ME, MYSELF and WHO?

THANKSGIVING

2011-11-07T13:48:00.000-08:00

DINNER ON A DIME. . .

Thanksgiving dinner is about overindulgence, but that doesn't mean your wallet has to pay the price. Here are some sensible ways to spend less without skimping on the meal. . .

* Plan the menu early

* Clip coupons and watch for sales

* Buy the right size bird - estimate one pound per person, more if you want leftovers

* Stick with simple side dishes

* Ask your guests to bring desserts

HAPPY THENKSGIVING TO ONE AND ALL!!!

PUMPKINS

2011-10-14T16:32:00.000-07:00

ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR GOURD????

No, I don't mean crazy. . .I'm referring to having access to some real gourds! In October the gourd of choice is most likely Pumpkin (well it's actually a squash). Here are some pumpkin facts:

* Pumpkins are a fruit, in fact they are the state fruit of New Hampshire.

* Pumpkin seeds provide protein and zinc. They are believed to lower cholesterol and lessen
the inflammation of arthritis.

* The self-proclaimed pumpkin capital of the world is Morton, Illinois, where 85 percent of
the worlds canned pumpkin is produced.

* A 1,689 pound pumpkin believed to be the largest ever, was grown in 2007.

TRICK or TREAT will soon be upon us. . . TIME TO CARVE THAT PUMPKIN SOON!!!!

GROWING OLD

2011-07-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

Getting OLD has been on my mind now for months but not until a mysterios illiness struck me down did I decide to take it seriously.

So many of my school chums have passed away in the last few years it has left far too few of us around. I never thought much about OLD age and guess I never realized how different our life gets as we age. We look different, we act different, we think different, and we become different.

I always figured I could accomplish whatever I wanted to. I remember saying "hey I'm just 32 and can do that (whatever it was??) next year." Then one day I looked around and wasn't 30 something anymore, I was 50 something. Even that didn't hit home because I felf good, full of life, oh, maybe a mild pain somewhere but nothing I paid attention to. Plus my mother, bless her heart was in her 80's and going strong. My only problem was I worked behind a desk many many hours everyday of the week for at least 20 some years. The only exercise I got was walking from my office in my bedroom, into the kitchen for a snack or the living room to watch TV before turning in for the night.

I won't say I didn't notice a change because I did but once again put it on the back burner in my brain. But then as the weeks, months, years went by gradually I noticed not being able to take a bath cause I couldn't get out of the tub. I figured I was getting older so just took showers. I had other very mild signs that something was happening but still I ignored them...my mistake!!!

Then finally a couple weeks ago I got up from a good nights sleep and walked into the living room to sit in my lounge chair and FELL! I still don't know how or why but I hit the floor like a stone. That wasn't the bad part even, the bad part was that I couldn't get up. I tried everything for hours (9 to be exact) but couldn't life myself off the floor. I can attest to what happened during that time to be the worst ever spent in my life. Finally I made it to the bedroom crawling, got onto the bed and fell asleep. Since the fall I can walk okay, thank God! But can't sit on a regular chair, too low, so I have to use my office chair which is nce and high and has arms to help me lift myself. I had to buy a higher toilet seat with arms to be able to get off once on. I can't go to a doctor because I don't know how I'd manage their office chairs plus even getting out of my own car. I am trapped in my own home for the time being. Luckily my ex has been here helping me in every way possible and has been a Godsend!

Anyway I've ordered a special sit down exercycle that I'm told will strenghten my thighs and hip muscles as it is made just for when they begin to atrophy, or lose strength from lack of use.

So anyway that's what has been going on with me and I blame myself, I knew something was going on and just ignored it because I never thought of myself as OLD and able to break down.

I would appreciate a prayer if you happen to think of me!

For Men Only!

2011-06-17T14:36:00.000-07:00

Here is wishing a very HAPPY FATHERS DAY to all the fathers and grandfathers out there. I hope you all have a wonderful day surrounded by your loved ones.

MYSTICAL, MAGICAL FULL MOON

2011-05-14T17:50:00.000-07:00

The next time you find yourself gazing longingly at the perfect wonder of the moon try and appreciate your cosmic connection to people of ancient cultures who did more than stare in wonder. . .They gave meaningful NAMES to each months full moon.

North American moon names come mainly from Native American Algonquin tribes whose settlements ranged from from New England to Lake Superior Although full moon names can vary, heres a version of how the Algonquin people saw it.

January: Wolf Moon, for hungry packs that howled at night.

February: Snow Moon, for massive winter storms.

March: Worm Moon, when earthworms and robins reappear.

April: Pink Moon, for widespread phiox flowers.

May: Flower Moon, for springs proliferation of blooms.

June: Strawberry Moon, for the berries peek season.

July: Buck Moon, when bucks that have shed their antlers sprout soft, velvety new growth.

August: Sturgeon Moon, for the late summer abundance of this fish.

September: Harvest Moon, for staple crops of corn, pumpkins, squash and beans.

October: Hunters Moon, prime season for deer, fox and other game.

November: Beaver Moon, time to set winter traps.

December: Cold Moon, for the seasons icy blasts.

It seems these Indians knew how to use the full moons to their advantage, kind of like a huge clock for all seasons. They say today that a full moon brings with it strange and bizzare behavior, I wonder if it was the same back in those days?

Wishes from my Heart

2011-05-08T03:49:00.000-07:00

Wishing all my women friends a

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

ROYAL WEDDING

2011-04-29T18:27:00.000-07:00

I took a short nap yesterday so I would be wide eyed and bushy tailed for the ROYAL WEDDING. It started here in Nevada at 1:00 a.m., Pacific time on Channel 13. It was covered by Barbara Walters and Dianne Sawyer. I have to say I was pleased with their coverage of the event. They seemed to know when to talk and when to shut the hell up. I saw everything from Prince William and Prince Harry leave the residence headed for the Cathedral. I saw everyone arrive and go inside the church. I was amazed in a good way mostly by all the ladies hats. Then the long awaited arrival of Kate soon to be Princess. Her gown was gorgeous, stunning, and she looked regal and Queen like already with her diamond tiara. Kates family are all quite handsome, her dad, her mother a beauty in her own right. Kates sister and brother could both be movie stars. And I have to admit Prince Charles never looked handsomer. They say his marriage to his one true love Camilla, changed him for the better, and he, she, and the two sons are great friends. I stayed up untril nearly 5:00 a.m. fascinated by the whole affair. Everyone was off to a luncheon given of canipays and champagne hosted by the Queen before going to their places of residence to rest before changing for a dinner party given that night by the Prince and his new bride. The Queen would not be in attendance because the palace was being turned into a sort of nightclub for the young people to have fun.

By the way I have to comment on how lovely the Queen looked all in yellow. For an 85 year old woman she looked amazing. "Long Live The Queen!"

Today when I got up I tuned into Oprah who was dressed to the nines, hat and all, and so was her entire audience. She had Carson Daily or something or other in Kates hometown where she grew up, he was interviewing the towns people. It was interesting. Then Oprah gave out Kates favorite candies to the audience, and Prince Williams favorite chocolate cake while interviewing his childhood chef.

I don't believe much in fairytale lives but if this wedding is any example of the lives these two young Royals will be living, they may have made a believer out of me!

I ask Gods blessings for them both. . .

WHEN IT RAINS - IT POURS

2011-04-24T15:19:00.000-07:00

First of all HAPPY EASTER to all who read this blog...

Just when things seem to be going well you find out your grandson who is just new in the Marine Corp. (raindrop one) and only 20 years old has met someone on Match. com with a child and after only several months goes to the court house and the next call from him he says, "I'm married." (raindrops two.) The kids come home to meet our family. Then head back to Arkansas where he is stationed and she lives. He'd met her relatives at their small wedding. My poor daughter-in-law was beside herself as were we all. Jason has been the baby of our family for all his life to date, and was now married with a stepson of his own, (raindrops three.)

Things seemed to be quieting down and we hoped the raindrops in our lives had stopped, but oh no!!! The thunder began rumbling across the cloudy sky. Jason informed us he was being transferred from stateside to Japan, (raindrops four.)
We all thought well at least it was 'peaceful Japan' where he was going and not Afganistan or Irac. We all told him the many wonderful strories we had heard about the country and even had other service people in the family who had been stationed there and loved it.

So our Jason left for Japan, and NO he couldn't take his new family which wasn't popular with her I'm sure. They got married to be together and the transfer was a 'big' surprise. He would have to send for her later on when he got permission. Plus they added on one year to the end of his enlistment as discipline because he got married without their permission.(raindrops five.)

Jason was in Japan a little better than one week when the 9.0 earthquake and tsunami hit. Luckily Jason is on an island 1800 miles from Tokyo, so he was not affected by either of the disasters at first but he and his unit have had to be in Tokyo for clean up, and he has had to have a painful OC wash treatment for radiation, (raindrops six and seven.) All our kids are given to wear from the Marines as protective gear are gloves, what's with that Marines?

Jason sent us his picture on Facebook and it showed his terribly swollen, red face, nose and eyes. He was blind for hours afterwards. He looked awful and was in pain from the OC shower. What I don't get is why our kids only get a dam pair of gloves to wear when cleaning up radiation. Again I ask, what's with that Marines???

Last night my grandson came home on an emergency leave to be with his mom who in the meantime of all this going on, has to have her hip replaced. Her leg is literally hanging by tendons. (raindrops eight, nine and growing.) We will all be with her tomorrow, Monday, when she has her third hip operation. Her sons will help take care of her during what could be a lenghty recoverey period. Plus she has "fantastic friends" who love her, and will all lend a hand.

The rain is still falling but now it has turned from drops to a flood, and as my 91 year old wonderfully bright mother always says:

When it rains - It pours!!!

TIPS YOU WON'T BELIEVE

2011-04-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

AUNT JEMIMA TO THE RESCUE... Not to long ago a friend was hard boiling some eggs. Just as she reached into the pot to remove one with a spoon, her doorbell rang. She looked away just long enough to dip her hand into the boiling water, she let out a blood curdling scream and dropped the spoon. Her neighbor hearing the scream ran inside and saw her standing there. She saw the steaming hot water and figured out what happened. She shouted; do you have any flour? Crying, she answered back, "yes up in that cabinet." Her neighbor grabbed the flour and placed her hand inside the bag and said, keep it there as she tried comforting her. She began to explain that when her brother was in Viet Nam and got burned they used this method and it worked very well, no pain, no blisters or redness and after just ten minutes. Once they removed her hand it was not red, no blisters or pain. From that day forward she's kept an easy to open container of flour in her refrigerator, it seems cold flour feels even better than room temperature does. The two shared this miracle with us at our next Bunco game and we all keep flour handy now just in case. You can even put a dab on your tongue after having tasted something too hot. Try it next time you or someone you know gets a burn. It's a ten minute miracle. .. > > >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> COKE-A-COLA CONTROLA... Do you or someone you know have one of those grease/oil stained driveways that makes your home look like a redneck lives there? Or when the cars not parked in it people step on the stain and track the gunk into your lovely home? Does it make you want to scream because even Tide and boiling water won't get it out? Well, I have the answer and it's easy and cheap. It's coke-a-cola. Simply buy some coke, don't drink it cause if it does what I am about to tell you I don't believe it should be drunk! Open can of coke and dump it out onto the spot, use as many cans as it takes, scrubbing after each can sits there for five minutes. Depending on how bad your spots are, it should take about 1/2 hour per stain. Before using the coke if there is a wet spot, dump some cheap kitty litter onto the spot to soak up the liquid. In fact once clean if the problem leaker is still going to be parked there, keep kitty litter on the spot to catch the leakage.... This really works well!

Put Some SPRING In Your Step

2011-03-25T18:01:00.000-07:00

Well the time is drawing near when the sun will shine upon us nearly all day long. I LOVE Springt!!! Spring's warmer days are perfect for starting an outdoor walking program. Walking is an ideal exercise. It's weight-bearing, so it strengthens bones. It's aerobic, so it improves heart and lung function. And other than the price of a good pair of walking shoes, it's free! So if your doctor says it's okay, it's time to hit the ground walking. Having a walking partner is great but if you don't have one simply change where you walk often to make it more interesting, seeing different scenery and people.

