The Wednesday Hodgepodge

It's another Wednesday which means another Hodgepodge.  I wish I knew how many of these I have participated in but I'm too lazy to go back and count.  But, it's a whole bunch and they have all been such fun and have been great exercise for my brain.

1. Setting aside the real March Madness (NCAA Basketball) describe something happening at your house this month that might earn the title 'March Madness'?
Well, I think a certain someone's 70th birthday might qualify.  I'll say more about this.....

2. What's a favorite made up word from your childhood or a favorite from your children's childhood? Does your family still use the word today? If there's a story behind the origin please share.
I have been using the made up word "skoochi" for most of my life.  I would say it to my parents when I wanted them to hold me tightly or snuggle me.  I still use it to this day.

3. Will you be doing any spring cleaning now that the season is upon us? I read here a list of 15 quick (under one hour) spring cleaning tasks. They were-

clean out a drawer, vacuum furniture, whiten tile grout, dust the nooks and crannies you don't get to year round, degrease kitchen cabinets, wipe down walls, go behind furniture, wipe down ceiling fans, vacuum the mattress, clean the range hood, wash baseboards, shine the stainless steel, clean out vents, tackle the windows, and wipe down gadgets

Of the fifteen 'quick' tasks listed which two most need doing at your house? Will you do them?
Most of this took place around here about 2 weeks ago.  Thankfully our house is still new enough that it hasn't been necessary to do some of these just yet.  And, doubtfully our cabinets will ever need degreasing as I fry absolutely nothing.  That's right, it smells up the house and makes a huge mess as far as I'm concerned.  There's too many other ways to prepare food. ~chuckle~

4. A favorite movie set in Paris or New York?
There are several set in NY that are favorites but the first one to come to mind was BIG  with Tom Hanks.

5. What's put a spring in your step this month?
The arrival of warmer weather and readying our porches and patio for spring and summer.  I love getting the ferns and other plants potted.  They make for such a warm and welcoming look!

6. Did you ever want to be a teacher? Why or why not?
No, can't say that I have.  I probably do not have the patience for teaching. ~wink~

7.  What's your favorite floral scent? Do you have this somewhere in your home or maybe in a perfume? How do you feel about florals in food? How about wines with floral notes-yay or nay?
It would definitely be lavender.  My Grandmother introduced me to Lavender when I was just a little girl and I've loved it ever since.  I have it in essential oil, in diffusers,lotion, soap and room spray.  I'm not much into florals in food but that may be just because I'm not that familiar with it.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Yes, the man I have loved for most of my life and been married to for almost 47 years, will celebrate his 70th birthday this next Monday. (now, remember I married an older man) ~big chuckle~  I started thinking of what I could give him many months ago and decided that a trip to Memphis, TN with accomodations at The Guest House at Graceland would be something he would enjoy.  Hubby loves "fine" hotels and I hear that The Guest House is one of the finest.  Priscilla Presley built the hotel in memory of Elvis and it opened in Oct. of last year.  We have some dear friends that are going to meet us there and share in the celebration.  We will leave in the morning and be home later this weekend.  It's a short driving trip for us and Hubby likes that as well.  I'm sure I will have lots of pictures and fun stories to share next week.  Look out Memphis, here we come!

Monday's Musings

Well hello!  I've been away from this space for about 10 days and it seems like an eternity.  But, we've been making memories with our Oklahoma family and other things.  It's so good to be back and share a bit of "what's been going on with us."

This is the view most mornings from our daughter's front windows.  While I am anything but a country gal, this view is mighty serene and beautiful. They currently have 5 horses, 4 Corgi's and 5 Corgi puppies.  It's like a regular zoo around their place and it keeps them busy, busy.  I suppose we might have deprived Bridget of this lifestyle growing up but she's making up for it now. 😊  And, they will soon add a sheep or two to the mix as Clancy will begin showing sheep next Spring.  They never have a dull moment for sure. ~life in the country~ And, did I mention that the wind blows like no where else in Oklahoma. I.do.not.like.it!!!

