Aspirations for a New Year

Happy New Year to all. The end of one year and the start of another always brings forth those resolutions we never seem to keep. But in time honored tradition....

Thu 12/31 Blog Prompt: What are your aspirations for the new year?

To mail more letters and cards to my little ones. Spend more time with Pan. Aim for a trip to Hawaii in this year or the next. To visit Hogwarts.

Mistaken?

Wed 12/30 Blog Prompt: Has anyone ever made a mistake that you promised yourself to never make? Did you keep your promise to yourself?

I am sure there have been plenty over the years, but I can't think of a single one. I am probably one of those people who made the mistakes others swore they never would make, LOL.

A challenge

Tue 12/29 Blog Prompt: What was the greatest challenge you faced?

There have been a few, but I think my biggest challenge was to leave my ex-husband and file for divorce. It not a challenge, then it was certainly one of the hardest decisions I ever had to make, as it was not going to only affect my life, but those of my children.

Sing a song

Mon 12/28 Blog Prompt: What songs did you sing as a child? Where did you sing them?

The ones I remember best are the ones we would sing in the car as we traveled. And the most well-sung of the all was "100 bottles of beer on the wall."

A Princessly Pose

Santa's Little Helpers

Rustic Fields (c)Doreen Stolz; Template Set 5 (c)Doreen Stolz; Word art (c)JAB Digital Designs

Merry Christmas everyone

Fri 12/25 Blog Prompt: How do you intend on spending the day?

First we will head over to Pan's parents home to wish them a very Merry Christmas and sometime around noon we will then head over to my sister's house for Christmas dinner and the opening of gifts. That evening we will head on back home full of food and good cheer.

Egg nog anyone?

Thu 12/24 Blog Prompt: National Egg Nog Day. To have or have not? Got a great recipe?

Never have been one to drink egg nog except occasionally. I don't have a recipe for it but would certainly be willing to try one that is posted.

The Prank of a Lifetime

Wed 12/23 Blog Prompt: What was the meanest prank you pulled on a sibling/friend?

Actually I'm going tell you about the prank I pulled on my father, instead of a sibling or friend. Maybe I will tell about one of those later :) I don't know if it would be considered mean or not at this point, but for nearly 25 years I would send my dad anonymous birthday cards from all over the country, that made fun of his age and/or sex life. He use to get so mad and the first year had everyone type out his name and address so he could compare it to the address on the envelope. After a while he would get anxious if it was late.

Out and about

Tue 12/22 Blog Prompt: When your parents would go out what would you do?

I think I will have to ask my mother about that one. Too many years ago and the memory is fading, LOL.

Bah Humbug

Mon 12/21 Blog Prompt: Humbug Day. Are you or anyone you know a humbug? (Do you know what a humbug is?)

Something devoid of sense or meaning; nonsense is what comes to mind when I think of humbug. Every year during the holiday season, my dad would answer the phone "bah, humbug." He never really meant it, but there was something comforting in hearing him say it.

Action in the pool

Indy loves for his Pan to throw him up in the air into the pool.

A dream come true

Scraplift of "A Little Rebel" by kelseyll; Pink Parfait (c)Andrea Gold; Font: Century Gothic

Take the Plunge

Fri 12/18 Blog Prompt: I had to stop and consider this but today is Wear a Plunger on Your Head day. Would you, could you?

If I was feeling foolish or silly enough and it had not been used, why not? Sometimes we have to take a moment to do something entirely ridiculous to put life in to perspective. And if that means wearing a plunger on my head... I'd go for it.

On another note, we go pick up the grands tomorrow. I'm so excited (I keep hearing Bee from Transformers singing that, LOL). More than half of the interior of the house is painted and the tree is up.

Underdog to Save the Day

Thu 12/17 Blog Prompt: Underdog Day. Are you the underdog?

You must be kidding. Underdog? Me? Defender of the helpless, strong arm of the weak. That would more likely describe me. Besides, there are times when I don't know when to shut up when I see what I perceive as an injustice. Sometimes, I need to take a moment to see both sides of the equation.

Chocoloate Covered....

Wed 12/16 Blog Prompt: National covered chocolate day. What would you have chocolate covered today?

Absolutely nothing. Although I do eat chocolate on occasion, it is not one of my favorite sweet treats.

Parenting Skills

Tue 12/15 Blog Prompt: Do you feel as if you are as good or a better parent than your own?

Not by a long shot. Even today with my children all grown up and doing well, I feel inadequate as a parent. I feel as if the problems I experienced growing up were of my own doing, but feel responsible for the problems my own children have faced.

Happily we skip along

Mon 12/14 Blog Prompt: What would you do to make your parents happy as you were growing up?

Gosh, that was so long ago. Try to be good would be a start, though I know I failed in that respect on more than several occasions. Play nicely with my siblings, etc. Okay one sibling, since the Bug didn't make the scene until I was eight. And by the time she got to an age to play with I was noticing the opposite sex (which probably dismayed my parents).

A dip in the cool, I mean warm

The Princess also enjoyed the opening of the pool with a swim across.

Christmas Thoughts

Making Spirits Bright (c)Dancing Princess; Fonts: Century Gothic, Yukon Gold

Happy Hanukkah

Fri 12/11 Blog Prompt: Happy Hanukkah. How do you intend on spending the day?

Like every other Friday, but I am going to make an effort to read more about the Hanukkah season and traditions. I am sure that I will learn something that I can incorporate into my own life.

Human Rights

Thu 12/10 Blog Prompt: Human Rights Day. Do you think we have made in strides in human rights since the United Nations' Declaration of Human Rights in 1948?

I like to think that we have made a great deal of progress in the line of human rights. Make that I believe we have. I realize there is still a long way to go but it will have to be an effort on everyone's part and not be just one-sided.

A Seal of the Season

Wed 12/9 Blog Prompt: The first Christmas Seals were released in 1907. Did you get them as a child? Do you still?

I remember getting them as a kid and they went on the back of Christmas cards sent out. I have not seen them in ages but do know that you can get them for the American Lung Association website. Maybe I'll just order and sheet or two.