How Far? A good beginners goal is to head out the door, walk 5 to 10 minutes, then head back. The next time walk 10 to 15 minutes increasing the time by 5 minute increments. Focus on how you feel not how far you're walking.

How Fast? Aim to walk a bit faster than normal, as if you were late to an appointment. But slow down if you feel winded. You should have enough breath to be able to keep up a conversation.

How Often? Walking 5 days a week is ideal, but any amount of exercise is beneficial.

Be SAFE! In two ways, first wait until you've walked awhile before stretching so as not to injure muscles. Second, and most importantly; don't walk alone on secluded trails, and always carry a cell phone fully charged. Protect your skin with sunscreen. Wear reflective clothing if you're walking at dawn or dusk. Make sure you kinow where you are and what's around you. And if the weather is uncooperative you can always find a Mall to walk in.

Here's is hoping Spring is good to you. . .

Special post for SAMMIE SUE

2011-03-15T16:39:00.000-07:00

Sammie Sue is an African grey parrot that is one of the smartest and most vocal birds I know but she sometimes isn't kind to her loving owners Dianne and David Schwartz. Recently she was in a foul mood for some reason, no one knows why because she is a spoiled princess in her home. Anyway when Dianne tried to pick her up on this particular day she acted out and bit poor Diannes fingers. When reading about this on Sammies Facebook and then on her website I wrote her a comment. I told her she was very bad, and I had a joke that might work to teach her a lesson. I didn't want to take up too much space, but leave room for other comments, so I decided to write it here for Sammie to come and read... Here goes!

A lovely older woman on her way to work passed the same Pet Shop daily. One day there was a huge cage sitting out in the shade and inside was a beautiful parrot. She stopped and told the parrot how beautiful he was. With that the bird squaked and out of his mouth came a dozen swear words #@$%(*& and then told the woman she was an ugly, fat cow. "Well," said the woman and hurried on by. By the time she arrived at work she had cooled off and began to feel sorry for the bird wondering who had taught it such language.

The same thing happened three days in a row, same bird behavior and same rushing by, by the woman. For a week the woman got a ride from a friend so didn't see the parrot. Once her friend wasn't going in her direction she again had to walk. As she approached the Pet Store, no cage or parrot. She went inside to inquire as to the situation. The owner said, "oh, dam bird insulted so many folks I had to remove it, I'll never be able to sell it anyway with that filthy mouth."
The woman said, "maybe I could buy it and retrain it to speak pleasantly."
The man said, "lady if you want it you can have it and I'll throw in the cage and deliver it too." They shook on it...
The following Saturday the Pet Shop owner delivered the bird and cage to the womans home.

Three months passed and everyday the poor woman would try for hours to get the parrot to speak kindly to her, and each day he swore and called her names. When she had friends over they had to sit out on the front stoop or the parrot cursed them too. Finally even the kind woman was losing her patience and on a Sunday after she returned home from church she tried singing a lovely hymm to the bird who began swearing up a storm. That being the last straw the woman reachecd into the the cage, grabbed the startled bird, opened up the freezer door and tossed the parrot inside among the other meats. After about 5 minutes the woman heard pitiful squaking and muffled words coming from her freezer. She opened the door to find the parrot shivering as he pleaded with her to get him out of here, and promising to never swear or call her names again.
She reached inside and took him out setting him on the kitchen table, saying sternly, "if you ever do; right back into the freezer you'll go, and maybe for good!" The bird climbed onto her arm as she walked into the living room and put him into his cage. She said, "remember what you promised bird!"

Later on that evening as she was covering the parrots cage he said, beautiful, kind lady may I ask one question that has been bothering me?"
She answered, "yes of course, what is it that has been bothering you?"
The parrot replied, could you please tell me. . . . . . .

What did that chicken do???

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By the way to everyone who follows my blog, a THANK YOU you, and wish for a:

Happy St. Patricks Day
and may the wind always be at your back!!

All About SHAMROCKS

2011-03-04T13:25:00.000-08:00

In March, shamrocks seem to pop up everywhere. The three-leaved token of Irish luck has roots in both Druid and Christian traditions, but in Irish lawns, the plant is considered to be a weed. Here are some other facts about shamrocks...

Sham shamrocks?
Scholars, botanists and florists argue over the species of the Irish shamrock of lore. The shamrock is often counted as part of the clover family, but in drawings of the plant, the typically heart shaped leaves indicate wood sorrel, a member of the oxalis family.

Badge of rebellion.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, some Irish wore shamrocks to display their dissatisfaction with British rule. Thus the phrase "the wearing o' the green," is said to have originated during this period.

Snake stopper?
The shamrock was believed to be a remedy for snake and scorpion bites. Tradition holds snakes are never seen near shamrocks.

A wee bit of protection.
Shamrocks are thought to ward off any mischief a leprechaun might cause.

Here comes the luck!
To encourage a fortuitous union, shamrocks are sometimes placed in a brides bouquet or worn on a grooms lapel.

Note: To wet the appetite of its customers, McDonalds created in 1970 a seasonal specialty beverage called a Minty Green Shamrock Shake which they say is still as popular as ever.

A Mark of Ireland

While the Celtic harp is the official emblem of Ireland, the shamrock is a popular symbol too. The Irish airline Aer Lingus uses the shamrock in its logo, and the flag of Montreal features a shamrock to represent the Canadian city's Irish population.

EATING GREEN

2011-03-03T03:06:00.000-08:00

It's easy eating GREEN. . .

We've all heard we should try to live a greener lifestyle by reducing, reusing and recycling. But what about our diets? Making enviromentally conscious choices can be better for our waistlines, our wallets and our planet.

BUY LOCAL:
When you purchase locally produced fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs, and dairy products, you're supporting area farmers and cutting back on the fuel it takes to truck food across the country.

GO ORGANIC:
Treating soil with pesticides can pollute the soil, groundwater and possibly us. If you're budget conscious, at least aim for organic when buying produce with thin, edible skins such as grapes, berries, bell peppers, and radishes.

EAT LOWER ON THE FOOD CHAIN:
Producing a pound of meat takes much more water and energy than producing a pound of grain or vegetables.

DITCH THE DRIVE-THROUGH:
Idiling in line in a fast-food restaurant waates gas. Park the car and order inside if you must frequent these restaurants. Better to whip up a quick meal at home. You'll save packaging waste and money too.

BANISH BOTTLED WATER:
Even if you recycle those plastic bottles, it's still taking energy to produce, transport and recycle them.

TAKE BABY STEPS:
You don't have to go cold turkey on cheeseburgers. Even small changes, such as eating one meatless meal a week can make a big difference over time. . .

CHARITABLE WORKS

2011-02-04T16:11:00.000-08:00

WAYS TO MAXIMIZE CHARITABLE GIVING

Due to the recession, many people are cutting back their spending, including giving to their favorite charities. Here are some ways to make your donations have more of an impact.

Give to the neediest. Charities such as food banks, homeless shelters and utility assitance programs are getting hit with the double whammy of decreased donations and increased demand. If you want to make a real impact, give to one of these groups.

Check charity finances. Use charity evaluation sites like:
CharityNavigator.com
GuideStar.org
to see how nonprofits are spending your money. Ideally, at least 75 percent of a donation should go toward programs.

Concentrate your giving; if you can't give much, focus on just one or two charities that are important to you so your cash has a bigger impact.

You can also donate more than just cash. Volunteering your time and skills or donating items such as canned food or gently used clothing can help as much as opening your wallet.

Oh, and skip the middleman! If you're going to donate money, write a check directly to the charity. If you pay with a credit card, the charity loses a 2 or 3 percent processing fee to the card issuer.

Give as you shop is also a good idea, use the free portal; iGive.com to link to and buy from your favorite retailers. A percentage of each purchase goes to a charity, without adding to your tab at checkout.

They say it is better to give than receive, and charities so need us to keep them in mind especially in times like these. They need us now more than ever. . .

QUICKIES to make you chuckle...

2011-01-22T01:05:00.000-08:00

These are some short funnies to make you laugh no matter what kind of day you are having.

1.) I dialed a number today and got the following recorded message:

"I am not available right now, but thank you for caring enough to call. I am making some changes in my life. Please leave a message after the beep. If I do not return your call,
you are one of those changes."

2.) Aspire to inspire before you expire!!!

3.) My wife and I had words, but I didn't get to use mine...

4.) Frustration is trying to find your glasses, without your glasses...

5.) The irony of life is that by the time y0u're old enough to know your way around,
you're not going anywhere!

6.) God made man before woman to give man time to think of an answer for her first question!

7.) I was always taught to respect my elders, but it keeps getting harder and harder to find one.

8.) Man comes home, finds his wife in bed with his friend, he shoots his friend and kills him.
Wife says; "If you behave like this, you will lose ALL your friends!"

9.) What's the difference between, stress, tension and panic?
Stress is when the wife is pregnant...
Tension is when the girlfriend is pregnant...
Panic is when both are pregnant at the same time...

10.) Teacher asks: Do you know the importance of a period?
Kid raises his hand and says;
"Yeah, once my sister missed one, my mom fainted, dad got a heart attack, and our neighbors father ran away.

11.) A woman asks a man she see's traveling with six children;
"Are all these kids yours?"
The man replied; "No, I work in a condom factory and these are customer complaints."

12.) A young boy asks his dad; "What is the difference between confident and confidential?"
Dad answers; "You are my son, I am confident about that. Your friend over there, is also my son, but that's confidential."

Nominated as the best email joke of last year...

A three-year old boy was examining his testicles while taking a bath.
"Mom," he asked. "are these my brains?"
"NOT YET!" she replied...

DIP to EAT during FOOTBALL

2010-12-31T02:56:00.000-08:00

Well it's Friday at 2:36 a.m. on New Years Eve morning. I and my neighbor have been making my 'famous dip.' She is havin g a big New Years Eve bash tonight and many of the Vegas entertainers who take tonight off will be there. I am having a small group in as well, some very close friends. I am lucky enough to be known for my cooking and baking and so many come to me for different recipes. So I have decided to give you all my recipe for "ha-cha-cha dip." I serve it with flour tortilla chips, or you can use corn chips as well.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cans refried beans
2 nice size tomatoes
1 bunch of green onions
1 package Hidden Valley Ranch mix
1 container sour cream
1 can pit free black olives
2 tbls. hot sauce (optional)
1/2 cup shredded mexican cheese mix

DIRECTIONS:

In a 6x9 pan smear refried beans on the bottom
In a bowl mix sour cream & ranch mix. Mix thoroughly, then spread onto the refried beans. Set aside!
Finely chop tomatoes, olives and onions in a separate bowl make sure to use the green of the onions. Mix well with hot sauce if using it.
Once mixture of veges is well mixed spread it evenly on top of Ranch mix.
Now sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of veges.
Wrap with clear wrap and place pan in fridge until cold, usually an hour or two.
Serve with Tortilla chips...

This is a pretty easy recipe and tastes so good there is never any left.

The police in Vegas are already patroling the streets on and around the strip and some won't get off shift until 6.00 a.m. New Years Day. I don't envy them or their familys. The men who set off the fireworks have been here for weeks on the rooftops where the displays are shot from, and it promises to be quite a show as usual. I can see the strip which is 5 miles uphill from my driveway and get a good show without any of the crowds piled in like sardines.

Well the new year is nearly upon us and I hope it is a better year for us all than 2010 was. I wish you all a very HAPPY NEW YEAR. I hope to see you all still following my blog next year!

My wish is for a. . .

2010-12-24T18:33:00.000-08:00

A very MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR

to all of my BLOG readers and followers. . .

2010-12-17T18:32:00.000-08:00

MOTHERS QUESTION TO ME. . .

