I finally got a chance to update my blog today and all was ok as I opened up my cpanel and opened up my html blog page. Then it was acting up. The cursor went straight to the bottom and then went in reverse order as it went up the page. When I tried to move the cursor to the top, it went straight back to the bottom and started the reverse scroll, letter by letter. Then I thought of what I read at Darylynn's and then I wondered if it was a virus. I am currently typing this on a text document so I at least get a journal entry in. I will try again. I have been spending a lot of time looking at information on Hawaii. We are using the same tour company that we used last time- Discovery Hawaii Tours. We have scheduled an Eco Circle Island tour and the Pearl Harbor/Big Mo/Punchbowl Cemetary/Downtown Tour. My dad booked the Polynesian Cultural Center and I think he got the best package they offer. We get there on a Wednesday but don't get our rent a car until Sunday. We are in Waikiki and can get around by walking or using local buses. We want to try things that we did not get to last time we were there not counting the tours. We are doing those for my dad since he had not been to Hawaii since the 80's. We will be gone for over 2 weeks and I know I will miss the babies, but we really need this vacation. Renee and Daniel will probably enjoy having the house to themselves but I am sure the grandbabies will miss us.

I am doing better with my eating and getting some exercise in. I think I lost 2 pounds and I can feel the difference in a pair of pants that were more snug a couple of weeks ago. I know the time will be here before I know it. I think I mentioned that my sister Terry passed her state exams to be a marriage and family counselor. She had a big party when she got her masters. But the state requires a tons of hours as an intern, then 2 test. I am so proud of her. I called her last night and told her I was getting a bathing suit from JC Penney and for her to pick one out for herself. Of course she didn't want to, but I told her it was a congratulatory gift. Plus we were small sizes and they run out of them sooner. Just a couple of petite 50 something women of want to have fun.

On Monday, my dad brought over a Yolanda from Spain. She is here visiting her daughter who lives in San Francisco. Yolanda's son was an exchange student that lived with Terry in the 90's Terry's son Sergio was able to go spend a few weeks with Yolanda and her family in Spain. Terry and Yolanda have become friends over the years and Terry was able to visit Yolanda in San Francisco a couple of years ago. So Yolanda was here for a few days and dad brought her over our hours before heading to OC to meet up with my brother and his wife. They had dinner at Downtown Disney in Anaheim. Terry took her to a few wineries in Temecula and dad took her to Pechanga and Old Town Temecula. They took her to San Diego on Wednesday before she flew out to San Francisco. She has invited all of us to come and visit if we ever get a chance to go to Spain. When Terry and Dad and my brother and wife went on their cruise to Italy, Yolanda spent two days showing them Barcelona. I don't have a big desire to go anywhere outside the USA at this point in time. I would like to g back east to Washington DC, and NY so hubby and I are talking about it for the future. We will see what the future holds.

April 14, 2012
Today's Sayings: Winter weather blows in.

I am listening to the wind blow and the heater running. Spring showers, spring storm, you name it we had it today. Thunder, hail, heavy rain, sun peeking in and more rain. So I did not take the baby on a walk today. I hope to get my walk in or a workout. My friend Tammy told me about My Fitness Pal. It helps you keep track of what you are eating and your exercise. I put in my beginning weight, and how much I wanted to lose and it figured I needed to eat 1200 calories a day and do moderate exercise to get to 112 by June 20th. My start weight is 118 and I took measurements too. Renee and I worked out on Wed to a dvd exercise to Hip hop and we probably spent more calories from laughing. We did the full 30 minute workout and I was worn out. I got another one that features salsa music and has hand weights. So we will see what happens. My niece's wedding is June 18 and we leave in the 20th. Daniel and Renee will be here with the kids. My dad booked the Polynesian Cultural Center for June 23. We will book the rest of the excursions for Oahu. Then we will get together with the rest of the family to plan the Maui activities. My link to our Hawaii 2009 vacation is listed below. I will be taking mostly dresses,since the weather averages 75 all day/night. If I don't lose weight, I won't be able to fit into one dress I got last time at Hilo Hatties that I really like. Oh well, if not, I will give it to my sister. I have purchased a new bathing suit top, board shorts and a cute dress and flip flops to match. Nothing too expensive. I have also been thinking of getting an Ipad. I wonder if it will let me journal on it. I will be away from the computer otherwise because this laptop is big, old and only works when plugged in. We will see what the budget allows. I am still working on my Easter pictures and hope to work on it Sunday. Bye for now. Hugs


Today's Sayings:

April 8, 2012
Today's Sayings:

We have had beautiful spring weather all week.I was able to take Audrina for several walks. I didn't watch her on Wednesday so I could attend my friend's mom's funeral. It was a very nice celebration service. On Thursday my friends and I had dinner together and talked about the funeral and many other things. Friendships are so important, especially in the times of need or celebration. The kids had fun at the church Easter egg hunt. Church was really good too. Pastor Jim talked about Facebook in relationship to how God wants to connect to us. The ultimate message is that God seeks us and He loves us! My family will celebrate an Easter BBQ at my son's house. I will have more pics to share. Have a blessed Easter!

