tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034204438547699922024-03-18T23:25:13.515-05:00Journal of EvolutionGetting to know myself again.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-67352353406772626732011-08-03T16:42:00.003-05:002011-08-03T16:42:31.019-05:00I'm Still Here!!I'm still here! Working full time and going to school at night. I'll be back blogging soon!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-47023647215003240002011-06-07T11:25:00.000-05:002011-06-07T11:25:12.399-05:00The First Day of the Rest of My LifeIt's official.....I'm a student!!<br />
I had orientation last night and will be in class for the next 9 months. I'm so excited!<br />
I was talking with my mama last week and I realized that for the past 20 years I've had a job. I can't really call it a career, because, to me, that indicates that you are passionate about what you do for a living. I'm not. The only time I can say that I was emotionally involved in my job as a travel agent was when I allowed the stress to literally make me ill. That's so sad. Oh well, NO MORE. I've begun my journey to a better place. I'm so EXCITED!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-86686876093586562652011-05-31T14:33:00.000-05:002011-05-31T14:33:48.010-05:00DreamsI am exhausted....and not in a good way.<br />
For the past 48 hours I've have had the these very disturbing dreams. They've all been different locations and stories, but with reoccurring players and theme. The details are fuzzy, but the gist is that my father is disappointed in me.<br />
Now let me stress that my father and I have a <u>WONDERFUL</u> relationship and always have, so I have no idea where this is coming from or why my subconscious requires us to revisit it EVERY TIME I CLOSE ME EYES!<br />
It made for a very crabby and unproductive holiday weekend.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-57549494699213233802011-05-29T19:07:00.000-05:002011-05-29T19:07:56.953-05:00Gimme the bad news first.Hi everyone! (If anyone's still there.) I'm so sorry I've been unable to post in the post few months. There's been so much going on, I'm not sure where to start. <br />
<br />
Bad News: MD went back into the hospital.<br />
Good News: She already back at home and doing fine.<br />
<br />
Bad News: Things at the office are getting rediculously bad on almost every level from immediate manager changes up to top level "company direction" changes.<br />
Good News: It was just the catalyst I needed to get my butt in gear and get back in school. By this time next year I will have fulfilled a 20 year dream and will become a LMT!! <br />
<br />
Bad News: DD is exhausted and over worked.<br />
Good News: We own the company and it looks like we may be in the black this year.<br />
<br />
<br />
More to come!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-83414682825513013172011-03-21T15:32:00.002-05:002011-03-21T16:37:35.879-05:00Long time / No seeHello my friends. <br />I'm so sorry I've been away for so long. Life has been....life, and unfortunately, journaling has temporarily fallen by the way side. I have been catching up with all of you through your postings, although I haven't always been able to comment on your entries. When my stress levels are high, it's comforting to read your words and know that you all are still there sharing yourselves with me, even if I can't always reciprocate. I'm on my way back however, so please don't give up on me yet.<br /><br />I'll try to catch you up on the last few months.<br />My mother-in-law (MD) has been in and out of hospitals, and rehab facilities over the past year. The good news is, her health is improving on a grand scale. The doctors were finally victorious over a chronic bacterial infection and that is making all the difference.<br />The bad news is, we lost her brother (GF) a couple of weeks ago. As is most often the case, his transition was both a blessing and a curse to those of us left behind. The best way to describe GF is this: He was well and truly loved. That man had no regrets. I know that I'm not alone is saying that he will be dearly missed. The blessing? His cancer returned with a vengeance, and he was in unimaginable pain. Luckily, he didn't linger in that pain for more than a handful of days. In those days, he was able to say good-bye to almost all of his family in person.<br /><br />My family is trudging along with teasing and laughter, as is their way. <br />Mama and Daddy (AJC and JEC) are finally finishing the clean up and repair of their rental property. The last tenants were not good people, much less good tenants. They did some real damage and left 'in a hurry'. It's taken a lot of money and months of labor, but they are finally ready to rent again. I'm so glad they have hired someone to screen potential renters this time. They are due for a break.<br />My nephew (CZ) is back in school and doing much better this time. He opted to move back up north to take advantage of in-state tuition discounts. He takes after me in the fact that he has to do things himself to truly learn them, and being so far away from his parents (they moved back to our home town after his high school graduation), is the best thing for him right now.<br /><br />DD and I are entering a time of major change. I am trying to go back to school. It's going to be difficult, with a full time job, but it has to be done. I've taken my current career as far as I can, and it's time to move on.<br />My current career is not one I ever really aspired, although it has been good to me over the years. The industry is changing, and morphing into something I really don't want to be a part of. These changes, and the fact that I turned 40 in January have forced me to reevaluate my professional life, and I realized, I spend 40 hours a week doing things for other people, simply because they don't want to do it themselves. While I'm incredibly thankful to have a job, and very aware that we've come through the recent economical hardships with superficial wounds for the most part, I don't want to do this for the rest of my life. I want to provide a service that some one actually needs. Hopefully, these classes will get me where I need to be. <br />Needless to say, I've been thinking a lot about my future and, as with anything in the balance of nature, this has lead me to think a lot about my past. There are events in my life I've been unable to move past. Mistakes I've made, lessons undefined; those sorts of things, and now feels like the time to address them and put them to rest. It is my intention to work through them here with you, in future postings. It is my hope that you will not only bear witness to my progress, but offer advice and guidence based on your own unique and varied life experiences.<br /><br />I hope to hear from you often and soon.