Took Aunt Tommie Shopping...

...what a HOOT! She tried on six items and bought one, but oh what a bargain she found at Dillard's! Here she is modeling it for me in the dressing room!

The two of us taking a break!

The "Men Folk" patiently??? waiting when we exited Dillard's!

It was a beautiful day here in Florida on Monday. It has been such a blessing having my jolly Aunt Tommie with me this week! I must take her to my parent's home tonight and I DON'T WANT TO! I've been teasing her that I have to "pass off the football" tonight. We will surely miss her laughter in this house.

(P.S.) Rita, please send me that email again so I can obtain the photo of our Great-Great Grandma Nichati!)

Caylee's Memorial Service

At the end of this post is a link is to an article with photos, describing today's memorial service for little Caylee Marie Anthony. What a precious little girl who now will never realize her potentials, who will not have the opportunity to live her life and love. That was all taken away from her via murder. Tonight, her mom sits in jail awaiting trial. Kind of strange though when you think that the mom could have legally murdered Caylee three years prior via an abortion. When abortion was made legal, we started down a slippery slope. We've encouraged a culture of death rather than a culture of responsibility and life. No wonder some high school girl can birth a baby during her prom and simply leave it in the bathroom trash receptacle to die, while she goes back out to the dance floor to finish her evening of fun. The lines have become so blurred!

I cannot watch the clips of Caylee on T.V. or read about her without my heart locking up, a lump forming in my throat, and tears streaming down my face. I've awakened many nights recently in a start, and crying, mourning this baby girl's death. What a sad, sad case. I want the mother to confess and give every torrid detail. I want to see justice in the worst way. Join me in prayer for this mother and her poor heartbroken parents. I pray they are introduced to Jesus, the only one who can truly ease their pain and forgive any wrong doing in this case. I pray the person guilty of this murder gets their penalty, which I believe should be death.

Click here---Caylee's Memorial Service

Randomosity!

Thanks for the kind comments and YES I have had my hair colored back to my natural shade. I actually did it simply to cover up all that GRAY!! I have been bleached blond for so many years except for the past three. I chose to do absolutely nothing to it other than cut and pamper it these past few years. I realized just how long it has been since I've worn my natural color when my soon to be twenty two year old son told me he had never seen me with dark hair! I was tempted to go back to blond but on a whim, decided to try my natural brown/reddish color. Most people have said they like it. I'm still not so sure.

I love the photo of Shane below. He looks to be in pain but was simply practicing his spelling words orally. He was wrapped up in his daddy's robe to keep warm and would throw his head back, squinch his eyes shut tight as he tried to remember the spelling of each word. I just had to snap this one. I thought he looked so cute and cozy.

My handsome hubby leaving for work the other day. He was wearing one of the new shirts we found "green ticketed" at JCPenney's--- a Van Huesen for $8.99!!! We found three shirts he liked and three matching ties. $40.00 ties marked down to $6.99! I bought some ties for my dad as well. It was a fun day out for us. It's not too often we get to go to the mall together!!!
Putting on his shoes!


Our Super Bowl snacks! Agustin had worked all day, so we kept our evening simple. When he got home, he made his famous chicken wings and fondue cheese which is great on Tuscan bread.

I'm okay, I'm Here. More Later!

On way to new mall to show Aunt Tommie around. I had jury duty this morning. More later! Please don't give up on me! Love to All! Here, entertain yourselves with the following photos. It's how I've been prioritizing my time lately! PLAYING with my new camera!

This one shows how much my hair is thinning! YIKES! I used to have the thickest head of hair anyone has ever seen. It does make me a little sad!

What is different in this photo?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE BEST LITTLE SISTER EVER!

Rita (Jungle Mom) back in the day!

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That would be my cute, little, redheaded sister who goes by the moniker of Jungle Mom on her wonderful blog. She is a great mom, smart, politically savvy, well learned, sarcastic, a speed reader, a conference speaker. Speaks three languages my last count. Has taught college courses and is a highly sought after conference speaker. She graduated early. Attended college early. Married early. Had her first baby early. Lived abroad early. Became a grandma early. Has lived a life of adventure, thanks to her husband's influence! When I use the word early here, I mean that she did all this at a young age and way before I did any of it! I don't even try to compete with her anymore. I think I gave that up years ago. She is one accomplished woman who knows well who she is and has no identity crisis. I just hope that today, while celebrating her 22nd birthday for the 22nd time, she remembers who taught her so well---forcing her to sit attentively in front of my chalkboard which hung so proudly on our dining room wall! Forcing her to play school each and everyday of her young childhood!
(Actually, she loved every minute of it! There was no forcing involved! I think SHE forced her doll babies and stuffed animals to attend as well though!)

Oh.The.Suspense!

(ADDED LATE FRIDAY NIGHT: oops! My bad. I just corrected the gentleman's name in next to last paragraph. I had accidently typed an extreme liberals last name in place of Anuzis.)

Okay, I admit it---I'm a political news junkie! I try to abstain from getting too awful political on my blog but for today, I must share my current interest!