This little guy definitely wins the award of the busiest of any of our Grans!  My goodness, he can wear his CiCi and Poppa out in no time.  He goes from one thing to the next, pulling stuff out and enjoying every minute of it.  He's so stinkin' cute that it's hard to even say "no no" to him.  When he plays, he plays hard and when he sleeps, he sleeps hard.  And, might I say, his parents have no trouble falling to sleep at night either. ~chuckle~

Clancy's newest fascination is roller blading.  He started about 2 weeks ago after his cousins introduced him to it and he just cannot get enough of it.  He can go and go and go!  I sometimes wonder if I ever had that kind of energy. ~grin~  But, I love seeing him enjoy being outside so much and getting such good exercise.  Coleman will stand at the glass back door and watch just longing for the day he can get out there and join his big brother.

I got home just in time to arrange for Dad's new adjustable bed to be delivered.  I am always looking for things to make my Dad's life more enjoyable and comfortable.  He doesn't have too many perks anymore and especially since he has little eyesight left.  So, when I mentioned an adjustable bed to him he thought that was an awesome idea.  I went to one of our local furniture stores and they had exactly what we were looking for.  Daddy laid on it, played with the remote control and decided he wanted one.  They make them with heat and massagers but Daddy stuck with just the basic adjustable features due to his eyesight.  The remote control is fairly easy and he's getting the "hang" of it.  I also ordered him a rolling bedside table where he can have everything at his fingertips when he's in the bed.  Between the adjustable bed and his adjustable recliner, he's pretty well set up for comfort. 

Hanna Beth was on Spring Break this past week and spent Thursday and Friday with me after we got home.  We made a trip to Wal-Mart and the first thing she spotted were the Peeps.  Oh, my goodness, this little girl loves those sugary things.  She could hardly wait until we got home to tear into them.  I did limit her to having 2 as I didn't think a "sugar high" would be all that good for her or me.  But, what is the Easter season without Peeps?

FYI - my daughter introduced me to Word Swag while I was visiting her and what a great app.  I did all of the pictures on this post and my Monday's Musings graphic with it and had such fun! (and the Happy Spring graphic below was done with it)   So, if you don't know about Word Swag you might want to check it out.  I did pay $4.99 to get the premium edition but there is a free app as well.

Lea's Favorites

It's that time, time for me to share some of my favorites, it can be anything from makeup to cleaning supplies to food.  Today's favorites cover a wide gamut for sure.

Ladies, this is the BEST cream to fight a wrinkled neck that I have found.  I have been using Nectifirm for about 5 years and I have been very pleased with the results.  Now, do I have a wrinkle free neck, NO, I do not.  But, this cream has lessened the wrinkles and made my neck very smooth.  It's about $70 a jar and I use about 2 1/3 jars per year, so I don't think that's too bad.  And, yes, it can be bought off Amazon.  It was recommended to me by my Dermatologist who also sold it for a much higher price.

I am a huge cheese lover and about 6 months ago I found this incredible cheese while looking for some regular cheddar.  I am all about spicy and this cheese makes any good sandwich better or makes the best cheese toast.  I found mine at Wal-Mart and haven't looked for it elsewhere, but I'm betting it can be found at other grocery stores.  Cheddar with Chipotle Peppers, what's not to like!!!

Just recently my neighbor and sweet friend introduced me to this Arizona Tea.  I have had Arizona Tea for years but I've never indulged in it on a regular basis because it's calorie laden and caffeinated.  Well, no more.  This is decaf and zero calorie and it's still GOOD!!!  I feel like it's almost like drinking water and certainly a nice diversion from water.  I drink a lot of water but at times I need a change.  And, I love that it can be bought by the gallon.

