Happy Tuesday! I can't believe how fast time goes when you aren't working...and how does it stay so busy??? I always have to laugh when I'm not working and the phone rings non-stop...how do people know I'm home??? And, it totally amazes me, how I can actually be BUSIER when I'm not working than when I am :D???? I think that's one of life's little mysteries !!!
It's been nice the last couple of days to have some time to just "be"....the to-do list is definitely overflowing...but still it's nice to find a few moments to just "be"! I hope each of you are finding some moments to just enjoy too....
Here's my run-down of activities for the day....(just in case you're wondering what I do with my "free time" : D)
* Packed up Mr. PPRM...he had to leave for Bend this morning
* Got a couple loads of laundry in (oops...I think one is still waiting for me in the dryer :D)
* Ran errands for the Mr....Post Office, Bank, by Preschool (Oh, wait that one was actually my errand :D)
* Met my Miss Susy and treated her to a late birthday lunch at La Palma's...Mmmm...it was very tasty...I even let her order for me :D (What can I say, she just knows what I like to eat!!!)
* Visited the Chiropractor...it's definitely back to the "real farm work" that always comes with Winter...and just like I assumed...I got a little lecture :D
* Treated myself to a Starbucks Ice Tea (I know it's Winter...but, I couldn't resist... :D)
* Drove down to the neighbors (the one that lives four houses away :D) got her mail and delivered it to her....I'm not sure how old she is...but, she doesn't have any kids or family close by..and since we rent pasture from her every Summer...I've kind of taken it upon myself to look after her :D...(However, I so can see myself being her one day...and when I tell my Mr. that...he laughs in agreement...don't know if that's a good thing or not???)
* Caught up on my emails...Praising God my traveling friend is home safe from her journey to see her kids!
* Finally, posting on my blog :D
There that's the excitement and truth of a day without my "boss" around :D I know what you are thinking....Where was her nap??? Well, sad to say, it still didn't happen....and that is one of my favorite parts of a day-off too :D Oh well, maybe tomorrow!!!
May each of you get some quiet time too...time just for YOU....and maybe a little nap too! Sweet blessings!
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Paying Back...
Today was a GREAT day...one that felt really good, from the moment we woke to find less snow, and NOT too much water yet, to worshiping Jesus, to paying back what has been given to us.
No...I"m not talking about financial debt, a loan, or even something that was borrowed....I'm talking more along the lines of being able to return the gift of helping someone in need...A gift that has so many times been given to us.
I can't tell you how many times while Mr. PPRM has been on the road for Powder River...someone has come to help me...whether it be bringing me hay, fixing a broken freezer-less faucet, getting a Mama Cow to accept her twins, helping me get our Bull out of a feeder bunk, ....Oh, the list could go on & on..probably for pages :D I have been ever so thankful to each of those individuals...for their help in my time of need, for being there when I didn't have a clue what to do....and, that God was right beside me nudging me to just ask that person to help (Isn't that the hardest thing ever...at least it was for me...and sometimes I smile when I think about it...that maybe all along...it was something God was working on in me...it's ever so humbling to ask for help...especially when you are much more comfortable as a giver!!!)
Well, today, WE got the opportunity to pay back a little for some of the times someone helped us in need...this time, it was a sweet, couple from our Church...(Many of you, I"m sure even know them)...the husband has a rare form of Cancer in his leg bone..and has been taking chemo...this week was his last treatment (Praise God!) ...and they have three sweet, precious children...a new home, and some cows. Well, the cows were in need of a new bale of hay..you know the BIG 4x4 kind...the neighbor had tried to help the day before, but with the snow melting, the tractor nearly got stuck. Since, it's a familiar part of our lives...my Mr. offered to go over and take care of it....If only I could of captured the relief on the wife's face...(I could feel her frustration, hear the trembling in her voice...needing help, but not wanting to have to ask...a way to familiar feeling)....it was nice to say..."We'll be there...you just go see your husband...and we'll take care of it." And, that's just what we did....1, 2, 3...and it was done! I must say it was one of those moments when my heart was extra-proud of my cattleman!!!
Most of all...we both left with hearts feeling blessed....it feels good to be able to help others, to give a hand, to pay back what has been given to us countless times....and most of all...to be Jesus hands & feet! I think that's His plan for us every day...to spend our lives Paying Back....sharing what we've been blessed with ...the easy days & the struggling ones...the happy times & the sad times...the good parts & the bad parts....to share HIM each and every day in every way!
In the end, it's really how we shined for Him that will matter the most.....From our warm hearts this evening to yours....May God fill this week with many opportunities for you to be His hands & feet...Sweet blessings!
No...I"m not talking about financial debt, a loan, or even something that was borrowed....I'm talking more along the lines of being able to return the gift of helping someone in need...A gift that has so many times been given to us.
I can't tell you how many times while Mr. PPRM has been on the road for Powder River...someone has come to help me...whether it be bringing me hay, fixing a broken freezer-less faucet, getting a Mama Cow to accept her twins, helping me get our Bull out of a feeder bunk, ....Oh, the list could go on & on..probably for pages :D I have been ever so thankful to each of those individuals...for their help in my time of need, for being there when I didn't have a clue what to do....and, that God was right beside me nudging me to just ask that person to help (Isn't that the hardest thing ever...at least it was for me...and sometimes I smile when I think about it...that maybe all along...it was something God was working on in me...it's ever so humbling to ask for help...especially when you are much more comfortable as a giver!!!)
Well, today, WE got the opportunity to pay back a little for some of the times someone helped us in need...this time, it was a sweet, couple from our Church...(Many of you, I"m sure even know them)...the husband has a rare form of Cancer in his leg bone..and has been taking chemo...this week was his last treatment (Praise God!) ...and they have three sweet, precious children...a new home, and some cows. Well, the cows were in need of a new bale of hay..you know the BIG 4x4 kind...the neighbor had tried to help the day before, but with the snow melting, the tractor nearly got stuck. Since, it's a familiar part of our lives...my Mr. offered to go over and take care of it....If only I could of captured the relief on the wife's face...(I could feel her frustration, hear the trembling in her voice...needing help, but not wanting to have to ask...a way to familiar feeling)....it was nice to say..."We'll be there...you just go see your husband...and we'll take care of it." And, that's just what we did....1, 2, 3...and it was done! I must say it was one of those moments when my heart was extra-proud of my cattleman!!!
Most of all...we both left with hearts feeling blessed....it feels good to be able to help others, to give a hand, to pay back what has been given to us countless times....and most of all...to be Jesus hands & feet! I think that's His plan for us every day...to spend our lives Paying Back....sharing what we've been blessed with ...the easy days & the struggling ones...the happy times & the sad times...the good parts & the bad parts....to share HIM each and every day in every way!
In the end, it's really how we shined for Him that will matter the most.....From our warm hearts this evening to yours....May God fill this week with many opportunities for you to be His hands & feet...Sweet blessings!
Friday, December 26, 2008
Our Christmas Miracle
Christmas is such a wondrous, blessed time of year...hearts seem warmer, smiles brighter...and the spirit overflowing....
A time to reflect, share, LOVE, give, and witness an occasional miracle or two ....
We had a wonderful Christmas at the Mallon Casa...it started off nice, quiet, just the two of us....after exchanging a few gifts (even though the words echoed at our house are always..."Let's not buy each other gifts")...it's just the two of us, and that means whenever we want something, we usually go ahead and buy it :D But, somehow magically gifts for each other always appear under the tree :D
Next, I actually cooked a real breakfast (I decided on Christmas my Mr. deserved more than his usual bowl of oatmeal :D) Then, he started a couple of roasts in his new bright-red smoker and I chatted to all our family members far-away wishing them a very Merry Christmas.
It was a nice, relaxing morning....then....the phone rang...(And, it wasn't someone calling to say Merry Christmas!) It was actually Pat's partner..."Hey, another water trough is frozen at the property...and...there's a dead cow.". Good-By simple day...Hello life of being cattle owners!
Mr. PPRM heads out, and I opt for staying home :D (It is Christmas!) A while later the phone rings again....."Tam, Sugar is in bad shape (yep, I name my Mama cows!) I need you to bring me some vet supplies...And...call the vet". (It's Christmas-oh how I hate having to call and interrupt someone elses' Christmas...but what is a cattle wife to do???") I call & leave a message...don my cattle-work attire, and head out. When, I get there Sugar is sitting up ( a better sight than I had imagined). My Mr heads over to try & slip a halter on her...she, however, gets up...and staggers...wobbling all the way over to the hay and starts eating. The Mr. calls the vet again...still no answer...."Let's go back home and get my rope" (Oops! Somehow I forgot to throw that in???). This time I stay home to get those feeding chores done....Praying, Praying, & Praying...I know I have to leave this one in God's hands and to His Will.
When the Mr. gets back to the property...Sugar is down again...and being My Cowboy he ropes her and is able to IV some Calcium/Magnesium into her (When, I say IV...I literally means, he finds a vein in her neck and puts the solution into the vein...almost like the real Dr's. on TV :D) There wasn't a lot of solution left in the bottle, but he used what he had...And...she got up again & took off like a bolt this time....back to the hay and eating. Still no return call from the vet (which is totally understandable...It is Christmas!) So, all that was left to do now, was pray & hope!
We got up early this morning and headed straight to the vets to get more IV solution...and a few other possibly "needed" items too....And, TA-DA!!! Another blessing or as I'm choosing to call it "our Christmas Miracle"....Sugar was up eating when we arrived...very alert, more filled out again....and just plain looking RIGHT! Thanking God over & over, & over & over again for those answered prayers.
So even though in most walks of life, Christmas is a sacred day...a day when the world "Stops" for a moment....in the world of Cattle...it's not quite so...life goes on just as in any other day...:D And, this year is truly another one we will always remember!
Praying each of you enjoyed a most wondrous Christmas..that you will always remember too...Sweet blessings!
P.S. The Vet did come out today to check on the heifer we lost...it's a puzzle...but hopefully one we'll solve soon...and the water trough...it's good to go again...(thanks to Pat's partner, who worked on it, while Pat worked on his Cow)!!!
A time to reflect, share, LOVE, give, and witness an occasional miracle or two ....
We had a wonderful Christmas at the Mallon Casa...it started off nice, quiet, just the two of us....after exchanging a few gifts (even though the words echoed at our house are always..."Let's not buy each other gifts")...it's just the two of us, and that means whenever we want something, we usually go ahead and buy it :D But, somehow magically gifts for each other always appear under the tree :D
Next, I actually cooked a real breakfast (I decided on Christmas my Mr. deserved more than his usual bowl of oatmeal :D) Then, he started a couple of roasts in his new bright-red smoker and I chatted to all our family members far-away wishing them a very Merry Christmas.
It was a nice, relaxing morning....then....the phone rang...(And, it wasn't someone calling to say Merry Christmas!) It was actually Pat's partner..."Hey, another water trough is frozen at the property...and...there's a dead cow.". Good-By simple day...Hello life of being cattle owners!
Mr. PPRM heads out, and I opt for staying home :D (It is Christmas!) A while later the phone rings again....."Tam, Sugar is in bad shape (yep, I name my Mama cows!) I need you to bring me some vet supplies...And...call the vet". (It's Christmas-oh how I hate having to call and interrupt someone elses' Christmas...but what is a cattle wife to do???") I call & leave a message...don my cattle-work attire, and head out. When, I get there Sugar is sitting up ( a better sight than I had imagined). My Mr heads over to try & slip a halter on her...she, however, gets up...and staggers...wobbling all the way over to the hay and starts eating. The Mr. calls the vet again...still no answer...."Let's go back home and get my rope" (Oops! Somehow I forgot to throw that in???). This time I stay home to get those feeding chores done....Praying, Praying, & Praying...I know I have to leave this one in God's hands and to His Will.
When the Mr. gets back to the property...Sugar is down again...and being My Cowboy he ropes her and is able to IV some Calcium/Magnesium into her (When, I say IV...I literally means, he finds a vein in her neck and puts the solution into the vein...almost like the real Dr's. on TV :D) There wasn't a lot of solution left in the bottle, but he used what he had...And...she got up again & took off like a bolt this time....back to the hay and eating. Still no return call from the vet (which is totally understandable...It is Christmas!) So, all that was left to do now, was pray & hope!
We got up early this morning and headed straight to the vets to get more IV solution...and a few other possibly "needed" items too....And, TA-DA!!! Another blessing or as I'm choosing to call it "our Christmas Miracle"....Sugar was up eating when we arrived...very alert, more filled out again....and just plain looking RIGHT! Thanking God over & over, & over & over again for those answered prayers.
So even though in most walks of life, Christmas is a sacred day...a day when the world "Stops" for a moment....in the world of Cattle...it's not quite so...life goes on just as in any other day...:D And, this year is truly another one we will always remember!
Praying each of you enjoyed a most wondrous Christmas..that you will always remember too...Sweet blessings!
P.S. The Vet did come out today to check on the heifer we lost...it's a puzzle...but hopefully one we'll solve soon...and the water trough...it's good to go again...(thanks to Pat's partner, who worked on it, while Pat worked on his Cow)!!!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Almost there...
Okay, I have to confess....for some reason I am a Last Minute sort of girl....everything always gets done...and usually turns out perfectly, but for some reason...I can't ever get ahead of the game.
This year I got caught....Yep..the SNOW got me! My usual plan of doing all my Christmas "things" the minute preschool finished...somehow went astray...Oh, right..it was because of that four-letter word...You know...the one that starts with S---!
The tree made it's appearance last Monday...but, didn't get trimmed until Saturday morning...the Christmas Cards were started on Thursday, and I finally, posted off my last Christmas card this morning....The Shopping...Well...that was accomplished today too....
So, I'm ALMOST there....just some wrapping tomorrow...some baking to share with my neighbors...and....hey, by the 25th, I think I'll be ready :D Oh, wait...that's unless the "S" thing starts again...and if so, then, I'll just trust that God has a plan, and it's bigger & better than mine...and in the end, it will all be just as it is meant to be!!!
Because Christmas really isn't about my stress-induced plans, it's not about the sparkling tree, sweet Christmas Cards, the perfect presents...Cookies...dreaming of a white Christmas....NO...it's about a simple, quiet event that took place in a manger...a gift that calls hearts to worship...a gift that is so precious that above all signifies my existence. So from my heart to yours....May you enjoy the simple moments of this week! Sweet blessings!
This year I got caught....Yep..the SNOW got me! My usual plan of doing all my Christmas "things" the minute preschool finished...somehow went astray...Oh, right..it was because of that four-letter word...You know...the one that starts with S---!
The tree made it's appearance last Monday...but, didn't get trimmed until Saturday morning...the Christmas Cards were started on Thursday, and I finally, posted off my last Christmas card this morning....The Shopping...Well...that was accomplished today too....
So, I'm ALMOST there....just some wrapping tomorrow...some baking to share with my neighbors...and....hey, by the 25th, I think I'll be ready :D Oh, wait...that's unless the "S" thing starts again...and if so, then, I'll just trust that God has a plan, and it's bigger & better than mine...and in the end, it will all be just as it is meant to be!!!
Because Christmas really isn't about my stress-induced plans, it's not about the sparkling tree, sweet Christmas Cards, the perfect presents...Cookies...dreaming of a white Christmas....NO...it's about a simple, quiet event that took place in a manger...a gift that calls hearts to worship...a gift that is so precious that above all signifies my existence. So from my heart to yours....May you enjoy the simple moments of this week! Sweet blessings!
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Sweet Suprises....
I am so truly blessed...Yesterday was a day of total Sweet surprises...and I just had to share each one with you......I am totally blessed beyond words by each of these sweet gifts....
First, I came home to find these two things waiting for me on my porch....
The wreath is just perfect on our front porch...giving it a special Welcoming look for the season :D I Love it!!!
And... the scrumptious caramel-dipped, chocolate coated, nutted apple...Mmmm....Mmmmm...Mmmm.....of course, it was actually waiting inside the box on the front porch...(not sitting on top of the box) Special Thanks to two very sweet, sisters in Christ...Lindsay & Shannon!!!!
And, finally, this arrived in the mail for me....
I really am married to an Amazing Man! Mr. PPRM is currently working on a new program to send cards out to our beef customers...and I got to be the one he sent his first postcard too :D (Whooohoooo...or should I say flitter/flutter...the sound my heart is making !!!)
I was soooo totally, incredibly touched...my heart was smiling and overflowing with the JOY that these sweet surprises brought to my day, to my heart, to my spirit!!! Most of all, I Love how in the midst of a crazy week, God uses others to remind me of His Love....!!! And, it inspires me to do just that for others....fill their hearts & day with a little extra joy and Sweet blessings!
First, I came home to find these two things waiting for me on my porch....
The wreath is just perfect on our front porch...giving it a special Welcoming look for the season :D I Love it!!!
And... the scrumptious caramel-dipped, chocolate coated, nutted apple...Mmmm....Mmmmm...Mmmm.....of course, it was actually waiting inside the box on the front porch...(not sitting on top of the box) Special Thanks to two very sweet, sisters in Christ...Lindsay & Shannon!!!!
And, finally, this arrived in the mail for me....
I really am married to an Amazing Man! Mr. PPRM is currently working on a new program to send cards out to our beef customers...and I got to be the one he sent his first postcard too :D (Whooohoooo...or should I say flitter/flutter...the sound my heart is making !!!)
I was soooo totally, incredibly touched...my heart was smiling and overflowing with the JOY that these sweet surprises brought to my day, to my heart, to my spirit!!! Most of all, I Love how in the midst of a crazy week, God uses others to remind me of His Love....!!! And, it inspires me to do just that for others....fill their hearts & day with a little extra joy and Sweet blessings!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Snow Day...Part ll
I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonders,
I will be glad and rejoice in you:
I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
Psalm 9:1-2
Happy Thursday...or should I say SNOW DAY!!!
I can't believe that it's happening still....Snow, Snow, Snow....but, in the midst of it all....I've decided to....be Praising.....Thankful....and Rejoicing.....
Here's some of the Sweet Blessings surrounding me the last couple of days...
