Gingerbread Man!

Ok, here is the Gingerbread Man I made....now dont go laughing. I'm not the craftiest person around and I got lots to learn. Thats why he WONT be listed on Ebay or Etsey or wherever else one sells their goodies. He needs work, no doubt about it. I think he's pretty cute for my kitchen window though and that is where his new home is right now. What I dont like is that he's to thick,,,well even that would be ok...but flip him over and WOW--is he a mess. He has cracks--some potholes going on and other things that would make you go YUCK!
You would not believe how many things I missed when I painted him. I missed a button at first, his nose and eyebrows and that ribbon on his neck. Everytime I painted him and it dried I would find something else! I like him for me...but I will keep working on a gingerbread recipe that is easy to work with and dries up nice and hard and dosnt have such an ugly backside. Actually now that I think about it--his backside looks like mine--wrinkly and dimply!

Cookie Recipe and Baldymans Hat!

We're all busy and most of us LOVE those easy recipes that are also very good! Heres one for ya. I call em Surprise Cookies and I tuck inside an M'M. Now I bet no one who knows me even the slightest would have guessed that. You might want to double this recipe because it dosnt even make quite 3 dozen. Heres the ingrediants: 1 cup butter, (unsalted), 2/3 cup sugar, 1 egg, 1 tsp vanilla, 2-1/4 cups flour. Heat oven to 350. Roll dough into small balls and tuck inside the middle an M'M, raisin..you get the idea. Bake for about 10 minutes--until you can see the bottom is lightly browned. Let cool and roll in Powdered Sugar. Enjoy! As you notice in the picture--I also had my tea with mine--it was soooo good!
And here is Baldyman and his crazy Penquin Hat he runs around town in. I guess the older he gets, the weirder he gets to. I tried to get him in his Santa Shorts and shirt and my pink shoes he wears all the time--but that was pushing it. If anyone has a Lowes around them--that is where this hat was purchased. My cousin and her partner Jim bought it for Baldyman, they also have Santa ones. Their both adorable hats.

Thinking Girl Tuesday-Depression!

Basic Guidelines to help diagnose the possibility of Depression:

Although there is no blood test to diagnose depression, there are well developed clinical guidelines used by health care professionals to diagnose major depressive disorder. One of these guidelines, developed by the American Psychiatric Association, is called the DSM-IV^®. Your health care professional may ask you questions based on this established diagnostic guideline.

According to the DSM-IV, major depressive disorder (or "depression") is diagnosed when five or more of the following symptoms of depression are present for most of the day, nearly every day for at least 2 weeks. At least one of the symptoms must be either persistent sad or "empty" feelings or loss of interest in activities.

• Constant sadness
• Irritability
• Hopelessness
• Trouble sleeping
• Low energy or fatigue
• Feeling worthless or guilty for no reason
• Significant weight change
• Difficulty concentrating
• Loss of interest in favorite activities

Be sure to tell your health care professional if you're experiencing any of these symptoms as described by the DSM-IV. Also, tell your health care professional if your symptoms are affecting your ability to function at home, at work, or with family, friends, or colleagues.

The DSM is what is used as a guideline to see if the possibility of a mood disorder could be going on. Personally, I think you need to look at it from 2 ways....How YOU feel and/or watching those around you that you know and love. Most of us I would hope would be able to tell if we think something just isnt quite right--perhaps we've been "down" for just to long a time or we find ourselves just not feeling as chipper as we normally do. Those around us, hopefully would let us know in a loving way that "is it possible we could be depressed". Times to really take notice would be--After having a child, a divorce, job loss, death of loved ones, and other serious life changing episodes. Menopause and Peri-Menopause are other times that could trigger depression in women, and some men to. I know for me personally, I've noticed I did go into depression as I got older. I was put on Paxil during my divorce several years ago--but I found myself so complacent that I went off of it. Recently, within the last 6 months I went back onPaxil but on a much lower dose...10 mg and I'm finding it is making a difference in how I feel and handle stresses in my life and its also NOT affecting my sex life. Medications for Depression are one of the main complaints among women as affecting the quality of their sex life. If you find that for you personally this was true--dont give up--tell your doctor you want to go on a lower dose. And of course give it at least 2 months before you can expect to feel a difference.

Depression dosnt always trigger sadness or complacency....I think in men you need to watch for signs of anything out of the ordinary for that person. Men exhibit sometimes different signs when they are going thru depression. Some will go purchase that shiny new red car, the behavior going on isnt a match for what is really happenning!

What I've seen way to often in my work....is scary to me. Its actually forced me to truly watch over myself--my loved ones and even go to my husband and ask him to watch over me. I've seen so many women become over medicated--to the point they become zombies, almost unable to function at a daily level. Their speech is impaired, their skin takes on a different appearance, they cant make minor decisions...most of the time they end up on SSI because they truly cannot function. To me, that is scary. I have literally sitten down with women and their husbands and counted out how many prescriptions their wives were on--and then did research and came back and showed them how meds were conflicting with others and how dangerous it was. Some husbands were so "fed up" with the wives, they didnt care...some were shocked and did as I asked them and began accompanying their wives to the doctor visits. Some women will go to various doctors to get different meds because in time--you do get hooked. Its very very scary to me. I truly wonder how many people end up in worse shape because of this overload of meds. Truly if your thinking you have a mood-disorder and you may try out a medicine--alert someone you love and trust to watch over you. My husband knows my fear and he knows to watch for things in my behavior that maybe I would not know is going on.

Depression can be situational, genetic, brought on my other illnesses...but it can be treated and very successfully treated. The key I think is to manage it, alert those around you to watch over you while being treated and dont be afraid to talk about it. Make it a point to watch those you love also--for the same reasons that I've asked you to ask someone to watch over you.

