Mountain Witch

GOALS FOR THE WEEK

2011-08-08T10:40:00.000-04:00

Finish 5 - count 'em - FIVE, hand bags.

Embroider 5 pieces of clothing.

Build up my "Sewlmates" collection by at least 20 pieces!

Start packing - UGH! - Starting in the attic only because the basement is so creepy and spider-ish and the weather is supposed to cool down so going up into the attic won't be like sitting in a 114 degree fucking sauna!

Edit 3 chapters of my book.

Do something with these Gorbechav eyebrows - or eyebrow - I've got going on! Unibrow doesn't even begin to explain it, more like toupee stuck in the middle of my fucking forehead! Def. time to tweeze.

Give myself a mani and pedi. And um, yeah, I can do that. My older sis owned a salon and was an instructor and conducted hair shows for yeaaarrrsssss. I'm pretty sure I know how to mani and pedi myself.

Keep my phone charged so people can actually get a hold of me and by people I mean my stalker little sister, who not only stalks me at home but stalks me online as "anonymous." - I may post some of her comments from time to time so all my tried n' true bloggie pals, don't go all ape shit on the "anonymous" comments. It's just my lit'l sis being the same pain in the ass she's always been.

Ah fuck, right in the middle of my goals for the week post my husband wakes up.. See, see why I can't get anything done???

BIRDS OF A FEATHER...

2011-08-08T09:26:00.000-04:00

My grandson Seth is out exploring in the back yard.

"MiMi look at all these feathers!" He runs to the porch with his little hands filled with feathers and gently places them on the steps and runs back by the bushes. "Look MiMi, more feathers!" His lit'l face is just precious. A smile gleaming from ear to ear.

I watch as he disappears behind the bushes and then I hear..

"OH NO! IT'S DEAD!"

THE WINDS OF CHANGE

2011-08-06T08:48:00.000-04:00

I see I've been a horrible blogger again. Not posting every day as I should.. One day I WILL complete the NaBloPoMo, 30 day/30 post challenge! I WILL! Obviously this month, as in months gone by, is a wash but September looks promising.. (Fingers crossed.)

Not only have I been busy with the Mister, the kiddies and the grand kids, I've been busy attempting to build up my "Sewlmates" inventory so I can get that ball rolling. I have quilts, bags/purses/clutches, children's clothing, adult clothing and some framed fabric art in the works but as activity increases in the home I am finding it much more difficult to tend to my inventory and blocking out any set amount of time is nearly impossible due to everyone elses schedules. I have to either get up in the wee hours of the morn or stay up late into the wee hours of the morn to get the peace and quiet and time I need to concentrate and get things done!

I have a friend who runs a business out of her home with 3 small children, 2 dogs and a husband under foot and she manages to create BEAUTIFUL clothing. How she does this I have no idea but her clothing line is phenomenal and her clientele growing by leaps and bounds every day. If you have a moment, check out her Facebook page, "Huckleberry Corner."

Remember when I said that this is the first time in 23 years that I haven't had to buy anything "back to school?" Well, I couldn't help myself. I had to buy something so I purchased several notebooks, sticky notes, pens and a new planner - FOR ME! - I suppose it's true. Old habits do die hard.

I'm not at all looking forward to today and the heat! - Again! Forever!
I'm not at all looking forward to my 28 yr. old son moving over an hour away with my grandson.
I'm not at all looking forward to my 20 yr. old son moving into the dorms in a few weeks.
I'm not at all looking forward to my grandson starting school. - The time will surely fly now. It always does once the babies start school.
I'm not looking forward to moving again... But.. The Mister needs/wants/desires a garage and it's the least I can do for him. After all, he puts up with this crazy family o' mine, altho I in turn put up with his crazy family.. So he gets his garage and I get my house, with central air and enough bedrooms for family and friends to come visit and stay for a loooonnng weekend.
I am not looking forward to packing. Going into the hotter than hell attic and the creepy spidery basement!
And I am not looking forward to more dr. appts., for me and the Mister.

What I am looking forward to is life. All in all I've got it pretty good and I am smart enough to know it and be thankful and mindful every day.
My boys, altho moving on, are doing so with determination and confidence and I have no other expectations of them other than pure success. Two in nursing programs and one in business/music management.
My daughter is also doing well. Her pub is a smashing success and I couldn't be happier or more proud for her. All of her hard work is paying off, I just wish she wouldn't work so hard!

Life without children underfoot. What will that be like? I'm saddened and joyful. I want to laugh and I want to cry.
It feels like today is the beginning of the end..

THIRSTY THURSDAY

2011-08-04T12:21:00.000-04:00

Today I am thirsty - again - for a reprieve from this hideous heatwave that just won't stop! Enough already Mother Nature. We get it. You're one hot "Mama." Now let us be! People are dying.. Children are dying..

Today I am thirsty for the energy I so lacked yesterday. I was totally out of it. Drained, exhausted, beyond fatigued.

Today I am thirsty for a conversation with my 17 year old that doesn't end in, "Geez, just forget it Mom!"

Today I am thirsty for the sight of my grandson Seth.. With all of the changes going on in his little life I see him less and less and miss him more and more.

Today I am thirsty to finish an "indy bag" and start another and another and another.

Today I am thirsty for a day of peace in my soul.

FAMILY-ISMS

2011-08-01T13:43:00.000-04:00

SGT. RAY - "If I knew I was going to die tomorrow that son of a bitch would be dead today."

BROTHER JOE - "I hunt because it's illegal to kill people."

GRANDMA MICKI - "If you can't find a man with a million dollars. Find a million men with a dollar each."

DO I LOOK LIKE I WORK FOR THE FDA???

2011-07-30T14:33:00.004-04:00

Okay. I need to know. I really need to know!!!

Who appointed all wives and mother's the keepers of all perishable, non-perishable, cooked, frozen and/or left over foods kept in the fridge, the pantry, the cabinets, sock drawers, under the bed, on the dresser, in the car or in backpacks???

Who? Who did this to us???

Example #1 -
Pizza nite. - 2 slices go into the fridge.
Next day. -
BOY CHILD: "Mom, I'm hungry, do we have anything to eat?"
ME: "There's some left over pizza in there."
BOY CHILD: "Nah, forget it. I'll just have peanut butter n' jelly."
5 days later. -
BOY CHILD: "Mom, is this pizza still good?"
ME: "What does it look like?"
BOY CHILD: "Well, like hard pizza. Looks pretty gross."
ME: "Then don't eat it."
**I tossed the pizza but not before it turned into a science experiment in the fridge. - Clearly no one in my home can clean out the fridge but me.

Example #2 -
Taco Bell left in the car from weekend camping trip.
BOY CHILD: "Ah man. I left my Taco Bell in the car! Do you think it's still good Mom?"
**The Taco Bell was eaten. Boy children have cast iron stomachs. Boy children can eat anything.

Example #3 -
Opened but zip locked back up, cherry turkey jerky, left on the hubby's desk over night.
HUBBY: "Oh I can't believe I left this here all night. It says keep refrigerated. Honneeeyyy.. Do you think it's safe to eat this? It was 8 bucks for this bag!"
ME: "Well, it's pre-cooked and I've seen people eat out of garbage dumpsters and live to tell the tale, the most you'd probably have is diarrhea."
**The hubby ate the cherry turkey jerky and within 5 minutes was puking it back up in technicolor, thanks in part to the orange soda he was drinking whilst eating the cherry turkey jerky.**
HUBBY: (After his puking session.) "You said it would be okay." (He whined.)
ME: "I didn't say it would be okay. I said people eat out of dumpsters and survive and everybody's eaten a piece of under cooked something or something that was expired. Diarrhea is all you get. How should I know???"