* I have a warm home...wood to fill my woodstove...that totally envelopes my home in a heat the warms you to your bones (as my Mr. likes to say :D)
* I have studded tires on my car...so, I can give my Miss Susy a ride to work....
* A bathtub....who knew how much we would need to use it as a tool to unthaw hoses!!!
And, that this morning I would inherit a little of Mr. PPRM's Charlie Brown luck...I did, I honestly did drain the hose three times, plus blow in one end to force any leftover water out???
* My Carhardt attire....and a homemade scarf from Miss Tess
* That God was watching over my husband last night in the ice...and all that happened as his truck went sideways into a telephone pole was a huge dent. Praising God that no one else was around, and my husband is safe!
* Thankful that I can talk to my husband every night...even when he is miles away.
* Praising God that in the midst of this "blizzard" as my animals are covered in snow (even their little eye lashes are covered in frost) I have hay to feed them.
* My heart is filled with warm smiles each day as I open our mailbox and find cards from those we treasure!
* That I get a little time today to regroup, get caught up, and go forward :D
Most of all, I'm just Praising God that I know Him..that HE is real to me...and that no matter what...He is with me!!! Rejoicing in the Season, Thankful for each of YOU...and praying that this day finds your hearts filled with Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, & Self-Control...and LOTS of LOVE!!! Sweet Blessings!
I will tell of all your wonders,
I will be glad and rejoice in you:
I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
Psalm 9:1-2
Happy Thursday...or should I say SNOW DAY!!!
I can't believe that it's happening still....Snow, Snow, Snow....but, in the midst of it all....I've decided to....be Praising.....Thankful....and Rejoicing.....
Here's some of the Sweet Blessings surrounding me the last couple of days...
* I have a warm home...wood to fill my woodstove...that totally envelopes my home in a heat the warms you to your bones (as my Mr. likes to say :D)
* I have studded tires on my car...so, I can give my Miss Susy a ride to work....
* A bathtub....who knew how much we would need to use it as a tool to unthaw hoses!!!
And, that this morning I would inherit a little of Mr. PPRM's Charlie Brown luck...I did, I honestly did drain the hose three times, plus blow in one end to force any leftover water out???
* My Carhardt attire....and a homemade scarf from Miss Tess
* That God was watching over my husband last night in the ice...and all that happened as his truck went sideways into a telephone pole was a huge dent. Praising God that no one else was around, and my husband is safe!
* Thankful that I can talk to my husband every night...even when he is miles away.
* Praising God that in the midst of this "blizzard" as my animals are covered in snow (even their little eye lashes are covered in frost) I have hay to feed them.
* My heart is filled with warm smiles each day as I open our mailbox and find cards from those we treasure!
* That I get a little time today to regroup, get caught up, and go forward :D
Most of all, I'm just Praising God that I know Him..that HE is real to me...and that no matter what...He is with me!!! Rejoicing in the Season, Thankful for each of YOU...and praying that this day finds your hearts filled with Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, & Self-Control...and LOTS of LOVE!!! Sweet Blessings!
Snow Day...Part l
On Tuesday morning we were blessed with a SNOW DAY!!! Yippeee....(or at least I'm pretty sure that's what 3 year olds say :D) A day off from school (You do have to Love that part if you're a teacher).....
It started off with a little extra sleep time..until almost 7:00 (A much needed thing at our house)...I headed out to do the chores reveling in the fact, that I didn't have to do it in the dark or in a hurry today...while Mr. PPRM headed to the property where all the Cows are to make sure he had solved the problem of the frozen water troughs....
I just got in from feeding, putting a little extra wood on the porch, etc....when, the phone rings...Guess who it was??? How did you know...Yep, it was my Mr..."Tam, I need you to come to Short Stop and pick me up...my truck froze on me" (You see when you own a diesel truck and it gets really cold...it's best to plug them in...) Oops...somebody in the midst of frozen hoses forget!!! So, thinking it will just be to pick him up and bring him home I head out the door...Yep..NO make-up, No hair combed, still in my "farming gear"....Once I get there he tells me I need to take him straight out to the farm...he is very worried about the water there....Sure enough, frozen...(Not a LOT of happy words were being spoken at this point!) After some investigating...the true reason for the frozen hoses & tanks reveals itself...there is a broken main pipe in the pump house. (Oh, you can't imagine the fun at that moment!!!) So, Praising God for cell phones....he tries to call someone to come help....and in the meantime thinks we should go get something to eat...(WHAT!!! Go out in public LIKE this????) Cattlemen, aren't really into fashion or making fashion statements when they are in the midst of working....to which I hear "Oh, Tam, you look so cute"...my response is only a glare...no words, just the "look"!!! I, had packed him some snack food, but...that didn't work...so, we head to the Chuckwagon...he eats I just have some hot tea. Then, off to Ace for some supplies...(Oh, and on the way, we also stop and plug his truck into thaw)and back to wait for the repair man, and wait, & wait...apparently we weren't the only one with pipe problems....Finally he comes, we head home to take care of chores there....and bring all the hoses to thaw out...where else, but in our bathtub!!! So, by the time, chores are done his truck is unthawed along with the hoses and all is good. Back to find the repairman just finishing up and suggesting we wait at least another 30 minutes before running water.....More doing odds & ends....and this time the Mr. decides I should drive to town and get some real food as the snacks had disappeared a couple hours ago...This time I go to Quizno's...looking even more lovely than before, because now I've added a stocking cap, scarf, and my muck boots....thankfully, it was nearly empty...(and there were only a couple stares :D)
Okay, by now, surely it's already to be a go...we get the hoses lined up...the pump is ready...and water is running for a second...the pipe bursts again...the repairman is called again and is headed back out.....and this time Mr. PPRM decides maybe we should let the pipes sit all night....Now, you would think we were done...but somehow, that wasn't the case...next he took big bales of hay out to all the cows...then, decided to drive the tractor home and do the same thing..."Tonight I say"..."Tonight" comes the reply..."But, but....but...." (Once my man has made up his mind there is NO changing it...) I am the pilot car and follow him all the way..praying that when he gets to the hill on Edwards the Tractor will make it....Thanking God that it did....by now it's almost 8:00 p.m....back to the property with the Tractor...Praying it can make it back down the hill as the roads are getting slick...Praising God again as we make it back safe...and finally home by 9:30!!!
What a day...Not quite how I envisioned spending my "SNOW DAY"...not, quite how my MR. did either I'm sure....Not as many kind words were spoken as should of been, Not as many moments of togetherness enjoyed as should of been...Not as gracious as I needed to be during the chaos...So...now, I've realized that's my next area to grow in...that of being Gracious (Submissive is still too big to tackle for me :D ha, ha)....but, my husband does deserve graciousness...and maybe a few less words and advice thrown his way during the midst of his Charlie Brown days :D Most of all I am just thankful that through it all we were not alone...God was there showing us the answers and the way! Thank for reading along...hoping each of you enjoyed your Snow Day in a different way ! Sweet blessings!
P.S. Yesterday morning Mr. PPRM got everything, and I do mean everything working...there was running water....Yippee!!! But, those sweet girls (the Cows) weren't even that excited or enthused about it...to think it was worrying my husband like crazy, and they were just sauntering around like it was no big deal and like they weren't thirsty at all!!! Maybe graciousness is on their list of works in progress too :D ha, ha.
It started off with a little extra sleep time..until almost 7:00 (A much needed thing at our house)...I headed out to do the chores reveling in the fact, that I didn't have to do it in the dark or in a hurry today...while Mr. PPRM headed to the property where all the Cows are to make sure he had solved the problem of the frozen water troughs....
I just got in from feeding, putting a little extra wood on the porch, etc....when, the phone rings...Guess who it was??? How did you know...Yep, it was my Mr..."Tam, I need you to come to Short Stop and pick me up...my truck froze on me" (You see when you own a diesel truck and it gets really cold...it's best to plug them in...) Oops...somebody in the midst of frozen hoses forget!!! So, thinking it will just be to pick him up and bring him home I head out the door...Yep..NO make-up, No hair combed, still in my "farming gear"....Once I get there he tells me I need to take him straight out to the farm...he is very worried about the water there....Sure enough, frozen...(Not a LOT of happy words were being spoken at this point!) After some investigating...the true reason for the frozen hoses & tanks reveals itself...there is a broken main pipe in the pump house. (Oh, you can't imagine the fun at that moment!!!) So, Praising God for cell phones....he tries to call someone to come help....and in the meantime thinks we should go get something to eat...(WHAT!!! Go out in public LIKE this????) Cattlemen, aren't really into fashion or making fashion statements when they are in the midst of working....to which I hear "Oh, Tam, you look so cute"...my response is only a glare...no words, just the "look"!!! I, had packed him some snack food, but...that didn't work...so, we head to the Chuckwagon...he eats I just have some hot tea. Then, off to Ace for some supplies...(Oh, and on the way, we also stop and plug his truck into thaw)and back to wait for the repair man, and wait, & wait...apparently we weren't the only one with pipe problems....Finally he comes, we head home to take care of chores there....and bring all the hoses to thaw out...where else, but in our bathtub!!! So, by the time, chores are done his truck is unthawed along with the hoses and all is good. Back to find the repairman just finishing up and suggesting we wait at least another 30 minutes before running water.....More doing odds & ends....and this time the Mr. decides I should drive to town and get some real food as the snacks had disappeared a couple hours ago...This time I go to Quizno's...looking even more lovely than before, because now I've added a stocking cap, scarf, and my muck boots....thankfully, it was nearly empty...(and there were only a couple stares :D)
Okay, by now, surely it's already to be a go...we get the hoses lined up...the pump is ready...and water is running for a second...the pipe bursts again...the repairman is called again and is headed back out.....and this time Mr. PPRM decides maybe we should let the pipes sit all night....Now, you would think we were done...but somehow, that wasn't the case...next he took big bales of hay out to all the cows...then, decided to drive the tractor home and do the same thing..."Tonight I say"..."Tonight" comes the reply..."But, but....but...." (Once my man has made up his mind there is NO changing it...) I am the pilot car and follow him all the way..praying that when he gets to the hill on Edwards the Tractor will make it....Thanking God that it did....by now it's almost 8:00 p.m....back to the property with the Tractor...Praying it can make it back down the hill as the roads are getting slick...Praising God again as we make it back safe...and finally home by 9:30!!!
What a day...Not quite how I envisioned spending my "SNOW DAY"...not, quite how my MR. did either I'm sure....Not as many kind words were spoken as should of been, Not as many moments of togetherness enjoyed as should of been...Not as gracious as I needed to be during the chaos...So...now, I've realized that's my next area to grow in...that of being Gracious (Submissive is still too big to tackle for me :D ha, ha)....but, my husband does deserve graciousness...and maybe a few less words and advice thrown his way during the midst of his Charlie Brown days :D Most of all I am just thankful that through it all we were not alone...God was there showing us the answers and the way! Thank for reading along...hoping each of you enjoyed your Snow Day in a different way ! Sweet blessings!
P.S. Yesterday morning Mr. PPRM got everything, and I do mean everything working...there was running water....Yippee!!! But, those sweet girls (the Cows) weren't even that excited or enthused about it...to think it was worrying my husband like crazy, and they were just sauntering around like it was no big deal and like they weren't thirsty at all!!! Maybe graciousness is on their list of works in progress too :D ha, ha.
Four Letter Words...Part II
Remember that post about my favorite four letter words....Well, today, I think I should share my LEAST favorite four letter words....
Here they come.....Ready or Not....
* SNOW
* RAIN
* WIND
* COLD
* HAIL
Mmmmm....I'm beginning to see a theme happening here...maybe that's why they've become my least favorite four letter words! That and the fact, that in the life I live...they mean EXTRA work!!! :D
Hope each of you is bundled-up in a nice COZY, WARM, SAFE, HOME (thought I should end with some good 4 letter words :D)....and that today is filled with many amazing moments of LOVE! Sweet blessings!
Here they come.....Ready or Not....
* SNOW
* RAIN
* WIND
* COLD
* HAIL
Mmmmm....I'm beginning to see a theme happening here...maybe that's why they've become my least favorite four letter words! That and the fact, that in the life I live...they mean EXTRA work!!! :D
Hope each of you is bundled-up in a nice COZY, WARM, SAFE, HOME (thought I should end with some good 4 letter words :D)....and that today is filled with many amazing moments of LOVE! Sweet blessings!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
The Cattlemen's Ball....
I bet you are wondering...just what is a Cattlemen's Ball...well, let me tell you. It's not quite like most "Balls"...the Princes do not show up all dressed in black tuxes and the Princess in the most elegant, beautiful ball gowns you've ever seen....it's more like this....
A Cattlemen's way of dressing up is a pair of new starched Wranglers, a freshly pressed shirt, clean (not a speck of muck) boots, and of course a cowboy hat! You know sometimes I refer to it as "their going out on the town attire" :D It makes me smile....and as for the Cattlemen's wives...well, they are free to dress it up however they like....!
It's truly a night of Good, genuine, hard-working men getting together for some good Beef, visiting, and just relaxing. The atmosphere is warm...everyone is chatting about their "business" and sharing a few tales along the way....there's even door prizes and entertainment!!!
Sometimes, when I'm in the midst of living this life with cows...I forget that there is more to it than what I see....that it's truly a passion for my "cattleman"...that it's a way of life that is becomming almost extinct. Gathering with other fellow "cow owners" is a good thing...a good feeling...a feeling of comadrie...that someone else has been stuck in the muck, saved a baby calf, went out in freezing weather (Like tonight) because that's what needed to be done. It's a time to tell "tales", laugh, and feel proud that it is a part of your life!!!
So, the Cattleman's Ball...summed up...is just a GOOD time that happens once a year! And, I am so glad that this year we were blessed to go!
Hope this week brings many WARM & Sweet blessings!
A Cattlemen's way of dressing up is a pair of new starched Wranglers, a freshly pressed shirt, clean (not a speck of muck) boots, and of course a cowboy hat! You know sometimes I refer to it as "their going out on the town attire" :D It makes me smile....and as for the Cattlemen's wives...well, they are free to dress it up however they like....!
It's truly a night of Good, genuine, hard-working men getting together for some good Beef, visiting, and just relaxing. The atmosphere is warm...everyone is chatting about their "business" and sharing a few tales along the way....there's even door prizes and entertainment!!!
Sometimes, when I'm in the midst of living this life with cows...I forget that there is more to it than what I see....that it's truly a passion for my "cattleman"...that it's a way of life that is becomming almost extinct. Gathering with other fellow "cow owners" is a good thing...a good feeling...a feeling of comadrie...that someone else has been stuck in the muck, saved a baby calf, went out in freezing weather (Like tonight) because that's what needed to be done. It's a time to tell "tales", laugh, and feel proud that it is a part of your life!!!
So, the Cattleman's Ball...summed up...is just a GOOD time that happens once a year! And, I am so glad that this year we were blessed to go!
Hope this week brings many WARM & Sweet blessings!
Friday, December 12, 2008
True Love....A day of dogs!
It seemed to be a day for dogs! On my way to work yesterday, I dropped my car off at Les Schwabb (just in case those snow predictions come true :D) and, Mr. PPRM picked me up and dropped me off at work...just as we were pulling up..some school kids were crossing the cross-walk..and following at their heels was the cutest, little black Lab pup! Tail-wagging, so excited to be following his "kids"! However, I don't think the kids were aware of his presence, and once his started to bolt through the school doors with them, they were definitely unsure what to do...so, you know how it is...they just picked him up and took him inside with them :D I couldn't help be smile at the whole event! Pups, Dogs, Canines...they just LOVE their Masters...and are never more happy as when they are tagging along with them!
Yesterday in the midst of Cookie Heaven...I got to watch true Love happening right before my eyes...(make that my misty eyes :D)
On our Lunch break, Miss Susy and I decided we needed some REAL food and we should treat ourselves to lunch out. We were headed to Chen's (it was perfect...just what we needed to balance out that sugar load :D) Anyway, on our way, Miss Susy needed to drop-off some bazaar flyers at Desert View School (Our preschool is having a bazaar on Saturday...9-3, if you want to check it out :D) Since she has seat warmers in her car, and I was feeling pretty relaxed and settled in...I opted to just wait in the car. As I was waiting, my eyes were captured by the activity happening in a house across the street. (Yep, I LOVE people watching!!!)
Here's what I saw...there were houses all decorated for Christmas from top to bottom...Red, Green & Welcome signs...and then, there was one house with the garage door open and a gentleman and his dog doing something...At first, I thought they were just finishing up the "decorating" job...then, maybe they were just doing a little odd job in the garage...Mmmmmm....
Next, I see the gentleman open up his tailgate...the dog is a brown Lab... with his tail wagging as they do when they are excited to be spending time with their owners :D He takes a long wooden ladder type board that is covered with something out of his truck...he leans it up against the tailgate, and his tail wagging dog...walks up the "ladder" and into the back of the truck...How sweet is that! (Because I know what it means...that loyal friend can No longer do what all dogs LOVE to do...jump in the back of the truck). Now, of course, my eyes are misting...because the dogs tail is wagging like crazy..HE is soooo happy...happy to be going with his Master for a ride...anywhere, just to be going! Now, I can hardly see at all, as I watch the owner put a nice blanket in beside the ladder that has been loaded back in the truck...and then, he reaches over takes the dog's head in his hands and kisses his forehead and gives him a big pat before he closes the tailgate. (Oh, and the truck also had a canopy on it). What I had just witnessed was truly heart-warming and touching. It made me think about the loyal, unyielding, No Matter What Love a Dog has for it's owner...and that Love the owner returns.
Don't you just think that's how it is for God! We are like His pups...He Loves us so, He is always there to help us, discipline us, guide us, & reward us.(I'm pretty sure He loves us following at His heels with our tails wagging :D) Am I as loyal to Him as a dog is to his Owner...??? Do I let Him be my Owner/Master??? Do I wag my tail with joy at the thought of serving Him/of being with Him/of following Him wherever He leads me???