What is in a brownie?

Tue 12/8 Blog Prompt: National Brownie Day. What is your favorite brownie?

Brownie is chocolate and I'm not much with chocolate, but occasionally I do like a hot brownie right out of the oven. Those are the best.

A Day to Remember

Mon 12/7 Blog Prompt: Today is Pearl Harbor Day. What do you remember learning about it?

Pearl Harbor Day happened many years before my birth, but I have watched all the documentaries and even visited the monument when we went to Hawaii. Tears well when I think about all the lives lost, both American and Japanese. And I wonder how the world could have come to such straits.

Cannonball

Flashback to July and the day the pool first opened after a long wait. Indy got to christen the pool with the first cannonball.

December Desktop

Christmas Convoy (c)MitsyBells; Photo template (c)Designs by Ali

Hi Ho Hi Ho

Fri 12/4 Blog Prompt: Did you hold down a job in high school? How would you describe the job and how you felt about it?

We were living in Guam for most of my high school years and I did a lot of babysitting. Can't complain as I was able to buy a lot of things that I really wanted. By the time we moved to Illinois for my senior year, I was spending a lot of time doing volunteer work. Especially for the POW/MIA organization. Didn't pay but was worth every minute I put into it.

Thu 12/3 Blog Prompt: Did you have classes in driving or were you taught by a parent? In either case, describe the experience.

The school I attended up north, required that you take driver's ed which include quite a bit of time in simulators. I really loved going to the class and getting in the pretend cars that kept track of what we were doing while driving along the movie. Gave us some time seeing what the road was like before actually getting behind the wheel of a real car.

Prized Possession

Wed 12/2 Blog Prompt: What was your prized possession as a child?

I am sure there were many, but the one I remember the most is the stuffed panda our uncles gave us one year. Pups and I would lay on it to watch the Flintstones on Wednesday night or Shirley Temple on Sundays. Then there was the walking doll that shared the pups clothes because they were the same size.

Oh so sweet treats

Tue 12/1 Blog Prompt: As you were growing up did you get a lot of treats to eat? What kind did you get and what was your favorite?

I think the one I recall the most is Fudgsicles. I loved them and the ones sold today just don't seem to be the same. Not as good and seems to be more water than the milky sweet of years gone by.

Wow, a month of posts

Mon 11/9 Blog Day - Today is Parade Day. Do you like parades? Have you participated in a parade?

Never was much of a parade person. Would rather stay at home and watch television or read a book. I never participated in one except as a parent of children who had to be in them.

Tue 11/10 Blog Prompt - Sesame Street debuted in 1969. Did you or your kids watch Sesame Street and who is your favorite character?

I didn't really watch it although my children did sometimes. My favorite character when I did see it though was Oscar the Grouch. We nicknamed my dad after him :)

Wed 11/11 Blog Prompt - Today is Veterans Day in the USA. Tell me about someone in your family who was in the military or someone you know.

It would be easier to name who wasn't in the military.

My dad was career Air Force. We moved a lot and I loved it. My FIL, career Navy. Means Pan moved some too. Although I think FIL retired while Pan was still young. My uncle, two BIL's and a son all served in the Marine Corps. My other son was in the Navy and I have a cousin who served in the Army. I do think our family has covered all the services.

Thur 11/12 Blog Prompt - Today is National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day. Is there anything in your fridge right now that needs to be cleaned out?

Arrgghhh... A month old slice of pizza, some old cheese, wilted scallions. yeah, I think I need to do some culling out.

Fri 11/13 Blog Prompt - Today is Pack Your Mom's Lunch Day. What would you pack in your mom's lunch box for her?

A bottle of wine and some cheese.

Mon 11/16 Blog Prompt - Today is Button Day. Do you prefer buttons or zippers or none at all??

None at all. I have such a hard time making the perfect buttonhole or attaching a zipper that I try to avoid them when sewing or knitting. Of course, I have sewn in years since I gave Nuke my sewing machine and serger. Maybe I should buy new ones....

Tue 11/17 Blog Prompt - Today is Homemade Bread Day. Do you have a great recipe for bread to share or do you prefer to buy it already made at the store?

I use to have a great sourdough bread recipe that I love. I can't find it, :(

It has been years since I made homemade bread though, it is so easy to have fresh bread at stores these days.

Wed 11/18 Blog Prompt - Today is Mickey Mouse's Birthday. Do you have a favorite Disney character?

Guess you wouldn't be able to tell it was Tinkerbell, huh?

Thur 11/19 Blog Prompt - It's America Recycles Day. How do you recycle are your home?

Oops, let's just say I don't do it very well.

Fri 11/20 Blog Prompt - Its Friday and what do you usually do on a Friday to gear up for the weekend?

I don't treat it much different than any other day since I only work two days a week now. And I like to stay at home and just relax on the weekends, so there isn't much gearing up to do.

Mon 11/23 Blog Prompt - Today is National Cashew Day. What form of nut do you like best? Do you like it alone or in a certain recipe? Do you have a recipe you enjoy the most with nuts in it you would like to share?

This is so funny, as the week of the 23rd I was craving macadamia nuts. Couldn't get enough. Plain or salted, I didn't care. Pan bought me four bags of them. Two salted and two not. I think I have one bag left. Although nuts are okay in recipes, I prefer them alone.

Tue 11/24 Blog Prompt - Do you have a recipe you would like to share you will have on Thanksgiving?

I can't say that I have since I have only cooked Thanksgiving dinner once since Pan and I have been married. But when the kids were little I would bake them each a quail and then stuff it so they would have their own "turkey" and there would be no fights over the legs, wings or breast. Green beans, corn, cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes would round out the meal. My boss fried or smoked turkey breasts every year so I didn't even have to worry about that. All pretty traditional and easy. No specific recipes for my house. :)

Wed 11/25 Blog Prompt - Today is National Cake Day. What is your favorite cake and do you have a recipe you would make for Thanksgiving that you would like to share?

Love angel food cake. Just the cake, no icing. I always wait for someone to make it for me. I don't make it myself, LOL.