<br /><br />~tAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-44079208043791290282010-12-14T12:16:00.002-06:002010-12-14T12:23:52.148-06:00A Refreshing Change of PaceI follow a blog called Awakening Women and they had the greatest post last night I wanted to share. <br />It's about <em>not</em> being possitive. I personally think that sometimes we worry about being possitive so much, that we forget the value of being negative. I know it sounds counter productive but Toko-pa Turner outlines the benefits so wonderfully here:<a href="http://awakeningwomen.com/2010/12/13/owning-your-destroy/">http://awakeningwomen.com/2010/12/13/owning-your-destroy/</a><br />I find it so very refreshing to be reiminded that sometimes you really should embrace your inner bitch. :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-80464601633087256892010-12-13T19:52:00.012-06:002010-12-13T20:17:19.658-06:00My Holiday DecorationsI've finally got the holiday decorating done!<br />Whadya think?<br /><br /><br />The Tree:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLKfZSKaEEVdcEOcp73oR5f4t-7zShFBdQBrYrqn79E3ZgWMJ5_gEJFZ3ru5jbu4iCnfADJu1uklsB907t1BhR7TR__Xwf-TtMFUV0io7YW349K5Y73U6jNHQhIcvkkbCrEC7vLeofuOw/s1600/Christmas+Tree+3.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550350967781138290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLKfZSKaEEVdcEOcp73oR5f4t-7zShFBdQBrYrqn79E3ZgWMJ5_gEJFZ3ru5jbu4iCnfADJu1uklsB907t1BhR7TR__Xwf-TtMFUV0io7YW349K5Y73U6jNHQhIcvkkbCrEC7vLeofuOw/s320/Christmas+Tree+3.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The Front Window:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWnGuoyUZR41vwQEToxRJmFhVLX4sI2Q-STWNXO4xCfrpQ-7O2UvCUdfpM3v34RwU6da2OgQgI8NXdZ0Qa2xw9xCYJqf6L48F11mTIV26ADpKXQSOWOJjO0LkCr3DsqlWVGRjejocIYkU/s1600/Living+Room+Window.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 258px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550351403874462370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWnGuoyUZR41vwQEToxRJmFhVLX4sI2Q-STWNXO4xCfrpQ-7O2UvCUdfpM3v34RwU6da2OgQgI8NXdZ0Qa2xw9xCYJqf6L48F11mTIV26ADpKXQSOWOJjO0LkCr3DsqlWVGRjejocIYkU/s320/Living+Room+Window.JPG" /></a><br />The Hearth: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJtTsBURXlEgECll6jotaLPeQhZZQ4OTs7WS2IRaM_X5cySBvzswyhNxBTtBJEoMqjmuasSErlARbSHTkKZxWsXNqsl_G6LD98gVO3b9F7-iqmxa2JPMblQGUqtK-8QWSW3E5FM1Q_ps/s1600/Hearth+1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550352242255513010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJtTsBURXlEgECll6jotaLPeQhZZQ4OTs7WS2IRaM_X5cySBvzswyhNxBTtBJEoMqjmuasSErlARbSHTkKZxWsXNqsl_G6LD98gVO3b9F7-iqmxa2JPMblQGUqtK-8QWSW3E5FM1Q_ps/s320/Hearth+1.JPG" /></a> The Stove: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixeDk18xVFDTIcAZ1hNI3h7ixzlMUmXrUsTgw6hgNak0WPdVlMxsho1n7mAJhQB23TRtA2NoeAp6EjYwhVfGwSDu79ro2tACzKKSGi9vwOMzNulr9ppcgeDwgLgtdsbvrqf8pfhZBQ4c/s1600/Hearth+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550352648261646610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixeDk18xVFDTIcAZ1hNI3h7ixzlMUmXrUsTgw6hgNak0WPdVlMxsho1n7mAJhQB23TRtA2NoeAp6EjYwhVfGwSDu79ro2tACzKKSGi9vwOMzNulr9ppcgeDwgLgtdsbvrqf8pfhZBQ4c/s320/Hearth+2.JPG" /></a> The Console: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7X_j6ioFHJNsV7ZSYoKNX5rvHnm7kQv5cNC1kaS4hPaLbnXLeAenvp6lkmUsdkgIRRsOkcTV3FkO72Zlt0lITlITo8KOp8SfIA9LflM0od0lwiLgWWgt75CodcbC6dRRhv-JzttCCRE/s1600/The+Entertainment+Center.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550353068215653522" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7X_j6ioFHJNsV7ZSYoKNX5rvHnm7kQv5cNC1kaS4hPaLbnXLeAenvp6lkmUsdkgIRRsOkcTV3FkO72Zlt0lITlITo8KOp8SfIA9LflM0od0lwiLgWWgt75CodcbC6dRRhv-JzttCCRE/s320/The+Entertainment+Center.JPG" /></a><br />The Fish Tank: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkTnWBcaBo2mZWzjcUCGuR6RFkC7jbUhV_RLCWolL1dEaqXWhv7hu4fK1hUOR5o0s6HskJRZMepizJ7MHHjHoIuObPlO1Y7iNDBa7MU6KeAX89RjB_kmWD4Ukxqq7jLJN8NFwIFhcJmY/s1600/The+Fish+Tank+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550353600540437186" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkTnWBcaBo2mZWzjcUCGuR6RFkC7jbUhV_RLCWolL1dEaqXWhv7hu4fK1hUOR5o0s6HskJRZMepizJ7MHHjHoIuObPlO1Y7iNDBa7MU6KeAX89RjB_kmWD4Ukxqq7jLJN8NFwIFhcJmY/s320/The+Fish+Tank+2.JPG" /></a><br />And 3 of my favorite decorations.....<br /><br />The Santa Tin: (He stays under the tree all season.)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7iWkqtzrc4MgpqDO9bXMk0fWOCi8Zg6edb2odLoYojh_5zVgYBByQPfYO-69iji4y76UlR2RviNDAxyeL00oghrFH3y14tG2bRwQCgbISpQ0xHn5Fz69qO5vUGzoHl8YmK1-Nm_k-_MQ/s1600/Santa+Tin+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550354289014236946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7iWkqtzrc4MgpqDO9bXMk0fWOCi8Zg6edb2odLoYojh_5zVgYBByQPfYO-69iji4y76UlR2RviNDAxyeL00oghrFH3y14tG2bRwQCgbISpQ0xHn5Fz69qO5vUGzoHl8YmK1-Nm_k-_MQ/s320/Santa+Tin+2.JPG" /></a> My Holiday Candle: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_0R2wMX1i526_0VrmdwS1hyq-vOr93CEpNm5DJkmM0oXmpjAt0AeUYmP-FpoF5NVRyXnx5-VRV7RYKSRqoOAzdLACZpBYiPQjkFDnBuQ82kY2HD4PUo6coUbTp1NyFNshul70yEucEI/s1600/My+Favorite+Holiday+Candle.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550354769470090594" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_0R2wMX1i526_0VrmdwS1hyq-vOr93CEpNm5DJkmM0oXmpjAt0AeUYmP-FpoF5NVRyXnx5-VRV7RYKSRqoOAzdLACZpBYiPQjkFDnBuQ82kY2HD4PUo6coUbTp1NyFNshul70yEucEI/s320/My+Favorite+Holiday+Candle.JPG" /></a> And last but by no means least.......<br /><div>The Golden Stagg: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh949b5-qs0EQTGZlH9iCKIFfBs6z4rKcffbFTHqEYBanhDcnHarPzpfL63EvfpHaiQA73vkbaJ2DtBON0rmviDOMiCpa8mqwxCr6lRFWSUd5Q3KjcMgxhf6NdwbenFvl1_8e-XJ5xCmUQ/s1600/The+Golden+Stag.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550355343684834482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh949b5-qs0EQTGZlH9iCKIFfBs6z4rKcffbFTHqEYBanhDcnHarPzpfL63EvfpHaiQA73vkbaJ2DtBON0rmviDOMiCpa8mqwxCr6lRFWSUd5Q3KjcMgxhf6NdwbenFvl1_8e-XJ5xCmUQ/s320/The+Golden+Stag.JPG" /></a> Happy Holidays, Everyone!!!<br /><div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-6186835670352121002010-12-13T15:34:00.000-06:002010-12-13T15:34:19.518-06:00Sauted Tuna and Veggies Over RiceI've noticed a lot of the Pagan blogs I follow include recipes. I love to cook and I've enjoyed some of the blog-land offerings, so I thought I should reciprocate with and offering of my own. This dish is one of my main go-to's. It's not only quick and delicious, but it's cheep! (I know, right?)<br /><br />(Keep in mind that this is one of those “to taste” recipes!)<br /><br />This recipes usually takes me 15 minutes from start to finish.