tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88937107831692243002024-03-13T12:33:06.178-04:00My Babcia's BabushkaA little bit of nostalgia, a little bit of attitude & humor from a Polish, blonde female born & raised in Michigan.Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-64955775069468163932014-11-11T21:57:00.000-05:002015-03-09T19:31:44.606-04:00WOW! (And I Have No Freaking Idea)<div dir="ltr">
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So the title totally expresses my feelings right now. </div>
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It's been over a year & I get an inkling to write a blog post. What do I see when I get here? Anyone? Well I'll tell you. The last post I wrote over a year ago was NOT posted! It says draft next to it. Lovely! So I sent it & decided to really post. Unless, of course, I forget to publish this one too. I suppose I'll have to check something more than spelling from now on.</div>
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So, on with the post...</div>
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Not really too much difference from a year ago. I had a spinal fusion a year ago in November. It really didn't help anything but now I have a beautiful scar. I could get a tramp stamp over it & have a textured tattoo. Sounds awesome,huh? LOL. I've wanted a dragonfly for a long time & no idea where I wanted it. Could be a plan... So feel free to let me know what you think. Feedback is welcomed. Now I just wonder if I should add a pic of the scar so you have an idea of what the body texture of the dragonfly will look like. I think that'll be up to you also. If I get an overwhelming response of "Yes, I love seeing gross things like scars", then a pic shall be posted in the next blog. (And it won't be a year from now either). If not, & your response is "Ew, I think I'm gonna puke!", then I can respect that. I'll leave it for the medical journals. </div>
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To continue on...my back & leg problems are worse but it's degenerative so I can do specific exercises to keep the motion but it will never be gone. I am going to start getting injections again in my back to see if I can get a little relief. I've had it done before but it never helped much, so we will see. Radiology is supposed to do the injection this time instead of the pain clinic and the back surgeon seems to think this will make a difference. O-Kay! We'll see.</div>
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Otherwise, I've been taking my dad to doctor appointments & to do other errands. I'm trying to get more reading done, like I used to do & with winter knocking at our door, it looks like I'll be doing that sooner than later. (sigh) Spring & Summer were pretty much nonexistent here because of the severity of last winter. Also, after just having back surgery, walking in snow & on ice was NOT a wise idea. This year is supposed to be cold but we're not supposed to have the record snowfall of 94 inches but rather the norm of 44 inches. I can only hope.<br />
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Happy Veterans Day to all our Vets out there and...THANK YOU!!!!!<br />
Collette</div>
Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-14587311600522243722013-09-18T22:19:00.002-04:002014-11-11T18:35:17.804-05:00OOPS!!! (Correction and Turning 50 Shades of Red)<p dir=ltr>Moment's Melodic Muse:<br>
"Oops! I Did It Again"<br>
Britney <u>Spears</u></p>
<p dir=ltr>I have made a huge boo-boo.  This would definitely classify as a Polish, Blonde, & Female moment.  Apologies to anyone offended by me calling myself out on this, but I had to use all 3 in this instance.</p>
<p dir=ltr>So, in the last post, I was all excited because I had reached an important milestone in my bloggy life.  Or so I thought. </p>
<p dir=ltr>The past few posts were written on my smart phone & pictures were added from my laptop. (still trying to figure out how to post pics from my phone)  So, I had counted my posts from 2009 not realizing that there was another page.  Well, imagine my surprise (& shame) when I got on my laptop & looked at the total of posts on my blog page & it says 35.</p>
<p dir=ltr> WHAT???  Are you kidding me?  No Way!  Let me recheck that (again & again)!</p>
<p dir=ltr>Yes, it was correct.  I actually had 35 posts in 2009.  I wrote them all.  Every last one of 35.</p>
<p dir=ltr>Now, with this post, I have 10 so far.   It's been awhile since I had that many,  right?   So let's just strike that last post from memory.   Pretty please? </p>
<p dir=ltr>Oh yeah,  I'm keeping all the gifts.  (Those are all imaginary just like the previous post). </p>
<p dir=ltr>Hiding My Face In My Babushka,</p>
<p dir=ltr><u>Collette</u></p>
Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-18455440377690421292013-08-31T22:24:00.000-04:002013-08-31T22:31:39.201-04:00No Applause, Please, Just Throw Money<div dir="ltr">
Melodic Muse of the Moment:<br />
"Celebration"<br />
Kool and the Gang</div>
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Well, I've finally done it. Yes, I have. I've gone & done it!</div>
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What have I done, you ask? Well, I'll tell you what I've done. But first I want you to make me a promise. Ok? No fanfare. I don't want you to go to any trouble about this. There's no need for balloons, streamers or confetti. Absolutely no marching band or parade. No award ceremony. Not even a teeny weeny surprise party. I will have none of it! Do you understand me? None! </div>
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All right. Now that we have that out of the way I shall tell you my big announcement. A small drum roll will suffice. ..<br />
bum bum bum ba da da da dum</div>
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With this post, I have already surpassed my highest number of blog postings ever in a one year period. Since I began blogging in March of 2009, I've had a smattering of posts. Last year, it numbered eight. This year, with this post, the number is nine. So far. </div>
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I figured a milestone as this shouldn't go by without a small mention. And a great big thanks to all who have stopped by over the years. I wouldn't be here without you! </div>
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Hey! Where are the voices????? </div>
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Bowing my Babushka to you, <br />
<u>Collette</u></div>
Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-21725484998988000552013-08-15T21:44:00.000-04:002013-08-15T21:44:22.420-04:00You've Got to Be Kidding. ..<div dir="ltr">
Moment's Musical Muse:<br />
In the Summertime by<br />
Mungo <u>Jerry</u></div>
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Is it really August already? Where in the hell does the time go? Wasn't it just the beginning of summer? <br />
WHY AM I ASKING SO MANY QUESTIONS? ????</div>
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WHEW!!! Sorry about that. I'm just full of wonder (hmmm) and awe (Aw, I feel soooo sorry for you. ..NOT). </div>
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So we're starting that again, are we? (What?) You know all too well what I'm talking about. (Me?) Yes, you. Now cut it out. I'm trying to blog here. (Oh, I thought you were just babbling on to yourself again) All right. That is quite enough out of you! (Yeah, yeah, yeah) I-AM-SERIOUS! (Ok, ok) Thank you. (Hey, anytime. For you, not a problem. All you have to do is ask. You know I would. ..) STOP!!!! (k)</div>
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Ok, looks like the coast is clear. Let's try this again. </div>
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I can't believe that summer is almost over. School will start soon & I'll be dreading the cold weather once again. It's not that summer has been that warm to start with. I think we had one week that was 90 degree temps. And we've had more than our share of rain. </div>
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My little garden is growing pretty well but I need more heat for my tiny tomatoes & puny pickles to grow. I want MY summer!!! My summer is 80-85 degrees for at the very least 3 months. And night temps no lower than 65 degrees. This high of 70 & low of 50 can kiss my butt!!! </div>
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What happened to global warming? Did it take a vacation from Michigan this year? There I go with the questions again. I don't care what happened. Give me back my summer! !!@!!</div>
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Covering myself with my babushka,<br />
Collette</div>
Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-23367699266977467962013-06-22T23:01:00.000-04:002013-06-22T23:01:22.241-04:00Itsy Bitsy Garden<div dir="ltr">
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Moment's Melodic Muse:<br />
"Blame It On the Rain"<br />
Milli Vanilli<br />
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I finally decided to grow a small garden again this year. I haven't really grown one since my Babcia passed away, just over 2 years ago. </div>
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I've been thinking about it for a while now. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Babcia</td></tr>
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So finally when my heart is ready, my body has decided it is not. Well, you know what? That's too bad, body. We're doing it! Suffer in silence (or not). </div>
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I got out the throw rug, small garden tools & cigarettes & got to work on my little piece of earth. Pulling the weeds didn't seem to be working too well, so I started digging & cutting into the ground till I got a good-sized piece. I pulled it out, shook off the dirt & continued until I had a cleared area about 4ft by 2ft. </div>
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Time to plant the tomatoes! I grabbed the little planter that came with the kit to start the tomatoes in & separated them. Babcia & I used to go to this great produce place to get tomato & pepper plants that were already on their way to being strong, sturdy specimens. She would buy too many tomato plants for herself so she would "have to" give some to me to grow in my limited gardening space. I always seemed to find just enough room for them. The cucumbers were always grown right in the garden from seeds. And they had to be pickling cucumbers. How else are you supposed to make pickles? (You're probably wondering if I'm ever going to make it back from Memory Lane? Or am I lost forever? Seriously, when have I ever been completely here? )</div>
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So the tomatoes & cukes are planted. The dill is growing around the yard on its own. And Babcia is watching over me & my itsy bitsy garden. </div>
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Forever waving my Babcia's babushka,</div>
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Collette</div>
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Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-63359278091336502012013-06-15T00:28:00.000-04:002013-06-15T00:28:20.539-04:00Pondering. ..<div dir="ltr">
