Lipplounge

What Will People Remember About You?

2012-01-12T15:30:00.003-05:00

People will forget what you said.

People will forget what you did.

People will never forget how you made them feel.

I saw this on a friend's Facebook profile today. The truthfulness behind this really impacted me in a way I had never given thought. What will people remember about you?

Reflection

2011-12-28T21:57:00.004-05:00

This week I have been reflecting on some changes I want to make in my life for 2012. I have mentioned before that I simply do not bother making New Year's resolutions. They are a waste of time. By February practically every one has gone by the wayside. Instead I try to just make small adjustments to my life - additions, deletions, tweaking.

Several months ago I mentioned "Me Time." My cousin attended a conference this year, and "Me Time" was one of the areas covered. They discussed how an individual needs daily "Me Time" for good mental health. I agree! The hard part is finding the time for "Me Time" in an otherwise busy life!

Recently I ran across an article addressing the best habits for a healthy mind. Essentially I feel it's addressing "Me Time." It addresses ......

Focus Time

Play Time

Connecting Time

Physical Time

Time In

Down Time

Sleep Time

Take a moment to read the article. Then take a few moments this week and reflect on how you can integrate "Me Time" into your daily/weekly schedule.

The ABC's of Genuine Happiness

2011-12-27T22:10:00.004-05:00

I saw this on Pinterest today and really enjoyed reading the thoughts!

One Day At A Time!

2011-12-19T21:08:00.001-05:00

Truth

2011-12-12T17:11:00.003-05:00

You can say "I'm sorry" a million times.

You can say "I love you" as much as you want.

You can say whatever you want whenever you want.

But if you are not going to prove that the things you say are true,

Then do not say anything at all.

Because if you cannot show it,

Your words do not mean a thing

(Found on Pinterest.com)

Life Is Short

2011-12-08T18:23:00.002-05:00

This was part of a signature line in an email I received. What a beautiful sentiment.

Life is short and we do not have much time to gladden the hearts of those who travel the way with us. So be swift to love, and make haste to be kind, and may the blessing of God be upon you this day and always.

I am thankful for ......

2011-11-30T21:24:00.000-05:00

A good number of my friends on Facebook are doing a "Daily Gratitude" during the month of November. With Thanksgiving being this month it's an excellent time to explore the many things and individuals we are grateful for in our lives. Another reminded me that November is "National Blog Month" where the idea is to blog every day during the month. I have decided to combine the two!

I am thankful for ......

1. ...... all my Pampered Paws's clients. They allow me to be one of the very few people in life who can truthfully say "I love my job!"

2. ...... the morals, values, and lessons my mother shared with me. She passed away 29 years ago today when I was 26 years old. Every day I think of her.

3. ...... my husband. I have a husband who knows exactly how to "handle" me!

4. ...... my son. He has grown to be such an amazing man and brings a great deal of joy to my life. I am so very proud of him.

6. ...... my dearest friend. We truly "get" one another and value each other as individuals.

7. ...... an upcoming trip. I'm truly looking forward to spending time with my cousin.

8. ...... the beauty of nature. I derive so much pleasure from watching the wildlife in my back yard -- ducks, geese, birds. They bring peace to a sometimes hectic existence.

9. ...... pencil and paper. In this world of ALL electronic gadgets I am so thankful that pencil and paper have not become extinct! I have to write it down and have it in my hand to see in order to remember! Sad ...... but true.

10. ...... my little dog, Pepper, and the unconditional love she shows me every day. Our pets are the only living creatures in our lives that overlook our flaws and give us all the love they have and ask absolutely nothing in return.

11. ...... the many veterans who have served our country unselfishly allowing me to live a life in freedom!

12. ...... the many, many hours people have put into my family's lineage so that I am now gaining a better knowledge of 'what I came from.' I'm amazed at how what I thought was such a small family has suddenly grown beyond my wildest imagination.

13. ...... all those who came before me and paved the way for me to be who I am today.

14. ...... rediscovering a wonderful relationship with my cousin. It's wonderful to have my cousin again!

15. ..... the beautiful colors of Fall! Observing the colors painted on the world's canvas makes my daily drive peaceful.

16. ...... for the small things that make my life "comfortable."

17. ...... the opportunity to spend an afternoon with a good friend - chatting, eating, and catching up.

18. ..... my good friend Cindy. Today is her birthday, and I wish her many, many more happy birthdays to come!

19. ...... all the wonderful memories I have of all the good times I spent with my Dad. Today would have been his 87th birthday. I miss him.

20. ...... slow days allowing me to relax and play "catch up."

21. ...... skilled surgeons and prayer as my dear, dear friend's husband undergoes back surgery today.

22. ...... the many pets I see daily as a pet sitter! Their little wagging tails and bright eyes have the ability to change even the worse mood or day.

