Living Life in PA

Quotography | Wildlife

2012-01-29T18:04:00.000-05:00

My bird feeder's been a buzz since I filled it to the rim last week. It has been a non-stop feeding frenzy between the birds and the squirrels. I couldn't decide between these two photos for this week's assignment. Which one do you like the best?

Sign-up below to participate in Quotography. For details regarding Quotography click the page tab at the top of my blog.

Quotography | Top 3 - Sadness

2012-01-27T08:42:00.001-05:00

Thank you to all who participated in this past week's Quotography theme. Here are the top 3 chosen by you!

Quotography Theme for January 30: Wildlife

You can link up here on Monday. The rules for Quotography are posted under my page tabs.

Why Go To Church?

2012-01-24T08:53:00.000-05:00

Yes, I go to church. I love my church and my church family and I am proud to admit that I am a God loving fool, a Christian, if you will. Now don't get me wrong. There was a time in my life that church and religion was the farthest thing from my mind. My mama raised me with a good church foundation. But those Godly principles all fell by the wayside when I became a "mature independent teenager". There simply was no time for church. After staying out very late on Saturday nights, my beauty rest was far too important than having to get up early to sit in church and listen to the boring sermons every Sunday. It all changed for me after I had children of my own, had them baptized and made a commitment to teach my children the ways of the Lord. "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it". Proverbs 22:6.

I felt compelled to write this post after having recent discussions with family members and friends about churches in general. Those discussions reminded me of the story about the fellow who wrote to the editor of a newspaper complaining that it made no sense at all to go to church every Sunday. "I've gone for 30 years now", he wrote, "and in that time I've heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can't remember a single one of them. So I'm thinking I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all."

This Letter to The Editor column started a real controversy that went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher:

"I've been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this.. They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!" When you are DOWN to nothing... God is UP to something! Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible and receives the impossible! Thank God for our physical AND our spiritual nourishment!

I feel blessed to belong to a wonderful community of faith where my family and I can go for our spiritual nourishment and continue to grow in the knowledge of God's word....where we can be loved and encouraged and prayed for....where we can worship together, promote the Gospel and experience God's love.

My girls are nearing the age I once was when attending church became but a distant memory. It is my hope that they will continue to attend church regularly and become more involved in serving the Lord. But I cannot force this on them. I can only lead by example and pray every day that what has been instilled in them thus far will stay with them throughout their adult lives. I pray that they will want to continue to grow in their Christian faith even if it means not attending church.

Quotography | Sadness

2012-01-22T20:45:00.000-05:00

This photo was taken in March of 2011 at Hanover Shoe Farms in Pennsylvania.

To play along in this weekly photo challenge, sign up below. For details regarding Quotography, please click the page tab at the top of my blog. Thanks for playing!

Quotography | Top 3 - Winter

2012-01-19T17:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you all who participated in Quotography this week! Here are the Top 3 picks chosen by you!

Quotography Theme for January 23: Sadness

**I am changing the rules a bit for Quotography. I will not be posting the Top 3 photos every week. All other rules still apply. If you would like to participate in this weekly photo challenge, please click the page tab at the top of my blog for details. You can link up here every Monday.

Quotography | Winter

2012-01-15T21:21:00.002-05:00

Nothing screams "winter" more than this photo taken by me last year of a sailboarder gliding across frozen Lake Marburg.

To play along in this weekly photo challenge, sign up below. For details regarding Quotography, please click the page tab at the top of my blog. Thanks for playing!

A-M-A-Z-I-N-G

2012-01-14T23:29:00.000-05:00

So far, the year 2012 has been unproductive and uneventful. I know, I know... it is only the third week into the new year, but I can't help but already feel a little bit of the winter time blues. I am fighting it. I realize how blessed I am to have a job, my health, a warm and cozy home, a loving husband, two wonderful daughters, yada, yada, yada. Maybe I just miss my mom, who always goes South this time of year to get away from the cold. Maybe I feel a little let down after all the holiday hype. Maybe I am bored (insert sad violin music here). I think I am just in a funk today. Tomorrow is a whole new day.

I have recently come up with a theme word for myself for the year 2012. It is a word that I keep using over and over. It is a word used to describe things I have witnessed recently, like Tim Tebow's winning TD pass over the Pittsburgh Steelers last week. It is the word....a-m-a-z-i-n-g. I know that these amazing things were only possible by the power of God and I am truly amazed by Him and how He works wonders in our lives. I am reminded that I am amazing in God's eyes and I believe I will accomplish some amazing things this year.

Lord, I am amazed by you...

Quotography | Top 3

2012-01-13T08:53:00.000-05:00

I have radomly selected the Top 3 photographs of this week. The top 3 chosen here will choose next week's top 3. Please e-mail me your picks by Thursday, January 19th by clicking my e-mail button on my sidebar. Thanks to all who participated in Quotography this week. If you would like to participate in this fun weekly photo challenge, please click the "Quotography" page tab above for details.

The theme for January 16th is: Winter

Hail Mary

2012-01-10T20:06:00.002-05:00

My oldest daughter recently played the song Ave Maria in her high school piano recital. I've heard this song played many times, especially at weddings and it got me thinking about the meaning behind the song. Did you know that Ave Maria is the Latin word for Hail Mary? Hail Mary is a traditional biblical prayer used in the Catholic church that dates back to 1495.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

The song Ave Maria composed by Franz Schubert in 1825, was written for vocal and piano. Schubert was filled with devotion to the blessed Virgin Mary.

And now without further ado, I present to you my talented and beautiful young pianist.....

Quotography | A New Year

2012-01-06T00:00:00.005-05:00

Hello and Happy New Year to all! Some of you are here because you have been directed here by Nicolasa from My Perspective. I will be temporarily hosting the "Quotography" weekly photo challenge for her. Nothing has changed, but for those who may be new and would like to participate in this fun weekly meme created exclusively by Nicolasa, here are the directions and rules:

1. Find a picture, or a quote and then pair it with a quote or a picture that applies to the weekly theme. (Picture MUST be taken by you). This week's theme is: A New Year.

2. Give credit to the quote when possible.

3. Put a link or the "Quotography" button in your post so others know what you're joining in on.

4. Link up here until Wednesday at 11:59 EST.

5. Take a moment to view other entries.

6. Posts selected as top 3 the week before can pick their top entry of the week and email me by clicking the e-mail button on my side bar by Thursday afternoon. I will select a post for anyone who doesn't get in touch with me.

7. Top 3 will be posted on Friday.

Please sign-up below:

Eggies - Do They Work?

2012-01-02T22:11:00.001-05:00

Did you know that God created the chicken before the egg? According to the Bible, the chicken came first. Genesis 1:20-22: So God created the great creatures of the sea and every living and moving thing with which the water teems, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the water in the seas, and let the birds increase on the earth.”

If you are not eating eggs, you are missing out on one of nature's great nutrition powerhouses. They are packed with vitamins and minerals and very low in calories.

Since FW and I eat eggs regularly, I thought it would be fun to try an "eggspirament" using "Eggies", a plastic mold used to hard boil eggs without the shell. Here is how our "eggspirament" went....

First, we prepared our "Eggies" by spraying the molds lightly with cooking spray. This prevents the cooked egg from sticking to the mold.

Tip: Use small to medium eggs in the molds or they will overflow.

Carefully crack the egg into the mold.

Place the plastic top on each mold and carefully put the mold in a pot of boiling water.

The directions say to boil the Eggies for 15 minutes, but they were not completely cooked after 15, so I recommend at least 17-18 minutes. You will see the eggs begin to whiten.

Remove the Eggies from the boiling water and let cool for a few minutes, then pop them out of the molds and wa la! Perfectly boiled eggs without the shell!

While the Eggies do work if used properly, the total time and preparation, including clean-up took approximately 45 minutes for 6 eggs.

The idea is neat, but somewhat of a hassle.

I'm not eggsactly sure we'll be using this kitchen gadget ever again.

My Philosophy

2011-12-27T23:00:00.002-05:00

Another Christmas has come and gone and here we are headed into another new year. I hope you all enjoyed your holiday as much as I did. It always seems to go by too quickly.

My hubby and I usually never exchange Christmas gifts, technically. Our policy is "stocking stuffers" only. You know, the usual candy, lotions, chapsticks, socks, etc. I always seem to get the better end of the deal since jewelry comes in small packages and fits nicely into Christmas stockings. This year I received a beautiful white gold and diamond accent ring. Prior to Christmas, I circled the ring in a sales circular I received in the mail and then layed the circular in an obvious place for my hubby to see. A girls gotta do what a girls gotta do.

I believe I spent more money on our canine pet than I did on "stocking stuffers" for my hubby and for that I feel guilty. Our high maintenance pup was in need of a new soft pillow bed, a stuffed toy (lab proof), a big chewy bone (which he devoured in less than 30 minutes) and a bag of top shelf specialty dog food to help with his allergies and skin issues. He really is one spoiled dog.

My favorite gift of all this Christmas had to be the spur of the moment impulse purchase my hubby and I made together from the Amish Country Store in the mall. It is a picture that jumped off the wall and into my heart. The artwork is entitled Living Life by the artist Bonnie Mohr. I immediately fell in love with the words and believe I was meant to come across the artwork which was conveniently entitled after my blog.

I have decided to post the words under a new page tab in my blog labeled, My Philosophy, mostly for me so that I can refer to them often, especially when I lose my focus on life. It will be my reminder to live for today and enjoy each moment.

A Few Of My Favorite Things...