Thur 11/26 Blog Prompt - Today is Thanksgiving in the US and how will you celebrate that today and what are you most thankful for?

One of the things about waiting to answer the prompts is that I have a ready answer. We went to Pan's brother/sister-in-law's condo for Thanksgiving. It was really nice as it was the first time in more than 20 years that all the kids were here together. Pan and I sat on the balcony to eat and watch the ocean and beach. But it did get hot with the sun shining right on us. Then we stopped by my sister's house to wish them a happy T day and have a glass of wine. All in all it was a perfect day and for that I am very Thankful.

Fri 11/27 Blog Prompt - Today is Pins and Needles Day. As we gear up for the season, how will keep yourself calm and relaxed and not on pins and needles this year?

You can forget that one. I will probably be on pins and needles just trying to remember who I know I forgot for Christmas. So far we have all the grands, nieces and nephews taken care of. At least that is a relief.

Mon 11/30 Blog Prompt - Today is Stay at Home Because You Are Well Day. What would you do today if you didn't have to go to work or things you do in your everyday week life?

Play Indiana Jones 2 Legos. Actually that was what I was doing just now until I got frustrated. What I really should be doing is packing things up to make room for painting, the new sofa and a 12' Christmas tree.

Entertainment 101

Indy can always find a way to amuse himself no matter where he is.

New Christmas Card Maybe?

Making Spirits Bright (c)Dancing Princess; Greeting Card Template (c)Andrea Gold; Font: Christmas Lights

Happy Thanksgiving

To all my friend and family, especially those here in the U.S. that I won't be seeing today.

Bad me.

I have really been terrible about posting here and need to do better since next week I start doing the blog prompts again. I'll get this month's from Tammy and get them posted for those who follow and use them. Who knows, I may even post something on each of them myself.

Competition

The Princess and Indy compete against one another at a video console in the Rave while waiting for the party to start. Indy won.

My Girl

100% Girl (c)Christy Skaggs; Template 468 (c)Andrea Gold

Airplane Thrills

f/10, 1/125, ISO-800, 144 mm
A boy and his planes. It was thrilling for Indy to be able to actually look into a plane without having to be picked up.

A Museum Addict

Rustic Fields (c)Doreen Stolz; Font: Steak
Indy really loves the air museum. Both the Air Force and the Navy. I think it is the simulators.

The Blackbird

f/11, 1/125 sec., ISO-800, 55 mm
Indy was fascinated by the wheel wells of the Blackbird and had to point out all of the electronics.

November Desktop

Autumn Hues (c)Lindsay Jane Designs

Now where did I put that magazine?

Fri 11/6 Blog Prompt - Now that I've covered all the sweet things this week, tell me about the magazine you would be reading while eating your candy or donut. It's Magazine Day today.

Probably a knitting magazine right now. But there are several scrapbooking magazines within easy reach and a few Rachel Ray magazines. Soon though it will be photography magazines since I ordered a few subscriptions from the Princess and Indy for their school fundraiser. Can't wait to get those in and see if there is anything that will help me improve my photography.

Donut, Donut, Who's Got the Donut?

Thur 11/5 - Today is National Donut Day and describe to me your favorite donut.

Don't eat them often. I think the last time I had one was 3 years ago. Glazed are okay, but I like the cake type with powdered sugar the best. And freshly made even better. Beignets now... that's a whole 'nother story. Speaking of which I have some beignet mix in the cabinet. Tomorrow. That's what I'll make for after dinner dessert tomorrow. :)

Oh Wherefore art thou Candy?

Wed 11/4 - Today is National Candy Day. If you didn't have to worry about all the bad things candy stands for (fattening, sugar, bad for your teeth,etc.), what would you eat and how much?

Jelly Bellys, Candy Corn, Circus Peanuts (that sticky orange confection that melts in your mouth), Goetsh Caramels, are a few that would top my list of candy I would eat. But probably not much as they do not tend to set favorably upon my stomach. On those rare occasions when I do overindulge I usually end up regretting it.

Earl of Sandwich

Tue 11/3 Blog Prompt - Today is the birthday of John Montague, the creator of the sandwich. Describe in great detail your favorite sandwich.

I'm not much of a sandwich eater. And it depends on the season, the time of day but mostly on what's available. I love BLTs without the L. Just toasted bread with thick slices of B and thicker slices of T. Oh, can't forget the salt or the mayo. Then take a huge bit making sure a napkin is handy when the juices start flowing down the chin (though they usually end up on my shirt anyway).

Sometimes I get a craving for fried egg sandwiches. Usually I will toss some cheddar on it for variety and always plenty of salt.

If we have left over roast or steak, a quick turn in the microwave will do the trick. Load it on it a sandwich roll which has been lathered with mayo and don't forget the salt.

See a theme emerging here? :)

Happy Birthday Cookie Monster

Mon 11/2 Blog Prompt: Today is Cookie Monster's birthday!! He is described voracious monster and one of the main characters on Sesame Street and has an insatiable appetite. As his name implies, his primary craving is cookies, but he can (and often does) consume anything and everything, from apples and pie to letters, flatware and hubcapts. Usually when he eats something, he makes loud munching noises, usually like "AWWWWM-num-num-num-num..." What do you have in common with him?

I'm cuddly. :)

Let's have some laughs

f/5.6, 1/200 sec., ISO-400, 55 mm

Happy Halloween

Spring Blossoms (c)Kristmess; Font: Algerian
Well mine may not be so happy once the Bug sees this page. :)

A Whaling Wall

f/8, 1/160 sec., ISO-200, 55 mm (taken by the princess)
One of the things we get to pass by frequently during the week is a Wyland Whaling Wall.

Pier's Away

Scraplift of River Ribble by pepsibubbles; You've Got a Friend in Me (c)LorieM Designs
One of the advantages of living on the beach. Great view of the piers.

Nuts Ahoy

Thurs 10/22 Blog Prompt: Today is "National Nut Day." Describe what type of nuts you like to eat. Don’t forget…your favorite type may come in “creamy” or “chunky.”

