Friday, April 30, 2010

Business Card Magnets - What's On Your Fridge?

My good friend Tammy makes and sells cake. She has a frightfully delicious recipe and everyone who tastes it raves. She also makes a great buttercream frosting. But Tam's real talent is the design and execution of cake for special occasions. She can create a traditional or custom cake for any wedding, birthday, anniversary or holiday. Tam can make you a cake for any occasion, just tell her the specs and she will go to town. Tammy's cake gets a lot of compliments.

Tam and I were discussing ways to market her cake business. She already has very nice cards she passes out, but she's afraid the card may get mislaid or thrown away before a person needs a cake. I suggested business card magnets. A business card stuck to a fridge would stay around much longer than a paper one floating about in a purse.

As we discussed it, her son and his girl joined us. They are a very cute couple and we teased them about wedding plans. They very seriously told us they have none. Son pointed out that cute-ness does not a marriage make. Girl pointed out that the party they planned to attend would be a great opportunity to hand out business card magnets.

Tam wondered where these particular party goers might stick the magnets. Keg or can?

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Flash Fiction 55...




Late at night, I find it difficult to sleep. I don’t toss and turn, because I don’t actually go to bed.
I just sit up, tired, but awake.
In the afternoon, I could fall asleep in a second. I don’t even have to be tired. I fall asleep in the chair.
What’s up with that?

SkyWatch Friday - 04.30.10


It all started with some wind.

The sky darkened quickly.


The birds got quiet.


Some of the kids were working outside.
They hustled to get all their stuff inside.


This storm rolled in very quickly and dropped some hail and a good amount of rain.
It got quite cold too.


Check out some other great skyshots!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Book Review - The Chronological Guide to the Bible

I am a member of the Thomas Nelson “Book Sneeze” blogger program and would like to thank Thomas Nelson Publishers for providing me with a copy of this book to review.

There are times when I am thoroughly confused by the Bible. I understand the message, and the passages themselves, but I get confused because the Bible isn't in chronological order.

The Chronological Guide to the Bible is organized very neatly into nine epochs beginning with Creation and ending with Revelation. Each section includes beautiful illustrations and artwork, a time line, a reading guide and detailed maps. I found this guide to the Bible easy to read and written in clear, concise language. The Chronological Guide to the Bible works with any translation and all 66 books of the Bible are included.

Particularly interesting to me is the introduction to the Chronological Guide. The introduction explained to me, some interesting points about the Bible itself, such as who wrote the texts, when they wrote them and why the texts were written. It also included an explanation as to how the Chronological Guide was arranged.

The Chronological guide to the Bible is a great reference book. Used along with a study Bible, the Chronological Guide can help to give a deeper understanding of the people, places and history of any part of the Bible.

The Chronological Guide to the Bible retails for $24.99 and is well worth the price.



Disclosure of Material Connection
I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Muppet Central

Guest Poster Whitney James talks to us about one of my favorite subjects, Television!

During my usual search on Clear Internet for sites about my favorite group of puppets, I came across a place called Muppet Central. I have to admit, the bright colors and happy looking faces on the graphics pulled me in, and I felt compelled to explore. Plus I love watching reruns of the Muppets on my Direct TV.

It was an absolute dream! There were so many things to look at I simply didn't know where to start. For one thing, this place has interviews with the puppeteers behind the Muppets, the latest news for fans to keep up with, a calendar to keep track of any products being released, and so much more. I was also impressed and excited with the fact that they have a radio station to listen to. Imagine treating your ears to the old songs from Sesame Street while you work on the computer!
As if that wasn't enough, there is a forum in which you can talk with fellow Muppet enthusiasts. It doesn't appear to be updated that much, but from what I can see, that doesn't stop the fans from talking so feverishly and passionately about their chosen hobby.

I could easily spend at least an hour on there without realizing so much time has passed. So now I have the ability to enjoy the Muppets from my TV and Internet , which is really fun.I have to say, this is an excellent and fun place to visit, even if you aren't really sure just what a Muppet is. This site will convert you, I can almost guarantee it. Once I'd logged off I couldn't wait to come back later for more!

Monday, April 26, 2010

Celeb Photos Make My World Go 'Round!

I think I'm the only one in the world who does not hate Kate Gosselin. I can't hate her, I don't even know her. I know a lot about her, but I do not know her personally. I think that is a distinction we must all make when we discuss and form opinions about celebrities.