I've had CSPAN on all afternoon, waiting to see who becomes the new Chairman of the Republican National Committee. They are now on the fifth ballot since no one has received the necessary 85 votes yet. With each round of votes, the man with the least has generously withdrawn his name. There are now three men left with Ken Blackwell withdrawing just moments ago and throwing his support soundly behind Michael Steele!!! Michael has had my support for some time now. He and I are "real tight". We are each other's friends on Facebook and we follow each other's "tweets" on each other's Twitter page. Yeah, Mike and I are buddies! Too bad he doesn't know who in the world I am!!! LOL




I've researched all the men running for this chairmanship, as I think the Repubs have a lot of work to do to once again become the responsible party with a grasp on controlled spending. We need a likeable and energetic person who maintains morals and know how to use modern technology for the growth of the party. I've watched Michael over the past few years and have grown to respect him. After much reading, I've been hoping Michael wins. Ken Blackwell was my second choice.

So now, as the ballots are being collected once again, the SUSPENSE is rising! Will one of the three remaining men get the needed 85 votes to close this thing?

I need a life don't I? hehe

EDITED FOR THIS NEWSFLASH at 3:30 - Michael is ahead after the fifth round of ballots with 79 votes, still not the necessary 85!! Saul Anuzis just withdrew his name. The sixth round of ballots will begin after a fifteen minute break. OH THE DRAMA! OH THE SUSPENSE! hehe
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EDITED AT 4:53 FOR THIS NEWSFLASH! Congratulations Michael. Finally after the sixth ballot count, you came out the clear winner. I loved your acceptance speech, boldly telling obstructionists they would be knocked over and warning the northeast to watch out 'cuz we're moving in! You're hilarious at times and I like that about you. I know you had been labeled as a moderate during your run for the senate. I implore you now to stick to our conservative roots and you'll bring this party back!

Isn't God the Greatest???

Sisters

Aunt Tommie - so happy her big sister is home!

Thank you all for your prayers! God has blessed me with a wonderful day. I began my day in prayer and very concerned for Aunt Donna. They had kept her in the hospital last night. She was badly dehydrated and had that "pasty" look. Many tests were performed and without going into too many details, let me just say that a previous health problem was rearing it's ugly head. Because any life threatening issues were ruled out and because she was able to keep the breakfast and lunch she ate down, they released her.


Mom and I were on our way to visit Aunt Donna in the hospital when my cousin called to inform us that Aunt Donna was being released at that very moment! Yippee!! It was late evening, but we drove on down to Aunt Donna's house to show her some love. We stopped in at a Publix to purchase a cheerful bouquet of flowers and some fruit and cheese. Shane sent Aunt Donna a photo of them together and a handmade card. She seemed to cherish it.


Upon arrival at the house, I peered into the living room window, thinking I'd see Aunt Donna in her recliner and the others around. Ron's car was in the drive, Deb's car was in the drive, lights were on in the house, but it appeared NOBODY WAS HOME! (Sort of like my brain!) I rang the bell and Ron came bee-bopping out of the kitchen. "Is Aunt Donna in bed?" I whispered respectfully. He cheerfully exclaimed, "No, she's in the kitchen cutting up a chicken!" Classic Aunt Donna! Such a fighter! She made her way out to greet us. There she was, all 5 feet of her, in her cute little housecoat, smiling and hugging us as if she had invited us to dinner! You never would have known she had just spent the night in the hospital. I was instantly relieved! Deb had bought some rotisserie chickens, mashed 'taters, veggies, and rolls. Oh and lest I forget-a coconut cream pie!! We prepared a plate for Aunt Donna and served her in her recliner. From what I could tell, she only nibbled on it a bit then slept. The rest of us gathered around the dining table and enjoyed each other's company while we ate. Ron and Deb were both so very tired. They hadn't gotten home from the hospital until two or so in the A.M. and Ron had worked today. Deb spent the day sitting at the hospital with Aunt Donna. Both were in good spirits nonetheless. Isn't God the greatest???


Agustin and Shane stayed here in town so Shane wouldn't miss his Patch Club tonight. In church Agustin heard that Mike L. was home after his heart cath today and ....dun dun dun dunn....no surgery is needed! They think his problem can be handled with medication. Isn't God the greatest??? I'll call Kim tomorrow to get more details.


I saw dad this evening at his home before I headed down to Aunt Donna's. He looked so much better than when I had last seen him only on Sunday. He seemed to be getting his strength back, his color was back, and he was planning on going to church tonight - and sitting on the platform as he usually does. Only difference, his clothing was more casual than normal due to not being able to wear a tie and coat due to the cumberbund velcro thingy keeping him from moving his shoulder and he wasn't going to preach. He does plan on returning to the pulpit Sunday. What a blessing! I'm always amazed at how God so designed our bodies to heal. Isn't God the greatest???

Oh I almost forgot!! Debi left Aunt Donna's right after us. We both were stopped side by side at a red light on the main stretch of Sun City Center. (This is a retirement village with golf carts galore during the day!) Anyhoose, Debi was in her son's RED sports car, five speed with dual exhausts. Hot car! Did I mention it was RED? When the light turned green, she and mom sped out. Mom in her family mini-van and Debi in her red, hot sports car! Guess who got away fastest and noisier?? MOM!! hehe Just kidding. It of course was Debi. Did I mention her car was RED? I bet she giggled all the way home! Just the thought of drag racing and the noisy engine in mid Sun City late at night had me giggling!

