An email from my daughter

2007-09-21

I woke up to this email this morning.  My youngest daughter is in NY for the first time and apparently is head over heels in love with it :)

Ahh! I LOVE this place! We are staying on 87th between Broadway and Amsterdam, that's right, not even half block of broadway. This area is bustling, people everywhere, we walked for about four hours tonight and, no exaggeration, probably passed about 250 resto.s and 600 storefronts. Ate at Cafe Con Leche on the sidewalk and had the most AMAZING paella and....ahem...assertive sangria. We are only three blocks west of Central Park and it seems to be even more amazing than I thought. We then hoofed it all the way down to 60th street where we stumbled upon Trump International Tower in this amazing intersection with a giant fountain and literally hundreds of people of all ethnicities. The architecture is amaing! I saw the most BEAUTIFUL church and am going to try to catch the service on Sunday. It is a Universalist Unitarian church. Sorry if my grammar is poor but I have never felt so invigorated by a place in my entire life. You have GOT to come here. Tommorrow we are going to the Museum of Natural History which we walked by tonight. It is where Night at The Museum was filmed. We may hit the guggenheim, but it depends on how long we are at the first museum. I havent really taken any photos yet as I was just too enthralled but I will tommorrow. LOVE YOU

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Hello God...

2007-08-23

http://gospelman.info/christian/HelloGOD.html

Hello God
Hello, God, are you out there?
Can you hear me?
Are you listenin' any more?
Hello, God, if we're still on speakin' terms,
Can you help me like before?

I have questioned your existence,
My resistance leaves me cold.
Can you help me go the distance?
Hello, God. Hello, hello.

This old world has gone to pieces,
Can we fix it? Is there time?
Hate and violence just increases,
We're so selfish, cruel and blind.
We fight and kill each other,
In your name, defending you.
Do you love some more than others?
We're so lost and confused.

Hello, God, are you out there?
Can you hear us?
Are you listenin' any more?
Hello, God, if we're still on speakin' terms,
Can you help us like before?.
Oh, the free will you have given,
We have made a mockery of.
This is no way to be livin'.
We're in great need of your love.

Hello, God.
(Hello, hello.)
Hello, God, can you grant us,
Love enough to make amends?
(Hello, God.)
Is there still a chance,
That we could start again?

Hello, God, we've learned our lesson.
Dear God, don't let us go.
(Hello, Hello.)
More than ever,
Hello, God. Hello, hello.
Hello, God, we really need you,
We can't make it without you.
(Hello, God.)

We beseech you,
In the name of all that's true.
Hello God, please forgive us,
For we know not what we do.
Hello, God, give us one more chance,
To prove ourselves to you.

Hello, God, (Hello, God.)
Hello, God.

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My Baby Boy is 19 Today!

2007-08-17

Not only is he my baby boy, he's my only boy and the baby of the family.  The youngest of 5 children.  A man among women!  Yes, he grew up with 4 sisters.  He probably knows far more about PMS than any young man should. 

Of course I remember the moment he was born.  We had no idea if he would be a boy or a girl.  It seems he was shy in utero  and would turn every time I had an ultrasound.  So right up until the doc held him up, we thought for sure we had girl number 5.  You can imagine our delight at finally having a boy.

I had a couple years with just him when all his sisters were in school.  We used to sit in a blue swivel rocker everyday in the afternoons and either watch a video, read a book or just talk until he fell asleep.  Some days I would just sit there and hold him until I had to pick the girls up at the bus stop.  I realized very early on that I needed and wanted to take advantage of every moment I could with my children and my bond with my son was and is exceptionally strong.  Naturally I love each of children and have a special bond with all of them but, there was always something about my boy.  He seemed to think from a very early age that it was his job to watch over me.  I'm not quite sure where that came from but, I've always found it to be very sweet and endearing. 

And now he's 19 and will start college on Monday.  It's hard for me to believe.  It feels like he should still be playing with Eric and Andy in the backyard, using sticks as swords, wearing his cowboy boots with shorts (that was a sight), holding his blankey and sucking his thumb.  But, he's legally an adult, a man and I'm so proud of the man he's become. 

So to my sweet, sweet son, Happy Birthday!  May all your dreams come true. I Love You.

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Romantic Getaway

2007-08-13

Compliments of my Husband Y

Seeing how stressed I've been planning our daughter's wedding, getting our son enrolled in college, etc.. hubby planned a surprise weekend getaway for us! 

I accidently found out when I found a card he had written to me with instructions for a surprise.  Oh well, now I have something to look forward to and I can pack my own clothes...haha, which is a good thing.

We'll be boating our way to the destination, staying in luxurious accomodations, complete with a day at the spa in the hotel. 

We won't be able to go until weekend after next due to our Son's birthday but, that's A-OK w/ me, as long as I know it's coming! 

I am such a lucky gal

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The Bridal Bouquet

2007-08-10

I just finished whipping up Ashleigh's Bridal Bouquet.  I ran out of baby's breath and greenery but, this is basically what it will look like.

 

 

Whatcha think?

Miniature Bridesmaid (left) Bride's Bouquet (right)

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Couple Have 17th Child

2007-08-07

It's certainly not for me but, as long as they take care of them, I suppose it's nobody's business but their own. 

I just wish if they wanted a larger family, they would adopt a child in need of a loving family and home.  (or maybe they should have adopted several years ago, I'm not so sure they need anymore) 

From what I've seen about them on TV, they do seem to be a loving family.

Fun Facts my arse!  Pregnant 10.5 yrs of her life!  Yeah, I like poking myself in the eye for fun.... 

 

Couple Have 17th Child, Welcome More

An Arkansas couple had a baby daughter Thursday - their 17th child and seventh girl - and the pair say they're still not ready to give it a rest.

'We'd Love to Have More'

Michelle Duggar holds newborn daughter Jennifer Danielle, who was born at 10:01 a.m. Thursday in Rogers, Ark. Jennifer is the 17th child born to Michelle and her husband, Jim Bob.
"We'd love to have more," Michelle said, referring to baby girls. "We love the ruffles and lace."

Jennifer joins the fast-growing Duggar brood, who live in a 7,000-square-foot home in Tontitown. All the children - whose names start with the letter J - are taught at home.

The oldest is 19 and the youngest, before Jennifer, is almost 2 years old.

"We are just so grateful to God for another gift from him," said Jim Bob Duggar, a former state representative. "We are just so thankful to him that everything went just very well."

Jennifer joins siblings: Joshua, 19; John David, 17; Janna, 17; Jill, 16; Jessa, 14; Jinger, 13; Joseph, 12; Josiah, 11; Joy-Anna, 9; Jedidiah, 8; Jeremiah, 8; Jason 7; James 6; Justin, 4; Jackson, 3; Johannah, almost 2.

Michelle Duggar said she started feeling contractions Wednesday night and went to the hospital at about 5 a.m. Thursday.

"It actually went fast," she said. "I guess once I started progressing, it went within 30 minutes."

The Duggars have been featured on several programs on cable television's Discovery Health Network. The next special, the Duggar Family Album, is scheduled to air next month, Jim Bob Duggar said.

Among the "fun facts" listed on Discovery Health's Web page devoted to the Duggars: A baby has been born in every month except June; the Duggars have gone through an estimated 90,000 diapers, and Michelle has been pregnant for 126 months - or 10.5 years - of her life.