Those of you who read my blog and know me well know that my mother is still very much alive, 90 years old , lives in Indiana in a lovely Senior Community. Mother still drives, cooks, bakes for her friends, shops, goes out socially, and even babysits my Aunt, her 91 year old sister that lives with her son & DIL, when they go somewhere too hard to take her. The two sisters have a pajama party of sorts, make cookies, eat and play Bunco. It does the heart good to know they have such fun together still.

My Aunt, now a widow had three children, one daughter and two sons. Her family always seemed quite close and never moved from Indiana. After my Uncle passed away one son took his mother in where she is treated with the greatest respect and love. They all meet every Christmas Eve at one brothers home and celebrate together with all the other relatives in town.

My mother's question to me was: why don't my children get along with one another?
All except my son have moved away from Indiana to far away places. She wishes just once before she dies we could all be together in a loving way. Unfortunately my mother worked from the time I can remember. She worked from 3:00 in the afternoon until 10:00 p.m. at night. I would get home from school to serve dinner to my two sibblings that mother had pretty much prepared before she went to work. My dad worked three shifts in the Steel Mill, so was there only a part of the time. As trhe eldest, I became babysitter, missed after school activities and resented my sibblings because of it. They in turn resented me for being able to boss them around as they put it. But even worse; my parents hated one another, my mother was verbally abused, and my father was sick in the head with jealously, for no reason. We kids grew up with few expressions of love. None ever between our parents. I believe most children learn from what they are shown by their parents. Coldness breeds coldness, and then my other two sibblings (sisters) came so late in life. One nine years after the three of us, (brother, me & my sister) then another when I was married and pregnant. My baby sister was born four months after my own son. I never really knew her and we are basically still strangers. I moved away to Illinois then Las Vegas, my two younger sisters married and moved to Colorado. My one sister stayed in Indiana but passed away early in her life from complications from MS. My brother has Epilepsy and lived all his life with my mother until he recently got his own apartment in a building next to my mother. They have their own places but she still has to drive him everywhere and keeps a close eye on him. So my answer to my mother is that children mostly imitate what they see, and feel growing up. I longed to be closer to my mother like my girlfriends were with their moms but my mother HAD TO WORK. . .

The strange thing is I did exactly the same thing to my own two sons, work, work and work even more and now I am reeping what I have sewn, alone on the holidays; my sons in the same town but busy elsewhere. So you see history repeats itself and that is not always a good thing. Would my sons or sibblings be any different if circumstances had been different? I don't know, and guess I never will. . .

Wishing you all a MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR.

GET TO KNOW MISTLETOE

2010-12-10T07:16:00.000-08:00

Here are some Surprising Facts about MISTLETOE. . .

I'm sure at one time or another in your life you either kissed someone or were kissed under the mistletoe! Well just so you know Mistletoe is much more than a cluster of berries that inspires the courage to kiss. Mistletoe is actually a parasite, yep it's true! It steals the nutrients it needs from the tree it grows on. It's berries can cause illiness, so be sure to treat real mistletoe you come in contact with with caution. Here are some other little known facts about mistletoe:

There are two types of mistletoe. The one we see most often around the holidays is native to North America and grows on trees in many parts of the U.S. The other type is of European origin.

A mistletoe infestation can kill the host tree. Some tree species though, seem to be resistant to the so-called charisma of this partial parasite. Bradford flowering pears, sycamores, redwoods, and cedar trees are rarely infested.

Druids used mistletoe as a charm. It was believed to offer protection from evil and was used to create cures called potions. In modern times midtletoe has been promoted as a folk cure for cancer. However, numerous studies have found no support for its efficacy against the disease.

The tradition of kissing beneath the mistletoe may arise from Norse mythology. Count your kisses because legend has it, you can steal only so many kisses beneath the mistletoe. For every smooch, you're suppose to remove one berry. Once all berries are gone so is the opportunity to pucker up. . .

NEW BEGINNING IN NEW YEAR

2010-12-04T02:52:00.001-08:00

The New Year is right around the corner. Sure you could resolve to lose a few pounds or be better about saving money, or starting an exercise regime. This year though, why not try something completely different, something out of the ordinary for you. Here are some alternative resolutions:

EXPLORE YOUR SURROUNDINGS. . .
Check out restaurants, parks, museums and other attractions in your area you've never visited.

BRANCH OUT WITH BOOKS . . .
Can't afford a trip to a far off locale? Read a book set in the country of your dreams. Always read the same type of books? Change, be different, if you love romance novels, try a good mystery. If you usually read fiction check out a best selling novel.

BROADEN YOUR PALATE. . .
Get out and sample new unusual cuisines or vow to cook one new recipe each week.

MAKE TIME TO HELP OTHERS. . .
Seasoned volunteers say their work is even more beneficial to them than the recipients of their time and labor.

MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF. . .
Taking time to relax isn't lazy - you're merely recharging ytour battery.

GET IN FRONT OF YOUR FRIENDS. . .
Phones and social networking sites are great for connecting with friends far and wide, but nothing can replace a face to face conversation

GAIN SOME KNOWLEDGE - LEARN SOMETHING NEW. . .
Whether it's a foreign language or dance steps or computer skills, and you'll end the new year mentally richer.

Next week I am going to offer a quiz on Mistletoe. Lets see how much we actually know!!!

SHOP SAFELY - ONLINE AND OFF

2010-11-27T01:36:00.000-08:00

Thieves are poised to take advantage of any misques that frantic shoppers make. Help keep your holiday season theft free by following these simple tips:

Protect your purse and wallet:
Your handbag sitting in the shopping cart makes it easy game for a quick criminal if you look away for even a minute. The same goes for hanging it on back of your chair at a food court. Wallets should be carried in a front pocket.

Don't load yourself down:
By minimizing the number of packages you have to juggle, you can pay more attention to your surroundings and you reduce the risk of losing a package.

Dress comfortably and that includes shoes:
Shopping in high heels not only leads to sore feet - it also marks you as a shopper that can't run very fast after a thief.

Don't advertise:
If you're traveling from store to store by car, hide all purchases in your trunk. Also, don't flash large wads of cash in public.

Proof of purchase:
Buying with a credit or debit card creates a paper trail in case you lose your receipt. Also, many credit card companies offer reimbursement if you're a victim of fraud.

Be especially careful online:
It's safest to patronize familiar retailers on the web. As an extra precaution, consider shopping with a prepaid debit card (available at many retailers).

WHAT THE HELL IS NEXT?????

2010-11-19T12:56:00.000-08:00

I am extremely ticked off and frightened at the same time. I was taught by my father and other men I respect that when our Government starts trying to grow larger than WE THE PEOPLE by controling the food, the guns and the jobs thats when we become a nation run by a dictator. Recently I received several petitions to sigh to try and stop this corrupt O'Bama government from making anyone owning firearms have to report it on their income tax returns from now on. This would have to be done in order to keep from being fined, have your guns consficated and even do some possible jail time. Also the bill stipulates, they, whoever they are, have the right to enter our homes uninvited to make sure we keep our guns child safe, and if not the same punishments apply. Reminds me of old Communist Russia with Big Brother watching...

Now as bad as that is there is even a worse bill trying to be slid past the Congress/Senate by guess who??? Big ears, he lies alot? You got it!!!! This law seems to have been past recently in Europe but not to such a degree as ours would be. It is called "Criminalizing Gardening." If you go to my Facebook page under Charleen Micheles and click the picture under this topic the entire ridiculous/disgusting article can be read. It is another example of 'follow the money.' Todays supplements and natural healing have become frighteningly popular because they are inexpensive and work. The big drug companies are terrified because we aren't falling for their hipe and not depending on their dangerous/poisonous drugs. People wanting to eat healthier are gardening and growing organic, natural healthy vegetables. In this bill they even have a paragraph that if you should save seeds and get caught it is punishable the same as if you were selling drugs. Can you imagine that??? Anyhow read the article and sigh the petition if you can...

Besides having to buy O'Bama Care where does that leave us if they decides we all need to ride bicycles, or live without air-conditioning, the examples are endless, and all things we in this country have earned and yes, take for granted.?? Sound ridiculous? Well think again. Dictators are some of the most dangerous people around and we don't need one in these United States. I can't believe what is in some of the bills he and his co-conspiritors are trying to sneak by us and our new representatives on Capitol hill. So please pay attention and if interested in our future read the article on Crimilinizing Gardening as an example of insanity run wild.

Another day, another holiday!

2010-10-29T16:57:00.000-07:00

I want to wish all my blog followers a very HAPPY HALLOWEEN ..........

I was having a conversation with some folks in the resort I live in about a party we are having for Halloween on Saturday evening, all hallows eve. Many of our residents will be dressing up in costume and some will not. I usually go to the parties every year but haven't worn a costume in years. I usually take out my little black dress and wear an ample amount of gawdy jewelry and dance the night away. We are a gated community and have never in the 20 years I have lived here gotten trick ot treaters. I can't say that upsets me. I have two sons and two grandsons so I have done my share of trick or treating and passing out goodies at our door.

We all agreed it seems Halloween has become more for the adults in these past years than for the kids. More parties, more costumes rented and more adult shinanigans. Where ever you go, if you go out, be safe, lots of drunken idiots roaming the streets not caring who they might hurt. Luckily I will be at one of our beautiful, safe clubhouses behind locked gates so no problem here.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN my friends....

Here is a recipe I like to make on Halloween as a dessert after dinner. It's light, not fattening and so very tasty, also easy to make too...

1 envelope unflavored gelatin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/2 cup cold water
2 eggs yolks, lightly beaten
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/4 cups canned pumpkin
8 packets sugar substitute
2 egg whites

Combine gelatin, salt and spices. Add 1/4 water. Stir.
Mix egg yolks with heavy cream, 1/4 cup water, and pumpkin in top of double boiler. Add gelatin mixture. Cook over boiling water for 10 minutes, stirring constantly.
Refrigerate until thick as unbeaten egg whites. Stir occasionally. Add sugar substitute (taste for sweetness.)
Beat the egg whites until stiff. Fold the chilled pumpkin mixture into egg whites. Be careful not to break down the volume of egg whites. Turn into a 1 1/2 quart souffle dish. Refrigerate.
Serves 8 people...

DOGS EAT ANYTHING: But should they?

2010-10-21T15:57:00.000-07:00

DANGER to all dogs. . .

Recently I have been doing research on foods not good for our dogs, in fact some have the ability to kill them. We have probably all heard the warnings against chocolate as it is possibly the worst of the foods a dog can ingest. Some people have said they only give their petS sugar free candy. There is a substance in many sugar free items such as candy, gum and cookies called:
XYLITOL and it can be a recipe for disaster, why you ask, because for diabetics it is considered natural and safe unless your a dog, then it causes potentially fatal hypoglycemia. And if that weren't enough it can also cause deadly liver necrosis. Many veternarians believe their should be warning labels on anything containing Xylitol for dog owners...

GRAPES & RAISINS, as healthy as they are for we humans have killed dogs after only seven grapes due to kidney failure. Vets believe a yet unnamed toxin to which we are immune works to kill our pets. Raisens are even worse, being smaller there is a more concentrated amount of this mystery substance which is more dangerous. The symptons are vomiting, dairrhea and lethargy.

ONIONS & ONION POWDER, one onion ring won't kill but a bunch could. Onions contain disulfides which inside a dogs body destroy red blood cells. Onion powder, like raisins is even worse because all the harmless water is removed. The powder tends to build up and cause startling results like labored breathing, upset stomach and lethargy.
GARLIC, contains the same toxin but doesn't seem as dangerous for a reason yet unknown.

PITTED FRUITS, can cause serious choking in our pet but did you know that peach, plum, apricot, cherry, and persimmon pits all contain a cyanide derivative that builds up over time. So these delicious harmless fruits to us, are a serious danger to our pets.

TREE NUTS, especially Macadamias contain one or more unknown doggy neurotoxins that can result in weakness, stiffness, pain and severe shaking. All walnuts harbor a fungus deadly to dogs. Keep pets away from all nuts.