Moment's Melodic Muse<br />
"Don't Stand So Close To Me"<br />
The Police</div>
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Is money seriously no object to some people that they would risk damage to their expensive vehicle just to get somewhere faster? </div>
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Case in point: I am usually parked right here</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is from inside my car. There is a sign to my right that says "Parking this side of sign"</td></tr>
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Now, most cars leave a reasonable amount of room when they are turning, as any normal person would. A couple of feet, I think, is a good, safe distance. But no. .. As luck would have it, any time an expensive sports or luxury vehicle goes to turn past me, EEEEK! They leave merely inches! This, of course, leaves me screaming obscenities- to myself. </div>
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What else can I do? Oh I know I can park somewhere else but this is the closest spot to the door my daughter has to walk out when she closes up at work. In the summer, it's no problem for her to walk a little further, but if it's dark or the weather is bad, I'd prefer to be as close as possible. </div>
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So, besides cussing out drivers every five minutes, I have tried a couple of tactics. One was sticking my arm out the window so maybe people would stay out far enough to avoid my arm. This seemed to work even if my arm hurt from keeping it out of the window too long. </div>
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The second one I tried because it was raining. I couldn't have the window rolled down, so if I saw a vehicle coming up close, I started to open the door. Ok! I know, I know! Not the smartest or safest thing to do, but it did do the trick. It's not like I threw the door open as they drove up. I just slowly began to open it as if I was getting ready to exit my car, but watching traffic so the door didn't get torn off. </div>
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The idiots did tend to stay a bit further away. I'm sure I scared some & probably pissed some off. Anyway, I did save my car from any damage & saved my voice by not yelling too many obscenities in the process. </div>
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Directing Traffic With My Babushka, </div>
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Collette </div>
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Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-74837865659012094762013-05-28T20:01:00.000-04:002013-05-28T20:01:24.637-04:00A Discussion-with myself?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Momentary Melodic Muse:<br />
"Take This Job and Shove It"<br />
By Johnny Paycheck<br />
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So it's been almost two months since my last post. I started to write a couple of times & then got distracted with life & other such blog-disrupting affairs. (procrastinator) Hey! Shit happens! (Oh really? ) Yes, I've been sick. (for over a month) Well, no, but for a couple of weeks. (And before that?) Ummm...I can't seem to remember. (fever burn your brain cells or did they drip out of your nose) No, I guess I've just been busy. (doing what? ) Trying to make some money online. (so how's that working for ya?) Not very well, I'm afraid. If I'm lucky, it's a couple of cents per site a day & it's only a few sites. At that, it takes most of my day. Clicking, verifying the click. ..argh! And doing surveys & tasks just gets mind-numbing. </div>
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For anything they say makes money, you have to pay money. I am not paying for some program for someone else to make money off of me! If somebody else does it & makes money, I'm happy for them but it's not for me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyk_dwH3vcbGMgREIXsqSJrqScDM63jNsRSHsXsOREEPSKtUNR5g8j5rj6slIRLzlxi0vW6ib0QNPbimlN0BAM4LaMuvXsGcik4jOPlroEOLoQSkarC1CnDaE201ourIKyJByY0KEvTJ8/s1600/cutcaster-photo-100842534-Give-Me-Some-Money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyk_dwH3vcbGMgREIXsqSJrqScDM63jNsRSHsXsOREEPSKtUNR5g8j5rj6slIRLzlxi0vW6ib0QNPbimlN0BAM4LaMuvXsGcik4jOPlroEOLoQSkarC1CnDaE201ourIKyJByY0KEvTJ8/s320/cutcaster-photo-100842534-Give-Me-Some-Money.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I will find something but I have to be comfortable with what I'm doing & be totally ok with it. There are way too many people out there trying to take advantage of others with some "system" or another. If these "humanitarians" had a way for everyone to make tons of money in "only a few minutes a day", they wouldn't need you to pay them for their program. </div>
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Unfortunately, many believe this & go broke trying to strike it rich. It's really sad that these jerks prey on anyone who will believe their spiel. There are some very well done sites out there that look so professional. But when more people buy your "product", you can afford to pay more for advertising.</div>
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</div>
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So I'll just keep doing what I'm doing & maybe pick up some ideas along the way. </div>
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Ummm...Now what was the question? <br />
(never mind, never mind)</div>
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My Babushka ever-waving, </div>
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Collette<br />
</div>
Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-89594298432883297372013-03-25T18:16:00.001-04:002013-03-25T18:16:24.749-04:00An Executive Decision<div dir="ltr">
Melodic Muse of the Moment:<br />
<u>Mad World by Adam Lambert</u></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6MOtmb2SAWBc0MBGhOWKeFP96tplu-xCkSN0msBjj_IsxgqytVjAxGbGyd_MvX27eOEBR9eCF2k90hhvJSC6WKgEZFnY_tSb191ps88bk6BqWA3oQvXmumVBDY3xN9xNx6hdzAcc-6Os/s1600/20130325_175432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6MOtmb2SAWBc0MBGhOWKeFP96tplu-xCkSN0msBjj_IsxgqytVjAxGbGyd_MvX27eOEBR9eCF2k90hhvJSC6WKgEZFnY_tSb191ps88bk6BqWA3oQvXmumVBDY3xN9xNx6hdzAcc-6Os/s200/20130325_175432.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me-Pulling my hair out</td></tr>
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Why is it that when I get pissed off, most of the time the only person I bitch to is myself?</div>
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I'm watching tv, our goalie is so far out of the net that they could drive the zamboni behind him, & the other team scores. I scream at...the tv.</div>
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I'm in the car, listening to some great '80's hair bands & some idiot decides NOT to stop at his (or her) stop sign at a four-way stop when I have the right-of-way. I start flailing my hands & yelling...to myself. (they can't hear me with the windows closed & by that time, they've already flown right past me & don't care)</div>
<div dir="ltr">
I finish reading a blog post & before I comment, I like to read some of the of the other comments. (Everyone does this, right?) I see a comment that really pisses me off. This doesn't happen often. But, I don't hijack the comments (or the comment writer's blog). I sit & bitch & complain...to myself.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So, this has brought about an executive decision.<br /> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLNuzbHFncAHgTFhpALJBh2oi1uKzrw6qetouRbJC025ETzjPH5lr0dhDc_5mtuVCsM_QmO-8U9Jmizc25M3BorkRsNjM2_uT6Zf-aalmZ43byH9DRvsu6gVz0SVKRyl2O43hx4w9Qy0/s1600/20130325_180210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLNuzbHFncAHgTFhpALJBh2oi1uKzrw6qetouRbJC025ETzjPH5lr0dhDc_5mtuVCsM_QmO-8U9Jmizc25M3BorkRsNjM2_uT6Zf-aalmZ43byH9DRvsu6gVz0SVKRyl2O43hx4w9Qy0/s200/20130325_180210.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By jove, I think I've got it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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When I was young, I wrote in a diary. When I got older, I journaled & still do every so often when I feel like putting a pen to paper, literally. To me, there is still something magical about the written word on paper. (Note to self: Blog Post) Where is my Evernote widget??? <br />
Now, I have a blog. This is my diary, my journal, my Outlet!!! I have somewhere to let loose my ramblings & ventings. (now spell check is starting to piss me off...lol)</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
My Executive Decision is to bring some of my complaints here. My posts won't all be about how awful something is & I won't be on here every five minutes because so & so just got on my nerves, but I am giving myself somewhere to leave unleashed feelings of frustration. Much better than bottling it up & having it explode when I least expect it.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
So join me in the exploration as I release my inner rantings & possibly some raves as well. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Unfurling my knotted babushka, </div>
<div dir="ltr">
Collette</div>
Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-49404835232347973402013-03-13T19:49:00.000-04:002013-03-13T19:49:08.394-04:00A Positive Message? ??<div dir="ltr">
Musical Muse of the Moment:</div>
<div dir="ltr">
"Thrift Shop" by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I Love Samples! Whether it's tasting food samples at Costco (the best free Saturday lunch) or getting freebies in the mail (I subscribe to so many freebie sites), free stuff is awesome! </div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Now my hubby might not agree with me (unless it's the edible type of freebie) because I have a tendency to keep things way longer than needed. I wouldn't be considered your typical tv show hoarder, but I have a hard time throwing things away that I "might" be able to use one day. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
So I get this freebie the other day that I sent for from one of the many sites I subscribe to. (after awhile you start to notice that they all have pretty much the same stuff, but won't dare unsubscribe just in case they have something different :) It's two full size protein bars from Quest. There were chocolate chip cookie dough & hot cinnamon roll flavors. They were very tasty & not at all crumbly. I do have to say I am partial to the chocolate chip cookie dough though. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
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Now the reason for this post is not to review the product. The reason is because of the box they came in. (Yes, I saved it. Like I have room for more stuff. ..lol) </div>
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<br /></div>