<br /><br />Ingredients:<br />1-2 cloves garlic (minced)<br />1 medium shallot (diced or sliced)*<br />1 cup frozen peas (or any green veggie - baby spinach is really good)<br />2 medium carrots (medium dice)*<br />1 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 teaspoons fresh)<br />1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes<br />Canned tuna*<br />Salt and pepper to taste<br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIvngyjI968Q1h1dKCApdoN4WXMvpdvEBhWHnFOIewAR1KRUNhco16e0W-iY3TAsveYP3mpyXR-MjG_KwsV8c_AepU_zPDA8FbQnO37PeMR_URWDJz_A4OS1_LWa9INDs3jiu7TR63GM/s1600/Sauteed+Tuna+1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550281140252503682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIvngyjI968Q1h1dKCApdoN4WXMvpdvEBhWHnFOIewAR1KRUNhco16e0W-iY3TAsveYP3mpyXR-MjG_KwsV8c_AepU_zPDA8FbQnO37PeMR_URWDJz_A4OS1_LWa9INDs3jiu7TR63GM/s320/Sauteed+Tuna+1.JPG" /></a><br />3-4 sun dried tomatoes<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-n-S03wmXEDzdNEJi0Z699CvQjfBwIeYSDqW_nKWtjlMEIaEk-jU_LhYPe35DRG-lb0tiJ0nVv6hOnWzvOPueL8zHsbD3BRpNW5hCodhdZ2hZmsQXvagBcjmYr58jTmqN024UYzMV48/s1600/Sauteed+tuna+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550280287216099506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-n-S03wmXEDzdNEJi0Z699CvQjfBwIeYSDqW_nKWtjlMEIaEk-jU_LhYPe35DRG-lb0tiJ0nVv6hOnWzvOPueL8zHsbD3BRpNW5hCodhdZ2hZmsQXvagBcjmYr58jTmqN024UYzMV48/s320/Sauteed+tuna+2.JPG" /></a><br />1 tablespoon olive oil<br />1-2 teaspoons lemon juice<br />1 teaspoon butter<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiwV_O9cGPfPHnFoU914T31yhnUQYD5uxuZGZ_mMZ1OnLFalSge2gKftLqsd1oLaII-_l09mVYdlX6TC-ef6OMmPbmZ5LDzVQKWHJnG97Tw3KMbxP4uYJC7312cYuXPBKA1IIM7EJveI/s1600/Sauteed+Tuna+3.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550279140600817858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiwV_O9cGPfPHnFoU914T31yhnUQYD5uxuZGZ_mMZ1OnLFalSge2gKftLqsd1oLaII-_l09mVYdlX6TC-ef6OMmPbmZ5LDzVQKWHJnG97Tw3KMbxP4uYJC7312cYuXPBKA1IIM7EJveI/s320/Sauteed+Tuna+3.JPG" /></a><br />Cooked rice (I use 1 8.5 oz bag of Uncle Ben’s ‘Ready Whole Grain Medley’ brown & wild rice)**<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45tcctBoceVPuLwZfqsPShOKGcXhDF-oihnD8awefT1OzMPYiv5-dm0ByaGogLgzM_V2VCtF3ByT2ywhuMJsSCsDTFkaxQWQU5VGTs2Y27s8Uthpm0tmuKDCDzUpAgqe17zBIkkJiPTQ/s1600/Sauteed+tuna+8.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550273606841194338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45tcctBoceVPuLwZfqsPShOKGcXhDF-oihnD8awefT1OzMPYiv5-dm0ByaGogLgzM_V2VCtF3ByT2ywhuMJsSCsDTFkaxQWQU5VGTs2Y27s8Uthpm0tmuKDCDzUpAgqe17zBIkkJiPTQ/s320/Sauteed+tuna+8.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br />Directions: (Think of this almost like a stir fry dish.)<br />Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan on medium/medium-high heat.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0qe1GHbFiG6SHVJusUqkmH-VXlaGgwy8SpItg18Qhod2yjggPIxAis7FBljpdBstPq-uxVZROnfbim-E39ccm97o0LD03RH4NVvZd5eWtlvSIoggactOOS996Y9aW-5tAx9cef7E918/s1600/Sauteed+Tuna+4.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550278683647406994" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0qe1GHbFiG6SHVJusUqkmH-VXlaGgwy8SpItg18Qhod2yjggPIxAis7FBljpdBstPq-uxVZROnfbim-E39ccm97o0LD03RH4NVvZd5eWtlvSIoggactOOS996Y9aW-5tAx9cef7E918/s320/Sauteed+Tuna+4.JPG" /></a><br />Add all of the veggies, the meat, and the salt and pepper to the hot oil. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKL3JP9NNFwDnYnWMnI7XISDQPE4j845rIFZAb2612-DABBw4Q8Nel-kEQCg71TBorDw9Vx4qa1d60PuP9o9zPH6jPxMkXy3NmKavCLVlfp399QDzZa_3U_VqADpkH_dI55PXO3ro0DvU/s1600/Sauteed+Tuna+5.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550277814421896978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKL3JP9NNFwDnYnWMnI7XISDQPE4j845rIFZAb2612-DABBw4Q8Nel-kEQCg71TBorDw9Vx4qa1d60PuP9o9zPH6jPxMkXy3NmKavCLVlfp399QDzZa_3U_VqADpkH_dI55PXO3ro0DvU/s320/Sauteed+Tuna+5.JPG" /></a><br />Sauté until caramelized. The idea is to keep the carrots firm.<br />Add basil, pepper flakes, and deglaze with lemon juice.<br />Continue to sauté until reduced.<br />Remove from heat and top with butter to finish.<br />Cook the rice as directed on the package. Toss everything together in a bowl, and enjoy.<br /><br />**To show the versatility of the dish, I served this over pasta in stead of rice. It works just as well, and you can top it off with a little parmesean cheese.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYw5F0LmdDVzTwouRDJ6I0mq0qi3xb67DZjAFvCwYNKkl5Te7BBPjOhzy2XM0zfBxGwuqgv5wDTMXxLTR0vrwsQCxljXFfxW2Aa6pmJv7gdfcm5dqWop_HA_Rk0f9TZajKFjZDZnRf6Y/s1600/Sauteed+Tuna+6.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550276579582981938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYw5F0LmdDVzTwouRDJ6I0mq0qi3xb67DZjAFvCwYNKkl5Te7BBPjOhzy2XM0zfBxGwuqgv5wDTMXxLTR0vrwsQCxljXFfxW2Aa6pmJv7gdfcm5dqWop_HA_Rk0f9TZajKFjZDZnRf6Y/s320/Sauteed+Tuna+6.JPG" /></a><br /><br />You can also finish with a toated sesame seed oil for a nuttier flavor.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbz77Q4cudESRdnpszlNgB-a9Xny7XmSaUUI5olmcGucgHVFWrc3yrWrqc6Wbc6_MKaITAizltZpz6rURj2jSzUnyrvt4cdRy7TLGGBdwbaK-eUmf1A9DtTbTFRZFI2XQDxf06Ahstak/s1600/Sauteed+Tuna+7.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550275830755685250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbz77Q4cudESRdnpszlNgB-a9Xny7XmSaUUI5olmcGucgHVFWrc3yrWrqc6Wbc6_MKaITAizltZpz6rURj2jSzUnyrvt4cdRy7TLGGBdwbaK-eUmf1A9DtTbTFRZFI2XQDxf06Ahstak/s320/Sauteed+Tuna+7.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br />*Any of these ingredients can be fresh or frozen or canned. (Tuna can be replaced with crab.) </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-12271973892862862862010-12-04T09:31:00.003-06:002010-12-04T09:33:37.478-06:00Giveaway!!!!Aine over at the Deepest Well is giving away a really cool bell wand. Head over and check it out!<br /><br />http://deepestwell.blogspot.com/2010/12/yule-is-cool-giveaway.htmlAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-68473247555532500982010-12-04T08:56:00.005-06:002010-12-04T09:31:00.844-06:00Virtual Tour - LibraryHi, and welcome back.<br />I'm sorry for this newest interruption, but work and trying to get MD settled back into the rehab facility has taken priority over writing for the past few days.<br /><br />With that said, on with the tour.<br /><br />This is the library. I know, it doesn't look like much of a library now, but trust me, it's in there. It's truly a diamond in the rough, and I can't wait to get to cutting a polishing it into my own little jewel!<br />Currently, it's being used as a storage/cat room. The storage will go, but the cats will stay.<br />Disclaimer: The wallpaper came with the house and will be the first to leave this room when the cutting/polishing part of the program starts. LOL!<br />The walls will be painted a soft buttery yellow and the trim will be fresh white. The carpet will be pulled up, so the original honeyed oak floors will shine.<br /><br />This first shot is of the left hand wall. Currently, this is where my alter lives, but it will eventually be where the fold out love seat will go.