23. ...... the little bit of time I spent in the kitchen with my Mom when I was a kid. Every once in a while it comes in handy!

24. ...... the friends I have and the part they play in my life. Also for having my cousin in my life again! I'm also very thankful for my family whom I love immensely!

25. ...... my son still inviting me to spend time with him.

26. ...... the fantastic healing my friend's husband is experiencing after his surgery! You would never know he had back surgery just 5 days ago.

27. ...... early morning peace I find with my cup of coffee and ESPN!

28. ...... modern technology. I may curse it from time to time but many aspects of today's technology make life so much easier!

29. ...... radio stations that play Christmas music 24 hours a day! We have two in the area, and they put me in the Christmas spirit!

30. ...... my health! Many deal daily with serious illnesses; I feel blessed to only deal with minor aches and pains.

Waterbeds

2011-08-08T21:35:00.005-04:00

Waterbeds are fantastic!

Waterbeds are frustrating.

Waterbeds are wonderful!

Waterbeds are worrisome.

We have a waterbed. In fact, our son has a waterbed. I suppose you could say we're a family of waterbed lovers. When I met my husband, I had what I call a "regular" bed. You know, a bed with a mattress and springs. He had a waterbed and wanted to have another when he moved in with me. So ...... we got a waterbed.

They are, without a doubt, the most comfortable beds around. They are heated. On a cold winter night there isn't anything better than crawling between the sheets of a heated waterbed. There isn't an inch of you that isn't supported. The water envelopes you. When I'm away from home, after several nights of sleeping on a "regular" bed I can't wait to get home to my waterbed.

Now ...... to counteract all the wonderful things about having a waterbed are the several different things that can cause sheer frustration. If the heater should break, there is nothing colder than sleeping in a bed where the water is slowly losing its temperature. That water is cold! If the mattress should develop a leak, there is nothing more frustrating than to realize your hands are a little wet when tucking the sheets in while making the bed.

You can replace a heater by draining the bed partially ...... maneuvering the old heater out from under a partially filled mattress ...... carefully maneuvering the new heater under a partially filled mattress ...... then capping off the full water capacity in the mattress.

You can patch a small leak in a mattress. However, let's say you have a leak at the seam. They're not easily repaired. The seam is weakened ...... and ...... if you have a California King waterbed, you have over 500 gallons of water in a mattress with a weak seam. It's just a matter of time before the seam weakens again. Then the problem starts all over again.

So ...... you spend an entire afternoon searching for another mattress. They're not the easiest things to find any longer. Then ...... you get to drain as much of the water out of the old mattress as possible so you can lift it out of the bed frame. This is easier said than done - the fibers in the mattress which maintain the "waveless" action absorbs the water - the water doesn't drain from the fibers.

Then ...... you begin filling the new mattress - remember we're filling it with over 200+ gallons of water. Do you know how long it takes 200+ gallons of water to heat? It's not done in a day. It's not done in two days. It usually takes about three days.

Waterbeds are fantastic!

Waterbeds are frustrating.

Waterbeds are wonderful!

Waterbeds are worrisome.

Life

2011-07-29T22:06:00.003-04:00

Life is like a poker game.

Sometimes you deal the cards.

Sometimes you are dealt the cards.

It includes skill.

It includes luck.

You bet.

You check.

You bluff.

You raise.

You learn from those who play with you.

Sometimes you win with a pair.

Sometimes you lose with a full house.

But whatever happens ......

It's best to keep on shuffling along.

Everyone Has A Secret!

2011-07-24T22:11:00.002-04:00

“Everyone has a secret they haven’t shared.

Everyone has a past no one’s heard about.

Everyone has talents that people don’t notice.

Everyone has weaknesses hidden inside.

Everyone has a story left untold, so never start judging someone thinking you know them back to front.

Because the truth is, you probably don’t.”

Hot Outside?

2011-07-22T08:51:00.002-04:00

We're having some major heat. A friend sent this, and I think it says it all!

2011-07-20T19:25:00.000-04:00

Read Forever

2011-07-19T08:34:00.000-04:00

When blogging "My Life in Pictures," I chose A Bend in the Road by Nicholas Sparks as my favorite book. It's a wonderful story showcasing how our lives intermingle with the lives of others - those we don't even know.

Recently my cousin told me I had to read Sister by Rosamund Lupton. It is now my favorite book! It is wonderful! Trust me when I tell you - you have to read this book!

Simply by the title I thought it was a "chick" book - nope!

Simply by the title I thought it was a "touchy, feelly" book - nope!

Reading, for me, is an escape. I find reading relaxing. For me, there's nothing better than reading a book I simply cannot put down. Sister met all my requirements.

May I suggest you read this book with a friend. Trust me when I tell you - you will want to discuss this story line with someone when you finish reading the book!

Read Forever!

