Tube Tuesday: Muppet Bohemian Rhapsody!

Tube Tuesday is not going to be a meme for now. If you'd like to leave a link with a comment I'd be more than happy to check it out...but for now...it's just gonna be one of my quirky blog things.

Tube Tuesday: Deep, deep love of Jesus!

O the deep, deep love of Jesus!
Vast, unmeasured, boundless, free!
Rolling as a mighty ocean
In its fullness over me!
Underneath me, all around me,
Is the current of Your love
Leading onward, leading homeward
To Your glorious rest above!

O the deep, deep love of Jesus!
Spread His praise from shore to shore,
How His love is never-ending,
And it changes nevermore;
How He watches o’er His loved ones,
Died to call them all His own;
How for them He’s interceding,
Watching o’er them from the throne.

O the deep, deep love of Jesus!
Love of ev’ry love the best:
‘Tis an ocean vast of blessing,
‘Tis a haven sweet of rest.
O the deep, deep love of Jesus!
‘Tis a heav’n of heav’ns to me;
And it lifts me up to glory,
With You evermore to be.

by Samuel Francis

I've had several comments about Tube Tuesday recently...about truly developing it as my Meme, my creation, adding Mr. Linky, etc. I thought about it...and decided I'd throw the opportunity out there...to see if it's worth going to any hassle. So, leave a comment if you'd like me to make this Meme official...give me a link to your favorite Tube Tuesday. My desire in creating it was more to share the quirky, eclectic side of me...and for an excuse to browse about You Tube and Tangle..but we'll see...

Long live new...

I like blogs that make me think...recently I read this...that had me struggling a bit. While I understand, and fully believe, the verse above...I worry that "long live new, death to better" isn't quite right. True, we become new...we can't jump back into our old fleshly sin...but being like Christ means "working out our faith in fear and trembling"...and that means...working to be better! Indeed, long live the new...but keep striving...by HIS DAILY SUFFICIENT GRACE...to improve and become more like Christ, our Savior.

That being said, I adapted the questions from this meme...and worked on some goals for 2010. As I mentioned before...it's good to define things...resolution-a decision to do something or to behave in a certain manner; "he always wrote down his New Year's resolutions". I want to behave more like Christ. That is the overall goal.

I struggled with whether or not to post these resolution thoughts...because while it does provide accountability of sorts, it also opens the door for criticism of the most intimate areas of the heart. I love HATE it when you share a personal goal with someone only to have them turn on you and say, "Weren't you going to do better at X?" Now, not everyone...some people in my life are entitled, by marriage or friendship, to keep me accountable. I'm talking about the few who maybe overhear you, and set no personal goals of their own (but should) and yet feel free to snap it to ya! Ugh...so *big breath* all that aside...I'm going to stick it all out there for your viewing enjoyment.

1. What skill do you most want to learn this year?
I'd like to become a better listener...by learning to talk less. I want to learn how to focus my attention on the person speaking...without interrupting or thinking in my head of what I'd like to say next.

2. What is one skill you already have that you’d like to improve this year?
I'm very friendly and outgoing but would like to improve my friendships and friendliness by (see #1) being a better listener and thinking before I speak or give advice.

3. Name your reading goals for 2010. (adapted from original meme)
Entire Bible in full year...with schedule guide.

All missionary/christian biographies in the church library.

All Agatha Christie mysteries in library.

4. In what specific area do you most want to encourage your spouse? What are some ways you can do this?
I want him to feel respected and appreciated as the leader of our home. I need to be respectful...by doing things for him without expecting a reward (verbal or otherwise), by not scripting for him amid decisions, by not treating him in any way as I would our children, by building him up in our children's eyes, by making home a haven to return to after work...

5. Think of one of your major life goals. What will you do this year to make you one step closer to reaching that goal?
To become debt free. I will refocus my thinking and discover new ways to be frugal and be contented with what I already have.

6-7. Adapted...What are some ways to encourage your children as they grow this year?

My children are young and coming up with their strengths and weaknesses seemed a bit over the top. At two and four they need to be learning to respect and obey authority...not just mine but GOD'S. I want to encourage them to be loving and kind to each other too. I want to teach them to love God with all their little hearts...and lead them to understand their need of a Savior.

8. What is one of your strengths? Think of some specific ways you can exercise it this year.
I'm very organized but I'd like to do better at keeping lists (checklists) and keeping schedules throughout the year...so that things don't sneak up on me. I'd also like to figure out a way to be flexible at the same time...and not let a strength become a weakness.