Macadamias top the list right now. I have had a craving for them for weeks (months) and just bought another jar tonight. Use to be cashews, but for the last 10 or so years macadamias have set my heart aflutter just thinking about them. Of course, buying them fresh in Hawaii 3 years ago just expounded the feelings that coursed through my thoughts when they are brought to mind.

I am not sure just how to describe them though. Hard while still being soft? And I like them either salted or unsalted. I love scrapping them against my teeth and getting a fine dust of macadamia that the flares through my mouth and against all my sensory buds. The sweet, woody taste that compliments any red wine you may have on hand is the perfect ending to any meal.

Wishes for a ... Museum?

Tues 10/20 Blog Prompt: You bump into a genie and she offers to grant you three wishes. What are your wishes and why?

As I sit here and ponder, the first thing that pops up is peace in the world, the end of starvation and for each man, woman and child to be happy. But don't the majority of us already wish for this? Aren't we striving to become this world?

On a more personal note (and I really had to think on it), I wish my babies were back home. Then I have to stop and wonder if this is what I really want. Yes and no. I miss them terribly, yet I realize moving was best for them and probably for me too. Though not a day has gone by when I see something I want to tell them or show them. The ache doesn't get any duller, I have just gotten better at dealing with it.

I would wish all the happiness in the world for my children. They deserve it. They should have it.

And I would wish for the gumption to get off my duff and buy the paint and paint the house instead of just staring at the walls and saying I'm going to do it. LOL.

Wed 10/21 Blog Prompt: On this day in 1959, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art opened in New York City. Describe a time that you have been to a museum.

The last museum Pan and I went to was in Hawaii. On the day we left we spent the morning at the Bishop Museum.

"Charles Reed Bishop, a Hawaiian philanthropist and co-founder of Kamehameha Schools and First Hawaiian Bank, built the museum in memory of his late wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. She was the last legal heir of the Kamehameha Dynasty, which ruled the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi between 1810 and 1872" ~Wikipedia

It also houses a fabulous science museum and a planetarium. Both of which Pan, Scamp, Honey, Ballerina and I strolled through at our leisure. It was a wonderful way to end a wonderful vacation. I loved seeing all the artifacts and the gorgeous feather robes. The science museum had a simulated volcano that you could walk through and see from above. But the planetarium had to have been my favorite. You knew that though, didn't you? :)

Evaluation

Mon 10/19 Blog Prompt: Today is Evaluate Your Life Day. Reflect about your life and tell how you think it is going so far.

There are things I have done in my life that I am extremely proud of. And there are things that I wish I could just sweep under the carpet. But as I look back on my life, I realize that I have found a path which I am happy to travel and be on. One that I can traverse with someone I love and trust. I think it is going fine.

Another 3D Movie?

f/5.6, 1/13 sec., ISO-800, 55 mm (digitally enhanced)
I walked in the other day to find the Princess and Indy going through the collection of 3D movies before settling on Spy Kids 3D. I probably should put them in their own book.

Chinese Dining

Changing Winds (c)Colie's Corner; Fonts: Arial, Birth of a Hero

We ate at so many great restaurants while in Hong Kong including here where we stopped for lunch.

Dictionary Days

Fri 10/16 Blog Prompt: Today is Dictionary Day. When did you start using a dictionary? Do you still use one?

I don't recall when I first used a dictionary. I do know that I have and will continue to just pick one up and read it. I love words. The way they are said and the meanings. I probably need to pick up a new one just to see what has been added. Oh yes, I still use one. :)

Grumpy the Grouch

Thurs 10/15 Blog Prompt: Today is National Grouch Day. Have you ever been grouchy? How did you act?

Are you kidding? LOL. My kids would probably say I am perpetually grouchy. Runs in the family. We use to call dad "Oscar."

But I would go around grousing, grumping (poetic license here. I know it's not a word), mumbling under my breath while giving everyone the evil eye. It's probably not a good idea to talk to me when I'm in that kind of mood. They do anyway.

All the Details

Wed 10/14 Blog Prompt: Look around the room and pick an object. Describe the object in full detail and explain where it came from.

As I glance up, I see Claudia. Dressed in white satin and tulle with sparkles, crown and a wand. With her light brown fur, she is so cuddly and soft. If I press her paw I can hear a sweet voice saying "I love you Tink and Pan." Claudia is a Build-a-Bear adoptee which the Princess gave us for Christmas 2003.

Salesperson Fears!

Mon 10/12 Blog Prompt: Today is National Salesperson Day. Did you ever get treated especially nice by a salesperson? If so what did they do that was so special?

I get treated especially nice by salespeople all week. I work with three of them and manage their commission sheets. For some reason, people who think you control their money tend to be nicer to you, LOL. Just kidding, they would be nice regardless. I think most salespeople who work around here are pretty nice. Always helpful and courteous.

Tues 10/13 Blog Prompt: Today is National Face Your Fears Day. What are you most afraid of and why?

Strange that this should come up just a week after I had to face my greatest fear. A needle. I don't know why I have such a phobia about them, but I do. And it is just medical type needles. My blood pressure will drop and I will pass out.

What kind of gummy

Quizzes Girls Games

This came from my darling Princess.

More than planes at the Air Museum

f/5.6, 1/13 sec., ISO-800, 55 mm (digitally enhanced)
As Indy is pointing out, the Air Museum holds a variety of bombs as well. He was especially taken by the this tiny one.

Great Aunt, literally

Forever (c)Armina Designs; See You Tonight (c)She's Full of Scrap; Font: Porcelain
This is my great-aunt. I wonder if she went by Eva or by Jesse?

Decorated

Fri 10/9 Blog Prompt: Tomorrow is National Cake Decorating Day. If you had a birthday cake made especially for you, how would you like it to be decorated?

An angel food cake without any icing. Just the cake. No decorations, no frills and especially no icing. That would be just heavenly.

A Reading Post

Thurs 10/8 Blog Prompt: Where is your favorite place to read and why?

