Just Me!!

Father Forgive me for I have sinned. It has been 10 minutes since my last confession...! Aren't you glad when God picks you up in his arms, brushes away the tears and wraps his arms wide around you?

When did Monticello start feeling like home, and Seattle a place I visit?

This New Year: 1) Big Party or stay at home alone? -Working:( 7p-7a. I already had my fun in Seattle, now I have to work like a dog to make it up! 2) Stay up to watch the ball drop? -Probably miss the ball dropping since I will be concentrating/charting on my patients! 3) Will you make any resolutions? -Yes, two so far! Hey, it never said to list them, so back off! 4) Is Dick Clark a good host for New Year's Eve? -Doesn't he do it every year? Let's have Morgan Freeman, then none of us would be awake for the ball dropping! His voice can put the best of us to sleep. Ever watch March of the Penguins ? 5) Do you know the words to Auld Lang Syne? -Though all the saints be forgot and never more to reign???? Is that it? I think not but I can hum with the best of them. It gets me teary every time! See ya all very soon. I leave today at 1515! Ahh, the peace of flying solo! All the time can be spent on my new electronic suduko or reading my book .

She describes the last few days in Seattle, right on! Click here for a few pics and an accurate descript of our cooking day (minus her praising my cooking abilities). Katie (Shannon's Boston Terrier) did taste test the cinnamon rolls, however some lucky family member will be getting to taste that "special sauce." Most of the recipes should come with a dentist's referral note, but hey it is the thought that counts, right? All said and done, we had a TON of fun! We love laughing and giggling our way through each recipe. Today is the year anniversary of Gweens passing...! We truly missed her prescence at our feet when we were baking yesterday! We miss you Gweens!

1. Arrived before the great Northwest Storm 2. Stayed in Tacoma because the in-laws electricity was out for 5 days. 3. Took a bus trip to Leavenworth Washington to watch the annual Christmas lighting 4. Shopped, shopped, and shopped some more. 5. Eaten Sushi twice 6. Purchased one sushi book 7. Ate at the Rain Forest Cafe ...right under a pack of wild gorilla's! 8. Took pictures of Mount Rainer in all it's glory 9. Watched a "feel good movie" with the in-laws! 10. Played a round of "May I?" and lost 11. Played at a local park with new and unique toys...got sick off one of them (same concept of a tire swing). 12. Held my new nephew, kissed him, changed him, and wished him mine! 13. Helped my mom with her kids christmas party 14. Got held up in the worst traffic for 45 minutes! Grrrr! 15. Spent time with family.... 16. Searched for some great coffee. 17. Noticed my MIL found a coffee system that makes some great brew :), and she has had it for years. 18. Call...

Of course we are in the coffee capitol of the world, yet we have failed to find a descent cup o' brew! Dad's Place just doesn't exist outside of Monticello Arkansas. If the brown blobs truly did exist, I would be severely anemic! Miss y'all!

Due to the lack of plentiful prose in my comment section lately, I figured I would try Markverse's stunt to see if I could rack some up. I don't think my pictures are as drastic as Mark's, but they may very well be worth a comment or two! These pictures were taken at the school I attended, however my Senior (photograph quality) pics are proudly displayed at my mom's house in Washington. I don't recall much difference, except for a brown leather jacket (sort of boyfriends jacket) that I used for the photography sitting. All I have to say is look at the BIG glasses! I absolutely loved that sweater! It was the most expensive article of clothing I have ever purchased to date (except for my wedding dress). High School: Tacoma Baptist High School , located in Tacoma Washington. Home of the Crusaders, colors yellow and blue. A total of 30 graduates in my class. Favorite Subject: Accounting, Algebra, Chemistry, and English. Least Favorite Subject: English when it required ...

