From Inside the Fishbowl

Cookies and Beads

2010-07-31T15:32:00.005-05:00

'If you give a mouse a cookie . . . he'll need a glass of milk.' That's how the story begins with the rest of the story based on if you give him a glass of milk then he'll need _____.

Well, I have discovered that when you try to fix a bracelet you'll need to find a store. When you buy the rings to fix the bracelet, you find that there are all sorts of cute rings, strings of beads, and classes that you can take to do it.

Two classes later, a pretty green case with tools, a new magazine, spool of wire and beads and suddenly I'm elbow deep in "beading." Tim has been laughing at me (in a good way - not in a "your nuts" way) and sat down today and "ooohed and ahhhhed" over all of my purchases. I secretly think he wants to take a class too.

I have much more to say on this subject but I'll wait until later. I need to go . . . the beads are calling.

My new bracelet - it's a medic-alert bracelet. Fun to make and fun to wear.

Cha Cha Cha

2010-07-25T21:50:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to me, cha cha cha.

Yes, this picture is of my mom and dad bringing me home from the hospital. I was the first girl. My dad was one of 3 boys, my uncle had 2 boys, so I think they all thought I was going to be one too. It was a happy day in the McCullough household until they realized that their little girl had a very active bladder. My dad thought he had polio from hanging up all the diapers on the laundry line. :)

I guess one has to excel at something. (wink)

July's Birthday Girls

2010-07-22T21:41:00.002-05:00

The summer brings so much fun and excitement. Part of that fun is celebrating birthdays and there are two little girls who are one year older this month. Kristen's daughter, Little Allison Margaret, turned one year old last Saturday. Nana made her a little butterbean dolly and a blanket to go with it.

Brandon's daughter, Kyra Jean, turned three on Monday. Nana made her a little butterbean dolly and a blanket to go with it too. I didn't get to spend the day with Kyra but I did send a picture of T-Fish and I with the gift so maybe she will know who we are.

Here are two pictures of the little birthday girls.

Kyra Jean - 3years old

Allison Margaret - 1 year old

My Affections

2010-06-29T22:39:00.004-05:00

I have been reading some devotional classics and came across a few thoughts by Jonathon Edwards (1703-1758). In the excerpts from ‘Religious Affections’ he mentioned how “the work of religion has been compared to the doing of exercise”. Metaphors like ‘running the race,’ ‘wrestling with God,’ ‘striving for the great prize,’ and ‘fight the good fight’ are often used in describing the exercises we engage in.” He went on to say how “babes in Christ” aren’t used to exercising their faith. But the spirit of God gives us the strength to overcome these weaknesses.

“Our inclination is to be inactive unless we are influenced by some affection: love or hatred, desire or hope, fear etc. These affections are the “spring of action,” the things that set us moving in our lives. If we were to take away these affections, the world would be motionless and dead. There would be no activity.”

I thought about this quite a bit over the past couple of day. What are my “affections?” What motivates me to get up and do things? Without “religious affection” would I do the things I do? Would I be a believer in Christ? Would I have built my life’s foundation on the belief that he was the son of God, lived a sinless life, died a cruel death, rose again 3 days later, and now lives? Would I have a hope of a life beyond this one and spend it with Jesus and with God? If I didn’t have a religious “affection,” would I lie, cheat, steal, rob banks, rip the tags off of mattresses? Would I curse? Cheat on my taxes? How would my life be different if I didn’t have a religious affection, or a belief in God?

Would I be the person I am today?

What about my children?

How would things be different?

For Some Time Now

2010-06-28T08:25:00.002-05:00

For some time now I’ve been thinking about my devotional times on my deck. I miss them.

For some time now I’ve been thinking about my devotional times on the back porch in grandma’s glider spending early morning time with God and my cup of coffee.

For some time now, since I’ve moved to Texas, I’ve missed my devotional time with God. It’s because it is either too hot to sit outside in the morning or I don’t have a peaceful place for contemplation or I don’t feel like journaling, or I have trouble concentrating on my prayers etc. etc. etc.

I need my time with God like I need my time with Tim, my parents, my sisters, my children, my grandchildren, my friends, and my Facebook friends. I need to be connected, I need to share my life with him, my burdens, my joys, my sufferings. I am neglecting my relationship to the one who created relationships – how sad is that?

So, I grabbed a devotional book, my bible, my journal and my favorite cup of coffee and spent time with God today. I will be sharing some of the thoughts and conversations with you over time but for now – I’m just excited about starting my day off saying “Good Morning” to the one who created me.

Family of the Heart

2010-06-26T21:00:00.005-05:00

I wanted to post these two pictures of my Indiana family. I may not be family by blood or by law but we are still family in our hearts. They are my children's grandparents and we share many, many wonderful memories.

This is one of the best pictures I've seen of them! The photographer took a beautiful picture and I just had to share it with you.

This picture is of Dick, Margaret and Darren's family and Dana's family. Dean is missing as are Kristen and Brandon and their families. Another fabulous picture of everyone.

What a wonderful family.

2010-06-24T22:55:00.005-05:00

We tried a new place tonight – Fuego Tortilla Grill. It was delicious! Homemade flour and corn tortillas, rotisserie chicken, pulled pork, grilled steak, cucumbers/onions, pico, white cheddar queso (creamy melted pepper jack cheese w/ roasted poblano peppers), and fresh guacamole, Mexican sweet corn (Chipotle mayo, tomato, cilantro, onion, chili and lime) charro beans (tasty!), and lots of bubbly soft drinks. (deep sigh) It was heaven.

I also heard that they have breakfast tacos – eggs, sausage, etc wrapped in a soft tortilla. I may have to try it too.

Oh! Tim was talking to a couple in line behind us and they had been there 4 times in a week (this was Thursday) and they highly recommended it. I can see why. I think this place will be a hopping little joint.

Um, um good.

Crepe Myrtles

2010-06-22T19:49:00.005-05:00

Iowa grows many wonderful things but they do not grow plants that are sensitive to cold weather. One of Tim’s relatives had not heard of crepe myrtles and it dawned on me that I had never heard of one either until I lived in the south.

I discovered that the name is actually "crape" myrtle but some use "crepe" because the flowers have a crinkled tissue paper look. The crepe myrtle's flowers appear in mid-summer and last until frost.

I thought I would post some pictures of the local crepe myrtles in our little city in Texas so that Tim's Iowa relatives can see just how pretty they are.

These pictures were taken by my friend, Vickie T. Enjoy.

It's Miller Time!

2010-05-27T20:18:00.005-05:00

OUR FRIENDS ARE COMING, OUR FRIENDS ARE COMING!!!! John and Lori are coming to visit tomorrow and T-Fish and I are very excited about it, can you tell?

This is their 3rd Annual Texas Miller/Fish Visit.

We go check out local restaurants, shop, visit, hang out, and sing show tunes or church hymns in four part harmony (cause we're a bunch of geeks) and dog-gone-it we sound pretty good. As my dad would say: "It's not braggin' when it's a statement of fact."

I think this time we are going to go check out Galveston or we could just stay home. We're gonna talk about it over mexican food, tamales, chips and salsa, tea, and maybe a dessert - who knows?

OUR FRIENDS ARE COMING, OUR FRIENDS ARE COMING.

A Small Group

2010-05-02T19:53:00.004-05:00

It has been 2 months since we've formed our small bible study group and it has been an enjoyable way to study with each other, meet new people and visit some great restaurants.

Tonight as I looked at our small group sitting around the restaurant table, I was surprised by the different mix of people that have come together. Most of us describe ourselves by what we do . . . a dentist, a principal, a business owner, some teachers, administrative assistants, an elevator man (wink), and agricultural engineer. I'm sure I have missed one but there are all types of occupations and interests sitting together. We are not related. We do not work together. Some of us are new to the area, some have been here all their lives. The one thing that binds us together, and in some instances binds closer than blood family, is our love for Jesus Christ.

While we ate, we discussed families, jobs, interests, grand babies, nitrogen, farming, elevator grease, food, and Keifer Sutherland. Something awesome happened. We began to be more than just a group of professions . . . we began to share our lives. I know that one couple is expecting a new grand baby, a son is getting married, there is a vacation being planned, a health and wellness presentation going on next weekend, and on and on.

From this evening of laughing, eating and sharing, we'll spend more evenings opening up our Bibles and discussing how we will apply what we read to our lives. How the verses shape our thoughts, our attitudes, our faith, our relationships to not only each other but to Jesus.

I walked out the door tonight thinking that the writer of Hebrews knew what he was saying when he suggested that we not give up being with each other because that is how we encourage each other.

Some days we need the encouragement.
Some days we are the encourager.

As Seen On TV

2010-04-15T22:55:00.006-05:00

I am such a sucker!!! I hate to admit this - but I LOVE infomercials. LOVE them. I dont' know why. I just think maybe, maybe this time, it will really work.

Sometimes it's the shpeel done by Billy Mays (may he rest in Oxyclean) or Vince. Or maybe it's all the stuff you can get for $19.95. I don't know.

Tim bought ShamWows for all of our family because he loved the commercials and we thought Vince was a hoot! We didn't order the Slap Chop because I already have a Pampered Chef one. (although I might have ordered it just because of the "nut" comment! Tim and I just about lost it when he said that line.) I bought a BumpIT for Kristen and Tot just because it was on sale for a buy 1 tv infomerical item get one free deal. I kept the Green Bags for the veggies and gave Kristen the BumpIT. Little did I know, Tot LOVED the BumpIt commercial and wanted to buy one herself. Nana must be a mindreader!

So now I'm looking at Mighty Putty, Might Fix-It Tape, Mini Aqua Globes - and lets not forget Mr. Steamy - it steams up to release wrinkles in your dryer. "In minutes your clothes are ready to wear." I mean - how can you NOT buy these things? It's only $19.95 - and they are always throwing in something free. You can hold your breath and then hear the wonderful words of life . . . "AND WE'RE NOT DONE - THERE'S MORE!" I can't wait to see what they are going to offer me. What will they give me for $20 dollars? It's AWESOME.

I miss poor Billy Mays. Vince has disappeared. Who will fill the As Seen On TV void? What new products will imerge? I think I may have all my Christmas shopping done for the year. LOOK OUT family - Shamwows were just the beginning!

It Should Be Easy

2010-04-13T18:36:00.000-05:00

“Instead of admitting that we have made a bad choice we keep trying to make that decision work. Maybe we should take a lesson from business and cut our losses and move on. Instead we keep trying to fix things to make them better.”

I read that statement and it just would leave. It kept repeating itself over and over again. How many times have I tried to make something work that just wasn’t meant to work?

I think it was because of several things:
1) I had to admit I had made a mistake in the first place
2) I didn’t know if I was just being weak and needed to just keep at it.
3) I wanted it to work out.
4) I didn’t want to admit defeat.

When I’m in a situation of trying to make something work that just isn’t working, God gives me three things to help me: His spirit, a brain, and my common sense. I pray for God’s guidance and a nudging from his spirit. I use my brain to search for information. I use my common sense to put these two things together to make my decision.

It sounds easy, doesn’t it? Then why do I think it’s easier just to worry about a problem instead of solving it? (wink)

And if so, what?

2010-04-11T20:54:00.004-05:00

I know, it's been a month since my last post, hasn't it? I'm not sure if anyone even reads this anymore and I thought about just deleting it and writing in a journal instead. Yet, here I am - typing again.

The Fish and I have been rather busy lately with just life in general. Things like work, church, bible study, eating, sleeping, reading, watching tv, shopping, laundry etc. Along with that we have been working closely with our church and we have enjoyed getting to know new people. We feel more connected with those we worship with on Sunday and it has opened up some new relationships.

Even though we've been busy with normal things of life, our relationship with the Lord is our main priority. If we fill our life with other busy things, then the Lord is no longer the first thing in our life. The first two of the ten commandments tells me not to put any other thing before God. That is a sobering command. It begs me to ask: "Am I putting something before the Lord? And if so, what?"

When I sign my name at the end of the day, will the Lord be pleased with what I have done? Have I looked for people to help? Have I spoken ill of someone? Have I been an encouragement to someone? Have I worked hard at work? Have I shown love to my family and friends?

Yes, it's been a while since I've written . . . and I'll probably write more tomorrow. But for now - ask yourself some of those questions and see if you are lead to live your life with more intention this week.

Ya Know?

2010-03-07T21:02:00.005-06:00

Weekends are the reward for the work week. And yet we seem to cram so much into them that they are almost as busy as the work week. Ya know what I’m sayin'?