I LOVE pretty mail and when I mail something (outside of bills) I almost always use bright colored envelopes.  I recently sent out some info to 20+ women and I copied the info on bright colored paper and mailed them in brightly colored envelopes.  I mean, I want anything I mail to someone to stand out when the receiver gets their mail and this will definitely grab their attention.  This paper and envelopes are by AstroBrights.  It can be found at most discount stores and of course, Amazon.  Next time you want to grab someone's attention, mail them something in AstroBright color.

Ladies, if you do not own a Key Keeper then you need to.  It's the greatest way to keep up with your keys!  You merely clip your key ring onto the key keeper and then hang it on the edge of your purse with the keys hanging on the inside.  It makes finding your keys a snap and while you may not need your keys in your hand to open your vehicle any more, you probably need them to get into your house.  No more digging for your keys!  And, they make a great gift too. Oh, and they come in all kinds of cute designs, just take your pick.  They are on Amazon and can usually be found in lots of gift type shops. 

I just converted to Google Chrome as my internet browser and I should have done it long ago.  My daughter has been trying to convince me and I was happy with Mozilla and just did not want to "go there."  Then, Linda, my blog designer mentioned it to me as well and I decided it was time.  So, 2 weeks ago I became a "Google Chrome gal."  There's nothing hard about it at all, pretty much works like most browsers but smoother and works beautifully with Google and Blogger.

So, there you have, this edition of my favorites.  I'll be away from blogging next week and enjoying some time with our daughter and family in Oklahoma.  See you upon my return!

The Wednesday Hodgepodge

Congratulations Joyce on your 300th edition of the Hodgepodge!  That means you have asked some 2400 questions. My goodness, that's a boatload and you always cause us to stretch our brains with some of our answers.  Thanks so much for hosting us each week!!! And, I LOVE your new button!

1. What is one area of your life where you're a perfectionist? Is that a good thing?

In order and organization.  I thrive on it and I don't even have to think about it any longer as it is just automatic for me after all these years.  My parents were highly organized individuals and our home was always a home of order.

2. What's something you find perfectly ridiculous?

The acceptance, by so many, of immorality without any thought of the consequences.  Insane!!

3. What's a skill you've developed by way of that old fashioned saying, 'practice makes perfect?

The first thing to come to my mind was using the computer.  I am self taught on everything I know how to do on a computer.  Now, compared to some folks that isn't a lot and when compared to others, it's a fair amount.  I have had a lot of frustrations in the process but 'practice does make perfect."  I've especially had to be tenacious in learning photo editing, and I still have a long ways to go.

4. What's your idea of a perfect breakfast?

Breakfast is my favorite meal and it is a rarity for me to eat breakfast.  I especially love to go out to eat breakfast and it's something I look forward to when we travel.  My favorite breakfast is scrambled eggs with cheese, crispy bacon, a side of grits and half of a grilled buttered biscuit.  Pure yumminess!

5. What's a trip, holiday, vacation, or day outing you've taken that you'd rate a perfect 10? Tell us why.

In 2009 we went, with 5 other couples, on an Alaskan Cruise.  We had an absolutely wonderful time.  Dinner time was special with the great food and fellowship and our excursions included everything from Dog Sledding to riding ATV's through rugged country side.  Our accomodations were lovely and, as I said, it was just a splendid time.  I'd go back tomorrow!

6. What quote or saying perfectly sums up your life right now? If you can't do perfect, how about one that comes close?
Family, friends and time are what matter most at this point in my life.

7. How would you spend $300 today?

We have two families in our church going through some tough, tough health issues, and as a result, they are facing financial stresses.   I would split it between the 2 of them.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

Hubby and I will be heading towards Oklahoma on Sunday to visit our 2 little cowboys.  Bridget and Clancy are out for Spring Break next week so we'll spend a few fun days together.  There is always something new to do or find in Oklahoma City for sure.  But, sure wish it wasn't an 8 hour drive away, but it could sure be a lot further. Right Joyce? 😊

Monday's Musings

Spring is in the air here in NE Louisiana and Hubby and I spent most of the weekend getting things "spiffied" up on the outside and I did a some spring decorating on the inside.

