Life after SAHM

When Bad Things Happen to Good People...

2012-01-26T19:16:00.000-05:00

Hello... again.

Today is January 26, 2012. Our weather in SC is not aware of the date evidently because it was 70+degrees today! It rained yesterday. Two days ago it was 50 degrees. My body is a human barometer and is being driven to a nervous breakdown! Layers are the only way to dress - if it's hot, you remove one or two; if it's cold, you add one or two. No longer can you assume what you put on in the morning will be suitable for the afternoon and evening! Yes, I know in the big scheme of things - this is complaining about "fluff"! Yet, I am 62, have raging hormones, could lose a few (OK, 50+) pounds, and I am naturally hot natured... it may be time to consider our alternatives.

Alternative 1
         To seriously start an exercise program and add good food choices
Alternative 2
      Stop procrastinating!
Alternative 3
      Move to cooler location
Alternative 4
      To pull up my big girl panties and deal with it!
Alternative 5
       Stop complaining and thank God for my health, my husband, my friends, my healthy children, best friends, CBS gals, prayer pardners, and God's grace!

And the winner is... (drum roll, please) Alternative 5... : )

With God's grace and His blessings, we are continuing to do well with "Blessings... Yours, Mine, Ours" located inside Palmetto Peddlers on Hoffmeyer Road in Florence, SC. Below is a photograph of some items available now. All items are tagged with my dealer ID number, description, and price - take item with tag to front desk and they will handle the sale. You may pay with cash, check, debit, or credit card. Some items may be put on lay-away. If item is too large to carry, take the tag to front and they will move and load the item for you. The glass display case is locked, if you want to see an item - the front desk has a key and will assist you.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

"Blessings Unlimited" is doing well, also. The new Spring Catalog is available online through my website here... I am taking orders by phone (843-493-5124) or at 'home gatherings'. If you are interesting in hosting a gathering, email me (critch2@gmail.com) or call the number above. The products are high quality, faith inspired items for the home, office, friends, and relatives.

Now to the title of this post... my best friend from high school (46 years!) is battling stage 4 lung cancer metastasized to the right femur, some lymph nodes, and L1 on the spine. The chemotherapy has started and radiation should begin on Monday. I do not claim to understand 'why bad things happen to good people', but this is a good person and deserves our prayers for good health to be restored without continued constant pain.

May you be blessed today and every day,

Pamela

A Review: Becoming 2011 – Creative, Purposeful, Frugal

2011-09-02T01:32:00.000-04:00

A Review: Becoming 2011 – Creative, Purposeful, Frugal

We have shared together the blessings of God. Philippians 1:7 TLB

I was fortunate to attend the “Becoming 2011 – Creative, Purposeful, Frugal”

Conference August 12 and 13 near Ashville, NC at Ridgecrest Conference Center. The speakers were Jenny Martin of SouthernSavers.com; Jen Schmidt of Balancing Beauty and Bedlam; The Nester; Angela Statzer of Button Bird Designs; and, Rachel Van Erden, mother of eleven. The conference was well planned and offered an abundance of information in three areas to Becoming our best.

The first area: “Becoming Creative” offered sessions 1 and 5, “The Philosophy of a Home” with the Nester; sessions 2 and 5, “Find, Create, Redo” with Angela; session 3, “Real Decorating for Real Women with Real Budgets” with The Nester; and session 4, “Creative Inspiration and Easy Trash to Treasure Projects” with Angela.

The second area: “Becoming Purposeful” offered sessions 2 and 3, “Creating Purposeful Moments in our Mothering: Casting a Long Term Vision” with Rachel; sessions 1 and 5, “Live the 80% off Lifestyle and Love It!” with Jen.

The third area: “Becoming Frugal” offered session 1, “The Art of Saving on Groceries” with Jenny; session 4, “Putting it All Together: The Important Stuff” with Jen; session 2, “Playing the Drugstore Game” with Jenny; and session 4, “Tricks and Tips to Saving Money Online” with Jenny.