So, here it is another Sunday night and the weekend is over. Tim and I have so much fun during our weekend with going to the movies, eating a great Saturday breakfast, church, bible study, and throwing in a couple of loads of laundry and some hobby time. But most of all, we try very hard to get in two things that mean the most to us. . . NAPS. One on Saturday and one on Sunday. That's the reward for the work week. Ya know what I'm sayin'?

Nothing Complicated

2010-02-26T22:40:00.004-06:00

I have been thinking about several things this week. Nothing super complicated . . . just several things . . . all week long. They have just been bouncing around in my head like bumper cars. I thought if I put it down on paper then maybe they would stop bouncing around and get in a line so that I can address each thought one at a time. Give each one some undivided attention and then see if one of them is worth a second glance, or a second thought.

So here goes. . .

What does walking in the Spirit really mean? How does one ‘walk in the Spirit?’
What color do I want to paint the guest bedroom?
How did I get so many dishes dirty today? When am I going to wash them?
Do I need to try out a new kitty litter? This current one really stinks. Wait – it’s not the litter.
When the new bedspread arrives in the mail – will it look good? Will it stink?
Why do birds suddenly appear, every time you are near? (that was just for fun)
What is really in Coke Zero?
What new recipe should I try out this week?
I want to plant new flowers – should I make new beds in the backyard? Have Tim do it, or hire it done? Do I want to dig them out or raise them up?
When do we go visit the grandbabies?
When will I mail Bran’s package?

Where should I store my sewing stuff? What do I want my craft area to look like? Should I have upper cabinets? What about a cutting surface? A kitchen-type counter?

As you can see, the list is fairly long and not super complicated. There just are a lot of things to think about. So, I guess this weekend I’ll spend some time thinking about things and maybe I’ll even make out a list or two. (oh the joy!)

Dipping a Toe

2010-02-22T22:04:00.009-06:00

I stepped away from my blog for awhile and it has been such a long time since I have blogged that I almost forgot my password to login. That is a sad fact.

There has been a lot going on in the Fishbowl and it's tough to know where to start. But as the song says, "Start from the very beginning...it's a very good place to start." Gotta love the Sound of Music.

January was a good month. It was full of family visits, work and getting over the holiday season.

February has been a good month as well. Tim and I decided to take a Ballroom dance class at the community center and have enjoyed it Very Much. We go one night a week and it only lasts 5 weeks. Then we can decide if we want to go stop or go on to Western Dance class - Two step, Line dance etc. I have to say that it has been fun and we have discovered that is a good way to get in some exercise at the same time.

Tim was joking with the instructor that we attended the Church of Christ and that when we were teenagers we didn't dance because we had been taught that it led to (voiced in a hushed whisper) sex. Half the class busted out laughing and that's how we found out there were several other Baptists and CofCers in the group too and we had all been told the same thing. So here we were, a bunch of 50+ year old men and women, all learning how to dance with their spouse and laughing about how we had all been told the same thing. It was so funny.

Well, I think this is enough writing for one evening. I've dipped my toe back into the water and we'll see if I'm gonna jump back in or not.

Just a Few Things

2010-01-19T21:10:00.003-06:00

Over Christmas Tim built mom and dad a pantry unit. He worked in 19 degree weather and was singing and pounding the hammer. We could hear sawing, singing, Rush Limbaugh, then more sawing, more singing, and more hammering and more Rush Limbaugh. It was so funny - mom was trying very hard to get me to stop laughing - but it was just funny. Not funny-mocking but funny-sweet. He was just a happy camper out there doing his thing. My nephew went out the next day and helped me clean out the garage so Tim could wrap some shelves around the wall for more storage. I think I actually saw my mom dance on her tippy toes! Dad just kept telling Tim that "he had skills!" And we needed to come back in May. I think he's got a list of projects.

The next picture is of the two of us at a Monster Truck Jam (Rally) in Houston. I had never been to one before and I have to admit - it was fun. Thank goodness my thoughtful husband remembered the earplugs or I might have lost some hearing. We were able to see Gravedigger, Ninja Turtle, Blue Thunder, Maxium Destruction, and many other very loud, very LARGE trucks. It was neat to watch. I'll try to post a video later.

The final picture is one of the Tot at a Dinosaur Museaum and can you tell that she has learned to pose?

Yeah, I know. Isn't she a toot?

January's List

2010-01-10T20:37:00.006-06:00

Monthly Housekeeping Check Ups

I found a great list of monthly tips and thought I would pass them along to you free of charge. Yes, I know you're thrilled - just think of it as just a simple service I provide. hee hee.

January

1. Check the batteries in the smoke alarms and the carbon monoxide alarms, and replace if needed. Also, test the actual alarms after you're sure the batteries are good.
2. Have your fire extinguishers inspected to make sure they work properly.
3. Use homemade or store bought drain cleaner to clean out all the drains in the house. Don't forget the basement drains too!
4. Inspect the filters in your heating system and clean or replace them as necessary.

I know you can't wait to see February's list, right?

The Spaz

2010-01-06T22:49:00.003-06:00

This is our cat, Spazmina, but we just call her Spaz for short - mainly because she can be a real spaz. She has such a great little personality, friendly, inquisitive, loving, and a quick learner. She likes to play fetch, she has bat-like hearing, she would be an excellent mouser if we had any..... I once entertained a thought of going to a pet store to BUY a mouse just to let her hunt something. How sick was that? (I didn't do it, but I have to confess I did think about it.) She loves to play, snuggle and at the beginning - she just tormented Gabby to pieces.

For a free little kitty that we picked out of a bucket on the side of the road, she has been a terrific little addition to the Fish family. She was born on Tim's birthday - which in his mind sealed the deal. (wink)

A Good Time

2009-12-29T21:38:00.002-06:00

Ok. I guess this is where I quote Madonna, "strike a pose!"
Tot is modeling her new Christmas clothes. hahaha.

We have had a wonderful Christmas vacation in Kansas City. Tim wanted to put up some shelves for mom and to build her a pantry in the garage. He's almost finished - and boy! does that man have skills. He put in 3 dimmer switches for her and fix one of the toilets, put in the pantry and has wood ready for the shelves. Dad is just happy that it will save mom extra trips to the basement and will help her knees. He gets a kick out of listening to Tim discuss his tools and oooed and aaaahed over his Lowes purchase - he used his Christmas gift from me to buy a new saw! He was able to use it on the pantry and was singing and sawing out in the garage. It was really (dare I say it) cute.

We got to have dinner with my sisters, friends, and visited our church family on Sunday. We've shared Christmas, shoveled snow, laughed with mom and dad over silly YouTube videos, and have had a very good time bonding with family and friends. It was been so nice. I love this time of year.

Holidays, Honey-Do's, and Holiness

2009-12-19T09:39:00.007-06:00

Last night was the company Christmas Party and we had a very good time. We had a catered meal, played the Chinese Gift Exchange, and it was a lot of fun. Everybody looked festive, moods were high, and there were lots of laughs and good times. We had it at the office which is a lovely place to have it - The Garden District is much like a home with a very homey atmosphere and we can laugh as loud as we want and stay as late as we want. The drawback was it was so warm in the office that we didn't light the fireplace.....which is my favorite thing.

On a different note: The Fish and I are getting ready for our roadtrip to see the family in just a few more days. We are both getting rather excited and are making our travel plans. Tim has several "honey do" projects to work on at mom and dad's and he's fine with that - he said he'll just plug his earphones in and listen to his talk radio programs, grab his hammer and toolbox and away he'll go. (I do love that man!) Mom has promised him a coconut cream pie and he's already drooling!

Bible Reading Update: We have made it through the 18th chapter of Proverbs and the 35 chapter of Genesis. There have been many conversations about our readings and we have enjoyed the quiet way of ending the evening - with reading aloud and thoughtful conversation about how through everything - God is in charge, he is ever faithful, and he forgives those who are earnestly seeking him. It gives comfort, doesn't it?

FYI: As we were reading about Esau's decendents, we came across one named Oholibama! Yep-that was it, Oholibama. We both nearly lost it.

Blue Hat & Toothless

2009-12-16T19:39:00.003-06:00

Yes, my little Alli-gator has a new blue hat. This picture makes me laugh every time. She is so cute but all you see is the court-jester looking fleece hat. She has so much character in her little face now and she is a treat to hold and she laughs at everything.

Unsinkable took some other pictures that I will post later but for now I'll leave you with one of my toothless Tot...she lost two teeth in the past couple of months and is quite proud of the fact.

That is icing from her gingerbread house all over her little face, shirt and apron.

Today's Events

2009-12-10T23:14:00.006-06:00

Fishbowl Updates:
Torin turned 4 today!
Tot pulled her 2nd tooth today!
Tim got my Christmas present today!
Little David told told Tot that I was his best friend - but she was his Pen Pal. :)
Alli-pants is now 16 pounds.
Little Raiden is almost 4 weeks old.
Kyra & Eva aren't sick!
Lots of things are happening and life is just flying by.

The Fish and I are reading the book of Proverbs (1 chapter each eveing) and are slowing making our way through the book of Genesis. He plays a game on his I-touch while I read out loud - right before we go to sleep. It is very relaxing, we get our bible reading down, he gets to listen / play and we talk about the scriptures and what they mean to us. It is a good way to end the day.

Introducing: Raiden Grile

2009-12-08T20:53:00.011-06:00

Little Raiden Grile is the newest grandbaby to be added to my little "flock" of babies. He was born on November 10, 2009 and weighed 6 pounds 3 ounces and was 19 inches long. I think he is just adorable adn his little face looks just like his daddy's and his Papaw's.

Dean and his wife, Tamara, were able to watch Raiden's brother and sisters while Brandon took care of Jennifer. It is nice for Dean and I to be able to split the parenting duties with both kids - Tim and I were able to help Kristen and Dean and Tamara were able to help Bran and Jenn. The picture of Raiden was taken by Tamara and it is a beautiful one, isn't it?

I'm sure you have noticed the delay in my posting of little Raiden's birth - and yes, I am seriously deliquent. I was sitting in the doctor's office and was feeling very, very sick but held my phone in my hand during my visit. I told the doctor that I was waiting for the news and just as she was wrapping up her visit . . . my phone rang. Little Raiden had made his entrance into this world and I hung up the phone and shared the news with my doctor. LOL. Needless to say, I was sick for 2 weeks and just now realized how much time has passed and how many things went by unnoticed/neglected and/or back-burnered while I was out of commission. Thankfully, he's little and he won't feel bad knowing his Nana was almost a month late in her post. Poor little thing.

So, dear readers, this makes grandbaby number 7! God has certainly blessed me with a wonderful bundle of babies all 5 and under. I absolutely LOVE being a Nana and I LOVE each one of them. They all have little nicknames and each one has a special place in my heart. I'm certain that there will be more posts to come - so until then . . .

Little Eva now has short hair and is such a cute little thing - I call her Monkey

Torin is such a little cheeser - I call him the Torinator

Little Kyra is trying to drive but Eva isn't sure . . . I call little Kyra - well, Kyra Jean (after her great grandmother, of course. LOL.)

And last but not least - Little Raiden. His nickname is Scooter. Not sure why - and it may change - but for now, he's Scooter.

2009-12-05T20:10:00.002-06:00

If you drive by the Fishbowl you will hear the sound of sawing, hammering, sanding, singing, laughing, and more sanding. The Fish has been out in the garage making stuff. He’s made several bat houses this summer and has now moved on to other items. I can’t go into much detail because some of the readers might be recipients of his labor of love.
He has just been cracking me up – he’s bought patterns, tools, and wood. He’s grabbed the radio and either listens to Rush or sings with the country music. Several of the neighbors have stopped by to shoot the breeze, ask questions, admire his handiwork and he has just loved it. As have I. It is good to see a happy, contented man do what he enjoys doing – working with wood. He thinks of each person as he is making their gift. He prays for them, considers what they might like and then jumps into the project. I think it’s awesome and I think he’s awesome too.

Challenge to Love

2009-11-30T21:59:00.003-06:00

I read a quote from Soren Kierkegaard on a friend's blog and had to post the quote here.

“The task is not to find the loveable object, but to find the object before you lovable– whether given or chosen– and to be able to continue finding this one lovable, no matter how that person changes”.
We foolish people often think that when a person has changed for the worse we are exempted from loving him. What a confusion in language: to be exempt from loving.
True love is a matter of loving the person you see. The emphasis is not on loving the perfections, but on loving the person you see, no matter what perfections or imperfections that person might possess.
If you wish to become perfect in love, strive to love the person you see, just as you see him, with all his imperfections and weaknesses. Love him as you see him when he is utterly changed, when he no longer loves you, when he perhaps turns indifferently away or turns to love someone else. Love him as you see him when he betrays you and denies you. Love the person you see and the person you love.”