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As I'm reading, I'm finding such a powerful & positive statement. Then I get to the last three statements & I know... This box was the sample that was meant for me! Here it is, cut & flattened.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWf0UxRUh7oeO-Y0RsmAD9bUbeMX4hSCylibNBh-C10Vx7M63Z0eIbsXeYgHuk5OhMSBe6bRMiH1_WtjDqaCZ_DlDMXgxm1Ibh0KYzOcS2drAyfIHQu1AWy21Gmwrz_YCgsxvGqhVUZQM/s1600/20130310_205020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWf0UxRUh7oeO-Y0RsmAD9bUbeMX4hSCylibNBh-C10Vx7M63Z0eIbsXeYgHuk5OhMSBe6bRMiH1_WtjDqaCZ_DlDMXgxm1Ibh0KYzOcS2drAyfIHQu1AWy21Gmwrz_YCgsxvGqhVUZQM/s320/20130310_205020.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Intensely waving the babushka that I am obsessed with, your abnormal friend, <br />
Collette</div>
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Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-80908786276164052712013-01-31T00:26:00.001-05:002013-01-31T00:26:21.708-05:00Sharing---Is It Really A Good Thing?<br />
Melodic Musing of the Moment:<br />
"Rock & Roll All Night" by <a class="zem_slink" href="http://kissonline.com/" rel="homepage" target="_blank" title="Kiss (band)">Kiss</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrjKiSjYTHQmPP6e2yW0WpR8wQASRzX9MqkI-3jgZ3UMX50ceAMB7W3xbnGkU2rm8J6FjZT_d-0nKFiJx6G_lLMf369PfK-wS6VSI5Oy9nKje7kuQ0pUGD4rxpCr4JQXB06WH0ZDQijwY/s1600/drawmemories.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrjKiSjYTHQmPP6e2yW0WpR8wQASRzX9MqkI-3jgZ3UMX50ceAMB7W3xbnGkU2rm8J6FjZT_d-0nKFiJx6G_lLMf369PfK-wS6VSI5Oy9nKje7kuQ0pUGD4rxpCr4JQXB06WH0ZDQijwY/s320/drawmemories.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Missing the blogosphere, I've spent the better part of the evening reading through blogs. Some old, some new, some renamed, & some are gone that I once knew. It makes me rather nostalgic. I get that way sometimes...<br />
<br />
"Memories..." AHEM! Sorry, I got a little lost there for a moment.<br />
<br />
Ah, the wonders of the mind. I sure don't want to get lost in my thoughts. I never know what I'll find there. I don't know if I'd make it back alive. Or would I find it a place I would never want to leave? Hmm...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudSSlwnw1IwIF0L_fpkneTTJHNljX3NXqqLQOxEPE5TALNG0hhVmUs3cLhZ1qFeE37V95ZV1VBz2g_1AEqWP7JizefjJMdTFxLuzYezNdKYL2h2HnNtm0kFAhX0JVsrETqIRGnQe3rBw/s1600/snapoutofit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudSSlwnw1IwIF0L_fpkneTTJHNljX3NXqqLQOxEPE5TALNG0hhVmUs3cLhZ1qFeE37V95ZV1VBz2g_1AEqWP7JizefjJMdTFxLuzYezNdKYL2h2HnNtm0kFAhX0JVsrETqIRGnQe3rBw/s1600/snapoutofit.jpg" /></a></div>
SNAP OUT OF IT!<br />
<br />
Well, I guess I have been spending way too much time away from here. I have been listening to '70's music quite a lot lately. And even without burning the incense (I do have some. Real incense. That was NOT a metaphor for something else) I'm really enjoying it, man. Or should I say I'm diggin' it.<br />
<br />
Ok, I was born in 1967, so I do feel a special connection with the hippie thing. I've never been one to follow the crowd or wear the latest fashions. But, I haven't burned any of my bras either (as much as I'd like to. I hate them!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsuHhWszqDwveghDf_ZsYtWmG9PMlLrzvJDqO2L_2oZ-ZZJvQQekS61P1G7rC3EqSz5sCZDJYjiCLTvNnFpbyuiUuG0I_KOU1MQJe2DZldfS23xjYVz-MuFN_vx5YK7VepbchFvhvKsNg/s1600/braburn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsuHhWszqDwveghDf_ZsYtWmG9PMlLrzvJDqO2L_2oZ-ZZJvQQekS61P1G7rC3EqSz5sCZDJYjiCLTvNnFpbyuiUuG0I_KOU1MQJe2DZldfS23xjYVz-MuFN_vx5YK7VepbchFvhvKsNg/s1600/braburn.jpg" /></a></div>
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But, being born then, I was a teen in the '80's. And, I LOVED it! For a little while, I did the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/madonna" rel="rottentomatoes" target="_blank" title="Madonna">Madonna</a> thing with the lace half gloves & all. But when I got to high school, all bets were off! It was heavy metal, big hair, spandex & tight leather pants heaven. Guys with long hair & tight jeans...MMMMMM. I so miss that!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdYtYAMZwYlC3Fm8kPrIVhnkNnLxRKIfQ_FvvwdptmdjUi3NWI6_VfdN0GniJQN_3nj6NcBJv6zsePt99bQv0YTqhm8Wj93Gqzo71l_S-oY4Mo1lE4AptIvzQbZBDiaJqxazIbgPQyqg/s1600/gilbyfanpix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdYtYAMZwYlC3Fm8kPrIVhnkNnLxRKIfQ_FvvwdptmdjUi3NWI6_VfdN0GniJQN_3nj6NcBJv6zsePt99bQv0YTqhm8Wj93Gqzo71l_S-oY4Mo1lE4AptIvzQbZBDiaJqxazIbgPQyqg/s200/gilbyfanpix.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gilby Clarke(fanpix.net)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-8MMl_CNykhieB7BftRwjRzYUZ2m2ZGJUS8T7KdXVnilsM0wJFPdbJd0DpZ2xOqbygHsX8xrQQgVBivwKB2X6NVMhuHGZvvVjlZZlTxS7-GqGvlad-9j91wsS7KmKvsPH4BY2KhL31-c/s1600/janilane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-8MMl_CNykhieB7BftRwjRzYUZ2m2ZGJUS8T7KdXVnilsM0wJFPdbJd0DpZ2xOqbygHsX8xrQQgVBivwKB2X6NVMhuHGZvvVjlZZlTxS7-GqGvlad-9j91wsS7KmKvsPH4BY2KhL31-c/s200/janilane.jpg" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.janilane.net/" rel="homepage" target="_blank" title="Jani Lane">Jani Lane</a>(from internet)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The bands: <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.motley.com/" rel="homepage" target="_blank" title="Mötley Crüe">Motley Crue</a>, <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.defleppard.com/" rel="homepage" target="_blank" title="Def Leppard">Def Leppard</a>, <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.poisonweb.com/" rel="homepage" target="_blank" title="Poison (band)">Poison</a>, <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.warrantrocks.com/" rel="homepage" target="_blank" title="Warrant (American band)">Warrant</a> (R.I.P. Jani Lane) & so many more. In our senior class of 1985.......Whew, I almost went all cheerleader on you there for a minute, but I stopped myself. Ok? (looking around) The moment has passed, you're safe for now. As I was saying, we had <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mock_election" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="Mock election">mock elections</a> for our yearbook & I was elected Class Rock-n-Roller!!!!! Screw Valedictorian...I ROCK!!! (Grade-wise, I did come in 10th of a class of 85 students, so I didn't get killed by my parents)<br />
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As for music from the '90's till now...I've liked some stuff & some I can live without. (like that damn speaker-thumping, window-rattling, nerve-wracking hip-hop that these kids blare nowadays-even as I speak/type at 3:30 am) ARGH!!!!! I tell you these kids have no respect! (<a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Do_I" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="Do I">Do I</a> sound old? Cranky? Like the 2 unmarried sisters that lived together a couple of doors down from me & screamed everytime you so much as touched their grass? No? Good!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUQnkwATkxr3SWE6CITO4Mary8FmFxJiKfF4kN6KHqoDhyfxsEIFRAdGlNmygquPuvi3Es6l_DXvU_JmsBpj-n6r4RRaER0t_5mTSGcZPhlU4OMKteDsK_UR6ki9cm_mTI3QWA3m0NII/s1600/spotifypic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUQnkwATkxr3SWE6CITO4Mary8FmFxJiKfF4kN6KHqoDhyfxsEIFRAdGlNmygquPuvi3Es6l_DXvU_JmsBpj-n6r4RRaER0t_5mTSGcZPhlU4OMKteDsK_UR6ki9cm_mTI3QWA3m0NII/s1600/spotifypic.jpg" /></a></div>
So, if you check out my <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.spotify.com/" rel="homepage" target="_blank" title="Spotify">Spotify</a>, you might be very shocked at what you find there. Then again, knowing me, maybe not.<br />
<br />
Babushka's Rock!<br />
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Collette <br />
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<div class="zemanta-pixie" style="height: 15px; margin-top: 10px;">
<a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://www.zemanta.com/?px" title="Enhanced by Zemanta"><img alt="Enhanced by Zemanta" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_c.png?x-id=5442bfa2-cf79-4c66-93c2-32780ec5f98b" style="border: none; float: right;" /></a></div>
Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-36708251943086711012013-01-07T21:45:00.000-05:002013-01-07T21:58:30.402-05:00I Resolve-NOTMelodic Muse of the Moment:<br />
"<a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/staying_alive" rel="rottentomatoes" target="_blank" title="Staying Alive">Staying Alive</a>" by the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.beegees.com/" rel="homepage" target="_blank" title="Bee Gees">Bee Gees</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYcNQinqtSQrOgpbK7VJMb0wnyTw7owbbZ37-AfjwQVhMvIijLduP-_XGMy9rTleW-B0mJaCjrNzz2VM7dXkZWudr0vp8EskTEk57kIW4qK6zmht0lzP3-mAllFAHsDwKhv3nJ1JU9-gY/s1600/2012-12-25+03.08.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYcNQinqtSQrOgpbK7VJMb0wnyTw7owbbZ37-AfjwQVhMvIijLduP-_XGMy9rTleW-B0mJaCjrNzz2VM7dXkZWudr0vp8EskTEk57kIW4qK6zmht0lzP3-mAllFAHsDwKhv3nJ1JU9-gY/s320/2012-12-25+03.08.08.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the Gospel Music Channel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Happy <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="New Year">New Year</a> everyone! I hope your holidays were memorable & that <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Claus" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="Santa Claus">Santa</a> brought you more than coal in your stocking. <br />
<br />
<br />
My holidays were fairly quiet & uneventful. Christmas eve was spent at my sister's, eating our traditional <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polish_cuisine" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="Polish cuisine">Polish</a> meal. The first part is always meatless; consisting of fish, pierogi, kapusta (our special sauerkraut with Polish mushrooms & lima beans), warm prunes & apricots, & sledzie (herring). We also break <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_wafer" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="Christmas wafer">oplatek</a> (thin wafer) before the meal to wish everyone health & happiness in the coming year. <br />
<br />
After a dessert of cheesecake, we open gifts. Usually, koledy (Polish Christmas carols) are sung & those who go to <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mass_%28liturgy%29" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="Mass (liturgy)">Midnight Mass</a> leave for church. Our Midnight Mass is at 10 pm because of the area it's in. Plus, we have a lot of older parishioners.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoV9zF0IIXV58saEpn_4Pbrs8cD9SW7Qq3FNi9hkRmC0NalAiLcbNn-VGAiAfl3L6fv0SUroZZj88Td1fOKGX6WjapgHOVfW9oOMfAmxfF2bIxmfj7ZiAHH_hnRK_1jH8YZzBSjAykFw/s1600/2012-12-08+21.17.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoV9zF0IIXV58saEpn_4Pbrs8cD9SW7Qq3FNi9hkRmC0NalAiLcbNn-VGAiAfl3L6fv0SUroZZj88Td1fOKGX6WjapgHOVfW9oOMfAmxfF2bIxmfj7ZiAHH_hnRK_1jH8YZzBSjAykFw/s320/2012-12-08+21.17.08.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Homemade <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kielbasa" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="Kielbasa">Kielbasa</a></td></tr>
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<br />
While the others are at mass, we cook the meat-full part of the meal. Ham & kielbasa, both smoked & our homemade fresh, are put in the oven in anticipation of the church-goers return.<br />
