Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from an odd tree in our backyard. The first summer we lived here, we were surprised when our tree started "shedding." We thought it was dying, or had been struck by lightning in the middle of the night. Now we know it was just trying to survive an Alabama summer by stripping down to the bare essentials. While it may be a messy tree, I totally understand the need to get more comfortable. I do this by sitting on air conditioning vents throughout the day.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I have been informed the credit for yesterday's recipe really belongs to Joan and Jane's Aunt Jack. In my quest to only print the truth (yeah, right), I want to set things straight. Thank you, Aunt Jack, for an easy, yet delicious recipe!
RANDOMNESS #2 - In only a few days, Mikie will be 50... and I will officially be married to an OLD MAN!
He's handling the transition into a new decade well, I think. Gracefully. Confident. Looking good!
Except for a little gray at the temples (which I LOVE), Mikie looks the same. His eyes are still as blue, and he still laughs loud and often. He's still my very best friend, and the only person I have met in my lifetime who could put up with me for 23 years and counting. In fact, he has been my best bud for OVER half of my life now since our friendship began soon after we met at the tender age of 23.
As of today, he hasn't bothered going through a mid-life crises... which is good since I seem to have a different crises every other day or so. I don't see our family being able to handle two at the same time, so I'm very glad he decided to skip his. (He's a giver!)
His actual birthday is next Monday, but the birthday celebrations will commence this weekend. That means I'll actually have some new pics for Mindless Monday!
RANDOMNESS #3 - I just returned from an early morning run to the grocery store... Well, if you call 9:00 a.m. early.
Were some of you as upset as I was to see I didn't make the Hottest Summer Bodies issue of US... again? This is getting old. I'm probably only going to submit photos for five or so more years, and then I'm going to let this goal go!
Wednesday Wisdom - I mentioned last week I love Steven Wright's deadpan comedy. While these might not be actual "quotes," they will put a smile on your face this hot Wednesday morning!
"All those who believe in psychokinesis, raise my hand." (It took me a minute, but I finally got it!)
"Okay. So what's the speed of dark?"
"Support bacteria. They're the only culture some people have." (Ain't that the truth!)
"When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane."
"Ambition is a poor excuse for not having enough sense to be lazy."
"Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film."
"I intend to live forever. So far, so good."
"Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines."
"Boycott shampoo! Demand the REAL poo!"
I get him. I mean I REALLY, REALLY get him!
Kids Cook Dinner
Okay. It's summertime. The kids are home. Supposedly, there is a little free time you didn't have during the school months. Take this opportunity to let the kids cook dinner once a week! That's right! ONCE A WEEK! (It looks good in writing, but in real life you may not be able to pull this off. I did try one Summer, and the kids each cooked one or two dinners before school started back. However, once a week was not "doable" for our particular family. Remember. Be flexible!)
Pick out a dinner menu that is age-appropriate for your guys to prepare. Buy ALL the ingredients. Set them out at the appropriate time, and let the kids get busy.
This means preparing ALL the food, setting the table, fixing the ice for the drinks and CLEANING UP after the feast. (Don't be surprised if the kids ask for paper products.)
Get a magazine and sit somewhere nearby in case of an emergency, but enjoy this time off from "kitchen duty" knowing your kids are probably having fun AND learning something at the same time.
Simple Meal Ideas
4 to 6 years-old - There is nothing wrong with a "cold" meal. Using sandwich rolls and several different meats and cheeses, have the kids prepare a Sub-Sandwich Meal, complete with individual sodas and juice from the refrigerator and a variety of chip choices. They can wash apples and slice bananas (with a butter knife) to serve on the side. For dessert, nothing beats vanilla ice cream with a couple of topping choices.
7 to 9 years-old - These guys are old enough to work the crock pot! Use frozen meatballs, your favorite pasta sauce (Prego, etc.) and have the kids put them in the slow cooker for an hour or so, stirring occasionally. Again, using sandwich rolls, have a delicious HOT meal of meatball subs sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. These guys are more than capable so let them put a salad together, too.
10 to 14 years-old - Let's have Sunday dinner some time during the week. Buy a roast, carrots, mushrooms and pre-made gravy. Let the kids wash the meat and the vegetables and put them in the slow cooker. Add the gravy. Let it cook ALL DAY LONG filling the house with really good smells. Right before dinner, these kids can make and bake crescent rolls and prepare a salad. They can also make brownies or a cake from a mix for dessert. Talk about a feast!
Put your feet up and enjoy a home-cooked meal. You deserve it!
Have a lovely Wednesday. Do something "Summery" today! I'll be back tomorrow with Blog Linkage AND a summer date.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Thursday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Showing posts with label Seasonal Traditions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Seasonal Traditions. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Mother's Day Traditions
Good Wednesday morning!
I guess it depends on where you live if this is a good Wednesday morning or not. We woke up around 5:30 to the sound of tornado sirens... and while our little part of the world wasn't affected too badly, families north and south of us had significant damage. And it isn't over yet. We are now waiting six hours for the next line of storms to come through. And we are praying.
The Gallery Pic is an old one of The Boy taken the first of the year. I was so tired after Body Pump last night, I was unable to hold a camera. (I'm not kidding.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - Mikie is on his way to Chicago for a business trip this morning (in between storms). As always, we'll miss him terribly, but homecomings are very sweet. (Especially if he remembers to bring me a present.)
RANDOMNESS #2 - Since the kids are going to be home at 10:30 today (again, because of the storms), I think we'll treat the part of the day without storms as a Faulkner Family Movie Day (minus Mikie). I'm also thinking I will be ordering our Wednesday night pizza at lunch (because of the storms).
It sounds like a plan to me. A good plan!
Wednesday Wisdom - I decided to go with some C. S. Lewis quotes this morning. He definitely was a wise, wise man. It was hard to pick, but the following are a few of my favorites.
"God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing."
"I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else."
"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." (This is my favorite. I really believe this, too. When you stop setting goals and/or dreaming dreams, life gets monotonous... and a little sad, I think.)
Mother's Day Traditions
I know it is still April, but May 8 will be here before you know it. I found some of these ideas on the Parent Magazine website.
A few years ago, Mike and the kids started doing the "same" thing for me every Mother's Day.
1. The Faulkner Five celebrate Mother's Day the third Sunday in May instead of the second Sunday. We visit Grandmother and Grandma on the original Mother's Day, and we have more time to spend with them since we are not rushed to celebrate my Mother's Day, too.
2. I always get the same gift. The three kids give me three beautiful hanging baskets of flowers for my front porch... and they take me out to lunch (my choice).
It doesn't bother me to wait a week to celebrate. It doesn't bother me it is always the same gift. I look forward to my flowers and going out to eat with my family.
Because of the "tradition," my kids will never be able to say, "I don't know what to get Mother for Mother's Day." It's pretty much set in stone!
The following ideas could also be used year after year after year... making it enjoyable for you, but easy for your husband and kiddos.
TAKE AN EXOTIC VACATION
Even if you can't afford to go to Paris for the weekend, you can still enjoy a little taste of France (or any other destination that intrigues you). Get some croissants for breakfast, pack a picnic lunch of French bread, cheese and fruit, or order a meal from your favorite deli or restaurant (quiche, etc.). Get into the flavor of the country. For an added touch, adorn your kitchen or dining room table with a red-and-white-checkered tablecloth and fresh flowers, put on some French music, and teach your kids a few basic words in French, such as "bonjour" (good morning) and "merci" (thank you).
NOTE - Your husband and kids could work together and pick a different country every year.
GO TO THE MOVIES
One good way to share family memories is to look at old photographs or home movies. If you live near Grandma or Grandpa, ask them to pull out old photos and movies of you as a child, and take a trip together down memory lane. Your kids will get a kick out of the styles of clothes you wore... not to mention the fact that you were once a baby, toddler or teen.
NOTE - You could also spend time together each year looking at the videos of your own children. It could be anything from their early videos to the videos you took of them during the past year. Kids love watching movies... especially if they are the stars!
GET PAMPERED
At some point on Mother's Day, you may want some time alone or a chance for a little rest and relaxation. Make sure you get what you need and deserve by asking for it in advance.
For instance, a few days before Mother's Day, give your husband and kids a list of five "services" you desire. The list could include:
An hour alone so I can call a friend or soak in the tub.
A chance to sleep in until 9 a.m.
A manicure at my favorite nail salon.
No sibling squabbles for an hour.
A home-cooked meal made by the family. (Clean-up included!)
Have your husband and kids make coupons for each of these services, and be sure to redeem them throughout Mother's Day weekend.
NOTE - This would be a great tradition. Again, the kids would NEVER have to ask, "What can I get Mom for Mother's Day?" Mom can just give them her list of desired "services" year after year after year.
Have a safe Wednesday. Assuming I have power, I'll be back tomorrow morning with Blog Linkage and a date. And if I don't have power... Well, I'll post as soon as I possibly can!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Thursday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
I guess it depends on where you live if this is a good Wednesday morning or not. We woke up around 5:30 to the sound of tornado sirens... and while our little part of the world wasn't affected too badly, families north and south of us had significant damage. And it isn't over yet. We are now waiting six hours for the next line of storms to come through. And we are praying.
The Gallery Pic is an old one of The Boy taken the first of the year. I was so tired after Body Pump last night, I was unable to hold a camera. (I'm not kidding.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - Mikie is on his way to Chicago for a business trip this morning (in between storms). As always, we'll miss him terribly, but homecomings are very sweet. (Especially if he remembers to bring me a present.)
RANDOMNESS #2 - Since the kids are going to be home at 10:30 today (again, because of the storms), I think we'll treat the part of the day without storms as a Faulkner Family Movie Day (minus Mikie). I'm also thinking I will be ordering our Wednesday night pizza at lunch (because of the storms).
It sounds like a plan to me. A good plan!
Wednesday Wisdom - I decided to go with some C. S. Lewis quotes this morning. He definitely was a wise, wise man. It was hard to pick, but the following are a few of my favorites.
"God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing."
"I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else."
"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." (This is my favorite. I really believe this, too. When you stop setting goals and/or dreaming dreams, life gets monotonous... and a little sad, I think.)
Mother's Day Traditions
I know it is still April, but May 8 will be here before you know it. I found some of these ideas on the Parent Magazine website.
A few years ago, Mike and the kids started doing the "same" thing for me every Mother's Day.
1. The Faulkner Five celebrate Mother's Day the third Sunday in May instead of the second Sunday. We visit Grandmother and Grandma on the original Mother's Day, and we have more time to spend with them since we are not rushed to celebrate my Mother's Day, too.
2. I always get the same gift. The three kids give me three beautiful hanging baskets of flowers for my front porch... and they take me out to lunch (my choice).
It doesn't bother me to wait a week to celebrate. It doesn't bother me it is always the same gift. I look forward to my flowers and going out to eat with my family.
Because of the "tradition," my kids will never be able to say, "I don't know what to get Mother for Mother's Day." It's pretty much set in stone!
The following ideas could also be used year after year after year... making it enjoyable for you, but easy for your husband and kiddos.
TAKE AN EXOTIC VACATION
Even if you can't afford to go to Paris for the weekend, you can still enjoy a little taste of France (or any other destination that intrigues you). Get some croissants for breakfast, pack a picnic lunch of French bread, cheese and fruit, or order a meal from your favorite deli or restaurant (quiche, etc.). Get into the flavor of the country. For an added touch, adorn your kitchen or dining room table with a red-and-white-checkered tablecloth and fresh flowers, put on some French music, and teach your kids a few basic words in French, such as "bonjour" (good morning) and "merci" (thank you).
NOTE - Your husband and kids could work together and pick a different country every year.
GO TO THE MOVIES
One good way to share family memories is to look at old photographs or home movies. If you live near Grandma or Grandpa, ask them to pull out old photos and movies of you as a child, and take a trip together down memory lane. Your kids will get a kick out of the styles of clothes you wore... not to mention the fact that you were once a baby, toddler or teen.
NOTE - You could also spend time together each year looking at the videos of your own children. It could be anything from their early videos to the videos you took of them during the past year. Kids love watching movies... especially if they are the stars!
GET PAMPERED
At some point on Mother's Day, you may want some time alone or a chance for a little rest and relaxation. Make sure you get what you need and deserve by asking for it in advance.
For instance, a few days before Mother's Day, give your husband and kids a list of five "services" you desire. The list could include:
An hour alone so I can call a friend or soak in the tub.
A chance to sleep in until 9 a.m.
A manicure at my favorite nail salon.
No sibling squabbles for an hour.
A home-cooked meal made by the family. (Clean-up included!)
Have your husband and kids make coupons for each of these services, and be sure to redeem them throughout Mother's Day weekend.
NOTE - This would be a great tradition. Again, the kids would NEVER have to ask, "What can I get Mom for Mother's Day?" Mom can just give them her list of desired "services" year after year after year.
Have a safe Wednesday. Assuming I have power, I'll be back tomorrow morning with Blog Linkage and a date. And if I don't have power... Well, I'll post as soon as I possibly can!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Thursday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Good Deed Jar
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery pics are from a late afternoon walk I took around the neighborhood yesterday. There is a lot of bloomin' going on around here!
RANDOMNESS #1 - This morning, Roxie and I are headed to the doctor's office to see if the "floating bone" in her finger has finally healed. Today marks the tenth week. When she had her surgery, the doctor told us it would take six to eight weeks. After looking at the X-ray at the six-week mark, he quickly changed the timeline to ten or 12 weeks.
It's a little thing, but with high school volleyball and basketball tryouts looming in the not-so-distant future, Roxie's ready for the pins to be removed. She wants to serve, set, dribble and shoot.
Although she has been running and doing crunches galore, that's not going to get the ball over the net OR in the basket.
Today I am praying for proper bone placement, pin removal and good sedation... for me AND Roxie.
RANDOMNESS #2 - After hearing what a bad job I did nursing Mikie back to health after we got married, I'm sure you're wondering if I'm any better when it comes to the children.
I think I am.
However, I'm not a very calming influence. I'm still working on that one.
When Austin was in first grade, I dropped him off at school. I then went on my way to take Josh to preschool before returning home with 18 month-old Roxie in tow.
Before I pulled into the preschool parking lot, I received a phone call from Mikie. The school had called him, told him Austin had been involved in a little running accident and would probably need a stitch or two.
I think the fact they called the Daddy first is HUGE. They knew I had to be told in a very gentle way they had broken my child.
I dropped Josh off at the preschool, and Roxie and I headed back to Austin's school to assess the damage.
We had never had stitches before, so I prepared myself for a gash, a little blood and a few tears. Let's just say I was a little unprepared.
As I walked into the school with Roxie on my hip, a teacher met me at the door. "Austin is FINE. Anytime there is a cut on the head it bleeds a little more than other places."
"Oh. It's on his head? What happened?" At this point, I was VERY calm, and I walked with the teacher toward the office with Roxie still on my hip.
"He ran around the teacher's desk, slipped and hit the corner of a metal filing cabinet."
Ouch!
"Well, he shouldn't have been running in the classroom, but boys run everywhere. Am I right?" I asked, still calm... still smiling.
"Oh, yes. Austin didn't do anything wrong. They were all hurrying to their desks because the bell rang."
As we turned the corner, I saw Austin sitting in a chair holding a dressing over the right side of his face. A dressing covered in BLOOD! When he saw me, he stood up and immediately removed the dressing so I could see the little cut that might need a little stitch.
Let's just say his face was still bleeding enough I couldn't even tell where the cut was.
"You said his head! He cut his face? Where is all this blood coming from?" I asked. "Calm" was quickly leaving my body.
"He has a little cut on the corner of his eyelid. Can you see?" the teacher asked, as she pulled me toward the bloody little boy.
Keep in mind, Austin was not crying or upset. Well, not yet.
When "calm" starts to leave the body, your hearing may or may not be affected. My hearing was definitely affected.
"HIS EYE? HIS EYE? HE CUT HIS EYE?! DO THEY PUT STITCHES IN EYES?" Hysteria was quickly taking over my body.
"MY EYE? MY EYE? I HAVE TO HAVE A STITCH IN MY EYE?" Austin totally reacted to my BAD reaction. (NOTE - Roxie remained totally calm. She may be the nurse in our family.)
One teacher comforted Austin and another teacher began rubbing my arm... and talking very loudly. "Eyelid," she said slowly. "Eyelid."
"Oh. Okay. Eyelid," I repeated, once again breathing.
I stooped down and comforted the now-panicked Austin, and we headed to the Emergency Room... which is another story for another day.
Tomorrow, I think.
Wednesday Wisdom - For some reason I don't recall, Melia and Austin were talking about Mark Twain last weekend, so I thought, "Hmmm. I may use him for Wednesday Wisdom." And I did.
"A man who carries a cat by the tail learns something he can learn in no other way."
"A man's character may be learned from the adjectives which he habitually uses in conversation." (I love adjectives... even more than nouns, I think. I'm going to have to listen to what I say... which would probably be a good thing for a lot of reasons.)
"Action speaks louder than words, but not nearly as often."
"Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured." (This is SO true.)
There are over 11 more pages of Mark Twain quotes. He may be a Wednesday Wisdom guest again... and again. (He loved adjectives, too!)
The Good Deed Jar
As always, Family Fun Magazine delivers. I love this tradition!
This idea comes from Mary Purpura who lives in California with her husband and NINE kiddos. The following is an explanation of the tradition in her words.
This tradition reminds us of a simple truth... You never have control over whether someone does something nice for you, but you always have control over whether you do something kind for someone else.
Every year on Ash Wednesday, we put a jar on the kitchen counter next to a bowl of dried black-eyed peas. Between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday, any family member who performs a good deed (folding someone else's laundry or making their bed, etc.) moves a pea into the jar. On Easter Sunday, the Easter Bunny replaces the peas with jelly beans, and all of us get to enjoy the sweet rewards of being kind.
The Good Deed Jar encourages us to act kindly in a genuine way without any fanfare. The focus is on giving, rather than the reward.
During Easter dinner, everyone is invited to talk about one of the nice things they did for someone else.
We just learned that several years ago during the period between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday, one of our sons forgot to make dinner both times it was his turn. But his lapses went thoroughly undetected by his parents because his sisters covered for him. (Quietly and cheerfully.)
It's heartwarming to hear that the children actually enjoy doing things for their brothers, sisters, parents, neighbors and friends.
Teaching kids to think about acts of kindness they can perform for others using a little colored jelly bean... BRILLIANT!
NOTE - As always, if you want more Spring or Easter recipes, traditions, ideas, dates, etc., spend a little time in the Archives. Click on 2009 and/or 2010. You can then click on the months March and April of those years. Those months are FULL of ideas for you and your family during this wonderful season.