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The day with my Babies

2007-08-03

Good Morning!!
Love those little babies but, man o' man did they ever wear me out!

We didn't go fishing, it was entirely too hot and there's no shade around the lake, so we stuck to the playground that is completely shaded and even at that, I was sweating bullets. I had them for 9 hours yesterday and they were as good as gold but, still, I was pooped last night. I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow.

Lexy took a nose dive off the front porch. Luckily she didn't hit her head but scraped up her little legs. Bless her heart, it dang near gave me a heart attack and she was shaking like a leaf. I grabbed her up and sat down on the porch and was rocking her back and forth. I got her settled down and she seemed fine but, as soon as Pawpaw picked her up, she saw the blood on her leg and began to scream! I felt so bad. I hate it when they get ouchies when they are here.  (or anytime for that matter)  I'm telling you though, our porch is concrete, very steep and high, at the bottom is a concrete sidewalk, she could have really been seriously injured. Thank heavens for minor scraps. Makes me sick to my stomach just thinking about it.

Later she said, "look Mimi, the sting is out of my boo boo"   Yes, I see that Lexy.
We were offering her anything to try to get her to settle down right after it happened. Pawpaw said, I bet a popcicle would make it feel better. Kaden piped in with, "Pawpaw, popcicles only work on bee stings, didn't you know that?" 

He starts first grade today and will be in gifted classes! What a smartie he is. He told me he plans on taking more "testes" and just going straight to second grade in a few days!

So that was my day, fun, fun and lots of hugs and kisses! Hubby is off today, maybe there will be more fun and hugs & kisses

Have a GREAT Friday!

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Two lil' punkin butts

2007-08-02

I'm out of here in a bit to drive to Kentucky to pick up my two little sugar lumps.  Yes, I'm big on nicknames.  I'm speaking of my grandchildren.  Our grandson starts first grade tomorrow, so I'm taking him and Lexy fishing today.  We'll take a picnic and play on the playground and generally just spend some quality darlin' & Mimi time. 

I hope my son goes with us to the park, I'm not much of a fish person.  Heaven forbid they would catch one and I'd have to take it off the hook.  Not sure I know how.  I haven't fished since our son was a baby. 

It's too entirely hot to be doing these sorts of activities but, we'll tough it out as long as we can.  Naturally I missed my opportunity last week while the weather was nice. 

I have a meeting at 9:30 this morning before I pick the kiddos up, so my day is pretty jam packed.  I don't have time for this but, they are far more important than any other pending business I have.  My Mom always made it a rule to put by brother and I first and I've tried to follow suit. 

What in heaven's name would I do with myself if I didn't have children and grandchildren?

I see a happy meal in my near future

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My Butterfly Garden

2007-08-01

I planted these butterfly bushes spring of '06.  I didn't realize how big and wild looking they would get.  At first I was a bit dissappointed that they were sort of taking over and shadowing several of my other plants.  I have to say now that I have enjoyed them so much, that I'm not sure I can ever move them.  One of the butterfly bushes is directly infront of the window that is beside my desk.  I can look out and see several butterflies hanging from the purple flowers.  I've enjoyed them so much this summer.

Last evening while I was sitting here two of the butterflies seemed to be doing a dance for me.  I grabbed my camera and took a shot through the screen, I'm sure you'll recognize which shot that is.  I then went outside and started snapping.  I think I aggravated them a bit but, at times it was like they were posing for me. 

Here are a few of the shots I grabbed last night.  If you click on them, you can see them full size.

 

 

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Proud Mama

2007-07-31

I just popped over to my daughter's MySpace page and I can't believe I made something, someone, so beautiful :)  The really wonderful thing about her is that she's just as beautiful inside as she is on the outside and smart, is this girl ever smart!  I miss her terribly.  She's lived in Florida for 2 yrs now and not a day goes by that I don't think, I wish "A" was here to do this or that with me. 

I couldn't find my other daughter's page.    More pictures later.  I have lots of beautiful children.  4 pink, 1 blue.

I do good work ya know

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Say Yes by Dusty Drake

2007-07-31

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jv7Lj4YMrNs

I should say that my soon to be son in law and daughter are both very country.  Mike is a former marine...big guy and he sings.  I think he may have a surprise up his sleeve.  I'm thinking he's going to sing to Ashleigh either during the wedding or at the reception.  Actually that's how he proposed to her :)  I feel very lucky that she's found someone who loves her so much. 

Say Yes by Dusty Drake

DUSTY DRAKE SAY YES LYRICS

We've only known each other since the moment we met
But it seems like forever to me
I haven't figured out the perfect way to say it yet
But I suppose at times like these
A man should get down on his knees

How'd ya like to be in my wedding
And how'd ya like to walk down the aisle
You could be the center of attention
Everyone would look at you and smile
We could send our friends invitations
You could wear a long white dress
If you'd like to be in my wedding, darlin'
All ya have to do is say, "Yes"

Your folks could be seated in the very front row
And cry when we all turn to look at you
We could cut the cake
And we could strike a pose
Like the little bitty plastic bride and groom
And then begin our life-long honneymoon

How'd ya like to be in my wedding
How'd ya like to walk down the aisle
You could be the center of attention
Everyone would look at you and smile
We could send our friends invitations
You could wear a long white dress
If you'd like to be in my wedding, darlin'
All ya have to do is say, "Yes"

Say, "Yes"
Say, "Yes"
(How'd ya like to be in my wedding)
Please say, "Yes"
(How'd ya like to be in my wedding)
Say, "Yes"
(How'd ya like to be in my wedding)
(How'd ya like to be in my wedding)
(How'd ya like to be in my wedding)

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Continued from yesterday....

2007-07-31

I'm more awake at 7:10 AM than I was yesterday in the afternoon. 

Everyone is wanting to get their hands on Gus now!    He does have magic fingers, who can blame you.

The problem is, I love Sara to pieces (Sara is my regular massage therapist) but, she doesn't do me half as much good as Gus.  I was always leary about having a male massage therapist, I could have started seeing him from  the get go but, I chose Sara strictly because she was female.  She and I have developed a friendship now.  I adore her.  She makes me laugh, she knows my children by name, I know hers...you get the idea.  Thing is, I seriously need these massages for medical reasons.  Sara is a great therapist but, I'm a special case.  I have severe spasticity on my right side and moderate to severe on the left.  (although I can't feel the pain on the left side due to nerve damage)

I know exactly what I'd say to someone with this predicament, I'd say, you're there to get better, not to make friends but, that's easier said than done.  Sara is someone I would be friends with outside of a medical setting.  She has the sweetest disposition and truly cares about me as a person and a patient.  Thing is, so does Gus and he gets the job done with better results. 

So my compromise is that I'm seeing them both, each every other week.  So far it's worked out that Sara hasn't been there when I've seen Gus.  But, on the 13th of next month, I think she will be there and I have an appt. with Gus.  This isn't earth shattering but, I would hate to hurt her feelings. 

Wedding news...