One more key thing I've noticed amongst women....some Christian wome for some reason will avoid these types of discussions. Alot of women will feel unheard, or mis-understood. They will be told "give it to God", he cures everything...or pray about it...etc. Depression is real--for each of us--lets remember that God gave certain people skills to treat and disagnose mood disorders and they are there to help us. Being depressed is NEVER a lack of faith or beleif, and no one ever should be minmized for having depression. Depression hurts, it can kill, it can maime....BUT it also can be helped and should be. No one should ever have to be chastized for going thru life illnesses by those who think "faith" is all you need. As Christians we need to listen, believe, help and watch over our fellow people...I say this because I've seen this way to often in our Christian sector of life--and it really really bothers me. Way to many women end up feeling alone, hiding and even go into deeper depression because they dont find compassion, true love and care amongst their fellow believers. This needs to stop.

Anyhow, to end this really long post...I'm a sufferer of depression...mild but i have it. I do take a Medication for it and it does help. I've alerted someone close to me to watch me...on the medication. I also watch those around me that I know and love--for signs that they could be suffering from depression. Educate yourself on Depression, signs of it--possible triggers to bring it on and meds that could be used to treat it. Really educate yourself once you or your loved one has been given meds....really watch this. Sad as it is,,,many doctors are prescription happy and to many people are walking zombies because of that. AND last but not least...dont ever minimize someones feelings if they are claiming they are depressed...and always support that person...remember at some point in life--it could be YOU that needs the support!

Merry Monday, My Giveaway!

I hope everyone had a great weekend! I did,,very relaxing PLUS I got a good part of our Christmas Shopping done and baldyman wrapped it all. Its nice to see gifts under the tree finally. We got about 3 inches of snow and as of later today we are under a pretty big Winter Storm Watch. Where I live--we are expecting anywhere from 6-15 inches of snow. I would say---we wont be going anywhere as of later today....and I'm thinking my work will shut down--so hopefully I will have a day off tomorrow!

This is a photo of my giveaway! It includes some chocolate from a company here in Milwaukee that makes the best candies. Quality Candy--their chocolate is very expensive-I beleive they order their chocolate from Africa and its a very good candy. I have a caramel in it, toffeees, chocolate creme and something else I forgot...(hey I'm 50). As for the meat sticks, our local butcher makes them and they are a huge hit around here. If your going to buy meatsticks--DONT go to the local grocers--NO--you gotta get them made by a butcher! These are honey flavored ham sticks...ummm..you do NOT know how bad I wanted to rip open the package and have 1. Whoever wins this--if you notice the package is taped, dont worry it was only me! I also have a believe ornament..because I now all of us believe in something and of course the cocktail napkins which have a great saying on them...i'm sure anyone would enjoy handing these out with a drink to celebrate the upcoming Holiday!

We will pull a name out by 12 noon on Friday and I will ship this out right away!

I also took a picture of the Baldyman in his penquin hat...I will post that either later today or Wednesday...I'm tellin ya--the man should be put away. I'm trying to convince him into putting his Santa shorts on and Christmas shirt to--he says he isnt to fond of being something to laugh at on my blog--OHHH come on, he knows its done in love!

Tomorrow the Thinking Girl topic is going to be Depression. I deal with it--I know others do...I hope you will all come back and share your thoughts on it! Have a great Monday. Let the Snow begin in Wisconsin!

Check out this Giveaway!

Another giveaway I found for you! If you havent checked out her blog--please do. I love blog searching and hopefully along the way continue to meet new friends. Its amazing to me all the wonderful things out there in Blogland and the creativity that is available.

A Real Award!

I didnt thief it! Thank you Bridget for thinking of me! I feel good I didnt have to go stealing when everyone is sleeping in Blogland. Here's her link for those of you who havnt visisited her blog. Its a great blog--I love her humor and I love the pink stuff she referred a while back for our faces....well mine because its getting so old! I'm all over the place tonight arent I?

Its been an interesting night to say the least. I wanted to go Christmas Shopping but Baldyman wanted to go visit our favorite bartender since he will be quitting at the end of this month. Well I behaved since I was going to be driving...but Baldyman put on his ridiculous Penquin Christmas Hat and well...he didnt behave. I wanted to leave him there--but I couldnt find the perfect time to sneak out. We came home for a bit--and then Peter wanted him to come back and spend some man time together. I was SOOOO happy to drop him off. Believe me, I love the guy and all but I LOVE having him gone to! Now I can play on the computer, hog the bed, watch what I want--YEEHAAWWWW!!! NOW..how did I get to here???? I was talking about the award! I gotta go finish that.

Dawnies Giveaway!

I dont normally post over the weekend--so I'm doing 2 today! I've decided its time for me to do a giveaway. I sure have found many so its my time to give back. I'm titleing mine "Wisconsin Giveaway". I will enclose some things you can only get in Wisconsin....at our little towns butcher shop, I will pick up a few homemade meat sticks. Around here these are wildly enjoyed and quite a hit with the men! I will also pick up a few candies that are locally made with the best chocolate I've ever had! Also, I have 2 small gifts that are great for this time of year. Cocktail Napkins--if your hosting a get together this season--they will be a HIT! On the napkins it says--Listen Carefully, because I dont repeat Gossip! I love it! AND.....we cant go thru a Christmas Season without "Believeing". I have a little Believe Ornament to include. Sooo, on Monday I will have a picture with all the items for you to check out.

Here are my rules for anyone wanting to be ready!

1. I truly do NOT mind folks passing thru if they find out about my giveaway. Heck I do it all the time. If you do happen upon my blog...please leave a comment and become a follower---thats good for your name in the drawing. I feel we all want our blogs to be full of life--so I have no problem with folks finding me, even if its because of the giveaway!

2. For those that are already regular folks---I'm grateful for that also, so just comment and that will be 2 names in the drawing!

3. I'm having the Giveaway open from Monday Dec 8-thru Friday December 12th. On Friday evening I will have the baldyman pull a name out of the bowl or whatever I have laying around--oh wait! Santas boot! he will pull a name out of the boot and Wala! I will get that package out over the weekend so you can enjoy the edibles in time for the holiday and the gifts as well!

I hope its a Giveaway that many of you would want and cant wait to do it! P.S. If your a regular but not a follower--please add me to your following to get the 2 entrances! Have a great weekend!

Its Shellmo's Fault!