2011-12-19T20:07:00.004-05:00

The Soft Glow of WHITE Christmas Lights

PRETTY Wrapped Packages

A Warm & Cozy FIRE in the Fireplace

A Tall Glass of Egg Nog

The Smell of FRESH Evergreens

National Lampoon's Christmas VACATION With Chevy Chase

The SOUND of My Daughters Playing Christmas Carols on The PIANO

An Old Ceramic NATIVITY Scene

Christmas EVE Candlelight Service

Chocolate CHIP Cookies Fresh Out Of The OVEN

Family Time

Here's Wishing You All The Joys of

The Season

Dear Lord...Forgive Me For Being So Grumpy

2011-12-14T23:02:00.001-05:00

In all the hussle and bussle of these past few weeks, I thought I would take a little time out for a much needed prayer:

Dear Lord:

Please forgive me for being so grumpy as I trudge through the never-ending tasks set before me this holiday season...

My to-do list seems to keep growing with shopping, church services, and family gatherings---

and I'm running short of time!

Restore the joy of Christmas to my heart . . .

and help me to relax each day and make time for YOU--

my one true Source of Joy.

Hopefully you are coming down the home stretch in getting your Christmas shopping done and hopefully you have your tree up and your home is filled with festive decorations and you are finally able to breathe and enjoy the holiday season. My shopping is done, cookies are baked and my home is filled with the Christmas spirit. This weekend, I will be wrapping gifts and sending out Christmas cards. I will soon be able to relax and enjoy.

In the meantime, I thought I would pass along a few fun things for you to do if you can find some spare time this holiday season.

Send your child, spouse or special loved one a video message directly from Santa! Click here to see the one I created for Nature Girl. By the way, it's FREE!

Check out Picnik for lots of fun holiday ideas for your photos. You can design Christmas cards, make slide shows, and more! Here are some samples of my photo creations:

p.s. It's not really snowing in this photo!

Wherever you are in the world....I hope this Christmas brings you much peace, joy and happiness. God bless you all!

Jingle Ball The Way

2011-12-13T09:26:00.001-05:00

There is no doubt in my mind that if I were a young adolescent girl in today's world, I would have a poster of these guys hanging on my bedroom wall:

They are the popular "all boy band" from Nickelodean's hit TV show, Big Time Rush. And boy oh boy can they sing and dance and act and not to mention, look good! I had the pleasure of attending the Jingle Ball concert last evening with my lil' sis and the kids in Hershey, PA, along with thousands of other screaming teenage girls. Big Time Rush was the headliner band.

The Jingle Ball concert was a 4-hour long event hosted by the local "hit" radio station and featured some of today's pop recording artists such as Andy Grammer, Patrick Stump, Joe Jonas, Sean Paul, and Hot Chelle Rae. Now, I know unless you have a young teenager in your family you've probably never heard of most of these groups. But I can guarantee if you tune your local radio station to "pop" many of the songs sung by these bands will most certainly be familiar. Trust me, I hear them over and over and over and over and over from my two teenage daughters.....daily. And quite honestly, even though it is not the music I prefer to listen to, some of the songs are quite catchy and upbeat.

My sister and I (the chaperone's) enjoyed the concert last night, if not more, than the kiddos did. It could have been because of the beer stand that provided us with something cold and wet to quench our thirst from all the dancing and arm waving!

What I wouldn't give to be a teenage girl these days....*sigh* (well maybe just for a day or two).

Check out Hot Chelle Rae. Go ahead....sing along...you know you want to....

Decorating on a Budget

2011-12-11T22:41:00.001-05:00

To think creatively, we must be able to look afresh at what we normally take for granted.

~ George Kneller

It never even occurred to me that I could find all that I needed to make my holiday arrangement in my very own back yard. The woods are full of pines and berries and dried up herbage that was once green and lush in the spring and summer months. A variety of pine branches as well as a collection of pine cones and bitter sweet vine made for a very "primitive country" themed arrangement. I used an old nail box that was just sitting around in our garage to arrange the greens.

And who knew that my old sled that I've had since I was a child would make such a welcoming winter embellishment. It is adorned with a sprig of pine and an old faded red bow (dust and all) that I found in with some outdated Christmas decorations.

Do you have any creative Christmas decorating plans for this year?

Ugly Sweater Phenomenon

2011-12-06T22:16:00.001-05:00

Are the persons in these photos trying to set a new fashion trend in 2011?.....or are they experiencing an "ugly sweater phenomenon"?......or are they merely attending an Ugly Sweater theme party?

"Ugly Sweater Party's" seem to be a growing trend these days. They have evolved over the years from the original Ugly Sweater "Christmas" Party to Ugly Sweater "Anytime" Party. No matter when you decide to host your party, just remember the 3 key elements - - festive food & drinks, quirky games & prizes and most importantly, intentionally, hideous sweaters.

Some of the attending guests at our recent Ugly Sweater Fall Party dug out vintage sweaters from their attic storage. Some decorated their outdated sweaters with spray paint. Some ripped bigger holes in their already worn-out sweaters and some went rummaging at their local thrift stores to find a truly unique one-of-a-kind sweater at a discounted price!

Prizes were awarded to the ugliest sweater wearers by way of silent voting.

Our Ugly Sweater Party was such a huge success, it may become an annual tradition! Everyone had a good time getting their ugly on!

To see more Ugly Sweater party pics, click on "Life in Photos" on the sidebar.

Lincoln Logs

2011-12-05T08:19:00.001-05:00

As a result of the freak snow storm we had the beginning of November, several trees and limbs came down in our yard. Our property is 70% wooded, so it didn't really bother us that we lost a few trees. It just made for alot of clean up work. FW took this opportunity to cut down some larger trees that had been dead for a few years now.

With the help of his Kubota tractor, FW stacked the wood just like the traditional Lincoln Logs, (a children's toy consisting of miniature notched wooden logs used to build miniature houses and forts). And the image reminded me of something my daddy used to say when we would go camping as a family many moons ago.

"Indian build small fire, sit close.....

White man build BIG fire, sit far away!"

Rest assure, when this baby is ignited, we will not be sitting close!

I Am Thankful

2011-11-24T06:00:00.002-05:00

I am thankful that I do not have to cook Thanksgiving dinner this year. In fact, in all the years I've been married, I've never had to prepare a Thanksgiving meal. I am very blessed to be part of a loving family who enjoys preparing the yearly traditional meal and all the fixins. This year, we will be enjoying a homecooked Thanksgiving dinner at my mom's house. I am baking an apple pie and iced pumpkin cookies for dessert. I always look forward to this time of year and spending quality time with my family.

I hope no matter how you will be spending your day today, you will take the time to give thanks to God, and remember that at every point in time God always gives us a reason to be thankful. Have a blessed Thanksgiving Day!

I have included a Thanksgiving prayer if you wish to use this for your special gathering today.

We Give Thanks

Our Father in Heaven,

We give thanks for the pleasure

Of gathering together for this occasion.

We give thanks for this food

Prepared by loving hands.

We give thanks for life,

The freedom to enjoy it all

And all other blessings.

As we partake of this food,

We pray for health and strength

To carry on and try to live as You would have us.

This we ask in the name of Christ,

Our Heavenly Father. Amen

- Harry Jewell

Quotography > Gratitude

2011-11-22T21:59:00.000-05:00

This photo was taken by me near Lancaster, Pennsylvania a few weeks ago. It shows the Amish using traditional machinery and a team of horses to harvest straw. It is believed that the Amish and Mennonite farmers produce a greater harvest while consuming less energy than today's farmer.

To the Amish, toiling with the soil, raising livestock, and growing their own food is seen as cooperating with God's will. Communing with nature is a form of communing with God. To the Amish, farming is not merely a job but a sacred lifestyle dictated by the Scriptures.

To join this fun weekly photo contest or to see more participants, click below.

Cheer Fear

2011-11-18T21:23:00.000-05:00

Every time I see my sweet, petite little girl (Nature Girl pictured on left) being tossed in the air like a big rubber ball, I hold my breath and pray real hard. Even though the stunt may only last but a few seconds, it's all I can do to watch.

Statistics show that cheerleaders -- who today more closely resemble gymnasts than the pompom-waving, megaphone-yelling leaders of yesteryear -- suffer more serious injuries than any other female athletes.

Nature Girl is not a rookie cheerleader. She has a few years of cheering experience, but this is her first year for being a "flyer" on the squad, which means she gets tossed in the air - - ALOT. She certainly does love the sport and she loves flying too! She likes when I video tape the stunts so she can see just how high she goes!

And while I enjoy watching her, I always breathe a sigh of relief when her feet are safely planted on the ground.

Quotography > Black & White

2011-11-14T16:36:00.001-05:00

This photo was taken in October in Tilghman Island, MD.

To join this fun weekly photo contest or to see more participants, click below.

This Is No Sales Pitch....or is it?

2011-11-13T17:33:00.000-05:00

There are two loves in my life....my husband and my Keurig machine...and my children and pets. Ok, that was four, but who's counting? After FW purchased my first Keurig single cup coffee and tea brewer about 3 years ago, I instantly fell madly in love with it. The convenience of being able to brew a single cup of fresh, hot coffee in less than 30 seconds is a no brainer. I'll bet in the past three years that machine has brewed over 4,000 cups of coffee, tea and cocoa! I know because I did the math. You see, the two of us each drink approximately 2 cups of coffee or tea per day, so that's about 28 cups per week multiplied by 52 weeks in a year, which is 1,456, multiplied by 3 years and you get 4,368 K-CUPS! And that doesn't count our guests or the kid's brews!

Sadly, my Keurig stopped working a few days ago. *sniff sniff*. That machine....that brilliant invention...that sophisticated, beautiful piece of equipment was my life-line. Yes, I am that reliant on a good cup of joe to get me going in the mornings. And when I get home from a long day at the office, er, I mean Walmart, I enjoy a hot cup of chai tea or cocoa. So, it should come as no surprise to you that I immediately rushed out to purchase another more improved Keurig machine. Did I mention that we also own a "mini" Keurig that we keep on our coffee bar upstairs? We take our "mini" Keurig on the boat and on vacations with us, but it is not unusual for us to take the "mama" Keurig on field trips as well.

