WEDDING PREP...UNDERWAY

Today, Tina and I begin the decorating process for Lori and Ben's wedding on Saturday. We will start on the church decor today, and plan out exactly how we want everything arranged. We have someone who is doing the big floral arrangements, but the rest is up to us. We are geared up and ready to go. It's going to be beautiful!

I have to go to work first, because I have 3!!! programs next week! Could things pile up anymore? Oh well, it will all happen and it will all be great! I'll make some pics to share with you.

LESSON LEARNED

UPON EATING 3 MINIATURE SUGAR-FREE REESE'S PEANUT BUTTER CUPS......

I vow that I will never eat
Another of those tasty treats.

The chocolate's good---it tastes so real
So why should I not eat my fill?

What it did to me--I shudder to tell
Suffice to say--it did it well.

On the package back--way down low
Are the teeny words that you should know.

A serving is 5- that's what they say
But, I only ate 3 that fateful day.

Now, you should NEVER eat a lot
Or something's gonna start--and it's not gonna stop!

You'll cry--you'll moan--you'll pull your hair
You'll scream--you'll yell--you'll say a prayer.

You swear this has to be the end...
Surprise! Surprise! It's back again!

So, the next time that you're craving these
You are much better off with a piece of cheese.

As much as I wish to be thin--
I'll never eat one of these again!
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This was written a while ago, but I lost it and have just run across it again. I wrote this soon after 'the experience' because this is something I never wanted to happen to me again. Do you know the word 'projectile'? I'm just saying. And, for the record...Regular, FULL SUGAR, Reese's P-Nut Butter Cups have never had such a negative effect on my body...that is unless you count that little extra roll around my mid section.

NO CLOUDS, BUT PLENTY OF SHOWERS !

This old house belongs to one of our local churches, on the outskirts of town. It has been restored, moderately, and is available for use by the community. Today a group of ladies from our church held a bridesmaid's luncheon for my niece, Lori.

Lori and I clowning around.

A lovely group of girls, wouldn't you say? Kristy, Stephanie, Lori, Tara, Casey.

A little family photo...niece Tara,myself, niece Lori, sister Joy.

We had a very nice time and it was so neat to be in this old house. My sweet friends, Pamela, Monty, Juliann, Tina, and Patsy outdid themselves.

Then, the girls, the YOUNG girls, came back to my house and had themselves another party...hosted by Tara. They made it clear this was NOT for us more mature girls. They sunned themselves by the pool, snacked on some yummy refreshments, and watched Lori open up some 'unmentionables'. She has lots of new lingerie to model for that new hubby of hers.

We are all looking forward to next weekend and the wedding. It's going to be a busy, busy week. My friend, Tina, and I are doing the majority of the decorating for the wedding and the reception. Weddings are such sweet times, and we are all excited.

AWARD TIME X 2

Things in my life have been a little hard recently, and I have gotten behind on accepting awards and posting about them. Please, my friends, don't think I am not grateful...I've just been a little 'undone' lately. Thanks for understanding.


What a sweet surprise to receive this award from my friend,Jennifer! I have enjoyed reading the adventures of her family for several years now...and consider her a sister in Christ. Her blog is Zaankali's Adventures.

This is a special award that should be given to your best bloggy girlfriends. Those ladies that have become a good dose of encouragement to you and are sisters in Christ. They are real women, living real lives with the courage to be transparent in their walk with the Lord. Stop over and let them know what a blessing they are. Everyone needs a bit of encouragement!

I am happy to pass this award along to Teresa, at Living the Life and Nancy, at Too Wonderful For Me. They are such encouragers and always lift my spirits.


Now this award I received from my friend Angela. It says that we should list 10 'UNCUTE' things about ourselves...only 10, I ask?

1...I need to use a power sander on my heels.

2. I have a terrible addiction...and I don't even want to get better. Shoes and Purses.....my weakness...(et tu,Kat!)

3. I remove my shoes as soon as I come into the house...and they tend to pile up by the back door...a big pile.

4. The second thing I remove is my bra...definitely not cute...but comfortable. But I do not pile these by the back door.

5. I have finally accepted the fact that I will never have a flat tummy again...in this life, anyway.

6. I can read a book and be totally oblivious to anything or anyone else.

7. I am a big procrastinator...but I always do my best work at the last minute.

8. Dishes in the sink do not bother me.

9. I do not like to drink water.

10. My fingernails always look like I do manual labor...in the dirt!

I pass this award along to: Andi, at Fingerprints On The Glass.