Yesterday she posted pictures of her mudroom and how she thought it was not that tidy. Well, I thought, she needs to see my entrance. I feel bad that I'm subjecting all of you to such a piggy mess....BUT this is the real me folks! Good thing is--its only at the beginning of the house--it does get better..I promise!
As you can see, I try real hard to at least pair the shoes up--so they are easy to find and it looks somewhat neat. I'm not a total pig am I? I felt so bad about how bad this looks after seeing how NICE her area looked, I decided after work I was going to clean it up somewhat. Now what you wont see, is the closet to the left where I tossed it all. It dosnt count what i did with it--it only counts that I cleaned this up!
WA LA! YOu can see its totally 100% cleaned up! There is even room for Genie to walk her command post and bark at the neighbors! She was so happy I did this! This is where she stands all the time and drives us nuts with her letting the world know she OWNS this house and you better not even think of walking to the door. I leave the door open so she can do this, its like her exercise. Anyhow--it sure looks nice after a pick up and a quick sweep dosnt it? Believe me, it wont last past today!

Award!

I stole this award! Thats right--I stole it. I wont lie...I cannot lie---I'm a thief! That is so ME walking my dog being all that and a bag of M'M's. Honestly, I could dress like that for about an hour and then I would rip that hat off--toss the shoes off--pull the dress off. I would then walk that precious dog in my cut off sweats (hubby calls em hulk pants) and an ugly old t shirt that sometimes lets my belly hang out...(did I admit that). And after our walk we would walk to the sub shop and split a sub! Soooo....on that note--I did steal this award and for a a brief moment in blog land I was all that!

Reason for the Season!

This is a new piece this year I bought from Kohls. I fell in love with these wooden figurines and the simplicity of them--is what attracted me. I have a Nativity Set that I've had for many many years but this I though was very fitting for my dining room table. I think the details are awesome, the message is there and so this is what is gracing my dining room table for the Christmas Season. Normally each Thanksgiving and Christmas I purchase a fairly expensive fresh flower centerpiece...I might bypass that for Christmas and just put some greenery around this and a candle. Sometimes, the simplest decorations can be the best cant they?

Gingerbread Man!

Well here he is...he still needs to dry out for 2 more days. He's cute as heck..but thick! I do think I want him alittle thick so he can lean up against the window and not crack if he ends up falling over. I dont know yet if I will keep this recipe for making him because the other side looks like crap and I really want these to end up looking super nice and being strong. Once I get him painted and ribboned up--I will post him again if he actually lives that long...you just never know what the next 2 days will bring to his little life.

As you can tell I'm not that big into crafting but there are a couple things I do have in mind that I want to perfect and possibly sell later on. He is one and I came across some other neat ideas last night--tonight I'm off to locate some of the supplies. I'm on a mission and that is to have some sort of income coming into our home to replace mine if I end up deciding to leave my job within the next year or two. A part time job out of the home and then something from home would be sweet! If anyone of you who stops by happens to know of a recipe to make gingerbread ornaments or tricks on painting them--feel free to leave your tips!

Thinking Tuesday.....Hoarding.

I wanted to start this a couple of months ago and honestly--I forgot! This is my thinking girl and I wanted to start a Thinking Girl Tuesday and blog about various things. While Home decorating and home and family in general are dear to my heart--I do work in Social Services and come across all kinds of things that frustrate me, amaze me, make me sad, angry, happy and even just bewildered. Its always a learning field--something new almost daily. I want my blog to be about everything in my life--my home and family--job, things that matter to me and to our world....not just one thing. I dont mind sharing some personal things of my life--if it will help another human being. I like some of the themes I've seen people do on their blogs--and well..this is going to be mine. I hope you come back often because You just never know what you will find!

Soooo, onto this tuesdays topic. This came up at work today. We have many clients that are what we call "hoarders". What is a hoarder? The definition I found is--"collecting and putting things away in a guarded manner". I think that is a pretty good description. Here is more---

"Hoarding is a problem that is asked about frequently in connection with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). We can define hoarding as acquiring and keeping objects to such an extent that they begin to impair the normal use of one's living space. Most of the time, non-hoarders do not think the saved objects have little or any intrinsic value. However, it is also possible that a hoarder is a collector as well. There are other disorders sometimes associated with hoarding including obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). However, in most cases, it is likely that the individual hoarder has a variation of OCD."

I agree with this 100%. I also think its a form of Compulsiveness. I'm working with about 3 families that are going thru this right now. Some you can approach easily--others you have to find a way to bring this topic up without offending them. A person in my line of work--first is always threat to begin with--so finding a way to "bond" or unite with them is paramount. I have one lady that truly needs to get rid of things--its a fire hazard, its unhealthy, and well--her place is way to small for whats going on in there! When I first approached her about it--I learned someone before me-actually took something that had extreme sentimental value to this lady. I never ever want to "take" something from someone that they want or need. I wouldnt do it to myself--why would I to them? I've learned with her-to approach her gently and guide her to thinks that I know have no meaning--such as to many toys--to many cups..etc. But talk about compulsive....when i questioned why the need for so many soda cups--(the kind you get a gas stations) I found out--some of those cups held certain memories for her..like a first date--or the day she took her daughter somewhere special. So even while I thought it had no meaning-to her it did. We comprimised and I was able to get a few of those cups from her.

I think hoarding has deep roots for many of those that do it. In order to help try and fix the problem--you truly have to get to the root of why they are doing it--whats the underlying need? Were they poor as children, was the woman from an abusive relationship...was there abuse of any kind? Many many reasons--even mental illness. I think the key is to first get to know the person that has this issue--figure out how you can best approach them--and bond with them...and then--gently help them learn as to why this may be occuring. Once you do that--you should be able to safely guide them thru slowly dismantling all this "stuff". You can help teach them what is need--what is memory, what can be donated or even tossed. Think about this--I'm sure each of us has someone either thru our work--or personal lives--that has this struggle. I hope this helps and makes each of us think as we go about our daily life!

Flora Gift Box!

Look what came in the mail yesterday! The little gift box I won! Isnt it adorable? It would be perfect for earrings, rings, pins, any little keepsake you have. I'm going to put it on my dresser and for now put my rings in it. I think the words on it are inspiring.
If your looking for something different for a gift this year for a woman who has everything--but truly needs something different go check out her blog and see what she has to offer. I think its great to support home based businesses. Here is her site, I hope you pay her a vist and see her great work!