But making that distinction doesn't keep me from searching out and looking at celeb photos. I love them! I love seeing what celebs wear, how they wear it and obviously, how they look. I am in no way a fashionista, but I do love fashion and the best place to see new trends are on my favorite celebrities. I really enjoy seeing these folks in their natural state, no make-up or fancy gowns, just Kate dropping kids off at the bus stop.

By checking out celebrity photos, I am also reminded that the people in the photos are people, just like you and me. They are not exempt from financial trouble, family strife or addiction. Sometimes I wonder if bringing back the old Hollywood system, in a limited way, may help to keep these people from having to live out their personal lives for all to see. The old Hollywood system would have protected the stars from nasty gossip and hurtful lies.

Don't get me wrong; I love to see J-Lo and her hubby proudly showing off their beautiful twins. Nothing thrills me more than seeing Kate Hudson in a fabulous gown. Show me the beautiful, smiling face of Penelope Cruz and I'm in! It thrills me to see the stars I love accepting awards for their work and the charities they support.

I love celebrities and I will live vicariously through them, from photo to photo to photo, all the days of my life.

The Odds Are Good - Mastering Statistics

I've been considering getting back to school to finish my degree. My schedule is a more flexible now, I've paid down some of my debt and I know I can focus better. I do have one problem that is holding me back. To get a diploma, I need to take 4 levels of Statistics and I am terrified. My Friend Karen tells me not to stress over Statistics, it's not as hard as I think it is. But I've flunked the introduction to Statistics twice. Karen suggested a Statistics tutor.

Statistics confuses me. In the past, I didn't feel confident in class and lecture only made me stress more because I just didn't understand. The Statistics answers from the teacher never made sense to me. I was afraid to go to him because I wasn't sure I could explain my Statistics questions clearly. So I just slogged along, getting more confused with each class, until I failed or withdrew.

Karen told me to buck up and enroll in the class again. She told me to try Tutor Vista for Statistics help. Karen said one of her instructors told her TutorVista is the leading online tutoring firm worldwide. She said I can be tutored online and scheduling is not a problem because the tutors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The price is very reasonable for an unlimited monthly package, so I can use the service as much as I want.

I am going to set aside my fear and enroll in the summer session. It starts in July, the least busy time of my year. I feel better about the class knowing that TutorVista will be there to help me with Statistics problems. I can start with a free Statistics help session. This time, I will master Statistics.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Sensational Haiku Wednesday - Flames...


Find the chocolate
and marshmallows, Go get sticks
and graham crackers!


Jenn at "You know...that blog?" hosts Sensational Haiku Wednesday, stroll over and check it out!


Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Tales on Tuesday... All in the Family


Nessa of,
The Chrysalis Stage, hosts a weekly writing theme called Tales on Tuesday. Tell a short, short (500 words or less) story based on the weeks theme.Each theme will be the title of a TV show to provide some inspiration. Your story does not have to have anything to do with the TV show.



O
n Jackie's ninth birthday she realised her parents had been apart for some time. Before that day, it hadn't occurred to her that married people actually spoke to each other or occupied the same room for more than a few minutes at a time. Mr and Mrs Fontaine rarely spoke to each other about matters other than their daughter or household matters. Mrs Fontaine kept the house while Mr Fontaine kept the finances.

Jackie's birthday was a Tuesday that year. She had a dentist appointment, at 4 o'clock. Mrs Fontaine had a Garden Club meeting that day and asked Mr Fontaine if he would take Jackie to the dentist. Mr Fontaine flat out refused. He told Mrs Fontaine to re-schedule or send Jackie to walk the two blocks by herself. Mrs Fontaine found these suggestions unacceptable. She cancelled her Garden Club meeting.

At supper that evening, Jackie told Mr Fontaine about her visit with the dentist. He listened intently when she told him the dentist had recommended braces for her teeth. He nodded when she was done, and continued with his pot roast. Mrs Fontaine offered Mr Fontaine no further information.

That night, after Jackie was sent to bed, she lay awake. She wondered why Mr Fontaine had asked for no details about the braces and why her mother had added nothing to Jackie's monologue. She sneaked out of bed and tip-toed to the door of Mr Fontaine's study. Jackie could hear Mr Fontaine speaking, he was on the telephone. He was conversing with someone he referred to as "Dearest" or "Darling". Jackie had never heard him utter these words before. Hearing only one side of the discussion, Jackie had no idea who he was speaking to, or who could be "the girl" he kept mentioning. She listened carefully, committing to memory the words "boarding school", "bastard", "divorce" and "adulteress". Hearing Mr Fontaine say goodbye and put the phone down, Jackie slipped back to bed.

