The New Year

We have a rule at our house that I cannot buy anything for myself from about October on because, I am told, I am so hard to buy for at Christmas. This year, I broke this rule because I was seeing a client in San Clemente and his office is on a street with the coolest boutique

shops. This plaque was in the window and really spoke to me. I knew I had to have it!

We all try and make resolutions this time of year; some are lofty and unrealistic and some actually hold the possibility of keeping them. One of my resolutions is to remember this saying throughout the year and not let things get me down. Yes, life has bumps in the road for all of us. You can count on it. We control so little of it, really. What we do control is our reaction and how much we let it upset us or eat away at us. It isn't easy to let things roll off our back, especially for a perfectionist like me, but I am going to really work at it.

Other resolutions: to run a 10k in 2010, to go to the movies more....stay tuned to see which resolutions become realities in 2010.

Happy New Year, All!!

Christmas Morning

It was, to state the obvious, a really great Christmas. We tend to overdo the gifts in a big way, but I have decided it is not in a greedy, gluttonous way; it is out of love and wanting to please each other.
This is the first Christmas in many, many years that my son, Tyler, has been here. He said it best when he said he was happy to be the "giver" and not the "receiver" this year. I think we all have mastered the art of being the "giver". We really like to give each other gifts that we know (hope) will be enjoyed. Some are spendy and some are priceless. They are all expressions of the love we feel for each other. Oh, there were a few missteps, duplicates or wrong sizes, but it still does not diminish the spirit in which they were given.
Amber has the added burden of not only her own shopping, but she acts as her dad's "personal shopper" for his gifts to me as well. She always does a great job, some from a "wish list" and some "go out on a limb" gifts. Her efforts are truly appreciated.
When you look at all the gifts you may see them wrapped in paper and bows, I see them wrapped in love - kinda doesn't matter what's inside...

Last Minute Doubts

Every year, I have this moment, right before Christmas, when I have a panic that I have not gotten enough gifts or the right gifts or big enough gifts or whatever!!! We have always gone all out at Christmas. I love the holiday and I love giving gifts to people. I have always said that I would make a good rich person as I love to give, give, give. It makes me happy to see others happy.
My husband, on the other hand, does not love Christmas so much. He says that every day is Christmas at our house. We have been blessed with the ability to get or buy pretty much whatever we want or need any time of the year. He thinks the panic or worry I feel is a big waste of time and energy. On a logical level, I know he is right, but in my heart, I still want it to be wonderful and perfect and joyful for all. We discuss the merits of practical gifts over fun gifts. Guess which side he is on in that one?!?!
In the end, it has always turned out just right with smiles on every one's face Christmas morning. I have to remind myself of that fact. Maddy's preschool teacher last year had a great saying...
"You get what you get and you don't throw a fit!" I think I will borrow that saying for the rest of this week!

Christmas Cards

I love mail. Oh, I know, it is mostly bills and ads, but at this time of year, it also brings cards. I have been making my Christmas cards for 30 years; some years they have been elaborate and some years simple. I get a kick out of incorporating a silly saying into each one and it MUST have a picture. People have told me they have saved all my cards because they enjoy them. It gives me such pleasure to hear this!
When our kids were growing up, getting this special picture (often with props) was never easy. They would complain, moan and just make it difficult. My "darling" idea was not what a pre-teen kid wanted to do. My husband was not much more cooperative, but he knew the force of my ideas and that I would not settle until I had just what I had pictured in my mind. One year, he said to the kids, "Let's just do what she wants so we can get the hell out of here!" Ahhh, I love that Christmas spirit, don't you?
Now, I have three other beautiful creatures to incorporate into my card ideas. I'm not going to lie to you, getting three kids to do what you want, under ANY circumstances, is not easy, let alone for a photo shoot. No matter, I will not give up! As long as I am able, I will continue to think up the silly saying and add the props to make the card. If it brings a smile to your face when you see it, it was worth all the grief!
In case you haven't seen it, here is this year's efforts.

Songs = Memories

I have been listening to Christmas songs pretty much non stop since XM satellite radio started playing them mid Novemeber. I drive a lot for work so I am in the car more than most people. I never get tired of listening to them, whereas, the minute my husband gets in the car, he can't change the channel fast enough! It drives him crazy (Bah Humbug!).

Some of the Christmas music I can do without - barking dogs doing Jingle Bells, but mostly it puts me in good spirits. I sing along in the safety of my car and hope that people who see me, think I am talking on my Bluetooth!

