tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61676770426774053972024-03-05T15:06:05.625-05:00Country Life to LiveThis blog is a mix of inspirational posts along with some humor thrown in. Hope you enjoy and feel free to comment anytime!Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.comBlogger145125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-30624109315622476072012-10-31T13:28:00.000-04:002012-10-31T13:28:02.855-04:00Happy Halloween!<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Halloween 2012! I used to be so organized about getting the kids costumes 6-8 weeks before Halloween. My oldest daughter would tell me in September what she wanted to be and I would jump on ebay and hunt down the perfect costume. There were years I got in bidding wars with those other moms who wanted that same costume for their young ones! But I usually came out the winner, even if it cost me <strike>fifty dollars</strike> more then I wanted to spend! These last couple years I have become one of those moms who asks their kids what they want to be for Halloween, but then don't really start searching for costumes until about the middle of October. Well, I can't exactly shop for Jenna's costume because she changes her mind <strike>ten times a day</strike> every other day! So this year, I was on top of things and made them look at costumes a month before Halloween. Jen decided she wanted to be a spider countess, which of course they had plenty of them in stock at that time. Well, I figured it was just a phase and she would change her mind. Little did I know, she really meant she wanted to be a spider countess. So a couple weeks ago I started looking for that exact costume and to my luck, I couldn't find it! So finally the second store in another city that I checked had 1 more in stock and BINGO - her size!! God was working in my favor that day! I kept asking Alyssa what she wanted to be. "Mom, I don't know, I need to look at costumes." GRRR...... I told her to make up her mind and quickly. So finally Saturday we hit one of those Halloween stores that are way too expensive just to see what they had. I looked at those prices and thought 'no way!!' Luckily we scored a witch's costume for under $15. Again, BINGO!! Until we started adding accessories from another store... a witch's brooms, of course orange and black witch's tights, shoes, make-up.... Sigh.....</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Arial;">Oh, but while picking up last minute accessories, we hit the jackpot and found our family dog a pumpkin costume. The girls and I were so excited about the dog's costume... daddy.. not so much but we convinced him the dog would love it!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Arial;">Happy Halloween! Stay safe no matter what you do on this Halloween night.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GmKZRqN6KfoLP6S24lhjlOhdkIhdE7gfGp6d9YP37jdH66wCNeOGxVCPMqnkknuJQ9vAr1T27yhVdCFj3_1zFQSMiMwhDpe3NxwyvNHmUNiRZQKe54Rdj8ZW_hq-wUCft_JRqALk6lxT/s1600/IMG_3606%5B1%5D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GmKZRqN6KfoLP6S24lhjlOhdkIhdE7gfGp6d9YP37jdH66wCNeOGxVCPMqnkknuJQ9vAr1T27yhVdCFj3_1zFQSMiMwhDpe3NxwyvNHmUNiRZQKe54Rdj8ZW_hq-wUCft_JRqALk6lxT/s400/IMG_3606%5B1%5D.png" width="266" /></a></div>
Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-44463267344457255962012-08-29T22:40:00.000-04:002012-08-31T15:00:12.044-04:00Wordless Wednesday - Noah's Ark<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How true is this! Enjoy.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhofzly4_CnRJi4FLYhkAS0lnTVBTAhLib7bZIGhl3iUwDctsSFedyNNr49J9W_rQxF-P0Y4KfsrZJbMapfucPNium9SfXdFi0bVDTQCN85fAhSObLQrccpXRNppb1a-mNI66vZ9WYqOJ4S/s1600/NoahsArk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhofzly4_CnRJi4FLYhkAS0lnTVBTAhLib7bZIGhl3iUwDctsSFedyNNr49J9W_rQxF-P0Y4KfsrZJbMapfucPNium9SfXdFi0bVDTQCN85fAhSObLQrccpXRNppb1a-mNI66vZ9WYqOJ4S/s640/NoahsArk.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-79214477086942364132012-08-22T21:38:00.000-04:002012-08-23T09:45:58.116-04:00Wordless Wednesday<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here comes something new on my blog! Each Wednesday I will post a picture with just a few words about the picture. This ensure I will post at least once a week. This Wordless Wednesday tradition begins with a picture of myself and my girls from the fair. </span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9gSOOvY-qXftFO-lZJu7GPPocnTudqnmdPoXEnLv5SlCRI94d2cB7rReowEn6N3A4vDqdcgzN94IdiiBKKLDnPE5VO30HRo9gYU9DkzdrjH7cYiHArABcNIbmXdMLYeJrVrugalWBTPlY/s1600/IMG_2998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9gSOOvY-qXftFO-lZJu7GPPocnTudqnmdPoXEnLv5SlCRI94d2cB7rReowEn6N3A4vDqdcgzN94IdiiBKKLDnPE5VO30HRo9gYU9DkzdrjH7cYiHArABcNIbmXdMLYeJrVrugalWBTPlY/s400/IMG_2998.jpg" width="296" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fair 2012</span><br />
<div align="left">
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love this picture for several reasons. It was taken at dinner one evening at our fair a few weeks ago. Jenna is very loveable and loves her Mom and big sister. These two are my reasons for living and I just love when I get to spend time with them. It is simple moments like these that make life great and worth living. Thank you God for giving me these two beautiful girls to raise!</span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-75010816425241957372012-08-20T18:45:00.000-04:002012-08-20T18:45:00.657-04:00From One Stretch to Another...<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well that time that comes every year in August has once again arrived.... back to school time. I used to be one of those parents that was ready before the time arrived because I loved sending my oldest daughter back to school. It started our routine back, and I didn't have to worry about bothering either grandma to watch her. But as the kids get older, I treasure my time more and more with them. I remember 2 years ago I was so excited because both kids were in school then. The routine was better because both girls went to school all day and got off the bus at the same time. That only lasted a year since Alyssa was in 5th grade and Jen was in kindergarten. It seems like that was just yesterday, but fast forward until now and I have a 7th grader and a 2nd grader. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our summer consists of the girls visiting Granny most days, followed by attending a 4-H event almost every single weeknight of the summer. It's routine for me to leave work, drive 35 minutes to where they are to sit and wait for them to get done with whatever clinic they are participating in that evening, and get home late in the evening. I love that the girls are so involved in 4-H activities, but it can be extremely tiresome for all of us. Alyssa is fortunate enough to show horses, sheep, goats and her dog at the fair. Likewise, Jenna participates with her horse, a sheep and a goat. Now that doesn't sound like much but when there are different practices 3-4 nights a week, it is alot. And throw in the fact that I have a middle school cheerleader now - let's just say I'm lucky to sleep 6 hours a night!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Around our house, we have two main stretches of the year. The first is the school year which runs 9 1/2 months of the year. Then there is summer break which is the remaining 2 1/2 months of the year. The school year takes up most of our time with school activities, practices, games, homework and then of course the normal nightly routine of dinner, bath, and bedtime. I would love to think that when summer break comes along, it's mainly a break for us. It is in the fact there is no daily homework but 4-H and other activities fill the void there! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I am happy to say that most of our 4-H activities and our fair are all over for the year! This means we start our long school stretch which I think is a good thing. At least I'm trying to convince myself of that! Starting back to school means early bedtimes, early to rise, and tired kids at night. We are on day 5 of the school year and as I told my daughter this morning - 175 more days to go! Am I ready for summer to be over? No not really, and even though it has a few more days on the calendar, I consider summer break over the day they start back to school. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I can say I am happy with the progress the girls made this year with their animals and well they did at the fair. They may not have won every single class they were in, but they did come home with a few trophies, plaques, and ribbons. And they were happy with their results. That is what's important to me! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">As we say goodbye to summer break, daily 4-H events and the fair, we must say hello to another school year. Now that I'm getting used to getting up super early again to get Alyssa off on the bus, I think I'm happy that the school year has begun. I took advantage last week and cleaned house and did laundry while the house was peaceful and quiet with everyone still asleep. It should be illegal that Alyssa's bus comes as early as it does, but on the flip side, it's also nice to get things accomplished early in the morning. So as we end our summer stretch and begin our school stretch, we will enjoy and cherish the days. Because in the blink of an eye, I will be writing about preparing for the fair and the end of school year again.... </span><br />
<br />
<br />
Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-54544141918633589312012-08-16T06:33:00.000-04:002012-08-16T10:58:37.101-04:00The "You Have BAD Breath" Day...<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My kids usually visit the eye doctor right before returning to school. I was looking at the calendar a few weeks ago and realized I hadn't scheduled their appointments quite yet. So with trying to accommodate my vacation week and work schedule, so I picked a day I already had to leave early. My youngest daughter had a dentist appointment scheduled late one afternoon, so it worked out perfect that I scheduled their eye doctor visits for that same afternoon. What I failed to realize was that because of doing just that, I would have blog material fall right into my lap.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">It's no surprise that Jenna is the daily entertainment for our family. She is the never-know-what-she-is-going-to-say-or-do-next child. She is my handful but she is also very sweet and loving. There is never a dull moment around our home when she is awake. I know the expression kids say the darndest things is often heard or said. Unfortunately, that might just be an understatement of her actions that afternoon. She is known to be energetic almost all the time, but this day she was pumped up and ready to go. I didn't ask her Granny if she gave her boat loads of chocolate that afternoon, but maybe I should have. So we arrive just in time at the eye doctor's office. Since she is the only one who wears glasses, she was raring to go first. She jumped right up in that big black chair and started asking the doctor her normal 20+ questions. What's that do, what's this do, why is that picture on the wall, what do you use this for? Then he came closer to her to instruct her on what to do and where to sit. Next thing I know, out of her mouth came four words that embarrassed the daylights out of me and left me speechless. She looked him straight in the eye and said "You have bad breath." Ugh, what, ummm, hmmmm, oh my God, my child did NOT just say what she did. Yep, she certainly did and it was too late to rewind the scene. My first action was to immediately look at Alyssa on my left with my mouth wide open. What could I say or do? It's not like I could jump up, spank her butt, and lecture her about things we don't say at that moment in time. So I said her name very sternly, and told her that wasn't a nice thing to say. Then it was time to try and save face as much as I possibly could. The damage was already done, but I couldn't let the situation go completely. I explained to the eye doctor to please not think anything about it because she tells me, my husband, and her sister that all the time. He laughed it off but I could tell he was bothered by the comment. But to retreat, he got her back because she had her flip flops on the floor and was barefoot. He told her she had stinky feet! Good one doc, considering you were just told your breath stinks!! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">So after that humiliating incident, it was time for Alyssa to get her eyes checked. As always, the good child sat up there and did as she was supposed to do. No humiliating words left that pretty little mouth and her eyes checked out great like they always do!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">So after both exams were done, it was time</span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> to pick out glasses for the year. I told the ladies working in the office what Jenna said, and they laughed about it. But then the lady who always helps us pick out Jen's glasses put gum in her mouth and now always chews gum when she is around clients... all thanks to those 4 little words my daughter spoke that day. The glasses choice was a quick and easy one, and it was time to be off to the next stop - the dentist where the people are nice and close to your mouth, oh my....</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Let's just say Jenna received a lecture and a threat that she better not embarrass Mommy at the dentist office like she did at the eye doctor. We reminded her that sometimes we may have a thought in our head, but we don't speak it out loud. For most people, this is common sense, but for Jenna it can be difficult. She has always spoke her mind or asked whatever is on the brain at the time. Lord knows I have tried to teach her appropriate things to say, but there are just times where her mouth is out of my control. Her little brain operates and there is no stopping her! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Her dentist venture began with her cleaning as usual. At least I had conversation material for everyone in that office that we came in contact with for that appointment. I told the story and each person just laughed and thought it was hysterical. I have to admit it was a bit funny. Honestly, what can you do after your daughter says that? You have to laugh just a little bit, but the embarrassment definitely superseded the humor in it. She continued on her role at the dentist of being energetic and thinking she was funny. At one point, she asked the dental hygienist if she had anything to keep her distracted while she waited on the dentist to come in the room. So she received a lovely tic-tac-toe electronic game to play with for a few minutes. Then the dentist came in the room and heard the same funny story. I have to admit I was grateful that none of them had bad breath. At least Jenna didn't blurt it out if she thought so....</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">What was supposed to be a pretty quiet routine afternoon of doctor/dentist appointments turned into a comedy session that day. And a day the eye doctor and ladies in that office will never forget! I hope when she is 20 years old, the doctor harasses her about this story. I dearly love both of my girls and their personalities. It's funny how they are so much different from one another. They both have qualities about themselves that I wouldn't change. What I think I will change is the fact I will start carrying duct tape in my purse.... Thanks for the laugh and blog material Jenna. We did get to pick up the glasses a few days later, and thank goodness no one had bad breath that day!</span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-82656847080494522011-12-19T15:20:00.003-05:002011-12-19T15:57:17.074-05:00It's Christmas - Let's Pay it Forward!<span style="font-family:arial;color:#ff0000;">One of my more recent blogs was written about a bad day I had and complaining about my car needing repaired. Looking back on 3 months ago, it was a crazy few days. The expression of when it rains, it pours was completely true. I won't bore you with the details of everything that went wrong (or maybe I should say not in my favor), but let's just say I was a bit overwhelmed and was afraid to ask "what next?" Because I didn't think I could handle any more downpours of bad luck!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;">I know that God always provides when we need him to. I am a personal testimonial to this. And I can personally say he has blessed our family with exactly what we have needed these past few months. Since we have been so abundantly taken care of these past few weeks, my girls and I talked about ways we could give back, even if it was just something small. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;">With Christmas just around the corner, we agreed that we wanted to get a Christmas tree angel from the giving tree. We decided to go to our local Wal-Mart and pick a name and go shopping. Well, time got the better of us, and we kind of procrastinated. But the good news is that when we went to pick a name off the tree, there were 3 names left. My little one wanted to choose a girl from the tree to buy gifts for, but all the girl names were all taken. All that was left were 3 boys who were pre-teen ages. We picked one of those tree angels off the tree and off we went. I am so used to shopping for girls, so it was really took some effort to think what this little boy might like. The angel tag from the tree listed his clothing sizes and interests so we picked out a variety of clothes and some toys we thought he might like. The girls loved help picking out stuff and I had a warm feeling in my heart when we dropped our bag full of goodies off at the drop-off location for this charity. Plus the girls got a taste of what the true meaning of Christmas is. They were able to help out someone and that feeling made them happy to be able to help someone in need.</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#ff0000;">Lately I have found myself doing little things for others, strangers included, just because I want to. I admit I've not always been great about offering to help others out because like most people, I'm usually in a hurry and on a mission to get things accomplished. Just like today, there was a lady in a power wheelchair while grocery shopping staring at me getting my milk out of the cold section. I started to walk away, but instead turned around and asked if she needed help with something. I'm certainly glad I asked because what she needed was on the very top shelf and she couldn't reach it. I was happy I could help her out, and it only took about 10 seconds of my time and cost nothing to help her. I'm not telling you this to receive a pat on the back. Just simply sharing a story of how we can help others if we just take a moment out of our precious time and offer our help. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;">If it has been awhile since you have paid it forward, I challenge you to try this task. It doesn't even have to cost you any money. It might only take a couple minutes of your time, but it would help someone out. Is there an elderly person you know who could use some help around their home, or maybe someone to drive them to the store, or maybe just visiting someone like this for a little while? Is there an organization that you know could use some help and you could offer some of your time? Is there a family or friend you know could use an extra little something that maybe you could make a meal for or offer a gift card for a meal? It's little things like these examples that travel a mile. Sometimes if we just make a least amount of effort, it means the world to those on the receiving end. So again, I challenge YOU to pay it forward, in some way, big or small, in the next week. There are plenty of ways to do this. And the greatest part is that you will love the feeling inside when you do pay it forward. And in return, God will provide for you when you need it. It may not be in the way you expect to receive it, but it always comes full circle. Do something good for someone else, and in return, something good will be given to you. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;">I recently read a story in my local paper about an anonymous donor paying off several customers who had things in layaway for Christmas at K-Mart stores. The lady's husband had passed away and she was paying it forward by helping others. She was even handing out $50 bills to people in the store. This, ladies and gentlemen, is an angel sent from Heaven to help others in need. What a lovely surprise to those who had their layaway balances reduced or even paid in full. God always provides when we need Him to, and this is just one small example. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;">Remember, pay it forward in some small way and you will receive blessings in abundance of your good deed. God will always take care of us when we need Him to. But He also asks that we take care of others when they need us to. </span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-37717648288208266972011-12-14T10:11:00.006-05:002011-12-14T11:07:08.926-05:00Making New Memories<span style="font-family:arial;">It's that time of year again ~ Christmas just around the corner, Santa Claus coming to town soon, holidays, gatherings with family and friends, gifts, enjoying a few days from the normal routine, etc. I absolutely love this time of year, and as time passes, I love this season even more. The kids get a little taller each year, get a little smarter, and yes, another year older. Children don't stay little forever so I want to make the most of it while I can watching them grow up!