This is easy... everywhere. Doesn't matter. At the table, on the couch, in bed, in the car, taking a bath. If it's a book and it's in my hands, I'll be reading it. Right now, I have one on the table to read while I eat. One on the couch to browse through during commercials. One in the bathroom. The one I have in the bedroom is a knitting dictionary which I browse through when I don't understand something I am suppose to be doing.

Top Ten

Wed 10/7 Blog Prompt: You've been hired as a writer for "Late Show with David Letterman." Your first assignment is to come up with a witty, nonpolitical Top Ten list for him to read on air.

This may just have to wait. I'm not very witty this morning. LOL. I've had a cat screaming at me since Pan left for work several hours ago. And I think I would actually have to watch Letterman to see how the lists go. Please feel free to enlighten me in my comments. :)

Choices

Tues 10/6 Blog prompt: If you had to choose between yesterday and tomorrow, which would you pick and why?

Today, definitely tomorrow. Unless, of course, something drastic happens, then maybe yesterday. Tomorrow, I may still be sore, bruised and very, very tired. But I won't be stressed about needles. I'm won't be blacking out from having one stuck in me. It's just a phobia. I know. I keep thinking I will get over it, but after 53 years, I guess I won't.

Office improvements

Mon 10/5 Blog Prompt: Today is Improve Your Office Day. How would you improve your office?

I don't think there is much I would change about my office. It is bright with lots of light coming in from the huge windows. Lots of cool pictures adorn the wall. I have my own little corner where people coming in don't usually look. And my own printer. What more could I want?

Party Island

f/29, 1/125 sec., ISO-800, 55 mm (digitally enhanced)
Taken by Pan
Not really an island anymore but the name stuck. When we first started anchoring there, there was only the ice cream jet ski coming around. Several years later a local restaurant added a party boat complete with band. This year there is a slide anchored close to the party boat. Guess the Island is becoming the local hot spot.

October Desktop

to match my October blogwear.

Halloween Night (c)New Life's Dreams

First Class Conversations

Thurs 10/1 : You're taking a business trip and, as luck would have it, you're upgraded to first class—something you've never done before. As you sit down in your new, more comfortable chair, you notice that the person sitting next to you is a famous musician. Who is it and what do you talk about?

This is a toughie as music has never been my forte. And if you are talking about a musician as someone who actually plays a musical instrument, then I am really lost. Although Meatloaf plays a musical instrument doesn't he? And he is such an interesting person. Small talk really, if I ventured to talk at all. What book he is reading. What his favorite television show or movie is. Does he have children. If so, how did he respond to being a parent.

Pretty much the same thing I would talk about to a perfect stranger sitting next to me, because that is what he would be.

What a great idea

Wed 9/30 Blog Prompt: In 1894 Walter Hunt invented the safety pin. What invention(s) do you think really took off in a direction not anticipated?

I think the first thing that would come to most minds in the world wide web. And who could have predicted how large it would become and how close it would bring people. I know that being able to see my grandchildren and talk to them even though they may be a couple of hundred miles away or even have a world away is so thrilling. And what about cell phones which now can take pictures, text and email, as well as connecting to the web. Technology has certainly given us the ability to stay closer. Even the video games kids have today can interact with one another.

And what about the 3D holograms that are being developed so that you can appear anywhere in the world and interact. So exciting.

Dear Son

Tue 9/29 Blog Prompt: On September 29, 1789, the U.S. Congress passed an act that officially established the U.S. Military. What would you write in a letter to a serviceman or servicewoman who is currently serving our country overseas.

I can't tell you exactly how proud I am of you. Of your choose to serve our country. To put your life on the line so that your sister, wife, brother, nieces and nephews can grow up with freedom.

I worry. About the danger you must face. The choices you must make and then live with. No one can carry those for you but I wish I could.

Thank you for being a perfect son, a perfect person and a perfect citizen.

How Neighborly

Mon 9/28 Blog Prompt: Today is “Good Neighbor Day.” Make a list of everything you can do to be a good neighbor for those who live around you.

#1 would be to actually meet my neighbors. Okay, so I do know them. But only because the Princess and Indy were friends with their children.

#2 be a little more sociable when I see them. Maybe wave or smile. I do that to the people who are jogging, walking their children or dogs; but don't ever seem to catch myself doing it for my next door neighbors. Possibly because when we are out, both parties are preoccupied. Them with taking kids to school, me trying to get to work before the road gets to congested with school and DOD traffic.

#3 offer to keep an eye on their homes while they are not there. (I normally do this but guess it would be nice to let them know, huh?)

I'm sure more will come up as I think about it. Maybe I'll even get around to posting the additions. But don't count on it.

This past couple of weeks I have been working on a sweater for the Princess and finally got it finished. I have never made a cardigan before so was somewhat pleased with how it turned out. Still have a lot to learn though. Just hopes she likes it enough to actually wear it when I get it up to her.

Touch Pool

f/5.6, 1/80 sec., ISO-400, 200 mm (digitally enhanced)
Keeping Indy away from the touch pool was nearly impossible. Although he liked the shows, the idea of actually being able to touch urchins, hermit crabs and horseshoe crabs appealed to him much more.

Hula Babies

Spring Shimmers (c)Colie's Corner; Fonts: Arial, Pea Heather's Handwriting, Pea Heather's Doodle Phrases

My little hula babies. Up top, the Princess at 5 years of age. Below, her mother, at 5 years of age. I was thrilled when I found these two pictures.

The list of prompts

9/15: Describe your favorite or most influential teacher.

9/16: In high school were your classes geared more for college or starting work right out of school?

9/17: What was your ideal school experience?

9/18: What was your most memorable summer vacation?

9/21: What did you do if you left your homework at school?

9/22: Would you rather read a paper book, listen to an eBook or a combination of both?

9/23: The fourth week of September is "National Dog Week." Write about your feelings regarding our canine friends.

Apologies

I know I haven't been posting. I'm tearing my hair out with more computer problems. This time internet related. I don't know if it is my computer, the cable company, internet explorer or a combination of two or more. For those few who pick up the blog prompts, I will try to put a list of last week's up later this evening or tomorrow. Crossing my fingers when I hit publish that it doesn't crash again. :)

The fabulous and poisonous Lion Fish

f/4.5, 1/20, ISO-400, 121 mm
Lion fish are so beautiful, sometimes it is hard to remember just how deadly they can be.