Nothing much to report except, that I've hired a caterer!  I finally came to my senses and decided I want to enjoy the day and not try to be super woman!  I'm so relieved.  I was worried about the budget but, I found a lady who is very affordable.  *knock wood* that she's also good at what she does.  I figure the worst that can happen is that the food will be gross and we won't have enough.   Come to think of it, that's pretty bad. I am still getting estimates from others and I haven't signed the contract yet but, she has me on her schedule.  I'm going to ask her for references today via email. 

I've been working on the music along with 2 of my daughters.  This has been one of the more fun tasks.  If you have suggestions for music (love songs appropriate for the 30 mins prior to the wedding) please post them for me...OK? 

I'm going to post one that I'd never heard of before that Ashleigh has chosen to have played right before she walks down the isle.  I teared up listening to it the other day.  I think it's called "Say Yes" by Dusty Drake.  (I'll post it later)

Again with the dress.  I promise not to bore you with anymore details but, the one I ordered was too small across the bust and made me look like I had 4 boobs!  I let it out as much as I could but, still no go.  So I have one picked out but, I'm not ordering anymore dresses, that's been a disaster!  Apparently I'm not a normal size and will have to have it made.  Who knew I was such a freak?  BTW, I will be having a dress sale hahahahahaha! 

Only 1 month until her Bridal shower and about 2 and a half months 'til the wedding.  I think we're on  track :)                                                                                                                                             

Can you tell it's consuming my every thought?

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You're feeling very sleepy...

2007-07-30

I just returned a bit ago from PT and massage so I'm feeling almost too relaxed to think.  Mr. Gus, my massage therapist who tends to me when my regular therapist, Sara, isn't there, is so wonderful!  He's a slight man but, man o' man can he apply the pressure!  My hips tend to become unaligned and I knew they were but, had been avoiding seeing the chiro to have them realigned...I sound like an old car, don't I?  Gus fixed me right up!  Nothing like having a little Spanish man messing with your butt.

I guess I really am too relaxed to think.  I had more to say but, I just can't put my fingers and brain together right now.

Until later :D take care everyone.

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One of my all time favorite songs

2007-07-27

TAKING YOU HOME
By: Don Henley

I had a good life
Before you came
I had my friends and my freedom
I had my name
Still there was sorrow and emptiness
'Til you made me glad
Oh, in this love I found strength I never knew I had

And this love
Is like nothing I have ever known
Take my hand, love
I'm taking you home
I'm taking you home

There were days, lonely days
When the world wouldn't throw me a crumb
But I kept on believing
That this day would come

And this love
Is like nothing I have ever known
Take my hand, love
I'm taking you home
I'm taking you-home
Where we can be with the ones who really care
Home, where we can grow together
Keep you in my heart forever

And this love
Is like nothing I have ever known
Take my hand, love
I'm taking you home
Taking you home

And this love
Is like nothing I have ever known
Take my hand, love
I'm taking you home
I'm taking you home

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The Four Cats

2007-07-27

The Four Cats !

Four men were bragging about how smart their cats were .

The first man was an Engineer, the second man was an Accountant, the third man was a Chemist and the fourth man was a Government Employee.

To show off, the Engineer called his cat,

"T-square, do your stuff."

T-square pranced over to the desk, took out some paper and pen and promptly drew a circle, a square, and a triangle. Everyone agreed that was pretty smart.

But the Accountant said his cat could do better.

He called his cat and said,

"Spreadsheet, do your stuff."

Spreadsheet went out to the kitchen and returned with a dozen cookies. He divided them into 4 equal piles of 3 cookies .Everyone agreed that was good.

But the Chemist said his cat could do better. He called his cat and said "Measure, do your stuff."

Measure got up, walked to the fridge, took out a quart of milk,, got a 10 ounce glass from the cupboard and poured exactly 8 ounces without spilling a drop into the glass.

Everyone agreed that was pretty good.

Then the three men turned to the Government Employee and said, "What can your cat do?"

The Government Employee called his cat and said.....

"Coffee Break.....do your stuff."

Coffee Break jumped to his feet...........

Ate the cookies...............

Drank the milk..............

Sh*t on the paper....................

Screwed the other three cats.....................

Claimed he injured his back while doing so..................

Filed a grievance report for unsafe working conditions.........

Put in for Workers Compensation...............and

Went home for the rest of the day on sick leave.......

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The House

2007-07-23

Tony and I went to see the house yesterday and it was exactly as I'd pictured it.  At least the layout was.

I don't think the kitchen has been touched since the house was built.  Same cabinets, appliances & flooring.  Functional but, very outdated.  Think, Brady Bunch.  *IF* we were to buy the house, the first thing we'd have to do is completely tear out the kitchen. 

The other thing I didn't like about it was that the laundry room is in the basement.  Same thing I have here and I absolutely do not want that again.  There's no place to move it upstairs.

Otherwise, it was a perfectly lovely home.  The lot is gorgeous, the house is as neat as a pin and has been well maintained. 

BUT! It's not for us.

I really think we're going to have to build.  It's not that we can't find a house to suit our needs, it's usually the l ocation.  All of the homes that we like are in subdivisions and hub absolutely does NOT want to live in a subdivision.  I wouldn't mind so much but, would prefer not to either. 

So that's that for now, until the next time....

wondering why the word L O C A T I O N won't show up in my posts!  This is the second time this has happened?  I think I fixed it but, that's a silly word to block.

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Doing the Happy Clean Kitchen Dance

2007-07-22

Who doesn't enjoy a clean house?  Who likes cleaning?  Bah! 

I couldn't stand it another second!  I tied into my kitchen this morning and scrubbed every square inch.  The sinks are shining, the floors are clean enough to eat off of, the dishes are done, the counters have been bleached back to their original color or at least to the best of my recollection.

Now the candles are burning and everything smells lovely.  What is it about me, Sundays and cleaning?  Sundays are supposed to be day of rest...right?  For some reason though, I do my best cleaning on Sundays.  Cleanliness is next to Godliness :)

Now I have a pile of towels laying in the hallway waiting for me to haul them down the stairs.  Damn dirty towels, damn stairs!  I so hope my next house has the laundry room on the main floor.

Speaking of my next house.  Tony and I are going to look at a house this afternoon.  It's on the same road we live on, probably only a mile and half away.  It has a bit more land, a pole barn and one half more bathrooms than we have now.  The only thing I'm not sure I'm going to like is that it doesn't have the open floorplan I want.  I'm really not going to settle for less than I want.  We need that open living, kitchen & dining area.  With 5 children who are now either married, getting married, have children of their own, etc..our family is downright HUGE!  When we're all together, we need room to breath!  Even though those days are only several times a year, I'd like for those times to be the most comfortable that they can be.  Besides, I like the feel and look of the open floor plan. 

Still, it's fun to look and see how other folks decorate and who knows, maybe I'll fall in love with this house?  Tony seems to like it and it's in our price range, which is a big plus.  It's much, much newer than our home and that pole barn...I know my hubby would love that!  I think I would too.  Then I could use the actual garage for parking my car in!  Imagine that!

The back of the lot is lined with a thick wooded area, so no need to worry about neighbors behind us but, there are neighbors on either side, they are spread far apart though.  Both homes are newish,  very nice and neat, so again, no worries and I think I prefer neighbors, that is if they are nice.  Right now I feel as though I'm surrounded by crazies!  They may feel the same way :) 

We've lived here for 12+ years and even though I want a different house for a lot of reasons, I know I'll be sad to move from here.  I like my house but, it doesn't fit us anymore.  It's big, really big but, it's not laid out in a way that works for us.  There are 3 levels and I grow to hate stairs more and more with each passing day.  I even have stairs coming into my house from the outside.