</span> <br /><div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">This year we experimented with a couple new things that may become our traditions. First thing, there is a Santa train that passes through our neighboring town on a Friday each year. I have always heard about it and thought it sounded neat, but decided that this was the year we were going to experience it for the first time. Luckily the day that it was due to arrive was my scheduled day off from work so after school, we loaded up in the car and off we went. We arrived 1 1/2 hours before it's scheduled arrival time because I knew the line would be long. And I'm glad we did! We were about 30 people back in line so I knew we'd get a good view of it when it came pulling up on the track. I saw some friends of mine and chatted with a few here and there while waiting in line. My girls found a friend of theirs they have known since she was a baby so they were running around with her. What was super nice about the place we saw the train is that it was located at the fire station. They set up lines to wait inside for the train so we weren't out in the cold. And what made it ever better was the hot chocolate and cookies they served each person. Even though I ended up wearing half of my 6 year old daughter's hot chocolate, it was all the well worth it. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">The train arrived about 10-15 minutes ahead of schedule which was fabulous! I had no idea it would be as long as it was. What I was thinking would be 1-2 train cars turned into at least 5-6 (I couldn't count them all). The girls faces lit up as bright as the stars in the sky when they saw the Santa train. Then all of a sudden all of these cartoon and storybook characters started to climb out of the train. They were circling the crowd and dancing with each other and interacting with the kids. Buzz Lightyear even pulled my oldest daughter out and started dancing with her! It was amazing to see the inside of the train and the kids just loved seeing Santa and Mrs. Claus. The time inside the train was only about 10 minutes but so worth the long wait! Because when we left the line was wrapped around outside of the building and those poor folks had at least a 2 hour wait. </span></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">After the neat train episode, it was time to decide on dinner. There was a little cafe just down the street that I have passed for 31 years but never stopped in there. I asked my girls if they wanted to try something new and they were excited about that. Little did I know that they were closing about 5 minutes after we entered the restaurant. I noticed it was half full when we got there but within about 15 minutes, everyone has cleared out. I apologized to our waitress and she was so sweet and glad that we came in. She told us it was no problem and to take our time. It was a cute little place that served homemade food. I do believe we will be going back sometime!</span></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">The Santa train we finally got to see:</span></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUTyevRpqo6t2kDz0Yiuaf-E3TG1td3Sn-gcEgw3YhALV71nkOZnRrtw0RIOYJYHlWRb_HEaleHFho2g9y9P-8rGGpNnGPZa-Q5NDr0f1ICAv5B428vOKO2ogKqBwGw3zLVW3Tyd3-W04/s1600/102_0681.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5686007536705823794" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUTyevRpqo6t2kDz0Yiuaf-E3TG1td3Sn-gcEgw3YhALV71nkOZnRrtw0RIOYJYHlWRb_HEaleHFho2g9y9P-8rGGpNnGPZa-Q5NDr0f1ICAv5B428vOKO2ogKqBwGw3zLVW3Tyd3-W04/s400/102_0681.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">My girls with Santa & Mrs. Claus:</span></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdNb3uYYvaR0-bVKb4uRjVWxhleCPurVP_H7a6TlW_aPmlvCXUbT1QCh7D5eCgboeZPWLS3uPqsLLaVRIq3v62_R5U6GJJZLXAhzqEY14xCQ3JRNwHeE1WdOEj5gfL94KdNidWxuizSrr/s1600/102_0736.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5686008040518183986" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdNb3uYYvaR0-bVKb4uRjVWxhleCPurVP_H7a6TlW_aPmlvCXUbT1QCh7D5eCgboeZPWLS3uPqsLLaVRIq3v62_R5U6GJJZLXAhzqEY14xCQ3JRNwHeE1WdOEj5gfL94KdNidWxuizSrr/s400/102_0736.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">Girls with the Snowman:</span><span style="font-family:arial;"></div></span><br /><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10Ok2nOE0j89f0OWpPv-UPv-CkFd_FdU38q4gAFJX9qeprOzZl3DNXOesSIwv1aGMsrduPpTBEEX-AkDKXnu_jL-gzCL9lVuu7W21nAiUwHwMKHZ9_Abzt1NzKH71zcaz-SJSp5GlTyo_/s1600/102_0743.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5686008785868227490" style="WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10Ok2nOE0j89f0OWpPv-UPv-CkFd_FdU38q4gAFJX9qeprOzZl3DNXOesSIwv1aGMsrduPpTBEEX-AkDKXnu_jL-gzCL9lVuu7W21nAiUwHwMKHZ9_Abzt1NzKH71zcaz-SJSp5GlTyo_/s400/102_0743.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Making New Memories ~ Part 2 </strong></span></div></div><br /><br /><br /><p><span style="font-family:arial;">I have always wanted to host a Christmas cookie exchange party. I decided this year I was going to do just that! I asked my oldest daughter if she wanted to help me because she loves helping to plan stuff like that. "Did you say cookies Mom? Cookies?? Why, of course, Mom, I'd love to!" That child would turn into a cookie if I would let her! So we set the date, time and sent out the invitation. We only invited a few ladies who lived close by, mainly our good friends and family. I must say I love hosting parties but they can be alot of work. Clean the house, make sure the kids keep the house clean, clean some more, bake the goodies, prepare the finger foods, get the drinks ready, etc. I love, love, love hosting events but it can sometimes take many hours/days to get ready for fun that only lasts for 2 hours. All was set and the guests started arriving as scheduled, with the exception of the grandmas who arrived early but that was fine. Each person brought in their yummy goodies. There were peanut butter blossoms, more peanut butter blossoms, peanut butter cookies, chocolate chip cookies, no bake cookies, peppermint cookies, cereal balls with white chocolate, gingerbread <strike>women</strike> men, different types of fudge, snickerdoodles, the list goes on and on...</span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:arial;">The kids decided to play in the girls rooms while the ladies mingled and chatted. There was Christmas music playing, candles burning, and the feel of happiness and Christmas in the air. I can say our Christmas cookie exchange was a huge success and I think we have found our annual event to do again next year! After all, how could you not want to make one dessert and then bring some of each of these home??</span></p><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MUkXl3F6Z1ZoJF06e9th5MKcZ1rir8dX2qxYkeEPq0VZR324_LNTErqXCIOalFiaw-WOq6iQCnSLi6LrdKp51u-eMLJiO9VxKagKjKAeiYFg9vfIQcf5a7_t4kEHd_on0IPplLC4g4al/s1600/cookies.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5686012753382586274" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MUkXl3F6Z1ZoJF06e9th5MKcZ1rir8dX2qxYkeEPq0VZR324_LNTErqXCIOalFiaw-WOq6iQCnSLi6LrdKp51u-eMLJiO9VxKagKjKAeiYFg9vfIQcf5a7_t4kEHd_on0IPplLC4g4al/s400/cookies.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">We are making new memories each year that comes and goes.</span> <span style="font-family:arial;">I love the feel of the holidays and the feel that is in the air during Christmas time. And I love the reason we celebrate CHRISTmas. I have taught my girls that Jesus's birthday is on Christmas Day. Without Jesus who died for our sins, who knows what this world would be like? I do not want to know what this world would be like without Jesus or God. Because without Him, we would not exist, or be who we are today. Thank you Jesus for the many blessings you have given the world. And for that, I cannot wait to celebrate your birthday in just a few days. Merry Christmas to all! </span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-90140547415642939552011-08-30T21:34:00.003-04:002011-08-30T22:04:15.475-04:00Suck It Up Buttercup<span style="font-family:arial;color:#000099;">Well, hello again, blog! It's been awhile since I've been able to catch a breath to write anything for awhile. Summer has been crazy busy with work and 4-H stuff for my girls. I have missed you, fellow blog!</span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">Suck it up buttercup... this was running through my head today and by coincidence, I found this exact same phrase on a recent post on a blog that I follow and hadn't read for awhile. So I'm thinking this is God's message to me today! </span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">Have you ever had one of those days where bedtime can't come quick enough? You want to rewind, get up, and start over again? Yeah, well, today just so happened to be that day for this country girl. And let's just say it started bright and early this morning. My oldest daughter is now in middle school and gets on the bus over 2 hours earlier then she used to for elementary school. It was one of "those mornings" and her crankiness tried to spill over on to me. Notice I said "tried." It didn't happen, and I was not going to allow it to. Granted, I am not a morning person, and probably never will be. So this is challenging for me some days. I wake up each morning, grateful for another day to be alive and well, and tell myself that I will have a good day. I even said to myself that I was going to have one of those days, and I was right! The majority of my day wasn't too bad, until I was 5 minutes from home.</span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">I saw something I've never seen before. My car's 'service engine soon' light came on for the first time I have ever seen since I've owned it. I arrived to pick up the kids just in time to smell something to do with antifreeze. I am completely non-car-mechanical (that was a fun word to make up), so I instructed my mechanic in the family to go take a look at his next victim. He fired up the engine only to see white smoke rolling from the exhaust pipe and the smell of a hot engine sifting through the air. Strike one, strike two! I did not want to know what strike three was going to be. My poor baby will have to sit for a few days until the diagnosis is made. That will give me and my truck some bonding time since it's not my favorite primary vehicle to drive. I guess there goes my paycheck for gas the next few days at 10 miles to the gallon! </span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">So after the initial shock of my daily driver coughing and hacking out some nasty stuff, I decided to tackle the rest of the night. The first thing I did when I got in my house was attempted to put the groceries away. A bag fell from my hand and I heard CRASH! Oops.... guess the brand new light bulbs I got today were no longer usable. Just grand... Next, my front door decided to jam itself shut. Sigh, what next? I wasn't sure I really wanted to know. The next hour passed uneventful until one child was sick to her stomach. Then the other did not want to go to bed at normal bedtime. She was hungry, she was thirsty, she ran out of drink and needed more, she had to potty, she wanted another hug and kiss, sigh.... </span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">Is it morning yet? </span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">No, it's not so I guess I will continue writing on this blog :). I have always said that we have bad days, and we have our good days. Well, if today was a bad day, tomorrow has to be better. Right? I certainly pray that it is a better day! Was it a coincidence that 'suck it up buttercup' kept bouncing around in my head today? Nah, it was a clear message from God himself to literally suck it up. I need to hold my head up and look forward because better things are to come. The car will soon be fixed, the broken glass was cleaned up, the little things that went wrong today are just that. Little things that won't matter in a week, or a month from now. So here is to a better day tomorrow, and hopefully the rest of the week too! At least tomorrow is the end of the month and with September not only comes a new month, but a new season too. </span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">Since my little ones are in bed and my house is too quiet, this buttercup hears Zumba calling her name. So off I go to suck it up and burn some calories all at the same time! Remember to live and love happy :)</span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>
<br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>
<br />Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-52542447201157039892011-05-27T15:37:00.001-04:002011-06-07T17:56:19.419-04:00Saying Goodbye is Never Easy<div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">Well, the day I never wanted to arrive, shockingly came on Thursday, May 19, 2011. This is the day I never knew how to face. My palomino gelding, Sunset, was laid to rest. I received a call towards the end of my work day from my mom, saying I should probably get home. He was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">colicing</span>, and it did not look good. Normally, this horse will colic 2-3 times a year, and he has always come out of it, so in my head, it was just another one of those times. I expected to arrive at the barn, walk him around for a few minutes, and then put him back in the stall and thank God that he did not choose that day to take my horse from me. Unfortunately, that was not the case. My mom had already did the necessary actions that a vet would have done - mineral oil, shots of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">banamine</span>, walking him without stopping. When I got there, I took over walking him at a rapid pace because he was trying to lay down. When a horse <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">colics</span>, that means there is pain in their abdomen, and their natural instinct is they want to lay down or roll. That is their way of relieving the pain. For some reason, my horse had a tendency to do it every few months, and it was always scary. But luckily my mom has tons of horse knowledge, and always knew what to do! You can read more about colic in horses <a href="http://www.equusite.com/articles/health/healthColicFacts.shtml">HERE</a>. </span><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">Anyone that has ever lost an animal they have owned for many years will understand the pain. As a tribute to Sunset, I will share his story with you:</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">My mom received a call from our farrier back in April 1991 and told her she needed to come and look at this horse that he had. A family was selling him, and he thought Sunset would be the perfect match for us. Now at the time, my mom was nearly 9 months pregnant with my brother, so she could not ride this horse when we went to look at him. So I was the lucky rider, I was 11 years old at the time. He was quiet and easygoing and very <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">laidback</span>. I was a little nervous about riding new horses at that age, but I wasn't scared to ride him. We liked him so we traded another horse and some cash for our new horse, Sunset. When my brother was an infant, my mom would put him in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">snuggie</span> and trail ride Sunset. She trusted him enough to put a baby on him while she would ride at the same time, so therefore, I trusted the horse from the first time I rode him. Within a couple years, I had put dibs on "my horse" and would rarely let anyone else ride on him. He was absolutely the best horse I had ever ridden. He had the smoothest little trot and a slow, collected canter. I would ride that horse for hours and hours on trails around our home and Brown County. I showed him in 4-H for several years. I would always love it when he won his halter classes, and western pleasure classes. I did contest him, but he wasn't ever very good because he was so slow. But it was still fun to try and make him canter as fast as he could to get the best time in the gaming events. We went camping many weekends throughout my childhood and into my older teenage years. When I got pregnant with my oldest daughter, I rode this horse up until I was almost 7 months pregnant. And the only reason I didn't ride up until I was 9 months is the fact that is was winter, and there was no way I was riding in the cold! When my oldest was 3 months old, we took our first cruise on Sunset with her in my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">snuggie</span> pouch. I trusted this horse with my life, and I knew he wouldn't hurt the newborn baby either. I continued to ride him with her until she was too big for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">snuggie</span>, then she rode with me on my saddle until she was big enough to ride him on his own. She actually learned to ride on him and showed him her first year in 4-H. My little one also rode him some last summer. My girls also rode him together, or double as we horse people call it. I rode Sunset in the fall parade almost every year until 2 years ago when I had to relinquish him to my oldest daughter. It was bittersweet ~ she was on MY horse, but I knew she was in good hands because he took good care of her. This horse also had a fabulous sense of direction. He also knew when we were headed home, headed back to camp, or headed back to the horse trailer. In the instance of the parade, at the corner of Main and Morgan Streets in our town, this horse would turn left at the corner and instantly pick up speed. That was the halfway point in the parade, so he knew he was downhill (not literally) on the way back to the fairgrounds. He had completed 50% of the route and he was homeward bound, and he knew it. I told my daughter what he would do, and I don't think she quite believed me. But as soon as he rounded the corner with her on his back, his high speed kicked in and I remember her telling me "Wow, Mom, you were right!" Now if I could only get her to realize that and say that Mom is right all the time... Anyway, this horse would also pick up speed when we were headed home on trail rides, or back to camp in Brown County. He would take his sweet time, and slowly move his feet when headed away from where ever we were, but hang on tight when we reach that halfway point and start to head back! This horse also liked to drink mountain dew. It was a tradition that I would drink a mountain dew at a horse show, or while camping and save the last couple drinks for him. I would pour it out close to his mouth and he would lap it up, all while usually covering me in the drink I shared with him. But I didn't mind. He was such a good horse, I had to share my drink with him! He also had a natural stance for posing for the camera. Almost all the pictures I have of him show him with his ears perked up, and happy. I even have a few silly ones as well. Like this one:</span></div><br /><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNGHkmNld6jBD1NeuGxx0XOChrUvHVty83Nh35nSVeIUfi9fPslslH4gqXaOWKqGK8Z6c4neDhlHv5qPn3SbzAyeHirIufhdD2XCS5P9OwTuGSnU-lW29FOipycORR7AD2nc8L31iRCCY/s1600/October+097.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610286908351061906" style="WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNGHkmNld6jBD1NeuGxx0XOChrUvHVty83Nh35nSVeIUfi9fPslslH4gqXaOWKqGK8Z6c4neDhlHv5qPn3SbzAyeHirIufhdD2XCS5P9OwTuGSnU-lW29FOipycORR7AD2nc8L31iRCCY/s400/October+097.