Eddie and Jazzy ready to go to the egg hunt.


Audrina saying "ooh, what's that?"



April 1, 2012
Today's Sayings: Nature and the circle of life.

I can't believe how the days just fly by! Last Saturday we spent the whole day at Disneyland. You can see pictures at the link listed to the left. Audrina keeps me pretty busy these days and I enjoy watching her antics and my exercise is chasing her around. She loves to go outside "side" and says shoes which means she wants out. I took her outside in the backyard a couple of times for a short while. We have a sparrow and an hummingbird nesting on the patio so I try not to disturb them too much. I took these pictures with my Iphone and the mom flew really close to me to keep me from getting to her eggs. Last night it was windy and the windchime kept moving and I prayed the nest would be ok. This morning she was on her nest.

The mom is flying in from the left. Her nest is in the center.

Close up.

The eggs are the size of a small raisin.

My friend lost her mother to liver cancer this past Monday and she was just diagnosed at the beginning of February. When she first found out, she called me and we talked at length on what to prepare for. She knew I would be honest since I lost my mom almost 2 years ago this May. Her mom told her she was ready to meet her Lord. She was able to share her wishes for the funeral. Death is hard but a fact of life. My friend is glad that she could be with her mom until the end. I spent a few hours with my friend, showing her how to get pictures on Powerpoint. Then we went out for dinner after church on Saturday. Our church has 2 Sunday service and one service on Saturdays. My son is getting off work early on Wed. so I can attend the funeral.

Saturday we will be taking the kids to the Easter egg hunt at church and then going back for service. Not sure what we are doing Eater Sunday but my mother in law has her birthday that day as well as my Pastor.

This week I will start dieting and exercising since vacation is 3 months away. I will also start booking the tours. I know the time will get her before I know it. Have a great week.

March 18, 2012
Today's Sayings: Remembering the past

This weekend our church celebrated it's 20 year anniversary. We went to the Saturday service and it was packed considering it was cold and raining outside. They passed out 2 shirts and had the place decorated with pictures from the past. The service was great. Pastor Jim led a few older worship songs and he talked about a vision God gave him in 1984 telling Jim he would be a Senior Pastor. New Beginning's Community Church opened in March of 1992. We had received a flyer a few weeks early and I thought it sounded great. But being a traditionalist, I did not want to go to church in a school. So we went to Greg Laurie's big church at Harvest. Greg Laurie, is a preacher/evangelist that puts on the Harvest Crusades each year. I enjoyed the church, but it was so big and I grew up in a small church and I wanted that for my kids. So in February of 1993, we started attending and we have been there ever since. My son Andrew met his wife Marina there when they both young teens. Jr and I were baptized there together and I was very involved as a Sunday School teacher, leader in Women's Ministry, lay counselor and hubby and were greeters. In 2007 our ministry changed to home. Renee had her babies and mom's Alzheimers was advancing. I don't know what God has in store for my future, but as I say, "Life happens" Now my 3 grandkids are all at church and that bring me great joy!

I have been looking at my website and I believe I started working on it with Geocities around 1998. I still have my guestbook and that dates back to 2000. I started my blog in 2002 and I have all that. I enjoyed reading some of those first post. I am going to back it all up to a flash drive. I am also going to print it out and put it in a folder. It is like my diary. I will post my archives when I redo my next layout for spring. Oh, Happy birthday to my daughter in law Marina and brother in law David! I will leave you with a couple of pictures. Have a great week!

My family, Easter 2004

Outside church, March 17, after the service.
March 9, 2012
Today's Sayings: The many moods of almost spring.


Audrina keeps me super busy!

The weather was in the 80's so I added some
fake spring flowers in the backyard.
This week we will have cloudy weather with possible rain.

Been working in the house too. Lots of washing

Packing things up to give away. Old books to library.


Praying for my family and friends.



March 9, 2012
Today's Sayings: Spring forward, fall back.