9. What is one of your weaknesses? Brainstorm some ideas on how you can overcome this deficiency.
I'm very quick to anger. I'm going to try counting to 20 and humming. I don't want to make excuses...but repent quickly and ask forgiveness sooner.

10. Think of an important relationship aside from your spouse and children. How will you nurture that relationship this year?
Send notes of encouragement. Faithfully pray for them.

11. Name a few ways your physical health could be improved.
Take vitamins everyday. Drink more water. Run, do crunches...get rid of the baby paunch. All physical goals aimed at gaining more energy and a stronger immune system.

12. Name a few ways your family’s financial health could be improved.
See #5

13. In what way do you want to draw closer to God?
I want to become content with His plan...with Him being in control. I want to become His kind of beautiful, doing the good works He's laid out for me to do. I want to listen to His voice...and be a woman who prays for the eternal, not the physical.

14. What is one area of home management that frustrates you? Think of some specific ways you could improve your attitude about it.
The things I can't complete easily alone. I need to become more independent and learn to schedule actual dates for completion.

15. Have you ever created a family mission statement with your spouse? If so, why not do one for this year?
Hmmm ? Good idea...

16. Name one specific thing you could do with your spouse this year that will deepen your intimacy.
Be a real stickler on date nights EVERY MONTH. Schedule sex...I always thought that was ridiculous...but people with toddlers and busy jobs get tired and busy ya'll.

17. What is something that is continually undone in your life? What will you do to fully complete it this year?
Keeping personal goals such as those above. I'm hoping accountability and a sense of my own unworthiness will help. Remembering that only God can make changes in me...and refine me to make me more like His Son.

18. In what ways will you be involved with your local community?
Er, a better question is Will you learn to say no this year?...because I'm a great one for getting too much on my plate. I think I'll work on focusing on my family...thanks.

19. What is one thing you’d like to accomplish by your birthday this year?
All Christmas presents completed and ready to go.

20. Think of three words you’d like to describe your 2010.
Peaceful, Contented, Respectful

A little about me Meme!

Making : cross stitch ornaments for neighbors, friends and maybe myself.
Cooking :unfried chicken (rolled in cornflakes to be crunchy like fried but baked instead)
Drinking : large quantities of herbal tea (my throat's sore)
Reading: an Agatha Christie book...Death on the Nile...
Wanting: a red pair of scuff slippers from L.L. Bean
Looking: at my steaming tea cup
Playing: a lot of puzzles with the kids lately...and legos...
Wasting: too much time watching TV
Sewing: baby gifts for friends
Wishing: my family lived closer
Enjoying: the warm indian summer
Waiting: for my Loverbrain to get home from work
Liking: the new bible study I just joined
Wondering: what I went upstairs for...and then going downstairs and remembering...
Loving: two sweet boobahs...and a handsome man...
Hoping: we'll have a white Christmas
Marvelling: at God's goodness and blessings
Needing: my pillow
Smelling: vicks vapor rub...ahhhh...*sigh*
Wearing: jeans and an old MOPS t-shirt...and my running shoes...
Following: the migrant patterns of Canadian geese...just kidding...hahaha...
Noticing: that ruffles are back in style...ewww...no way!
Knowing: He's coming again...and probably soon!
Thinking: I'd better be ready...for the above...Are you??
Bookmarking: nifty gift idea sites...and new groovy blogs...
Opening: a before bedtime chocolate...the last of my birthday candy
Giggling: over the conversations my sweet boobahs have together...
Feeling: tired

Caffeinated Randomness: Meme Pastimes.

I pulled this meme from Stray Thoughts .

Who was your first “best friend”?
The first one I remember is Jennifer. We lived next door to each other from second grade til my junior year when I moved away. We still make sure we see each other briefly when I'm in NY.

What was your most memorable birthday as a child?
I remember my ninth birthday very well. I had my party in the hospital where my Grandma was recovery from major surgery. I got a washable Cabbage Patch kid...and I named her Ruth...after Grandma. I think I was afraid she'd die. She's still around...and knows my two wee ones. See, happy ending to my memorable birthday.

Who was your first “crush”?
I really liked the little neighbor boy. He was a bit of a "player" even at a young age. I laughed really really hard when I was told he went into the priesthood.

