Wisdom On Wednesdays!

 Happy Wednesday!

Patience

I was not blessed with Patience. Patience totally alludes me. I try to get it, I work on being more patient, but I am rarely ever successful trying to be patient. I thought it would come with age. Ha - that didn't happen. I am not just off the cuff - impatient. I am impatient when it comes to stuff that matters that I have to wait for someone else to handle. UGH! Maybe the impatience it mixed with a control issue. Oh heck, I don't know, but I do know that I need to work on being more patient. Does anyone else feel this way too?



Have a happy and patient Tuesday!

Rainy Monday!

Happy Rainy Monday!

Sayings On Sunday!

Happy Sunday!

Taking Daughter #2 Back To College!

It's time to make the annual trip to drop off a daughter at college!


Daughter #2 is going back tomorrow, so we will only have adult child at home. At least my daughter at home is a recent college grad and looking for employment. The good thing is this is #2's sophomore year, so all the emotions won't be quite so raw. Not sure who all is making the journey. I don't have lots of volunteers to help. Of course, her father, my ex husband and his wife can't help. They are just useless. My husband, her step-father is busy on a project at work so he won't be available. Looks like daughter #1 and I will get her moved in and help her get it all together. As my girls used to say, "girl power". I think that was from The Spice Girls. It will be fun to just have the three of us together again. It was just the three of us for the years in between my marriages. We usually try to take a girl trip each year to commemorate our little family!
So no posts from me tomorrow! Have a wonderful weekend and safe travels to us all!

Listen To Your Inner Voice!

One message I have taught my daughters is to listen to that "nagging" voice inside of you. That inner voice is your friend. It will not lie to you nor will it lead you astray! Certainly in my lifetime my inner voice has always been a guiding force in life and in decisions I made, both large and small.

I remember my first apartment, I was expecting a girlfriend over one night around 12am. She wanted to talk about her life. I was on the phone with another friend and there was a knock at the door. The phone cord wasn't long enough to reach to look out the peep hole. So I started to just reach and unlock the door. My inner voice started shouting at me, "NO!". I listened to that voice, I put the phone down and outside my door was one of the craziest looking, dirty men I had ever seen. Thank God I didn't open that door!

I remember when my husband came home after surgery. I watched him closely and something kept telling me that there was something wrong. I listened to that voice and called the Dr. He advised me to take him by ambulance back to the hospital. After an examination and tests, they found that he had 6 blood clots. Three in each lung and two of them were quite large. I thank God everyday that I listened to that voice and called.

I have these memories today because again today I listened to my inner voice. My Mom 88 is a Coumadin patient. She has been having some "health issues" and her Internist took her off of Coumadin until she could see a specialist on Sept. 10. I thought this is wrong, she MUST have Coumadin. He assured me she would be fine. That voice, nagged at me for about 20 minutes after returning home. So much so, that I called her Cardiologist to make sure it was OK for her to be off the Coumadin. He said, ABSOLUTELY NOT! She could have a stroke, heart attack and or .....you know, but I can't bare to write it. The Cardiologist was outraged and put her back on immediately. She had been off of it since Tuesday. I shutter to think what would have happened if I had not listened to that "nagging inner voice".

Frankly, my "Inner Voice" examples are too numerous to share. I have come to really trust it. I think the "Inner Voice" is too often ignored by people. What if others think we are pushy, or that we ask to many questions because of it. I don't care, I left the popularity contest in high school. Clearly, we must use our sound and educated judgement. But is doesn't hurt to give that little voice inside of each of us, its time to be heard!

Happy Thursday!

Wisdom On Wednesday!

Have a great Wednesday!

The Sandwich Generation!

There isn't anything as filling as a good sandwich. Unless of course, you are talking about the Sandwich Generation. The definition of the Sandwich Generation is a generation of people who are caring for their aging parents while supporting their own children. Wow, now that is a mouth full!

My mother is 88 and suffers from some dementia. She is a heart patient on coumadin and is currently suffering some kidney issues. My daughters are 21 and 19. The 21 year old just completed college in four years and with honors. She continues to seek employment with most other members of the class of 2012. My 19 year old is supposed to leave for college on Saturday to start her sophomore year. Until today.....

While I am in the hospital waiting room, while my mother is having tests on her kidneys, I was on the telephone with my 19 year old talking her "off the roof". She had decided not to return to college. What....really?????

Five hours later, my mom is home, feed, resting and waiting on test result.  My daughter has decided to go back to college. Aaaaaahhhhh......all in a days work. There is nothing like a "sandwich".....NOT! Don't get my wrong, I am not complaining. What would I be doing without them all.....nothing as important as what I do with them. Gotta love the family ;-)

Low Calorie Blueberry Muffins!

After spending time at the Yelton Manor B & B last week, I really got use to enjoying fresh baked and healthy muffins for breakfast. So I decided to make some low calorie Blueberry Muffins.