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2CbEL_qtN0BL0lSjJf5s2pnpcRAGdASDfSuI2E15jd0kSXl7V-2E-ycdNjbnNhNYCLxm5COw2s6IXpiFqlwBmae_GNI6EzCyIG0mq52zf1othFXjdpD_Um2GAi0QsoBPoOlYIW1qI7_Y/s1600/Library+Alter+1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546842134122926642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2CbEL_qtN0BL0lSjJf5s2pnpcRAGdASDfSuI2E15jd0kSXl7V-2E-ycdNjbnNhNYCLxm5COw2s6IXpiFqlwBmae_GNI6EzCyIG0mq52zf1othFXjdpD_Um2GAi0QsoBPoOlYIW1qI7_Y/s320/Library+Alter+1.JPG" /></a><br />This is the close up of my alter. The four small candles are for the four Watchtower Guardians. The taper is for the Goddess. I have quartz, amethyst, ruby, and jet for Earth. The vase on the left is for sand to put out my smudge stick or to hold incense sticks for Air. The chalice has a small dolphin charm to represent Water, and of course the candles for Fire. The mirror was a gift from DD. It was hand carved. The reliefs are women and turtles. The chest below the alter table is where I keep extra tools. herbs, and moon water.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLAy_S-Qzv-6qMXRa7sDExQ54OMwlc9Q45ltx21D5H809iQw7DQRRxoHAZH84ur4PRjAhMkNsMUgV9ZejKhux8xrUFmqVfKCDuYKSlPBhUh-0YYJE9uwM8r2E-D4w0nz-fHBAmQfm6oJk/s1600/Library+Alter+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546841914793400274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLAy_S-Qzv-6qMXRa7sDExQ54OMwlc9Q45ltx21D5H809iQw7DQRRxoHAZH84ur4PRjAhMkNsMUgV9ZejKhux8xrUFmqVfKCDuYKSlPBhUh-0YYJE9uwM8r2E-D4w0nz-fHBAmQfm6oJk/s320/Library+Alter+2.JPG" /></a><br /><br />This is the east wall. This will house a row of lower cabinets topped by bookshelves that go to the ceiling. I'm putting in bench under the window that will double as storage. They'll be white to match the trim.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJiWsmzd16WEZBPxan2dnCTuCEGcqnWL0IWyGqNWzQ33Hgd_xj7ye8Yacg1l6fyRaGprP2DQT543kOIWYVCpKzPfmw3xTaUjp5X8NS_t_Lra-X4TMUbb_Vse-7EBpkLqudjnqV-MxTt4/s1600/Library+3.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546841700847770866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJiWsmzd16WEZBPxan2dnCTuCEGcqnWL0IWyGqNWzQ33Hgd_xj7ye8Yacg1l6fyRaGprP2DQT543kOIWYVCpKzPfmw3xTaUjp5X8NS_t_Lra-X4TMUbb_Vse-7EBpkLqudjnqV-MxTt4/s320/Library+3.JPG" /></a> </div><div></div><div>This is the wast wall and closet. The corner will become a reading nook with a big chair, ottoman, and small side table. The wall where the desk is will be build out with upper cabinets, and a work surface the will have doors that I can close. This will be my 'home office'.</div><div>In the very corner, over the closet doors, and under the south window (in the reflection of the mirrored closet doors, which are going away), will be climbing/scratching posts and shelves for the cats. </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy6c8emzGZMQc8gv_YESiZm8Y8Eg-SkA30X2v0_1_pLg0yGEeafdfltpXpqLFWIXy76CfGnn2WbiZQvSqd73aLTzxA4qhyphenhyphenwDPKpz8Ff8pYxCMzVYkrYboaKnkL5EgmuK4668gLtLM2Iag/s1600/Library+4.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546841470017855746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy6c8emzGZMQc8gv_YESiZm8Y8Eg-SkA30X2v0_1_pLg0yGEeafdfltpXpqLFWIXy76CfGnn2WbiZQvSqd73aLTzxA4qhyphenhyphenwDPKpz8Ff8pYxCMzVYkrYboaKnkL5EgmuK4668gLtLM2Iag/s320/Library+4.JPG" /></a> As you can tell, I've got big plans for all my rooms. The goal is to complete most of the major projects within the next 2 years. One of the reasons I've invited you all in and shared so many details, is I'm hoping with will keep me on track. I'll post pictures as the projects progress.</div><div></div><div>Well, that concludes the tour of our home.</div><div>Thank you all again for coming. You're welcome any time.<br /></div><div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-32265886662498933082010-11-30T21:56:00.007-06:002010-11-30T22:25:44.160-06:00Virtual Tour - Bed and BathThis is our master bedroom. As it's just DD and me, the other 2 bedrooms are being used as an office and a library. Our bedroom has not been redecorated since we moved in 12 years ago. LOL! As you can see the walls are very white. I haven't really decided on a color for the walls, but I usually stick with earthy neutrals as a rule. I'm planning on replacing the bed frame with a platform bed with storage drawers underneath in a dark wood with a wood slate or leather headboard. (This house was built in 1953 and is obnoxiously short on storage.) I'm going to refinish the bedside tables to a dark mahogany.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgud-BX0ME25BBfMN_pxOBk3T1sIp4docltsw9AaAKGeHbxDO-akCW1NtaK3f0KEK15ws1X-Z6vuTSKLfJYzPoVTMjT01z3HpxCvzyr4WWZv4mumeDKp74E-J40JnYo2j2No6XZfnkFH4c/s1600/Bedroom+1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545560514276618466" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgud-BX0ME25BBfMN_pxOBk3T1sIp4docltsw9AaAKGeHbxDO-akCW1NtaK3f0KEK15ws1X-Z6vuTSKLfJYzPoVTMjT01z3HpxCvzyr4WWZv4mumeDKp74E-J40JnYo2j2No6XZfnkFH4c/s320/Bedroom+1.JPG" /></a><br />This is the wardrobe I got from my Nannie and Grandaddy. No improvements needed here.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4vfVVk4HPHn6QVvYtBhbzk6X7lHDHwxhTYZCmBTgbW24XNXIdDPa5GZQF88ChAneJVo8t5mqvo_k9Rc63h98Y1V6I1-plTP1-uajKu5LC4tR1g-x-wjUK2lz_y7bGxlbQ-X_XxFxr4k/s1600/Bedroom+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545559980707201442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4vfVVk4HPHn6QVvYtBhbzk6X7lHDHwxhTYZCmBTgbW24XNXIdDPa5GZQF88ChAneJVo8t5mqvo_k9Rc63h98Y1V6I1-plTP1-uajKu5LC4tR1g-x-wjUK2lz_y7bGxlbQ-X_XxFxr4k/s320/Bedroom+2.JPG" /></a><br />This is the matching vanity. Again, no improvements needed.</div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4aBOXA8gDzhYCLG9lUayfzxUO02Kwh3YbYh_GUWgewHvKOaOL-i9-Slcy1gPRQ_ang7XY0zbF-psypVtHJHvkg7hU9gIcKSypWQzVgxWV8GA_LuyT7dyjeJ-z2szfGUe3JhuX66e6EJ8/s1600/Bedroom+3.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545559815666399714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4aBOXA8gDzhYCLG9lUayfzxUO02Kwh3YbYh_GUWgewHvKOaOL-i9-Slcy1gPRQ_ang7XY0zbF-psypVtHJHvkg7hU9gIcKSypWQzVgxWV8GA_LuyT7dyjeJ-z2szfGUe3JhuX66e6EJ8/s320/Bedroom+3.JPG" /></a><br />And this is our bathroom. There is only one picture as there is only one angle to take a photo from and that's the hallway. Did I mention the house was built in 1953? Not big on the luxury home spa in the 50's evidently. LOL the tub/shower is to the right of this picture. My plan is to replace the tub with a show stall with floating glass doors. The pink wall tile and the black/white floor tile will be gone as will the pink sink. My plan is to drywall the walls, and use matching 12 X 24 faux marble tiles on the shower walls/floor and continue them onto the floor of the room. the walls will be a pale see glass green and the sink will be on a small mahogany colored vanity.