing opinions.

My three-year-old niece Kersten found a flyer in her house(don't know how it got there let alone stayed there) with Barack Obama's picture and she knew who it was and she was saying his name. Mommy looked over and saw she had the flyer so Mommy began to explain to her that this was a big day in our history because it is the first time that an African American had been voted President. Her response was priceless she asked "Where do we go with Barack Obama mommy? Where do we go?"

I told her that was a good question and we would have to wait and see.

Update on Emmalina 11/05/08

Emmalina transferred to Mankato on Monday.

Yeah Emma!!!

She is almost ready to go home, this is the last step. She is now 15 minutes from Mommy and Daddy instead of two to three hours!

So proud of big girl Emma for reaching this milestone.

Please keep her family in your prayers as they transition towards having Emma at home.

And don't forget, Emma's benefit is November 15th!!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 119:33-40 (King James Version)
33Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end.
34Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.
35Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.
36Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.
37Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.
38Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear.
39Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments are good.
40Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness.

Happy Birthday to..........

Grama Wood! Hope you enjoy your day!

Daily Posting ~ Scripture of the Day

So I decided that I liked having a scripture a day on my blog. With the "If My People" posts, there was at least one verse a day, sometimes several. I enjoyed it, so I decided to make it a regular feature. Stay tuned!

Pain Rehab Center Aftercare

So I spent all day yesterday in PRC Aftercare. They have all day sessions twice a month(soon to be three times a month in 2009!) for those who went to the three week therapy program. In essence, it is supposed to keep you motivated to keep up with the tenets of the program and the group aspect certainly gives you a boost.
To again be around people who understand is like being in a family setting. I had two women from my group in session with me yesterday, the rest were strangers. It didn't feel that way after the first half hour. It was very uplifting to attend and I wish I could afford to go more often. Trying to get Mayo to waive the 16 hour prerequisite to roll into disability for each session since I went 16 days this summer and its a continuation of care. Pray that I can succeed. Going to fight this battle as long as it takes!

Update on Sara ~ 11/4/08

Sara is going home on Wednesday!

Yeah!!!!!

Susan and I dropped in to visit her last night after dinner and she is doing so good. She is off anything IV now and they just wanted one more day of little to no weightbearing on the leg.

I still didn't get to see what it looks like. I stopped by earlier during my lunch and just missed it. Sarah has pictures, so I guess I'll have to see those some day. I am still a little fascinated in a morbid way about what it looks like under all that bandaging, but in a weak stomach sort of way, not so sure I can handle it.

Anyway...........HUGE praises to the Lord for carrying her through this journey. Wednesday is six weeks since she was admitted, so a milestone anniversary in addition to her going home.

She'll be at her mom and dad's for awhile before going home on her own and returning to work.

Thank you all for your faithfulness!!

Birthday Dinner with Susan

So Sunday was Susan's birthday, but yesterday(Monday) is when we got to celebrate.
I took her out to dinner, to the place of her choice. She chose TGI Fridays.
I hadn't been there in quite some time and neither had she. My favorite part of their menu is when they do the three items for $10 or $12 specials, but they didn't have that this time around.

So I was torn.

I can't eat normal portions of food due to my surgery, so what do I get?
I really wanted the mozzarella sticks(more like bars).
I really wanted a salad.
I really wanted a steak.
I really wanted cheddar garlic mashed potatoes.

What to do?

Well, money is tight these days, so obviously, I didn't order everything. No way could I eat it all, probably not even for two meals.

I got the mozzarella and the salad with a side of garlic breadsticks. Brought the extra breadsticks home to munch on later.

What did Susan get? Boring ole turkey burger.
Seriously! On her birthday dinner, she ate healthy! Crazy girl.

Oh well, your choice, your birthday. Hope you enjoyed your dinner!

November 4th, Day 40 ~ Election Day

Romans 13:1, 7 (King James Version)
1Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
7Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

Lord~
We live in a nation that is free to elect those chosen for public office. We confess that the servants who are chosen are there with Your approval. Let us faithfully support those elected to office, giving honor to their position. Let us help them fulfill the obligation and responsibility for our nation. With prayer and understanding, let us unite ourselves to the one purpose of living a life in which "In God We Trust."

Taken from If My People, by Thomas Nelson Publishing.

Happy Birthday to..........

my baby brother Elijah!

Can you believe he is 15 already?

Doesn't seem possible!!

Love you so much Elijah!

Keep striving for Jesus!

Love, Aimee

Don't Forget............

To vote today!

It is important that we all participate in this process.

Vote your conscience!

See you at the polls!

November 3rd, Day 39

Psalm 17:1-2, 5 (King James Version)
1Hear the right, O LORD, attend unto my cry, give ear unto my prayer, that goeth not out of feigned lips.
2Let my sentence come forth from thy presence; let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.
5Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not.

Lord~
We cry out to You with hearts that need Your blessings. Give us wisdom to make right decisions that will bring honor to You and will purify our hearts. Let the word that we speak draw us closer to Your presence. We recognize, O Lord, that You are in control of all things. Help this nation to hear Your voice, protect us from evil, and lead us in the path of righteousness for Your name's sake.

