A Scary End to A Year

As her love is mine

Her heart his

I am today blessed.

As her heart is mine

Her love his

I am today blessed.

Yesterday was haiku Friday here in blog land. Notice how the two written above say much the same even with the change of one word.

My youngest child, Billie Jo, spent yesterday in pain. I am told it began during the night. My son-in-law woke to his wife whimpering. The pain grew worse as the night became day. Her stomach ached. The vomiting began. They are both unemployed at the moment. He is in college and she helps make ends meet with babysitting money. Thankfully they have an understanding room-mate that is like family to us, her and her little son. My daughters mother-in-law is an EMT and my son-in-law is studying to enter nursing school. A future RN in the making. So they finally convinced my stubborn angel to go to the ER. She worries so about finances as you can imagine. There they could find nothing wrong. They were ready to send her home with some pain med when my son-in-law convinced them to check her appendix, something his mom mentioned. They were right. It was appendicitis. The CT scan showed it needed to come out. Luckily it had not burst yet. I worked yesterday and then went to the rehab fitness center to workout as usual. My hubby was off on vacation and still in his jammie's at noontime . When I got home a little after 6 he was fully dressed. That was my first clue. I changed quickly as he filled me in and we headed to Manhattan, less than a 30 min. drive down the interstate. Derek (my son-in-law) called as we were hitting town to tell us they had just taken her in for surgery.

What a way to end a day, eh?!

The good news, the blessed news, the happy thank you God news: She made it through laporascopic (spelling?) surgery just fine. Came out of surgery saying she felt sooo much better. (Of course, she was full of pain med and such.) Today we drove back over to visit with her in the hospital. She had eaten a meal of a turkey sandwich and such during the night and had a very good breakfast. She said the food is great and the hospital bed comfy and she thinks she might need to stay another night. Funny!! The doctor visited while we were there. She went home today and is resting at home with her hubby taking care of her. He said it's good practice for him as he has had 2 job interviews at the same nursing home now for a CNA position. He has worked hard at getting certified and jumping all the hoops to get this job. Please pray he gets it and for her to continue to heal swiftly from this surgery. They are to call him again on Tuesday. Pray a thankful prayer too. My baby girl is going to be OK. I was so scared. These two gals of mine are so deeply embedded in my heart I just can't imagine not having them to fuss at or fuss over.

So as you can see 2010 has gone out with a bang. And 2011 will come in with me in a thankful mood. I hope this feeling will last throughout the new year. I hope 2011 will give me many things to be thankful for but not in a scaring the life out of me dramatic sort of way. I know, I know, beggars can't be choosers. But hey, I can dream can't I! I can pray for it from the powers that be. Demand and wish for it from all the tooth fairies, leprechauns, god mothers, saints and whatever other magical beings I can dream up. And I can just sit back, take a deep breath and be thankful for just being. That too will continue to hold this feeling close to me. I am so lucky to have a loving husband that holds me tight through thick and thin and two wonderful daughters that share their lives with me no matter what. I am feeling a bit melancholy I think,

and grateful too.

Thank you to all of my friends here for being close when needed and understanding when I am absent. I wish for you all a safe, healthy, blessed and

Happy New Year,

Tess

Merry Christmas!

Woo Hoo, I'm online again.

My new HP Pavilion Slimline is up and running thanks to my dear sweet hubby. I've so much more room on my desk now. This tower is just half the size my Dell tower was. I kept the old monitor because I like it and the printer. We still have to connect to the printer. It's an HP too so hopefully it will work just fine. Once I get used to the new keyboard I'll be doing great. I've missed you all and pray you all had a fabulous Christmas.

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

OWOH No.5

It's coming ~ It's coming ~

Just 6 more weeks away

give or take a day!

It's coming ~ It's coming ~

One World One Heart No.5

~ It's Coming~

I will be participating...Will you?

Visit Lisa @ A Whimsical Bohemian

for all of the details.

Mark your calendars ~ January 30th, 2011

is the day!!!!

I hope I'll be meeting you all again this year

and

I hope to make many new friends.

I'll decide in early January

what my giveaway gift(s) will be.

Now go visit Lisa~~~

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

Wordless Wednesday - Almost

Journal Pages

Happy Thanksgiving

Greetings All,

Just a quick post to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving.

From our house to yours,

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

I'm still here!!

My computer is still acting possessed by a demon. I rarely even have the courage to try any more. But I do miss you all so. So here I am, trying again.

I hope this contraption will let me finish this post and save it. I'm hoping for a new computer for Christmas.....

I received my 5X5 Winter Themed Swap items and they are all so lovely.