What a challenge! Strive to love the person you see, just as you see him. Nothing more, nothing less.

A Challenge

2009-11-29T18:21:00.005-06:00

I moved into my home exactly 2 years ago this weekend. Tim and I married on the 17th of November and after celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday with family, we left on Friday with a moving van stuffed full of my things. We drove twelve straight hours and talked the whole time. It was a great trip and little Gabby rode in her carrier between the two of us and I'm sure she was terrified but she never made a peep. It was a challenge to leave my life in Kansas City and to start a new one, with a new husband, in a new city.

The Fish and I have settled into a good routine and we are very content and happy. God has blessed us in many ways and I am thankful for each one. There are days when I wonder how in the world I got here - but I'm sure all of us could ask that same question of ourselves. God has a reason for all things and my part is to remain faithful, content, and full of thanksgiving. However, it is a challenge when life presents you with situations that you would rather not deal with, but a faithful follower knows God is in charge and trys to forge ahead with faith and perserverance regardless. It is easy to preach - but it is tough to practice.

Recently, God has been placing things in my life that lead me to believe he is encouraging me to look beyond the moment and to focus on the future - to keep my eye on the goal . . .my life beyond this one. I must be ready to face the challenges ahead and the way to do this is to be able to answer the following questions:

I must know who I am.
I must know what I am about, what I believe.
I must know where I am going.

Can you answer these challenging questions?

Whose Leaving?

2009-11-21T15:57:00.002-06:00

Ok. I’m feeling a soapbox moment, y’all.

Have you heard or read the news that Oprah is going to retire? Yes, dear readers, it’s true. Not in a couple of months. Oh no. Not in 6 months. Oh no. She is going to retire in 2011. YES. You read that correctly, 2011. In over a year!!!! WHY? Oh WHY? Do I need (or care) to know this piece of news this far in advance? Hum? (scratching head) I wonder if it has anything (ANYTHING) to do with ratings.

Does she need a bump?

I haven’t watched Oprah in years – she is a camera hog. I don’t find her brand of entertainment/religion/self-help very, uh, well . . . helpful. She is just another woman, trying to make a living, and promoting herself and her ideas until the end, either the end of her show or her popularity.

I groaned when I read the news and purposefully have not read anything about it because I don’t want to buy into the media hype. I didn’t go see the movie about Michael Jackson for the same reason. Media hype – which translated means: strike while the money iron is hot.

I do understand how some people might be interested to know all about something as monumental as this – I mean if I had to choose between it or listening to the rantings over the pros and cons of the healthcare bill – I might choose Oprah too. But it is just baby food, folks. I think that is why some in the media feel like we need to the government to guide us into making decisions for us. We watch 6 months of reruns of old Michael Jackson interviews and now we’re suppose to moan and question “what will we do without Oprah?” good grief. No wonder the media considers the viewer/person as an infant or worse- stupid. We seem unable to learn anything or make any kind of decision unless they “tell” us what to think, what to buy, how to vote, who to vote for, how to sneeze into our sleeve, how to run out and get a flu shot before we all die of the swine flu - wait uh, I mean H1N1 …..blah, blah, blah.

Now, I might not have made a logical and coherent argument here – but that was not the point. The point was to get up on MY soapbox and rant until I felt better. And guess what? I did.

So thank you for listening. You’ve been great.
And as my grandson would say, "thankyou.thankyou.thankyouverymuch."

(The author bows, rises, and slowly steps off the box to walk quietly off the stage-the spotlight snaps off and as the curtains close - the author breathes a deep and contented sigh and says to herself, "ahhhhhhhhh, I got THAT off my chest.")

Seriously??

2009-11-18T09:25:00.004-06:00

Seriously, I am home again today. It has been a rather irritating couple of months for me here in the Fishbowl. Not because of The Fish mind you, just me and the ol body. I can't seem to get rid of this sinus infection, the headaches, and the general feeling of yuck. I told Tim that if I'm not better in a year - WE'RE MOVING. To ANYWHERE other than here. LOL. I found out from the doctor that this is the 3rd worse area in the US for sinuses and allergies (#1 was St. Louis, MO; #2 was Louisville, KY; and #3 was this area in the Brazos Valley.) So anywhere is looking better than here.

Do you notice the irritation and the negativity oozing from the type-written words?

Well, dear readers, it has been a rough road and I am ready to start feeling better. I'm home today with a horrid cough, a headache, and my back hurts from coughing so much. I'm surprised I still have a job. LOL. So, I am catching up on my blogging, my email, my Farkle score on FaceBook, and I see more drugs and a nap in my future - all before 11:00 am.

Oh and BTW: The Fish's Facebook and Hotmail accounts were hacked into yesterday and the hacker -doofus sent out emails saying that Tim was in London and needed some money to get home. Tim spent most of yesterday making calls to and fielding calls from family, friends, and co-workers telling them that he was ok and that he really didn't need $1500 wired to England to get him home. While it was irritating, God used even a hacker to bring about good. He was able to talk to many people that he may not have talked to before. He enjoyed touching base with old friends and catching up. So, yes, God can use irritating actions of others to bring about good actions in our lives, we just have to have eyes that can see.

Well, I feel my eyes beginning to close, my head starting to shut down - so I'll see you all tomorrow.

Sinuses and Faith

2009-10-13T19:19:00.004-05:00

I have had many things on my mind lately but for some reason today I think my sinuses were pressing up against my brain and I couldn’t think of anything. I could only moan and stick my finger in my eye. The cat face said it all – and I posted it on my desk today so people coming into my office would know the kind of mood I was in and not take it personal.

Having said that – I have been thinking about faith over the past few days. Faith is believing in something you cannot see but you know that it’s there. Electricity falls into that category. I can’t see it but I know that when I flip the light switch – it will be there to turn on the lights. Wind also falls into that category – you can’t see it but you see the effects of it.

I choose to have faith in God – I cannot see him but I see the effects of him in the world; birth, flowers, animals, rocks, clouds, space, death, smiles, tears, romance, intelligence, wisdom, character, courage, forgiveness and on and on and on. God could come and end all wars, end all suffering, end all of my worries, end all of the pain – but if he did, what would we learn? Where would our faith be?

Remember the movie A Christmas Story? Remember when Ralphie finally gets his Red Rider BB gun for Christmas and he begins to load it with the bb’s? His dad is sitting on sofa watching him and he begins to mimic the actions that Ralphie needs to do in order for him to load the gun. He doesn’t do it for him. He allows Ralphie to do it himself – but he is there watching, silently encouraging him to load it without spilling the bb’s.

I think God is a lot like that. . . he is watching me, encouraging me to do the hard thing. He wants me to succeed, he wants me to hone my skills and he wants me to remember he is there to help me any time I call his name. Not to swoop in and save – but to hold me up while I continue.

Now if he could just hold my face while I remove these aching sinuses. I have faith that this will end.

Monday Humor

2009-10-12T08:10:00.002-05:00

I saw this on Jason's blog and I laughed so hard.... I think I hurt myself. :) So, I thought I would pass the tongue-in-cheek humor along to you. Enjoy.

Day One

2009-10-05T22:24:00.002-05:00

Today was the first day of my new way of eating. I don’t know what I expected this day to be like but I have to say that I made some good choices and some poor choices totally based on how I felt. I can also tell that failing to plan is indeed planning to fail.

I did try my fruit smoothie with spinach this morning. It was T-A-S-T-Y. I made a smoothie out of a banana, ice, pineapple, some juice, mixed frozen berries and a small handful of organic spinach. I tried the smoothie before the spinach and then drank it after I added it. It was great! I didn’t notice a bad taste at all – I think if I added more spinach it would’ve altered the flavor more than I could tolerate. I Will make this again tomorrow.

I bombed at lunch. Big time. In fact, I didn’t just bomb – I went to McDonald’s. I didn’t have lunch planned at home and when I got there, I didn’t have much to chose from so – I punted and went for plan B – or plan McD’s. While it filled me up – it really didn’t taste good at all. (which is good)

Dinner: well, I did much better. I didn’t have any bread, I had a good protein, a good carb, and a small carb option…and then I topped it off with a bowl of ice cream. Not a good call but really, really tasty.

So, the lessons for me today, dear reader, are make good choices one meal at a time and don’t beat yourself up when you don’t. It will work itself out with patience and planning.

I’ll let you know how I do tomorrow….ok?

ALCAT

2009-10-03T21:08:00.005-05:00

I took a food sensitivity test a few weeks ago and was not sure what I was going to find out. I really thought it was a waste of time because I never thought I had any food allergies or sensitivities. Well, I found out on Thursday that I was wrong. Big Time.

The picture above is an example of what the chart looks like. I am severly (red), moderately (orange) and mildly (yellow) sensitive to several different foods, food additives, food colors, yeasts, glutens, caseins and molds. I think one of the most depressing things is that I am sensitive to most ingredients found in Mexican food. My absolute favorite foods – and I am moderately sensitive to 4 of the main ingredients which explains why I am getting sick after eating them. DUH. But, I have to say, while I am happy to know what is causing some of my health issues – I’m sad that is has to be Mexican food that is one of the culprits.

So, starting Monday, I am beginning a new phase of living. I am looking at a few blogs about health foods, green smoothies, eating fresh/raw food, and learning to be excited about the challenges facing me in the world of food sensitivities.

I am trying a spinach and fruit smoothie tomorrow morning for breakfast and I’ll let you know if I kept it down or not. (wink)

Stickers and Salesmen

2009-10-02T07:17:00.004-05:00

It’s Friday here in the Fishbowl and I am up very early, unable to sleep. I think I am anticipating Date Night and the weekend. Tim and I have been very busy for the entire month of September and we have spent many of our “Date Nights” traveling to Fort Worth; however this weekend we are staying put. I wasn’t sure if that was going to be the case because he saw a picture of Alli-gator with stickers all over her body and wanted to go visit and do some baby-holding! She is the perfect size and shape for cuddling and rocking which is a very big draw for two people who love to hold and cuddle babies.

We did decide that we needed to spend the weekend at home which means that we have some things that need to be done. Tim has pulled a section of fence down in the backyard and has begun the repair phase. He repaired another section earlier in the year and now this is another side that had some hurricane and high wind damage. It won’t make the winter without dragging the whole side down.

Tim was out fixing the fence when two guys knocked on our front door. I opened it to a nice guy trying to talk me into putting a security sign out in my front yard. He did all the right things: commented on our lovely yard, asked how did we keep it so green, did we maintain the yard ourselves, etc. He went on to say that “they were in the area picking out nicely groomed yards in which to place their signs. After several schmoozing minutes, he asked if I would be interested. I said that while I appreciated his “sales pitch” but there were two objections: one) I had a problem with his sponsor GE and two) he needed to talk to the big Fish in the back yard who had an even bigger problem with the owner of GE than I did. He was eager to talk to Tim so I sent them to the backyard. (snicker) It was like sending mice to a big cat and I knew he would want to play first. I kept looking out the back door to check on the progress – and they went from standing around to sitting down on the ground chatting like old friends. In a few minutes they would have hammers in their hands and would be helping him. (He has that way about him.) So, I went out side to draw the game to a close – if they had stayed much longer the two guys would have been having dinner with us and we would have been the proud owner of a new home security system!!

It’s just one thing after another here in the Bowl….who knows what will happen this weekend.

Sick Man / Sick Movie

2009-09-30T21:50:00.007-05:00

Poor Tim. After bible study on Tuesday night, Tim went straight to bed. He felt awful. When I woke up this morning, (thanks to Spaz and her earlobe antics) I noticed that he hadn’t moved much which isn’t like him. He tried to get up; he managed to put on his shirt, and then sort of stumbled over to get his jeans….the poor man could hardly keep his eyes open. I just asked him to get back into bed and call it a day. He looked like a poor little boy who felt cruddy…it was pitiful. He tried to go to work but ended up back at home around 2 or 3.

I have started to rub off on him – he has now decided he has a sick movie too. Mine is "Galaxy Quest"! Oh, how I love watching that movie when I’m sick when I can just lie on the couch and laugh and snicker at the bad movie puns. It’s awesome. Well, Tim has decided that "Oh Brother Where Art Thou" is his sick movie. I remember asking him if he had sick food and a sick movie and he just looked at me like I was nuts. “I’m not nuts,” I replied…. “I’m quirky!” So, now after almost two years of marriage, he has decided that he has a sick movie and his sick food is “any” food that he doesn’t have to cook. (Guys are like that, aren’t they?)