Where was the best vacation your family took as a child?
We always went to see relatives...and I loved it!!!

What was your favorite pastime as a child?
Reading. Reading. Reading. (Came across my bookworm pin the other day...won it in some contest...Mom, do you remember?)

When did you learn to ride a two-wheel bike?
I don’t remember learning. I do remember hours of riding around in the church parking lot (my Dad was the pastor...so I lived in the parsonage...for those who are confused). I remember when my boundaries increased...very exciting stuff. It's funny now...that I feel terrified thinking about letting my kids ride out of my sight.

What is your most traumatic memory as a child?
I had a great childhood. I can't really think of anything "traumatic"... My Dad was a huge tease (okay, he still is)...and he used to hide at the bottom of the stairs where the church and parsonage connected...and when he'd hear me coming with his lunch or cookies...he'd hide and jump out and scare the boogers out me. I'd scream! Once he made me cry...and he felt bad...and I guess, that was sort of traumatic! Once, I ran through a nest of yellow jackets playing follow the leader with all the neighbor kids and we ALL got stung! That was traumatic to some...and hilarious in retrospect!

What age did you learn to swim?
I was well into my teens. I always sank like a rock...really! I still have to work to tread water. I dive really well though!

What smell automatically takes you back to your childhood?
Flavored chapstick. I used to eat it... True story...when my Dad was candidating my Junior year of high school I asked him if I could please use his chapstick. He said, "No, you eat it." I adamantly told him that I most certainly did not do that anymore. My Mom backed me up!

What was your first pet?
We got a mutt when I was six. She was black and white spotted. I named her Spots...very creative name don't ya think? She was the best dog ever...her only fault was she shed a lot!

Who impacted your life as a child?
My family has been a huge impact in my life. I spent summers with my Dad's parents...and feel like I've gotten a lot of good spiritual advice from them throughout the years.

What is the most exciting Christmas gift you received as a child?
An alarm clock...yup, I was a control freak...even as a child!

Who was the neighborhood bully when you were growing up?
I remember some mean girls in high school...but no one really before that. I've always been a "walking my own path" kind of kid. I couldn't be bothered.

Who was your best friend as a teenager?
I had some good friends at the church youth rallies. Naomi and I sang duets together. Again, I was a more of a social butterfly. I was friends with everyone...not just one. I do remember enjoying friendships with boys more than girls. Until I got married that was probably true to a point. I find groups of women catty and cliquey...even today.

What is the first car you can remember your family owning?
I remember the Chevy...that was light blue with white plastic seats...that made bumps on your bare skin in the summer. I think that's the furthest back I remember.

What was the first award you ever received?
I won the spelling bee in fourth grade.

What is the name of the first sports team you played on?
I never played on one other than P.E. I was more academically minded. I enjoyed field hockey!

Meme The Truth About Bobbi-ology!

The Truth About Bobbi-ology

I snagged this from Jennifer's blog at Through the Storms of Life. Get to know me better by reading down through here. Also, pay a visit to Jennifer's blog.