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Yes, he was quite the poser! And with an owner like me that loves to take pics, well, let's just say it was a pretty good combination. Back to his story ~ I could go on and on for hours, and even days, about what a good horse he was. Our family has SO many memories of him and all the 20 years he spent with us. I remember a time that my mom, my brother, and I went to Brown County. My brother was probably about 7 or 8 years old, and my mom MADE me let my brother have him for the day. I griped and complained and whined ALL DAY LONG because I couldn't ride MY horse. Looking back now, I'm glad my brother had the safe horse because I wouldn't have wanted him to get hurt on something that wasn't as safe as my baby. My best friend told me she had <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">alot</span> of many fond memories of this horse, and that she remembers the couple times she was lucky enough to get to ride him. Like I said, I rarely let anyone else have him because that's how much I loved this horse. He was mine, and yes, I admit, I was selfish with him. Very selfish! The last couple years, Sunset has really started to show his age, and remind us that he isn't 9 years old anymore :(. We had to really baby this horse, and take extra care of him. I wasn't able to ride him about the past 3 years because his back couldn't take the weight like it used to. Not that I am heavy, but my 60 pound daughter is much lighter then her ole Mommy. We couldn't ride him in the hot weather because he couldn't handle the heat like he used to. I could ramble on about this horse, but that's just a few stories that come to mind at the moment. I am forever grateful to God for bringing this horse into our lives when he did. I am grateful for the many people Sunset taught to ride, and for the many fond memories he has left our family and friends. We have been so blessed the last 20 years when we bought this 9 year old horse, and laid him to rest at 29 years of age. His best horse friend, Murphy, was waiting in horsey heaven for him. So at least now they get to be together without any pain or suffering any longer. I miss this horse, and I will miss him everyday until I see him again someday. He wasn't just a horse, or a pet; he was a member of our family. People reading his story may not understand our bond with him, but I promise it is a bond like no other. After I realized that the fight was over, and putting him down was our only option, reality hit and I started bawling my eyes out. My last memory of him was him walking off into the Sunset to be buried next to his best horse friend, Murphy. I watched him be led off into the sunset, and it was a beautiful sunset that day. I don't think that's a bit ironic; I think God gave us a beautiful Sunset that day to let us know that our Sunset was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">ok</span> and He would take good care of him for us. Another image I have in my head is that my daughter Mindy, who died 8 years ago, finally gets to ride her Mommy's horse. And if he can teach her to ride, then it was worth him going to Heaven, so she can have him. After my horse left, I sat in the grass for 30 minutes, just sat there in shock. My oldest daughter couldn't stop crying, and my youngest daughter told me I could get another Sunset. It was sweet of her, and I gently told her that yes, mommy can get another horse, but never another Sunset. Because our Sunset was certainly irreplaceable. Once I drug myself up from the grass, I went and sat in his stall for what seemed like an eternity. I sat in the stall with the gate that needed replaced (he was a little too playful with it at times), but there was something missing ~ my baby horse that would never stand in that stall again. </span></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">I will end Sunset's story now by saying thank you to this horse, thank you to God for letting us have him for 20 years, thank you to my mom for buying this horse and taking good care of him for as long as she has, and thank all our friends and family for their kind words on that tragic day. Life will never be the same without our Sunset, but at least he lived a wonderful life, and we loved him as much as he loved us. RIP Sunset's Son, you are loved and missed every single day.</span></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">This is Sunset and I in 1998 - my last year of 4-H<br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9Rfh24cuFffn22FAGpsJLCTU-R3ePGcY1_hSrCMARRrFZGHyBSFx6G8Z29wx1LFLvGq8fVCh98HXZgrbpxEo5Xpec4TfPu3otS5H9tRcvrlSnEpe4mcNjfZrrYq5XpHRODaq2NScdpOg/s1600/Sunset.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610362712300754242" style="WIDTH: 380px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9Rfh24cuFffn22FAGpsJLCTU-R3ePGcY1_hSrCMARRrFZGHyBSFx6G8Z29wx1LFLvGq8fVCh98HXZgrbpxEo5Xpec4TfPu3otS5H9tRcvrlSnEpe4mcNjfZrrYq5XpHRODaq2NScdpOg/s400/Sunset.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">I carried the flag to the National Anthem my last year of 4-H on Sunset. I always liked this picture because the camera lens caught the sun. This, is proof to me, that my horse does live on in Heaven.</span></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvI_1KvVIAs5dvHSs8RZab_rB4jvgsmyoEnXSXmNBcffAZ6td47k420Z-nkIS_spIzf1G7nXaTSFAc6EK2SuHKquErbNH2mKboH0bqW6DDrqU663M5RlK35fnvX_rvy2ndPdKjNyX2VgP1/s1600/scan0008.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611511816094886242" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvI_1KvVIAs5dvHSs8RZab_rB4jvgsmyoEnXSXmNBcffAZ6td47k420Z-nkIS_spIzf1G7nXaTSFAc6EK2SuHKquErbNH2mKboH0bqW6DDrqU663M5RlK35fnvX_rvy2ndPdKjNyX2VgP1/s400/scan0008.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">One of the few I could find of our 4-H years together - English Gelding Halter Champion</span></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NxcNWIzbJCATP2b48F1PBDqt3wMQEmxOT8p9xMs48l4S54yQ0UAokiwLDfXkr_PEliKiAJWl37-RyMV3XqbildEXiHdagdYP5wgAQ3au19XdQq-MPmr-vLgzkN-z_CiAhkMcR2CsGiiA/s1600/scan0002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611511228688020242" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 271px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NxcNWIzbJCATP2b48F1PBDqt3wMQEmxOT8p9xMs48l4S54yQ0UAokiwLDfXkr_PEliKiAJWl37-RyMV3XqbildEXiHdagdYP5wgAQ3au19XdQq-MPmr-vLgzkN-z_CiAhkMcR2CsGiiA/s400/scan0002.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">One of the many parades I rode him in. I believe this was in 2005.</span></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhCwWilkxNwHleAyEogdlrQZFXSdH4QN6j09fS4qkJDqmS9TLgm6j0kocxDLFR0J5yEsF8Rou3DRYSvZq3Gdi-mG1BmOCE54iUZriWv0da6Inpuydixre8C_1B-fnl97tK_2PKPJplNpV/s1600/scan0001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611511070541553602" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 263px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhCwWilkxNwHleAyEogdlrQZFXSdH4QN6j09fS4qkJDqmS9TLgm6j0kocxDLFR0J5yEsF8Rou3DRYSvZq3Gdi-mG1BmOCE54iUZriWv0da6Inpuydixre8C_1B-fnl97tK_2PKPJplNpV/s400/scan0001.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">Me & Sunset - Parade 2006</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33om3UF-7YExb2-SsccA1ayW7oloMTf2jHVTzZPVaeIzTsu6HiDkwkA0KCytKgpVNuW15G7QHaZkpWkV3t-FUUUccQXihTkWhARW4BlG8wgxDAag5OqFG5rfCHPD8OjABlleuRoWG3dxS/s1600/Me+%2526+Sunset.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610016453060544082" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 384px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33om3UF-7YExb2-SsccA1ayW7oloMTf2jHVTzZPVaeIzTsu6HiDkwkA0KCytKgpVNuW15G7QHaZkpWkV3t-FUUUccQXihTkWhARW4BlG8wgxDAag5OqFG5rfCHPD8OjABlleuRoWG3dxS/s400/Me+%2526+Sunset.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">My little one sitting on Sunset at 4 years of age<br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0Issl8B7BzoAG2H8aRIvkkI_fC9_pzw_ND-X8MmknJB-TfLxprF6fNh2njwMo3rlAgKvPCPVPP7m1aWxBkWAIBAfZJtVhyphenhyphenS7xIgqna_HiUpki5SwAe2H2MQz8V1-hB3UuBN9nYQJLsWB/s1600/Jenna-Sunset.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610021966901089042" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0Issl8B7BzoAG2H8aRIvkkI_fC9_pzw_ND-X8MmknJB-TfLxprF6fNh2njwMo3rlAgKvPCPVPP7m1aWxBkWAIBAfZJtVhyphenhyphenS7xIgqna_HiUpki5SwAe2H2MQz8V1-hB3UuBN9nYQJLsWB/s400/Jenna-Sunset.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Another one of my favorites - my girls both riding Sunset together</span><br /></div><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMQ99NQX1xQkRx5ksJlStA-tQtZ0LvRSlG969wY6Ez22tMIKJvU_YVsfDrg28CWmx3LzY9v8ZkwiLm5Yv2vV-90BN5rD5vfwhhlPaquO60bxgr6iSAikrCAIXPQfBQJwhSH6-TdmocX9f/s1600/Girls-Sunset.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610294150628332642" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMQ99NQX1xQkRx5ksJlStA-tQtZ0LvRSlG969wY6Ez22tMIKJvU_YVsfDrg28CWmx3LzY9v8ZkwiLm5Yv2vV-90BN5rD5vfwhhlPaquO60bxgr6iSAikrCAIXPQfBQJwhSH6-TdmocX9f/s400/Girls-Sunset.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></p><br /><div><br /></div><br /><p><span style="font-family:arial;">Me & Sunset - last time I rode in the parade 2007<br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuiqNcCnvemjbwHXuOzcXSX0rzz3zTNPkd8e58LZ4VZEYvV8gG5x1akLSo5nbdMe9quEOLZSisZyQYLUBRX_XYpYxOhi0meEejbBwDts_KTzETXNhFi8LEu73vypkPcsFruMN3lg1ibEE/s1600/477.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610287475189597282" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuiqNcCnvemjbwHXuOzcXSX0rzz3zTNPkd8e58LZ4VZEYvV8gG5x1akLSo5nbdMe9quEOLZSisZyQYLUBRX_XYpYxOhi0meEejbBwDts_KTzETXNhFi8LEu73vypkPcsFruMN3lg1ibEE/s400/477.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_XdA2nXjJmwIHxig_5W-hb1OIqIpF6DVfFFq1F3Os9kMRvwVCcrwyJCNFTVvftNU5x04hChCDjGIiHd5jzhJfqdBKfYIEr5PUg4krMV_4ziuqoqMCd0KCftGGrG4Db2ZrHPjUe_ugzny/s1600/000_0046.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610343949266012626" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_XdA2nXjJmwIHxig_5W-hb1OIqIpF6DVfFFq1F3Os9kMRvwVCcrwyJCNFTVvftNU5x04hChCDjGIiHd5jzhJfqdBKfYIEr5PUg4krMV_4ziuqoqMCd0KCftGGrG4Db2ZrHPjUe_ugzny/s400/000_0046.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">My mom & I in the 2007 parade<br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eqsC1kI1bt0_xwMyl2Nb3VdeICi-E-8GPZ32MqkS6wUDcuv-uobyRDZ9_MwV5NfakE-1Qo-QUv7aoDsifbtqTqVJN2-jCXgZLAJMv4wbQLsgAifuR5Me23g74IpxM3gT4djQGo9BF_rX/s1600/478.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610287611336156162" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eqsC1kI1bt0_xwMyl2Nb3VdeICi-E-8GPZ32MqkS6wUDcuv-uobyRDZ9_MwV5NfakE-1Qo-QUv7aoDsifbtqTqVJN2-jCXgZLAJMv4wbQLsgAifuR5Me23g74IpxM3gT4djQGo9BF_rX/s400/478.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">2009 - My oldest rode Sunset in the parade. I love this pic because it shows my mom hugging Sunset, and my daughter being taken care of while riding that year. The bay mare I am on is a substitute since my horse was "taken" that day :)<br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfx-KgbOSDBHiAsfUsB83upHo5HtJtEE5vLhrOdXrkX7sbSbpASkid87B1XU6NUe6J0mKc7wz8347WgS2BZ1pulIjmgreEIGqSZnV7jFwaQ06RezRK9uK8VmWqMcgzFRHFzQia2ErGjN3x/s1600/October+083.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610287887209538786" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfx-KgbOSDBHiAsfUsB83upHo5HtJtEE5vLhrOdXrkX7sbSbpASkid87B1XU6NUe6J0mKc7wz8347WgS2BZ1pulIjmgreEIGqSZnV7jFwaQ06RezRK9uK8VmWqMcgzFRHFzQia2ErGjN3x/s400/October+083.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">My baby girl leading Sunset around by the halter<br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3xzRloiSpjoGHDCk2FWvQz225HvqLPQZ84Dye6T7rpLYrxGlZcQGJAKifGsvSzsWHP80G-xM0m0juzJyqPwC4pmZMyqIEZNDm8E5ySb3iUT_js_X6yKOGJxgiW99iDNSDstgW4l7zb1S9/s1600/October+102.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610288210368299826" style="WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3xzRloiSpjoGHDCk2FWvQz225HvqLPQZ84Dye6T7rpLYrxGlZcQGJAKifGsvSzsWHP80G-xM0m0juzJyqPwC4pmZMyqIEZNDm8E5ySb3iUT_js_X6yKOGJxgiW99iDNSDstgW4l7zb1S9/s400/October+102.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">My ultimate favorite pic ever taken of him. My oldest is 3 in this picture. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this picture. We were camping that weekend and she rode him by herself and with Mommy too.</span></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFV9D6Ka20Acs5e4WL9K0zBzyqvIxFNPOgLYNV3LtH_9mKjlAb-he4jcrcG0SX3chyphenhyphenbayzpclkZNN0valpoC3ta1btNXn3oIoA0hpdAjZcq_r3gu64uf_C1gZuBWmCX-Kg3D4wn7bhnw4Z/s1600/scan0003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611511486483021746" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFV9D6Ka20Acs5e4WL9K0zBzyqvIxFNPOgLYNV3LtH_9mKjlAb-he4jcrcG0SX3chyphenhyphenbayzpclkZNN0valpoC3ta1btNXn3oIoA0hpdAjZcq_r3gu64uf_C1gZuBWmCX-Kg3D4wn7bhnw4Z/s400/scan0003.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">One of my favorites - She showed Sunset her 1st year in 4-H 2009. This is the way I love to remember Sunset - with his golden color shed out, ears perked up, and ready for the show ring!</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkHYTN59sRQA66Hp6It9GdFhlnFw2eimYuqHUQeEN3uHYp3HkSDgvX4l9eUMKhpXMjuuJPtOTmY-i-p0i6g5svpiL4156_nr30I4daLlAxiKuGGFUW6wK-SQgGsAUQpB6MEEfz9wswaLG/s1600/Picture+559.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610288377627541346" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkHYTN59sRQA66Hp6It9GdFhlnFw2eimYuqHUQeEN3uHYp3HkSDgvX4l9eUMKhpXMjuuJPtOTmY-i-p0i6g5svpiL4156_nr30I4daLlAxiKuGGFUW6wK-SQgGsAUQpB6MEEfz9wswaLG/s400/Picture+559.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">My sweet little girl drew a picture for me at school. This was her mommy leading her horse Sunset. She is learning to write words correctly so it's not 100% right, but what she wrote actually reads "My mom horse died. He was sick." Now if this isn't a tearjerker, I'm not sure what is.</span> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqKn7r9-0drN0wfVmIk8VU4SbHNaaUScJ7Z9yTHJNoYasnTqHRdvXHQDDEKLU6jPIFLyG1qAjb56Km4Av3mTgnm5FiktqnrEaKdXXPHkPF6t8ytvoioPOnyPuQuEpOOjADoqU6wH4DT9j/s1600/scan0011.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615597668960676210" style="WIDTH: 465px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 383px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqKn7r9-0drN0wfVmIk8VU4SbHNaaUScJ7Z9yTHJNoYasnTqHRdvXHQDDEKLU6jPIFLyG1qAjb56Km4Av3mTgnm5FiktqnrEaKdXXPHkPF6t8ytvoioPOnyPuQuEpOOjADoqU6wH4DT9j/s400/scan0011.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">Sunset & Murphy - they were best friends and they are together once again.</span></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wLk_ederITiQ1_xLioRoKH1mbreKQ3lAEayFIa-axIdZRaKKUOFN-D7pTBq3GDWgtGV1vhIeNPopVcxEwzrJOaZRhQgr91wy_Qfq2D32j2RrcjKrkL7QmLQnMQt-RCrGzJ6dcQrC7f9e/s1600/scan0006.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611511663457268402" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 263px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wLk_ederITiQ1_xLioRoKH1mbreKQ3lAEayFIa-axIdZRaKKUOFN-D7pTBq3GDWgtGV1vhIeNPopVcxEwzrJOaZRhQgr91wy_Qfq2D32j2RrcjKrkL7QmLQnMQt-RCrGzJ6dcQrC7f9e/s400/scan0006.jpg" border="0" /></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-24017932772982099592011-04-11T10:24:00.018-04:002011-04-11T11:26:29.260-04:00Good Monday Morning!<span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><p><span style="font-family:arial;color:#cc0000;">Good Monday Morning! Or at least maybe if I say that, it will be. Personally, I dislike Mondays and probably always will. It means the fun weekend is over and it's time to get back to reality, back to school and back to work. I am just thankful that on this Monday, I have a job to return to since we did not experience the government shutdown. I know it can happen, but I cannot even imagine what effect that would have had on the entire country. I know what an effect it would have had for me personally, and I'm just one person in the huge nation. But if the shutdown would have happened, I would have done what I do in life, and that is roll with it because there are just some things that are out of my control. </span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:arial;color:#cc0000;">I was reminded yesterday about how my life used to be. This was the used to be that was only 4 years ago, but it was enough of a flashback to remind me I am grateful for where I am today and all the positive changes I have made in life. So many things have changed for me, I have changed, my kids have changed, and it's all for the better. Is it ironic that "Roll with the Changes" by REO Speedwagon is on at the moment? Maybe, maybe not. I never listened to that song much, but it became of of my favorites about 4 years ago. And it's true - if you are tired of the same old story, then turn some pages. If you are tired of where you are or the way your life is going, make the necessary changes to roll into the next chapter of life. I'm sure I have posted this quote before but I love it - "You have to end one chapter to begin another." If our life is going to get better, then we must take the next step and make the next chapter happen.</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cc0000;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Have you ever looked at a snow globe, shook it and then just watched the snow fly around? Inside that snow globe, is a story. We don't always know the story, but there is a story inside every snow globe. And the neat thing is, every person in this world can look at the exact same snow globe and tell a completely different story. There was once a time, </span><span style="font-family:Arial;">I used to be inside the snow globe living the story. Now I am on the outside looking in, listening to the story. It is funny how time and circumstances change like that. And when we shift from living the story to being told the story, it's not always a bad thing. But I can say this, if you are being told the story that you should be living, then what are you waiting for? Take charge, and do what it takes to live the story. </span></span></p><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#cc0000;"></span></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#cc0000;">We all make mistakes and sometimes it takes almost losing something to realize the value of it. Or sometimes we just need to go through experiences to teach us lessons about life. I thank the Lord every day for all things, good and bad, because it made me who I am today. I had an interesting conversation with my significant other recently. If he had made one decision differently in life, where would he be today? If I had made one decision differently in life, where would I be? And it could be multiple decisions, but one decision can alter how your life can turn out. What if he or I had decided not to get married the first time? What if he or I had decided not to get divorced? What if he or I decided to move from where we currently reside? What if he or I decided so many things different then we originally made the choice? Life would be different, and who knows if we would have ever met. </span></span><br /><p></p><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;">Typically, life is the same day in and day out. But things can change in the blink of an eye. And we don't realize it until it happens. So we should always go after what we want, do the things we want to do, and never hold back because we never know what tomorrow can bring. Thank God I am where I am today. Prayer does wonder, and we all need to remember that. If you don't like where you are, stay where you are and be miserable or change it and be happy. It's your choice really, nobody else's. It's a lovely day in Indiana today ~ or at least I am telling myself that as I look out the rain covered window at the dreary sky :). </span><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-86499819615137393352011-02-28T11:23:00.014-05:002011-02-28T12:35:25.700-05:00The Story of a Soldier's Dog<span style="font-family:arial;">This is definitely worth a blog post. It is not true according to snopes.com, but it's great reading material. Enjoy:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">They told me the big black Lab's name was Reggie, as I looked at him lying in his pen.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The shelter was clean, no-kill, and the people really friendly.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I'd only been in the area for six months, but everywhere I went in the small college town, people were welcoming and open. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Everyone waves when you pass them on the street.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">But something was still missing as I attempted to settle in to my new life here, and I thought a dog couldn't hurt, and it would give</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> me someone to talk to.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And I had just seen Reggie's advertisement on the local news.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The shelter said they had received numerous calls right after, but they said the people who had come down to see him just didn't look like "Lab people," whatever that meant. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">They must have thought I did.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">But at first, I thought the shelter had misjudged me in giving me Reggie and his things, which consisted of a dog pad, bag of toys almost all of which were brand new tennis balls, his dishes, and a sealed letter from his previous owner. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">See, Reggie and I didn't really hit it off when we got home.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">We struggled for two weeks (which is how long the shelter told me to give him to adjust to his new home).</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Maybe it was the fact that I was trying to adjust, too.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Maybe we were too much alike.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">For some reason, his stuff (except for the tennis balls --- he wouldn't go anywhere without two stuffed in his mouth) got tossed in with all of my other unpacked boxes.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I guess I didn't really think he'd need all his old stuff, that I'd get him new things once he settled in. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">But it became pretty clear pretty soon that he wasn't going to.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I tried the normal commands the shelter told me he knew, ones like "sit" and "stay" and "come" and "heel," and he'd follow them - when he felt like it.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He never really seemed to listen when I called his name --- sure, he'd look in my direction after the fourth or fifth time I said it, but then he'd just go back to doing whatever. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">When I'd ask again, you could almost see him sigh and then grudgingly obey.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">This just wasn't going to work. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He chewed a couple shoes and some unpacked boxes. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I was a little too stern with him and he resented it, I could tell.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The friction got so bad that I couldn't wait for the two weeks to be up, and when it was, I was in full search mode for my cell phone amid all of my unpacked stuff. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I remembered leaving it on the stack of boxes for the guestroom, but I also mumbled, rather cynically, that the "damn dog probably hid it on me.</span><span style="font-family:arial;">"</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Finally I found it, but before I could punch up the shelter's number, I also found his pad and other toys from the shelter...I tossed the pad in Reggie's direction and he snuffed it and wagged, some of the most enthusiasm I'd seen since bringing him home. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">But then I called, "Hey, Reggie, you like that? Come here and I'll give you a treat." </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Instead, he sort of glanced in my direction --- maybe "glared" is more accurate --- and then gave a discontented sigh and flopped down ... with his back to me.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Well, that's not going to do it either, I thought.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And I punched the shelter phone number.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">But I hung up when I saw the sealed envelope.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I had completely forgotten about that, too.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"Okay, Reggie," I said out loud, "let's see if your previous owner has any advice."</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">To Whoever Gets My Dog:</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Well, I can't say that I'm happy you're reading this, a letter I told the shelter could only be opened by Reggie's new owner. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I'm not even happy writing it.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">If you're reading this, it means I just got back from my last car ride with my Lab after dropping him off at the shelter.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He knew something was different.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I have packed up his pad and toys before and set them by the back door before a trip, but this time... it's like he knew something was wrong.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And something is wrong...which is why I have to go to try to make it right.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">So let me tell you about my Lab in the hopes that it will help you bond with him and he with you.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">First, he loves tennis balls.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The more the merrier. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Sometimes I think he's part squirrel, the way he hoards them. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He usually always has two in his mouth, and he tries to get a third in there, but hasn't done it yet. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Doesn't matter where you throw them, he'll bound after it, so be careful - really don't do it by any roads. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I made that mistake once, and it almost cost him dearly.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Next, commands. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Maybe the shelter staff already told you, but I'll go over them again</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Reggie knows the obvious ones ---"sit," "stay," "come," "heel." </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He knows hand signals: "back" to turn around and go back when you put your hand straight up; and "over" if you put your hand out right or left. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"Shake" for shaking water off, and "paw" for a high-five. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He does "down" when he feels like lying down --- I bet you could work on that with him some more. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He knows "ball" and "food" and "bone" and "treat" like nobody's business.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I trained Reggie with small food treats. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Nothing opens his ears like little pieces of hot dog.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Feeding schedule: twice a day, once about seven in the morning, and again at six in the evening. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Regular store-bought stuff; the shelter has the brand.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He's up on his shots.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Call the clinic on 9th Street and update his info with yours; they'll make sure to send you reminders for when he's due. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Be forewarned: Reggie hates the vet. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Good luck getting him in the car.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I don't know how he knows when it's time to go to the vet, but he knows.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Finally, give him some time.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I've never been married, so it's only been Reggie and me for his whole life.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He's gone everywhere with me, so please include him on your daily car rides if you can.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He sits well in the backseat, and he doesn't bark or complain. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He just loves to be around people, and me most especially.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Which means that this transition is going to be hard, with him going to live with someone new.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And that's why I need to share one more bit of info with you....His name's not Reggie.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I don't know what made me do it, but when I dropped him off at the shelter, I told them his name was Reggie. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He's a smart dog, he'll get used to it and will respond to it, of that I have no doubt. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">But I just couldn't bear to give them his real name.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">For me to do that, it seemed so final, that handing him over to the shelter was as good as me admitting that I'd never see him again. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And if I end upcoming back, getting him, and tearing up this letter, it means everything is fine. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">But if someone else is reading it, well ... well it means that his new owner should know his real name. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">It'll help you bond with him. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Who knows, maybe you'll even notice a change in his demeanor if he's been giving you problems.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">His real name is "Tank".</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Because that is what I drive.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Again, if you're reading this and you're from the area, maybe my name has been on the news.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I told the shelter that they couldn't make"Reggie" available for adoption until they received word from my company commander.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">See, my parents are gone, I have no siblings, no one I could have left Tank with ... and it was my only real request of the Army upon my deployment to Iraq, that they make one phone..call the shelter ... in the "event" ... to tell them that Tank could be put up for adoption. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Luckily, my colonel is a dog guy, too, and he knew where my platoon was headed. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He said he'd do it personally. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And if you're reading this, then he made good on his word.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Well, this letter is getting downright depressing, even though, frankly, I'm just writing it for my dog. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I couldn't imagine if I was writing it for a wife and kids and family ... but still, Tank has been my family for the last six years, almost as long as the Army has been my family.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And now I hope and pray that you make him part of your family and that he will adjust and come to love you the same way he loved me.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">That unconditional love from a dog is what I take with me to Iraq as an inspiration to do something selfless, to protect innocent people from those who would do terrible things ... and to keep those terrible people from coming over here. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">If I have to give up Tank in order to do it, I am glad to have done so. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He is my example of service and of love. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I hope I honored him by my service to my country and comrades.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">All right, that's enough.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I deploy this evening and have to drop this letter off at the shelter. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I don't think I'll say another good-bye to Tank, though. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I cried too much the first time. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Maybe I'll peek in on him and see if he finally got that third tennis ball in his mouth.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Good luck with Tank. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Give him a good home,and give him an extra kiss goodnight - every night - from me.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Thank you, </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Paul Mallory</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I folded the letter and slipped it back in the envelope.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Sure I had heard of Paul Mallory, everyone in town knew him, even new people like me. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Local kid, killed in Iraq a few months ago and posthumously earning the Silver Star when he gave his life to save three buddies. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Flags had been at half-mast all summer.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I leaned forward in my chair and rested my elbows on my knees, staring at the dog.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"Hey, Tank," I said quietly.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The dog's head whipped up, his ears cocked and his eyes bright.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"C'mere boy."</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He was instantly on his feet, his nails clicking on the hardwood floor. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He sat in front of me, his head tilted, searching for the name he hadn't heard in months.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"Tank," I whispered.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">His tail swished.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I kept whispering his name, over and over, and each time, his ears lowered, his eyes softened, and his posture relaxed as a wave of contentment just seemed to flood him.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I stroked his ears, rubbed his shoulders, buried my face into his scruff and hugged him.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"It's me now, Tank, just you and me. Your old pal gave you to me."</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Tank reached up and licked my cheek. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"So whatdaya say we play some ball?"</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">His ears perked again.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">"Yeah? Ball? You like that? Ball?" </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Tank tore from my hands and disappeared in the next room.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And when he came back, he had three tennis balls in his mouth..</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-85494157071624892152010-12-28T09:35:00.003-05:002010-12-28T09:48:25.873-05:00Pleasing Everybody<span style="font-family:arial;color:#339999;">I received a quote of the day recently and it really hit home with me. Take a look:</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#339999;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color:#339999;"><em>"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."-</em> Bill Cosby </span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;">It was one of those days where I looked at the screen and said WOW. That couldn't be more true about me most of the time. I know life is busy, it is for all of us. We get busy with everyday life and sometimes forget we are supposed to take time to stop and enjoy life for a bit. I fall into this category at times. My time at home is very limited and with daily routine of feeding the kids, baths, getting homework done, doing daily house chores done, it leaves little time. I do make a point each day to spend some quality time with them and ask how their day was, and help them with whatever they need. </span><br /><span style="color:#339999;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;">I am also the people pleaser. I want to make sure everyone is taken care of and has everything they need. That also comes along with being a mom/parent. I have to make sure my kids have what they need before my needs are met. I make sure they have their food, drinks,napkins, forks, spoons, etc. before I even think about sitting down to eat. I take care of them first because I want to. I also take care of many other things before I take care of myself. Sometimes I have to be told to sit down and take a break, or that it's my turn for a change. I have always been a self-achiever and I will get the job done no matter what it takes. And I don't always try to put myself on the backburner, but it's life and it happens.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;">Back to the quote - to me, the most important words of that phrase are "the key to failure is trying to please everybody." So in my thought, does that mean if I try to please everyone, I will fail? Yes, yes it does. It is next to impossible to please EVERYONE in a group setting. Each individual has their own preferences so it is difficult to make everyone happy. I personally deal with this on a daily basis. And even though sometimes it can be frustrating, it's a part of life. One person cannot please everyone, no matter how hard they try. There always has to be that one person that wants to argue and create controversy. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;">There comes a time in life where you have to choose what is important and what is not. Will it really matter if the floor doesn't get swept until the next day? Will it really matter if the laundry doesn't get folded right then? Those are just a couple questions that come to my mind. I'm such a busybody and have trouble sitting still, so it seems as if I'm always cleaning or doing things around the house. But I also realize that not everything else is as important and some things have to be put on the backburner. What is important is my girls, my family and my friends. My kids are the most important thing in my life and they always will be. And they grow up so fast so I better take advantage of the time I can spend with them while they are still young. Sure, there are alot of important things that have to get done, or cannot be put off until later, and those all get done in time. This also applies to material things. After all, things are just things. If a tornado or flood comes and destroys our house, our things will be destroyed too. Things can always be replaced, no matter how important they are to us. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;">There also comes a time when you have to make decisions about who is important and who is not. Remember, you are the only one who can decide who you let into your life and who you do not. There are always people we have to tolerate whether we want to or not, but the decision of how much you let them into your life is yours. This goes back to the quote - you cannot please everybody. There are people who will tell you how you should live your life, what you should do (or not do), and people that do not agree with your decisions. But ultimately you have to live life as you see fit, and do what is best for YOU. And if people cannot accept things you do in life, then let them jump off the bandwagon. I despise judgemental people (people who judge others). Absolutely DESPISE people like that. The sad thing is if people cannot accept decisions you have made in life, it is their loss, not yours. There comes a time when you have to walk away from the people who have turned their backs on you, no matter how hard it may be. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#339999;">"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody". I believe the key to success is living life to the fullest each day, and to your best ability. Pray for guidance, follow God's word and signs when he sends them to you. Listen for direction and then go with it. Just live. Be happy. And most of all, be yourself. Do not be someone you are not because it will only end up hurting you in the long run. And I do believe the key to failure is trying to please everybody, because it is impossible. Unless you are a programmed robot and not a human being, pleasing everyone is out of the question. So please the ones who matter most, and do what it takes to keep yourself happy. It is best to keep yourself happy because if you aren't happy, then those around you will not be happy. Do what is best for you, and do not let others run your life. Make decisions that best suit you, not everyone else. Remember life is short, make the most of it while you can!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-14165636578743985622010-11-30T17:10:00.002-05:002010-11-30T17:11:40.782-05:00I Am Thankful For...<span style="font-family:arial;">November is the perfect month to remember the things that we are thankful for. Since Thanksgiving is the main holiday of the month, it reminds us that we need to be thankful for the blessings in life. I have been thinking that there is so much to be thankful for. I have compiled a list of 30 things that I am thankful for since there are 30 days in November. So here goes...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">1. First and foremost, I am thankful for God. Without God, this world would not exist. I would not exist. You would not exist. You get the idea! God forgives us for our sins and mistakes. I thank God everyday for my many blessings He has given me!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">2. I am thankful for my beautiful daughters. They are the light of my life, and without them, I would have no idea how to function. They keep me going each and every day. They are both so unique in their individual ways and I love them without end.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">3. I am thankful for my daughter Mindy who is in Heaven. Even though she was only given to me for a short period of time and has been gone for 7 1/2 years, not a day goes by that I don't think of her. I know she is a beautiful little angel that watches over us each day. We love and miss you Mindy.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">4. I am thankful for my JM. He loves me unconditionally no matter what. He is a good man, and my daughter tells me that all the time. He has changed me in little ways, and I have done the same for him. But only for the better!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">5. I am thankful for my job. For me, it is a privilege to have a job I love, and people that I can help. I was molded for this job, and it was molded for me. A perfect fit I guess you could say. I am also thankful for some of "my farmers." There are a select few that are "mine" and I treasure their friendships.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">6. I am thankful for my SUV. I love my car! It gets me where I need to go, and it has all the options I love (except a sunroof) but I can live with that! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">7. I am thankful for my close friends. I love each of my friends dearly, and in their own individual way. There are some I've had for years, and others I've only just met. But I appreciate each friendship that I have!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">8. I am thankful for family. Sometimes this is difficult, because family can be stubborn. But, ultimately I have to like them because that is who God chose to put me with for this life on earth. And after all, blood is thicker than water.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">9. I am thankful for weekends and downtime. I don't get many days to relax or take a break, but those select few times that I get to, I really enjoy it.