I think after a few more bouts with the Neti Pot, more soup, and another viewing of Oh Brother and he should be good for another six months. Until then, a few lines from his favorite movie….

Pete: Well I'll be a sonofabitch. Delmar's been saved.

Delmar O'Donnell: Well that's it, boys. I've been redeemed. The preacher's done warshed away all my sins and transgressions. It's the straight and narrow from here on out, and heaven everlasting's my reward.

Ulysses Everett McGill: Delmar, what are you talking about? We've got bigger fish to fry.

Delmar O'Donnell: The preacher says all my sins is warshed away, including that Piggly Wiggly I knocked over in Yazoo.

Ulysses Everett McGill: I thought you said you was innocent of those charges?

Delmar O'Donnell: Well I was lyin'. And the preacher says that that sin's been warshed away too. Neither God nor man's got nothin' on me now. C'mon in boys, the water is fine.

yummy. eye candy. :)

A Recap

2009-09-28T22:40:00.003-05:00

I have so much to write about and have no idea where to start...

I went to KC over the weekend.
My dad cracks me up. I love him so much.
Tim had company while I was gone and he had a blast.
A&M won their game.
Tot turned 5.
I got to have dinner with John & Lori and Cheryl and Mark.
Sarah bought breakfast Sunday and I loved visiting with her.
I sewed with my mom and Jenny Lu Who and it was fun!!
I bought clothes and then had to smash them into the suitcase. It didn't pop open.
I Love messing with my nephews!
Brandi and I got to visit for all of 10 mintues - but it was a treat! I miss her.
My planes were on time and they didn't crash. That's a good thing!
My cats missed me.
My Fish missed me.
Then I topped it all off with a mammogram today.

(yeah. I wish I would have planned that one out a little better. But seriously, is there Ever a good time for one of those?)

Three Little Chapmans

2009-09-17T22:16:00.001-05:00

Well, here they are . . . the Three Little Chapmans! They are growing so fast, aren't they?

The Girls

2009-09-07T16:26:00.002-05:00

I haven't posted any pictures of the cats so I thought I would try to get them both together, get them looking at the same direction, get their eyes open, and keep them from jumping off the bed or all over each other. Gabby is the oldest at 4 years old. She is the tortise-shell Persian with a flat face and golden eyes. We shave her on a quarterly basis just due to shedding and in-law allergies. Tim keeps telling me that she likes it better than wearing her full coat and she is too well-bred to complain.

The little gray kitty is the newest addition to the Fish Bowl. She is about 12 weeks old and her name is Spaz-mina. She is wiry and she jumps like a graceful leopard. She can haul herself up by her front paws and could do chin ups like nobodies business. She bothers the thunder out of Gabby but they have reached a truce which means no more hissing and spitting. As you can see from the picture they can be on the same bed for a few seconds without
tumbling all over each other. Gabby's face should tell you how she feels about her new companion. Tim calls her his blue-collar kitty.

My One Loyal Fan

2009-09-05T08:58:00.002-05:00

I haven’t posted in a while because I have been in a groove of sorts and just haven’t felt like writing. I know there are several people who check this to see what is going on and have commented on the fact that I haven’t posted. So, “this post is for you.” My one loyal fan. (wink)

Our kitten, Spazzy (short for Spazmina), woke me up from a wonderful sleep by biting on my toes and sticking her little wet nose in my ear and then nibbling on my earlobe. I don’t know why she does this but she LOVES earlobes. My little lobes are not a fan and shy of slinging her across the room, I’m not sure how to break her of this habit.

(Tim mentioned that she nibbles his at night too, he just thought it was me – hahahhaa)

She got me up and if hadn’t been for the need for coffee, I might have gone back to sleep. (I wonder if the government will declare that coffee is considered a “drug” and either outlaw it or TAX it??? What would I do without them telling me what I can or cannot do?)

Sorry – my snarky comment about the government was jab at the current administration’s need to interfere in my life when they should BUTT OUT. (sorry there it went again)

Ok. Now. Move On. (hee hee)

My Unsinkable daughter’s birthday was yesterday and it sounded like she had a great one. She has a flair for making the most out of the day by reveling in the presents and cards and well-wishes. I get a kick out of it. A family tradition is to call each person on their birthday and sing The Song. Tim has now been roped into it too and he sings right along with me. We sang to mom and dad on their anniversary and we sang to K on her birthday too. It’s so much fun and it’s fun to change up the words and add to the tune. Sometimes we sing it badly – just to be funny. There isn’t anything better than to get a voicemail with your sister singing or the other sister singing with her daughter. I kept my nephew’s song on my answering machine for a long, long time because I loved playing it and hearing their voices sing the silly song. It was great and warmed the little “conkles” of my heart.

Well, enough posting for today – I’ll try to get on more often and give you an update from The Fishbowl.
Until then,

Peace Out.

A Fish Exclusive Update

2009-08-26T22:36:00.001-05:00

Several new things have happened in the Fish house: we got a new kitten and we went to a townhall meeting and my granddaughter cut her own hair.

Now the kitten has been with us for about 3 weeks and she has her good days and her bad days. When she scratches me – that’s a bad day. Her name is Spazmina – Spaz because, well – she’s a spaz. The “mina” is once the spaz phase is over she’ll need a little more feminine name. She is a gray kitty and we got her from a nice lady outside of Lowes. The little kitty chases Gabby and is quite the little gymnist. She’s had her first set of kitty shots and is getting the hang of living in the house of Fish.

The second thing in the list was the townhall meeting. We were two out of 1200 attendees at our community center that were allowed entrance to listen to our House representative answer questions on the health care issues and answer other questions put forth by concerned citizens. It was civilized but the crowd was definately telling Chet Edwards how they felt about the issues and his answers. It was a great display of how our government works. Now if we can just believe him when he says he will “read this bill before he votes.”

Cutting hair was the third item mentioned, and yes, Tot cut her bangs at her hairline along with a piece down by her chin. She had good reasons and then thoughtfully cleaned up her mess before showing her mother her “new do.” I had to chuckle because her mother shaved her eyebrows when she was in the 4th grade – so what are short bangs compared to a hairless face!?!

Another Monday

2009-08-17T07:39:00.000-05:00

Yes, it’s another Monday and it’s time to face the work week. It’s hard to jump up and start getting ready because I have my hot cup of coffee beside me and my kitten snoozed on my neck and I am really enjoying the moment. She loves to curl up on a chest with her head tucked up under the chin. Yesterday she spent the whole evening cuddled up next to Tim. . . I think I heard him purr too.

Tim and I have been having several discussions about health care issues, illegal aliens and border control, home improvement, kittens, movies, cooking, eating, and a whole host of other topics from foot care to buying new shampoo. Most of the time we laugh, but there are the “serious” conversations that allow us to stretch and pull at our beliefs and our convictions. He constantly writes to his congressmen/women and has an active political life and it has made me aware of my own or lack thereof.

We went to see two movies over the weekend: District 9 and Julie/Julia. One was bad; one was not bad. Guess which one was which?

What's Going On

2009-08-09T20:31:00.003-05:00

I have had a couple of comments lately on the blog that have mentioned my lack of posting. What's going on? Well, I confess that I am running dry in the blogging department. It could be a lack of subject matter or just lack of energy at the end of the day. But whatever the reason, I am going to try to work on adding a few more posts.

I will give you a quick little update on what’s been going on in the Fishbowl.

First, the new grandbaby is wonderful. She is a doll-baby and is a wonderful little thing to hold. In fact, Tim asked if we could go to Ft Worth to visit! How great is that. I didn’t even have to ask. We made this decision after work on Friday and were holding little Alli at 9:00 that night. Tim was in heaven. I finally took her and spent the next 30 minutes just rocking at staring at her cute little nose and listening to her little noises. It was priceless. And the rest of the weekend was spent playing with Tot and little David, napping, and kitty-wrestling but more about that later this week. I need more material for blogging.

Second, tonight I am trying out a new pulled pork recipe – you need to buy a bone-in pork roast (I bought a 4 ½ pound boneless roast – I didn’t have the recipe with me at the store) and rub it with salt, pepper and garlic. Sear it in a cast iron pan with a lid- but since I don’t have one I am using my big pot with a glass lid. Starting with the fatty side first, sear all sides and end up with fat side up in the pan. Add 1+ cup of water (could add some beef broth too if desired), put the lid on it and put it in a 335 degree oven for about 3 to 3 ½ hours. It should fall off the bone. Add BBQ sauce and enjoy pulled pork BBQ sandwiches. I need to adjust the time since mine doesn’t have a bone in it. Anyway, I’ll let you know how it tastes. Don’t ask Tim . . . he thinks everything I cook tastes great so I don’t think he’s very objective. (wink)

Turning 50

2009-07-26T08:10:00.002-05:00

My birthday was fun even though I turned 50.
The wishes were great and the presents were nifty.
I had a good day.
What more can I say?
Tim was generous and not at all thrifty!

Well gang, the day has been and gone and I'm still here. A long time ago I was sure that the day I turned 50 was the day I would look like my great-grandma. I can safely say - I don't!! Gray yes - but that's been on my head for a long time.

Tim and I had a good day of sight-seeing, shopping, ate a delicious steak and visited a road-side vegetable/fruit market. I received many calls from my family complete with the traditional singing of the birthday song - they even left the songs on my voicemail. I still remember getting a call from Cole and Christopher (my nephews) back when they were little and after the song they added "and many more from Channel 4, and Scooby Do on Channel 2, and the Big Fat Lady on Channel 80" and on and on and on. Their little voices just cracked me up. My neice, Jennifer, even sings too - which tickles me because she giggles the whole time she tries to sing. My parents sang to me, my sister's sang to me and my grandbabies sang to me too and it really made my day. My Facebook friends sent wishes and I even got a poem too.

So, don't feel silly doing family tradition things - it's what makes family . . . family. It always brings a smile to the face and joy to the heart.

Reassurance, Melt Downs and Training

2009-07-22T08:40:00.003-05:00

What a wild week! Unsinkable and her family are doing very well, so much so that Nana was able to leave and feel quite comfortable with the way things were going. When Taylor was born, K was a new mother and needed the reassurance that what she was doing was correct. She needed questions answered. David was born two years later and she wanted reassurance that she could handle two kids at the same time. (Which she did – quite well) Then little Allison arrived and she really didn’t need any reassurance. She had her parenting, nursing, diapering, mothering skills down pat. All she really needed was sleep. (Can I hear an Amen from all the mothers out there?)

While at Unsinkable’s house, I got some great grandkid time! One day blessed me with being able to witness a classic 4 year old melt-down complete with her saying to her mommy, “Well, Miss Kristen, I am so, so mad at you right now. I am going to slam my door on you! Yes! I’m slamming the door because I am mad at you.” (slams door and then yells through the door) “I slammed it and I am mad at you!” Needless to say, there was some ‘discussion’ about attitude and the way you obey the first time. It was one of those moments where you are just so impressed with the brazenness of the child that you just can’t wait to see how the parent is going to handle it.

Handling things seems to be the theme this week. Little David is still trying to get the potty training thing down. His sister informed me that, “Bubba isn’t poop-trained yet.” But . . . Bubba is motivated – his daddy said that he could get the Batman Castle if he can remember to get to the potty on time (before the Big Event actually occurs). Every time he felt something he stopped, gasped, and said “I wanna a Batman Castle – I gotta put poops in the toywet!” Then you could hear him run to the bathroom and heave a big sigh of relief. “I get my Batman Castle- yea!”

Yeah, fun times! (wink) I think Unsinkable’s family will be just fine.

Welcome Little Allison!

2009-07-17T19:10:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the world little Allison Margaret Chapman! She arrived on July 17th at 10:06 am and weighed in at 6 pounds and 11 ounces and was 19 inches long. She is adorable and her little eyes are blue.

Unsinkable was - well - - - - - - - unsinkable!

Thank you, God, for another wonderful grandbaby. Amen.

Almost Time

2009-07-16T17:42:00.002-05:00

Well, folks, it's almost time! Kristen will go to the hospital tomorrow morning at 5am!! We are very excited and Dave and I have been helping her get stuff ready and then we'll head out in the morning at 4:30 so we can get to the hospital by 5.