Next morning, Jackie arrived at the breakfast table to find Mr Fontaine had already been served and left for work. Mrs Fontaine appeared at table with Jackie's oatmeal, fruit and juice. She promptly returned to the kitchen without a word. Jackie could hear two whispering voices in the kitchen and crept to the doorway. There she observed Mrs Miller, from down the street, sipping coffee and smoking a cigarette. Jackie had never seen a woman smoke. She listened, hoping not to be discovered eavesdropping.

Mrs Miller was telling Mrs Fontaine about a woman from the south side of town, who lived alone. The woman did not appear to work and was considered by Mrs Miller to be secretly wealthy. Mrs Fontaine asked the woman's name, but Mrs Miller did not know it. Mrs Miller asked Mrs Fontaine if she had heard from "him" lately. Mrs Fontaine reminded Mrs Miller about "the original agreement" and that there was to be "no contact whatsoever". Mrs Miller said "he" still lived over the town line at the old farm. Mrs Fontaine said she was sure Mr Fontaine had threatened "him". Mrs Fontaine asked Mrs Miller if she thought anyone knew the truth about "the girl". Mrs Miller said she had heard no talk from the women in good society, but didn't know for sure.

It wasn't until Jackie's tenth birthday that she put all the pieces together.

Monday, April 19, 2010

My New Friend Mac...

I have had it with my laptop. I've had nothing but problems with it since I bought it. Even with really expensive anti-virus software, I'm still plagued with viruses. The silly thing runs as slow as molasses in January, and has since about a week after I got it. The battery will not hold a charge for longer than 45 minutes. I've never, ever been able to connect to a wireless network, anywhere. Lately, it's only purpose is being a really large paperweight.

My friend Dave runs a Mac, and he told me to ditch my laptop and go with a Mac. He let me borrow an older MacBook, and gave me a new battery for it. He is convinced I will be very happy with it.

Dave was so right. I am happy with the MacBook. I haven't had a virus, and the new battery holds a charge. I think it runs a little slow, so I'm going to upgrade the memory. To my surprise, I learned that Apple actually provides instructions on how to do the upgrade myself!

I've been using the Mac for about a month. I'm not so sure I want to give it back. Dave said I could keep it for as long as I need it, his employer gave him a brand new one. I'm considering doing away with my really large paperweight. I thought I might try something new with it, but I just don't think a square frisbee would fly very well.

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Grand Shores at Myrtle Beach - Here I Come!

My friend Tammy has had a difficult week. While she refuses to give me the details, she has invited me to go on a road trip with her. Being the excellent friend that I am, I asked no questions and graciously accepted her offer. Tam says we leave on Wednesday.

We are going to drive to South Carolina and check in at one of the Oceanfront Myrtle Beach Resorts. Tam booked us an ocean view suite, and when we get there, it will be late in the evening. She suggested we settle in and get some sleep because we have a 7am tee time! Neither of us has played a round of golf in ages! This is the best news I've heard in a a long time.

I've never been to South Carolina, let alone Myrtle Beach Resorts. I've already checked the weather for next week and it looks like Tam and I will be sunning ourselves on a beautiful beach by Thursday afternoon at the latest. With high temperatures in the high 70's and low 80's, we'll think we've died and gone to heaven. I'm all for that.

The Oceanfront Myrtle Beach Resorts have quite a few luxury properties. Tammy picked the Grand Shores because it has suites with fully equipped kitchens and is steps away from the beach. I told her I would cook if she let me play golf at least twice. She said we can play everyday, as long as I don't swear or throw my clubs around. I think we better make some dinner reservations...

Blast from the Past...

What kids are thinking when you take their picture...

You can pose me with these silly dolls all you want,
but I don' t have to like it. Not one bit at all.

Saturday, April 17, 2010

ShopWiki Made My Day!

I've been looking to replace my refrigerator for a couple months now. I want the smallest bottom freezer model available. I been to countless appliance stores. I’ve even traveled to appliance stores in Rhode Island and New Hampshire. I’ve been to so many places now, I can’t keep them all straight. I’ve seen so many fridges, with so many features, I just can’t remember which fridge I saw where.

I have not been able find a fridge that suits me. Until today. I found a place that will do my searching, comparing and shopping for me. ShopWiki has become my favorite way to shop!

ShopWiki searches the internet for stores that sell anything you can imagine. The information is then displayed in a neat and tidy format for you to peruse. I'm looking for a refrigerator, so I started there. I asked ShopWiki to search a particular style and Voila! There was the very fridge I've been looking for! I was very impressed. I decided to search for other kitchen appliances.