Grandchildren!

Heres Kaitlyn Mae, the 2nd oldest Grandaughter. This photo is last week when we had all 3 girls over for the night and made Christmas ornaments and a bunch of other things that totally left my kitchen needing a makeover!
This is the oldest Kaylee Dawn, who actually came out talking! She has never stopped talking and actually had warnings from her teacher that SHE wasnt the teacher!
And this is the newest 2 yr old Ms. Ellie who is a riot. She is fun beyond words and all 3 of them are great cousins and adore being together. Ms. Ellie will soon be either the big sister of a little sis or little brother....her Mom just found out she is expecting. Everyone is excited...and Ellie has no clue she about to learn the real meaning of sharing!

Being a grandparent is pretty cool, the main reason is because you know all the things you wished you had done when your children were little and so you treasure everything they do. You also know what worked when you had yours and when you have your grandchildren around--you stick to what you know works! Like naps! They make for a really cool kid! I wish I had done more crafty things with my kids--now me and the girls are always making things--plus we take them to special things that we all enjoy. We couldnt afford some of those things when our kids were little.

Anyhow, these are our 3 granddaughters--I cant wait for the next arrival!

Merry Christmas and I've been tagged!

I've been tagged by this neat lady and here are my answers!

~~ 6 Random Things About Myself ~~

Here are the rules.
1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog (copy and paste 1-6)
3. Write 6 random things about yourself.
4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them.
5. Let each person know they been tagged and leave them a comment.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.
~~~~~~

Ok i think I did it right--I will confess I'm semi--NOT Right and so I do mess things up alot!
6 random things about me!

1. I'm compulsive..I wash my hands all the time and brush my teeth after everything i eat..

2. My house is pretty spotless, my car should be re--poed for filth!

3. I am very domestic--LOVE Being home--hate going to work!

4. I laugh in my sleep to the point I wake myself up.

5. I have a huge fear of failure--to the point its very h ard for me to make decisions..even minor ones.

6. I want to take over Martha Stewart!

Ok, this is my living room tree! I know its not that great but Hey--I'm not Kristin! She should come on over and fix this tree, its pretty pathetic looking isnt it? Anyone who has ideas to give this tree more life--let me know! I wont be offended in the least!

Isnt this sweet?

I was at Marshalls last week and came across this container. Perfect for tea and very shabby looking. My tea was just sitting on the counter tops looking all lonely and of course all good tea needs a home. You can tell by the lid I have it alittle stuffed but a couple good cups of good tea should fix this problem. I'm on a mission to get alot of nice containers this winter to put things such as this in. Organizing and getting things in order is not one of my talents but I truly have to get things in order. I cannot live like this anymore. Also, my goal this year is to either see if something can be worked out for the house we are renting--OR move on and find one that we can work something out that has more room. Even though its just Baldyman and me most of the time--we actually have our kids and grandkids around quite often and its just to crowded. Organzing and getting things in order are really my way of getting things together just in case we may be moving.

Its Black Friday and we did our part by getting up at 4:30. Our Walmart was unbearable, we actually left. I noticed though about an hour later the parking lot was back to near normal days...so that must mean people came, got what they wanted and got out. I wonder if thats how its going to be for most of the stores today...kinda bleak.

Have a great weekend everyone, its the official kick off of Christmas Shopping! We are on our annual trek to my cousins for a weekend of card playing, movie watching, shopping and over eatin!

Happy Thanksgiving!

My table is set. I'm about to put the turkey in. Soon, the house will be smelling wonderful! These plates are plates I've had for about 25 years. They were nothing special BUT to me they are simply because we were young, newly married, no money and I saved grocery stamps to get them. Took me forever and begging many friends and family members to PLEASE save your stamps so I can get another setting!
Here is my centerpiece for this year. A nice Turkey full of flowers. My pilgrims grace each side of the flowers. If you look close or click on the picture you will notice to the right--a quite mangled kinda ugly turkey. He gets the pleasure of being on the table every year simply because my 3rd son made him for me--when he was just in elementary school. He is now 26. Somewhere along the road of the turkeys life--he has lost an eye. I did think of replacing it--but then decided its best to let him age with time--that's what makes him so memorable.

I hope each of you has a great day today...remember all our blessings and each of us no matter what has something to be thankful for. Lets also remember those who for some reason--will not have a very good day today. I'm thinking of a family here who lost their 21 yr old son to a car accident on Monday or in a town a few hours away from me--a woman lost her 2 sons AND her husband in a plane accident. I cant imagine the grief,,,,and I cant imagine any of these people will be able to sit down today and feel grateful. Life is hard...and sometimes unlivable. Lets send up prayers for all those who are going thru things some of us cant even fathom.

Credit Card Grief!

Ok this is NOT a post about Thanksgiving although bear with me at the end...I do have something I am very THANKFUL for! With all this bail out going on I've been getting more and more upset over it. First, all these years, the average American has been paying outrageous fees, interest, etc...to alot of these companies. Its not my or any other Americans fault that these companies chose to mismanage their funds, hire and pay outrageous CEOS, or invest in the Stock Market. They ended up losing their butt---so be it. When YOU or I make a bad financial decision--who bails us out???? When I lost my home 6 years ago--who bailed me out???? We accepted the loss and moved on. All these years, we have been paying their fees, taxes, interest,,etc...and now we will pay again to fund this bail out. I'm thinking--let them all fall... Let them do as we must do....figure it out. Perhaps its way past time OUR government work for US and give us a lump sum of money so that we can stimulate the economy ourselves with OUR choices or perhaps for many of us---save our homes, pay off some debt. That would be the most natural way to save the economy and also finally help the little guy that truly can no longer afford to bail out these greedy companies.