ANYTHING WITH CAFFEINE, most dog owners know to keep caffeine away from your pets or they could become all twitchey, have possible seizures, kind of like a person on meth.
CHOCOLATE is however ranked lower than some other substances mentioned here because it depends alot on the amount of chocolate ingested, the strength of the chocolate and weight/size of the dog. A 50 pound dog can tolerate 18 ounces of milk chocolate (usually?) 8 ounces of dark semi-sweetened or 2.6 ounces of baking or unsweetened chocolate, and 1.4 ounces of dry cocoa powder. If the dog weighs less than 15 pounds rush him to the vet if he eats anything besides milk chocolate. But if it's just one candy he should be okay, besides a few more trips potty!

FATTY FOODS, when your dogs beg for bacon and the fat trimmed from your steak, he's also begging for potential pancreatitis. Symptoms include vomiting, severe abdominal pain and shock.
These results can have a cumulative effect or result from a single fatty meal, and it can be fatal.

BONES & CORNCOBS, any vet worth his salt will say the same thing my mothers vet told her when she adopted a stray that had been hanging around her bakery for weeks. She took it to the vet for a check up asking him, "what kind of bones can I feed my dog?" The vet smiled, then looked sternly at her and said: "ELEPHANT BONES!!!" So mothers dog Champ never got any bones except doggy milk bones...

HEALTH and EASY WEIGHT LOSS

2010-10-09T18:05:00.000-07:00

MEDITERRANIAN DIET and a HEALTHY HEART

Ever since I can remember I have wanted and needed to lose 15 pounds. After I married and had two kids the weight became easier to gain and harder to lose. I did all the popoular diets and invented several of my own until finally realizing I simply had to eat less and move more. Sounds easy right? Well, it isn't. I love food! I never drank alcohol or smoked and eating was an adventure to me. I also love to cook and am an excellent cook. I would gain 20 pounds, and then lose it, and gain it back again, and lose it, it was a vicious circle always leaving me fat.

All his young life my son had bouts with broncitis and suffered so. Every time the seasons in Chicago changed, he got sick. The horrid winters were a real problem. I was told that he needed to be in a hot, dry climate or he might not live through another bad cold season. So in the 1970's we moved to the desert here in Nevada. I am happy to report his lungs cleared nicely and with a proper diet and supplements he thrived...and still does today.

The down side to all this is Vegas has more restaurants and fabulous chefs than you can count. In my job working on the strip I met many famous entertainers, and was always invited and going to parties where fantastic dishes were served, and I loved eating the foods. Plus I got comped at so many Casino restaurants I was always eating rich delicious foods, all for free. Thus my 20 extra pounds began to creep up way past 50...yikes!!!

Enough about that but allow me to give you the answer to eating good, delicious foods and still eating to lose weight, and then how to maintain the pounds lost, like I have...

Consider how the Mediterranian Eating Plan has been established to promote lifelong good health and lower the risk of both heart disease and cancer. It is far more than a diet, it is a lifestyle...

Main ingredients of the Mediterranian diet include:
*Eating small portions of nuts, 'All' nuts but walnuts, almonds, pecans and brazil nuts are best (a handful only.)
*Consuming very little red meats.
*Eat fish or shellfish at least twice a week, (not fried.)
*Eating generous amounts of fruits and vegetables daily.
*Consuming healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil and canola oil.
*Using herbs and spices to flavor foods instead of salt (we only need 1/2 tsp. of salt a day)
*Drinking wine in moderation.
*Enjoying yogurt and small portions of cheese daily.
* Eat a good 7 to 9 grain bread, 2 slices a day.

Changing to a Mediterranian diet is much easier than you'd think, it takes just a few diet swaps.
*Regularily exercising ( I simply walk and bike ride. ) And as often as possible, enjoy meals with family and friends.
Good luck and bon' a petite!

Another Month has gone by...

2010-10-01T00:33:00.000-07:00

Today it is October 1st., 2010 and I can hardly believe it. Where does the time go and why does it move so much faster after we reach 60+? I remember not being able to wait to be 13, a teenager, then 16 so I could have more freedom, then 18 the magical year. I had so much freedom I moved out of the house and found a small apartment. Big MISTAKE!! I was afraid all the time and hated being alone at night. I got engaged and moved back home. Married by 18 and at 21 I had my first child, my son David. That bliss lasted until I was 23. By 26 I was remarried and had another son, Mark. My boys were 5 years apart. Even though the time was flashing before my eyes I never noticed it. And as I grew older I can remember saying about losing some weight, or doing something else I needed to do, "oh, I can do that by the time I'm 36." Not sure why I picked 36 but I did. Thirty six came and went and now I am 70. I am still losing the same weight once more, screwed up several careers and excelled in several others. I have finally semi-retired. I have no idea how much time I still have and can't help but look back wondering where did all my time go? I am well past what I considered my magic age, and am still waiting to do too many things, 36 has come and gone, so has 46, 56 and 66. Now instead of being cocky and saying I have time galore, I know that isn't so.

I am not complaining but just warning those of you who haven't reached 36 or your own magic number to do all that you can now at the age you are, Take full advantage of your youth, enjoy feeling good like the world is your oyster because time waits for no man, or woman. Grab the world by the behind, throw caution to the wind and go for the gusto. . .

October 1st. 2010, WOW!

The Forgotten Man - Jon McNaughton

2010-09-29T15:24:00.000-07:00

LIFE STYLES

2010-09-17T15:07:00.000-07:00

CAMP THE GREAT OUTDOORS

When this kind of cooler weather comes to the desert as fall begins to surface, some of my friends and I like to go camping on the weekends. I was just reading in an outdoors magazine that The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association estimates 34 million Americans go camping annually. It's fairly inexpensive, and the whole family can enjoy time together. We all leave any games etc. at home. We play cards, checkers and word games. With a little planning, some gear, and a sense of adventure, camping can be a great way to spend any weekend.

Before heading out be sure to familiarize every camper with the campground rules, such as those regarding fires, pets, and vehicles. And don't forget the First Aid kit.

Remember to tell someone at home where you'll be camping and when you will return, even if not far from city limits.

Necessities, of which water seems obvious, but take into account the number of campers, weather, and activity levels. Note whether portable water will be availabe and decide how you'll clean cooking utensils. You should NEVER clean items in the river or a stream. Next is to make sure you pack for each camper a multi-tool knife, a lantern or flashlight, bugspray, sunscreen, a map of the area and well charged cell phones. You can go to http://www.koa.com/ a nationwide campground operator for a list of other must-haves, including the all important tent and sleeping bags. Be careful how much stuff you pack as some campgrounds do not allow you to drive onto the campgrounds, you have to park the vehicle and walk the rest of the way which can be quite a far distance when loaded down with gear.

Expect to see wildlife, and enjoy it. They usually won't bother you if you leave them alone. In fact bring along binoculars and a camera. Always follow the essential rule for the out of doors and never feed wild animals. Ans make sure everything you brought in, leaves with you.
ENJOY!!!

This is the part I hate but it must be done or you'll be sorry next year. . .

Dry out tents, tarps or anything else that may have gotten wet. Record your trip, note wildlide delicious wild type meals, and funny moments. (optional)

This is also optional but a couple of us who can shot well carry a pistol with us just in case. One year we encountered a starving, wounded racoon who was viciously trying to attack anyone of us that moved. He was shot, it was him or one of us. We saved the body and reported to the Game Warden as we were leaving. You never know, and it is always; "better to be safe than sorry."

I am all packed and ready to go. This will be Sassy, my Chihuahua's first camping trip. It should prove very interesting, her being the size of a squirrel with the temperment of a mountain lion!

Welcome Barbara as a new follower, I am also following you at 'Musings by Barb.'

Boggled Mind today...

2010-09-10T17:40:00.000-07:00

Well here I sit starring at the computer screen fingers on the keys with no idea what to write. I had several ideas but my hands just don't want to type what is in my head. I believe it's because my thoughts are so scrambled lately, so please bear with me as I surf through my brain for something to put down...

One, I am happy to be following my 89 year old Uncle John Thomas with his very first blog he calls VIEW FROM MY WINDOW. You can take a peek too by going to:
www.aerialrefeuler.wordpress.com/ He is an interesting, well traveled individual. He spent nearly 30 years in the United States Air Force serving his country, and he's just written a book about his experiences. Look out ladies, this silver haired gent is quite a hand full...

Next, I received the most interesting email today regarding the Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd. The email stated that this man is a hero and should govern America and Canada as well. I found that quite a statement but after having read the artilce I agreed 100% and immediately went to Twitter/Facebook to spread the word. This man stood up tall and told the Muslims that if they didn't like Australia and her laws, to go somewhere else and that he would not be blackmailed the way these Muslims threats are blackmailing America and Canada and our wimpy/weak leaders. It made me sick after reading all that we have done to accomodate these interlopers into our countries. Check around on line and you should be able to find the articles. God Bless, and Bravo to KEVIN RUDD, Prime Minister of Australia...

I am not generally a person who gets involvewd in politics even though I read everything and watch the major TV stations. I do have friends where I once worked in Washington, D.C. at The Washington Times newspaper. I get a lot of scuttle-butt from friends there even before it is on the news. I am passionate about my country and hate what is being done to it by those who swore to protect it. The sooner we get rid of O'Bama and his butt kissing czars the better it will be for us all!!! That's all I am going to say about that!

The weather here in the Nevada desert has changed dramatically. It is not going above the 90's in the daytime and goes down into the 70's and 60's at night. Fall and Winter are the best months here. I look forward to those two seasons and some of early Spring, but definitely not summertime, yuk!!!

I am trying to make the best of growing older. I never thought about it much before the years began to fly by! I have been in a real funk of late when I realized I am virtually alone, my fault as I was the one to marry and move away from my girlhood home. If I died tomorrow there would be no one standing by to mourn my passing. Pretty bad when all one has to look forward to after living a very interesting, full life is to die alone. Hey don't get me wrong, hopefully there are still some good years in this old gal. Heck my mom, bless her heart, is 90 and going strong. and her sister, my Aunt June is 91. They are both the most remarkable women. Their brother is my Uncle John mentioned above.

I would love to move back to the Midwest near a lake so I can go fishing and walk in the rain. I have always missed the changing seasons...

Well for someone who didn't have anything to say, this is quite something. No wonder my friends in cyber space call me Chatty Lady...

See you all next time, and if anyone has a place in the Midwest near water let me know, I would leave here gladly in a heartbeat!

Things to ask yourself about...

2010-09-03T16:11:00.000-07:00

WHY????

Why do we press harder on a remote control when we know the batteries are almost dead?

Why do banks charge a fee on 'insufficient funds' when they already know there is not enough money?

Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars; but have to check when you tell them the paint is still wet?

Why doesn't Tarzan have a beard?

Why does Superman stop bullets with his chest, but ducks when someone throws a revolver at him?

Why do Kamikazie pilots wear helmets?

If people evolved from apes, why are there still apes?

Why is it that no matter what color bubble bath you use, the bubbles are always clear?

Is there ever a day that mattresses are NOT on sale?

Why do people return to the refrigerator umteen times a night, is it in hopes something new to eat will have materialized?

Why is it that no plastic bag will ever open from the end you try first?

How do all the dead bugs get into those enclosed light fixtures?

In winter why do we try to keep the house as warm as in summer when we complained about the heat?

How come we never hear father-in-law jokes?

The statistics on sanity is that one out of every four persons is suffering from some sort of mental illiness. Think of your three best friends - if they're okay, then it's you!!!!

A day without a smile is a day wasted. . .

HIDDEN TREASURE

2010-08-27T17:14:00.000-07:00

I found this very interesting when learning about it in Consumer Tips...and I decided to pass it along. . .

It began, you may be rich and not even know it, (yeah sure) but I read on anyway. There is nearly $33 billoin in unclaimed property, including stocks, uncashed checks, insurance policies, CDs, trust funds, utility deposits, and escrow accounts that are waiting for someone to claim each and every one of them. It could be you. Sure as heck ain't me!! All you need is proof the money belongs to you! (I knew there was a catch!)

