Wednesday Hodgepodge

I'm back at the Wednesday Hodgepodge!  A huge thanks to Joyce, who never takes a break from the hodgepodge and provides us with questions each week.  Go see her HERE and link up your answers too!
1. Who taught you how to cook?

My mom taught me how to cook, but I never really appreciated it until I got married.  I now take great pride in making things from scratch, just like my mom and especially pulling out old family favorite recipes.  I also have learned a lot from watching the Food Network.

2. Have you been told you think too much? Are too much of a perfectionist? Are too sensitive? Were they right?
Yes, yes, yes, and yes.  Wow, you hit a lot of touchy subjects with this question, Joyce!  These are things I don't particularly like to talk about, but yes they are all true of me. 

3. As a child did you have a favorite blanket or toy? Tell about it.
One year as Christmas was getting closer, I went shopping with my Mema and we went into the local Toy King in the mall.  There was a doll in there that I just loved and I really wanted her, but she cost $80, which was an insane amount in those days (it's an insane amount these days!)  This doll was really special be cause she was a life-size baby, probably as big as a 6 month old, and she would suck her finger or her pacifier and she cried and opened and closed her eyes.  For the 80's, this was big stuff.  The problem was in the price tag.  I knew I would never get that doll unless Santa brought her.  Christmas morning came and I was so excited to go see what Santa brought.  I got some nice things, but I didn't get the doll.  I tried not to show my disappointment as I opened the presents from my parents.  Later, we went to Mema and Grandaddy's house to open presents.  I opened a couple of presents, clothes I think, and that was that.  After everyone had opened everything, Mema said that she had forgotten to put one of the presents out.  I figured it was for my parents or uncle or someone.  Out she came with a present for me, and it was the doll I wanted.  I named her Mary Geraldine after Mary and Gerald, my grandparents. 
4. What 'institution' do you have the most faith in?
The institution of marriage.  Two people who are in love and committed to each other are a force to be reckoned with.
 
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.  Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.  A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."  Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NIV

5. Chrysanthemums-pansies-burning bush-ornamental cabbage...your favorite in an autumn garden?
I just love pansies.  I can see their little faces just like in Disney's Alice in Wonderland.

Photo Credit

6. What superpower do the kids in your neighborhood seem to posses?
The teenagers in my neighborhood seem to think they have some sort of protective force field about them that allows them to walk in the middle of the street and think that if a car is coming they won't get run over.  They don't move to the side of the road, they simply continue to amble on down the road carrying on whatever oh so important conversation they are having.  You have to slow down and get right up behind them before they will move.  These are the same kids that speed down the street at 50 mph while mine are outside playing. (Wow, I sound like an old grouchy person!)

7. Are you a fan of the cranberry?
I do like cranberry very much.  I don't however care for cranberry scented things like candles.
8. Insert your own random thought here.
For the month of November I am counting my blessings, becoming more aware of the many things I take for granted each day.  I am posting what I am thankful for on my facebook wall.  I invite you to do the same, or to keep a thankful journal.

Fall Hodgepodge

It's Hodgepodge Wednesday!  If it weren't for Joyce and the hodgepodge lately I wouldn't even have a blog.  I've really fallen down on the posting lately.  Anyway, go see Joyce and link up with your own answers.  But first, read mine!

1. Do you like chili? Red or white? Beans or no beans? Spice or no spice? Toppings?

Yes, in fact I have been craving chili lately.  I like both red and white, but prefer red with beans and a little bit of spice, but not over the top hot.  I like to put shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream on mine.  Sometimes I like to eat chili over rice.  It makes me hungry just thinking about it. 

2. Red~Orange~Gold...your favorite fall color?

It hasn't always been this way, but I think orange is my favorite fall color.  I really like all of the colors of fall, but Hubby's favorite color is orange and it has definitely grown on me. 

When we were first married,  I decorated our home for each of the holidays.  That first fall came around and I put silk fall leaves around the house and leaf garland on the mantle of the fireplace.  Hubby did not understand this at all.  He went to work one day and told his boss, the university president, what I had been doing.  The President had an early childhood background and he said just said, "She's a teacher.  That's what they do."

3. Who did you idolize when you were growing up?
I really looked up to my pastors.  When I was really small, we had a lady pastor, Patty, and I really looked up to her.  When she would pronounce the benedication she let me go stand with her.  Then when I went home I used to pretend to be her, with my own benedictions, baptizing my sister, and singing the Doxology while holding "offering plates."  Other pastors who came along were also among my favorite people.

4. When was the last time you did something 'arts and craftsy'? Share please.
I'm trying to work on decorating doors for my kids' first grade classes.  Each class has a theme for their fundraiser that is coming up and I am working on getting both classes' doors ready to go up.  Pictures will come later, I'm sure.

5. What's a place that makes you really nervous?
Going to the doctor or dentist.  I've spent enough time in doctor offices and hospitals over the past several years, that I really don't like to go there.  The smell makes me nauseous.  I think the worst part of it though is when they call you back into the little room and you have to wait for what seems like an eternity for the doctor to come in.

6. Horse back riding...yay or nay (neigh?)
Never been so I don't really know. 

7. What is your favorite cliche?
There are so many that I use... I find myself telling my kids that I feel like a broken record just like my parents told me when I was a kid.  The difference is that I knew what a record was.  My kids have no clue.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
It has finally happened.  I knew it would happen sooner or later and it did.  We've been in school for 6 weeks and I have caught some kind of virus from the kiddos.  Praying that I feel better soon, because it's the pits!

Pumpkin Spice Hodgepodge

It's time for the Wednesday Hodgepodge again!  This week I'm on the right day.  Go see Joyce and link up with us! 