As you can see there were five sessions throughout the day with several topics offered more than once, even then it was impossible to attend all eleven presentations. A suggestion for next year’s conference September, 20212 at Ridgecrest in NC – have handouts for each presentation at the Registration table that allows all attendees to have all the wonderful information from each topic and helps attention to remain a speaker and not on note taking! Moreover, all participating will feel they received full value for the conference.

The sponsors: Savings.com, coinstar, and Day Springs’ Blessings Unlimited provided an assortment of great items in a beautiful canvas tote from Blessings Unlimited. Also, drawings for cash prizes; 10 Kits with DVD, book, online access for ; and 15 items from Blessings Unlimited. All winners were smiling as they collected their prizes! I was not familiar with the sponsors before the conference; however, I am a firm supporter of all three NOW.

The conference was at Ridgecrest Conference Center, a secluded tranquil retreat center nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Ashville, NC. It was peaceful with rocking chairs, cool breezes, and a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A wonderful time to coupon, organize binders, learn home decor tricks, savings tips, and meet new friends! The food served by the dining hall was excellent – served cafeteria style with round dining tables to chat easily with new friends.

The time passed quickly and the conference ended with dessert, a delicious cheesecake. Saying good-bye to new friends is hard, but taking the memories and contact information was a blessing!

Mark your calendar for “Becoming 2012” September 21-22, 2012, Ridgecrest Conference Center, Ashville, NC. See you there!

“By the grace of God, I am what I am.” 1 Corinthians 15:10 KJV

Hot and Humid

2011-08-20T04:28:00.000-04:00

At our house we are trying to recycle, practice conservation while helping the environment and saving money on our power bill. So far, we are uncomfortable in our own home and not saving much money. Needless to say we are FRUSTRATED.

Okay we live in the south and summers are hot and humid, but temps in the high 90s to low 100s with a heat index of 100 to 112 degrees is not bearable for this senior-stay-at-home-mom! My hormones are raging, my internal thermostat is out of whack, and I want to move to Alaska!

Yes, I know - I am whining, but I am HOT! I want relief from the heat without a $500+ power bill! Cold showers help, wearing little or nothing helps, too - glad we live in the country and no one is around to see that! LOL!

OK, my rant is over. Thanks for letting me vent. Stay cool. Be blessed today and every day...

"The sun rising... flowers blooming... rain falling... God says 'I love you' in a thousand different ways."

The Lord bless you and keep you. Numbers 6:24 NIV

Until next time,

Critch

Coupons are taking over the Pee Dee!

2011-06-25T08:38:00.001-04:00

Couponing is taking over the Pee Dee! Florence is fortunate to have Coupon Keri, who is sharing her knowledge with all who wish to learn the art of couponing and reap the benefits of tremendous savings for their families. She is a Master of everything about coupons... AND she practices what she teaches! Most of us are novices, but we get credit for trying! Several weeks ago, the local Harris Teeter offered to triple any coupon $.75 or less. This was a first for many and I jumped on the band wagon with the other newbies and veterans. As I entered HT armed with my coupon binder and shopping list, it was a scene from "The Stepford Wives"! Women, carts, and binders filled every aisle - searching for items on their lists - serious, intense, focused; however, no one was smiling or making eye contact! It was very apparent this was not a fun experience; yet, they continued up and down each aisle searching for bargains.

The concept of saving appeals due to the uncertain economy, but is it saving money? Couponing is time consuming! They must be found, clipped, categorized, and filed... then, matched to the store offering the best price for the item, pulled from binder, placed with shopping list and given to cashier at checkout. Most cashiers will scrutinize each coupon making sure all requirements are met; if not, the coupon will be declined, returned to you, and then the decision of whether to purchase item anyway or remove from your cart. This can be very time consuming, frustrating and for a novice will almost certainly cause a migraine!

My first attempt was not successful. I found most items on my list were gone, and the items I did find did not always match the coupon requirements - so I spent $107 and saved $34. I hoped for a better result...