Where do you start your inquiry you ask? Two websites get the ball rolling and they are free of charge. http://www.unclaimed.org/ and http://www.missingmoney.com/ both of which are endorsed by The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administration, (wow, quite a mouthful!) Just type in your NAME and STATE to see if you have money owed to you. It could be worth your time. . .

A person in St. Louis who lost track of stock holdings recovered $1.6 million. This is not the only success story either, in 2006, $1.75 billion was returned to it's rightful owners from 1.9 million different accounts.

The law requires companies to send unclaimed funds from inactive accounts to the state of the owners last known address, so check other states if you have moved. Claims can be made into perpetuity, even by heirs. The information on line is refreshed monthly.

Log on today to see if any money is owed to you. Your piggy bank just might thank you. Oh, and if you do find treasure because of this blog, I accept any and all size finders fee's and gifts!

THE REST OF THE 25 TIPS TO LIVE BY

2010-08-20T16:52:00.000-07:00

I started this LIST in July and then got busy with other topics, sorry, so here are the best of rest...

13.) To clean artificial flowers, pour some salt into a paper bag then add the flowers. Shake vigorously and the salt will absorb all the dust and dirt leaving your artificial flowers looking like new. Works like a charm!!!

14.) To easliy remove brunt on food from your skillet, simply add a drop or two of dish soap and enough water to cover the bottom of the pan, then bring to a boil on stovetop.

15.) Spray your plasticware, like Tupperware with nonstick cooking spray before pouring in tomato sauces and there won't be any stain.

16.) When a cake recipe calls for flouring the baking pan, use a bit of dry cake mix instead and there won't be any tasteless white mess on the outside of the cake.

17.) Wrap celery in aluminun foil before putting in refrigerator and it will keep for weeks.

18.) When boiling corn on the cob, add a pinch of sugar to help bring out the corns natural sweetness.

19.) Don't throw out all that leftover wine. Freeze it into cubes for future use in casseroles and sauces.

20.) Cure for a headache. Take a lime, cut it in half and rub it on your forehead. The throbbing will go away.

21.) To get rid of itch from mosquito bites, try applying soap on the area. You will experience instant relief.

22.) Ants, ants, ants everywhere ... Well they are said to never cross a chalk line. So get your chalk out and draw a line on the floor or wherever ants tend to march and see for yourself.

23.) When you get a splinter reach for the scotch tape before resorting to tweezers or a needle. Simply put the scotch tape over the splinter, press, then pull it off. Scotch tape removes most splinters painlessly and easily.

24.) Use air freshners to clean mirrors. It does a good job and better yet leaves a lovely aroma behind with the shine.

25.) Now just look what you can do with inexpensive ALKA SELTZER TABLETS. . .

* To clean a toilet drop in two alka seltzer tablets, wait 20 minutes, brush and flush.

* To Clean a glass vase or cruet, and remove the stain from the bottom fill with water and add two tablets, wait 20 minutes, shake and wipe clean.

* To polish jewelry, put two tablets into a glass or bowl of water. Immerse the jewelry for two minutes, remove jewelry, rinse, and wipe dry with soft cloth.

* Clean an old thermos bottle by filling it with water then drop in four (4) tablets and soak for one hour. If necessary.

* To unclog a drain, clear the sink clean by dropping three (3) tablets down the drain followed by a cup of Heinz White Vinegar. Wait a few minutes then run the hot water.

Do your friends a favor by passing along this list of inexpensive and safe tips to make life easier . . . Have a wonderful weekend!!!

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS?? IS ANYONE???

2010-08-13T01:26:00.001-07:00

The following questions were set in last year's (2009) GED examinations across the United States. These are GENUINE answers (from 16 year olds.) and they will someday BREED!!!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Q. Name the four seasons.
A. Salt, pepper, mustard and vinegar...

Q. Explain one of the processes by which water can be made safe to drink.
A. Flirtation makes water safe to drink because it removes large pollutants like grit, sand, dead sheep, and canoeists...

Q. How is dew formed?
A. The sun shines down on the leaves and makes them perspire...

Q. What causes the tides in the ocean?
A. The tides are a fight between the earth and the moon. All water tends to flow towards the moon, because there is no water on the moon, and nature abhors a vacuum. I forgot where the sun joins the fight...

Q. What guarantees may a mortgage company insist on?
A. If you are buying a house they will insist that you are well endowed...

Q. In a democrati c society how important are elections?
A. Very important! Sex can only happen when the male gets an election...

Q. What are steroids?
A. Things for keeping carpets still on the stairs... Shoot yourself now theres little hope!

Q. What happens to your body as you age?
A. When you get old so do your bowels, and you get intercontinental...

Q. What happens to a boy when he reaches puberty?
A. He says goodbye to his boyhood and looks forward to his adultery...

Q. Name a major disease associated with cigarettes.
A. Premature death...

Q. What is artificial insemination?
A. When the farmer does it to the bull instead of the cow...

Q. How can you delay milk from turning sour?
A. Keep it in the cow... (simple, but quite brilliant)

Q. What is the fibula?
A. A small lie...

Q. What does 'varicose' mean?
A. Nearby...

Q. What is the most common form of birth control?
A. Most people prevent contraception by wearing condominium...

Q. Give the meaning of 'Caesarean section.'
A. The Caesarean section is a district in Rome...

Q. What is terminal illiness?
A. When you are sick at the airport...

Q. What is a seizure?
A. A Roman Emperor... (Yeah likeJulius Seizure, he came, he saw, he had a fit!)

Q. Give an example of fungus. What is a characteristic feature?
A. Mushrooms. They always grow in damp places and look like umbrellas...

Q. What does the word benign mean?
A. Benigh is what you will be after you are eight...

Q. How are the main 20 parts of the body categorized? (e.g. The abdomen)
A. The body is consisted into 3 parts - the brainium, the borax and the abdominal cavity. The brainium contains the brain, the borax contains the heart and lungs and the abdominal cavity contains the five bowels: A, E, I, O, U...

Q. User the word 'judicious' in a sentence th show you understand the meaning.
A. Hands that judicious can be as soft as your face... (OMG!!!)

Last but certainly not least........

Q. What is a turbine?
A. Something an Arab or Sheik wears on his head...

These are pretty funny until you realize they are NOT jokes and these are someones stupid kids. They are either going to college (WHAT???) or will be flipping burgers and trying to make change for a dollar.... Very Scary!

The WORST kind of DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

2010-08-06T17:46:00.000-07:00

I attended a church function recently and the topic turned to Domestic Violence as it is on the rise. Several members of our congregation are in Law Enforcement and they are witnessing the rise first hand. I also volunteer in a Woman's Shelter that is quite large and unfortunately it has become overcrowded for the very first time.

The conversation and beliefs among the group is that the economy and fear of job loss, home loss and those who are unemployed and have already experienced these losses are afraid this will become the norm and we are heading for another great depression.

These thoughts and experiences cause terror in the hearts of men who are usually good providers, it also unfortunately causes more violence in those who are subject to rages. It also causes bad decisions when women fear being all alone and unable to care for their children and sometimes due to that fear causes them to invite the wrong men into their homes...

That reminded me of a poem I had published sometime ago and decided maybe this would be a good time to post it for all to see and hopefully think seriously about.
The poem is called:

FOOTSTEPS IN THE DARK

Mommy says, angel it's time for bed,
Put on your nightgown and lay down your head.

I'll finish these dishes and come tuck you in,
I'll read you the story of The Fishes Pink Fins.

I ran up to my bedroom where my dollies live,
Put on my nighty and to each a hug I did give.

I hear mommy coming to say her goodnight,
After she reads me a story she'll turn out my light.

I shudder to think I'll be left all alone,
I wish I were a little frog that could hide under a stone.

I her mommy and her boyfriend talking real loud,
I hope they aren't fighting again about "three's a crowd."

Finally it's quiet, they must be asleep,
I've been a very good girl, never uttered a peep.

That's when I hear his footsteps in the dark,
he enters my room and on my bed he does park.

He tells me to be quiet, that I'm his little dove,
I feel his hands on my body, he says he's showing love.

I remember to this day, the pain and that sensation,
My childhood stolen with that feeling of degration.

The offensive behavior went on for years,
Until finally at eighteen, I left home in tears.

Why didn't she save me, instead of turn a blind eye?
I will never forget or forgive her; until the day I die.

APPRECIATE AND DO GOOD WORKS

2010-07-30T17:49:00.000-07:00

SUPPORT YOUR UNITED STATES SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN

Did you know the military no longer accepts "Any Service Member"mail? That stinks, but there is no reason you can't do your part to help our country's armed forces. There are many reputable organizations ready and willing with the goal of providing a morale boost to our military.

When your in your home surrounded by those you love, when you are soaking in a refreshing sweet smelling, relaxing bubble bath, or eating whatever your heart desires at the moment and going to your bedroom at night for a safe, comfortable nights sleep, think about those trying to get a moments shut eye in a war torn country hoping no mortar falls during the night or no one sneaks in to cut their throats. They have no bubble bath, they're lucky to have clean water at all, they are fortunate to be able to heat their rations before eating them, and they taste nasty at best. So next time you're enjoying all the comforts that these fighting men and women over there are safeguarding for America remember them.
Below is a list of services provided by caring organizations and if these aren't enough you can go to this email address for even more to choose from. www.Army.mil/howyoucanhelp.

HERO MILES:
Donate frequent flier miles to military men and women who are undergoing treatment at a military or VA medical center due to injury sustained in Iraq or Afghanista. Learn more at http://www.fisherhouse.org/.

TAPS:
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors provides comfort to anyone who has lost a military loved one, through comprehensive programs including crisis intrervention and peer-based emotional support. Visit: http://www.taps.org/.

HOMES FOR OUR TROOPS:
This nonprofit organization builds or renovates homes for severly wounded military members, free of charge and with special modifications as needed for particular disabilities.
Visit: http://www.homesforourtroops.org/.

GIFT CARDS FOR TROOPS. . . My personal favorite!
The Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) provides merchandise and services to militaty famailes and uses earnings to supplement Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) programs. Service members can buy anything with gift cards from baby clothes to Energy Star appliances with gift cards purchased through AAFES. Learn more at: http://www.aafes.com/

It sounds like they get lots of freebies doesn't it? Well think about what they have given up and sacrificed for us, for our freedoms. There is not enough in this world to compensate these brave men and women and their immediate families. PLease help, no amount is too small especially just sending letters and cards to let them know we appreciate their sacrifices.

GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY and GOD BLESS AMERICA.

25 SENSIBLE TIPS TO LIVE BY...

2010-07-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

This is a list I have compiled over the years to make lifes chores easier. It's for women, or men keeping up their end at home... I've listed 12 today and will list the rest another Friday.

1.) Flies or bee's bothering you? Spray them with hair spray and watch them take a quick dive.

2.) Sealed envelope? Put it into the freezer for a few hours, then slide a knife under the flap. The envelope can even be resealed if your snooping. Hummm!

3.) Use an empty toilet paper roll to store appliance cords. It keeps them neat and you can write on the roll what appliance the cord within belongs to.

4.) For icy doorsteps in freezing temperatures: get warm water and put Dawn dishwashing liquid in it. Pour it all over the steps. They absolutely won't freeze. Then in warmer weather add some water and wash the steps clean.

5.) Crayon marks on walls? Anyone with kids knows what a mess that can be! This works wonderfully! A damp rag, dipped in Baking Soda. Crayon comes off with little effort.

6.) Permanent marker on appliances/counter tops (like store receipt BLUE!) Simply use rubbing alcohol on a paper towel.

7.) Whenever I purchase a box of S.O.S. pads, I immediately take a pair of scissors and cut each pad into halves. After years of having to throw away rusted and unused and smelly pads, I finally figured out how to be more economical. Now a box of S.O.S. pads last me indefinitely. An unexpected plus I noticed is that the scissors get sharpened this way as well.