If you have never been invaded by Barn Swallows then consider yourself VERY lucky!  During the final phases of the construction of our new house, the swallows began greeting us.  They began building nests in any nook or cranny they could find.  We have never had any before and I did not know what an aggravation they can be and what a mess they can make.  Hubby cleaned up the residue left by them from last year and we're going to try a few tricks to keep them away this year.  Some folks say nothing will keep them away but we've had a few folks share their tips with us and we're going to try it.  They will be making their entrance in the next month and we'll be READY!!!

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After we got the front porch pressured washed and cleaned I put out the spring decor.  I love, love these pillows and think they scream SPRING!  I don't know if you can tell but the front pillow has birds on it.

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After getting the outside spiffed up it was time to come inside and do a little Easter decorating.

I love Spring and Easter and I love bunnies and especially this bunny family sitting in the frilly greenery.

I found these gorgeous plaque stands, with the names of Jesus, a couple of years ago.  They make the perfect addition to my Easter dining table scape and share the REAL reason of Easter.
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In closing I wanted to share what my sweet blogging friend, Stephanie, is doing over at her blog.

This is her 10th year to do the Tea Culp and/or Mug exchange.  I've never participated but decided it was something I definitely wanted to do this year.  It's for bloggers and non-bloggers alike.  If you want more information, click on her link and find out all about it.

HAPPY  MONDAY!!!

Sometimes I wonder .......

Does your mind ever just wonder and ponder?  Mine certainly does, and I thought I'd share a few of my most recent wonderings ........
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There's so much hype over "This Is Us" so I started watching it on Hulu and am on Episode 6 and I don't understand the  hype. Well, at least, not yet.  I keep wondering when it is going to move me, maybe it will and maybe it won't. ~time will tell~

I wonder if all the shenanigans between the coaches on The Voice is scripted.  I'm pretty sure it is.

I wonder if President Trump has times that he "wonders" why in the world he wanted to be President.

I wonder why there isn't a way for remaining family members to cash in on the dental work done on their loved one.  No joke! My children would get quite an inheritance from mine if they could. ~chuckle~

I wonder if Mike Pence is always as content as he appears to be. ~such a great guy~

I sometimes wonder why there is a passing lane or a turning lane as most folks apparently don't know how to use either of them correctly.

I wonder how we would ever survive without computers and cell phones. It seem as though most of us have forgotten what life was like "before them." ~I don't care to find out~  I think the key to all of it is finding a balance in our use of them.

I wonder if the Sharks on Shark Tank have a preview of what's coming up on the show before the actual contestants do their presentation.

I wonder if our country will ever be unified again.

Now for some of my more serious wonderings...........

I sometimes wonder how my life will end.  Will I suffer an illness, die in an accident or will I just die of natural causes?  Of course, my desire is that I would live a long life and then just go to sleep and wake up in the arms of Jesus.  But, that's  what we all would desire, but that's not always the way it happens.

I wonder how Hubby and my life will be after one of us dies.  Chances are we will not die at the same time, so one of us is going to be left to adjust to life without the other.😢

How will our children feel once both of us are gone from this earth?  I just remember how lost and lonely I felt for the first couple of years after my Mom's untimely death.

Added note: I do not dwell on any of this but sometimes my mind just wonders. 
~surely yours does to~

Now, go ..........

The Wednesday Hodgepodge

Welcome to my new blog design!  I've been thinking about a new design for a while but just wasn't sure about who to get to do the job for me.  Through another blog, I found Linda from My Fairy Blog Mother.  We talked, we emailed and  she designed just the look I wanted.  So, if you are looking for a new blog look, head on over and check her out.  You will not regret it!  Now, on to this week's Hodgepodge.............

1. 'Slow and steady wins the race'...tell us about a time this was true in your own life. 