Music has a way of reminding you of moments in your life. Many can probably name the song that was playing the first time they slow danced with someone or at their wedding. Songs remind us of people as well. Each generation has felt some sort of tie to music even as their parents cringed and called it nothing more than "noise". Having grandchildren, I have been lucky enough to revisit some of the oldies but goodies I sang with my own children. I mean, really, who doesn't love "The Wheels on the Bus"?!?!

What's your favorite Christmas song? Is it religious (O Holy Night) or fun (Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer) or something else? No matter, enjoy the season and the joy it offers, even in song.

Angels in Disguise

Angels are everywhere. So often we are too busy to notice or realize their presence, but rest assured, they are still there. Three of my angels are pictured here. They can be loud and messy and very demanding, but they give the best "hug, kiss, lick" you can imagine.

Even if you don't have little angels like these in your life, I bet you have some type of angel. Maybe it's that friend who calls out of the blue just to say hello and it happens to be a really bad day for you. Their voice is just what you needed and you didn't even know it. Or it's the person who let's you jump ahead in line because you only have a few items. It's the smile of a stranger as they hold the door open for you.

Angels don't usually yell; they whisper. They don't come crashing in; their wings flutter lightly. Pay attention so you don't miss the next one.

Kettle Corn

As much as I like to bake, I really am not much of a sweets fan. I am more savory; red wine, smelly olives, salty snacks. I have always enjoyed the combination of sweet and salty you get from kettle corn and I decided to find out how it is made and if I could duplicate it in my own kitchen.

What I discovered is that it is amazingly easy!! It only has 3 ingredients. After a few test runs, I packaged it with my own special flair (thanks to adorable Madeline). Here's the recipe for you to try. You'll have to find your own adorable grand daughter for the label!!!

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup white sugar ( if you use brown sugar, it will taste like caramel corn)

1/2 cup unpopped popcorn kernels

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, stir in the sugar & popcorn. Cover, and shake the pot constantly to keep the sugar from burning. Once the popping has slowed to once every 2 or 3 seconds, remove the pot from the heat and continue to shake for a few seconds. Pour into a large bowl. cool completely, stirring occasionally to break up large clumps.

Find a super cute kid, dress him or her in a chef's hat & other props. Take photo & make copies to put on the bags of kettle corn. Give to people you like, love or want to gloat to about your cute kid!!!

Outdoor Lights

There are so many wonderful ways to get in the Christmas spirit. One is to drive around and look at lights. The little ones get so excited looking out the car window and their enthusiasm is infectious. We have a few neighborhoods that go absolutely crazy with lights and animated decorations in their front yards that they literally cause a traffic jam with people driving by to see. Even in these tough economic times, many people still go all out. I read an article about a local man who said his electric bill goes from $150/month to $600/month during the holidays because he has so many lights. Asked why he does it when it costs so much, he said he watches the delighted faces of the people who drive by and it gives him so much joy, it's worth every penny.
Even if you don't have little ones, try and find time to seek out those streets in your neighborhood that have "over the top" displays. I think the beauty and magic of the lights will enhance your joy this season. Couldn't we all use a little more joy??

Pay It Forward

This week, I drove through Starbucks and when I got to the front, I asked the clerk what the person behind me had ordered. He said it was hot chocolate. I told him I wanted to pay for it and when that person got to the window, tell them to "Pay It Forward". It caused several smiles among the workers at the window. One girl said that she was working once when it went for 31 cars; each person paying for the one in front of them and saying "Pay It Forward". How is that for random acts of kindness??
We often think we can't give BIG and ,therefore, we don't give at all. I disagree. Any small kindness shown to another person can make their day. We never know what is going on in someone's life, but usually, we all have our struggles and strife. Showing a small kindness could make their day, especially coming from a total stranger. All I know is I felt great after doing this small thing and driving away, never having spoken to the recipient. Give it a try some time. I promise it will make your day better, along with theirs.

Cookies

"A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand!"