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">10. I am thankful for quality time with my girls. They grow so fast and it's hard to keep up! I try to make the most of the time I have with my kids. They may not appreciate it now, but looking back someday, I know they will.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">11. I am thankful for my animals. My cats, my horses, and our dog are a very big part of our lives. They keep us entertained, and snuggle with us when we need it. I could not live without animals in my life.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">12. I am thankful for Wal-Mart. Yes, I think I just wrote that. I guess I feel an obligation to feel thankful to Wal-Mart. That store receives a big portion of our paychecks every month. But I guess since they have the best deals, I have to appreciate that fact!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">13. I am thankful for our church. Our church has grown tremendously the last few years. And I love our pastor; he is a wonderful guy who is down to earth and keeps the sermons humorous. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">14. I am thankful for past mistakes I have made and the lessons that I have learned from them. Every thing that has happened in my life up until this point has made me who I am today. And I am very proud of the accomplishments I have made and the person I have become from all the ups and downs in life. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">15. I am thankful for computers and the internet. Even though they can be annoying at times, they make the world go round. Things that used to take weeks to complete only take seconds in today's world. And I have met some great friends through the computer. Life would be boring without the internet! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">16. I am thankful for text messaging. What in the world did I do without texting? I have had texting almost 3 years now, and I don't think I could ever go back to not having it. That is how I communicate with so many people these days. It's so much easier to text rather then call for something that only takes a second to tell someone. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">17. I am thankful for blogs. Even though I don't get to write as often as I'd like to, it's still something I love to do and that I can call mine. And I love reading other blogs! It's as much fun to read other blogs as it is to write at times.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">18. I am thankful for my horse. I know I already said I was thankful for animals, but this one is dedicated to Sunset. He is my baby and has been for almost 20 years. He is up there in age, and we have to baby him. It will break my heart in two when that horse leaves me someday. For now, I am grateful that he has taught my daughter to ride, and will teach my other daughter how to ride. He has always been a good horse. I can pull him out of the pasture after not riding him for 2 years, and he needs no warm up. He is ready to go without any worry of him hurting someone. I rode him when my daughter was 2 months old, and she is now 10. I trust him with my life, and my kids' lives, or I wouldn't allow them to ride him. So I am so thankful God brought this horse into my life nearly 20 years ago!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">19. I am thankful for my home. I love having a place I can call my own, and I love living in the country. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">20. I am thankful for our military men and women who fight for our country. Some have lost their lives in the battle. Some are away from their families for months or years at a time. I am grateful for those who are brave enough to fight for the USA.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">21. I am thankful for pizza. What else can I say? I love pizza! And cinnamon stix too. Now that is a yummy combo. I just can't eat it everyday. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">22. I am thankful for exercise. When I eat pizza and not-so-good-for-me foods, I must exercise! I love my Wii fit. I like my treadmill, not really love it, but like it. I love to go walking! I just don't get to do that as often as I like. So when I am unable to walk outside, the treadmill takes the place of that.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">23. I am thankful for my boots. Yes, my boots! They are so comfy. Not only do I get to wear them with jeans, but they are great to throw on with pajama pants too. You know, for that quick run out to the car, or the quick jog next door. Those boots take me alot of places and are well broke in. I'll be sad when I have to replace them someday :(</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">24. I am thankful for all of my clothes. The dressy clothes for work, the casual shirts and jeans, and especially the comfy around-the-house pants. My problem is that I have too many clothes for my closet. I know the solution to that is to get rid of some things, and I do on a regular basis. But I need a bigger closet! That is in the works though...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">25. I am thankful for music. I absolutely love listening to music. Country, classic rock, Christian, whatever I'm in the mood for really. I have a habit of cranking up the Sirius radio on my TV and listening to it while I clean. Or blast my Christmas CD with my favorite tune of Two Steppin' Around the Christmas Tree. Love my music!!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">26. I am thankful for pretty jewelry, real or fake. I love to accessorize my outfits. I am very involved with a jewelry maker, and I love the new designs that are made when the time allows to make the pretty jewelry :). I have a beautiful array of necklaces, earrings and bracelets! Oh, and I like diamonds too!! :)</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">27. I am thankful for my cell phone. Yes, I am very addicted to it. I cannot live without it! I'm not as attached as I used to be, but I'm still very attached. And so is everyone else for that matter... It's normal for my kids or the man to fight over it. They want to play on the internet, they want to play cards, they want to play Angry Birds, they always want something and it involves my phone. LOL</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">28. I am thankful for Facebook. It may sound silly, but it's true. I think it's fun to read status updates on people. I love to see new pics of my friends and family. I don't always like the drama that people post on FB, but it's humorous to read at times!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">29. I am thankful for Zumba and line dancing. I love to do both! Zumba keeps me toned and in shape. Line dancing is a favorite of mine, and has been for 16 years. They both are a good way to burn calories, and enjoy it while doing so.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">30. I am thankful for the clock on the wall. With each passing minute, it lets me know I am still alive and well. I do like that clock on the wall more at closing time then early in the morning. It always speaks a friendlier tone when it nears the end of the day! Plus, it lets me know it's time to go home and see my family and spend some quality time with them. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I could go on and on about the things I am thankful for because to be honest, the list does not end. God has blessed me abundantly in life and I cannot complain! Some of these were funny, some silly, some serious, but overall I had fun compiling my thankful list. Tomorrow is another day and another month. Wow, Christmas will be here soon! Now it's off to dinner with a great friend I haven't seen in quite some time...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-59415737394806998632010-11-04T16:27:00.001-04:002010-11-04T16:27:32.989-04:00The Time The Well Ran Dry (Literally)<span style="font-family:arial;color:#000099;">This certainly has been a wicked year for weather. 2010 started out fairly normal, but then around springtime, the clouds took over and we had several gloomy days. And rain! We had enough rain to last us what I thought was a long time. That thought sure was wrong. It then turned from too much rain to not enough. And then that became a drought after 4 months with hardly any rain at all. The grass turned brown; we went from mowing at least once a week to maybe once a month. The ground was so dry. Just to look at it was a sad sight. It was as if the ground was screaming "I'm so thirsty, PLEASE water me!" The weatherman would tease us with potential rain in the forecast. And on those days it was supposed to rain, it did not. And if it did, it was barely enough to even make a dent in the drought like conditions everyone experienced. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">The drought like conditions also affected us on a personal level. Our well, which has been fine for years and years, took a hit and decided to run low on water. Low enough that we ran out of water in our house. The first time it happened was late August. We were fortunate to have a fire truck dump 6000 gallons of water in the well for us. 8 days later... DRY AGAIN! In just 8 days! That meant no more laundry to be done at home, no more long hot showers (which wasn't a problem for me but my kids love those long hot showers!), no more wasting water of any kind. We are not a family that wastes water by any means, but it meant cutting down every place we could think of. No more allowing the water to run while brushing teeth, filling the sink only half full to do dishes, little things like that. And it also meant turning off the water softener because it was draining too much water. So after we ran out of 6000 gallons of water in 8 days, we were blessed to receive another 6000 gallons from the fire truck. But that would be the last load of water we could get like that. Our blessings from the fire station were great, but were complete. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">Let me say the best thing happened in September. It finally rained! Even just a little bit was better then nothing. And then guess what? It rained again in October. What a wonderful blessing God decided to pour down on us! But it was short lived. I think I heard thunder a time or two last month, but I almost forgot what it sounded like since I haven't heard it for months. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">So last night I am getting ready to do dishes, and all of a sudden I saw something I did not want to see. My faucet stopped dripping water; it was done. Oh no, out of water AGAIN! My good mood I was in quickly turned to frustration and irritation. I am a positive person most all the time, but that was enough to dampen that concept for a few minutes. Thank goodness we have a truck and water tank we can haul water to our well. Let's just say it made an evening trip last night! And probably will again tonight, and tomorrow, and this weekend... </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">They always say the third time is a charm. Well, I'm not really sure how I can apply this to my well running out of water for the third time. Is this the charm that we aren't going to let it happen again? That we will just keep hauling water from now on? I really don't know, but there has to be some charm to this. One thing is for certain - I have decided our next house will have a pond and the chances of running out of water will be slimmer! I am thankful that I can do our laundry at my nearby relative's house. I am thankful that we have enough water for our showers, and to do dishes. I think I would have a mental breakdown if I could not do dishes after a long evening of cooking. Call me a clean freak <strike>because I am overly obsessed with keeping my house clean 24/7</strike>, but it would drive me up the wall to not be able to wash those dirty dishes. Ugh yuck!!!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">This situation is where being a laidback, easygoing person really helps. I could have acted out of control and have been so upset from having no water. But what good would that accomplish? Yes, it is/was frustrating, but it is one of life's little hurdles that I have to jump and not let it get me down. I always find the good in every situation, and you might ask what the good in this situation is? I really have no clue, but there has to be something positive that can come from our well running dry. Maybe it's the fact I have decided to dig a pond at our next house site. Or the fact that my patience was tested not once, not twice, but three times, and I handled it with a good attitude. Why get mad over something I have no control over? There is no point. But I will say I have been praying for more and more rain since it ran out the first time! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#000099;">The expression of "when the well runs dry" is often used as an analysis, or at least I have heard that phrase in the past. I guess it's along the lines of "when the money runs out" or "the cow runs dry." I have heard all those. Funny thing is that our well literally ran dry. But that does not mean my faith will run out or any lower. In fact, it will be just the opposite. I have faith that the Lord will provide everything we need. I have faith that the Lord will provide us with water when we need it. It might be an inconvenience to do laundry elsewhere or cut back on using water, but I am hugely grateful for the fact we have a way to haul water and that we are able to still take our daily showers, etc. I will not let this major inconvenience defeat me. Instead, I will roll with it and find ways to accommodate the nuisance of less water. Before too long, that <strike>winter "s" cussword</strike> white stuff will be here. I am never a fan of s..sn... (I can't even say it)... s-n-o-w, BUT if it will snow and then melt and help the ground receive the moisture it needs, then I am a fan of that wholeheartedly. <strike>I probably just jinxed myself and we will receive like 5000 inches of snow this year</strike>. No, but in all seriousness, I do pray for more rain on a daily basis; not only for myself, but for everyone else around here that needs us. Lord, please send us inches of rain if you can hear me :) (And I know You can!) </span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-64100376201104384752010-11-02T09:11:00.006-04:002010-11-02T10:41:40.104-04:00Adios to October!<span style="font-family:arial;">Did I really flip my calendar over a page yesterday? Why yes, yes I did. That means we say goodbye to October and hello to November. And October, I am extremely sorry, but you did not receive a blog post! I have been so busy with everyday life that I neglected to post at least something in October. So for that, I am sorry. Please forgive me!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">With that said, let's move on! October is one of my favorite months of the year. The beautiful colors of fall are at their peak. The summer air moves out and brings the chilly fall winds. Harvest season is in full swing. You can't drive by a field on a nice day without seeing a combine harvesting the corn or cutting the beans. I will always have an obsession with combines. To me, there is no greater scene then seeing the crops our farmers work so hard to plant in the spring ready to come out of the ground and move on to production. It's a sweet sight! And don't forget the pumpkin patch. Our family has an annual tradition to visit a local pumpkin patch and pick them out each year. We didn't get around to carving them this year, but that's ok. That means they will last longer and look pretty on the front porch for a few more days! And then there are the days where you freeze in the mornings with the heater cranked and by afternoon, you have shedded your jacket and run the air conditioning on the way home. That is just good ole Indiana weather there! We had a great month of October this year. My dear other half hit a milestone birthday and was blessed with a surprise party hosted by a great party planner. And I'm happy to say the surprise went off without a hitch! We also spent a few days in Tennessee and had a wonderful little vacation. My girls had the time of their lives, and it was nice to relax for a few days. And then, there is Halloween. Oh yes, I just LOVE Halloween! Next to Christmas time, it's my favorite holiday. The girls received enough candy <strike>to feed an army</strike> to last until they are fully grown. And who is going to eat it all? Not them, not us, who knows! I have already spent about 3 hours sorting it all out. You know, putting the "good" candy bars in one container, and the "junk" candy in another. You all know what I am talking about! The kids come home with a huge variety of candy and you pick through and get your favorites, and some others you might eat once a year. Then the kids can take what they want. But parents must get their favorites first! After all, it was the parents who bought the costumes, drove the kids around, and walked to every door with them. (At least that's how our Halloween happens every year). So it's only fair that parents get first pick, right?!?! Actually, I am not a big candy eater and I never will be. I will eat a mini snickers or reese's cup, and I am content with that! But there is nothing like candy for breakfast on November 1 every year. I think that's another tradition that rolls over from October annually ~ and not so much for me, but any parent who takes their child trick-or-treating.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Some people start Christmas shopping in October too. I am one of those people. I don't go for the big purchases, but I do pick up little things here and there. To me, it's easier to purchase gifts along the way so you don't have such a big expense all at once. Some people can shop all year and I think that's great, but I could never do that. My kids interests change from month to month, sometimes week to week. And it's hard to return something bought 9 months ago! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">With November brings other changes to our lives. A job change for the better, a new pony joining our family, and cold weather :( are just a few. We are in a time where God has been gracious in His blessings, and I cannot wait to see what happens in the near future. With God on our side, life is good and full of happiness! We have learned that when we do our best day in and day out, and truly live for God, good things will happen. All God wants His people to do is to live right, be kind to one another, and live for Him. Things will happen in His time, not ours. And they do. You just have to have faith and believe! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Even though November is not my favorite month, it is here. The days will soon told colder, that white stuff will hit the ground sometime in the next few months, and the cycle of winter will begin again. And the blahs will hit! Make the most of today, tomorrow, and each day that follows because there is a blessing in each and every day. Sometimes we just have to look for it!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-12321476809322666632010-09-21T09:10:00.005-04:002010-09-21T10:31:51.929-04:00Too Late to Take it Back<span style="font-family:arial;color:#006600;">I was just reminded of an incident that happened a few years ago. I said something without having total knowledge and it bit me in the rear end. But it made me think about how often we say things that we probably shouldn't. How often do we speak something out loud before speaking it in our head? If we thought it to our self, or said it to our self before it hit our tongue, we might save ourselves embarrassment or hurt in the long run.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#006600;">So what was it that happened to me? Well, this is my 5th year of being a girl scout leader and my last since my oldest is moving to another school next year. About 3 years ago we had a girl in our group who was brought by a lady in her late 50s (or so I assumed). Well, the girl was sweet, the lady was nice and always pleasant. So later in the year, this girl and her dad attended the father-daughter girl scout dance. I should also add that her parents were divorced so I had not seen her dad much of the year. Hang tight, this is where my assumption gets me in BIG trouble. While speaking with the girl and her dad, I told her "I saw your grandma today in Wal-Mart." Both of them looked at me with the most puzzled faces and said "Grandma????" Yeah, wait, uh, oh no, uh, ok... needless to say, I quickly realized the grandma figure that brought the girl to every single meeting was actually her MOTHER. So there I was staring at both the girl and the dad who was also the ex-husband. Let me just say he had the biggest laugh of his life at my expense. That has had to be my biggest foot-in-the-mouth moment of my life. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;">So because I assumed this lady was her grandma, I now have to live with the consequences of that assumption. I never could look her in the face again after that incident. There were only a couple more months of the school year left, but I was still humiliated every time she was there. And if you hadn't already guessed, the girl never returned to the troop again. I still hang my head every time I see her at school events.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;">Looking back on my mishap, I do have to laugh just a little. I was sorry that the whole incident happened, but it also taught me a lesson. I don't make assumptions now without knowing all the facts. That is how we learn - from our mistakes. And now I know to keep quiet when I don't really know the whole story. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;">This story is one where it was an honest mistake. I didn't intentionally call the lady a grandma, because obviously if I had known she was the mom, I would have referred to her correctly. But it makes me think about how often we say things before we think. Has something ever slipped off your tongue and then it was too late to take it back? Often times, we say things in the heat of the moment or when we are angry, and then those words cannot be retracted. It takes just a second or two to cause a painful sting to someone because of our words. So no matter what the situation, this is just a reminder that we should always think before we speak. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;">We are all guilty of it and sometimes we don't even mean to say things that we do. If we just had a filter that would take the thoughts in our heads and control what our tongue says, life would be good. But we don't, and we never will so we must learn to control what we say. Remember that we should talk about others like we would want them to speak about us. Unfortunately there are many people who like to gossip and bad mouth others, but then will be nice to those very faces they just spoke so terribly about. I have a philosophy that I won't say anything about someone that I cannot say to their face. Because if I cannot tell that person what I just said, then that is a problem. I would not want others to speak negative about me, so therefore I will not speak that way about others. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#006600;">Just remember - say what you need to say, do what you need to do. Life is too short to sit around gossiping and seeing what dirt we can dig up on others. You may not always agree with others, but that does not give you the right to talk badly about them. God only wants good and kind words to leave our mouths, remember that little saying. You also cannot rewind what your mouth projects, so make sure not to say things you should not say. Think before you speak and it will save you alot of turmoil! Have a splendid day...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-75655146865362571152010-08-31T09:54:00.004-04:002010-08-31T10:40:26.358-04:00Are You Looking in the Rearview?<span style="color:#cc0000;"><span style="font-family:arial;">What is the first reaction you have when driving down the road and a cop passes you on the opposite side of the road? Is it look in the rearview mirrow or look straight ahead? I am going to guess that at least 90% of Americans would say "the rearview."</span> <span style="font-family:arial;">It's just a natural instinct to look up and see the cop behind you. Is he still driving the other way? Is he turning around? Does he have his flashing lights on? These are all questions that run through our minds when this happens. And here is the funny part ~ we do all this even if we are not driving in excess of the posted speed limit, or doing anything else wrong for that matter. Even if we are being a good, obedient citizen, the temptation to look is too great and we do it anyway. </span></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;">Think about this for a moment ~<strong> I want to live my life so that when I pass a cop while driving, I do not have to look in my rearview mirror.</strong> In other words, I want to live my life looking straight ahead and not looking back or over my shoulder. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;">So when the cop passes your car and your head instantly turns to the right to see the rearview, and you see the cop still driving the opposite direction, do you breath a sigh of relief? Yes. But if the cop is turning around and coming towards you, do you panic? Yes. He might not even be coming after you, and you still have a moment of panic. I was driving down the road a few months ago one beautiful morning, and the cop did pass me heading the other direction. You know what I did? I looked straight ahead because I knew I was driving the speed limit (or under) and had nothing to worry about. Then I quickly realized that I could use this analogy for life just the same. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;">So many of us get hung up on the past, or what has happened to us, or one certain incident that we cannot let go of, and so on. We want to relive the past when it was good, or go back to a certain time that was fun and we were comfortable. But reality says we cannot do that. We must always look ahead and keep moving forward. The days, minutes or seconds do not stop for us. Each second is here for that long and then gone. Each minute is here for that long and then gone. You get the idea. Time does not stop for anyone; it only moves in one direction -> ahead. Looking in the rearview signifies this very well. What do you see in the rearview mirror? What is behind you. What just passed you. What was just in front of you. Life is the same. Once the time has passed, the time is gone. There is no going back to redo something or relive in the moment. Time passes and brings new times so we should appreciate every moment while the time passes, not after the fact. We should live in the moment while it is here because just like everything else, once something is gone, it is gone. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;">Think for a moment about a wonderful moment in your past. You were happy and loving life at that time, weren't you? You thought things would be like that forever and you never wanted things to change. Next...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;">Think about a time that wasn't so good for you. Life was rough, times were hard, you wanted to crawl under a rock and hide, or even worse, you wanted to die in that moment because you felt like you couldn't move forward. Now that wasn't as much fun as remembering the good moment, was it? </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;">My point of remembering both moments, good and bad, is the fact that time moved on and we have all had good and bad moments in our lives. Good and bad times. Sometimes they last for a few minutes, other times they last for months or years. </span><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;">I personally choose to look ahead and not in the past. And I do that with a smile and an open heart because you never know what changes will come ahead. I want to look straight ahead when that police car passes by, because I know that I was doing the right thing (obeying the law and the speed limit) and I have no worries about being in trouble, or the cop catching me for something I did wrong. How are you living your life right now? Are you looking over your shoulder all the time? Are you doing something you know is wrong and that you know you should make right? Or are you right where you want to be? Are you right with God? Are you in a good place that makes you happy? These are all very good questions we all need to ask ourselves. Some words for the minds to chew and think about. If you know you have to look in the rearview of your life and constantly worry about what will happen next, or who will catch you doing something wrong, then it's time for a change. If you can look straight ahead and know you won't be in trouble when that cop passes you, then you are doing what you need to be. God wants us to live our lives fully, healthy, and with a happy heart. He wants us to live the best we can, even when we want to look in that rearview. He wants us to look straight ahead even if we do not want to. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc0000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">So today is a good day to start. Do what is right, obey what He wants us to do, be a good person, help others, lead a good life, be an example for others. That is all God wants us to do. He wants us simply to follow Him and listen for what we are meant to do in this life. </span> <span style="font-family:arial;">Good luck on your road of life; just remember looking ahead will get you so much further than looking back!</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-91352347927160377902010-08-24T17:11:00.003-04:002010-08-24T17:20:04.449-04:00Things That Annoy Me...<span style="font-family:arial;">Boy, do I miss blogging! The idea for a blog of things that annoy me hit me yesterday while shopping. So here goes... my list of things that annoy me (and I know some of you can relate to some of these):</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">1. The squeaky shopping cart (and also what triggered this blog). Yes, the cart that squeaks and weebles and wobbles all throughout the store. I was the lucky recipient of THAT cart yesterday. The one that nobody ever wants to get because you are the center of attention. And not by choice, but chance. Of all the carts to choose from, I chose the one who was the loudest of all. It felt like I was in a parade with all the stares I received from people thinking to themselves 'Yep, glad that isn't me this shopping trip!'</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">2. You are leaving the grocery with stuff in the cart that cannot be bagged and get stopped at the front door because they "need to check your receipt." Ok, I understand that not everyone is totally honest and people try to get stuff for free these days. But I am not one of those people, and I hate the fact that I have to prove I have paid for my items. This happened to me twice in the past 4 days! And I never get stopped when I am on leisure time; it's always when I am in a hurry! </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">3. People. Yes, I just said that people annoy me. Do people annoy you? I'm guessing that they do. Now, not everyone annoys me. But I am set in my ways so I tend to get annoyed with people easily. I also know no one is perfect, and we all make mistakes. But sometimes there is a limit to what you can tolerate. So now for a list of the kinds of people that annoy me:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Conceited people - God created us all equally so why do some people think they are high and mighty and that their poop doesn't stink? We all know someone like this, or maybe you fit into this category. People who are conceited and arrogant are no better than others; they may think they are but that's just to boost their ego that much more. There are definitely people who have made alot of themselves or make more money then others, and that's great and all, congrats to them; but it does not mean they are actually better then others. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Lazy people - this is one of my pet peeves. I am very active and constantly doing something, whether it's at work, home, or for recreation. I don't see how people can sit around and do nothing for hours or days on end. It's nice to have a lazy day every now and then, but God didn't create us to be like that 24/7. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Slacker people - oh yes, we all know someone like this. Unfortunately we have to deal with them whether we like it or not. You know how these people are - they float and do the bare minimum that is required. They let others take charge and sit back and don't do their fair share. They are the type to sit back and watch instead of jumping up to help and taking initiative. I could go on and on about this one, but enough said!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Not dumb, but not overly intelligent-people (did I word that nicely without sounding conceited??) - You ever heard the saying "so-and-so has the brains that God gave us a goose." That's what I think about when I think about these kinds of people. There are those out there who are nice and good people, but sometimes they just don't make the best decisions. They may do things they know are wrong, but don't worry about the consequences until it's time to pay up. You get the idea here!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Mean people - some people are just plain mean. They do things to hurt others, they aren't honest, and they make fun of others. Remember the bully on the school playground? That person was mean then, and probably still is. It's sad but people are mean for no reason often times. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Overtalkative people - you know the kind. You see them calling your phone and then you check your watch to see how much time you have to talk. Because once you pick up the phone, you won't get a word in for 30 minutes. And even then, it might be 2 words. Some people just talk too much and don't know when it's time to shut up. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Braggy people - which can also be overtalkers. Yep, their son or daughter did this, that and even more crap that you don't give a care about. Oh, and you must know the latest and greatest on what the person's latest accomplishments are! It's all about ME, ME ME ~ know someone like this? Someone needs to invent an on/off switch for overtalking braggers because then you could shush them at your convenience. Now that's a thought for an invention...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Gossipy people - no explanation needed here. Gossip brings nothing but trouble to all those who are involved in it. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Dramatic people - come on now. Once you hit the age of 18, drama should cease to exist. Drama is brought on by gossip so they go hand in hand. There are some people just born drama queens (or drama kings), and they love every moment of it. They want to be center of attention and make a massive deal out of the smallest issues. I despise drama and steer clear of it, and if people were smart, they would too.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Really happy morning people - and don't take offense if you are one of "those morning people." I am not a morning person, and I doubt I will ever become one. I like my sleep, I like sleeping in even though it almost never happens, and I don't want to be bothered first thing in the morning about anything. No joking, no serious talks, no complaining or any of the sort first thing in the morning! NO! I cannot handle it. And I'm not one that must have my coffee because well, I am not a coffee drinker. It usually takes me a couple hours after waking up to really be awake and happy. Sometimes more, sometimes less. But anyone that knows me knows not to bother me with nonsense first thing in the morning. Or they might not like the response they get! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">That's just a start on people that annoy me! Now back to the list...</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">4. How about when you turn on the radio station and catch the very tail end of your favorite song? Darn radio stations should be in tune with my schedule of when I start my ignition! LOL</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">5. When I am in a deep sleep and get woke up by something or someone (usually my youngest one). And then there is initial jump of being woke up and then the head rush when you realize where you are and what just happened. And then the fact it's impossible to get back into that good sleep. Sigh...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">6. That I can NEVER seem to be to bed before midnight. Oh, I can try my best, but it never happens. It's as if the clock beside my bed has a magical power that refuses to let my head hit the pillow before 12:00 AM. Some nights it's generous and maybe I am down by 11:30 PM but there is still something that must keep me awake. Maybe the new day wants to greet me personally or something. I just don't know what it is, but I have come to the conclusion that bedtime before midnight just doesn't happen for me. Maybe one of these days I will get back in the habit of getting to bed at a decent hour!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">7. Voicemail. Yes, voicemail gets on my nerves. I'm such a texter these days that I don't talk on the phone much. Unless it's a lengthy or important conversation, I'd rather text anyday! Let me clarify something ~ I don't mind voicemail if I do not know the phone number. That is fine; that way I can check to see if I even want to return the call or not. It's when I receive a voicemail from someone that knows I will call them right back. You know the old "Hey, I was just calling to talk. Give me a call back as soon as you can." Why take the time to leave that on a recorded message? I think most of the time people don't even check voicemail before returning a call anyway. I don't the majority of the time. So that is my thoughts on VM!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">8. How about when you are driving in a parking lot and some idiot cuts across the parking lot the wrong direction that the aisles run? OMG that gets on my nerves! And normally these people are not checking aisles as they cross them. They believe they have the right of way and you must abide to them since they are the parking lot masters! Or people who drive the wrong way in an up or down lane. I am in the habit of looking both ways before I back out just in case. And I couldn't count the number of times it has happened. The driver is going the wrong direction in an up or down aisle, and you have to wait on their not-so-smart self to pass your vehicle, then you hope and pray they go the correct direction down the next aisle they pick. It happens way too often and can cause an accident over someone's stupidity. I just think some people need a bumper sticker that labels them as "Stupid Driver Aboard." </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">9. This could fall under the people annoyance category. But how about when you say something to another person and they don't respond? Nothing, nada, zilch! You sit there wondering if they even heard you, and if they did, why don't they take two seconds of their time to respond? It's like having a one-sided conversation. I have been around people where I will say something of great importance or of little value, and they don't answer. Not only is it just plain rude, but it makes the "talker" feel like what they said doesn't matter and is not worth discussing. I will at least acknowledge someone if they speak to me, even if I am not in a chatty mood.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">10. When my checkbook balance is off, even just a penny. Yes, I am anal in that sense :)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">11. Anyone else ever use Redbox? I do but not all that often. I barely have time to do all the necessary things on a daily basis so my movie watching time is very limited. But when I use a Redbox, I want the thing to work! There have been a few occasions where it doesn't. Or they don't have the movie I really, really wanted to see. BOO! That is what online Redbox is for and I learned that a few months ago </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">12. How about the fact there are not more than 24 hours in a day? I think we could all agree to this one. But even if there were more hours in a day, we would still find time to fill those hours and then complain that there still wasn't enough time. I have written it over and over, there are only 24 hours in a day and we must make the most of them. On a good day (that I go straight to work and straight home), I am still gone almost half of the day. Throw in a few hours to feed the kids, bathtime, homework, playing with them, and all the extra activities you do every week, that leaves little time for sleep. I am happy if I get a full 7 hours sleep per night!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">13. What about when we are working on something and can't get it to work properly (this could be alot of things), and then someone else walks over to take a look at it, what usually happens? It works the second they walk over there. Yep, always works that way! It could be a computer problem, a jar that won't open, really anything. But as soon as another person's eyes are on the problem, it is not longer an issue. Murphy's Law, I guess! This has happened to me alot at work; something is wrong on my screen or the computer is acting up. As soon as I call a co-worker over to look at it, it works perfect! GRRR.....</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">14. For those who have kids, you will understand this one! Kids love to play toys so they drag out this and that and before you know it, the whole room looks like a tornado went through and dropped down baby dolls, blocks, barbie, etc<insert>. But that is not the worst part. That comes when it's time to clean up their mess. "But I'm tired" or "help me" or "these are too heavy" or "but I really want to go to bed" or "Sissy played with these too so she has to help me" excuses ~ that is what really gets on my nerves! They can play and play to their little hearts desire, but come time to clean up the mess, they never want to. And they always think since you are the parent, that comes in the job description that you must help them. The rule in our house is that they can get one collection of items out to play, but when they are ready to move on to the next thing, those must be picked up first. At least that's the way it's supposed to happen. Our floor has been covered in Littlest Pet Shops, Barbies, kitchen items, and whatever other random miscellaneous <strike>crap</strike> junk they find to drag out. When it gets to the point I can't see my floor, there is a big problem and Mommy isn't happy! My kids are pretty good about picking up, but they must be reminded and re-reminded at times. And yes, I usually end up helping because I am just a sucker. Not to mention it's late and I want to go to bed, so I do help them sometimes. But there are also times I don't too so it all balances out!