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPJif4CMsPjpZ4k4UW1oYVpDwnQ8hA6deAddnvvth7zG77oLFfbxmQMHSnhuYvt5sP66iy4n4Joko1IUhbUEFyGbJ8xGGbJ2LEmEfz3Rehz4S-ho8gAPCsIH1bb0X9zMvts87ueg2Uxg/s1600/Bathroom.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545560731219038706" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPJif4CMsPjpZ4k4UW1oYVpDwnQ8hA6deAddnvvth7zG77oLFfbxmQMHSnhuYvt5sP66iy4n4Joko1IUhbUEFyGbJ8xGGbJ2LEmEfz3Rehz4S-ho8gAPCsIH1bb0X9zMvts87ueg2Uxg/s320/Bathroom.JPG" /></a> Last but not least, let's look and the 'library'.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-8011142149016283392010-11-28T20:47:00.007-06:002010-11-28T21:17:30.047-06:00Virtual Tour - Dining RoomThese are the steps from the kitchen to the dining room. We built these after we took down the wall that separated the two. The tiles on the end are ceramic and made to look like travertine, the smaller ones are slate. The ugly carpet will be replaced with wood some day.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8lG1pNcr-T1sK5cMJDXc_EywGtUq5CyaFKKITJY1CHW0y2ih2E-iFzzBqVzW04eRP4HMnUe_4HcxKyyqf2FxZnAg9AsC2UXRKr3k-ydX2F4OJVZ5PnMohdWUFvo87zic9NDGUNRxq88/s1600/Steps+to+Kitchen.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544799627986550994" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8lG1pNcr-T1sK5cMJDXc_EywGtUq5CyaFKKITJY1CHW0y2ih2E-iFzzBqVzW04eRP4HMnUe_4HcxKyyqf2FxZnAg9AsC2UXRKr3k-ydX2F4OJVZ5PnMohdWUFvo87zic9NDGUNRxq88/s320/Steps+to+Kitchen.JPG" /></a> Beside the stairs is the laundry nook. That's too sad to photograph now, but I have plans for that little room, too.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFs9WTCpHi42I9T9f__ta_Zw72PdQ0NMRIug-reTd7Xa0lTcMlHCeiKRa4yFA243ciQYefKNqB7ZTwmeSDFSDIf0Eox57vbpdJzeGUIHBlKmNA2eAdzHBaQ_FqrY4T524h9_krPIUSaqI/s1600/Laundry+Nook.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544799322030223970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFs9WTCpHi42I9T9f__ta_Zw72PdQ0NMRIug-reTd7Xa0lTcMlHCeiKRa4yFA243ciQYefKNqB7ZTwmeSDFSDIf0Eox57vbpdJzeGUIHBlKmNA2eAdzHBaQ_FqrY4T524h9_krPIUSaqI/s320/Laundry+Nook.JPG" /></a> This is the view from the kitchen. Table is a family heirloom, and will showcased in the "new" decor. </div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-R3W8HrhuJWiRBtCsLXtAau5v10jL-BmraVYQNiDQ3EuLN1hMXKnLMA_uEpou0Hxm5wJpRtJvk4BesI_iXmafFuygL6pPd3aletuVOniu03Y4djRxQQYrt-GK0_poUH_t8iz6a4S76M/s1600/Diningroom+1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544798540467368850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-R3W8HrhuJWiRBtCsLXtAau5v10jL-BmraVYQNiDQ3EuLN1hMXKnLMA_uEpou0Hxm5wJpRtJvk4BesI_iXmafFuygL6pPd3aletuVOniu03Y4djRxQQYrt-GK0_poUH_t8iz6a4S76M/s320/Diningroom+1.JPG" /></a>The wood stove will be replaced with a wall mounted gas fireplace. The brick will be glazed, and we'll add a mantel and cabinetry. </div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3QFzD5fe39Kocxm2QXJw0cIGnUdVPukDDNyYHMwFstif7Jtir25x_dQKp19wK8TzKVSRPoNRj1q1nl0_IN0gOCqjPTMfyUjINM8vjwz4kfKN1elUlpRpyK_EVsSE68G807A-Yk4pA10/s1600/Diningroom+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544798372676535842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3QFzD5fe39Kocxm2QXJw0cIGnUdVPukDDNyYHMwFstif7Jtir25x_dQKp19wK8TzKVSRPoNRj1q1nl0_IN0gOCqjPTMfyUjINM8vjwz4kfKN1elUlpRpyK_EVsSE68G807A-Yk4pA10/s320/Diningroom+2.JPG" /></a>This is the far corner. The hutch and the coat tree will be replaced with built in cabinets.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi510yLAcIMet9S2sRiYTf5cEh8Q9Hl75VUH2lJVlplfPif9xwJ0Xk-xgxjKX_MUnEy6PYajeQnT3aew7r92E1K2Pq05LNqCN4ptLMo6t0yYbWqe-2AoL9jaItIPOUYBm7g6fDWvZJWOLs/s1600/Diningroom+3.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544798126993589122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi510yLAcIMet9S2sRiYTf5cEh8Q9Hl75VUH2lJVlplfPif9xwJ0Xk-xgxjKX_MUnEy6PYajeQnT3aew7r92E1K2Pq05LNqCN4ptLMo6t0yYbWqe-2AoL9jaItIPOUYBm7g6fDWvZJWOLs/s320/Diningroom+3.JPG" /></a> This whole end of the room will have built in cabinets. (That stack of boxes in the floor is the laminate for the floor.)<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZL_04RqYNAllWOeSjokz8xtpRoLFYmHztOqc756plJZ8eQKpmUs3tEF73kUULg4BoRGHx9kej1gtd1dHRumiqtbANtDke2Iu0C9y-BmJkhx0eb5EBhVQXObtOlu_kZp3dCsYfL8rxdw8/s1600/Diningroom+4.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544797923736783250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZL_04RqYNAllWOeSjokz8xtpRoLFYmHztOqc756plJZ8eQKpmUs3tEF73kUULg4BoRGHx9kej1gtd1dHRumiqtbANtDke2Iu0C9y-BmJkhx0eb5EBhVQXObtOlu_kZp3dCsYfL8rxdw8/s320/Diningroom+4.JPG" /></a> Next, we'll look and the bedroom and the "library".<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-72918721999025683152010-11-25T11:14:00.004-06:002010-11-25T11:31:39.663-06:00Life Happens.DD's mom, MD was taken back to the hospital last night. Her UTI has flared up again. The good news is the tests show that the bacteria is strep and not MRSA, so her latest round of antibiotics have been effective against the MRSA. Now we just need to get rid of the strep. She should be home in a couple of days.<br />I hate this for DD. This past year has been so very hard for him, his mom, and his brother and sister. She's been in and out of the hospital, numerous times,and because she's 84 years old, diabetic, and has congestive heart failure, everytime she's down for more than a few days, she has to go back into a rehab facility. It's just so scary for him. <br />We are thankful that this episode isn't more serious, and the prognosis looks very good. It also reminds me to be thankful for the health of all of our other loved ones.<br /><br />Sorry for the sad news on such a happy day, and I truely wish love, light, health, and joy to all of you and yours this holiday season.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-57919675235493287132010-11-24T23:05:00.007-06:002010-11-24T23:30:47.093-06:00So, this is the kitchen. As you can see, this is a work in progress.<br /><br />Unfortunately, we won't be able to save the cabinets. The house was built in 1953, and they are original. They have given their all. So the fridge is going to go where the dishwasher is now, and the dishwasher will be moved to the right toward the sink.