Have a wonderful, wet Wednesday. Stay dry if at all possible. Thursday's Date and Blog Linkage is looking pretty good... and you never know what else I might throw in the Randomness section. I'll have pictures from Roxie's doctor visit in the Gallery. (The amount of pictures will depend on how long I'm able to stay in the exam room with her without causing a scene.)
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery pics are from a late afternoon walk I took around the neighborhood yesterday. There is a lot of bloomin' going on around here!
RANDOMNESS #1 - This morning, Roxie and I are headed to the doctor's office to see if the "floating bone" in her finger has finally healed. Today marks the tenth week. When she had her surgery, the doctor told us it would take six to eight weeks. After looking at the X-ray at the six-week mark, he quickly changed the timeline to ten or 12 weeks.
It's a little thing, but with high school volleyball and basketball tryouts looming in the not-so-distant future, Roxie's ready for the pins to be removed. She wants to serve, set, dribble and shoot.
Although she has been running and doing crunches galore, that's not going to get the ball over the net OR in the basket.
Today I am praying for proper bone placement, pin removal and good sedation... for me AND Roxie.
RANDOMNESS #2 - After hearing what a bad job I did nursing Mikie back to health after we got married, I'm sure you're wondering if I'm any better when it comes to the children.
I think I am.
However, I'm not a very calming influence. I'm still working on that one.
When Austin was in first grade, I dropped him off at school. I then went on my way to take Josh to preschool before returning home with 18 month-old Roxie in tow.
Before I pulled into the preschool parking lot, I received a phone call from Mikie. The school had called him, told him Austin had been involved in a little running accident and would probably need a stitch or two.
I think the fact they called the Daddy first is HUGE. They knew I had to be told in a very gentle way they had broken my child.
I dropped Josh off at the preschool, and Roxie and I headed back to Austin's school to assess the damage.
We had never had stitches before, so I prepared myself for a gash, a little blood and a few tears. Let's just say I was a little unprepared.
As I walked into the school with Roxie on my hip, a teacher met me at the door. "Austin is FINE. Anytime there is a cut on the head it bleeds a little more than other places."
"Oh. It's on his head? What happened?" At this point, I was VERY calm, and I walked with the teacher toward the office with Roxie still on my hip.
"He ran around the teacher's desk, slipped and hit the corner of a metal filing cabinet."
Ouch!
"Well, he shouldn't have been running in the classroom, but boys run everywhere. Am I right?" I asked, still calm... still smiling.
"Oh, yes. Austin didn't do anything wrong. They were all hurrying to their desks because the bell rang."
As we turned the corner, I saw Austin sitting in a chair holding a dressing over the right side of his face. A dressing covered in BLOOD! When he saw me, he stood up and immediately removed the dressing so I could see the little cut that might need a little stitch.
Let's just say his face was still bleeding enough I couldn't even tell where the cut was.
"You said his head! He cut his face? Where is all this blood coming from?" I asked. "Calm" was quickly leaving my body.
"He has a little cut on the corner of his eyelid. Can you see?" the teacher asked, as she pulled me toward the bloody little boy.
Keep in mind, Austin was not crying or upset. Well, not yet.
When "calm" starts to leave the body, your hearing may or may not be affected. My hearing was definitely affected.
"HIS EYE? HIS EYE? HE CUT HIS EYE?! DO THEY PUT STITCHES IN EYES?" Hysteria was quickly taking over my body.
"MY EYE? MY EYE? I HAVE TO HAVE A STITCH IN MY EYE?" Austin totally reacted to my BAD reaction. (NOTE - Roxie remained totally calm. She may be the nurse in our family.)
One teacher comforted Austin and another teacher began rubbing my arm... and talking very loudly. "Eyelid," she said slowly. "Eyelid."
"Oh. Okay. Eyelid," I repeated, once again breathing.
I stooped down and comforted the now-panicked Austin, and we headed to the Emergency Room... which is another story for another day.
Tomorrow, I think.
Wednesday Wisdom - For some reason I don't recall, Melia and Austin were talking about Mark Twain last weekend, so I thought, "Hmmm. I may use him for Wednesday Wisdom." And I did.
"A man who carries a cat by the tail learns something he can learn in no other way."
"A man's character may be learned from the adjectives which he habitually uses in conversation." (I love adjectives... even more than nouns, I think. I'm going to have to listen to what I say... which would probably be a good thing for a lot of reasons.)
"Action speaks louder than words, but not nearly as often."
"Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured." (This is SO true.)
There are over 11 more pages of Mark Twain quotes. He may be a Wednesday Wisdom guest again... and again. (He loved adjectives, too!)
The Good Deed Jar
As always, Family Fun Magazine delivers. I love this tradition!
This idea comes from Mary Purpura who lives in California with her husband and NINE kiddos. The following is an explanation of the tradition in her words.
This tradition reminds us of a simple truth... You never have control over whether someone does something nice for you, but you always have control over whether you do something kind for someone else.
Every year on Ash Wednesday, we put a jar on the kitchen counter next to a bowl of dried black-eyed peas. Between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday, any family member who performs a good deed (folding someone else's laundry or making their bed, etc.) moves a pea into the jar. On Easter Sunday, the Easter Bunny replaces the peas with jelly beans, and all of us get to enjoy the sweet rewards of being kind.
The Good Deed Jar encourages us to act kindly in a genuine way without any fanfare. The focus is on giving, rather than the reward.
During Easter dinner, everyone is invited to talk about one of the nice things they did for someone else.
We just learned that several years ago during the period between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday, one of our sons forgot to make dinner both times it was his turn. But his lapses went thoroughly undetected by his parents because his sisters covered for him. (Quietly and cheerfully.)
It's heartwarming to hear that the children actually enjoy doing things for their brothers, sisters, parents, neighbors and friends.
Teaching kids to think about acts of kindness they can perform for others using a little colored jelly bean... BRILLIANT!
NOTE - As always, if you want more Spring or Easter recipes, traditions, ideas, dates, etc., spend a little time in the Archives. Click on 2009 and/or 2010. You can then click on the months March and April of those years. Those months are FULL of ideas for you and your family during this wonderful season.
Have a wonderful, wet Wednesday. Stay dry if at all possible. Thursday's Date and Blog Linkage is looking pretty good... and you never know what else I might throw in the Randomness section. I'll have pictures from Roxie's doctor visit in the Gallery. (The amount of pictures will depend on how long I'm able to stay in the exam room with her without causing a scene.)
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Easter Nature Walk
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pic is not of the beagles as planned, but Josh... leaving for school wearing A TUX! He had choir competition this morning, and he looked marvelous. He's the second Faulkner male to wear a tux this week. Austin had a symphony concert Monday evening. I may make Mikie wear his tux to breakfast Saturday morning. I love my guys in the penguin suit!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Contest! Contest! Contest! Does anyone out there want a new candle from Yucatan Trading? I will be purchasing said candle next week. The scent is non-negotiable. It is called Butt Naked, and it is wonderful. (NOTE - The name of the candle does not appear anywhere ON the candle. That makes it even more perfect.)
All you have to do is leave your name in the Comment Section. Put the word "CANDLE" somewhere in the comment. This is a short contest. You only have today and tomorrow to enter. (The contest ends midnight, Thursday, April 14.)
I will be drawing the name of the winner Friday morning. Go ahead. You know you want that candle!
ANOTHER NOTE - You can also enter via e-mail and Facebook.
RANDOMNESS #2 - In case you missed it, I borrowed Martha Stewart's Party-Planning Guide yesterday, and posted half of it for everyone's benefit. As promised, here is the last half.
4 Days Before:
Purchase all remaining nonperishables.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "I can purchase them, but because of the amount of roaming and hungry teenagers, I will also have to hide them."
2 Days Before:
Wash serving pieces, plates, flatware and glasses.
If using cloth napkins or tablecloths, iron them.
Place frozen food in the refrigerator to defrost overnight.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "Okay. I can TOTALLY skip '2 Days Before.' As previously stated, I'm borrowing paper products from a unsuspecting neighbor... and it seems a shame to use cloth napkins and tablecloths with paper products. Since I opted for a potluck, I didn't freeze anything because everyone else will be supplying most of the food. I admit it. I am a genius."
1 Day Before:
Purchase any perishables, such as salad greens and fresh bread.
Pick up fresh flowers.
Assemble any foods that can be made in advance.
Wash and prepare salad greens and other vegetables.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "It's time to send the teenagers away for the weekend. If I don't, there will not be any bread or assembled food in the house the day of the party. I like the idea of fresh flowers. I will use Gerber daisies, I think. Yes. Definitely Gerber daisies."
4 to 7 Hours Before:
Place flower arrangements.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "I will place the daisies right in the middle of the table surrounded by tons of brightly colored paper products."
Up to 1 Hour Before:
Finish preparing food.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "When does Martha get dolled up for the party? Hmmm. That's a pretty important piece of information left off the ol' timeline. I'm thinking I might hop in the shower right after I strategically place the flower arrangement."
Again, this is all very good advice, and I've put a copy of this Guide with the my cookbooks to keep for reference. As with all things "Martha," this list is another "good thing."
RANDOMNESS #3 - If you have time and want more Easter ideas, be sure to click on March and April in the 2009 and 2010 Archives on my sidebar. You might find something you could use.
Wednesday Wisdom - I just saw Katie Couric on The Today Show, and she has a new book out about Good Advice. I decided to see what I could find on the subject.
“If you have a lot of tension and you get a headache, do what it says on the aspirin bottle: 'Take two aspirin' and 'Keep away from children.'" Anonymous (Brilliant!)
"A word to the wise ain't necessary, it's the stupid ones who need the advice.” Bill Cosby (Again... Brilliant!)
“Give advice to your children while they're young enough to believe you know what you're talking about.” Anonymous
“Good advice is always certain to be ignored, but that's no reason not to give it.”
Agatha Christie (She sounds like a good mother.)
Easter Nature Walk
Go on a walk in your neighborhood and have an Easter "nature" hunt.
Give each child a colored paper bag to decorate with crayons, stickers and markers. When the bags are decorated, lead the children through the neighborhood and let them gather anything that interests them.
When you arrive home, sit down in a circle with the kids and have them empty the contents of their bags in front of them.
Ask for the following items, and as the children put the item in the middle of the circle, tell them why it is significant to the Easter story.
"Did anyone find a branch?" The week before His crucifixion as Christ entered the city, the people waved branches from palm trees welcoming Him.
"Did anyone find a piece of wood?" Jesus' cross was made from wood.
"Did anyone find something prickly?" His crown was made of thorns.
"Did anyone find something that is no longer alive?" Jesus did die on the cross.
"Did anyone find anything dark in color?" Pick up three "dark" things and talk about the three days of darkness following the crucifixion. Light could not be found following His death.
"Did anyone find a stone?" There was a huge stone at the opening of the grave of Jesus that the angel removed.
"Did anyone find something living." This reminds us that Jesus Christ died, was resurrected and He lives today.
NOTE - Since you want the children to collect anything and everything that interests them, make sure you have at least one item in YOUR bag to represent the Easter story told above. A child might not pick up a prickly object or a dead object, etc.
ANOTHER NOTE - This would be a great time to read The Three Trees to your little circle of friends. Pass out a treat and a juice box for them to nibble on while you read the book.
End your Easter Nature Walk with a prayer thanking God for the amazing gift of his Son.
Have a lovely Wednesday. Enter the contest. Encourage someone. Come back tomorrow. (Have I ever been so bossy before? Yes. Yes, I have.)
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting (But Bossy) Belinda
The Gallery Pic is not of the beagles as planned, but Josh... leaving for school wearing A TUX! He had choir competition this morning, and he looked marvelous. He's the second Faulkner male to wear a tux this week. Austin had a symphony concert Monday evening. I may make Mikie wear his tux to breakfast Saturday morning. I love my guys in the penguin suit!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Contest! Contest! Contest! Does anyone out there want a new candle from Yucatan Trading? I will be purchasing said candle next week. The scent is non-negotiable. It is called Butt Naked, and it is wonderful. (NOTE - The name of the candle does not appear anywhere ON the candle. That makes it even more perfect.)
All you have to do is leave your name in the Comment Section. Put the word "CANDLE" somewhere in the comment. This is a short contest. You only have today and tomorrow to enter. (The contest ends midnight, Thursday, April 14.)
I will be drawing the name of the winner Friday morning. Go ahead. You know you want that candle!
ANOTHER NOTE - You can also enter via e-mail and Facebook.
RANDOMNESS #2 - In case you missed it, I borrowed Martha Stewart's Party-Planning Guide yesterday, and posted half of it for everyone's benefit. As promised, here is the last half.
4 Days Before:
Purchase all remaining nonperishables.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "I can purchase them, but because of the amount of roaming and hungry teenagers, I will also have to hide them."
2 Days Before:
Wash serving pieces, plates, flatware and glasses.
If using cloth napkins or tablecloths, iron them.
Place frozen food in the refrigerator to defrost overnight.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "Okay. I can TOTALLY skip '2 Days Before.' As previously stated, I'm borrowing paper products from a unsuspecting neighbor... and it seems a shame to use cloth napkins and tablecloths with paper products. Since I opted for a potluck, I didn't freeze anything because everyone else will be supplying most of the food. I admit it. I am a genius."
1 Day Before:
Purchase any perishables, such as salad greens and fresh bread.
Pick up fresh flowers.
Assemble any foods that can be made in advance.
Wash and prepare salad greens and other vegetables.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "It's time to send the teenagers away for the weekend. If I don't, there will not be any bread or assembled food in the house the day of the party. I like the idea of fresh flowers. I will use Gerber daisies, I think. Yes. Definitely Gerber daisies."
4 to 7 Hours Before:
Place flower arrangements.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "I will place the daisies right in the middle of the table surrounded by tons of brightly colored paper products."
Up to 1 Hour Before:
Finish preparing food.
The Enchanting Belinda says, "When does Martha get dolled up for the party? Hmmm. That's a pretty important piece of information left off the ol' timeline. I'm thinking I might hop in the shower right after I strategically place the flower arrangement."
Again, this is all very good advice, and I've put a copy of this Guide with the my cookbooks to keep for reference. As with all things "Martha," this list is another "good thing."
RANDOMNESS #3 - If you have time and want more Easter ideas, be sure to click on March and April in the 2009 and 2010 Archives on my sidebar. You might find something you could use.
Wednesday Wisdom - I just saw Katie Couric on The Today Show, and she has a new book out about Good Advice. I decided to see what I could find on the subject.
“If you have a lot of tension and you get a headache, do what it says on the aspirin bottle: 'Take two aspirin' and 'Keep away from children.'" Anonymous (Brilliant!)
"A word to the wise ain't necessary, it's the stupid ones who need the advice.” Bill Cosby (Again... Brilliant!)
“Give advice to your children while they're young enough to believe you know what you're talking about.” Anonymous
“Good advice is always certain to be ignored, but that's no reason not to give it.”
Agatha Christie (She sounds like a good mother.)
Easter Nature Walk
Go on a walk in your neighborhood and have an Easter "nature" hunt.
Give each child a colored paper bag to decorate with crayons, stickers and markers. When the bags are decorated, lead the children through the neighborhood and let them gather anything that interests them.
When you arrive home, sit down in a circle with the kids and have them empty the contents of their bags in front of them.
Ask for the following items, and as the children put the item in the middle of the circle, tell them why it is significant to the Easter story.
"Did anyone find a branch?" The week before His crucifixion as Christ entered the city, the people waved branches from palm trees welcoming Him.
"Did anyone find a piece of wood?" Jesus' cross was made from wood.
"Did anyone find something prickly?" His crown was made of thorns.
"Did anyone find something that is no longer alive?" Jesus did die on the cross.
"Did anyone find anything dark in color?" Pick up three "dark" things and talk about the three days of darkness following the crucifixion. Light could not be found following His death.
"Did anyone find a stone?" There was a huge stone at the opening of the grave of Jesus that the angel removed.
"Did anyone find something living." This reminds us that Jesus Christ died, was resurrected and He lives today.
NOTE - Since you want the children to collect anything and everything that interests them, make sure you have at least one item in YOUR bag to represent the Easter story told above. A child might not pick up a prickly object or a dead object, etc.
ANOTHER NOTE - This would be a great time to read The Three Trees to your little circle of friends. Pass out a treat and a juice box for them to nibble on while you read the book.
End your Easter Nature Walk with a prayer thanking God for the amazing gift of his Son.
Have a lovely Wednesday. Enter the contest. Encourage someone. Come back tomorrow. (Have I ever been so bossy before? Yes. Yes, I have.)
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting (But Bossy) Belinda
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Countdown to the Wedding Fun
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics continue to tell the story of "A Day in the Life... of ME!" I stopped at 9:00 a.m. yesterday, so I think I'll take you through lunch today. As you can already see, it's not easy being ME!
RANDOMNESS - I've come to realize my "back in the day" office stories can all begin with the phrase, "Once upon a time... ." Realizing I'm in the Autumn season of life has put a new perspective on everything I do.
However, let's move on with today's "How on earth did Belinda ever hold down a job" story.
My attorney was a corporate/estate attorney. Lots of meetings. Lots of documents. Some deadlines. It was not an extremely high stress job. However, after a few years, he decided he wanted to try a little litigation.
Oh... my... word! Lots of meetings. Lots of documents. LOTS of deadlines. Deadlines that could not be missed! Needless to say, it became a little more stressful.
When a lawsuit finally goes to trial, it is a BIG deal. Boxes full of documents in perfect order are taken by clerks to the courtroom. Briefcases of each attorney working on the case are filled with other documents in perfect order. The secretaries of the attorneys involved in the case are running to and fro the morning of the first day of court checking and double-checking to make sure everything needed is walking out the door with the attorneys and clients.
When the last attorney gets on the elevator, a huge sigh of relief is heard by everyone in the office, and the stress level significantly drops. Business as usual becomes the order of the day. And as someone who loves the mundane day-to-day tasks of life... as someone who thinks the more boring a task is, the better... as someone who has no adrenaline in her body to speak of... "business as usual" is a sweet, sweet phrase.
NOTE - You've heard of those women who have actually picked cars up and rescued their loved ones, haven't you? Or beat an attacker with their purse until he just gave up? Well, I'm someone who has to FIND one of those women to help me out in a crises... Because of the absence of adrenaline in my body, you see. There's probably a supplement for that. NOTE TO SELF - Check about adrenaline supplements today... or tomorrow.