NOW..onto my beef with credit cards. I've had a particular card for 10 years. Its in excellent standing. I paid it off in June and for some odd reason decided to check it out online. I found they had slapped an annual fee on the card along with 1 month late fee AND a .50 cent finance charge. I was livid. I called them 3 times trying to get them to remove the annual fee. They would not. They did remove the late fee and said they couldnt remove the .50. I told them I wanted to cancel the card. They said why--you've had the card 10 years in excellent standing. I said exactly....I got this card to build my credit and i have done that. I have cards that I dont pay an annual fee on why would I choose to give Capitol ONE a fee when I dont have to? I dont like throwing money to the wind. The lady said she understood and would do the same but as an employee of Capitol ONE she just had to tell me they couldnt or WOULDNT remove the newly assessed annual fee. So I cancelled the card. I paid the .50 fee. Because I cancelled the card I dont have to pay the annual fee. I cant believe these companies will choose to lose a customer--a good customer over 29.00. I'm sure we will hear next about the Credit Card Companies want their bail out..and once again the American citizen will pay some form of higher tax to accomodate all this greed, stupid business practics and mismanagement of good money they have made for years and years. When times were good--they were rollin in our high interest rates, our fees, etc. They should have done wise things with the money. When i lost my home due to poor choices in our life--we suffered the consequences. NO one bailed us out...we learned from that. To this day we are still working on rebuilding ourselves financially.

NOW to my point of what I'm grateful for? Well, I'm grateful that I have enough cards that I dont fees on--that I have the choice of telling that Company to take a hike. I have that power right now and well it dosnt feel good to give up a card I've had for 10 years...it feels AWESOME knowing i've rebuilt myself to the point I have enough cards in my wallet that I can get what I need and also tell these companies to take a hike.

I had a bad day yesterday and it was all due to money. I rarely balance my bank account--but I have a general knowledge of what I have in it. Yesterday I decided to balance it out so I can get a grip on it. I found out I had 100 dollars less in it. Then i get this crap from Capitol ONE. THEN....I finally had some time to call and sit on hold for nearly 2 hours to deal with an account I had on some furniture we had purchased 2 years ago. I opened an account because at that time they were offering a 2 year free financing package. 2 years...that would have taken me to This October before I had to pay any interest. I began paying on that account right away and figured I would be 1 month off and would only have to pay 1 or 2 months of interest. Well...they have been charging me interest for a year now. I've tried to argue with these morons before but I just dont have the time to sit on hold. So, finally yesterday I had the time. What did I learn? Well I learned the company offering the 2 year interest free financing had the offer from Oct 06 to Oct 08. The store didnt bother telling me I really only had about 15 months of interest free financing because I bought the furniture about 6 months into the program. So they mis-represented that to me. I contacted the store and should hear from them today. I'm about to make my final payment and truly I should owe them around 15.00 but with all this interest its showing I have to pay them about 150.00. I truly hope they do the right thing and refund me the money--OR once again I will cancel my account with this store. I dont need their cards, I can pay cash for whatever I want or go to another store....this time wiser to these so called 2 or 3 year interest free programs.

Why is our country in such financial turmoil? I believe mostly because of greed, poor choices, over paid CEOS., severe mis-management of funds when they WERE there and poor customer service. I do NOT want to pay for these bail outs--these companies need to suffer their choices they made just as you and I do. I want this said to the footsteps of the White House...I am beyond P......ed. I do the right thing and get treated poorly and yet I may have to pay higher taxes to these morons.

Sorry, this came out during Thanksgiving--but this all happenned to me yesterday so its fresh in my mind. NOW that I got it off my chest--I will go make my apple pie!

1st Snowfall of the Season!

We got our 1st snowfall yesterday morning. Isnt it beautiful? I woke up to this (below) and then it was so pretty I had to turn on the little tree to enhance it! The first snowfall is always exciting. Your not tired of it yet, you havent been driving in it for months.
My favorite snow is when it sticks to the trees like this. I was so hoping it would be around for Thanksgiving...but its going to hit near 40 today and tomorrow be near 50. That will just about take care of this snowfall. While winter isnt my favorite Season, there really is nothing more beautiful than a real fluffy snowstorn or taking a walk on a late winter night after a good storm. There is nothing more peaceful or beautiful. And of course,,,no bugs!

Turkey Brining

First, no this isnt my turkey, but I sure hope it looks this good--actually it will!

Last year for the first time I tried Turkey Brining and used the recipe from Martha Stewart. It made the moistest, flavorful turkey we ever had. It was tough finding a place to submerge the turkey because I cook a huge bird,,,but this year we have it figured out.

Brining is submerging the bird in a seasoned broth for 24 hours. You still have time to run out and get all the ingrediants if your interesting in trying something new!

First, bring 1 qt water, 1-1/2 cups coarse salt, 6 bay leaves, 2 TB whole coriander seeds, 1 TB dried juniper berries, 2 TB whole peppercorns black, 1 TB fennel seeds, 1 tsp black or brown mustard seeds to a slow simmer until salt has dissolved.

Place turkey in whatever your going to use to submerge it. Add salt mixture and 1 bottle dry Riesling wine, 2 medium onions, 6 garlic cloves and a bunch of fresh thyme. If turkey isnt submerged in broth, place something heavy on it to hold it down. If your using a bag of some sort...tie it. Flip turkey once in 24 hours. thats it! Stuff as usual and cook as usual and you will have a great moist flavorful turkey!

Nancy's Snowman Tassel!

is spending her Christmas Holiday hanging on the tree by our Moose. Isnt she sweet? If you click on the picture you can get an up close of her to see just how precious she is. Thank you again Nancy for offering this giveaway and I'm grateful I'm the one who won!

Vintage Giveaway!

YEP I found another giveaway and another great blog! You can visit her blog and giveaway here. I would like to give you some advice though, dont bother to enter because I'm already the winner! Pillowcases and runners have always been a deep love of mine. I was on the hunt for them all the time. Once I began working full time I havent been out there in probably a year or more. Sad, because I truly love these items. I forgot how much until I saw this blog. Whats nice is maybe now I can just shop here and then have them mailed to me! She has many beautiful items at reasonable prices so if you like embroidered pillowcases or runners,,,,please check her blog out.

I have won 1 giveaway since I've been blogging and that is my beautiful snowman tasses from Nancy. I have the picture and will post it today! Please come back and check her out...she's adorable.