The days just seem to fly by. Audrina keeps me so busy! The dr told her parents it is time for her to go off her bottle. She would not go to sleep this morning and she does not want to drink it out of a cup. Her sleeping was way off today. I worry because she is already on the thin side. I let my kids have a bottle until they were 2. By then they were able to put the bottle in the trash one at a time, gradually. We will see how it goes. Renee nursed her two until after a year and then went to a cup. But they were both good eaters and eat really healthy now. They never have soda or candy. They get special treats they enjoy. Renee gives them veggies every dinner and fresh fruit.

I go back and forth and so does my waist. When I am on the So Beach I do ok. I still eat pretty healthy, but I stay up late and like to snack. I still get up early and I really need to break that habit. Farmville has the Hawaii farm now and I really enjoy it since I am going to Hawaii, but it sure is time consuming and the time just goes by before I know it! The weather is nice now so I plan to walk the baby if her sleep schedule goes back to normal
My dad passed his brokers test and he has a few things going on now. He does not make much money because he helps family and friends and then gives them a lower rate. At least it keeps him busy and his mind working. He is excited about going to Hawaii. 7 days in Oahu and 6 days in Maui. We are looking at the things we want to do now that the flight part is done. I am excited about it!

Last Saturday our church stared a new service night and my whole family enjoyed it. We have been at our church since Feb. 2003. The church started in March of 2002. I was a Sunday School teacher for 2 years and on the Women's ministry team for 14 years. I also let small recovery groups while going through my own recovery. Hubby and I were also greeters. I stepped down at the end of 2006. Renee got pg in 2007 and I was busy with her and the baby. Then I was busy helping my dad with my mom. So my ministry changed from church to home. Life happens has been my motto. When I was young, in high school, I planned out how I wanted my life to go. I wanted to be like my mom, a career woman and a mother. I got a degree in Social Ecolgy, a combination of the social services and biological sciences. I worked a year with a social worker and I was always so sad. When I graduated, I was working at the Post Office part time and decided to stay there while I started my family. I end up working nights for 19 years and my career there lasted 36 years. I think the biggest lesson I have learned is to be flexible. I have learned to make time for myself. I have learned that days go by way to fast. This evening I enjoyed a long relaxing bath and enjoyed reading my latest book. Hopefully I will get to bed by midnight! Oh and clocks change this weekend so remember to set your clock ahead one hour.

Feb 26, 2012
Today's Sayings: Moving along and enjoying the view.

I am watching the Oscars while writing this. I have enjoyed it so far and glad that Christopher Plumber won and Octavia Spencer for The Help. She had on a beautiful white dress and I loved the style. I loved Penelope Cruz's lavender dress and her retro hairdo. Viola Davis had a pretty dress and I was sad she did not win. Meryl Streep won again. It was nice to see the Board of Governors award go out to James Earl Jones, Oprah Winfrey and make up artist Dick Smith. I have only seen 2 Best Movies, War Horse and The Help. I plan to see the rest and get them at the Red Box. I always enjoy when they give tribute to the ones that have passed away in the last year.

I had the opportunity to hold an Oscar. In the late 80's our neighbor Ida Florio invited us to her daughter's house on the beach in Malibu. Maria Florio had written a documentary and won. She married Paul Mayer, heir to the Oscar Mayer family. I think the documentary was called Broken Rainbow. We were able to go down to the beach and we saw Ali McGraw with her son and she was sunbathing topless. We also saw Nick Nolte strolling by. I think the house next door was owned by Robert Redford. That was a cool experience. I think I have a picture somewhere. I would still like to do to Hollywood Walk of Fame. I think I will request to see it for my birthday.

On Saturday I was able to walk to the park and walk almost 2 miles. It was nice to see families with their kids and other walkers enjoying the great weather. I also enjoy the cotton tails and squirrels that come out. After my fifth lap I left the park to head home the back way that included an uphill route. It felt good to move with the music I put together on my IPhone to walk with. I also got to do a little yard work and and clean up in garage. I felt pretty good except for my elbow. I have been suffering from tennis elbow for a few months now and I am not sure if it is from taking care of Audrina or spending to much time on the computer. So I do have to cut back on my time here. After all that work, I was able to relax in a nice bath and read from Sister Chicks Do The Hula. I read it years ago and now that I am going to Hawaii, I thought I would read it again. I look forward to taking a picture with my sisters and I on the beach in Maui.