Every year I set aside a weekend to do my Christmas baking. It is a lot of work, but also so much fun. I did not pass on the baking gene to my daughter, but I think I have succeeded in passing it on to granddaughter, Madeline. She loves to help me in the kitchen, especially if it involves licking a spoon or bowl at the end!
I try and do both tried and true cookies that I have been making for 30 years as well as adding a couple of new recipes as well. The list year consists of: spritz cookies, candy cookies, lemon dimples (new & awesome!), rod pretzels dipped in chocolate & sprinkles, cranberry & white chocolate cookies, brownies made with coconut, and the family all time favorite - wreath cookies. When the kids were growing up, I could not make enough of these. All they are are sugar cookies cut out with a donut cutter, frosted green with tiny cinnamon candies. My least favorite cookies are ones that have to be cut out as they are so much time and work. Of course, they would be the family favorite!
This year, I was going to buy Peppermint Bark from William Sonoma but had second thoughts when I read that it was $26!!! Surely, I could figure out how to make it myself. I love Google!!! You can find just about anything there and I did find an easy (4 ingredients!!) recipe for peppermint bark. Everyone who tried my first batch raved about it so it will now be part of my annual baking.
If you ask people about holiday traditions, baking is often a big part of it. They recall fondly a recipe their mother or grandmother made year after year, and some things she ONLY made at Christmas which made them even more special. When I am long gone, I hope part of my children's and grandchildren's memories include those darn wreath cookies and how they were made with love for them.

Piggies

Anyone who knows me, knows I collect pigs. They are all over the house in various forms. This time of year, my special Christmas pigs emerge. The big pink one is outside the entry windows and is lit up. He is peeking out from the plants.

The picture on the right is of a new ornament display I bought this year. Crate and Barrel used these sliver things to display their ornaments that were for sale, however, the actual hanger was NOT for sale. They had so many requests from customers to buy them, they finally started making them for sale. I saw them last year and didn't buy one. When their catalog came this year, I decided it would be my "To: ME From: ME" gift. I think that is how you add to your decorations, a little each year. I love this one because I can change what is hanging from it each time it is displayed. This first year, I decided that the piggie ornaments get the honor. That's the great thing about Christmas and decorating. There are no rules, just have fun with it. Again, as I said in a previous post, we don't do "formal", we do "fun" at the Svobodas. I once had someone new come to my home and she told me she had never seen a house with so many whimsical things! I took that as a great complement. This stressful, busy world could use a little more whimsical. If you need a dose, stop on by!

The Tree

"Never worry about the size of the tree. To a child, they are all 30' tall!"

Each year, putting the ornaments on the tree is like having a visit with old friends. As I place each one, it helps me recall where it came from, who gave it to me, a trip we took, etc. Each holds its own story. Some of the ornaments are really past their prime (aren't many of us, as well??), but I cannot part with them. The ones made by my children when they were small still command special locations on the tree--front and center.
I see decorated trees in magazines that are all color coordinated perfectly with matching ornaments and the perfectionist in me really admires them. I just can't bring myself to create a tree with that look. Our tree is a mish mash of fancy and homemade and, in that, reflects the personality of our family--far from perfect, somewhat lopsided, colorful and original.
What's your favorite ornament on your tree?

Gift Tags

This year, instead of regular "To - From" tags, I decided to try something a little different. I made black and white copies of photos of the person that the gift is for and I backed them with red paper. If your picture is on the gift, it belongs to you! This was a BIG hit with the babies when they came over last night to see the tree. They could tell right away which ones were for them; no reading necessary! They loved it!! I think it is different and fun, even if you are a grown up. Check out the pictures. Do you see YOUR picture any where??? :)

The Countdown Begins...

Well, the food baby in my belly from Thanksgiving has started to subside. That means it time to get serious about Christmas--my favorite time of year!
Most of the outside lights are up, the inside is decorated in just about every room and the tree went up today. I am planning on blogging a lot more because I have some fun ideas for Christmas that I would like to share. I will try and attach photos to go along with the ideas so you can get a visual as well.
First, though, I would like to say how much it annoys be that store clerks say, the ever politically correct, "Happy Holidays". I always reply, Merry Christmas". I don't understand what is wrong with saying it. I celebrate Christmas and I want to wish people happiness of the season. I would not be insulted if someone said "Happy Kwanzaa" to me if that is what they celebrated. They would just be sharing their holiday with me.
Last year, when I replied "Merry Christmas" to a store clerk they thanked me for saying it and said how much they would rather be saying "Merry Christmas" than "Happy Holidays" but they were afraid to offend. Can it really offend when it starts with "Merry"????
I challenge you to tell people "Merry Christmas" wherever you go in the next month. Spread your holiday cheer ...and politically correct be damned!! :)

"PA"