(Personal note to Debi: "Thanks for egging my mom on. That is JUST what I needed to calm my nerves for the drive home.*winks*)
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Some photos from Sunday!

You can count on it! If these two are in the same room for more than - oh let's say ten minutes - there will be a wrestling match!

Several In Need Of Prayer

Right after posting about the "Traveling Rocking Chair" tonight, I received a call from my mom telling me that my Aunt Donna was being taken to the emergency room due to vomiting all day. She is not very big and is 82 years of age. Most of you probably remember her from several of my posts in which I've mentioned her and shown photos of her. I haven't heard if they kept her for observation. I'll know in the morning and pass the news on to all of you who are so faithful in helping me pray.

While on the phone with mom, I had another call coming in but chose to let voice mail pick it up. It was my friend Kim Leonard. She also sent me an email telling me that her husband Mike had been admitted into the hospital. He'll be having a cath done at 11:30 Wednesday morning. Mike was diagnosed with heart trouble about five years ago. Lately, he has been feeling just terrible and passing out. His stress test last week proved that further exploration was needed. This week, while participating in the FLIP TABLE test, he passed out more than once. I spoke with him on the phone tonight and he sounded like his cheerful ol' self!

Thirdly, a family friend, Thom Demas was helping a friend move some boxes. One box he grabbed had metal stripping around it, which cut deeply into his hand. He is bandaged up and in need of prayer.

Of course, you can continue to pray for my daddy who is recuperating from shoulder surgery.

Whew! I think that's about it for tonight! The blessing in this is that each and every one of these dear ones know the Lord as their personal Saviour! Thanks for praying friends!

The "TRAVELING ROCKING CHAIR" is Now Complete!

Remember this photo from a couple of weeks ago? My cousin Ron showing Aunt Tommie and the rest of us a completed rocking chair. You can read the entire blog entry here.

I've decided to always refer to the rocker as "The Traveling Rocking Chair" because of all the states it has traversed while in parts. Those parts have now been put together by Ron and a new seat has been created. I think it's just beautiful sitting in the living room of Ron and Ellie, don't you? I'm including the email cousin Ron sent along with the photos today.

Hi Pam, Just thought I’d send the pics of the completed
“Traveling Rocker” all complete. Papaw had made a slat type seat for it but over
the years it warped to the point it is unusable. This is the most uncomfortable
chair you will ever sit in. It’s just too straight. Our little Becky likes it
just fine. She has very good posture and sits very straight anyway, so it suits
her just fine. Also, the seat is just 18” wide so that limits just who will be
sitting in it.

The chair is special in it’s own right just because it is
the “Last One” and will be treasured for years to come (Just Like YOU).

Love, Ronk

I'm So Happy...

I got so much accomplished today! Yipee! That was my "Dream "for yesterday but yesterday's "Dream" turned into a "Nightmare" as I slipped further and further behind in my goals. Sorry Mighty Mom.

Today, however, I feel as though I've redeemed myself! Do you ever feel that way? It's as if the guilt from dragging my feet the day prior is gone because I worked so hard today!

I'll try to list what I accomplished today:

1)sanitized master bathroom - both sinks, toilet, tub
2)wiped both under sink cabinet interiors
3)went through each item from under the sink, weeded lots of stuff out
4)washed out baskets before reloading them with necessry items
5)took down vent to bleach and clean the grooves with a toothbrush
6)soaked all hairbrushes, combs, etc.
7)cleaned out bathroom linen closet
8)sorted and weeded out from all body care, make-up items, medical basket
9)took down decorative towels to wash. They're now in dryer.
10)cleaned mirrors
11)polished cabinets exterior with Old English Oil
12)scrubbed tile floor with bleach water!
13)paid some bills
14)blogged!

Now I'm going to vacuum, make an early supper, then I'm off to take a long, hot soaker in the tub with a good book!

NOTE TO MIGHTY MOM: I still have that messy desk! But look at photos to see what I did in place of organizing my office!

I WENT TO VISIT THIS MAN-MY DADDY!

This was taken Monday-his first day home after surgery.

FOR RITA-PROOF YOUR FATHER IS OBEYING DR'S. ORDERS.

Here dad is doing his breathing exercises. Also note the small blue ball he must squeeze throughout the day.

The day before dad returned from the hospital, I cleaned some furniture for my mom. She's been redecortaing one of their bedrooms and had wanted to get that chore done before dad's surgery,

but time didn't permit.

These items work wonderfully for those tedious jobs

like cleaning decorative furniture!

A BEFORE SHOT OF THE DUSTY NIGHTSTAND!

THE AFTER SHOT!

THE AFTER SHOT OF THE CHEST-ALL SHINY and CLEAN!