The kids have been showing me all the stuff: the baby bathtub, the baby swing, the baby clothes, the baby diapers and lots, lots more. They can't wait for her to come and we are going to sing "Happy Birthday" to her tomorrow. We are so excited can't you tell??

Tim has to work because he's on call for the week but he is going to come up on Saturday and hang out holding the baby and holding my hand too! We don't like the separation but this is an exception. Grandbabies trump almost every time! (wink) He is gonna love holding her.

Well, I think I've blathered on enough - I'll post more tomorrow.

Would You Like Cheese With That Whine?

2009-07-09T07:16:00.002-05:00

I've been working on my whining this week and I have to say that it's been hard. The biggest question that has popped up as a result of my vigilance has been, "When does explaining turn into whining?"

I do explain like nobodies business. With details. It's like I need to correctly articulate EXACTLY what is in my brain so that everyone will understand why I did what I did.

Why? Why do #1) I think you care? And #2) what difference does it make?

It has really made conversation grind to a halt. Even my co-workers have noticed it. Now isn't that sad? I have been praying that God would help me weed out the complaining speech and this week has certainly been enlightening. Oh! Wait! I have one more question.....

Does being snarky count as complaining. (wink)

It's Time to Stop!

2009-07-06T22:58:00.001-05:00

I was reading a blog tonight that dealt with whining. I was glad I stumbled onto this post because I have been thinking a lot about the subject and how much of it I do on a daily basis. I thought the challenges were worth repeating -
“The two steps to stop whining so much:

Make it a priority to notice every time you complain or unnecessarily criticize. This includes judging others. Now, every time you catch yourself complaining, just stop and notice it.
After you’ve noticed yourself complaining, ask yourself this: Is there anything I can do about what I’m complaining about, or it outside of my control? If there is something you can do about it, do it. If there is nothing you can do, let it go.”

I think I am going to keep a tally of how many times I complain tomorrow and I’ll let you know how I do. I encourage you to do the same and we’ll see how we do. Ok. Now, on your mark. Get set. Go.

It's BS

2009-07-01T07:05:00.002-05:00

"BS?" you ask. "What do you mean by BS?"

You see, we had a slight cool front come through and Tim was able to work out in the garage. He had all of his supplies ready for the bat house he wanted to make for his DIL but it has just been too hot to work outside. So, he got everything together and started in. When I got home from work, he was covered in sawdust and had a big smile on his face. I loved it. My man has skills.

After discussions about “how was your day” and “are you hungry” and “do you want to eat now or later,” we decided to wait on dinner and work on our projects.

Having solved the dinner issue, I went inside to work on my baby project for Allison. I have been sewing a flannel baby blanket complete with satin edging (I’ve never done this before) and I must say that I was looking forward to finishing it. Gabby likes to watch me sew and she likes to sit behind the machine so she can watch the thread as it moves through the machine. Sometimes she wants to put her paw on the needle – but I just say “no” and she moves it. (She is a good little girl.)

The evening was filled with Bat houses and Baby Blankets (the B) and we were sawing and sewing (the S). I kinda cracked up when I thought our evening was filled with BS. (snicker)

A Labor of Love

2009-06-29T20:27:00.001-05:00

Last week was a good week for the internet – I went shopping for a Flylady cleaning tool and ended up with that and a bedspread and a waffle iron. I thought I would get something for me and something for Tim too – he LOVED the waffle iron, especially when I promised him that I would make him some waffles for breakfast.

Saturday arrived and I was in the kitchen making the batter for the waffles when I discovered I had missed a key component in the recipe, “let the batter rest for an hour – stirring once or twice every 15 minutes.” So, there we were starving and I had a batter that needed to rest for an hour. Well what are you gonna do? I used the time to clean the kitchen and take care of the dishes in the dishwasher… it was perfect timing. By the time I finished the kitchen it was time to make the waffles.

That new waffle iron is AMAZING. I flipped the switch, it heated up, beeped, and I poured in the batter, closed the lid, flipped it over, waited for the beep, flipped it back, opened it up and removed the lightest, most golden brown waffle I had ever made…ever. I had made a recipe for Belgian Waffles and had no idea that they were as light as they were. I suppose it is the fluffy egg whites folded into the batter. . . you know . . . the one that took an hour to rest. (Yep, the recipe was little labor intensive – but delicious.)

Tim ate a few of them and grinned from ear to ear. You would have thought I had given him a plate of homemade waffles – oh wait!!! I did. But rest easy – it was served with sugar-free syrup. (wink)

Zen Fish

2009-06-21T15:40:00.003-05:00

I was recently reading a blog called "zenhabits" and came across the following comment:

"There is a time for being productive and there is a time for resting. Just as in nature there is a time for activity and new life in the spring, and there is a time for rest and turning inward in the winter. Just as nature knows that its perpetual growth is unsustainable, we must realize that expecting to be productive all the time, leads to burn out and being less productive. Maybe it’s time we start listening to our bodies. I think the more we follow the way of nature, the more intelligently we live."

Tim has been telling me this for the past 17 months! I read this to him and he just laughed and said, "Baby- that's why I have Excellent Mental Health!"

And to think I was living with a 'Zen Fish' all this time. (wink)

Looking Forward

2009-06-19T08:11:00.003-05:00

Good Friday to you all!!! I love Fridays and the feeling of "it's over!" I've worked the week and now I have two days to be at my home. I can cook, I can clean, I can go out, I can sleep in, I can nap, I can do whatever I want. It's great!

I am looking forward to the new baby too! I have a few weeks to get things in order before Baby Allison arrives. I will be going to Unsinkable's house to help her adjust to a newborn and two other kids. I can't wait! Tot and I are going to "sew" and little David and I are going to play trucks. I think I'll be really tired. Tim is pleased that I am going up there but he is already wondering how he's going to manage 7 days apart. He said that he would come up over the weekend and visit . . . the last time I went out of town he said that he would take off some time and come with me. He didn't like the quiet house - I guess. (wink) So, I am really looking forward to babies, bonding, and family.

What are you looking forward to?

A Little Vacation

2009-06-14T21:43:00.003-05:00

This weekend Tim and I took a little vacation and went to Six Flags. We were able to meet with Tim’s two sons and their wives and we got to ride some awesome roller coasters.

I have to admit that after all of the park rides I have come to following several conclusions:
1) Roller coasters are still the best rides in the world! My favorite is the one were my feet dangle - that has to be the coolest feeling in the world.
2) NEVER, I repeat, NEVER go to a park in Texas, in June, when it’s hotter than Hades outside.
3) Never wear Crocs in the heat without socks. (Can you spell blisters???)
4) Make sure that you aren’t too prideful when you get overheated and someone says “Hey! Let me call First-Aid and get you a cart, ok?” Just let them get the ride.
5) Realize that family can bond around a coffee table in an air conditioned house just as easy as they can around a little sticky, red vinyl table in the middle of a thousand other sticky, sweaty people who are trying to cool off too. It’s less smelly and less sticky. (smile)

6) This may be the last time Tim and I go to the park. . . well, until the fall.
Thanks go out to all the Fish guys and gals who made the trek to Six Flags and smiled, laughed, and sweated us. We enjoyed it. Next time we’ll pick an indoor activity

A Busy Day

2009-05-30T18:11:00.007-05:00

Whew! Have I been busy today! I had a fabulous conversation with my son who lives in TN and got to talk to each grandbaby about stickers, presents, princesses, and Cars. They are just full of words and ideas. Little Eva wanted her hair cut short so she asked her mommy to cut it. After the cut she went into the bathroom to view the “new do” and proclaimed, “Mommy! That is EXACTLY what I wanted! It’s perfect.” And then off she went to play. The little toot is only 4 ½ - can you believe that?

We went to see the new Disney 3-D movie “UP” and LOVED it. It has to be one of my favorites. . . and be prepared to laugh and cry. It’s touching.

After the movie we went to Sam’s and picked up some household stuff, returned it to the house, went to look at a few model homes for some decorating ideas, and then off to Home Depot. I gotta say, Tim and I had a great time shopping for stuff. He bought some wood and hardware to make some shelves for the garage, I got a composter, and then we decided we needed a good Texas steak to top off the good day. Man – oh – man that steak was delicious and the day is still not over. Awesome.

I am excited about the shelves (Tim’s taking care of them) and I am going to focus on the composter. I have always wanted to try it and then supplement my plants and flower beds with good “black gold.” I remember my Pap composting and I thought it was so weird to throw our leftovers out in the yard. Hahahaa. Now here I am trying the same thing.

I have also been looking into ‘no dig gardening.’ You can google it for more instructions but basically it is no dig gardening. (wink) You decide where you want your flower bed, you lay down 4 – 5 layers of newspaper, water it til damp, then add yard waste, water, more newspaper, dampen, more yard waste. Let it bake for 2 months, stirring occasionally. Then, voila! You have a raised bed with dead grass underneath several inches of great compost. Sow seeds, plant flowers, whatever your heart desires. This sounds so much better than renting a sod skimmer, digging in the hot Texas sun and then filling it back up with compost etc. I can wait 2 months for a good “no dig” garden

Simple Thoughts

2009-05-28T22:54:00.002-05:00

I’ve been reading a book called Three Simple Rules and I was struck by how hard I try to make things.

If I don’t know what God desires, then how do I know what to hang on to?
If I don’t know what God desires, then how do I know what to let go of?
If Jesus is the “Good News” then why do I often feel depressed or cynical?

New thoughts and actions must spring from a desire to change. If this is a longing for spiritual connection then I need remember what I do when I long for connection with my husband or family. . . I need to spend time with him/them.

Am I talking to Jesus more than yesterday?
Am I helping others in need?
Am I doing harm to others by my actions or inaction?

I decided long ago to challenge myself to review my day each evening as I lay my head on my pillow. Then I pray that God will help me be better tomorrow than I was today. I know that I will experience peace in my heart, a contented soul, and a simple sustaining faith in the midst of any storm.

Big Fish's Birthday

2009-05-25T09:22:00.006-05:00

Today is his birthday and it's a holiday all rolled into one! He has asked me to bake him my chocolate cake with white icing (I think I'll just make a half one since it's just the two of us) and he wants to go to a movie - on a Monday! He's so excited. AND, we are going to Sears to look at power tools. He's drooling already and I can hear his awe-struck voice saying "pooooower tooooools." (smile)

He's such a great guy! Happy Birthday to my TimFishElevator-Man.

Have I Told You Lately?

2009-05-21T22:30:00.004-05:00

I’m sure that the lyrics of today’s songs mean something to some people – but I just can’t get into them. I remember my parents listening and singing to Top 40 music when I was growing up but I don’t sing to the radio anymore. I can’t stand the music and the lyrics are filthy.

Now filthy lyrics aren’t just a problem with today’s music, I can remember some bleeped out parts during the 70’s and the 80’s, the closet references to deeds done in private and then there were the blatant “makin’ love in my Chevy van” and “afternoon delight” songs too. But where are the uplifting loving lyrics today?

I was listening to Van Morrison’s song, “Have I Told You Lately?” and I heard some beautiful words of love and felt a pang. The pang was because teenagers and twenty-somethings are missing the positive aspects of love and commitment as mentioned in Van Morrison’s song.

Here is a sample:

Have I told you lately that I love you?

Have I told you there's no one above you?

Fill my heart with gladness, take away my sadness

Ease my troubles that's what you do

Oh, the morning sun in all it's glory

Greets the day with hope and comfort too

And you fill my life with laughter, you can make it better

Ease my troubles that's what you do

There's a love that's divine

And it's yours and it's mine

Like the sun at the end of the day

We should give thanks and pray to the One

Say, have I told you lately that I love you?

Have I told you there's no one above you?

Fill my heart with gladness, take away my sadness

Ease my troubles that's what you do

Folks, that's beautiful. That is what life and being in love is all about.

May

2009-05-07T08:23:00.001-05:00

So many things have been happening in the Fishbowl…it’s difficult to know where to start. Since my last post was several days ago and it was in the form of a list, I hesitate to do a list format today. I hate to be too repetitive.

This month we are going to be sight-seeing with friends, working on our fence, cleaning up for dear friends from Missouri, nailing down furniture for a grandson visit, celebrating Tim’s birthday, and that’s just a start. May looks like it’s going to be a busy month.

And the Survey Says...

2009-05-01T22:23:00.005-05:00

My daughter is a sucker for these kind of things and when I came across this one - I succumbed to the lure of the siren's song.