My thoughts on triples: 1) the stores raise the price, 2) they under-stock, 3) the entire process takes too long and 4) the staff and the shoppers are not happy. Yes, I will continue to coupon. However, it will be on a smaller scale until I get the hang of it and only with stores where I routinely shop. Knowing the store, their layout and the staff does make the experience a better one. Oh, and remember if everyone stays on the right side of the aisle as you navigate up the aisle there will be less traffic jams and traffic will flow at a steady pace... all the best to each shopper... and remember to SMILE!

May you have a blessed day!

Critch

"He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever." Psalm 111:5

Awwwwww...

2011-05-10T15:03:00.000-04:00

Mothers... Yours, Mine, Ours

2011-05-10T14:19:00.000-04:00


Mothers are "Angels"

As you know, this past weekend honored all mothers - living and deceased; young and old; all races; all ages; with one, two, three chldren or more, twins, triplettes, etc. How blessed to have such a wonderful gift from above in our MOTHERS.


SPRING means SWINGING!

Spring is quickly moving into summer in my native South Carolina. The winter was cold; everyone complained, and longed for warmer weather. Now, it is warmer and the complaints have begun about the heat and hurricane season - oh well - humans are hard to please, aren't we?

Be sure to enjoy this time before the heat becomes unbearable and the tourists (we really love y'all) take over our coastline bringing... traffic, long lines, over-worked employees, and time passing much to fast. Take a deep breath, stop and listen... as God whispers in your ear, "Rejoice!"

Now, go fetch yourself a fresh picked tomato, wash and peel it, add mayo, salt & pepper, fresh baked bread and be glad you were raised in the South!

Be blessed today and everyday,

Pamela

Spring may FINALLY be HERE!

2011-04-25T16:10:00.000-04:00

The Easter weekend was gorgeous in South Carolina! What a glorious tribute to how awesome God is! Not only did He create our world; all creatures; every plant, animal, body of water, mountain, valley, sky, cloud, sun, and moon; in addition, He gave His Son, Jesus, to be born of the Virgin Mary, walk and teach on earth for 33 years, and to give His life on the cross for our sins, so that we may have eternal life! This is the true meaning of unconditional love.

Spring is a time of new birth; whether in our life or our garden. Each requires preparation - in our lives reading God's word and living through faith - in our gardens our hands must get dirty and our plants (fruit and/or flowers) must be nurtured.

The story of Easter can be found here.

For gardening tips, go here. May you enjoy this beautiful weather and be blessed through God's Word and by "getting your hands dirty!"

As for new beginnings, visit my new website and new blog.

Be blessed today and every day,

Pamela

New look... new beginnings... new blessings

2011-04-15T04:58:00.000-04:00

EASTER is a time for new beginnings!

Spring is here!

The blog has a fresh, new look. Things are good in this neck of the woods. Here's to all things being possible with faith in God and hard work. Take the journey, too. It promises to be one full of 'blessings'.

Be blessed this day and every day...

Relationships...

2011-01-06T21:19:00.000-05:00

...Can't live with them and can't live without them!

It is tough enough figuring out our own relationships... with our spouses, children, parents, friends, etc. - but when you are asked to jump in the middle of a relationship your grown child is involved in - LOOK OUT! There will not be a way to please everyone. Do you anger/hurt your son or daughter... or do you tear into the "other" person... or do you simply stay out of it?

Being a people person with some knowledge of many things, being "quiet" is hard. Yes, your raised eyebrows can be felt, if not seen! However, being quiet and diplomatic while having empathy can soothe both sides.

Follow these simple guidelines:

Listen to both sides
Pray for God's wisdom
Be honest
Love unconditionally
Be available

No one is perfect. Do not expect perfection from yourself or others. Remember to treat others the way you wish to be treated and give it to God to handle. He has lots more time. patience, and experience than any one else and will find a solution - in His time, in His way. Wait for His answer because our Heavenly Father does know best.

May you be blessed...

Goals for 2011....