My husband is the best grandpa in the whole world! That may seem like a biased opinion, but I think there are many people in this world who would agree with me.
When he first became a Grandpa with the birth of Madeline, it became clear very quickly that he was totally in love with this little creature and would do anything for her. She is the one that named him "Pa" and it has stuck. All three grand kids call him "Pa" except, lately, the littlest, Abbey, has started to call him "Papa". It makes your heart melt to hear her say it.
The kids all took their turn at classes at Little Gym. With both Maddy & Jack, Pa would occasionally take them instead of mommy. He sang the songs, chased them around, etc. He finally got his turn to take Abbey today. The picture above screams LOVE to me. Look how he placed her shoes on top of his. Here is this big, middle aged man in his socks, playing along with his granddaughter. For 45 minutes she is the entire focus of his world and she knows it. Who among us can say we get some one's undivided attention for 45 minutes very often?
Some might think he is the kid's favorite because he gives them everything they want (and he does), but I don't think that is really it. What he gives them is him, his time, his attention. Where we would hand them a puzzle to occupy their time, he sits down and works the puzzle with them. He doesn't just go outside and read his paper while they swing, he pushes, and pushes, and pushes, and pushes them some more. He knows what really matters and it is these children. Shiny, new toys grow boring quickly. Pa's undivided attention is the gift that keeps on giving. They are like little flowers that blossom under his sun. We are all warmed by watching it.
That's why he's the best grandpa in the whole world!

Golden Moments

I am always reminding myself not to miss life's "Golden Moments". You may think a Golden Moment is something big, fancy, or expensive. No way! Golden moments are the small, little things that occur in a day that we often mistake for ordinary, mundane, and no big deal.
Here are a few of my latest Golden Moments: I walked in the house and Abbey (age not even 2) yells "Gammie" and runs to my arms. Jack and I were sitting on the couch watching a movie and when he sat down he inched as close to me as he could and put his head on me. Maddy told me she loved to bake things with me because I always her her lick the spoon. My husband and I were out for breakfast and just before we left I went to use the bathroom. When I came back he had ordered me an iced tea to go. He remembered I love to get an iced tea to go after we have breakfast.
See, I told you they were small and ordinary things. That is why they are so easy to miss. In our busy, fast paced world, we often run right past a Golden Moment without taking a second to acknowledge it and enjoy it. When we do that, we miss so much. We miss the very essence of what makes life precious.
Anybody can have a Golden Moment on an expensive vacation, out to a fancy dinner, etc. The challenge is to find the Golden Moments in the ordinary day. Suddenly, the ordinary is quite extraordinary.

Thanksgiving -- Thanks Living

With Turkey Day looming in a little over a week, I thought I'd write about the concept of being thankful. For me, I know I have an abundance of things to be thankful for...a husband who puts up with the "crazy me", a daughter who is also my best friend, a son who is, after a long absence, trying to be part of our family, grandchildren who make me smile every day, friends who love and care about me, a job with automatic deposit every Friday, a beautiful home with more things than we possibly need. The list goes on and on. So, why is it so hard to be thankful? Wishing for more... better...things to be different ...seems to take up more time than thoughts of thankfulness. It has been said that one cannot be asking and thanking at the same time. Prayers requesting things of God are five times greater than prayers thanking God!
I challenge all of us to find something to be thankful for today. Really stop and think of one thing, or three or five. When we take the time to create an"inventory of thankful", we feel much happier. WOW...that was easy! Try it!

T.G.I.F.

You are probably wondering why I am writing TGIF on a Sunday night when everyone knows TGIF stands for Thank Goodness It's Friday. Well, I am changing it to This Grammie Is Fabulous!!!
I am new to texting and all the abbreviations that go with it. I am often confused. Someone wrote ROFLMAO (rolling on the floor laughing me a** off!) and I had to call my daughter and ask her what it meant. I think this might be the demise of correct spelling and grammar! Young people "get" what all these lettters mean, but not me. I have to think and think to figure it out. Sometimes, I don't! So, I wanted to prove a point, what you may think is so transparent and simple, may not be for others. Don't assume people know what you mean. They may not get it.
So, the next time you see TGIF, think of me and remember, This Grammie Is Fabulous!!! :)