Five Things You Can Never Recover in Life

2011-07-18T16:56:00.003-04:00

1. The stone ......

after it's thrown.

2. The word ......

after it's spoken.

3. The occasion ......

after it's missed.

4. The time ......

after it's gone.

5. The person ......

after they've died.

I saw this on Facebook this afternoon and thought it was well worth passing along!

"Me" Time

2011-07-17T18:29:00.004-04:00

Recently I was told we should attempt to schedule 30 minutes to 1 hour of "me" time daily. Hmmm .... I thought. This doesn't sound like a bad idea. I was told the best way to always get your "me" time is to schedule it on your daily calendar just as you would any appointment. It should be treated as an appointment!

Last week I relayed this information to my "Sweet Tea Therapy" friend. I've written in the past how this particular friend and I get together once a week (this is our goal) - during this time we discuss anything and everything, complain about everything and everyone. We thoroughly enjoy one another's company and treasure each other's advice and insight. She questioned the "me" time theory by pointing out to me that it could be difficult to schedule this time daily because of our families. She pointed out to me that perhaps we don't get to schedule "me" time daily, but we strive to schedule "me" time weekly - Sweet Tea Therapy! Afterall, our therapy lasts an entire afternoon generally.

Here's my dilemma ...... as soon as I begin "me" time one of these two things will invariably occur!

I think of something around the house that I need to complete or start.

Someone in my family will need me to locate something for them.

Someone in my family will need my help to complete something they're doing.

If you schedule "me" time on a regular basis, how to do handle the outside influences? I'd love to discover the thoughts of others.

The ABC's of Life

2011-07-13T15:56:00.005-04:00

I have been away for a while. Many different factors entered into my absence - many things I had to just work my way through, and I feel that I have finally completed that process.

Last week my family and I vacationed in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. If you've never been there, why on earth not? I've stated before on my blog that I find the water calming ...... I find the water peaceful. During many hours of just sitting and observing the surf and many long walks, I was able to think and sort through thoughts, emotions, much sadness, and anger.

Years ago I was in therapy for a little over a year. It was a taboo topic at that time and few people knew then or know now. As a matter of fact, I took my son completely off-guard the other night when we were chatting by telling him this. During those therapy sessions I learned two very important things:

1. There is absolutely nothing or no one I can change. All I can change is how I react and handle situations or individuals.

2. Sometimes, for me, it's simply best to exorcise people and situations from my life as a way of coping.

This is when I more or less developed two mantras for life:

1. I'm not in charge.

2. I truly have no opinion.

With all that said ...... I developed in my mind a new topic to periodically blog -- The ABC's of Life. With the help of my cousin I've developed a topic for each letter of the alphabet (there are some letters still without topics - hopefully I'll come up with something before I reach that point in the alphabet)!

They'll be intermingled here and there a little at a time! Stay tuned!

It's Over! FINALLY!

2011-07-11T21:42:00.005-04:00

Have you ever had someone riding your tail while driving down the highway?

Have you ever thought to yourself, "go ahead ..... ride my butt ...... you can buy me a new car?"

Well ...... don't!

On September 8, 2010 I was so excited because the next morning I was flying to FL to be with my oldest and dearest friend. We were all gathering for her mother's birthday 78th birthday. You know how it is the day before you leave town ...... you have a thousand and one things on your list to accomplish. I was on the go all day ...... all I had left to do was pack and get a manicure!

While waiting on the highway - at a dead stop - to turn into the manicurist's driveway, I was rear ended by a driver who was going at least 45 mph and looking down. She never saw me until she hit me. Just exactly what I wanted to deal with just 12 hours before boarding an airplane - a nice long visit to the emergency room.

After several months of doctor and dental visits, the fun really began. Dealing with the driver's insurance company. If you've ever been in this position, you know exactly how I've felt and all the hassles I've endured.

But ...... after tomorrow it should all be over!!! I will be able to go to sleep tonight for the first time in close to one year without a single thought dealing with that accident. I can imagine those sweet dreams already!

Communication: Part 2

2011-04-22T11:19:00.003-04:00

If I'd known today's Zit cartoon was going to be so appropriate for yesterday's post, I would have waited until today to make the post!

Communication

2011-04-21T14:55:00.022-04:00

Have you entered the world of texting? I entered kicking and screaming. I used to admonish my son for texting - "Why in the world can't you just call them?" I'd say - "What's the problem? Are you afraid someone might hear your conversation?" I'd say.

Then there was the constant struggle to get him to respond to me when I'd call! Every time I called him I always went to voice mail. ALWAYS! At first my message simply said, "call me." Then they progressed to a sterner, "this is your mother, call me." Then they progressed to a totally irritated, "this is your mother, the person who pays the bill, the least you could do is answer the phone." Then I'd wait and wait and wait and wait to get a return phone call.