DO I LOOK LIKE I WORK FOR THE FDA???

PS - Ask me about chocolate. Chocolate lasts forever!!!!

BANG BANG BANG ON THE DOOR BABY!

2011-07-27T10:05:00.001-04:00

9:00am - BANG, BANG, BANG on the back screen door! Scared the shit out of me!!! - A stranger at my open back door at 9am! -

In turn, dressed in my pajamas, no make up on, hair looking very much like Medusa, wild eyed, nothing but attitude oozing from every pore, I scared the shit out of him! - Turn around's fair play, right??

It was the excavator. We're paving the driveway...

Ooops.

THE BEGINNING OF THE END

2011-07-27T08:34:00.000-04:00

The nights are getting cooler. The early morns are down right COLD! - I have a sweater on whilst typing this! - It is the beginning of the end of summer up here in northern Michigan and I am doing my "snow is on the horizon" happy dance! - I LOVE IT!

We have one more big festival before the "fudgies" pack it in and go home and then it's just a matter of time.. A very short time.. No more tourists, NO MORE TRAFFIC, kids back to school and then my beloved snow returns.

I am totally counting down the days!

How about all of you?
What's your count down??
What can't YOU wait for??

BACK TO SCHOOL - NO MORE

2011-07-26T08:21:00.001-04:00

For the first time in 23 years I will not be purchasing any back to school items.. No clothes, shoes, backpacks, pencils, pens, highlighters, binders, folders and the never ending supply of paper.. No lab fees to pay. No book fees. No lunch money or packing lunches.. No PTA conferences. No school pictures.. No class schedules..

For the first time in 23 years I won't be sitting down with a little one, a pre-teen, or a teenager and asking them how their first day of school was, what teachers did you get, are there any new kids this year, what did all your friends think about your hair, your cool shoes, backpack, your cute outfit??? What.did.you.learn.today???

23 years is a long time.. Four kids.. A lot of great memories..

They buy their own school supplies now.. All of them college bound. Associates, Bachelors, Masters degrees, all on the horizon.. They're all gainfully employed, some of them holding down two jobs. Most likely they will work their way through college.

Reluctantly I must admit. My babies are now adults and I don't like it! The time went so fast. Too fast. And although they would never agree to it, I want it back damn it! I want every day of those 23 years back! I want to spike my little boys hair and brush my daughters long blond hair til it shines like glass. I want to write little "I love you" notes and put them in their lunch. I want to bake cupcakes for their class on their birthdays! I want to see them all with that silly red dot stuck to their nose while they sing "Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer" in the school Christmas concert. And yet I am ever grateful that I was given the honor and opportunity to have those 23 years and I am proud of the adults my lit'l munchkins have turned into.. Loving, kind, intelligent, generous, funny, funny people..

I suppose on the bright side. If I stop sniveling long enough to have a clear thought.. There won't be any more trips to the emergency room for football injuries, no sick kids to pick up at school, no more waiting in the forever long line of mini vans waiting to pick up kids after school, no more lost library books or homework assignments.. And my favorite. No more trips to the principals office or parent teacher conferences to face the music that perhaps, perhaps, my little ones aren't as perfect as I know them to be.. Although they're pretty damn close!

The fact is. I've been blessed. Plain and simple. My only regret is that throughout those 23 years of gathering school supplies, packing lunches, signing permission slips, and being a 24 hour taxi service/chaperon, I was too busy to notice.. My babies are now adults.

Back to school. No more.

MY NAME IS MEMORY

2011-07-22T17:10:00.000-04:00

Just got this book and I am devouring it!!!!

THIRSTY THURSDAY!

2011-07-21T11:56:00.000-04:00

Today I am thirsty for PEACE AND QUIET! -
I'm almost there. One boy off to work. Another boy in bed sleeping. He'll be good there til about 5 minutes before he needs to be to work, then the rush will be on, as well as the whining "Mom, where is..." questions.. As in, where is my shirt, my shoes, my socks, etc. - And for any of you young Mom's out there who are wondering, when will it end?? It doesn't. Live with it. - I always respond with, "How should I know? I don't wear them.." It's a little game we play, my teens n' I..

Today I am thirsty for KNOWLEDGE -
The knowledge to know what the hell is wrong with my sewing machine! I know it's not broken. I know it's operator error - that would be me! - And I know that it will come to me. I just need to fiddle around with it a bit more..

Today I am thirsty for THIS HEAT WAVE TO END! -
Northern Michigan isn't supposed to get this hot!! Yesterday it was 92 degrees but with the heat index it felt like 101! Holy hell! We could have snow in 3 months! - Bring it on! I am so ready!!

Today I am thirsty for THE PATIENCE AND FOCUS TO FINISH THE QUILT I AM WORKING ON!! -
What started out as a pleasurable endeavor has now turned into the bane of my existence! I just want to be done! I've totally lost my mojo with this project and I so want to move on to something else! My mind is spinning with project ideas but I can't do anything until I finish this damn quilt!

Today I am thirsty for CAPT'N MORGAN N' COKE! -
And if the above mentioned items that I thirst for are not remedied soon, this thirst will be fulfilled, much sooner than later! I don't care that it's still morning and unacceptable to partake of alcohol before the lunch hour. Like Alan Jackson says, "It's 5 O'Clock Somewhere..."

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY - PEACE

2011-07-20T10:22:00.000-04:00

LITTLE BOY LOST

2011-07-19T12:45:00.000-04:00

Dear Parents of the little boy lost at the car show last weekend,

First of all, you suck!

Second, you're lucky it was my husband and I who found your little boy and NOT some flippin' pedophile!

Your little boy was a block away, 100's of people wandering around and you didn't have a clue where he was! And when we brought your son to you, afraid and crying, you didn't even attempt to reach out and comfort him, altho your other smart ass son did comment, "yeah, he's ours" but from the two of you, not a single word! You stood there and stared at us like you were deaf, dumb and blind, and apparently YOU WERE!

We didn't set out that morning to become local heroes or receive the keys to the city but a simple thank you for having brought YOUR CHILD BACK TO YOU!!! Would have been appropriate!

The next time you may not be as lucky and I'm quite certain there WILL be a next time because for the two of you, obviously a car show, a carnival, a piece of lint! Is more important than your little boy! - You didn't even know he was gone!!!!! You were standing at the light, ready to cross the street WITHOUT HIM!! - And when this sweet little boy was brought back to you, you said nothing! Did nothing!! Maybe it's just me but I would've dropped to my knees and hugged that little boy so close, he'd of been glued to me, if not for life, most definitely for the rest of the day and I would have been thanking you profusely for bringing him safely back to me!! But no, not the two of you. And when my husband and I passed you moments later, there was your little boy, head down, STILL crying, SHUFFLING BEHIND you, WALKING ALONE... AGAIN!!!!

A beautiful, sunny morning turned into an afternoon of emotional gloom because, first and foremost, a lost child was found wandering around in a strange town, afraid and crying, and when returned to his parents didn't receive so much as a glance, let alone the hugs and kisses that he so desperately needed! And second. My husband and I spent the rest of OUR day worrying about YOUR little boy and his safety, which clearly, was more than you were doing!!

And PS - YOU'RE WELCOME! (Assholes!)

DEAR MOTHER NATURE

2011-07-18T04:48:00.001-04:00

Anytime you'd like to put the cabash on this ridiculous heat, it wouldn't be a moment too soon for me! Temps in the 90's in northern Michigan! What the hell? How far north do I need to move to escape this treacherous heat??? It's so flippin' hot I could stick an egg under my boobs and it'd be hard boiled in 3 minutes!!