Obituaries

I know I am getting older, because I read the obituaries every morning over my coffee. First, I check the age. If they are over 75, I can justify their name being there. My daughter and I call over 75 "bonus time". Seventy five sounds like a good, long life; anything less and I worry. Next, I check names to see if any are familiar to me. God, forbid I find the name of someone my own age or, worse yet, someone I know. As time goes by, it is happening more and more. It always startles me. A name in an alphabetical list that says so little, but is, oh so final.
So, what's the lesson? That old adage about living each day as if it were my last? Well, let me tell you, if it were my last, I'd be doing a whole lot of things differently.
I'd take a vacation with my husband and family. The heck with work and school, it's our last. I'd throw the biggest party you've ever seen. I'd have it catered and give everyone gifts. We'd dance and sing and laugh. I'd eat anything I wanted and not count calories or fat grams because there would be no fear of turning into a fat, old lady; or old anything, for that matter. The list goes on and on.
There is only one problem. I may be blessed with tomorrow, and maybe another one after that as well. If I spend all my money on that vacation and that party, what will I do when the first of the month rolls around and the house payment is due? Whoops, sorry mortgage company, I was living each day like it was my last. The grandkids are now behind in school because they were on that vacation. We all lost our jobs because we up and took off. Whoops, sorry education and responsibility, I was living each day like it was my last.
So, the dilemma remains - today, the only day, or many todays?? Most of us hope for many todays. This calls for creating balance in our life every day. Yes we need to have our feet firmly planted in today, but also set our sights on the horizon ahead. We need to be awake and aware enough not to miss the small "golden moments" that happen to each of us all the time. Waiting for something or someone to make us happy in the future, is just that, waiting. Find the bright spot in today, no matter how hard you have to look for it sometimes. It is there. And remember, if we wait to be happy, we may wait forever. If we decide to be happy today, we will be happy forever.

Confessions of An Online Shopper

I am a computer dinosaur. That is what my kids call me. When anything weird pops up on the computer and I have to call my IT person, Amber, to fix it, her first question is always the same, "What did you do?!?!"
That said, I am a wizard at online shopping! I love it and do so much of my Christmas shopping online that, last year, my husband asked me if I was having an affair with the UPS man because his truck was here so often! I always tell him that they are Christmas presents, but, I confess, sometimes they are for me. The feeling I get when I get home from work and see a box on the front porch is nothing short of giddy. When I am home, see his truck and all he does is circle the cul-de-sac, I am SO disappointed. How dare he come down my street and not stop at MY house!
The Internet is the greatest for price comparisons and checking out so many things. I never push the "Send Order Now" button until I have Googled any coupons the site may have. I usually get free shipping, 25% off, or something for free. F - R - E - E is one of my favorite words!!
If you ever need advise on the best sites for different things, best prices, most reliable companies, etc, ask me. I think I have a Masters Degree in online shopping, but don't tell my husband!

Feet

I guess I have feet on my mind more these days because of running. With all the miles I am racking up, mine should probably hurt more than they do. I have ugly feet. Are there really any PRETTY feet? I haven't seen many.

Anyways, to make my ugly feet a little better, Amber and I went to the most interesting nail salon. They specialize in painting your toes in these intricate designs. I can hardly describe how many different things they paint on toes. It took us ages to decide what to have them do on ours. They have designs by seasons and we wanted something "Fall-ish". Check out the pictures and see what you think. We can't wait for next month with all the Christmas designs. We even sat there and thought of something for every month next year. It is not cheap, but it lasts an entire month! I may have to wear open toed shoes all winter just to show them off!!!

I Run vs I'm a Runner

Today was the Dinosaur Dash in Tustin. It marks the 7th 5K I've run since I started in March.
Back story: Never in my wildest imagination did I think I would start running. I have always hated sports of any kind. Give me a good book any day. Last winter, I made my annual visit to see my friend in Texas. She is, ahem, my OLDER friend and she is running 10ks, 1/2 marathons and full marathons. She inspired me. I came home and got the wild notion to start running and train for a 5K. Sean, my son-in-law (totally in shape gym rat!), said he'd do it with me. We ran 3 mornings a week and ran our first race in March. My goal them was to just finish. My time was 34:34. I felt awful during the race, but wonderful after the race. I definitely caught the bug.
I have run several more races and have improved my time considerably, but, being the crazy competitive person that I am, I wanted to break 30:00. My supportive, but blunt husband reminds me that I am not a world class runner and I don't have a runner's body (read boobs and curves!) He wants me to enjoy it for what it is, great exercise and not be so hard on myself.
When I am driving my car and see people running, I want to jump out and run with them! I now have a subscription to "Runner's World" which I look forward to almost as much as People Magazine! People ask me, "When did you become a runner?" I always say I am not a runner, I am someone who runs. Calling myself a runner seems too presumptuous.
Well, today I ran my heart out and I finished with, what runner's call, a new PR (personal record), 28:27. As my son-in-law would say, I crushed my time!! A friend finished the race before me and waited til she saw me heading for the finish line. She ran out and got in my face and told me to, push, push, push. I thought I couldn't, but I DID IT!!! I was almost sick ( read barf) afterwards. I started to cry. It took me much longer to recover than other races, but I did recover. I felt on top of the world. Today, I decided I AM A RUNNER!