WE RETURNED TO VISIT DAD ON WEDNESDAY. I'M HAPPY MY JOSH WAS THERE PAINTING MOM'S KITCHEN. WE WERE ABLE TO SPEND SOME TIME CHATTING AND WATCHING HIM WORK! HE IS ONE OF THE NEATEST PAINTERS I'VE EVER SEEN!
WE ALSO HELPED MOM INSTALL BRACKETS AND HANG SOME DRAPERIES IN THE BEDROOM SHE JUST REDECORATED. (I guess I should say Agustin helped with this!) JOSH USED A BEAUTIFUL GOLD PAINT, BUT THE WALLS LOOK A LITTLE PEACHY TO ME IN THIS SHOT.

Now if I could only get my office organized! Jackie where are you?

Miss Him Already!

Didn't you love the way he wasn't afraid to use the words "victory" and "freedom"?

Do you remember how you felt that first week after 9-11? This speech was given on January 20, 2001.

A Tragic Day For America, My Country!

Below, you will read one of the saddest pieces of news I've heard in awhile. It's an email I received just moments ago from Donald Wildmon of the American Family Association.

EDITED TO SAY: Yesterday, I mistakenly mentioned FOCA as being signed. Please read Mighty Mom's comment to get a better idea on what happened on Friday. I knew this terrible act was going to happen once Obama was elected, I mean, it came as no surprise. He told us through out his campaign he was for choice, which means Pro-Abortion! But it really hit home today when he reversed President Bush's policy which for the past eight years has banned our tax dollars from going overseas to help fund family planning services similar to Planned Parenthood. And he wants our country to be healed? While helping to murder innocent ones? God forgive us is my plea!

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Please help us get this information into the hands of as many people as possible by forwarding it to your entire e-mail list of family and friends.

Obama lifts ban, will use your tax dollars to pay for abortions around the world


January 23, 2009

Dear Pam,

President Obama has lifted a ban on federal funding for international groups that promote or perform abortions, reversing a policy of his predecessor, George W. Bush.
Obama's actions mean that hundreds of millions of your tax dollars will go to help groups like Planned Parenthood perform abortions around the world.

His actions came one day after the 36th anniversary of the landmark Roe v. Wade Supreme Court ruling that legalized abortion in all 50 states.

Please take the action suggested below. It will not cause Obama to reverse his decision, but it will send a notice to him that unborn babies are human and deserve the same rights as the born.

Take Action!
Send an e-mail to Obama asking him to stop funding the killing of unborn children.
After you send the e-mail, please make a phone call (202-456-1414) and leave a message that you strongly disagree with Obama's using tax dollars to fund abortion.
Watch this one minute video.


I IMPLORE you to get involved in helping stop ABORTION!! What an ugly scab on the face of our nation!

THIS IS WHAT I GET FOR BEING REAL!!!

After "being real" on my last post (showing my messy desk and office), I've now earned myself an assignment from none other than, DRUM ROLL PLEASE - dun, dun, dun,
Mighty Mom! She left the following comment for me!

"girl, you need a list of GOALS!! small ones. break it down to tiny tidbits so that you can get each one done in about 5-10 minutes. Don't try to tackle the whole desk at once or you'll never start!!let's see here.
Goal 1, decide where each shelf and pic will go on the wall, draw sketch of placement.
goal ,sweetly ask h ubby and son to hang in place.
goal 3, transfer dates, toss calendar
goal 4, put duct tape in it's proper place..on top of the TV, you must keep duct tape readily available AT ALL TIMES!! it can not get hidden on floor.
goal 5, "I'm a stickler on doing things right. If I don't have time to do it right, I prefer not to do it at all!" redefine "right" to mean "progress not perfection" --this will take some practice.
There, that's enough for this week. Next week we can see where we stand and come up with 5 more!"

Don't you just love that? I know I should set goals. I know I should take baby steps in accomplishing big projects, I know how to organize, but for some reason, reading Mighty Mom's comment made me want to get at it. I think I should hire her as my personal coach!!! Her comment also made me start thinking about all she carries on her shoulders as a mom to 3 precious kiddos, a wife to a veteran, a nurse, a crafter, and an amazing blogging friend to me! When I read of all the wonderful things she does with her children, I'm convinced "MIGHTY MOM" is the right title for her! I'm especially touched by the fact that she took time out of her busy life to leave me a detailed list. It really means alot!


I just popped over to her blog to get her correct URL. Lo and behold, if she hadn't posted about GOALS!!!

As of today, I have completed one item from the list of goals. See photo below to determine which goal has been met!


Another comment from Deborah led me to her post today to find some humorous encouragement. Check out her post about her desk! Love you Deb for making me chuckle today!

Each comment about my mess, er desk, was encouraging. I found out that I must have a long lost brother as well, who shares the Messy Desk gene with me!

HOW MANY OF YOU ARE WILLING TO POST A PHOTO OF YOUR DESK? This means you take the photo right away BEFORE touching a thing on it!!! I believe some of your desks probably are as neat as I wish mine to be, but according to all the comments on mine and Deb's posts about this desk thing, most of you have this messy desk thing in common with me! *smiles*

THIS IS SO EMBARRASSING BUT I'M GOING TO POST IT ANYWAY!