In my dream kitchen I have enough room to keep a stand mixer, a toaster oven, a trash compactor and a dishwasher. In my real kitchen I have enough room for a ladle, a spoon and a frying pan. ShopWiki is going to revolutionize shopping for me. I can find the appliance that will fit my space, in a color I like, or with a feature I require, without ever leaving my house. When I’m done, my kitchen will be revolutionary!

Six Word Saturday - April 17, 2010


Crystal Lake Garden Shop opens today!

Cate is great! Take a stroll over and see more SWS...

Friday, April 16, 2010

Flash Fiction 55...


Seriously...

I made dinner. I served the family.
I took my plate, and the phone rang.
Leaving the plate on the counter, I went to answer the phone.
It was a wrong number. My back was turned for less than 5 seconds.
In that time, she had licked it clean.
What the heck is next?




Check out more Flash fiction over at G-Mans place...

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Poetry Playing - April 14

Shhhhh... I'm Trying to Hear Something!

Before I even get in the house
I can hear
the bird calling
the dog whining
a television

Once I'm in the house
I can hear
the bird calling
the dogs nails tapping on the floor
a television


When I sit down to work
I can hear
the bird calling
the dog scratching
a television
Manda and Colleen laughing in their room
Shawn playing his guitar
the fridge
the pump
a drippy faucet
the cat purring
a clock ticking
my computer fans

When I lay down to sleep
I can hear
the bird making quiet noises
the dog snoring
a television

Poetry Playing

Sensational Haiku Wednesday - Dance...

Join the fun!


It's a delicate
dance, watering all the plants.
Martha wets her pants!


Skip on over to Jenn's joint for more Haiku...

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Tales on Tuesday...The Invisible Man


Roy wondered why no one spoke to him in the lunch room or sat with him during study period. In class he was quiet, but he raised his hand when the teacher asked for input from the students. When he climbed aboard the M-1 and flashed his bus pass, the driver looked straight ahead. Even his folks had become distant. Sometimes he could hear his parents discussing him, but it was always muffled and ended with his mother weeping. Dad was concerned, he held Mothers hand and gave her long worried looks. The kids at school spoke in whispers about him, as if he weren't there. A few of the girls had tears, some of the the boys from gym class just hung their heads.

Roy began to notice that his complexion was pale and waxy. He began to feel weak, like he was sick or overtired. It began the morning after he went fishing with his cousin Dwight. They fished the Powder Point Bridge all morning, without much success. As noon approached, they decided to go to Arthur and Pat's for lunch. They decided to take the little boat over to Saquish and fish the beach there in the afternoon.

Fishing Saquish didn't last long. Roy and Dwight met up with some kids from school and were invited to a party at one of the cottages.They hauled the little boat up on the beach and joined the others.

The party goers had a nice fire on the sand and as the sun began to dip under the horizon, Roy thought he heard someone calling from the water. He could just make out someone in the choppy waves. As he moved closer to the shore, the calls became anxious, pleading. He dove into the water and swam quickly to the little girl. She was going under when he reached her, he almost didn't get a hold of her. Roy brought the girl ashore and began CPR. As the girl came to, Roy felt sharp pains in his chest and fainted.

When Roy woke the next morning, he was at home, in his own bed. He felt a little woozy, but he went down to breakfast. Mother sat at the kitchen table with her Bible in her hands. Dad stared out the window with a blank expression. Neither of them noticed him or spoke to him. There was no breakfast on the table. Roy went to his mother to ask what was wrong. She began to weep uncontrollably. He addressed his father, "Dad, tell me! Tell me what's wrong!" His father left the table in tears. Frustrated, Roy made his way to school.

Once again, the bus driver took no notice of him. Roy's classmates ignored him. No teachers spoke to him. After first period, he stood in the hallway and cried "What have I done? Why won't you speak to me? Can't any of you see me? Am I invisible?"


Please visit Nessa at The Chrysalis Stage for more Tales on Tuesday...

Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Mailbox!

I live in a very rural area. Until recently, the post office did not deliver mail to some neighborhoods in my town. Mine was one of them. I collect my mail from a box at the post office. I don't mind, it's been that way since I moved here. In fact, for most of my life, I've had a P.O. box.

Well, the times, they are a-changin'.

In the 25 years since I moved here, my town has grown. With the growth came a steady demand for post office boxes. In answer to that demand, the postmaster has decreed that rural delivery will now be available in my neighborhood. I can put a mailbox on my front lawn and a mail person will put my mail there. This is a completely foreign notion to me.