3000 sq. ft of house is getting to be more than I want to clean, not to mention, when we moved here the kiddos were still little and all at home.  Now we only have our son at home, so there are 2 spare bedrooms, one that we've turned into a den but, what the heck do we need a den for?  It's not like we're going to be having lions for pets. 

It may be a couple more years before we find exactly what we both want or it may be today, who knows?  Ideally we will build a new home.  Only time will tell. 

So.....HAPPY SUNDAY!  HAPPY CLEANING AND HAPPY HOUSE HUNTING!

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Who Knew?

2007-07-18

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Round One, ding ding

2007-07-17

Bridzilla!

I shouldn't say that because my daughter has been very flexible about all the arrangments and some things that she's not flexible about, are things that she shouldn't be.  I mean afterall, it is her wedding.

Today I was looking at invitations and found a great (economical) post card wedding invitation.  They are pretty and as I said, much more affordable and the big plus is the postage will be less expensive.  I told Ashleigh and she was A-OK with that.

Then we started discussing the fact that only immediate family and a few close friends will be at the ceremony but, everyone is invited to the reception and she wondered how we should word that on the invitation.

My idea was that we don't word it at all.  We just say when the reception is and make it clear that they are coming to a reception and only a reception.  She didn't like that.  She wanted something like, wedding @ 2, reception @ 4.  That made no sense if you aren't inviting everyone to the wedding.  She agreed.  Then she wanted, wedding for family @ 2 and reception for friends and family @ 4.  Again, that doesn't work because family can be third cousins and you also have those few close friends that you want invited.  So basically we would have folks that we didn't intend to attend the wedding show up.  We are trying to avoid that lapse in time when the pictures are taken, etc..

So the compromise is that we are doing only a few invitations for the wedding and the rest will be for the reception.  We managed to work that out in only 5 hours and 6 phone calls.  Pretty good, huh?

Round 2.

Tomorrow we tackle table linens.  I'm setting my alarm to get an early start.

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Tammy verses the Dust Bunnies

2007-07-15

I'm taking on the dust bunnies in my bedroom.

So far the score is....


TAMMY: 2

DUST BUNNIES: 1000,000!

ACHOOOOO!     "bless you"

Oh shut up you stupid dust bunny!

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Sex in Your 40s and Beyond

2007-07-13

I found this article and thought I would share.  I hope you find it helpful or at least interesting.

Being 42....these are things that I hope I won't need to know but, just in case ;)

While there are more challenges to great sex after 40, there's often deeper satisfaction, too. Many women in this age group report higher levels of intimacy, self-confidence and partner compatibility, since, in many cases, the couples' relationship has grown with time. If you still haven't found your groove by your fourth decade, take heart: Sex after the big 4-0 can prove the perfect way to rejuvenate your relationship and set off some fireworks in the bedroom...

Starting around age 35, hormones begin to decline. Symptoms like sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness and even hot flashes can occur. They're known as perimenopause, the time leading up to menopause. Many women are surprised to find it beginning as early as their mid-thirties.

Suzanne Roth, a nurse practitioner and founder of the Menopause & Sexual Healthcare practice in Massachusetts, says: "Menopause is a natural and normal process. However, most women underestimate when the symptoms begin and wait too long to get treatment."

The key to a sexually satisfying menopause is part medical, part emotional and part relationship-based, Roth says. "With women, you have to look at what's going on with their hormones, but also with their relationship and overall health."

Hot Mamas
The good news is that two of the most common menopausal complaints - hot flashes and vaginal dryness - also happen to be the easiest to treat.

Both symptoms stem from declining estrogen levels. Hot flashes can interfere with a good night's sleep, and that's bad for anyone's libido. Believe it or not, studies have found that yoga can reduce hot flashes by up to 100%. No hormones needed. So can 400 IU of daily vitamin E, healthy eating and regular exercise.

Vaginal dryness takes a direct toll on sex by reducing pleasure and, often, creating feelings of frustration for women and men who think it translates to a lack of arousal. (Sometimes it does, but more on that later.)

Roth suggests using lubricants as a first line of defense against dryness. Applying a water- or silicone-based formula can not only make intercourse more comfortable, but can also help increase arousal as you apply it.

However, if you still feel pain during or after sex, lube isn't solving your problem. In such cases, Roth recommends vaginal estrogen to replace moisture that's being lost as your hormones decline. "The whole idea is to restore estrogen where it's needed and to fix the problem, rather than cover it up," she says. "I prescribe estrogen cream or tablets that help restore lubrication and deliver estrogen where it's needed most - the vagina."

When applied directly to the vagina, the estrogen doesn't have to circulate through the whole body to the degree that it does when taken orally.

Closed for Business?
Another common complaint during menopause and the years leading up to it is low libido. Many women wonder if their sex drive is waning right along with their hormones.

"Lots of women come to see me and say, ‘Help! I need some testosterone. I have zero sex drive and my husband's about to leave me,'" Roth says. Testosterone is the hormone of desire. It fuels our sex drive and can work wonders for women who've experienced a drop in libido and have low testosterone.

However, hormones alone won't help a woman who is bored with the way her husband makes love to her after 25 years or who has drifted away from her partner emotionally.  "The problem is that low libido is so much more complicated than hormones. You have to look at what's happening in a woman's relationship and other areas of her life," Roth says. "I always recommend that a woman who has more factors at play than low testosterone seek counseling, either for herself or with her partner.

However, "testosterone plays a part in restoring libido for some women, but it's not the magic cure," Roth says. The real key, in her opinion, is complete hormonal balance, including estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. If you think hormones may be to blame for your lackluster love life (or lack thereof), see your doctor.

A Slow Hand
Sometimes, the problem stems from a lack of foreplay or the right kind of foreplay. And what turned you on at 20 may leave you cold at 40.

"Women often don't realize that loss of sensation can occur in the genitals and the nipples as hormones begin to decline around age forty," Roth says. "Many women are uncomfortable talking about this with their doctors or their partners, and it's where the sexual disconnect can begin to grow."

Unfortunately, many women begin to avoid sex or adopt a just-get-it-over-with attitude because nothing their partners do feels good.

Some wait years to tackle the problem and, by the time Roth sees them, it has often grown into a huge divide in the relationship. "As we mature, we all need a greater amount of stimulation," she says. "But couples are hesitant to talk about what they might need because they think it will be perceived as a rejection."

Roth recommends Lou Paget's book How to Give Her Absolute Pleasure (Broadway, 2000) to educate both men and women in the intricacies of the female sexual response.

"I've found Paget's book often creates that ‘a-ha' moment for couples, which validates what women have been experiencing and gives men an education," Roth says. "Women need more than just genital stimulation. Our skin is our largest sexual organ."

Every woman needs a different amount and kind of foreplay. The best way to find out what works for you is to read and experiment as a couple. As a general rule, more is better. If you've enjoyed 10 minutes of foreplay, try for 20 minutes. Bonus: It should help him, too, since - whether they admit it or not - men tend to need more foreplay as they age as well.