My husband wanted to buy an air conditioner and I'm all like, "No, no.. We only get maybe 4 days of real heat up here. No need." Well, needless-to-say I'm eating those words right about now, when, at 4:34am, the temps are still in the high 80's! And already this year we've had MORE than 4 days of 90+ heat!! Ridiculous!

Every beach was jam packed, literally! Barely enough room to walk thru the sea of melting bodies. Riding around in the car with the a/c on was our only relief. My sons however, not caring who they step on, trip over or out and out fall on, went to Lk. Michigan and dove right in! My youngest stayed for SEVEN hours!! He's lobster boy now and in a great deal of self inflicted pain. I sympathize not one iota for him. He knew what he was doing. He and his buddy Trevor were even bragging about how red they both were! Pffstt.. Tonight I didn't hear any bragging, all I heard was moaning and groaning... "Mom pleeeeaaassseee.. Do something." Unsympathetic tho I be. Heartless I am not. The Mister and I went to the store and got good 'ol Solarcaine and lobster boy is now sleeping like a baby. In fact, everyone in the house is sleeping like a baby except me! It's just too damn hot! And I most definitely do not want to get in bed with my husband and stick to him all night. Most nights, yes. This night, no!

I've been in and out of the shower repeatedly. I look like a prune and still I am sweltering! And this my fellow bloggies is why I love my beloved snow and the cold temps that come with it! If you're cold you can always put more clothes on, if you're hot you can't rip your skin off, altho Lord knows I'm about ready to give it a go!

Any heat waves going on with any of you?? How are you escaping the scorching days from hell?????

LOOKING AHEAD TO RETIREMENT - WHERE TO LIVE WHEN YOU RETIRE

2011-07-17T14:46:00.000-04:00

No NURSING HOME FOR me!!!
No nursing home for us. We'll be checking into a Holiday Inn!

With the average cost for a nursing home care costing $188.00 per day, > there is a better way when we get old and too feeble.

I've already checked on reservations at the Holiday Inn.

For a combined long term stay discount and senior discount, it's $59.23 per night.

Breakfast is included, and some have happy hours in the afternoon.

That leaves $128.77 a day for lunch and dinner in any restaurant we want, or room service, laundry, gratuities and special TV movies.

Plus, they provide a spa, swimming pool, a workout room, a lounge and > washer-dryer, etc.

Most have free toothpaste and razors, and all have free shampoo and soap.

$5 worth of tips a day you'll have the entire staff scrambling to help you.

They treat you like a customer, not a patient.

There's a city bus stop out front, and seniors ride free.

The handicap bus will also pick you up (if you fake a decent limp).

To meet other nice people, call a church bus on Sundays.

For a change of scenery, take the airport shuttle bus and eat at one of the nice restaurants there.

While you're at the airport, fly somewhere. Otherwise, the cash keeps building up.

It takes months to get into decent nursing homes. Holiday Inn will take your reservation today.

And you're not stuck in one place forever -- you can move from Inn to Inn, or even from city to city.

Want to see Hawaii? They have Holiday Inn there too.

TV broken? Light bulbs need changing? Need a mattress replaced? No problem.. They fix everything, and apologize for the inconvenience.

The Inn has a night security person and daily room service. The maid checks to see if you are ok. If not, they'll call an ambulance . . . or the undertaker.

If you fall and break a hip, Medicare will pay for the hip, and Holiday Inn will upgrade you to a suite for the rest of your life.

And no worries about visits from family. They will always be glad to find you, and probably check in for a few days mini-vacation.

The grand kids can use the pool.

What more could I ask for?

So, when I reach that golden age, I'll face it with a grin.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY OLDEST BABY BOY!

2011-07-06T16:26:00.000-04:00

HAPPY 28th BIRTHDAY WESLEY SCOTT!

I am so incredibly proud of the loving, kind, generous man you have grown into and the amazing Dad you are to your baby boy.

"I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always, as long as I'm living my baby you'll be."

Enjoy your day my lit'l "Wiggle Butt."

My heart is overflowing with my love for you.

You are a source of great love, joy and laughter in my life.

I don't deserve you.

You are a gift and I have been blessed.

A LOVELY DAY

2011-07-03T10:11:00.001-04:00

#1 - Check! (Including those people that live with me and call me "Mom" and "wife?")
#2 - Check! (Until I get behind the wheel of the Mustang today..)
#3 - Check!
#4 - Check! - ALL of my fellow bloggies, you are BEAUTIFUL!
#5 - Check!
#6 - Check! (Always!)
#7 - Check! (I have observed my husband's lips moving and I've been listening but I'm not hearing a thing!)
#8 - Check! (As evidenced in my comment to #7 above.)
#9 - Check! (Every day! Again. See #7)
#10 - Check! - I AM WISHING YOU ALL A LOVELY DAY!

THE UNTHINKABLE, THE UNFATHOMABLE

2011-07-01T04:48:00.002-04:00

Here is a photo I took of a horrible plane crash that happened 6 streets away from us. There were fatalities and altho we did not know those who perished in the crash, nor do we know the young man, Austin who is still in the hospital in critical condition, our community mourns the loss and our hearts and prayers go out to Austin and his loved ones.

Our local news covered this story but you can read the full story here in "People" magazine. It is a story not to be believed.

FUN WITH DICK AND JANE

2011-06-29T08:25:00.002-04:00

Recently whilst yard saling I came across this book and absolutely had to have it!

I'm 48. I learned to read with Dick and Jane and Spot. I LOVED them! I thought the books were so colorful, the children so cheerful. I couldn't wait to get home and share this happy, happy little book with my children and show them a part of my childhood that brought me such joy!

Page 1

After the laughter subsided somewhat I continued to read... Aloud, mind you... And read... And read... And read... Ignoring the snickering and muffled laughter of my husband and sons... Even ignoring my grandson covering his ears, pleading, "MiMi stop. This is boring. MiMi pleeeeaaassseee it's annoying."

I ignored them all and continued reading... All the way to pages, 48, 49, and 50.

(Click on the pic to enlarge and read.)

I stopped reading then and I too burst into laughter and wondered how in the hell did our parents and teachers get through teaching this to us, reading this to us and listening to us read it to them, WITHOUT peeing their pants and dying of laughter themselves???

Maybe it was a different time then. Maybe Dick back then truly was a man's name not just his actions.
Maybe Dick truly was just a nickname for Richard and it wasn't followed by words such as, head, wad, hole, face or lick.

Jane however cannot escape the fate. She was looking for Dick back then and I'm pretty sure if she's like the majority of women on planet earth, she's still looking for "dick!"

A MONTH OF MEMORIES...

2011-06-27T20:52:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's been over a month since my last post! I used to be so dedicated to my beloved blog.. What can I say.

Family, friends, great weather, good times.

**********

Our greatest and most happy news was the graduation of our youngest, Tommy, graduating high school.

A bittersweet moment to be sure. There were lots of tears, plenty of laughter and wonderful memories.

The "Mister" and I were fortunate to have a little time to ourselves amidst the celebrating and found ourselves enjoying some of life's simplest pleasures. Sunsets, backyard blooms, trips further north.. And okay. The Mustang isn't really "simple" but it is most certainly a pleasure!)

The Upper Peninsula called our name a time or two.

And for me personally. This was where I could be found most often.

At the grill, beer in hand.

Cheers!

***Side note. My husband has now discovered that I am in fact a fabric whore and an obsessed sewer/crafter. He loves me anyway. I've been working on MANY projects that I'll be showcasing shortly so be sure and check back often!***

NOW onto all of YOUR blogs to play catch up!!