I like to envision that one day...my Master will be like that gentleman, that when I can NO longer "do" what He's called me to do, He will be there lifting me up into His arms,gently kissing my forehead and loving me still so deeply! And, that will be the place I want to forever be! A Love that is true! May you hear His call today...and come with your tail wagging furiously! And, if you are a dog "owner", give them a little extra loving today! Sweet blessings!
Yesterday in the midst of Cookie Heaven...I got to watch true Love happening right before my eyes...(make that my misty eyes :D)
On our Lunch break, Miss Susy and I decided we needed some REAL food and we should treat ourselves to lunch out. We were headed to Chen's (it was perfect...just what we needed to balance out that sugar load :D) Anyway, on our way, Miss Susy needed to drop-off some bazaar flyers at Desert View School (Our preschool is having a bazaar on Saturday...9-3, if you want to check it out :D) Since she has seat warmers in her car, and I was feeling pretty relaxed and settled in...I opted to just wait in the car. As I was waiting, my eyes were captured by the activity happening in a house across the street. (Yep, I LOVE people watching!!!)
Here's what I saw...there were houses all decorated for Christmas from top to bottom...Red, Green & Welcome signs...and then, there was one house with the garage door open and a gentleman and his dog doing something...At first, I thought they were just finishing up the "decorating" job...then, maybe they were just doing a little odd job in the garage...Mmmmmm....
Next, I see the gentleman open up his tailgate...the dog is a brown Lab... with his tail wagging as they do when they are excited to be spending time with their owners :D He takes a long wooden ladder type board that is covered with something out of his truck...he leans it up against the tailgate, and his tail wagging dog...walks up the "ladder" and into the back of the truck...How sweet is that! (Because I know what it means...that loyal friend can No longer do what all dogs LOVE to do...jump in the back of the truck). Now, of course, my eyes are misting...because the dogs tail is wagging like crazy..HE is soooo happy...happy to be going with his Master for a ride...anywhere, just to be going! Now, I can hardly see at all, as I watch the owner put a nice blanket in beside the ladder that has been loaded back in the truck...and then, he reaches over takes the dog's head in his hands and kisses his forehead and gives him a big pat before he closes the tailgate. (Oh, and the truck also had a canopy on it). What I had just witnessed was truly heart-warming and touching. It made me think about the loyal, unyielding, No Matter What Love a Dog has for it's owner...and that Love the owner returns.
Don't you just think that's how it is for God! We are like His pups...He Loves us so, He is always there to help us, discipline us, guide us, & reward us.(I'm pretty sure He loves us following at His heels with our tails wagging :D) Am I as loyal to Him as a dog is to his Owner...??? Do I let Him be my Owner/Master??? Do I wag my tail with joy at the thought of serving Him/of being with Him/of following Him wherever He leads me???
I like to envision that one day...my Master will be like that gentleman, that when I can NO longer "do" what He's called me to do, He will be there lifting me up into His arms,gently kissing my forehead and loving me still so deeply! And, that will be the place I want to forever be! A Love that is true! May you hear His call today...and come with your tail wagging furiously! And, if you are a dog "owner", give them a little extra loving today! Sweet blessings!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Mmmm....Mmmm....Mmmmm.....
COOKIES....Sugar cookies, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate & Oatmeal cookies, cookies shaped like reindeer & lollipops...big, little, round, flat, smooth...all made with Love...all filled with the most delicious ingredients....
It was Cookie Day this week on Wednesday & Thursday at preschool..and I have to say it is one of my favorite activities of the year. Three year olds are still discovering, there are so many new things surrounding them...and this week it was cookies! I LOVE that they come into the classroom carrying their treasures...so, excited to show us...so proud...so very, very happy (as is evident from the smiles that spread ear to ear :D)!!!
And, then, the best part...time to actually eat a cookie...there are humongous (that was our new word today :D) cookie trays filled to overflowing...and the freedom to choose whatever cookie you want. (We also invited the four-year old classes to come join our eating festivities!!!) And, there's NO stopping at just one cookie...everyone can have another one too! Mmmm...Mmmm....Mmmm...and finally the day ends by singing Christmas songs together with our guests! It is heart-warming, joy-filled, and NEVER fails to tug at my emotions. I was and am blessed by the experience!!!
I truly can't thank the parents enough for their time, contributions, & help...but, more than that...I truly always hope this activity brings a memory that will warm both the child & parents hearts for years to come...that maybe, just maybe it will become a new holiday tradition in that home...a time, when the world & the crazy hustle & bustle of the season disappears...and it's all about sharing some warm moments stirring, mixing, (of course tasting :D) and capturing time spent together!!!
So, tomorrow when my pants won't want to button up...I'll just smile and remember that the days before I got to catch a glimpse of joy, excitement, and satisfaction in a job well done!!! (And, the opportunity to taste some of the BEST cookies ever made!!! :D) Sweet blessings!
It was Cookie Day this week on Wednesday & Thursday at preschool..and I have to say it is one of my favorite activities of the year. Three year olds are still discovering, there are so many new things surrounding them...and this week it was cookies! I LOVE that they come into the classroom carrying their treasures...so, excited to show us...so proud...so very, very happy (as is evident from the smiles that spread ear to ear :D)!!!
And, then, the best part...time to actually eat a cookie...there are humongous (that was our new word today :D) cookie trays filled to overflowing...and the freedom to choose whatever cookie you want. (We also invited the four-year old classes to come join our eating festivities!!!) And, there's NO stopping at just one cookie...everyone can have another one too! Mmmm...Mmmm....Mmmm...and finally the day ends by singing Christmas songs together with our guests! It is heart-warming, joy-filled, and NEVER fails to tug at my emotions. I was and am blessed by the experience!!!
I truly can't thank the parents enough for their time, contributions, & help...but, more than that...I truly always hope this activity brings a memory that will warm both the child & parents hearts for years to come...that maybe, just maybe it will become a new holiday tradition in that home...a time, when the world & the crazy hustle & bustle of the season disappears...and it's all about sharing some warm moments stirring, mixing, (of course tasting :D) and capturing time spent together!!!
So, tomorrow when my pants won't want to button up...I'll just smile and remember that the days before I got to catch a glimpse of joy, excitement, and satisfaction in a job well done!!! (And, the opportunity to taste some of the BEST cookies ever made!!! :D) Sweet blessings!
Monday, December 08, 2008
Uncharted Territory...
Well on Saturday I had to venture into unchartered territory....and, being a creature of habit...it totally, worked me up!
Where was that territory....it was the Tri-Cities! The Tri-Cities??? I know, how could that possibly be unchartered territory! Yes! I have been to the Tri-Cities before...and, Yes, I've even driven there by myself...but, you see, I have a certain route...I know just how to get to the Mall, to Shop-Ko, Target, or even Best Buy...and, sometimes, Fred-Meyer on the other end of town...but, other than that...I don't really venture off my main path :D I also should clarify, that I do know how to get to both farmer's market locations...one in Richland on the Parkway, and the other in Pasco on 4th & Lewis. (Since, I grew-up in a town with No traffic lights, and only a couple stop signs....Hermiston is a BIG city to drive in for me :D)
So, on Saturday, when the Mr. asked me to cover his meat deliveries in the Tri-Cities...some, okay, a LOT of panic set in...I knew I could get to the Richland drop-off spot...but, on the way I had to go to someone's house...and from looking at the map...there were round-abouts I would have to face???? (Nothing like those mini-circles to throw a country girl into a tail spin :D)..then, I had to go from Richland to downtown Kennewick...and another totally unknown destination. (Oh, what did I get myself into...Logically, I knew I needed to help out my husband, and I knew I could do it...but, then, all the what-if's popped into my head!) Having been connected to me for 21 years, my husband knew from the look on my face that I was sooooo worried...to which came the reply "Tam, don't stress, you'll be fine, I printed out the mapquest directions for you...and I know you can do it". I Love that he had confidence in me...and, he even prayed over me before I left!!! Besides, I knew I just needed to let God drive :D (I do that sometimes, you know!!!)
Well, I made it to the first stop just fine (even though, somehow, I took a street ahead of the map...God is good :D)There was absolutely NO ONE at the roundabouts....Yeahhhhh...or should I say, Whew!!! Then, I made it to Richland...very elated....I even called to tell my husband I was there safe & he was right...it was a piece of cake!!!
Maybe I counted my chicks too soon...because somehow, I again missed the map exit and was LOST as I headed toward the Kennewick destination (which was The Roxy Theater...very cute, antique/coffee house if anyone ever wants a fun place to check out!!!) I decided since the MR. knows his way around the Tri-Cities (or anywhere for that matter) quite well, I would call and explain I was lost and see which direction to head??? However, I only got his voice mail...Better just let my pilot be in control.....Once again God is good, and I remembered years ago trying to find Kennewick Avenue...so, I just kept praying and going...and Ta-Da finally, I found it!!!
And, along the way, I discovered....unchartered territory is okay...NO need to fret, or worry....just let God be in control, sit-back, and enjoy the adventure (Yeahh....I know....I'm really still a work in progress on most of the previous sentence :D) But, I survived...safe & sound, and gained a little boost of confidence from exploring that unchartered territory...so, maybe one day I'll actaully look forward to traveling on unknown roads!!! Happy Monday...& Sweet blessings!
Where was that territory....it was the Tri-Cities! The Tri-Cities??? I know, how could that possibly be unchartered territory! Yes! I have been to the Tri-Cities before...and, Yes, I've even driven there by myself...but, you see, I have a certain route...I know just how to get to the Mall, to Shop-Ko, Target, or even Best Buy...and, sometimes, Fred-Meyer on the other end of town...but, other than that...I don't really venture off my main path :D I also should clarify, that I do know how to get to both farmer's market locations...one in Richland on the Parkway, and the other in Pasco on 4th & Lewis. (Since, I grew-up in a town with No traffic lights, and only a couple stop signs....Hermiston is a BIG city to drive in for me :D)
So, on Saturday, when the Mr. asked me to cover his meat deliveries in the Tri-Cities...some, okay, a LOT of panic set in...I knew I could get to the Richland drop-off spot...but, on the way I had to go to someone's house...and from looking at the map...there were round-abouts I would have to face???? (Nothing like those mini-circles to throw a country girl into a tail spin :D)..then, I had to go from Richland to downtown Kennewick...and another totally unknown destination. (Oh, what did I get myself into...Logically, I knew I needed to help out my husband, and I knew I could do it...but, then, all the what-if's popped into my head!) Having been connected to me for 21 years, my husband knew from the look on my face that I was sooooo worried...to which came the reply "Tam, don't stress, you'll be fine, I printed out the mapquest directions for you...and I know you can do it". I Love that he had confidence in me...and, he even prayed over me before I left!!! Besides, I knew I just needed to let God drive :D (I do that sometimes, you know!!!)
Well, I made it to the first stop just fine (even though, somehow, I took a street ahead of the map...God is good :D)There was absolutely NO ONE at the roundabouts....Yeahhhhh...or should I say, Whew!!! Then, I made it to Richland...very elated....I even called to tell my husband I was there safe & he was right...it was a piece of cake!!!
Maybe I counted my chicks too soon...because somehow, I again missed the map exit and was LOST as I headed toward the Kennewick destination (which was The Roxy Theater...very cute, antique/coffee house if anyone ever wants a fun place to check out!!!) I decided since the MR. knows his way around the Tri-Cities (or anywhere for that matter) quite well, I would call and explain I was lost and see which direction to head??? However, I only got his voice mail...Better just let my pilot be in control.....Once again God is good, and I remembered years ago trying to find Kennewick Avenue...so, I just kept praying and going...and Ta-Da finally, I found it!!!
And, along the way, I discovered....unchartered territory is okay...NO need to fret, or worry....just let God be in control, sit-back, and enjoy the adventure (Yeahh....I know....I'm really still a work in progress on most of the previous sentence :D) But, I survived...safe & sound, and gained a little boost of confidence from exploring that unchartered territory...so, maybe one day I'll actaully look forward to traveling on unknown roads!!! Happy Monday...& Sweet blessings!
Saturday, December 06, 2008
A four letter word...
Okay, here comes another crazy, off-the-top of my head post...I don't know why certain things just pop into my mind but they do... :D It all started a couple of weeks ago with my Miss Susy and her favorite four-letter word...(shhhh...I can't tell you what it is :D) Then, that same day I happened to turn on the Rachel Ray show on my way to head out to feed, and she was talking about her favorite four-letter word....
You know there are a LOT of four-letter words out there...some good, some not so good...and all of us have our favorite ones :D (Hey, don't go there...I'm not talking about the "naughty four letter words")!!! But, the words that truly bring something to mind...
For example...
Life...
Hand....
Foot....
Good....
Ugly....
Mood.....
Hard...
Soft....
Kind....
Cool...
Most...
Call...
Fate...
Cure...
Hurt...
Pain...
Like...
Jump...
The more I thought about it the more I decided I have two favorite four-letter words....Can you guess them??? L-ve...and Ho-e! And, I'm so happy that I have both to call "M-ne" :D (Oops...I just realized the second four-letter word could also have another consonant added to make another word I love... :D) Hey, that's a God Ta-Da!!! So, with that said....May you find lots of LOVE & HOPE in this season...and may you have the opportunity to GIVE & share our LORD!!! Happy Saturday...& Sweet Blessings!
You know there are a LOT of four-letter words out there...some good, some not so good...and all of us have our favorite ones :D (Hey, don't go there...I'm not talking about the "naughty four letter words")!!! But, the words that truly bring something to mind...
For example...
Life...
Hand....
Foot....
Good....
Ugly....
Mood.....
Hard...
Soft....
Kind....
Cool...
Most...
Call...
Fate...
Cure...
Hurt...
Pain...
Like...
Jump...
The more I thought about it the more I decided I have two favorite four-letter words....Can you guess them??? L-ve...and Ho-e! And, I'm so happy that I have both to call "M-ne" :D (Oops...I just realized the second four-letter word could also have another consonant added to make another word I love... :D) Hey, that's a God Ta-Da!!! So, with that said....May you find lots of LOVE & HOPE in this season...and may you have the opportunity to GIVE & share our LORD!!! Happy Saturday...& Sweet Blessings!
Friday, December 05, 2008
Christmas Edition....
Okay, so here's what I've opened my inbox to find four times this week :D I am blessed....but, I thought I'd just make it easier and post all my answers here..then, everyone will know at the same time.....All about ME!!
So, Here's how it came & goes....
Welcome to the Christmas edition of getting to know your friends.
Okay, here's what you're supposed to do, and try not to be a
SCROOGE!!! Just copy (not forward) this entire email and paste into a
new e-mail that you can send.
Change all the answers so that they apply to you. Then send this to a
whole bunch of people you know, INCLUDING the person that sent it to
you......Tis the Season to be NICE!
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping Paper
2. Real tree or Artificial? I prefer real...but, sometimes the Mr. is a little to busy to help me get the real one...so, then we use the alternative :D
3. When do you put up the tree? Oh, bad question to ask this house...Mmmmm...it's usually only a few days before the big event :D
4. When do you take the tree down? Usually a day or two after the big event !
5. Do you like eggnog? <strong>Mmmm....not sure I've tasted it as an adult???
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Oh, No, now I"m dating myself...it was a Baby Alive Doll
7. Hardest person to buy for? My husband...he either goes and buys the things he wants OR he guesses everything I buy for him...darn it!
8. Easiest person to buy for? Mmmmm....my Mother-in-Law...
9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, one somewhere...(Now, where did I put that??)
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail em>>(I'm not computer savvy enough to do it that way!)
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I don't think I ever received a "Worst" one...
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer & Christmas Vacation
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Way too late...usually after preschool which = five days before Christmas!
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Is that called re-gifting :D ha,ha
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Homemade Sugar Cookies
16. Lights on the tree? Multi-colored
17. Favorite Christmas song? Away in the Manager
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home (Having Cows & Horses, & 8 barn cats=feedings & chores 365 days a year :D)
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Sometimes... :D
20. Angel or Star on the tree top? Angel
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Morning
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? The Busy-ness of it all..the way we turn it into Chaos..when, it's a simple thing about Jesus
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? Homemade, Any color
24. Favorite food for Christmas dinner? Pumpkin Pie
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Time spent with family(I deleted 26 & 27...they were just about who would respond first & Last!)
28. Favorite smell/odor/flavor of Christmas? Cookies baking/Hot Cocoa/ and the sound of laughter!
There it is...the whole truth..or mostly anyway :D It was kind of fun to play along and look at Christmas through others favorites....Feel free to pass this along if you like, or to simply use it as a moment to capture those warm-feelings this season brings...above all...May you find time this December to see, hear, & feel God's Love!!! Sweet blessings!!!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So, Here's how it came & goes....
Welcome to the Christmas edition of getting to know your friends.
Okay, here's what you're supposed to do, and try not to be a
SCROOGE!!! Just copy (not forward) this entire email and paste into a
new e-mail that you can send.
Change all the answers so that they apply to you. Then send this to a
whole bunch of people you know, INCLUDING the person that sent it to
you......Tis the Season to be NICE!
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping Paper
2. Real tree or Artificial? I prefer real...but, sometimes the Mr. is a little to busy to help me get the real one...so, then we use the alternative :D
3. When do you put up the tree? Oh, bad question to ask this house...Mmmmm...it's usually only a few days before the big event :D
4. When do you take the tree down? Usually a day or two after the big event !
5. Do you like eggnog? <strong>Mmmm....not sure I've tasted it as an adult???
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Oh, No, now I"m dating myself...it was a Baby Alive Doll
7. Hardest person to buy for? My husband...he either goes and buys the things he wants OR he guesses everything I buy for him...darn it!
8. Easiest person to buy for? Mmmmm....my Mother-in-Law...
9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, one somewhere...(Now, where did I put that??)
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail em>>(I'm not computer savvy enough to do it that way!)
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I don't think I ever received a "Worst" one...
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer & Christmas Vacation
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Way too late...usually after preschool which = five days before Christmas!