They arrived in this lovely pouch. I want to add a satiny braided strap to it and turn it into a little carry bag. Purse just does not seem to be the right term.

Jillayne included this lovely little embroidered heart in her card to me and I just love it. I have decided to place it on my Christmas tree this year. Wouldn't

it make a lovely ornament?This is the 5X5 Jillayne made. I love the snowman ribbon. So whimsical. The colors are perfect too.

This one was made by Marie of Trash to Treasures. I don't know about trash but if she made this from scraps all I can say is wow. It really is a treasure.

This one came unsigned. I love how this little gal seems to be blanketed by snow. Very pretty!!
This pretty felted piece was created by Appleshoe of Nuthatch. I love how it feels. You can't see it here but the bird has a dark beaded eye. Love it!!

This quilted and embroidered bird came to me from Lucilla Rossouw. The birds eye is a shiny red bead. I love the use of buttons for the corners. Lovely piece isn't it?

I wish to thank all of the wonderful creative people that entered this swap and to thank Jillayne for putting it together. What a wonderful way to begin the holiday season a little bit ahead of schedule. Thank You to you all.

I apologize for just disappearing like I did. I have been working hard at my rehab, going 5 days a week. My knees are so much more flexible now. I am still losing weight and struggling with the chocolate cravings. I joined a holiday hold out at the fitness center to help make me accountable to someone for my goals. One goal is to keep my weight going downward during the holiday season and to not miss many days of rehab. I have found I enjoy the elliptical machine.

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

P.S. Yes Cinda, My lovely tweet arrived and I have placed it in a pretty bird cage on my buffet for all to see. I love it. Thank you....

October Happenings....

Greetings friends,

I just might have cured my PC of what ails it with some free techie advice (the best kind) from a local computer repair shop. Well actually hubby did the work. Anyway we'll see...so far so good.

So I thought I would share some of what I've been up to besides rehab for my knees 5 days a week and screaming at my PC when it would not do what I wanted it to do. It seems screaming at it never works...duh! LOL!!

I started October by attending a friends Fall Wedding. I love the colors his new bride chose.

These two little darlins are the brides twin daughters. Can you believe these little half pints are 5 1/2 years old? The ring bearer was actually there to keep thses two little fireballs in line. LOL! They are all best friends at school.
The professional photographers idea. I love this pose. He was so nice and let all of the family and friends take pictures too.
Isn't this just the perfect floral arrangement for a fall wedding? Every table had one. I just love the idea.

I've painted more rocks with a little helper.

Isn't he cute? This is Damion, he is my younger daughters (Billie) best friends 2 year old son. He has taken to calling me grandma and Chuck Papa and we love it. Damion and his mommy are roomies with my daughter and son-in-law. Ashley is so lucky to have Billie and Derek to help out with Damion and they are so lucky that she is allowing them to share in his life.

The Boy Scouts of America are celebrating 100 years of scouting.

I was one of several leaders and parents that accompanied this cub scout group to the BSA Centennial Celebration in Salina. This is not all of the boys as some had to leave early (before we thought to take a group picture, boo hoo).

All of the Bear Cubs (the group I work with one on one the most this year) loved the inflatable obstacle course. They didn't want to leave it.

There was some mighty fierce competition going on here and lots of high fives at the end.

With so many fun activities to get involved in and sack lunchs, then sack dinners or purchased food from the vendors, no one had a chance to get bored.

The boys loved watching the BMX Extreme Show. Those guys are nuts! It was an awesome show though. Yes, the sun is setting as this was an all day event.

Jeanette McCurdy aka Sam from the I Carly show was the highlight of the day for some of the cubbies. She put on a great performance and the families really enjoyed her. I did too...

Hubby spotted a craft idea on a co-workers desk and took a picture for me. She had decopauged some pumpkins with paper napkins and of course I just had to give it a try. This is the start of my first attempt.

I think it will take a second layer unless I decide I like the orange spiders. I purchased a second pumpkin and napkins with a fall leaves pattern also. I will spray them with sealer once they are completed and probably display them in a wicker basket or on the dining room table. (I'll have to clean it off first as my crafting has taken it over.)

So what have you all been up to ?

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

P.S. 237 1/4 lbs. That's down 21 1/4 lbs. since middle of August.

greetings all,

my computer is not co-operating at all. i will be down for a bit to take my computer to the 'puter wizard. i'll return as soon as i can.

last weigh in i was below 240 lbs. my knee shots went well and i'm doing good in rehab. thank you for all of the prayers.

thank you cinda for the pretty card. i've been thinking of you too and praying for your successful recovery.

ba happy, be healthy, be safe,

tess

Painting Rocks - A New Obsession

Hello, I hope you enjoy viewing my new favorite obsession.