Pictured below is the old Keurig safely fastened in the front seat of my car on its' way to a Sisters in Christ meeting at the Church. Did I mention that the Keurig brews a perfect cup every time?

I'll let you all in on a little secret. It isn't necessary to use the K-cups with the Keurig machine, although they are quite convenient to use and cost as little as 60 cents per cup. There is a reusable filter basket that you can purchase separately to use with the Keurig. Simply use your own ground coffee or loose tea in the basket to brew a single cup of coffee or tea. It's brilliant!

Here is the newest addition to our family:

The Keurig would most definitely make the perfect Christmas gift for that special someone in your life.

(This is not a paid advertisement for Keurig and is simply the expressed opinion of Kelly)

Science, Evolution, and Evil

2011-11-12T06:00:00.002-05:00

In having some recent in depth conversations with family members, I am reminded of this powerful dialogue between a student and his professor. I posted this on my blog 4 years ago (WOW, I've been blogging that long???), and it still touches me when I read it today. Although it is quite lengthy, I do hope you will take the time to read it to the very end.

"Let me explain the problem science has with Jesus Christ. The atheist professor of philosophy pauses before his class and then asks one of his new students to stand. "You're a Christian, aren't you, son?"

"Yes sir," the student says.
"So you believe in God?"
"Absolutely."
"Is God good?"
"Sure! God's good."
"Is God all-powerful? Can God do anything?"
"Yes."
"Are you good or evil?"
"The Bible says I'm evil."
The professor grins knowingly. "Aha! The Bible!" He considers for a moment "Here's one for you. Let's say there's a sick person over here and you can cure him. You can do it. Would you help him? Would you try?"
"Yes sir, I would."
"So you're good...!"
"I wouldn't say that."
"But why not say that? You'd help a sick and maimed person if you could. Most of us would if we could. But God doesn't."
The student does not answer, so the professor continues. "He doesn't, does he? My brother was a Christian who died of cancer, even though he prayed to Jesus to heal him. How is this Jesus good? Hmmm? Can you answer that one?" The student remains silent.
"No, you can't, can you?" the professor says. He takes a sip of water from a glass on his desk to give the student time to relax.
"Let's start again, young fella. Is God good?"
"Yes," the student says.
"Is Satan good?"
The student doesn't hesitate on this one. "No."
"Then where does Satan come from?"
The student : "From...God..."
"That's right. God made Satan, didn't he?
Tell me, son. Is there evil in this world?"
"Yes, sir."
"Evil's everywhere, isn't it? And God did make everything, correct?"
"Yes."
"So who created evil?" The professor continued, "If God created everything, then God created evil. Since evil exists, and according to the principle that our works define who we are, then God is evil."
Without allowing the student to answer, the professor continues: "Is there sickness? Immorality? Hatred? Ugliness? All these terrible things, do they exist in this world?"
The student: "Yes."
"So who created them?"
The student does not answer again, so the professor repeats his question. "Who created them? There is still no answer. Suddenly the lecturer breaks away to pace in front of the classroom. The class is mesmerized. "Tell me," he continues onto another student. "Do you believe in Jesus Christ, son?"
The student's voice is confident: "Yes, professor, I do."
The old man stops pacing. "Science says you have five senses you use to identify and observe the world around you. Have you ever seen Jesus?"
"No sir. I've never seen Him"
"Then tell us if you've ever heard your Jesus?"
"No, sir, I have not."
"Have you ever actually felt your Jesus, tasted your Jesus or smelt your Jesus?Have you ever had any sensory perception of Jesus Christ, or God for that matter?"
"No, sir, I'm afraid I haven't."
"Yet you still believe in him?"
"Yes."
"According to the rules of empirical, testable, demonstrable protocol, science says your God doesn't exist. What do you say to that, son?"
"Nothing," the student replies. "I only have my faith."
"Yes, faith," the professor repeats. "And that is the problem science has with God. There is no evidence, only faith."
The student stands quietly for a moment, before asking a question of his own, "Professor, is there such thing as heat?"
"Yes," the professor replies. "There's heat."
"And is there such a thing as cold?" "Yes, son, there's cold too."
"No sir, there isn't."
The professor turns to face the student, obviously interested. The room suddenly becomes very quiet.
The student begins to explain. "You can have lots of heat, even more heat, super-heat, mega-heat, unlimited heat, white heat, a little heat or no heat, but we don't have anything called 'cold'. We can hit up to 458 degrees below zero, which is no heat, but we can't go any further after that. There is no such thing as cold; otherwise we would be able to go colder than the lowest -458 degrees. Every body or object is susceptible to study when it has or transmits energy, and heat is what makes a body or matter have or transmit energy. Absolute zero (-458 F) is the total absence of heat. You see, sir, cold is only a word we use to describe the absence of heat. We cannot measure cold. Heat, we can measure in thermal units because heat is energy. Cold is not the opposite of heat, sir, just the absence of it."
Silence across the room. A pen drops somewhere in the classroom, sounding like a hammer. "What about darkness, professor. Is there such a thing as darkness?"
"Yes," the professor replies without hesitation. "What is night if it isn't darkness?"
"You're wrong again, sir. Darkness is not something; it is the absence of something. You can have low light, normal light, bright light, flashing light, but if you have no light constantly you have nothing and it's called darkness, isn't it? That's the meaning we use to define the word. In reality, darkness isn't. If it were, you would be able to make darkness darker, wouldn't you?" The professor begins to smile at the student in front of him. "So what point are you making, young man?"
"Professor, my point is, your philosophical premise is flawed to start with, and so your conclusion must also be flawed." The professor's face cannot hide his surprise this time. "Flawed? Can you explain how?"
"You are working on the premise of duality," the student explains. "You argue that there is life and then there's death; a good God and a bad God. You are viewing the concept of God as something finite, something we can measure. Sir, science can't even explain a thought. It uses electricity and magnetism, but has never seen, much less fully understood either one. To view death as the opposite of life is to be ignorant of the fact that death cannot exist as a substantive thing. Death is not the opposite of life, just the absence of it. Now tell me, professor. Do you teach your students that they evolved from a monkey?"
"If you are referring to the natural evolutionary process, young man, yes of course I do"
"Have you ever observed evolution with your own eyes, sir?" The professor begins to shake his head, still smiling, as he realizes where the argument is going. "Since no one has ever observed the process of evolution at work and cannot even prove that this process is an on-going endeavor, are you not teaching your opinion, sir? Are you now not a scientist, but a preacher?" The class is in uproar. The student remains silent until the commotion has subsided. "To continue the point you were making earlier to the other student, let me give you an example of what I mean." The student looks around the room. "Is there anyone in the class who has ever seen the professor's brain?" The class breaks out into laughter "Is there anyone here who has ever heard the professor's brain, felt the professor's brain, touched or smelled the professor's brain? No one appears to have done so. So, according to the established rules of empirical, stable, demonstrable protocol, science says that you have no brain, with all due respect, sir. So if science says you have no brain, how can we trust your lectures, sir?" Now the room is silent. The professor just stares at the student, his face unreadable. Finally, after what seems an eternity, the old man answers. "I guess you'll have to take them on faith." "Now, you accept that there is faith, and, in fact, faith exists with life," the student continues. "Now, sir, is there such a thing as evil?" Now uncertain, the professor responds, "Of course, there is. We see it everyday. It is in the daily example of man's inhumanity to man. It is in the multitude of crime and violence everywhere in the world. These manifestations are nothing else but evil." To this the student replied, "Evil does not exist sir, or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is just like darkness and cold, a word that man has created to describe the absence of God…. God did not create evil. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God's love present in his heart. It's like the cold that comes when there is no heat or the darkness that comes when there is no light." All of a sudden the‚ professor exclaimed: "I got it! If you were to‚ open my head and look inside, you'd see that I have a brain.""With‚ all due respect, sir", the student replied respectfully, "If you opened the Bible and read inside, you'd see that there is a God." The professor sat down.

11-11-11

2011-11-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

Today marks the triple convergence of the 11's! Yahoo!! I'm sure there are many people around the world planning to marry today or placing bets or playing the lotto or just plain wishing for some good luck! Here in the U.S., we honor our military veterans today. With all the merging of the ones and all the celebrations, it reminded me of Bob Marley's "One Love" song. I thought it was quite appropriate for today!

Wishing you all an uplifting and inspiring day!

One love, one heart

Let's get together and feel alright.

Hear the children cryin' (one love)

Hear the children cryin' (one heart)

Sayin: give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel alright

Sayin: let's get together and feel alright

Quotography > Best October Photo

2011-11-06T23:42:00.003-05:00

The theme for this week's Quotography assignment is "Best October Photo". I know I have posted a fair amount of sunrise and sunset photos on my blog and I should probably be posting a "Fall" photo. But this photo best describes the month of October for me. You see, I celebrated 18 years with my hubby on October 16th and this is where we spent our anniversary weekend. There is just something so beautiful and serene about a sunset/sunrise and I love to try to capture those moments in photos. I love how the sun lights up the sea grass and reflects off the rocks.

To join this fun weekly photo contest or to see more participants, click below.

Dear Old Man Winter...You Are Not Welcome Here!

2011-11-02T08:05:00.003-04:00

No one was really expecting to be hit with such a nasty winter storm this past weekend here in Southern Pennsylvania, especially since it wasn't even Halloween yet. The historic record breaking nor'easter nearly paralyzed our town, icing up the roadways, taking down trees and limbs, and knocking out the power! It is not unusual to see a few flurries this time of year, but normally we would get no more than a dusting.

We were lucky though, we only lost our power for 9 hours on Saturday. There are many folks who live less than 2 miles from us that are still without electricity today. We had many limbs fall in the yard due to the heavy snow weighing down the trees that are still full of foliage. The clean up will have to wait until the snow melts, which will likely happen within the next few days with temps rising into the mid 50's (normal for this time of year).