My answers for the Random Survey For The Bored

What is on your desktop wallpaper? artsy cats
What is your favorite zoo animal? white tiger
What was your favorite toy as a child? little kiddles
What food do you eat too much of? mashed potatoes
What kind of hairstyle do you have? short
What was your favorite activity in gym class? square dancing
What is on the shirt you are wearing right now? comfortable and old
What is the picture nearest to you of? george clooney,"Oh Brother Where Art Thou" is on tv
What kind of salad dressing do you like? ranch
Whats your least favorite food? tomatoes /okra -it's a tie
What do you do on a Sunday night? computer games
If you could only use one condiment on your food for the rest of your life, what would it be? ketchup
What color are your sheets? cream
What pair of shoes do you wear most often? crocs
What is your favorite game? solitaire
What is your favorite Thanksgiving food? dressing
What is your favorite pizza topping? pepperoni
What is your favorite day of the year? my birthday

Tim is sick today. . . and I have been worried about him. He's coughing, sniffling, achey, sneezing, stuffy headed, and all around yucky. I don't think he's been kissing any swine but I'm still gonna keep an eye on him anyway.

Weaving

2009-04-28T21:22:00.002-05:00

I answered my phone today and heard a little voice say, “I miss you, Nana.” (big long sniff) “And I miss Grandpa, Nana.” (bigger sniff and a hiccup) It was the saddest thing I had heard all week. Tim walked in the door and I told Little David that there was someone here who wanted to talk to him – so I handed the phone over to Tim. He beamed when he heard that little voice tell him how much he was missed.

Children have an amazing way of weaving their way into your heart.

On a different note: headaches have a way of weaving their way into your head. Hopefully this one leaves quickly.

The Soloist

2009-04-25T18:49:00.002-05:00

Tim and I went to see the movie “The Soloist” today and spent most of the afternoon talking about it. I always enjoy Robert Downey Jr. no matter what he is in and I am constantly impressed with his acting ability and this movie was no exception. It was great.

I think what made this movie so good was the fact that it was a great example of reaching out to someone different, needy, and homeless only to find out that what seemed like a good idea was really not what was best for the other person. It made me think of all the times I have tried to help someone only to have it backfire. And haven’t we all done that at one time or another?

The other thing we liked was the way this movie opened our eyes to the plight of homeless people and the way they live. Tim and I were not expecting it to go in that direction and I think that was what we talked about the most. It spent quite a bit of time exposing the viewer to elements of living a homeless lifestyle in LA. It was a lot like viewing Slumdog Millionaire only in LA. My life is insulated from such living and it makes me wonder if those aren’t the people that Jesus would have been sent to save. Many of them were hopeless, lost, hearing voices, strung out on drugs, living on scraps found in dumpsters, and fighting for their little scrap of alley just to lie down and sleep.

I cannot imagine living like that.

Be Intentional

2009-04-23T08:01:00.002-05:00

This is love.
• A promise that is kept.
• A place that is certain.
• Someone who asks.
• Someone who listens.
• Someone who is present again and again.

I read this today from a devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries and thought it was worth repeating. Most people feel like showing love or care is when we provide "things" for people when in fact showing love is more basic than that but requires so much more. It requires being there for them not just in body but in the attention you give them. How many of us know what it's like to be talking to someone but their mind is 5000 miles away?

So, today my challenge to myself is to be more intentional when I listen to others.

Nana, I'm a Protestor!

2009-04-15T21:46:00.006-05:00

Today was a day of first for the Fish’s and the Chapman’s. We all attended our first political protest rally here in Texas – a Tea Party. I had no idea what to expect but we went armed – armed with posters, lawn chairs, posters, water bottles, egg rolls, Snicker bars, posters, camera, hats, and lots of expectation!

We were able to spot Tim from across the lawn – he was the one waving a big sign and Tot waved hers at him in return. It was funny and I think they were kindred spirits waving to each other. David was just along for the fun and the snacks but he toted his own backpack and poster. Kristen carried the food and I carried the chairs.

It was a nice, polite, political rally without a lot of huge fanfare – just a group of a couple of hundred people supporting the cause of the fair tax, term limits, ending of stimulus packages, limit federal government involvement and give some of the authority back to the states where it belongs.

So, all in all, it was a good beginner lesson in civics for the grandkids, bonding for Unsinkable and Tim, and Nana just had a great time being supportive to daughter, husband, grandkids, and country. God Bless Us Everyone! (Preach on Tiny Tim)

Unsinkable and Scarlett

2009-04-14T22:25:00.004-05:00

My Unsinkable daughter, Tot and the little Goose have come to stay for a few days. I am really happy to have her here and we have been catching up on all of our girlie chatter. Tim has been sitting here alternately playing cards online and joining our conversations. I think all the girl talk wears him down until he just gives in and chats with us. Hee hee.

I put the kids to bed tonight and when I was lying next to Little David I told him the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. We snuggled and he fell asleep. Then it was on to the Tot’s room and within about 5 minutes she was asleep too. Unsinkable told me I was the Baby Whisperer.

We are sitting here watching Gone With the Wind and I have to say Ashley Wilkes was the biggest wiener there ever was – she was a fool. Beautiful – but a fool non-the-less. Captn Butler loved her more than anything and had she been a little less self-absorbed she would have realized that. And who doesn’t just love Mammy? She’s awesome.

Well, it’s getting to the part where Rhett has his best line in the whole movie and I need to go so I don’t miss it.

A Good Weekend

2009-04-12T20:54:00.003-05:00

This was a good weekend….on Saturday we slept late, I got my hair cut, we met some new friends for lunch, ate some great BBQ, had a nice drive, a nice nap, had family over, cooked hamburgers, had some delicious brownies, sat by the fire, talked, laughed a lot, and then went to bed. It was wonderful and Sunday was just as good – worship, lunch, friends, family and the Easter bunny.

I thank God for blessing me with a great family, great new family, good new friends, and awesome old friends. This week He has watched over my cousin, my daughter, my son and my DIL-Jennifer. He is faithful and just, he forgives, and saves. He never lies, never fails, never leaves, never yells, never cheats, never steals, never hurts. I am thankful for a generation of family that have loved the Lord and passed their faith down through the years and on down to me who passed it on to my children who are now passing it on to their children and on and on and on. Thanks to Jesus and his willingness to die – I can see all of these faithful people on the other side. Praise God to whom all blessings flow.

Free Day and Good Friday

2009-04-10T14:00:00.000-05:00

Today is a “free” day for me. “A free day,” you ask? This is Good Friday and it is a paid holiday where I work and whenever I have a paid holiday I call it a “free day.” It’s a day that I normally would have to work and since I don’t . . . it’s free!

So, what do I want to do with my “free” day? I wanted to sleep in late, play a few computer games, and do some shopping and maybe go read at the library – I don’t know. I do know that I am meeting Tim for lunch and we always have a good time, no matter what we do. (He’s great!) I also want to do some baking for the weekend because Tim’s son, Aaron and his wife, Tamara, will be staying with us. (I really do enjoy them and can’t wait to visit.) I have just a little housecleaning to do but – dude! That job is going to happen on Saturday – not on my “free” day. I have to have some boundaries. (wink)

I know that this is a normal day for most people but for people of faith it is a day (and a weekend) of reflection. We reflect on Jesus, the life he led while on earth as well as his death and the reason for it. Many people remember his death and resurrection each Sunday when they participate in the Lord’s Supper (Communion) and we should do that. This particular weekend is special to other denominations and their focus on it gives me additional time to do the same. It opens the door to conversations that might not normally take place because God uses each and every opportunity to draw people closer to him. It’s comforting to know that God doesn’t want anyone to be lost and will always be reaching out to the lost, the hurting, the sinful, and the weak. It’s also humbling to know that Jesus died for me (and for you) so that I (we) might be saved from our sins. And we all sin, don’t we? None of us are perfect – just forgiven. Praise God for that. Amen.

The Visual Bible

2009-04-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

I recently found the Book of Matthew on dvd and Tim and I have had many discussions about the thoughts we have as a result of watching it. It has always been one of my favorite religious things to watch besides Charleton Heston in the Ten Commandments. The Matthew video is a bit more realistic – if you know what I mean.

The cool thing about this movie is that the dialog is totally done verse by verse out of the Book of Matthew using the New International Version. You can see the chapter and verse down in the lower right hand corner of the screen and you can follow along with your own bible if you want. The other cool thing about it is that they act out what is being said and it flows from scene to scene. It’s amazing.

After I watched this movie (?), I was struck by how joyous the actor portrayed Jesus. I loved it and after it was over, it suddenly dawned on me that the reason I liked it was because it made more sense to me than the man of constant sorrows portrayed in art and in stained glass pictures. To see Jesus smile after someone was healed seemed natural. Why wouldn’t he smile when someone was able to see for the first time and the first face they saw was the Son of God? This actor was able to tap into the human-ness of Jesus while helping you to see that Jesus had his eye on the heavenly goal at all times.

If you haven’t seen this – I would highly recommend it. It is food for the soul.

I Love to Laugh

2009-04-09T05:00:00.001-05:00

Do you remember the movie Mary Poppins? We watched it this weekend with Tot and Little David and I got to see my favorite part of the movie which included the song, “I Love to Laugh.” That song always makes me laugh and I just have to sing along with it too, shake my head from side to side, while I sing at the top of my lungs – loud and long and cleeeeear.

I do love to laugh. I enjoy a fine sense of humor, a humorously crafted movie, play, sitcom whatever. I just love it. I think that is one reason why I enjoy a comedy club so much – it’s because you know you are there to laugh and it just happens.

Laughs just happen to little kids too. I get such a kick out of listening to a baby laugh, to Little Dave giggle when Gabby the cat sneezes, and to Tot when she thinks she’s being sneaky. She giggles and gives herself away – it’s awesome. I loved listening to them laugh when they played at the playground and when they ride Grandpa like a horse.

Last week one of my co-workers told me I was surrounded by funny people and you know what? She’s right. My Unsinkable daughter totally makes me laugh, as does my husband whose favorite quote is “comedy is my life”, my dad who can always tell a story and crack me up, and my grandkids who make me laugh just by looking at me. The picture at the top of the story is of my mom, sister Cheryl, and I at my BIL-Mark's birthday and we were giggling just like a bunch of girls and having a great time. God has blessed me with the desire to find the humor in things and then proceeded to surround me with people who laugh with me and make me laugh on a daily basis.

Some think that chicken soup is good for the soul; however I personally think it’s the belly laugh.

2009-04-07T22:00:00.000-05:00

One of the things we did while the grandbabies were here was roast marshmallows. They loved them… so much so that Little David was able to cram two into his mouth at one time. I thought I was going to choke – he looked like a chipmunk with white ooze coming out of his little mouth. Tot helped to cook them until her tummy got too hot, then grandpa needed to do the rest of the work. We had them run around the yard to get rid of some of the sugar. Tot noticed our neighbors were outside too and she walked up to the knothole in the fence and said, “Hi Next Door Neighbors! I’m Taylor Chapman. Hey! Come over and eat marshmallows with us!” We all laughed and she decided to fix them one and have Tim pick her up so she could hand it to them over the fence.

Well, now we are on our own and life has certainly settled down. With this quiet has come some awareness - I have decided to go on a political fast for a while. I have had enough. I am disgusted and unsettled so I decided to turn to prayer and then turn the channel. I can get a recap once in the evening and then go to bed. I don’t need a steady diet of it morning, lunch, and evening. Blech. Enough. I do want to go to the Tea Party on April 15th but I don’t think I’m ready to tote a sign or anything. If you don’t know about the Tea Parties, then I would suggest google-ing it and find one in your area and go. This country was founded by people who decided to stand up and be heard. I’m not seeing change I can believe in .

Recap

2009-04-06T21:24:00.001-05:00

Well, dear readers, as you can tell from my previous post – I didn’t have much in the way of energy yesterday when it came time to write about the Grandkid Weekend. Tim and I had a great time and planned several things to keep them busy. We made pancakes, eggs, and bacon for breakfast. We packed a picnic which Tot helped to prepare. She put carrots, grapes, and chips into baggies. She measured out trail mix into baggies too. Little David’s job was to put pickles into the baggies but after touching the first one, he gave the job to his sister. He didn’t want to touch them, but we made sure to tell them repeatedly that “pickles come from cucumbers!” (Sorry Unsinkable – but since you suffered from this lapse in your ‘vegetable’ education, we felt compelled to make sure that this lapse didn’t continue to the next generation!) We went to the park and had a great time right up until Tot said, “I gotta go potty!” And there was no where to go – but by the grace of God there were some guys getting the local pool ready and the bathroom was open. (whew!)