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGZ1ivXbwZ6-_tbamuOiM7Fim9N1IGMFAvTFJc8r3OVKHJm5sYf_1oAmOQ_YFDx18SuAsztJ3lPnXSYUs32PyxVyxN_XPzBJIy3tWJpRIV5o_YAEuQYsyonVEV-F6oi-XlXptlpcsu0c/s1600/Kitchen+1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543350965186835394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGZ1ivXbwZ6-_tbamuOiM7Fim9N1IGMFAvTFJc8r3OVKHJm5sYf_1oAmOQ_YFDx18SuAsztJ3lPnXSYUs32PyxVyxN_XPzBJIy3tWJpRIV5o_YAEuQYsyonVEV-F6oi-XlXptlpcsu0c/s320/Kitchen+1.JPG" /></a>I'm hoping for a solid surfice counter. Quartz would be nice, right? <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsCRUnDh-zFe9hu0bcEFRn2VfEvcZ4wHZANRqeuBAcQBQAqhZA-a-SPFa8wCFZGRto_zUPEkCkOsbbvCaHl6s7HTQhyhnFcc5bLXLJ13qtfiA9t_fcJRbhoEmSv85Kn_MoGmP-r6PiRA/s1600/Kitchen+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543350045409319858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsCRUnDh-zFe9hu0bcEFRn2VfEvcZ4wHZANRqeuBAcQBQAqhZA-a-SPFa8wCFZGRto_zUPEkCkOsbbvCaHl6s7HTQhyhnFcc5bLXLJ13qtfiA9t_fcJRbhoEmSv85Kn_MoGmP-r6PiRA/s320/Kitchen+2.JPG" /></a>I'd like to trade out the stove for a double oven. That pantry's going bye-bye. I know, it's a lot of storage, but it's very "un" user friendly storage.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_mbZFf2KDUai4qL61-BzsR7j94kJPCMSM7R0tFLLuTfXgu5ZZWnmL-PBB84y8XqSzJBpdEhLaKKflAdqV1RUs_409CNOoeY-w7jGWOH2p5gN6DcHVto08-FgylH2OdQEYt-xFaJALQTU/s1600/Kitchen+3.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543349697459951074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_mbZFf2KDUai4qL61-BzsR7j94kJPCMSM7R0tFLLuTfXgu5ZZWnmL-PBB84y8XqSzJBpdEhLaKKflAdqV1RUs_409CNOoeY-w7jGWOH2p5gN6DcHVto08-FgylH2OdQEYt-xFaJALQTU/s320/Kitchen+3.JPG" /></a> This fridge will eventually be replaced with a french door/freezer on the bottom model, and that wall, that's between the kitchen and the living room will come down. I'm transforming it into a peninsula with a gas cook top. </div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLR22p_L16QCISRYJ1nRjH1sUS71ntZV2633VxALPcpdx2yHq1Bn3u9L5C5bwOwBWQMyxM3fGyQPV6SALwz6AElUIYHimyoZHYwkZ3Bsxt9Q_Dlg2QlIG4aU8NUa5srmM2EltiOETgJF8/s1600/Kitchen+4.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543349394961888258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLR22p_L16QCISRYJ1nRjH1sUS71ntZV2633VxALPcpdx2yHq1Bn3u9L5C5bwOwBWQMyxM3fGyQPV6SALwz6AElUIYHimyoZHYwkZ3Bsxt9Q_Dlg2QlIG4aU8NUa5srmM2EltiOETgJF8/s320/Kitchen+4.JPG" /></a> This is the corner between the living room and dining room. It will become the new pantry.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXJ8uMG-S2NqGJOXGK5bs_VOsSRLSYL_4xiUfsXM3OoYUVDUwnm4KJ5MQ-rkpjyUXcTDQN_tLoAep0ofEtjYVkxCAFJP9j892QXWKPS0XFab-958U2ZZzL75kh2z7Q0aT5vUvHhDE-28/s1600/Kitchen+5.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543349245010645058" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXJ8uMG-S2NqGJOXGK5bs_VOsSRLSYL_4xiUfsXM3OoYUVDUwnm4KJ5MQ-rkpjyUXcTDQN_tLoAep0ofEtjYVkxCAFJP9j892QXWKPS0XFab-958U2ZZzL75kh2z7Q0aT5vUvHhDE-28/s320/Kitchen+5.JPG" /></a> Well, that's the kitchen. Let's head into the dining room next.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-88043676400417504912010-11-23T18:30:00.010-06:002010-11-30T22:01:59.307-06:00Virtual Tour - The Living RoomHi, all and again: Welcome to our home.<br /><br />Now that you've met the <a href="http://journalofevolution.blogspot.com/2010/11/virtual-tour-meet-family.html">family</a>, let's take the 50 cent tour. We'll start with the living room.<br /><br />Inside the front door, you'll see the fish tank turned candle display. And these are the "Mama and Papa's" chairs. I'm hoping to replace these with a double-recliner-love seat type thing, so DD and I can snuggle together while we watch TV.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NnuUe5DxFYvi1RCosJtI7btNGLy-W9wgxtJBJmLHLQ2PhHmdPRJ_5FKDjThTvmurxkT5b9xSPt2o-91gwSkY3ishXJzCJWhkClTPw4pQRHR9lc1sUGvGePhugC8bYXdMr6YK1meLr04/s1600/Livingroom+1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542910750953717234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NnuUe5DxFYvi1RCosJtI7btNGLy-W9wgxtJBJmLHLQ2PhHmdPRJ_5FKDjThTvmurxkT5b9xSPt2o-91gwSkY3ishXJzCJWhkClTPw4pQRHR9lc1sUGvGePhugC8bYXdMr6YK1meLr04/s320/Livingroom+1.JPG" /></a><br />This is the new dog couch, (Happy Boxers!!), and my little jungle. Look closely. This is the closest thing I'll every have to a garden! Some day this window will be replaced with an insulated one that can be cleaned from the inside.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CvWk36m_XxckrrvjvWZqULUGl5plR2GybkRroTWjlj8Q0HMGiDRuY_uLCRmDvxe_9uDCDPYj-yAnnM_qPTCT0GQ09M11MHdhQ_u6EnASlronQWl-rA9EIiYUsBlQSQU-B_tPw1WwXKA/s1600/Livingroom+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542911101148243042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CvWk36m_XxckrrvjvWZqULUGl5plR2GybkRroTWjlj8Q0HMGiDRuY_uLCRmDvxe_9uDCDPYj-yAnnM_qPTCT0GQ09M11MHdhQ_u6EnASlronQWl-rA9EIiYUsBlQSQU-B_tPw1WwXKA/s320/Livingroom+2.JPG" /></a> </div><div>On the opposite side of the room: Extra seating and the door to the kitchen. The wall to the left of this photo will eventually have built in cabinets to surround the TV and console. They'll be white to match the trim.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-zSmYW_NuRE04ZIWmYUcP-SiM0BkFKo0ldWP0dUwM_mdOxahtJz8tbctXJBHKuyctrRg2tvH_CUdYkrOiyoIPQyZm8QZYq7PV_t3UVxe5PmRYgsZyPVqaWQs4LrMukw_RNiYJ0qqFrk/s1600/Livingroom+3.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542911370542856978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-zSmYW_NuRE04ZIWmYUcP-SiM0BkFKo0ldWP0dUwM_mdOxahtJz8tbctXJBHKuyctrRg2tvH_CUdYkrOiyoIPQyZm8QZYq7PV_t3UVxe5PmRYgsZyPVqaWQs4LrMukw_RNiYJ0qqFrk/s320/Livingroom+3.JPG" /></a></div><div></div><div>The door to the hallway. This door will be replaced with a 4-5 glass panel door reminiscent of a Shoji screen.</div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyOsOgYgJdaOH8KcpDg_wGngbPHNAwEfxrvZjyHLY3NwtG3TT0fpTKVKVviN7HIrVft3cWfSDbvStOqQvWPOxxeRk7uIhZci6QNRTIMkrGGISlrprYkqv8fAWlZf2bbWjuWuMzW-yh-Y/s1600/Livingroom+4.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542911551904750530" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyOsOgYgJdaOH8KcpDg_wGngbPHNAwEfxrvZjyHLY3NwtG3TT0fpTKVKVviN7HIrVft3cWfSDbvStOqQvWPOxxeRk7uIhZci6QNRTIMkrGGISlrprYkqv8fAWlZf2bbWjuWuMzW-yh-Y/s320/Livingroom+4.JPG" /></a><br />This is a piece that my grandmother left to me. I have no idea what it was originally but it's my TV console now. I love it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfQAEip4TpKDes0A8NO_7R9j3Hg0g-qjqRWHnJA2YcU06Xg7fDtbvxaIThhbeWmwhX_Bq9uB_whyH3U_LgSzKvtoXkPB5mzDIOKvedF_9WTh0VdJJEnbvK4IymOVRSFFsD66T8Euwu8A/s1600/Livingroom+5.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542911771200069186" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfQAEip4TpKDes0A8NO_7R9j3Hg0g-qjqRWHnJA2YcU06Xg7fDtbvxaIThhbeWmwhX_Bq9uB_whyH3U_LgSzKvtoXkPB5mzDIOKvedF_9WTh0VdJJEnbvK4IymOVRSFFsD66T8Euwu8A/s320/Livingroom+5.JPG" /></a> Well that's the living room, and our plans for it. Lets head to the kitchen next......... </div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-72312338976875313412010-11-20T20:59:00.003-06:002010-11-20T21:04:53.586-06:00My Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXsSx0D526XQ8_tFcT2kEXT17lP9bgDU-QRqL9zu186H3ETkeRdKF-Y1BqgChAy61l865HkDMbnsIWff7h_hVnj2HFQzG29ghorVVwpgKttZ2OES4Nln_7czjda_9MYt9VZcuRht5m4Dk/s1600/Mama%2527s+X-mas+Tree+20120.