I love these paint pens. They write on just about anything.

I have no idea why this picture loaded sideways.

Bobbie and Raven enjoy painting rocks too.

It's a great quiet time, creative playtime activity. Spelling errors, no problem, just paint over it and grab another rock. What a great way for Raven to practice her spelling words.

I plan to spray the finished rocks with mod podge sealer and then we will take a walk around town and drop them here and there for others to find.

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

Catch Up

Goodmorning all,

I apologize for neglecting to post more frequently. I thought I had better add a quick catch up post before someone thinks I dropped off the face of the earth.

The road trip was a success meaning I got us there and back safely. We even stopped at the big rest stop between Lawrence and topeka and had a snack and collected rocks. We stopped on the way there and Raven found a heart shaped rock for grandma so we had to stop and look for more on the way back. Besides by then both bobbie and I were needing to stand and stretch.

The Dr. did not think Raven has a thyroid condition. If she did or develops a problem it will be hypo. He was concerned with her weight/size and through a lengthy question and answer session he determined they are eating the right foods but portion control is the problem. Bobbie promises to work on that with her and will learn to say no to seconds or bigger portions. The Dr. explained to Raven what a single serving is and she seemed to understand. She was proud of how she told the Dr. what she ate and when and what her snack foods are.

Bobbie has been having migraines again and they did a brain scan just to be sure and it turned out just fine. Still she wants it to go to the surgeon that removed her tumor for a second opinion and I don't blame her for that. I told her to go and sign papers for the hospital to have permission to send the records to the surgeon. Any more with the privacy act laws it takes an act of congress just for doctors to share information. It's sad it has come to that....

As for me the trip to the zoo was fun but my right knee is still swollen. I am able to do most of the rehab routine and am praying the swelling reduces some before the 7th so I can still get my Synvisc shots. I am so hoping they work to build cartilage and reduce pain and not that I will be let down. You can pray to for me, all of us, if you wish. I do believe in the power of prayer. I've been doing a lot of that lately. I've been revisited by the panic attacks demon again this week too. If you take medication for panic attacks don't leave home without it. Geez! Life! Sometimes it's great, other times it's ridiculous.

Hope your week has gone well. Oh, and welcome to October. It's been chilly here in the mornings and warmer in the afternoons, perfect sweater or long sleeve weather. I love it. Now if only the trees would become colorful and not just go from green to brown. I love the colors of fall. Don't you?

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,
Tess

P.S. I'll take pictures of the rocks this weekend and share with you. We are painting them. Even Bobbie is enjoying this little crafty adventure.

Road Trip

Hello :),

I'm taking Bobbie and my granddaughter on a road trip tomorrow to Kansas City, Mo. Raven is to see a specialist at Mercy Children's Hospital in the Endocrine Clinic. Seems she may have a thyroid problem and the doctors wanted her to see a pediatric doctor that specializes in Endocrine problems. So pray for a good out come if you please. I have no idea what they are finding or looking for just that she needs to go and Bobbie isn't up to driving that far so I get to take them on a road trip. We have it planned to leave early enough to have lunch at the hospital. I love hospital cafeteria food as it is always so good and much cheaper than a restaurant. We used to enjoy eating at the hospital when Bobbie was having her brain tumor checkups and surgery. Speaking of Bobbie, she is having a brain scan next week. A check-up so to speak. She's been having some migraines so they just want to be sure. She said she feels empowered because before no one ever listened or believed her but now she told them she was having head aches how often and how bad and they responded with care and concern. I am glad they are doing it just to be sure. I myself think the head aches are seasonal in nature as she seems to get them when it's raining and also she has recently had a medication change so that could be the cause too. Still with what she has been through I am glad they are checking her just to be sure. Besides it has only been 19 months since they removed the tumor.

~~~~~~~~~~

I have a co-leader in cub scouts now and I found out just how much I appreciate her tonight. She was out because she got to go to the Military Ball. I told her I better get to see a picture of her in her pretty dress. Eleven rambunctious Bear Cubs kept me ahoppin'. Luckily I was able to talk a couple of the dads into helping me and we separated them into two groups. I have about 3 different levels of boys I'm working with. Those from last year as Wolfs, those that started at the beginning of this school year and then those new ones that have wandered in these past two weeks. We aren't complaining though. Our Pack has really grown and it is always so much more fun for the boys. Our first Pack meeting is next week and I told my bears to bring the tool boxes we made last week for show and tell. Plus I forgot my camera last week and I want to get a group picture for their scrapbooks (which are actually folders that they decorated this evening).