1. What do you do at the first sign of a cold? Will you get a flu shot this year?

At the first sign of a cold I start with the orange juice and airborne.  Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.  I don't get sick with that kind of stuff often, but since my immune system is compromised with Crohn's, when I do get it, it takes me a long time to get over it.  I get a flu shot every year.

2. What advice can you give about how to conquer fear?

I used to be a very fearful person.  I grew up afraid of everything and it kept me from doing things that I have since found out were fun.  The idea of driving on the interstate terrified me for a while in college.  Not so fun fact: I've never flown on an airplane because I was always afraid to fly.  In the last 7 years I have been close to death twice.  When the twins were born I had HELLP syndrome and I went into acute renal failure and my body began to shut down.  Not quite two years later I had a doctor at Mayo Clinic telling me that because of my Crohn's, if I didn't have surgery within the next month, I would die from malnutrition.  Those were both times when I could have been afraid.  I probably should have been afraid.  I wasn't afraid.  I discovered that I wasn't afraid to die because I knew where I would go.  Now that I'm not afraid, there are 1001 things on my list to do.  Flying is one of them, just got to figure out where to go for my first flight ~ and how to afford it with all four of us going.

3. Share two good things about your life right now.
I have a husband and kids who love me no matter what and I am able to work in ministry that I feel passionately about.

4. A hot fall fashion trend in 2011 is a return to sixties style...tunics with pants, shift dresses, pencil skirts, cinched waists, bold prints, high necklines and short lengths to name a few. How does this fashion trend fit with your wardrobe and personal sense of style?

Lately I have tried to regain a sense of style.  Since becoming a Mom, my style has been more blue jeans and a top.

5. Were you involved in scouting as a kid? How about as an adult?

I was a Brownie and a Girl Scout as a kid and I have many fond memories from camping and doing things with my friends.  We haven't gotten involved with scouting with the twins yet.
6. Apple, pear, plum, pumpkin...your favorite fall flavor?

Pumpkin in the fall...yummy!  Last year I discovered that Dunkin' Donuts had pumpkin donuts and that was definitely a bad thing.  I'm trying to steer clear of that place this year because once I have one, I'll be coming back for more.  Speaking of pumpkin, isn't that a cute little punkin in the picture?  He went through a stage where he thought he was smiling for a picture when he made that face.
7. What characteristics do you think are essential in a good teacher?
A love for children, flexibility, understanding, and the ability to think outside of the box.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Monday was a day off of work for me, but the kiddos still had school.  I was able to go visit some dear friends of mine that live about an hour and a half away.  He was my pastor for a lot of my growing up years and they were both spiritual mentors for me...they continue to be.  It was a great visit and as much as they wanted to see the kids too, it was nice that I got time alone with them. 

Here they are last year with my kids.

A Belated Hodgepodge

It's not Wednesday, it's Friday and I can't believe how quickly this week has flown by.  I started my hodgepodge answers on Wednesday morning but have been so slammed this week, that I haven't had a chance to post.  So here are my belated hodgepodge answers.





1. What is one piece of advice you would give a 'just turning' 21- year old adult?
I like the line from John Lennon "Life is what happens to you when you're busy making other plans."  You can't plan everything that happens to you, so roll with the punches and enjoy the journey.  Wow ~ I wish I was that smart at 21 or heck even now at 36.  I'm a work in progress, what can I say?


2. Besides cooler weather (or warmer weather, depending on your hemisphere) what is one thing you are looking forward to this fall?
I'm looking forward to less humidity.  Also, I love all of the fun activities in the fall ~ the festivals, going on picnics, just enjoying the nicer weather outside.

3. What sound lulls you to sleep?
I love falling asleep to the sound of a thunderstorm or the beach waves.  Those are my two favorites and for a while Hubby was playing those relaxation CDs at bedtime and boy was it working.  I really don't have much trouble getting to sleep, as soon as I get still and my head hits the pillow, I'm out.  However, it is hard for me to stay asleep all night.


4. September is National Preparedness Month...does your family have an emergency 'kit' and/or disaster plan in place?
Yes, we have a hurricane kit but I think we probably need to check the supplies and be sure we have everything we need. 

5. How has your blog changed since you started blogging? Or has it?
I have learned to not put so much pressure on myself for topics, they come as they are ready to come.  I have also learned that some of my struggles, such as coming up with a title are the same struggles that others have as well.

6. What's something you've recently learned to do on the computer?
I can't think of something I have learned recently, but I want to learn how to do more photo editing.  There is so much about Photoshop that I don't know how to do yet.

7. Is a picture worth a thousand words? Elaborate.
Sometimes, although I tend to be a bit wordy and feel everything needs an explanation.  However, there are pictures that I think speak for themselves.

Just a couple of my favorites.


8. Insert your own random here.

It's been birthday week around our house.  My birthday was Tuesday and it was such a great day.  Princess had an orthodontist appointment for a consultation in another town and Hubby was taking the day off to go with us.  So we decided to take Prince out of school for the day and we all played hookie for my birthday.  We never do this, but we also know that every once in a while it is important to take family time and things worked out so we could.  After Princess' appointment, they took me to lunch at Olive Garden.

I had to take a picture with my babies.

This one was Princess' idea.  She wanted to show that she loves me.

When we got home, Hubby let me have some quiet time to myself.  He had gone to the grocery store and got ribeyes and potatoes for dinner.  He washed the china and set the table.

He spoils me and I love it.

We had butternut squash soup, which was so yummy!  It really put me in the mood for fall to be here.

The pretty flowers he bought me.