8.) Opening brand new jars can be a real pain in the drain, well, I found the answer. Instead of banging the jar of jam, pickles etc., with a knife until it loosens up, I simply reach into the drawer and pull out my handy dandy nutcracker. It adjusts to the size of the jar and I simply give it a good twist and off pops the lid.

9.) Blood stains on clothes? Not to worry! Just pour a little peroxide on a clean cloth and proceed to wipe off all the blood. Works every time, then toss cloth in washer to get it clean too.

10.) Dirty windows, well then use vertical strokes when washing windows outside and horizontal on inside windows. This way you can tell which side has the streaks. Straight vinegar will get outside windows really clean, but don't wash windows on a sunny day. They will dry too quickly and streak terribly.

11.) Spray a bit of perfume on a lightbulb in any room to create a lovely scent in each room when the light is turned on. Place fabric softener sheets in dresser drawers and your clothes will smell freshly washed for weeks to come. Especially effective on lingerie. You can also do this with towels and linens.

Last for todays tips but not least, 13 more to come another Friday...

12.) Candles will last a lot longer if placed in the freezer for at least 3 hours prior to burning.

I hope these tips will help make your life easier and lot less stressful.

SOMETHING TO OFFEND EVERYONE

2010-07-16T16:36:00.000-07:00

Feeling fiesty today so I decided to be a bit on the naughty side, we all know we are naughty sometimes but MOST just won't admit it. No one is watching now so go ahead "have a good laugh!" This is so far my longest post ever, humm!!!

What do you call two Mexicans playing basketball? Juan on Juan

What is a Yankee? The same as a Quickie but a guy can do it alone.

What is the difference between a Harley & a Hoover? The position of the Dirtbag.

Why is divorce so expensive? Because it's worth it.

What do you see when the Pillsbury Dough Boy bends over? Doughnuts.

Why is air a lot like sex? Because it's no big deal unless you ain't gettin any.

What do you call a smart blonde? A golden retriever.

What do attorneys use for birth control? Their personalities.

Whats the difference between a girlfriend and a wife? About 45 pounds.

Whats the difference between a boyfriend and a husband? About 45 minutes.

Whats the fastest way to a cheating man's heart? Through is chest with a sharp knife.

Why do men want to marry Virgins? Cause they can' stand criticism.

Why is it so hard for women to find men that are sensitive, caring and good looking? Cause those men already have boyfriends.

Why does Mike Tyson cry during sex? MACE will do that to you.

Why did O.J. Simpson want to move to Virginia? Everyone has the same DNA.

Why do men find it hard to make eye contact? Breasts don't have eyes.

What's the difference between a new husband and a new dog? After a year, the dog is still excited to see you.

What makes men chase women they have no intention of marrying? The same urge that makes dogs chase cars they have no intention of driving.

Why don't bunnies make noise when they have sex? Because they have cotton balls.

What's the difference between a porcupine and a BMW? A porcupine has the pricks on the outside.

What did the blonde say when the doctor said she was pregnant? Are you sure it's mine.
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Okay take a rest, I have a few more but have to go to church now. I will post the other few next Friday with something serious, if I can find something serious. But to leave you laughing I have one more for you today. . .

A northern fairytale begins with "Once Upon a Time." A southern fairytale begins with " Y'all ain't gonna believe this shit!!!"

Well believe it, and have a wonderful weekend. . .

ESTROGEN, PREGNANCY & WOMEN

2010-07-08T19:06:00.000-07:00

I ask you, who understands Women better than other women?

PREGNANCY Q & A PLUS MORE...

Q: Should I have a baby after 35?
A: No, 35 children is enough.

Q: I'm two months pregnant now. When will my baby move?
A. With any luck, right after he finishes college.

Q: What us the most reliable method of determining a babys sex?
A: Childbirth.

Q: My wife is five months pregnant and so moody that sometimes she's borderline irrational.
A: So what's your question?

Q: My birthing instructor says it isn't pain I'll feel during labor, but pressure, is she right?
A: Yes, in the same way a tornado might be called an air current.

Q: When is the best time to get an epidural?
A: Right after you find out your pregnant.

Q: Is there any reason I need to be in the delivery room while my wife is in labor?
A: Not unless the word "alimony" means anything to you.

Q: Is there anything I should avoid while recovering from childbirth?
A: Yes, pregnancy.

Q: Do I have to have a baby shower?
A: Not if you learn to change 'his' diaper very quickly.

Q: Our baby was born last week. When will my wife begin to feel and act normal again?
A: When the kids are in college.

BRAIN TEASERS

2010-07-03T00:34:00.000-07:00

These are pretty cool when one takes the time to read then and concentrate...

Why doesn't glue stick to the inside of the bottle, even crazy glue?

Can fat people actually go skinny dipping?

Can you be a closet claustrophobic?

Why is the word abbreviation so long?

Is it possible to be totally partial?

What is another word for Thesaurus?

If a book about failure doesn't sell, is it a success?

If a funeral is at night, do folks drive with their light off?

When companies ship styrofoam, what do they pack it in?

If you are crossed eyed but have dyslexia, can you read alright?

If a stealth bomber crashes in a forrest will it make a sound?

If the cops arrest a mime do they still say he has the right to remain silent?

If a parsley farmer is sued, can they garnish his wages?

When it rains why don't sheep shrink?

Should vegetarians eat animal crackers?

Do cemetary workers prefer the graveyard shift?

What do you do when you see an endangered animal that eats only endangered plants?

Do hungry crows have ravenous appetites?

Why is bra singular and panties plural?

If a mute swears, does his mother wash his hands with soap?

If someone with multiple personalities threatens to kill hinmself, is it considerecd a hostage situation?

Instead of talking to your plants, if you yelled at them would they still grow? Only to be troubled and insecure?

Is there another word for synonym?

Isn't it a bit unnerving that doictors call what they do "practice?"

When sign makers go on strike, is anything written on their signs?

Where do Forrest Rangers go to gat away from it all?

Why do they report power outages on TV?
----------------------------------------------------------------
To all our Veterans out there...

HAPPY 4th of JULY... And thanks to you all for our FREEDOM.

BURGLARS TELL YOU TO TAKE HEED!!

2010-06-25T00:48:00.000-07:00

Recently there has been in the news more and more accounts of burglaries, some with violence to the poor people being victimized. I am in possession of some good information that might save someone from becoming a victim. Pay close attention, these are things we all need to be made aware of. These hints were given to law enforcement by career criminals that have gone straight.

WHO IS A BURGLAR?

Do I look familiar? I should, I was just here last week cleaning your carpets, or painting your house, landscaping, or delivering your new refrigerator.

Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was here last week, While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.

Sometimes, I carry a clipboard to look like I have legitimate business in your neighborhood. Sometimes, I dress like the lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never ever look like a crook.

WHAT BURGLARS LOOK FOR...

Those toys your kids leave outside make me wonder what type of electronics and gaming systems you have inside your house.

Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up in the driveway or on the porch. I might even leave a pizza flyer to see how long it takes to remove it.

If glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the alarm pad in view. That makes it easy to see if the alarm is set or not.

It's raining, you're fumbling with your unbrella and forget to lock your door, understandable! But understand this; I don't take a day off because of bad weather. When you are not paying attention I will be.

I always knock first to see if anyone answer, I'll ask for directions or offer to work in your yard for food, but don't take me up on it.

Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside tables, and the medicine cabinet.

I love looking in your windows. I'm looking for signs that you're home and for flat screen TV's or gaming systems I like. I'll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night before you close your blinds, just to pick out my targets.

HELPFUL HINTS...

I almost never ever go into kids rooms.

You are right; I won't have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables but if it's not bolted down, I'll just take it with me.

A loud radio or TV can be as good a deterrent as an alarm system. If you're reluctant to leave the TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a timer that turns things on and off according to the times you set.

The things I hate worse are loud, or yappy dogs and nosey neighbors.

I'll break a window to get in even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he may stop what he's doing to listen and see if he hears it again. If he doesn't hear it again, he'll probably just go back to what he was doing. It's human nature.

Why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system, then leave your home without setting it? Yep, people actually do.

A good security company alarms the window over the sink and the windows on the second floor which often access the master bedroom and your jewelry. I also look for money, guns, and credit cards. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors on the second floor too.

THINGS TO AVOID...

You may want to avoid announcing your vacation plans on your Facebook page. It's easier than you might think to find out your address.

To you leaving a window open just a crack during the day is a way to let fresh air in; but to me it's an invitation to come inside and help myself.

If you don't answer when I knock, I'll try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and stroll right into someones home left wide open.

Don't put a mourning or some form of berevement on your front door because we burglars check obituaries and funeral times. If something looks promising we will hit during the funeral. Hey, one persons loss is anothers gain and we are burglars after all. Do you really need a double tragedy???

NOTE:
I promised you a quiz today but felt this was more important. I will do the quiz say on Tuesday or Wednesday so watch for it...

THINGS MOTHER TAUGHT ME (part 2)

2010-06-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

Here it is Friday and I have the rest of the things Mother Taught Me, and to the shigrin of my own two sons, the same things I taught them as their mother. Heres hoping there may be a few you could use on your own children or grandchildren, or not if you want to remain popular with them...

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION
"Stop acting like your father."

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... ENVY
"There are millions of less fortunate children in the world who don't have wonderful parents like you do."

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... ANTICIPATION
"Just wait until your father gets home."

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... RECEIVING
"You are going to get yours when we get home young lady."

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... MEDICAL SCIENCE
If you don't stop crossing your eyes, they are going to get stuck that way."

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... ESP
"Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you're cold?"

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... HUMOR
"When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, you won't be laughing then."

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT
"If you don't eat all your vegetables, you'll never grow up."

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... GENETICS
"You're just like your lazy father."

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... ROOTS
"Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?"

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... WISDOM
"When you get to be my age, then you'll understand."

MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT... JUSTICE
"One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you."

There are probably many more lessens learned at the hand of my MOTHER. She was, and remains a wise and out spoken woman of the times...

Next Friday I will be asking you 28 questions that I consider BRAIN TEASERS. So put on your thinking caps Friday 25th. ands stop by for some challenging fun!!!

EXAMPLE:
Why isn't there mouse flavored cat food???

I OWE MY MOTHER

2010-06-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

Recently on the Boomer Women Speaks forum my friend Queen JJ mentioned how fortunate she is to still have her mother to call up and speak to whenever she wants to. Many of the women there have lost their mothers. I too am one of the fortunate ones as my own mom is 90 years old and still clear headed and quite eager to share her ideas. That made me think of all I have to be thankful to my mother for because she taught my sibblings and myself her very own ideas of how to teach ones children. A few examples below...

MOTHER TAUGHT US TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE...
"If you're going to kill one another, do it outside, I just finished cleaning."

MOTHER TAUGHT US RELIGION...
"You better pray that will come out of the carpet."

MOTHER TAUGHT US ABOUT TIME TRAVEL...
"If you don't straighten up, I'll knock you into the middle of next week."

MOTHER TAUGHT US LOGIC...
"If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the store with me.

MOTHER TAUGHT US FORESIGHT...
"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."

MOTHER TAUGHT US IRONY...
"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."

MOTHER TAUGHT US ABOUT SCIENCE OSMOSIS...
"Shut your mouth, and eat your dinner."

MOTHER TAUGHT US ABOUT CONTORTIONISM...
"Would you look at that dirt on the back of your neck."

MOTHER TAUGHT US STAMINA...
"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."

MOTHER TAUGHT US ABOUT WEATHER...
"This room of yours looks like a tornado blew through it."

MOTHER TAUGHT US ABOUT HYPOCRISY...
"If I told you once, I've told you a millioin times. Don't exaggerate!"

MOTHER TAUGHT ME THE CIRCLE OF LIFE...
"I brought you into this world, and I can take you out."