Just a quick glance at these photos and you'll know what I should be making my #1 priority! That's right, folks. My desk needs my attention; and not just my desk, but my entire office!!! I plan on purchasing a flatscreen for the wall and I want to refinish this little wooden chest. I figure it's the New Year, a great time to do things I've been procrastinating on.

A lovely display of a corner in my office! The drawer is full of paper work which needs to be filed or shredded and an old calendar from which I need to transfer birthdates from onto my 09 calendar.

In the floor is a bag of trash, some red shelves and pictures I want to hang on my walls, and my old wedding album. I'm in the process of tranferring the photos and journaling into a new album. For crying out loud, I think I spot a roll of duct tape there as well!

Here is my lovely desk! OUCH! I can't believe I'm posting this for all to see. In my past, I touted, with pride, how organized I was. What has happened to me? In all honesty, it's my health which holds me from being on top of things. I have energy to do what absolutely must be done on a daily basis. I leave everything else for LATER or for when I feel better! Later never seems to arrive! I'm a stickler on doing things right. If I don't have time to do it right, I prefer not to do it at all!

A pile of bills and papers which need to be filed or put through the shredder!

My niece Jackie put up a post recently about her messy desk. She asked, "What's on your desk?" Let me see if I can even list all the things on my desk. Go read Jackie's list. It made me smile as it reflects the season of life she is in, a young mommy!
Okay my list follows:
On My Desk
1. Shane's camera
2. Empty camera box and instruction booklets, etc.
3. Photo album of nephew Josh Daniel as baby
4. receipts
5. bills
6. calculator
7. stapler
8. paper weight from Mexico
9. 4 baskets of pens, markers, hi-lighters, scissors
10. address book
11. Catalogue from Princess House
12. new camera memory card still in packaging
13. electric pencil sharpener
14. devotional book from Kelly at Cozy Comforts
15. patriotic candle
16. CDs

Then on top of my desk hutch are 7 photos, telephone, plant, 2 shaker boxes, antique glass duck, wooden cat, napkin holder stuffed with pressing paperwork (i.e. jury summons, medical records, etc.)
So there you have it. I must get this beast under control as it clutters my mind and growls at me each time I walk into this room!

It's Not Good That I'm Home Alone Today

...Because I'm much too melancholy, I can't stop crying! I'll truly miss the Bushes.

As I listened to President Obama's speech, I was happy to hear him use muscular language concerning terrorism and I was thrilled when he acknowledged (FINALLY) that we are at war and we will DEFEAT the enemy. That, my friends, was not the language he used during his campaign.

As I watched President Bush chatting with the Obamas causing them to laugh as they came down the steps after the ceremony, I was filled with pride that Mr. Bush never swayed from his core principles but remained his friendly, down to earth self.

As I watched Mrs. Bush and President Bush embrace the Obamas then speak intimately with them before boarding their helicopter, I was reminded of the Bush's maturity and graciousness during the past eight years.

As I watched the helicopter flying away, I was met with another flood of emotion, tears flowed and I bawled loudly!

As I switched through the different channels, trying to get a handle on how some were treating this great moment in history, only on MSNBC were they allowing the sound to stream from a particular group singing to the helicopter, "La la la la, La la la la, Hey Goodbye" over and over. I was reminded once again about those Hatemongers over there! Only on MSNBC folks can you find such blatant, cheesy, disrespect!

As I listen to the news, I'm once again impressed with the Bush's graciousness and courtesy as I learn they are having a private farewell ceremony in a hangar at Andrew's Air Force Base, with the press closed out. Not Clintonesque at all! Remember the Clinton's openly hung around for way too long after President Bush's inauguration ceremony?

As I watch President Bush being escorted by the military to the hangar, he seems to be "choking up". I find myself "choking up" right along with him.

Good-bye Laura and Mr. President. You will be missed!

Aa I get started now with my daily duties, I'll be in a state of prayer for my country and my new President and his family.

Not In The Mood To Post Today

My emotions today are in turmoil as I watch the innaugural ceremonies. I wept as President Bush arrived on the platform. I trust that we are never as vile to our new President as many Americans have been to President Bush. I pray that I have the grace to moderate my anger when those same folks that disrespected President Bush so outwardly now speak to us via media and preach at us to unite, to come together for the good of our nation. Why didn't they do the same while we were a nation at war? Yes, today represents an awesome transfer of power, peacefully. Thank God for that! I love my country and promise to pray for my new president while not agreeing with his politics.

I do think Obama's girls are adorable and it will be fun to watch them grow up in the White House.

I spent a YEAR there ONE day!

That's how I felt Saturday night when I left the hospital where dad's surgery was! The day had been so long!! We arrived at 5:30 a.m., but didn't leave for home until sixteen hours later! Dad's surgery was pushed back from 10a.m. Another case came up with the surgeon, so dad didn't get taken to pre-op until 1:30 p.m. After the surgery, dad had a few complications in recovery. Finally after four hours, we were allowed allowed to go back and see him. We knew right away he was in pain! After the usual kiss to his forehead and "Hey, did you have a good nap?", his first words were directed at mom, "Did you get that prescription for pain medication filled?" Dad is a real trooper and usually deals with his pain quietly. After his first open heart surgery, he only took his pain meds for two days after coming home. He did even better after last year's open heart surgery. He didn't take any pain meds after leaving the hospital. So we knew he was in intense pain for that question to be blurted out so quickly!