Our weekend plans for an Ugly Sweater Party had to be postponed due to the storm and losing our electricity. However, we still had somewhat of a party atmosphere with 15 teenagers and 4 adults all sitting around in the dark. We heated up the food on the grill, lit all the candles and had a big bonfire in the back yard! It was a little scary being out underneath the trees with the falling limbs, so the bonfire didn't last long! We ended up having 9 people stay overnight after our power was restored at 9 p.m. Saturday.

Here is a video just as the snow began to fall. It accumulated quickly to approximately 8 inches in our neck of the woods!

Friday's Fences > Eye Candy

2011-10-28T13:13:00.001-04:00

I sure hope this photo qualifies in the weekly Friday's Fences Photo Challenge. I'll admit, I'm not focusing too much on the fence though. That gorgeous hunk of a man leaning on the fence is what has my attention! LOL~!

To participate in this fun photo challenge and to see more participants, please click below:

Friday's Fences

The Hunter

2011-10-26T22:47:00.000-04:00

When sweet little Pia came into our lives nearly 5 months ago, little did we realize how much she would grow on us. Five months ago, I was not wanting another pet to take care of. But now it seems, she is very much a part of our family. We have enjoyed the past few months watching our cute little playful kitten grow and mature. Imagine my surprise yesterday morning when I opened the garage door to Pia juggling a rather large rat between her fluffy white paws. Yes....I said RAT! This dead rodent was almost the size of Pia!

She is quite the proud hunter and I now know she can hold her own, just as Puss-In-Boots would say, "Fear me, if you dare".

Friday's Fences > Somewhere Over The Rainbow

2011-10-20T23:12:00.002-04:00

It was just like a scene from out of a movie....c'mon, sing along with me.....Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue.... and the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true.

This photo was taken during our trip to St. Michaels, MD this past weekend. It was one of many breathtaking scenes we experienced during our romantic anniversary weekend. More photos to come...

To participate in this fun photo challenge and to see more participants, please click below:

Friday's Fences

Quotography > Organic

2011-10-17T23:12:00.001-04:00

This is a collection of the veggies from our garden this summer. (I added the "painted look" texture to this photo). We had a bountiful crop of tomatoes, squash, green peppers and jalapenos.

To join this fun weekly photo contest or to see more participants, click below.

18 Years

2011-10-16T06:00:00.003-04:00

In case you were wondering....my wonderful husband of 18 years TODAY has whisked me away on a romantic weekend getaway to a quaint little town on the Eastern Shore of Maryland called St. Michaels.

I am hoping to capture lots of photos of the scenic waterfront town, while spending some quality time with the hubs. It has been 17 years since I was there!

Friday's Fences

2011-10-13T20:41:00.001-04:00

This particular fence is called a "worm fence" because of its' zig-zag formation. Sections of the newly-built fence are situated along the railroad tracks in Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania. The fences were reconstructed because Park Historians believed that similar fences existed in this location at the time of battle and they wanted to help visitors visualize and understand the important events that took place during that time (1863). Back then, such fences were used to divide fields and wood lots. They were quick and easy to build - no post hole digging required.

Soon after the fences (including the one pictured above) were erected (in early June of 2011), the Park began to receive questions from Civil War Historians about whether they were in the correct location. Recently, the Park decided to err on the side of caution and take the fencing down.

To participate in this fun photo challenge and to see more participants, please click below:

Friday's Fences

In Thy Nature

2011-10-10T20:11:00.001-04:00

It was a spectacular Autumn weekend here in Southern Pennsylvania, just as the popular saying goes, "The weather is here, wish you were beautiful". I knew I wanted to get out and just be in it. However, weekend chores were lingering over my head. So I made a compromise with myself and spent half a day completing chores and the other half hiking through the park. Come...take the photo walk with me....

How To Host The Perfect Girl's Night In

2011-10-08T12:30:00.000-04:00

It was long overdue.....my girlfriends and I getting together. Seems we all get so busy with our day to day lives and it's hard to make time to do something that is off the daily routine, especially making time for girlfriends. It is not a priority in most of our lives, but when we do make the time to get together with girlfriends, it is most always time well spent.

This past Friday evening, I hosted a "Girl's Movie Night In". It was the perfect way to get together in a casual setting and relax in each other's company while enjoying a "chick flick". The movie I chose to show was "Brides Maids". It was gut wrenchingly hysterical! I laughed through the entire movie. Be forewarned though, it does have some very vulgar scenes. Here is the official movie trailer:

I invited my galfriends to wear their pj's and bring a snack to share. Before we sat down to view the movie, we chatted and snacked and drank some wine.

In keeping with a "theme", I decorated the house with bridal shower decorations. I even made "party favors" for everyone.

It's always good to have intermission midway through the movie. We used this time to take a bathroom break, refresh our drinks and get a sweet snack. I served up a variety of mini ice creams.

Following the movie, conversation continued until midnight! All in all it was a very fulfilling evening spent with galfriends!

So, what are you waiting for? Send out those invites...host a "Girl's Movie Night In" with your galfriends. You won't regret it!

Friday's Fences

2011-10-06T22:13:00.000-04:00

I'm cheating just a bit. I posted this pic a while ago, but it's one that I've always admired, plus I wanted to play along in the new Friday Photographay Challenge hosted by Life According to Jan & Jer (otherwise known as my mama), entitled "Friday's Fences". Click below to play along.

Friday's Fences

Quotography > Fishing

2011-10-04T08:13:00.002-04:00

This is my niece fishing off our boat at Deep Creek Lake, MD. She was so proud of herself for pulling in the big catch of the day - a Blue Gill and she did it ALL BY HERSELF! It reminds me of the song by Trace Adkins - Just Fishin'. I love the words to this song. Take a listen if you haven't heard it already.

To join this fun weekly photo contest or to see more participants, click below.

Live To Ride

2011-10-02T22:53:00.000-04:00

This past Friday afternoon FW and I attended Harley Davidson's Open House in York, PA. Mainly because FW wanted to "test drive" some of the 2012 Harleys. The Vehicle Operations Center in York, PA is where some of the bikes are assembled and parts such as the fuel tanks, frames and fenders are made. You can also take a tour of the manufacturing facility any day throughout the week from 9-2.

During the open house, they allow guests to demo ride a variety of brand new Harleys on a 12 mile route near the facility. FW test drove 3 different models - The Dyna Fat Bob, Softtail Fat Boy and the Touring Street Glide. I hung out on the back and went along for the ride!

While FW went to the Open House in high hopes of liking the Fat Bob, he ended up preferring the Fat Boy. And so did I. The back passenger seat sets up higher for added comfort, the ride is smoother and the motor is balanced. I even preferred the Fat Boy over the Street Glide, as a passenger that is.

Shoot Me is Temporarily on Hold

2011-09-28T21:32:00.000-04:00

Due to lack of participation, I thought I would temporarily put the weekly photo challenge, "Shoot Me" on hold until further notice. If someone else would like to host this fun meme in the meantime, please let me know.

It's time to stop hiding behind that camera of yours. Your family is missing you in the picture. So it's time to post a picture of YOU (yes, you) every Thursday with your child, your spouse, your friend, your dog, or even by yourself. Just get in the picture, you'll be glad you did! Sign up to play below and grab the "Shoot Me" Button code to the right.

Earning Your Keep

2011-09-27T22:06:00.000-04:00

As most of you know, I am the mother of two beautiful, temperamental teenage daughters. So far, there isn't much I like about the teenage years. I am however liking that they are old enough now to accomplish chores around the house. It usually takes some creative parenting to get them motivated like....you will complete your chores or you will be grounded from all upcoming activities... or... we will deduct $5 from the debt you owe us after completing your chores...or... if you want those new jeans you'd better complete your chores... or my all time personal favorite...you need to earn your keep!

And after much grumbling, they eventually get the job done. It isn't always done the right way, but the point is, they are doing and learning and...sometimes having fun while doing it!

Nature Girl & her friend pull up what's left of the garden

Funny Face hauls the brush away to the woods

What's this ? ? I see smiles on their faces!

Sticking Around

2011-09-22T23:16:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year in Southern PA when the spiders and crazy insects begin to crawl out of the woodwork. Literally. You see, we live on a wooded lot and therefore, the bugs can be quite abundant. I have even seen a fair share of wood roaches, which are very different from just the regular cock roaches. Of course, a roach is a roach I suppose. No matter the name or the size, they gross me out whenever I see one scurry across the front porch.

I think it's safe to say that most spiders and insects do not amuse me and in fact, they down right bug me. There is one insect however, that I have always found quite interesting.

Did you know that some species of this insect can grow up to 14 inches long? This particular species from Borneo, broke the world record in 2008 for being the longest insect.

Some species can also fly.

This insect can range in color from a dull brown to a bright green.

They have been known to play dead.

It does not bite but it can release a foul smelling odor as a defense mechanism.

Give up?

It is the STICK BUG! (Not the stink bug)

This little guy has been sticking around for a while. He is not blending too well on the siding. One thing I was never quite sure of...how to tell its front end from its back end?

Shoot Me > Genuine Cowgirl?

2011-09-21T22:07:00.001-04:00

No, I don't live on a farm, nor do I ride horses. But, I do live in the country and I do have a likin' for country music. So, I guess you could say I'm a genuine cowgirl at heart.

Quotography > Sunrise

2011-09-18T21:01:00.001-04:00

Photo taken of me at sunrise at the Outer Banks of North Carolina in June 2011.

To join this fun weekly photo contest or to see more participants, click below.

More About My Boots & Toby

2011-09-16T11:29:00.001-04:00

When I knew we would be attending the Eric Church and Toby Keith country music concert the other night at the York PA Fair, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to dig out my cowgirl boots from the back of my closet. I have not wore my boots in years - many many years, in fact. The minute I put them upon my feet, a rush of memories came back to me. I remember the day I purchased those ol' boots from a Country Western store in Florida. I think the year was 1992. I was living in Orlando at the time. And I remember I paid a pretty penny for them too. I wore them alot back then. And I continued to wear them even after I got married and moved back to Maryland in 1993. It was then that my favorite pass time was country line dancing. Those boots sure did alot of boot skootin' in the 90's.