These are just a few things mother taught us and there are more so check this blog again next Friday for the rest of the lessons my MOTHER TAUGHT and is STILL TEACHING US...

CHARITABLE WASTING...

2010-06-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

How many charitable organizations do you think print and send out address labels, calendars etc. saying with these unasked for items, Thanks for your Donation!! If they just sent out a postcard asking for a donation it wouldn't cost nearly as much and most people I know, and that includes me, would send them something BUT when they send all this stuff no one even wants, with all their sad stories and reasons we need to give, and spending God know how much of the money meant for the children or other disease cures, it really ticks me off. Can you imagine what it costs to print the hundred of thousands of labels and all the wasted paper to write and try to guilt us into giving?

I for one open the envelope but unless there is a stamped self addressed envelope inside I toss the entire mess. If however there is a prepaid envelope inside I fold everything sent to me and stuff it into the envelope with a note saying: Stop bothering me... Then throw it in the mailbox to go right back from whence it came. Hoping this gets me off their list.

I happily give to certain charities every year with no coaxing what-so-ever or bribes. Thats what I think is right. If these so called chariteis begging for money and spending it as fast as they get it by sending out worthless crap would stop the process, maybe they could/would do some good for those needing the donations.

Maybe it's just me but this has been building for sometime now and I felt it needed to be said. I am not heartless in any form. I help whoever I can whenever I can and ask for nothing in return. And I can buy my own labels and calendars too.

I wonder what the salarys are for these people sitting around thinking up ways to drag donations from people, maybe they need to clean house and get rid of the dead weight and their salaries!!

NOTE:
On a much happier note, if any of you have alot of belly fat you have tried to lose and just can't seem to get rid of it, check out this genius of a man who can guarantee you how to lose it forever. It is sooo easy and anyone can do it...Even I did it!!! No diet really and no strenuous exercise.

http://www.jorgecruise.com/

It's called The Belly Fat Cure and he will send it to you absolutely FREE in an email, all you need do is print the page, actually there are 4 pages.... Check it out; all he asks for is seven days to drop four or more pounds.

WORDS and alternate meanings...

2010-06-04T15:57:00.000-07:00

I took an aptitude test recently online and the end result was a comfortably high I.Q. matching other tests I've take in school, but even better they named me as a WORD WARRIOR. Well let me tell you that being a published author, editor, and ghostwriter that made me very happy. I found an exercise we use to do when I began writing, a play on the spoken/written word. Check these out...

ADULT = is a person who has stopped growing at both ends and is now growing in the middle.

BEAUTY PARLOR = a place women curl up and dye.

CHICKEN = the only creature we can eat before it's born and after it's dead.

CANNIBAL = someone fed up with people.

COMMITTEE = a body that keeps minutes while wasting hours.

DUST = mud with all the juice squeezed out.

HANDKERCHIEF = cold storage.

MOSQUITO = one insect that makes us feel better about flies.

SECRET = something we tell one person at a time.

SKELETON = a bunch of bones with the person scraped off.

TOOTHACHE = the pain that drives you to extraction.

RAISIN = grape with bad sunburn.

YAWN = an honest opinion openly expressed.

TOMORROW = one of the greatest labor saving devices of today.

WRINKLES = something other people have similar to my character lines.

These are just a few play on words. Words if you think about it are one of our greatest tools or one of our greatest weapons. I have a rapier wit, am a sarcastic type, but funny by most standards. Yes with only words I can cut to the quick... Luckily I'm so lovable!

I adore words, reading, writing and speaking them. So for today I'll say odios, bon voyage, sianara, chow, and goodbye...

ROCKER/RECLINER

2010-06-02T18:31:00.000-07:00

Well I finally took the bull by the horns and ordered myself something for a change. I came into some money via a ghostwriting gig awhile back and have been sitting on it in case of an emergency. Never should have put that idea in FATES mind because as luck, or no luck would have it, I needed to replace and air-conditioning unit, and as I thought a so called 'green' unit cost lots of green, and left little behind for me.

Then of course horribly high winds blew through the desert for days and took most of my roof with them. Had to get a new one of those too, can you feel my cash dwindling?

Of course my sainted mother turned 90 so that had to be something very special and expensive. She is worth every cent believe me. Then my luck really went south when my beloved dog died and to make things worse if they possibly could be, her liter mate died 15 days later. The only thing that survived the vet was me and an near empty bank account. I'm sure I personally paid for half his new yacht.

Oh, just remembered, my birthday is coming soon so I did splurge and buy myself a new best friend, a teacup Chihuahua with all the fixens. So, okay, I lied!

But before the last of my money found it's way to another emergency, I ordered myself a new chair from R.C. Willey, it's a burgundy rocker/recliner and just gorgeous. And speaking of gorgeous the guy who delivered it was tall, dark and years too young for me but when he flirted with me, I flirted right back. Little did he know that the attention being paid to him was his tip! He sure was McHunky though. My Cougar claws nearly reached up and ripped his shirt off. I batted my long lashes so much he probably thought me spasdic! Oh well, 20 years younger and he'd have made a nice Cougar snack, grrrr!!!

So here I sit, reclined (alone) in my new chair. All I have left is pocket change to fall back on now but hell, what else could happen??????

SASSY GIRL arrives...

2010-05-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

I got so tired of being sad, crying, mopping around and feeling guilty about my Yorkies, Reeta and Rosee's death, I finally just got mad. Not at anyone in particular and if the facts were faced in a adult fashion, my two girls had everything any dogs could want, beautiful home, plenty of food, (people food too) they loved to eat. They were loved 24/7 and spoiled rotten. Unfortunately we all have to leave this earth when our time comes, even our pets, and their time came. They had a good long life (13 years) and are in doggie heaven where the grass is always green and the water is icy cold the way they like it.

Anyway I decided to give another dog the same kind of a life and give myself an adorable new little someone to love and then it happened I saw her face on line and she was right here in Nevada too!!! Oh my and what a face it is. I thought of her name the minute I saw her in action, she is no bigger than a minute with the emense energy of a hurricane, and the most beautiful colors of chocolate, tan and white. I'm calling her Sassy Girl... The name fits her, she has been with me now for 6 days and already runs me and the house. Investigates everything and tastes it as well. Too funny... Maybe she should be called Sherlock?

Sassy Girl is a Teacup Chihuahua and should top the scales at about 2/4 pounds. She is an explosion of love and puppy kisses that boggles the mind. I had forgotten how much fun a puppy can be and one this tiny can't, so won't destroy anything in my home. That's a plus! I once had a Doberman that ate both a Grandmothers and Grandfathers (that's what they were called then, one high back, one lower back) blue velvet chairs in a single afternoon, wood and all. Apprently he hated being left home alone. Geesh!!!!

So anyway that's my happy news, and as soon as I can figure out how I will post her picture. I am so technically inept and it really ticks me off.

I hope all's well in your part of the world. The sun is shining brightly now in mine.

Searching for Love...

2010-05-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile now since I lost my adorable Yorkies, Reeta and Rosee. I am still sad on occasion but much less than before and even feeling more like the old me, and believe me old is what I am becoming.

I have been combing the local Nevada animal shelter and rescue groups for a new little friend to love. I would love to have a small Chihuahua. A Chihuahua was the very first dog I ever owned. I was sixteen and bought her with my own money; earned as a carhop at A&W Root Beer Drive-in. Her name was Lady and she was fawn colored. I have owned many dogs since then but always loved those sassy little Chihuahuas.

Ever heard the saying: If it can go wrong, it will? Well put that saying to music and it would be my theme song, I kid you not. Listen to this and tell me you don't agree with me...

I began searching the local shelters in person and on the computer and found a local breeder but of course she had just sold her last teacup Chihuahua, so then I decided to stick with shelter dogs and give one a home. The one I found was an adorable 8 week old Chihuahua female pictured on the adoption page of The Animal Foundation in Vegas.

I called first thing the next day to go and see her close up and personal only to be informed that she was part of a 'confiscation' of dogs due to a cruelty case and she should not have been on the adoption page at all, that she was in the nursery getting special care.

It's been weeks later as of today and today was told she was being evaluated to see if she might be able to be put up for adoption and come home with me. She is very shy and shakes at the sight of people. I can't even imagine what kind of cruel jackass would abuse a small puppy and how she was abused. Apparently she is healthy as per the vet so maybe I will never know. But as far as friendly goes she will soon see that most people at least all she will ever come in contact with are sweet, kind and loving people. I will spoil her rotten...and love her to pieces.

All I need now for when she comes home is a name, any suggestions???

May 1st. 2010

2010-04-30T17:51:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe time moves so swiftly, never ending on it's journey to the end of time. Ever wonder when that might be? Ever think you couldn't care less? I was feeling that way today and mentioned it to my good friend Victoria in California, and was surprised to hear her say the same thing. It seems we discussed that both have had exciting full lives, our kids are grown and happy, we've both had a good man that was taken away much to early and both have been successful in our chosen careers.

What with the government we now have running our country I believe it is the beginning of the end as we know it, and it won't be a pretty end either. If things keep going the way these shady politicians want them to go, we will be a third world country begging for scraps. So if the good Lord feels the desire to take me to a better place, so be it. I've pretty much been there, done that. Oh, I don't plan on moping around I still have a novel to finish and other work to do but I am no longer afraid of the end coming. I have made my peace with Him and hope there are dogs in heaven, my dogs especially! Gods blessing!

EMPTYNESS

2010-04-20T02:51:00.000-07:00

This morning at 10:30 a.m., after all hope had been exhausted, my Reeta, sister of Rosee both Yorkshire Terriers was put down while I held her in my arms. It didn't go well and she fought the vet as tiny as she was for a second. I lost Rosee last Easter Sunday and now two weeks and a day later my other baby is gone as well. I can honestly say I wish I was with them.

I am now alone, and my home is so quiet and empty. It is amazing how something as small as my two girls were, they were able to fill up the house with so much love, laughter and happiness.

I have decided instead of being mad at God for taking them, I would thank him for giving us 13 wonderful happy years together.

Thanks for listening!

OH NO! NOT AGAIN...

2010-04-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

This morning I took Reeta, Rosee's sister and littermate to the vet for a thorough checkup, she seemed to be breathing harder than usual. After the initial examination it seems she also has a heart problem, and there was some fluid in her lungs. The vet has a battery of tests she will perform; so Reeta has to spend the night there. I will know more tomorrow morning. You know theres a saying that goes:

GOD NEVER GIVES US MORE THAN WE CAN HANDLE!!!

Right now I am doubting that statement. After losing my baby Rosee last Sunday just 14 days ago, I'm not sure losing Reeta too wouldn't send me round the pipe.

For those of you who believe and wouldn't mind praying for a small dog, please pray for Reeta.
I will keep you posted as I know more. Thank You...

WASTING TIME...

2010-04-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

Earlier today I was sitting in a lounge chair on my patio enjoying the mild weather and sunlight. I was watching some birds frolicking on the roof across the street, tweeting and chasing one another around the trees. They didn't seem to have a care in the world. That made me feel good and I couldn't help but smile, when all of a sudden, out of nowhere a hawk swooped down and grabbed one dove in his tallons, flying high into the sky until he disappeared. The other birds all flew for cover. Suddenly it was still and they were all gone as if they'd vanished by magic.

This reminded me of Easter Sunday when my little dog Rosee, who seemed fine the day before, suddenly and without warning died. OUR LIVES CAN CHANGE IN AN INSTANT. One minute we're happy and fine and the next in the grip of the tallons of a hawk or something of that nature.

I am reminded of the time my friends daughter who was nine, wanted her to play cutouts with her. Just sit down awhile and enjoy one anothers company playing together. My friend was too busy stating she had too much work to do as she always did when asked to play. That night, and the way it always seems to happen; without warning her child somehow fell and hit her head on the corner of her dresser. Two days later she died without ever gaining consciousness. My friend said as she sobbed that she had wasted her daughters childhood working instead of spending quality time with her. She said, she always thought there was plenty of time, and before she realized it nine years had passed them by. Unfortunately wasted life can never be regained.