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">15. My best friend and I just talked about this one a few minutes ago -> How about when your jeans or pants don't fit as good as they used to? You know, you pull those pants out of the closet and try to button/zip them up only to find out they have shrunk since you last wore them? It's not you, NO. It's the pants, blame it ALL on the pants! How dare the shrinking fairy put a spell on them when you hung them in the closet. In all fairness, that may be true. Sometimes we wash clothes in hot water or dry them a little too much, and they do shrink. At least that's the excuse I like to use :). Or it could be the alternative, and we have put on just a bit more body mass than we used to have. I'm not as thin as a stick, but I can't complain. But even I have some pants I would love to be able to wear again. Something about turning 30, metabolism slows down, not enough hours in the day... But I do have to workout at least 3-4 days a week or I go nuts. I must say I am a fan of Zumba and would love to do it 7 days a week if I could! I even have my daughter loving Zumba too!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">16. Crowded places and I do not agree. I hate to go somewhere I know is going to be crowded. All of those people in a confined space, yucky, germy, you can't breath without smelling someone else's weird scent. Crowds didn't used to bug me that much, but they do now. If I don't have a clear path to walk somewhere, I don't want to be there!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">17. What about the times you are trying to watch one of your favorite shows (or a movie) and someone keeps interrupting you (normally kids yelling), and it makes it impossible to see and hear the show? I am not a big TV viewer anyway and rarely watch movies (see #11 above), so this doesn't pertain to me often. However, there are a couple of shows that I love to watch, and when I actually get time to watch them <strike>once every 3 months if I am lucky</strike>, I want to be able to see and hear them. That's normally about the time the friend you haven't talked to in awhile calls, or someone will stop by to say "HI." Or your kids will not allow you to watch the TV. Ever notice how that works? During their shows, they are in tune with the TV, and we parents do not exist. We can say the same thing 5 times and they will still not hear it! Oh, but when it's time for Mommy to watch the TV, they can't be quiet enough, or they need this/that right now, or they decide they want to have a long talk at the moment. It's always something, happens every time a show of mine comes on! But they also know that if I don't get my 15 minutes of TV time per week of something I really want to see, they will be in trouble. Therefore, I have signed all rights to my TV over to them until they are grown. Cartoons are destined to be on my screen for a very, very long time!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">18. When the power goes out. Yes, when the electricity flickers off even for just a second. Want to know why? Because it makes every single clock in the house blink 12:00 when it comes back on. That means resetting every.single.clock back to the correct time. I guess I only have 4 clocks to reset which include the oven and the microwave so that isn't bad, but still a pain in the side when you have to do it. And when the power flickers more than once in a day and you have to reset the clocks you just reset, don't even get me started on that one! LOL</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">19. My current annoyance: the fact that summer is almost over :(. It has been a great summer with my kids, but it flew too quick. My kids are growing too fast. Time moves too rapidly, but it always does. I absolutely love summer because of the warm sunshine and beautiful days. I refuse to say goodbye to summer because that soon means hello winter. And I must say winter is the most annoying season of them all! Maybe I should just move to Florida where the weather is warm all year around. Thinking, thinking, nah! I think I'll stay here in great ole Indiana and complain about the cold snowy days in a few months. At least I have a 4x4 truck to get around this winter :)</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">20. Twenty just seems like a good number to wrap up my annoying list. Hmmm... well, I love to blog. Just don't get enough time to write. But I haven't had a comment in a long time! And that is ok, but it is nice to get a comment now and then on my fabulous writing ability. Ha! Just kidding. But I do love to get comments so keep that in mind, blog readers :).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I hope you enjoyed my list of annoying things. I am sure there are many more, but that is what came to mind while writing. Enjoy your day and remember to do something nice for a loved one today :)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-71599438921914448662010-08-16T15:03:00.003-04:002010-08-16T16:03:40.619-04:00Goodbye Summer, Hello School Year<span style="font-family:arial;color:#3333ff;">I must say summer really flew this year. I know we all say that every year, but it did! Normally by this time of year, I am beyond ready for my kids to go back to school. Well, guess what? Not this year! I feel like the summer slipped out from under my feet and just flew away. So how did summer fly by so fast?</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;">I sure would like to know the answer to that question! The length of any given day is 24 hours, no matter what season the day falls. But it seems like the entire summer was over in 24 hours. Maybe I can say that now that our fair is over. Oh yes, the fair. Our family usually loves the fair every year. But this year was a little different. Why? Maybe I shouldn't say that it was different, I guess it's the fact that my daughter can now do any 4-H project that she desires. But some projects take much more time than others. Like... the dog. Don't get me wrong; I love the dog, and I love the fact my daughter loves her dog and that dog is her ultimate favorite project. BUT when you add on the goats, the sheep, the horses, (and don't forget the guinea pig), it makes for a very busy summer. With an average of 3 nights of practice a week, most often 4 nights a week between Monday and Thursday with all the different animals, it made me a very tired mommy and two tired little girls! On a positive note though, my daughter did very well with all of her projects and with all of her animals she showed so that made me the tired, but very proud mommy! On a second positive note, it's all over! No more practices with animals until next year... Well, except for the State Fair practices this week... <strike>Grrrrr!!!!</strike> *Grin!*</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;">With the ending of summer break comes the beginning of the school year. The kids are always excited, nervous, scared, glad, happy and sad all rolled into one! Glad to see their friends again, sad that summer has come to an end yet again. This will also be a year of big change for me ~ instead of one child in school, it will double and make it two kids in school. ='( ='(. Yes, it saddens me just a little. I have always said I would be so glad when they both went to school, but I am recanting those words at the moment. I know it's all part of kids growing up, but it's still hard when the "baby" goes to kindergarten. No, she is not a baby, but yet she is still "the baby." The youngest is always the baby no matter how old they are! Can I get an amen?!?! At least for now, she is still the baby! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;">Let's do the math here. Since my youngest is in kindergarten, add on five years and that makes the oldest in 5th grade. Here at our school, 5th grade rules the school. So she is excited about being the top dog this year! Let's just see if she can have yet another year of straight A's and get her name engraved on the plaque hanging in the school hall again :). I am just grateful for the fact they will be in the same school one year together and big sis can guide little sis and show her the ropes of the big, scary school. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;">As another summer comes to a close, we will soon welcome fall and all that comes along with that. Our kids will turn another year older, and so will we. It's just another reminder that we get older each and every day. We may not feel it (and we might some days) but it's the truth of reality. I am that happy our family had a wonderful summer even though it may have been stressful at times. I am glad my girls were able to have fun and soak up some summer sun. Once school gets back in session, I will eventually find the gratefulness in school days again. At least the routine will be back. Oh, but with routine comes the homework. And since I will have double duty this year, I will say a prayer that we can accomplish homework successfully and in a timely manner this year. That is to be determined, I suppose...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3333ff;">Good luck to all the kids out there who have gone back to school and those who soon will. Before I know it, I will be writing the fall and winter blahs blogs again! LOL. I know my kids will be fine in school this year, but I will probably shed a tear or two after the school bus leaves. I think that's just a Mommy thing, but it's ok because I know God will take care of them while they are not in my care! Have a blessed day, adios for now :)</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-23451743751383219092010-06-22T17:02:00.003-04:002010-06-22T17:39:45.223-04:00Another Reminder of Our Blessings<span style="font-family:arial;">Well, well, one of the last times I remember writing was over the fact I was ready for spring. Now summer is here, and already half over it seems like! Time just flies so fast anymore. We age just a little each day, but yet it doesn't seem like it.</span> <span style="font-family:arial;">Our kids grow a little more each year, each month, each week, each day and before we know it, time has really flown by and they aren't babies anymore. Yes, time flies whether we like it or not. Life has been so busy for me lately that I haven't had time to blog. I miss it; I really do! But as the old saying goes, when all is well, there isn't much to say. Life is grand, kids are great, job is booming as it always does, and everything else is just swell. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I was reminded recently of how important life really is and how we should live each day to the fullest. I love making the most of each day. Sometimes that's easier said then done. I love summer, but then again, I don't like it. We are gone almost every night of every week doing some 4-H activity, or something. It's fun but it's tiring. And at the end of the day most days, I am beyond ready for my head to hit the pillow. Life is short and I want to make the most of it, but sometimes relaxation is nice too. An acquaintance of ours was killed in a motorcycle wreck a few days ago. He was 45 and left behind a wife and 3 kids. It shocked me when I heard even though I did not know the man very well. He was driving down the road I live on when he died. I was not a witness to the scene; nor would I have wanted to be. That would involve a wrecked vehicle and that is just not something I can look at without flipping over the top. But the point is, he was here that morning, and gone by the next morning. Life can change at the drop of a hat, and we must accept what comes our way whether we want to or not. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I thank God every day that I have been blessed with all that I have in my life. And I also know that if something is in God's will, it will happen when the time is right. One of the greatest things about the future is the unknown surprises that God has in store for us that we do not even know about yet. Or we could call it God's blessings of the future. Even if you have your "future" planned out, things can change. Life changes all the time and we must roll with it to stay sane. That's just my little reminder for today. As I always say, life live to the fullest. Love is one of the greatest treasures of all. Do not take life or love for granted. Appreciate all the blessings in life because you never know when those might be gone. Good night and God bless!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-7999805225580436512010-05-24T18:10:00.001-04:002010-05-24T18:10:08.335-04:00It Was Quite a Rude Remark!<span style="font-family:arial;color:#3366ff;">Have you ever been guilty of putting your foot in your mouth? Have you ever said something you wish you could take back? Or even worse, have you ever said something not-so-nice about someone, and then it get repeated to that person? Unfortunately we have all been there before. We have all said things that we wish would have never said. We have all made comments that we wish other would have never heard. And how have you felt when you were the one that said something and couldn't take it back? Probably not real great. This very scenario happened to me a week ago; however, I was on the receiving end of the hurtful comment.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;">School is coming to a close for the summer (thank God)! It has been a long year and all the students, parents and teachers are ready for their well deserved summer break. At least my daughter is! Well, with the end of school comes the close of extra curricular activities for the year. I was in charge of a girl scout troop that has been together for 4 years and will be for one more year. We were in the midst of celebrating our year end awards party. We all had a nice pitch-in dinner to start the evening, followed by a couple girl scouts activities, some games, and then the long awaited ceremony to receive their badges and prizes they have earned for the year. Things in the girl scout troop have been a bit stressful the past couple of years, but I felt like this year had been a success. Our troop is very low key because of busy students and parents that are just as busy. I loved our little group of girls and they had a ton of fun together this year. Well, all was going well until one little girl spoke up and notified me that she would be switching troops and then proceeded to tell me a not-so-very-nice comment that her mother had said about me. I will not reveal what the comment is because that is irrelevant. The point is that I have devoted alot of my personal time, gas for driving all over the place for various reasons this year pertaining to troop related activities, fundraisers, etc, and alot of hard work into the troop this year. When the words rolled off the girl's tongue, I froze for a minute and had to let what she said sink in. Because the comment she made does not describe me at all. I was deeply offended and had to walk away from the group of girls for a moment to collect my thoughts and to keep my cool.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;">Even worse, the comment came from a mother who has been with the troop the entire four years, and who has not done a whole lot to contribute to the troop. This person stays at home and has tons more time than I who works 9-10 hours everyday at my job on top of everything else I do. So not only was the comment extremely rude and offensive, but for the person who put not much effort forward to the group to say such a horrible thing, it was pretty low. Very very low. So there it is, one of my biggest pet peeves ~ someone being judgemental. Judging others is a sin, and I despite people who judge others. Until you are in someone else's shoes and know EXACTLY what their life is like or all that they do, I think people should keep their mouths SHUT and not made rude remarks until they have been there and done that and can relate on a 100% level. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;">I am proud to say I made it through the rest of the meeting all the while biting my tongue (and it hurt a bit to bite it but I accomplished it), and didn't say a word to the mother that made the rude remark. I understand people have different views, but what was said was uncalled for and was extremely hurtful to me who took the negative comment personally. I guess I should add that I was not at all upset with the girl who told me what her judgemental mother said. I was upset with the mother for saying such a mean thing, considering she hadn't made a fraction of the effort I had all year long. I was always open to suggestions and ideas but she didn't seem to have many to add throughout the year. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;">The mother was sitting a few seats down from her daughter when the comment left her lips. I do not know if she heard her daughter tell me the negative news about what her mother thought or not. And personally, I don't care. It would have been wonderful if the daughter would have said it with the mother by her side, but unfortunately that wasn't the case. There were several girls and other parents that heard the comment, so I'm sure she knew before the night was over what her daughter had said to me. I have a strong feeling she knew but was too chicken to apologize to my face. Isn't that funny how that works ~ it's so much easier to say something behind someone's back, but not to their face? We are all guilty of that, just some more than others. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;">My point of sharing this story is to make others think before they speak. You might think negatively about something or someone, but be careful what you say or what you write because once mean words leave your mouth, it's hard to take them back. I'm just advising, take a couple seconds to think about something before it's too late. It's fine that the mom felt that way, she is entitled to her opinion. However, it was not ok to blab to her daughter (who tells all anyway) and then humiliate me in front of everyone else. It was very hurtful and I have to admit I resent the mother for what she said. I will not stay hung up on it or lose sleep over it, but the scar is there. As far as I am concerned, I have no use for her and don't really care if I ever talk to her again or not. However, I do hope she learned her lesson from this whole incident and learns to keep her mouth shut before blabbing her useless opinions of others while she sits on her butt. It's like the saying goes ~ if you think you can do a better job, than do it! Don't gripe about how someone else does something if you haven't even made an effort to begin with. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;">So today's lesson: think before you speak or act. It just might save you from tasting your foot in your mouth and save someone else's feelings from getting hurt. This doesn't only apply to this scenario, but life in general. We all say and do things in the spur of the moment, and then later on sometimes regret what we have said or done. But we can't take it back. We just chalk it up to lessons learned and move on and try to apply what we learned in the future. It's simple really: If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all. We always tell our children that, but maybe there are some adults that need to be told that to.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;"></span><br /><span style="color:#3366ff;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Until next time, </span><span style="font-family:Arial;">live and love happy! </span></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#3366ff;"> </span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-85325145691932846152010-04-27T09:33:00.004-04:002010-04-27T13:07:16.618-04:00That Day Comes Again<span style="font-family:arial;color:#993399;">Wow, how life has been busy lately! Just like you, I am consumed with work, kids, and everyday life. I have missed blogging and I hope to start blogging more. I need some inspiration! I need some ideas! Send me a title and we'll see what blog comes of it! It may not happen for a few months, but it could eventually become a blog. All in all, I cannot complain. God has blessed my life abundantly, more than words can say. I am just thankful for each and every day that I am given a fresh start. I am thankful for all the blessings he has given me over the years. But most of all, I am grateful for the chance we have at eternal life. When we turn everything over to God and trust in Him completely and wholeheartedly, amazing things happen. We grow in our faith more and more and we worry less. Well, the day I celebrate every year is here again. I celebrate the birth day of my daughter even though she is not physically here to celebrate it with me. She is smiling down on me from Heaven Above. She knows how dearly loved and missed she is, even though she is in a much better place than we are here on earth. Mindy Grace would be 7 years old today. It is hard to believe it has been that long because it seems like just yesterday. I have moments forever frozen in my memory of my time with her. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;">God was good to bless us with Mindy. God is good all the time even when good things don't happen. We just have to look for the good in all aspects of life. I look back on these 30 years of my life and realize how truly blessed I have been. I am grateful for all things that have happened to me; I am grateful for where I am today. Just like everyone else, I have been through alot in life. Some times were wonderful and other times weren't so great. But I made it through! I found the silver lining in every cloud of every storm and made it through to see the sun shine again. These last two years have taught me alot about life. It's funny how I can look back at where I at 3 years ago at this time, 2 years ago at this time, and 1 year ago at this time. My, oh my, how I have changed during each of those years! Not only have I gotten 1 year old each year, but I have learned enough to last me a lifetime. But the best thing of all, is that no matter how much I went through, or what I have learned, there is still so much more to explore, accomplish and learn along the way! There are so many things that God has planned for my life that I don't even know about yet. I just have to pray and wait to see where my path leads me. I have a pretty good idea of where I'm going to be, but only time will tell what will happen...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;">I attended a fashion swap at my church this past weekend. There was a guest speaker there who gave a very uplifting and warm message. One thing that she repeated numerous times was "I am a unique, unrepeatable miracle of God." She made every one in the room say it over and over throughout her talk with us ladies. Try this, say it aloud, right now. Don't worry about who is around, say it so you can hear your mouth speak the words: <strong> I AM A UNIQUE, UNREPEATABLE MIRACLE OF GOD. </strong>Now for those of you that just read it and did not speak it out loud, go back and say it! If you are in an environment you cannot talk to yourself because people might think you are a little nutty, at least write it down and say it to yourself out LOUD before the day is over. Since you are fortunate enough to be able to read my blog, at least do it for me!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;">I am a unique, unrepeatable miracle of God ~ that I am. That you are. And every unique individual that God created is. A unique unrepeatable miracle of God. Every one has their own mind, their own body, their own life, their own family, their own friends, their own car, their own email, their own favorite things, their own everything. Yes, people share things all the time, people share family members and friends. But there is not another person that has your name, your likes, your dislikes, your look, your voice, your smell, your hair, you get the idea. There is no exact replica of YOU because God created us all to be different in our own unique way. For those of you that have a Facebook account, their is no other person that has the same list of friends that you do! Want proof of that? You cannot be a "friend" to yourself on FB so therefore, no other person can repeat your list of friends exactly. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;">So there it is folks! We are all different from each other, but yet we are alike in so many ways. I am thankful for the friends I have; the friends that compliment me, the friends that listen to me, the friends that I can meet for lunch, the friends that know me better than I know myself, all the friends I have. I am especially thankful for the bestest friends that I have, there are just a select few. And I thank God for helping me find my best friend, that I can tell everything to and be who I really am, just last year. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;">So I hope you understand my point. Every one of us is our own person. We all see, hear, touch, feel and smell the same thing, but the end result differs in everyone. We don't always think alike, and we never will. If we all thought alike, how boring would that be! Everybody has their own "thing" they like to do. Everyone has their own interests. I love to go for a ride on tractors and combines but most people do not share that same spark of interest as me. So next time you are having a rough day or hard time, remember that you are a unique individual that is unrepeatable. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;">God makes each and every one of us for a different reason; a different purpose. Have you ever wanted to be famous? Be an actor or a famous singer? Well, God has chosen a select few to carry on those roles and entertain us. We all have a reason, or multiple reasons that we are put here on earth. We just have to pray to Him and ask what it is that He wants us to do. We must ask God where he wants us to go. We should ask God what he wants us to be in life. If we seek guidance and follow what He wants us to do, then God is pleased. For when we follow Him, He will bless us with we need. He will never leave us. He will provide us during our times of need. But we must keep the faith and know that He will provide for us when the time is right. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;">The other message our speaker wanted us to remember was that "God loves me." God loves me, God loves you. God loves everything He created. No matter what we have done, no matter where we have been, no matter what negative things our past holds, God still loves us anyway. He will never turn His back on us. He is there at all times. But again, you have to believe in Him. Remember to always believe and trust in the Lord.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;">I will conclude this post by saying this: Life is short. God is good. Count your blessings and be thankful for what you have. Give credit to the Lord for all good things because those are blessings from Him. Seek guidance in storms of life, and during the good times. He will never steer you wrong. Love others as you wish to be loved. Be happy and give to others. You would be amazed at how blessed you feel when living happy and being a positive role model for others. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#993399;">If you have any blogs you would like to see written, leave me a comment! No promises, but it could happen. Have a blessed day. Laugh, love and live happy because that is what we are supposed to do! And Happy 7th Birthday to Mindy Grace in Heaven. You are never forgotten, and I am so thankful she is in the best place of all and has eternal life. We Love You Little Girl.</span><br /><span style="color:#993399;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-1626430117200812172010-03-23T16:32:00.000-04:002010-03-23T17:34:51.910-04:00Cruising on the Speedboat or the Sailboat?<span style="font-family:Arial;">First of all, I would like to officially welcome spring! I am so glad it is finally here. The warmer temps are on their way and so are all the leaves and pretty flowers. I can't wait to see all the pretty scenes of spring!!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I received a very awesome message at church this past Sunday. Our pastor was talking about living life right and knowing our Lord and Savior through the Holy Spirit. Well, one phrase that I loved was that those who go through life while sailing are often more happy and at ease then those who speed through life. Take this example: if you had to choose between a sailboat and a speed boat, which one would you choose? The majority of people are going to choose the speed boat, including myself at times. The speed boat is the quick route, the fun route to get to where we need to be. The sailboat requires time and patience because you must set your sails to whichever direction the wind is going in order to move anywhere. And the sailboat is obviously going to move at a much slower pace than a speedboat would. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">That is a perfect example of life. So many times we move full speed ahead when we get an idea in our head or follow a direction we want to go. Rather than stopping to listen to God and what He wants us to do, we pick a point, set our sights on that point, and do whatever it takes to get there. Sometimes we hurt others or knock people out of the path along the way, but as long as where we get to where we want to be, that is all that matters. Let me say that is a very selfish and negative approach to the way people should handle life and everything that matters to each person. So when we are riding the speed boat, we are bumping over the waves fast and furious and missing alot on the ride we are taking. However, there is a solution if you are riding on a speedboat in your life...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Take a look around you and decide that you would like to take a stroll on the sailboat. Decide that you are ready to follow God's path for you and not YOUR path for you. The sailboat might take awhile to get to where you want to go; it may seem very slow but that is ok. When you are riding on the sailboat, you have an opportunity to relax and enjoy the slow rhythm of the waves. You don't have to worry about hitting a big bump and getting thrown off the boat. Because when you sail, you see so much more than when you are cruising fast. You are able to appreciate the little things, see things with detail and not blurred as if you were flying by. The sailboat is actually the best boat to choose because you are not in control of the direction you go. You set sail and see where the wind takes you. Just like in life ~ let God be in control and see what direction it takes you. Let Him be the wind that guides you and you will go so much further in the journey of life.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Ask yourself this ~ which boat are you riding on? Are you moving in fast forward and cruising fast and furious at such a pace that you cannot control? Or are you moving slow and steady and letting things happen as they will? I pray for each person that reads this blog, that they are riding on the sailboat of life and not the speedboat. It's so much prettier, so much more detailed, so much more peaceful, and the ride that God wants us to choose when we are on the sailboat. So slow down if you are moving too fast and appreciate those little things of life. Take time for things you enjoy. Stop running at an excessive amount of speed; take time to stop and smell the flowers. Riding on the sailboat is so much better then riding on the speedboat. The speedboat might give you a thrill for a short while but eventually the thrill ends and you are back at the dock, back at the beginning where you must start over. But enjoying life on the sailboat will send you travelling farther than life on the speedboat. Take my word for it. Try it today! You will never know what you are missing until you slow down enough to take a cruise on the sailboat. It's what God wants us and needs us to do in order to get to our destination in this world. May God Bless You Today and Everyday! And I pray you choose to sail on the slowboat of life.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-54863681707429255452010-03-04T16:47:00.002-05:002010-03-04T16:48:11.595-05:00COME ON SPRING!<span style="font-family:arial;color:#cc33cc;">I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the month of March. It certainly has been a long and dreary winter with very little sunlight for what we normally are given. Or at least it seemed that way this year. I read somewhere that the sun was only out 6 or 7 days in the month of February. That statistic just seems crazy to me! I didn't actually count the days we had bright sunlight but it was very few.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc33cc;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc33cc;">Spring is in the air and it's just a few days away. I can almost smell it, it's so close! But not close enough! I, like most of the world, am quite sick of the long winter days and am ready for some pretty and sunny ones. I just have to remind myself to be patient and the sun will soon shine bright enough on the majority of days we are blessed to have. Not only am I looking forward to the sunshine, but I am especially excited about the warm weather that will be here before we know it. I am ready to kick the long sleeves back in the spare closet and wear all of my lovely warmer weather clothes! Just a few more weeks.... GRRR! (Patience is virtue, I know.)</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc33cc;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc33cc;">Along with spring will also come the birds singing again, the trees blossoming, the flowers sprouting out, the whole look of pastels and pretty colors again. I am also ready to see the mud dry up from the <strike>thousands and gazillion feet</strike> few feet of snow that dumped on us in February. That was just some crazy snowfall if you ask me! HOPEFULLY we are on the upper end of that and won't be cursed with any more snow until next winter. (Hint, Lord, Please!!) But soon enough all will be perfect and pretty again in the lovely outside world. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc33cc;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc33cc;">So here comes the countdown... </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc33cc;">16 DAYS UNTIL SPRING!! ONLY 16. And tomorrow when we wake up, it will be 15 DAYS UNTIL SPRING. Even better!!! I'm just happy the temps are supposed to bring the 50 degrees mark this weekend. They cannot come fast enough for me!!!! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc33cc;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#cc33cc;">So join me in counting down the days until spring. We will all welcome spring with wide open arms in 2010. At least I will! Until next time, God Bless!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6167677042677405397.post-21156113104027539272010-02-11T20:42:00.000-05:002010-02-22T12:17:22.355-05:00Life is Good Today; Life is Good<span style="color:#6600cc;"><span style="font-family:arial;">There was a phrase I had stuck in my head last week and for some reason, it still remains in my head today "Life is good today; life is good." Now people will look at that phrase and probably think they cannot say that every single day of their lives. But I am here to say, yes you can say that every day of your life, starting today!</span> <span style="font-family:Arial;">Life is full of blessings, but sometimes we have to look for them or be reminded at times. Yes, some days are harder than others, that is just life. But there is good in everyday if we search for it. </span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;">Life is good today and is good everyday we are blessed here on this earth. This popped into my head one afternoon while I was at work. It had been a busy week and a busy day especially. And I am one that loves to stay busy. Give me work and more work and I will complete it as fast and accurate as I possibly can. But this day wasn't so much about completing paperwork, it was about helping others. I had a few customers that day who really brightened my day even though they did nothing out of the ordinary. I love being able to help people, whether it be at work, family, friends, a complete stranger, whomever. I absolutely love helping others. And I thank God each and every day for the opportunities he has given me in my life. I have the most amazing daughters, a good family, wonderful friends, a great man in my life, a job that has turned into my ultimate dream job, the list goes on and on. But something hit me that day and just really made me realize how much I am truly blessed. I get paid to do what I love, and in return I get to help others everyday. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;">Sometimes even the smallest gesture can make such a big difference in someone else's day. I was at a meeting the other night of a group I have been a leader for 4 years. One of my new girls this year handed me a little box and said "Happy Valentine's Day." It was a small box of chocolate cracker treats with sprinkles on them. It was truly sweet! Even though it wasn't a big gesture from the girl, it made my day to know that what I do for the girls is appreciated. I never expect any type of gift for volunteer work because I like to do what I do; otherwise I wouldn't put forth all the effort that I do. But that was the first time in 4 years I had ever gotten a small gift from anyone in the group. I am happy even if I get a "thank you" at the end of the year. I am not a leader or take on extra roles because I want some glory or fame. I do it for my daughter, and for those kids who I have the privilege of helping and getting to meet. I always try to be the best positive role model that I can, and pray that I can help others in some way, even if it something small. But my point is that small gesture that the member of the group made put a big smile on my face and brightened my day. And it made me think of something that is common sense but now always spoken. Maybe if we each took the time to do something little for others once in awhile, we would brighten others lives or make them smile. Think about it ~ when is the last time you made a small gesture of kindness for others? It's kind of like the pay-it-forward theory. Do something nice out of the kindness of your heart just because. You don't always need a reason to do something nice. It would make you feel warm inside and benefit the person on the receiving end as well. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;">Life is not always easy, but there is something in each day to be thankful for. Even if you have the worst day ever, be grateful for at least one thing in your life. I am grateful each night that I get home because I am with the two lights of my life ~ my kids. Even if I've had a not so great day, or I'm trying to get things done around the house, or the kids are squabbling, even in the most hectic times, I am still grateful that God chose to bless me with my little girls. I am grateful for the house I come to that I call home, for the car that I drive each day because it enables me to travel, for the endless people that have come into my life whether it be for a season or for a lifetime. I am thankful for all the blessings in my life. I just wish more people would see that my theory on being grateful and thankful for what we already have and not for what we do not have.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;">I have written a couple times about a lady I met in my office who had cancer. She was given a couple weeks before Christmas to live, but God blessed her with a few more days and she peacefully went to be with the Lord on January 6, 2010. Even though I wasn't close to her, I went to pay my respects and express my condolences to her husband and family. Her husband is such a sweet man whom I've had the privilege of meeting through my job. He said he was right beside her when she left to be with Jesus and she was ready. She had finally come to the realization that she could not beat her cancer and so she wouldn't fight it anymore. Then he laughingly said she didn't want a big fuss during her viewing/funeral, and that she didn't want people to have to get out 2 days just for that, and that nobody would even be there. Let me just say the parking lot was full and we waited in line for at least an hour before talking with him. The first thing he said to me was "she must have really made an impact on you" and yes, she certainly did. I can remember she told me to take extra time for those "little things." Again, it comes back to the little things in life, not the giant monumental things that we go through. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;">Life was good the last few days because I was blessed to have a couple of snow days to stay home with my girls. Don't get me wrong, being cooped up in the house for two days because of snow, then leaving for a day for a normal routine, then being cooped up another two days can drive us all a little nuts. So 4 out of 5 days we were all snowy blanketed in our house together, but you know what? It was wonderful and I wouldn't change it for anything! We got to play together, eat together, bake cookies together, just have fun together! I hadn't played playdough in years (I think I forgot how). We completely cleaned out and revamped my daughter's room so she can enjoy having friends over next weekend for her birthday. We spent quality time together and that's what counts. So yes life was good yesterday, life is good today, and Lord willing, life will be good tomorrow.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;">I will say it again "life is good today; life is good." But I should change it to say "life is good everyday" because it truly is. Let's count our blessings today and thank God for what we have been given. Let's stop worrying about the future so much and live in the here and now because we miss so much of life if we live in constant worry or planning every step of life. The truth is we really can't plan every step of our life the way we think things will happen. Life just happens whether we are ready for it or not. We have to be prepared for whatever life throws at us. We should be grateful for our blessings. It's simple really. Be happy with what you have and try to roll the best you can in life. Life is Good Today, Life is Good <- Notice it doesn't just say "today" but the phrase ends with "Life is Good." And yes it is, Life is Good. Have a wonderful day and a wonderful week!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Simple Country Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08072714411120876639noreply@blogger.com0