Candlelight dinner complete with champagne.

I can't get this picture to turn, but here's the cake...from Publix...so delicious!

Hubby also did great in the gift department, but I won't go into all of that.  Just wanted to stop and recognize how incredibly blessed I am.  Hubby and the kids spoiled me and it felt good.  

It's Hodgepodge time Again

It's Wednesday Hodgepodge time and I'm back in the game.  Go see Joyce HERE and link up ~ you know you want to!  BUT FIRST: read my answers.



1. Do you think the world became a more dangerous place on September 11, 2001 or did we just become more aware of the danger? How has your own life changed as a result of that day?

I think there has always been danger in the world but we are more aware of danger when it hits so close to home.  Other countries have faced this kind of terrorism in the past, it just hadn't hit our soil until then.  Right after Sept. 11th I was afraid to go places where there would be large crowds of people, just not knowing if there would be another attack.  God has not given us a spirit of fear and I try not to live in fear. 

2. Did you think your parents were too strict when you were growing up? How about in hindsight?
Yes, growing up I thought my parents were pretty strict.  The one area they were not strict about was curfew, as long they knew where I was and when I'd be home they were good with that.  In hindsight I think they were probably just about right.  I was pretty responsible, the most trouble I got into was toilet papering houses.
3. Share one random but candid fact about yourself.
I wish I were as organized in real life as I am in my mind.  In my mind I know where everything in my house is and it all is in its neat little place.  In reality, I know which stack to find things, but they aren't put away and I almost always have a basket a mountain of laundry to fold and put away. 

4. Would your nearest and dearest describe you as simple or far too complicated?
Far too complicated I think.  I want to be simple, I think I'm simple...I simply want things to go the way they are supposed to.  Is that so hard?

5. What is your favorite stadium or carnival food?
Funnel cakes!  I don't get them often but they are oh so good!  My other favorite is a dipdog (corndog for those that don't speak southern).


6. Tornado, hurricane, earthquake...how many of these natural disasters have you experienced? Which event do you think would be the scariest?
Growing up in Florida, I have lived through my fair share of hurricanes.  The first day of my senior year of high school was a hurricane day and if I remember correctly, it ended up being nice weather that day.  We pray for hurricane days like kids up north pray for snow days.  When the twins were toddlers and we lived in Georgia we had a terrible tornado that destroyed the hospital where they were born.  There was a lot of destruction and by God's grace our townhouse wasn't hit, but the tornado track skipped around the street we lived on.  We were pretty scared.  It was night, the power was out and we had the kids in the downstairs bathroom in the tub with pillows on top of them. 

This was our Winn Dixie

A giant tree that was ripped up by the roots

Our hospital that was also hit by the tornado. 

Amazingly enough, there were only 2 fatalities with all of this damage.  It was a tough time for this small community, but everyone pulled together and helped where they could.  I still love that town and the cherish the friendships we made while we were there.  There are some precious people in that town.

Back to the question at hand, I've never experienced an earthquake so I wouldn't really know how to compare it with the others.  I'd say I'm most afraid of a tornado.

7. Labor Day weekend is approaching so a work related question seems appropriate. Growing up, did your parents assign you regular chores? Were you paid for doing those chores? If you're a parent do you assign chores to your own children? Why or why not?
My sister and I didn't have a lot of chores, but we did have to take turns loading and unloading the dishwasher and cleaning our rooms.  In the summer we had to do laundry and we all know how much I love to do laundry ~ NOT!  My mom always insisted that we use this thing called a clothes line.  I loathe that thing in the Florida summer heat where we were subject to thunderstorms every afternoon.  We had to hang the clothes out to dry and then watch the weather because if it looked like rain we had to run out and bring the clothes in to finish in the dryer.  If it rained on the clothes we had to start all over again.  I vowed that I would not use a clothes line when I was old enough to pay my own electric bill, which has held true.  I don't even have a clothes line.  I was paid for some chores, but my parents gave us money whenever we needed to go somewhere so it all evened out. 
My children are assigned chores.  They are responsible for taking the recyclables out, helping set and clear the table, cleaning their rooms, taking their dirty clothes down the hall to be washed and other things as assigned.  We took a note from Dave Ramsey and our children earn "commission" rather than allowance.  Allowance sounds like they are entitled to it whether or not they do the work.  Commission is earned based on the work they do.  They have commission charts that hang on the fridge to keep track of what's been done.  Payday is once a week and they have three jars to place their money : Spend, Save, and Give.  They can spend their spend money on whatever they like.  The save jar money has to be approved by us before they spend it, and the Give jar is for giving at Sunday School or some other place they may choose to put their money to help others.

That last question was inspired by a post Mindee wrote on Monday. Everyone go say hi to Mindee-she blogs at Our Front Door and she's funny.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
It's great to get back into blogging after a month off.  I needed some time to establish a new routine with school starting.  Also, God has been working with me and dealing with me about some things and I needed time to process for myself before sharing with others. 

Wednesday Hodge Podge ~ Long Hot Summer Edition

It's Hodgepodge Wednesday ~ Go see Joyce and Link Up!  You know you want to...it's fun!

1. July is National Ice Cream month...your favorite flavor? Soft served, hand dipped, or frozen yogurt...which do you prefer? And technically yogurt is not ice cream but its hot outside so I'll let that slide for today.

I have been on an ice-cream kick this summer ~ my waist line does not thank for me this, but it has been so hot!  My classic favorite is mint chocolate chip.  However, I have discovered Ben and Jerry's Late Night Snack....it is so yummy!