I don't mean to sound preachy or tell anyone what to do but in a heartbeat your life can end or the life of someone you love; so be sure to take the time, play cutouts or ball or just sit and talk to those you love while you have the chance. And everyday tell those you love that you love them. Tell yourself too, you are worth loving! Do something nice for yourself.

Another thing evident to me today loud and clear is the way life renews itself. My trees, bushes and plants have buds already and will soon bloom with life and beauty once again. Even with the mishaps and tragedys of life it is amazing and wonderful, and I thank God everyday for his blessings.

But less we forget again, we are not plants and our lives once gone cannot be renewed.

GOD BLESS AMERICA. . .

Broken Heart...

2010-04-04T18:05:00.000-07:00

Today my sweet little yorkie ROSEE had to be rushed to the emergency vets office where she died. They were able to bring her around once and start tests but the xray showed her lungs were full of fluid and her little heart couldn't take the strain. She was fine yesterday, her regular happy little self and then today all of a sudden her breathing was labored. I have had other pets die, and her sister Reeta is still here with me but ROSEE who turned thirteen on Feb. 9th. was my very special angel since she was eight months old, and I just can't seem to stop crying. . .

My dearest friends on Writers' Voice and Boomer Women Speak I want to thank you for your words of consolati0n and courage. I love each and every one of you so much. I know time helps heal but my loss is too new yet for any healing. My Reeta is also thirteen and I fear I may be experiencing this yet again but God I hope not for a long, long while!

I hope you all had a HAPPY EASTER.

Happy April Fools' Day

2010-04-01T18:22:00.000-07:00

I must admit I have wondered where and when the name of this so called holiday was invented. I am sure it wasn't God when creating the earth. Or maybe it was as he did create man after all, males like Jesse James, Tiger Woods, John Edwards, John Ensen and countless others, and they number in the tens of thousands. Of course to be fair about this, for every slime ball cheater, there are a bevy of mindless, selfish, classless whores ready to offer themselves willingly to these pigs... So who is worse the cheater or the cheatee, (is that even a word?) In my book both should be eliminated from existance using an electric chair, him in the seat, and her,or them as the case may be, on his lap. I admit to being a wild woman in my youth but married men were off limits. I was lucky to have had two good men in my life and neither cheated or when looking (as all men will) they didn't make it an insult by learing at a beautiful woman. I was extremely fortunate and a very good shot, humm, maybe that was the reason for their fidelity. But I digress, my question is do you thnk a cheater deserves a second chance, especially a serial cheater??? Please be honest men and women alike. I am using your answers in a new book; of course complete anonimity is guaranteed.

I am eager to know whether any one played a practical joke on anyone today or had one played on them. I believe the concept of practical jokes is a dying art...

Today I finally cancelled my Facebook account. Good Lord the horror stories I was hearing from writers and other good friends, of hijacked email lists, blogs being misrepresented etc., I figured I had been lucky up to now so I deleted my information. I would rather be safe than sorry and all Facebook does when you've been attacked and trashed is apologize, and say they are working on the problems. WHAT????

Singing here: "So long it's been good to know ya, so long it's been good to know ya.....!"

Another day, another dollar. I hope my ramblings find everyone healthy, happy and wise.

NOW WHAT? Are we screwed???

2010-03-23T15:08:00.000-07:00

So it seems that they got the votes needed to pass their so called Health Care Bill. I hope all Americans, the huge percentage of us who did not want this monstrosity of a PORK filled, pay back for votes, cowards way out bill, remember their Congressman and Senators when they run for office again and vote the lilly livered self serving slugs out of office once and for all. They showed us all what our; WE THE PEOPLES wishes mean to them. I won't say anymore except how do you think it will feel having the IRS with power to act as the presidents own personal secret police/henchmen??? Think about that!!!

About the grooming of my Yorkies. Had them done today by a Mobile Groomer and they did very well. They look just as cute as they can possibly be. So all my worry was for nothing, sigh!

How many of you that will bother to answer this inquiry have a good relationship with your sibblings? Are they near to you or do they live far away?

I am going out to my pool now and get some much needed sunshine, and try to forget for awhile anyway how mad I am and how violated I feel by this President, Reed and Pelosi and all the rest of the boot lickers. Oh well, NO use worrying about the future until it gets here.

God help us all!

AND THE BEAT GOES ON!!!

2010-03-18T13:31:00.000-07:00

I have two adorable Yorkshire Terriers named Reeta and Rosee. My girls turned 13 last February, making them little old ladies, although you'd never know it as frisky as they are.

I have a friend, wait let me rephrase that! I have an acquaintance who use to work in a grooming salon at the Vet I went to, and after a time she was let go, for what I have no clue. So to help her (and me) out, for the past 12 years I have allowed her to groom my dogs in my home every couple months. I paid more than the salon rate, giving her $100.00 for the two dogs each grooming; which consisted of their nails cut, ears cleaned, glands expelled and a bath. My dogs are afraid of strange noises so no dryer is used, plus they only weigh in at between 8 & 10 pounds with short whispy hair to begin with, so they air dry very quickly.

This has worked out well and my dogs have gotten use to her, and not going to a salon all these many years. I've tried calling her now for three months to schedule a grooming but getting no answer. . . Her phone rings and rings but still NO ANSWER! I finally sent her a letter snail mail asking what's going on, and would she please call me at least. The mail never came back which means she or someone got it, and still nothing!

This may not seem like an earth shattering problem to be blogging about except that my dogs are not use to going out and I am afraid that new surroundings, new people handling them, being caged until groomed and possibly having a huge dryer blowing toward them while caged, (the way most shops operate) could cause them harm. They are after all 13 year old dogs.

I ask you, is this any way to run a business? Carla, where the hell are you???

So now I have to go out and buy good scissors, maybe a clipper and try grooming them myself. I am no dog groomer but I have cut my own hair on occasion, so who knows I may be okay grooming my little dogs too. . .I apparently don't have much of a choice.

Anyway, wish me luck as I enter into yet another phase of my ever changing life. . . "dog grooming!" And the beat goes on!!!!

CHANGE of EMOTIONS...

2010-03-16T01:00:00.000-07:00

I attended a meeting of divorced men and women tonight earlier at church with a good friend of mine, she didn't want to go alone. Listening to the rude and horrid comments some of them made about their use to be spouses made me feel ill. My friend for instance and her ex husband. I met him with her and they were inseperable for about five years. He was attentive, kind, loving and helpful and she was all that and more. I once saw him in tears because she hurt her hand slamming the car door on it. She treated him as if he would break if he did anything too difficult. They had pet names for each other; him, she called sweetheart or my love. She was called Honey Bunny.

At the meeting which he also attended they glared at one another with such hatred, she called him everything under her breath that I dare not write here and he called her not Honey or Bunny also not printable here.

On the way home barely a word was spoken until she finally said to me, "want to know why we got divorced?" I had never asked her. I said, "okay, I have always wondered!"

She said stop the car and she turned to me and said, " Remember when I went to Texas to see my son graduate and he stayed home to watch the painters paint the house?"
"I do remember that," said I.
"Well, I got home to Vegas earlier than planned and wanted to surprise him so I rented a car and drove home. I had wine and stopped for his favorite pizza and let myself in. It was around 7:30 p.m. I heard music but didn't see anyone, I walked through the house and still no one. I happened to see a light out back and noticed the pool lights weren't on but the music was coming for out there. I'm not sure why but got a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach, and low and behold, there they were locked together in the jacuzzi..."
I said, "OMG! Did you know her, the woman he was with."
She just looked at me and laughed saying, "not her, him! It was one of the young painters."
He had the nerve to say, "it's not cheating if it's not a woman and that he had always been bisexual, which was news to me."
She of course divorced him immediately, and the jerk seemed surprised. . .

I have seen this same change of emotion time and time again between people. People fall madly in LOVE, and end up sadly in HATE . I wonder, where does this strong all incompassing emotion of love go? How does one emotion become the other, and just as strong? Any suggestions?

Before I forget. . .
HAPPY SAINT PATRICKS DAY. . .

I WAS WRONG!!!

2010-03-08T19:08:00.000-08:00

As hard as that particular statement is for me to make, I must make it now, and WRONG I was in my last blogging. Several friends dropped by on Sunday evening for a visit and asked to watch the Academy Awards. Well, being a cordial hostess I said, "okay!"

Upon watching the festivities with Steve Martin and Alex Baldwin as the hosts, I found out it wasn't too bad. I like Steve Martin to begin with from the old Saturday Night Live shows. I was impressed that the correct people seemed to be winning awards, the right movie also won and the women both accepting and presenting Oscars looked amazing. Lovely gowns all around and the speeches were quick and uncomplicated for the most part.

That said, I have to say I was devastated to see my all time idol Barbra Streisand looking like an old crow, with the ugliest frock I have ever seen. She looked as if she had gone back into several different times and threw something from each period together. Her outfit was baggy and hidious!! This women has a figure to die for and she was dressed like a sloppy nun. Maybe if she'd have 86'd that jacket?????

Oh well, live and let live. But all in all the Oscars were a glamorous affair and delightful to watch. So this is me eeeaaating my words...burp!

Another SUNLESS SUNDAY, yuk!!!

2010-03-07T17:26:00.000-08:00

Is there anyone out there in cyber space that is as sick and tired as I am of sunless days and cold damp nights? You go to bed when it's dark and wake up and it's still nearly dark. I have been taking vitamin D by the hand full cause there sure isn't any floating around outside. Even my dogs, usually full of frisk, are lethargic and mopping around the house. I wonder if this weather effects our animal friends as well, I think it must!

I finally decided to give the Atkins eating plan a try and did exactly as his books advised and lost a whopping 16 pounds in 14 days. I feel fantastic, full of energy and my skin looks amazing. Plus the best part besides all the other good things happening is I am never hungry. I seem to have forgotten about sweets and eating bread, my downfall is bread...OMG! Now on this next part of the plan I can add more carbs. I don't even feel like I'm on a diet so to speak. This is something anyone can live with forever, I kid you not...even eating out as much as I do.

So is everyone rushing to their TV's to see who wins the Academy Awards tonight? I could care less, it is usually the same people all the time. And who gives a crap what these women are wearing anyway? If we had their money we could dress fit to kill too! Or not! Some still look like hookers due to their lack of taste in fashion.

I am looking forward to the new show on TV called: "Undercover Boss," where the CEO of a large company goes undercover and works alongside his employees in various locations and then reports back to the home office what needs to be changed. It is an amazing show from the man on the streets point of view. So far I have seen, White Castle, The 7-11 stores, and Nationwide Sanitation. It's a great show and comes on after The Amazing Race on Sunday nights. You might want to check it out.

Lots more to talk about but it is getting late and my stomach probably thinks my throats been cut. I need some food!!!!

Have a happy, nice sunny Monday morning... Hey, I can dream, can't I???

I'm BACK>>>>>>Ready or not!

2010-03-06T16:41:00.000-08:00

I closed down this blog because time constraints made it too difficult not to. However things have changed somewhat and I decided to try again. I never got many comments on what I did blog but I will remain always; honest, out spoken and opinionated on issues that I feel are important.

I am hoping for more imput this time around but only time will tell. I am hoping also to get many new followers that will at least read this blog. If you are following me know I will also be following you, and probably have something to add.

Today is a rest day, Saturday. Not that I have no edits to do it's just time to do nothing for a day.

My tall, dark and handsome son David just dropped by to pick up his share of the ham salad I made yesterday. You can't get the good stuff here in Vegas for some reason, not like back in the Midwest and East. I make a huge batch ever so often and he loves the stuff.

Oh and by the way I have a new website I just finished... www.charleenmicheles.com Stop by, give it a glance.

A fond farewell...

2009-12-27T17:50:00.000-08:00

I can't figure out how to delete this blog but as of today I will no longer be posting to it, I just don't have the time. I want to thank all those following my blog and wish you a Happy New year...
Charleen