THE REAL BARBIE !

This is Barbie. Blogger Barbie. She turns 50 years old this year. You'd never know by looking!?! Looks as if she's finally caught up with the rest of the world. I think she's probably in menopause, too...don't you?

I WON !

I was so excited last week to win the contest Angela had on her blog, Love Being A Nonny. This is the first time I have won anything in Blogland! And this is what I won:


Aren't they wonderful? I got to choose the color, so I went with orange to match the accent color in my kitchen. They are so well done and look wonderful in my kitchen. Thanks so much, Angela! I am delighted!
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The towels were done by Angela's daughter. Her business is: Get Personal. You can contact her at gretchentrinidad @gmail.com

TEACH YOUR CHILDREN WELL

I have been overwhelmed by the kindness of so many of you in response to the sadness in our lives the past week. So many of my friends, bloggy and IRL, have spoken kind and healing words that have comforted and strengthened us. Even new friends that I haven't even met yet, have gone out of their way to send me sweet messages. It means so much to me, that I do not know that I have words to express how I feel.

I know that in the grand scheme of thing, this is a very minor occurrence. It really has no great consequence except to those of us who loved this dog. But, it was a monumental sadness to us.

I even had a beautiful, little 3 year old girl come running up to me this morning. She wrapped me in the biggest hug she could and said, "Mrs. Owens, I'm sorry your doggie died." Now, this Mom is a reader of my blog, and she had taken the time to teach her daughter a little about feelings. She told her that Mrs. Owens was sad and explained why. Then she encouraged her daughter to tell me. How wonderful! Moms, many times out children do not deliberately show kindness and empathy, because we do not teach it to them. They do not learn how to respond to someone who is hurting or less fortunate because, we don't SHOW them how. We may TELL them, but , even as young as 3 or 4, they are old enough to DO.

When my boys were younger, they went with me to deliver Meals on Wheels. Now, at first, they were not too happy about doing this, but after a few deliveries, they were beginning to look forward to seeing the people again. And, it was a good opportunity to teach them that if WE did not take food to that person...on that day...they may at eat at all. One of my 3 had a harder time 'getting it' than the other 2. So, the next time we went, even though it was lunch time as we were delivering meals, we did not stop and pick up a burger before we picked up our meals to deliver. Then I, conveniently, had several errands to run afterwards and we didn't get home till nearly time for supper. He was hungry. But, I was not in any hurry to get dinner started. When he complained, loudly, and whining, about how he was 'starving' and couldn't stand it, and would I please get up and start supper. It was then that I reminded him just how Mr. Brown would feel, if someone did not bring him a meal. Better than any lecture or punishment...this showed him just how Mr. Brown would really feel. Never another complaint from him again. Matter of fact, he was very sad when my time was up, and begged for us to do it again.

Moms, teach your children while they are young how to empathize with others...how to put themselves in another's place. Show them the things to do, and teach them the appropriate words to say. Help them understand that this is what Jesus told us to do. These lessons will serve them well the rest of their lives.

And, again, I thank you for caring about our feelings and expressing that to us.

I love this passage from 2 Corinthians...

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." vs.3 and 4...NIV

I also like it from The Message:

"All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus, the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes along side us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, He brings us along side someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person...just as God was there for us."

A HARD DAY...

This was the day Alex decided it was time for Scooter to be at rest. And, we all agreed with him that the time had come. He called our vet this morning and made the arrangements. We are so blessed to have a vet who is a godly man. He was very sensitive to Alex's feelings, and he knew how much Scooter freaked out at going to the office. So, he suggested that he come to our house. He and one of his techs came. We all sat on the floor and put Scooter there with us...Alex, Dr. Holland, his tech, myself, Adam and Don. Bless Scooter's heart, he was completely blind and had really become so sad. Our pastor had called this morning to give Alex encouragement and suggested he read these verses from Romans 8.
He said his theology professor in seminary said that these verses make it clear that ALL creation will be glorified.

"...I don't think there's any comparison between the present hard times and the coming good times. The created world itself can hardly wait for what's coming next. Everything in creation is being more or less held back. God reins it in until both creation and all the creatures are ready and can be released at the same moment into the glorious times ahead. Meanwhile, the joyful anticipation deepens." Romans 8:18-21 TMB.