My how time flies. Twenty years later and I can't believe I still have my boots. I am not one to hold onto things, especially clothing and shoes. When I dug them ol' boots out of the closet and blew off the dust, they still looked brand new! I still love them now, just as much as I loved them the day I bought them. I intend to hold onto my boots and who knows, one day (hopefully a long time from now), I will be sent to my grave in them! Just make sure my outfit matches the smoky blue color. You know how I am about matching.

For those country music fans, here are some photos and a brief video clip from the other night. I'll bet there is no other country music singer who is truly more proud to be an American than Toby Keith. His music sent chills up my country girl spine.

Yes, I was that close to the stage:

My poor boots after standing in the mosh pit:

Shoot Me | Cowgirl Boots

2011-09-15T08:06:00.001-04:00

Sorry I'm a little late posting this ya'll. Didn't get home til real late on a count of being at the Eric Church/Toby Keith concert at the Pennsylvania York Fair. Here is a photo of me and my boots on the way to the concert. I will share all the exciting details in another post. Til then, I must get ready to go to work. Bye ya'll!

Wordless Wednesday - What Happens in Deep Creek Stays in Deep Creek

2011-09-14T06:00:00.000-04:00

Anyone else care to caption this one?

photo disclaimer: idk the persons in the photos

Every Heart Beats True

2011-09-11T22:36:00.000-04:00

This is just one of many photos taken by me at the Healing Field, which was hosted by the Hanover, PA Exchange Club. The 3-day event which included an awe-inspiring display of 3,000 flags, was to pay tribute to the strength and unity of Americans and to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of all those who died on September 11, 2001.

Shoot Me ~ DCL

2011-09-07T21:54:00.001-04:00

During our mini getaway to Deep Creek Lake, MD over the Labor Day weekend, C.C. Rider (our pontoon boat) dropped anchor at the Honi Honi Bar. The Honi is always happening with live entertainment, dancing and yummy frozen drinks. We captured a few photo opps while there. I am pictured below with my sister and our girls.

Quotography > Anything

2011-09-06T22:35:00.001-04:00

To join this fun weekly photo contest or to see more participants, click below.

Less Than A Minute Update | Shoot Me

2011-09-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

Good golly Miss Molly! Where did the summer go? I can hardly believe that it is the first of September already. But I'm not complaining. The kids are back in school (can I hear an AMEN!) and Fall is just around the bend.

If you are wondering if Pennsylvania was affected by Hurricane Irene, the answer is yes. We live in South Central Pennsylvania, so the effects were not as bad, but we still went without power for about 13 hours and had alot of tree limbs and debris in our yard. We were very lucky compared to some other folks, some of which are still without electric. Continued prayers for them.

And yes, we were also affected by the 5.8 earthquake, which was centered in Virginia last Tuesday. It sent shock waves all up and down the East Coast. I was doing some work in the Walmart store during the quake and was apparently so engrossed in my work, I missed the entire 30 second tremor. Now I know this may sound a little twisted, but I'm kinda bummed that I missed it, especially after hearing everyone's stories about where they were and what they were doing at that precise moment in time. I am, however, thankful that it was only a mild quake and nothing more. It was a very scary moment for some.

I'm looking forward to our Labor Day weekend getaway to Deep Creek Lake, MD. My Uncle John owns a beautiful cabin there and we will be making the 3.5 hour drive with boat in tow on Saturday. Pray for nice weather.

We stay pretty busy during the Fall months. Wait. Who am I kidding. We stay pretty busy ALL the time. There is lots going on and lots to look forward to. It is football season and since Nature Girl is a cheerleader, we will be attending all the JV football games. I just love football season!

And there you have it.....Living Life's "Less Than a Minute Update".

I will leave you all today with this wonderful group photo of my Step-Mom's family, as we celebrated her birthday this past weekend at Friendly Farms. I am pictured in the very middle back row.

Have an awesome weekend, my friends. Stay safe and have fun!

Shoot Me | Ravens Game

2011-08-24T22:02:00.002-04:00

Last Friday evening we attended the Baltimore Ravens pre-season NFL game at the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. I am pictured on the left next to my step MIL, Sharon. This was the first NFL game my kids had ever been to, so it was a nice family affair. And what made it even better was the Raven's 31-13 win against the Chiefs! G-O R-A-V-E-N-S!

Just Sew

2011-08-22T22:25:00.002-04:00

Sewing was never one of my strong suits. In fact, I can barely sew on a button. If something needs hemming, no problem. No Sew Hem Tape requires no needle and thread at all! And if a button pops off, a safety pin will usually take its place. It seems that somehow I have managed most of my life to have rarely sewed anything at all.

My daughter, on the other hand, has taken a liking to sewing. So, the timing to inherit my great grandmother's old Singer sewing machine from my Uncle John could not have been more perfect. And even though this beautiful piece of machinery is more than 50 years old, it still works like any other ordinary sewing machine (of course it's without all the bells and whistles of today's machines).

Nature Girl knew exactly what to do to get started. "We need to plug it in, Mom", she informed.

"Oh (long pause)...you have to plug it in?", I inquired. This was going to be a daunting task, I thought.

Thank goodness an instruction booklet was included with the machine. And with the help of GJ (Grandma Jan), Nature Girl was up and running in no time at all. She was stitching away like a professional seamstress.

I was impressed. And I hope my Great Gram is looking down with a big smile knowing her sewing machine is in good hands.

Shoot Me ~ Luau

2011-08-17T22:08:00.002-04:00

I am pictured here with my little sis at my good friend's Luau party this past weekend. It was a great time!

Shoot Me ~ Tour Of Baltimore

2011-08-10T23:33:00.001-04:00

During FW and I's latest motorcycle excursion, we headed to Baltimore, MD - the city I was born in.

Since moving to Pennsylvania over 8 years ago, friends joke with me that I rarely travel outside of my 10 mile radius. And they are right. I am happy and comfortable in my small town rural setting. But every once in a while I find it a treat to go into the big city and since we live so close (only an hour's drive), it was the perfect destination for our Saturday bike ride.

Having lived in the Baltimore suburban area until I reached middle school age, I didn't really spend much time "sightseeing" or visiting any of Baltimore's historic landmarks. FW, on the other hand works in the city almost on a daily basis, so going into the city is really no big deal for him.

I was thrilled to be riding on the back of the bike watching the bussle of people and looking at all the old architecture that aligns the city streets. I find the city fascinating and so rich with history. Our 4-hour tour was way too short, but we managed to stop at Fort McHenry, Federal Hill Park, Fell's Point, and Canton's O'donnell Square. I am so ready for part II of my Tour of Baltimore! Oh and if you live nearby, you must visit Mamas on The Halfshell in Canton. They have the best fried green tomatoes and Orange Crush drink!

1st stop for breakfast

Overlooking the Key Bridge from Ft. McHenry

The thirteen star flag flying proudly over Ft. McHenry

Overlooking Baltimore's Inner Harbor from Federal Hill Park

Drinking a Natty Bo at Max's in Fell's Point

View of Inner Harbor from Federal Hill

Leaving Canton's O'donnell Square

Shoot Me

2011-08-03T21:30:00.001-04:00

Time to make the moonshine!

Definition of ETHANOL: a colorless volatile flammable liquid C2H5OH that is the intoxicating agent in liquors and is also used as a solvent and in fuel —called also ethyl alcohol, grain alcohol.

Disclaimer: This is not a product of P&G

A Retail Tale

2011-07-31T06:00:00.008-04:00

Did you know that the Procter & Gamble Corporation manufactures and distributes all of the products in this photo?

I'll bet you didn't know that there are over 250 P&G products sold world wide today, with 50 of those being the world's most well-known household names. Why am I telling you this? Because it is just one interesting tidbit of information about the company I now work for. By the way, the products in the photo above were sent to me in a "goody box" from P&G. This is just one of the many perks of being a P&G employee. I promise I won't bore you with all the facts and history about P&G that I spent countless hours of online training for.

But, the next time you are in your local Walmart, Target, Rite Aid, Giant Food Store, CVS, etc...and you are deciding on what products to purchase, be sure to look for the "Distributed By Procter & Gamble" stamp on the back. Be thinking of me.... and I'll be thinking of you when I get my Christmas bonus at the end of the year!

Oh and don't forget to pick up your batteries. You can't top the Coppertop! (another P&G brand)

Cream of the Crop

2011-07-29T12:06:00.000-04:00

"Farmers" we are not. "Gardeners" would be saying alot. But, one look at these veggies and you'll be thinking... "Cream of the Crop!"

As Mater says, "I'm happier than a tornado in a trailer park!" Cause we got maters and Sasquash comin' out r ears! Kudos to farmer FW for raising his vegetation from seedlings to fully grown thriving plants. The jalapeno and pepper plants are producing well too. Although the peppers are a little on the small side and we aren't quite sure what to do with all the jalapenos. As a matter of fact, I'm certain we'll have enough jalapenos to supply a Mexican restaurant for over a year! One of my blogger friends has an awesome recipe for jalapeno poppers. So, I'm thinking I will git out my poncho and Mexican hat, grab me a margarita and fry me up some poppers. I'll let you know how they turn out, senoritas~

Until then, I'll be eating grilled tomato and cheese sandwiches and sauteed squash with stewed tomatoes for ~~a week~~ ~~a month~~ a very long time!

Shoot Me

2011-07-27T21:46:00.001-04:00

A reflection shot of me in the Great Clips Nascar hauler at Dover Delaware International Speedway back in May. FW and I got a personal tour of the pit area and the very car hauler you see in the photo, which hauls the #38 Great Clips car piloted by Jason Leffler and Kasey Kahne. Here is a better photo of the hauler.