GOALS FOR THE DAY

2011-05-23T08:07:00.000-04:00

Just so ya' know, I braved the heavy work traffic of the morn ~~I passed one bicyclist and 2 people walking their dogs~~ to travel ~~a whole two blocks~~ all the way to Lake Michigan to get this shot. - You're welcome. -

More rain is in the forecast so more sewing is in my forecast.

My goals for the day -

Complete 2 quilt tops.
Make one doggie outfit for my mutt.
Embroider at least 5 t-shirts with something cute and/or clever.
Do whatever the Mister decides needs to be done today. - Yesterday was spend a million dollars at Sears day!
Read. - I just started a book called, "A Darker Dream" by Amanda Ashley. It's about a vampire and not being a big fan of anything remotely vampire-ish, I'm not sure how I'll like it but it looked interesting.
The usual - Laundry, dishes, straightening the house, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah!

How 'bout you guys? What are your goals for the day????

SUNSCREEN ANYONE???

2011-05-22T06:57:00.000-04:00

Clearly our meteorologist was counting on the "rapture" happening yesterday! Have a little look-see at our temps for tomorrow!

Today however it is rainy n' dreary and a perfect day to be inside sewing and reading, both of which I fully intend on doing.

I started a "Hello Kitty" project for my step-daughter. Initially it was just going to be a pillow but I may turn it into a quilt. I'm not quite sure just yet. I don't know how many of you quilt but I tend to do all of my quilt tops first and then I take a week and finish the quilts with the batting, edges, stitching, tying off, etc.

Yesterday was absolutely beautiful, thus, much to my two boys' chagrin, meant yard work. However, my mower had stopped running last year and after close examination the Mister decided that it would just be easier to go out and buy a new one rather than try to fix my old one. Nothing fancy, just a push mower. My yard isn't that big. So we left the boys to finish up the raking and set out to find a mower. We never did find one to the Mister's liking, however, we did find a lot of fabric sales to my liking! So guess what I'll be doing?? Yep, sewing my life away! I've got a million projects in mind and of course I'll be posting them here. Feel free to comment on them. There are a lot of craft shows and bazaars coming up and I plan on having a booth at all of them so I truly would appreciate your comments!

Okay. Back to my sewing!

What do you guys do on rainy days????

AND THE HIGH SCHOOL "PEOPLE'S CHOICE" AWARD GOES TO....

2011-05-20T08:18:00.002-04:00

‎352 students at Charlevoix H.S. 36 "People's Choice" awards given out. 35 awards presented by teachers to a student of their choice. ONE award presented by the principal to THE OVERALL STUDENT AT CHARLEVOIX HIGH SCHOOL.. Yep. My boy Tommy!!!! CONGRATULATIONS TOMMY!!! We love you and couldn't be more proud!!! ♥

P.S. - Side note. Doesn't the award presenter make you want to bust out singing "The day my Momma socked it to the Harper Valley PTA!"

RAINY, COLD, DREARY

2011-05-14T10:29:00.000-04:00

A perfect day for sitting at the sewing machine, reading a good book or snuggling in and watching a scary movie. I believe I'll be sewing most of the day, altho I might slip in a little reading.

Currently the house is sooo quiet. Two boys and one grandson gone. One boy still asleep upstairs. One husband, sick in bed and one dog sleeping on the couch. That leaves just me and forgive me but I am so enjoying the quiet.

I finished my trolls for my funky troll quilt, altho the quilt is not finished. - I have a couple of more designs I need to find before I can complete it. - I've started on the winter hats to sell at the festivals and bazaars this fall/winter. I did a "Mario" t-shirt for my grandson - I'll be making more of those for the festivals and bazaars as well - and I just got my "Hello Kitty" design patterns, all 115 of them! I can't wait to start on some "Hello Kitty" projects. Oh. And I'll be trying my hand at some doggy clothing this week. I'm excited to start on that, as well as some baby stuff, quilts n' rompers n' shoes n' such. I am truly in love with my machine, can you tell?

I hope wherever all of you are, you're enjoying your day and if it's cold n' rainy n' dreary where you are, please share how you spend your "stuck inside" time. I'd love to hear.

Happy Weekend!

SCHOOL PROJECT

2011-05-13T15:08:00.000-04:00

My 17 yr. old had a project to do for his econ. class. They have to pick a country and then dress and prepare food from that country.

I suggested Ethiopia.

What could be easier (and more fun) than showing up to school naked, serving up rice and dead flies?

JUST CURIOUS...

2011-05-07T05:42:00.000-04:00

Why is it that when I come in from the back porch after having had a smoke my boys and husband are all like, "Oh my gosh, it smells like an ashtray, shut the door." Blah, blah, blah, blah. Covering up their faces like I just let off tear gas, right????

AND YET!!!

Any one of them can go into the bathroom and drop a corpse in the toilet and then, LEAVE THE BATHROOM DOOR OPEN!!!!! And when I ask, "Holy hell, what is that stench????" They're all like, "What??"

Just flippin' curious!

DEAR GOD, DID YOU HAPPEN TO PUT A SNOOZE BUTTON ON THIS LOVELY CREATURE???

2011-05-04T05:02:00.000-04:00

QUIET MOMENTS

2011-05-03T11:31:00.000-04:00

No kids.
No grandkids.
Just me n' the Mister.
He at his computer, me at my sewing machine.
It's a cold day but beautifully sunny.
I love these quiet moments.
I love the comfort of knowing the Mister is here, is near.. Together, yet not.
He doing his thing. Me doing mine.

I hope you're all having a beautiful day as well.

How do you spend your quiet moments?

IDIOT DRIVERS!

2011-05-02T22:52:00.001-04:00

This carefree day turned into quite a stressful day. My step-daughters, their Mom and their cousin got t-boned by some jerk making a "Michigan left" this afternoon. The guy didn't even break, he just whipped on out, broad sided them and spun them 180 degrees into oncoming traffic! Fortunately no one was badly injured. Bumps, bruises and my oldest step-daughter got a cut on her chin, she was sitting in the back and not wearing her seat belt, something I stress to EVERYONE, whether you're in the front seat or not, WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT!

I am just so thankful that everyone is okay but my husband was a wreck! Living in beautiful northern Michigan does have one disadvantage, we're 4 hours away from all 3 of our daughters and altho I'm not at all sure what we could've done, it would've felt so much better to be there just in case.

The car was totalled and we have no idea what they're going to do for a vehicle now. It was the only one they had and they can't afford another. We put a call into my Father-In-Law to see if he might help. He has a vehicle he's been wanting to sell. We were hoping once he heard what happened that maybe he would offer it up but no such luck. He said he'd give us a deal on it, $1250 instead of $2500 but we're going to let the dust settle a bit before we make a decision to purchase it or not. The girls' Mom's family has vehicles that they can use for a bit. We really don't know...

Anyway.. We are SO relieved everyone is okay.. Truly it was as tho our hearts stopped beating...

Okay. Back to sewing. I so need to relieve this stress...

MY NEW ADDICTION

2011-05-02T15:42:00.000-04:00

My life is now embroidering and sewing. I can't stop. It has taken over my life and I am now on a first name basis with the cashiers at JoAnn Fabrics!

I have so many projects going!

I did a dish towel for my April give away.
You can see it on my "Sewlmates Designs" page to the left.

I'm also working on an embroidered flower quilt, an embroidered animal picnic quilt for kids, another kiddie quilt and a wedding quilt!! Oh! And I'm embroidering winter hats for the fall festivals and very soon I'll be working on Christmas crafts, again, for the upcoming fall and winter festivals!