This was very comforting to me and to Alex. Afterwards we all prayed together, and then Scooter went to sleep. And that demon cancer can't hurt him anymore. He is at peace.

Dr. Holland brought a casket with him, and he took care of putting Scooter into it. Then my sweet Adam took the job of digging a hole 4 feet deep. There were so many roots that had to be broken up, Don had to get the ax. But, he was not supposed to do anything like this after his surgery, so the brunt of the task fell on Adam. He worked very hard, and then carefully placed Scooter beneath a big old oak tree.

We are all spent. Alex nor I have slept much in the past few days...and especially last night. So we are ready for rest, and sweet sleep.

I know everyone is not an animal lover...and I appreciate that. But, Scooter has been much more than a pet. Alex got him right after he was first diagnosed with cerebellar atrophy. And, he has been his constant companion ever since. He has been a guardian, as well as a friend. I have always felt very comfortable leaving Alex alone because Scooter was always so in tuned to him. No one could ever go near Alex unless they cleared it with Scooter first. But, his time with us is over, and he deserves his rest. We had him for 14 years...and he was one of the family.

"Go on, sweet puppy, go on up to heaven. Find our mansion, and wait for us on the porch. We'll all be along soon. I hear the treats in heaven are wonderful!"

EYE TO EYE....2

During the early days of March, my youngest, Ian, had Lasik surgery on his eyes. We have used so many doctors for so many things through the years, it has become second nature to thoroughly research the doctor and his reputation and record before we decide to see them. Ian did this on his own before he had the surgery. He felt very confident that he had found the very best doctor in the Southeast to do his surgery. He had the surgery, and all went well. He is enjoying near perfect vision and is loving it! This doctor has the latest lasers and other equipment that is available, and is widely reputed to be among the best.

At the final visit Ian had with his doctor in Birmingham, he talked to him a little about Alex and the problems he has. He asked him if he thought he could do anything to possibly help him. He explained a little of the problems, and the doctor told him he would just have to review his records and see him to even venture an answer.

When we found out that Don was going up for his appointment last Monday, Ian took it upon himself to call and make Alex an appointment with the eye doctor. He then called us and said, "Get Alex ready, he's going to Birmingham, too." And, so they went off to the big city...3 of my 4 men.

Don called to let me know about his visit...and that he was having surgery the next morning. And then, he told me about Alex's visit. Get ready: here comes the miracle!

When they saw the doctor, he examined Alex very thoroughly. He was astounded to find that his vision was 20/5000. This means that what the 'normal eye' can see at 5000 feet...Alex has to see at 20 feet. Or, to see the biggest letter on the eye chart that the normal eye can see at 20 feet...it would have to be blown up 5000 times for Alex to see it. Alex's vision renders him legally blind. BUT...this doctor thinks that he can help him see better!!!!

He will go up on the 5th of May for extensive pre-op testing and mapping of the eye. On May 6, they will use a laser to drill tiny holes in both eyes. He will come home for 2 weeks...then, on May 20, he will have surgery under general anesthesia. They will insert special lenses into both eyes. The doctor says that he thinks it is possible he can get his vision to about 20/40. 20/40 !!!!! Can you imagine what that will be like for someone who can not even see the branches of the trees? For someone who can not see the road signs as he passes by them in a car? For someone who can not even sit on a couch and watch TV? For someone who can not tell who is walking into his door unless he hears their voice? Just the possibility of it is almost too much to even hope for.

This will not help his double vision or the nystagmus. That is part of his disease, and is due to the atrophy of the cerebellum. Nothing can be done about that, unless the Lord decides to change it. So, he will still have to wear glasses with prisms in them to correct the double vision. But now they will not have to be 3 inches thick! And, there is nothing that can be done about the nystagmus. So, he still will have to deal with those problems, but, hey...he will be able to see!

As you can imagine, he is beside himself with excitement. And, he and Pop are figuring out the time he has to wait down to the days and hours. But, this is where the story turns bittersweet...sweet Scooter has now lost his vision, and can't see to find his way back into the house. He does fairly well inside still, but outside he is just pitiful. Our vet is out of town until Monday. But, we will be seeing him just ASAP. Alex has decided that it is time for Scooter to be at rest. The tumors are growing so big, and he doesn't want to eat anything at all. We are praying that God will take care of this for us before Monday, and Alex will not have to.