As the delicious smell of juicy pork wafts through the house, the church-goers arrive & we are ready to eat. The meats are served & we dig in. Eaten by itself or between two pieces of fresh rye or pumpernickel bread, the feast is almost heavenly. And the horseradish is so fresh that it clears the stuffiest of noses. <br />
<br />
When everyone has had their fill, it's time to start packing up to go home & get some much needed rest. <br />
This year was a little different, however. No one was coming back after church. My aunt & uncle & cousins were just going home. So, we packed up our doggie bags & were headed home earlier than usual. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4U7_crQ6mb9Wk7-f-JBuZ4HD8dSe_v4KYeYMHienM2S-GwU_ov8OygpPm0WVtnWhvQSyHCcOzyAoS-udKPmwcBwI-RkG0D3YPLf1h5R25KTlAC9hqElGTccOrc7j_pRhCdficUQqLbo/s1600/2012-04-07+14.39.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4U7_crQ6mb9Wk7-f-JBuZ4HD8dSe_v4KYeYMHienM2S-GwU_ov8OygpPm0WVtnWhvQSyHCcOzyAoS-udKPmwcBwI-RkG0D3YPLf1h5R25KTlAC9hqElGTccOrc7j_pRhCdficUQqLbo/s320/2012-04-07+14.39.40.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smoked Kielbasa & Ham</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
<a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="Christmas">Christmas day</a> is spent at my hubby's mom's home. We eat turkey, ham & kielbasa, green bean casserole (my favorite), sweet potatoes, corn & rutabaga. And I can't forget the cookies...So many cookies...<br />
<br />
After we eat, my hubby plays Santa & passes out all the gifts. The house is packed with people & gifts! And cookies...So many cookies...<br />
<br />
When all the gifts are given out & opened, everyone is exhausted & ready to go home. But you know we can't leave unless we take...Cookies...oh, so many cookies...<br />
<br />
<br />
For <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Eve" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="New Year's Eve">New Year's Eve</a>, my hubby & I just went to a local bar & rang in the new year with my dad & a few regulars from the bar. We dropped my dad off at home since he only lives a couple of blocks away from me & were home before 1 am. On <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Day" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="New Year's Day">New Year's day</a>, we stayed home and enjoyed some much needed relaxation.<br />
<br />
<br />
I make no resolutions this year for two reasons:<br />
1) I never can keep them<br />
And<br />
2) I just want to have a great year of Happy, Healthy, & (hopefully) Wealthy with my family & friends. <br />
<br />
My wish to you is the same; May 2013 give you all the Happy, Healthy & Wealthy you need.<br />
<br />
And Cookies...Oh...So...Many...Cookies<br />
<br />
<br />
Happily Waving My Babushka,<br />
<br />
<br />
Collette<br />
<br />
P.S. Sorry for no pictures of cookies, but they were taunting me so I had to eat them ;)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="zemanta-pixie" style="height: 15px; margin-top: 10px;">
<a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://www.zemanta.com/?px" title="Enhanced by Zemanta"><img alt="Enhanced by Zemanta" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_c.png?x-id=2e421e7e-b894-463b-a729-0f9367c09c24" style="border: none; float: right;" /></a></div>
Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-74075418454666586342012-12-25T03:41:00.000-05:002012-12-25T03:41:58.870-05:00Merry Christmas from My Home to YoursMusical Musing for Today: Silent Night (Cicha Noc)<br />
I picked this today because it was my Babcia's favorite<br />
Christmas song. Polish translation above.<br />
<br />
<br />
I just wanted to write this short note to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! God has blessed me with two wonderful families to spend it with. I would like to share my love & blessings with you on this day. (I won't even charge the usual rental rate for my family...lol) <br />
<br />
<br />
May you be blessed & loved today and all through the year!<br />
<br />
<br />
Merry Babushkas,<br />
Collette<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcy51Dt33LtAnmDBK9WIH-SKMjE4Tyg-Ee5i9sR96TNbhTeKThyphenhyphenBvSHagT-XeMOER9p-BksEd2KRQ4vNikyOunPT10vtY7cOX9B5cuhD_7ZOUfY20ozV8z-vkeUwgC_k06Ntz0qeRydc/s1600/2012-12-25+03.08.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcy51Dt33LtAnmDBK9WIH-SKMjE4Tyg-Ee5i9sR96TNbhTeKThyphenhyphenBvSHagT-XeMOER9p-BksEd2KRQ4vNikyOunPT10vtY7cOX9B5cuhD_7ZOUfY20ozV8z-vkeUwgC_k06Ntz0qeRydc/s320/2012-12-25+03.08.08.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2012 Yule Log from my tv<br /></td></tr>
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<br />Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-26218081113790809482012-12-14T21:35:00.000-05:002012-12-14T21:35:28.552-05:00The Wonderful World of Genetics<br />
*Melodic Muse of the Day*<br />
"Live Like You Were Dying" by Tim McGraw<br />
<br />
<br />
HELLO! And welcome back to the asylum. (heehee)<br /><br />
As usual, I have been a busy bee. I always said, when I'm not working, I seem to have more to do. Yes, I have more stuff to do & No, I am not working. Not in the normal (gasp, can't believe I used that word) sense, that is. So, have a seat, put your feet up, & lend me your ears (ok, your eyes, but who's keeping track ;) <br />
<br />
So, where to start...Hmmm. We'll start with "Why I'm not working".<br /><br />
I've had arthritis since I was about 30, so when I started getting bad pains from my back down my right hip & thigh, that's what I thought it was until it started getting progressively worse. The pain began about the end of December 2011 & continued to worsen. By my last day of work for the school year, I had been in severe pain & limping around for months. I had an MRI done in May that showed four bulging discs, some narrowing of the spine, at least one pinched nerve, & quite a bit of arthritis. It also showed some disc degeneration. I guess that would explain the pain I've been having, right?<br />
<br />
Needless to say, I've been to my doctor, a back specialist, a neurosurgeon, & our pain clinic. The back specialist basically gravitated right toward surgery. I figured that would be the last resort. So, I've been going to the pain clinic, have gotten 12 shots in my back since July, & am having radio frequency<br />
thermal coagulation on December 21st. That just means they are burning the nerves in my back that have been giving me the problems. I'm sure I'll eventually have to have surgery. My neurosurgeon, though, decided to send me for an MRI on my neck first because it seems I may have problems there, as well. He said the neck should be fixed first as the nerves go to the arms & legs, whereas the nerves in the back just go to the legs. And no, they can't both be done at once because rehab would be impossible. Wonderful, huh?<br />
<br />
So, that's pretty much the story of my year so far. Except for the fact that I did have to have a biopsy on my left breast because of something not looking quite right. It was, thank goodness, benign, but it was a bit scary. Both of my grandmothers had breast cancer, so I definitely have to be watchful. I have been getting yearly mammograms for quite a few years already. That is one thing I make sure to have done even if I don't take the best care of myself. It is a pain, literally, but a very important test to have. That's my PSA for today! <br />
<br />
I have been keeping busy, however. Unfortunately, I do not have an income now, so I've been trying to find ways to work from home on my computer. I used to do PartyLite shows, but that's a no-go because of all the lifting & carrying products. If only they would drop-ship their orders, I would love to get back into that. I love their candles, accessories & etc. Of course, they are very heavy into the "home party" aspect part of the business. They do have "book parties" but the product goes to the hostess' home, to be delivered by her. So, if I'm the one having the "party", I get the products to sort & deliver. (sigh)<br />
<br />
A lot of work-at-home businesses charge a fee to get started & I refuse to pay to work for someone. I've been doing a few pay-per-click sites, but the money is very slow to add up. I am signed up with an internet marketing site, but people don't want to bother trying to recruit others or sell anything.<i> </i>I don't blame them as I don't care for it myself, but it is free sign-up & tons of training info. You get access to a "store" & can sell your own stuff there for very little. I've been with the company almost a year & know if I do put some time & effort into it, it will work. But right now I just don't have the motivation for it. I am hoping that I can get a few ads on my blog & make a little that way. <br />
<br />
Whatever I do, I want to enjoy doing it. It's time for me to be happy with what I do in my life. <br />
<br />
Peace, Love, and Babushkas,<br />
Collette<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cane-that I barely ever use</td></tr>
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Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-85574838832362189422012-11-22T00:45:00.000-05:002012-11-22T00:45:09.569-05:00Gobble GobbleHey everybody! I am in the process of writing a post, but keep getting sidetracked. (So, what's new, right?) But, I did want to wish everyone a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving. <br />
I give thanks for family & friends, life & love, and being sober 11 years today. I couldn't have done it without you guys! You never know where you can get strength from & I have found it here many times. <br />
Thanks to all of you, whether this is your first time here or if you've been here many times. I appreciate you!<br />
<br />
Love & Green Bean Casserole,<br />
Waving my Babushka high,<br />
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ColletteMoonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-37395812741708642822012-07-02T09:08:00.002-04:002012-07-02T09:25:37.710-04:00Live Well. Be Well.Hello My Friends!<br />
<br />
I didn't even realize that it's been over two months since I last posted. Time just goes by way too fast! <br />
<br />
I haven't been really busy, just a lot going on, but I'll get to that another day. I saw something a few minutes ago and had to share it with you. <br />
<br />
I don't know how many of you have read the book "The Secret" or have seen the movie. I, myself, have not done either; although I do intend to read the book one day soon. Here is an excerpt from the book called "The Optimist's Creed". It is very empowering, so I had to share it! Love to all of you! Collette<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To be strong that nothing can disturb my peace of mind</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person I meet<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To think only of the best, to work only for the best and to expect only the best<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To think well of myself and to proclaim this fact to the world, not in loud word, but in great deeds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side, so long as I am true to the best that is in me<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5mUK-LgvDaLviWhUkCRZPovdgeu1eWkV9hC917WKVGsuSUlx8PidS3MiobvE-lbB4Sbs19u_dmqUN8AatT_f_5ctISSumB4iEWEHKsLrE3cuPle3PgEON61Y5A5KvpVLIeBLvZVHhxqOd/s1600/Christian+D.Larson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #bd0d07; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5mUK-LgvDaLviWhUkCRZPovdgeu1eWkV9hC917WKVGsuSUlx8PidS3MiobvE-lbB4Sbs19u_dmqUN8AatT_f_5ctISSumB4iEWEHKsLrE3cuPle3PgEON61Y5A5KvpVLIeBLvZVHhxqOd/s1600/Christian+D.Larson.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14px;">Christian D. Larson</span></i></b></div>