**********FOODOLOGY***************
What is your salad dressing of choice?
I'm loving my homemade Italian dressing...it's better than Olive Garden!
What is your favorite sit-down restaurant?
Yatz (Cajun/Creole Awesomeness)
What food could you eat everyday for two weeks and not get sick of?
Steak
What are your pizza toppings of choice?
Cheese, pepperoni, mushrooms, black olives and banana peppers.
What do you like to put on your toast?
Butter (well, maybe Nutella)
***********TECHNOLOGY***************
How many televisions are in your house?
Two--the one upstairs is only for playing the VHS of our wedding though! HA!
What color cell phone do you have?
Navy Blue
Do you have an Ipod?
Nope...but my Centro will do everything that an Ipod does and more!
***************BIOLOGY******************
Are you right-handed or left-handed?
Right, but I am becoming semi-ambidextrous as I teach my lefty daughter to do things.
Have you ever had anything removed from your body?
Two babies, three cysts, and my wisdom teeth!
What is the last heavy item you lifted?
I switched my dining room and my living room on a whim a while back. That was some heavy lifting/shoving!!
Have you ever been knocked unconscious?
Nope! Well, I don't remember it...hahaha! Wait...does anesthesia count?
************DUMBOLOGY******************
How many pairs of flip flops do you own?
Three...Aldi awesome flops! Seriously, they cost $4.99 and are totally awesome!
Last time you had a run-in with the cops?
Got a warning on the way to my parents on MLKJr. weekend. Don't speed in construction ya'll!
Last person you talked to?
My two and three year old as I put them down for naptime.
Last person you hugged?
My sweet Loverbrain
**************FAVORITOLOGY****************
Season?
Fall. It's beautiful and invigorating! Plus, I HEART SCHOOL SUPPLIES!!!
Holiday?
Advent and Christmas!
Day of the week?
Tuesdays...they are the days I plan playdates and bible studies, etc. My visiting days!!
Month?
October (it has Fall and my birthday)
***********CURRENTOLOGY*****************
Missing someone?
My Grandpa Sharp (passed away)...wish my hubs and kids could've met him.
Mood?
Introspective and a tiny bit hyped on caffeine. Finishing the pot since hubs isn't here to drink his coffee! HA...waste not, want not!
What are you listening to?
My own typing...and lawn mowers outside. Pretty peaceful around here at the moment.
Watching?
The computer screen...um, duh??
Worrying about?
Seeing as I try not to worry...and can only accomplish this through prayer....I prefer to answer what am I praying about...mostly the Koning Family and Stellan.
***************RANDOMOLOGY*****************
First place you went this morning?
To get my Sweet Boobah some milk and then back to snuggle him under the warm covers! Mmm!
What's the last movie you saw?
Fireproof. Yup, finally watched it. It was good. I can see how it would benefit both new and old marriages alike. It never hurts to get a new perspective on things.
Do you smile often?
Yup...sure do! I'm a very bubbly, yappity, happity sort of person. Ask anyone who knows me!
Sleeping Alone Tonight?
Nope...snuggling next to my Loverbrains...
***************OTHER-OLOGY*****************
1) Do you always answer your phone?
I'm trying to get better about just letting it go. I'm trying to view my kids as a full time job where I can't just answer the phone in the middle of work. I do always call people back. I HATE caller ID...so don't have it....so don't assume that I know it's you when you call. It bugs the "liver and snot" out of me when you call people who are obviously looking to see who it is before they pick up on the millionth ring...or don't pick up...making you wonder if they are avoiding you. TRULY IRRITATING. Okay, I'm done...for now!
2) It's four in the morning and you get a text message, who is it?
It better be an emergency cuz I pay ALOT for texting...
3) If you could change your eye color what would it be?
I like my blue eyes...but maybe brown...cuz brown eyed blonds are cuter.
3b) If you could change your hair color, what color would you change it to?
RED...like a real redhead! I've thought about just doing it sometime. HA!
4) What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic?
Never been to one...sorry!
5) Do you own a digital camera?
Yes, and I use it alllllll the time!
6) Have you ever had a pet fish?
Yes. His name was Rhapsody. He was blue beta fish...get it...Rhapsody in Blue!
7) Favorite Christmas song(s)?
Silent Night, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, O Holy Night...and the little known, I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas...
8) What's on your wish list for your birthday?
Books or fabric...oh, just ask my Mom...she always gets me the best gifts!
9) Can you do a push up?
Absolutely...one!
10) Can you do a chin up?
HA! Doubt it!
11) Does the future make you more nervous or excited?
Excited! Jesus is coming back, ya'll, and I am going up!!! Are you??
12) Do you have any saved texts?
Like drafts? I have no idea what this is...a saved text? Sure, I have bookshelves full of saved texts! HA HA HA!
13) Ever been in a car wreck?
Was rear ended a few times...
14) Do you have an accent?
Not that anyone has ever pointed out...although I love languages and tend to pick up the accent of whoever I'm around...when in England...I sound British...etc. It's hard for me to stop myself. I can...but I sort of enjoy the feel of it on my tongue. Weird and fun...yes, I am!
15) What is the last song to make you cry?
He Knows My Name by Tommy Walker
16) Plans tonight?
Depends on when the hubs is coming home...hopefully, grill out and chill out!
17) Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom?
God is always faithful to me!
18) Name 3 things you bought yesterday?
Thread, ribbon and a High Five magazine for the kids.
19) Have you ever been given roses?
Yes, for the births of my babies!
20) Current worry?
None...see above under Current-ology. Why worry when I can pray?
21) Current hate right now?
Squirrels...crazy, nasty rodents.
22) Met someone who changed your life?
Yes. Many people have had an impact on my life. None like my Savior, Jesus, though.
23) How did you bring in the New Year?
ZZZZZZZ! Give us a break...we have small children!
24) What song represents you?
He Is My Joy by Carter
26) Would you go back in time if you were given the chance?
Maybe...if I could be a Champagne Lady on the Lawrence Welk show!
27) Have you ever dated someone longer than a year?
Oh yes.
28) Do you have any tattoos/piercings?
Ears are double pierced but I let the second set grow closed.
29) Will you be in a relationship 4 months from now?
Um, in my Book marriage is for LIFE! So, unless one of us croaks off suddenly...yup, I'll be working on year number 6.
30) Does anyone love you?
I am well loved.
31) Would you be a pirate?
Maybe for a costume party...but only if I get to have a peg leg, patch and parrot!
32) What songs do you sing in the shower?
His Eye is On the Sparrow, O Happy Day, and Wake up and Pay attention!
33) Ever had someone sing to you?
Yes. It's kind of embarrassing!
34) When did you last cry?
Tuesday and Wednesday...
36) Do you like to cuddle?
Yes, but my babies are moving too fast these days. Unless they're sick I'm out of luck.
37) Have you held hands with anyone today?
Not today...yet!
38) Who was the last person you took a picture of?
My sweet kiddos.
39) What kind of music did you listen to in elementary school?
I loved playing my Mom's Carpenter's records...Ann Murray..Barry Manilow...Neil Diamond...etc.
40) Are most of the friends in your life new or old?
New-ish.
41) Do you like pulpy orange juice?
Semi pulpy. Ya know, some pulp but not enough to gag you! I have to be able to swallow my vitamins too.
42) What is something your friends make fun of you for?
Saying odd things. I'm a good one for making up hilarious words. I have a good vocabulary...but sometimes it just needs to expand to include my zany self!
43) If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die?
Sure...maybe it would motivate me to get my act together in all aspects and relationships.
44) If you could change your name, what would you change it to?
Nope...I like Bobbi...it fits me!
45) Would you drink an entire bottle of hot sauce for $1000?
Well, I have some intestinal issues...and it could literally kill me. But, I'd ask if my hubs could do it...cuz who couldn't use that kind of money...and he likes hot stuff!