But ...... I discovered that if I sent him a text -- BAM -- I got an immediate response. What's with that? Now I text all the time. I text him - I text friends - I post to my Facebook and Twitter accounts through texting - I text clients. Heck! he and I can be sitting in the same room and text one another; that's why I related so well to the above cartoon.

Pitiful.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T15:21:00.002-04:00

My Life in Pictures! #27, #28, #29

2011-04-18T15:17:00.002-04:00

Where did they go? I have no idea! They were all posted here for others to enjoy; this afternoon I signed on to work on my blog and they were gone - pictures and everything. Oh well! I hope you got to see them, as well as the Sandal Sisterhood pledge. :-(

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-13T08:36:00.003-04:00

My Life in Pictures! #26

2011-04-07T09:26:00.005-04:00

A picture of your favorite night

My favorite night of the entire week is FRIDAY! Although, I do like routines, for me Friday brings an end to the "routine" of the week. You're familiar with that routine - laundry, cleaning, work, packing lunches, cooking ...... I could go on and on. Friday nights allow me to take a deep breath and relax from the previous week.

As a pet sitter I work most weekends - when others are off for weekends and holidays, that's when I'm needed the most - but I'm allowed the freedom of not having to work in all the usual "week to-dos" around my runs. I can enjoy time with my family or alone - nothing is scheduled - I can play "catch-up" from the week or just lounge.

Of course, after the 2 days of the weekend and "family" time, I am often very ready for Monday morning to get here!

My Life in Pictures! #25

2011-04-05T22:37:00.008-04:00

A picture of something you wish you could forget

I truly believe the message in this picture! Every event in a person's life helps them grow. If you wish to forget the event, then you wish to regress. There's the favorite slogan of mine, "Women Who Behave Rarely Make History."

While I really don't care if I make history, I do hope to live a full life and remember the personal growth from each and every experience.

My Life in Pictures! #24

2011-04-04T22:51:00.018-04:00

A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without

There is one "given" in life. Eventually all of us are going to lose people who are dear to us - people we love. It's life's process. We lose brothers, sisters, cousins, parents, aunts, uncles, husbands, wives, and friends. These loses are "naturals" in life's scheme.

It is not a "given" in life for a parent to lose a child. A parent should never have to bury their child. It's part of life's process for a child to bury a parent. I cannot imagine the pain or helplessness felt by a parent who has to bury their child.

I cannot imagine my life without my son.

My Life in Pictures! #23

2011-03-29T21:01:00.004-04:00

A picture of something you wish you could change

If I could change any one thing about me, it would be my immune system. I have the worst on the planet! I catch everything! I jokingly say that if a germ comes to town, it will find me. All germs have a map with a huge "X" on it that says, "MISSY LIVES HERE." I don't just catch a cold every now and then - I catch a cold and it hangs on FOREVER!

My Life in Pictures! #22

2011-03-29T20:03:00.021-04:00

A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day

Is there a family member I'd love to trade places with for a day? No.

Is there a friend I'd love to trade places with for a day? No.

Is there a celebrity I'd love to trade places with for a day? No.

If there any circumstance in life where I'd love to trade places with anyone for a day? No.

We all have problems.

We all have drama.

We all have heartaches.

We all have troubles.

We all have ups.

We all have downs.

We all have misery.

We all have happiness.

I am happy to say I am very content with my life! I enjoy my life! There is no one I would rather be than myself!

My Life in Pictures! #21

2011-03-27T17:11:00.007-04:00

A picture of your most treasured item

This was difficult; I have several things my Dad made I treasure, but if damaged they could be repaired. To me a treasured item is something with deep sentimental value. By that definition I have several items of jewelry that are by no means great monetary value, but their value to me is irreplaceable.

My earrings were given to me by my uncle; they were stones from a ring he once wore but sacrificed because I wanted diamond studs and could not afford them. I wear them every day.

My signet ring I've worn every day since receiving on my 10th birthday from my dad. It's moved from finger to finger over the years, and the inscripted "M" is so worn that you hardly notice it unless the ring catches the light just right.

My wedding band was my mother's wedding band. I began wearing it on my pinkie after her death and wanted to continue; I had the ring redesigned to use as my own.

The small pinkie ring was my mother's-in-law anniversary gift one year that I always admired. Upon my father's-in-law death she gave me the ring; this touched me more than she will ever know. One day I will pass it down to my grandchild.

My maternal grandmother brought the Jerusalem Cross from the Holy Land. When she passed away, my mother wore it occasionally. The day my mom died I put this cross on, and it hasn't been off my neck a total of 24 hours these past 29 years.

Every Christmas I received a gift from my dad that he shopped for and wrapped. He gave me the small diamond pendant for Christmas when I was 21; I've worn it every day since.

Each and every one of these items could be replaced, but the replacement would never mean the same to me.