Titanic Exhibit

Baldyman and I went to see the Titanic Exhibit at Milwaukee Museum today. This is how the grandstaircase appeared on the ship. Isnt it neat how they can take our picture and make it look as if we were there? We couldnt get a very good picture of the one they gave us--but here it is.

Here are the boarding passes they gave you when you pay for the exhibit. These were made to look like the original boarding passes the passengers were given. What is so neat about these is that on each pass is the name of an original passenger and at the end of the tour you can check the passenger list and see if yours survived. Mine did not--and baldymans did. They also give you some information about the passenger. Its very sad actually and I tell you it really makes one think about that fateful voyage.
This is a cookbook I bought that has recipes for what the passengers were given on the ship. They have menus for each class...1st, 2nd and 3rd. 3rd was actually not that bad as people were lead to believe. Some say 2nd class was better than first. I decided to buy the book because many of the recipes are actually easy to make and sound quite good. I"m thinking of actually h ave a theme dinner this winter--called The Titanic.

This exhibit was awesome. Very, very sad. Some of the artifacts you get to see are clothing, luggage, money, dinnerware, toothbrush, make up, a wine bottle with wine still in it. The makeup container still holds powder. I'm glad I was able to go and see this. I'm thinking its probably a once in a lifetime chance. I've always been fascinated by the Titanic and its history. I know many of us are. I cant believe how touching this is--nearly 100 years later. I hope if this exhibit gets in your area--you can go. You wont be dispointed.

Gracie Giveaway!

Is she not the cutest thing to grace your home? Yes I've been out blog searching again....hey its one of my favorite past times! I want to build my blog as well as continue to meet new bloggers. This is another giveaway I've come acrss and she's so sweet! Check out her candy cane....to cute for words. If you would like to visit yet another wonderful new blog and also be entered in another giveway...please go here. I really appreciate everyone that offers giveways--but also I'm grateful because its really generating a Holiday spirit. Thank you again to anyone hosting a giveaway--I really appreicate it.

Check out this giveaway!

Here is another neat blog I found AND she is having a great giveaway! Its scrumptious bread..and lord knows at this time of year..good bread and coffee or tea just rock! She has a log cabin that you will adore and for me..I'm so envious! Its so beautiful its heart stopping. Please visit her here and visit her blog as well as enter the giveaway! AND please if your visiting me---do you know which fellow blogger had that recipe for the very easy shrimp pasta dinner???

HELP!

If anyone happens to mosey on by I need help! A couple of days ago I saw a recipe on a blog for a very easy shrimp pasta dinner. I thought I had copied the recipe and printed it--but I dont have it. If anyone remembers seeing a recipe for Shrimp with Pasta that was VERY EASY....can you let me know where it is!

Giveaway!

Please go visit here to check out this giveaway! Its adorable and of course visiting new blogs will always bring the chance of making new blog friends! I try to make it a point of visiting new blogs several times a week! She has an adorable blog. At one point in my light I wanted to collect snowmen...but i never got past the 1 i bought nearly 20 years ago--lol! Its a lighted acrylic snowman that I found at Boston Store and she's adorable. I havent posted a picture of her yet in my Christmas Decorations--I have a few more to take and I'll make sure she's in it!

Baby, its cold outside!

And this is what I"m going to do tonight, sit by the fire. baldyman is putting our little tree on the deck with our little lighted presents and then we are done with outside decorations. Tomorrow is my last day of training and I'm excited about having alittle more play time. One of the trainers if my former supervisor and boy do I miss him. He was one of those bosses that truly is gifted. The man will do well at everything he does in life...he's that awesome.

I'm so not ready for this cold. I pulled out the "scary" hats tonight and gonna toss em in the wash. Whats a scary hat? Awww you have to know! Its those hats that you pull over your face and only your eyes and nose and mouth show. My kids when they were little always called em the scary hats. Bad thing is,,when its really cold,,when you pull the scary hat off--all your boogies and snot and anything else that dripped remains on the hat. Makes for one heck of a smelly hat! To much information I know.

I hope no matter where you are--your all staying warm and looking forward to next weeks Turkey Day. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, as it always makes me think of my blessings and to be grateful for what God has given to me.

My Christmas Decorations

Ummmm,,,check this out!

This is a picture of the homemade Spaghetti Sauce that I made this week compliments of Carol from Meadowsweet Days. Dosnt this look delish?

I made a few mistakes that I know how to correct to perfect it next time. What me and Baldyman liked about it the most is that we both like pork in our sauce and we liked knowing this just HAS to be pretty healthy for you. Its really only crushed tomatos and various meats for flavor. I know I need to find a garlic mincer to smash the garlic cloves...I've never cooked with whole garlic cloves before. I just purchase the minced garlic in a jar. I also couldnt find Sweet Italian Sausage with Fennel in it--so I will go to a butcher next time. The local grocers around here carry only the basic of basics, I'm tellin ya this is a BORING town. I wont post this recipe because its not mine....BUT head to her blog and not only is it a great blog, you can get the recipe from her!

Rainbow

This was taken last week after a late fall rain. It actually was WAY brighter and bigger than even this. Baldyman says it was the biggest and brightest rainbow he ever seen. I think the camera captured it pretty well. I cant remember who posted on their blog about beauty and seeing beautiful things, but isnt it true? You can walk outside each and every day and find something that is simply beautiful. God's creation has awe moments all the time. The last flowers of the season, the first snowfall, the moon rising, the sun setting...birds flying over the lake. In these tough times when money is tight for so many of us, lets not forget to walk outside and take advantage of all the "free" stuff. Each season brings its miracles. We may get our first snowfall this weekend--where it actually accumulates on the grass...I cant wait--snow falling can be so beautiful. The weekend is here, I hope everyone can take a few minutes and find something to sit and stare it that causes you to stop and think how beautiful life can be.

Book Award

I'm not much of a Book Reader, mostly magazines, so I had to walk a bit to find the nearest book to me. Its a Christmas Book that comes out only at this time of year. Its titled Images of Christmas. On Page 56 line 5--it says.....King John was not a good man. He wrote this message out, And gat to his room again. Descending by the spout, and all that night he lay there.