My neighbors love the idea.

The hardware store sold out of post hole diggers in the first day or two. The store manager had to order mailboxes because he had only three in stock. The mailman had to learn 100 new names and addresses. It was mayhem. Pandemonium broke loose. At least that's what it seemed like to me when I went to the hardware store to get clothesline.

I'm not certain I want to have a mailbox on my lawn. Sure, I would appreciate the convenience of having to walk only to the end of the driveway. But my driveway is actually longer than my street! I may as well drive to the mail box! And If I have to drive to the mailbox, I should just continue the half mile to the post office and get my mail.

There's a catch, to keep my post office box, I am required to pay an annual fee. That's okay with me. After I pay my fee, I can hang out all winter and watch my neighbors clear the paths to their mail boxes!

Am I lazy? You can bet on it!

Magic Bookcase, Magic Clock...

My Nana was a sweet and kind lady. Spending time with her was always a welcome respite from the chaos of my mother's house. I often spent Sunday with Nana. After church we had dinner, and if we didn't go visiting, I was allowed to sit in one of her overstuffed chairs and read a book from her enormous bookcase.

The things I loved most about Nana's home were her giant bookcase and chiming mantle clock. That clock was old when I was a kid, and it had a special look about it. I don't know if it was the finish, or the polish Nana used, but that clock had a kind of glow about it. That wonderful clock rested high atop the enormous bookcase, and with special voices, they spoke to me. I believed the clock and the bookcase had magical powers.

After dinner, I would choose a book from the bookcase and settle into one of the overstuffed chairs. As I began to read, I would hear Nana's clock chime one. I would slip away with Alice to Wonderland or search for treasure with Jim Hawkins or follow Hawkeye and Uncas through the forests. Nana's mantle clock quietly marked the passage of time, until supper, when it would call me back by chiming five. Reluctantly I would rise, return the book to the shelf and report to the supper table.

Every time I hear Westminster chimes, I travel back in time to that room in Nana's home. I travel back to a time when reading a book was an acceptable activity and it was okay for a girl to slip away into fantasy. When Nana passed away, the clock was given to me. It rests atop a bookcase in my home. That wonderful clock still calls me home for supper.

Ruby Tuesday - April 13, 2010 **UPDATE**

***UPDATE***

This is an interesting piece of machinery.
Does anyone know what it is used for?

This is a bog sander.
In the winter, when the cranberry bog is covered over with ice, the farmer fills this funky buggy with clean sand and runs it back and forth across the ice,
covering it with a nice layer of sand.
In the spring, when the ice melts, the sand sifts down between
the cranberry vines,
stimulating new growth.
Behind the driver's seat, there is a screen, which catches rocks or other unwanted matter.Under the screen is the box for the sand. Sanding generally takes place in January or February,
or whenever the ice is thick enough to support the buggy.
The farmer tries to sand very quickly so he doesn't freeze his ass off.
There are ditches all around the edges of the bog, and if the driver gets too close, he could drop the sander in the ditch. Once a sander goes in a ditch, you need the loader to get it out.
You can see a bog sander in action here:
Bog Sanding


Hint: If the driver isn't careful, he could drop the machine in a ditch!
Stop in tomorrow for the answer!

Run over to Mary's place to see more of Ruby Tuesday...

Monday, April 12, 2010

Blast from the Past...



I found these snapshots while digging through a box that came from my Nana's house. The one on the right is my mother, sister and brother in June, 1955. That would make my sister about 4 1/2 and my brother about 2 1/2. Mother was 25. This was before the twins, who arrived in '58 and me. I was born in '62.

To me, my mother looks strange. Not bad strange, just not what I remember her looking like. Here, she seems to be smiling, happy even. I remember her as worn out, tired and somewhat grumpy. I guess that's what 5 kids in 11 years does to a lady.

The little boy on the left, is the same little boy from the other picture. He was the first male grandchild on both sides. That made him a bit of a star. I'm not certain how well he held that position throughout his lifetime, but at 2, he definitely was a charmer...

Cat, Flowers and A New Window Box...

It's a sad state of affairs when your wooden window boxes rot and fall off the house.It's happened here and I want to replace them with something more substantial. In the past, I've always used wooden window boxes, because they are readily available and cheap. Well, you get what you pay for.

I'm going to replace my old garden window boxes with something that will not only hold up to weather, but be as stunning as the plants I put in them. I think vinyl is the answer. Vinyl comes in a variety of colors and I've chosen black. I've always had white before, because it matched the trim on the house.