I know I've said it before but I truly do love this new sewing/embroidery machine! It does everything, including applique, which, I have not yet attempted but it is most definitely on my very soon "to do" list!

Am I the only crazed one out there or do any of you find yourselves totally obsessed and addicted with a craft???

HAPPY 20th BIRTHDAY TO MY SON BRIAN JOSEPH RAY!

2011-05-01T12:23:00.000-04:00

Born May 1st in the great state of Idaho, at 6:15pm, weighing in at 6lbs. 150z., 18in long.

Honor roll student his whole life.

Magician at age 5. Winning the Polk County, Arkansas, County Fair Talent Show.

Singer his whole life, winning countless talent shows in school and about town.

'American Idol' hopeful. Competed 3 yrs. ago out in California and made it thru 3 rounds!

College student.

Gainfully employed!

His list of attributes is endless!!

Brian's greatest accomplishment????

Being an awesome son and an amazing human being.

He is loving and kind and understanding and generous.

He is my hero!

Happy Birthday baby.

AND THE WINNER IS.. YOUR QUESTIONS, MY WISDOM GIVEAWAY - APRIL

2011-04-30T23:44:00.005-04:00

Okay. LAME! Only TWO of my fellow bloggies submitted questions!!!!
Be sure to visit their awesome blogs!!!

To recap. Below are the TWO questions asked. Unfortunately only one of my lovely inquisitive bloggies will win THIS TIME. This is a monthly event my peeps so if you want to win, you gotta' play and the way to play is to ASK A QUESTION!!!

QUESTION #1

"THEY CALL ME SAUSAGE FINGERS"

asks -

"Where do witches get their brooms serviced?"

ANSWER - Well "Sausage Fingers" this lit'l black HHR panel wagon (no side windows, no door handles on the side, tinted windows, very private - love it!) is the "broom" I'm varooming around on these days and I get it serviced at my local Chevy dealer. However, in the event it were to break down along the way, I suppose I'd have to "witch-hike!"

QUESTION #2

"Adventures Of The QueenTexan Zombie Goddess."

asks -

"Sometimes being a solitary can be nice, but do you ever get the chance to meet with others who share your beliefs? What can you recommend to this solitary :)?"

ANSWER - "Goddess," I love being a solitary! To me, my beliefs and how I choose to practice them is very personal and I enjoy the freedom and creativity of taking the "road less traveled." However, there are those times when it is nice and occasionally necessary to seek out others like ourselves. I set aside at least one day a month, often times as much as four days a month, to attend meetings, gatherings, festivals. I enjoy meeting other witches and I always walk away having learned something magickal! I recommend getting a schedule of the local pagan activities in your area and then attending them! You can find these schedules at your local new age book store and of course online.

DRUM ROLL PLEASE

The winner of this months "Your Questions, My Wisdom" giveaway is..........

"Adventures Of The QueenTexan Zombie Goddess."

Congratulations "Goddess!"

This month's giveaway is a whimsical, embroidered dish towel, courtesy of "Moi" AND my coolest of cool, brand new, sewing/embroidery machine! I hope you enjoy it!!

Special thanks to both "Goddess" and "Sausage Fingers" for their questions and playing along!

To all my other bloggie pals. Click the "Question" box to the right and ask YOUR questions!
You can be a winner too!!!!

"T" IS FOR TRUST, "U" IS FOR UNDERSTANDING

2011-04-25T12:12:00.000-04:00

"T" is for trust.
- I am trusting that I will receive the best medical treatment.

"U" is for understanding.
- I am not understanding why this cancer chooses to rear it's ugly head!!!!

Off to the oncologist.

P, Q, R, S - Holy Hell I'm Behind!!!

2011-04-23T05:31:00.000-04:00

"P" is panicked, which I've been as of late so please forgive my lack of blogging!!

"Q" is for quest. My quest is to be healthy!

"R" is for rest, that which I am destined never to have!

"S" is for sewing.. Some people drown their sorrows in alcohol. I drown mine in sewing. I've started three quilts and one pillow. I figure if I keep enough projects going I won't be bored and/or left with time on my hands to think about my cancer.

**Have any of you had cause to panic as of late? - I hope not!
**What are your quests?
**Are you all getting plenty of rest? - I hope so!
**Do any of you sew? - I would love to see your work!

Behind, Behind, Behind!

2011-04-23T00:52:00.000-04:00

Wow. I just really need to get on the blogging ball! I can't believe I missed so many days!

Clearly I am not going to make my 30 days/30 posts but I WILL get thru the alphabet even if it means doubling up!

Been occupying my time with my sewing machine and downloading a million embroidery patterns. I am totally digging this new machine!

We got about 8" of snow the other day but most of it is gone now. It sure was beautiful and I was truly torn between being happy to see it and wishing for a warm, sunny, spring day.

On a more nervous note.. It appears that I am back on the medical merry go round of life. A check up with my primary doc revealed the possibility that my cancer has returned. Needless-to-say I've been a wreck! In fact, uncharacteristically of me, I spent an entire day in bed crying and being afraid BUT it was only ONE day and then I was done. No battle was ever won by someone sitting around boo hooing! - You may have guessed by now, I am not a big fan of weakness and I hold myself to a much higher standard than I would ever hold others. I think everyone deserves a good day in bed to just bawl their eyes out and hide under the covers, everyone but me, that is. -

Other news. My dog has decided to un-potty train herself! What the heck. Any ideas on how to get her back on track???

"O" IS FOR OH NO!

2011-04-19T09:48:00.000-04:00

"O" is for "Oh no!"

Oh dear I missed the "O" post!

Off running errands and site seeing around town with the Mister.

Obviously I lost track of time!

Oh I hope you'll forgive me!!

Oikology calls but I'll be back later to post my "P!"

"N" IS FOR NOTHING

2011-04-16T20:53:00.000-04:00

"N" Is For Nothing!

Nix!
Nil!
Nada!

Which is exactly what I've accomplished today!!

The Mister comes home tomorrow!!!!

- He's been gone for 13 loooonnnnngggg days on a "search and rescue" mission involving retrieving his Dad and his Dad's wife from Arizona! Long story short. The Mister's Dad, who managed to drive his ridiculous, monster of a motor home ~~that cost him more than his condo~~ down to Arizona was apparently too "ill" ~~because he has eaten himself into near oblivion and is now suffering from all of the medical issues associated with gorging yourself to truly, near death~~ to drive it back up to Michigan.. This however, is a whole other "Jerry Springer" blog post in the making and I'm in such a great mood, so excited to see my guy again, after all, we're still newlyweds.. I won't even address the Mister's Dad.. In this post.. -

Happier news.... The Mister comes home tomorrow!!!

Since he's been gone I've been decluttering and packing - we're currently in search of our "dream" home. - And holy hell! Is it just me or do any of you have this problem? When I set about to declutter and clean I make a bigger mess in the process!!! It's crazy! And double holy hell!! We have a lot of crap!

Did I happen to mention, the Mister comes home tomorrow???!!!

I know, it's silly. I'm 48 yrs. old and I'm as excited to see him tomorrow as I was when we were high school! I've planned my outfit and I'm giving myself my own personal, pampering spa night tonight, bubble bath, doing my hair and nails.. I actually have butterflies in my stomach and my heart feels like it's pounding out of my chest just thinking about him!

"N" is for nothing.. Which is exactly what I'm accomplishing the more I sit here and blog!!!