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Is that called re-gifting :D ha,ha
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Homemade Sugar Cookies
16. Lights on the tree? Multi-colored
17. Favorite Christmas song? Away in the Manager
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home (Having Cows & Horses, & 8 barn cats=feedings & chores 365 days a year :D)
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Sometimes... :D
20. Angel or Star on the tree top? Angel
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Morning
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? The Busy-ness of it all..the way we turn it into Chaos..when, it's a simple thing about Jesus
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? Homemade, Any color
24. Favorite food for Christmas dinner? Pumpkin Pie
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Time spent with family(I deleted 26 & 27...they were just about who would respond first & Last!)
28. Favorite smell/odor/flavor of Christmas? Cookies baking/Hot Cocoa/ and the sound of laughter!
There it is...the whole truth..or mostly anyway :D It was kind of fun to play along and look at Christmas through others favorites....Feel free to pass this along if you like, or to simply use it as a moment to capture those warm-feelings this season brings...above all...May you find time this December to see, hear, & feel God's Love!!! Sweet blessings!!!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, December 04, 2008
Where ???
Where have I been???...it feels like forever since I sat down to post on my Sweet Blessings!!!
First, a very warm, big, special Thank YOU to that sweet girl that takes care of keeping my blog looking "cute" :D What a surprise to open up my blog and see a beautiful new banner....Yeahhhhh!!!
Next, back to the question at hand....where have I been??? Well, here, there & everywhere seems to be the appropriate answer :D Last I left off was the Day after...(Thanksgiving!).
Saturday... my Parents & Grandparents came for the weekend...which was filled with AMAZING food (Best Prime-Rib I've ever tasted :D), laughter, Ice Cream, visiting, warm hugs, smiles...all the things that make life REAL & Good!!! Squeezed in were some new lights for my kitchen (thanks to my Dad)...we can actually NOW see what we are doing in the kitchen...and, the cover less light bulbs no longer adorn the ceiling :D (Yeahhh...another thing off the home make-over list!!!)
Sunday... was another day full of Sweet blessings...First Church, then, more family-food-filled fun...plus, our Pasture line became free of those wandering tumbleweeds...(thanks to a couple college boys & their love of fire!!!) Praising God, the fence line and house are both still in tact...
Monday... a clothing party with MORE great food, laughter, & fun! (Oops...but, did I leave out the part that I was pretty grumpy to the Mr. pre-party time) I don't know why, but for some reason, he always seems to get my grumpies...poor guy!!!
Tuesday... Did you know that manure can burn, & burn, & burn....which = a late night dousing with several water troughs of water by the Mr. :D Why we never do those things in the light is still a mystery to me?!?!
Wednesday...my parents joined us again on their way home...this time, my Dad filled the front porch with wood...Thanks Dad! (I am oh, so spoiled!!!) Good thing my siblings never read this blog :D
And, today...it's my Friday...yeahhhh.....it was a great preschool week...the last two days were "Gingerbread Day"...which means Miss Susy made homemade Gingerbread cookies that the kids got to decorate...Mmmmm....Mmm...Mmmm...then, crazy as we are we played "Catch the Gingerbread Man"...as the kids all ran from us...Whew...we got our exercise in for sure!!! As we huffed & puffed back to the classroom each time :D But, the laughter & smiles from the day made it totally worth it!!!
So, there...that's the scoop from here....I haven't been missing in action...just, plain BUSY!!! (but, in a GOOD way!) And, the sweetest blessing this week is my husband has been home!!! (And, I was only grumpy just that one day!!!)
Hope each of you have been blessed with a great week of GOOD food, laughter & fun yourselves...and that you can feel & see God's amazing Love during this heart-warming month! Happy December & Sweet blessings!
First, a very warm, big, special Thank YOU to that sweet girl that takes care of keeping my blog looking "cute" :D What a surprise to open up my blog and see a beautiful new banner....Yeahhhhh!!!
Next, back to the question at hand....where have I been??? Well, here, there & everywhere seems to be the appropriate answer :D Last I left off was the Day after...(Thanksgiving!).
Saturday... my Parents & Grandparents came for the weekend...which was filled with AMAZING food (Best Prime-Rib I've ever tasted :D), laughter, Ice Cream, visiting, warm hugs, smiles...all the things that make life REAL & Good!!! Squeezed in were some new lights for my kitchen (thanks to my Dad)...we can actually NOW see what we are doing in the kitchen...and, the cover less light bulbs no longer adorn the ceiling :D (Yeahhh...another thing off the home make-over list!!!)
Sunday... was another day full of Sweet blessings...First Church, then, more family-food-filled fun...plus, our Pasture line became free of those wandering tumbleweeds...(thanks to a couple college boys & their love of fire!!!) Praising God, the fence line and house are both still in tact...
Monday... a clothing party with MORE great food, laughter, & fun! (Oops...but, did I leave out the part that I was pretty grumpy to the Mr. pre-party time) I don't know why, but for some reason, he always seems to get my grumpies...poor guy!!!
Tuesday... Did you know that manure can burn, & burn, & burn....which = a late night dousing with several water troughs of water by the Mr. :D Why we never do those things in the light is still a mystery to me?!?!
Wednesday...my parents joined us again on their way home...this time, my Dad filled the front porch with wood...Thanks Dad! (I am oh, so spoiled!!!) Good thing my siblings never read this blog :D
And, today...it's my Friday...yeahhhh.....it was a great preschool week...the last two days were "Gingerbread Day"...which means Miss Susy made homemade Gingerbread cookies that the kids got to decorate...Mmmmm....Mmm...Mmmm...then, crazy as we are we played "Catch the Gingerbread Man"...as the kids all ran from us...Whew...we got our exercise in for sure!!! As we huffed & puffed back to the classroom each time :D But, the laughter & smiles from the day made it totally worth it!!!
So, there...that's the scoop from here....I haven't been missing in action...just, plain BUSY!!! (but, in a GOOD way!) And, the sweetest blessing this week is my husband has been home!!! (And, I was only grumpy just that one day!!!)
Hope each of you have been blessed with a great week of GOOD food, laughter & fun yourselves...and that you can feel & see God's amazing Love during this heart-warming month! Happy December & Sweet blessings!
Friday, November 28, 2008
The Day After....
Happy Day After Thanksgiving...Happy Black Friday (Oooh, that just doesn't sound right?? :D) Happy Friday.....So, what does everyone do with their Friday after Thanksgiving???
Some people have jobs where they actually have to report for work the next morning, life as usual...that would be my sister..(Sorry, sweet girl!) Some, set their alarms and are up way before the farmers even get up..ha, ha.....Shop, Shop, Shop until you drop..(of course, NEVER me...I prefer to do my Christmas shopping the last few days before Christmas...apparently, I must enjoy the stress it causes :D) And, then, there are those that spend the day just relaxing and catching up from all the festivities of the day before....AND...finally, there's the Mallons!
I bet you can hardly wait to hear what we did with our day...Okay, here it is....first we actually slept in until 7:00 (Whooohoooo)...then, spent a little time lounging, checking our emails, etc....Then, the Mr. headed out to check the cows at the property..and, I...well I'm quite proud of myself...I got my whole house cleaned (my parents & grandparents are coming tomorrow :D) Baked a batch of chocolate chip cookies, did a load of laundry...all by Noon.
Mr. PPRM got home, we collected all the supplies we needed for the next thing on the list...WORKING the Calves....(Not my favorite thing at all...Working Calves = Vaccinations, Branding, and for the boys...the end of their "manhood"!) Plus, lots of Mommies mooing as loud as they possibly can, to which the babies cry back. We usually bring everyone home for this job...but, today we decided to just do it at the property we rent...Praise God there is a squeeze chute & calf table there...and....the owner even came out and helped us...How GREAT was that...perfect...and I was soooo praising God! I have to say in all our years...this was the easiest, quickest time...Praise God!!! Next, everyone deserved a little treat for their hard day (just like three year olds get lollipops after their shots...my girls get some hay)!!! So, this time I let the Mr. drive...(I usually, opt for that job :D) And, I rode on the tailgate, opened up the gates, and threw out the green flakes of candy to my girls! It felt good! I don't know why...maybe the kid part of me was just coming out...(remember when you were a kid and how fun it was to ride in the back of a truck?!?!)You know, even though, it's against the law now...every once in awhile we should all do that..hop in the back of the truck while someone else drives us around...just soaking in the beauty of the world we are blessed to live in, feeling the wind blowing our hair and smelling all the scents we pass by :D (Mmmmm....no wonder dogs LOVE that so much..it's just darn refreshing and fun!)
And, finally, we came back to our Casa took care of the feeding chores here...and even got some wood stacked on the porch..!!! Whew...so, many things marked off the to-do list on this day after...I'm thankful that God sent a weather perfect day, extra-help, and that another BIG JOB is behind us!!! Tomorrow now can be reserved for just "being", spending time with family catching up...and eating (I hear Prime Rib is on the menu :D...and I don't have to cook it...yeahhh!!!)
So, however you spent your "Day After"...I hope it was filled with many, many Sweet Blessings!
Some people have jobs where they actually have to report for work the next morning, life as usual...that would be my sister..(Sorry, sweet girl!) Some, set their alarms and are up way before the farmers even get up..ha, ha.....Shop, Shop, Shop until you drop..(of course, NEVER me...I prefer to do my Christmas shopping the last few days before Christmas...apparently, I must enjoy the stress it causes :D) And, then, there are those that spend the day just relaxing and catching up from all the festivities of the day before....AND...finally, there's the Mallons!
I bet you can hardly wait to hear what we did with our day...Okay, here it is....first we actually slept in until 7:00 (Whooohoooo)...then, spent a little time lounging, checking our emails, etc....Then, the Mr. headed out to check the cows at the property..and, I...well I'm quite proud of myself...I got my whole house cleaned (my parents & grandparents are coming tomorrow :D) Baked a batch of chocolate chip cookies, did a load of laundry...all by Noon.
Mr. PPRM got home, we collected all the supplies we needed for the next thing on the list...WORKING the Calves....(Not my favorite thing at all...Working Calves = Vaccinations, Branding, and for the boys...the end of their "manhood"!) Plus, lots of Mommies mooing as loud as they possibly can, to which the babies cry back. We usually bring everyone home for this job...but, today we decided to just do it at the property we rent...Praise God there is a squeeze chute & calf table there...and....the owner even came out and helped us...How GREAT was that...perfect...and I was soooo praising God! I have to say in all our years...this was the easiest, quickest time...Praise God!!! Next, everyone deserved a little treat for their hard day (just like three year olds get lollipops after their shots...my girls get some hay)!!! So, this time I let the Mr. drive...(I usually, opt for that job :D) And, I rode on the tailgate, opened up the gates, and threw out the green flakes of candy to my girls! It felt good! I don't know why...maybe the kid part of me was just coming out...(remember when you were a kid and how fun it was to ride in the back of a truck?!?!)You know, even though, it's against the law now...every once in awhile we should all do that..hop in the back of the truck while someone else drives us around...just soaking in the beauty of the world we are blessed to live in, feeling the wind blowing our hair and smelling all the scents we pass by :D (Mmmmm....no wonder dogs LOVE that so much..it's just darn refreshing and fun!)
And, finally, we came back to our Casa took care of the feeding chores here...and even got some wood stacked on the porch..!!! Whew...so, many things marked off the to-do list on this day after...I'm thankful that God sent a weather perfect day, extra-help, and that another BIG JOB is behind us!!! Tomorrow now can be reserved for just "being", spending time with family catching up...and eating (I hear Prime Rib is on the menu :D...and I don't have to cook it...yeahhh!!!)
So, however you spent your "Day After"...I hope it was filled with many, many Sweet Blessings!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Counting my blessings....
Happy Thanksgiving from my heart to yours....
I hope this day is filled with LOTS & LOTS of turkey, gravy, potatoes, stuffing, vegetable dishes, jello-salads, & yummy pies & desserts....and, that everyone eats so much that they must spend the rest of the day lounging on sofa!
I have so many things that I am thankful for....I decided to Count my 10 TOP Blessings...
1. I have Jesus in my heart!
2. I Love my Husband, and he is HOME with me (even though, he didn't get here until 2:30 this morning!)
3. I have a wonderful Family who bless me daily
4. Good friends....near & far
5. A Healthy Body (something I become more aware of & thankful for each year!)
6. A home that is warm, safe, & my favorite place to be
7. Food to eat...
8. A job...I truly LOVE!
9. Those 9 barn cats that faithfully greet me each morning as I open my door...and each evening as I arrive home after a day's work!
10. That I am blessed to have this day to remember all the many, many sweet blessings I Have!!!
May God fill your day with lots of sweet memories, thankful hearts, warm family moments...and time to Count your Blessings! ~ HAPPY THANKSGIVING ~...& many Sweet Blessings!
I hope this day is filled with LOTS & LOTS of turkey, gravy, potatoes, stuffing, vegetable dishes, jello-salads, & yummy pies & desserts....and, that everyone eats so much that they must spend the rest of the day lounging on sofa!
I have so many things that I am thankful for....I decided to Count my 10 TOP Blessings...
1. I have Jesus in my heart!
2. I Love my Husband, and he is HOME with me (even though, he didn't get here until 2:30 this morning!)
3. I have a wonderful Family who bless me daily
4. Good friends....near & far
5. A Healthy Body (something I become more aware of & thankful for each year!)
6. A home that is warm, safe, & my favorite place to be
7. Food to eat...
8. A job...I truly LOVE!
9. Those 9 barn cats that faithfully greet me each morning as I open my door...and each evening as I arrive home after a day's work!
10. That I am blessed to have this day to remember all the many, many sweet blessings I Have!!!
May God fill your day with lots of sweet memories, thankful hearts, warm family moments...and time to Count your Blessings! ~ HAPPY THANKSGIVING ~...& many Sweet Blessings!
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Mama never told me....
I've been thinking a Lot lately about the things our Mom's Never Tell US as girls....to be fair I need to post a WARNING!
WARNING: For girl's eyes only...Adult Content! (Boys if you read, you might not quite enjoy the things being shared...and it might actually shatter your visions of "females" some :D)
That said...here it comes...
My Mom NEVER told me that.....
* You go to bed one night with one face and wake up the next morning with instant lines and creavices...a.k.a wrinkles :D
* It's pointless to shave your legs in the Winter...you jump out of a warm shower with smooth as can be legs, and before you get dressed in the coolness of the room you have pricklies again!
* Your hair color continues to follow it's own path too...darker, & darker & darker it likes to grow.
* Daylight savings time will be a "big" deal the older you get...that your internal clocks will NOT appreciate it.
* Always cook enough food for left-overs...saves yourself an extra night or two of cooking during a week :D
* Out of the blue you will find long...and I do mean LONG hairs growing out of your neck or under your chin...how they can be there and you not notice them until they are at least 3 inches long is quite the mystery.
* I remember when I was 5 wishing I could have 2 body parts to lift up and wash under...now, the thought totally makes me want to SCREAM!
* She never said body parts continue a journey southward yearly..
* Chocolate chip cookies for breakfast after the age of 20 = a LOT of praying when it's time to button your pants.
* After your 20's magically two pounds a year show up on your body
* Guys don't care as much about a clean toliet as girls do :D And, that clean floors absolutely mean NOTHING...NADA, maybe they only serve as a bright green signal..saying "Go" ..."GO"..go ahead walk on me...
* Grocery shopping is truly an art..the best at it come home with a cartload of groceries with only $10 spent..and a candy bar thrown in!
* There would be days you can't wait to go by fast, and days you wish would last forever...
* No matter how old you get..You always still need your MOM!!!
Mmmm....as I continue to grow older there seems to be more and more things I discover that my Mama never told me...but, I am so glad for the things she did!!!
So...Happy Sunday! What a beautiful morning with the sun peeking through and the earth crisp to the touch....and the promise of a wonderful Lord's day ahead!!! Sweet blessings!
WARNING: For girl's eyes only...Adult Content! (Boys if you read, you might not quite enjoy the things being shared...and it might actually shatter your visions of "females" some :D)
That said...here it comes...
My Mom NEVER told me that.....
* You go to bed one night with one face and wake up the next morning with instant lines and creavices...a.k.a wrinkles :D
* It's pointless to shave your legs in the Winter...you jump out of a warm shower with smooth as can be legs, and before you get dressed in the coolness of the room you have pricklies again!
* Your hair color continues to follow it's own path too...darker, & darker & darker it likes to grow.
* Daylight savings time will be a "big" deal the older you get...that your internal clocks will NOT appreciate it.
* Always cook enough food for left-overs...saves yourself an extra night or two of cooking during a week :D
* Out of the blue you will find long...and I do mean LONG hairs growing out of your neck or under your chin...how they can be there and you not notice them until they are at least 3 inches long is quite the mystery.
* I remember when I was 5 wishing I could have 2 body parts to lift up and wash under...now, the thought totally makes me want to SCREAM!
* She never said body parts continue a journey southward yearly..
* Chocolate chip cookies for breakfast after the age of 20 = a LOT of praying when it's time to button your pants.
* After your 20's magically two pounds a year show up on your body
* Guys don't care as much about a clean toliet as girls do :D And, that clean floors absolutely mean NOTHING...NADA, maybe they only serve as a bright green signal..saying "Go" ..."GO"..go ahead walk on me...
* Grocery shopping is truly an art..the best at it come home with a cartload of groceries with only $10 spent..and a candy bar thrown in!
* There would be days you can't wait to go by fast, and days you wish would last forever...
* No matter how old you get..You always still need your MOM!!!
Mmmm....as I continue to grow older there seems to be more and more things I discover that my Mama never told me...but, I am so glad for the things she did!!!
So...Happy Sunday! What a beautiful morning with the sun peeking through and the earth crisp to the touch....and the promise of a wonderful Lord's day ahead!!! Sweet blessings!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Honest things....
Yesterday, a sweet girl posted an award she received for being "REAL" & "HONEST"...and then she passed it on to me....???? I don't think I deserve such a sweet blessing...but, what's a girl to do, but play along...So here it is....The Award...
(P.S. the original owner of this award truly is an amazing, inspirational, good-hearted, spirit-filled Woman of God...I am blessed to have the opportunity to know!)
As a recipient of this {honest, real, full of truth} award I must post 10 HONEST things about me. So, here it goes...(honesty...ohhhhh....)