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-7053001018247262172012-04-22T17:33:00.001-04:002012-04-22T17:33:42.442-04:00Danielle LaPorte - A Credo for Making it Happen<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/cITNveY-kig?fs=1" width="480"></iframe>Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-2471789850094412202012-04-13T21:12:00.000-04:002012-04-13T21:13:30.991-04:00The Worst Place I Visit Way Too Often<br />
The Procrasti-Nation<br />
<br />
A place everyone visits at one time or another. Unfortunately, I find myself firmly planted there more often than not. <br />
For example, I actually started this post a couple of weeks ago, but I just couldn't seem to get motivated enough to finish (or really get started). I found a few quotes on procrastination, saved them and eventually copied them to this page. And there they sat. Accusing me of the very thing they spoke of.<br />
<br />
"Even if you’re on the right track-you’ll get run over if you just sit there." ~Will Rogers<br />
Is that a train?<br />
"If and When were planted, and Nothing grew." ~Proverb<br />
Don't need a green thumb for this one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssWHo10hbw_uldcSwDrpe1dQRxXPD2N-WKQ_VH-kmboj8yG7hjXCeO6NxZDCqvSZispVh8p23Djn3HVVsUY6U7ZugH87549DOw9aTG0OinEbjBxJ3NuxS4KuTuwUXS9s_WB5ApwDhsE4/s1600/yodasaber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssWHo10hbw_uldcSwDrpe1dQRxXPD2N-WKQ_VH-kmboj8yG7hjXCeO6NxZDCqvSZispVh8p23Djn3HVVsUY6U7ZugH87549DOw9aTG0OinEbjBxJ3NuxS4KuTuwUXS9s_WB5ApwDhsE4/s1600/yodasaber.jpg" /></a></div>
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"Do or do not do. There is no try." ~ Master Yoda<br />
Used the Force, I should have.<br />
You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club."-Jack London,American writer<br />
Or is that a light saber? <br />
<br />
I don't know if I just get bored or distracted. And, if it feels like work, then I will put it off till the last minute. <br />
<br />
Or maybe it's just my rebellious side. When I'm told I HAVE TO do something (or my head sends the same message), I tend to push away and do the opposite. <br />
<br />
Well, whatever it is, it was temporarily deterred, just enough to let me finish this post.<br />
<br />
Unfurling my Babcia's Babushka,<br />
Collette<br />
<br />
<br />Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-41767568238641826762012-02-07T18:41:00.000-05:002012-02-07T18:41:20.183-05:00Happy February, Etc.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcR3rqctP6IX_NHJZS4H-riUGaqzfeGZKLxVeXKfcHSh7DSvofyp8nbrjUQ9qkTJGWR2lL-H6yIAdcFzyuvra8NmO-IakKct793G29loKB5dK4wrMji2qPd2XSA18Cta5XyxBmlGcU2U0/s1600/gotpaczki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcR3rqctP6IX_NHJZS4H-riUGaqzfeGZKLxVeXKfcHSh7DSvofyp8nbrjUQ9qkTJGWR2lL-H6yIAdcFzyuvra8NmO-IakKct793G29loKB5dK4wrMji2qPd2XSA18Cta5XyxBmlGcU2U0/s320/gotpaczki.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbpagR41DfClzAOvgK2wiZ1vA9Raki-vUAVLExjE7iBWs4-DvHc3MyfVScKS4hZ6ymYAwXNKPZSzlOQQUh7K04hB2ZUQPJ_yyVI2AZ6LTyr266eE0_htWMWfJCZAnZgU_G3NFNipvvbOU/s1600/paczki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbpagR41DfClzAOvgK2wiZ1vA9Raki-vUAVLExjE7iBWs4-DvHc3MyfVScKS4hZ6ymYAwXNKPZSzlOQQUh7K04hB2ZUQPJ_yyVI2AZ6LTyr266eE0_htWMWfJCZAnZgU_G3NFNipvvbOU/s1600/paczki.jpg" /></a>Happy Groundhog's, Valentine's, & Presidents' Day! WHEW! I think I covered them all for this month. Well, the major ones anyway. And, a very Happy Birthday to whomever celebrates theirs this month. <br />
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Another "Holiday" I will be celebrating is Paczki Day on February 21st. The easiest pronunciation I can give you is-"punchki", but it sounds like the "pu" in pudding. Polish has some weird diacritical marks that really change the sounds of letters.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4xCh55rE-xuJQQo-LbkuirJ7HU419rOt3-Q9mR_cMFg2zRB826Dko2pW6bLKSQUqPVeQzQYQYLLd5l6sx83XEsUcrBKFaBez6GOm4I39TBlaqwLQWB6yhwTM1FpqSP9LUq8LQ_DcNq8/s1600/newpalace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4xCh55rE-xuJQQo-LbkuirJ7HU419rOt3-Q9mR_cMFg2zRB826Dko2pW6bLKSQUqPVeQzQYQYLLd5l6sx83XEsUcrBKFaBez6GOm4I39TBlaqwLQWB6yhwTM1FpqSP9LUq8LQ_DcNq8/s1600/newpalace.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Palace Bakery in Hamtramck</td></tr>
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Paczki Day is the Polish version of Fat Tuesday; the Tuesday right before Ash Wednesday. Traditionally it was a day to get rid of all the goodies in the house that you weren't allowed to have during Lent. Such "goodies" as sugar & lard were mixed with flour & other ingredients to make the dough. When the pastries were done, they were filled with all different kinds of jelly, cream, or custard. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC6bkTwuUTrXjePNtYPHY5g9ZpnvtbQ__D4j42Kq_1ijVshhEbco175JJuYQAeBKj6P8somKsW4wMG9N-Q5nbN_N77eg89YSzJhzDBb2W-xWyE7w7bNRVmtGRAi3jCiK4fiKjzL7WVOGc/s1600/marthawash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC6bkTwuUTrXjePNtYPHY5g9ZpnvtbQ__D4j42Kq_1ijVshhEbco175JJuYQAeBKj6P8somKsW4wMG9N-Q5nbN_N77eg89YSzJhzDBb2W-xWyE7w7bNRVmtGRAi3jCiK4fiKjzL7WVOGc/s1600/marthawash.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martha Washington Bakery in Hamtramck</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Today's typical "jelly donut" is not a "real" paczki. The "real" paczki are only made just prior to Ash Wednesday & usually have more fattening ingredients added to them. I believe each one has about 1000 calories in it. It doesn't really matter though, because Ash Wednesday is a day of fast anyway.</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
On Paczki Day in Hamtramck, a lot of bars open early (about 7 am) & people party all day long to celebrate before Lent begins. Bands play all day & radio stations broadcast from some of the bars. The bakeries have lines that go around the block starting at 6 am or earlier. The local news stations usually do interviews from a bakery or two. Our 2.2 square mile city is wild & crazy & EVERYONE IS POLISH for a day!!!</div>
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For the first time in my working life, I have Paczki Day off! I don't drink, but I'm sure I'll be out to get a paczki or two!</div>
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<br /></div>
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I wish you all a Happy February & I wave my Babcia's babushka in salute! Nasdrowie! (to your health)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Collette</div>Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-36314190012705960702012-01-05T23:30:00.000-05:002012-01-05T23:30:00.081-05:00A Toast to 2011<div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pxUQrMtYga0/TwZ3kVkxJiI/AAAAAAAAAbI/TwiAMTFTcTA/s1600/pierogimaking2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pxUQrMtYga0/TwZ3kVkxJiI/AAAAAAAAAbI/TwiAMTFTcTA/s320/pierogimaking2009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Well, here I am, months later & not sure how I'm really doing. This year has truly thrown me for a loop. <br />
This was the first Christmas without my Babcia. Christmas Eve was her holiday. It was a very small crowd this year, compared to years past. Great food & warm memories, but there was a hole that can't be refilled. She will remain in our hearts always. (pic above is from 2009 while making our Christmas pierogi. Babcia is the little lady in the front with the white hair :)<br />
I have spent more days at funeral homes this year than any other. More family & friends have left this world. I am still here. But I remember, I am not alone. <br />
<br />
I wrote the previous paragraphs from my phone before the new year & have finally decided to finish this post.<br />
<br />
New Year's eve was spent with hubby & my dad at a local watering hole with a few regulars that I have pretty much known all my life. It was nice to just relax & enjoy friendly conversation. We headed home about 1:00 am & I stayed up playing my favorite game "Mahjongg Dimensions" on the computer for a little while.<br />
School started again yesterday, so I am back to <strike>hell</strike> work in the cafeteria. My daughter graduated high school in June & I am STILL there...UGH! As I always say, it's not the kids that bother me, it's some of the people (and certain situations) I work with. But, since we have not yet hit the lottery, I am hanging in (holding my tongue, most of the time) until the day comes when I can leave with a celebratory air. <br />
My daughter is starting her 2nd semester of college next week & is working at the on campus bookstore. She got the job this past summer after helping a dear family friend with a cleaning job there. She is enjoying it even if she rarely has time for hanging out with friends due to homework & getting much needed rest. I hope she looks back on these years fondly.<br />
Well, I'm going to end here as my daughter & I watch my nephew on Thursdays so my sis & brother-in-law can go bowling. My nephew, who has cerebral palsy, is now 16 y/o! Even though he isn't mobile or can't talk, he still makes his presence known vocally & smiles quite a bit as well. I know in my heart he does recognize & understand us. He is a precious gift!<br />
So, till next time...(I make no promises of when it will be ;)<br />
Happy New Year to all of you!<br />
I Remain, Waving My Babcia's Babushka,<br />
Collette<br />
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</div></div><div class="zemanta-pixie" style="height: 15px; margin-top: 10px;"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://www.zemanta.com/" title="Enhanced by Zemanta"><img alt="Enhanced by Zemanta" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_c.png?x-id=08007106-91f0-49c7-a9a5-1ff7344a664b" style="border: none; float: right;" /></a></div>Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-57374764240874259432011-07-04T23:13:00.004-04:002011-07-04T23:22:16.393-04:00Happy Independence Day!<span class="zemanta-img separator" style="clear: left;"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:BBQ_Food.jpg" style="clear: left; display: block; float: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Some chicken, pork and corn in the barbeque" height="200" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a7/BBQ_Food.jpg/300px-BBQ_Food.jpg" style="border: none; font-size: 0.8em;" width="300" /></a><span class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="clear: both; float: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 300px;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:BBQ_Food.jpg" target="_blank">Wikipedia</a></span></span>I hope you're all having a wonderful holiday! We went to a family BBQ early this afternoon & have been at home relaxing for a while.<br />
<br />