Since I work at the greenhouses, I have access to thousands of plants. I have already decided what I will plant and I'm just counting the days until its warm enough to put them in! This year, I am going with a red, white and blue color scheme and I want the window flower boxes to compliment the colors of the blossoms.

Red and white Impatiens always do well in a window box at the front of my house. I get sun until about noon, so the Impatiens don't suffer like they would in a full day of sun. I thought I would add a new variety of lobelia that will not only cascade nicely but stand up to the heat and bright sun quite well.I think black window plant boxes will really make the colors pop!

Over the last few years, I've been somewhat ho-hum about the planters and gardens around my house. The idea of bright, new and hassle free window boxes has given me a lot more incentive to dress up the front of my house. I just hope I can keep my cat from trying to sleep in my Impatiens!

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Six Word Saturday




I love waking to birds singing!

Look here for more Six Word Saturday over at Cate's...

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Water - Our Most Valueable Resource...

I found a great way to conserve water, the dual flush conversion kit!

Here at my house, we are pretty good at conserving water. We don't let the water run, we fix leaks promptly and we don't spill oils or chemicals to contaminate our water supply. However, we are always looking for new ways to save water, our most precious resource.

I am going to install a dual flush conversion kit in my toilet. The really cool thing about a dual flush kit is this; you can decide how much water you wish to use each time you flush. This is important, right now we use the same amount of water whether we are flushing some liquid or something solid. But with a dual flush, we have control. We can limit the amount of water we send down the drain!

This is so totally exciting! I have a private sewer, I have to maintain it, and being able to limit the water that goes into it sounds great to me. I can install a dual flush conversion kit in my toilet for a fraction of the cost of a new dual flush toilet. I don' t need to buy a low-flow toilet either. The dual flush conversion kit will retro fit my standard toilet into one that saves water.

I know this is kind of a funky subject, but it is an important one. I want to be certain I've done everything I can to keep my water clean, safe and plentiful for a long time to come. A dual flush toilet is part of my plan!

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Sensational Haiku Wednesday - Decisions...

Join the fun!

"Decisions"

Should I pay my bills
or go to Walt Disney World?
Responsible...who?

See more Sensational Haiku at You know..that Blog?

Will You Be My Date for Date Night?

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of 20th Century Fox. All opinions are 100% mine.



On Friday nights, my friend Margaret and I go to the movies. It's the same thing every week: we overeat at dinner, then gorge on candy, soda and popcorn. Margaret always gets nonpareils and I get the popcorn. We always sit in the same seats. Sometimes I wonder if we should change it up a little.

This week we are looking forward to "Date Night"
starring Steve Carell and Tina Fey, opening on Friday, April 9, 2010.

It's about a married couple in somewhat of a rut, who go for their weekly dinner date(sound familiar?) and find themselves on a bit of an adventure. After a car chase, a shootout, breaking and entering, and a bunch more mischief, the husband and wife come away from the evening a little banged up, but with their devotion renewed.


Check out the trailer here and go see the movie on opening weekend!




The Date Night Movie looks like a hit and I can't wait to see it. Steve Carell and Tina Fey are sure to satisfy in this upbeat comedy about a couple who become a little too comfortable in their marriage.
You know, I really like hanging out with Margaret and going to movies. But I wish, just this one time, I could have a real date for "Date Night"! Maybe we could get nachos and gummy bears...



Visit my sponsor: Date Night

Random Dozen - April's 1st...



~*~*~
1. Define a great relationship.
One where the other person leaves me the hell alone.

2. Why is it called a "drive-through" if you have to stop?
(Real question: What was the last food/drink you purchased
at a drive-through?)
The last time I went to the Park-up at Dunkin' Donuts in my town, I ordered a Pepsi with a small cup of ice. You'd be surprised how many questions they ask after I order and how often they get it wrong.

3. As I type this, the Butler Bulldogs are getting ready to play in the NCAA championship game. Every Hoosier is hysterical about this except me. So in honor of the Bulldogs ... what is your favorite breed of dog? (I tried.)
Labrador retriever. They are blessed with short hair and a good temperament.

4. If you had to move to a state besides the one you currently live in, where would you move?
I would move to Connecticut or Rhode Island.

5. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?
My parents never divorced, my mother cared more for her children than herself and nobody was an alcoholic.