My Life in Pictures! #20

2011-03-26T22:15:00.005-04:00

A picture of something you're afraid of

Snakes! They petrify me. I didn't even want to post the picture of one on my blog - I'm not looking at a picture of something that petrifies me on my own blog - I had to find a whimsical one! I don't like to look at pictures of snakes, see them on TV or in the movies, see them anywhere. Which is sometimes difficult when you live on the water.

My Life in Pictures! #19

2011-03-26T21:48:00.008-04:00

A picture of your favorite day

Any day on the water is what I would consider my favorite day. I love to be near the water and have lived on the water every day of

my life.

To me the water ......

...... is peaceful

...... brings solace

...... is a wonderful place to meditate

...... is a place to just be at one with your own thoughts

...... is a delightful chance to relax

For me a favorite day would be at the water - whether it's a lake, pond, river, or beach - with my chair, a glass of sweet tea, and a book.

Ahhhhhhh ...... I feel the peace descending on my just thinking about it!

My Life in Pictures! #18

2011-03-24T19:43:00.013-04:00

A picture of your biggest insecurity

A friend doing the "Life in Pictures" entries is going to think I copied him! But I promise you, buddy, I didn't! I am my biggest insecurity - I am my biggest critic - I am my own worse enemy.

I am a very straight-forward person. There should be no doubt in anyones mind where they stand with me. I don't play games - I don't "dance around subjects" - I don't walk the "fine line" - I don't "flip-flop" on issues - I am me and want others to accept me for me. I am very comfortable in my own skin and with the person I am.

But ...... I don't allow many people to get close to me. My mother once said I lived within a brick wall, and I seldom allow anyone to crawl through the cracks. Keeps out the "riff-raff!"

My Life in Pictures! #17

2011-03-23T20:11:00.006-04:00

A picture of someone you miss

Over the years I've learned that grief is a powerful emotion. Each of the 5 stages of grief - denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance - come upon you like a whirlwind. However, you deal with them and "life goes on."

My Mom and Dad

My Uncle

My Life in Pictures! #16

2011-03-22T22:06:00.013-04:00

A picture of something you want to do before you die

Some want to climb Mt. Kilamanjaro.
Some want to ski the Alps.
Some want to ride the Colorado River rapids.
Some want to hike the Appalachian Trail.
Some want to fly faster than the speed of light.

Me ...... I want to see the shows and play in the casinos of Las Vegas!
Me ...... I want to walk down Broadway and maybe even attend a Broadway show!

I don't need grand and glorious to survive. Simplicity in life is fine with me.

My Life in Pictures! #15

2011-03-21T21:08:00.004-04:00

A picture that makes you laugh

These are pictures of my son. Yes! my son. This was Spirit Week during his Junior and Senior years of high school. He participated in "Opposite Sex Day."

Dressed as the Prom Queen he actually has a tiara on his head. He had a sash and a wrist corsage. This picture made it in his Senior Yearbook and is framed on my desk - it makes me laugh to this day!

My Life in Pictures! #14

2011-03-20T23:51:00.005-04:00

A picture of something you wish you were better at

My entire life I have always been what I call a "right field" person. You know the type ......

...... always together

...... always organized

...... always has their "ducks in a row"

...... detail individuals

...... always "on top of things"

...... always knows where everyone is at any given moment of the day

Well ...... since passing the big 5-0 it seems I have moved to "left field." You know the type ......

...... seldom has it together

...... can't put their finger on what they want all the time

...... seldom has their "ducks in a row"

...... cannot be bothered with details

...... appears to seldom be "with it" - forget about being "on top" of it

...... can hardly keep up with where they're supposed to be let alone everyone else -- it's an "each man for himself" existence

In the past I occasionally visited "left field" but always found my way back to "right field." Now ...... I think I've more or less given up finding my way back to "right field." I'm growing very accustomed to "left field" and am beginning to like it there. I just wish I was a little better at handling "left field."

If you're a "right field" person and have never visited "left field," come visit me sometime! I bet you'll like it here!

My Life in Pictures! #13

2011-03-19T21:50:00.007-04:00

A picture of something you hate

I have no patience for those who judge others - whether fairly or unfairly.

Who are we to judge anyone?
None of us are any better than anyone else.
None of us are perfect.
None of us have all the answers.

Maybe if more people would open their hearts and minds and learn to accept others for who they are, the world would be a better place for all of us to share.

My Life in Pictures! #12

2011-03-18T20:48:00.010-04:00

A picture of someone who inspires you

Meet my "sweet tea therapy" buddy! We try to get together once a week for "therapy." During therapy we discuss anything and everything, anyone and everyone - all over sweet tea (having food with our sweet tea goes without saying!). Our sessions are much needed breaks from the realities and complexities of life.