2. When you travel do you tend to pack too much or too little?
I tend to pack too much...you know, just in case I need this, that or the other.  I have found though, that the older the kiddos get, the more I think we can live without and I pack a lot lighter than we once did.  When the twins were babies we had to pack 2 of just about everything and we went through double the diapers, double the formula, baby food, clothes, etc. 

3. What's your favorite cleaning product?
Clorox or Lysol wipes.  I love those things for quick wipe-downs of counter tops, the bathrooms, etc. 

4. Which is the greater tragedy-an innocent person imprisoned or a guilty person set free? Explain.

I had to really think about this one but I think the greater tragedy is an innocent person imprisoned.  If a guilty person is set free, God will still deal with that person and their transgressions.  He is the ultimate judge.  I had to be reminded of this a few weeks ago when what I thought was a very unfair verdict was delivered and a young lady was acquitted and walked free.

5. What's the longest trip you've taken by car?

One summer we went to Washington DC in our family van.  It was a 14 hour trip and my dad only wanted to stop for gas with limited potty stops.  My dad put a 5 gallon bucket with lysol in it in the back of the van for emergencies...YUCK!  If I remember correctly, the air condition broke on the way home and we were roasting in the back of that van.  My sister and I still talk about that trip and how we didn't want to use that bucket. 
The good things that happened on that trip:

• We spent Independence Day at our Nation's Capital and were so close to the fireworks that ashes were falling on us.
• We saw President and Mrs. Reagan drive by in a motorcade, waving.
• We visited the Smithsonian, toured the White House, Capitol, and all of the other usual exhibits.
• We visited with friends that lived in Virginia.
• Despite the bucket and lack of AC, we still have great memories of the vacation and can laugh about it now!

6. tennis-golf-canoeing-biking...pick one.

It's been so hot this summer that it's hard for me to think about picking one of these but I'd say biking. 

7. What sound drives you crazy?
Anything high-pitched...fingernails on a chalkboard is probably the biggest.  It sends chills down my spine.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I can't believe that summer is almost over!  School starts back on August 10th and I have so much to do between now and then.  This week has been spent getting everyone in my house nursed back to health.  Hubby has had a sinus infection and the kiddos have had strep and ear infections.  It's been a fun week ~ NOT.  At least everyone is feeling better and will be back up to par before school starts. 

Wednesday Hodge Podge

It's Wednesday hodgepodge time again.  Go see Joyce and link up....but first read mine.

1. July 20th marks the anniversary of the first time man stood on the moon. Flash forward 42 years to July 8, 2011 which marked the start of the final Space Shuttle mission. Should we continue to explore space? Should nations devote more or fewer of their resources to exploring space? Would you want to go into space if the opportunity arose?
Yes, we should definitely continue to explore space.  However, we are talking about more than exploring space, we are talking about manned space flight which resulted in many scientific discoveries and products that have benefitted all of us.  NASA calls them Spinoffs and among the discoveries are memory foam, freeze-dried food, firefighting equipment, Dustbusters, cochlear implants, improved radial tires, and over 1600 more.  You can visit http://www.sti.nasa.gov/tto/ to see more. 

The other major problem with not having manned space flight are the national security issues we will face.  I think anyone who reads my blog knows that I am definitely in favor of useing more resources for space.  People downplay the importance of the United States remaining in and staying ahead of the Space Industry but they don't realize what is at stake.  Would I want to go into space?  I have contemplated that question for many years.  I don't think I do.  I am perfectly content to watch from the ground with pride. 

There is nothing like feeling and hearing the rumble and watching one of these babies launch in person!

I do however know of a certain little boy that wants to be an astronaut when he grows up.  Here Prince and Princess are standing with Chris Ferguson, who is the Commander of the last space shuttle flight that launched on July 8th.  He was great with the kids and talked to Prince about being an astronaut.  This was taken at Kennedy Space Center's Family Day last year.
2. What are three things in your freezer?
Waffles, Ice Cream, Frozen veggies

3. If you could see any band/artist perform live tonite who would it be? It has to be someone living...no Beatles, Elvis, etc.
I think it would be Matt Maher or Casting Crowns.  They seem to be who I listen to most on my i-pod these days, although this was really a hard decision for me to make because there are so many musicians that I just love.

4. Ice-cubed or crushed? Or are you one of those people who don't like ice?
I really like crushed ice, but will take it either way.  My favorite ice?  Sonic.  They have great ice.

5. The owner of a small restaurant outside of Pittsburgh recently announced he was banning children under six, saying they regularly disrupted other customer's meals. You can read the story in more detail here but isn't this a perfect topic to discuss in our Wednesday Hodgepodge? Have at it friends...what are your thoughts?
We used to have a restaurant in our area that strongly discourage you to bring children to the point that they would charge much more for children that adults.  I understand that it is frustrating to go into a restaurant and want a relaxing dining experience and have children screaming and carrying on, but don't punish those of us who make our children behave and have taught them how to eat with good manners.

6. What was your first car? How did it come to be yours?
It was a 1979 Buick Regal.  My parents bought the car new and then my aunt bought it from them.  My cousin drove it and when I was 14, my dad bought it back from my aunt.  That became my car.  I loved that car and drove it all of 2 or 3 weeks before I had my first accident (not my fault) and it was totalled.  I had a bad habit of being in the wrong place at the wrong time and had 3 car accidents within 2 years, none of which were my fault.

7. If I had a nickle for every time I _________________ I'd be rich.
If I had a nickle for every time I asked my children to pick up their toys/dirty clothes/insert any item here, I'd be rich.  I feel like a broken record and I'm so old and irrelevant these days that my kids don't even get that reference.
8. Insert your own random thought here.
I am finally feeling like I am recovering from birthday overload.  We partied and partied and partied some more.  I want to try to post pictures of the cakes I made but I haven't figured out yet how to photoshop out the Prince and Princess' names.  We had a bowling party and it was a great celebration.