Are You in Perimenopause?
Do you suspect you might be in perimenopause, the time leading up to menopause? It can occur as early as your late 30s. But remember, you can still be years away from menopause even if you're experiencing the symptoms. Take our perimenopause quiz to assess whether menopausal changes are upon you.

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Who calls at 7 AM?

2007-07-11

My daughter for one and the bakery for another!  Of course, they both pick the morning after I don't sleep well.  I tossed and turned all night.  First I was hot, then I was cold, then I was uncomfortable, then I heard my son come in, then.....

Just before 7 AM, the phone starts ringing~

My daughter called to tell me her car was broken into.  It's terrible but, what can I do about it at that un-Godly hour?  So, I get up and make coffee and try to get my head screwed on straight.  At about 5 mins after 7, the phone rings again, I think it's my daughter but, oh no, it's the bakery!  "Hello", "Is this Kim?"  "No, this is Tammy"  "Oh, did you call about a cake?"  "Yes"  blah blah, yakity smackity.....

Glad I had my head screwed on or I could have really embarrassed myself.  I guess it's a good thing Ash called or I would have been incoherent.  I returned the favor to Ash and called her back and told her to get her hiney to the bakery to look at this woman's wedding cakes.  I think one good turn deserves another.

The good news is, we now have a cake!  Well, not the actual cake but Ashleigh chose one and we've agreed on a price.  The baker tried to talk me out of having it delivered!  Say What?  Like I'm going cut corners on the delivery.  It's only $15 and as far as I'm concerned, probably the best money spent.  $15 for peace of mind.  What the heck would I do if I dropped the cake?  Skip town?  Cry?  Yep, we're having it delivered!

I had intended to make the cake myself but, decided sometime ago, that it wasn't worth the angst .  I'm sure I'll be plenty busy during that time.  Well worth the few hundred dollars.  Sometimes you just have to know when NOT to be a Frugal Franny! 

The phone is off the hook and I see a nap in my future.

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Now for the flowers

2007-07-10

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Thank You :)

2007-07-10

Thanks for all the input on the dresses.  I like the second one best too, although my husband preferred the first one. 

My only concern about the second dress was that since it is a Fall wedding that it might be just a bit on the light side.  I thought maybe the other one would be more appropriate.  They're both beautiful dresses.

Now I just need to find a shrug or wrap to match the dress. 

Sorry repertoire, no blue beads or shoes.  Maybe pearls and ivory sling backs :)

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Which is your favorite?

2007-07-09

I'm looking for a dress to wear to my daughter's October wedding.

Her wedding colors are burnt orange and brown (and other fall colors)  The girl's dresses have a simple ribbon and bow on them like the first dress pictured above. 

Which is your fave?

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Hoosier Heritage!

2007-07-09

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Which Positive Quality Are You?

2007-07-09

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My Weekend Hello

2007-07-08

Hi everyone :)

I hope this finds you all doing well.

It's been a busy few days, busy but fun!  Friday was my birthday and I was treated like Queen for a day, all day!  Lots of presents, cards, phonecalls, etc..  Just as birthdays should be.  New Bling too!  Hubby bought me a new braclet and ankle bracelet that I just love!  I'm all sparkly.  I also got a gift cert. to a day at the spa!  I can't wait.  My Mother and I went shopping and I came home with an armload of new clothes, pj's and shoes.  Maybe turning 42 isn't so bad afterall.

Yesterday we traveled to KY lake for a wedding.  My cousin married his long time sweetheart.  The ceremoney was 15 mins. total.  Our trip there and back, including stops, the wedding and reception was 10 hrs!  His brother is getting married in May, so we'll have to make the trip again then.  All in all, it was a lovely wedding and reception.  They are on their way to the Bahamas!  Good Luck to Dan and Nicole.

I learned something new about myself yesterday.  I'm much less tolerant of BS than the rest of my family.  Or maybe I'm a bitch and they aren't?  Indecision about where we're going to eat and other monumental things drive me batty!  Good grief!  It's one meal, one time, just stop and eat!  I also hate talking about the obvious.  Nice wedding, pretty bride...blah blah blah.  Well yes, DUH!  Oh and if my Dad asked me one more time if I needed to stop to pee, I thought I might whack him on his head!  I'm a grown woman Dad!  I'll let you know if I need to stop!  Pretty obvious that I'm a bitch, eh? 

We're having company for dinner tonight, so I guess I should straighten things up around here and throw some food together. 

Have a great rest of the weekend!!

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Happy Birthday to Me!

2007-07-06

Happy Birthday to me!

I'm almost 43...

But, I'm only 42

Wooooo Hoooo! 

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Happy 4th Everyone!

2007-07-04

I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday!

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Wedding Planning...

2007-06-29

I have an idea for a new product...Wedding in a Box!

Since I've been "helping" (yeah right, entirely planning) plan Ash's wedding, I've come to the conclusion that people should elope!  That is unless the bride and groom are willing to plan and fund the entire wedding.

Hence my idea, Wedding in a Box, everything you need for a beautiful wedding or the redneck version, Weddin' ina Box, everthang you need ta git hitched! (comes complete with shotgun)

In the box would be tiny little sponges that you drop in water and POOF, out pops bouquets of flowers, a wedding dress, tux, tablecloths, candles, a minister, champagne, food, etc..

Also for the Mother of the Bride, Valium and an I.V. pole adorned with ivy.

A flat price according to how fancy you want to be! 

I better get the patent on this right away!  Don't go stealing my idea now, ya hear?

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Divorce, Custody & Pepsi

2007-06-28

A man and his wife were getting a divorce at a local court, but the custody of their children posed a problem. The mother jumped to her feet and
protested to the judge that since she had brought the children into this world, she should retain custody of them.

The man also wanted custody of his children, so the judge asked for his side of the story.

After a long moment of silence, the man rose from his chair and replied:
"Judge, when I put a dollar into a vending machine, and a Pepsi comes out, does the Pepsi belong to me or to the machine?"

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What's been going on?

2007-06-26

Well, let's see...

For the most part I've been sitting here at my desk, listing items on ebay for the past 9 days!  Not all that time was spent listing, some of it was fine tuning my store, finding my way around.  The store biz is a whole new ballgame. 

And I haven't sold a dang thang!  Oh well, I have faith that I'll figure out which items sell best, which listing style works best, etc..  Patience, lots and lots of patience!  Which isn't something I have a lot of.  Maybe I can buy some on Ebay? They have everything, right?

Today was a bit different.  Instead of getting up, fixing coffee and plopping my butt down in this chair in my robe and staying put, I actually got up this morning and showered! Good to know, eh?  There was a very good reason for it though.  I had an appointment at 8:15 with my PT lady, Ann and my massage therapist, Sara.  I haven't seen them in ages and I've got to tell you, it's worth the copay just to see those two gals!  They are such a breath of fresh air!  My neck and back are thanking me tonight. 

After I left the appointment, I went to the Dollar Tree.  I just love that store.  I always seem to find something to buy there.  Besides, it was either that or the mall.  My bank account is thanking me :)  Then I did the usual, hit the grocery, bank and post office.  Regardless of how mundane it was, it was just nice to get out in the sunshine and see people that don't live with me!  I've felt so cooped up.