Now...as to the second reason why I was in such need for that ice cream earlier this week. Before Alex and Don left to go to B'ham, I gave Don a list of all the dates that were full between now and May 22...I have something to do almost every, single day. I wanted to be sure that I was available so I made sure he had it IN WRITING! So, of course, what does he do????? First he schedules his surgery for the next day, and then he schedules both of the dates for Alex to be in B'ham right when I told him NOT to. What is it with men? Why can't they get things like this right? Even when you write it down for them? I am not a happy mom about not being there for this surgery. But, Alex is so excited, he doesn't want to delay it for even another 2 weeks. So...I have bought me a pair of big girl panties...I am wearing them...and I am dealing with it. I just can't believe I will miss getting to see him getting to see after all these years. But, so be it.

AND...this has all played out in the Lord's time! We have prayed, our friends have prayed, even strangers have prayed that Alex will get some help with his disease. Why has God just now chosen to answer some of our prayers? I just do not know...nor do I have to know. But, I am sure of this...God's timing is perfect. I have dealt with sickness and waiting and 'not knowing' all of my life as a Mother. I have prayed many, many prayers. I have sought answers and solutions. But, God has always let me know when it was time to do something and when it was time to 'wait'. Many times, when we have not had a clear answer as to which way to go with our boys...we have just "decided not to decide"...in other words...to wait. Sometimes it has seemed like we were waiting forever. But, as in this case, God is working even when we do not see evidence of it.

This time, he worked through Ian. It was almost an 'out of the blue' moment when Ian told us he was having the Lasik done. (It is hard for me to believe that he is an adult, living on his own, making his own living, and making his own decisions about his life...he does not need our approval or OK.) We were a little leery of him doing it, but he decided to go ahead, and we did feel confident in his ability to look at all sides of the situation. What if we had fussed and argued with him, and he had decided not to do it because we were against it? By him having contact with this doctor...he was able to get Alex in contact with this doctor. Don and I were not even looking for help with his eyesight at this time. We have been more concerned with helping him control the pain. We are so thankful also that God blessed Ian with a heart that wanted to share this good thing he found with his brother! And, believe me, he is almost as excited as Alex!

I tell you this with all the confidence a woman can have. God is God. He is in charge. He knows what is best for us. If we let Him guide us, we will always have reason to be thankful. He cares about each of us...as if there were only us. He hears every prayer that is prayed. He wants only good things for us. But, when the bad times come into our lives...it is He who can take it and use it for our good. He WILL see us through. He WILL bless us over and over and over. And, I think that He delights in 'springing one on us'...when we least expect it!

EYE TO EYE.....1

Once I started writing this, I realized that this is probably going to be waaaay more than anyone wants to read at one sitting, so I am going to tell this story in 2 parts. Today is the background information. Then tomorrow comes the newest chapter.

As most of you know, my middle son, Alex, suffers from a degenerative disease called cerebellar atrophy. For some unknown reason, the cerebellum has begun to die, causing holes to develop , which prevents nerve impulses from travelling as they should. This causes him to have severe balance problems. You would think he was very drunk if you saw him walking. His disease also has an element of extreme head and neck pain...this is excruciating and never goes away. He has double vision, nystagmus, which is a constant jumping of the eye, and vision measured at 20/5000. To see anything, such as TV or computer, or a book, it must only be a few inches away from his eyes. His double vision can only be corrected for a few feet, anything of any distance is always doubled. This makes it nearly impossible to watch a movie in a theater, or see the pastor at church, of even to drive a car. We have been to doctors around the US to find some help for his vision. Because all of all the myriad of problems, help has been very hard to find.