THANK YOU SO MUCH MY BLOGGIES

2011-04-16T00:14:00.001-04:00

I cannot thank all of you enough for your kind words and thoughts. They truly do matter to me and I thank you for allowing me this time to vent and completely lose my cool, which, for the record, typically, I totally keep under control and I apologize for not doing so...

I was raised by a strict, Catholic, Italian, career military Father.
You don't lose control.
People get killed.
Families destroyed.
Lives ruined.
Never complain, never explain.

Thus, after a momentary lapse in control, I have once again taken control. I've made the necessary phone calls and set up the necessary appointments.

I've taken a deep breath, prayed and thought of my Father...

Rest assured Daddy. This ship will not go down...
Not on my watch.

Thank you all again my fellow bloggies.. Please know you have touched a life and that life has found deeper meaning because of you.

"M" IS FOR MOUNTAINS

2011-04-15T21:02:00.002-04:00

"M" Is For Mountains

Majestic
Magnificent
Mesmerizing

These are the mountains on the way up to my sister's place. She lives, literally, on top of the mountain on 600 acres.

I always wanted to build a house on that small plain you see. The water below is the Boise River. My sister and I thought of so many cool bridges to build to cross the river, how she would get to my place from hers...

I raised my children in Idaho. I lived there for nearly 25 yrs. and not a day goes by that I don't miss it and wish I were back home....

"M" is for mountains.

ENOUGH!

2011-04-14T15:28:00.000-04:00

I'm being penalized for doing everything I was supposed to do.

I worked my whole life. Starting at age 9. On the books, paying taxes at age 15.

I raised FOUR children ALONE. - NO WELFARE, NO CHILD SUPPORT!!!!

I didn't ask for help. I didn't ask for hand outs. It's.Not.What.My.Father.Taught.Me! You stand and fight!

In 2006 I was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer. THREE teams of doctors told me, and I quote. - "You need to figure out what you're going to do with your children because you won't be here next year." - End quote. - Yeah, it's nothing like the movies.

Being my Father's daughter, I said, and I quote. - "Fuck you." And I did what I was taught.
I stood and fought!
And for what????????
To be penalized for doing all that I knew to be right????

Perhaps I shouldn't have fought quite so hard.

I'd be worth more dead than alive to my children and husband. At least then they could collect social security and the only documentation they'd need is my death cert.

"L" IS FOR LIFE (Or as I like to call it. Shit happens!)

2011-04-14T13:10:00.004-04:00

"L" Is For Life.

Today "life" decided to let me know that our fine government will be taking $150 from my disability check to pay for Part B or my Medicare because I am not on Medicaid.. Yeah. Follow the totally fucked up bouncing ball of our health care system! If I file for welfare I can have Medicaid and then my disability check won't be docked the $150. Sounds simple enough but it's never as simple as it sounds is it??? No. It's fucking not. Not when you're dealing with the government!!!

Filing for welfare is the equivalent of being raped by the state, in my opinion. They want every minute detail of your life, they want copies of this and copies of that and then once you finally gather your life in print, providing you have kept all the documents they're requesting, they then set about the task of penalizing you for doing exactly what you should have been doing your whole life, what you were taught and raised to do your whole life, which is WORKING! THEN they decide what tiny little crumb of the government's vast list of resources you may be entitled to! How about ALL OF THEM! I was born here. I worked here. I paid my taxes so that others in need might have when they needed them but wait, now I need help and I am only entitled to X or Y or Z but most certainly not X,Y, and Z all together. No, no, no. Possibly X and Y or X and Z but not the whole kit and welfare kaboodle! Which, by the way, I'M NOT APPLYING FOR!

The government forces your hand when you're disabled. All I need to prevent my check from being docked $150 is a Medicaid card but you can't just file for that. They run you thru the gamut of services they provide only to deny you most of them - or at least in my case - because you make too much money. Fine. Save yourself some time and me an enormous headache ~~and thoughts of going postal at your office~~ and just process Medicaid. I don't want your food stamps, your rent, your utilities, your first born child. I simply want Medicaid. I AM ENTITLED TO IT!! I PAID FOR IT!!! - DO THESE FUCKING MORONS RUNNING OUR COUNTRY NOT KNOW HOW MUCH CANCER TREATMENTS COST????

I have to decide by the end of the month whether or not I agree to my check being cut $150 or going without medical coverage altogether. Given my past medical history going without medical insurance would be a foolish decision, however, the life of a welfare rat is not and never has been appealing to me. Like all of you, I have a mtg. to pay, insurance, taxes, utilities and I'd just like to be able to take care of those bills and feed my family!

I've made my doctor appointment. Quite possibly my last. If I opt out of Medicare all medical will be out of pocket.
I've made an appointment with the social security office.
I refuse to make an appt. at the welfare office!

"L" is for Life or as I like to call it. Shit happens!

"K" IS FOR KALEIDOSCOPE

2011-04-13T19:59:00.001-04:00

"K" Is For Kaleidoscope

"J" IS FOR JUSTICE

2011-04-12T21:55:00.001-04:00

"J" Is For Justice

Justice is difficult for me. I want justice now AND in "the hereafter."
I want it now so I can enjoy it with my limited, vengeful, human mind.
I want it now so I can say things like, "That's right asshole, guess you're not such a badass now, are you? Guess you won't be spreading your lies now will you? Guess you won't be poisoning the atmosphere with your very presence."

I suspect in the "hereafter" all we view and do will be done with love and altho I live for that day, or perhaps I die for it, today I am in the "here," not the "hereafter" and today I want justice I can see and feel and taste. I want the liars called out. I want the wife beaters and cheaters exposed and put in jail. I want murderers to be murdered in the exact fashion as they themselves have murdered. I want the rapists to be raped - repeatedly. I.want.any.sick.bastard that dares harm one hair on any child's head put into an auditorium filled with enraged Mothers. THAT would justice!

I apologize for the "dark" post but today I am beyond fed up with the liars, the cheaters, the beaters and those who seek to do harm. May their justice be swift and may I have a front row seat!

I believe my Dad said it best when he spoke of my ex-husband.
"If I knew I was going to die tomorrow, that son-of-a-bitch would be dead today."
I'm with ya' Daddy, I am so with you.

YOUR QUESTIONS, MY WISDOM

2011-04-12T15:45:00.000-04:00

Okay guys, I've made it REALLY EASY for you to ask your questions.

See that big question mark to right with the word "question" on it. The one above my abscured photo??? Click on it and ASK YOUR QUESTIONS!!

It's almost the middle of the month and I only have 2 questions to answer! - Yes, I'm whining and quite possibly stomping my feet..

QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS!!! I need questions!!!

Did I mention there's a PRIZE DRAWING involved?????

"I" IS FOR ITALIAN

2011-04-11T14:39:00.000-04:00

"I" Is For Italian

Illustre

Immaginifico

Italiano

Sgt. Ray

June 6, 1928 - January 25, 2007

This is my Dad when he was 21 yrs. old.

Papà, mi manchi, sei sempre nel mio cuore. Ti vorrò sempre bene.

"H" IS FOR HOMELESS

2011-04-11T10:04:00.003-04:00

"H" Is For Homeless

Hurt
Heartbroken
Hope

I've said it before. I will say it again. "There but for the grace of God go I."

The homeless are.my.passion. We live in the greatest nation in the world and the way we treat our people, the way we treat each other, is despicable! We have have the ability and the resources to take care of "our own" and yet we have people sleeping in the streets, dying in the streets.