~~~~~~~~~~

I weighed myself today and I am going to put it out there. I weigh 241 lbs. There I said it...gees I'm heavy. I don't look that heavy...but I feel it. So with the no more soda, cutting back on unhealthy snacks, watching my salt intake

and rehab exercises I have managed to lose 11 lbs in just over 1 month. Yes I admit that too. I am sure the pills I am taking from the urologist have helped too. My feet, hands and ankles aren't nearly as swollen as they were. I called today to check and the last time I seen my regular doctor I weighed 252 lbs. Geez!!! Anywho ~ I want to give these knees of mine a better chance at staying where they belong. I don't want to be bionic just yet. I am sure Dr. Holiday will be proud of me when I go in to get the shots in the knees and I can tell him how much I have lost and that I am doing the rehab stuff every day. Today my therapist added a few new movements to my routine and the exercise bike. I barely made it a minute on the bike and at a snails crawl but he said it's ok, some is better than done and I'll be moving along better in no time. I prefer the Nu-Step. Much less pressure on the knees. So wish me luck. I hope to lose an additional 20 lbs. before Christmas. That is my goal. I still haven't found the book Dr. Holiday wanted me to read. The Glycemic Diet by Dr. Ron Campbell. Our library does not have it and we don't have any decent book stores here in town. Maybe next time I go to Manhattan I will find it there.

So what have you been up to lately?

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

Osteoarthritis

I received a diagnosis last week ~ osteoarthritis. I was referred to Dr. Holiday by my physician. The form I had to fill out as a new patient (even though he had seen me before) was very thorough. When, where, what and how was covered; he provided the why. Looking at the x-rays he said, "my gosh, no wonder you are in pain". I am bone on bone in both knees. He took a notepad and wrote down his diagnosis and what he thought our plan should be. I start rehab today to learn low impact exercises for both muscle strengthening and weight loss. This is No. 1. No.2 is to have Synvisc injections in both knees. He said they'd contact my insurance provider for pre-approval. They called a couple days later to schedule the injections as my provider said no pre-approval was required. The injections will be done in the Dr.'s office and he said it should ease my pain quite a bit. I have the injections on Oct. 7th. After 4 years of pain and swelling and limping and pain pills I finally have a valid reason for all of this. A diagnosis I'm not happy about but relieved to have a "why" and a course of action. I admit to being overweight to the extent of being obese. I weighed in at 256 lbs. about 3 weeks ago. I'm down to 241. At my doctors urging I cut out salt and soda. I don't think I've ever drank so much water. I'm getting to understand that a lot of my feeling hunger was actually thirst. I now grab a bottle of water and keep it with me at all times. At work I refill it from the water fountain. I've found I like cherry Crystal Light too. And that seems to satisfy my sweet tooth. Dr. Holiday suggested I read The Glycemic Diet written by a Dr. Campbell. I haven't found it yet but hope to.

So that is what has been going on in my world. How about yours? What have you been up to lately?

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

World Of Loulou: Fully Loaded Giveaway.

Hey gang, Check out this gorgeous bracelet giveaway. I just found LouLou today and I love her blog. Go check her out and enter to win her beautiful blue creation.

World Of Loulou: Fully Loaded Giveaway.

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,
Tess

My Newest Associated Content Post

View of the twin towers in August, 2001

Photo courtesy of ndrwfgg @ wikimedia.com

A Page from My Journal
This is an entry from my personal journal written on 9-11-2001. A frightening day for all Americans including those far from the destruction.
Read More

(Click on the post title or the words "Read More" above to read my thoughts written on 9/11.)

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

Positive Attitude 101

Positive Attitude 101 - Give yourself a pep talk.

Better yet let this little angel give you one. If you liked my last post you'll love this one. Click here and enjoy. I found this on Facebook. It's a hoot!!

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

I Love Living Life. I Am Happy.

Winter Song 5X5's Swap Art

Happy Saturday folks,
Ahhh, The weekend. I do live for my weekends. (Sad isn't it?!) The shopping is done and the fridge is cleaned out. Plus I've had a nap. 3 things off my to-do list. It's not a very long list this week-end. All the better!!