Taken from If My People, by Thomas Nelson Publishing.

November 2nd, Day 38

Psalm 1:1-3 (King James Version)
1Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
2But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
3And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Lord~
Your Word has given us counsel on how we should relate to and act toward one another. May we be steadfast and immovable in our commitment to You and to one another. Let our roots go deep into Your Word to praise and glorify Your name. May our weakness be Your strength and our purpose in life be to honor You.

Taken from If My People, by Thomas Nelson Publishing.

Happy Birthday to..........

my friend Susan!!

She is about six months away from graduating to earn her PhD and is super busy, so no time to really party, but hoping to grab dinner at least!

Happy Birthday Susan!!

November 1st, Day 37

Psalm 16:7-8 (King James Version)
7I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.
8I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.

Father~
We humbly ask for Your blessing. Help us to listen to Your counsel when we are alone with You. Speak to our hearts each moment, for You are the anchor of our souls, and we will rest in Your presence. It is You alone that we desire, and no one or no thing can take Your place.

Taken from If My People, by Thomas Nelson Publishing.

Fall Back!

Don't forget to set your clocks back an hour tonight before falling asleep.

An extra blessed hour of sleep is always welcome from my perspective.

Have a good weekend!!

Puzzle

THERE ARE THIRTY BOOKS OF THE BIBLE IN THIS PARAGRAPH. CAN YOU FIND THEM? I'LL GIVE YOU ONE WEEK! LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS SECTION IF YOU FOUND THEM AND HOW MANY YOU FOUND, BUT DO NOT ANNOUNCE THE ANSWERS.
**************************************************************************

THIS IS A MOST REMARKABLE PUZZLE. IT WAS FOUND BY A GENTLEMAN IN AN AIRPLANE SEAT POCKET, ON A FLIGHT FROM LOS ANGELES TO HONOLULU, KEEPING HIM OCCUPIED FOR HOURS. HE ENJOYED IT SO MUCH, HE PASSED IT ON TO SOME FRIENDS. ONE FRIEND FROM ILLINOIS WORKED ON THIS WHILE FISHING FROM HIS JOHN BOAT. ANOTHER FRIEND STUDIED IT WHILE PLAYING HIS BANJO. ELAINE TAYLOR, A COLUMNIST FRIEND, WAS SO INTRIGUED BY IT SHE MENTIONED IT IN HER WEEKLY NEWSPAPER COLUMN. ANOTHER FRIEND JUDGES THE JOB OF SOLVING THIS PUZZLED SO INVOLVING, SHE BREWS A CUP OF TEA TO HELP HER NERVES. THERE WILL BE SOME NAMES THAT ARE REALLY EASY TO SPOT, THAT’S A FACT. SOME PEOPLE, HOWEVER, WILL SOON FIND THEMSELVES IN A JAM, ESPECIALLY SINCE THE BOOK NAMES ARE NOT NECESSARILY CAPITALIZED. TRUTHFULLY, FROM ANSWERS WE GET, WE ARE FORCED TO ADMIT IT USUALLY TAKES A MINISTER OR SCHOLAR TO SEE SOME OF THEM AT THE WORST. RESEARCH HAS SHOWN THAT SOMETHING IN OUR GENES IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DIFFICULTY WE HAVE IN SEEING THE BOOKS IN THIS PARAGRAPH. DURING A RECENT FUND RAISING EVENT, WHICH FEATURED THIS PUZZLE, THE ALPHA DELTA PHI LEMONADE BOOTH SET A NEW SALES RECORD. THE LOCAL PAPER, THE CHRONICLE, SURVEYED OVER 200 PATRONS WHO REPORTED THAT THIS PUZZLE WAS ONE OF THE MOST DIFFICULT THEY HAD EVER SEEN. AS DANIEL HUMANA HUMBLY PUTS IT "THE BOOKS ARE ALL RIGHT HERE IN PLAIN VIEW HIDDEN FROM SIGHT." THOSE ABLE TO FIND ALL OF THEM WILL HEAR GREAT LAMENTATIONS FROM THOSE WHO HAVE TO BE SHOWN. ONE REVELATION THAT MAY HELP IS THAT BOOKS LIKE TIMOTHY AND SAMUEL MAY OCCUR WITHOUT THEIR NUMBERS. ALSO, KEEP IN MIND, THAT PUNCTUATION AND SPACES IN THE MIDDLE ARE NORMAL. A CHIPPER ATTITUDE WILL HELP YOU COMPETE REALLY WELL AGAINST THOSE WHO CLAIM TO KNOW THE ANSWERS. REMEMBER, THERE IS NO NEED FOR A MAD EXODUS, THERE REALLY ARE 30 BOOKS OF THE BIBLE LURKING SOMEWHERE IN THIS PARAGRAPH WAITING TO BE FOUND.
GOD BLESS.