Happy Birthday Hodgepodge

1. How has your hometown changed since you were a kid? What has changed most about the neighborhood you grew up in?
In many ways my hometown has not changed, although it has grown considerably since I was a kid.  I am not looking forward to the changes that the end of the Space Shuttle program is bringing.  We have many people who are out of or about to be out of jobs and many businesses are struggling. 

2. What song makes you laugh?

"You Never Even Call Me By My Name" by David Allan Coe.  That song brings back great memories of fun times with great friends. 


3. Are you a fan of Harry Potter? Read the books? Seen any/all of the movies? Will you be standing in line somewhere close to midnight later this week? For those of you playing along today who live outside the US or UK is Harry Potter a phenomenon in your part of the world?

I have not read any of the Harry Potter books or seen any of the movies.  Somehow I missed the craze with all of this and at times wonder what I'm missing.  I have many friends who are into it, I just never got into it. 
4. If the truth hurts, will you tell a lie? Are we better off as a society in a world that allows no form of deception whatsoever?
I try to speak the truth in love.  There are ways to say something that are more tactful, although sometimes there is no getting around hurting someone you love.  I would really rather just avoid the conversation if it isn't something that is really important and I know it will hurt the other person.  However, if it is really important, I would rather talk to my friend or loved one and have them hear it from me rather than someone else.  There may be hurt immediately, but in the long run I would hope that we could overcome the hurt feelings and come to an understanding.

5. What is your favorite 'sauteed in garlic and butter' food? Or garlic and olive oil if that makes you feel better.
Green beans sauteed in garlic and EVOO.  Love them!

6. Attending any reunions this summer/year? High school? family? Other? Do these events stir up excitement or dread?
I get excited about family reunions.  I love spending time with family...especially the extended family that I don't see often. 

7. Lilac, hydrangea, peony...pick one.

Hydrangeas...I love them!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

We are in full birthday mode around here and I've got to get busy making the kids' cakes.  Tonight Hubby pulled out the home videos from our time in the NICU and when we first brought the babies home.  We decided they were old enough to see what it was all about.  This is probably only the 2nd time in 7 years that Hubby and I have watched these movies and I have to say that watching them with the kids was therapeutic.  It was so great to be able to sit with them and let them see how much we loved and wanted them and how we cared for them. 

They got to see video from their first baths in the little dishpans from the hospital and how their preemie outfits swallowed them up as we dressed them to go home from the hospital.  Looking back I can see how sleep deprived we were and how we were in survival mode but also how much we wanted to just love on these sweet babies.

Here they are just 5 weeks old!

Summertime Hodgepodge

It's Hodgepodge Wednesday again and lately it seems that if it weren't for Joyce and her hodgepodge questions I wouldn't have much of a blog.  I'm trying to get caught up on some things around my house and am trying not to spend too much time on the computer.  I promise to be back again soon.  If you would like to join the hodgepodge, join Joyce here.

1. Summer's here-whoohoo! What's your favorite sight, sound, AND smell associated with summer?
There are so many to choose from, my senses love summer.  Fresh-cut grass, a thunderstorm, the ocean...these are a few of my favorite things.
2. Fireflies or lightning bugs...what are they called in your neck of the woods?
Lightning bugs ~ although we don't have them in Florida.  My kiddos recently discovered lightning bugs at our family reunion in Tennessee.  They loved them and wanted to catch them and bring them home.  I had to explain that those poor bugs wouldn't make it through the night and then the 10 hour drive home. 
3. What is something from the past week that reminded you of your childhood?
Saturday we took the kids to the beach and Hubby and I got out in the water and body surfed with the kiddos.  It was such great fun and I remember the many hours we spent in the ocean when I was little.  These days it is so tempting for me to grab a great book and sit on the shore and watch the kiddos play.  It was fun to go out and play as a family.  Later that evening it began to rain and I mean really rain hard.  I don't know what got into me, but as Hubby was looking out the front door, I ran out into the rain and spun around like a little girl, dancing in the ice cold rain.  I couldn't stay out there too long because it was cold coming down, but it felt so good to be so free.  Prince and Princess then begged to go out so I let them go do a little dance too. 
4. Define 'the good life'.
I am living the good life.  I get to work in ministry, at a job I enjoy, spend time with my children and husband, and live near my extended family. 
5. Tell us what we'd see if you took a snapshot of your desk/work space?
Pictures of my family, a snow globe from our trip to the beach, usually paperwork that needs to be filed, and my computer.
6. Peaches or watermelon...yes, you have to choose.
Oh, I don't want to choose.  When we lived in South Georgia we were 30 minutes from Cordele, the watermelon capital and just an hour from my favorite peach packing plant in Fort Valley.  I guess if I have to choose it would be peaches.
7. Ever been skinny dippin'? Is that too much for the Wednesday Hodgepodge? Rest assured we won't need details...unless of course you feel you must but remember, this is a family friendly blog so keep it G rated.

That would be a NO.  I'm just not that adventurous.  This does remind me of the part in Steel Magnolias when Julia Roberts is in the beauty shop and telling Truvy about her and her boyfriend skinny dippin' and she says, "we did things that would scare the fish."  I always thought that was funny. 

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Hubby and I are hooked on America's Got Talent.  Anyone else watch this show?  It's amazing what some people think can pass as a talent.  There are a lot of delusional people out there.