I mentioned in a past post that I joined a 5X5 swap over at A Fine Seam. Jillayne and the others will be happy to know my five 5X5's are in the mail and winging their way to Canada. (She told us to think of these as ATC's on steroids, so funny!) It was surprisingly inexpensive to mail them off. Our postage here in the States is outrageous but my little package only cost just over $2.00 to send from Kansas to Canada. I glued the original designs to a stiff cardboard I found in my basement. (Sometimes I could swear things just "appear" down there.) I was concerned about the amount of weight the backings would add but I think they will hang much nicer this way for my swap mates. My 5X5's mainly consisted of paper, card stock, paint and mod podge. I didn't like the plain card board showing so I "painted" it with tissue paper. I love using tissue paper. The stuff comes in so many vivid colors and if you stamp on it before gluing it to something the stamps really "pop". I want to get a stamp of my name and blog address to use just for that purpose as I find I cover a lot of things with tissue paper, including envelopes. I forgot about doing that with this envelope though. I wish I had taken a picture before I mailed it off. I like to reuse bubble envelopes and I found I had one just the right size. I colored all over the old label and then glued tissue paper down. Then I drew a leafy vine all around the front of the envelope with color markers. I think it makes the packages prettier for the postal workers and recipients plus I love the recycling aspect. I have a few more bubble envelopes that I want to give a make-over for resending out into the world. It's fun because there is no set plan in mind when I do it. Just color, stamp, paint, whatever to make sure all of the old label is completely covered.

OK, now that my 5X5 swap items are in the mail I've decided to make one just for me. I love how these turned out but I do have a question though. What could I have done to make the cutout blend into the background better? Thanks for helping me learn with your answers.

Have a great weekend,

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,

Tess

image from wikipedia

Happy Saturday Everybody,

Something funny happened today. Shall I tell you about it? Ok, you talked me into it. But first I have a question for you:

Who remembers the Love is... comic from the 60's and 70's? I loved that back then they were in black and white. I did an online search and found several sites showing this comic. I think the little cherub looking couple are so cute. I used to cut out the Love is... from our newspaper everyday when I was a pre-teen and teen. (Too bad I no longer have that scrapbook.) There is a page on wikipedia.com that tells all about the Love is... comic and it's creator(s).



I have a Love is... to add to the collection. We were doing some house cleaning today and while I was cleaning in the bathroom the toilet seat came off. It's not more that a month old. One of those nice cushy seats from Walmart. So I'm muttering about how cheap it is and muttering a few not so nice words while cleaning the toilet. (Potty mouth sounds appropriate here.) In the meantime hubby pops his head in to see what all the mumbling is about and says he can fix it. He pops out and I continue cleaning. I go to lower the seat lid and it pops off in my hand. Now I'm yelling "I give up". Ok, so this sounds like I was getting angry, right? On the contrary I began to laugh my fool head off as did he. He mentions changing and going OUT into the HEAT to go to WalMart to get a new toilet seat. Ugh!! Heat!! I tell him it can wait until tomorrow. "But of course ", I tell him, "we'll have to be careful we don't slide off the pot". So I continue to clean in the bathroom and he pops his head in dressed to leave the house. "I'll go get a new toilet seat", he says. "Anything else you can think of we need?" he says. Aww!!!


Love is...going out into the summer heat to buy a new toilet seat
because your wife broke it while cleaning.

Wasn't he a sweetie!!


Oh, but that is not the end of this story. Ohhh no!! So hubby turns around and I bust up laughing. There are two butterflies on his butt. Yep, you read right. How else am I suppose to cover holes in my denim shorts?! I was laughing so hard and he's asking what?! I was so So SO tempted not to tell him.
So here is another Love is:


Love is....telling your hubby that he has butterflies on his butt. LMAO!!!

Yes, he changed immediately...
One things for sure there is plenty of drama and unexpected oops's around here to keep things interesting!!

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Safe,
Tess

P.S. I found a Kim Grove (creator) Love is... paperback on Amazon. ;-)


Trivia quiz: Which film made the quote "Love means never having to say your sorry" famous?

5X5 No.3

Greetings my dear blog friends.

I have been so absent lately; I do apologize. The heat here has been so unbearable. Last week we had above 100 degrees with heat indexes in the 105+ range every day. My computer just happens to be in the hottest room in the house. I hate the hot humid heat we have here. Absolutely hate it. But what can I say except; "hey it's Kansas-just wait a while". We finally had some rain last Friday and a few sprinkles yesterday. Today the high was in the 80's. So much better. I haven't been doing much but sitting and feeling sorry for myself. And trying to stay cool.