Okay. Back to the story. I was sitting at my desk about to start dictation when the receptionist's voice came over my intercom. "Belinda. Pick up Line 1. It's an emergency."
"Hello! Hello!" I yelled into the phone.
"Quick. Look in my left bottom drawer and bring me the binder with the (FILL IN THE BLANK). RUN to the courthouse and bring it to me," my boss instructed. Click.
Hmmm. Not even a "please." I ran into his office, grabbed the binder, ran to the elevator, ran out of the building, ran the two blocks to the courthouse, ran into the courthouse, ran down the corridor to the courtroom and stood at the door... breathing heavily. I was dressed in a pretty floral dress with a full skirt and matching pumps. Not my normal running attire.
My attorney was waiting for me outside the door. "Did you even run?" he asked as I handed him the binder.
"Look at me!" I demanded. My hair was no longer coiffed, my cheeks were flushed and I had massive flop sweat.
"Okay. Okay. I just figured you would be faster. Thanks." And with that he disappeared into the courtroom.
I WALKED back to the office, and as I exited the elevator, another secretary was standing there with a piece of paper. "My attorney needs this ASAP, and I can't take it because he's dictating something over the phone, and all the clerks are gone. Your attorney said you knew exactly where they were. He said RUN!" It wasn't her fault. She was my friend, and if she was taking dictation over the phone, I knew how stressful that could be, too.
I turned around, and once again RAN to the courtroom. But this time was a little different. This time there was no attorney waiting for me outside the courtroom. Hmmm. I wasn't up to speed on courtroom etiquette. Was it okay for a secretary to just walk into a courtroom with testimony taking place and hand her attorney something? Was that allowed?
Remember, this was back in the days of the dinosaurs (Code for NO CELL PHONES). I decided to just step inside the door and see what would happen.
Horror of horrors, as soon as I stepped inside the courtroom doors, a silence fell. EVERYONE was looking at me. Wild-eyed, wild-hair, sweaty me. The Judge said one word... "Yes?" And then my attorney jumped up to get the piece of paper.
He had just enough time to mumble, "Fix your hair next time," and I had just enough time to mumble, "There's not going to be a next time!" (NOTE - My boss and I got along very well, so please do not think he was being over-critical or I was being disrespectful. It was quite simply the way we communicated under duress. And believe me... duress we WERE under!)
Once again, I walked back to the office. The other secretary, my friend, had finished typing the over-the-phone dictation, and she was now running to the courthouse. However, she was a litigation secretary, so she was not surprised in the least about the "getting papers to the courtroom" drama. She was a pro.
When I returned to the office, I made a bathroom visit to assess damage. I definitely needed some work done in the hair department. I had sweated off all of my make-up, but my flushed cheeks worked for me. I was going to have to get a stronger men's deodorant because it was obvious mine wasn't going to hold. And my shoes... oh, my pretty Connie pumps. I had stepped in cracks along the way, and I had messed up the heels on both shoes. I decided they would be my "running pumps," and I would keep them in a bag under my desk for just such emergencies. I could do this. I was just going to have to tweak a few things.
The days and weeks rolled on. I got a new haircut which could withstand running in humidity, rain and heat. I carried a lipstick with me at all times to apply in the elevator on the way to the courtroom. I BOLDLY walked into the courtroom and across the room to hand attorneys what they needed when they needed it. I bought a popular men's deodorant to help me with the flop sweat problem. I stopped wearing dresses with full skirts... because full skirts tend to blow up on windy days, you see. I became an expert sprinter in my scarred Connie running pumps.
And the day we won the case... Well, let's just say it was a very good day. (Almost worth the sacrifice of my favorite shoes. Almost.)
Wednesday Wisdom - I'm in a wedding kind of mood today, so the quotes below are about engagements, marriage and love.
"Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction." Anonymous
"Love one another and you will be happy. It's as simple and as difficult as that." Michael Leunig
"You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams." Dr. Seuss (Ahhh. Who knew Dr. Seuss was a romantic?)
"All love that has not friendship for its base, is like a mansion built upon the sand." Ella Wheeler Wilcox (I SO agree with this. Mikie and I were best friends for almost three years before we started dating. It worked for us.
"True love stories never have endings." Anonymous (Love, love love this one!)
Countdown to the Wedding Fun
My friend, Cam, has a wedding in her near future. Her oldest son is getting married. It is VERY exciting. Today, I wanted to share one of her ideas with you. It may or may not apply right now... but maybe one day!
Since her son and his fiance' have been engaged over a year (and a year is a long time), she wanted to do something each month to make the time pass more quickly. Here is what she came up with.
Exactly 11 months before the wedding, she had her husband put a wrapped gift on her front porch knowing her son and her future daughter-in-law would be arriving shortly. On the top of the gift, she had written "11 more to go."
As luck would have it, her son and future daughter-in-law walked right past the box, not thinking it was for them, so Cam had to point it out toward the end of the evening. "Did you put this on the porch, Mom?" her son asked.
And she truthfully answered, "No," because she had made her husband set the box on the porch.
Exactly ten months before the wedding, another gift "showed up" with a note attached "10 more to go." By this time, the couple realized it was a countdown gift... and they figured out Cam was behind the gift giving.
And so the countdown has continued. On the 25th of each month (the day they are to be married in June), the couple has received a gift.
I think this is a WONDERFUL way to celebrate the upcoming wedding... especially when it is a long engagement. And it doesn't have to be an extravagant gift. It can be a book you want the couple to read together or a gift card for them to use for a coffee date one night. It can be something off their gift registry. It can be a special note or a memory from your own engagement time.
The ideas are limitless. As always, if you decide to do this one day, make it your own!
Have a wonderful Wednesday. Encourage someone today. Never get too busy to give a word of encouragement. Thursday's Blog Linkage is good reading, and the date is too much fun.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics continue to tell the story of "A Day in the Life... of ME!" I stopped at 9:00 a.m. yesterday, so I think I'll take you through lunch today. As you can already see, it's not easy being ME!
RANDOMNESS - I've come to realize my "back in the day" office stories can all begin with the phrase, "Once upon a time... ." Realizing I'm in the Autumn season of life has put a new perspective on everything I do.
However, let's move on with today's "How on earth did Belinda ever hold down a job" story.
My attorney was a corporate/estate attorney. Lots of meetings. Lots of documents. Some deadlines. It was not an extremely high stress job. However, after a few years, he decided he wanted to try a little litigation.
Oh... my... word! Lots of meetings. Lots of documents. LOTS of deadlines. Deadlines that could not be missed! Needless to say, it became a little more stressful.
When a lawsuit finally goes to trial, it is a BIG deal. Boxes full of documents in perfect order are taken by clerks to the courtroom. Briefcases of each attorney working on the case are filled with other documents in perfect order. The secretaries of the attorneys involved in the case are running to and fro the morning of the first day of court checking and double-checking to make sure everything needed is walking out the door with the attorneys and clients.
When the last attorney gets on the elevator, a huge sigh of relief is heard by everyone in the office, and the stress level significantly drops. Business as usual becomes the order of the day. And as someone who loves the mundane day-to-day tasks of life... as someone who thinks the more boring a task is, the better... as someone who has no adrenaline in her body to speak of... "business as usual" is a sweet, sweet phrase.
NOTE - You've heard of those women who have actually picked cars up and rescued their loved ones, haven't you? Or beat an attacker with their purse until he just gave up? Well, I'm someone who has to FIND one of those women to help me out in a crises... Because of the absence of adrenaline in my body, you see. There's probably a supplement for that. NOTE TO SELF - Check about adrenaline supplements today... or tomorrow.
Okay. Back to the story. I was sitting at my desk about to start dictation when the receptionist's voice came over my intercom. "Belinda. Pick up Line 1. It's an emergency."
"Hello! Hello!" I yelled into the phone.
"Quick. Look in my left bottom drawer and bring me the binder with the (FILL IN THE BLANK). RUN to the courthouse and bring it to me," my boss instructed. Click.
Hmmm. Not even a "please." I ran into his office, grabbed the binder, ran to the elevator, ran out of the building, ran the two blocks to the courthouse, ran into the courthouse, ran down the corridor to the courtroom and stood at the door... breathing heavily. I was dressed in a pretty floral dress with a full skirt and matching pumps. Not my normal running attire.
My attorney was waiting for me outside the door. "Did you even run?" he asked as I handed him the binder.
"Look at me!" I demanded. My hair was no longer coiffed, my cheeks were flushed and I had massive flop sweat.
"Okay. Okay. I just figured you would be faster. Thanks." And with that he disappeared into the courtroom.
I WALKED back to the office, and as I exited the elevator, another secretary was standing there with a piece of paper. "My attorney needs this ASAP, and I can't take it because he's dictating something over the phone, and all the clerks are gone. Your attorney said you knew exactly where they were. He said RUN!" It wasn't her fault. She was my friend, and if she was taking dictation over the phone, I knew how stressful that could be, too.
I turned around, and once again RAN to the courtroom. But this time was a little different. This time there was no attorney waiting for me outside the courtroom. Hmmm. I wasn't up to speed on courtroom etiquette. Was it okay for a secretary to just walk into a courtroom with testimony taking place and hand her attorney something? Was that allowed?
Remember, this was back in the days of the dinosaurs (Code for NO CELL PHONES). I decided to just step inside the door and see what would happen.
Horror of horrors, as soon as I stepped inside the courtroom doors, a silence fell. EVERYONE was looking at me. Wild-eyed, wild-hair, sweaty me. The Judge said one word... "Yes?" And then my attorney jumped up to get the piece of paper.
He had just enough time to mumble, "Fix your hair next time," and I had just enough time to mumble, "There's not going to be a next time!" (NOTE - My boss and I got along very well, so please do not think he was being over-critical or I was being disrespectful. It was quite simply the way we communicated under duress. And believe me... duress we WERE under!)
Once again, I walked back to the office. The other secretary, my friend, had finished typing the over-the-phone dictation, and she was now running to the courthouse. However, she was a litigation secretary, so she was not surprised in the least about the "getting papers to the courtroom" drama. She was a pro.
When I returned to the office, I made a bathroom visit to assess damage. I definitely needed some work done in the hair department. I had sweated off all of my make-up, but my flushed cheeks worked for me. I was going to have to get a stronger men's deodorant because it was obvious mine wasn't going to hold. And my shoes... oh, my pretty Connie pumps. I had stepped in cracks along the way, and I had messed up the heels on both shoes. I decided they would be my "running pumps," and I would keep them in a bag under my desk for just such emergencies. I could do this. I was just going to have to tweak a few things.
The days and weeks rolled on. I got a new haircut which could withstand running in humidity, rain and heat. I carried a lipstick with me at all times to apply in the elevator on the way to the courtroom. I BOLDLY walked into the courtroom and across the room to hand attorneys what they needed when they needed it. I bought a popular men's deodorant to help me with the flop sweat problem. I stopped wearing dresses with full skirts... because full skirts tend to blow up on windy days, you see. I became an expert sprinter in my scarred Connie running pumps.
And the day we won the case... Well, let's just say it was a very good day. (Almost worth the sacrifice of my favorite shoes. Almost.)
Wednesday Wisdom - I'm in a wedding kind of mood today, so the quotes below are about engagements, marriage and love.
"Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction." Anonymous
"Love one another and you will be happy. It's as simple and as difficult as that." Michael Leunig
"You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams." Dr. Seuss (Ahhh. Who knew Dr. Seuss was a romantic?)
"All love that has not friendship for its base, is like a mansion built upon the sand." Ella Wheeler Wilcox (I SO agree with this. Mikie and I were best friends for almost three years before we started dating. It worked for us.
"True love stories never have endings." Anonymous (Love, love love this one!)
Countdown to the Wedding Fun
My friend, Cam, has a wedding in her near future. Her oldest son is getting married. It is VERY exciting. Today, I wanted to share one of her ideas with you. It may or may not apply right now... but maybe one day!
Since her son and his fiance' have been engaged over a year (and a year is a long time), she wanted to do something each month to make the time pass more quickly. Here is what she came up with.
Exactly 11 months before the wedding, she had her husband put a wrapped gift on her front porch knowing her son and her future daughter-in-law would be arriving shortly. On the top of the gift, she had written "11 more to go."
As luck would have it, her son and future daughter-in-law walked right past the box, not thinking it was for them, so Cam had to point it out toward the end of the evening. "Did you put this on the porch, Mom?" her son asked.
And she truthfully answered, "No," because she had made her husband set the box on the porch.
Exactly ten months before the wedding, another gift "showed up" with a note attached "10 more to go." By this time, the couple realized it was a countdown gift... and they figured out Cam was behind the gift giving.
And so the countdown has continued. On the 25th of each month (the day they are to be married in June), the couple has received a gift.
I think this is a WONDERFUL way to celebrate the upcoming wedding... especially when it is a long engagement. And it doesn't have to be an extravagant gift. It can be a book you want the couple to read together or a gift card for them to use for a coffee date one night. It can be something off their gift registry. It can be a special note or a memory from your own engagement time.
The ideas are limitless. As always, if you decide to do this one day, make it your own!
Have a wonderful Wednesday. Encourage someone today. Never get too busy to give a word of encouragement. Thursday's Blog Linkage is good reading, and the date is too much fun.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Family Fun Run
Good Wednesday morning!
I exercised twice yesterday. I only mention that fact because I told you I was going to make the No-Bake Chewy Peanut Butter Bars last night. However, because I exercised twice yesterday, I barely made dinner. The Gallery Pic today is of the INGREDIENTS for the No-Bake Chewy Peanut Butter Bars... which I will be making shortly... because I'm only exercising once today.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Amy Adams has been chosen as the new Lois Lane. I am assuming this means there is going to be a new Superman movie. And since I usually support Amy Adams, I am also assuming I will have to see ANOTHER Superman movie. Personally, I thought I was finished watching movies about this particular super hero, but apparently NOT.
RANDOMNESS #2 - We have two new pups in our neighborhood. At the end of the street and around the corner lives Biscuit. Biscuit is a large basset hound with an even larger bark. He is precious. He escapes every now and again and comes to our fence to talk to Copper and Sparkle. I like him. I like him a lot.
The other new addition lives in the yard directly behind our house. He is a one year-old lab named Tank. (I know. Perfect name.) Tank is huge, but he's still growing, he's still a puppy and he is precious, too. He, Sparkle and Copper commune a couple of times a day in the back corner of the fence. They discuss politics, world events and what they had for breakfast that morning, I am sure.
If you read The Pioneer Woman (and I strongly suggest you do), you know she has a basset hound named Charlie. Charlie is hilarious, and I like him very much. She recently added a new basset hound to her menagerie of farm animals and pets, and she named him Walter.
As Sparkle and Copper approach the ripe old age of eight years-old (56 in dog years), I love them more and more, but I do miss the puppy stage. I was recently talking to Roxie about how much fun it would be to have a baby basset hound, and she totally agreed. "We could name him Booger," she said. And then she laughed and laughed.
Then she went over all the dog phrases to see if she still liked the name.
"He's such a sweet Booger."
"Here, Booger. That's a good Booger."
"Don't eat that, Booger!"
And on and on it went. If and when we ever get a basset hound, I assure you we will NOT name him Booger. I mean I have a reputation of sorts around here, and it would not be very dignified to have a dog with such a name.
I'm thinking "Earl."
Wednesday Wisdom - I've heard three Eleanor Roosevelt quotes recently, and I liked what I heard. Today, we honor a very interesting woman in history on A Simple Life.
A little simplification would be the first step toward rational living, I think. (I TOTALLY agree.)
A woman is like a tea bag. You can't tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water. (True. So, so true.)
Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people. (This is definitely something I need to think about.)
No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. (I love this quote because it was in Princess Diaries. Love the movie. Love the quote. Love the meaning.)
Family Fun Run
There are Fun Runs ALL over the place right now. Spring is obviously the time to run!
Last year, Roxie and I participated in our first ever Fun Run. It was the Pink Ribbon Run in Gardendale, and it was sponsored by my friend, Tonya Brown, who is a two-time breast cancer survivor. This particular Run is a fundraiser for the Susan G. Komen 3 Day for the Cure Walk.
When I finished my part (the 1 mile Run/Walk), Roxie and company started the 5K Walk. And they finished it. And they were proud. Proud to be part of something that helps others. Something bigger than themselves.
When we got into the car, Roxie and I decided we wanted to participate in a Run at least once a year. We wanted to make it a tradition.
This year, Tonya has once again organized the Pink Ribbon Run in our area. And once again, Roxie and I are participating Friday, April 29 beginning at 6:00 p.m. If you want to register, you can contact me, and I will put you in touch with Tonya, or I will make sure you receive a registration form. (The forms should be returned by April 17.)
It costs $15 for the 1 mile Fun Run (which includes a T-shirt and a drink), and $20 for the 5K Walk (which also includes a T-Shirt and a drink).
This is a wonderful, selfless tradition to pass down to your children and your grandchildren, and I know many people and families who do so year after year.
I can't think of a better way to spend a few hours on a beautiful spring night. Can you?
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Don't forget. It's Encouraging Wednesday. Make sure you contact someone today and lift their spirits. It only takes a second to do, but it can last much longer for the person receiving the encouragement.
I will have new websites for you to visit in Blog Linkage Thursday, as well as the most fun date ever. Check it out if you get a minute.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
I exercised twice yesterday. I only mention that fact because I told you I was going to make the No-Bake Chewy Peanut Butter Bars last night. However, because I exercised twice yesterday, I barely made dinner. The Gallery Pic today is of the INGREDIENTS for the No-Bake Chewy Peanut Butter Bars... which I will be making shortly... because I'm only exercising once today.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Amy Adams has been chosen as the new Lois Lane. I am assuming this means there is going to be a new Superman movie. And since I usually support Amy Adams, I am also assuming I will have to see ANOTHER Superman movie. Personally, I thought I was finished watching movies about this particular super hero, but apparently NOT.
RANDOMNESS #2 - We have two new pups in our neighborhood. At the end of the street and around the corner lives Biscuit. Biscuit is a large basset hound with an even larger bark. He is precious. He escapes every now and again and comes to our fence to talk to Copper and Sparkle. I like him. I like him a lot.
The other new addition lives in the yard directly behind our house. He is a one year-old lab named Tank. (I know. Perfect name.) Tank is huge, but he's still growing, he's still a puppy and he is precious, too. He, Sparkle and Copper commune a couple of times a day in the back corner of the fence. They discuss politics, world events and what they had for breakfast that morning, I am sure.
If you read The Pioneer Woman (and I strongly suggest you do), you know she has a basset hound named Charlie. Charlie is hilarious, and I like him very much. She recently added a new basset hound to her menagerie of farm animals and pets, and she named him Walter.