The phrases for the weekend were Tot’s “I haf no idea” and Little Dave’s “Wow! I can’t beweave it, Nana. I just can’t beweave it!” Tim and I kept cracking up because some of the little sayings were super funny.

Tim commented on how snuggly they are in the morning (when it’s still DARK outside). Tot snuggled right up to him and whispered, “I love you, Grandpa.” He would have given her the moon right then if he could. Sunday morning found us all in the bed together due to Tot’s bad dream and Little David kicking off all his covers and got cold. The cat decided that she wasn’t going to be left out and joined the crowd on the bed. It’s a good thing we have a large bed cause we sure took up a lot of room – that cat is a cow!

We had such a good time.

A Weekend With the Grandkids

2009-04-05T21:04:00.002-05:00

Yeah. . . this pretty much says it.

Bubba

2009-04-02T20:06:00.003-05:00

I am thankful for grandkids… they can make me laugh and make my heart crumble all at the same time. They are coming to our house for the weekend while Unsinkable and her husband are painting and decorating the rooms for them and the new baby. Little David (aka Bubba) has been having “nana” withdrawals and was crying tonight that he “missed his nana.” Unsinkable called me up and said that he was going to end up living with Nana for the rest of his life if he didn’t stop crying and get to sleep. (I loved it) So, I asked her to put him on the phone and I heard this little voice say “I miss you, Nana.” (do you hear a breaking sound? – yeah that would be me.) There was a big sniff following by a deep sigh. He’s such a little doll.

I know why God gave grandkids grandparents – it’s to save them from their parents and to give them someone who loves them beyond all reason. The other great thing about being a grandparent is that you can love ‘em up and then send ‘em home. (wink)

Weekend Recap

2009-03-30T21:28:00.007-05:00

Well sports fans – it’s Monday night. It’s time for our two favorite things: the show, The Big Bang Theory and pizza from Papa Murphy’s. We look forward to Monday’s and it makes things go by so much faster when you have something to look forward to at the end of the day.

I know many of you were wondering how the trip went since the weather was freakishly cold. Kansas City had some phenomenal snow and sleet with the snowflakes big, wet, and fat. They were the kind of flakes that make you look out the window and just marvel at the beauty. Mom and dad had the fireplace going and we had a wonderful time just sitting around the table and catching up. Dad still tells some of the funniest stories and I’m telling you…. Tim laughed so hard I thought he was going to fall out of his chair. It was great.

We were able to visit with Tim’s folks, my sisters and their families, and great friends. It was one of our best trips so far. Tim’s folks live in KS and they have a beautiful home surrounded by big tall trees and I think it is the perfect spot out away from town.

Tim and I listened to a lot of things on his Ipod which he kept telling me was the perfect Christmas present – which I have to agree, it was. He uses it every day which was exactly why I got it for him! Anyway – we got one of those little thingies that fit in the bottom of it and then it plays through the radio. It was much better than sharing the earphones which we did most of the way to KC. (smile) I’ll share more thoughts about that later on this week.

Thanks for all of your prayers for our safe travel and for my dad’s continued good health.
His 75th birthday was fun and the house was full of food, family, friends, and laugher. It's how we

McCullough's roll.

Reelin' in the Years

2009-03-21T09:01:00.004-05:00

I am listening to Steely Dan singing “Reelin’ in the Years” and I have to say it is one of my favorites.

“Are you reelin’ in the years? Are you stowin’ away the time?”

I was thinking about the chorus and wondering what I am doing with my time here on this earth? Am I just reelin’ in the years? Am I stowin’ away the time?
I have been blessed with a fairly contented nature – but it is good to have times of reflection so that you can “up your game” so to speak. I think God uses those times to remind us that there are things bigger and more important than just our every day ‘same ol, same ol.’ Now it’s up to me to go out and do sometime about it.
http://Reelin' In The Years

Thankfulness

2009-03-19T20:33:00.003-05:00

This is Thankful Thursday and there are many things to be thankful for so I’ll try to limit them to just a few.

I am thankful for a job. In this current economy I’m just happy to have a job with good co-workers and a good boss.

I am thankful for my marriage – Tim and I are very compatible and our marriage has been a blessing. Second marriages can be very difficult – thankfully ours is not.

I am thankful for my grandchildren – Tot called me up yesterday and sang me a song about God, the flood, a trip, her brother, wanting to go places by herself but she can’t. (hee hee) Then Little David (not to be left out) sang the ABC song to me, told me he loved me, then licked the phone.

I am thankful for computer Solitaire. I really enjoy playing and it relaxes me – in fact there are several online games that I enjoy and Mahjong rates right up there with Solitaire. Seriously –who doesn’t like playing cards on the computer??

I am thankful for cell phones and email – you can talk to family and friends all the time. It makes it seem like they are right there even though you miss them very much.

Procrastination

2009-03-18T08:20:00.002-05:00

Ok – I’m conflicted today. It is dreary, cool, and overcast – perfect weather for snuggling in bed with a good book and a cup of hot coffee. Oh, and let’s not forget a cat right beside me. I want to stay home and turn that dream into a reality. Alas. I need to haul my behind to work. (sigh)

Things are smooth here in the Fishbowl. We are planning a trip to KC (yeah!).
Dad’s birthday is coming up and we are planning to meet up with Unsinkable and her family to celebrate. I am excited and so is Tim. We love roadtrips.

Another Fishbowl activity this week has taken place in front of the tv. We are watching Tim’s favorite series Voyager on dvd. He missed the last season where they finally make it home to Earth. I was able to borrow the entire series from a co-worker and he was absolutely thrilled. All I had to do was make him some caramel popcorn and I won the trophy for “Most Awesome Wife Ever!” Easy peasy.

Well, dear readers, procrastination has to come to an end at some time and now I have to get ready for work. Enjoy your day.

Going 'Round

2009-03-12T20:05:00.006-05:00

There is so much going on – politics, stock market, a trip to KC, a new grandbaby on the way, my dad, my BIL, my sister have birthdays coming up, and my hairy cat is in bad need of a comb out. But it's what makes life go round.

Speaking of going around, my awesome husband has been doing laundry and playing his guitar while I fix dinner. It is a great way to spend the evening after a busy day at work. He is a great help and he even rubbed my feet after working 11 hours the other day. He’s awesome.

We were able to visit Unsinkable and family on Saturday night and Sunday. We had a wonderful time as I mentioned in a previous post. So, today Taylor drew some pictures of the two of us holding hands. She wrote my name “Nana” and her name TAYLOR and put an “e” on the end of it and then told her Unsinkable mom that it was a “silent” e. Can you believe that little toot?

So, all-in-all it’s been a good day.

2009-03-08T21:32:00.002-05:00

Impromtu visits are the best, aren't they? We decided Saturday at 4:30 in the afternoon to drive up to Ft Worth to visit the Tot and Little David....oh yeah and Kristen and Dave too. We got there and the kids were in bed but not asleep so we got in some good snuggles and stories before they went to bed. Little David just launched himself into Tim's arms yelling, "GRANpa! GRANpa!" It was really cute.

We had brunch at IHOP and boy can Little David put away the food. Tim chuckled at him several times while marveling at his shoveling prowess. It was really kinda funny. We all were really hungry and the food seemed to just disappear.

Tim and I are home now and watching Harry Potter and catching up on emails and blogs. We've had a good weekend and some great fun. We enjoy roadtrips, family, and food which is why this was a great weekend - we got all three!! Oh - by the way, Tim took his guitar with him and he and Dave sat around practicing cords and stuff. It was nice to hear them talking and checking out the different sounds and techniques. Tim is getting better every day and Dave was able to offer a little advice on strings and frets. Needless to say, Kristen and I took the opportunity to go into the next room and look at her great bargains on baby clothes and to giggle like a bunch of girls. The guys were oblivious.

It's nice to be home - but the weekend sure did go by fast.

The Trip

2009-03-06T08:19:00.005-06:00

We are going to Kansas City - Kansas City here we come! My dad, sister and BIL Mark have birthdays this month and we are headed to KC in a couple of weeks to do some celebrating. Dad turns 75 and Cheryl is 30 years behind that.... I won't tell her age but you can guess! (hee hee)

Anyway, Tim and I are planning our trip (which will be a quick one) and we are getting excited about a road trip. I love to travel and it's my job to plan the music, Tim's job is to drive. We both LOVE our jobs because he loves to listen to what I pick out and I love to look out the window while he drives - it's a match made in heaven. (another hee hee) It's spring time here in TX so the view out the window will be beautiful and I've even heard that the bluebonnets are coming up already.

I've got itchy feet and the traveling blues..... I gotta get to Kansas City.

Blurg

2009-03-01T17:30:00.003-06:00

I have a bad headache today. I am getting them on a monthly basis – which is prompting me to go to the doctor next week. Sleep, soup, Galaxy Quest, and solitaire have pretty much been the order of the day. So – having said that – I am drawing this post to and end.

It's Official

2009-02-23T21:06:00.003-06:00

Unsinkable had her ultrasound today and it’s official – they are having A GIRL. No set name as of yet – but there are several in the running. We’ll see what they come up with. I’m sure Tot will want some input but frankly, I don’t think that Twala or Tweela will be it. (I can’t remember exactly what it was but it sounded something like that or it might have been TaTa…. but we won’t go there. )

Unity vs Same-ness

2009-02-22T15:41:00.003-06:00

Tim and I went to church today. He has been volunteering in the Cradle Roll class this quarter and loves it. It cracks me up that he loves to help in there because most men just want to escape anything that has to do with diapers or babies. Not Tim. He will even stop families in the grocery store so he can coo at the babies. He just kills me! Anyway, he loves it and he knows all their little names and now he knows all the mommies names too. He told me about little Ainsley, Jude, Jack, and Laylahnie and how one of them kicks off her shoe and then another likes to be held and so on and so on. It’s so funny.

I, on the other hand, have been going to another class and we have been talking about “one another” verses. Today we discussed how we are like a body – each one of us a different part but we belong to the whole. We are called to be unified. Unified – as in working together. NOT same-ness.

If we think that it means “same-ness”, then IF you don’t agree with me….what am I to do? Well, I would have to distance myself from you. How is that “working together” or showing “unity?” Having the opinion that we all must believe exactly the same way gives birth to the act of disfellowshipping people for any thought or action different from our personal interpretation of the way things should be.

Who decides where the “fellowship” line is in the sand?
Who decides when a person (or church) has crossed that line?
Pretty soon our circle of fellowship grows smaller and smaller until we only have a handful of people that we believe are “true” worshippers and we’re really not too sure about ½ of them. That is pitiful.

Now as pitiful as it may be… I came away with a positive thought. I can hold onto the fact that God has blessed others with certain talents and he has blessed me too – only with different ones. Together (unified) we will work to do what God has called us to do – each doing it’s own part to build up the whole. I don’t have to be (or think) exactly the “same” as everyone else. And that is a relief. It’s a relief to know that the Church is not The Borg.

Ps. I thought ending with a Star Trek-ism would be a nice touch. (wink)

Planning Big

2009-02-10T19:48:00.002-06:00

We have some beautiful bulbs up and blooming at the office – bright yellow daffodils. It has sparked my gardening gene and I have already started chatting to Tim about digging a couple of beds up in the backyard. I have my eye on some big rocks, a neat fern, some big flowers and some green bushes. Tim has picked out some edging and has scoped out a co-op to buy the dirt and mulch. (yeah, I think he’s getting excited about it) I don’t want huge beds; I want manageable ones.

After the beds, I have my eye on painting some of the walls in the house. We are waiting on two things: a nice, free weekend and finishing the flower bed project. You see, we both like to finish things and not jump into five projects at one time and only doing them all halfway.

I may have to invite Unsinkable and family over to “help!”

ps. The picture is NOT one of my flower beds. . . (sigh) maybe later.

One of the Nephews

2009-02-08T21:21:00.002-06:00

This is my nephew - and boy does he make me laugh! I miss this guy and the next time I post a picture of him, it will be one of the really handsome ones from his Facebook. But, I had to use this one because, again, it made me laugh.

I miss you Cole-e-man.

Random Thoughts on Saturday

2009-02-07T09:32:00.002-06:00

A few random thoughts:

There is something soothing about a gentle breeze and the sound of wind chimes.

Hot coffee smells real good – and good coffee should be enjoyed black. Bad coffee needs cream, sugar, syrup, and flavors to cover up the bad taste.