A Refreshing Post

2011-07-25T22:40:00.003-04:00

My youngest daughter celebrated her 13th birthday party a few weeks ago with a few of her friends aboard our pontoon boat (C.C. Rider). It was the perfect hot summer day for swimming and boating at the nearby lake.

The kids love to run from the back of the pontoon and jump off the front. It looks like so much dang fun, I just may have to try it one of these days!

It's become regular routine to order Domino's pizza and have it delivered to the lake shore. And this time was no exception. It was the most convenient way to feed a bunch of hungry teens!

The beauty of a pontoon boat is its' ability to pull right up along the soft lake shore's edge. We refer to it as "beaching it". We were able to find a nice shady spot in the woods to picnic, so we beached the pontoon and ate lunch on land.

After lunch, we boarded C.C. Rider and cruised over to Lake Marburg's best kept secret.....the rope swing! I've inserted a short video clip of the rope swing below:

The swing can be a little dangerous, so we tried to limit the kids to 2 swings each. We didn't want to take a chance on someone letting go too soon and hitting their arse on the rocks below! I know, I know. We were really taking our chances. But, the good thing is not a single kid got hurt. All in all it was a good birthday for my Nature Girl!

Quotography > Family

2011-07-24T22:44:00.000-04:00

To see more participants click below:

A Whole New Meaning to "Picking Up Weed"

2011-07-22T06:00:00.000-04:00

"What'd ya pick-up there Captain FW?"

"Looks like I got me some weed"

"I won't tell the authorities, Cap't"

Picking up lake weed is a common occurrence when boating in Pennsylvania, especially during the dryer late summer months when the water levels are low. The kids really hate it when they are swimming off the boat and the lake weed tickles their toes!

Shoot Me

2011-07-21T06:00:00.001-04:00

Here I am relaxing aboard our pontoon boat in my new super cute cowgirl hat! Do you like?

Meet Pia

2011-07-20T06:00:00.005-04:00

The newest member of the Living Life clan arrived via a birthday package from my oldest daughter's BFF, Mic. The package was hand delivered and wrapped so beautifully. Imagine my surprise when a kitten popped out of the box! I believe it was a ploy very meticulously planned by my daughter and her BFF.

How could we say "No, you cannot keep this cute little fuzzy playful rotten amusing critter?" Of course, you know who is taking care of it....yep, you guessed it - me.

Quotography > Birthdays

2011-07-18T22:34:00.001-04:00

My daughter Nature Girl celebrated her 13th birthday party with a few of her friends aboard our pontoon, C.C. Rider.

To see more participants, click here:

Back To Living Life

2011-07-16T22:40:00.006-04:00

The poll results are in and I would like to thank each and every one of you for voting on a new title for my blog. The majority of the votes (56% to be exact), are for "Living Life in PA". This was my original title when my blog was born nearly 4 years ago. My very first post was dated July 17, 2007 and you can read about it here if you like. That was 4 years ago to the day! Since then, I have written 650 posts!

In second place with 20% of the votes is "Life's Journey". And 0% voted to keep my blog title "Diary of Church Lady". So, without further ado, I present "Living Life in PA"! A blog about me and my family and our adventures of living in the beautiful keystone state of Pennsylvania!

Nothing else will change. Same person. Same look. Same writing. Same family. Sure hope you'll continue to visit me and give me that comment love I look so forward to getting! (((Hugs)))

Shoot Me

2011-07-13T22:03:00.001-04:00

Spending more time on C.C. Rider (our pontoon) during the July 4th weekend. Now I know why I never get anything done around here during the summer months!

Time For A Change? Take My Poll, Please

2011-07-10T22:07:00.000-04:00

Well, it is official. I have started a new job with a well established world-wide corporation and have given up my part-time secretarial position with the church. After much prayerful consideration, I decided this was a move that would benefit me and my family. And you know what they say, "The secret of success is for man to be ready for his opportunity when it knocks". And that my friends is something to live by.

So without going into too much detail about my new job and where I'm going and why I am leaving and yada yada yada, I wanted to get some input from my readers about possibly changing my blog title. As many of you know, the title of my blog stems from me being the church secretary. Of course, I am still a lady who attends church. But technically, I do not work at the church anymore. You see my dilemma?

When I originally started blogging, my blog title was Living Life in PA because we had just moved to the state of Pennsylvania. Should I change it back to the original title?

I have created a poll and am asking kindly for your input. The results of my poll will decide on what title I will use. Would you be so kind to vote and please offer any comments below. Thanks everyone! Your input is greatly appreciated! I plan to leave the poll up for several days to give people the opportunity to vote.

10 Things I Learned At Creation

2011-07-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

Amazing, uplifting, fun, spiritually fulfilling, motivational.... These are just some of the words to describe the Creation Music Festival which me and my family attended this past week. The festival is the largest Christian Music gathering in the Nation with over 80,000 people in attendance! It is held on a 285 acre farm retreat center located in the Appalachian mountains of PA. A group of 23 from my church were all nestled together in one campsite for the four day affair.

Here are just a few things I learned while attending Creation:

Mosh Pit: The area at the front of the stage at hard rock concerts where fans congregate and stand and "mosh" with each other.

Used in Sentence: I am proud to say that I enjoyed myself in the Mosh Pit while kj52 was performing.

Moshing: The ultimate way to show your love for loud pounding music by flailing your arms and body in the air and against other people.

Used in Sentence: My arms sure got a workout from all that moshing!

Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep for long periods of time.

Used in Sentence: I suffered from sleep deprivation while at Creation (literally only got about 4 to 5 hours of sleep each night due to the late night performances and early morning sound checks).

Bigger Bigger Better: The act of trading items with other campsites to get something bigger or better.

Used in Sentence: Too bad we can't trade Jesse for something Bigger Bigger Better (jk-Jesse)!

I'm Amazing: God loves each and every unique one of us and thinks we are amazing (ref. Psalm 139)

Used in Sentence: At least God thinks I'm amazing, because my kids sure don't.

Tarp Runner: The person who awakes at 5 a.m. to run the tarp to the field in order to reserve a spot as close to the stage as possible.

Used in Sentence: I am so glad I did not have to be the Tarp Runner!

Sea of Tents: Thousands of colorful tents set up and butted up against each other.

Used in Sentence: The fields of Creation were filled with a sea of tents.

Hot Shower Pass: A $20 ticket to a hot shower.

Used in Sentence: I am so glad I waited in line 45 minutes to use my Hot Shower Pass!

Ick Factor: The way one feels from being dirty and sweaty.

Used in Sentence: The ick factor set in after day 2 of Creation.

Free Hugs: People were giving these out for free all over Creation!

Used in Sentence: I was not a fan of the body odor that permeated from the free hugs!

Will I go again next year? You betcha!

Shoot Me

2011-07-07T06:00:00.001-04:00

Sorry ya'll. I have been so dang busy here. Busier than a bumble bee on steroids. No time for blogging. But, thank goodness I am able to get the Shoot Me post up. Things will settle here soon on the home front and until then, I do hope you will return. I have some exciting news to share.

Now, about the mosaic below...I am pictured in the blue sweat jacket along with my mama and my two nieces. We are having a good time dancing on C.C. Rider (our pontoon) during Codorus Summer Blast a few weeks ago. Boat drinks = boat dancing. I should mention that the photos were taken by my sister (Count Your Blessings).

Shoot Me

2011-06-29T18:00:00.003-04:00

FW took this photo of me back in May during a short visit to Dover Downs Hotel & Casino in Dover Delaware. We spent a whole 2 bucks in the slot machines and didn't win a thing! This shot was taken right before security nearly kicked us out and threatened to take my camera for taking photographs inside the casino. Geez. Do I look like someone who would cheat and steal?

Creation Bound

2011-06-26T21:46:00.001-04:00

Flashlight - check, sleeping bag - check, bug spray - check, super cute cowgirl hat and crazy guitar sunglasses - check. If the word "camping" just popped into your head, you are correct! My family and about 20 others from my church are headed to the beautiful Allegheny mountain ranges of Western Pennsylvania to pay tribute to our Creator at the 2011 Creation Music Festival.

The Creation Music Festival is held annually at two different venues - one on the East Coast and one on the West Coast. The 4-day festival, which has been a yearly tradition for the past 20 years, usually attracts over 70,000 people!

This will be me and my family's first Creation experience and while I am not much on camping anymore, I am quite excited about hearing all of the top Christian recording artists like Skillet, Chris Tomlin, Toby Mac, Third Day and dozens more! So, I figure it will be worth roughing it for a few days to spend some quality time with my church family and recharging my spiritual batteries!

Here is a short promotional video so you can get an idea of what Creation is all about. I am super excited to see Skillet's Jen Ledger perform her drum solo! I can barely contain myself. Woot!!

Have a super week!

Shoot Me

2011-06-23T07:48:00.001-04:00

One of the ways FW and I like to spend quality time is by going on a motorcycle ride. Since we live just on the outskirts of Gettysburg, PA (only a 30 minute ride) we often find ourselves headed in that direction. Last evening while the girls were staying with my FIL, we put on our tourist hats, hopped on the bike and headed out to the Appalachian Brewing Company for some dinner and a cold beer, and then to our favorite ice cream shop, Kilwins. The gorgeous sunset over the battlefields of Gettysburg made for a splendid end to our evening.

Living Vicariously Through My Teens

2011-06-22T07:28:00.002-04:00

So as of last weekend it is official. I am the parent of 2 teenage daughters (15 and 13). Other than the mood swings, sassiness, laziness and back talk, I can't complain. They really are two great girls. I am so very proud of both of them for doing well in school and staying out of trouble.

Funny Face had a birthday bash last Friday evening with 17 of her closest friends here at the house. I must admit that I really do connect with this age group. I thoroughly enjoyed "hanging out" with them. Although I'm sure they wished I didn't.