Well actually, I've been <strike>lurking</strike> visiting some blogs & commenting on some, too. Your blogs have inspired me to post! (Truthfully, I felt guilty because I looked at my visit page at the bottom & saw how many people stopped by to see if I wrote another post ;) So, it was a little of both.<br />
<br />
Since I was last here, I've been a little busy. My daughter graduated from high school on June 10th. She was in National Honor Society, <a href="http://www.deca.org/">D.E.C.A.</a>, played tennis, & wrote for the school paper. She received a scholarship for almost half of what she will need for the first 4 years of college tuition. (It will definitely help!) Last week Wednesday, she went for her orientation, picked out her classes & starts college on August 31st. My baby will be living at home because the college is about 10 minutes away. She has decided she wants to be a forensic pathologist, which means about 12-13 more years of school. This, of course, includes medical school. She better make great money when she's through because she will be paying the loans back. (I'd have to be a lunch lady until I'm 200 to try to pay that back...lol...UGH!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMHiOnPaNvdtGXReHmHm_AQqJQ_lln-CpzOyu_vhpagJTbWdVXnn3_QwImVC-GTzDlC8WQr2BE-KFSb13uyvsE9VGBitvUmbbzsFTQ0PR0h0NwxMqPg7g-8SHSfMEJdcLtbP9yJGYIvk/s1600/collegetuition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMHiOnPaNvdtGXReHmHm_AQqJQ_lln-CpzOyu_vhpagJTbWdVXnn3_QwImVC-GTzDlC8WQr2BE-KFSb13uyvsE9VGBitvUmbbzsFTQ0PR0h0NwxMqPg7g-8SHSfMEJdcLtbP9yJGYIvk/s1600/collegetuition.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span class="zemanta-img separator zemanta-action-dragged"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Stiff-Curious-Lives-Human-Cadavers/dp/0393324826%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dzem-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0393324826" style="clear: left; display: block; float: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Cover of "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Hum..." height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/419LgrpWy%2BL._SL300_.jpg" style="border: none; font-size: 0.8em;" width="130" /></a><span class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 195px;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Stiff-Curious-Lives-Human-Cadavers/dp/0393324826%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dzem-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0393324826" target="_blank">Cover via Amazon</a></span></span>As for this lunch lady, my summer vacation started June 14. I've been trying to get some reading in. I finally finished reading "Gone With the Wind" & the sequel (written by a different author years later) called "Scarlett". My uncle sent a book for Sarah to read called "<a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.amazon.com/Stiff-Curious-Lives-Human-Cadavers/dp/0393324826%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dzem-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0393324826" rel="amazon" target="_blank" title="Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers">Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers</a>" by Mary Roach. (related to her future career & because we like to read & watch gory, horror stuff) The book is more documentary with added author humor. It's a very interesting, but sometimes graphic, read. The book I'm reading now is "<a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.amazon.com/Annies-Ghosts-Journey-Family-Secret/dp/1401322476%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dzem-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D1401322476" rel="amazon" target="_blank" title="Annie's Ghosts: A Journey Into a Family Secret">Annie's Ghosts</a>" by Steve Luxenberg. It's a true story about a family member that no one knew about until his mother died. His story covers his grandparents coming to Detroit from Russia in the early 1900's until his modern day search for the unmentioned family member. I like this book because of all the references to the Detroit area. Living here, I can pretty much picture where & what he is writing about. I don't usually care much for historical facts but this talks about Poland, the Hitler regime & the holocaust. Of course, my great-grandparents were already in the U.S. but I'm sure we still had family in Poland during the war. (something I really want to start looking into) <br />
<span class="zemanta-img separator zemanta-action-dragged"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Annies-Ghosts-Journey-Family-Secret/dp/1401322476%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dzem-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D1401322476" style="clear: left; display: block; float: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Cover of "Annie's Ghosts: A Journey Into ..." height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51G0gXbN7KL._SL300_.jpg" style="border: none; font-size: 0.8em;" width="131" /></a><span class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 197px;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Annies-Ghosts-Journey-Family-Secret/dp/1401322476%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dzem-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D1401322476" target="_blank">Cover via Amazon</a></span></span><br />
And the noise of fireworks begins...<br />
<br />
AHEM! Sorry for the interruption. I am going to get this post done if I have to <strike>strangle</strike> ignore the noise-making people. I know it's the 4th of July but they've been at it every night for a couple of weeks already & they are ILLEGAL! Anything that explodes or leaves the ground is illegal in Michigan. So that leaves the only legal fireworks-SPARKLERS! Those they can play with every day of the year.<br />
<br />
We now return to our post, already in progress...<br />
<br />
The next book I will read is the new Steven Tyler (Aerosmith) book called "Does the Noise In My Head Bother You?". Sarah is getting it for me for my birthday (July 17-no gifts, just send money-please...lol). I love reading the Rock-N-Roll stories. I have a Kurt Cobain (Nirvana) memoir-type book & "<a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.amazon.com/Heroin-Diaries-Year-Life-Shattered/dp/0743486285%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dzem-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0743486285" rel="amazon" target="_blank" title="The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star">The Heroin Diaries</a>" written by Nikki Sixx from Motley Crue. It really makes you wonder how they are still alive (excluding, of course, Kurt Cobain who committed suicide). I am also waiting for the next book of Charlaine Harris' "Dead" series (also known as the "True Blood" books) to come out in paperback. I read the first 10 so I am eagerly awaiting the next one. And, I'm glad that the new season of "True Blood" has started on HBO! LOVE IT!!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJA6FDVLLDx5VELC_NABDGyXwWj_2oU2zgkWNyTBRhc5O4shWhRmlwgp3eMDMu2D8o6poks2pAMGlNHjrlfsqTBsGg9UrVGob3f5f8f1JD4lT1RDuauMlgSTvz2qRDAHM3r0hi8uWIzo/s1600/truebloodseason4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJA6FDVLLDx5VELC_NABDGyXwWj_2oU2zgkWNyTBRhc5O4shWhRmlwgp3eMDMu2D8o6poks2pAMGlNHjrlfsqTBsGg9UrVGob3f5f8f1JD4lT1RDuauMlgSTvz2qRDAHM3r0hi8uWIzo/s1600/truebloodseason4.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Well, I meant to get into some other things but I guess you can see that reading is definitely a passion of mine (& Sarah's, too. Hubby used to read more before he got his laptop & smart phone ;) I will just have to post sooner & more often. (Yes, I have said that before. I will try harder because I miss it & all of you)<br />
<br />
God Bless You, your families, & our United States of America on this Independence Day 2011! (OK-The World!)<br />
Waving the flag like my babushka,<br />
Collette<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div class="zemanta-pixie" style="height: 15px; margin-top: 10px;"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://www.zemanta.com/" title="Enhanced by Zemanta"><img alt="Enhanced by Zemanta" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_c.png?x-id=21827782-dfe2-4948-b0c9-a05925cb6d54" style="border: none; float: right;" /></a></div>Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-5030493656099982042011-06-16T00:32:00.000-04:002011-06-16T00:32:24.485-04:00In MemoriamJust over one month ago, on May 10, 2011, my Babcia (grandmother in Polish), passed away. <br />
Babcia was 94 years old. Yes, she lived a long, full life, but you could tell she wasn't ready to go. She caught a bad cold that turned into pneumonia & was in the hospital for a few days. They sent her home on a Wednesday, still too weak to even walk by herself. Two days later, on Good Friday, my uncle, in town for Easter, took her to the emergency room. She was septic. Babcia was still coherent through to the next morning until around 8:30 am, when she became unresponsive. The doctors were not hopeful.<br />
A few hours later, before noon, she woke up as if nothing happened. We were all in shock, as were the doctors. They asked how she was feeling & she said "I feel good!". The hospital was abuzz with our Easter 'Miracle". The day after Easter, everyone from out of town left for home.<br />
Even though she was free from infection, Babcia started going downhill shortly after that. Her body was just too weak. She barely ate what everyone was trying to feed her. They didn't expect her last a couple of days, but she held on. Eventually, the decision was made to put her in hospice. <br />
She entered hospice on Wednesday, May 4th. Every day there was a message to get to hospice right away because "This could be it". <br />
On Mother's Day, the whole family was there. My dad, his 3 brothers, my sisters, husband & daughter, my cousins, spouses...It was a celebration of sorts. We were all there for Babcia, our matriarch, the foundation of our family. We laughed & cried, sang & played polkas for her. We shared memories & picked on each other, the way we always do. And every once in awhile, we'd get a knowing smile from her. This was her party, the eternal hostess. Babcia had her family together. <br />
Life is never fair as people have to go home & get back to work. The family flew back to their respective states as we all prepared for the end.<br />
Monday, May 9th, the ones who live here, visited at various times during the day or evening. We expressed our love, as always & reluctantly went home.<br />
On Tuesday morning, May 10, 2011 at 12:41 am, my Babcia went home to God.<br />
<br />
I wanted to share this with all of you because you know how close I was to my Babcia. I am doing a lot better than I was so I knew it was time to tell the story. I will post again soon. Thank you to all of you for being here for me. I love you all!<br />