What Kind of Reader Are You? Your Result: Literate Good Citizen You read to inform or entertain yourself, but you're not nerdy about it. You've read most major classics (in school) and you have a favorite genre or two. Dedicated Reader Book Snob Obsessive-Compulsive Bookworm Fad Reader Non-Reader What Kind of Reader Are You? Create Your Own Quiz

My phone conversation with my mother the other day went like this: Ang (literally crying about my recent beauty shop visit) : I feel so bad, my hair never looks good and I don't know how to put on makeup. You never really taught me how to do that. Mom: I know, but that was because I didn't know how myself. Where I grew up (Stanley, N.D.) we didn't wear anything except rouge and lipstick, and that was only if we were going out to the movies. I always went by that phrase, "don't paint the barn if it doesn't need painting." I am so sorry you sad honey. I should've taught you more. It will be okay! Ang: It's okay. I am just worried that I won't know how to teach Valerie! Days later...Valerie tries her hand at applying makeup! Looks like I need to get started on teaching her, so people don't mistake her for a wild "blue haired" tiger.

1. Last person you told to shut up: This would probably be my husband, though I'm not sure why I said it...his mouth was open? Actually, he is extremely kind and I would only say such things if I were teasing. 2. Do you drink wine? I have, but each time I've tried I've realized again that I just don't like the taste...yech! 3. Ever fly on a plane? Hello!...used to work for Alaska Airlines. Not only have I flown, I've flown for $15 a ticket! 4. Do you yell at your friends? Never. 5. What have you quit? Ahh! You thought I was going to say blogging, did you? I don't think I've ever really quit anything. Indefinitely suspended, maybe, but not quit.

Day 4 -crayons and an art project Day 5 -Oops, someone picked crayons twice...moments later Ethan traded Valerie the his Christmas plate for her crayons because he, " I don't like to see sissy cry." Day 6 -Christmas Tree Art projects Day 7 -Christmas Tissue, for all their runny noses! Day 8 -Santa bags with M&M surprise inside!

A stencil kit and a pom pom kit!

Day Two...Gummy Lifesavers!Their reactions: Ethan yelled "Yummy, gummies!" Val exclaimed, "Hey mom, once I ate a whole box of the lifesavers from last year and I got sick and threw up in the toilet. I'm not doing that this time! No way...!" Today was also my once a month cook group day! I have had the opportunity to participate two months in a row, and absolutely love it! The total for my meals this month, which number 15, was 31.00! I believe it was 2.08 a meal! This is what I ordered (fridge pictured left is last months meals)! (2) Chicken Chili Pasta (3) Sweat and Sour Meatballs (2) Chicken Rolls (2) Cheesy Frittata (2) Honey Pork Chops (2) Taco Soup (1) Pumpkin bars with frosting (1) Coffee Cake

Can't Not Wait 1. Are you complicated? -I am simple and complex. Easily understood and misunderstood! Aren't all women? 2. Do you retaliate? -Yes, emotionally! 3. Last person to hug you? -Mark, when he left for Arkadelphia tonight. 4. Your latest complaint: -Aimed at our local Walmart for not having what I needed! I am the shopper again for our once a month cooking group, so I always run into issues trying to find the things we need. 5. Who was the bully on your playground? -The last bully I met while in school happened to be a nursing instructor! She felt the need to throw her weight around all the time, and at whomever she chose (thanks Jeff for bringing back old memories).

Day one, technically! Santa/Snowman Dry Erase Boards!

My parents have always loved and spoiled my kids! Her, my mom, love language is gifts, and she constantly sends them packages full of exciting toys, food, and clothing. The Christmas Season is differnt though! She created a wonderful tradition(while my sister and are were away at college)years ago, that I will in the future continue for my children's children! It is similar to the Advent calendar. Each year she wraps little gifts, for each child, starting with the 1st of December, counting down to Christmas. Every day the children get to wake up and open one pre-christmas gift. I loved it as a college student. It served two purposes, made my last weeks of the semester bearable, and it counted down the days till I was able to be with my family. Nothing says love to a college kids, then a "care package." So, I thought I would give you the chance to count down with us. It is a fun tradition that does't have to be expensive....(you'll see)! One year Mark and I did it ...