The good news is, I have about 100 items listed in my store, so now I don't feel the need to hit it so hard.  I can add just a few a day or several a week.  It will be so much easier now. 

Oh and did we ever have a storm today!  Good Grief!  It came out of nowhere.  One minute it was warm and the sun was shining and the next BAM...lightening, thunder, and the hardest downpour I believe I've ever seen.  It came out of the east, which was odd.  My house faces the east, so the rain was beating my picture window.  There's a row of pine trees across the street and pine cones were blowing into my yard!  That's quite a way for the wind to blow those things and not to mention, right off the trees!  When the rain let up a bit and I could finally see out the window, I saw moles!  Yes, that's plural...MOLES, on top of the ground!  Those little suckers have been rooting up our yard so terribly bad and nothing we do seems to slow them down.  So I grabbed my broom and played whack the mole!  I know, it's terrible and after I whacked one, I couldn't do it again.  It left me with a sick feeling. 

Oh My!   I think I hear my husband pulling up in the driveway!  Hmmm, he's early.  I guess I should take this opportunity to spend some time with him. 

I hope everyone is doing well...

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Business in a box

2007-06-21

That's essentially what I've bought into. 

I joined a wholesale merchandise co.  You've seen the infomercials, you know where you can make a zillion dollars from the comfort of your home with just minutes a day?  Heck, you can even make money while you sleep!

Actually, some folks do very well with this sort of thing and I might too but, it takes more than a couple hours a day, at least in the beginning or maybe it's just me.

I remind myself of the child who is sent to their room to clean it.  They pick up a toy and on the way to the toy box, they start playing with the toy.  They sit on the bed, lay back, notice a book on  the shelf, take the book down, flip through the book throw the book on the bed.  Slide down to the floor, pick up another toy, start to put it in the toy box and so on....

As I'm listing items on ebay and I search to see what others are selling their items for and then I go from one page to the next.  I look at their merchandise, I read their feedback,  The phone rings, I stop and talk on the phone or decide to do a load of laundry or to step outside to make sure the world is still revolving and start watering my flowers!!!!  Argh!  It's maddening!  I think I need some ritalin!

Here I have "America's Best Home Business Opportunity" sitting next to me in a red, white and blue box and I can't focus!  If I turn the box to the side, it says, "live your own American dream"  see, that's the problem.  I'm dreaming about everything I'm going to do with all my millions! 

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eat, eat, eat.....

2007-06-16

All of our plans this weekend revolve around food!  Eating, eating.....

No wonder there are so many overweight people in the US!  Get togethers and celebrations usually do involve some kind of food.

Last night we went out to eat with Tony's sister and her husband to celebrate Tony's birthday, which isn't until Sunday.  So that easily gives him an opening to celebrate all weekend long.  I'm all for that and I do the same thing.  Hey, get more bang for your buck!

Today we're getting together at a different sister's house for a cookout to celebrate Father's day.  At least she included some activitiy.  We're invited to swim as well. 

Tomorrow we're going to Tony's very Italian Mother's house for spaghetti and meatballs!  She does make delicious italian food.  I'll have to see my Dad tomorrow as well and I'm certain that will involve eating too.  I know we have to eat but, come on! 

I'm going to suggest we all get together for aerobics!  Maybe we'll do that for Thanksgiving :)

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All is well that ends well...right?

2007-06-14

I know you've all been waiting with bated breath to know if my hair is a lovely shade of gamboge. (yes, that's a shade of orange)  Well, you'll be relieved to know, it's not.  It seems the tanning solution has no effect on hair.  Why then do they give you a hair cover?  I guess it's because the solution is wet and it's "just in case"  I don't really have an answer.  Who cares, right?

OK, enough of that!  Want to talk about my fingernails now?  Me either.

I'm expecting out of town company today.  They should arrive around 4 PM.  I wish I could say I'm excited about it but, I'm not.  My anticipated guest is one of my best friend's husband Mark, and one of his friends or I guess I should say his son's friend.  Which I find odd.  I didn't ask.  They are on thier way to a formula one race somewhere, we are merely a pit stop.  A meal and a bed for the night.

I was going to go all fancy on thier ass but, stopped short and decided to grill brats and burgers.  See, I'm learning :)  Mark is an old hippy.  He never grew up and enjoys his herb.  Which I find very irritating, since I do not.  It's fine if he wants to do that elsewhere but, it really irks me when he visits and I smell it wafting throughout my house.  I don't have to approve of what a 50 something man does but, I do have to approve of what goes on in my own home.  Hopefully I won't have to say anything.  I love Mark to pieces, I really do!  He's funny, he's carefree, he's smart and generous.  He's also childish at times, says inappropriate things and will most likely be 3 sheets to the wind when he arrives!  He loves his brew too.

I'm not going to break my neck today as I normally would.  Why would I?  He won't notice anyway.  Maybe I should be grateful that he'll be smashed!  I hope "the friend" is driving!

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I'm such a DORK

2007-06-13

Naturally, try to make something easy and what do I do?

Today I went to get a "Mystic Tan"  Basically you get in this rather large booth and get a tan sprayed on. 

Being nearly 42 (YIKES when did I get that old?) and not wanting to push the wrinkle factor, I've vowed to get as little sun as possible but, I've been a sun worshipper my whole life and I look and feel (well, look) healthier when I have some color.

First they have you watch a video, then one of the girls takes you back and re-explains everything.  There's even a chart on the wall with step by step directions.

So off I go and I'm in "the room", strip stark naked, which is a bit unnerving, slathering on gel and then cream.  You have to cover all the knuckles and nails on your fingers and toes with a barrier cream.  It takes some time to apply all this stuff.

As I'm applying all the goo, someone starts jiggling the door knob   So, then I'm feeling rushed and there's a recorded voice that keeps saying "Welcome to Mystic Tan, to start the session, please hold your hand in front of the censor"  "Welcome to Mystic Tan...."  Between the knob jiggler and the voice, I felt like I had to get in the booth, so I did.

As soon as it starts spraying, I remember....

I didn't cover my hair with the supplied hair cozy!!!  EEK!  My hair!  My blonde hair will be orange!  I couldn't concentrate.  The recorded message was then saying, turn to your left and place your left foot on #1 and your right foot on #3.  Here I am, trying to do what it says and doing my best to keep my hair out of the spray, which is impossible! 

You don't walk out of there immediately tanned, it takes a few hours to see the results, so who knows what the heck I'm gonna look like.  Stripped with orange hair more than likely...OY!

Remember the Friend's episode when Ross kept getting his front sprayed but, not his backside? And he got paid how much per episode?   Hell, I paid to do this!!  DOINK!

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Lasagna Anyone?

2007-06-12

Being the good wife and Mother that I am...HEY!  I hear you snickering over there! 

I decided I would make an actual honest to goodness meal tonight. 

At 3:15, I walk out the backdoor to move some ground cover around and there was my husband!  "Hi Baby, how are you" I said with a big smile.  "what are you doing home already"?  "I have that meeting, remember"?  "Oh yeah...do you have time for dinner first"?  "No, not really, I'm already pushing it"  "Oh well, maybe L.T. will have time to eat with  me"

So I go about my business of digging dirt. 

"MOM"! 

 "I'm around here"

"I'm off to work"

"already"?