Birthday festivities included volleyball, campfire, frozen t-shirt contest, campfire, s'mores and sing-a-long. The frozen t-shirt contest was a big hit with the teens. Allow me to explain the game.

Prior to the contest, dampen 2 to 3 t-shirts then fold them into small squares and place them in the freezer overnight.
Divide players into 2 to 3 equal teams. Give each team captain a frozen t-shirt.
Together, the team has to "thaw" the t-shirt by sitting on it, placing it between their bodies, etc.
The first team to thaw the t-shirt and place it on their team captain wins!

Here are the teams trying their best to thaw the t-shirts. I had to make up a few rules along the way, such as no throwing the frozen t-shirt into the hot tub, no roasting the t-shirt over the fire and no peeing on the frozen t-shirt!

The evening ended with a campfire and sing-a-long with "R". My daughter doesn't realize it, but I think I just found her soul mate! "R" was very entertaining and talented and a very cute young man. I'm thinking the next American Idol. If you don't believe me, take a listen to "R" singing What About Now by Daughtry.

The evening went off without a hitch, unless you want to count the tiki torch falling over and catching the patio on fire, a broken ceramic flower pot and the overflowing hot tub with 10 boys and flotation devices! Whew! These teenage years are just beginning. And I'm just beginning to see the gray hairs pop out one by one!

Pure Happiness

2011-06-20T22:45:00.000-04:00

My FIL (Father-In-Law) is pictured here frolicking in the waves on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. I just love this photo of him. It shows his true inner happy self.

Shoot Me

2011-06-16T06:00:00.001-04:00

During our vacation in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, we stayed in a large 8 bedroom house situated right on the beach. Our room was on the third floor overlooking the ocean. I fondly named our room the "Sunrise Suite" because every day at approximately 5:45 a.m. the sun peaked over the horizon and right into our huge bedroom window, which had no shades whatsoever! A few of the mornings we would get up with the sun and watch it rise over the ocean, take a short walk, click some photos and then head back to bed with a pillow over our heads! This is one of many fun shots FW (my hubby) and I took during one of our early morning risings.

Teenage Daughters

2011-06-13T20:33:00.004-04:00

Here it is June already. The end of the school year has come to a close, we already got our first vacation of the summer in, Father's Day is just around the corner and my two beautiful teenage daughters celebrate their birthdays this month. That's right folks, I said teenage daughters.... yikes!

I ain’t complainin’

But I’m just tired, so I’m sayin’

What I think

If we’re being honest

Than honestly, I think I need a drink

Their beautiful, wild and free

Everything we wish we could be

But their still crazy

Oh you know, they make us crazy

Remember when we use to be

Everything they ever need

We had them believing we were cool

It’s like it happened over night

We’re always wrong, their always right

We use to be the one’s breakin’ the rules

Now we’re just mothers, we’re just fathers of

Teenage Daughters

Martina McBride – Teenage Daughters Lyrics

Wish me luck!

Shoot Me

2011-06-09T06:00:00.000-04:00

We are enjoying a wonderful beach vacay in the Outer Banks of North Carolina with FW's (my hubby) side of the family this week. The weather is hot, but it sure feels nice on the beach. There is something so relaxing and mesmerizing about watching the waves crash over and over and over again. I swear I could sit there all day, that is as long as I have an ice cold beverage in my hand !

Beach Bound

2011-06-06T17:14:00.003-04:00

Headed out for a much needed vacation this week. I intend to soak up the sun and relax until the cows come home. And when I'm not sipping my margarita, or dipping my toes in the ocean, I'll check in to see how ya'll are doing!

CL's Yard Sale Find Of The Week

2011-06-04T21:59:00.002-04:00

It's that time of year again. It's that time of year in Southern PA when you will see a yard sale on every corner of every street and in every development e-v-e-r-y weekend. And if you live in these parts, you will come to know that there are hundreds of professional yard salers and hagglers out there. I am by no means a professional yard saler, but I do frequent them from time to time, and I usually always find a treasure...even if it is another man's junk.

What a rush it is to find something for a bargain! Today at my mom's neighborhood yard sale, I got these mini preserved juniper topiaries (see photo below) off my galfriend who purchased them from Restoration Hardware. And guess what I paid for them?? $15? Nope. $10? Nope. $1? Nope. Give up? I paid nothing. zip. zero. nada.

I worked a trade deal with her. I traded her a chair for the topiaries. It was a chair I didn't want or need anymore. Of course, I didn't need the topiaries either, but they sure look nice with my decor! I believe I got the better end of the bargain ~ shhhhh!

Shoot Me

2011-06-02T06:00:00.003-04:00

Over the Memorial Day weekend, we did what most families normally do over a holiday weekend - cook out, picnic, swim, spend time with the family, etc. It was the perfect weekend to get together with kinfolk at the Burns's Farm for some good ol' fashioned target practice, because Lord knows, I need all the practice I can git. Mercy me, I think it's been a ~~good~~ ~~year~~, ~~five years~~, ~~fifteen years~~ very very long time since I last shot a real gun and one never knows when one might need to use a real gun in real life. Just sayin' folks.

Move over Kris Munroe...and make room for the new Angel, Church Lady. Check out this .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol. It's easy as pie to handle. Wanna see my quick draw?

Church Lady hits the target dead on (no pun intended) with this .22 rifle. Even Nature Girl can shoot this gun.

I'm almost certain those are my holes! I said almost.

Church Lady gets a feel for the S&W 9 mm semi-automatic pistol. Whoa nelly! This gun has some kick!

So now I'm ready for that casting call when they decide to bring back the popular 70's tv series, Charlie's Angels. Bosley will be so proud!

Come Take a Boat Ride With Me....

2011-05-31T09:03:00.001-04:00

What a fantastic weekend here in Southern PA! Could not have asked for better weather to launch C.C. Rider for the first time this season. As usual, the party bardge was at maximum capacity with family and friends. It's always a good time. Allow me to take you for a short cruise on C.C. Rider along Lake Marburg with Captain FW. Oh, and you'll have to excuse the background music. It's what we are forced to listen to when there are teenagers aboard! Did I mention that our stereo system rocks?

So, how did you celebrate your Memorial Day weekend?

The Neighborhood's Going to Pot

2011-05-27T21:48:00.001-04:00

Ever felt dumped on? Well, we sure did when an unexpected porcelain delivery arrived in our front yard Friday evening. We had been "s-potted" by our church's Youth Group with an Ugly Toilet.

Crazy prank by the Youth Group? Well, yes and no. The Ugly Toilet is actually a fundraiser to help raise funds for a neighborhood family who lost their entire home in a tragic fire.

Here's how it works. For a donation of $10, you can have the Ugly Toilet placed in the yard of your neighbor or friend. In order for that neighbor or friend to have the Ugly Toilet removed, they must pay a $5 removal fee, or they can donate $10 to have the toilet removed AND delivered to another yard. For $15, you can purchase "potty insurance" to ensure that this Ugly Toilet will NOT show up in your yard ever again! However, I've been told that the "potty insurance" don't mean crap.

This fundraiser has proven to be very successful so far! We have about 9 ugly toilets in circulation around town, each one hand painted and decorated by members of the youth group. It's a great way for the community to recognize our church AND fantastic Youth Leader!!

Shoot Me

2011-05-26T06:00:00.002-04:00

I am pictured here prior to my Zumba fitness class. I can assure you, I did not look like this after the class! Apparently, I learned Salsa, Merengue and Samba all in ONE night!

Are You There God, It's Me Church Lady?

2011-05-23T22:53:00.002-04:00

I just love when the weather cooperates and I am able to take my daily walks. Not only do I get a breath of fresh air, but I also use that time to exercise my faith. It is during that alone time when I like to chat with the big guy upstairs. I then come back from my walks feeling invigorated and relieved of any stress.

Sometimes I think about worldly events like all the flooding and tornadoes in the U.S. I think about the economy and the leadership of our country. And I often pray out loud for the safety of our soldiers in Afghanistan, some of whom I know personally.

I think about my extended family. I realize there is pain and suffering with illness and loss. I want so bad to make things better for them, but I'm not sure where to even begin to help.

Most of the time though, I reflect on my life. How blessed I am to be healthy. How blessed I am to have 2 charming daughters, who for the most part, are happy and thriving. I am blessed to have a job and a beautiful home. And most of all, I am blessed to have a wonderful husband who continues to love me even though I have not always been the best wife to him.

It's times like these I think most about my own spirituality and my faith walk with God. I cling to the promises of our unchanging, compassionate God—who alone offers hope when and where it’s most needed.

~Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your Word that tells me how to deal with the worries that crowd in upon my heart and mind today. I ask for Your help and Your guidance in each concern. Thank You that You are a faithful God and that You see beyond the fog that clouds my view right now. Thank You that You are able to do what I can’t even imagine right now. I declare my trust in You and I ask You to fill me with Your peace. Quiet my heart and mind today. Help me to see each worry that creeps in as a call to prayer. I praise You that You are my strength and my help, my God in whom I trust!

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

My New Feel Good Song

2011-05-20T06:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday ya'll! With all this rain we've been blessed with here in Southern PA, I can't help but crave the sunshine and dream of the beach. I found me a new feel good song that takes me there and I just had to share it with all of you because that's the kind of gal I am. Sending good Friday vibes to all of you from the Church Lady....

Shoot Me

2011-05-19T06:00:00.001-04:00

These were taken of my sister and I at the John's Hopkins Club in Baltimore, MD during my step-grandmother's 85th birthday party. It was a very nice affair, martinis and all!

Wordless Wednesday - Daily Prayer

2011-05-18T06:00:00.001-04:00

Busy Is My Middle Name

2011-05-15T21:38:00.002-04:00

Anyone who has teenagers knows how crazy life can be. I am currently living in the "can you take me here", "can you take me there" "can my friends come over?" "can all 10 of my friends come over?" "I need money for this" "I need money for that", yada yada yada phase.