After church on Sunday we went to eat at Good Fellas. The whole place has pictures of movie stars, many from the Rat Pack Era while playing music from that era. My mom and dad would go there with us when mom was still able to get out. Lots of people from our church go there since it is close by and the food is great! Afterwards, we went to Wal-Mart to get a few things. As we were getting ready to check out, I saw this cute dress for $12.99 and I grabbed it for Hawaii. I tried it on at home and it fit great and what a deal! I really don't need to by much because I have a lot of clothes and sandals for Hawaii. Last week I found some board shorts and a flowery top at Kohls and was able to get 30% off the sale price. I don't buy much now and that is ok. Well I will end with a picture of my dress. My daughter said it would be too short, but it is a little above my knees. I have a short black sweater I can wear with it in the evening if I need it.

Feb 23, 2012
Today's Sayings: Good new and plans to downsize.

First of all, my sister Terry passed her big state exam! I prayed and prayed and was so happy to get her text the she passed. Now she is at Berkeley visiting her grand daughter that lives with her parents while her mom is at the University. Terry's son Diego watched the baby and goes to college. There may be an opportunity for them to go to France for a semester with her program. Terry will get to go to Hawaii with us and to Cancun for her son Sergio's wedding. She has worked long and hard for this. My mom would be so proud of her and we all are for sure!

I have been thinking the past few days about downsizing my website. I have over 350 pages! I had more when I had my adoption shop. I have also consolidated some pages and I use to have 2 sites! This one and my family one. I consolidated them 2 years ago. I have a lot of inspirational pages with wonderful country graphics. The country graphic world has almost disappeared. At one time many of my friends had web homes like me. Then came the world of blogging and of some of us hosted our blog at our websites and then more left to Blogger. I am not sure how blogger stores the pictures that are uploaded. After spending hours to page protect our pictures and graphics, they are now free to anyone to take on Blogger or Facebook. But change is a sure thing and though I hate it, I will have to downsize. Just like at home. I have been going through paper work. Little by little I have been destroying my work papers. Mostly leave slips from over the years. I have several awards and they don't mean anything to me. I will just take pictures and save what I need for workers comp. and for a resume if I need it. I will be busy this weekend packing things up for the donation pick up on Tuesday.

Another thing that has changed things for me is Facebook games, mainly Farmville. I have spent hours on it. I am getting kind of tired of it right now. It is so addicting and I can't keep up with all the quest so I need to cut back on it. I have been walking the baby and enjoying it. I also took a long bath and read. I use to read with a passion and then cut way back. I think the games are wearing out my computer so I plan to save things and downsize on here too. I will leave you with this. It was sung by the Bryds in the 60's.

Ecclesiastes 3 (New International Version)
A Time for Everything

1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.


Feb 19, 2012
Today's Sayings: Summer plans developing.

Hubby and I spent the weekend with my dad and we had a great, restful time. Saturday we had dinner at my dad's favorite place, Black Angus. We had to wait an hour, but it was worth it. Once our food arrived, my sister Terry was able to join us. Terry is studying for her big final exam to get state board certified on Thursday. Please pray that she passes.

Saturday dad and I stayed up and watched tv until midnight. I always lay on mom's side and enjoy the fireplace. I showed dad pictures from our last Hawaii trip and discussed some of the things we ant to do when we are on Oahu. I slept in until 11 and then took a long shower. It gave my dad and Jr a chance to talk. Then we joined my sister and her hubby and son for lunch. We discussed our Hawaii plans. After a week in Oahu, we will join the rest of the family on Maui. Today dad, Jr and I finalized out flight arrangements with Triple A. We had spent 2 hours Sunday night looking at flights at with different companies like Expedia and cheap ticket and everything was over $800 and that was with 1 stop over in Arizona or Oregon. Then you have to figure in taxes. The agent Joanne was able to find us a good deal on a direct flight out of San Diego including car rental. We could not book things sooner until we could confirm the availability of my friends timeshare in Waikiki. At least we have a huge saving on that.

We missed the grandkids, but it was nice to enjoy the quiet. I did weigh myself and I have lost 3 pounds and I can tell how my pants feel. I really need to get the exercise moving. Luckily the weather will be nice this week and I can take Audrina for a walk everyday. I did eat a few carbs this week, but in small amounts and I feel good about that.

I started doing my Simple Woman's Daybook again and you can find the link on the right. Have a great weekend!

Feb 17, 2012
Today's Sayings: Pondering about the future.

I am almost through with my phase 1 of the South Beach Diet. I am eating better, but I need to increase the exercise. I have been walking more, mostly by taking Audrina for walks. My goal is to lose 5 pounds by June but I am more concerned with losing inches around my middle.