Saturday...ONE WORD

In One Word....

• Yourself: Direct
• Your husband: Humble
• Your hair: Stacked
• Your Mother: Friend
• Your Father: Godly
• Your Favorite Item:
  
• Your dream last night: Blackness
• Your Favorite Drink: Latte
• Your Dream Car: VW Bug
  
• Your Dream Home: Cabin
• The Room You Are In: Study
• Your Ex: None
• Your fear: Rodents
• Where you Want to be in Ten Years? Teaching
• Who you hung out with last night: Friends
  
• What You’re Not: Tall
• Muffins: Blueberry
• One of Your Wish List Items: Etsy
• Time: Short
• The Last Thing You Did: Typed
• What You Are Wearing: Shorts
• Your favorite weather: Sunny
• Your Favorite Book: Bible
• Last thing you ate: Bagel
• Your Life: Crazy
• Your mood: Tired
• Your Best Friends: Precious
• What are you thinking about right now: Napping
• Your car: MomEvan
  
• What are you doing at the moment: sitting
• Your summer: busy
• Relationship status: Married
• What is on your TV: Cooking
  
• What is the weather like: Sunny
• When is the last time you laughed: Today

Sheesh...for the record...it is really hard to put just one word. Some didn't really lend themselves to this... I saw this Meme and took it to try sometime...I don't remember where it came from though...

Facebook's shadow culture...

My Dad came across this article and shared it with me. He knows the "struggles" I've had with Facebook in the past...and why I removed myself from the frustrations it was causing me this year. I tried to explain in my ladies Bible study what I was going through...and let me just tell you that the older ladies really struggled with the term "de-friending." Everyone should though...think about it! At the time, I wasn't really able to clearly formulate all the things that bothered me about Facebook. This article does a great job of articulating many of my concerns. I highlighted the things I like, for emphasis!!

Facebook's shadow culture
By Emily Walshe
Thu Jun 11, 5:00 am ET
Brookville, N.Y. –

I remember the day I became blood sisters
with my friend Kristine. We planned for weeks; but in the end,
nobody noticed us steal into the cornfield, prick our
prepubescent palms, and press them firmly together.
Kris is now on Facebook and she's pestering me to join.
She's one of the 200 million Facebook users who tend
networks of friends online. I am among a dwindling number
who don't.