Awesome Tours

Changing Winds (c)Colie's Corner; Fonts: Arial, Birth of a Hero

We had a fascinating tour guide while in Hong Kong. And a wonderful time.

Extra-Curricular

Mon 9/14 Blog Prompt: What extra-curricular activities were you involved in?

You know, I don't even remember. Oh wait. I did with the POW/MIA organization for several years. That really wasn't a school activity. But it did take up a good deal of my time in the afternoons and one that I felt was a worthwhile activity. In fact, all of the activities I participated in after school were not school related in any way. Guess that is the way of things some times. :)

Flight of the Pelicans

f/29, 1/160 sec., ISO-400, 55 mm
While watching the multi-species show, Indy and I happened to look up to see a flock of pelicans fly by in a straight line. There must have been 30 or 40 of them.

Summer on the Gulf

Precious Mei (c)Armina Designs; Font: Birth of a Hero; Edwardian Script

Old photos that need to be preserved. I need to get with my aunt to find out who they are (except for the kids, I know them).

A Prayer for Those Who were Lost

Fri Sept 11 Blog Prompt: Let's time some time today and remember those who were lost. Do you remember where you were and what you were doing? How did you react/feel?

It's hard to believe that it has already been eight years. I was working full-time at the paper and my boss had just gotten cable installed in his office to keep up with world news. I had just stepped into his office when it came on the television, it may have just been repeating as my boss seemed to be glued to the tv. Shock and rejection. It was hard to believe what I had just seen. I stood in stunned silence until the phone rang.

Nuke was in Guam, eating at a restaurant when some Japanese gentlemen came over to offer their condolences. He and his buddy headed back to the boat immediately. I don't recall where Scamp was at the time. Except in Okinawa.

On another note, today is my boss' wife's birthday. Happy Birthday S. Hope it is a great day.

Catching up

Tue, Sept 9 Blog Prompt: Did you have P.E. in junior (middle) and/or high school?

Of course I did. And we had to wear uniforms. The one I remember best is the orange and white one-piece uniform. They definitely were not made to be sexy or anything like that.

The p.e. class I remember most fondly was in my senior year when one semester was devoted to what they called "recreation." We learned sailing, canoeing, fishing, shuffleboard, chess, darts, croquet, biking, edible wild plants and various other "recreations" that we might encounter in our adult life. What is now, I believe, lost arts, LOL. Many of the things we learned are those that were popular for genteel people at the turn of the century.

Of course there were some not so fond memories, like the time I had to take the canoe out by myself and then return. I got 3/4 of the way across the resevior and then just turned in circles. The teacher had to send someone out to help me. Or the time a snake dropped out of the tree into my canoe.

Yep, real memorable moments.

Wed 09/09/09 Blog Prompt: Does this day have special significance to you?

Normally I probably wouldn't have even noticed that it was a special day, and that we won't see another single digit date again until 01/01/01 (Jan. 1, 2101.

That all changed yesterday when I got into work and my computer was working so slow that it would have taken me nearly 10 minutes to write one check (that does not include printing it). After doing all I could, I told my boss that I would come in today to enter the tickets and write the checks. Arggg. This is not looking to be a good day.

School Starts...When?

Mon, Sept 6 Blog Prompt: Did school start before or after Labor Day when you were attending?

School always started right after Labor Day way back when I was going. It didn't seem to matter whether I was attending school in Florida, Nebraska, California or Guam. I guess it is possible other schools started at different times, just not the ones I went to.

It seems to make sense. I mean school here started on the 24th. They got a half-day off on the 2nd and then will have all today off. But then maybe it gives the kids a chance to acclimate to the classroom, their fellow students and the teacher.

Pier Wildlife

f/18, 1/160 sec., ISO-200, 52 mm
What an amazing sight to be walking down a pier and have a beautiful heron land right in front of you.

Autumn in the Air

Arthur (c)Carena's Designs

School started and autumn is around the corner.

Hardly there

Fri, Sept 4 Blog Prompt: Which class do think was the hardest?

I think I covered this yesterday. Thing is, algebra wasn't that hard. I really liked it. I have always been partial to math. Guess that is why I do bookkeeping now. I can't think of any class that was extremely difficult from a learning angle.

Ode to a Class

Thu, Sep 3 Blog Prompt: What was your favorite class?

It would probably be better to ask what was my least favorite class as to which was my favorite, because I loved them all. But if I had to chose it was probably algebra. Not the subject, I adore math. The instructor kept insisting I was cheating and copying off my friend Beck's papers. I wasn't but there was no way to prove it, just as she couldn't prove that I was. It made for a stressful hour each day.

High school was a great time for me. I had some of the most amazing teachers. My history teacher had short, curly red hair and wore jeans and t-shirts to class. She would sit on her desk to give the lessons and just drew you in. Both of my science teachers were fantastic and came up with some pretty amazing experiments for us to try. I had the same teacher for Latin and English. And I can't say enough about her. I was really fortunate and happy that I had the chance to learn from all of them. Even the algebra teacher.

Oh those yearbook pictures!

Wed Sep 2 Blog Prompt: Did you like your yearbook pictures?

I think for the most part, I liked my yearbook pictures. Above are my pictures for elementary & junior high. I have no idea what I did with my high school pictures. They are probably filed away in my steamer trunk.

My senior picture was definitely memorable. This was back when they would have you put the velvet wrap around your shoulders so that it came to a "V" in the front. And because it was off the shoulder you had to take your blouse and bra off. No biggie, that is until my wrap fell off. I don't know who was more embarassed... Me or the photographer. Still the pictures came out pretty good.

Teacher's Desk

Tue, Sep 1 Blog Prompt: Write about what you would find in a teacher's drawer and why you think it might be there.

This ought to be easy for some of you. Me, I kind of figure I would find a teacher's log, grade book, pens & pencils, paper clips, markers and maybe a couple of confiscated items.