After a short chat the nurse came over to explain that after the surgery, dad's sugar spiked to 400 and his blood pressure was irregular. They were giving him insulin. He also looked very pasty. She waited until he stabilized and got some color back before calling us to see him in recovery.

We returned to the waiting room and about 2 hours later, we were told dad was in his room. We went in to see him at 8:45 p.m. and stayed for about ten minutes. Dad pointed to the clock on the wall and said, "It has been twenty-four hours since I've eaten.!" Nurse said that some chicken broth was on it's way. His sugar level was at 351 so another shot of insulin was administered. Agustin and I then left. Since dad was in a private room with a recliner which made into a bed, mom stayed with dad through the night. Agustin went back the next day with some supplies for them. There's a funny story about that I'll share later. I think it will make you chuckle!

Best part, Dad came home today! (Monday) He is quite sore and can't rest well. He tried lying in bed but just couldn't get comfortable. It appears he will have to lean back in his recliner and try to get some zzzz's there until some healing takes place.

Thanks so much for your prayers and comments. God was faithful and there guiding the surgeon's hands. He had dad in the palm of His hand the entire time. You all are such an inspiration to me!

Since we were sequestered in the room with dad waiting for the surgeon for seven hours, we had a wonderful family time of fellowship and memories. We spent a lot of time talking about all of our past pets from our childhoods. I'll post more tomorrow when I'm awake!

Prayers for Dad please!

I just wanted to leave a quick note here to ask you prayer warriors to lift my dad up as he goes in for shoulder surgery Sat. morning. Because of dad's' history of heart problems , we have to report to the hospital at 5:30 a.m. for MORE pre-op, etc. Surgery is scheduled for 10:00am. Please agree with me in prayer that all involved will be well rested, alert, and that all surgical instruments will be free from bacteria, etc. The hospital is allowing plenty of time to do an EKG on dad, etc. His blood sugars have been terribly high lately. This could be from the pain in his shoulder reaching all time new levels of OUCH!! Also the cortisone shots can cause higher blood sugars in a diabetic. One Dr. isn't really on board with the decision of dad going on with the surgery, but several other Dr.s are all for it. My poor daddy has suffered from this right shoulder of his for several years, just thinking it was arthritis getting worse. Turns out, he has a very large tear in the lining and will be having his rotator cuff replaced. I'm so looking forward to seeing him without that constant pain which causes fatigue.
Thanks for your prayers. We are looking forward to sending out great reports at the end of the day!

Shane is psyched to be going to spend the weekend with Jungle Mom's son and daughter in law. I'll be spending time between my parent's home and the hospital. Hubby has to work some weird hours this weekend. My eldest son has his annual high school alumni breakfast and basketball game tomorrow, so that left Shane wondering if he had to spend the entire day at the hospital!! I asked my nephew Josh, if he would mind "babysitting" Shane. (Shane is eleven years old!) Josh quipped back, "I'll hang out and chill with my little buddy, but I ain't changing no diapers!" LOL He's a hoot! Anyhoose, Shane and Josh Vernoy have a special bond and relationship. My son's face lights up the minute he hears his cousin Josh is coming over or going to be somewhere with us. I sure hope Naomy survives the two of them!

Thanks again for your prayers for dad!

Thank You Lord...

...for the miracle on the Hudson River, New York, this evening!

While the crash itself was an awful thing, I couldn't help but feel proud after learning that all souls were safe. I even felt a little warm and fuzzy as I heard stories related by news anchors about the heroes of the day. The pilot did a phenomenal job and I am convinced it was the hand of the Lord that caused that plane to stop before hitting the George Washington bridge! To think there were no deaths or major injuries amazes me; but hearing how smoothly the rescues went and that pedestrians were involved in any way they needed to be helpful was such a blessing. To hear the reports, with such positive, glowing words reminded me that yes, indeed, I do live in the best country on earth! I guess hearing about Americans coming together in a tragedy was a needed break from all the mud slinging and criticizing that has plagued our airwaves for much too long! Albeit our country has more problems than we would like and we have some real sleaze balls in our citizenry, our good outweighs our bad. We have many wonderful things we should praise about our nation. We have many great people living amongst us. It's just too sad that it sometimes takes a tragedy for us to see how strong and decent our nation and citizens really are!

Did anyone feel a sense of pride when hearing the positive actions and results after the crash? This tragedy which turned into a triumph, helped remind me that I live in the best country on earth!

Another emotional half hour for me was the time I spent watching our President Bush giving his farewell speech. What love he has for this country and how unkindly he has been treated! I'm so thankful that he never wavered nor left his principles. I'm thankful he was a REAL man, not working to be popular, but working to keep us safe! Don't ever let it escape your memory that he and his policies have kept us safe for nearly eight years. I'm also very proud for all the money and effort he has put into fighting aids in Africa. I believe his approval rate there is 80%!!! May God go with him as he begins a new chapter in his life next week.