1. I am way to obsessive about my hair and lipstick :D
2. I like things to be in their place and stay the same...day in & day out
3. I find myself gossiping wayyyyyy to much (NOT something I like or am proud of at all :( )
4. I find it difficult to NOT tell my husband HOW to do things
5. I have a hard time receiving...I'd much rather give
6. I like to think Rice Crispy treats are a healthy snack...there is really only about one big marshmallow per 4x4 inch square :D
7. If I could I would eat Pasta everyday :D
8. I worry way too MUCH...(God is calling me to leave things in His Hands more!)
9. I feel happier when the Sun shines :D (And, I can feel the SON shinning!)
10. I LOVE this life I've been blessed with...my husband, family, friends, work, church home, this beautiful world of many colors....that each day I can choose whom to serve!
There DONE!!! Some of those "Honest" numbers I am really feeling convicted to work on...some of them make me smile...and some of them are just "me"..just how God created me to be! I hope each of you find time to be "real" & "honest" to make a difference in the world you are surrounded with....that you find some things to laugh about along the way..and most of all feel special, because you are YOU! Sweet blessings!
P.S. Anyone that wants to play along...please feel free..."I hereby Award you the Award of Being Real & Honest!"
(P.S. the original owner of this award truly is an amazing, inspirational, good-hearted, spirit-filled Woman of God...I am blessed to have the opportunity to know!)
As a recipient of this {honest, real, full of truth} award I must post 10 HONEST things about me. So, here it goes...(honesty...ohhhhh....)
1. I am way to obsessive about my hair and lipstick :D
2. I like things to be in their place and stay the same...day in & day out
3. I find myself gossiping wayyyyyy to much (NOT something I like or am proud of at all :( )
4. I find it difficult to NOT tell my husband HOW to do things
5. I have a hard time receiving...I'd much rather give
6. I like to think Rice Crispy treats are a healthy snack...there is really only about one big marshmallow per 4x4 inch square :D
7. If I could I would eat Pasta everyday :D
8. I worry way too MUCH...(God is calling me to leave things in His Hands more!)
9. I feel happier when the Sun shines :D (And, I can feel the SON shinning!)
10. I LOVE this life I've been blessed with...my husband, family, friends, work, church home, this beautiful world of many colors....that each day I can choose whom to serve!
There DONE!!! Some of those "Honest" numbers I am really feeling convicted to work on...some of them make me smile...and some of them are just "me"..just how God created me to be! I hope each of you find time to be "real" & "honest" to make a difference in the world you are surrounded with....that you find some things to laugh about along the way..and most of all feel special, because you are YOU! Sweet blessings!
P.S. Anyone that wants to play along...please feel free..."I hereby Award you the Award of Being Real & Honest!"
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
What a day!
Happy Wednesday!
Today was one of THOSE days...
Crazy, busy, Wiggles everywhere & LOUD. It's that time of year when holiday madness is approaching and little bodies secretly know. But in the midst of it all...God sent some sweet blessings...
* One of my preschool Mom's brought Miss Susy and I a drink from Starbucks (Thanks so much Kriss...you really made our day :D And, I loved that Passion Fruit/Lemonade...Mmmmm.mmmmm....good!)
* Miss Susy fixed me a great toasted tuna/egg sandwich
* We shared lunch with our co-workers...sharing our mornings events, our lives, things that are on our hearts & minds....
* We laughed at things we shouldn't of (sometimes three year olds have a way of making you want to laugh out loud..even though you really shouldn't laugh at that moment!)
* I got to spend some time visiting with my sister on my way home from work.
* I got to visit with my Mom on the phone tonight....
* I got the opportunity to ramble on about ordinary events on my blog...and am very blessed by all the sweet comments that are posted in return!
Thanking God that He is ever faithful, Loving, and Good! And, that wild days are only occassional..!!! Sweet blessings!
Today was one of THOSE days...
Crazy, busy, Wiggles everywhere & LOUD. It's that time of year when holiday madness is approaching and little bodies secretly know. But in the midst of it all...God sent some sweet blessings...
* One of my preschool Mom's brought Miss Susy and I a drink from Starbucks (Thanks so much Kriss...you really made our day :D And, I loved that Passion Fruit/Lemonade...Mmmmm.mmmmm....good!)
* Miss Susy fixed me a great toasted tuna/egg sandwich
* We shared lunch with our co-workers...sharing our mornings events, our lives, things that are on our hearts & minds....
* We laughed at things we shouldn't of (sometimes three year olds have a way of making you want to laugh out loud..even though you really shouldn't laugh at that moment!)
* I got to spend some time visiting with my sister on my way home from work.
* I got to visit with my Mom on the phone tonight....
* I got the opportunity to ramble on about ordinary events on my blog...and am very blessed by all the sweet comments that are posted in return!
Thanking God that He is ever faithful, Loving, and Good! And, that wild days are only occassional..!!! Sweet blessings!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Warm...
Warm....I Love that feeling...whether it's the warmth of the sun on my face, the warmth of a winter's coat, the warm hug of a friend, the warm feelings that encircle my heart for those I Love....WARM is a good thing!
And, tonight, my Mr. is on the road working...and the house just feels cold (even with the electric heat going...) So, I did what us country girls do (when we're not being lazy...ha, ha.. :D) ...I built a nice, WARM, cozy fire in the woodstove. Our Missy cat thinks she's in heaven and is all cuddled up on top of the sofa close to the stove....and, me, I know once I settle in to my favorite spot on the sofa, I'll drift off too!
Warm...it's a good thing, a good feeling...the same feeling I always get when I spend time in God's presence. Hope each of you are ending your day too encircled in the warmth of your homes, family and God! Sweet blessings!
And, tonight, my Mr. is on the road working...and the house just feels cold (even with the electric heat going...) So, I did what us country girls do (when we're not being lazy...ha, ha.. :D) ...I built a nice, WARM, cozy fire in the woodstove. Our Missy cat thinks she's in heaven and is all cuddled up on top of the sofa close to the stove....and, me, I know once I settle in to my favorite spot on the sofa, I'll drift off too!
Warm...it's a good thing, a good feeling...the same feeling I always get when I spend time in God's presence. Hope each of you are ending your day too encircled in the warmth of your homes, family and God! Sweet blessings!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Okay, I did it...
Okay, I did it...this weekend to be exact...I finally chose a color and painted our living room. Before I go any further...let me first share that I am truly married to the Best husband in the whole world!!! Poor guy for a year he has had to live with paint samples taped to the wall..then, the last month lots & lots of what do you think? (To which the real answer is "I don't care"...from the heart, that's the true honesty of it all !) I surely must drive him to the point of near craziness...but, he just keeps listening and replying...whatever you choose! Many, many thanks to my friends who have also endlessly heard the question..."What do you think?"
So, this time I chose a neutral color...called Nevada Tan...it looks very rich, warm, and beautiful! And, as I painted it on, I knew for sure this time I had picked the winner...But...(Yep, here it comes again...) today, I'm not so sure...there's just something that doesn't feel right to me...and now, it's driving me CRAZY!!! I know, I know...I'm a creature of habit...give it time...my eyes just need to adjust...and, "whatever you do, don't go back to Ivory"!!! I know all those things in my head...but, somehow, my heart just isn't on board! Sorry, now, you ALL have to hear about it :D Actually, it makes me laugh...because I know myself...and I know how OCD I am about things being in their place...and ...the list can go on and on....and, until my eyes get adjusted and the color becomes home I truly am going crazy with NAKED windows...(another crazy fact about me...I can't handle windows without curtains...I have blinds, but they are oh so lonely without curtains!!!) There...now it's all out...everyone knows more than I'm sure they wanted too....but, at least it's not inside my head rattling around anymore!!!
And...today, as I was fretting & stewing & stressing over the changes...I realized...it simply doesn't MATTER! In 5 months, it will simply be wasted time...in 10 years it'll be a good story...and in 20 years...I won't even remember it! Most of all today, I realized that what's really important is ALL the blessings and gifts God gives me everyday...that I have a home...that I have walls to paint...that I have a healthy body to paint with...and that I have a husband that loves me even when I drive him over the edge...and most of all that God's Love surrounds me no matter what my surroundings!
Thanks for letting me be "me"...and share what's on my heart...I'll keep you posted on the progress...and if any of you have any suggestions...feel free to send them my way ! (Special thanks to my decorating-guru..Pat P...YOU truly know how to guide me (or should I say..spear me forward :D) ) May each of you feel God's blessings wherever you are today ! Sweet blessings!
So, this time I chose a neutral color...called Nevada Tan...it looks very rich, warm, and beautiful! And, as I painted it on, I knew for sure this time I had picked the winner...But...(Yep, here it comes again...) today, I'm not so sure...there's just something that doesn't feel right to me...and now, it's driving me CRAZY!!! I know, I know...I'm a creature of habit...give it time...my eyes just need to adjust...and, "whatever you do, don't go back to Ivory"!!! I know all those things in my head...but, somehow, my heart just isn't on board! Sorry, now, you ALL have to hear about it :D Actually, it makes me laugh...because I know myself...and I know how OCD I am about things being in their place...and ...the list can go on and on....and, until my eyes get adjusted and the color becomes home I truly am going crazy with NAKED windows...(another crazy fact about me...I can't handle windows without curtains...I have blinds, but they are oh so lonely without curtains!!!) There...now it's all out...everyone knows more than I'm sure they wanted too....but, at least it's not inside my head rattling around anymore!!!
And...today, as I was fretting & stewing & stressing over the changes...I realized...it simply doesn't MATTER! In 5 months, it will simply be wasted time...in 10 years it'll be a good story...and in 20 years...I won't even remember it! Most of all today, I realized that what's really important is ALL the blessings and gifts God gives me everyday...that I have a home...that I have walls to paint...that I have a healthy body to paint with...and that I have a husband that loves me even when I drive him over the edge...and most of all that God's Love surrounds me no matter what my surroundings!
Thanks for letting me be "me"...and share what's on my heart...I'll keep you posted on the progress...and if any of you have any suggestions...feel free to send them my way ! (Special thanks to my decorating-guru..Pat P...YOU truly know how to guide me (or should I say..spear me forward :D) ) May each of you feel God's blessings wherever you are today ! Sweet blessings!
It's Monday...
It's Monday...time for a new week, a new start, a fresh beginning...time to go forward...isn't it funny, but that's never quite how I look at a Monday :D Usually, it's more like, "Oh, it's Monday...the beginning of another week of crazy busy-ness, back to routines & schedules, errands, my husband leaving for his job, and on & on....
But, I've decided this week, I'm going to be excited about Monday...excited to see what this week holds...what sweet blessings will unfold in the midst of the "usual weekly events". Of course, I can never wait for the work part of Monday's...because I am blessed to LOVE my work, every minute, every single day :D
Yesterday on our church bulletin there was something that caught my attention...it said...we need to stop praying "Lord, bless what I'm doing"...and start praying..."Lord help me to do what you are blessing." And, that is going to be my prayer this week as I am blessed to begin a new Monday!
May each of you have an amazing start to your week too..May this Monday be an exciting beginning to a week full of Sweet blessings!
But, I've decided this week, I'm going to be excited about Monday...excited to see what this week holds...what sweet blessings will unfold in the midst of the "usual weekly events". Of course, I can never wait for the work part of Monday's...because I am blessed to LOVE my work, every minute, every single day :D
Yesterday on our church bulletin there was something that caught my attention...it said...we need to stop praying "Lord, bless what I'm doing"...and start praying..."Lord help me to do what you are blessing." And, that is going to be my prayer this week as I am blessed to begin a new Monday!
May each of you have an amazing start to your week too..May this Monday be an exciting beginning to a week full of Sweet blessings!
Friday, November 14, 2008
RAK!
No worries I haven't become addicted to talking in acronyms...although I did enjoy some giggles from all your comments on my last post! This one is actually to do with Random Acts of Kindness!
Have you ever just did something nice for someone else because??? OR has someone blessed you with a gift of kindness just because???
A few months ago, my sister and I were having dinner at Shari's...my sister's been having a rough haul this last year...all of a sudden her husband left her, she had to sell her house, move to an apartment, and lost her job. My heart is hurting for her...but, she is fighter and very strong...and I know she will go forward from it all and become yet even a stronger woman. Well, back to Shari's...after our dinner we were at the counter waiting to pay, and I noticed and older gentleman at the counter was looking at her (Oh, guess I should point out here..that my sister is a Barbie look alike :D) I told her...and she was like "whatever"...we are still waiting, and he gets up goes past us to the restroom, catching her eye and saying "hi"...he comes out and we are still waiting in line to pay...he gets in line behind us...makes small talk, and takes the bill out of her hand and says "Please let me pay for your meal tonight." If you know us at all..you know we are total protesting girls when it comes to someone else paying for anything for us...so, she said "No, but Thank YOU, I can't let you.." he persists..."Please, I would really like to do that for you..." "That wouldn't be right" she again replies...to which he says "It's my way of giving back, sometimes I just like to treat someone I don't know to a meal". She relents thanking him profusely...as we leave her heart is totally overwhelmed with gratitude and the gift that only an act of kindness can bring. "That's never happened to me before" she says...to which I add...maybe God just wanted to show you His Love in a special way today. He knows you need a little "hug" right now. I LOVED that I got to watch that gift of kindness touch my sisters heart and life that day in a special way. As I drove home I did wonder...Mmmmm...was that man an angel in disguise.
Part 2 of the Story...Once again my sister and I are out shopping, Safeway, I think??? Anyway, we see him again, he smiles and she smiles back, they exchange quick hellos..and move on! NOTE here: Neither of us have ever ran into this gentleman or seen him before the first event...
Part 3...Just about two weeks ago my sister and I met up for dinner again...this time at Roy & Venietta's (Yep, us girls like to eat out when we can :D) Anyway, he comes in with a lady...and says "hi" and smiles as he walks by...we finish our meal and they are ahead of us this time at the counter...he turns and asks my sister how things are going...She tells him, she is looking for a job (she has one, but it's not quite what she needs right now...) He gives her is card and tells her to call the office they will be having some openings after the first of the year ( He works at a place with good pay & benefits..!!!) ...introduces the lady he is with..and after a little more chit chat he leaves. Once again, my sister is in awe...She doesn't know this man, but every time they meet it's like he is drawn to her, senses her need and wants to help. Once again as we leave our conversation turns to God...It truly is like this man appears right when she really needs some uplifting!
So, Random Acts of Kindness...They just feel good...whether you are the giver or the receiver...they touch a heart, a spirit, a life, in ways words cannot express. As we head into this holiday season I want to focus on randomly sharing acts of kindness...maybe it will be just letting someone in a rush go before me at Walmart...maybe it'll be paying for the person in line behind me at Starbucks...maybe it'll be offering to watch someone's little ones so they can have a night out...maybe....the possibilities are endless...I can hardly wait to see what God speaks into my heart (you know that moment when you instantly, spontaneously feel the urge to do something :D).
"Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2
Hope this time of year brings a chance for each of you to experience or share some kindness too! Sweet blessings!
Have you ever just did something nice for someone else because??? OR has someone blessed you with a gift of kindness just because???
A few months ago, my sister and I were having dinner at Shari's...my sister's been having a rough haul this last year...all of a sudden her husband left her, she had to sell her house, move to an apartment, and lost her job. My heart is hurting for her...but, she is fighter and very strong...and I know she will go forward from it all and become yet even a stronger woman. Well, back to Shari's...after our dinner we were at the counter waiting to pay, and I noticed and older gentleman at the counter was looking at her (Oh, guess I should point out here..that my sister is a Barbie look alike :D) I told her...and she was like "whatever"...we are still waiting, and he gets up goes past us to the restroom, catching her eye and saying "hi"...he comes out and we are still waiting in line to pay...he gets in line behind us...makes small talk, and takes the bill out of her hand and says "Please let me pay for your meal tonight." If you know us at all..you know we are total protesting girls when it comes to someone else paying for anything for us...so, she said "No, but Thank YOU, I can't let you.." he persists..."Please, I would really like to do that for you..." "That wouldn't be right" she again replies...to which he says "It's my way of giving back, sometimes I just like to treat someone I don't know to a meal". She relents thanking him profusely...as we leave her heart is totally overwhelmed with gratitude and the gift that only an act of kindness can bring. "That's never happened to me before" she says...to which I add...maybe God just wanted to show you His Love in a special way today. He knows you need a little "hug" right now. I LOVED that I got to watch that gift of kindness touch my sisters heart and life that day in a special way. As I drove home I did wonder...Mmmmm...was that man an angel in disguise.
Part 2 of the Story...Once again my sister and I are out shopping, Safeway, I think??? Anyway, we see him again, he smiles and she smiles back, they exchange quick hellos..and move on! NOTE here: Neither of us have ever ran into this gentleman or seen him before the first event...
Part 3...Just about two weeks ago my sister and I met up for dinner again...this time at Roy & Venietta's (Yep, us girls like to eat out when we can :D) Anyway, he comes in with a lady...and says "hi" and smiles as he walks by...we finish our meal and they are ahead of us this time at the counter...he turns and asks my sister how things are going...She tells him, she is looking for a job (she has one, but it's not quite what she needs right now...) He gives her is card and tells her to call the office they will be having some openings after the first of the year ( He works at a place with good pay & benefits..!!!) ...introduces the lady he is with..and after a little more chit chat he leaves. Once again, my sister is in awe...She doesn't know this man, but every time they meet it's like he is drawn to her, senses her need and wants to help. Once again as we leave our conversation turns to God...It truly is like this man appears right when she really needs some uplifting!
So, Random Acts of Kindness...They just feel good...whether you are the giver or the receiver...they touch a heart, a spirit, a life, in ways words cannot express. As we head into this holiday season I want to focus on randomly sharing acts of kindness...maybe it will be just letting someone in a rush go before me at Walmart...maybe it'll be paying for the person in line behind me at Starbucks...maybe it'll be offering to watch someone's little ones so they can have a night out...maybe....the possibilities are endless...I can hardly wait to see what God speaks into my heart (you know that moment when you instantly, spontaneously feel the urge to do something :D).
"Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2
Hope this time of year brings a chance for each of you to experience or share some kindness too! Sweet blessings!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
FYI.....
Just the other day I was sitting on the sofa next to Mr. PPRM who had his laptop secured on his lap and was typing away on his cattle site (which really equals our girls' version of blogging :D..the site even comes complete with what else...but everyone sharing pictures of their places & cattle!!!) Oops..back to the reason for this title and blog...as he is typing away I notice all the alphabet letters stuck together...not words, just letters...you know like FYI :D
Here we go again...it started me thinking...when did our world go from alphabet letters making actual words to letters stuck together meaning words??? Mmmmm....it all started for me when I finally discovered that FYI wasn't the girl version of XYZ, but actually meant For Your Information :D (Did that just hint at my age or what???) Next, I learned that TMI was Too Much Info...something I tend to give way to much of :D And, my final straw in this letter combo's the world has created came a few years ago...Once again I was snooping as my Mr. was replying on his Rancher's site...and I saw he signed it LOL...which I immediately asked who he was replying too..."A guy that ranches in Nebraska" was the answer..."Why did you sign of LOTS OF LOVE", then...came my instant question...to which I heard, "Tam, that does NOT stand for Lots of Love...it means Laugh OUT Loud."! Oops...I had so much to learn about the new ways of putting letters together :D So, I decided just in case anyone out there is struggle to get "hip" with the language too...I'd share what I've learned so far....Here it is:
* FYI - For your information
* TMI - Too much information
* XYZ - Oh, right...that one is an old one we all know :D
* BTW - By the way
* LOL - Laugh out Loud, Lots of Luck, or....Lots of Love (that's how I use it anyway :D)
* IDK - I don't know
* RSVP - Hey another one that started several decades ago
* BYOB - Does anyone know this one???
* BRB - Be Right Back
* BZ - Busy
* DGT - Don't go there
* DIY - Do it yourself
* DKDC - Don't know don't care
* BTWBO - Be there with bells on
* IM - Instant messaging
* P2P - People to people
* CSL - Can't stop laughing
There are so many...so many I don't even know yet...if you have a few that you think I need to know to broaden my information file...please feel to share them :D So for now...FTBOMH (from the bottom of my heart) ......happy thinking & decoding, and I hope a few of the above bring you a chuckle too...Sweet blessings!
P.S. It appear spell-check doesn't like all the acronyms either...each one came up highlighted as I was proof-reading :D My heart is smiling at that one!
Here we go again...it started me thinking...when did our world go from alphabet letters making actual words to letters stuck together meaning words??? Mmmmm....it all started for me when I finally discovered that FYI wasn't the girl version of XYZ, but actually meant For Your Information :D (Did that just hint at my age or what???) Next, I learned that TMI was Too Much Info...something I tend to give way to much of :D And, my final straw in this letter combo's the world has created came a few years ago...Once again I was snooping as my Mr. was replying on his Rancher's site...and I saw he signed it LOL...which I immediately asked who he was replying too..."A guy that ranches in Nebraska" was the answer..."Why did you sign of LOTS OF LOVE", then...came my instant question...to which I heard, "Tam, that does NOT stand for Lots of Love...it means Laugh OUT Loud."! Oops...I had so much to learn about the new ways of putting letters together :D So, I decided just in case anyone out there is struggle to get "hip" with the language too...I'd share what I've learned so far....Here it is:
* FYI - For your information
* TMI - Too much information
* XYZ - Oh, right...that one is an old one we all know :D
* BTW - By the way
* LOL - Laugh out Loud, Lots of Luck, or....Lots of Love (that's how I use it anyway :D)
* IDK - I don't know
* RSVP - Hey another one that started several decades ago
* BYOB - Does anyone know this one???
* BRB - Be Right Back
* BZ - Busy
* DGT - Don't go there
* DIY - Do it yourself
* DKDC - Don't know don't care
* BTWBO - Be there with bells on
* IM - Instant messaging
* P2P - People to people
* CSL - Can't stop laughing
There are so many...so many I don't even know yet...if you have a few that you think I need to know to broaden my information file...please feel to share them :D So for now...FTBOMH (from the bottom of my heart) ......happy thinking & decoding, and I hope a few of the above bring you a chuckle too...Sweet blessings!
P.S. It appear spell-check doesn't like all the acronyms either...each one came up highlighted as I was proof-reading :D My heart is smiling at that one!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
My turn....
Well, it finally happened...for once it was my turn for "something" to happen instead of Mr. PPRM's...It was Sunday afternoon...and the weather was nice for this time of year...meaning NO RAIN, FOG, or WIND. So, I decided (since I was a LOT past the time of getting the job done), that I should get the vents under the house closed up. Normally, that would be a simple job of just pushing a lever...well, that is unless you live in an old house in the Country. Apparently, when they built our house vents didn't come with the option of opening or closing...so, in our case, it means covering them with plastic. (It kind of makes me laugh...because, somehow, I thought once I left that college apartment with the single-paned windows, I wouldn't have to be using plastic as an insulator anymore :D) Anyway, we've lived in our house for over 16 years (And, it happens to be on the to-do list to replace one day...) so, I've pretty much got the procedure down. I got the plastic, my handy dandy stapler gun, scissors and I'm set. The whole job usually, only takes about 20 minutes anyway....I get the first one done...perfect...on to the second...well, there is the ladder leaning on it's side next to the house with the chimney brush laying on top of that (Yep, it's true, we need a "outside" shed for tools :D) Anyway, I pull the ladder forward and all is good, until KAPLUNK..somehow the wire brush flips and pops me in the face..right below my eye...it didn't hurt much...so, I continued on my mission. Mmmmmm...it felt good to check another thing off that to-do list!
Once done, I come in to get ready to go to our Church's annual Thanksgiving dinner...and notice a red spot or two on my face. Oh, guess the brush must have poked through the skin a little...some neosporin and I'm good to go. Mr. PPRM gets home...and we head out...in the car I share my little incident..to which he replies..."We'd better get you a tetanus shot." smiling away. NOT because he really thinks I need one, but because every time he gets a puncture wound I INSIST he gets one...I think he's probably had at least 6 or 7 throughout the time we've been married :D (You know they are good for 10 year, unless you get an injury in that time...that makes me laugh in itself!) I inform him...the last shot on a Sunday night at the ER cost us $500....I would be fine...it was not a big puncture at all....
Next day at Preschool I'm sharing my weekend events with Miss Susy..and she says..."You'd better go get a tetanus shot." Smiling too....I'm pretty sure she is humored and teasing me too...Next, we ask a couple preschool Moms...both assuring me I am fine...then, at lunch I tell my director, Tess...."You'd better go...better safe than sorry." So....indecisive me...finally caves...and after work I stop at Safeway to get that $56 shot! I so wish I could use my arm being terribly sore to get out of doing work at home...and sympathy at work...but, it's not even that sore!!! Darn it!
So, that's my story....it was finally my turn to get that tetanus shot....but, hey now I'm good for another 10 years!!! Happy Tuesday to everyone! Sweet blessings!
Once done, I come in to get ready to go to our Church's annual Thanksgiving dinner...and notice a red spot or two on my face. Oh, guess the brush must have poked through the skin a little...some neosporin and I'm good to go. Mr. PPRM gets home...and we head out...in the car I share my little incident..to which he replies..."We'd better get you a tetanus shot." smiling away. NOT because he really thinks I need one, but because every time he gets a puncture wound I INSIST he gets one...I think he's probably had at least 6 or 7 throughout the time we've been married :D (You know they are good for 10 year, unless you get an injury in that time...that makes me laugh in itself!) I inform him...the last shot on a Sunday night at the ER cost us $500....I would be fine...it was not a big puncture at all....
Next day at Preschool I'm sharing my weekend events with Miss Susy..and she says..."You'd better go get a tetanus shot." Smiling too....I'm pretty sure she is humored and teasing me too...Next, we ask a couple preschool Moms...both assuring me I am fine...then, at lunch I tell my director, Tess...."You'd better go...better safe than sorry." So....indecisive me...finally caves...and after work I stop at Safeway to get that $56 shot! I so wish I could use my arm being terribly sore to get out of doing work at home...and sympathy at work...but, it's not even that sore!!! Darn it!
So, that's my story....it was finally my turn to get that tetanus shot....but, hey now I'm good for another 10 years!!! Happy Tuesday to everyone! Sweet blessings!
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Casserole eating...
Happy Sunday!
I don't know why but this rainy, cloudy, foggy, misty weather always makes me want to cook Casseroles??? You would think it would be Stew, Chili, Roast, or something...besides a casserole??? And, since yesterday's weather was all of the above..you can guess what we had for dinner....I always think you can never have enough "one-dish" recipes...so, here's my Casserole recipe from Saturday....
Mexican-Cornbread Casserole
In a skillet...
1 lb Hamburger (browned) Preferably Pat-n-Tam's Hamburger :D
Chopped Onion (use your own judgement here..if you are an onion lover add away...if not just add a few...)
1 Can Diced Tomatoes
1 Small Can Tomato Sauce
1 Package Taco Seasoning
1 Small Can Diced Green Chilies (optional too :D) I never use a whole can???
Let all ingredients simmer in the pan for 15-20 minutes...(it will look kind of like Spanish Spaghetti Sauce :D)Pour in Casserole dish....
1 Box or Package of Cornbread...prepared as label says....
Pour on top of meat mixture and Bake at 400 until Cornbread is done...Take out of oven...and Top with Grated Cheese...return to oven until cheese melts! Done!!!
Mmmmm.mmmmm.....Good! As you can tell I'm not quite Martha Stewart or Paula Dean...my recipe is a little thrown together...but, hope it works for you...and that you can enjoy a casserole on one of those misty, cool evenings that seem to be heading our way! Thanks for letting me share...Sweet blessings!
I don't know why but this rainy, cloudy, foggy, misty weather always makes me want to cook Casseroles??? You would think it would be Stew, Chili, Roast, or something...besides a casserole??? And, since yesterday's weather was all of the above..you can guess what we had for dinner....I always think you can never have enough "one-dish" recipes...so, here's my Casserole recipe from Saturday....
Mexican-Cornbread Casserole
In a skillet...
1 lb Hamburger (browned) Preferably Pat-n-Tam's Hamburger :D
Chopped Onion (use your own judgement here..if you are an onion lover add away...if not just add a few...)
1 Can Diced Tomatoes
1 Small Can Tomato Sauce
1 Package Taco Seasoning
1 Small Can Diced Green Chilies (optional too :D) I never use a whole can???
Let all ingredients simmer in the pan for 15-20 minutes...(it will look kind of like Spanish Spaghetti Sauce :D)Pour in Casserole dish....
1 Box or Package of Cornbread...prepared as label says....
Pour on top of meat mixture and Bake at 400 until Cornbread is done...Take out of oven...and Top with Grated Cheese...return to oven until cheese melts! Done!!!
Mmmmm.mmmmm.....Good! As you can tell I'm not quite Martha Stewart or Paula Dean...my recipe is a little thrown together...but, hope it works for you...and that you can enjoy a casserole on one of those misty, cool evenings that seem to be heading our way! Thanks for letting me share...Sweet blessings!
Friday, November 07, 2008
In-Decisive is my middle name...
I think that's truly a fact...when my parents named me, they should have named me Tammy Indecisive Schaber, instead of Tammy Jo :D It's been over a year now that we've had paint swatches stuck to our wall. And, finally I have a totally free weekend to finally tackle that project. So, last night, I went to Ace, got a few more samples, (just to make sure..in case there's some new color out there waiting for me :D)
This morning, I taped those new samples everywhere...up, down, by the molding, next to the carpet, by the sofa, the chair, the prints on the walls, etc....finaly, after much deliberation...I chose ONE! (Okay two...but, I was pretty sure I could narrow it down by the time I drove the ten minutes into town). Once in the store, still not quite there, so the sales lady holds them both up and I point to one! Yeahhh...I did it!!!
I get a few supplies, my paint, and head home to tackle my weekend project! First, of course, I have to wipe down the wall...where oh where does all that dust, dirt, & cobwebs come from??? Next, I open the paint...Mmmmm...looks a little more yellow than I thought....put a little on...More Yellow...do a 2 ft. section...definitely a LOT MORE YELLOW than I wanted. Oops! I don't like the color..and I've bought two gallons...and, Now what??? The problem is...I can see the color I want clearly in my head... I just can't seem to find it in a paint swatch???? So, back to Ace I head...this time deciding maybe I need to go more in the neutral, earthtone shades...More samples, More tapings here & there...More looking...pondering....Mmmm...could this be the beginning of another year of just deciding????
Oh, and the Yellow wall...Definitely COULD NOT look at that for another year...so, it's back to it's safe Ivory color...waiting too...to see what Miss Indecisive will finally decide upon! So, if there is anyone out there in need of some YELLOW (acutally it's name is Honeywheat) paint, just give me a call...and it's yours!!! May God fill each of your weekends with some fun projects...and, May you feel His warmth surrounding you as Fall is settling in! Sweet blessings!
This morning, I taped those new samples everywhere...up, down, by the molding, next to the carpet, by the sofa, the chair, the prints on the walls, etc....finaly, after much deliberation...I chose ONE! (Okay two...but, I was pretty sure I could narrow it down by the time I drove the ten minutes into town). Once in the store, still not quite there, so the sales lady holds them both up and I point to one! Yeahhh...I did it!!!
I get a few supplies, my paint, and head home to tackle my weekend project! First, of course, I have to wipe down the wall...where oh where does all that dust, dirt, & cobwebs come from??? Next, I open the paint...Mmmmm...looks a little more yellow than I thought....put a little on...More Yellow...do a 2 ft. section...definitely a LOT MORE YELLOW than I wanted. Oops! I don't like the color..and I've bought two gallons...and, Now what??? The problem is...I can see the color I want clearly in my head... I just can't seem to find it in a paint swatch???? So, back to Ace I head...this time deciding maybe I need to go more in the neutral, earthtone shades...More samples, More tapings here & there...More looking...pondering....Mmmm...could this be the beginning of another year of just deciding????
Oh, and the Yellow wall...Definitely COULD NOT look at that for another year...so, it's back to it's safe Ivory color...waiting too...to see what Miss Indecisive will finally decide upon! So, if there is anyone out there in need of some YELLOW (acutally it's name is Honeywheat) paint, just give me a call...and it's yours!!! May God fill each of your weekends with some fun projects...and, May you feel His warmth surrounding you as Fall is settling in! Sweet blessings!
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Today's Top 10
Today was a rainy, cloudy one...but, still even in the mist...I felt blessed...here's some of my Top 10...
10. I have a warm coat with hood to wear in the Rain!
9. I opened my inbox to find sweet mail from sweet friends
8. My Cat LOVES me no matter what :D I Love that she just snuggles in and is happy when I'm home (but, even more happy when Mr. PPRM is home!)
7. My Miss Susy fed me a great egg salad sandwich for lunch...
6. Starbucks Ice Tea was a part of my afternoon!
5. My preschoolers were happy today...lots of smiles, laughter, and just plain FUN!
4. No bills in the mail today :D
3. I marked off two things from my to-do list!
2. It's my Friday!!! Yippee!!!
1. I'm married to a GOOD man!
I hope you get some time to think of some blessings that surrounded your day....And...that there were many, many Sweet Blessings!
10. I have a warm coat with hood to wear in the Rain!
9. I opened my inbox to find sweet mail from sweet friends
8. My Cat LOVES me no matter what :D I Love that she just snuggles in and is happy when I'm home (but, even more happy when Mr. PPRM is home!)
7. My Miss Susy fed me a great egg salad sandwich for lunch...
6. Starbucks Ice Tea was a part of my afternoon!
5. My preschoolers were happy today...lots of smiles, laughter, and just plain FUN!
4. No bills in the mail today :D
3. I marked off two things from my to-do list!
2. It's my Friday!!! Yippee!!!
1. I'm married to a GOOD man!
I hope you get some time to think of some blessings that surrounded your day....And...that there were many, many Sweet Blessings!
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Happy.....
Happy Wednesday....
Happy Day after the Elections....
Happy November.....
May today be filled with all things Good!!!
Tuesday was such a blustery day...that now once again we are back to using baling twine to hold our screen door shut! Praise God for baling twine....apparently while I was at work, a big gust caught the screen door and pulled it back so far the metal clamp broke loose?!?!
Then, on Mr. PPRM's way home...he had an incident too....when, he came in the house I said..."Oh, what's that smell..."??? It was something familiar but I couldn't place my finger on it....Well, this was the smell...."On my way home I hit a skunk"...Apparently three were crossing the road, and one stopped....I know you are wondering why I called that a familiar smell...Well, not because we live in the country and they wander through...but, because several years ago we actually had one living under our house. We did what all advice givers told us...we tried to trap it...it worked, and we took the skunk out in the boonies past us and released it....somehow, it found it's way back...so, next we tried another method...a huge garbage can filled with water, a plank leading up to it with bits of food along the way....NOPE...that wasn't the right plan. Then, one morning...as I was getting ready for work and my husband was drinking his coffee...there came an awful smell throughout the house...apparently that skunk and a cat had gotten into a little squabble under the house...!!! OH it was bad!!!!(There's nothing like your whole house smelling like a skunk...thankfully, it was early Fall so we could open everything up and air it out...plus, here's a little tip...Vanilla candles will remove the smell :D) So, finally, we call the Dept. of Fish & Wildlife...they bring a big trap...with the instructions to "destroy the little varmit" when caught. Well, it worked like a dream...and the skunk was caught in the little wooden box...Pat was working graveyard at Lamb Weston at the time, and before he got home the little skunk had nearly chewed a hole in the top big enough to get out....but, he was so tired he needed some sleep...So I found a BIG rock and plopped it on top of the hole...I gave him a couple of hours watching that hole the whole time...finally, I couldn't wait any longer....so, I woke him up...just in time too...the skunk had already figured out how to naw past the rock!!! We took the skunk out to a nice barren spot...let it go...and you know the Mr. had to use his gun...and did you know this...the minute they go....they release their spray....What a smell....So, that's why it's all to familiar to us!