And as you know when it rains it pours. I'm not referring to the wet stuff here either. With those high 100+ temps Bobbie called us last week to tell us the power kept going off and on in the trailer. Well of course we had her check the neighbors. Yep, they were all out for about 3 hours. She stayed home though. Then the next day she calls to tell us the power keeps going out every time she uses her dryer. She said it would go out and they would flip the breaker back on and it would stay on for 10 minutes or so and then go out again. I tell her it's the extreme heat and to turn off all lights and other appliances before using the dryer. It works for a bit but then power is out again. So we tell her to check the breakers. She does and power comes back on. She gives up on the laundry for the night and all seems well. Then the next day she calls and says "Mom, the AC is blowing hot air". It's over 100 degrees outside and now the *&#@ AC is on the fritz. We just had it fixed a few months ago. So I tell her to get the big fans out and on and hubby says to call the repair man. Nothing more could go wrong, right? Wrong!! Next Bobbie calls to tell us she has no hot water. What?? "It's ok mom, we don't need hot water right now; It's too hot for hot showers anyway", she says.

There is a happy ending to this down-pour. The repair man comes and figures out that the fuse box the trailer is hooked into is fried a bit inside. Bobbie said he showed her and it was all melty inside. He replaced it and everything was working great. She had a cooler trailer and hot water within 30 minutes. I called the trailer court manager and let them know what happened and they are going to pay the repair bill. WooHoo!! Alls well that ends well. :)

I have been working on my 5X5's for the swap I joined over at A Fine Seam. They are coming along nicely. Here is my 5X5

No. 3

Don't look for No.2 because I did not post it. Let's just say it is very similar to No. 1 and leave it at that. We don't want to give away all of the surprise for the swap participants now do we?! I love this one so much I almost want to keep it for myself. I have a cutter pen and am finding I really like it. The birds and such are cut out from used greeting cards. I love recycling. When mom moved to the new house she gave me all of the cards she's been saving over the years for my art. (Wasn't that sweet of her? ~ Thanks mom!! XOXO)

Visit Jillayne's blog post here to find a list of blogs that joined in the swap. They are all making such pretty 5X5's. I am calling my series Winter Song. And I may make more than 5 as I have a bird cutout that I want to make for myself. I also want to make one for a special friend or two. Plus I have an idea to expand on the concept. But with my up and down moodyness lately. And my crafty/writers/artsy block getting in the way a lot also, well who knows. I did write my idea down though. I just hope I can find it again (the scrap of paper I wrote it on). I have also found my hubby works as a muse. He has a keen eye too. I love that he indulges my artsy side. Oh, and I've tore and cut watercolor paper and painted and smeared colors all over and now I've sewn them together to make a little art journal. It is now ready to be used and I hate the center pages. Hate them!!! The colors turned out ugly together so I think I will start there, in the middle. Besides, who says you have to create in order? Not me, nope, I tend to do things all chaotic like. Works for me!! Sometimes drives me nutty too. LOL!!

Well that's about it for now. Oh, I almost forgot...Go on over to Monday's Child and see the pretty prompt pic and just maybe it might give you an idea for a poem or a story. If it does be sure to share by adding yourself to Mr. Linky on her blog. Have Fun! I hope your days are cooler and mine stay that way too (or warmer if you are in a cooler climate).

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be You,

Tess

Hello!!

Monday's Child #5 - Home

Illustration by: Jessie Wilcox Smith 1863-1935

http://www.childrensverse.blogspot.com
Monday’s Child #5

Home

I marveled at the wonder of this child I had so prayed for. The little girl to call my own that I was finally taking home. As I gazed upon her standing there fearless before the oceans waves I went over the days events in my mind. She had insisted on wearing her favorite pink dress. I had added the big floppy bow to her golden hair, the color of Kansas wheat, to pull it back off her sun kissed face. I watched her standing there holding her pretty dress up so as not to get it wet and lifting handfuls of sand allowing it to sift through her fingers. I thought of how she had said goodbye back at the orphanage. She had bid farewell to each and every one of her friends, her teachers and the counselors. There were many tear filled eyes. She had hugged each tightly and smiled brightly as if to console them. Outside she said goodbye to the big heavy door. She ran into the yard and greeted each palm tree and twirled around while looking up and bid farewell to the birds and the blue sky. Inside the car as I buckled her into her seat she asked, “Are we going home?” “Yes my sweet”, I replied, “We are going home now.”