2011-01-04T12:16:00.001-05:00

Today will begin a new year for this blog. It will continue to give you insight to "Life after SAHM". It will add how to save in today's economy. In addition, it will offer information on how to have a closer walk with our Lord.

There will be tips on coupons, gardening, jobs and any-and-everything-in-between.

Please become a regular reader, leave comments, links to bargains, etc.

Have a Happy and Prosperous New Year 2011!

Check out CouponKeri

Another good read UptownUncorked

Take this survey Your expectations for 2011...

Until then... Be Blessed

MEMORIAL DAY...

2010-05-31T16:07:00.003-04:00

Today we honor the men and women serving in the various capacities involved in protecting the United States and its citizens. This day, also, is a tribute to the men and women who served and lost their lives while performing this duty. It is a remembrance of all branches of service and all those serving actively now and those who served in the past. Our American flag should be proudly flying, our hands should be over our heart as we pledge our allegiance to our country and the flag, and our prayer must be for peace among nations and all mankind as we honor our service men and women on this Memorial Day.

Memorial Day in the United States

GOD BLESS AMERICA

today and everyday.

Jeremiah... have you seen him?

2010-05-27T12:00:00.000-04:00

At 10AM, we discovered our precious Jeremiah, our miniature wire-haired dachshund, was not in his pen with his step brother Lander, a Jack Russell Terrier. Of course panic set in. Luckily Will and Betsy were available and the search began for our 'runt.' The love of our lives and such a funny dog! We called, we whistled, we yelled, I cried, I prayed... and our gracious Heavenly Father heard us... and put Jeremiah on a course for home - 58 acres in the country with many hazards for such a spoiled, little dogie. There is a fish pond, a pool, a fox, and many other "wild animals" that are so irresistible to such a curious pet. Jeremiah thought the adventure was just that, an ADVENTURE and then it turned into a wonderful game of 'hide and seek' with Betsy.

The Lord brought him home. He is getting a much needed bath and pedicure, as I write. He will now be the inside dog he is supposed to be, living with his Granny!

Thought this was a cry for help from all my friends online... so glad it is just another day in the "Life after SAHM!"God bless and remember... "Y'all come back, ya' hear!"

Comfort Zones

2010-05-25T00:31:00.001-04:00

Comfort Zones

Today will be a memorable day, for sure!

If you follow me on Facebook (Pamela Critcher Poston) and Twitter (Ladybug1949), you are aware that I am a proud mother of four daughters! All quite talented in very unique ways and by far my greatest accomplishments. My oldest, Leslie, is well known among social media and has co-authored, Twitter for Dummies. Today she threw her 'hat' in the ring of competition for a new TV show on Oprah's OWN Network. I am thrilled and truly feel she has the ability and the desire to find her place on the network, using her talents to teach the how, why, when, and where of Social Media - and how it can help you personally and professionally.

Follow her voice here. Listen, share, and vote for Leslie!

"Y'all come back, ya' hear!"

Season Finale of "HOUSE, MD"

2010-05-17T23:33:00.000-04:00

Tonight was the season finale of "House, MD". If you missed it... Hulu it, etc. The best in a while... I am embarrassed to admit how much I wanted it to turn out that way. No clues here, in case you did miss it tonight and have it TiVo'd, I do not want to be the one who spoils it! Just be sure you see it! :)

Then "24"... I am sorry to say I drifted off into my Internet World and missed it... please, no clues. I promise to watch it in a bit.

So enough said about Monday night TV.

The weather is to darn hot and humid. Someone tell me why I live in the South? Oh, yea, 'cause I'm a Southern Girl, right! An official GRITS. And proud of it, but I want to live in a cooler climate without humidity. Suggestions? BTW, here is my GRITS persona

I love this avatar! I am this inside my head!

The real me... after a long day...

Sleep well... until next post.

So... phone, visit, text THEM! :)

2010-05-15T11:56:00.000-04:00

The ball is in your court...

The next move is yours...

SURFING the INTERNET

2010-04-26T07:25:00.000-04:00

Good Morning!