6. Who's the funniest person you know?
Martha Perry.

7. Did you get enough sleep last night?
I've been sleeping less and less. And I have a headache to show for it.

8. What's the first thing you thought about this morning?
Argggh! I have to work.

9. Grilled or Fried? --HONESTLY
Honestly? Grilled or fried, I'll take either one. Especially if you grill or fry it.

10. Are you afraid of the dark?
Yes.

11.When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Away from my family.

12. If you had one word to describe yourself , what would you choose?
Obtuse.

For more fun questions, visit Lidna at 2nd cup of Coffee...

More Munk Mayhem!

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Alvin and the Chipmunks. All opinions are 100% mine.



When I was a kid, I loved Alvin and the Chipmunks! My sister Patty had a couple records and we wore them out listening to them. When the movie came out a couple years ago we took our kids to see it together. The kids had a blast and Patty and I laughed until our sides hurt.


Today I found out there's
More Munk Mayhem!
"Alvin and the Chipmunks :The Squeakquel" is available now, in three different formats. Take your pick from Blu-ray, DVD, and digital download. I also learned that the Double DVD includes a bonus disk, "The Squeak Along", with brand new singalongs! This is a great deal!


Today, I invited Patty over and we had a blast playing at http://www.munkyourself.com. We created Chipmunk avatars and dressed them up in funky clothes! You can choose a hairstyle and glasses and even some earrings! We even sent ours out to their movie premier to walk the red carpet!

I’m looking forward to seeing this family friendly film. It's not easy to find movies the whole family can watch together. Patty has already decided to buy it now, so we can watch it with our kids this weekend. Check out http://www.foxfamilyflicks.com for more great videos for your family.



Visit my sponsor: Alvin and the Chipmunks:

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Ruby Tuesday - April 6, 2010

Bougainvillea and Acalypha

Mary at Work of the Poet hosts Ruby Tuesday
Check out more here!


Poetry Playing - April 6, 2010

Spring Rain, Fall Gold

When spring arrives
I have all kinds of plans,
to make things grow
and then eat them.

When Fall arrives
after harvesting what I grew
I stir the spent growth
back into the earth.

It goes around and around like that,
Fall feeding spring
and all feeding me!


Banana!

Monday, April 5, 2010

Mustang's Are Forever...

About three years ago I took a trip to San Diego to visit my brother, Percy. He collected me at the airport in his Ford F-150.Even though I had brand new clothes and shoes on, Percy made me sit on a towel. I asked him how often he had the truck detailed. Percy glared and told me he didn't need to detail the truck because he never let it get dirty. To prove this, we went to a car wash on the way to his house.

As we left the car wash, we traveled a short distance and took our place in line in a traffic jam. As we chatted, we noticed a little old lady in an ancient Mustang, pulled over on the side of the road. Percy pulled off the road in front of her and we went to investigate. The Mustang's radiator was boiling over and Mrs. Mustang was behind the wheel in tears. Percy introduced himself and offered to assist her.

Mrs. Mustang explained that her husband had passed away recently and that Mr. Mustang loved the car and kept it up very well over the years. Mrs. Mustang told Percy that she didn't know anything about car maintenance, or where her husband had taken it to be serviced. Percy told her he would be very happy to help her and called for a tow.

Percy and I waited with Mrs. Mustang for the tow truck. Percy told Mrs. Mustang he would help her find San Diego auto repair. He wipped out his laptop and consulted an auto shop directory. In no time Percy had located a shop close to Mrs. Mustangs house and assured her we would stay with her until the tow truck came. While we waited, I called Mrs. Mustang’s daughter and arranged for her to come and meet her Mum and go with her to the repair shop.

A half hour later, Percy and I were on our way again. We resumed our chat and decided we would ride to the beach and check out the surf. While we drove we discussed our plans for my visit and which sights I was interested in. I said I would really like to drive around and see some of the country there. That’s when the check engine light came on.

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Losing Weight the Healthy Way...

The last time I saw the doctor, he told me the same thing he tells me every time I see him, lose some weight. I asked him to carefully check my chart and he did see that I dropped about 14 pounds since January. The good doctor asked what I had done differently: had I changed my diet or exercised more? I revealed that I stopped drinking so much soda and replaced it with water. While he said that was a start and I should continue the weight loss with small changes to my diet.

I said I was ready to cut out all fats, white bread, dairy and sugar. The doc told me that while that was an OK idea, small changes and more exercise would serve me better. Really? He explained that for me, if I made a small change, I would be more likely to stick to it and therefore be able to make that change permanent. Make a small change, such as replace white bread with whole grains, would be easier than cutting out all three things at once. When I was sure I could make another small change and be successful, then do that too. The doctor said I if I lost 1-2 pounds a month, chances of keeping the weight off would increase.