As Sparkle and Copper approach the ripe old age of eight years-old (56 in dog years), I love them more and more, but I do miss the puppy stage. I was recently talking to Roxie about how much fun it would be to have a baby basset hound, and she totally agreed. "We could name him Booger," she said. And then she laughed and laughed.
Then she went over all the dog phrases to see if she still liked the name.
"He's such a sweet Booger."
"Here, Booger. That's a good Booger."
"Don't eat that, Booger!"
And on and on it went. If and when we ever get a basset hound, I assure you we will NOT name him Booger. I mean I have a reputation of sorts around here, and it would not be very dignified to have a dog with such a name.
I'm thinking "Earl."
Wednesday Wisdom - I've heard three Eleanor Roosevelt quotes recently, and I liked what I heard. Today, we honor a very interesting woman in history on A Simple Life.
A little simplification would be the first step toward rational living, I think. (I TOTALLY agree.)
A woman is like a tea bag. You can't tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water. (True. So, so true.)
Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people. (This is definitely something I need to think about.)
No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. (I love this quote because it was in Princess Diaries. Love the movie. Love the quote. Love the meaning.)
Family Fun Run
There are Fun Runs ALL over the place right now. Spring is obviously the time to run!
Last year, Roxie and I participated in our first ever Fun Run. It was the Pink Ribbon Run in Gardendale, and it was sponsored by my friend, Tonya Brown, who is a two-time breast cancer survivor. This particular Run is a fundraiser for the Susan G. Komen 3 Day for the Cure Walk.
When I finished my part (the 1 mile Run/Walk), Roxie and company started the 5K Walk. And they finished it. And they were proud. Proud to be part of something that helps others. Something bigger than themselves.
When we got into the car, Roxie and I decided we wanted to participate in a Run at least once a year. We wanted to make it a tradition.
This year, Tonya has once again organized the Pink Ribbon Run in our area. And once again, Roxie and I are participating Friday, April 29 beginning at 6:00 p.m. If you want to register, you can contact me, and I will put you in touch with Tonya, or I will make sure you receive a registration form. (The forms should be returned by April 17.)
It costs $15 for the 1 mile Fun Run (which includes a T-shirt and a drink), and $20 for the 5K Walk (which also includes a T-Shirt and a drink).
This is a wonderful, selfless tradition to pass down to your children and your grandchildren, and I know many people and families who do so year after year.
I can't think of a better way to spend a few hours on a beautiful spring night. Can you?
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Don't forget. It's Encouraging Wednesday. Make sure you contact someone today and lift their spirits. It only takes a second to do, but it can last much longer for the person receiving the encouragement.
I will have new websites for you to visit in Blog Linkage Thursday, as well as the most fun date ever. Check it out if you get a minute.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Celebrate the National "Days" of March
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery contains a couple of "extra" Austin pics this morning. I always keep a couple of spares in case I have a slow picture day at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842)... and I'm glad I did!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I'll be going to my doctor for my annual check-up this month. I have a list of questions for her which is a little odd for me. I'm usually one of those "get in and get out" people.
My first question is as follows:
1. Why does exercise make me feel bad? I mean... REAL bad? (I know. I know. Exercise also makes me use real bad grammar.)
My exercise partner and I were laughing/crying yesterday after class because we remembered how we thought we were getting the flu after our first week of Body Pump/Zumba. I'm not kidding. I took TheraFlu. But it was just exercise (other than walking).
Here is my second question:
2. One of my instructors keeps insisting my shoulders are going to look fabulous. Am I wrong, or was that the one part of my body that prior to starting exercise class still looked pretty good? (This probably isn't a doctor question, but it's on my list.)
Last question (Well, last question I can share with you, the Reader):
3. When we're on our backs on the benches... and we're working on our triceps (or biceps or whatever)... how many times can the barbell hit my forehead before damage sets in permanently? I know the instructor says to "STOP" right before I hit my forehead, but by the time we do this exercise, I'm a little tired/weak/incapacitated. Pick a word. Any word.
I'll get back to you with these answers (and more) as soon as I visit my doc. These are the things no one is willing to talk about in the "real" world. However, when you've been hit in the forehead as often as I have with a barbell, you just don't care any longer!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I made several people feel better yesterday when I admitted I didn't fix breakfast for my family in the morning. I've got another one for you.
After exercising TWICE in one day, my dinner plan consisted of one small spoonful of chicken and dumplings for Mikie, Josh and Roxie... and five pieces of loaf bread apiece. (I wasn't rationing the chicken and dumplings. That's all that was left!)
I was happy with a bowl of oatmeal. Too tired to chew, you see.
Wednesday Wisdom - Today’s wisdom comes in the form of two quotes about the month of March. (I would normally give you Dr. Seuss quotes today, in honor of his birthday and all. However, I think I've used all of the good ones in previous posts!)
"Our life is March weather, savage and serene in one hour." Ralph Waldo Emerson (He must have lived in Alabama.)
"It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.” Charles Dickens. (Perfect description... especially when you go camping during this month.)
Celebrate the National "Days" of March
I know I suggested this before, but March has some very interesting days to celebrate. Pick one, two or several to celebrate with your family. Many have food involved, but there are some teachable moments in the mix, too.
1. Peanut Butter Lovers’ Day (We missed this one, but I suggest celebrating it today and EVERYDAY!)
2. I Want You to be Happy Day (Do something special to make each and every person in your family happy sometime today.)
3. National Anthem Day (Does your child know the National Anthem? Today’s the day to start learning.)
4. Hug a GI Day (I love this one. If you don’t know a GI who is home at the time, find a veteran to show your appreciation.)
6. National Frozen Food Day (Easy dinner!)
10. Middle Name Pride Day (Call everyone in your family by their middle name ALL day long. Even if it's "Eugene.")
11. Johnny Appleseed Day (Read the story of Johnny Appleseed for your bedtime story tonight.)
12. Plant a Flower Day (Get outside and plant that flower! It may snow tomorrow, but give it a try!)
13. Jewel Day (Let your little girl where some of your costume jewelry to school today.)
14. Learn About Butterflies Day (So much to learn. Pick up a book at the library, and enjoy it with your kiddo.)
14. National Potato Chip Day (No brainer. Buy everyone’s favorite bag of chips and enjoy! Have them for dinner tonight!)
15. Incredible Kid Day (Make a banner or poster declaring each of your children “Incredible Kids.” Be sure to list the unique reasons they are incredible to you!)
17. St. Patrick’s Day (Looks like green eggs and ham for dinner tonight. Don’t forget green Sprite and green cookies or cake.)
19. Poultry Day (Fried chicken tonight… or a night eating out at Chick-Fil-A. Yeah! That's the ticket.)
21. Fragrance Day (Let your little girl where some of your favorite fragrance… and let your little guy where some of Dad’s aftershave.)
23. National Chip and Dip Day (The potato chip is getting a lot of attention this month. That is a GOOD thing.)
24. National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day (This is my FAVORITE movie snack of all time. Enjoy a box with your family while watching a good movie together.)
25. Pecan Day (Looks like you’ll be baking a pecan pie for dessert.)
25. Waffle Day (And you can eat your pecan pie after a wonderful dinner at your local Waffle House. YUM!)
26. Make Up Your Own Holiday Day (This will be interesting. Sit around and see what kind of holiday your child or children would create if they had the chance.)
30. Take a Walk in the Park Day (You NEED to walk in the park! We’ve eaten a lot this month!)
31. National Clam on the Half Shell Day (One more special March meal.. You can do it!)
Pick and choose and have fun with these silly (yet legitimate) National Days in March. It’s not hard. It just takes a little planning!
Have a sunny Wednesday. I'll have Blog Linkage galore tomorrow morning, as well as a nice March date for you and yours.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery contains a couple of "extra" Austin pics this morning. I always keep a couple of spares in case I have a slow picture day at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842)... and I'm glad I did!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I'll be going to my doctor for my annual check-up this month. I have a list of questions for her which is a little odd for me. I'm usually one of those "get in and get out" people.
My first question is as follows:
1. Why does exercise make me feel bad? I mean... REAL bad? (I know. I know. Exercise also makes me use real bad grammar.)
My exercise partner and I were laughing/crying yesterday after class because we remembered how we thought we were getting the flu after our first week of Body Pump/Zumba. I'm not kidding. I took TheraFlu. But it was just exercise (other than walking).
Here is my second question:
2. One of my instructors keeps insisting my shoulders are going to look fabulous. Am I wrong, or was that the one part of my body that prior to starting exercise class still looked pretty good? (This probably isn't a doctor question, but it's on my list.)
Last question (Well, last question I can share with you, the Reader):
3. When we're on our backs on the benches... and we're working on our triceps (or biceps or whatever)... how many times can the barbell hit my forehead before damage sets in permanently? I know the instructor says to "STOP" right before I hit my forehead, but by the time we do this exercise, I'm a little tired/weak/incapacitated. Pick a word. Any word.
I'll get back to you with these answers (and more) as soon as I visit my doc. These are the things no one is willing to talk about in the "real" world. However, when you've been hit in the forehead as often as I have with a barbell, you just don't care any longer!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I made several people feel better yesterday when I admitted I didn't fix breakfast for my family in the morning. I've got another one for you.
After exercising TWICE in one day, my dinner plan consisted of one small spoonful of chicken and dumplings for Mikie, Josh and Roxie... and five pieces of loaf bread apiece. (I wasn't rationing the chicken and dumplings. That's all that was left!)
I was happy with a bowl of oatmeal. Too tired to chew, you see.
Wednesday Wisdom - Today’s wisdom comes in the form of two quotes about the month of March. (I would normally give you Dr. Seuss quotes today, in honor of his birthday and all. However, I think I've used all of the good ones in previous posts!)
"Our life is March weather, savage and serene in one hour." Ralph Waldo Emerson (He must have lived in Alabama.)
"It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.” Charles Dickens. (Perfect description... especially when you go camping during this month.)
Celebrate the National "Days" of March
I know I suggested this before, but March has some very interesting days to celebrate. Pick one, two or several to celebrate with your family. Many have food involved, but there are some teachable moments in the mix, too.
1. Peanut Butter Lovers’ Day (We missed this one, but I suggest celebrating it today and EVERYDAY!)
2. I Want You to be Happy Day (Do something special to make each and every person in your family happy sometime today.)
3. National Anthem Day (Does your child know the National Anthem? Today’s the day to start learning.)
4. Hug a GI Day (I love this one. If you don’t know a GI who is home at the time, find a veteran to show your appreciation.)
6. National Frozen Food Day (Easy dinner!)
10. Middle Name Pride Day (Call everyone in your family by their middle name ALL day long. Even if it's "Eugene.")
11. Johnny Appleseed Day (Read the story of Johnny Appleseed for your bedtime story tonight.)
12. Plant a Flower Day (Get outside and plant that flower! It may snow tomorrow, but give it a try!)
13. Jewel Day (Let your little girl where some of your costume jewelry to school today.)
14. Learn About Butterflies Day (So much to learn. Pick up a book at the library, and enjoy it with your kiddo.)
14. National Potato Chip Day (No brainer. Buy everyone’s favorite bag of chips and enjoy! Have them for dinner tonight!)
15. Incredible Kid Day (Make a banner or poster declaring each of your children “Incredible Kids.” Be sure to list the unique reasons they are incredible to you!)
17. St. Patrick’s Day (Looks like green eggs and ham for dinner tonight. Don’t forget green Sprite and green cookies or cake.)
19. Poultry Day (Fried chicken tonight… or a night eating out at Chick-Fil-A. Yeah! That's the ticket.)
21. Fragrance Day (Let your little girl where some of your favorite fragrance… and let your little guy where some of Dad’s aftershave.)
23. National Chip and Dip Day (The potato chip is getting a lot of attention this month. That is a GOOD thing.)
24. National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day (This is my FAVORITE movie snack of all time. Enjoy a box with your family while watching a good movie together.)
25. Pecan Day (Looks like you’ll be baking a pecan pie for dessert.)
25. Waffle Day (And you can eat your pecan pie after a wonderful dinner at your local Waffle House. YUM!)
26. Make Up Your Own Holiday Day (This will be interesting. Sit around and see what kind of holiday your child or children would create if they had the chance.)
30. Take a Walk in the Park Day (You NEED to walk in the park! We’ve eaten a lot this month!)
31. National Clam on the Half Shell Day (One more special March meal.. You can do it!)
Pick and choose and have fun with these silly (yet legitimate) National Days in March. It’s not hard. It just takes a little planning!
Have a sunny Wednesday. I'll have Blog Linkage galore tomorrow morning, as well as a nice March date for you and yours.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Winter Day Activities
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery photos once again show my major imperfections in the kitchen department. We were supposed to have Caramel Fondue last night for dessert. I had skewers. I had angel food cake (not homemade). I had all FOUR ingredients for the fondue. As I put the fondue mixture on the stove eye, Mikie yelled for me to come to the bedroom to listen to The Boy on his radio show. I RACED to the back of the house, only to find out he had signed off earlier than normal because of a basketball game which was being aired. Heavy, heavy sigh.
I've said all of the above to let you know... I BURNED THE EASIEST FONDUE RECIPE IN THE HISTORY OF MANKIND. I am so ashamed. So embarrassed. So determined to try it again tonight after church! Don't worry! Tomorrow's Gallery Pics are going to be SO much better... and the fondue will not be dark brown!
CONTEST! CONTEST! CONTEST! - LOOK FOR THE COLOR WORD IN THE POST TODAY!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I watched Oprah yesterday. This is not an everyday event for me. However, yesterday she was interviewing Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds. (I love Debbie Reynolds. Roxie and I are going to have a movie date in a week or so and watch Tammy and the Bachelor. Do you remember that old movie? Love it.)
Okay. Focus, Enchanting Belinda! I assumed the interview was going to be about Carrie Fisher's weight, the difficulty of being a movie star's child, etc., etc., but much of the interview was about her mental illness. She was diagnosed with manic depression when she was a young woman. Today the diagnosis would be bipolar, but that wasn't an option several years ago. She talked about her mental breakdown and the times she spent in rehab.
I loved how incredibly open they both were about her mental illness. Even Debbie Reynolds at 78 years of age spoke about it intelligently and without shame.
I'm always so excited when a discussion about mental illness is brought to the forefront of a conversation and discussed with compassion, empathy and, in this instance, such poise, grace and love from Carrie's mother.
There was no shame. You could see how proud Debbie Reynolds was of her girl... her courage... her ability to continue to live a life which at times is extremely difficult.
They did a wonderful thing yesterday, and I appreciate their words. (I hope Oprah had 10,000,000 viewers. I really, really do.)
RANDOMNESS #2 - Yes. There is more, more, more to the story of how Mikie and I came to be the Faulkner Two. As always, skip ahead if you've heard it all before!
The Mikie and Belinda Story - Part Two
Let's see. Where did I leave off? Oh, yes. I was in the balcony of Shades Mountain Baptist Church with my friend, Kelley. She had just pointed out Mike, as well as her friend, Alesia, who we were to meet after the service.
Alesia turned out to be very established in the Singles Department at the church, and we met literally dozens of people our first two Sundays visiting there. Kelley, Alesia, and another girl, Celeste, and I became close friends, and it wasn't long until we were doing EVERYTHING together. Beach trips, shopping, movies, more shopping, out to eat, and even more shopping. Many of our activities were "group" activities, and along with Kelley, Alesia and Celeste, we had many other friends (male and female) in our core group. Mikie was one of our guy friends.
Mike and I hit it off immediately. He was incredibly easy to talk to, and he was fun to be around. He was considerate and sweet. He was a good listener... and I was a good talker.
Over our next three years together at Shades Mountain, he became my best male friend. Also, during our next three years together at Shades Mountain, it became obvious Mike's one and only goal was to date as many nice, Christian women as possible. And this was a goal he met!
It honestly did not bother me. Many times after a date, Mike would call and we would talk about anything and everything. I knew his story from beginning to present, and he knew mine. Because we were going on trips and retreats with the Singles Department, he had definitely seen me with no make-up, little sleep, and very grumpy, and I could say the same of him. Well, except the no make-up part. As far as I know, Mike has never worn make-up. (That would have been a deal breaker.) It didn't matter. We were friends.
I can remember the first time it bothered me when he called after a date. The girl he was dating at the time was wonderful, and she was a friend of mine. (Not close, but a friend.) Mike really enjoyed dating this particular girl, and she obviously, enjoyed his company, too.
At the time, I wouldn't have said I was jealous, but looking back, I'm sure I was. I was not livid or pouty or incredibly sad, but it definitely DID bother me... and up to this point, who Mike chose to date had never bothered me at all.
He, of course, was oblivious, and when he asked me my opinion of whether they should continue to date, I found myself hesitant to answer honestly... because I had to admit, the honest answer would have been, "NO! Are you insane? Open your eyes, man!"
Instead, I deferred and asked him what he thought. HUGE mistake. Having to listen to him go on and on and on for an hour or so about how this girl was SO wonderful and SO sweet and SO funny and SO cute was pure torture. And it was only made worse because she was definitely all of those things and more. I even thought so!
It was probably the first time I was happy when he said, "Well, good-bye," and we were able to end that very one-sided conversation.
Tomorrow, things turn around a little, but only because I took matters into my own hands (which, by the way, I do NOT recommend).
Wednesday Wisdom - Since we're still in LOVE mode around here, I decided to share some funny wisdom about the great institution of marriage!
"I married the first man I ever kissed. When I tell this to my children they just about throw up." Barbara Bush (Maybe it bothers her kids, but I think it's very sweet.)
"I love being married. It's so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life." Rita Rudner (I don't think this is especially funny, but I bet Mikie will.)
"Keep your eyes wide open before marriage, and half-shut afterwards." Benjamin Franklin (Wise, wise man.)
Winter Day Activities
We've had a lot of cold weather in Alabama this year... and we'll probably have a little more before Spring arrives. Here are some fun activities (from various websites) to keep your young kiddos entertained and happy during those long winter afternoons.
I've also added a schedule to help moms get some things done, too. You know... like laundry and dinner. Little things like that!
1. Ice Fishing - You will need a blue sheet or cardboard painted blue, dowel sticks, string and clothes pins.
Hang the sheet or cardboard from ceiling. Construct a fishing pole by tying one end of the string to the dowel, and tying the other end of the string around the clothes pin.
A parent stands behind the sheet/cardboard with a basket full of little dollar store goodies to attach to the clothes pins. Kids cast their fishing lines over the "ice" and know they've caught something when they feel a tug on their line.