Pet Peeves

We all have them. Little things that make us cringe or angry or push our buttons. I have been thinking about this lately and I know what my two main pet peeves are.
First, I am appalled at the incorrect use of the English language. I really feel like our schools have failed many people. Take a look at Facebook and you will find the biggest offense used constantly - "your". Now, if I am talking about your car, or your books, that is correct, but people are constantly using "Your so nice." "Your welcome." ARGHHHH!! It is, "You are so nice." "You are welcome." If you want to shorten it, it is "You're" not "your". Guess what people, spell check is not catching this and it is just wrong, wrong, wrong!! It ranks right up there with "Me and Jane are going somewhere." Years ago, I was driving in the car with my son and one of his friends and my son said, "You'll have to excuse my mom; she corrects every one's English." He was right! I couldn't help myself and I did it all the time. As a result, both of my children speak VERY correct English. It is no different than teaching them table manners, in my opinion.
Second, I am always annoyed when people do not use their turn signals. I drive a lot for my job and it is annoying and, sometimes, downright dangerous when you don't use a turn signal. I have a college degree, but I forgot to take MIND READING 101. I don't know what you are going to do just because you do!!! Help others out and be courteous. Use your turn signals!! Such a small thing but so helpful to others.
So, in conclusion, if "you're" reading this, please use "your" turn signals. There, two pet peeves solved in one motion!! :)

Holiday Madness

Someone sent me this cartoon today and I laughed out loud. Anyone who has been in my house knows that all holidays get recognized in a big way with decorations every where. Right now we are full of Halloween spirit with pumpkins, ghosts, and witches galore! Soon, the jack-o-lanterns will disappear and turkeys will take their place. The day after Thanksgiving, I begin the three day long adventure of decorating for Christmas. Yes, it really takes me three days to get it all set up. A few years ago, someone said to me, "I am so sick of decorating for Christmas." I replied, "I have one word for you - GRANDCHILDREN!" Seeing everything through their eyes makes it all new again. Their wonder and joy rekindles your own wonder and joy. It is worth all the time and energy it takes to put it all out.
Maybe that is the answer for so many of life's situations. As we grow older, we tend to become weary or disenchanted or just plain tired. If we take the approach of little children, small things become big amazements for them. Children don't see the dandelion as a weed; they see it as a flower. They rush into each day with the expectation that it will bring fun and laughter. And, guess what? It usually does!

One Word

A few months back, my husband and I were out for dinner and he was describing someone he works with occasionally and he used just one word. I then made the mistake of asking him what one word would he use to describe me. After almost 35 years of marriage, I should know better. My husband is VERY smart, but he does not like to be forced to answer anything quickly. He likes to ponder things, weigh his options and then make decisions. I, on the other hand, like to "pull the trigger quickly". I ended up getting totally angry with him that he could not come up with "my" word and we ended up finishing dinner in silence.
I related this story to my daughter and she said, "I know your word, mom. Your word is "determined".. Ah, I love that girl. I also told this story to Aunt Cathy, and, she immediately responded, "Your word is "generous". See, women are attuned to these games and they can jump right in and play!
A week later, on our anniversary, my husband gave me a card. As I opened it, he said, your "word" is on there. I thought he had long forgotten my silly question and was surprised when I read it: To My "Amazing" Wife.... He may not have responded when I wanted him to to, but I have to admit, it was worth the wait.
So, what's the one word you would use to describe the people in your life? Maybe you should tell them their word....

Ok, Readers...Identify Yourself!!!