Delicious and here is the recipe!

These muffins are easy to make and are perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups low-fat buttermilk
• 1 cup oats
• 2 Tbsp canola oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F
2. Combine the first 5 ingredients (through vanilla) in a large bowl. Allow to soak for 5 minutes. In another bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the buttermilk mixture to the flour mixture, and stir well. Fold in the blueberries.
Spray 12 muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray, and fill 2/3 full with the batter.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of one of the muffins comes out clean.
Serves 12
Per Serving Calories 140
Do you have any special low calorie muffin recipes to share? Happy Monday!

Sayings On Sunday!

Sunsets – a gift from God!

Another picture from Lake Michigan. Happy Sunday!

I Am Back!

We are back from our "get-away". We didn't have enough time to go to Cape Cod, but we sure did have enough time to go to South Haven, Michigan on Lake Michigan's eastern shore. We stayed at the cutest Bed and Breakfast named "Yelton Manor and Guest House".

We had a second floor room with a balcony, where you could catch a glimpse of the lake!

They delivered breakfast to our room each morning by 7:30am. They didn't knock, you can just get it when you are ready for it. Convenient and delicious!

All this and it is only steps from the shores of Lake Michigan!

It was a wonderful trip and I will share more pics and details later. Though we did endure some rain storms, overall is was a wonderful time. Any time at Lake Michigan is a wonderful time. If you are thinking about visiting that area, you might want to check out The Yelton Manor and Guest House!
Happy Saturday!

Wisdom On Wednesdays!

Happy Wednesday!
On a side note, "Baron" and I are off for a short get away! Have a wonderful few days and I will be in touch when I return!

Check out Artist Felix Gada

Felix Gada is a fantastic artist that I learned about while visiting Miami. His website is www.iseefelix.com
This is one creative and talented artist. This picture is a small sampling of his work, I thought you could get the idea! I love his work!

Enjoy a wonderful Tuesday!

Another Great Find!

I shared my estate sale find with you on Saturday and I thought I would share another one of my estate sale finds. I wanted a bar cart so badly. I shopped and shopped and couldn't find one anywhere. I went to an estate auction one morning and there it was. It was like it was just waiting for me to come and claim it. It needed some work when I bought it, so I sanded it, painted it, cleaned the glass and voila - here it is!

I am not finished with what I have displayed on it. It is a work in progress. But the main part I wanted to share is that I paid $1 for it. That is right - $1. Too make the story even better the auctioneer had put three paintings with it. So I paid $1 for the paintings and the bar cart. A random woman asked me if I would sell her two of the paintings. I said sure and asked what she wanted to pay for them She offered $1. So I literally got the bar cart for NOTHING. "Baron" couldn't believe it. He was so proud of me and I was so proud of myself. I love a good buy!
Have a great Monday!

Sayings On Sunday!

Good Sunday morning to you!



This is so true, I always say, "you make plans and God laughs". Enjoy a wonderful day!

Estate Sale Find!

Good morning! I had not been to a garage/estate sale in ages, but this morning while running errands I saw a sign for an estate sale and I had to stop! Inside the home were some lovely things, nothing I necessarily needed, but lovely none the less. Just as I was about to exit I spied this creative dish.

It was marked $1. I picked it up immediately and went to pay for it. The lady who was collecting the money explained that her mother was into making pottery at one phase and this was one of her pieces. I asked if she wanted to keep it, she said, "no, please take it and enjoy it". I think it will be such a conversation piece at a summer party. Don't you agree? Such fun and only $1!
Have a wonderful Saturday!

Friday's Favorite Five!

This week is my list of 5 favorite exercises. Let me know if you have some exercises that you really enjoy too!
Zumba - I love it and I can't believe I hadn't started earlier. I LOVE IT and I am seeing a big difference in my body!


Water Aerobics - this is the most relaxing thing I do for myself. I feel so relaxed when I leave and yet, it is such a good work out too!


Pilates - going to the Pilates Studio is something that I am NOT willing to give up. I feel taller, leaner and more confident when I leave!


Long walks with or without my doggie - "Berk"


Bicycling - I love going for a ride alone - no conversations, no telephones, just fresh air and freedom!

With all of these exercises you would think I would be stress free. (LOL) I would hate to see what I would be like without them! Have a wonderful Friday!

Great Find!

Ok, so you know how I am always looking for a tasty, yet nutritious treat. I am thrilled when it is either sweet or salty. If it is combination of sweet and salty.....wow....watch out! My latest find is salty. I purchased some "Veggie Chips" - all natural and no preservatives. The best part is you can have 38 chips for only 130 calories. I was skeptical at first, but after tasting them - yummy!