NOW,,,dosnt that just make you want to finish the dern story? Whose idea was this???? Your gonna end up with a bunch of frustrated readers!!! I want to know if King John ever got out of bed!!!!

Thanks Squawmama for thinking of me.

OKKKKK....now i gotta think of a couple folks to pass this on to!

Merry Christmas Ducks!

Are these not the cutest things you ever saw? I found these at Lowes, where you build something together,,,,,well we did the ducks together and they now have a new home. I dont usually go for this kind of thing but these are so dern cute, I couldnt pass em by. Baldyman attached them to the little table I have on the front porch. Hopefully when the winter winds come,, they will remain just like this. The Mommy protecting her little babies. Their Santa caps are what really got me!

I'll be posting more pictures of my Christmas decorations each day. Believe me, they arent that great BUT I do think I've done better than previous years. Looking at all these blogs and getting tips from all the wonderful decorators out there have helped. What I could really use though is some of you showing up at my house with some new decorations and talents! I doubt that will happen, but hey you can dream cant ya?

Guess whose Back?

ME! I feel like I was gone forever. The conference was overall pretty good. You just get so tired of sitting, sitting, sitting,, and eating! My whole system is out of whack. First thing i did when I walked in the door---well you dont want to know but I'm sure you can guess. Bad news is, I have to go to another conference on Monday for 3 days. I might blow up!

Good news is I won my first drawing and I'm really excited about it. Nancy makes tassels and I believe its a Snowman tassel so its perfect!

I took this picture right before I went to my conference to show off my anti-aging face...but I have bad news about that to! I called to re-order the product but they have no special pricing or packages and it would be 200 for 3 tiny products!!!!! Well, I guess I'm back to finding something else more reasonable and in the meantime--I might get very old!

I'll be back to check everyone's blog and hopefully you are all doing well.

Looking for a Good Movie?

I tell ya, I was one of the worst I think in terms of thinking illegal immigrants need to be deported...I was not kind at times in what I've said. I have 100% changed my thought process AND I have humbly asked for forgiveness in my attitude.

This was a work in progress not from this movie, (although it cemented it) but from working with a client this summer that was an illegal, that I got to know and no way would I want to see this happen to her. Anyhow, Baldymans sister came for a visit this Friday and Saturday and I went looking for a movie that I thought would be interesting to her. She's a very cultural, educated strong Christian woman. I came across this title and rented it. It was amazing. You wont find action, sex, or vulgar language. You will find, a lonely man that finds deep and amazing friendship where one would not expect. Its comedy at times, good decent happy laughter for Walter.

You will most surely change your mind about illegals if you thought like me. What happens to them is unkind, cruel, unfair and scary. Its heartbreaking. The ending is NOT what we would like to see--but its real and this is happenning every day to many people here. Its got to stop. For those that are productive, non-criminal we need to be kinder to them and help them find a way to stay. Putting them in detention centers and then jails is horrid. Please RUN and rent this and lets all find a way to stop this unkind action.

I'm off for a couple days due to a work seminar...so I will see you fellow bloggers either Tuesday or Wednesday. Happy Blogging!

Heavenly Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Click on the picture to get up real close and see how yummy these look! they are AWESOME. I have company coming today and I made these and also an Almond Poppyseed Cake which I will post the receipe for that later. Its from Paula Deen and that also is very good! We like our cookies with a firmness and a light crunch and these have it. What I've done is placed them in a bag and put them in the fridge when done...maybe i need to go on a hunt for the perfect cookie jar!

3/4 butter ( i use unsalted real butter)
2 TB instant coffee granules
2 cups plus 2 TB flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 sugar
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
1 11.5 oz pack semi sweet chocolate chunks or semi sweet chocolate chips-I mixed both
1 cup walnuts pieces

Combine butter and coffee granules in a small saucepan and heat until butter melts and coffee granules dissolve. Remove and cool to room temp. About 10 or 15 minutes.

Combine flour, baking soda, set aside.

Combine butter mixture, sugars, egg and egg yolk in a large bowl, Beat at Medium speed until blended. Gradually add flour mixture beated at low speed until blended. Stir in Chocolate chunks and walnuts.

Drop dough by tablespoons 2 inches apart unto ungreased sheets. Bake at 325 12 -14 minutes.

When you cook the butter and coffee granules and let it cool, do not let the butter re solidify.

Enjoy! These are very good!

( alittle side note from me, I never add salt to anything I cook, so if you do begin to follow my recipes, you will notice that. I also never use salted butter, I used it once and thought I would jump from the roof--I'm that sensitive to salt in my foods! Also, when I measure ingrediants for most of what I cook, I am not good about exacts,,,I tend to guessitmate, I always felt that that was the secret for a good cook, and while I think I stink at decorating, I do think I'm a pretty good cook!)

Goodies from the Mailman!

Look what I got yesterday! I ordered for a trial run the Christmas with Southern Living Book and along with it comes a free cooky book. Whenever I get a free cooky book its almost always with cookie recipes that are just to complicated for my busy life OR are so bizarre I wouldnt let my dog eat them. Well, this one ROCKS! It has many various recipes that are quick, look delicious and yes even a few recipes I wouldnt let my dog try. In fact, I already ran to the store last night and made a batch of cookies that I will post for you tomorrow along with the recipe! You get to try it for 30 days and if your not happy--return it for nothing. I'm happy, I'm not returning it and the Christmas Book itself has alot of beautiful ideas, more recipes and even gifts in a jar type recipes. The total cost including shipping is around 15 dollars, not to bad for a cooky book that you WILL use and a Christmas Idea book for horrible decorators like myself trying to improve!

I have to add this.....there IS a recipe even for doggie cookies..so all you dog lovers you can bake little fifi or foo foo their own special cookies for Christmas!

Cheesecake