She is truly an inspiration to anyone she meets. I have never known anyone with a more giving spirit, a more gentle nature, a more serving heart. She always tries to see both sides to the story; she always tries to see the good in everyone; she never jumps to conclusions. She will do anything for practically anyone. Her spirit is so giving - most of us would have quit giving way before she even begins to consider quitting. I tell her when the day comes she enters Heaven, I want to be by her side so I can say, "I'm with her," so St. Peter will open the gates for me, too.

She inspires me to be a better person.

My Life in Pictures! #11

2011-03-17T15:22:00.010-04:00

A picture of something you love

I love strawberries - can't wait for strawberry season! I've only known one other person that loves fresh strawberries as much as I - my father-in-law. He always described fresh strawberries as "better than sex." That's what I call crazy over strawberries!

Each strawberry season when I was eatting my first bowl of fresh berries I would call my father-in-law just to gloat that my berries were in-season, and his weren't yet.

I'd say, "Guess what I'm doing? I'm eatting fresh strawberries!"
He'd say, "It's rude to be an a**," and hang up!

Last year was the first strawberry season after his death, and I missed our yearly "strawberry ritual." But ...... after finishing my first bowl of fresh berries that season we had a thunderstorm. I told my husband that was his Dad calling me an a**!

It makes me smile just thinking about it now.

My Life in Pictures! #10

2011-03-16T22:21:00.003-04:00

A picture of your favorite band or artist

My Life in Pictures! #9

2011-03-15T20:25:00.016-04:00

A picture that can always make you smile

I used to teach high school - Business/Distributive Education and English. The last 2 years I taught I sponsored the Junior Class and then the Senior Class. I always referred to them as "my Seniors;" they were a terrific group of students, and I loved every minute I was with them.

One Saturday morning when I looked out the front window all I could say was, "oh my." We had been "rolled" and "forked" during the night. There was toilet paper streaming from the roof, the trees, the porch - everywhere. Plastic forks were sticking everywhere in the front yard. It was the funniest sight! When I opened the front door, the storm door had been "painted" and read, "your Senior girls love you, Mrs. Lippiatt!"

Needless to say, we were the talk of the neighborhood that Saturday! We laughed the entire time we cleaned the yard. I put all the toilet paper and plastic forks in a large lawn/garden bag; on Monday morning I took the bag and sat it on a desktop in my room. As "my Seniors" walked in that morning, they would cut their eyes at the bag and then at me; then they'd just look at each other and snicker. All I could do was sit at my desk and smile.

We laugh about this still! It's a great memory, and one I will definitely never forget!

My Life in Pictures! #8

2011-03-14T20:43:00.006-04:00

A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel

There are many, many places in the United States I want to see and experience, but on my "bucket list" is to visit Finland! My paternal grandfather was born in a small village outside Helsinki, Finland; he left at the age of 13 and never returned - he lived to be in his 90's. My Dad visited several years before he passed away and was thrilled to be in the birthplace of his father. My grandfather was very special to me; I'm very proud of my Scandinavian heritage, and I'd love to experience his homeland and my "roots."

My Life in Pictures! #7

2011-03-13T13:22:00.010-04:00

A picture of your favorite book.

There are several authors I enjoy; my favorite genre is mystery. However, this is by far the best book I have ever read! It's not necessarily a romantic read; it's not necessarily a mystery. It does show how lives entwine - the lives of those we know, the lives of those we don't know, the lives of those we may meet in the future. Nicholas Sparks has written many wonderful books, but for me this is the best - of any author I've ever read.

My Life in Pictures! #6

2011-03-12T16:02:00.009-05:00

A picture of yourself and a family member.

This is my cousin on my father's side. When growing up we lived about an hour apart and were able to see each other frequently. During the summers we would spend time together at one anothers homes, we kept ourselves entertained by counting specific color cars when visiting our grandparents, we giggled together and told each other secrets.

Then ...... suddenly distance came between us. Life got in our way - as it does from time to time - and we lost touch with one another.

She started a career in the Air Force - I started a career in education.

She moved all over the world - I stayed in one place.

We spoke briefly on 9/11/2001. She was in the Pentagon when the plane hit. I was able to get her phone number and discovered she was safe. We spoke briefly but then went about our own lives again.

We were reunited by a quirky set of events this past summer after 30 years and discovered we only live a couple of hours apart! We met for lunch and a few months later for dinner where I was able to introduce her to my son and husband. It warms my heart to know that we're back in touch!

My Life in Pictures! #5

2011-03-11T09:50:00.012-05:00

A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most.

I chose two pictures. The first is my Dad. He got me through so many things in the 40 years he was with me. Many of those things were just childhood mishaps or problems that we all go through. Many of those things he took knowledge of to his grave with him. He was always there for me. He was my rock. I was truly a "Daddy's girl," and he was my "knight in shining armor." I love my Dad deeply still - 15 years after his death - and I miss him terribly. I'd give almost anything to spend one more day with him.