2. Psychic Scavenger Hunt - This variation of the classic game has a mind-blowing twist... Competitors have to guess which items they're supposed to find.
You will need 5 to 10 objects that can easily be found in a specific room (bowl, brush, bottle, etc.).
One player writes out a secret list of 5 to 10 objects that can easily be found in a room, such as a bowl, a brush and a bottle.
He then announces the number of objects he's looking for, and the other family members have one minute to gather that same number of items.
If anyone brings an object that's on the list, he/she gets a point. And, of course, players have to put their items away before the next round.
You can also change the game by limiting the objects to things that begin with the same letter or are a certain shape.
3. Bouncing Raisins - You will need 6 raisins, a glass tumbler, vinegar and baking soda (or an Alka Seltzer tablet).
Pour a cup of water into the glass jar. Add one teaspoon of baking soda and stir until dissolved. Gently add one-fourth cup of vinegar and wait until it stops fizzing.
Drop in three or four raisins. Watch and see what happens (it takes about 10 to 15 minutes).
Note - The gas, carbon dioxide, that forms when you add vinegar to the baking soda forms bubbles all over the raisins. The raisins start to rise as the bubbles of carbon dioxide carry the raisins upwards and then they fall back to the bottom... again and again.
(I did this several times when the kids were little. It's fun and it keeps their attention for about 15 to 20 minutes. Each child can have their own glass. You can also let them add food coloring. We called it Dancing Raisins, and I had their favorite kiddie music playing. When the raisins danced, so did the kids. It released a little energy.)
4. Build a Fort - You can't go wrong with this classic. Building a fort can be as simple as throwing a blanket over a card table. Make sure to build the fort close to the TV so the kids can get comfortable later in the day and watch a video from their special fort.
5. Bring the Snow Inside - When the weather is simply too cold to go sledding or build snow forts in the great outdoors, bring the snow inside. Use a large bucket or bin, and fill the bathtub with snow. Put mittens on the children, and let them shovel and stack snow in the tub. Clean-up is SO easy. As the snow melts, it simply goes down the drain!
6. Rotate the Toys - Split your child's toy collection into different bins. Take some of the bins and stow them in the basement, and let the kids play with the current bin of toys. Every two days or so, swap out the bin of current toys for one in the basement. The kids will have an entirely "new" set of toys to entertain them on a cold winter day!
(I did this a lot, too. One day would be "dinosaur" day. One day would be "Lego" day. One day would be "puzzle" day. You get the idea!)
Okay. Here is your Winter Afternoon Schedule.
1:00 - 1:30 - If the kids are getting up from their nap, let them have 30 minutes with the "new" bin of toys. (You can get some laundry done during this time!)
1:30 - 1:50 - Help the kids build a fort. Use blankets and pillows from all over the house and expect to keep the fort in place for several cold weather days.
1:50 - 2:30 - Let the kids watch an age appropriate video from the fort... complete with non-messy snacks (Goldfish, juice boxes, etc. Make sure the fort has a nice big blanket or beach towels as the floor.)
(Once again, you have a few minutes to get something done. Maybe set the table for dinner!)
2:30 - 2:50 - It's time for Dancing Raisins. Crank up the music and help the kids get started making their raisins DANCE.
2:50 - 3:00 - Head to the Ice Fishing Station. Let each child have a turn to "catch" one prize. Keep the Ice Fishing Station in place for the next few cold days. You'll want to use it once a day for fun OR a reward system for good behavior.
3:00 - 3:30 - If there is indeed snow on the ground, now is the time to bring it in. Let the kids play with the snow in the bathtub while you fold clothes and put them away.
3:30 - 3:45 - Snuggle up under the fort OR on the couch and read for a little while. If one of your older children can already read, let them "practice" this skill by reading to the younger children while you continue getting ready for dinner.
3:45 - 4:15 - Let the kids have some coloring time on the floor in the dining room or the kitchen while you finish getting dinner ready.
Or during this time, you can also involve the kids in an age-appropriate cooking activity for dinner.
4:15 - 4:30 - This is clean-up time. Instruct the children to put away colors, books, toys, etc., etc. and put on some peppy music during this time to keep them moving.
4:30 - 5:00 - Free time. They can play in their rooms, in the play room, etc. They can play by themselves or with their siblings. They can play in the fort or look at books.
5:00 - 5:30 - Bath time and pajama time!
I saved the Scavenger Hunt for something Daddy could do with Mom and the kids AFTER dinner.
Of course, this is just a go-by and you can get PLENTY of new ideas from websites and other books. It's structured time, but it doesn't necessarily feel structured.
NOTE - If the kids are happy playing in the fort (or some other activity) for more than 30 minutes, by all means, LET THEM PLAY!
Thursday's Blog Linkage is HUGE and the date is FANTASTIC... even if I do say so myself. Visit again, won't you?
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery photos once again show my major imperfections in the kitchen department. We were supposed to have Caramel Fondue last night for dessert. I had skewers. I had angel food cake (not homemade). I had all FOUR ingredients for the fondue. As I put the fondue mixture on the stove eye, Mikie yelled for me to come to the bedroom to listen to The Boy on his radio show. I RACED to the back of the house, only to find out he had signed off earlier than normal because of a basketball game which was being aired. Heavy, heavy sigh.
I've said all of the above to let you know... I BURNED THE EASIEST FONDUE RECIPE IN THE HISTORY OF MANKIND. I am so ashamed. So embarrassed. So determined to try it again tonight after church! Don't worry! Tomorrow's Gallery Pics are going to be SO much better... and the fondue will not be dark brown!
CONTEST! CONTEST! CONTEST! - LOOK FOR THE COLOR WORD IN THE POST TODAY!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I watched Oprah yesterday. This is not an everyday event for me. However, yesterday she was interviewing Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds. (I love Debbie Reynolds. Roxie and I are going to have a movie date in a week or so and watch Tammy and the Bachelor. Do you remember that old movie? Love it.)
Okay. Focus, Enchanting Belinda! I assumed the interview was going to be about Carrie Fisher's weight, the difficulty of being a movie star's child, etc., etc., but much of the interview was about her mental illness. She was diagnosed with manic depression when she was a young woman. Today the diagnosis would be bipolar, but that wasn't an option several years ago. She talked about her mental breakdown and the times she spent in rehab.
I loved how incredibly open they both were about her mental illness. Even Debbie Reynolds at 78 years of age spoke about it intelligently and without shame.
I'm always so excited when a discussion about mental illness is brought to the forefront of a conversation and discussed with compassion, empathy and, in this instance, such poise, grace and love from Carrie's mother.
There was no shame. You could see how proud Debbie Reynolds was of her girl... her courage... her ability to continue to live a life which at times is extremely difficult.
They did a wonderful thing yesterday, and I appreciate their words. (I hope Oprah had 10,000,000 viewers. I really, really do.)
RANDOMNESS #2 - Yes. There is more, more, more to the story of how Mikie and I came to be the Faulkner Two. As always, skip ahead if you've heard it all before!
The Mikie and Belinda Story - Part Two
Let's see. Where did I leave off? Oh, yes. I was in the balcony of Shades Mountain Baptist Church with my friend, Kelley. She had just pointed out Mike, as well as her friend, Alesia, who we were to meet after the service.
Alesia turned out to be very established in the Singles Department at the church, and we met literally dozens of people our first two Sundays visiting there. Kelley, Alesia, and another girl, Celeste, and I became close friends, and it wasn't long until we were doing EVERYTHING together. Beach trips, shopping, movies, more shopping, out to eat, and even more shopping. Many of our activities were "group" activities, and along with Kelley, Alesia and Celeste, we had many other friends (male and female) in our core group. Mikie was one of our guy friends.
Mike and I hit it off immediately. He was incredibly easy to talk to, and he was fun to be around. He was considerate and sweet. He was a good listener... and I was a good talker.
Over our next three years together at Shades Mountain, he became my best male friend. Also, during our next three years together at Shades Mountain, it became obvious Mike's one and only goal was to date as many nice, Christian women as possible. And this was a goal he met!
It honestly did not bother me. Many times after a date, Mike would call and we would talk about anything and everything. I knew his story from beginning to present, and he knew mine. Because we were going on trips and retreats with the Singles Department, he had definitely seen me with no make-up, little sleep, and very grumpy, and I could say the same of him. Well, except the no make-up part. As far as I know, Mike has never worn make-up. (That would have been a deal breaker.) It didn't matter. We were friends.
I can remember the first time it bothered me when he called after a date. The girl he was dating at the time was wonderful, and she was a friend of mine. (Not close, but a friend.) Mike really enjoyed dating this particular girl, and she obviously, enjoyed his company, too.
At the time, I wouldn't have said I was jealous, but looking back, I'm sure I was. I was not livid or pouty or incredibly sad, but it definitely DID bother me... and up to this point, who Mike chose to date had never bothered me at all.
He, of course, was oblivious, and when he asked me my opinion of whether they should continue to date, I found myself hesitant to answer honestly... because I had to admit, the honest answer would have been, "NO! Are you insane? Open your eyes, man!"
Instead, I deferred and asked him what he thought. HUGE mistake. Having to listen to him go on and on and on for an hour or so about how this girl was SO wonderful and SO sweet and SO funny and SO cute was pure torture. And it was only made worse because she was definitely all of those things and more. I even thought so!
It was probably the first time I was happy when he said, "Well, good-bye," and we were able to end that very one-sided conversation.
Tomorrow, things turn around a little, but only because I took matters into my own hands (which, by the way, I do NOT recommend).
Wednesday Wisdom - Since we're still in LOVE mode around here, I decided to share some funny wisdom about the great institution of marriage!
"I married the first man I ever kissed. When I tell this to my children they just about throw up." Barbara Bush (Maybe it bothers her kids, but I think it's very sweet.)
"I love being married. It's so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life." Rita Rudner (I don't think this is especially funny, but I bet Mikie will.)
"Keep your eyes wide open before marriage, and half-shut afterwards." Benjamin Franklin (Wise, wise man.)
Winter Day Activities
We've had a lot of cold weather in Alabama this year... and we'll probably have a little more before Spring arrives. Here are some fun activities (from various websites) to keep your young kiddos entertained and happy during those long winter afternoons.
I've also added a schedule to help moms get some things done, too. You know... like laundry and dinner. Little things like that!
1. Ice Fishing - You will need a blue sheet or cardboard painted blue, dowel sticks, string and clothes pins.
Hang the sheet or cardboard from ceiling. Construct a fishing pole by tying one end of the string to the dowel, and tying the other end of the string around the clothes pin.
A parent stands behind the sheet/cardboard with a basket full of little dollar store goodies to attach to the clothes pins. Kids cast their fishing lines over the "ice" and know they've caught something when they feel a tug on their line.
2. Psychic Scavenger Hunt - This variation of the classic game has a mind-blowing twist... Competitors have to guess which items they're supposed to find.
You will need 5 to 10 objects that can easily be found in a specific room (bowl, brush, bottle, etc.).
One player writes out a secret list of 5 to 10 objects that can easily be found in a room, such as a bowl, a brush and a bottle.
He then announces the number of objects he's looking for, and the other family members have one minute to gather that same number of items.
If anyone brings an object that's on the list, he/she gets a point. And, of course, players have to put their items away before the next round.
You can also change the game by limiting the objects to things that begin with the same letter or are a certain shape.
3. Bouncing Raisins - You will need 6 raisins, a glass tumbler, vinegar and baking soda (or an Alka Seltzer tablet).
Pour a cup of water into the glass jar. Add one teaspoon of baking soda and stir until dissolved. Gently add one-fourth cup of vinegar and wait until it stops fizzing.
Drop in three or four raisins. Watch and see what happens (it takes about 10 to 15 minutes).
Note - The gas, carbon dioxide, that forms when you add vinegar to the baking soda forms bubbles all over the raisins. The raisins start to rise as the bubbles of carbon dioxide carry the raisins upwards and then they fall back to the bottom... again and again.
(I did this several times when the kids were little. It's fun and it keeps their attention for about 15 to 20 minutes. Each child can have their own glass. You can also let them add food coloring. We called it Dancing Raisins, and I had their favorite kiddie music playing. When the raisins danced, so did the kids. It released a little energy.)
4. Build a Fort - You can't go wrong with this classic. Building a fort can be as simple as throwing a blanket over a card table. Make sure to build the fort close to the TV so the kids can get comfortable later in the day and watch a video from their special fort.
5. Bring the Snow Inside - When the weather is simply too cold to go sledding or build snow forts in the great outdoors, bring the snow inside. Use a large bucket or bin, and fill the bathtub with snow. Put mittens on the children, and let them shovel and stack snow in the tub. Clean-up is SO easy. As the snow melts, it simply goes down the drain!
6. Rotate the Toys - Split your child's toy collection into different bins. Take some of the bins and stow them in the basement, and let the kids play with the current bin of toys. Every two days or so, swap out the bin of current toys for one in the basement. The kids will have an entirely "new" set of toys to entertain them on a cold winter day!
(I did this a lot, too. One day would be "dinosaur" day. One day would be "Lego" day. One day would be "puzzle" day. You get the idea!)
Okay. Here is your Winter Afternoon Schedule.
1:00 - 1:30 - If the kids are getting up from their nap, let them have 30 minutes with the "new" bin of toys. (You can get some laundry done during this time!)
1:30 - 1:50 - Help the kids build a fort. Use blankets and pillows from all over the house and expect to keep the fort in place for several cold weather days.
1:50 - 2:30 - Let the kids watch an age appropriate video from the fort... complete with non-messy snacks (Goldfish, juice boxes, etc. Make sure the fort has a nice big blanket or beach towels as the floor.)
(Once again, you have a few minutes to get something done. Maybe set the table for dinner!)
2:30 - 2:50 - It's time for Dancing Raisins. Crank up the music and help the kids get started making their raisins DANCE.
2:50 - 3:00 - Head to the Ice Fishing Station. Let each child have a turn to "catch" one prize. Keep the Ice Fishing Station in place for the next few cold days. You'll want to use it once a day for fun OR a reward system for good behavior.
3:00 - 3:30 - If there is indeed snow on the ground, now is the time to bring it in. Let the kids play with the snow in the bathtub while you fold clothes and put them away.
3:30 - 3:45 - Snuggle up under the fort OR on the couch and read for a little while. If one of your older children can already read, let them "practice" this skill by reading to the younger children while you continue getting ready for dinner.
3:45 - 4:15 - Let the kids have some coloring time on the floor in the dining room or the kitchen while you finish getting dinner ready.
Or during this time, you can also involve the kids in an age-appropriate cooking activity for dinner.
4:15 - 4:30 - This is clean-up time. Instruct the children to put away colors, books, toys, etc., etc. and put on some peppy music during this time to keep them moving.
4:30 - 5:00 - Free time. They can play in their rooms, in the play room, etc. They can play by themselves or with their siblings. They can play in the fort or look at books.
5:00 - 5:30 - Bath time and pajama time!
I saved the Scavenger Hunt for something Daddy could do with Mom and the kids AFTER dinner.
Of course, this is just a go-by and you can get PLENTY of new ideas from websites and other books. It's structured time, but it doesn't necessarily feel structured.
NOTE - If the kids are happy playing in the fort (or some other activity) for more than 30 minutes, by all means, LET THEM PLAY!
Thursday's Blog Linkage is HUGE and the date is FANTASTIC... even if I do say so myself. Visit again, won't you?
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Valentine's Day Service Project
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are once again... not much! Although things are "happening," they aren't necessarily Gallery-worthy. I could cook a complicated dish and take some food pics, but we all know that ain't happening today. With Roxie's hand surgery coming up tomorrow, I'm expecting some "medical" pics... and maybe some doc pics. Things will pick up around here. You'll see.
RANDOMNESS #1 - My "Top Ten Reasons I Love..." Lists are making me stop and think about the good stuff in life. I'm in a "Pooh" kind of mood today, so my Top Ten List is a no-brainer. Think, think, think.
Top Ten Reasons I Love Disney
10. I love the bathrooms. Not only are they always clean, but there are so many stalls. Walt Disney understood so much more than just a child's imagination... he understood a woman's HUGE desire for LARGE, CLEAN public restrooms. He really was a Renaissance Man!
9. I love Cinderella's Castle. I could sit on a bench and look at it for hours. It is every little girl's dream to live in a castle. Fun fact for you... I've always wanted a moat... and a turret... and a horse-drawn carriage in the shape of a pumpkin. (That must be the Autumn Nut coming out in me!)
8. I love the way my towels are folded when I come back to the room after a long day of having fun. (I had a towel folded into the shape of Eeyore once. Genius! Pure genius!)
7. I love all the characters, and even though I know deep down (as an adult) the characters are really sweaty, dehydrated humans in heavy, hot costumes, I still get a thrill when I see Baloo from Jungle Book or Tigger or... Oh, just name a character!
6. I love Space Mountain. It is by far the "most fun" roller coaster ever invented. I'm not arguing with anyone. It's a fact.
5. I love being in a place that believes the perfect ending to each and every day is a huge fireworks show.
4. I love Mickey Mouse-shaped ice cream on a stick. It just tastes better.
3. I love the parades. I don't mind waiting an hour until the parade starts. I don't care they don't throw candy to the spectators. I don't care if it is 100 degrees, raining, windy or a little brisk. A Disney parade is worth any and all discomfort.
2. I love Animal Kingdom the best. I think it's because I am such a fan of African music and trees. No other park at Disney has as much African music playing or as many trees. I feel at home there.
1. I loved our two family vacations there. I love the memories we made... and I love that Mikie said, "It was worth every cent!"
I have a feeling after Roxie's surgery tomorrow, I may do a Top Ten List on why I love pain medication. We'll see!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I have a "scattered" kind of day today. I have to be here and there and everywhere. I do not care for "scattered" days because I tend to get less done at home... which means the next day is a little more hectic because I have to play catch up. It's not just me. I know every woman has days like this.
However, today I'm trying something a little different. I've determined in my heart (starting today) to perform each task with excellence. I may not finish my To Do List, but the items I do get to mark off at the end of the day will be done to the very best of my ability.
The phone calls I have to make to doctors' offices regarding appointments, insurance and lab work will be done cheerfully.
I will be on time for the two doctors' appointments I have today, and I will take something productive to do or read while I wait (and wait and wait) so MY valuable time will not be wasted.
I will serve dinner to five teenagers before church... and enjoy the time I get to spend with them.
I will not just sit in church tonight, but I will try to take it all in... even though I have a feeling I will be more than a little tired.