The homeless are not bums. They are human beings. They are someone's Mother, Father, sister, brother, child.. The majority of them are not drug addicts and alcoholics, in fact, 38% of the homeless in our country are families who, due to the economy, illness, lack of health care and lack of affordable housing, have been forced into the streets. Rest assured, the majority of the homeless want to work. They want to have their lives back. They want to live with dignity.

Interesting facts: 40% of all single homeless men ARE VETERANS! Men who served our country. Men who courageously VOLUNTEERED THEIR VERY LIVES to secure our freedom and we thank them by showing them the nearest park bench or concrete slab??

We CAN help.
We can volunteer our time and whatever resources we have available to our local shelters, soup kitchens and churches.

We can write our congressmen and ask them why we have over 18,000 golf courses in this country while our people are on the street?
Why are we allowing closed military bases to crumble to the ground when our people need suitable housing to help them get on their feet??
Where are the telethons helping OUR people???

We can participate and/or plan food drives.

Provide grocery certificates.

Make hygiene kits.

We can say hello to them when we pass them on the street instead of ignoring them, chastising them, ridiculing them..

There are ample websites dedicated to helping the homeless. Please, go to them and find your opportunity!

I'll end this post with this sobering fact. 239 million people in these United States, are ONE paycheck away from homelessness. - Are YOU one of them?

"G" IS FOR GOD

2011-04-11T07:44:00.001-04:00

"G" Is For God

Grace
Generous
Grand

I believe.

THE NEXT TIME YOU FEEL LIKE GOD CAN'T USE YOU, JUST REMEMBER…

Noah was a drunk.

Abraham was too old.

Isaac was a daydreamer.

Jacob was a liar.

Leah was ugly.

Joseph was abused.

Moses had a stuttering problem.

Gideon was afraid.

Sampson had long hair and was a womanizer.

Rahab was a prostitute.

Jeremiah and Timothy were too young.

David had an affair and was a murderer.

Elijah was suicidal.

Isaiah preached naked.

Jonah ran from God.

Naomi was a widow.

Job went bankrupt.

John the Baptist ate locusts.

Peter denied Christ.

The Disciples fell asleep while praying.

Martha worried about everything.

Mary Magdalene was, well you know.

The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once.

Zaccheus was too small. Paul was too religious.

Timothy had an ulcer…

Lazarus was dead!

"F" IS FOR FREE

2011-04-11T06:34:00.001-04:00

"F" Is For Free!

Fantastic
Freebies
Fanatic

I know many of you who are familiar with my blog thought "F" was going to be for that "other" word I like to use so freely but alas, that "word" is not my favorite "F" word, FREE is my favorite "F" word! I swear I go from Italian to Jew in 2.5 seconds for a great sale or a freebie!

I am forever browsing the "absolutely free" section of our newspaper and the "free" section on "Craigs List." You would be amazed at what you'll find there! Yeah, yeah, some crap filters thru but more often than not you can score some major items!

The Mister has been yammering on and on about getting an entertainment center - I'm not a fan - and guess what? Tomorrow I'm picking up an entertainment center in "like new" condition and absolutely free! It matches the 4 bookcases we have which is bonus. And, the best part? That's right. IT'S FREE!! Not only that. - And here's where I go from Italian to Jew in 2.5. - The money I save from NOT having to BUY an entertainment center - something I don't particularly want anyway. - I can now put towards really cool stuff for the really cool sewing/embroidery machine the Mister bought me last month!

I know. Seems a bit unfair doesn't it? I "shop" for him in the absolutely free sections and he's sweet enough to purchase the coolest of all cool sewing/embroidery machines for me.. Yeah well put your tissues away, shed not ONE tear for the Mister. I have my "toy" and he has his and trust me. His was NOT absolutely FREE!

"E" IS FOR ERICA

2011-04-10T18:30:00.000-04:00

"E" IS FOR ERICA

Enchanting!
Electrifying!
Entrepreneur!

It was at my daughter's insistence that I went to the clinic that dreadful day in the fall of 2006. In fact, it was more than her insistence. She physically pulled me out of bed and put me into her vehicle! Not an easy task for a barely 5' ft. tall, size less than zero, lit'l Princess but she did it and stayed by my side every step of the way. My daughter put her life on hold for 2 yrs. She dropped out of college, cut her hours at work and took over running my household, which included tending to her two younger brothers. She took me to every dr. appointment and sat holding my hand and crying with me thru my chemo treatments.

I have never seen such strength. Nor will I ever know what it was like to be a scared, 22 yr. old young girl planning her Mother's funeral. To say that I am blessed by her presence in my life is an understatement of epic proportion.

My daughter saved my life. I owe her a debt I will never, ever be able to repay. I love her beyond measure, with every fiber of my being and forever will.

Here is a video of the pub she and her fiance' opened recently. I couldn't be more proud! 25 yrs. old, a beautiful family, attending U of M, home owner and now, pub owner. When I grow up I want to be Erica.
(Erica is the beautiful lit'l blond behind the bar, being oh so patient with her proud Mama's paparazzi skills.)

"D" IS FOR DRUGS

2011-04-10T13:35:00.004-04:00

"D" Is For Drugs

Delicious
Divine
Delectable

And this would be my "drug" of choice! Totally hooked on my "Monster Java's!" This is the "drug" that kick starts my mornings and keeps me awake on those 4 hour trips down state!

To all you "Starbucks" fanatics out there, you can have that "black tar heroin." I choose "Monster Java" hands down and I am a serious coffee drinker!

If you're a serious coffee drinker as well, I encourage you to try a "Monster Java." It is heaven in a can!

PS - I just realized this totally sounds like a commercial but rest assured I am NOT getting paid for this advertising altho that would be awesome!

Hey "Monster Java" execs, check out my blog!

"C" IS FOR CHRISTMAS

2011-04-10T03:01:00.002-04:00

"C" is for Christmas

Christ
Cookies
Carols

This is one of my favorite Christmas trees from "back in the day." I decorated my tree like this for 5 years and actually had people driving by the house, stopping and wanting to come in and see it. The inspiration for this tree came from my love of all things Dr. Seuss AND a "Cat In The Hat" Halloween costume on the clearance rack at Target!

"B" IS FOR BRIAN

2011-04-10T02:42:00.001-04:00

"B" is for Brian

Beautiful

Baby

Boy

Over the years I've received countless questions and comments from people who've learned my son was gay. I've faced people who have been out and out rude and those whom I believe teeter on the very edge of insanity. Many people shared with me that they would be praying for my son, others made a point of telling me that they simply cannot and will not condone this type of "behavior" and "lifestyle." Others have asked how can I "deal" with "it."

My response? First and foremost, this is my son. I love him unconditionally. He is the most loving, kind, compassionate, intelligent, talented, generous human being I know and when he lays down his head at night and I see him sleeping.. That's my baby. I love him, as I love all of my children, with every fiber of my being. It is an honor to be his Mother.

To the people who pray for my son. I thank you. Prayers are always welcome, for all of my children.
To the ignorant ones. The ones who proliferate hate and negativity. I am not seeking your approval, nor is my son and I will pray for you.

I like to believe that people are mostly good, however, I'm a Mother, I'm an Italian Mother and in the forefront of my mind is the knowledge that I must at all times, stand ever ready, as a guard at the gates of my humble home and protect my children, to my very death if need be.

Often times I am accused of being somewhat over protective.
Please read this brief story of Matthew Shepard.
Over protective? As a Mother I can tell you. There's no such thing.

My son tucked his "coming out" letter under my pillow when he was 13 years old.
He signed it, "Your son Brian. I hope you'll still love me."

"B" is for Brian. He is and will forever be, my baby boy.

"A" IS FOR AIDAN

2011-04-10T02:37:00.002-04:00

"A" is for Aidan!