Hanging on to My Babcia's Babushka,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23TGfeXxSxcze1vya8ffqyTG6ZnFZrqp4-mPetrILuf3k5EaMAkfxysAi7T2_ZO-ruyKUodyd50aZBAGatr3Lru4uA4dD_q5SmUCgXHSw3h7Fhhd2-hvrRRe8MCsNF-v7ASOmwy23dso/s1600/2011-05-11+18.41.14-711562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23TGfeXxSxcze1vya8ffqyTG6ZnFZrqp4-mPetrILuf3k5EaMAkfxysAi7T2_ZO-ruyKUodyd50aZBAGatr3Lru4uA4dD_q5SmUCgXHSw3h7Fhhd2-hvrRRe8MCsNF-v7ASOmwy23dso/s320/2011-05-11+18.41.14-711562.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>ColletteMoonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-8388511307491404392011-02-24T16:35:00.000-05:002011-02-24T16:35:27.366-05:00* Filth & Foul*-Pardon My French<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VwP3UpIPknrK9ep-J4_7aC5yrFbvYsfz1SX2cQp8vI5QYdJ6bLo-jb7b_9kLX6OBo0mr6iv-v8JJLdzb6WhnjlqtghrIiEgNmn0XgieIWXLzjkP4AfG_iuaFINjM7wFSWilU_8_tEJ4/s1600/swearing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VwP3UpIPknrK9ep-J4_7aC5yrFbvYsfz1SX2cQp8vI5QYdJ6bLo-jb7b_9kLX6OBo0mr6iv-v8JJLdzb6WhnjlqtghrIiEgNmn0XgieIWXLzjkP4AfG_iuaFINjM7wFSWilU_8_tEJ4/s1600/swearing.jpg" /></a></div>I had no intentions of posting this very moment until I got home from my grandma's house. I figured it would let me vent off some of this steam.<br />
<br />
I am sick & tired of this FUCKING SNOW! <br />
<br />
(now you understand the title?)<br />
<br />
Till Christmas, we barely had any snow. We had one bad snow/icestorm & then we'd been getting about an inch every other day or so. This was doable. Now that it's after the holidays, we keep getting INCHES (meaning at least 4-5) every week, but usually more often. And it's the wet, heavy kind that truckers can get stuck in. I have a little, blue Chevy Cobalt FWD (which I am grateful for), but small wheels tend to get stuck in big snow. I just happen to get stuck almost everytime I go to my grandma's which is every day. Most days, I go there & she needs something from the store, so I have to go back. If I didn't get stuck the 1st time, it is almost inevitable that I will get stuck the next time. <br />
<br />
Take today, for instance, it snowed overnight, again, but only a couple of inches & it's been melting. I stop over to visit & babcia needs me to go to the bakery. Great! Not only do I have to try & find parking, but I also have to make sure I can get in & out without getting stuck. Of course, the spot in front of the bakery that I was going to take was filled by the time I got around the block. (parking is very hard to find here even when there is no snow) So, I spied another spot & wouldn't you know, also filled by the time I got to it. But, this time, there was just enough room for me to park behind it if I backed up a little on the snow bank when I backed in. Ok, good enough. Now to the bakery which is around the corner & down the street a little. No one in the bakery, so I get my goods & head out. Back at babcia's, I pull up into her mostly snow-filled driveway with the car blocking the sidewalk. I usually don't get stuck when I park this way. I take in the bakery goods & chit-chat a little. <br />
<br />
I'm supposed to take her to the beauty shop tomorrow because we have a baby shower on Saturday. But, don't you know it, there's another snowstorm on the way for tonight through tomorrow morning. I did not mention this because come hell or high water (in which case there would be no snow...grrr) I will get her to the beauty shop.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg07cWc_a_HOURyVjB1A8cFUtbwM8uyMrplV4BrF-3Twtt-uuY-wiBhFGKVPohF-Keyk7meDWfW5ntOqmcVjwS_H0Tdl8SQB2DfJOSkm-JLrj-j1dmXYVs8ZBDCpSnN8JlhSsmqAoIwG5c/s1600/carstucksnow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg07cWc_a_HOURyVjB1A8cFUtbwM8uyMrplV4BrF-3Twtt-uuY-wiBhFGKVPohF-Keyk7meDWfW5ntOqmcVjwS_H0Tdl8SQB2DfJOSkm-JLrj-j1dmXYVs8ZBDCpSnN8JlhSsmqAoIwG5c/s1600/carstucksnow.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
Back in the car, I attempt backing across the street to the other driveway (my dad suggested it would be easier) & lo & behold I am stuck once again. This time I am blocking the entire street sideways. Lovely! Also, since it started getting cold, my car has a stalling problem. Probably something with fuel not making it to where it needs to go, but I haven't taken it in because...(a) Low on funds & (b) it starts right back up. Of course, this is wasting time when I have to keep doing it. A car decides to come down the street. She sits in the car about 5 minutes, looking at me & backs up down the street. Thank you so very much! Next time, I will charge for entertainment. Somehow, after about 15 minutes of rocking the car back & forth, drive to reverse, I made it back into the driving ruts. No matter how many times this happens, it is NOT something you get used to. It stills wears so badly on your patience that you want to get out of the car & just leave it. (till the snow thaws) <br />
<br />
There is also the issue of the amount of gas it takes to get unstuck. And, with gas prices the way they are going right now, it's very worrisome. <br />
I am having so many "If-Only's" right now. I think the major one would take care of a lot.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6WWLskA4sFrv56vPncYTCPNvzBZEFAYD33ODJmKS2fN3cb2-z9TW-1YT0OiMZm4dh6SpSXz21TkJ6nmm86Mv7qpxFdeasQVp85wFGeMPnWU827SPLIV3M6Nge0fb41lVUgqC9CF38pA/s1600/brokepiggy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6WWLskA4sFrv56vPncYTCPNvzBZEFAYD33ODJmKS2fN3cb2-z9TW-1YT0OiMZm4dh6SpSXz21TkJ6nmm86Mv7qpxFdeasQVp85wFGeMPnWU827SPLIV3M6Nge0fb41lVUgqC9CF38pA/s320/brokepiggy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
If only I had the money...<br />
<br />
Waving the Babushka to flag down someone to push out my car,<br />
Collette (((HUGS)))Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-41998950904185792872010-12-27T02:24:00.000-05:002010-12-27T02:24:59.536-05:00PSST! Merry Christmas! (Yes, it really is me)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9HV1-5jE7gdULrnARKAtXSmw0BcNiUNjA67NLMukuTj1TXFYKeN-ihVL2ypsGI8n-yq33RUbFRvFGK_Vp0NI_ieN-wVqBTp8CwDU6kyhRPw7LY2w5ficAE311shx_4RGzErDNMvM6hN0/s1600/santaforgot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9HV1-5jE7gdULrnARKAtXSmw0BcNiUNjA67NLMukuTj1TXFYKeN-ihVL2ypsGI8n-yq33RUbFRvFGK_Vp0NI_ieN-wVqBTp8CwDU6kyhRPw7LY2w5ficAE311shx_4RGzErDNMvM6hN0/s1600/santaforgot.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Merry Christmas & Happy Whatever-Else=You-Celebrate-At-This-Time-Of-Year!<br />
<br />
Well, seeing how I got that out of the way...I really missed you all so much! <br />
I know it's been almost 8 months since I last posted. I don't have any major, cataclysmic, life-altering, or out-of-this-world reason why I just stopped posting. Actually, life is pretty much the same here in good old Michigan. Same old shit, almost different year.<br />
I do feel really bad about how I just stopped writing without any reason. If I made anyone worry, I truly apologize. And if no one worried...Well damn, someone worried, right? ***crickets*** RIGHT? LOL!<br />
Yes, I am STILL a smartass! (better than being a dumbass, but I've been that, too, I suppose ;) OK, you can all quit nodding your heads in agreement now ;)<br />
I suppose one reason I stopped sharing all my infinite wisdom (snicker) was that I felt overwhelmed. I was just so tired of everything at that point. I thought summer break would find me wanting to write, but, unfortunately, it didn't. I found myself almost dreading to be on the computer. As much as I love writing & reading online, it began to feel like a burden. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQS94-U9n3oHBXIXrtw5aZgAMmrglUXp9lPCWxzXl8w1v20pkRXmhG25bqVZ6OcZiMX1xad4zTRyd-E9oKM_76vqg-zr-sJ7hd3UqgReoK5jo-IECRFYVWKL7kb8Eom44BidUCl9qU9eQ/s1600/trueblood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQS94-U9n3oHBXIXrtw5aZgAMmrglUXp9lPCWxzXl8w1v20pkRXmhG25bqVZ6OcZiMX1xad4zTRyd-E9oKM_76vqg-zr-sJ7hd3UqgReoK5jo-IECRFYVWKL7kb8Eom44BidUCl9qU9eQ/s320/trueblood.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I got back to doing something I love, but hadn't taken the time for it in quite a while. READING. Real, ink-filled, finger-slicing pages that almost stay open on their own from stretching it open too much. I found myself engulfed in Anne Rice & Charlaine Harris. From Anne Rice, it was "The Tale of the Body Thief" & "The Vampire Lestat". Unfortunately, even though I have seen the movie, "Interview With the Vampire", I do not own the book. Eventually, I will pick it up. I could go to the library, but there is something special to me about owning my books. I admit, I do have way too many books (as does Sarah), but can't seem to part with them. Of course, there are quite a few that I could sell or donate without bothering me too much. I'll have to make that a resolution for New Year's (although I am rather bad at keeping resolutions & that's another post anyway). <br />
As for Charlaine Harris, I have read the first three books that the HBO series, "True Blood", was created from. They are: "Dead Until Dark", "Living Dead in Dallas", & "Club Dead". I also have the next two books of what is formally known as "The Sookie Stackhouse Novels". But, of course, I have not taken the time to sit down & peruse them yet.<br />
I can't recall how I got into the "True Blood" series, but it's become one of my guilty pleasures. I ended up watching the first two seasons online in about a week or so. As season three started, I caught the first episode online. The HBO/Cinemax package is the only movie group we didn't have in the Directv lineup. My dear, sweet (?), loving hubby checked online for pricing & found out if we ordered the package with all the movie stations, it would be cheaper than to just add HBO to it. So, VOILA!, I was able to enjoy the series from my tv instead of attempting to download & view it online. Now, I have to wait until summer once again for the new season to start. HMPH! <br />
As for my guilty pleasures, I still love watching "Big Brother", "Survivor", & "Big Bang Theory". I have also become "attached" to "Dexter" this season & have only seen this past season with Julia Stiles. So, this means I will have to "catch up" by watching the series from the beginning. Never enough time for "must see" tv...lol. Another show I found highly interesting is the new series "The Walking Dead" on AMC. Zombies are always so much fun! A couple more shows I like are "Lie To Me", Monday nights on Fox & (no laughing, harrassing, or booing, please) "Glee", also on Fox. <br />
I've also been on Twitter & Facebook quite a bit, so if you can't go another day, hour, minute or second without my fabulous wit, you can find me there.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN4my6raTvN1E9Zp9SyY-sAvrdCq77TckzHDGhnq0aBeOl6KuG-0e2pky6VDNMyTbkJ4fnXXVl3lxdarwwdfMbSutdbik-z0PLeINJ3BuJjTYJfaU5GWl8ZZBjqIgfnuktljftB0QDJZ4/s1600/superbabcia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN4my6raTvN1E9Zp9SyY-sAvrdCq77TckzHDGhnq0aBeOl6KuG-0e2pky6VDNMyTbkJ4fnXXVl3lxdarwwdfMbSutdbik-z0PLeINJ3BuJjTYJfaU5GWl8ZZBjqIgfnuktljftB0QDJZ4/s320/superbabcia.jpg" width="314" /></a></div>Not much else to tell except an update about my grandma (babcia). At 93 years old, she's still amazing me every day! She's been in & out of the hospital quite a bit in the last eight months. She's still having the same stomach problems, but since she changed doctors a few months ago, they think they have finally found the reason for her stomach problems. There is an artery her digestive system that is blocked. When she eats, the blood tries to force it's way through the artery (the docs said there are a few arteries that do this). Since the blood speeds up for digestion, the pressure of it attempting to go through said artery causes her severe abdominal pain. It doesn't happen every time she eats or with certain foods either. They've tried to see if eliminating certain items would help, but it really had no bearing on the situation. The only option they said might possibly help would be to insert a stent in the artery, but that's not guaranteed & surgery at 93 y/o & with the rest of her health problems, would be too great a risk. Pain meds, antacids, & stool softeners only help a little, if at all. So, pretty much every day, she has stomach pain that gets intolerable at times. With pain & discomfort being a consequence, she is reluctant to eat at times. Babcia loves her food but the pain associated with eating anything makes her very leery. I believe that the worrying contributes to the situation as well. It just seems to be a no-win situation. It adds to my stress levels as well. <br />