The second is a very dear friend. It all started with a Longaberger Shades of Autumn Recipe Basket. I first met her somewhere around 1980. She was a Longaberger Basket consultant holding one of her first shows at a friend's house. Our paths didn't cross again until almost 14 years later, and there she was again holding a show at a friend's house. Her friendship got me through the death of my Dad. If it hadn't been for her, I don't know what I would have done - she was always there, through every single stage of grief - and some of those stages lasted a very long time. She was there through all the anger that turned to revenge that turned to solace - always that constant voice of reassurance and understanding. If she is your friend, you have a rare treasure in life.

My Life in Pictures! #4

2011-03-10T10:04:00.012-05:00

A picture of your favorite memory

If you know me or have read my blog over time, then you know that I adore my son. He's the most important person in the world to me. I am so proud of him. He's grown into, not only a fantastic son, a wonderful man. So ...... it only makes sense that the day he was born is my favorite memory!

People told me my life would change completely when he was born. I laughed. They were right.
People told me raising him would be the hardest job I ever had. I laughed. They were right.
People told me I wouldn't just love my son, that I'd fall in love with him. I laughed. They were right.

My son is 21 now. I don't know where these last 21 years have gone - I just know they have gone by quickly. Looking at this picture - it seems like only yesterday.

My Life in Pictures! #3

2011-03-09T09:59:00.022-05:00

A picture of the cast from your favorite show.

As I've mentioned in the past, sometimes I tend to overthink the simplest things. Hmmmm ...... my favorite show of all time or my favorite show presently? I chose both!

My favorite show of all time is "The Andy Griffith Show!" When my family hears that all to familiar whistling theme son g, their eyes begin to roll and the sighs start springing forth! I LOVE THIS SHOW! Before we're in to the first 10 seconds of the show, I can tell you ......

...... the show's theme

...... the show's plot

...... the show's moral

...... the show's protagonist

AND

...... I can practically quote the entire script word-for-word

Someone I would love to meet - Andy Griffith! To me, that would be as exciting as others meeting a pro athlete. I know ...... it's sad.

My favorite show presently is "Modern Family." This show is fantastic! It's so true to each and every family's circumstances. I'm certain that at some point during each episode you can either relate personally for your own family, someone in your family, or a friend's family.

My Life in Pictures! #2

2011-03-08T20:16:00.008-05:00

A picture of you and the person you have been closest to the longest.

We met when we were in grade school and her family moved in to the house 5 doors down from me. If we weren't at her house, we were at mine. So many things come to mind when I think of her - George Carlin's album, Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy, Brylcreem for toothpaste, Arthur's General Store - just to name a few. Her father was transferred to South Carolina when I was in the 10th grade; the next year he took a new job in Florida. Married life took her to California; she now lives in Arizona. During all those years and moves we've stayed in touch through visits, cards, phone calls, snail mail, and email.

Two years ago she returned to Virginia for a quick weekend trip; it was the first time we'd been together in 15 years, and it was as if we'd never been apart. Last year we met in Florida to celebrate her Mom's birthday and plan to make it a yearly thing.

She's my oldest and dearest friend.

My Life in Pictures! #1

2011-03-07T21:31:00.007-05:00

A picture of yourself with 15 facts.

I am an only child.

I have never moved.

I am a licensed, insured, and bonded pet sitter.

I have American Red Cross Canine First Aid and CPR certification.

My son is the most important person in my life.

I am an extremely loyal person.

I loathe a liar.

If I like you, I'll do anything I can to help you.

If I don't care for you, I will not give you the time of day.

If you cross me or my son, I will show you the "error of your ways."

I look very forward to being a grandmother (but my son doesn't need to rush - I'm patient!).

I taught high school for 13 years.

Being a pet sitter is the best job I've ever had.

I own my own pet sitting business.

I miss my Dad more than any other person in this world.

My Life in Pictures!

2011-03-06T17:24:00.005-05:00

A "friend" on Facebook has been chronicling her life in pictures. She's had a picture of some aspect of her life posted for the last 30 days. Today she posted the purpose of each day's picture. Earlier this year another "friend" decided to chronicle his life in 2011 through a picture a day. These ideas have intrigued me.

I have decided to attempt My Life in Pictures for the next 30 days. How I'm going to go about doing this on my blog is what I'm trying to figure out now. I can imagine that it would be a very long entry if I just add to it daily, but I wonder if it would be to "choppy" to do an individual entry each day. Hmmmm.......sometimes I think too much about the simplest things!

Here is your life story in pictures for the next 30 days. There's nothing written or said that you have to follow them in order. I'm not; I'm simply going to chronicle my life! Why don't you join me? It could be fun!

A picture ......