Most of us use the Internet - for business, pleasure, and social media... Twitter, MySpace, and Facebook are a few of the popular choices. For people like me who live twenty miles from 'town,' it is a connection to ALL things! It is a wonderful way to network, find old and new friends, long lost relatives, and play!

However, it is important to be safe by being a responsible "web surfer." There are predators surfing the Internet, too, trying to steal identities for unlawful purposes. Therefore, you must be conscientious with the personal information that you supply on a profile page, following these tips will help to deter online hackers. Simply skip these questions or be very broad with your answers:

1. Do not post your birth date. Instead use Baby Boomer, Gen X, etc.

2. Do not furnish your mother's maiden name, EVER.

3. Do not list current or previous addresses. Instead use a location - Northeast, Southwest, Coast, Middle America, etc.

4. Do not share the school you attended. Instead be a smarty pants and say, "Yes, I attended a school!"

Another piece of information Internet thieves look for is, "We'll be out of town this weekend." If you gave your actual address - basically, you have invited them to steal from you! Another rule to make a habit, do not open any e-mail from someone you do not know. Also, do not click a link that is unfamiliar. Hackers use this method quite often to gain access to your account and/or spread computer viruses.

All of this information is common sense and we know to beware, but it never hurts to be reminded.

Do you shop on Craigslist? If you do, first go to Craiglook.com. Here, the classified items are organized by photos, which saves opening all the ads to find your items. A great time saver!

The Internet can help if you are feeling "blue" and need a laugh - go to: ItsNature.org/category/cute where you will find super, funny animals. To find humor - go to: MyHumor.org or CleanJoke.com. Want to watch a funny video? Go to: KidFriendlyVideos.blogspot.com or with supervision for children go to: TV.com for episodes of shows like America's Funniest Home Videos. Most TV shows are available here and are not all PG!

Now, if you need a good cry and missed Extraordinary Measures when it was in theaters - rent it! It stars Harrison Ford, Brendan Fraser, and Keri Russell trying to find a cure for a rare genetic disorder their two children have. Be sure to have tissues!

Well, now you will surf the net safely; have a shortcut to shopping on Craigslist; three links to make you smile, and a movie to make you cry... I hope these make this a great MONDAY.

Next time, gardening in raised beds... it's not to late, if we hurry!

Remember, "Y'all come back, ya' hear!"

April Fool's Day plus two...

2010-04-03T00:34:00.001-04:00

The first day of April came and left without any jokes played. Whew... Today was GOOD FRIDAY and Sunday is EASTER. Remembrance of Jesus raised up after death on the cross for our sins. The story of Easter is found in Matthew, chapters 27, 28; Mark, chapters 15, 16; Luke, chapters 23, 24; and John, chapters 19, 20, and 21 in the King James Version of the Bible. Jesus crucified. And then April continues... as people were taxed in Jesus' time... taxation continues today. April Fifteenth... Are you ready? If not, you have only TWELVE days left to prepare and submit your income tax returns to "UNCLE SAM."

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31, 2010

2010-03-31T14:32:00.002-04:00

Today is "Hump Day". Affectionately called this because it marks the middle of the week - a symbol to all that the end of the week is in sight! For employers and employees, this is like a 'second wind' to allow the best work to continue, knowing there is the reward of a weekend without the office, the commute, the meetings, the deadlines, endless phone calls, emails, conferences (face-to-face, web, or phone), and late night work to do. Weekend. It emits an unique feeling just by saying it out loud. It brings forth memories of stress-free time spent doing what is loved, needed with family and friends. Special times. Special places. Relaxation, time clearing the mind and regaining perspectives. Spring is here. Many have "spring fever" and must participate in outdoor activities, feeling the warmth of the sun, smelling the fragrances of cut grass and blooming flowers, and enjoying playing in the dirt! In the Southeast, especially the SC coast, the next five days will be fantastic - sunshine, pleasant temperatures, no rain, and not yet tourist season. Of course, there will be college kids on Spring Break and families spending Easter on the beautiful beaches; however, this makes the time here even better. Sharing in the fun, the memories being made, getting caught up with old friends and making new ones, and experiencing the joy of Easter in such a beautiful setting. So... If you can, come to the beaches of SC and make a memory. There is light at the end of the tunnel... a weekend to regroup. In addition, a celebration of Jesus' resurrection after death on the cross for our sins, giving each of us life everlasting with our Lord and Saviour! Hallelujah! Remember, "Y'all come back soon, ya' hear!"