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 191px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541833515480360482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXsSx0D526XQ8_tFcT2kEXT17lP9bgDU-QRqL9zu186H3ETkeRdKF-Y1BqgChAy61l865HkDMbnsIWff7h_hVnj2HFQzG29ghorVVwpgKttZ2OES4Nln_7czjda_9MYt9VZcuRht5m4Dk/s320/Mama%2527s+X-mas+Tree+20120.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlgXWx6VWhF0nGb2voBmcT9igoMpUvg_iuB2-xycATVf6ujv-7Bxvxyy59gfWn0hkmdB_bZBOPzahGCohQoKxrqsyPYxKq6S7iXQmhphS2JIDREA1wHXTKHGw-L04YcDeW9OtVw3ujso/s1600/Mama%2527s+X-mas+Tree+2010-2.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 191px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541832772615489666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlgXWx6VWhF0nGb2voBmcT9igoMpUvg_iuB2-xycATVf6ujv-7Bxvxyy59gfWn0hkmdB_bZBOPzahGCohQoKxrqsyPYxKq6S7iXQmhphS2JIDREA1wHXTKHGw-L04YcDeW9OtVw3ujso/s320/Mama%2527s+X-mas+Tree+2010-2.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>This is why I wasn't able to continue with the virtual tour today.</div>I was at Mom and Dad's house helping them get ready for the holidays. Mama and I spent the day putting up her Chistmas tree. Didn't it turn out awesome? She's so good at Christmas trees.<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-6070883791404411322010-11-18T20:35:00.002-06:002010-11-18T20:37:55.423-06:00The Devil's in the DetailsI was waxing nostalgic today.<br /><br />Any one remember this one?<br /><br />For the want of a nail, the shoe was lost.<br />For the want of a shoe, the rider was lost.<br />For the want of a rider, the battle was lost.<br />For the want of a battle, the kingdom was lost.<br />All for the want of a horseshoe nail.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-60085199281793815122010-11-18T20:15:00.002-06:002010-11-18T20:18:16.727-06:00We Are Experiencing Technical Difficulties. Please Stand By.We interupt your previously scheduled Virtual Tour for this important anouncement:<br /><br />Do to some camera issues, I don't have the promised photos of the house to post. I'm very sorry, and I promise we'll continue the tour as soon as the issues are resolved. Thanks for your understanding.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-79602623491562335962010-11-14T21:35:00.002-06:002010-11-14T21:41:46.785-06:00A Glitch In The MatrixOver the past few weeks, I've been experiencing multiple déjà vu episodes. Considering until recently, I've only experienced déjà vu a handful of times in my entire life, this is just strange. To make matters worse, it seems to be revolving around DD. <br />Since I have no information to pull from, I thought I would throw this out to you guys. Any advice?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-73397545524270566072010-11-12T19:23:00.003-06:002010-11-12T19:32:59.195-06:00My Home - The ProjectsIn celebration of my new friends/followers, (13 - How cool is that?), I wanted to have a little get together. I know this isn't <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">feasible</span> since we live all over the place, so I did the next best thing. I'm putting together a virtual tour of my home to share with you. We have quite a few remodeling/redecorating projects in various stages of planning/working, so thought I'd go one or 2 rooms at a time.<br />I'm taking pictures and learning to post them now, so I should have the first room of the tour ready for company in a day or two. I'll see you then.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-89611913293969960872010-11-12T18:43:00.014-06:002010-11-13T22:52:25.725-06:00Virtual Tour - Meet the FamilyWelcome, and thank you all for coming to my first house party. Let me introduce you to the family.<br />This is my husband of 13 years, DD, and our 2 Boxers (More on them in a minute!) We met at work and quickly became best friends. We were married a few years later.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZ5suSVHwk22jZGa9ER3EWqGs4niy4Y5EXprcis_nrUk_HI8SgBFIaEQuYaUiRJWVfujAxqcpXdsQyI9HcgLkuVdrIVN3SMxNB7Dup1mxZvhhfi5g0PgqLihObn9CWSY5X4o2pmgpvtg/s1600/Hun+and+the+Yungun%2527s.jpg"><br /><br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 189px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539251117078473986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZ5suSVHwk22jZGa9ER3EWqGs4niy4Y5EXprcis_nrUk_HI8SgBFIaEQuYaUiRJWVfujAxqcpXdsQyI9HcgLkuVdrIVN3SMxNB7Dup1mxZvhhfi5g0PgqLihObn9CWSY5X4o2pmgpvtg/s320/Hun+and+the+Yungun%2527s.jpg" /></a></p><p>This is Laredo. He turned 5 on March 1st. We adopted him 2 years ago in November. He was a "spur of the moment" rescue situation. Normally, I would advise against something like that, but this has been one of best uneducated decisions I've ever made.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfUKpQ1TNMa7rCmpUTaUrNuWCiRmUO-1gKiz72csD5sL8lc_VzOUCrqyu1UKgVeImzWzP20H_mgPx6FKTPbDX12BjSpVL4lSCj0GFBxj5O0vjcuRp7o50nlYMayQBEm4o7MjRIA1UMUs/s1600/Punkin%2527+Head.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539252900014396258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfUKpQ1TNMa7rCmpUTaUrNuWCiRmUO-1gKiz72csD5sL8lc_VzOUCrqyu1UKgVeImzWzP20H_mgPx6FKTPbDX12BjSpVL4lSCj0GFBxj5O0vjcuRp7o50nlYMayQBEm4o7MjRIA1UMUs/s320/Punkin%2527+Head.jpg" /></a><br />Next, please meet Layla, she just turned 1 year old on July 1st. She was rescued from a very bad animal shelter by Boxer Rescue. We decided to adopt her after we lost our elderly German Shepherd, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Simba</span>. We realised that Laredo was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">definitely</span> NOT a one dog family kind of guy.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9dk7yY6g2rnIGd_RUOtnFcK69hD2n7_bOvYzQ8L_A-R7X3G19eunoWv-0lhdjNfIUX4BppB7C14g2_a69eNApwZcpiNoQpx5AYD0EYzNGRC-FCiDzpUu8SsO6xVJxEM5j-hX4-UTp0Ls/s1600/IMAG0014.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 191px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539254406788560786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9dk7yY6g2rnIGd_RUOtnFcK69hD2n7_bOvYzQ8L_A-R7X3G19eunoWv-0lhdjNfIUX4BppB7C14g2_a69eNApwZcpiNoQpx5AYD0EYzNGRC-FCiDzpUu8SsO6xVJxEM5j-hX4-UTp0Ls/s320/IMAG0014.jpg" /></a></p><p>They were very happy with our decision to expand the pack. </p><p><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNURQ2Fb3jDhf9Y2YpkkNeyplOx4Aci-Rfk5wt8TqpXZ2HKQsO3PKJtu31mf9p6haX56cjVq778om5rIa7EwBYvyUs5PuFKESTPV2TsAsRj5muNDvPT-jTPsh6JwkUinPe8Bf8srzGhc/s1600/IMG00066.