Eddie missed his first Valentine's party because it got sick. He had a really bad headache and threw up at school when Renee was dropping him off so Renee brought him back home. I was busy trying to give Audrina breakfast and holding the bowl when Eddie was sick. It finally passed after a couple of hours. Renee called the advise nurse and they had her bring him in. He was much better and they mentioned that Eddie seemed more like a 6 year old than a 4 year old. Audrina is eating better now and feeling better. I think the combination of having a cold and teething made her lose her appetite last week. Jazzy loves to dress up and pose. My niece called Renee up yesterday and asked if Jazzy could be a flower girl in her wedding. The wedding in on June 18. We leave to Oahu, Hawaii on the 20th and fly over to Maui on the 27th where we will meet up with my sister and her family and the Newlyweds. They will say their vows again after the Luau. So I have 4 months to get in shape. I want to be able to be as healthy/active as I can to keep up with my grand kids and life in general. This weekend hubby and I are going to my dad's so we can book our flights. Have a nice weekend!

Audrina ready to "GO!"


Eddie playing in his Cars Tent. I think Audrina is in there too.


Eddie is student of the month for Feb.


Jazzy posing on the stairs.


Jazzy posing in her plaid dress.


Jazzy posing in her Dora princess dress.

Feb 8, 2012
Today's Sayings: A touch of spring in winter again.

It was a beautiful day today and I was able to take Audrina for 2 walks. She is so active now and really keeps me busy. I don't spend much time playing my games during the day so I stay up late catching up. I am so tired that I have to take a nap with Audrina! Audrina is a picky eater and we were getting worried so her parents took her in for a visit. She is only 20 pounds but still looking good to the dr. She has reached all her milestones and love the Ipad. I don't have one but she does look at the pictures on my Iphone. She knows how to turn the pictures and she actively looks for the Snoopy application I have.

I am back on the South Beach diet again and I am doing well on it. I don't know why I just don't eat well all the time. The holidays really messed me up. Well I mean I messed me up. There is only 4 months until we go to Hawaii so I need to drop a few pounds and firm up! I need to get myself to bed earlier. I am really looking forward to our vacation! I got an unexpected check today in the mail from the Post Office that I worked at. Almost $200 for 8 hours of vacation time I did not use. That will go towards the Hawaii vacation. I want to get some new pictures up in the next day or so. I have a lot to share, just need to resize them. Bye for now. Hugs

Jan, 29th, 2012
Today's Sayings: A touch of spring in winter.

The weather has been so warm and dry because of the Santa Ana winds and it really bothers my sinuses. Then cold season has been hitting all of us. Trees are budding and the bird and bees have been flying around. It seems like spring is here, but we still have February so we will see what happens. Once Upon a Time is one of the new shows I am watching. I think I like it for a few reasons. First it reminds me of the Disney movies I enjoyed while growing up. Second, I like how it goes back and forth between a present day community called Storybrook and the scenes of the Fairy tales. Finally, I enjoy the 3 main female characters. It was a bit confusing the first few episodes, but I like that because it makes my mind think. I want to make sure I get a lot of brain exercise. I play Word with friends every day. I'd like to think that even playing on my farms makes me think. I have 4 farms and I like to move things around and lately there have been numerous quest that keep the mind always planning. Ok so much for mind games. What I really need to work on is physical games or at least some type of exercise. Right now I am chasing Audrina around. She keeps me so busy! The weather should be nice so I can take her for a walk this week. Her parents left today on their Caribbean cruise, courtesy of Monavie. First stop is Florida at the Coco Beach Hilton. Monday they leave on their cruise and return on Friday. I will have Audrina all week as usual. Marina's mom will pick her up and take her home and watch her at night. I would say that Audrina is blessed to have to grandma's that love her. Maybe this little vacation will bring another grand chid! I am sure they will post pictures on FB. Speaking of Facebook, I am sure it has changed the habits of many. Like anything, there are pros and cons of Facebook. I like connecting to family and friends. I do miss how the country web homes have almost all vanished. Many people who were blogging have left. I made a lot of friends through them. At least many of those friends are playing games at FB. This year I decided I wanted to do more than just play games which are so addicting. So I am reading again. I have been reading a book called Cape Light co authored by Thomas Kinkaid the artist and "painter of Light" I read his first book years ago and enjoyed it. When I am finished with this book, I have 5 others waiting for me. What I really need to go is exercise. Our trip to Maui is in 5 months and I need to lose at least 5 pounds and do some strength training. I liked lifting hand weights, but I have been troubled with pain in my elbow and shoulder. I won't let the pain get the best of me, I have too much to do! Have a great week. Hugs and blessings.

Jan, 17th, 2012
Today's Sayings:
"Make a joyful noise to the Lord! Palms 100 (KJV).