I'm not sure what is going on with Blogger but it is not letting me comment on my own blog or anyone else's...it's sending me back in circles.  UGH!  Please know I'm not being rude and just not commenting, I can't figure out why this isn't working!

Father's Day Hodgepodge

It's Hodgepodge Wednesday and I am making it in just under the wire with my answers.  I'm totally out of my routine.  However, if you would like to join in with the Wednesday Hodgepodge, go see Joyce HERE and link up!

1. What is one thing on your bucket list? If you don't have a bucket list let's pretend you do.
I don't currently have a bucket list, but if I did, I would love to travel.  There are too many places I want to go to list them all. 

2. What makes a good dad?
A good dad invests in his family.  He supports his children and shows them unconditional love.  He spends time with his children, showing an interest in the things that his children are into.  A good dad also shows his children what it means to be a good husband by loving and supporting his wife.  I have been so blessed to have a good daddy and a good husband.

3. Are you afraid of insects? Which ones?
I wouldn't say that I am afraid of any insects, I just plain old don't like them. 

4. We're barbecuing...what's on the grill at your house?
We love to grill.  We grill burgers, steak, chicken, porkchops, hotdogs...
Incidentally, I like for Hubby to burn my hotdogs.  Yep, the more carcinogenic, the better.  Love me some burnt hotdogs. 

5. Do you believe that playing is more important than winning?

I think that playing is very important, people should be encouraged to try new things and to put themselves out there are participate.  I don't think that winning is everything, but I do think that if we don't teach our children how to win as well as how to lose, we are doing them a disservice.  Prince and Princess are playing softball right now and they don't keep score.  The bottom line for me is that in real life there are winners and losers.  You have to learn how to be a good winner and how to compete.  You also have to learn how to fail, pick up the pieces, and do better the next time until you win. 

These are my cute little softball players before their first game of the season.

6. Do you tan? Use self tanners? Visit tanning salons? See your dermatologist at least once a year?
I do like to have a sun tan but my skin is fair so I have to be careful.  I haven't been to the dermatologist in quite a few years.  That's probably something to put on my to do list.  I've been to so many other kinds of doctors in the last several years that some things haven't been as much of a priority.
7. Five years ago I would never imagine that today I would_______________.
have my own blog.  Of course five years ago I didn't really think I had much of a story to tell.  God has a way of working things out and you just never know what twists and turns your life will take.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

I have been trying to rest up from lots of travelling.  Last weekend we spent 4 days in Tennessee for my family reunion.  It was so much fun and I have a lot to tell you about it, but I've been trying to catch up on laundry and sleep.  Stay tuned!

Wednesday Hodge Podge

It's Hodgepodge Wednesday!  If it weren't for Joyce, I wouldn't have a consistent Wednesday post.  Everybody to over to give a shout out to Joyce ~ but first read my answers below.

1. Do you and your family enjoy camping? What do you enjoy most/like the least when it comes to family camping? When was the last time you camped?

We have not camped since the kids were born.  Hubby and I used to camp with my in-laws when we were dating and first married.  The problem is that Hubby and I both think that our idea of camping is at the Hampton Inn.  My favorite thing about camping is sitting around the campfire at night.  My least favorite thing about camping is probably everything else...the bugs, the dirt, not having indoor plumbing, sleeping on the ground...
2. Did you attend a summer camp when you were a kid? Is that a happy or not so happy memory?
I attended church camp for a week each summer when I was in youth group.  Those are some happy memories, although I also remember getting homesick some as well.  I used to meet my friend Suzanne there each year.  She had moved away to a different part of Florida but we would meet there and rekindle our friendship each summer. 
Also, in high school, I went to band camp each summer.  Hubby likes to tease me and say, "This one time at band camp..." Yes, I was a band nerd and in fact at one time I was "Queen of the Band Nerds," as I was drum major also.  Those were some great times in my life and I made many friends.
3. Over the course of your life, what have you probably spent more time pondering than anything else?
I think I have probably pondered God's plan and will for my life more than anything else.  I want to live a life that is pleasing to Him and I am constantly assessing whether or not my words and actions are in line with His will.
4. Which of the seven natural wonders of the world would you most like to see? There are many lists of 'wonders' but this is the standard natural wonder list-Mount Everest, The Great Barrier Reef, The Grand Canyon, Victoria Falls, The Harbor of Rio de Janerio, Paricutan Volcano and The Northern Lights.
This is a tough decision for me to make...I would love to see all of them of course, but I guess the one I would like to see the most would be The Northern Lights.

5. What was your first real job?
I did a lot of babysitting and worked at a few retail places very part-time in college but my first real job was teaching in a self-contained learning disabilities class, K-2 grades.  I loved that little class.
6. Lemonade or Sweet tea...which do you prefer on a hot summer day?
Sweet tea (pronounced swayt tay ~ you have to have the long a sound in there)


7. What is something that always brings a smile to your face?
Hearing belly laughs from little kids...especially mine and the sight of these two little faces:

8. Insert your own random thought here.
We are packing up to go, yet again!  It's been a busy summer.  This time, the kiddos and I are heading up to Tennessee with my parents and Mema for a family reunion.  Hubby doesn't get to go because he took last week off to go to Conference with me and he has to stay and work.  I am looking forward to spending time with my great-aunts and uncles and cousins.  We don't get to see each other nearly enough.  We're going to rough it at the Hampton Inn ~ that's my idea of camping!

These are my the aunts and uncles at our wedding almost 10 years ago.

Wednesday Hodge Podge

It's Wednesday Hodge Podge time again!  I took last Wednesday off.  I started answering the questions and then I got extremely busy and by the time I thought about posting them it was Friday.  So I opted not to post last week.  If you would like to join in the Wednesday Hodgepodge, link up HERE with Joyce.