I still visit her almost everyday. She is, after all, only 4 blocks away. My dad lives with her & takes care of many things around the house. But, being the old-school, Polish woman she is, she still insists on doing all she possibly can without laying down until it is absolutely necessary. She still does laundry, dishes, cooks, sews, gardens (with help from my dad & myself) & whatever else she can get away with...lol! She gets so frustrated when she can't get things done because of pain or because her sight has gotten really bad. You can't blame her. She has always been very independent.<br />
Now, you know I can't post without bringing up work. Not too much to say about that except it's as stressful as ever & getting worse all the time. I adore the kids. They are not the problem. Some of my co-workers, there lies the problem. Truth be told, the problem lies more with the boss man, the "manager" & a couple of employees that would get away with murder if it happened. And the bitch of it all is none of these individuals signs my check! With this being Sarah's (my daughter) senior year of high school, I am hoping to be finished with working in the cafeteria at the end of this school year. Unfortunately, money being a major factor, or lack thereof, I need to work. Although my paychecks are barely enough to contribute to our financial situation, they do help. I am still trying to find online work, such as data entry or something in that area where I wouldn't have to use transportation, therefore, saving money on the ever-rising price of gas.<br />
I could probably write a lot more, but then who could keep reading? (congrats to those who have made it this far ;)<br />
It felt really good to be back here, sharing with my online "family", once again. I won't commit to a certain date when I will post again, but I sure hope it will be soon because I may have a "little" more to share with you!<br />
Thank you for being here! Once again, I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas, Festivus, etc... God Bless & may we all have health, wealth & happiness each day in our lives! (((HUGS)))<br />
<br />
Bringing Back the Babushka,<br />
ColletteMoonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-31172110296446169262010-05-03T21:20:00.000-04:002010-05-03T21:20:59.817-04:00Things Have Been Nuts...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFYNfvZDCYZNqZHkoe7LlKN9VSY-wpWoA0NUrATsQ5OZqB1XfUxUH3brvVQsvFLwezI9GEreXGfuNkcj6HWQii0eMXuAV5DWVG2gApYWbJu53E-NXy9DbJ7VE53bP_8VDdl6cb_4uCEE/s1600/iloveu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFYNfvZDCYZNqZHkoe7LlKN9VSY-wpWoA0NUrATsQ5OZqB1XfUxUH3brvVQsvFLwezI9GEreXGfuNkcj6HWQii0eMXuAV5DWVG2gApYWbJu53E-NXy9DbJ7VE53bP_8VDdl6cb_4uCEE/s320/iloveu.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Hey my dear friends! So sorry I haven't been around lately. I know I should have let you guys all know that I am ok. <br />
Things have been a bit crazy lately. My grandma has been & is still sick with stomach problems. She was in & out of emergency & the hospital without anything being done to help her condition. She has been talking with her stomach doc about having surgery to put a stent somewhere in her gastric area to open it up in order to keep her from being nauseous. Being 93, it will be very dangerous to have surgery but she is tired of living with the constant problem. Almost everytime she eats, she gets sick to her stomach. Then she doesn't want to eat for fear of feeling sick again or having stomach pains. She has lost way too much weight & I thank God that she still has the will to live, for now.<br />
So, with all of this, & work, I still have my own family life. I suppose I let myself get worn down & ended up with a stomach virus for almost a week & am now taking antibiotics for an ear infection that crept up on me with a bad cold/cough & allergies. <br />
We have had a couple of near 80 days where I sat out in the yard to take in some healing sun, which helps a little. But alas, my summer vacation is still over 5 weeks away. Today, I pulled a lot of weeds from my yard & will maybe finish next week if the temps come back up again as they are to be in the 50's for the weekend. UGH! I will never get well if these damn temps don't quit hopping about!<br />
I pray you are all doing well & enjoying life. I am getting there once again, but it is taking some time. I love & miss you all! (((HUGS)))!!!<br />
Waving My Babushka in the Wind,<br />
ColletteMoonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8893710783169224300.post-43581775046460785692010-04-02T20:45:00.000-04:002010-04-02T20:45:28.869-04:00Hoppy Easter and Other Miscellaneous Ramblings<div>"cough cough" AHEM! Yes, it's me! And only a week & three days after the previous post. Not bad, for me anyway. So, on with the show!<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">First & foremost, before I do anything, I must thank <a href="http://ishouldabeenastripper.com/">Chrissy at "I Shoulda Been A Stripper"</a>. A few weeks ago, she gave me this wonderful award. <a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_810380635"></span><span id="goog_810380636"></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix1LV5pwXAyTSWVR0U6jVB4dGsqJjye1CN1JIAebASGEdJWd8dBGL-2-7YJnBLA2Glqb_FBal5YRQGm9iGykBbX2WXX__Tbl0IEtFBwbNhljo9lpLKKvO2PpkEVTRMSTUUCGOvOj4GhtM/s1600/FeelsLikeHome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix1LV5pwXAyTSWVR0U6jVB4dGsqJjye1CN1JIAebASGEdJWd8dBGL-2-7YJnBLA2Glqb_FBal5YRQGm9iGykBbX2WXX__Tbl0IEtFBwbNhljo9lpLKKvO2PpkEVTRMSTUUCGOvOj4GhtM/s320/FeelsLikeHome.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">It's the "Feels Like Home" Award.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">There is only one requirement to this award & that is simply to pass it on.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Pick five people who make you feel welcome; who make this strange virtual world of ours feel more comfortable, habitable - and then pass them this award as a token of your gratitude, a thank-you gift. So, I shall pass it along to:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://boomergeekgirl.blogspot.com/">Reffie at Confessions of a Reforming Geek</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://mom-zombie.com/">Mom Zombie at Mom Zombie</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://mommywantsvodka.com/">Aunt Becky at Mommy Wants Vodka</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://danajoywyzard.blogspot.com/">Dana at Life is Good</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://thelilacgrove.blogspot.com/">Clare at The Lilac Grove</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">It was very difficult to choose out of so many great blogs, but those are my five that are comfy spots to me.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioMOLQaiQ94YIDORe4mnPBf265fOfzuuM0nynsdsWHG1q5WM3Wfu-VX_h_lmgSrlpufjCSGahtVm3EAChjvBQy3eC5p_yZLERUQQ4Jmami4NAjtFk_KEsBo6KdqAPv72RhdoC0tkJF_8Y/s1600/vlog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioMOLQaiQ94YIDORe4mnPBf265fOfzuuM0nynsdsWHG1q5WM3Wfu-VX_h_lmgSrlpufjCSGahtVm3EAChjvBQy3eC5p_yZLERUQQ4Jmami4NAjtFk_KEsBo6KdqAPv72RhdoC0tkJF_8Y/s200/vlog.jpg" width="200" /></a>What next? Shall I dazzle you with my brilliance? (cough cuckoo cough) No, I know. I'll ask a question. Guess what I got? I bet you'll never guess. C'mon, what do ya think? Any ideas? Ok, I'll give you a hint. You may get to see me live. (& maybe hear me sing) LOL. Ok, no singing, I promise. Is that a good enough clue? Did someone say webcam? YUP! That's it. I got a webcam. And I am thrilled! Now I can do vlogs & you can see my loveley face & hear me sing (NOT!). No, I will not sing online. I wouldn't torture you like that. I have to figure how to set it up. I have this week off for Easter break so I should have time to figure it out. I am looking forward to doing video blogs, but kind of nervous, too. We also got the webcam to talk to my family out of state on Skype. We did that at my sister's house on New Year's eve. We got to talk to my uncle in Minnesota face to face. It was pretty awesome. I've been playing around with it a little bit so we'll see how it goes.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqUHTBBjB12YUw2uDb3HAldeBLXbtNJmllpYmMeaheVvjF9DNV7BIzTQIr5hBux-M6M2NVqOyouMVrRcsvLhuA5EfMrkQ54pzwJdQitWtvaAS3Uwgel879HELfM26IhHcp4-zVZIkQuk0/s1600/fights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="138" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqUHTBBjB12YUw2uDb3HAldeBLXbtNJmllpYmMeaheVvjF9DNV7BIzTQIr5hBux-M6M2NVqOyouMVrRcsvLhuA5EfMrkQ54pzwJdQitWtvaAS3Uwgel879HELfM26IhHcp4-zVZIkQuk0/s200/fights.jpg" width="200" /></a>Yes, I am on Easter break, thank goodness! I have off all next week. It's getting really bad at the school with all the fights. There have been fights all year, but it seems when it gets warmer, the kids get out of control. These kids were actually getting in fights on purpose so they could post them to "youtube". Is that ridiculous or what ? I wish I could get out of there, but my daughter has one more year left of school, so I am pretty much stuck. I certainly won't leave with her in that school. She is doing awesome academically & it really pisses me off that certain groups of kids ruin the school for those that care. The principal said he is tired of it & just doesn't do anything anymore. We have to call the police in most of the time. I just pray that no one gets killed one day. Sorry to bring down the mood. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Anyway, I want to wish all of you a very Happy Easter! Don't eat too much candy! Hopefully, you'll be seeing my smiling face soon! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Donning my Easter Babushka, </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Collette (((HUGS)))</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixJpK5BtIOBWNsIZoXV2Y5RWOTQ7Fckz3UxdbaGTMm7YJ7r561xxHO5_qV0V3jCRHjkLpm6fZ3Hb3MPHlnzha9sAdEu7AIX1u_8LHtVNyer3lixKbfkkWB4ONYlhhyphenhyphenCLJEtxCGaFyd4C4/s1600/what.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixJpK5BtIOBWNsIZoXV2Y5RWOTQ7Fckz3UxdbaGTMm7YJ7r561xxHO5_qV0V3jCRHjkLpm6fZ3Hb3MPHlnzha9sAdEu7AIX1u_8LHtVNyer3lixKbfkkWB4ONYlhhyphenhyphenCLJEtxCGaFyd4C4/s320/what.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div>Moonrayvennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11254803252513819562noreply@blogger.com19