Mrs. Laura Bush with President Bush, 2008

Agustin and I especially like this photo with the Mariachi guests. They were invited for a "Cinco de Mayo" celebration at the White House, May 5, 2008

THE TRAVELING ROCKING CHAIR and a SMALL FAMILY REUNION

This past Thursday evening, Mom, Shane, and I traveled down to Sun City Center to visit Aunt Donna and Aunt Tommie. Aunt Tommie just arrived Sunday for a two month visit. We haven't seen her in two years. Cousin Debbie, Cousin Ron, and his wife Ellie joined us for dinner. We brought food from the O.G. (Olive Garden). Our menu consisted of lasagna, salad, and bread sticks of course! Agustin had also thrown in some Tiramasu for Ellie and Ron who LOVE the stuff. I think we should hook them up to an IV for it! This small family reunion lasted a few short hours; sweet and satisfying, with the usual fun banter between us.

This is Aunt Donna's antique china. I just love the fact that it is about 125 years old!

Click to enlarge photo for a closer look at the pattern.

Shane is proud that he is soon to be taller than Aunt Donna!

Aunt Tommie visiting with Shane. It had been two long years since we had seen her.



THE TRAVELING ROCKING CHAIR!
I simply MUST share the story of THE ROCKER with you!
First off, I want you all to know that my Grandpa Booker was a master craftsman. He made a rocker for each of his daughters and daughter in laws. Some of the grandchildren received a rocker from him as well. My sister Rita, as a matter of fact, has her little red rocker still today. That little cane seat rocker has been to the jungles of South America, but is now in Paraguay with her. I guess we could call it a TRAVELING ROCKING CHAIR as well! Grandpa never used nails in his rockers, but made his own wooden 'pegs' to attach each piece together.
Rita, could you please post a photo of your little rocker that Grandpa made? I'll try to remember to post the one that mom has. Mom painted hers PINK! It's beautiful and sits proudly in her office today.
Many years ago, before the passing of my Grandpa Booker Riffe, he cut the pieces of this rocker out of a variety of woods. We assume he wanted to use the left over wood from what was lying around his shop from previous projects.

Back in 1999(?) when my cousin Ron visited Aunt Tommie at her home in Indiana, she gave him the pieces to see if he could fit the puzzle pieces together, to build the rocker. A few years before that day in '99 though, my Uncle Robert had taken the pieces out to California with him to try and put together. Uncle Robert was killed in an auto accident before getting the chair together. That's when Aunt Tommie acquired the pieces. She lived in Oregon at the time I believe. Anyway, when she moved out to Indiana, she brought the pieces with her. She was keeper of the pieces until that day in 1999 I mentioned. Well, Ron has been working on the chair since October, putting it together and staining it with a beautiful walnut stain. The photo here does not do it justice! Looking at that rocker Thursday evening, none of us could have told you that it was made out of no less than four different types of wood. Ron still has to put the seat on it, but he couldn't wait to show it to Aunt Tommie and the rest of us that evening. Ron, I thank you for completing a project that our beloved Grandpa started all those years ago!

I think I'll always call it, THE TRAVELING ROCKING CHAIR!

You can tell, Aunt Tommie was thrilled!

Side Note: Every project Ron takes on comes out wonderfully. It's a family gene I do declare!

And I think Ronnie was a little proud, as well he should be. I asked him how it felt to handle the pieces of wood our Grandpa had handled all those years ago. It was awesome!

I think it's so cute to see that mom and Aunt Donna were holding hands in these photos

with the rocker.

The Motley Crew

Mom, Debbie, Ellie, Ron, Aunt Tommie, Aunt Donna, Shane

Debbie, Ellie, Ron, Me, Aunt Tommie, Aunt Donna

The old ones (oops. I meant the "mature" ones) were allowed to eat at the dining room table.

While the youngin's were placed at the kitchen table. That's Ellie with Shane!

Debbie kissing her mama goodnight. I'm so happy to have caught this on camera!

AS GOOD AS GOLD!

A couple of months ago, blogging friend Connie from Connie's Thoughts awarded me the BFF Gold Card....BLOGGING FRIENDS FOREVER! Isn't it so cute? The idea behind this award is that you send it to three bloggers who have regularly commented on your blog and also to one new blogging friend. The 3 people that I have chosen to pass this award on to are bloggers that have visited and commented on my blog in the beginning of my blogging days.

1) Always the encourager to both Shane and I, Jen of Pen of Jen

2) Always reminding me of God's awesome power, Susan of Penless Writer

3) Always treating me like a sister, (cuz we are sisters!) Rita, of The Jungle Hut

4) My new and witty blogging friend, NINA of Portugal Bound

Connie, I'm so thankful you thought of me for this award. I'm so sorry it has taken so long to follow award it to these other lovely bloggers! I have had the award displayed on my side margin though since first receiving it!

HUBBY TAG

I saw this over at Frazzled Farm Wife 's blog and thought it would be fun!