1. Have you ever been to the US capital-Washington DC? If so, what's your favorite site? If not, what would you most like to see on a visit to that city someday in the future? Is it even on your list of places to visit?

I have been to DC twice ~ the first time was the summer before 7th grade and the last time was my senior year of high school.  Fun fact: The last time I was in DC was on a band trip with The Queen of Brussels Sprouts.  Boy was that a fun trip! 

Queen is on the far left and I am standing next to her.  I think we were at Mt. Vernon in this picture.  I'm not sure why you can't see more scenery to tell where we were.

I really want to go back, as Hubby and I love all things American History and it has been so long since I have been there. 
2. When did you last attend a wedding? Are there any weddings on your summer calendar? Were you a summer bride? If you're single, is summer the season of your dream wedding?
The last wedding I attended was a little over a year ago.  I don't have any weddings coming up either.  I did not get married in the summer...we were married in March.  Summer is too hot in Florida to get married...you're sweating bullets.

3. What is your favorite way to eat strawberries?
I just like to pull off the green stems and eat them fresh and plain.  They are so good and sweet ~ nothing else is needed!
4. What is one thing you are especially looking forward to this summer?
Our week-long beach vacation in July.  Can't wait! 
5. Do you use/like the self checker at the grocery store?
I do like to use the self checker at the store sometimes.  Hubby hates the things and won't go near them unless there isn't a choice.  My regular grocery store does not have a self check-out lane and that's fine because the cashiers are so friendly.  However, the two or three times a year I go to Wal-Mart I usually end up at the self check-out.  I think it is so annoying when it tells you to place your item in the bagging area and it's already there but the sensor doesn't detect it or else it doesn't need a bag but the machine still freaks out. 
6. Share a favorite piece of common sense advice.
Don't bite off more than you can chew.  I'm still working on taking my own advice, by the way!
7. Barefoot, flip flops, tennis shoes, sassy sandals-your first choice for summertime?
Barefoot ~ it's such a freeing feeling!

8. Insert your own random thought here.
I have been doing lots of summer reading and I love it!  I am always reading something, but in the summer I have more time and I tend to really devour books.  I'm currently reading two books, Heaven is for Real, and The Promise of an Angel. 
 

Also, I watched the episode of Cake Boss when he came to the Space Center and did the shuttle cake.  In one scene I could pause and see Hubby, the kids, my Mema and me sitting in the audience.  You had to know where to look though and even then it was so quick that I had to rewind and pause to see it.  It was exciting knowing that I was there though.

Wild Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. What reveals more about a woman-her refrigerator or her purse?

I think it depends on what you want to know.  A woman's purse tells more about who she is personally.  I have a bit of everything in my purse and am prepared for most any ocassion or incident that could occur.  I have a Mommy purse, but also things in there for myself.  I think the contents of the fridge tell more about what a woman as a wife and mother, because it shows what kinds of foods she prepares for her family.  Incidentally, I need to clean out both my purse and the fridge. 
2. When was the last time you went to the zoo? Where? What's your favorite zoo animal?

I took the kids to the zoo in Feb. 2010 in Tampa when Hubby had a conference over there.  This giraffe kept licking Prince's head.  It was quite funny.

 We haven't been much to the zoo for a couple of reasons.  1.  We've had annual passes to Disney and have frequented Animal Kingdom.  We have gone there A LOT!  

2. We are very much aquarium people.  We have taken our kids to many aquariums.  However, after Joyce's post on Monday, I am now in the mood to go to the zoo.  Good thing school is out after this week.  I think a trip to our local zoo is in order.

My favorite zoo animal?  I'd have to say giraffes or elephants. 

3. What social issue fires you up?
How about the fact that I have no social life now that I have kids?  I used to be a very social person.  I am now too tired to be social.

4. Are you a coupon clipper? If so, are you extreme?
Yes, I clip the coupons.  I'm not extreme though.  I like saving money just like everyone else, but at some point for the extreme people (like on the t.v. show) it takes over their lives.  That's just not me.  I like saving money where I can and I rely on certain websites to help me find the best deals and do the coupon match-ups for me with local stores.  My goal is to always save half.  If I can cut my grocery bill in half with coupons I feel I'm doing pretty well and I don't have to be consumed by it.

5. What is one of your favorite souvenirs brought back from your travels?
A small wooden figure of the John Wesley statue in Savannah, GA.  Hubby proposed to me in front of that statue in Reynolds Square.  It's a sweet reminder of how incredibly thoughtful and romantic my Hubby is.

6. Lemon meringue or key lime?
As a Florida girl, I have to say key lime but not the stuff that the stores put green food coloring in and call key lime.  Real key lime pie is not really green at all.  It's really more white than anything else.  My Mema makes the best key lime pie!

7. What is the most beautiful word you know in any language?
Jesus ~ for at the mentioning of His name every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
I need sleep!  This is such a hectic week with kindergarten graduation and preschool graduation and I feel I'm being pulled professionally and personally and have way to much to do for both.  However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.  Hubby has a work retreat Saturday - Tuesday and I will be retreating at the hotel by myself.  The kiddos are taken care of and I plan to spend quiet moments to myself in reflection, perhaps do some writing, reading, laying by the pool...and some adult social time.

This will be my paradise. I can hardly wait!

Moving into the Wednesday Hodge Podge

It's Hodgepodge Wednesday everyone!  Go see Joyce HERE and link up with your answers, but first, read mine!