Well, what is one good cure when one is feeling unsure, down, scared--etc...EATTTTT!!! And eat something good--homemade and soul food! So, I made this this morning,,it was in the oven by 6:30 am. Problem is, its for my oldest son who turned 30 on October 3rd. I didnt make him his usual birthday dinner and his favorite cheesecake because of his wedding. Mumblings came from his new bride that he was missing his cheesecake so good ole Mama made one this morning. I wish there was a way I could sneak a bite without it showing...but as you can see its impossible to sneak a bite and patch it up! This recipe is one I"ve been using for 30 years. Its a keeper, I've tried others and they dont hold a candle to this. Enjoy!

Crust: If you dont have time or dont want to, you can purchase a pre-made Graham Cracker Crust..just make sure its the largest one you can get and deep also.
1 Cup Graham Cracker Crumbs
3TB sugar
3 TB butter......Mix all and place in cheesecake pan or pie pan and bake at 325 for 10 minutes.

Combine:
3 Pkgs, Philly Cream Cheese--do NOT subsitute--its the larger size--not the little 3 oz size.
3/4 cup sugar
3 eggs
2 TB milk
3 TB flour
1/2 tsp vanilla.................I combine all and mix well. Once mixture looks pretty smooth, pour into crust and bake at 450 10 minutes. Turn heat down to 250 and bake until top begins to brown and crack. Sometimes and I dont know why--the top wont crack--it will actually look quite nice!
If it browns and cracks--the flavor is just as good, I use it as a guide to know its done--its about 45 minutes. Serve plain or with raspberries, strawberries and cool whip! Everyone LOVES this cheesecake.

Todays the Day!

Oh man I tell ya, I'm no more feeling the desire to vote than I did months ago--years ago..even the last election. I just dont care for either one of these men. I struggle with voting Republican simply because many believe the "Christian" stance of the candidate. I for sure cannot vote for a man that has the morals of Obama either. I'm truly stuck. I feel the need to vote, since so many died for our rights and yes I believe its imperative for our country. I love what Patriotism stands for, I hate what its become in our country. I'm so disenchanted with politicians and what they have become. To me, they've made a mockery of our country, morals, God, and they seriously have to laugh every time one of us--stands up and claps for them, sends em money..etc. I cant imagine any American wanting to send any politician money--especially when so many of us--can barely keep a roof over our head. But.....we continue to do so and we continue to be blindsighted by what a leader is suppossed to represent. Call me weird--old fashioned--a dreamer--etc...but to me--a President should truly, truly want to represent US...all of US...the country, our needs, protecting us. Instead--the only ones getting their needs met--are the government officials and the people that work in it. The rest of us are slowly losing everything we have--including our freedoms. Literally they are quietly and slowly taking away our rights--choices, money, safety...etc. At least to me..thats my humble opinion. True morals, true christianity is LONGGGGG gone in politics--its all about power, greed, and the pulling the wool over each and every one of us. I personally think no matter WHO gets elected--it dosnt matter anymore. Until we truly open our eyes and demand better of those who want to run for our country, we are gonna continue getting "crap". I'm so torn...I will spend the day consulting God as to what he wants me to do, even if its just showing up at the polls--and voting for neither--and leaving a comment on my ballot that simply says--They both stink--they dont deserve it and I refuse to pick the better piece of crap.

Alittle late, but still appropiate!

Good ole Maxine! She's great, and every menopausals womens dream. I got this from my cousin Rose and this one just stuck out for me. Growing up in the family that I did--this just makes you really think about the holidays and she's right...right after Halloween, all the fun starts! This year-for me, will probably be just fine. Now that I basically spend the majority of the holidays with my children and grandchildren I will be spared from the birth family insanity. Last Christmas Eve, I actually stayed home. I stayed home all by myself while baldyman went to his Mom's house and all our children went also. I thought I would be really sad or lonely but I tell you,,,it was great! I watched Christmas movies, had a nice fire, a quiet house and I cooked and prepared the house for Christmas Day Dinner. I may do the same this year. I have all our children over on Christmas Day for dinner and gift opening early in the morning-so I just didnt feel like dressing up for Christmas Eve and driving nearly 2 hours--visit for 4 or 5 hours--then drive another 2 hours home and THEN prepare for Christmas Day. I have done that for nearly 30 years--so I deserve to just stay behind and have the quiet of the holiday.

I officially began decorating tonight--I started with the fireplace mantel. I'm not happy....I tossed a few things I've had for years--and years--and YEARS! I told baldyman---its time to replace some of this crap--pieces are missing--things are broke and I am tired of putting up the same stuff i have for all these 30 years. Some things you cant do without--but some--you can.

What about you guys,,,,how many of you try a different theme each year--and how many hang on to things forever no matter how tacky they begin to look. I"m wanting a classier, more elegant type look these days. One of the things I do like and wont give up-is I have a very small collection of little books, my cousin began giving me these a couple years ago...I lay them out on the tables in the hopes guests who come by-or even our kids will pick them up and enjoy a heartwarming Christmas Story. I dont like Christmas to be just a day and night--I like it to be a season, that is why I begin decorating so early. My kids were saying they like the "feeling" of Christmas and I know why...people just seem nicer and full of hope at this time of year...no matter how dismal life can be. This year especially with all the sad and bad news going on--we need a season of hope and joy!

Its Official-the holidays are here!

To me, the end of Halloween signals the beginning of the Holidays. I normally begin putting up my Christmas Decorations the week after Halloween. I have my table getting ready for Thanksgiving...my little pilgrims are gracing the table.
This picture is of my Christmas Table setting last Christmas Day. It was so beautiful--at least for me. I dont think I decorate very well, so I was quite impressed with this. I dont know if I will do the same this year or not. Well, I do know that I have the same water goblets and the China. This China was given to us by Baldymans brother, for a marriage that never went thru for him nearly 40 years ago. Its from either Korea or Vietnam. Its very special to me just because I dont have many things that are that old and from other places. The water goblets I got from a store for like 10 bucks....very cheap but actually very pretty. They have a gold rim around the top and I usually put out a really pretty glass pitcher full of ice water and lemons.

I'm finding that I"m finally getting in the Christmas Spirit. I decorate every room in my home--so its a process. Thanksgiving I cook for all my children and grandchildren. I have a sister that has been coming for the last couple of years--but she wont be able to join us this year. Its our favorite meal of the year--and I'm already excited about sitting down with that wonderful plate of food.