As we pulled out of the drive I looked in the rear mirror at the orphanage and then down to the seat and my heart leaped with the realization that this was it, she was finally mine. At first she was quiet as we drove along until suddenly she became animated. “Wait, stop, stop”, she cried out. “I must say good bye to the beach”. We were passing her favorite play spot; the place where I had first laid eyes on this precious child playing in the waves. I remembered her fist words to me; “I’m a mermaid. Are you a mermaid too?” As I began to pull over little April was out of her seat belt and had her shoes and socks off even before I came to a complete stop. Before I could get to her she had bolted out the door and was running toward the waves. “April, April” I shouted, “wait for mommy”. Mommy! The word I had longed to hear I was shouting out to this beautiful child God had lead me to find just a year earlier. Tears filled my eyes as joy filled my heart. I continued to watch as little April held her dress up and grabbed handfuls of sand allowing it to sift gently through her fingers. I collected myself and walked closer to her. “What are you doing my sweet?” I asked. “What game are you playing now?” “Oh no mommy”, she replied. “I’m not playing a game. I’m saying good bye to every grain of sand.”

As we left the beach and headed towards Kansas I knew our trip would only be for a visit. I knew this because I knew we were already home.
~~~

This story was written using the picture above as a prompt. If you wish to join in please visit Monday's Child. Each Monday a new picture is posted and participants write a piece of children's poetry, verse, or post their interpertation of the prompt. I hope you all will enjoy my story. Please forgive grammar errors as I've been fighting writers block and just wanted to get something out before my braid shut down again.

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be You,

Tess

5X5

Winter Song - Almost Finished

This is for a 5X5 mixed media swap.

We are to make 5 - 5X5's with a Christmas or Winter theme.

I will get 5 in return. I started this and then hit a "block". It was as if what I wanted to do with it just left me. Last night I picked up this one and another that I'm working on just like it and Bam! I got a lot done on both and am still not finished. Soon though as I wrote down what else I want to do. Then I will be on the lookout for more winter birds. I used a song page from an old hymnal I found at the Goodwill. I love how the song title fits in with the theme of my 5X5. Question: Should I leave the tail feathers as is or cut them off? I like as is but wonder. The 5 swap items are meant to be strung together and hung on the wall. So what do you all think?

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be You,

Tess

Man decorates basement with $10 worth of Sharpie - Health - Kentucky.com

Dear Friends,

I may never be able to tell another child to stop drawing on the walls again.
This basement is amazing.

Man decorates basement with $10 worth of Sharpie - Health - Kentucky.com

Happy Friday!

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be You,
Tess

Wordless Wednesday - Hippy Love!!

Hi All,

I just had to stop by and tell you all about the fun give-away over at That's So Cuegly. The bracelets are so pretty and I love that they have a hidden message. Go check them out and enter her give-away. I sure did!

I'm sorry I've been so absent here. I'm ok, I've just been busy going through digital images and videos of the July 4th activities. Did I tell you I met Eddie Money? Here are links to a few of the AC slideshows I've published so far.

~~~

The big Sundown Salute Parade was on Saturday July 3rd. A new rule this year was no throwing candy from parade floats. It really caused some upset people and organizations. The parade here is usually very long. I'm talking hours but this year there were fewer floats and a few more walkers. The walkers could hand out candy. I felt bad for the seniors who so enjoyed throwing candy to the curb and just cannot walk the route. Still it was loads of fun watching my granddaughter and niece and visiting with hubby and my sister-in-law. I also got a few really good pics of some of the floats, clowns and mini-cars. I love the mini-cars.

~~~

We've all seen carved pumpkins but have you ever seen a

carved watermelon?

~~~

We also were entertained by Paradise City. They are a Guns 'N Roses Tribute Band. I've never been a big Guns N' Roses fan but Bobbie sure was/is. I have to admit they were pretty good.

~~~

After Paradise City we were entertained by an AC/DC tribute band called Hells Bells. I love AC/DC so was very excited. AC/DC was my first rock band to see live in concert. It was sooo loud and so much fun. The Hells Bells Band did a great job and the band member portraying Angus did a wonderful job, he even wore the short pants school boy outfit. I was so disappointed though because I got three lousy pictures and my camera batteries died. I had my Flip with me that I got this past Christmas so I got some video and have been torturing myself determined to get it loaded to Associated Content. Hubby had to give me a few lessons in changing format. Well I finally did get it submitted and geez do I ever need more practice. But hey it's my first video published on Associated Content and I know I will only get better with practice. (Positive thinking!)

~~~

I still have more content planned to publish:

Seven Bridges Rd. - A Tribute to the Eagles

(they were awesome)

and

Eddie Money.

I'll let you know when I've published.

That's really all the creative stuff I've been doing. I feel the need to get paint on my hands and I need to go over and check out Monday's Child and think on a story or poem for this week. I folded some watercolor paper for another journal and put it down someplace. Must find it...

I also joined a swap and must get busy creating five 5X5 creations with a Christmas or Winter theme due in August I think. Now I must go check that date.