-- I found this note while going through a stack of Val's drawings recently. It is now displayed proudly on our fridge. It shows Val's innocence and her honest heart! Val, don't be embarrassed, I think Dad's a turkey too! Reading this also made me think of my college logic course some years ago: Val thinks turkey's are cute. Val thinks dad is a turkey. Therefore Val believes Dad is cute!

Warning ...The list below contains many of "MY" favorite things. Please be aware that this is not my Christmas list, as I already own many of these items. Enjoy browsing, and I hope this helps with your holiday shopping! Sorry that I couldn't afford to include all of these lovely items as surprise gifts under your chair this holiday season! Maybe next year... 1. 13 slot file folders -I discovered this unique little bill filing system from ItchyBits , so I will let her describe why this has become one of my favorites. Instead of stuffing all my receipts, copies, statements etc. into shoe boxes, drawers, file cabinets etc. I came upon the 13 pocket plastic file folder. Exciting huh? But it is! I tab this thing out by the month and I stick all my transactions in the appropriate monthly slot and it slides neatly onto a bookshelf. I label with the year and it is organized. I've been doing this for the last five years and have them all lined up. Because they are plastic the...

I didn't say crack....I said crank! I know that it is only three days from Thanksgiving and I have a ton to feel blessed for, but I just woke up on the wrong side of the bed, I guess (that's what Mark calls this). I feel angry inside! Alot of stuff has been brewing inside me lately and for awhile I just push it back down, then every now and then (usually before I start a new work week) I let it consume me. So what is it you say? How about a list, for all you who are considered list lovers ! 1. Really ready for a break...to be with family! It always kills me around the holidays. 2. When in laws fail to remember us, unless we are smack dab in front of their faces. 3. When liars get unwarranted family attention. 4. The kids taking their socks off at church, even though we have told them not too. 5. Using our tithe to help a family member...not knowing if others would disapprove. 6. Spen...

Mr. Jim has kept us busy this week blogging our thanks for people, relationships, and everything else we can think of! Today I have taken a moment to name five people (apart from my family), that I have met and am thankful for. The past months, because of Journey , Mark and I have had a ton of people fluctuate into our lives, so if you are not on this list it doesn't indicate that you aren't included in our thoughts. Here is my list... 1. Wendy Knoblock (my loyal, anytime I need her, friend) 2. Holly Shelton (co-worker and friend) 3. Amanda Hunicutt (co-worker and friend) 4. Misty Morgan (friend) 5. Jerry McLemore (my daughter's horse riding instructor)

My Kids - For each little toe, foot, finger, bum, smile, curl, nose, hand that I love holding, patting, kissing, snuggling, counting, and loving. - For their health, their minds, their intelligence, their problem solving, their creativity, and awesome personalities. - For every minute, hour, day, month, year that I have been granted to spend with them. Mark - For his willingness to sacrifice his time and his career for my education. -For all the time he spends alone, missing me at night. -For his desire to pursue his doctorate...to continue his education. -For showing me parts of the world I thought I would never see. -For keeping me safe at night. -For loving me despite all my faults (not that I have but just "one"). Dad's Place -For the great tasting cup o' brew. -For remembering my "regular" -For creating a Place to come and fellowship. It allows Mark and I to have time during the week to be together (on our coffee dates). -For being better than Starbuck...

Orange Beef (I used chicken) Lettuce Wraps (they really do make it de...lish) 1 1/2 lbs boneless top sirloin steak (or boneless skinless breasts- cut in small pieces) 1 T cornstarch 2 T vegetable oil 3/8 t. crushed Red Pepper 1/2 c green onions, thinly sliced 1-8 oz can of water chestnuts, drained, then diced Orange Sauce 3 T Frozen o.j. concentrate thawed 3 T hoisin sauce (Walmart has in asian section) 3 T rice wine vinegar (Asian section again) 3 T Soy Sauce 1 T cornstarch Serving day 2 heads of Boston Lettuce Leaves (I used iceburg because we are not fortunate to have this here) Shredded Carrots (optional) Diced Cucumbers (optional) Salted Peanuts (optional) Peanut Sauce (optional...but awesome) Cooking Day Cut steak 1/8 in thick strips. In med-bowl combine steak and 1 t cornstarch; toss to coat. Set aside. Next make orange sauce in bowl; set aside. In skillet heat oil and red pepper over med high heat until hot. Add beef (or chicken) and stir fry for 1-2 min just until brown on all...