Aidan is my 2nd grandson. He's 3 years old.

Amazing!
Adventurous!
Amore'!

A-Z APRIL CHALLENGE

2011-04-10T02:35:00.001-04:00

Bear with me blogger pals as I attempt to cram 9 missed days of the "A-Z Blogger Challenge" into my blogs over the next few days.
I came across this challenge obviously a few days late but I wanted to participate because it seemed like a lot of fun AND it would help me get my 30 posts in for "NaBloPoMo," after all, the "A-Z Challenge" would take care of 26 of those days. I love it! What could be easier? (I always regret those words..)

I don't know all of the ins and outs of this particular challenge but the main rule, or at least the only rule I paid attention to (I despise rules) was that you start blogging at the beginning of the month and blog every day but Sunday. Each day represents a letter of the alphabet and thereby you would have nearly an entire months worth of posts in at the end of the challenge.

This particular challenge is for the month of April. I don't know if they have other challenges for other months that contain only 30 days but if you'd like the full scoop please visit their blog by clicking on the photo above and check it out for yourself. Perhaps you'll discover ALL the rules in play and maybe one of you kind bloggers could pass those rules onto the rest of us and by the rest of us, I mean me.

QUESTION #2

2011-04-10T02:12:00.001-04:00

"Adventures Of The QueenTexan Zombie Goddess."

asks

"Sometimes being a solitary can be nice, but do you ever get the chance to meet with others who share your beliefs? What can you recommend to this solitary :)?"

Thank you my lit'l Texas Zombie Goddess! Your question will be answered on the 30th. Stay tuned!

*****

I ask everyone now to click on the link above and go visit "Adventures Of The QueenTexan Zombie Goddess" at her blog. The Goddess is a fellow Michigander. Okay, that's a lie, she's a misplaced Texan being held captive in the state of Michigan. Poor her! Giving up all that sunshine to come to the land of 8 months of cold n' snow! She IS the Goddess!! She's also a crafty lit'l thing and makes some amazing jewelry. Follow the link on her page to check that out as well.

*****

Let's keep the question ball rolling!!

Go to my pages link, to the page titled "Your Questions, My Wisdom" and ask YOUR question!

Thanks!

NUTRISYSTEM CHICKEN/TUNA SALAD OR PUKE IN A POUCH?

2011-04-09T02:47:00.007-04:00

First I'd like to point out that dieting and exercising are the kryptonite of my life. That being said, I will confess that I've been known to try a diet or two, or three or four. Basically any diet plan short of surgery if the truth be told.. HOWEVER.. This Nutrisystem? This was the hubby's brain child.

The hubster used to be an over the road driver and as such put on a few pounds over time. Frustrated with the inability to exercise due to balls to the wall schedules, the hubster, to his credit, decided to take the bulls by the horn and control that which he could control. What went into his mouth. Enter Nutrisystem.

At first glance Nutri-System appeared to be the PERFECT diet program for someone such as himself. Someone with barely enough time to sleep let alone shop and prepare meals for himself. No calorie counting. No weighing or measuring. Pre-packaged health. What could be better? I'll tell you what could be better, eating my own toe nails could be better, starving to death could be better, eating myself into the Guinness Book Of World Records could be better!! Holy hell!! This shit would make Andrew Zimmern of "Bizarre Foods" vomit!

I tried the chicken salad and tuna salad and let me tell you, there aren't enough seasonings and condiments in the world to make this taste like anything other than what I believe it truly is. Puke in a pouch!

Have any of you tried this pre-packaged death? If any of you are dieting, what plans are you on, what plans have you tried? I'm interested in one that won't corrode my stomach lining.
Thanks.

PS - Don't forget to go to my "Your Questions, My Wisdom" page and release your curiosity!

MY FIRST QUESTION HAS ARRIVED!!!!

2011-04-08T16:14:00.036-04:00

"THEY CALL ME SAUSAGE FINGERS"

asks -

"Where do witches get their brooms serviced?"

Thank you Sausage Fingers! Your question will be answered on the 30th. Stay tuned!

*****

I ask everyone now to click on the link above and go visit "They Call Me Sausage Fingers" at his blog.

It's pretty awesome!

Maybe one of you will be brave enough to ask him WHY they call him sausage fingers...

*****

Please note. Now that "They Call Me Sausage Fingers" has gotten the ball rolling let's keep it rolling!

Go to my pages link, to the page titled "Your Questions, My Wisdom" and ask YOUR question!

Thanks!

FRIDAY FRENZY

2011-04-08T14:55:00.000-04:00

OPENING DAY!

2011-04-08T10:11:00.000-04:00

LET'S GO TIGERS, LET'S GO!

DETROIT TIGERS OPENING DAY

APRIL 8, 2011

SORRY, I NO SPEAK-A DA SPAM-ANESE

2011-04-08T00:15:00.000-04:00

THIS is what fills my spam folder! Anyone else receive this CRAP-ANESE???

出会いの時代が到来！フェイスブックを使いこなして恋人を作るチャンスです！話題のフェイスブックをわかりやすく解説。今さら人には聞けないフェイスブックやソーシャルネットワーキングサービスについて様々な視点から解説しております

PS - Don't forget to visit my "Your Questions, My Wisdom" page and ask your questions!

Q & A

2011-04-07T08:09:00.002-04:00

I'm adding a Questions n' Answer page to my blog, located conveniently to the right under the "Pages" bar. (Blogger thinks of everything!) Titled, "Your Questions, My Wisdom." Feel free to ask me ANYTHING, on ANY topic but be prepared for the answer! I decided I wasn't going to do this unless it was total balls to the wall honesty and I expect the same from ALL of YOU!!!!

I'll be taking questions all month and on the 30th of each month, on the MAIN PAGE of my blog I will spew forth my answers, advice, words of wisdom, etc. upon the masses, that would be you! Sign your questions "anonymous" if you choose to reject idol worship, otherwise there will be a link back to your blog!

Again, ask ANYTHING and ask often. You are not limited to the number of questions you can ask.
Your questions will appear on the "Your Questions, My Wisdom" page in the order in which they are received and again, will be answered on the 30th of every month.

PS - I will be implementing random prize drawings monthly but as always, you can't win if you don't play along, SO PLAY ALONG PEEPS!!!

THE CADY BUNCH

2011-04-07T01:52:00.000-04:00

"It's the way we became "The Cady Bunch!""

Dear Blogger Buddies,
Yes! I got married and with our combined children. My 3 boys and 1 daughter, and the "Mister's" 2 daughters, we are now "The Cady Bunch." - Minus Alice but we have our lit'l Luci who supplies us with unconditional love and countless kisses.. Now if only we could teach her to cook and clean!

Wow! What a whirlwind it has been!! Crazy, crazy, crazy but I am loving every precious moment of it - for the most part. - I mean c'mon, I did marry a guy and what a guy he is!! Loving, romantic and funny, funny, funny! I see plenty of blog posts at his expense in the future!

I've missed all my blogger buddies and can't wait to catch up!

Sincerely,
"Mountain Witch" formerly known as, "Woman In The Midst: Raw." - No longer in the midst.. I've been captured!

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY - "Happily-Ever-After"

2011-04-06T02:25:00.002-04:00

REVAMPING

2011-04-05T18:54:00.006-04:00

I know I've been away. Lots of changes going on in my life but I'm back now (again!)

I'll be revamping and changing my blog over the next few days, including a new name!

I will fill everyone in, except Sissy of course, of the changes that have been taking place in my own life!

Please bear with me while I get it together!

Thank you blogger pals!!!