My cousin Joanie and I saw the best movie Monday called Joyful Noise with Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton. We both want to see it again. There was such a good message in the movie, in fact several. Of course the music was great! We went to Walmart after the movie to get the Sound tract, but it was not in yet.

I went to get my physical before the movie and the Dr said I was doing well. My blood pressure was good. My weight was a few pounds off from the holidays and I plan to get more exercise in. She suggested Zumba. We talked about me going off the anti depressant and she asked why. She reviewed my family history of depression and she felt the low dosage I was taking would still help me through menopausal hot flashes and the life stresses of grandkids. As I have mentioned before, the body does not recognize good stress and bad stress. We also talked about Alzheimers and the correlation between high levels of depression and Alzheimers. She was happy to hear I had my mammogram and she did a manual check and checked my breathing. She also checked my carotid artery in the neck. She stressed the importance of taking 1200 mg of Calcium with vitamin D. She said to take Caltrate, twice a day. Not to take it all at once because the body can better absorb it taken with 2 doses spread out. I really like my Dr. She takes the time I need to ask questions. She gave me an elbow splint because I keep having problems with it. Now I just need to go in for my blood work after a 12 no eating fast. I plan to go Saturday morning. So I just have to get more exercise in.

Sunday we celebrated my son Andrew's 31st birthday. My sister Terry is his godmother and she wanted to know how her miracle baby was. After 3 miscarriages, I conceived Andrew. I had bleeding the first 4 months. I had to take weekly hormone shots and stay in bed. I was seen by the high risk group at UCI Medical Center. After 24 hours of hard labor, I end up having a C Section. He was 8 pounds, 7 ounces, 21 inches long and looked just like his dad. The Lord finally blessed me with a son and then another son=Daniel and a daughter Renee. I am blessed now with my 3 grand babies. God is good! I am writing this as the baby naps. She woke up late but still went down early for a nap. Guess walking wears her out. So now I need to get some things done around the house. Hubby just called to say they admitted his dad into the hospital so prayers are appreciated. Have a great day! Hugs

After Sunday lunch at Chilis.


Happy Birthday Andrew



Audrina finally deciding she likes walking alone.


Jazzy with her new purse will play make up.




Top 10 TV Shows (past or present)no special order
The Wonderful World of Disney
I Love Lucy
Lassie
Little House on the Praire
Dallas
Survivor
Star Trek
Carol Burnett Show
ER
Grey's Anatomy

Jan, 10th, 2012
Today's Sayings:
"A happy heart is like good medicine,
but a broken spirit drains your strength"
Proverbs 17:22 (NCV).

Hi friends, I have been super busy putting away my Christmas decorations and reorganizing them as I go along. Hubby and I have been married 37 years and I have lots of them. The last Christmas at home when I was engaged was special. My parents gave us a small box of ornaments. I put them up every Christmas. So over the years I have accumulated many. I started collecting Hallmarks when Andrew was born. When Andrew and Marina married, I gave them a box of ornaments along with many decorations. I love to decorate several rooms for the holidays. But it sure takes time to take it down. I am in no rush. I am also working on my annual Christmas page and that take time too. First I have to find the right graphics. Then I reflect the age of the grandbabies and the graphics to use for them. Then I have to pick the right pictures and resize them to fit on my blog. I know it is a lot of work, but my family enjoys looking at the pictures and working on the page keeps my mind active. I use to spend hours working on web pages, but with the advent of Farmville games, my time is now limited.

During the day I am busy taking care of my grand daughter Audrina. She is 16 months old now and keeps me busy! She can take steps alone but still prefers to crawl or hold onto things as she goes. She can take several steps alone if she wants to. She really is into climbing so I really have to watch her. She does not like the cage much and I don't blame her. I let her play in the kids playroom or Eddie's room. Means I have to be there to watch her so I do not get much done. I try to get the kitchen done while she is eating her Cheerios and 'nana" Once I out her down for her nap, I start laundry, eat lunch, watch my programs and play on the computer. Audrina is picked up around 4:45 and Renee gets home shortly after that and the kids come running in to give Mema a hug while I am working on dinner. It's like being a mommy of babies all over again! I am blessed and glad I can help out.

I am working on a Bible study on laughter and joy. It is a good way to start the new year. I hope to get more reading in this year with real books. I don't have a Kindle or Ipad. I am going to try to learn some new Bible verse too. I will end with some cool things about laughter.

Laughter and joy exercise the lungs.
Laughter and joy stimulate circulation.
Laughter and joy help control pain.
Laughter and joy reduce tension
Laughter and joy boost the immune system



One more thing I just found, a Tuesday Meme from Sue

My top 10 apps on my iPhone (in no particular order):
Word For Friends
Facebook
Bible+1
Flashlight
KLove- Christian music
ITunes
Michaels-coupons!
I need to add some more now.