Instead of thinking of all the things which will not get done today, I will strive to do what must be done to the best of my ability.
"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might!" Ecclesiastes 9:10.
That is my goal for today. I'll let you know if I succeeded (or failed) tomorrow!
Wednesday's Wisdom - Oh, for the love of babies! I cannot stop thinking about all those young moms in one room talking about tiny humans. Needless to say, today's Wisdom is centered around one word... "BABIES."
"A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for.” Anonymous (So true!)
“Babies are such a nice way to start people.” Don Herold (I love this one.)
“A two-year old is kind of like having a blender, but you don't have a top for it.” Jerry Seinfeld (I love this one more!)
"My friend has a baby. I'm recording all the noises he makes so later I can ask him what he meant.” Stephen Wright
Valentine's Day Service Project
Valentine's Day is a great time for families to focus on serving and loving others.
Create handmade Valentine's Day cards or craft items for people in nursing homes or hospitals. The family can go together to deliver these items. (Be sure to contact the facility first to make arrangements. You can't just drop in.)
Nursing homes residents receive a lot of attention and extra visitors during the Christmas season, but making sure the residents received a little extra love during February would be a wonderful way to teach your children that "giving" and showing love is something we should do ALL year long.
If it seems like the project is TOO big, you can also involve another family (or two), and each family could deliver to a specific hall or section of the nursing home.
Always, always encourage your kiddos to give a big hug when handing out gifts to the elderly. Remember, a hug is part of the gift!
"Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself." Leviticus 19:18.
Have a nice, snowy Wednesday! I have such wonderful Linkage to share Thursday... and, of course, the equally wonderful date! You must visit again! You simply must!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are once again... not much! Although things are "happening," they aren't necessarily Gallery-worthy. I could cook a complicated dish and take some food pics, but we all know that ain't happening today. With Roxie's hand surgery coming up tomorrow, I'm expecting some "medical" pics... and maybe some doc pics. Things will pick up around here. You'll see.
RANDOMNESS #1 - My "Top Ten Reasons I Love..." Lists are making me stop and think about the good stuff in life. I'm in a "Pooh" kind of mood today, so my Top Ten List is a no-brainer. Think, think, think.
Top Ten Reasons I Love Disney
10. I love the bathrooms. Not only are they always clean, but there are so many stalls. Walt Disney understood so much more than just a child's imagination... he understood a woman's HUGE desire for LARGE, CLEAN public restrooms. He really was a Renaissance Man!
9. I love Cinderella's Castle. I could sit on a bench and look at it for hours. It is every little girl's dream to live in a castle. Fun fact for you... I've always wanted a moat... and a turret... and a horse-drawn carriage in the shape of a pumpkin. (That must be the Autumn Nut coming out in me!)
8. I love the way my towels are folded when I come back to the room after a long day of having fun. (I had a towel folded into the shape of Eeyore once. Genius! Pure genius!)
7. I love all the characters, and even though I know deep down (as an adult) the characters are really sweaty, dehydrated humans in heavy, hot costumes, I still get a thrill when I see Baloo from Jungle Book or Tigger or... Oh, just name a character!
6. I love Space Mountain. It is by far the "most fun" roller coaster ever invented. I'm not arguing with anyone. It's a fact.
5. I love being in a place that believes the perfect ending to each and every day is a huge fireworks show.
4. I love Mickey Mouse-shaped ice cream on a stick. It just tastes better.
3. I love the parades. I don't mind waiting an hour until the parade starts. I don't care they don't throw candy to the spectators. I don't care if it is 100 degrees, raining, windy or a little brisk. A Disney parade is worth any and all discomfort.
2. I love Animal Kingdom the best. I think it's because I am such a fan of African music and trees. No other park at Disney has as much African music playing or as many trees. I feel at home there.
1. I loved our two family vacations there. I love the memories we made... and I love that Mikie said, "It was worth every cent!"
I have a feeling after Roxie's surgery tomorrow, I may do a Top Ten List on why I love pain medication. We'll see!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I have a "scattered" kind of day today. I have to be here and there and everywhere. I do not care for "scattered" days because I tend to get less done at home... which means the next day is a little more hectic because I have to play catch up. It's not just me. I know every woman has days like this.
However, today I'm trying something a little different. I've determined in my heart (starting today) to perform each task with excellence. I may not finish my To Do List, but the items I do get to mark off at the end of the day will be done to the very best of my ability.
The phone calls I have to make to doctors' offices regarding appointments, insurance and lab work will be done cheerfully.
I will be on time for the two doctors' appointments I have today, and I will take something productive to do or read while I wait (and wait and wait) so MY valuable time will not be wasted.
I will serve dinner to five teenagers before church... and enjoy the time I get to spend with them.
I will not just sit in church tonight, but I will try to take it all in... even though I have a feeling I will be more than a little tired.
Instead of thinking of all the things which will not get done today, I will strive to do what must be done to the best of my ability.
"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might!" Ecclesiastes 9:10.
That is my goal for today. I'll let you know if I succeeded (or failed) tomorrow!
Wednesday's Wisdom - Oh, for the love of babies! I cannot stop thinking about all those young moms in one room talking about tiny humans. Needless to say, today's Wisdom is centered around one word... "BABIES."
"A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for.” Anonymous (So true!)
“Babies are such a nice way to start people.” Don Herold (I love this one.)
“A two-year old is kind of like having a blender, but you don't have a top for it.” Jerry Seinfeld (I love this one more!)
"My friend has a baby. I'm recording all the noises he makes so later I can ask him what he meant.” Stephen Wright
Valentine's Day Service Project
Valentine's Day is a great time for families to focus on serving and loving others.
Create handmade Valentine's Day cards or craft items for people in nursing homes or hospitals. The family can go together to deliver these items. (Be sure to contact the facility first to make arrangements. You can't just drop in.)
Nursing homes residents receive a lot of attention and extra visitors during the Christmas season, but making sure the residents received a little extra love during February would be a wonderful way to teach your children that "giving" and showing love is something we should do ALL year long.
If it seems like the project is TOO big, you can also involve another family (or two), and each family could deliver to a specific hall or section of the nursing home.
Always, always encourage your kiddos to give a big hug when handing out gifts to the elderly. Remember, a hug is part of the gift!
"Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself." Leviticus 19:18.
Have a nice, snowy Wednesday! I have such wonderful Linkage to share Thursday... and, of course, the equally wonderful date! You must visit again! You simply must!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Out of School Fun List
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are of the pups. Yesterday, I heard a racket, and when I looked out the kitchen window, I saw the black pipe connected to our gutter drain had been disconnected and was on the patio. I then noticed Sparkle trying to crawl in one end of the "too small" pipe, and Copper trying to crawl into the other end.
Obviously a critter had run into the pipe, Sparkle disconnected said pipe and she and Copper spent the better part of an hour (from the sound of it) trying to remove the poor critter.
NOTE - I didn't stand around for an hour. That's just how long the racket lasted.
Did they get the critter? Thankfully, I will never know, but it was fun watching them try.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Beginning February 1, I will begin a Top Ten List series which will last until Valentine's Day. It will be called "Top Ten Reasons I Love... ." Each day, I will give you the reasons I love what I love. It could be anything from Mikie to a Caramel Frappe'. You'll just have to tune in to see what is near and dear to my heart... and why.
RANDOMNESS #2 - My friend, Melaney, sent me a forward yesterday called "Handbook for 2011." It is divided into sections, but I thought it had a lot of good advice, so I want to share a section a day between now and Monday.
HEALTH
1. Drink plenty of water. (They always leave off Diet Dr. Pepper!)
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar. (I tend to eat all of my meals like a king. I'm going to have to work on this one!)
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants, and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
4. Live life with energy, enthusiasm and empathy. (I love this one!)
5. Make time to pray. (This should be the first one on the list, but I love that it is under "HEALTH.")
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2010.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours. (I think this is a typo. Isn't it supposed to be a minimum of 10 hours a day?)
10. Take a 10 to 30 minute walk daily. And while you walk, smile. (The smile part pushed me over the edge a little bit.)
All in all, pretty good advice, don't you think?
Wednesday Wisdom - Today's Wisdom come from the word "prayer." Our Pastor used several quotes Sunday morning regarding prayer, and it served as a reminder to me how powerful and necessary it really is in a Christian's life.
"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Pray, and let God worry." Martin Luther
"All prayers are answered if we are willing to admit that sometimes the answer is 'no.'" Anonymous
"I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go." Abraham Lincoln
"Any concern too small to be turned into a prayer is too small to be made into a burden." Corrie ten Boom
Out of School Fun List
I recently read this on another mom's blog. Since the kids were going to be out of school on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the mom asked all four of her children (two elementary-age and two preschool) to make a list of anything and everything they would like to do on their day out of school. The following is their list:
1. Ice skating
2. Skiing
3. Go get doughnuts
4. Sledding
5. Drive to Mexico
6. Go sailing
7. Go to a movie
8. Go to the dinosaur museum in Phoenix
9. Go shopping
10. Earn a dollar to buy caps for my gun
11. Play pirates in the tree house
How great is THIS list. Considering the family lives in Utah, the "drive to Mexico" and the trip to "the dinosaur museum in Phoenix" were pretty funny. Also, the thought of going sailing on a January day in Utah probably wasn't the most practical choice.
However, some of the list was "doable." Some of it was downright easy. And whether the mom picked one or four of the things on the list, it made a day without school fun, special and memorable.
The next time you have a planned "Out of School" Day, ask the kids for a list the night or weekend before (and do not help them). Let the list plan your day. Remember, those days are few and far between. Take advantage of them.
NOTE - On a larger scale, you can also have the kids make a list for the week of Spring Break or Summer Break. It would be fun to see how many things from the list you could mark off if you had a longer period of time to "work" on it.
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Thursday's Blog Linkage list is growing, and if I do say so myself, there is some pretty good reading material. I'll also share a date for you and yours.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are of the pups. Yesterday, I heard a racket, and when I looked out the kitchen window, I saw the black pipe connected to our gutter drain had been disconnected and was on the patio. I then noticed Sparkle trying to crawl in one end of the "too small" pipe, and Copper trying to crawl into the other end.
Obviously a critter had run into the pipe, Sparkle disconnected said pipe and she and Copper spent the better part of an hour (from the sound of it) trying to remove the poor critter.
NOTE - I didn't stand around for an hour. That's just how long the racket lasted.
Did they get the critter? Thankfully, I will never know, but it was fun watching them try.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Beginning February 1, I will begin a Top Ten List series which will last until Valentine's Day. It will be called "Top Ten Reasons I Love... ." Each day, I will give you the reasons I love what I love. It could be anything from Mikie to a Caramel Frappe'. You'll just have to tune in to see what is near and dear to my heart... and why.
RANDOMNESS #2 - My friend, Melaney, sent me a forward yesterday called "Handbook for 2011." It is divided into sections, but I thought it had a lot of good advice, so I want to share a section a day between now and Monday.
HEALTH
1. Drink plenty of water. (They always leave off Diet Dr. Pepper!)
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar. (I tend to eat all of my meals like a king. I'm going to have to work on this one!)
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants, and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
4. Live life with energy, enthusiasm and empathy. (I love this one!)
5. Make time to pray. (This should be the first one on the list, but I love that it is under "HEALTH.")
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2010.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours. (I think this is a typo. Isn't it supposed to be a minimum of 10 hours a day?)
10. Take a 10 to 30 minute walk daily. And while you walk, smile. (The smile part pushed me over the edge a little bit.)
All in all, pretty good advice, don't you think?
Wednesday Wisdom - Today's Wisdom come from the word "prayer." Our Pastor used several quotes Sunday morning regarding prayer, and it served as a reminder to me how powerful and necessary it really is in a Christian's life.
"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Pray, and let God worry." Martin Luther
"All prayers are answered if we are willing to admit that sometimes the answer is 'no.'" Anonymous
"I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go." Abraham Lincoln
"Any concern too small to be turned into a prayer is too small to be made into a burden." Corrie ten Boom
Out of School Fun List
I recently read this on another mom's blog. Since the kids were going to be out of school on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the mom asked all four of her children (two elementary-age and two preschool) to make a list of anything and everything they would like to do on their day out of school. The following is their list:
1. Ice skating
2. Skiing
3. Go get doughnuts
4. Sledding
5. Drive to Mexico
6. Go sailing
7. Go to a movie
8. Go to the dinosaur museum in Phoenix
9. Go shopping
10. Earn a dollar to buy caps for my gun
11. Play pirates in the tree house
How great is THIS list. Considering the family lives in Utah, the "drive to Mexico" and the trip to "the dinosaur museum in Phoenix" were pretty funny. Also, the thought of going sailing on a January day in Utah probably wasn't the most practical choice.
However, some of the list was "doable." Some of it was downright easy. And whether the mom picked one or four of the things on the list, it made a day without school fun, special and memorable.
The next time you have a planned "Out of School" Day, ask the kids for a list the night or weekend before (and do not help them). Let the list plan your day. Remember, those days are few and far between. Take advantage of them.
NOTE - On a larger scale, you can also have the kids make a list for the week of Spring Break or Summer Break. It would be fun to see how many things from the list you could mark off if you had a longer period of time to "work" on it.
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Thursday's Blog Linkage list is growing, and if I do say so myself, there is some pretty good reading material. I'll also share a date for you and yours.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Snow Day Traditions
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pic is simply Roxie and Ally. They were two stir-crazy chicks who needed to get OUT yesterday afternoon. Since Mikie was able to come home early after being at work since Sunday afternoon, he took the Faulkner Five (plus Miss Ally) to the Chick for a late lunch. And he did so without putting the Big Gold Van in the ditch on the treacherous roads. No wonder I love him! (Actually, our roads were pretty clear. If anyone had put the Big Gold Van in the ditch, it would have been me... and it probably wouldn't have required any ice.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I was very sad when I received my Martha Stewart Living magazine in the mail recently. I had been anxiously awaiting it's arrival because, as you all know, I LOVE to compare her calendar with my calendar. But this month, Martha did not have a calendar. Instead, she had a two-page spread entitled "Gentle reminders, helpful tips and important dates for January." That's no fun. There were only SIX dates noted on the timeline.
1. New Year's Day - Believe it or not, I've got that one down!
2. Jean Pigozzi's birthday - I've already sent his/her card.
3. 13th annual Austin Spring Home & Garden Show begins in Austin, Texas - I've bought my plane tickets... which I will never use.
4. Sister's birthday - I'm planning on calling. You know... Since it's a relative and all.
5. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Got it!
6. Vanessa Holden's birthday - I wonder if she's related to William Holden, the late actor and Stephanie Powers' (of Hart to Hart fame) boyfriend? (How much have I "aged" myself in that last question? I don't care. I loved Hart to Hart!)
You know me. I hate to complain, but I may have to call Martha's people, and make sure they haven't done away with the calendar. It was a good thing!
RANDOMNESS #2 - In my wanderings this morning, I found these "couple" snowman names.
1. Willy Melt and Betty Will
2. Frosty and Luvinit
3. Shimmer and Glimmer
I thought they were kind of cute. If you're one of those people who like to name their snow people, these names might help next time we get some snow in "these here parts."
Wednesday Wisdom - Since we survived the Blizzard of 2011, I feel the need to share some snowman quotes and quips with you today.
"Life is like a blanket of snow. Be careful how you step on it. Every step will show!" Anonymous
"A snowman is the perfect man. He's very well rounded and comes with his own broom." Anonymous
"Take time to chase the snowflakes." Anonymous
"It takes a few extra rolls to make a good midsection." Anonymous (Unfortunately, more "true" than "funny.")
"The great thing about snow... it makes your lawn look as good as your neighbors." Anonymous (Ahhh. Snow... the great equalizer.)
"The wonder of a single snowflake outweighs the wisdom of a million meteorologists." Anonymous
"Snowman's Prayer: Please freeze! Amen!" Anonymous
Snow Day Traditions
These ideas were gathered from several different websites here and there. Some are no-brainers, but there are a few I had not heard of before today.
Create snow day traditions by repeating a simple activity on every snow day.
Some simple snow day traditions ideas:
1. Cook a special meal. Prepare that one special meal each and every time school is cancelled. It may be chili and cornbread, pancakes and sausage or a favorite soup, but plan on buying the ingredients the day you go to Wal-Mart for milk and bread. That meal will become synonymous with SNOW DAY!
2. Bake cookies. Again, pick a cookie everyone in the family enjoys. The night before the expected snowfall, make a big batch together. (I think for our family it would have to be Snickerdoodles. I'm going to incorporate this tradition starting... NOW!)
3. During the snow day, clean out the cabinets of any stale bread, crackers, chips or cereal and spread them out in your yard for the birds. (This particular family made several time lapse movies of the birds devouring the food in the snow over the years and loved watching them again and again... on SNOW DAYS.)
4. Let the kids cook a meal for the family. (Depending on age, expect to help with some of the prep work and the clean-up.)
Today is SHARE A SNOW DAY TRADITION DAY on A Simple Life. Leave your tradition in the Comment Section or send me a Facebook message or e-mail. You'll get the credit. I promise.
Have a lovely Wednesday. I already have Blog Linkage for Thursday's post, and a winter date suggestion for you and your guy or gal.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pic is simply Roxie and Ally. They were two stir-crazy chicks who needed to get OUT yesterday afternoon. Since Mikie was able to come home early after being at work since Sunday afternoon, he took the Faulkner Five (plus Miss Ally) to the Chick for a late lunch. And he did so without putting the Big Gold Van in the ditch on the treacherous roads. No wonder I love him! (Actually, our roads were pretty clear. If anyone had put the Big Gold Van in the ditch, it would have been me... and it probably wouldn't have required any ice.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I was very sad when I received my Martha Stewart Living magazine in the mail recently. I had been anxiously awaiting it's arrival because, as you all know, I LOVE to compare her calendar with my calendar. But this month, Martha did not have a calendar. Instead, she had a two-page spread entitled "Gentle reminders, helpful tips and important dates for January." That's no fun. There were only SIX dates noted on the timeline.
1. New Year's Day - Believe it or not, I've got that one down!
2. Jean Pigozzi's birthday - I've already sent his/her card.
3. 13th annual Austin Spring Home & Garden Show begins in Austin, Texas - I've bought my plane tickets... which I will never use.
4. Sister's birthday - I'm planning on calling. You know... Since it's a relative and all.
5. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Got it!
6. Vanessa Holden's birthday - I wonder if she's related to William Holden, the late actor and Stephanie Powers' (of Hart to Hart fame) boyfriend? (How much have I "aged" myself in that last question? I don't care. I loved Hart to Hart!)