I thought I'd clear something up with those of you who think cooking is my latest venture. I have been cooking for years, but will admit in the past 5 years it has become more of a hobby than a chore! Apart from the one time read of a popular fiction novel, I often read my cookbooks like I would a novel. Devouring every page, breaking the spines, and dog earing the pages! I will have to admit though that I like to see a picture with each of the recipes! I had one day off yesterday, so I thought I'd spend some time in the kitchen making a special meal for the family. Mark helped by making the rice (yummy it was), and I cooked Orange Chicken Lettuce Wraps from my newest cookbook called, Don't Panic Dinners In The Freezer (pictured above). The food was great, but the conversation was tastier. They ranged from Mark's story about the first time he tasted peanut sauce, Ethan saying everyone's full name, Valerie's love of soy sauce and how it will likely lead to hyp...

Last year, Mark and I had the extreme pleasure of seeing a Live Transiberian Orchestra concert in Little Rock. We received it as a pre-Christmas gift from his parents. We knew the concert was going to rock, literally and figuratively, but we were no where prepared for the intensity and talent this group of singers/artists brought to the stage. It was incredible, complete with a light show, and snow. We were moved by every song that they sang, and the story line that accompanied it, wrapped it all together. This year, our circumstances have allowed us to purchase those same tickets for Mark's mom and dad to see the show in Seattle, whom are the original avid fans. I hope they receive the same joy as we did when we went last year. If you've never heard of the group, go to their website and browse around. I've attached a YouTube video for your listening pleasure (it is not one of the Christmas ones though). If you're still undecisive and would like to hear a sample with ...

I always get excited when I see a new business in town. Yesterday, I ran across this little store tucked neatly next to the local Piggly Wiggly. Unfortunately it was closed, and I was too tired to peer in the window to see what they had to offer. Today, with a whole day ahead of me and some sleep, I ventured into see what this place was. I discovered Kinsarmars is a store filled with (yesterday was the grand opening) childrens/ adults hair bows . Now, of course they have other trinkets in there but mainly they have every color, character, and size hair bow you could ever dream about (granted that is if some of us dream about such things!). The owner is very friendly, and will tell you immediately that it is his wife with the bow making talents. The store is named after his three grandchildren (using the first three letters of their names). Stop in and enjoy this new store, it is very uptown for our small town. I love the growth that our city has seen recently!

Mark had a ton of fun with his little get to know me quiz, so I am following suit. Show me your stuff and take my fun little quiz . How well do you know JUST ME?

Photo: Arkansas Post National Monument One of my favorite articles on MonticelloLive is always the featured photo essays by R. Spencer! I love photo's, and wish I could produce ones that move people emotionally. My husband seems to think that I have that ability, but I just need to begin training my eyes to see something marvelous that others might disregard. I don't plan to win any awards...just open a few eyes to the glory around. I begin here. The photo was inspired by a quote from a Stampin Up stamp set I own. In all things of nature, there is something of the marvelous. - Aristotle

Am I crazy or does Beta Blogger have the same crappy features of the original? Oh, sorry it has a LABEL option now. Wow. I just signed up for a Google account for nothing....! Atleast they could have given us more template options!

Really, I will stop apologizing for my lateness and lack of blogging at some point. We had a great October month! We topped off the end of the month with trick-or-treating at a local church (since the rain started pouring the minute we stepped out the front door to go around the neighborhood), and had a family spooky party complete with eyes balls, calzone mummy and witches brew! Hope your HALLOWEEN was just as FREIGHTENING!