A common criticism of such social-networking sites is that
they cheapen friendship. But they're doing more than
reducing its value: They're creating a shadow culture of
friendship that spins cosmic sympathy into crowd sourcing.

With greater connectedness has come the ability for people to influence one another with more speed and efficiency. Social-networking sites – spurred by a resurgent "Secret" interpretation of the ancient Greek doctrine "like attracts like" – have become a potent medium for mass persuasion.


The age-old law of attraction is manifest and multiplied to the nth degree in social-media realms. Facebook's exponential success lies in its ability to get its users to do the work for them – friends persuading friends to join, comment, and feed. Twitterers compete to attract followers – 140 characters at a time. On sites like eHarmony, affinity is an algorithmic compatibility coefficient.

Friendship, like marriage, is a big attraction – a deep commitment to a nonblood relation. It is a relationship predicated on trust and nurtured, over time, through physical and metaphysical connection.


Critics consider the phenomena of chronic "friending" to be a kind of memetic narcissism, and excessive self-regard is surely part of its appeal. But these ever-widening concentric circles of congeniality are subtly turning the desire for friendship into sinister temptations for power or profit.

In these labyrinths of mutuality, the pulls and pokes of influence are embedded in Facebook's highly targeted Groups and Notes. New "apps" are turning Facebook into a colossal interpersonal ploy that, ever-so-subtly, blurs the distinction between community and commodity. On Kris's page, I can browse her lemonade stand – a widget that pays her when people buy items from her list of favorite things. I can link to her brother and buy his garage band's music. Or I can help out Afghan refugees by purchasing "gifts," such as a virtual United Nations tent for $10.

Influence is the elephant in the chat room. Self-promoting and moneymaking apps are deceptivelydisplacing the gold standard of trust with a fiat currency of clout.

As I watch our kids acquire the habit of thinking and experiencing on behalf of an audience, I worry that they won't develop the wherewithal to effectively relate one-on-one, or to appreciate people as people and not as payoff. I see their Ponzified friend-building schemes and resent the ephemera of new-age amity. To them, friend is a technical term – a time suck.


"A friend to all," said Aristotle, "is a friend to none." We need a renaissance of intimacy and commitment. Now is the time to renew, in our hearts and in our souls and in our First Life experience, the perennial sense that friendship is both miracle and magic, and treat it less as cohort and more as covenant.

Emily Walshe is a librarian and professor at Long Island University in New York.

Alphabet Meme...

A is for your age: 29
B is for your burger of choice: Good thick Meat, ketchup, mustard, big slice onion, tomato, lettuce, pickles.
C is for the car that you drive: Pontiac Montana
D is for dog's name: Don't currently have one.... My favorite childhood dog (a mutt) was named Spots. She was white with black spots...I named her...hey, it's very creative for a six year old!
E is for an essential item you use each day: My contacts (or glasses)
F is for your favorite television show: Good Eats or Iron Chef Japan--depends on the ingredient.
G is for favorite game: Hand and Foot (cards), or Boggle.
H is for hometown: Greenwood

I is for instruments played: Some I play very poorly...so don't get excited...Piano, auto harp, dulcimer, guitar, trumpet, marimba, percussion stuffs, hand bells, my favorite is voice.
J is for favorite juice: Grape juice...especially white.
K is for what you'd like to kick: all allergies from existence.
L is for last restaurant you dined at: Yatz (Cajun restaurant in Indy...yummy yummy spicy) and Cheesecake Factory for dessert...My hubby loves me!!
M is for your favorite Muppet: Beeker and the professor...ask LoverBrain why...something about how super smart he is at work!
N is for number of piercings you have: Two in each ear. Only use one in each anymore...not sure the other two are still open...hummm.
O is for overnight hospital stays: Only when having my babies. I think it was two or three nights each...funny how I can't remember! Some things you think you'll never manage to block out!
P is for people you were with today: My immediate family--mostly the two toddler ones...