Once, about 10 years ago, we went to Boston in search of help for the extreme pain he lives with constantly. We spent several days at Children's Hospital in Boston, undergoing numerous tests, only to be told they had nothing new to offer us. We were sitting in the doctor's office and he was telling us this news, and then he asked Alex if there was anything else he could help him with. Alex told him, "I guess not...unless you can help me with my vision problems." The doctor asked him a few questions about it, and then said, "Alex, I can't do anything, but I know someone who can, if anyone can. My best friend is the Chief of Staff at the New England Eye Institute. I don't know if he can see you or not, but I'll check. You will probably have to come back, because most people have to wait several months to see him." He made the call as we were sitting there in the office. He explained the situation, and talked a minute, then hung up. Looking at Alex, he said," Be there at 10:00 in the morning." We changed our flight plan back to Dothan, and went to the office the next morning. He was the nicest man, and was immediately fascinated by the problems with Alex's eyes. We saw 3 or 4 different doctors that day. Then, the medical students started coming in, the residents and the interns. The doctor explained to us just how rare it was to see eyes with the varied problems that Alex had. His nystagmus is very, very rare. He explained to us that he had only seen 2 or 3 cases in his whole career. So, he was thrilled to be able to show the students and others, because it was possible they may never see it again. And of course, we didn't mind at all. We figure that the more doctors that see the problems, the more, HOPEFULLY, that will want to find a solution.

He was able to fix some glasses for Alex that helped him somewhat. He made one pair of glasses for him to see close up, and another pair for him to see far away. He was able to help a little more with the double vision, too. And, we worked with them over the next few years. We came to love visiting Boston, and looked forward to our visits every 2 years.

So...even though we got no help at all for the pain that Alex was experiencing...we did find some help with his vision. We thought this was the perfect example of this verse from Romans 8...Verse 28: "And we know that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love Him." See, we were very disappointed and dejected when we realized that the pain specialist couldn't help us...but God had another plan all along. We had never even heard of the New England Eye Institute...but God had. And His plan all along was to get us to Boston, He just had a different doctor in mind to help us. Isn't that just like Him? He took what we thought was a wasted trip, and turned it into a wonderfully helpful visit.

UPDATE

Just a quick note to let you sweet friends know that all is well. The surgery went fine, and the Dr. was able to remove the 'area of concern'. Don should recover well, and be back to his normal routine in a day or four...well, you know how men are! :)

I am so proud of my boys for looking after their Dad so well. They took care of everything and made this Mom even prouder of them. Don and I are so blessed to have these wonderful sons. God is good!

The news from the surgery is great...BUT, I have some more news to share with you. AND, it is even better! But, it will have to wait till tomorrow. Scooter is getting sicker and sicker. I have been having to take him out every hour or so...day and night. I haven't really slept in 3 nights! So, if you'll just kindly wait till tomorrow to hear my other good news...I just think I'll try to sneak in a few more hours of sleep!

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kind words, your sweet concern, and your prayers to our Father. You bless me, and fill my heart with gratitude for your friendship. God bless you!

PRAYERS, PLEASE

Seems as if I am always coming to you, my friends, for prayer, doesn't it? I am so blessed to have the kind of friends who are always at the ready!

My DH is in Birmingham. He went to see a new Dr. on the advice of his Dr.here. This came immediately after a routine colonoscopy last week. He and Alex went up on Sunday because Alex had an appt. with a new eye Dr. on Mon afternoon. Anyway...I stayed here with Scooter, and to be at work, due to upcoming programs.

This morning at 10:00, Don will be having surgery in Birmingham. He and Alex are in a motel attached to the hospital. Ian starts his new job in Birmingham today, so he is not available till this evening. That leaves Alex to see about Don before and after surgery. He is very happy to do this, but whether he is able is another thing. I should be there, but I am not. I am here. Not that I couldn't go. My boss, B, would send me off without a question. But, Alex has begged me not to board Scooter. He is very near leaving us and needs to be with one of us.

So, now you understand about the ice cream. :)

And, such, is the life I have lived since marriage 34 years ago. Always torn, needing to be in 2 or 3 places at once. What to do? Where to go?

This I know. Whether I am there or not, my sweet Lord is. He will stand next to the Dr. while he operates. He will whisper in his ear as he looks after Don. He will guide the hands of the nurses as they minister to him. He will be there in my stead. He will be with Alex while he is in a strange place, and be his eyes to guide him as he tries to navigate in a hospital he is not familiar with. He will soothe Scooter as I am at work today. And, He will give me peace as I go about the things I must do. How do I know all this? All I had to do was ask!

EXTREME AGITATION AND INTENSE AGGRAVATION

I believe in being prepared. Especially for emergencies. Like melt downs or extreme agitation and intense aggravation...caused by other people...affecting me.