Mi casa es su casa. 1) Tell us about where you live: -Southeast corner of Arkansas. I think! 2) If you could change one thing about your home, what would it be? -The question is very significant because it is one of the reasons I had my breakdown 12 year cry this week....the answer CLUTTER. Can't stand clutter. I am not a knick knack person, so when stuff is hanging out everywhere I suddenly get in this wild and crazy tossing mode. I just signed up for FLYLADY.net to help me out with the problem...the clutter that is. First chore she assigned...to clean the sink till it sparkles. Gosh, I think I'm going to like this woman.... 3) Do you do laundry on a regular schedule? -Every day! God blesses me with a full laundry basket daily....just wish he'd bless my bank account the same way! 4) Describe the place that you sleep: -A two year old Simmons Backcare bed! My 12 year old pillows are flat as a pancake, but I sleep best with them that that way. A burgundy colored duvet with ...

My fridge is not only a place to hold food, but it also is used to display pictures of the kids, their school drawings, our family calendar, coupons, and various magnets. One thing that has remained over the last three years (I love throwing things away...so this is really amazing that something would stay for so long) is a quote. I have no idea where I got the quote, but it continues to remind me of why it is that I continue on from day to day. I thought maybe you would enjoy it as well! Every truly worthwhile achievement of excellence has a price tag. The question you must answer for yourself is, How much am I willing to pay in hardwork, patience, sacrifice and endurance to be a person of excellence? This month has tried my emotions for various reasons, yet I see changes in myself that have been along time in coming. I think God maybe trying to change me. I resist consistenly. Luckily He is a faithful God, and continues to press and mold me. I am tired though. I am in need of true re...

Sorry I haven't blogged. Jeff is working hard on my ideas for my new blog. Can't wait for you to see it...please be patient a few more days. Thanks.

Scary Spice 1. What's your favorite candy: - Chocolate Peanut Butter Mountain Bars, by Brown and Haley. I haven't seen them around these here parts! 2. What's the best scary movie? -The Shining. It took me years to be able to finish that movie. I would get my nerve to watch it, but then half way through I would turn it off. Finally three years ago, I made it through the whole movie. Redrum, Redrum! 3. Do you like to be alone at home? -Yes! I love the silence. I typically turn off all the lights, light the candles, and clean the house. It is soothing to not have anyone talking to me...(now your wondering about my claim to be Sanguine right?). I am extroverted with a dollup of introvertiveness! 4. Pumpkin pie: eat it or throw it? -If it is made by Sandra Lee...throw it! If I have spent time making it, then we definately gobble it up! 5. The most distasteful Halloween costume you can think of: -A ten year old dressed up as a sexy "Halle Berry type" Catwoman.

I was sleeping soundly, and what to my wondering ears should I hear? Jefferson Regional ringing in my ear! Do you want to be cancelled? Do you wanna be sick? Do you want to be cancelled? Do you wanna, please pick? So what do I say then, what did I say! Please cancel me, please cancel me, please cancel me you may!

I sometimes forget that this crazy blog also doubles as my journal, not just a photo album! I have had sometime to think today...and I spent most of it wishing! Wishing my finances were in order, my family had the perfectly workable schedule, more time with the kids, a laptop, a bigger house, a table that is not all banged up, a headboard for my bed, a new....! Sounds kind of selfish, huh? We all do it! I am not the only guilty person out there. How many feel though that they live in dollhouse? I received my one and only dollhouse when I was around six or seven. It was a paper one that my parents picked up from the UW bookstore, if I remember correctly. I loved/hated that dollhouse. I wanted a huge one with real furniture, not one that could be eaten by my younger brother. I remember playing with it, and wondering what my own home would look like, how many kids I would have (NEVER was my vision just two), and how I would be a good wife to my working husband. I would sit up at night li...

Our annual trip to BOO AT THE ZOO was filled with fun, yet again this year! We had a great time walking around the zoo seeing different costumes, eating footlong corndogs, riding on camels, learning about owls, walking through haunted houses, and enjoying a scarific trainride. Here are some pictures to enjoy!