I have been noticing that people are actually reading my blog and I can't tell you how pleased that makes me, however, no one is leaving comments except my daughter, Amber. I asked some people about this and they said it was difficult or confusing or you have to register...whatever!! I am a dinosaur and don't know much about computers. Thank God for Amber, my IT wizard!! She has promised to change the comment portion so you can easily post a comment without an account or signing in or anything. I would love the feedback and comments. Even if you disagree with me or have a different point of view, it would be interesting to hear from you...whom ever you are...you silent blog readers!! :)

Jack E. Boy

I took this picture of Jack over the weekend because I was taking pictures of Maddy for a project (more on that in another blog) and he insisted I take one of him as well. As you can see, he is never far from his hockey stick and puck. People probably think he is being pushed into hockey because his dad grew up playing it and works in hockey. Not so! This boy just LOVES it!!! You also have to notice the chocolate all over his face.

"Boys are noise with dirt on it." Jack is ALL boy!!!

Anyone who knows me, knows I LOVE holidays and decorating. This is the beginning of the season of holidays. Amber & I went to a fun boutique last week and she MADE me buy this silly hat. I won't tell you how much it costs; let's just say I was caught up in the moment with my daughter, laughing and having fun. Therefore, "hat bought with daughter = priceless"! She and I seem to have fun whatever we are doing. How did I get so lucky that my daughter grew up to be my best friend???

Appreciation & Cooperation

Recently, I read a story where a woman said the two things she wanted to teach her children were appreciation & cooperation. If you think about it, those two traits can get you through life pretty well.
APPRECIATION: When you are appreciating things, it's hard to be complaining at the same time. It is so easy to see the dust on the table rather than the flowers in the vase on that same table. For me, ever the perfectionist, I am too often seeking the "perfect moment" rather than finding a slice of perfection in the messy movement of a regular day. I need to apprecaite more and complain less. Not only will I be happier, I bet those around me may breathe a sigh of relief as well!
COOPERATION: Being a "doer", I tend to plow ahead and just make it happen. I identify with the saying, "I'm not bossy. I just have better ideas." We all have something to contribute to this life. Others may just be waiting for their chance to be heard. I need to listen more and talk less. You know, two ears, one mouth....

Bad Grammie

OK, so Amber & Sean went to Las Vegas for a few days and I am staying with the three kids. I was somewhat apprehensive about it as I know they don't have great sleeping habits. As it turns out, sleeping through the night has been the easy part. It's the awake hours that have been tough!
I planned baking cookies, crafts, stories, glow sticks for the bathtub, a new ring toss game and more. Each of these things have brought a lot of giggles and fun...but it's only lasted a few minutes. In between these activities, I have turned into a shrill referee trying to keep them from clobbering each other. I like to run a tight ship. Where did I go wrong? I'm the cool, fun grammie, aren't I? I always have a trick up my sleeve to grab their attention. What I wish I had up my sleeve was a flask!!! Just kidding....uh, yah, just kidding...
I love my grandchildren more than anything and I hope they know that fact. I want them to think of me as fun and loving, not the "behavior police". I want to turn in my badge!! I even told Amber I'd do it again....when they are 12, 10 & 8!!! :)

Compliment vs Criticism

"We remember a compliment for about three and a half days, but we hold on to a criticism for months."
I read this quote yesterday and it had stayed with me. I have always said that human nature is slow to compliment and quick to criticize. To think that our words can be such a force in someone else's life is kind of scary.
My five year old granddaughter has the BEST self esteem. If you tell her she looks beautiful she says, "I know." If you tell a 15 year old she looks nice, she would probably say her hair wasn't right, she wished she weighed less, the dress is old, and on and on... What happens to us between five and fifteen? We slowly let go of loving ourselves so much. I often brush off people's compliments when a simple "thank you" is the appropriate response.
I challenge you to pay a compliment to three people you meet in your day. It has to be genuine because a fake compliment is worthless. Think of the simple joy you can give and it costs you nothing. I bet it comes back to you tenfold.