1. Who is your man? Agustin




2. How long have you been together? married for 22 years




3. How long dated? 7 and a half months




4. How old is your man? 45




5. Who eats more? well...have you seen photos of the two of us? You tell me who you think eats most!




6. Who said “I love you” first? He did




7. Who is taller? He's a tad taller




8. Who sings better? UM that would DEFINITELY be me!!LOL




9. Who is smarter? He is




10. Whose temper is worse? HIS!!




11. Who does the laundry? Me of course!




12. Who takes out the garbage? He does if our son isn't around




13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? I do




14. Who pays the bills? I do...but he probably should! hehe




15. Who is better with the computer? Me




16. Who mows the lawn? He does it and loves all yard work! (Thank you Lord!)




17. Who cooks dinner? I do most of the time, but he does often




18. Who drives when you are together? He does most of the time




19. Who pays when you go out? He does




20. Who is most stubborn? I'm not sure!




21. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? ME!




22. Whose parents do you see the most? Mine, they only live about 40 minutes away, his live in Mexico!




23. Who kissed who first? He kissed me first




24. Who asked who out? He asked me out




25. Who proposed? He did...I think! LOL He asked me in Spanish. I was a novice, living in Mexico. The word for "hunting" is very similar to the word for "marrying". My brother-in-law enjoys teasing me that Agustin asked me to go Hunting and I started planning a wedding!




26. Who is more sensitive? ME!




27. Who has more friends? ME! He's a quiet one.




28. Who has more siblings? He does




29. Who wears the pants in the family? Definitely him




30. How did you meet? At his younger brother's birthday party

A NEW PRAYER REQUEST

I'd like to request prayer for an evangelist's daughter. Her name is Candace and she resides in Michigan. Candace went to her Dr. to simply have a brown spot/growth removed from her upper arm. It turned out to be cancer, sarcoma I believe. This type of cancer has 'roots'. Her parents are here in FL on their winter evangelistic trip, but will return to Michigan as soon as they know what the next step is for Candy. She is 29 years old and a mother to 2 younger children. She and hubby are called as missionaries to a dark, far away land. I'd so much appreciate your prayers for Candy, her husband and children, and for Pat and Bonnie Boulton-her parents. Pat preached at our church here in Wesley Chapel Sunday. It had been a year since seeing him and his precious wife. Candy is on the far right in this photo, wearing a black and white dress. Her two little boys are in red and one is sitting on Grandma Bonnie's lap.



It's always a highlight of my year to see the Boultons and visit a bit with them. They're the type of people who encourage you in the Lord and lift your spirits. It was very disheartening for me to hear about their youngest daughter's cancer though.

I first met Pat and Bonnie several years ago while my sister and her hubby were missionaries in Venezuela. Pat would come to the Tampa area each winter and preach in my dad's church.

Pat and Bonnie's daughter Kris, and their son-in-law Brian, were also missionaries in Venezuela; Brian being a missionary pilot for B.I.M.I. The fact that we had family members serving God in the same region seemed to cause us to form a common bond right away. When we heard news from my sis and family, we also heard news of Kris and Brian. When the Boultons heard news from Kris and Brian, they also received news of my sis and her family. Then we would share the info between ourselves! I remember it was always so comforting to know that someone else was hearing regularly from Venezuela with ministry updates while Rita and Clint were sequestered in the jungle.

Thanks so much for your prayers for Candace! We pray believing God's best for Candy. If you would like to email Pat and Bonnie to express your concern and to let them know you're agreeing with us in prayer for God's will in Candy's life, here is their email address:
ptboult@aol.com


(Rita-Bonnie specifically asked me to email you all. I'm letting you know about Candy via my blog instead.)

"WE NEED EACH OTHER" in this New Year!

Below is a link to a "feel good" song which I posted with intentions to help us get our minds off the terrible things going on in our world these days. The video features one of my all time favorite singers - Ernie Haas. Or better known around our home as NERNIE! That was Shane's way of calling him. We were big fans of Ernie when he sang with a southern gospel group called 'The Cathedrals'. We attended so many concerts, I think Shane thought the quartet was part of our family. I want to post some cute photos of Ernie holding Shane, but I'd need to find them and scan them. It's late now and I must get to bed!

Listen to the little girl's comment at about 6 minutes in, so precious!

My thought for the new year: Let's all just try and get along!

WE NEED EACH OTHER

Fun MEME- Thanks Kelly!

Kelly from Cozy Comforts tagged me for this amusing MEME. Open your document or picture folders. Choose your 6th folder, then choose your 6th picture. Post the photo with a description about it. Then tag 6 more friends to do the same.

This is the sixth picture in my sixth folder. We were attending a Sarah Palin rally in "The Villages" Florida back in September. Country music singer Aaron Tipton entertained the crowds while waiting for the real star (Sarah!) to arrive! The crowd was so massive, that we couldn't even catch a glimpse of the stage, so we watched everything via this big screen.

I now choose:

1) Rita at The Jungle Hut

2) Jen at Pen of Jen

3) Jayde at Verja Bunny

4) Mighty Mom

5) Jackie at Busy Little People

6) Kat at Beach Kat

Feel free to decline if you're too busy. Just be sure to let me know if you do it!