"Yeah, I have to go to the post office and get gas"

*kiss kiss*

Poof, all by myself with a whole pan of lasagna! what to do, what to do?

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Vagus Nerve

2007-06-12

I had a scary episode this morning.  I've had them before, so I knew I wouldn't die but, I sure felt like it.  I signed online and was fine, when all of the sudden, I felt like I weighed a thousand pounds.  I could barely lift my arms or legs.  I broke out in a cold sweat and thought I was going to throw up.  Since I was home alone and knew there was a very good chance I could faint, I went straight to bed.  Last thing I remembered it was around 6:30 or 7, I woke and it was 9:30. 

Just another lovely gift from MS.

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Hell's Kitchen

2007-06-11

No, I'm not talking about my kitchen, although this morning, it looked a little rough.

Hell's Kitchen is another one of those reality shows.  I like this one!  There's something about that Gordon Ramsey fellow that would scare the pee out of me, if I were on the show but, from my sofa, he looks pretty darn HOT!  Oh yeah, he's in H E double hockey stick's kitchen!  No wonder

My faves so far, Bonnie, Julia, Rock & Eddie.  Now, that could change, since there's only been on episode.

For those interested, it's on tonight, 8 central, 9 eastern time FOX.

Any other fans out there?

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The Tea Cup

2007-06-11

There was a couple who took a trip to England to shop in a beautiful antique store to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. They both liked antiques and pottery, and especially teacups. Spotting an exceptional cup, they asked "May we see that? We've never seen a cup quite so beautiful."

As the lady handed it to them, suddenly the teacup spoke, "You don't understand. I have not always been a teacup. There was a time when I was just a lump of red clay. My master took me and rolled me pounded and patted me over and over and I yelled out, "Don't do that." "I don't like it!" "Let me alone," but he only smiled, and gently said; "Not yet!"

Then. WHAM! I was placed on a spinning wheel and suddenly I was spun around and around and around. "Stop it I'm getting so dizzy I'm going to be sick!", I screamed. But the master only nodded and said, quietly; 'Not yet.'

He spun me and poked and prodded and bent me out of shape to suit himself and then... Then he put me in the oven. I never felt such heat. I yelled and knocked and pounded at the door." Help! Get me out of here!" I could see him through the opening and I could read his lips as he shook his head from side to side, 'Not yet'.

When I thought I couldn't bear it another minute, the door opened. He carefully took me out and put me on he shelf, and I began to cool. Oh, that felt so good!
"Ah, this is much better," I thought. But, after I cooled he picked me up and he brushed and painted me all over. The fumes were horrible. I thought I would gag. 'Oh, please; Stop it, Stop it!! I cried. He only shook his head and said. 'Not yet!'.

Then suddenly he put me back in to the oven. Only it was not like the first one. This was twice as hot and I just knew I would suffocate. I begged. I pleaded. I screamed. I cried I was convinced I would never make it. I was ready to give up. Just then the door opened and he took me out and again placed me on the shelf, where I cooled and waited and waited, wondering "What's he going to do to me next?" An hour later he handed me a mirror and said 'Look at yourself.' And I did. I said, 'That's not me; that couldn't be me. It's beautiful. I'm beautiful!"

Quietly he spoke: "I want you to remember, then,' he said, 'I know it hurt to be rolled and pounded and patted, but had I just left you alone, you'd have dried up. I know it made you dizzy to spin around on the wheel, but if I had stopped, you would have crumbled. I know it hurt and it was hot and disagreeable in the oven, but if I hadn't put you there, you would have cracked. I know the fumes were bad when I brushed and painted you all over, but if I hadn't done that, you never would have hardened. You would not have had any color in your life. If I hadn't put you back in that second oven, you wouldn't have survived for long because the hardness would not have held. Now you are a finished product. Now you are what I had in mind when I first began with you."

The moral of this story is this: God knows what He's doing for each of us He is the potter, and we are His clay. He will mold us and make us, and expose us to just enough pressures of just the right kinds that we may be made into a flawless piece of work to fulfill His good,& pleasing and perfect will. So when life seems hard, and you are being pounded and patted and pushed almost beyond endurance; when your world seems to be spinning out of control; when you feel like you are in a fiery furnace of trials; when life seems to "stink", try this...

Brew a cup of your favorite herbal tea in your prettiest tea cup, sit down and think on this story and then, have a little talk with the Potter.

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Some Things about No Things

2007-06-10

*What's that phrase?  "Much ado about nothing"  I think that will pretty much sum up this entry.  If you're looking for something exciting to read, skip to the next blog.

I'm not complaining mind you, I sort of like weekends like this.  Relaxed with just a little bit of fun thrown in the mix. 

Friday night hubby and I went to a newly discovered Mexican restaurant.  The food is A+ with such reasonable prices that we've been two Fridays in a row.  Maybe that will be our new Friday night haunt.  Funny thing though, last Friday when we were there, we noticed a rather large fellow drinking an enormous margarita!  I kid you not when I say, this margarita had to be a full blender!

Hubby decided he wanted a B.A.M.  "Big Ass Margarita" HA!  Besides the brain freeze that came with said B.A.M., it was very potent!  Half of the drink was still in the glass when we left.  Hubby tried to get me to share it with him but, I chose to stick to my diet coke, incase he did finish it and we needed a driver. 

We made our weekly visit to see his Mother after dinner and she proceeded to tell us about the chiggers she had all around her, ummm, private areas.  Pointing them out and scratching!  (shaking head)  So, being the "good DIL" I ran to the local CVS and purchased some cream that the pharmacist compounded for her.  I've been too scared to ask if it helped for fear of a repeat explanation of the of the chiggers. 

Yesterday I hit up a few yard sales.  You know how sometimes you just know it's going to be a good day?  Well, I didn't have that feeling about my yard sale adventures yesterday morning and I was right.  Not that it was bad either, just nothing great. 

Last night we went to our third oldest daughter's fiances' birthday party.  We had a nice time and good food.  It was an early night with lights out at about 10:30.  Man, we must be getting old.  Neither of us could even hold our eyes open long enough to watch TV.                                             

Very early this morning hubby kissed me goodbye and my first thought was....what day is it?  Sunday, hmmm, he must be heading to the lake or the airfield but, the thought soon turned into dreams.  I fell back asleep and slept until.....drum roll please!  9AM! wooooooo hoooooo!  Do you know how long it's been since I've done that?  OH IT FELT GOOD!

I've been piddling in the yard.  No not peeing in the yard, piddling, with my flowers and such.  The only plans I have for the rest of the day is to grill a pork loin, sit on the pool deck, drink tea and soak up some sun.  Boring?  maybe but, who couldn't go for a boring Sunday like that?

I hope everyone gets to have a lovely boring Sunday!

*told ya so.

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Walmart Hell

2007-06-08

Screaming kids, slow cart pushers, isle blockers, rude shoppers! 

More reasons why I don't go to Walmart very often.

I went to today to make some copies of pictures from our son's graduation.  I used one of those kiosk machines with the touch screen.  Good Grief!  The damn screen touchy thing wasn't very touchy!  I had to poke, poke, poke,...a zillion times to get it to work.  Oh yeah, this was after waiting nearly an hour to get a machine at all.  Think of all the germs on that screen!