I would imagine that the pens, pencils, paper clips would be found in just about any desk in any office (except mine) as they are so pertinent to the jobs at hand. I don't even know if teachers keep logs and grade books now or do it on the computer but I like the idea of being able to open a teacher's drawer and seeing them there. I never had anything confiscated in school, but had a couple of boys who did and they told me that is where the teacher put them.

Anything Goes

Mon Aug 31 - Blog Prompt: Today is Anything Goes Day. Tell me anything!!

I have been so lax on posting on my blog this past week. I guess it is because I miss the kids so much. I just quite doing anything that reminded me of them or that I did while they were living with us. I have to get over it. Get back with my life. Then again I was working everyday last week. Excuses, excuses.

I'll be better. Especially since I start doing the prompts tomorrow.

Aquatic Camp - Day 5

f/14, 1/400 sec., ISO-400, 55 mm (digitally enhanced)
This day meant getting up close and personal with the dolphins. In addition to, once again learning how the dolphins are trained (which isn't really training them like you do pets, but a behavior modification like you use on children), the kids got to learn how to do it themselves. They also got to pet them.

Wild Thing

In the Jungle (c)Sweet Blossom Designs; Template by Sara Noendeng

Aquatic Camp - Day 4

f/18, 1/100 sec., ISO-800, 18 mm (digitally enhanced)
While the rest of the class was trying to feed the manta rays, Indy got a chance to get up and personal with the horseshoe crabs. He really enjoyed feeding them, even though the legs tickled him.

Guitar Man

Bohemia by Veronica Hurley; Fonts: Arial, Shortcut

A little four-piece band was jammin',
So I took my guitar and sat in.
I showed 'em what a band would sound like
With a swingin' little guitar man.
Show'em son.
written by Jerry Hubbard

Following directions

Last night we, once again, asked the front desk for a good place to eat. The woman on duty suggested just about every one that was on the map we had been given the night before. But finally she settled on Crawdad's for getting an excellent steak.

So we headed out following the directions and promptly got lost. So we pulled out the map and got even more lost. We finally did find the place and it was worth all the hassle. Pan ordered his steak and I got fried shrimp. I was really impressed with the shrimp. It was a light batter so you actually could taste the shrimp. Pan said his 20 oz. rib eye was cooked perfectly.

I did notice that I had failed to mention where we ate when we were in Greenwood. It was a place called Webster's and was another recommendation that turned out to worth visiting. I just wish they had a website I could send you too.

Crawdad's & company

Last night we found Crawdad's for our nightly dining. What a wonderful restaurant. Living on the Gulf Coast one would think I would be use to fried shrimp. Well I am here to tell you that Crawdad's has the best fried shrimp. The batter is not so thick that it overwrites the shrimp. And Pan had nothing but praise for the steaks.

Alarming Day

Well, I made it through another birthday with the skin still attached. I spent some time reading, knitting (Pat, I finished a hat, lol), getting Ancestry updated with the obits and trying to figure out if I needed to evacuate the building.

The hotel's fire alarms went off all day long. The first time I went to the room door preparing to leave when the maid told me the batteries were getting low and they were sending someone to fix them. But after a couple of hours, I called down. The desk told me they were having a fire alarm malfunction. Presumably, if there was a real fire after that they would have called, right?

Pan took me to the Airport Grocery for dinner. It is definitely a local place and the smell when you walked in was heavenly. Heavenly if you like true barbeque. I had the pulled roast beef, which was so tender, baked potato and salad. I know I should have had the slaw. The waitress brought me some of the restaurant's homemade gravy (that is the way she likes it) to try out. Yummy. Everyone was really great, didn't hover, but were there when you needed to be. When I asked for a glass of dry red wine, the bartender called his girlfriend to find out which one was the driest. Now that is service.

So if you ever get the chance to drive through Cleveland, Mississippi, make plans to have a meal at the Airport Grocery.

UPDATE: The Holiday Inn Express breakfast had bacon today. :)

Middle of the Week & Middle of the State

of mind. LOL. We are in the glorious town of Cleveland, Mississippi. It's bigger than I thought but we haven't found any restaurants that would agree with both Pan and I. Me? I like just about anything or at least will try it. Pan is more conservative.

We have been staying in Holiday Inn Expresses (and I don't feel any smarter) because Pan likes the hot breakfast bar they have. But the only thing he will eat off it is bacon and guess what they have not been serving? Poor baby.

Yesterday we were in Greenwood and I got to spend time at the library looking up my great grandfather and grandmother. I found the obituary for both. (Actually Pan caught them). Then we headed out for the cemetery to see if we could spot their grave sites. To many graves and not enough time. But a good reason for coming back.

Today I am going to rest, relax and kick my feet back. Do some reading, knitting and research on the computer. :)

Movies from Yesteryear

Tue Aug. 18 - Blog Prompt: Seventy years ago today the Wizard of Oz premiered. What is your favorite children's movie?

Bizarre as it might seem, my favorite childhood movie was Invaders From Mars (1953). Not really a children's movie, but just as riveting to my mind. Next would be any of the Shirley Temple movies. It was a guarantee that I would be parked in front of the tv on Sunday afternoons to watch whatever Shirley Temple was coming on.

Under the skin

Mon Aug. 17 - Blog Prompt: "What kind of animal are you underneath your human skin?"

I'm a lion. Not only is that my zodiac sign, but what I am really like beneath the skin. Take tonight for example. While casually eating dinner, Pan & I were discussing the fact that he has a $25 limit on his daily meals when he is out on the road. I don't think he, yet, understands why I blew my stack when he refuses to discuss the fact that someone at home office gave out his personal cell phone number to make sure he complied.

When it comes to home office, I tend to be pretty lenient as they are providing him with a job. At least the boss is. But those few who have been given his personal cell number, for emergencies, should not be giving it out to others within the office no matter what. If they want Pan to be aware of something, they should call themselves. I'm going to be hard put to keep my feet out of my mouth later this week when I have to meet the big boss.