And, so, I always keep a carton of ice cream for just such emergencies. Because there are times when nothing else will do. And if you find yourself in the midst of such extreme agitation and intense aggravation...it is just not safe for you to be driving in this state of mind. Nor should you be around other people to whom you may show an unkind attitude. This, then, is my current 'medication' of choice.
Just the one on the right...not the others. This fine, icy delight is just available certain times of the year...during Girl Scout Cookie Sales. I eagerly anticipate this event (along with the cookies)...and was excited when I was able to purchase a carton and hide it away. Just knowing it was there when I needed it was enough to calm most of my minor annoyances...I was saving it for a BIG TIME, UNCONTROLLABLE URGE TO PUT SOMEONE OUT OF MY MISERY!

I am just not able to go into details at this time...it would be dangerous to my blood pressure. But, I was in desperate need for this calming goodness today. Going to the freezer...the one in the laundry room...the one no one uses...the one that has nothing in the freezer side...the one no one has any need to be looking in, I opened the door, knowing relief was a spoonful away.

IT WAS GONE! IT WAS NOT THERE! IT WAS MISSING! VANISHED! DISAPPEARED!

Thinking I may have been out of my mind and inadvertently put it in a conspicuous place, I checked the freezer in the pantry. No, not there. Then, I checked in Alex's freezer. The boy does love a good bowl of ice cream. Not there! Then I checked the kitchen garbage cans...Alex's and the one in the kitchen. No empty cartons. Who ever STOLE my ice cream took care to eat the whole carton and destroy the evidence.


I am not a happy girl. Things have happened that have left me in a position I do not like to be in. And, let it be known...if the ones that put me in this position had just listened to me and followed my instructions...NONE OF THIS WOULD HAVE HAPPENED. But, they didn't listen...and now someone is going to have to suffer consequences...AND IT IS NOT GOING TO BE ME!

Yes, this was at least a 2 bowl kind of day...who am I kidding? It was a get a big spoon and eat it right out of the carton kind of day. But, I didn't...cause some one who cares not a whit about my feelings has stolen it right out from under my mouth! I had to make do with 2 mini drumsticks...it didn't work. You need to slowly draw the ice cream off the spoon...into your mouth...roll it around in there...chew the large cookie pieces...and then let it slide down your throat...feeling all that coldness melting away your grief.

Well...it didn't happen. Someone has some big 'splaining to do.

HE IS RISEN !

"Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, all fear is gone.
Because I know who holds the future,
Life is worth the living ,just because He lives."

from the song, "Because He Lives"

GOOD FRIDAY

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16

THIS IS GOOD !

SoBe Lifewater with PureVia is a unique 0-calorie, naturally sweetened enhanced water beverage that gives you a high level of vitamins and antioxidants and is infused with natural herbal ingredients. With unique flavor combinations, Lifewater is naturally refreshing and thrilling! (from their website)
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I've only actually had the Fuji Apple-Pear, but it was delicious! I'll buy it again!

CUTE CARROTS FOR EASTER

You can make these colorful jelly bean carrots very quickly, but they have such a bright, springtime appeal that you can be sure they will please everyone on your Easter list.

Pile Easter grass inside a shiny metal collander and nestle the jelly bean carrots inside to use as a unique Easter table centerpiece, or hide them (if you can) as unusual finds in your Easter egg hunt.

You could offer one of these jelly bean carrots as a winning prize in an Easter game, or tie a few together as a bunch of carrots to decorate your door or wall instead of a wreath. The same bunch of carrots could then be the focus of a "guess the number of jelly beans" game. Who knew carrots could be such fun?

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Jelly Bean Carrots

Supplies:

cellophane cone shaped bags or clear plastic icing bags (these are usually available at Michaels, or sometimes in the cake decorating aisle; in a pinch, you can fashion your own from a rectangular, clear plastic bag of some kind - simply fold the bag diagonally to form a triangular cone then secure the lengthwise seam with transparent tape)

orange and green jelly beans

green tissue paper

green curling ribbon


Jelly Bean Carrots

Instructions:

1. Fill the bag about half full with orange jelly beans. Add a layer of green jelly beans. Prop the bag inside a narrow vase or wine glass to hold it up while you work on the next steps.

2. Cut a strip of folded green tissue paper that is a little wider than the length now available from the top of the green jelly beans to the edge of the bag. Make sure the double-layered tissue paper strip is long enough to roll easily into a loose circle that will fit nicely inside the top of the bag. A generous overlap when you slide the ends of the circle together is fine and will add a little body to the top of the carrot.