...... of yourself with fifteen facts

...... of you and the person you have been closest to the longest

...... of the cast from your favorite show

...... of something you wish you could forget

...... of your favorite memory

...... of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day

...... of your most treasured item

...... that makes you laugh

...... of the person who has gotten you through the most

...... of the person you do the silliest things with

...... of something you hate

...... of something you love

...... of your favorite band or artist

...... of someone you could never imagine your life without

...... of something you want to do before you die

...... of someone who inspires you

...... of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently

...... of your biggest insecurity

...... of you when you were little

...... of somewhere you'd love to travel

...... of your favorite night

...... of something you wish you were better at

...... of your favorite book

...... of something you wish you could change

...... of your favorite day

...... of something that means a lot to you

...... of yourself and a family member

...... of something you're afraid of

...... that can always make you smile

...... of someone you miss

Best Friends

2011-03-01T21:38:00.007-05:00

If you happened to show up on my doorstep crying, I would care!

If you called me and asked me to pick you up because something happened, I would come!

If you had one day left to live your life, I would want to be a part of that last day!

If you needed a shoulder to cry on, I would give you mine!

Who do you consider your best friends? Are they people you could describe using the top four lines, or are you just someone for them to talk to when they are bored?

A true friendship can be described the same as you would describe the relationship between your two eyes.

They blink together

They move together

They cry together

They see things together

And they sleep together

But they never see each other.

Who do you consider your best friends?

My Beloved Uncle

2011-02-24T00:52:00.004-05:00

At 5am Tuesday, February 22, my beloved Uncle Paul passed away. He has always been a huge part of my life. He was my last connection to the family of days gone past. I wrote a tribute to Uncle Paul in the earlier days of my blog.

His funeral will be Friday, February 25. Today a friend passed along to me a poem that was written to the memory of my uncle. It's beautiful and the perfect description of him.

February 22, 2011

On February 22, 2011

Mr. Hughes started his trip to heaven

What do you say about Mr. Hughes?

He could make many bows before you could make two

Making flower arrangements was what he loved to do

And could make corsages just to mention a few

Margaret was his love and the light in his eyes

It will be very hard for her to say good-bye

Just know that when you are alone and in a quiet place

You will feel his presence as a gentle breeze crosses your face

As for Kyle and Missy it will take a while

But the memories will take you many a mile

So Kyle keep his floral dream alive

Making arrangements with his spirit by your side

As for Holly he was her mentor and taught her to be the best

His love for flowers flow through her, there is nothing she can't create

Just know that he is in a much better place making what he liked to do

Heaven will be even prettier when Mr. Hughes gets through

It is difficult to let him go and understand why

That's the mystery of life, so don't even try

Just remember the sparkle in his eyes and what he dreamed to do

These memories and good times will get you through.

--Susan "Bitsy" Mutter

He will be missed by all the HollyDays Elves

It's Your Life!

2011-02-10T15:54:00.002-05:00

No matter who brings you down,

No matter who makes your day bad,

There's always the people in your life

Who make your life feel like Heaven.

Life's Events

2011-02-03T23:19:00.004-05:00

Each morning when I open my eyes I say to myself:

"I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today.

I can choose which it shall be.

Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn't arrived yet.

I have just one day, today, and I'm going to be happy in it."

~~Groucho Marx

My Conundrum

2011-02-02T20:45:00.004-05:00

I've loved you forever

I've tried to be helpful

I've always tried to be there

You've asked for advice

You've asked for help

You've asked for opinion

I've always stepped up to the plate

You've always gone with the "well-meaning" advice of others

Look where you are now

Once again it's happened

Once again I've tried

Once again I've been there

Once again I've been "slapped in the face"

I've loved you forever

I'll always be here

I won't be hurt again

Put A Ring On It

2011-01-15T08:06:00.006-05:00

I am a huge PITTSBURGH STEELERS fan! It's been said the Dallas Cowboys are "America's Team;" if that's the case, then the Pittsburgh Steelers are God's Team! Today is our first game in the Playoffs, and we play our biggest rivals, the Baltimore Ravens.

Last night a friend emailed me a song she found while surfing the Internet. It's embedded in my head - I keep humming it over and over - I bring it up on my laptop, and my husband says, "not again" - I woke up during the night, and it immediately sprang to the forefront of my mind. If you follow the link, you can hear the song! But I warn you ...... you'll hum it all day long!

Steeler Ladies (Put A Ring On It)

"Steeler Ladies" is a parody of Beyonce's "Single Ladies" conceptualized and written by Christine Nangle, co-written and performed by Addi Twigg, recorded and produced by Sean G. Donaldson.

All the steeler ladies (7x), Now put your hands up

I wear black and gold - don't fit your mold - of what a lady should be

I live football, I yell at bad calls, wear Dad's Bradshaw jersey

I was raised this way, know every play, don't get me on the offensive

Look at me now, got my terrible towel, don't care if it's 3 degrees