You know me. I hate to complain, but I may have to call Martha's people, and make sure they haven't done away with the calendar. It was a good thing!
RANDOMNESS #2 - In my wanderings this morning, I found these "couple" snowman names.
1. Willy Melt and Betty Will
2. Frosty and Luvinit
3. Shimmer and Glimmer
I thought they were kind of cute. If you're one of those people who like to name their snow people, these names might help next time we get some snow in "these here parts."
Wednesday Wisdom - Since we survived the Blizzard of 2011, I feel the need to share some snowman quotes and quips with you today.
"Life is like a blanket of snow. Be careful how you step on it. Every step will show!" Anonymous
"A snowman is the perfect man. He's very well rounded and comes with his own broom." Anonymous
"Take time to chase the snowflakes." Anonymous
"It takes a few extra rolls to make a good midsection." Anonymous (Unfortunately, more "true" than "funny.")
"The great thing about snow... it makes your lawn look as good as your neighbors." Anonymous (Ahhh. Snow... the great equalizer.)
"The wonder of a single snowflake outweighs the wisdom of a million meteorologists." Anonymous
"Snowman's Prayer: Please freeze! Amen!" Anonymous
Snow Day Traditions
These ideas were gathered from several different websites here and there. Some are no-brainers, but there are a few I had not heard of before today.
Create snow day traditions by repeating a simple activity on every snow day.
Some simple snow day traditions ideas:
1. Cook a special meal. Prepare that one special meal each and every time school is cancelled. It may be chili and cornbread, pancakes and sausage or a favorite soup, but plan on buying the ingredients the day you go to Wal-Mart for milk and bread. That meal will become synonymous with SNOW DAY!
2. Bake cookies. Again, pick a cookie everyone in the family enjoys. The night before the expected snowfall, make a big batch together. (I think for our family it would have to be Snickerdoodles. I'm going to incorporate this tradition starting... NOW!)
3. During the snow day, clean out the cabinets of any stale bread, crackers, chips or cereal and spread them out in your yard for the birds. (This particular family made several time lapse movies of the birds devouring the food in the snow over the years and loved watching them again and again... on SNOW DAYS.)
4. Let the kids cook a meal for the family. (Depending on age, expect to help with some of the prep work and the clean-up.)
Today is SHARE A SNOW DAY TRADITION DAY on A Simple Life. Leave your tradition in the Comment Section or send me a Facebook message or e-mail. You'll get the credit. I promise.
Have a lovely Wednesday. I already have Blog Linkage for Thursday's post, and a winter date suggestion for you and your guy or gal.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Birdseed Pretzel Tradition
Good Wednesday morning!
I'm sharing just a few more Resolutions in The Gallery today. Tomorrow... basketball pics. No complaining, people. It's been awhile, and there's only one more month left of the season. You'll just have to grin and bear it!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Many of you know I've been participating in Body Pump classes semi-regularly over the last few months. What you may not know, is I thought I no longer had abs. We do "ab work" on Tuesdays, and the instructor always says, "Can you feel that? Are your abs sore? Can you feel the burn?" And I always shake my head up and down to indicate "Yes," but I haven't been truthful. I didn't feel it, my abs weren't sore and nothing in that area was burning.
There! I feel better! I've told the truth.
I just assumed at 49, maybe you didn't have abs any longer. I even Googled it, and called Cha Cha. I couldn't get a clear answer, but it may have been the way I posed the question. "Does your body absorb abs when you near 50 years of age?"
"What?" was Cha Cha's response. (Who are those people anyway?)
However, last night we did a new exercise, and I think I found my abs. It's very exciting because my abs (or where my abs once were) are sore today.
NOTE - Under no circumstances do I want to misrepresent myself. I am not going for a six-pack... REPEAT! NOT GOING FOR A SIX-PACK. I simply wanted to share I found a body part I had thought was missing. Happy day!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I will now answer another question posed by a new reader regarding A Simple Life.
Johane from the Congo asks, "What kind of animals do you raise on your farm, or do you grow crops?"
Another good question. Johane, when I refer to Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), it is more of a joke than a reality.
You see, last year I was very interested in obtaining a chicken and producing my own farm fresh eggs. Unfortunately, since we live in a suburban neighborhood with two beagles in the backyard, having a chicken and chicken coop was unrealistic. That, and my husband, Mikie, kind of put his big foot down.
We could have put the coop on the front porch, but that's a little more "simple" than I care to be at this time in my life.
However, we do have the two beagles, 98 squirrels and 14 chipmunks, and since I've ALWAYS wanted to name my house, I jokingly came up with Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), and declared it a working squirrel farm.
I apologize for any confusion the name of my home may have caused. Thanks for asking!
Wednesday Wisdom - Of course, today's Wisdom is all about the New Year. What else?
"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man." Benjamin Franklin (I love Benjamin Franklin quotes!)
"A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other." Author Unknown
"Good resolutions are simply checks that men draw on a bank where they have no account." Oscar Wilde
(Perhaps a little negative, but unfortunately a little true.)
"One resolution I have made, and try always to keep, is this: To rise above the little things." John Burroughs (This is an excellent resolution. I don't know how to take a picture of it, but I may use it anyway.)
"May all your troubles last as long as your New Year's resolutions." Joey Adams (And, as always, a little humor to end today's Wisdom!)
Birdseed Pretzel Tradition
This could be something you and your little ones could do each and every January to help our feathered friends.
Explain to your children how difficult it is for birds to find enough to eat at this time of year, and how much they can help by providing food for them.
1. Cut a 12" piece of wax paper and lay it flat on a protected surface. The corners may have to be taped down so the paper doesn't curl while the pretzels are being made.
2. Squirt fairly wide lines of Elmer's Glue on the waxed paper to form a pretzel-like design in which all lines meet.
3. Sprinkle bird seed or sunflower seeds to cover all the glue.
4. Allow to dry overnight.
5. Turn designs upside down on a flat surface and carefully peel away the waxed paper.
6. Hang on limbs or fences with thread.
This tradition was borrowed from Let's Make a Memory by Gloria Gaither and Shirley Dobson.
We made winter "birdfeeders" when my kids were young. We cut slices of bread into winter shapes with cookie cutters (snowmen, snowflakes, etc.). We then put them into the oven and toasted them. (We actually "over" toasted them. They weren't burnt, but they were very hard.)
Next, I tied a ribbon through a hole I made toward the top of the toast. The kids would then spread peanut butter all over the toast, generously sprinkle it with birdseed and we would find a tree to hang our bird-friendly creations. Within two days, all that was left was the ribbon.
This doesn't take a lot of time, but it is a wonderful "too cold to play outside" activity and tradition the kids can look forward to each and every winter.
NOTE - It is also something you can do more than once during the winter months!
Oh. And it's cheap AND fun!
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Remember... Today is Encouraging Wednesday. Pick up the phone, text, e-mail, Facebook, etc. someone who is on your mind, and give them a little "pick me up." It takes a minute, but it could make such a difference in that person's day.
Thursday I have some wonderful Blog Linkage, another question which needs to be answered from a new reader and a fun date. Don't forget to visit.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
I'm sharing just a few more Resolutions in The Gallery today. Tomorrow... basketball pics. No complaining, people. It's been awhile, and there's only one more month left of the season. You'll just have to grin and bear it!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Many of you know I've been participating in Body Pump classes semi-regularly over the last few months. What you may not know, is I thought I no longer had abs. We do "ab work" on Tuesdays, and the instructor always says, "Can you feel that? Are your abs sore? Can you feel the burn?" And I always shake my head up and down to indicate "Yes," but I haven't been truthful. I didn't feel it, my abs weren't sore and nothing in that area was burning.
There! I feel better! I've told the truth.
I just assumed at 49, maybe you didn't have abs any longer. I even Googled it, and called Cha Cha. I couldn't get a clear answer, but it may have been the way I posed the question. "Does your body absorb abs when you near 50 years of age?"
"What?" was Cha Cha's response. (Who are those people anyway?)
However, last night we did a new exercise, and I think I found my abs. It's very exciting because my abs (or where my abs once were) are sore today.
NOTE - Under no circumstances do I want to misrepresent myself. I am not going for a six-pack... REPEAT! NOT GOING FOR A SIX-PACK. I simply wanted to share I found a body part I had thought was missing. Happy day!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I will now answer another question posed by a new reader regarding A Simple Life.
Johane from the Congo asks, "What kind of animals do you raise on your farm, or do you grow crops?"
Another good question. Johane, when I refer to Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), it is more of a joke than a reality.
You see, last year I was very interested in obtaining a chicken and producing my own farm fresh eggs. Unfortunately, since we live in a suburban neighborhood with two beagles in the backyard, having a chicken and chicken coop was unrealistic. That, and my husband, Mikie, kind of put his big foot down.
We could have put the coop on the front porch, but that's a little more "simple" than I care to be at this time in my life.
However, we do have the two beagles, 98 squirrels and 14 chipmunks, and since I've ALWAYS wanted to name my house, I jokingly came up with Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), and declared it a working squirrel farm.
I apologize for any confusion the name of my home may have caused. Thanks for asking!
Wednesday Wisdom - Of course, today's Wisdom is all about the New Year. What else?
"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man." Benjamin Franklin (I love Benjamin Franklin quotes!)
"A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other." Author Unknown
"Good resolutions are simply checks that men draw on a bank where they have no account." Oscar Wilde
(Perhaps a little negative, but unfortunately a little true.)
"One resolution I have made, and try always to keep, is this: To rise above the little things." John Burroughs (This is an excellent resolution. I don't know how to take a picture of it, but I may use it anyway.)
"May all your troubles last as long as your New Year's resolutions." Joey Adams (And, as always, a little humor to end today's Wisdom!)
Birdseed Pretzel Tradition
This could be something you and your little ones could do each and every January to help our feathered friends.
Explain to your children how difficult it is for birds to find enough to eat at this time of year, and how much they can help by providing food for them.
1. Cut a 12" piece of wax paper and lay it flat on a protected surface. The corners may have to be taped down so the paper doesn't curl while the pretzels are being made.
2. Squirt fairly wide lines of Elmer's Glue on the waxed paper to form a pretzel-like design in which all lines meet.
3. Sprinkle bird seed or sunflower seeds to cover all the glue.
4. Allow to dry overnight.
5. Turn designs upside down on a flat surface and carefully peel away the waxed paper.
6. Hang on limbs or fences with thread.
This tradition was borrowed from Let's Make a Memory by Gloria Gaither and Shirley Dobson.
We made winter "birdfeeders" when my kids were young. We cut slices of bread into winter shapes with cookie cutters (snowmen, snowflakes, etc.). We then put them into the oven and toasted them. (We actually "over" toasted them. They weren't burnt, but they were very hard.)
Next, I tied a ribbon through a hole I made toward the top of the toast. The kids would then spread peanut butter all over the toast, generously sprinkle it with birdseed and we would find a tree to hang our bird-friendly creations. Within two days, all that was left was the ribbon.
This doesn't take a lot of time, but it is a wonderful "too cold to play outside" activity and tradition the kids can look forward to each and every winter.
NOTE - It is also something you can do more than once during the winter months!
Oh. And it's cheap AND fun!
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Remember... Today is Encouraging Wednesday. Pick up the phone, text, e-mail, Facebook, etc. someone who is on your mind, and give them a little "pick me up." It takes a minute, but it could make such a difference in that person's day.
Thursday I have some wonderful Blog Linkage, another question which needs to be answered from a new reader and a fun date. Don't forget to visit.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
New Year's Traditions in Other Countries
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are of Tuesday's Cheese Rice Soup. Easy and delicious... as promised. I wanted to serve the soup with different colored tortilla chips, but I couldn't find any. You know me... presentation, presentation, presentation!
RANDOMNESS - I'm not a coffee drinker. I never have been. I've tried over the years to become a coffee drinker because it seemed like the grown-up thing to do, but I ultimately fail, time and time again. I even tried to convince myself that drinking Caramel Frappe's from McDonald's was the same thing as drinking coffee... but, in reality, it is more like eating a large slice of mocha cheesecake with caramel drizzled ALL over it.
I was reading my new Southern Living Magazine, and I came across this list. (You know how much I love lists.) It is called "Coffee's 5 Best Perks."
1. It may reduce your chance of developing diabetes. (I could just kick myself!)
2. It helps reduce muscle soreness after workouts. (I desperately NEED something to help with this after Body Pump.)
3. It's a great source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect your body from heart disease, stroke, and a slew of other diseases. (Hello!)
4. It's a brain booster. It increases short-term recall. (I currently have no short-term recall.)
5. It may reduce your risk for developing certain cancers.
This post is going to be a little late today. I'm going to make a pot of coffee right now... and I'm going to drink the whole pot before continuing with the post.
Wednesday Wisdom - Last night, Mikie and I went on a mini-date to Books-A-Million, and I found a little book called Poisonous Quotes. It had some interesting insights, so I thought I'd borrow some for today's Wisdom.
"Honest criticism is hard to take, particularly from a relative, an acquaintance, or a friend." Franklin P. Jones (This quote is so "me," it isn't even funny.)
On miniskirts - "Never in the history of fashion has so little material been raised so high to reveal so much that needs to be covered so badly." Sir Cecil Beaton (1969)
"A bad review is like baking a cake with all the best ingredients and having someone sit on it." Danielle Steel
I either thought they were funny or painfully true... especially the "miniskirt" quote. Ouch!
New Year's Traditions in Other Countries
It might be fun to try one or two of these customs on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day. It would be a "teachable" moment for your little ones, and a new, fun way to bring in the New Year!
Traditionally, it was thought that one could affect the luck they would have throughout the coming year by what they did or ate on the first day of the year. For that reason, it has become common for folks to celebrate the first few minutes of a brand new year in the company of family and friends. Parties often last into the middle of the night after the ringing in of a new year.
It was once believed that the first visitor on New Year's Day would bring either good luck or bad luck the rest of the year. It was particularly lucky if that visitor happened to be a tall dark-haired man. (I'm thinking Tom Selleck!)
The Netherlands - Many cultures believe that any food in the shape of a ring is good luck, because it symbolizes "coming full circle," completing a year's cycle. For that reason, the Dutch believe that eating doughnuts on New Year's Day will bring good fortune. (Did you know I'm half Dutch? Not really. Did you know I want to be half Dutch?)
NOTE - A family/friend run to Krispy Kreme around 8:00 or 9:00 on New Year's Eve would be fun. Each person could pick out their favorite doughnut, and at the stroke of midnight you could bring in the New Year with doughnuts and milk.
United States - Many parts of the United States celebrate the New Year by consuming black-eyed peas. These legumes are typically accompanied by either hog jowls or ham. Black-eyed peas and other legumes have been considered good luck in many cultures. The hog is considered lucky because it symbolizes prosperity.
Cabbage is another "good luck" vegetable that is consumed on New Year's Day by many. Cabbage leaves are also considered a sign of prosperity, being representative of paper currency. (Don't put all of your Christmas candles away. You're going to need them if you participate in this custom.)
Greece - St. Basil fills the children's shoes with presents at midnight. (I wouldn't necessarily fill the shoes with presents, but a few pieces of candy would be fun to find the next morning.)
Denmark - It is a good sign to find your door heaped with a pile of broken dishes on New Year's Day. Old dishes are saved year round to throw them at the homes where their friends live on New Year's Eve. Many broken dishes were a symbol that you have many friends! (This custom is interesting. I am not suggesting anyone do this. As I said, it was simply interesting.)
Spain - When the clock strikes midnight, the people eat 12 grapes. One grape for every stroke of the clock to represent each month in the year. Each grape is said to bring good luck in the New Year.
Switzerland - The Swiss believe good luck comes from letting a drop of cream land on the floor New Year's Day. (I could certainly handle this tradition.)
France - People eat a stack of pancakes for luck and good health. (Did I mention my other half is French?)
I think we are going incorporate the Dutch and French traditions into the Faulkner Five festivities this year. Yep. I'm pretty sure we're going with the Dutch and French!
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Enjoy the time off from school with your kiddos. As always, Blog Linkage and a fun date will appear on Thursday's post.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are of Tuesday's Cheese Rice Soup. Easy and delicious... as promised. I wanted to serve the soup with different colored tortilla chips, but I couldn't find any. You know me... presentation, presentation, presentation!
RANDOMNESS - I'm not a coffee drinker. I never have been. I've tried over the years to become a coffee drinker because it seemed like the grown-up thing to do, but I ultimately fail, time and time again. I even tried to convince myself that drinking Caramel Frappe's from McDonald's was the same thing as drinking coffee... but, in reality, it is more like eating a large slice of mocha cheesecake with caramel drizzled ALL over it.
I was reading my new Southern Living Magazine, and I came across this list. (You know how much I love lists.) It is called "Coffee's 5 Best Perks."
1. It may reduce your chance of developing diabetes. (I could just kick myself!)
2. It helps reduce muscle soreness after workouts. (I desperately NEED something to help with this after Body Pump.)
3. It's a great source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect your body from heart disease, stroke, and a slew of other diseases. (Hello!)
4. It's a brain booster. It increases short-term recall. (I currently have no short-term recall.)
5. It may reduce your risk for developing certain cancers.
This post is going to be a little late today. I'm going to make a pot of coffee right now... and I'm going to drink the whole pot before continuing with the post.
Wednesday Wisdom - Last night, Mikie and I went on a mini-date to Books-A-Million, and I found a little book called Poisonous Quotes. It had some interesting insights, so I thought I'd borrow some for today's Wisdom.
"Honest criticism is hard to take, particularly from a relative, an acquaintance, or a friend." Franklin P. Jones (This quote is so "me," it isn't even funny.)
On miniskirts - "Never in the history of fashion has so little material been raised so high to reveal so much that needs to be covered so badly." Sir Cecil Beaton (1969)
"A bad review is like baking a cake with all the best ingredients and having someone sit on it." Danielle Steel
I either thought they were funny or painfully true... especially the "miniskirt" quote. Ouch!
New Year's Traditions in Other Countries
It might be fun to try one or two of these customs on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day. It would be a "teachable" moment for your little ones, and a new, fun way to bring in the New Year!
Traditionally, it was thought that one could affect the luck they would have throughout the coming year by what they did or ate on the first day of the year. For that reason, it has become common for folks to celebrate the first few minutes of a brand new year in the company of family and friends. Parties often last into the middle of the night after the ringing in of a new year.
It was once believed that the first visitor on New Year's Day would bring either good luck or bad luck the rest of the year. It was particularly lucky if that visitor happened to be a tall dark-haired man. (I'm thinking Tom Selleck!)