3. Roll the tissue paper strip loosely and fit it inside the bag, pushing it down to meet the top layer of green jelly beans.

4. Tie one or two strands of curling ribbon around the bag, just above the green jelly beans, so that the ribbon cinches the bag tightly and holds the tissue paper in place.

Curl the ends of the ribbon.

Suggestions:

-- Fill the carrot with other orange colored candy, or with cheese puffs, and top with a layer of green easter grass.

-- Omit the green jelly beans, if you don't have them, and rely on the green tissue paper to provide the carrot's greenery at the top.

(info: allfreecrafts.com)

COLD WEATHER, BE GONE !

No, it's not snowing here, but the past 3 days have been cold! It was supposed to get up to 70 degrees today, but, I don't think it made it. Tomorrow is supposed to be in the 80's. But, the last 2 nights we have had freeze warnings.

I can remember hearing my Mom say, "We always have a cold snap right before Easter."
And, you know...we always do. So, the 2009 cold snap has happened. And, I am ready for it to be spring. I LOVE warm weather.

I am battling a case of laryngitis caused by allergies. So, on top of being cold...I can't even complain about it! Except to you, my bloggy friends. My fingers can talk when I can't. So, thanks for listening...I'm off to get under the electric blanket and dream of days by the pool.

EASTER PARABLE

If you are looking for a book for a child about the true meaning of Easter, I highly recommend this one. It is part of a series, and includes,The Pumpkin Patch Parable, The Pine Tree Parable, The Sunflower Parable, and this one...The Parable of the Lily.


About the book:

When Maggie, the farmer's daughter, receives a mysterious gift, she's disappointed to find it's only some dirt and a lifeless bulb. But after tossing it out, she discovers that what was dead has come to life as a beautiful Easter lily! Kids will cherish the 10th anniversary edition of Higgs's beloved story of love, giving, and forgiving. Recommended for ages 3 to 7.

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This book is available at most Christian Book Stores, from Amazon, and I have seen it also at K-Mart.

EASTER EGGS-------NATURALLY !

At Easter time we color eggs,
Shades of yellow, red and blue.
We make them pretty as can be,
We'll make some for me and some for you.

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This Easter, why not color your eggs using nature's very own dyes? It's possible to come up with a great number of colors using natural ingredients that can easily be found in almost any kitchen.

Pale Red: Fresh beets or cranberries, frozen raspberries


Orange: Yellow onion skins


Light yellow: Orange or lemon peels, carrot tops, celery seed or ground cumin


Yellow: Ground turmeric


Pale green: Spinach leaves


Green-gold: Yellow Delicious apple peels


Blue: Canned blueberries or red cabbage leaves


Beige to brown: Strong brewed coffee
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To dye the perfect Easter eggs the natural way, here's what to do:

Put eggs in a single layer in a pan. Pour water in pan until the eggs are covered.


Add about a teaspoon of vinegar.


Add the natural dye appropriate to the color you want your eggs to be. (The more eggs you are dying at a time, the more dye you will need to use.)


Bring water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.


Remove the substance you used to color the eggs. Put eggs in a bowl.


If you want your eggs to be a darker shade, cover them with the dye and let them stand overnight in the refrigerator.
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Onion Skin Eggs

One of my favorite egg dyes is with onion skins! Gather lots of onion skins; the dry outer layers. (try to get a good variety of colors--I like plain brown best; red onion also makes a good color) Gently wrap them around*raw* eggs and hold them in place with rubber bands. Hard boil the eggs like usual. Unwrap them and WOW! Beautiful colors and designs! You may polish with vegetable oil for a nice gloss. This is a natural dye and the eggs are still quite edible. Happy eggs-ploration!

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info:allcrafts.com

EASY EASTER TREAT

Now, we all know that cooking is not among the things I do well, but, if I did, I would make these for the family. It sounds easy enough...but somehow, I can manage to mess up even the easy ones. This looks like such a fun idea, though, I may try them anyway....I could always eat the evidence if they don't turn out well!


Nest Eggs
A package of crunchy wonton noodles, melted chocolate, and some Jordan almonds are all you need to create these tasty treats. In a bowl, toss noodles with melted chocolate and use your hands to form nest shapes with an indentation in the center. Work quickly and in batches to form nests before the chocolate sets. Set on waxed paper to dry. Serve with a few Jordan almond "eggs" in each nest.