HALOS...

2010-02-16T09:28:00.005-05:00

HALOS

At the bottom of this page is a YouTube video about this organization, HALOS. It was brought to my attention through my youngest daughter because her best friend since 2002 is now working for the group in Charleston, SC. It touched my heart, please watch it and the others included there, it will touch your heart, too. Listen to your heart and do what it is telling you to do. HALOS is ... Charleston HALOS (Helping and Lending Outreach Support) provides resources and special opportunities to abused and neglected children and their caregivers, involved with Charleston County ... Thanks. Have a blessed day...

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2010-02-14T10:00:00.002-05:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY 2010

Hump Day...

2010-01-27T08:16:00.008-05:00

is on Wednesday. Add to that the wintry weather, and all workers look forward to making it to "Hump Day" because it is downhill to the weekend! Everyone calls Wednesday "Hump Day", but does anyone know what caused the 'label'? Wednesday is the third day of the week and ls between Tuesday and Thursday with three days in front and three days behind, thus it's 'hump day'. This is an American-English idiom, a reference, as expressed earlier, to making it through to the middle of the 'work week' as getting 'over the hump.' And, for this week, each of you made it - over the hump! Which makes this Thursday and us much closer to the 'weekend.' The weather is cold and brisk today in SC. Once again tonight the temperature will drop into the low twenties. For all outside activities, bundle up and enjoy the sunshine! On Sunday, it might rain - get the outside 'stuff' finished before Sunday. Sunday will be a good day to start off in Church, comfort food for lunch and a good book snuggled in front of the fire, or watching a good movie with the family in the comfort of your home. Another choice could be getting ready for the big day - SUPER BOWL SUNDAY! This year it falls on February 6Th. Plan your snacks, get them from the store and be sure your guest list is complete. Keep it simple, the focus will be on the game, so finger foods are a must. Here are two recipes for your consideration: BLOODY MARY MIX for a CROWD 3 qt tomato juice 1 tsp Pickapeppa Sauce* 1/4 c Worcestershire Sauce 3 tsp sugar 1 1/2 T fresh lime juice Salt to taste 3 c vodka small celery ribs In a gallon container, mix together all ingredients, except vodka. Refrigerate until chilled. Add vodka and stir well; adjust seasoning. Server cold in chilled glasses without ice. * Pickapeppa Sauce is Jamaican and is found in supermarkets, near the ketchup and steak sauces. Makes about 1 gallon MARINATED SHRIMP 2 lb. jumbo or large, boiled 2 red onions, sliced 1 red or green bell pepper, sliced 1/4 c chopped fresh tarragon 1 T capers 2 1/21 c olive oil Dash of Tabasco Salt and black pepper to taste Peel and de-vein shrimp, boiled Place shrimp in a bowl with onions, peppers, tarragon, and capers. Place oil, vinegar and Tabasco in a jar and secure lid. Shake vigorously until well blended. Pour oil and vinegar mixture over the rest of the ingredients and toss well. Salt and pepper to taste. Marinate for 4 hours or overnight. 12 to 24 shrimp per pound Remember, enjoy the weekend, but "y'all come back, real soon ya' hear! Still Sexy at Sixty...

Catching up...