I asked about protein supplements. I've been looking into detour bars and I wanted to know what would happen if I stopped eating dairy and red meat altogether and added a couple high protein bars. I told him I don’t eat beans, eggs, red meat, milk, eggs or cheeses much at all. After asking me why, I told him I thought I would lose more weight if I didn't eat much of that stuff. The doctor said I would just end up with a protein deficiency, and that would be unhealthy. A body on a low calorie diet needs protein or it will maintain it’s energy stores by using fat the body has stored as well as the lean body tissue to make up for the calories the body isn't getting.

Since I am trying to lose weight, I need protein. The doctor also reminded me there is no protein in chips, soda and candy. Try detour bars he said, but don’t over do it. He suggested adding seafood, lean beef, or white meat poultry. Beans and eggs are good protein sources too.

Blast from the Past...

What kids are thinking while you take their picture...

1932
Kid on the right: After I cut half my leg off on a razor clam, you'd think she would have at least put some Merthiolate on me before she slapped that bandage on...

Kid on the left: I will never ever go shirtless on the beach. Look how white that bag-o-bones is...

Bony white kid: I know I will never reach 90 pound weakling status, give me a break.

Girl: Boys. What interesting creatures. I wonder if their intelligence quotient tops 70?

Saturday, April 3, 2010

A Quick Trip to the Pool Hall...

When I was a kid, my sister took me out one afternoon. We went to the shops in town and picked up some groceries for my mom. My sister spent considerable time in the drug store, looking at make-up and nail polish. I waited impatiently.

After what seemed like an eternity, she made her purchases and she took me to the ice cream parlor. We got a couple double dips and started for home. As we passed the pool hall, she stopped short and peered inside. Sis marched into the room dragging me with her. As we approached a group of young men, I noticed my brother. He and his friends were standing around large tables with pretty colored balls rolling around on them. All the young men were holding long poles.

I asked what they were and was curtly told that they were pool sticks and to keep my mouth closed. I did as I was instructed. But I was very curious about the pretty balls on the table. As my sister angrily ordered my brother out of the pool hall, I laid my cone on the table and grabbed the shiny red ball and the nice white one. I found them to be quite heavy and very smooth.

When I dropped one to see if it would bounce as high as a super ball, all hell broke loose. Sis ripped the other ball from my hand. My brother crawled under the table to retrieve the ball I had dropped. All the young men were shouting and cursing. I was violently yanked away from the table. My brother got really mad, yelling something about “having a lot of money on this”. My sister told him in a very loud voice to collect his belongings and “Get home now!”.

On the way home my sister reminded me to keep my mouth closed. Once I was returned to the custody of my mother, I did exactly the opposite.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

2010 April PAD No.1

In honor of National Poetry month, here's a challenge from
Poetic Asides with Robert Lee Brewer.
Write a poem a day for the month of April.
Daily prompts are provided.
You can find the guidelines here.
Today's prompt is to write a lonely poem,
one that gives a feeling of loneliness.
Here is my entry...


school

they look
but they don’t speak
they watch without seeing
i see the sneers
and hear the quiet comments
i look away and try not to listen

in the end
no one will ever know
what I have in here
they don’t ask
and I won’t tell

all the looks
and sneers
made me lock the door
its locked so tight
the key won’t fit

and i can’t find my way out anymore

10 Thinks...

I ganked this meme from Quilly, who ripped it from Cherie.

The idea is to list 10 things – right off the top of your head – that we would only know about you if we knew you really well. 10 random things ranging anywhere on your personal map that make you a tad distinctive? Or just plain weird? Think quickly. Don’t go for deep. Go for quirky. Don’t try to put them in any kind of order and don’t make them long. Just start typing.


I cannot sleep without light or television.

I absolutely hate working in the service industry, people piss me off.

When I was a kid, I was a total freak and had like 2 friends.
Nothing has changed.

When I went to visit Quilly and Amoeba last summer,
I missed my dog.

I have a brother I have not spoken to in like 15 years, for no reason.

I've been watching Big Love and Breaking Bad since their very first episodes and I think they are the best shows on television.

I don't care for Dancing with the Stars or American Idol.

My house is a total of 596 square feet ( not a typo) and I live here with three other people, a dog, a cat and two birds. And we keep seven rabbits outdoors.

My two friends Margaret and Tammy are waaaaaay nicer than I am.

I really, really, really want to visit Disney World again.

( it took me 6 minutes to think of these things)