Wish me luck. I'm still a lion deep inside.

Aquatic Camp - Day 3

f/22, 1/60 sec., ISO-800, 18 mm
On day three we listened to a talk by Mr. D, the curator, on how dolphins were trained. At the end of the session, all of you got to stand at the edge of the pool as the dolphins jumped by splashing you.

Hannah Montana comes home

Pink Parfait (c)Doreen Stolz; Fonts: Arial, Impact

When you finally got to try out your Hannah Montana Rock Star video and mat, you went all the way. Complete with blonde hair and head mic. You were quite good, but shy about having your picture taken.

A Little R&R

Thur Aug. 13 - Blog Prompt: Today is Relaxation Day. What would you do on a day where you could completely relax?

Shame this wasn't the prompt for yesterday, because that was at least an afternoon's worth of R&R. It stormed... rain, thunder and lightning for most of the afternoon, so I grabbed a book and curled up on the couch and read with a cup of java. There is just something about a stormy day that is so perfect for just chilling out.

Waffling

Wed Aug. 12 - Blog Prompt: Today is National Waffle Day. Tell me what you love to have for breakfast.

Ho Ho. Just to think that I had a couple of blueberry waffles with butter and confectioner's sugar with a cup of coffee for breakfast this a.m. I'm not much of a morning eater so I have to force myself to do so. And I have discovered that I really like Kashi's blueberry waffles. Sometimes just like I had this morning, sometimes with just confectioner's sugar, sometimes with blueberry syrup and sometimes just plain.

Another breakfast favorite would be omelets, but that is just too much work if you ask me. But if someone else is making well then :)

Sandy Days

Tue Aug. 11 - Blog Prompt: Summer is almost over and the kids are either back in school or on their way. Today is Play in the Sand Day and tell me about a day at the beach.

It was a hot day when Indy and I stayed behind as the others toured the pier. The sand was so white and bright it nearly blinded you. Shoes were a must when walking around on it. But there was a playground where he could crawl inside of sharks and monkey around on bars. And I could sit in the shade of a beach umbrella.

More than Useful

Mon Aug. 10 - Blog Prompt: Is there something in your home that you use for something other than what you are suppose to use it for?

I thought this was going to be pretty easy, but as I wandered through the house, it became clear fairly quick that I use things just about the way they are suppose to be used.

I have an old kitchen shelf from years ago that we use as a bookshelf. We now have it turned on its side and will be adding shelves that way and then painting it to use as a shelf for our dvds. I use doobie scrubbers to clean vegetables, although they are for cleaning pots and pans. And right now that is all I can think of.

Today, though, there is a lot on my mind which may prevent me from being more creative. I have a gyn appointment this afternoon that I am not looking forward to. The kids started their first day of school up in NC. I told them Pan and I would call this evening to see how it went. They are suppose to get their internet access hooked up this week so then we will be able to contact them through skype's video calls.

Aquatic Camp - Day 2

f/18, 1/15 sec., ISO-800, 55 mm
Mornings at aquatic camp were devoted to arts and crafts. This gave the kids a chance to get in and settled before the real fun began. Today using paints and torn paper, the Princess got a chance to make her own underwater scene.

A dinner for a dieter

Chocolate Romance (c)Christy Sturm

Being on a diet doesn't necessarily mean dull food. Beef tips with mushrooms and garlic mashed potatoes with a tomato salad and glass of red wine. Perfect!

Families and Fun

Fri Aug. 7 Blog Prompt: Today is American Family Day and what is your favorite thing to do as a family?

When the kids were here, we loved going to the pool or to the local aquarium for the day. Of course we couldn't go to the pool during the winter but we have annual passes to the aquarium and could do that all year long. Now they are gone and it is just Pan and I. So I guess we have just have to make due with traveling together, LOL.

Wiggle Your Toes

Thur Aug 6 - Blog Prompt: Today is Wiggler Your Toes Day. Where do you like to wiggle your toes?

If I am at the beach, then I love to wiggle them in the sand. At home though, I prefer to wiggle them under fresh, clean sheets.

And right now I should stop wiggling them and get ready for work, LOL.

UPDATE: Please take a moment to read my sister's post "Big Brother is Watching You"

Space Travel

Wed Aug. 5 - Blog Prompt: Today is Neil Armstrong's birthday and do any of you remember the day we landed on the moon back in 1969? What are your views about space travel?

Just like it was yesterday. I had been listening to "Walk Away Renee" by Kenny Rogers when mom, dad and the siblings went next door to watch it on the tellie. Somewhere I even have a picture of myself and sister sitting on the couch waiting for the historic moment.

I have always been interested in the stars and outer space and that was just the most perfect moment to me. I would like to see us continue to fund our space program. The knowledge that we could obtain is priceless.

Happy Birthday Bug

Today is my baby sister's birthday. It's hard to believe that she is getting "old." LOL. The picture below was taken in Hong Kong in 1973. :)

Sports Day? What is that?

Mon Aug 3 Blog Prompt: Today is Sports Day and I know I can't wait for football season to start. Are you a sports fan and do you enjoy participating in sports or just watching on the sidelines?

I can't honestly say that I am a sports fan any longer. I use to follow it when I was younger. Mainly golf and baseball. From time to time I still try to see what and who in both, but not in any of the other sports. Just too much taking up my time these days, weeks, months and years. LOL.

Aquatic Camp - Day 1

This was the first year that the aquatic camp was held for the 5-6 year olds. It was only half a day and a parent or guardian had to be in attendance. Just before the camp started the counsellor called to say that Indy was the only one signed up for the class. My heart dropped thinking that he would not be able to attend. Instead they offered two solutions... 1) they would hold a class just for him or 2) he could be included in the older group class with a counsellor doing something else with us if the older group was involved in something he couldn't participate in. We took the second solution and he was so excited to be included.

f/11, 1/800 sec., ISO-800, 55 mm

August comes brightly

Miss Mae (c)Sweet Digi Scraps; Calendar (c)Jennifer Barrette Designs

I thought I would try to coordinate this month. My blogwear and desktop match :)