The first thing that came to my mind was the building of our new house.  There was nothing fast about it.  Slow and steady would be the perfect description.  The foundation was poured in June of 2014 and we moved in August of 2015, 14 months later.  We had no reason to hurry as we were not selling our other house until we moved, so we didn't hold our contractors foot to the fire or rush him along.  As a result, we were very pleased with the finished product and it gave me plenty of time to orchestrate the move and get rid of all kinds of stuff that weren't going to make the move.

2. 'As slow as molasses'...Do you like molasses? How about maple syrup? Caramel? Butterscotch? What's your favorite of the slow moving treats mentioned here, and what's your favorite food made with that sweet treat? 
No, I do not like molasses at all, way too sweet for me.  I do use a little in a ginger cookie I make but that's as much as I do with it.  I'm not all that fond of maple syrup unless it is the "light" version, again, due to the extreme sweetness.  I do like caramel and make a delicious ice cream dessert with a caramel topping.  I am not a fan of butterscotch either.

3. Your favorite slow song? 

Roy Orbinson's, Unchained Melody

4. Your favorite thing to make in a slow cooker or crock pot? 

An eye round roast. I mix an envelope of dried onion soup with a family size can of cream of mushroom soup and  a tad of milk.  I put the roast in the crock pot (lined with a crock pot bag) and pour the soup mixture over it, put the lid on and let it cook away.  It is so, so easy and so, so good.  I usually cook mine about 5-6 hours on low, but it could be cooked on high for a shorter time.  It's my favorite way to cook roast and it makes the best gravy to use over rice or potatoes.

5. 'You may delay, but time will not.' ~Benjamin Franklin Are you more a hurrier or a delayer when it comes to unpleasant tasks that need doing? What are you currently either delaying or hurrying to get through this week or month?

Oh, my goodness, I am a hurrier no matter what the task is, I just want it DONE!! I have been working on organizing teams for a Bereavement Ministry for our church for the past month.  I got it in high gear yesterday and finished it up and got the packets ready to mail out to the teams today.  I feel such a sense of accomplishment when I finish a task.

6. Tell us three things you encounter regularly or even just occasionally that you find to be annoyingly slow.

1. Our town is small but the traffic can still get congested and slow on a Friday afternoon.
2. Our local DMV is consistently slow and will wear out your last nerve.  The state has had so many job cuts and on a good day there are only 2 people working there.  So, there's no need to ever get in any hurry if you are trying to renew your driver's license or take care of something on your vehicle licensing.
3. My Endodonist was more than annoyingly slow this past Friday.  I had a 10 o'clock appointment to get my implant.  It's an hour long process and he closes at noon on Friday and when I walked in there were 7 people in the waiting room.  That was a major red flag to me that it could be a very long wait.  At 11:00 I was still sitting there and I asked the receptionist when I would be called back and she said shortly.  Then when I did finally got back in the dental chair I sat there for 45 minutes without nary a soul looking in on me.  I got up out of the chair marched walked out to the receptionist desk and ask if I had been forgotten.  She just looked at me with no response and I told her that I knew it was not her fault but it was just unacceptable.  Finally, at noon the Doctor came in, said he was sorry for the wait and he knew I.was.not.happy.  I finally walked out at 1:15 and  once this process is over, I have two more appointments to finish up, I will never go back!  I can grant a Doctor all kinds of grace and understanding when they encounter an emergency but not when they overbook!!!! Well, there  you have it and it's way more than you ask for.

7. March is National Craft Month. Are you crafty? Tell us about something crafty you'll try in the next thirty one days. Or something crafty you'd like to try or wish you had the skill to make happen. 
I use to be somewhat crafty and loved crafty items, but not so much anymore.  My taste and interest have changed and now I enjoy channeling my crafty side towards graphic design and photo editing.

8. Insert your own random thought here. 

Yesterday was Fat Tuesday and here in Louisiana, that is a BIG deal!  The folks at the assisted living facility where my Dad lives hosted an afternoon Mardi Gras celebration for the residents.  I went with Dad for a few minutes and we both enjoyed a gooey piece of cinnamon cream cheese King Cake. As they say, "let the good times roll."