December 31st, 2011
Today's Sayings:

It is hard to believe that another year is coming to an end. Time goes by so quickly! Yesterday was the 2 year anniversary of the death of my furbaby Reina. I was so heart broken. Last year was the first Christmas I did not have a mom and missed her a lot this year. Time does heal the heart that hurts. Hope fills the heart and keeps it going. The older I get the more I realize how blessed I am. My family is the most important thing to me and everything else is material. I enjoy watching my grand kids grow and I want to be around for as long as I can. So I decided to start out the New Year right. Yesterday I went to Kaiser with my husband. He has a doctor's appointment and I decided to get my mammogram done while waiting for him. They take walk in and no charge! I also got a flu shot-ouch! I have my physical on the 16th. Now to change my eating habits. I told hubby we are eating healthier too. After that I had to return my fireplace hooks since they did not work. The we went to the Mission Inn for dinner. They decorate for the holidays and there was a lot of old world decorations. We were sitting in the Las Campanas patio when the lights all went on. You could hear the people filled with wonder. After walking around the Mission, we went across the street to the antique store. I was able to find a Snoopy Hallmark ornament dated 1991 for only $6.99 and it was in mint condition! I am going with my dad later today. I want to wish you all a very Happy New Year! Hugs and Blessings!

December 29th, 2011
Today's Sayings: A tease of spring weather.

It was 82 today and sunny. I was able to take Audrina for a walk and she loves her walks. I hope to take her to the park Thursday since this weather will continue until after the New Year. The nights on the other hand have been in the low 30's. I am so glad I don't have to go out in the early morning like hubby. It is good that I retired when I did since they changed his hours to start at 5am instead of 6am. He is really hoping to retire this year. I am thinking of my NY resolutions and as usual, better health is on the top. I plan to do more reading too. I am so addicted to FV and I know how I need to spend less time playing. I do enjoy playing Words with Friends and it is good for the brain.

I took tons of pictures for Christmas and now I need to work on my annual Christmas page that are at my family Christmas site linked at the left. The highlight for me was Christmas dinner at my sisters and taking my grand niece and her mom. My sister Terry was so happy! We stayed at Terry's and watched while the baby's presents were opened. Another nice thing was Daniel taking his girlfriend and her son. Edward was able to be there and he left back to Vegas on Monday evening. I was able to pick up a few after Christmas sale items. A Charlie brown musical moving ornament and wrapping paper. I also got another CB tree that has the Linus blanket and plays music. I took the stocking down yesterday but I am not rushing to get things put away. I will go at a pace that is relaxing and organized. I am planning on spending the weekend with my dad and come back on Monday. Jr goes to bed early because of his hours so he doesn't mind me going with my dad. Bye for now. Hugs

December 19th, 2011



Today's Sayings: "I will honor Christmas in my heart,
and try to keep it all the year." Charles Dickens

It is countdown to Christmas. Today we had a church play that showed Jesus on the cross. There were specific things Jesus said like "I thirst" and "it is finished. Then the scene would change to a Jesus as a boy. It was an interesting play with a great message. Then Pastor Jim dismissed us but not before telling us to enjoy our Christmas meals. After church we went out for lunch with my dad and my inlaws. Edward arrived from Las Vegas and joined us too. The babies were really happy to see their daddy. Dad brought down gifts from Temecula and took ours. The kids are all excited about Christmas now. Oh the picture above is the ornament I mentioned in my previous post. I found it online and I love it!

Audrina kissing her gingerbear we got her.


Audrina in her kiddie cage.

So what is on your Christmas menu? Christmas Eve dinner is normally tamales. We will go to the Christmas Eve Service at church before heading to my inlaws. Saturday I will be making enchilada casseroles for my family's Christmas dinner. My daughter will be baking so we will be busy in the kitchen. I was suppose to go make tamales on Saturday with my cousins and aunts, but I woke up feeling sick and decided to stay put. I felt bad because I really wanted to do this. I have learned to listen to my body. Hopefully I can go next year. But what I really want to do is make my own. Traditional tamales are made with pork or beef. But my husband can't eat it and my daughter won't eat it and everyone likes chicken. I am going to try to make some for the New Year. I just need to find and easy recipe. Mexican markets sell the masa already made so I will get that. If I find a good recipe, I will share it at my Recipe site.