Needless to say, we survived that little bit of adventure...and I'm sure this one will pass too...although, the clothes my husband was wearing last night are now in the garbage..and his coat is "airing" out on the front porch...poor guy...today he had to leave for Redmond...and the inside of his truck still had that familiar ordor...I'm hoping he found a solution...be it the windows down, some vanilla air freshners...or nose plugs :D It's always a fun time around here....And...it's Wednesday...a new day!!! Thanks for reading along....Sweet blessings!
Happy Day after the Elections....
Happy November.....
May today be filled with all things Good!!!
Tuesday was such a blustery day...that now once again we are back to using baling twine to hold our screen door shut! Praise God for baling twine....apparently while I was at work, a big gust caught the screen door and pulled it back so far the metal clamp broke loose?!?!
Then, on Mr. PPRM's way home...he had an incident too....when, he came in the house I said..."Oh, what's that smell..."??? It was something familiar but I couldn't place my finger on it....Well, this was the smell...."On my way home I hit a skunk"...Apparently three were crossing the road, and one stopped....I know you are wondering why I called that a familiar smell...Well, not because we live in the country and they wander through...but, because several years ago we actually had one living under our house. We did what all advice givers told us...we tried to trap it...it worked, and we took the skunk out in the boonies past us and released it....somehow, it found it's way back...so, next we tried another method...a huge garbage can filled with water, a plank leading up to it with bits of food along the way....NOPE...that wasn't the right plan. Then, one morning...as I was getting ready for work and my husband was drinking his coffee...there came an awful smell throughout the house...apparently that skunk and a cat had gotten into a little squabble under the house...!!! OH it was bad!!!!(There's nothing like your whole house smelling like a skunk...thankfully, it was early Fall so we could open everything up and air it out...plus, here's a little tip...Vanilla candles will remove the smell :D) So, finally, we call the Dept. of Fish & Wildlife...they bring a big trap...with the instructions to "destroy the little varmit" when caught. Well, it worked like a dream...and the skunk was caught in the little wooden box...Pat was working graveyard at Lamb Weston at the time, and before he got home the little skunk had nearly chewed a hole in the top big enough to get out....but, he was so tired he needed some sleep...So I found a BIG rock and plopped it on top of the hole...I gave him a couple of hours watching that hole the whole time...finally, I couldn't wait any longer....so, I woke him up...just in time too...the skunk had already figured out how to naw past the rock!!! We took the skunk out to a nice barren spot...let it go...and you know the Mr. had to use his gun...and did you know this...the minute they go....they release their spray....What a smell....So, that's why it's all to familiar to us!
Needless to say, we survived that little bit of adventure...and I'm sure this one will pass too...although, the clothes my husband was wearing last night are now in the garbage..and his coat is "airing" out on the front porch...poor guy...today he had to leave for Redmond...and the inside of his truck still had that familiar ordor...I'm hoping he found a solution...be it the windows down, some vanilla air freshners...or nose plugs :D It's always a fun time around here....And...it's Wednesday...a new day!!! Thanks for reading along....Sweet blessings!
Monday, November 03, 2008
Weekend Part 2...
Okay, you know that free "weekend"....well, that turned out to be just Saturday :D Yesterday with the time change, Mr. PPRM thought we'd have time to move one load of Mama cows & their babies to another pasture before church....but, somehow it just didn't go as easily as planned :D (That's called life of a rancher :D)
Anyway, since the first cows were distracted by the help of the Pasture owner's new husband...we decided we would just go ahead and work the new babies at the other property! It actually, went quite well...they all came right into the corrals...separated easily...and was moving right along...My job was to push the babies up into the squeeze chute...and since it wasn't at our place with the calf table, the boss wanted to catch two at once! No problem...until...the last little guy...he did NOT want to go anywhere near that mechanical squeezing thing... :D So, just as always I got behind him and was walking him forward...but for some reason, and somehow he kicked back at me...and connected hard!!! My immediate reaction was "Oh, NO...I just got kicked"...to which the Mr. replied, "Are you okay"..."I don't know...." was my reply as I was climbing to the top of the fence (the corrals are still the old wood kind at this property...with solid plywood sides..leaving little way to escape in such a situation!!!) Once on top of the fence, my husband meets me there....with the look of what do you want me to do on his face...of course, I said..."it could be broken I don't know...it just hurts"....so, being my "cowboy" in shining armor (although that's not quite how I was feeling about it at that moment yesterday :D) reaches up and hoists me into his arms and sits me on the ground....I immediately pull up my pant leg to inspect...the hit was right by my knee cap....it looks red & swollen...and so, I just sit for a few minutes..try standing...and next walking...and Praise God...it's all okay! So of course, we switch spots...I get to run the squeeze chute while you know who pushed the calf up!!! (I was hoping for the biggest, ugliest bruise ever, but that didn't materialize either??? It's still sore, and there's a slight bruise here & there, but that's it!!!)
Now, for the funny parts of the day...somehow, I lost the cap to the tagging marker...oops! Then, Mr. PPRM lost his glasses somewhere in a pasture or pile..ha, ha....!!! And, here's the best part...remember when I put on my winter feeding coat and found that needle in my pocket...well, it came in ever so handy yesterday, as I forgot to reload the supplies on our last trip out! Praise God I was prepared and we didn't have to go all the way back home for one little needle! (Which reminds me...better restock that coat pocket...so far, both the twine & needle have vanished!!!)
Needless to say, we didn't make it to church yesterday...and, I wish I would of remembered my camera so you could of seen me in all my glory...flat hair (yep, it happened!), no make-up, my knee-high muck boots & green "stuff" all over my pants! Maybe next time :D
After the "cow" work, Mr. PPRM headed to Pendleton to deliver some meat...I to my classroom for a while..then, back home to greet my parents that came to stay the night! So, that was our Sunday...not quite how we had planned...but, in the end it all worked out perfectly! God is good...and He is in control...and He knows better than we do, just how our days are going to unfold. I'm praising Him for His protection in the midst of all our "work", for the blessings of the good weather He provided...and that my Mr. & I at least got to spend some "alone" time together...with our girls!!! And, that our day ended with the sweet blessing of time spent with family! May God bless your week in Amazing ways as it unfolds...and may you too find many reasons to Praise Him! Sweet blessings!
Anyway, since the first cows were distracted by the help of the Pasture owner's new husband...we decided we would just go ahead and work the new babies at the other property! It actually, went quite well...they all came right into the corrals...separated easily...and was moving right along...My job was to push the babies up into the squeeze chute...and since it wasn't at our place with the calf table, the boss wanted to catch two at once! No problem...until...the last little guy...he did NOT want to go anywhere near that mechanical squeezing thing... :D So, just as always I got behind him and was walking him forward...but for some reason, and somehow he kicked back at me...and connected hard!!! My immediate reaction was "Oh, NO...I just got kicked"...to which the Mr. replied, "Are you okay"..."I don't know...." was my reply as I was climbing to the top of the fence (the corrals are still the old wood kind at this property...with solid plywood sides..leaving little way to escape in such a situation!!!) Once on top of the fence, my husband meets me there....with the look of what do you want me to do on his face...of course, I said..."it could be broken I don't know...it just hurts"....so, being my "cowboy" in shining armor (although that's not quite how I was feeling about it at that moment yesterday :D) reaches up and hoists me into his arms and sits me on the ground....I immediately pull up my pant leg to inspect...the hit was right by my knee cap....it looks red & swollen...and so, I just sit for a few minutes..try standing...and next walking...and Praise God...it's all okay! So of course, we switch spots...I get to run the squeeze chute while you know who pushed the calf up!!! (I was hoping for the biggest, ugliest bruise ever, but that didn't materialize either??? It's still sore, and there's a slight bruise here & there, but that's it!!!)
Now, for the funny parts of the day...somehow, I lost the cap to the tagging marker...oops! Then, Mr. PPRM lost his glasses somewhere in a pasture or pile..ha, ha....!!! And, here's the best part...remember when I put on my winter feeding coat and found that needle in my pocket...well, it came in ever so handy yesterday, as I forgot to reload the supplies on our last trip out! Praise God I was prepared and we didn't have to go all the way back home for one little needle! (Which reminds me...better restock that coat pocket...so far, both the twine & needle have vanished!!!)
Needless to say, we didn't make it to church yesterday...and, I wish I would of remembered my camera so you could of seen me in all my glory...flat hair (yep, it happened!), no make-up, my knee-high muck boots & green "stuff" all over my pants! Maybe next time :D
After the "cow" work, Mr. PPRM headed to Pendleton to deliver some meat...I to my classroom for a while..then, back home to greet my parents that came to stay the night! So, that was our Sunday...not quite how we had planned...but, in the end it all worked out perfectly! God is good...and He is in control...and He knows better than we do, just how our days are going to unfold. I'm praising Him for His protection in the midst of all our "work", for the blessings of the good weather He provided...and that my Mr. & I at least got to spend some "alone" time together...with our girls!!! And, that our day ended with the sweet blessing of time spent with family! May God bless your week in Amazing ways as it unfolds...and may you too find many reasons to Praise Him! Sweet blessings!
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Our first "free" weekend...
I can't believe it...finally a "free weekend"...okay, you all know that really isn't the case...but, it feels good to say it anyway :D
Yesterday, was my first Friday of no work (because all summer I taught summer school) and no markets! So, what did I do with that day..well, my to-do list was full of things needing attention...the house, laundry, grocery shopping, errands, on & on....but, for some reason, I ditched the list and had a day! I needed to go to Pendleton to return some shoes...and that's just where my in-laws live. It seemed like forever since I'd connected with them...so, I called my Mother-in-law and invited her to join me...:D First, we returned my shoes..then, shopped some...(for Christmas last year, I had given her a "shopping trip"...because my sweet mother-in-law NEVER buys anything for herself...originally I had hoped for a girl's day in the Tri-Cities...but, that never seemed to pan out...and it's almost a Christmas later...) So, we made Pendleton work. I was proud of her...she found a new jacket and 5 new shirts...and still has $50 worth to spend!Then, we had lunch and I dropped her back off at her home. My Mother-in-law is the sweetest, most thoughtful, selfless person...(and, she spoils me like crazy! I think it's because I'm her favorite daughter-in-law...Okay, truth is, I'm the only daughter-in-law :D) I am truly blessed!
When I got back home...I got to take a NAP!!! Perfect~! Then, I did the animal chores & headed to preschool for the Church's Halloween party...it was a fun time ..lots of adorable trick-or-treaters...time to visit with families...and some candy for me too :D Then, my Miss Susy & I (since both our husbands were gone...) treated ourselves to Dairy Queen...however, we weren't naughty...we actually had food and No ice cream?!?! So wrong...but, that's what happened!
So, that was my first "free Friday"! Good, easy, and just what I needed...some down time to relax & enjoy those who are special in my life!
Now, today...I HAD to do ALL those things on my list! And, Mr. PPRM...well, he spent the day attending a leadership meeting for our Church...then, catching up on "farm work"...which was suppose to include moving some cows...but, that didn't so much happen either :D (Yeahhhh....my hair was saved from the rain!!!) So, it was a great day too, even though it wasn't totally "free"..it was a new change of pace...one I think I could get use too :D
Thanks for reading our daily here & theres....hope this weekend is a "free" one for each of you too....that God is blessing you with some time to simply "be"...Sweet blessings!
Yesterday, was my first Friday of no work (because all summer I taught summer school) and no markets! So, what did I do with that day..well, my to-do list was full of things needing attention...the house, laundry, grocery shopping, errands, on & on....but, for some reason, I ditched the list and had a day! I needed to go to Pendleton to return some shoes...and that's just where my in-laws live. It seemed like forever since I'd connected with them...so, I called my Mother-in-law and invited her to join me...:D First, we returned my shoes..then, shopped some...(for Christmas last year, I had given her a "shopping trip"...because my sweet mother-in-law NEVER buys anything for herself...originally I had hoped for a girl's day in the Tri-Cities...but, that never seemed to pan out...and it's almost a Christmas later...) So, we made Pendleton work. I was proud of her...she found a new jacket and 5 new shirts...and still has $50 worth to spend!Then, we had lunch and I dropped her back off at her home. My Mother-in-law is the sweetest, most thoughtful, selfless person...(and, she spoils me like crazy! I think it's because I'm her favorite daughter-in-law...Okay, truth is, I'm the only daughter-in-law :D) I am truly blessed!
When I got back home...I got to take a NAP!!! Perfect~! Then, I did the animal chores & headed to preschool for the Church's Halloween party...it was a fun time ..lots of adorable trick-or-treaters...time to visit with families...and some candy for me too :D Then, my Miss Susy & I (since both our husbands were gone...) treated ourselves to Dairy Queen...however, we weren't naughty...we actually had food and No ice cream?!?! So wrong...but, that's what happened!
So, that was my first "free Friday"! Good, easy, and just what I needed...some down time to relax & enjoy those who are special in my life!
Now, today...I HAD to do ALL those things on my list! And, Mr. PPRM...well, he spent the day attending a leadership meeting for our Church...then, catching up on "farm work"...which was suppose to include moving some cows...but, that didn't so much happen either :D (Yeahhhh....my hair was saved from the rain!!!) So, it was a great day too, even though it wasn't totally "free"..it was a new change of pace...one I think I could get use too :D
Thanks for reading our daily here & theres....hope this weekend is a "free" one for each of you too....that God is blessing you with some time to simply "be"...Sweet blessings!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Happy, Happy ....Boo!
Happy, Happy Halloween...to all those sugar-loving, dressing-up, fun-chasing friends out there!!!
I have to admit Halloween is one of my least favorite holidays...even as a kid...I don't know why (Because I am so in LOVE with sugar???)...But, I think it's because being a creature of habit, everyday-the-same kind of girl...I was always uncomfortable dressing up...and I sooooo felt uncomfortable asking anyone other than my parents for candy?!?! Crazy, huh! I remember my brother & sister (both younger than me...yep, I'm the oldest & wisest...ha,ha....) both would be so excited and anxious to don a costume, head out the door, and collect their pumpkin bucket full of candy...which by the way, they could make last until Christmas?!??! (Maybe that was because my brother was very good at conning his sisters into sharing...all the while hiding his in places that could never be found by snoopy sisters :D)
Next came College...and still more dressing-up contests & parties for Halloween...and still little ol' me on the sidelines cheering on my crazy, creative dressing-up friends! Then, teaching Preschool at a daycare...where all dressed up for the day (me too!)...Mmmmm....through the years I've been a Princess (oh, Wait..I still am a Princess :D Maybe that one doesn't count...ha,ha..), a Cowgirl,(it seemed so glamorous back then :D) Kitty Cat, Cheerleader, 50's girl, Witch (don't know why that ever happened?), a bunny rabbit.....and many, many more that are escaping me at the moment:D
I still Love watching all the excitement in those little faces as they are all dressed up ready to fill their bags with candy....and, I pray that the event will be filled with many happy magical moments that Halloween through the eyes of a child brings! (And, I..try my best to avoid any parties where I have to dress-up!!! ha, ha)
So, from my heart to yours Happy Halloween...may this day bring back some warm memories from your childhood...may you see this day through the eyes of a child...and above all my you be blessed with some sugary-candies too!!! Sweet blessings!
I have to admit Halloween is one of my least favorite holidays...even as a kid...I don't know why (Because I am so in LOVE with sugar???)...But, I think it's because being a creature of habit, everyday-the-same kind of girl...I was always uncomfortable dressing up...and I sooooo felt uncomfortable asking anyone other than my parents for candy?!?! Crazy, huh! I remember my brother & sister (both younger than me...yep, I'm the oldest & wisest...ha,ha....) both would be so excited and anxious to don a costume, head out the door, and collect their pumpkin bucket full of candy...which by the way, they could make last until Christmas?!??! (Maybe that was because my brother was very good at conning his sisters into sharing...all the while hiding his in places that could never be found by snoopy sisters :D)
Next came College...and still more dressing-up contests & parties for Halloween...and still little ol' me on the sidelines cheering on my crazy, creative dressing-up friends! Then, teaching Preschool at a daycare...where all dressed up for the day (me too!)...Mmmmm....through the years I've been a Princess (oh, Wait..I still am a Princess :D Maybe that one doesn't count...ha,ha..), a Cowgirl,(it seemed so glamorous back then :D) Kitty Cat, Cheerleader, 50's girl, Witch (don't know why that ever happened?), a bunny rabbit.....and many, many more that are escaping me at the moment:D
I still Love watching all the excitement in those little faces as they are all dressed up ready to fill their bags with candy....and, I pray that the event will be filled with many happy magical moments that Halloween through the eyes of a child brings! (And, I..try my best to avoid any parties where I have to dress-up!!! ha, ha)
So, from my heart to yours Happy Halloween...may this day bring back some warm memories from your childhood...may you see this day through the eyes of a child...and above all my you be blessed with some sugary-candies too!!! Sweet blessings!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
More...
Oh, I can't believe I forgot to add two of my main brands to my list....so here are a couple more...
* Mrs. Butterworths Syrup
* Campbell's Tomato Soup....
I so am loving all the comments on everyone's favorite brands! How funny, that such a simple topic brings to mind many favorites!!! Thanks for sharing!!!
And, it's my Friday....yeahhhhhhhh!!! It was a crazy last couple of days...I don't know how three year-olds can be so affected by a holiday a few days away, but they definitely can be! Sugar...it's an evil thing!!! (which must explain why I constantly feel the need to consume it :D ha, ha).
Now, for one more little note...once again God walked me through leaving a problem in His hands! My heart has been heavy for awhile about a friendship...so, finally I sat down and wrote out my heart's feelings to that friend. I sent the card on Monday....(asking for her to please either call or email me)...Tuesday, came no email or phone call...Wednesday, same thing....This morning, still nothing...and I begin to doubt...did I do the right thing, is something really wrong between us??? During my morning prayer time, I decided it was time to leave this "anxiousness & worry" at the cross. So, I did just that...praying that God would work however need be and in His time (Yes, I actually said in "His time", another giant step for me..because I usually want it right now). What a sense of peace comes when we finally let go of things and let God. And, guess what...TA-DA...when I got home today there waiting for me in my inbox was an email from that friend...with apologies of it not coming sooner due to "life". And, the reassurance that all is good...our friendship is safe, secure & a "forever one"! My heart is filled with joy...partly because the heaviness of wonder is gone...and a LOT because God is good...and over & over again He never ceases to Amaze me!!! I am blessed...to be His daughter, to have an amazing husband (who listens to me go on & on about things...) to have many, many friends in Christ, to have each of you in my life! Thank YOU God! And, Thank YOU for each making my life complete! Sweet blessings!