My life is busy. I don't think I am ever home for more than a few hours at a time. So, it's no wonder my blog has suffered and I do apologize for not visiting my favorite bloggers in a while. I promise to make my rounds to all of you very soon, as I do miss you all.

Nothing brings me more joy than sitting here at my computer and journaling/blogging about my daily life. It is an outlet for writing down my thoughts and feelings and being able to share them with ~~the entire blogoshpere~~, all five of my faithful followers.

I was going to post about my weekend adventure to Dover Delaware. Then I thought about writing about how my SIL and FIL are planting this humungous garden and how they will be preserving their vegetables. That is a post in and of itself. I promise you will be intrigued.

But alas, it is late and I am tired. So, I bid you all a good nite. I do hope to get my groove on here real soon. I promise...as long as I'm not too busy.

Shoot Me

2011-05-12T22:20:00.000-04:00

Taking time out for a Mother/Daughter photo shoot after enjoying a delicious Mother's Day breakfast at my sista's house! Nothing like a little mimosa before church!

The Dogwoods

2011-05-09T22:39:00.001-04:00

I thank you God for this most amazing day, for the leaping greenly spirits of trees, and for the blue dream of sky and for everything which is natural, which is infinite, which is yes. ~e.e. cummings

The dogwoods have been in full bloom for over a week now here in Southern Pennsylvania and I have been wanting to get out and take some photos of the beautiful white blooms against the bluest of sky before the blooms dry up and wither away. Today was that day.

Just being outside in the warmth of the sunshine brings joy to my heart.

Makes me appreciate these glorious days.

To be surrounded by nature in all its' wonder.

And notice every single detail.

Wishing you all this kind of day....

Celebrations and Dedications

2011-05-08T21:18:00.001-04:00

God surely did bless us here in Southern Pennsylvania with some gorgeous sunshine and balmy temps this past weekend. And it's about time too, as it has been a very wet and cool start to spring. Everyone is so anxious to plant their flowers, mow the lawn and just be in the outdoors.

My weekend was a busy one. It was a weekend for celebrating. We celebrated my grandma Jean's 85th birthday at the John's Hopkins Club in Baltimore, MD. She certainly is one beautiful lady whom I admire greatly. Today, I dedicate this post to her. We love you Grandma Jean and wish you a birthday full of blessings!

Because today is Mom's Day, it was another great reason for celebrating! My sister invited my mama and I to her house for a scrumptious breakfast in honor of Mother's Day. She sure can fix a killer omelet! Thanks Sis! I then accompanied my mama to church for some spiritual nourishment. The day got better when we went for flowers and took time out for an ice cold beer on the back patio. Did I mention that I have the coolest mom ever? All in all my Mother's Day was nice. I pretty much did what I wanted to do...a nap...a walk...and a delicious grilled steak dinner.

I hope all you mom's enjoyed your day as well. I would like to dedicate this video to all you mom's out there. We sang this old hymn in church today and I swear I overheard someone say I sounded just like Carrie Underwood. Ha! Grab some tissues and a blanket cause I'm certain this song will send chills up your spine and tears to your eyes. I dedicate it to my mama. Happy Mothers Day and thanks for hanging out with me today!

Shoot Me

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

I am pictured here with my two girls at Sakuras Restaurant, a Japanese Steak House in Westminster, MD. The shrimp, chicken and sprouts were sooooo good. But the wine was the best!

For The First Time

2011-05-04T06:00:00.002-04:00

Being born in the late 60's, I grew up listening to songs of the 70's like Stairway to Heaven, Free Bird, Sweet Home Alabama and Highway to Hell. And then there were the big hair bands of the 80's, like Def Leppard, Van Halen and Bon Jovi. And let's not forget the music of the 90's - Love Shack by the B-52's, I will Always Love You by Whitney Houston and Gettin Jiggy Wit It by Will Smith. I have always admired and have a true appreciation for wide variety of music. Even today with raising my two teen girls, I am getting an education in today's pop music. Most of the time, I cannot bare to listen to their rap music and silly songs about ~~cheese sticks~~ G-6's and not to mention the lyrics of some of these songs! Have you listened to Rihanna's S&M lyrics? DJ's play her song continuously on the pop music radio stations. Here are a few lines of the main chorus:

Cause I may be bad, but I'm perfectly good at it

Sex in the air, I don't care, I love the smell of it

Sticks and stones may break my bones

But chains and whips excite me

I know. I find it vulgar and gross too. I cringe when I hear it.

There is one song I so love right now by the Irish pop rock band The Script. Now this I can handle and my girls - well they love it too! Sit back and take a listen. It is a beautiful song. Happy Wednesday, my friends!

Quotography (Fun)

2011-05-02T22:57:00.001-04:00

I just love seeing my two teen girls having fun together. Generally my rules for riding the 4-wheeler include wearing tennis shoes and a helmet. At least they are wearing shoes.

To join in this fun weekly meme, click the button above.

Kiss My Butt Goodbye!

2011-05-01T21:09:00.001-04:00

Finally I can reveal our new Fitness Room, which has been a work-in-progress for years. We finally got the room finished and our gently used gym equipment assembled. It only took FW (my hubby) 5 hours to assemble the massive weight machine which will work e-v-e-r-y muscle in your body! The only thing is, it takes time and energy to work those muscles, as well as a determined mind. I can assure you that I will in no way be ready for the Ms. Olympia competition this September in Vegas! Fact of the matter is, I will never be ready for such a competition, as I am not really into "body building", per se. I would however, like to tone my flabby stomach and butt, and arms and legs. After my 54 pound weight loss over a year ago (click here to see "before and after" pics), I have successfully maintained my healthy weight range. I did however, pack on a few pounds over the holidays, who didn't? It's time to get serious again and this machine is kicking my butt! My only hope is that it will eventually "kiss my butt" goodbye!

FW and I have been "working out" regularly together for about an hour every evening. It is so nice spending this quality time with him. He gives me the push I need and I, well I just complain. "It's hard. I can't do it. I'm sooo tired!" But honestly, I do enjoy the workout and guess what? I can lift 20 whole pounds! Like I said, I'm no body builder.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

While you are here, won't you hop on over to FW's blog? He is celebrating his birthday today!! Happy Birthday to my wonderful, most thoughtful husband! Ready for that workout FW? *wink *wink.

My Royal Name

2011-04-29T06:00:00.010-04:00

In honor of William and Kate's Big Day, I thought it would be fun to come up with a Royal Name. You know, so we can pretend we are from royalty. So, here is how you come up with your royal name. First, if you are a female, begin with "Lady" and if you are a male begin with "Lord". Your first name is one of your grandparent's names. Your surname is your pet's name double-barreled with the name of the street you grew up on.

Here is what I came up with:

Lady Muriel Cooper-Castle

Now I know some of you will be glued to your tellies today watching William and Kate ~~tie one on~~ tie the knot and some may be having a Royal Wedding Watching Party, complete with your plastic tiaras and tea and crumpets. Not me though. I will be having a redneck diner breakfast with my mom and sister then off to Cross Creek Farms for their spring open house. I'm sure the royal wedding will consume the media for the entire day and I will most certainly be able to catch the highlights for weeks to come.

So, what royal name did you come up with my lady/lord?

Shoot Me

2011-04-28T06:00:00.001-04:00

No. I don't golf. But, whenever we visit my SIL's house, it is customary to get out the clubs and hit some balls on the makeshift driving range. The goal is to hit the barn. Me? I can't even hit the ball five feet. By the way, I apologize to my BIL, Jay for all the divots I made in his beautifully groomed yard.

Ooops. I think I'm doing this wrong.

Ok. That's better.

Swing back....

I missed. The barn that is.

Wordless Wednesday - Happy Hump Day!

2011-04-27T06:00:00.002-04:00

An Easter Prayer

2011-04-24T06:00:00.005-04:00

Dear Lord, this Easter please help us fully believe without any doubt. In the glorious Alleluias ringing out across the land, fill us with Your joy, O Risen Lord! Fill us with the certain hope that Jesus has overcome all evil, all sorrow, and all death. Help us to know beyond the shadow of a doubt that we too are risen with Jesus this Easter morning. Let us bring the light and joy of our Risen Savior to the whole world!

Lord Jesus, You are the hero of this story. You are the Lamb who laid down his life for us. You alone are our Victorious Redeemer!

"Alleluia! He is risen as He said! If we have died with him, then we shall also live with him."
2 Timothy 2:11

Ticks Don't Drown

2011-04-22T18:01:00.001-04:00

I had a nice conversation with my 14-year old daughter this evening, which is rare. She seldom talks to me. Sad, I know. So, here is how it went...

Funny Face: There was like this huge spider on the ceiling of the shower this morning. Did you like hear me scream?

Me: I thought I heard something, but I was still half asleep.

Funny Face: I threw a wash cloth up to it and knocked it down into the water. But, I didn't want the spider to go down the drain because I thought it would climb back up the drain. So, I like scooped it up with a cup and flushed it down the toilet.

Me: That was pretty smart. I probably would have rinsed it down the drain and then kept a watchful eye on the drain while I was showering in hopes that the spider would not crawl back up.

Funny Face: I wasn't sure if a spider would drown.

Me: Why wouldn't you think so?

Funny Face: Well, a tick can hold it's breath for 45 minutes.

Me: What? (giggle) I never heard such a thing. Who told you that?

Funny Face: Mr. Moul, my fourth grade teacher. He said you should always burn ticks and not drown them.

Me: Hmmm, I'm not so sure about that one.

Turns out, after my Google research, Mr. Moul was right. Ticks can live totally submerged in water for a very very very long time - 81.3 weeks to be exact (depending on the species). So yeah...random fact for the day...ticks don't drown easily. They can and have climbed back up thousands of household toilets after being flushed. (I'm just making that part up). But truth be told, if you want to rid of a tick once and for all...you better burn it!