On Thursday, my cousin Joanie and I drove to Downtown Disney to meet our friend Judy and her daughter. Judy's family was taking a Disneyland vacation and I planned to meet up. We had the best time. We got to listen to the Dicken Carolers at the Grand Californian. We had mocha cafe coffees and this wonderful chocolate fudge cake with warm caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream. It was yummy! The time flew and before we knew it, it was almost midnight. I met Judy online around 2001 and we have met 4 times now. What a blessing she is! Her daughter Emily is a little blessing to with the most sweet spirit. She gave us each a Minnie angel and it is on my tree next to the Minnie ornament that I got from Melanie, another online friend. God is good to bless me with sweet friends.

Our yummy desert.

I do not watch Audrina this week. I put away the cage and all the extra toys and now my living room is in order. Right now my dining room has presents that need to be wrapped and a couple of craft projects that need to be fixed. I am listening to Christmas music and relaxing in my chair. I like to stay up late and sleep in late. I have always been a night owl. I like to play my games when the house is quiet. I still work on my website, but not as often. I do have this page to share and I am going to add it to my Christmas index. Merry Christmas if I don't post again.

Christmas Blessings

December 12th, 2011

Today's Sayings:"Let inspiration generate hope today" LIGHT- Thomas Kinkade

I was watching an interview of Thomas Kinkade and learned that he was a student of Cal State Berkeley in Ca. It was there that he found more than education. He found a personal relationship with the Father of Lights, the inspiration for his paintings. It made me think of the children's play today at church. The "stars of heaven" told the story of the "Light from heaven" They told the story through songs. There was "the Star, Shooting Star, "Falling Star" and more. They also sang a song called "This little light of mine." It was one I sang in Sunday School and one I sang to my own children. I sang it with the the kids in the class I taught in Sunday school. They enjoyed it because it has hand motions. Now I want to show the hand motions to my grand kids. I was also reminded of a play I was in when I was a child. Each child in my Sunday school class held a candle and recited a verse. This was mine. "Christians lit the light, that all the world may see, the gift of love, from God above, God's son who set us free. That was about 48 years ago!

I love all the Christmas lights on the trees in the house. Last week we took the kids for a walk in the neighborhood to see the lights and displays. Yesterday we went to Knott's Berry Farm, and I enjoyed the lights come on as the sun was setting. I especially enjoyed the music playing, the traditional songs I learned at school and church while growing up. I was especially happy to see a Nativity displayed as we entered the park. I was thinking of Kia and how she shared a picture and asked if we had one to share. It has inspired me to do a web page on my many Nativity displays/ornaments. That will be my next web project. Meanwhile, you can see some at my Christmas site linked at the left. Each Sunday our pastor reminds us as we leave, Love people! Have a great week!

Jazzy is afraid of Snoopy.


The ourdoor Nativity at night.


I wanted the little Nativity on the lower left but it was sold out.

December 1st, 2011



Today's Sayings: Happy Birthday to my sister Terry!

Well look who the wind blew in....me. Well we are experiencing the Santa Ana winds which brought in colder weather and knocked over a lot of things in the backyard. I will have to go look at my front tree to see how many leaves have fallen. I did take a picture yesterday. I am all decorated now and will post pictures at the annual page I make. My daughter asked what I wanted for Christmas. I told her a day to talk with my mom cause I miss her voice. Of course I will have to wait until I get to heaven. I miss her more this year than last year. I guess because since I was the oldest, I got to stay up and help her decorate, and wrap presents. We sat on the couch with hot chocolate and watched Christmas movies like White Christmas. That was before there were cell phones and laptops and multiple rooms with Satellite TV. Life is busy and I thought it would slow down once I retired, but I am busy with the baby and taking care of the house. The kids enjoyed putting ornaments on the tree. Last summer when the ornaments came out, I bought some for my grandkids. Now that Christmas is here, I have no idea what I did with them! Well I am sure they will show up. I have been helping my dad with his Christmas list and getting ready to do his cards. We both send pictures to Costco to have cards made. I will be spending the weekend with him and I am sure we will get a lot done. Dad has already decorated and set up his tree. He got a smaller one and set it in the living room instead of the family room. We went to my son's house for Thanksgiving and took some pictures for our Christmas card. Hubby and I went away for the weekend on the Friday after Thanksgiving. We stayed in Orange County and went to Downtown Disney and Old Town Orange. We had a nice time, enjoying the sites and sounds of Christmas. I got a few trees to decorate and an antique store. We did go to Target and found some items too. It was a nice and much needed weekend. Our next get away will be in June for my nieces wedding in Maui. Well the baby is up and I need to go. Hugs

Some weather Minis by Sonia

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