* Mrs. Butterworths Syrup
* Campbell's Tomato Soup....
I so am loving all the comments on everyone's favorite brands! How funny, that such a simple topic brings to mind many favorites!!! Thanks for sharing!!!
And, it's my Friday....yeahhhhhhhh!!! It was a crazy last couple of days...I don't know how three year-olds can be so affected by a holiday a few days away, but they definitely can be! Sugar...it's an evil thing!!! (which must explain why I constantly feel the need to consume it :D ha, ha).
Now, for one more little note...once again God walked me through leaving a problem in His hands! My heart has been heavy for awhile about a friendship...so, finally I sat down and wrote out my heart's feelings to that friend. I sent the card on Monday....(asking for her to please either call or email me)...Tuesday, came no email or phone call...Wednesday, same thing....This morning, still nothing...and I begin to doubt...did I do the right thing, is something really wrong between us??? During my morning prayer time, I decided it was time to leave this "anxiousness & worry" at the cross. So, I did just that...praying that God would work however need be and in His time (Yes, I actually said in "His time", another giant step for me..because I usually want it right now). What a sense of peace comes when we finally let go of things and let God. And, guess what...TA-DA...when I got home today there waiting for me in my inbox was an email from that friend...with apologies of it not coming sooner due to "life". And, the reassurance that all is good...our friendship is safe, secure & a "forever one"! My heart is filled with joy...partly because the heaviness of wonder is gone...and a LOT because God is good...and over & over again He never ceases to Amaze me!!! I am blessed...to be His daughter, to have an amazing husband (who listens to me go on & on about things...) to have many, many friends in Christ, to have each of you in my life! Thank YOU God! And, Thank YOU for each making my life complete! Sweet blessings!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Brands....
Here's a crazy thought....I don't know why, but for some reason this evening I was thinking as I was driving home from town about my favorite brands!....Of course, my very favorite brand is Rockintp :D (That's the one that goes on our cows!!!) But, I'm really not talking that kind of brand...I was thinking more along the brand of foods & products I like....so, whether you ever wanted to know these things or not..here are a few :D
* Jello - Pudding & jello :D
* Heinz - My favorite slow-pour ketchup
* Hershey's - I truly can't find a chocolate that compares!!!
* Miracle Whip
* Dove Bath Soap
* Tide - it does get all those "farming" stains out :D
* Folgers - which is so funny, because I'm not a coffee girl :D But, I just assume that's the kind Mr. PPRM should drink, because it's good to the last drop!
* Lipton Teas - maybe that's due to my age....Lipton use to rule before all the flavored teas joined the band wagon :D
* Nozema - for those of you too young to know...it's a face cream...with a cool, refreshingness :D
* Pledge - for all the dust that blows on top of my furniture
* Windex - (if only I would wash those windows..ha, ha)
* Honeymade Graham Crackers - Mmmmm....nothing compares here either!
* Brawny Paper towels - Oh, so strong!
* Comet - A good all around scrubber
Mmmm....looking at this list actually makes me laugh...I wonder how many of those "brands" are because that's what I grew up with my Mom using, and how many are because it's what I really like??? It's funny the things we get used to using...and as the world changes, so do those products sometimes :D It was just a random thought tonight....I hope it makes you think and laugh a little too.....Feel free to post some of your favorites...I'd Love to hear what brands are your favorites too....maybe I'll even find a new one or two!!! Happy Brand Shopping!!! Sweet blessings!
* Jello - Pudding & jello :D
* Heinz - My favorite slow-pour ketchup
* Hershey's - I truly can't find a chocolate that compares!!!
* Miracle Whip
* Dove Bath Soap
* Tide - it does get all those "farming" stains out :D
* Folgers - which is so funny, because I'm not a coffee girl :D But, I just assume that's the kind Mr. PPRM should drink, because it's good to the last drop!
* Lipton Teas - maybe that's due to my age....Lipton use to rule before all the flavored teas joined the band wagon :D
* Nozema - for those of you too young to know...it's a face cream...with a cool, refreshingness :D
* Pledge - for all the dust that blows on top of my furniture
* Windex - (if only I would wash those windows..ha, ha)
* Honeymade Graham Crackers - Mmmmm....nothing compares here either!
* Brawny Paper towels - Oh, so strong!
* Comet - A good all around scrubber
Mmmm....looking at this list actually makes me laugh...I wonder how many of those "brands" are because that's what I grew up with my Mom using, and how many are because it's what I really like??? It's funny the things we get used to using...and as the world changes, so do those products sometimes :D It was just a random thought tonight....I hope it makes you think and laugh a little too.....Feel free to post some of your favorites...I'd Love to hear what brands are your favorites too....maybe I'll even find a new one or two!!! Happy Brand Shopping!!! Sweet blessings!
Familiarity???
Happy Wednesday!!! Today, as I was watching my three-year olds connect, play, and discover...I got a familiar feeling...I don't know if familiarity is the right word...or maybe it should be "warm fuzzies" or contentment, or even just peace. But, often I find a sense of belonging in familiar settings or places. (Part of that I"m sure is because I'm a creature of habit :D)!
Anyway, as Fall is surrounding us and the weather is getting cooler...there is just a familiar feeling that encompasses me as preschool happens each day. I Love the feel of the room, the artwork adorning the walls, seeing the kids all snuggled inside warm, long sleeved shirts, the sounds of little voices interacting. It just feels right and like I'm at home.
Just a few days ago, Mr. PPRM asked me "Do you ever wonder what it would of been like if you would of pursued a career with your Associates in Secretarial Sciences?" to which I quickly replied, "NO". "I know without a doubt, that I'm doing what God made me to do." (Besides, lets honestly face it...I am so technologically challenged right now, I can't imagine all the classes I would of needed to take to get me to where the office world has evolved to now :D ha, ha...) It was funny that out of the blue, he asked me that question. But, it made me think...of all the reasons I Love what I do so much! It's not just those little precious babies growing...it's the families I meet and fall in Love with too, it's the new friendships built, the comaderie I have with my co-workers...(which are not my co-workers, but my sisters-in-Christ) with whom daily I share all parts of my life! Preschool is not my job...it's my career...Sometimes, I can't believe I've been doing it for 20 years...it almost feels like only a year or two. When I first started, I was younger than all the parents, and now, I'm definitely older than them all :D But, it's a good feeling....(even if some of my first preschoolers are married with kids of their own...and I've even had their kids in my class!!!) My job never ceases to Amaze me...even on those "wild" days, like today. There is so much excitement in the air during any "holiday" time...an with that comes a sense of "ants in the pants", non-working ears, & chaos...but, it's my chaos...and I wouldn't trade it for anything!!!
So, each day I wake up excited to get to work, to visit with my co-workers, to watch little ones growing, to greet & visit with new families....and to do what God made me for....be a preschool teacher!!! I hope each of you find that familiarity of doing something you Love, something God made you for...and through it come many Sweet blessings!
P.S. I should just note...today, I did want to put some earplugs in...I thought for a minute or two, I might go crazy from the noise level...but, I did Survive!!!
Anyway, as Fall is surrounding us and the weather is getting cooler...there is just a familiar feeling that encompasses me as preschool happens each day. I Love the feel of the room, the artwork adorning the walls, seeing the kids all snuggled inside warm, long sleeved shirts, the sounds of little voices interacting. It just feels right and like I'm at home.
Just a few days ago, Mr. PPRM asked me "Do you ever wonder what it would of been like if you would of pursued a career with your Associates in Secretarial Sciences?" to which I quickly replied, "NO". "I know without a doubt, that I'm doing what God made me to do." (Besides, lets honestly face it...I am so technologically challenged right now, I can't imagine all the classes I would of needed to take to get me to where the office world has evolved to now :D ha, ha...) It was funny that out of the blue, he asked me that question. But, it made me think...of all the reasons I Love what I do so much! It's not just those little precious babies growing...it's the families I meet and fall in Love with too, it's the new friendships built, the comaderie I have with my co-workers...(which are not my co-workers, but my sisters-in-Christ) with whom daily I share all parts of my life! Preschool is not my job...it's my career...Sometimes, I can't believe I've been doing it for 20 years...it almost feels like only a year or two. When I first started, I was younger than all the parents, and now, I'm definitely older than them all :D But, it's a good feeling....(even if some of my first preschoolers are married with kids of their own...and I've even had their kids in my class!!!) My job never ceases to Amaze me...even on those "wild" days, like today. There is so much excitement in the air during any "holiday" time...an with that comes a sense of "ants in the pants", non-working ears, & chaos...but, it's my chaos...and I wouldn't trade it for anything!!!
So, each day I wake up excited to get to work, to visit with my co-workers, to watch little ones growing, to greet & visit with new families....and to do what God made me for....be a preschool teacher!!! I hope each of you find that familiarity of doing something you Love, something God made you for...and through it come many Sweet blessings!
P.S. I should just note...today, I did want to put some earplugs in...I thought for a minute or two, I might go crazy from the noise level...but, I did Survive!!!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
One more "New" thing....
Yippee....One more "new" thing arrived at our house today...a new banner for my blog!!! Thanks to a sweet girl named Lindsay!!! It was a sweet Ta-DA to open my mailbox today and find the gift of a new banner waiting! I am so indebted to my creative, computer-savvy friend!!! Truly I am blessed beyond words! Thank YOU, Thank You, Thank You Lindsay!!! And, Thank YOU to each of you for reading along and your sweet comments...they always, always bring a smile to my heart! So from my little blog corner to yours....Sweet blessings!
Monday, October 27, 2008
New things at our house....
Happy Monday! I decided I'd share a few new things that have showed up at our house...not that it's anything exciting...just some "new" things!!! (Don't worry, for once, it's not a new Cow or Cat :D)
First Came.....A load of horse hay...and Yes, that would be a sack of homegrown corn left on top by the neighbor/hay man :D What a Sweet Blessing to find waiting for us!
The book I am currently reading while forcing myself to ride the stationary bike a few times a week (okay, that really only equates to twice a week...but, I'm shooting for three times :D)...It's a great read...loaned to me by my co-worker...Somehow she always picks out the perfect books to share with me...just the right size chapters for a morning bike ride!!! This book makes me realize over & over...that it really is just all about Jesus & Me!!!
Yep, it's Wood! You got it right!!! This equals great warmth and comfort! I know it must appear we still leave in the cave-man era...but, my Mr. refuses to let our woodstove go (having grown up in Wallowa County...and those COLD, LONG WINTERS...he believes woodstoves are the only "real" source of heat!) And, I have to admit...he's right...!! (Did you get that honey...I said, you were right!!! :D) There truly is nothing as warm and relaxing as a nice wood fire...not only does it totally warm me from head to toe, but it fills our home with a warmth that encompasses everything! Even our little Missy Cat LOVES curling up by the fire!!
And, finally, here's the new Pat-n-Tam's Farmer's Market Board...I can hardly believe it...we finally moved past our three-fold cardboard, handwritten sign to a professional one...Yeahhhhhhh!!! We can't complain though...the old cardboard girl was good to us for three years...that's three years of being set-up, taken down, squished in the truck, & crammed in a corner in the shop....she truly deserved a rest!!!
So, that's all the fun NEW things at our house...And, I have to say, I'm pretty excited about all of them...most of them signal a change....whether it be in the weather, Season, or our hearts....they are all welcomed new Sweet Blessings! I hope you each have some New things happening in your homes too...and may they be great gifts to each of your hearts! Sweet blessings!
First Came.....A load of horse hay...and Yes, that would be a sack of homegrown corn left on top by the neighbor/hay man :D What a Sweet Blessing to find waiting for us!
The book I am currently reading while forcing myself to ride the stationary bike a few times a week (okay, that really only equates to twice a week...but, I'm shooting for three times :D)...It's a great read...loaned to me by my co-worker...Somehow she always picks out the perfect books to share with me...just the right size chapters for a morning bike ride!!! This book makes me realize over & over...that it really is just all about Jesus & Me!!!
Yep, it's Wood! You got it right!!! This equals great warmth and comfort! I know it must appear we still leave in the cave-man era...but, my Mr. refuses to let our woodstove go (having grown up in Wallowa County...and those COLD, LONG WINTERS...he believes woodstoves are the only "real" source of heat!) And, I have to admit...he's right...!! (Did you get that honey...I said, you were right!!! :D) There truly is nothing as warm and relaxing as a nice wood fire...not only does it totally warm me from head to toe, but it fills our home with a warmth that encompasses everything! Even our little Missy Cat LOVES curling up by the fire!!
And, finally, here's the new Pat-n-Tam's Farmer's Market Board...I can hardly believe it...we finally moved past our three-fold cardboard, handwritten sign to a professional one...Yeahhhhhhh!!! We can't complain though...the old cardboard girl was good to us for three years...that's three years of being set-up, taken down, squished in the truck, & crammed in a corner in the shop....she truly deserved a rest!!!
So, that's all the fun NEW things at our house...And, I have to say, I'm pretty excited about all of them...most of them signal a change....whether it be in the weather, Season, or our hearts....they are all welcomed new Sweet Blessings! I hope you each have some New things happening in your homes too...and may they be great gifts to each of your hearts! Sweet blessings!
Sunday, October 26, 2008
We're DONE!!!
It's finally happened...the END...the final Episode...the Grand Finale...the Markets are OVER and we are DONE!!! Yippee...Yayyyyyyyy!!!!
God is Good and it was a crazy, busy weekend, but we Survived...actually with NO grumpies or "I told you so's :D (Another answered prayer!)
The Expo was good exposure, but not quite the lucrative event we hoped...but, then who knows...all it takes is contact...and there were plenty of those...in fact, so many that Steven (our College helper) got an extra bonus for getting over 50 new sign-ups on our email list! Plus, My Miss Susy came, and us girls had a fun time working together, eating, and perusing the booths...!!! You know girls, & guys DO NOT work the same!!! We chat with passers-by about their hair, purses, clothing etc...guys, just smile & ask if they have any questions!!!
The Big freezer's both made it there & back safely...No injuries loading or unloading...and for once...Mr. PRRM's Charlie Brown luck stayed away!!! Whoohoooo!!!
So, with the markets behind us...now, it's time to focus on the Cows themselves as pasture time winds down...so, my dreams of a nice, long nap & lazy afternoon are gone...replaced by cows getting moved here & there...! I hope each of you had a great weekend...that it was filled with lots of down time & many, many Sweet blessings!
God is Good and it was a crazy, busy weekend, but we Survived...actually with NO grumpies or "I told you so's :D (Another answered prayer!)
The Expo was good exposure, but not quite the lucrative event we hoped...but, then who knows...all it takes is contact...and there were plenty of those...in fact, so many that Steven (our College helper) got an extra bonus for getting over 50 new sign-ups on our email list! Plus, My Miss Susy came, and us girls had a fun time working together, eating, and perusing the booths...!!! You know girls, & guys DO NOT work the same!!! We chat with passers-by about their hair, purses, clothing etc...guys, just smile & ask if they have any questions!!!
The Big freezer's both made it there & back safely...No injuries loading or unloading...and for once...Mr. PRRM's Charlie Brown luck stayed away!!! Whoohoooo!!!
So, with the markets behind us...now, it's time to focus on the Cows themselves as pasture time winds down...so, my dreams of a nice, long nap & lazy afternoon are gone...replaced by cows getting moved here & there...! I hope each of you had a great weekend...that it was filled with lots of down time & many, many Sweet blessings!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
It's Crazy....
Just taking a second to post...OUR LIFE is CRAZY right now!!! It's the last...make that final weekend of 2008 Farmer's Markets!!! Yeahhhh...and although I'm excited to finish up...it's an unusal weekend..as MR. PPRM booked us to do the Women's Expo at the Trac too....How will we ever be two places at once??? Well, thankfully, our Summer College help has agreed to come home this weekend and do just that HELP!!! We are ever so thankful that there will be another body to help us out (and, that college studenst ALWAYS need money :D).
And, if it's not fun enough trying to get everything organized...well, the Cows...they've decided they are tired of the grass inside their pasture and tried to wander to the other side of the fence today, to see if indeed the grass is greener there! Praise God we rent pasture from a true "Cowgirl", and she had the calves back in and everything secured by the time I got the message! So, I'm thinking the Sunday plan I had of totally lounging on the couch and relaxing has vanished, and a new plan of moving cows home will be put in it's place!!!
The best part...it's only a weekend...Two days! That's it...and really it will go by so fast, I won't even remember all the craziness...and along the way, I'm sure there will be some adventures & stories...some new friends made, a few grumpies and "I told you so's", many prayers, God's hands guiding us...and Lots & Lots of Sweet blessings! So, until Sunday (or Monday, or Tuesday..or..)....Happy Trails to you too.....Sweet blessings!
And, if it's not fun enough trying to get everything organized...well, the Cows...they've decided they are tired of the grass inside their pasture and tried to wander to the other side of the fence today, to see if indeed the grass is greener there! Praise God we rent pasture from a true "Cowgirl", and she had the calves back in and everything secured by the time I got the message! So, I'm thinking the Sunday plan I had of totally lounging on the couch and relaxing has vanished, and a new plan of moving cows home will be put in it's place!!!
The best part...it's only a weekend...Two days! That's it...and really it will go by so fast, I won't even remember all the craziness...and along the way, I'm sure there will be some adventures & stories...some new friends made, a few grumpies and "I told you so's", many prayers, God's hands guiding us...and Lots & Lots of Sweet blessings! So, until Sunday (or Monday, or Tuesday..or..)....Happy Trails to you too.....Sweet blessings!
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Some Beach.....Some Where....
Oh, how I wish I was sitting on this beach in Maui again!