(picture and recipe from Better Homes and Gardens)

KID TALK

Fridays are chapel day at our school. We use CD's for some of our music, and for the others I play the piano. After we finish chapel, the children line up with their teachers and return to their classrooms. Sometimes, a few of our little friends will 'break ranks', and come over to get an extra hug from B or myself.

On Friday, this conversation took place, when a cute little 3 year old lad came over to me .....

C: Mrs. Owens, I think I need to get me one of those 'panny-o's'.

Me: You need to get what?

C: I'm just thinking I need one of those 'panny-o's' like you got.

Me: Sweetie, I'm sorry, but, I don't think I have a 'panny-o'.

C: (laughing)...Yes, you do...I see-ed it today.

Me: Well, what was I doing with it?

C: (pointing behind me)...You was playing on it.

Me: Oh, you mean the PIANO!

C: Yes, Mam...I need to get me one of those panny-o's, just like yours.

SERIOUS CRIME REPORTED AT LOCAL MALL

I went to the mall today to look for a dress to wear to my niece's wedding. While there, I uncovered an evil plot. Actually, it's a crime against all the women in my town. I checked the newspaper...and listened to the evening news, but so far it has gone unreported. Surely, I can't be the only one that has noticed. Maybe there is some kind of cover-up going on, but, I care too much about your pride and dignity to go along with that...so, I'm just gonna tell it like it is...let the cat out of the bag...spill the beans, etc.


*******NEWSFLASH*******

Apparently, a roving band of criminals has broken into the local mall with the intent of causing anguish and distress to the female population of our fair city. At some time during the recent past, said criminals have entered the stores known to carry female fashion......and CHANGED THE TAGS ON EVERY SINGLE ITEM OF CLOTHING TO A SMALLER SIZE THAN IT ACTUALLY IS. This has caused much 'wailing and gnashing of teeth' among the fashion forward women seeking to adorn themselves with the latest in trendy outerwear. (As this reporter did not actually venture into the underwear section, it is highly possible that it could be in the same sorry state.)

To illustrate the seriousness of this situation, let me describe for you a scene I witnessed with my own eyes. A very classy looking, younger middle-aged lady was shopping in the dress department. She was accompanied by a older, shorter,very classy looking lady. They both had an armload of cute and stylish dresses, any one of which would be perfect for that summer wedding or other dressy event. They were even talking, as they entered the dressing rooms, of the color shoes they would need to accent the stylish frocks. Very fashion forward ladies, indeed! Soon, a rumbling of discontent could be heard from behind the closed door. "This one must be sized wrong...I can always wear a size 4. It must have the wrong tag." A few minutes of silence...then..."This one will not go past my hips...help me pull it off! Hurry! I can't breathe!" Silence. "What are the odds that we would have picked up 2 dresses with the wrong size tags? Here, zip me up. OW! That's my skin!... I AM sucking it in!" I could not hear the next words...but, these are the ones that followed..."NO...I do NOT want you to go and get me a larger size! I have always been a size 4...and nothing's changed. Just give me the next one." Sound of a zipper...then..."Dang! Just give me my jeans...I'm going to report this to the manager." The other lady said, "That may not be the best idea."

I didn't wait around to hear anymore...it was just too painful. I rushed out of the store to report this crime. (I had to! I won the Good Citizenship Award in 4th grade). I can only imagine what it must feel like to try on dresses in your size and have them all be too small....JUST BECAUSE SOME SO AND SO THOUGHT IT WOULD BE FUN TO FREAK OUT UNSUSPECTING LADIES IN THE STORE BY CHANGING THE TAGS ON EACH AND EVERY ITEM!

(Actual sizes may have been changed to protect the identity of those trying on said dresses.)

KID TALK

It has always been extremely important to me that the children in my classes really understand the songs they are singing. I stop and explain all the words that I think may not be known to them or be understood by them.

Today, I was explaining the difference between 2 words: shy and bold. They all knew what 'shy' meant and could quickly tell me who in the class was 'shy'. Then, I asked if anyone knew what 'bold' meant. Quickly, a sharp young fella raised his hand, and proudly said..."It means you don't have any hair!"

I didn't have the heart to tell him that he was wrong, so I just 'confessed' that I had mispronounced the word!