Then, in the middle of my order a screen pops up that says to reboot!  So, the lady behind the counter rebooted it.  That took another 15 mins.  FINALLY after being in Walmart for 2 hrs. I came out with some pictures!  I was ready to pick up something very large and very heavy and heave it at the machine!

Of course, I think they may do this on purpose, $13 worth of pictures but, my total bill was $75!  How the hell did that happen?  Oh yeah, while I was waiting for the machine, I shopped.

Stupid Store!

The next time, I'll pay more and go to Walgreens!

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It's Hell Getting Old!

2007-06-06

 An 80-year old man goes for a physical. All of his tests come back with 
normal results. The doctor says, "Chuck, everything looks great! How are you 
doing mentally and emotionally? Are you at peace with God?" 
 
Chuck replies, "God and I are tight. He knows I have poor eyesight, so he's 
fixed it so when I get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, 
POOF! the light goes on. When I'm done, POOF! the light goes off." 
 
" WOW, that's incredible," the doctor says. 
 
A little later in the day, the doctor calls Chuck's wife. 
 
"Ethel," he says, "George is doing fine! But, I had to call you as I am in 
awe of his relationship with God. Is it true that when he gets up during the 
night, POOF! the light goes on in the bathroom and when he's done POOF!  the 
light goes off?" 
 
"Oh, my God!" Ethel exclaims, 
 
"He's peeing in the refrigerator again!" 

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Bloomers

2007-06-06

 I just love this time of year!  Watching all the flowers bloom, the grass is green, green! The sun is shining and all is well.

At least I have a better sense of well being in the summer.

These are a couple of the lilies and a clematies that are blooming in my gardens right now.  I love Summer!

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A duck walks into a pub

2007-06-05

A duck walks into a pub and orders a schooner of beer and a ham sandwich.

The barman looks at him and says, "But you're a duck."

"I see your eyes are working," replies the duck.

"And you talk!" exclaims the barman.

"I see your ears are working," says the duck,

"Now can I have my beer and my sandwich please?"

"Certainly," says the barman, "Sorry about that, it's just we don't get
many ducks in this pub. What are you doing round this way?"

"I'm working on the building site across the road," explains the duck.

Then the duck drinks his beer, eats his sandwich and leaves.

This continues for 2 weeks. Then one day the circus comes to town. The
Ringleader of the circus comes into the pub and the barman says to him,
"You're with the circus aren't you?

I know this duck that would be just
brilliant in your circus, he talks, drinks beer and everything!"

"Sounds marvelous," says the ringleader, "Get him to give me a call."

So the next day when the duck comes into the pub the barman says, "Hey Mr
Duck, I reckon I can line you up with a top job, paying really good money!"

"Yeah?", says the duck, "Sounds great, where is it?"

"At the circus," says the barman.

"The circus?" the duck inquires.

"That's right," replies the barman.

"The circus?" the duck asks again.

"Yes" says the barman

"That place with the big tent?" the duck inquires.

"Yeah" the barman replies.

"With all the animals?" the duck questioned.

"Of course" the barman replies.

"With the big canvas roof with the hole in the middle," asks the duck.

"That's right!" says the barman.

The duck looks confused.

"What the hell would they want with a brick-layer?"..............

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Crossing State Lines To Get My Drugs...

2007-06-04

Several years ago, approximately 4 years now, our prescription drug coverage changed to a 30% co pay, which, for most drugs is an OK deal but, one of the meds I was on was $1400 a month.  It was an injectable drug.  That really threw a kink in the ol' budget so, I opted to go the alternative route.

I had heard of an alternative drug for sometime on the MS chat boards and decided to give it a go.  It was much cheaper and had no side effects.  The script was written off label so, I assumed that my insurance co. wouldn't pay for it.  So, for all these years I've been paying about $50 a month out of pocket.  No biggie.

Well, today I switched compounding pharmacies.  I had been having it shipped from Boca Raton, FL and decided it was too inconvenient.  I found a compounding pharmacy just over the state line in KY that made this particular drug.  As a matter of fact it's because of me that they do but, that's a different story for another day.

After having 2 lengthy conversations with the pharmacist about the filler they use and which filler I prefer, hubby and I drove there to pick up "my drugs"  The pharmacist came out, introduced himself and shook my hand.  We had a long chat and then....

He gave me an insurance form that was completed except for my info, to mail in for reimbursement!  I explained that I didn't think they would pay for the drug since it was off label.  He told me that all the people w/ MS who take this drug and used his pharmacy were being reimbursed! WOW!

That's just over 4 yrs x $50 per month minus, 30%!  HELLO CHA CHING!  I'm gonna give it a shot!  I've gone head to head with the insurance co. many, many times and usually with enough persistence, I win! 

More Later

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A Riddle

2007-06-03

best when viewed in blog.

 

You are driving in a car at a constant speed.  On your left side is a drop off (The ground is 18-20 inches below the level you are traveling on), and on your right side is a fire engine traveling at the same speed as you.  

 

In front of you is a galloping horse which is the same size as your car and you cannot overtake it.  

 

Behind you is another galloping horse.  Both horses are also traveling at the same speed as you .

 

What must you do to safely get out of this highly dangerous situation?

For the answer click and drag your mouse from star to star.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

* Get your drunk ass off the merry-go-round. *

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Treasure Hunt

2007-06-02

.... or more commonly known as Yard, Rummage, Garage Sales!

They are just so much fun!  I'm a little late getting started this season but, I finally got out this morning.  I didn't leave my area and still spent nearly 3 hours finding bargins.

My best find of the day was a very nice, nearly new "big girl" car seat for Lexy for a whopping $2!  It even has a cup holder.  We have Lexy more than we have Kaden, so I keep a car seat permenently buckled into my backseat for her.  The one I got today is big enough for Kaden too though.  So now, no more swapping of car seats when we have them both.   I know, I'm easily entertained.

I found several other goodies as well and spent less than $20, including a breakfast burrito at McDonalds...yuck.

It's a beautiful sunny day in Southern Indiana.

Tonight we're having dinner with friends and I'd like to go see the movie Waitress. 

Now I'm off to do yard clean up from yesterday's storm! EGADS!  We have several huge limbs down and driving around today I saw trees that were blown over.  Several of my very large clay flowerpots that have been on my deck for years without any problem, were blown out into the yard, across the street and/or smashed on my deck.  The storm lasted a grand total of about 10 minutes!  Thank goodness it didn't last any longer.

Good Luck to my fellow Treasure Hunters :)

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How much for a brain?

2007-06-01

Finally, the doctor came in looking tired and somber. "I'm afraid I'm the bearer of bad news," he said as he surveyed the worried faces.

"The only hope left for your loved one at this time is a brain transplant."

"It's an experimental procedure, semi-risky and you will have to pay for the brain yourselves." The family members sat silent as they absorbed the news.

After a great length of time, someone asked, "Well, how much does a brain cost?"

The doctor quickly responded, "$5,000 for a male brain, and $200 for a female brain." The moment turned awkward. Men in the room tried not to smile avoiding eye contact with the women, but some actually smirked.

A man, unable to control his curiosity, blurted out the question everyone wanted to ask. "Why is the male brain so much more?"

The doctor smiled at the childish innocence and so to the entire group said, "It's just standard pricing procedure. We have to mark down the price of the female brains, because they've actually been used."

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