1. How many times in your life have you moved house?

Not as much as a lot of people, seeing as how I grew up in the same how from the time I was 5 until I got married at 25.  There was that one semester that I decided to go away to college, only to find out that I was not really ready to be away so I lasted the one semester and moved back home.  After my Grandaddy died I moved in with my Mema, but I didn't have to move furniture, just my clothes and a few things  I wanted with me.  After all, my house was only a mile away.  The first BIG move occurred when Hubby and I got married.  In addition to all of the wedding preparations I had to pack up a house and get it ready for my parents, sister and bro-in-law to bring it all up to me in a u-haul.  This was a challenge.  I had somehow accumulated a 3 bedroom house full of furniture and Hubby had his furniture and  I didn't really do a great job of downsizing beforehand.  Let's just say we had a LOT of stuff.  We still have a lot of stuff!  So we had a cute little rental house that we loved.  We did not love the little landlady who reminded me of Gladys Kravitz and came around for her rent money on the first that we had to pay in cash.  I'm convinced she would stuff her mattress with the money and not claim it as income, but that's another story.  Anywho, we had been in that cute little house for almost 2 years when we found out we were having twins and this cute little house suddenly was already feeling cramped.  So we found another rental and moved just across town.  However, we had to have the help of all of our family because I was pregnant and couldn't lift, and Hubby broke his foot.  We loved this house and brought our babies home to it and all was great until we changed landlords twice and then they were looking to sell again.  So we moved into a townhouse for a short while before moving to Florida.  We stayed with my parents for a little over a month until we found our house.  That feels like a lot of moving to me.

My bro-in-law and Dad proudly stand by the truck they packed up to move me from Florida to Georgia.  I told you I had a lot to move!

2. What subject would you study if you had a year to devote to it?
I'm about to commit to studying for a few years to get a Master of Divinity.

3. What in this world breaks your heart?
Children that go without.  My children are my world and they want for nothing.  Sometimes I feel guilty about that because there are so many children with needs in this world. 
4. What is one item that symbolizes the times in which we live? Why?
I think the smart phone.  Unfortunately we are all about instant access to everyone and everything and the smart phones have enabled that.  You can call, email, or message anyone.  You also have access to the internet and can get any information you want at any time.  Sometimes I wish I were a little more disconnected from all of it.
5. Share a favorite bumper sticker or t-shirt slogan.
I've been wanting a bumper sticker that I saw a while back that says, "Got Twins?"  but I haven't found one.
I think my new favorite shirt is the one I bought Hubby a while back:

6. How do you like your spaghetti?
I make spaghetti about once a week and I doctor it differently depending on what kind of mood I'm in.  I grew up with ground beef in the sauce.  However, I have taken to buying frozen meatballs from the wholesale club and it makes it very easy to heat them and pop them in the sauce. 

7. What is one piece of advice you would give a recent, or soon to be recent, graduate?
To not be afraid to take chances, go after what you want, and never stop learning. 

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Ever wake up and think "it's going to be one of those days?"  Yep, it's gonna be one of THOSE days for me.  It's 6 a.m. and already I feel like I need Calgon!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

If it's Wednesday, it must be time for the Hodgepodge.  Go see Joyce and link up...BUT first read my answers!

1. Have you ever been served breakfast in bed? Do you enjoy that? If someone were serving you breakfast in bed this coming weekend what would you hope to see on the tray?

I have been served breakfast in bed, but it rarely happens.  However, over Spring Break one morning I got up with the kids and got them situated with food, drink and a television show and then went back to bed.  I was awakened a while later when Princess came into my room with a paper plate that had grapes and cookies on it.  Bless her heart, she was serving me breakfast in bed.  She is quite thoughtful.  I don't usually enjoy breakfast in bed because I don't want to get crumbs in the bed and I find it awkward to get comfy.  If someone were serving me breakfast in bed I would want eggs over easy, thick cut bacon (like the kind at Cracker Barrel), and biscuits and gravy.  Can't you hear my arteries hardening?  I'm not a big breakfast eater, but when I do eat breakfast, I more than make up for it. 

2. What is one piece of advice you would give a new mother?
Enjoy every moment.  Soak it up in your memory bank and snuggle them as long as you can.  They grow up entirely too fast!

3. When was the last time you wanted to scream? Explain.
I have children.  This means that I probably want to scream at least once a day but I am trying to practice restraint.  In all seriousness, probably the last time I wanted to scream was last Wednesday when I was trying to decide whether or not to cancel school due to the scheduled shuttle launch and couldn't get the information I needed to make a good decision.  That combined with other things going on that day made for a stressful day. 

4. Can you hula hoop?
Any preschool teacher/director worth her salt can hula hoop.  Yes, I still can hula hoop.  I just can't keep it going as long as I used to.

5. What is something people do in traffic that really bothers you?
Tailgate.  I hate it when I look in the rearview mirror and see someone right on my bumper.  When Hubby and I were dating he told my dad that he thought I was this sweet innocent little church girl until he got in the car with me behind the wheel.  I have a habit of talking to other drivers when I drive and it isn't always so nice.  However, I have shed that nasty little habit of using bad words so now it's mostly just gripes and grumbles of why can't people just drive right?!

6. What do you do when people don't admit they're wrong?
I usually hold my ground and sit back and wait.  I'm stubborn like that.

7. What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word 'fun'?
I picture all of the things we do as a family with the kiddos. 

8. Insert your own random thought here.
I am looking forward to Mother's Day.  Since becoming a mother, I am much more appreciative of my own mom and all she has done for me. 

Here is my cute Mama the day we brought the twins home from the hospital.  They were a month old.

We will spend Mother's Day with my Mema, my parents and my sis and her gang.  It will be a fun afternoon.