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539254809776700642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNURQ2Fb3jDhf9Y2YpkkNeyplOx4Aci-Rfk5wt8TqpXZ2HKQsO3PKJtu31mf9p6haX56cjVq778om5rIa7EwBYvyUs5PuFKESTPV2TsAsRj5muNDvPT-jTPsh6JwkUinPe8Bf8srzGhc/s320/IMG00066.jpg" /></a> We also accidentally adopted 2 cats last year. They were kittens found under a friends porch. Both she and her husband are dangerously allergic to cats, so DD and I decided to rescue the liter-mates and foster them until we could find a no-kill shelter to handle their adoptions. Yeah, well. Who knew all the shelters in the mid-state area would be full for the next 6 weeks?</p><br />First, please meet Fred. He's the lover (and talker) of the feline branch of our family tree.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-UO27urFBpHcBO9VGVLSBOqzTqto_O-BWmov0igkwo_vgJcRfwTyGxWIkxLTsjC53P8ctJFxsehFDrYEaoIfXmwUeesttP7w78DPG5WixpAVyPD_tNguZ-FKsFSBgHbzrRnAVT_LNzQ/s1600/IMAG0012.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 191px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539256648010923922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-UO27urFBpHcBO9VGVLSBOqzTqto_O-BWmov0igkwo_vgJcRfwTyGxWIkxLTsjC53P8ctJFxsehFDrYEaoIfXmwUeesttP7w78DPG5WixpAVyPD_tNguZ-FKsFSBgHbzrRnAVT_LNzQ/s320/IMAG0012.jpg" /></a> (He has a thing for terrycloth.) <p>And last, but not least, meet Ginger. She is our little "feral kitty". She's the main reason we decided to keep the cats. It took her 2 weeks to work up the courage to come down the hall into the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">living room</span> with the rest of us. She made about 6 inches a day. I didn't have the heart to make her go through that again with another family, and we certainly couldn't break up the set.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3D4jOlYpFIOy9yPV5vtIw4DTHZJQGCLOWK47IGnz4x75ltCL6uwowBmWq0sO9kl-8erpwoyYdq1iatnM5mbqf1pRZ5RtzDV8waraXygJdKuEZTubj5FvXF0xR304E9XYZTHW-Udm74U/s1600/IMAG00112.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 191px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539257876925406002" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3D4jOlYpFIOy9yPV5vtIw4DTHZJQGCLOWK47IGnz4x75ltCL6uwowBmWq0sO9kl-8erpwoyYdq1iatnM5mbqf1pRZ5RtzDV8waraXygJdKuEZTubj5FvXF0xR304E9XYZTHW-Udm74U/s320/IMAG00112.jpg" /></a></p><p>The great thing is all of our "kids" actually met each other like it was a reunion, not an introduction. </p><p>Well so much for the introductions. we're all so glad you could make it. Help yourself to refreshments and we'll start the house tour soon.</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-33583785533556960712010-10-20T11:28:00.001-05:002010-10-20T11:30:38.331-05:00On the 20th Day of HalloweenDon't forget to hop over to Mrs. B's <a href="http://www.confessionsofapagansoccermom.com/">Confessions of a Pagan Soccer Mom</a> for more great giveaways and guest bloggers.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-13467404612081847192010-10-07T13:16:00.005-05:002010-10-07T13:37:03.541-05:00Wendy over at Year of the Cats, introduced her readers to her friend 'Envy', yesterday. She shared a story about her mother that 'subdued' her natural muse. I wanted to share a meditation that I practiced to help heal some damage caused to my childhood-self by my maternal grandfather. It's been very helpful and empowering for me.<br />Close your eyes and picture the moment your mother accused you of copying that story as if your 'current-self' is a 3rd party standing across the room watching the scene between your 'past-mother' and your 'childhood-self'. Include every detail you can remember and freeze the 'frame' right after the moment your past-mother said those ugly words to childhood-you. Approach your mother as your current-self and tell her exactly what you think of her at that moment. Don't hold anything back! Express everything, no matter how ugly it might feel. When you’re done releasing that emotion, tell her that you no longer need her baggage and she (past-mother of that moment) can't be part of your life any more. Once that is done see her walking away and out of the scene.<br />Now, you have some apologizing to do. When this happened you allowed a part of yourself, your strength and imagination, to be left behind and trapped in that moment. So now, you have to bring her home. Approach your childhood-self. Look her in the eye and apologize to her with all your heart. Tell her how sorry you are that you left her behind. Let her know she is an important part of you and that it is time to come 'home'. This is where is gets difficult, and it may take a few tries to accomplish. Forgive yourself. It's that simple, and that complicated. You allowed this to happen to you and you left a part of your childhood trapped and unprotected, but it's OK now. You deserve to be forgiven. When you can do this, embrace your childhood-self and be whole again.<br />You will have to repeat this meditation for awhile before it works completely, and it won't be easy. It took me months with guidance, but eventually, I was able to let it go and let the old wounds heal. The good news is, you'll know when it happens and you won't need to go there anymore.<br />I hope this helps.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-28089985401648610382010-10-04T21:49:00.002-05:002010-10-04T21:52:34.996-05:00I'm Still Here!!I'm sorry I haven't been able to post any thing in a month. I can't believe it's been that long. I'm still trying to blog, unfortunately, overtime and migraines have kept all non-essential activites at a stand still. I promise I'll post more later. <br />Thanks for your patience.<br />~tdAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-403420443854769992.post-75562463336755208852010-09-06T22:14:00.002-05:002010-09-06T22:33:34.283-05:00Thanks to Kallan over at The Secret Life of an American Working Witch, for my first official "referal", and welcome to those of you who have decided to read my posts. Thank you for spending your time with me today.<br /><br />I was just reading a post from Liz on Lizzie's Logic (<a href="http://lizzieslogic.blogspot.com/2010/09/serenity-sunday.html">http://lizzieslogic.blogspot.com/2010/09/serenity-sunday.html</a>) about writing a gratitude journal. One of the rules is that in every entry you list 5 things you are grateful for, (#5 on her list was fabric softener!). Isn't that a great way to keep yourself in check? I know for myself, I combat stress with sarcastic humor. This can occasionally lean toward the Dark Side, and some times I need a little reminder of the positive things in my life. So here's the 5 things I'm grateful for today:<br /><br />1.) My husband/best friend (DD)<br />2.) Our 4 fury youngun's (more on them later)<br />3.) Having the greatest parents EVER! (No, really!)<br />4.) My newly evolving, grown-up relationship with my sister<br />...and in the tradition of Miss Liz....<br />5.) Indoor plumbing!<br /><br />So how about you? What are you thankful for today?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02412754456927982692noreply@blogger.com1