Q is for what you do in quiet times: They're rare but...I read my Bible, pray, blog, blurf, and craft...sometimes I clean too...if it's one of those things they'd hinder rather than help with...aka toilets and showers.
R is for regrets: My sharp tongue...my impatience with my sweet boobahs.
S is for status: I'm married...and low on societies list cuz I'm just a stay at home mom...although it makes me feel better to say I'm a Domestic Engineer!
T is for time you woke up today: 4:30 briefly..when LoverBrain left for work...5:45 for good...when Calubby woke up! He's a sad sick boy.
U is for what you consider unique: Double joints...my brother has a double jointed thumb...maybe thumbs...It's just weird...but very unique too...I love you Bro!!
V is for favorite vegetable: I love vegetables so this is hard for me....Every summer in NY I ate my fill of rhubarb chard, peas, squash, green beans...til I was in intestinal woe! HA HA HA! The only ones I can think of that I don't like are lima beans and turnips/parsnips.
W is for your worst habit: Insane earliness. Don't hate me...it IS a curse..trust me! You have to sit and wait for people...
X is for x-rays you have had: My tailbone when I broke it in college...and my head when I was having migraines...Don't worry they didn't find anything! SMILE!!
Y is for yummy food you ate today: Well, there is fresh bread just finishing up...and I'm gonna eat that soon! I had really good coffee this morning but that's not truly food...
Z is for zoo animal: My favorite are the elephants and the giraffes!!

Just for fun Meme...One word answers...

Where is your cell phone? purse
your hair? blond
Your father? David
Your favorite thing? right now, anything warm...
Your dream last night? soothing blackness
Your favorite drink? coffee
Your dream/goal? adoption
The room you are in? study
Your fear? not being a good enough servant of Christ
Where do you want to be in 6 years? teaching third grade again
Muffins? blueberry
One of your wish list items? Macbook Pro
Where you grew up? Upstate New York
The last thing you did? put kids down for a nap
What are you wearing? jeans, brown shirt, long wool sweater
Your TV? flat screen
Your pets? none
Your computer? smellie Dell
Your life? better than I deserve
Your mood? calm
Missing someone? yes
Your car? Pontiac Montana
Favorite store? Joanne's
Your summer? road trips with the toddlers...whoohooo!
Your favorite color? blue and yellow
When is the last time you laughed? today
Last time you cried? last week
Three people who email me? Emily, Shonda, Sonia
Three of my favorite foods? chinese, steak, pecan pie
Three places I would rather be right now? anywhere alone with my hubby, anyplace warm, anyplace green!

Thursday Thirteen...

Thirteen Things I Like About Christmas.... (okay, it's lame...but I can't think of anything else)...

1. This year I enjoy being HOME and not travelling!

2. Lots of smiles!

3. Snow...even if we didn't get any this year.

4. Playing with the stuff you've been looking forward to....especially since as an adult I usually pick my own gift out anyhew!

5. This year we are loving advent...CAN'T WAIT to light the final candle tonight. Pictures are coming!!

6. All the fun Christmas movies on TV at the same time!

7. Relatives close...and calling if they aren't!

8. Grams...she gets her own slot this year cuz she's here in person!

9. Good Christmas books to read...Greatest Christmas Pageant Ever!!!

10. The Bible story...from Luke...always is wonderful!

11. Time with my hubby. It feels like Saturday when he's home! The kids love that!

12. Lots of cookies. They are SOOOOOO good...for you!

13. Remembering the REAL reason for this celebration....the birth of JESUS CHRIST...our LORD...and SAVIOR!!!

Thursday Thirteen is ending...this will be my last one...I guess! This just figures... Everytime I start a new Meme they end it. Maybe it's me...just kidding! Here is their final post...in case you are interested.

Thursday Thirteen...

So, I thought I'd try something new...Thursday Thirteen looked fun and different...I had no idea it was so huge...as they say, "It's more than a Meme, It's a microcosm." I looked up microcosm for ya'll...according to Webster's it means A little world; miniature universe. A relatively small object or system considered as representative of a larger system of which it is a part.

Thirteen of my Favorite Christmas Cookies...in ranked order.

1. Springerlie (This is an old Dutch family recipe...anise flavored..ugly...and very addictive)

2. Raisin Filled Cookies (Jack and Mary Vaughn makes the very best!)

3. Molasses Cookies In our family we argue about Henry C. (my great grandfather's) or Mary V's (family friend family)

4. Jelly Jewels These have a blob of jelly in the middle. In my opinion they should be bite sized and made with jelly that tastes good...not looks good...ie. NO MINT JELLY...yuck!