So what have you been up to lately?

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be You,

Tess

P.S. Don't forget to check out the

That's So Cuegly bracelet giveaway.

Twinkle Twinkle – the Altered Rhyme

twinkle twinkle little star
are you near or are you far?
do you shine upon the night,
to guide me till dawn's first light?
and when the day is shining bright,
twinkle twinkle little star ~
how i wonder where you are.

~copyrighted Teresa Mahieu
Sept.19th, 2008

I was invited to join a children's story and poetry weekly prompt challenge over at Monday's Child. The premise is to write a story or poem to go along with a photo prompt. While viewing the photo I remembered this one I had written a few years back and it seemed to fit. Do go and visit Monday's Child, you may be inspired to pen a verse or two.

I had a great 4th of July weekend that ended with rain and terrible leg pains. Rain y weather and the arthritis kicks in. I got to be a VIP and be part of the meet and greet and the merchandise crew. Hubby and I got to be in on the meet and greet of Eddie Money. We also met the band Seven Bridges Rd. They are a really great tribute to the Eagles band. I'll have pics to show soon. I have so many to go through and fix but am so pleased with my new camera.

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be You, Tess

Wordless Wednesday Courtesy of dumpr.net

Dumpr - Photo Fun

Sunday's Post on Monday (Again) & A Birthday

Greetings all,
Here are more rhymes from The Christian Mother Goose Book. You can find past posts from this book here (where I found the book), here, here, here and here (for new friends to my blog or old friends that may have been away). I was so tired yesterday I didn't do a lot of things I should have/or wanted to. My knee is bothering me, swelling and hurting, also. The heat here has the humidity high and I honestly think it is what's causing the pain in my legs. Of course the tired feeling could also have been due to the celebrating on Saturday.

It was my niece's 16th birthday and she wanted a Sweet 16 cookout with all of her family. Christina is my younger brothers 1st daughter. She is living with my brother now but in the past she has lived mostly with her mother and a step father or her mothers parents. She is fitting into her daddies family home just fine and all are making sure everyone gets to see her. Both sides of her family were at the bar-b-cue and there was no quarreling or squabbling. It was Christina's day and we made it a good one for her. Her mother even got to be there and she is now an aunt and she got to see her baby nephew.

She really enjoyed the cake! :)

Help with cleaning up...
She was ever so curious as to what her little brother would get her. He had been teasing her with the bag all week.

Can you see what it is.? It's those wipe away the hair on your legs thingy's. She got such a laugh, we all did. And little brother, age 13, blushed with embarrasment. I guess the joke was on him. She was not embarassed at all. LOL!! Great kids, all of them.

So anyway, here are today's offerings from my Christian Mother Goose Book:

SEE-SAW MARGERY DAW

See-saw Margery Daw,

Jackie has found a new master.

His name is Jesus, Shepherd and Friend,

And Jackie's a sheep in His pasture.

~~~

WOULD YOU PRAISE HIM ON A CACTUS?

Would you praise Him

On a cactus?

Would you praise Him

Just for practice?

Would you praise him

In a hole?

Would you praise Him

On a pole?

Would you praise Him

When you're small?

Would you praise Him

When you're tall?

Would you praise Him

In a tree?

Would you praise Him

On your knee?

Would you praise Him

On a roof?

Would you praise Him

With one tooth?

Would you praise Him

With a song?

Would you praise Him

With a gong?

Would you praise Him

In old shoes?
Would you praise Him
When you lose?

Would you praise Him

Beating drums?

Would you praise Him

With smashed thumbs?

Would you praise Him

On a sled?

Would you praise Him

On your head?

Would you praise Him

In a pew?

Would you praise Him

In an igloo?

Would you praise Him

With a clown?

Would you praise Him

Round the town?

When you praise Him

When you're glad?

Would you praise Him

When you're sad?

Would you praise Him

blowing bubbles?

Would you praise Him
In your troubles?

Would you praise Him

With a dove?

Would you praise Him

For His love?

Would you praise Him

Hot or cooler?

YES! I'LL PRAISE HIM!

HALLELUJAH!

~~~

I could show you all of the wonderful drawings that went along with this wonderful rhyme. I could...but....wouldn't it be much more fun creating drawings of your own to go along with the stanzas? The next time your children or grandchildren say, "I'm bored, there's nothing to do." , take a moment to read them this rhyme and then assign them to task of illustrating it for you. That would be one wonderful gift to cherish. Maybe I should show you a peek at the illustrations. Samples for yourself or the little ones.

Ok, It's sleepy-bye time.

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be You,

Tess