Running

I have been asked by several people over the last few months, "Why did you start running?" I wish I knew the answer, but I really don't.
I have always hated things I am not good at right away & I have always hated athletics. I don't even like to go and watch any kind of sporting event unless someone I know personally is playing. I go for the food!
Last February, I got it in my head to try running a 5K. Up until that point my "running" experience included a slow jog on my treadmill now & then at best. I asked my son-in-law if he would be interested in doing one with me. He, very enthusiastically, said yes! We mapped out a 3.1 track around our houses and started training at 5:30am 2 or 3 mornings a week. In the beginning, I could only run a little and walk the rest. I felt like my lungs were going to explode! I hated it! Why did I start this?? I am not a quitter so I had to see it through to the first race.
March 22, 2009, we ran our first 5K together. It was pouring rain, my hip hurt terribly, BUT I finished!!! I felt so proud of myself.
Since then, I have run in five more races, some with Sean & some without. I run outside, in the early morning, 3 or 4 times a week. When his schedule allows, he runs with me, otherwise I run alone. It is my favorite time of the day. It is cool and peaceful and I just run & think. It has become something of a obsession. If I skip a couple of days, I get edgy to go run. When I am driving my car and I see someone running, I long to be out there running as well. WHO KNEW?!?! If someone had told me a year ago that I'd be running 5Ks, I would have told them they don't know me very well & that is a crazy idea.
This brings up a good point. How well do we know ourselves? So often early labels stick with us our whole lives. I was always "the smart one", not the athlete. Maybe we don't change those early labels that make up who we are, but we can ADD a label or two, can't we?
Maybe you can teach an old dog (or an old grammie) new tricks!!

Sleep

I have been thinking a lot about sleep lately. Through so many stages of your life, sleep evades you for different reasons. When you have that newborn bundle of joy, sleep is definitely in short supply. You get through most days bleary eyed and more than feeling a little numb. My poor daughter has had three kids in five years and she cannot remember what a full night's sleep even feels like. I remember putting my head on the pillow one night when my babies were tiny and a big alligator tear escaping down my cheek. "What's wrong?", asked my husband. "I am NEVER going to feel well rested again!," I sobbed.
As they grew up, little by little sleep returns to normal...until they get their driver's license. I always said I could not fall asleep until all the chicks were in the nest. That was the time when my idea of a late night was 10:00pm and their idea of an early night was leaving for the movies at 10:00pm! Quiet as they might have tried to be, I heard them come in every time!
Now my "babies" are grown ups and on their own. Sleep should be easy to come by, right? HA! Enter menopause! I can't remember the last time I slept through the whole night. I wake out of a sound sleep, sometimes boiling hot, throw off the covers and try to settle back down. Later, I get cold because the covers are off and being chilled wakes me again! And some nights, this pattern repeats itself again and again.
Hmmm, maybe old, menopausal grammies should be taking care of new babies---they are both up off and on all night!!! Now that's a thought...
Sleep well tonight & don't forget to appreciate it!

OAK VS WILLOW

I have been a "mighty oak" most of my life. I have made a plan and been rigid in executing that plan. I have fought long and hard over something I believed. I have preached, pushed, debated, and convinced others that my way was the only way. I have made a point of always being "right".
Boy, am I tired!
It has finally come to me that I have spent all this time and all this energy, but so much of life happens as it is going to happen anyways. Someone said to me once that they only worry about the things that they can control and the older they get, they realize that they control very little. At twenty years old, those were only words. At fifty five years old, they become gospel.
So, I am less and less a "mighty oak". I am trying to be more of a "willow". The willow has its strength, even as it bends in the wind. I choose my battles more carefully. I care less about being right than being happy. Right was often a scratchy suit of wool. Happy is a soft, fuzzy blanket. Both keep you warm, but one feels much better on the skin.

What Would You REALLY Like to Do?

I have often fantasized about what I would like to do if I didn't need to have a job and make money. My dream has always been to start a foundation. It would be called the "Everybody's Got a Story" Foundation. There are plenty of big foundations that give away millions. I am thinking on a much smaller scale. This foundation would let every day people tell their story and their immediate need. It could be as small as a new pair of shoes for one of their kids, rent money for a month because they have been sick, the makings of a birthday party for their child complete with hats, horns & the ingredients to bake a cake. Nothing earth shaking except to the person who has the need. We can do small things with great love (Mother Teresa) and by making that small difference to someone, we remind them & ourselves that people DO care about other people. Some of these people may pay back the foundation when they could afford to do so, thereby helping to continue the good deeds for others. Giving feels better than getting. A girl can fantasize, can't she??

Blog Newbie

Ok, so I feel like the blogging world is passing me by, so I decided to start one myself. My daughter not only blogs, but has a beautiful website that she uses to record life's big and small events. I felt left out so here I go...
I read a book a while ago that said a grandmother's job was to: gaze, praise and be amazed when it comes to her grandchildren. Well, my three grandchildren allow me plenty of reasons to do just that on a regular basis. They can make me laugh at the drop of a hat. They can melt my heart with a little hand wrapped around my neck. They can make me hunt for ear plugs with their boisterous yelling. And I wouldn't change a minute of it. I have loved people in my life before...but NEVER like this!