I bought the ones that are seasoned with Sea Salt. The chips are a combination of potato with an addition of natural tomato and spinach making these chips a great tasting treat! They are made by Sensible Portions of Boulder, CO. The chips are all natural, 0g trans fat, no preservatives, kosher certified and a wonderfully delicious taste. I am hooked!
Have a wonderful Thursday!

Rare 2nd Post on Wednesday!

I am alone in these feelings or do others feel this way too? I am so very sick of people. I am sick of ungrateful bitchy kids, I am sick of rude and obnoxious people, who seem to be everywhere, I am sick of poor customer service, I am sick of being pushed back to 4 on a list of 3 by those close to me. I am sick of being forced to listen to idiots on their cellphones who carry on personal conversations in public places and who apparently don't know there is a microphone inside of the phone. I am just sick of being tired and I am tired of being sick. I am sick and tired of everyone thinking everything is ok. It is not ok, it isn't ok to be a bitch to your Mom, it isn't ok to ignore your wife, it isn't ok to talk over people in a work environment, it isn't ok to pretend not to see me when I am clearly waiting for your assistance in the store, it isn't ok to try to get a Doctor's appointment only to be put off for 60 days. It isn't ok to carry on a teleconference in a restaurant while I am just trying to eat my side salad. What the hell is wrong with people anymore. UGH - I think I need a vacation, some alone time. Oh no, I go back to work in 12 days. It is to late to go anywhere now. Plus I have an appointment to color my grays and you know she wouldn't be able to be flexible and squeeze me (a good tipping customer) in at another time. Oh heck no, I would have to wait another 5 weeks.
I try to keep my blog positive and inspiring. But as of right now, I am sick and tired of BS and I wanted someone to know! Thanks for listening, tell me how you feel if it makes you feel better!
Now, back to trying to be positive and planning a short trip, after the 14th of course ;-)

Wisdom On Wednesdays!

Happy Wednesday!

Tuesday Treat!

Today my husband brought me a special treat - a bouquet of flowers. I love fresh flowers! Thanks "Baron". Someday I hope to have a lush flower garden where I can cut my own fresh flowers!

Happy Tuesday!

Pineapple Grove Gifts!

If you haven't shopped here, try it! I love it! They have the cutest, preppiest items! I purchased some monogrammed sunglasses for my daughter and they are delightful. If you "like" them on Facebook you are eligible to win a free pair of monogrammed sunglasses. Have a wonderful Monday and if you stop by Pineapple Grove Gifts than happy shopping!

Sayings On Sunday!

Happy Sunday!

Community Rib Off Competition!

Hi all! Sorry my post is late today, but it was a late evening. Our community celebrated the "Rib-Off" last night and it was fantastic. The food was delicious. So many to ribs to choose from and each of them were delicious. I didn't try them all but friends did and everyone agreed, all the entries were winners! The food was good, the music was good and the turn out was tremendous! Nothing like a "Rib Off" to remind you that it is summer time!


Have a wonderful Saturday!

Friday's Favorite Five!

I love a good bargain and here are some I am anxious to share. The following favorite five items were all purchased for less than $10. Incredible!

These three were purchased from Old Navy -
The pink workout top was $7 as was the pink/white stripped top!
The little Parisian bag was only $1. I thought it would be great to take to the farmer's market, etc.

This is wild blueberry honey. It is made here locally and it is delicious. The perfect buy for only $4!

This little goody is a "sleep mask". I wear it at night when "Baron" keeps the television on watching some late night show - of course this week the show of choice is the Olympics. I don't know about you, but I need my sleep! This was only $1 at Family Dollar! I ran in there to get some Epsom Salts and found some "neat" finds!

Have a wonderful Friday!

Day Trip!

Yesterday morning I called my Mom (age88) around 7:30am to see if she would like to go on a spontaneous road trip  with Daughter #1 and I . Of course, Daughter #1 was still sleeping and had no idea of the pending trip. My Mom agreed, I woke up my daughter and we were on the road by 10am. We didn't have a certain destination but we all three agreed we would like to go to "the water". Living in Ohio we are somewhat "land locked" but, we do have access to the Great Lakes, Lake Erie specifically. We drove to Marblehead, Oh. It is home to the Marblehead Lighthouse.


We walked around and enjoyed the beautiful scenery on the lake front!


We visited a few small stores, all with a nautical theme. I bought this adorable frame for "Baron".
The picture isn't very good, but it reads - "The Captain and His First Mate". (smile)

We ended the afternoon with a delicious lunch at "Mon Ami" Restaurant and Winery.

We enjoyed wonderful baked brie with apples and crab cakes! Yummy! I don't have any pics of the food as we started eating so quickly. (smile).

It was a wonderful day shared with three generations. I think it was the kind of day that memories are made of! Have a wonderful Thursday.

Wisdom On Wednesdays!

I saw this on "pinterest". It really touched me! Have a wonderful Wednesday!