My cat is good company – she’s around when I want her to be and then she leaves when she’s through. Nice.

Family is important. So are friends.

There is nothing better than to crawl into bed and slip between two fresh, clean sheets and snuggle up with your favorite pillow.

Ice cream – strawberry, chocolate, or orange sherbet – doesn’t matter.

Advil.

Bad Week?? You tell me.

2009-02-04T20:54:00.006-06:00

I'm not having a good week. What? Did you ask me what is wrong? Well, I think that in my current state - you might not like my delivery, my sarcasm, my negativity, nor my comments.
So I decided to let a few pictures express it all for me.

There. I think that pretty much said it all. I think I'll go eat some fabulous icecream that my husband bought for me. He told me that I've been just fine - and he means it. I told him that's cause I'm keeping the craziness bottled up on the inside. (wink)

Why did God 'bless' us with hormones and a biological clock that gets wonky as you get older? And why does my Unsinkable daughter giggle whenever she calls me a crone?

Snicker at that and I promise you I'll punch you. Hard.

Pie Plate Surprise

2009-01-28T21:49:00.003-06:00

I have to tell you a story about a peach pie, a peach cream pie. I got the recipe for this pie from my mom (who is a terrific cook) and I may have made it 3 times in my adult life. That is until this past year. My DH loves to eat and loves my cooking….which makes cooking for him a real joy. Anyway, I mentioned to him that I was going to make a peach pie to which he said he really wasn’t crazy about peach pies. I said that was fine – more pie for me. (wink)

I made the pie. I let it cool. I cut a small slice for me, sat down on our loveseat Lazy-Boy and proceeded to slowly eat and enjoy my pie. Soon Tim leaned over to sniff the pie and then declared it smelled really good and maybe he was a bit too hasty in telling me that he didn’t care for peach pies. I got up and cut him a piece and before I could sit back down – I could hear him licking his plate clean. He kept telling me how delicious it was.

The next day I decided to go home for lunch because I could have another piece of pie. When I got home I noticed that the pie-keeper was open and the pie was missing. The pie plate was sitting on the cabinet with a spatula sitting inside. A SPATULA. The pie WAS GONE. ALL OF IT. Well, I called him and slowly asked where the pie went and he told me the CAT ate it. “With a spatula?” “Yes, she was cramming it into her kitty mouth just at the moment I walked in the door.” (yeah – I didn’t believe it either.)

So, now that you know the back story, let’s jump ahead to today.

On Monday I made another peach cream pie and was down to about two pieces today. Tim came home for lunch so I didn’t think there would be any pie when I got home – but it was ok. Sure enough, when I walked in the house there was the pie with the aluminum foil slightly askew. When I took the foil off, there was a spanking clean pie tin with a little white football note inside along with a note written in Sharpie on the pie tin… “Good Pie… Read Note.” I proceeded to open the little white football note. It read, “Hey Sweetie! That was GREAT PIE!!!! Yummmm….. Thank you for all the Great meals you prepare. I love you. I love you. I love you.” I just had to laugh, especially in light of the aforementioned cat-ate-my-pie story.

The funny thing is that Tim walked into the house right then and heard me laughing. He asked if I found it? Found what? “Did you read the bottom of the note?” “What bottom?” I grabbed the note and looked at the bottom and there it was….. “P.S. I left you a piece in the cabinet.” He is amazing, isn’t he?

Enough Already

2009-01-27T20:10:00.001-06:00

I would like to complain.

I would like to really complain.

I would like to really complain for a very long time.

I mean it. I want to complain for a very long time and do it loudly while banging my fist.

Yep. I’m frustrated (or flush-trated as someone once said.) and I have my laptop to thank for this current irritation. I got some kind of virus and had all kinds of trouble getting it off. Not only did I have a difficult time finding out what was wrong, then I went to fix it and spent hours trying….. hours…… yeah, like I WANTED to spend my evening this way. Sheesh. Anyway, I have decided to blog my irritation and dump it all on my poor readers. (sorry) I am ready to just unplug it, and go back to a simple lifestyle – with no computer. (yeah, like THAT’s ever gonna happen.)

So, I am going to go play some cards and try to cool off.

Similarities?

2009-01-24T09:31:00.001-06:00

Do you see the similarities between the scowl on Clint Eastwood and Walter the puppet???

They even talk the same too. LOL.

Fur-gedabout It.

2009-01-22T20:08:00.002-06:00

Look at her mouth.... do you see the fur? Why is it in there? Is she frustrated? Did it just get stuck? Did she wipe her mouth with her kitty paw and then the fur got stuck when she licked it? Was she twirling it looking for something else to eat? A mouse? Yet she took time out of her busy kitty day to posed for the picture.... so she must not be vain or she would have picked it out of her mouth.

I think this may be the moment where I make a call to the groomer.....

Lady or The Queen?

2009-01-20T21:02:00.006-06:00

I used to have an email address with the word Queen in it. I loved my email address in spite of the cracks from my BIL John. (Brother In Law). I got my name from a librarian in Michigan. She was asking me questions for the library card application and when she came to the “Title” question she asked, “Do you want Mr? Mrs? Ms? Or Queen?” I busted out laughing and said that if I got to pick my own title then I wanted “Queen!”
When I got home that afternoon, I told my family that I had found my new email address name. And that is how I became QueenGrile.

Well, I kept that name for 10 years.

Until November 17, 2007 - that was the day I remarried and became a “Fish” which meant I had to find a new email name. I wasn’t sure I wanted to keep the Queen name so I adopted a different title, Lady. However; I have really missed being the Queen. I received and purchased magnets, stickers, all kinds of goodies ‘cause everyone knew The Queen. (sigh) It wasn’t just the goodies, it was the recognition factor – I was always able to keep in touch with friends in far away countries like North Carolina, Michigan, and Indiana (wink) because they remembered the name.

I have started to reconsider my email address. I would like to go back to my original “Queen” title….but I hate to go through the effort of changing it and then trying to update everyone and to change the email on all my online “favorites.” My desire for 2009 has been to “Keep it Simple” and I don’t think this falls into that category. After all, it’s only a name.

Four Thumbs Up

2009-01-19T20:05:00.002-06:00

Well….it has been a while since I’ve posted. I haven’t really had the brain power to post – work’s been a beating. So there hasn’t been much left over to post. Tim (bless his heart) has been a real trooper. He has just plopped me into my sweats, grabbed a little quilt, my laptop, the remote, and take out. It don’t get any better than that. God Bless Him.

We did get to have Date Night and we went to see Gran Torino with Clint Eastwood. It really was good. I have to say I have never been a “real” Clint Eastwood fan…. Every Which Way but Loose just put the final nail in the coffin, so to speak. I did see Unforgiven, which I thought was just “ok.” So, I was just going along to be a good sport. I loved it!!! In fact, I laughed, I cried, and thought it was wonderful. Just a side note: some of the language was foul – just thought I would warn you. But NO spoilers here. I’m not a SL. (yeah, L, I thought it would be better to spell it than to hurt the guilty!)

I give it 4 thumbs up – 2 from me and 2 from Tim.

New Gismo

2009-01-13T08:24:00.006-06:00

It has been a good year so far... and one of reflection. I have been journaling, planning, crafting, and trying out a new webcam. I have really enjoyed this because I am able to visit with mom and dad just like I was there. It has really helped us all not feel quite so far away from each other.

Tonight we are going to meet each other for dinner. We are going to set up the laptop and camera, grab the dinner, and then sit down and sign on. I'm excited about it.

If you have family you haven't seen in a long time - check out the webcam. They run anywhere from $25 to $50 dollars. You plug them in, drop in the software, click a few buttons, and your on. You can use Skype or just use Yahoo Messenger. It's great.

Funny for the Day

2009-01-10T23:12:00.003-06:00

Thankful Thursday

2009-01-08T20:14:00.001-06:00

(Look what I found in my "history" box! yeah - it's my guy. He gave me this picture when we were "going steady" back in high school.)

I arrived home after a long day and my head was ready to explode from all of the “work” headaches. Tim sat me down on the couch, rubbed my head and shoulders, and listened to me for several minutes. He was wonderful. I could just feel all of the stress melt away. It was great. THEN, if that wasn’t enough, while I cooked dinner….he folded the laundry, did another load, and practiced on his guitar. I love hearing him play while I cook… it is very relaxing.

So, Thankful Thursday is all about Tim. Thank you, God for blessing me with a good man who loves me and works along side me as we travel through this life. Amen.

A Funny for the Day

2009-01-05T22:55:00.001-06:00

A Husband and wife are shopping in their local Wal-Mart.The husband picks up a case of Budweiser and puts it in their cart.

'What do you think you're doing?' asks the wife.
'They're on sale, only $10 for 24 cans,' he replies.
'Put them back, we can't afford them,' demands the wife, and so they carry on shopping.

A few aisles further on along the woman picks up a $20 jar of face cream and puts it in the basket.

'What do you think you're doing?' asks the husband.
'Its my face cream. It makes me look beautiful,' replies the wife.
Her husband retorts: 'So does 24 cans of Budweiser and its half theprice.'

On the PA system: 'Cleanup needed on aisle 25

What Makes a Good Day?

2009-01-03T21:53:00.004-06:00

Today was a good day. I know you are asking yourself, “What does a good day for Cynthia look like?” Well, it’s like this….

I woke up! Any day that you wake up is a good day, don’t you agree? The opposite means that you DON’T wake up and that is “no bueno.”

Tim took me to breakfast at IHOP and we had a wonderful time sharing a paper, eating something that I didn’t have to cook, and then talked over our drinks for a while.

I needed a new journal for 2009 ‘cause I wrote on the last page of my old one. So we went to Barnes and Noble and I kicked around a few journals until I finally settled on one that I liked. While I did that, Tim found a book for himself, I found a book for myself and we hurried to the cashier before more books could jump into our hands.

Then we drove around. The weather was wonderful, a balmy 77, and we thought a drive with the windows down was just the ticket. We stopped at the nearby winery and wandered around, hopped across the street to wander around the pottery stop, and then slowly drove home.

I was able to prune some bushes with Tim, help him clean out my car, re-pasted my kitchen border, did a load of laundry, took an outstanding nap, listened to Tim play his guitar while we sat outside by the chiminea watching the sun set. I fixed a quick pasta dinner and we ate outside while the fire died down.

So, you see….this is what I would call a ‘good day.’ A little work, a little play, a little arts –n- crafts, a little culture, a little scenery, a good nap, and good company.

I call it "good day."

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T23:55:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year Everyone!!!!
I am not going to post any resolutions today….I am going to wait until Monday. I have a few percolating in my brain, but I want to make sure that I don’t over do it.
I hope you all had a safe and happy New Year’s Eve, just make sure that you eat Black-eyed Peas for New Year’s day. Since Tim doesn’t like them – we have decided that he is exempt and can eat Great White Northern beans instead. He is agreeable to that as long as I make lots of cornbread. (wink)

And the Third thing is......

2008-12-31T05:30:00.001-06:00

Coffee. Did I mention that I LOVE coffee? When attending night school a couple of years ago, three of my five papers were about coffee. Not because I loved it but more because the theme worked for all the different types of papers. The class got a lot of laughs over the subject matter, poked some fun, and talked about getting together for some kind of intervention.

Maybe an intervention was in order…. You see, I love to drink it. I also love to collect mugs that hold it, I like to try different kinds of coffee and different brands, and I like to drink it alone or with friends. I like to drink it at work, with dessert, after dinner, and especially on a deck overlooking water with family.

Now after you have finished reading those last two paragraphs you would think that I drink it all the time and don’t have a single negative thing to say about my ‘java-jones.’ But you would be wrong. You see I DON’T like it cold. I don’t like Frappacinos, I don’t like mocha-flavored food, and I don’t like coffee on super hot days in the middle of the day. As my dear husband would say, “What’s up with that?”

So, here I sit holding my favorite blue Indianapolis mug (an airport souvenir purchase) filled with steaming hot coffee (Starbucks) along with a dash of cinnamon, chocolate creamer, and a dollop of whipping cream. I am once again reminded of how much I love this beverage and how a love affair could easily be misconstrued as an addiction. Seriously – how could any one think I’ve got a problem with coffee?

Maybe next time I should compose an ode to coffee..... Yeah, that's the ticket.

My Second Addiction

2008-12-30T05:30:00.001-06:00

I LOVE MAHJONG!!

I am a tile junkie of the worst sort but OMGosh I love playing.
So, number one: Planners
Number two: Mahjong
Number three: stay tuned.