The Netherlands - Many cultures believe that any food in the shape of a ring is good luck, because it symbolizes "coming full circle," completing a year's cycle. For that reason, the Dutch believe that eating doughnuts on New Year's Day will bring good fortune. (Did you know I'm half Dutch? Not really. Did you know I want to be half Dutch?)
NOTE - A family/friend run to Krispy Kreme around 8:00 or 9:00 on New Year's Eve would be fun. Each person could pick out their favorite doughnut, and at the stroke of midnight you could bring in the New Year with doughnuts and milk.
United States - Many parts of the United States celebrate the New Year by consuming black-eyed peas. These legumes are typically accompanied by either hog jowls or ham. Black-eyed peas and other legumes have been considered good luck in many cultures. The hog is considered lucky because it symbolizes prosperity.
Cabbage is another "good luck" vegetable that is consumed on New Year's Day by many. Cabbage leaves are also considered a sign of prosperity, being representative of paper currency. (Don't put all of your Christmas candles away. You're going to need them if you participate in this custom.)
Greece - St. Basil fills the children's shoes with presents at midnight. (I wouldn't necessarily fill the shoes with presents, but a few pieces of candy would be fun to find the next morning.)
Denmark - It is a good sign to find your door heaped with a pile of broken dishes on New Year's Day. Old dishes are saved year round to throw them at the homes where their friends live on New Year's Eve. Many broken dishes were a symbol that you have many friends! (This custom is interesting. I am not suggesting anyone do this. As I said, it was simply interesting.)
Spain - When the clock strikes midnight, the people eat 12 grapes. One grape for every stroke of the clock to represent each month in the year. Each grape is said to bring good luck in the New Year.
Switzerland - The Swiss believe good luck comes from letting a drop of cream land on the floor New Year's Day. (I could certainly handle this tradition.)
France - People eat a stack of pancakes for luck and good health. (Did I mention my other half is French?)
I think we are going incorporate the Dutch and French traditions into the Faulkner Five festivities this year. Yep. I'm pretty sure we're going with the Dutch and French!
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Enjoy the time off from school with your kiddos. As always, Blog Linkage and a fun date will appear on Thursday's post.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Keep in Touch
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics today are of Sparkle. One of the lists I'm sharing from Real Simple Magazine is entitled "5 Things You Can Learn From Your Pet," so, of course, I felt the need to include the dogs. (As usual, Copper didn't feel like cooperating!)
DON'T FORGET! DON'T FORGET! DON'T FORGET! - I've added yet another inflatable to The Twelve Days of Inflatables on my sidebar.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I found this cute Christmas story yesterday. Enjoy!
While working in a store as Santa Claus, I had lots of boys ask me for an electric train set. "If you get your train," I would tell each one, "you know your dad is going to want to play with it, too. Is that okay?"
The usual answer was a quick yes, but after I asked one boy this question, he became very quiet. Trying to move the conversation along, I asked what else he would like Santa to bring.
He promptly replied, "Another train set."
Smart boy.
RANDOMNESS #2 - As promised, below you will find a LIST from Real Simple Magazine I found interesting... "5 Things You Can Learn From Your Pet."
1. Celebrate everything. (This is a good one. I can just walk on the deck or drive into the driveway and Copper and Sparkle are beside themselves with excitement. Mike and the kids... not so much.)
2. Just being present is enough. A pet never says "the wrong thing" when you are upset or sad. What matters is showing up.
3. Brain size doesn't matter. Most pets are very clever in their own way, and they have many of the same emotions we have... happiness, anxiety, etc. (And in Sparkle's case... female mood swings.)
4. Don't try so hard. (This references cats as being quirky and independent thinkers. They are true to themselves and resistant to outside influence. It is indeed a good trait to have... Just be yourself.)
5. You can get along with anybody. (I thought this one was a little odd because Sparkle and Copper do NOT get along with cats, rabbits or slow, low-flying birds. But the author goes on to say, "It's quite surprising how animals of different species can be friends as long as they are raised in a warm and loving environment." I would have to add the word "together" at the end of that statement. And even taking the above into consideration, I don't necessarily feel I could get along with EVERYBODY. Adolph Hitler comes to mind.)
Wednesday Wisdom - I've gathered just a few quotes about Christmas for today's Wisdom section.
"Once again we find ourselves enmeshed in the Holiday Season. That very special time of year when we join with our loved ones in sharing centuries-old traditions such as trying to find a parking space at the mall. We traditionally do this in my family by driving around the parking lot until we see a shopper emerge from the mall. Then we follow her, in very much the same spirit as the Three Wise Men, who 2,000 years ago followed a star, week after week, until it led them to a parking space." Dave Barry
"Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall." Larry Wilde (I love this one!)
"Christmas is a time when everybody wants his past forgotten and his present remembered." Anonymous
Keep in Touch
Today's "tradition" is straight from Family Fun Magazine. My family is extremely blessed because we live close enough to each other to visit everyone during the holiday season. However, if your family is scattered across the United States, or even across the globe, here are some ways to stay close this Christmas season AND all year long.
1. Skype. This is a free internet-based video-calling program. Using Skype is very similar to using the telephone... except you get a live video of the caller on the other end.
2. Share a Phone Story - One mother sent a copy of the same book to the two grandmothers in her family (all three families lived in different states). Each grandmother scheduled a time to read to the children every other week over the telephone. The children would follow along in the book. The next week at the scheduled time, the other grandmother would pick up where the story left off.
3. Make an Annual DVD - Each year, this family creates a personal DVD for relatives all over the United States. It features a year's worth of family photos, video clips, scanned copies of the kids' artwork and a personalized message... all set to music.
4. Mail Your Musings - This family addressed a large envelope to the relatives, and then invited family members to slip in short messages and other items. It worked well (even for kids with short attention spans) because they could include pictures, notes, school papers, etc. Anything and everything they wanted to show off. When the envelope was full, they sealed it up and dropped it in the mail... and immediately started the next large envelope.
Have a wonderful Wednesday! I have to tell you, the Blog Linkage I'll be sharing Thursday is a must-see for all readers who LOVE decorating for Christmas. I also have a fun date, another inflatable to add to The Twelve Days of Inflatables and so much more.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics today are of Sparkle. One of the lists I'm sharing from Real Simple Magazine is entitled "5 Things You Can Learn From Your Pet," so, of course, I felt the need to include the dogs. (As usual, Copper didn't feel like cooperating!)
DON'T FORGET! DON'T FORGET! DON'T FORGET! - I've added yet another inflatable to The Twelve Days of Inflatables on my sidebar.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I found this cute Christmas story yesterday. Enjoy!
While working in a store as Santa Claus, I had lots of boys ask me for an electric train set. "If you get your train," I would tell each one, "you know your dad is going to want to play with it, too. Is that okay?"
The usual answer was a quick yes, but after I asked one boy this question, he became very quiet. Trying to move the conversation along, I asked what else he would like Santa to bring.
He promptly replied, "Another train set."
Smart boy.
RANDOMNESS #2 - As promised, below you will find a LIST from Real Simple Magazine I found interesting... "5 Things You Can Learn From Your Pet."
1. Celebrate everything. (This is a good one. I can just walk on the deck or drive into the driveway and Copper and Sparkle are beside themselves with excitement. Mike and the kids... not so much.)
2. Just being present is enough. A pet never says "the wrong thing" when you are upset or sad. What matters is showing up.
3. Brain size doesn't matter. Most pets are very clever in their own way, and they have many of the same emotions we have... happiness, anxiety, etc. (And in Sparkle's case... female mood swings.)
4. Don't try so hard. (This references cats as being quirky and independent thinkers. They are true to themselves and resistant to outside influence. It is indeed a good trait to have... Just be yourself.)
5. You can get along with anybody. (I thought this one was a little odd because Sparkle and Copper do NOT get along with cats, rabbits or slow, low-flying birds. But the author goes on to say, "It's quite surprising how animals of different species can be friends as long as they are raised in a warm and loving environment." I would have to add the word "together" at the end of that statement. And even taking the above into consideration, I don't necessarily feel I could get along with EVERYBODY. Adolph Hitler comes to mind.)
Wednesday Wisdom - I've gathered just a few quotes about Christmas for today's Wisdom section.
"Once again we find ourselves enmeshed in the Holiday Season. That very special time of year when we join with our loved ones in sharing centuries-old traditions such as trying to find a parking space at the mall. We traditionally do this in my family by driving around the parking lot until we see a shopper emerge from the mall. Then we follow her, in very much the same spirit as the Three Wise Men, who 2,000 years ago followed a star, week after week, until it led them to a parking space." Dave Barry
"Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall." Larry Wilde (I love this one!)
"Christmas is a time when everybody wants his past forgotten and his present remembered." Anonymous
Keep in Touch
Today's "tradition" is straight from Family Fun Magazine. My family is extremely blessed because we live close enough to each other to visit everyone during the holiday season. However, if your family is scattered across the United States, or even across the globe, here are some ways to stay close this Christmas season AND all year long.
1. Skype. This is a free internet-based video-calling program. Using Skype is very similar to using the telephone... except you get a live video of the caller on the other end.
2. Share a Phone Story - One mother sent a copy of the same book to the two grandmothers in her family (all three families lived in different states). Each grandmother scheduled a time to read to the children every other week over the telephone. The children would follow along in the book. The next week at the scheduled time, the other grandmother would pick up where the story left off.
3. Make an Annual DVD - Each year, this family creates a personal DVD for relatives all over the United States. It features a year's worth of family photos, video clips, scanned copies of the kids' artwork and a personalized message... all set to music.
4. Mail Your Musings - This family addressed a large envelope to the relatives, and then invited family members to slip in short messages and other items. It worked well (even for kids with short attention spans) because they could include pictures, notes, school papers, etc. Anything and everything they wanted to show off. When the envelope was full, they sealed it up and dropped it in the mail... and immediately started the next large envelope.
Have a wonderful Wednesday! I have to tell you, the Blog Linkage I'll be sharing Thursday is a must-see for all readers who LOVE decorating for Christmas. I also have a fun date, another inflatable to add to The Twelve Days of Inflatables and so much more.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Sleeping Under the Tree
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are a couple of photos taken of more Christmas decorations which have made an appearance at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842).
REMINDER #1, REMINDER #1, REMINDER #1 - I have begun gathering photos of unique inflatables in and around our area. The Twelve Days of Inflatables begins on A Simple Life December 13 and will end Christmas Eve.
REMINDER #2, REMINDER #2, REMINDER #2 - It's Wednesday! You know what that means. It is Encouraging Wednesday! Get busy and text, call or e-mail people you know need a kind, uplifting word during this holiday season. Remember... It only takes a minute to make a difference in someone's day or life.
REMINDER #3, REMINDER #3, REMINDER #3 - If you are looking for new Christmas traditions, activities, recipes, etc., you can ALWAYS click on the 2008 and 2009 Blog Archives on my right sidebar. When you click on the year, the 12 months will pop up. Click on December of those two years to check out all the ideas which have been shared in the past.
RANDOMNESS - Each year, we spend several nights a week going to different neighborhoods looking at Christmas lights. When the kids were small, all five of us would pile into the van, turn on Christmas music and take a short 15 to 30 minute ride around town. Some nights we would come home and drink hot chocolate. Some nights we would stop for milkshakes to enjoy as we rode.
Since Austin and Josh are older now, of course, this doesn't appeal to them, but Roxie still loves it. (Let it be known if we threw a steak dinner in the back of the Big Gold Reindeer, Josh and Austin would be all about looking at Christmas lights... but we are on a Christmas budget, you see.)
Since I have this new project (The Twelve Days of Inflatables) coming up, I feel the need to hit as many neighborhoods as possible between now and December 13! Last night was slim pickins' in the Inflatable Department, but I've done some research, and I think I've got a winner picked out for tomorrow evening! We'll see!
Wednesday Wisdom - The last home we visited during the Christmas Home Tour this past weekend belonged to Susan Peacock. Her home is filled with scripture... on her walls, on her kitchen tiles... everywhere. It was beautiful. As we were leaving, she asked me to read something she had framed in the family room. One of her relatives (her sister, I think) had sent it to her.
She loved it enough to frame it and share it with everyone who came through her home that day. I loved it enough to ask her if I could borrow it for today's Wednesday Wisdom.
If I decorate my home perfectly with lovely gold bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family -
I'm just another decorator.
If I work in my kitchen baking Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals served on a beautifully adorned table, but do not show love to my family -
I'm just another cook.
If I volunteer in my community, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family -
It profits me nothing.
If I trim our Christmas tree with ornaments, attend holiday parties, and sing in the church choir's cantata, but do not focus on Christ -
I have missed the point.
Love stops cooking to hug a child and kiss a mate.
Love sets aside the decorating to listen to a friend.
Love is kind, though stressed and tired.
Love doesn't envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
Love doesn't yell and isn’t easily angered.
Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who cannot.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.
Love never fails.
Video games will break; pearl rings will be lost; and golf clubs will rust.
But giving the gift of love will never end.
It makes you stop and think, doesn't it?
Sleeping Under the Tree
I've mentioned this tradition before, but it is a good one so I'll re-post it.
When the children were small, we knew a family who also had three children. Every year when they decorated their Christmas tree, the whole family would fall asleep in the family room under the softly-lit tree.
We've done this many, many times over the years when the kids have had spend-the-night company. We would put out air mattresses, quilts, pillows, and then Mike or I would read a Christmas book to the children (The Crippled Lamb, The Three Trees, etc.).
It is absolutely FREE, FUN, FESTIVE and there is nothing more special than having devotion time in such a beautiful setting.
Try it! I bet you'll like it!
Have a wonderful Wednesday. Thursday's Blog Linkage deals with the word "overwhelming," which is very timely during the holiday season, don't you think? I also have a fun date for you and your little one.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are a couple of photos taken of more Christmas decorations which have made an appearance at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842).
REMINDER #1, REMINDER #1, REMINDER #1 - I have begun gathering photos of unique inflatables in and around our area. The Twelve Days of Inflatables begins on A Simple Life December 13 and will end Christmas Eve.
REMINDER #2, REMINDER #2, REMINDER #2 - It's Wednesday! You know what that means. It is Encouraging Wednesday! Get busy and text, call or e-mail people you know need a kind, uplifting word during this holiday season. Remember... It only takes a minute to make a difference in someone's day or life.
REMINDER #3, REMINDER #3, REMINDER #3 - If you are looking for new Christmas traditions, activities, recipes, etc., you can ALWAYS click on the 2008 and 2009 Blog Archives on my right sidebar. When you click on the year, the 12 months will pop up. Click on December of those two years to check out all the ideas which have been shared in the past.
RANDOMNESS - Each year, we spend several nights a week going to different neighborhoods looking at Christmas lights. When the kids were small, all five of us would pile into the van, turn on Christmas music and take a short 15 to 30 minute ride around town. Some nights we would come home and drink hot chocolate. Some nights we would stop for milkshakes to enjoy as we rode.
Since Austin and Josh are older now, of course, this doesn't appeal to them, but Roxie still loves it. (Let it be known if we threw a steak dinner in the back of the Big Gold Reindeer, Josh and Austin would be all about looking at Christmas lights... but we are on a Christmas budget, you see.)
Since I have this new project (The Twelve Days of Inflatables) coming up, I feel the need to hit as many neighborhoods as possible between now and December 13! Last night was slim pickins' in the Inflatable Department, but I've done some research, and I think I've got a winner picked out for tomorrow evening! We'll see!
Wednesday Wisdom - The last home we visited during the Christmas Home Tour this past weekend belonged to Susan Peacock. Her home is filled with scripture... on her walls, on her kitchen tiles... everywhere. It was beautiful. As we were leaving, she asked me to read something she had framed in the family room. One of her relatives (her sister, I think) had sent it to her.
She loved it enough to frame it and share it with everyone who came through her home that day. I loved it enough to ask her if I could borrow it for today's Wednesday Wisdom.
If I decorate my home perfectly with lovely gold bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family -
I'm just another decorator.
If I work in my kitchen baking Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals served on a beautifully adorned table, but do not show love to my family -
I'm just another cook.
If I volunteer in my community, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family -
It profits me nothing.
If I trim our Christmas tree with ornaments, attend holiday parties, and sing in the church choir's cantata, but do not focus on Christ -
I have missed the point.
Love stops cooking to hug a child and kiss a mate.
Love sets aside the decorating to listen to a friend.
Love is kind, though stressed and tired.
Love doesn't envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
Love doesn't yell and isn’t easily angered.
Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who cannot.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.
Love never fails.
Video games will break; pearl rings will be lost; and golf clubs will rust.
But giving the gift of love will never end.
It makes you stop and think, doesn't it?
Sleeping Under the Tree
I've mentioned this tradition before, but it is a good one so I'll re-post it.
When the children were small, we knew a family who also had three children. Every year when they decorated their Christmas tree, the whole family would fall asleep in the family room under the softly-lit tree.
We've done this many, many times over the years when the kids have had spend-the-night company. We would put out air mattresses, quilts, pillows, and then Mike or I would read a Christmas book to the children (The Crippled Lamb, The Three Trees, etc.).
It is absolutely FREE, FUN, FESTIVE and there is nothing more special than having devotion time in such a beautiful setting.
Try it! I bet you'll like it!
Have a wonderful Wednesday. Thursday's Blog Linkage deals with the word "overwhelming," which is very timely during the holiday season, don't you think? I also have a fun date for you and your little one.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
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Friday...
Finally, some new basketball action shots.
The JV team had two 40-minute games Friday, so I thought I would just go ahead and start filming now!
And here's the obligatory Bryant Tuggle pic. He's a HUGE supporter of our baskeball team. Always has been... always will be. Well, until he gets his own driver's license!
Saturday...
We spent the day with the cousins Saturday. Monica, Amy, Roxie and I shopped at Brookwood, ate at Yolo's and went to the movies (Pirates 4). It was a great day, but the best part was our celebrity sighting...
That's right! Will Ferrell! (Please feel free to use your imagination. I know we did!)
Sunday...
Mikie's 50th Family Birthday Celebration! Everyone knows 50 year-old men LOVE the Green Lantern...and their wives really like Ryan Reynolds! (How cool would it be to have your picture on a birthday party plate package? Another goal, perhaps?)
What do you give a 50 year-old guys for his birthday? Cards... filled with money, Ricky Skaggs' concert tickets, a True Grit DVD and a Red Devil's Food Cake with Divinity Icing (from his Mom). It was a very good day!
Lovely Melia gave him the True Grit DVD. (I LOVE that movie!)
And it wouldn't be a birthday without a hug from Roxie!