5. Snickerdoodles Cinnamon and sugar...yummo!

6. Frosted Sugar Cookies I don't want many...but they are fun...Can't wait to do this with Emma this year!

7. Apricot Balls (gluten free--I almost got really sick eating these last year. My Mom made me A LOT of them!)

8. Citrus Macaroons (gluten free--my hubby loves these. They aren't very citrusy...I wonder if I could add an extract.)

9. Pumpkin Cookies (another of my hubby's favorites..of course he loves pumpkin pie so...)

10. Chocolate Crinkles (cuz they are easy and quick to make)

11. Gingerbread Men (yes, men...you have to have legs to bite off too.)

12. Peanut Butter Fingers (yes, I know...not really a cookie but work with me people!)

13. Pecan Pie (I think this is only fair...because well...it should be a cookie!)

Christmas Meme...

I decided to join this Christmas Meme because it is fun. Plus, I'm having blogger's block.



1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?Coffee


2.Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?Santa doesn't bring us presents.


3. Colored lights on house/tree or white?White.


4. Do you hang mistletoe?Nope, but I have a plastic piece I think about hanging each year. I'm not quite sure how to attach it above a doorway.


5.When do you put your decorations up?It used to be the day after Thanksgiving but with advent it was week before.



6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)?Uhhhh...pecan pie. Not only for dessert!



7. Favorite holiday memory as a child?Putting on the real records and decorating the tree together as a family.



8.When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?I had a talk with my Dad in the car. I asked him if Santa was real. He, in typical Dad fashion, answered with a question, "How do we know if something is real or not?" I said, "Well, it would be in the Bible." He nodded. I was silent for a bit...and then asked, "Is Santa in the Bible?" He said, "No." And that was it. I was satisfied with that answer.



9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?Yes--pajamas.



10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?We use gold ribbon from our wedding as garland. All the ornaments we've gathered over time. Some are from my Grandma...and were made by my Mom when she was little! I'm so excited for them to start being made by my own babies!


11. Snow. Love it or dread it?Love it. Well, if I don't have to drive in it.



12. Can you ice skate?Ugh, ouch...NO!



13. Do you remember your favorite gift?I remember dollies...and their names. I had Danielle Grace (a My Child), Ruth Ann (Cabbage Patch I named after my Grandma because she was in the hospital), Janet Louisa, Gregory James (he was bald)...I have some of my old stuffed animals and remember their names too! I had two Wrinkles names Samson and Boaz! Ahhh, the things you remember.



14. What is the most important thing about the holidays to you?
Jesus.



15. What is your favorite holiday dessert?Springerlie. Well, after Pecan pie!



16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Watching Charlie Brown's Christmas.



17. What tops your Christmas tree?A twiggy gold star.



18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving?Giving.



19. What is your favorite Christmas song?O Holy Night.



20. Candy Canes. Yum or Yuck?I want about one a year. I like to suck them 'til they get a sharp point!



21. What do you want for Christmas?Snow...not a gray one!



22. Do you attend an annual Christmas party?There are always church parties, etc.



23. Do you dress up for Christmas Eve or wear PJ's?Dress up for church.



24. Do you own a Santa hat?Nope.



25. Who do you normally spend Christmas with?
Family.

Memory Monday...Romans 12:9-13

I was so excited to hear about this Meme from Kayren and immediately began thinking of which passage I wanted to choose! This is something I've been wanting to do...knowing that I needed to...but not having the gumption or accountability. Thanks for coming up with this idea.

I recently received part of this passage in a letter regarding a sick child. It stuck with me. I want to memorize the entire end of the chapter for next week but here is the first part now.

From Memory: NIV version, emphasis mine

Romans 12: 9-13

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil, cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality."

Meme?

I thought I'd share...I could not figure out what a Meme was? The more "into" the blogging world I got and the more I blurfed about (blog surfing) the more I saw this word...Meme. Was it a word? Was it an acronym? So and so would say, check out this Meme from someone else...etc. There are entire blog sites devoted to these things. So, I asked my blogging guru friend and we had to laugh...cuz she'd just googled it herself. HA! So, since I've had people asking me who are new to the blogging scene as well...

In science, a Meme (pronounced to rhyme with “theme”) is a self-propagating unit of thought that is spread from one host to another. Richard Dawkins invented the term as a kind of idea-gene. Like genes, as Memes spread they mutate or die. Only the fittest Memes survive.

For bloggers Memes have become synonymous with Internet quizzes, surveys, and novelties that people link to and pass around on their blogs, forums and via email, things like the “which superhero are you most like” test…

As Beckie asked, "Clear as mud now?" LOL