2009-12-17T10:36:00.005-05:00

How quickly the last 30 days passed! I did not pass my class, number one. We enjoyed a wonderful visit with our youngest daughter, from Maine, over Thanksgiving, number two. I did not cook for Thanksgiving. Our third daughter with help from two of her sisters, cooked. It was delicious! I took the class over and passed, but my GPA fell to a 3.50, sad. I enrolled in the second concentration for my Bachelor of Business Administration degree with Health Care Management and Management. Say a prayer! Mill Run looked this way in November. It, still, looks this way in December; however, the temperature at night is in the thirties. It feels like Christmas! Will we have a 'white Christmas', probably not. My oldest and youngest, one in NH - one in ME, certainly will! Neither one is coming home for the holidays. The house will feel empty. This weekend will be spent putting up the tree, the house is divided on where to put it. I will try and upload a photo of it and its location and post here. My wish for you and your family is a warm, wonderful, respectful, and peaceful Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of baby Jesus! Merry Christmas from my place to yours!

Monday, good morning sunshine!

2009-11-16T08:18:00.005-05:00

Monday, another beautiful day out in the 'boonies'... The weekend was simply gorgeous, a little warmer than normal and some rain showers - a perfect break before beginning another week. One week from Thursday is T- Day, our youngest daughter is flying in this Friday from Portland, Maine for the Thanksgiving holiday. This is a first in a long while; normally, the girls gather with us at Mill Run for Christmas, but it will be a Thanksgiving feast this holiday season. We are hoping it will be less stressful and less hustle and bustle. We will decorate the Christmas tree Thanksgiving weekend and get the Christmas decorations out, which will give a longer time to enjoy them! It seems we have put it off in the past and would be trying to decorate the day before Christmas! Not good for the blood pressure or the family dynamics... My favorite hunter, my hubby, had a good weekend with his huntin' buddies. He and one other buddy bagged a deer on Friday, so the weekend was successful! If you are wondering if the photo above was taken on the farm (my hubby wishes it was!), no, it was not, but I am sure this is the vision dancing in my hunter hubby's head! For those pondering why I haven't gushed about my graduation from AIU - a 'slight' glitch in my academic plan - internet hell and not getting assignments completed and submitted by Sunday, November 8, 2009 at 11::59:59 pm, CST soooooo, I am still in MGT485... with a new completion date in December.. Sure, I am disappointed, but God's plan is my plan and I am at peace with the delay. My new professor is very good and extremely funny! A nice change from the previous one. I hope your Monday will be filled with Thanksgiving plans and thoughts. Be safe and remember... "Y'all come back, ya' hear!"

Friday the Thirteenth...

2009-11-14T00:06:00.007-05:00

Today was Friday the Thirteenth. I am not superstitious, but ... knowing it, does make me stop, listen, look over my shoulder, and then hurry to where ever I am going! Why? I am not quite sure, probably because you hear the tall tales and see the people who are superstitious go through their rituals. It may be that Halloween was only a couple of weeks ago. It could be the current state of our world - poor economy, unemployment rising, older folks worrying, a tenseness in the air - but, I am not superstitious! Yesterday was my birthday. I am now sixty... it was not that long ago that I would have said sixty was OLD. Well, not anymore! I am a believer now - you are only as old/young as you feel. To be sixty feels pretty darn good on Friday the Thirteenth. I bet you wondered how I was going to connect those two thoughts, didn't you? My girlfriend turned sixty the day before I did. We celebrated today with a yummy lunch at Applebees and a coffee at Starbucks. It was a nice birthday. Sixty may be all right after all. Oh my, 1:00 AM ... and still, much to do before I can sleep. I hope you have a great weekend! Remember, "Y'all come back, ya' hear"

Fall is here...

2009-10-09T14:23:00.004-04:00

well... Almost! We did have a taste of cooler weather, crisp nights, feel of football in the air, and then... 86 degrees today! Is this "Indian Summer"? And what the blazes IS Indian Summer? Indian summer is H.U.M.I.D.I.T.Y - warm - confusing for plant life - irritating, for sure! The calendar says Autumn arrived September 21, could someone tell me where? Today is October 9 - with temperature near 90, come on that is Summer, not Autumn temps! I have waited patiently. I have saved my fall wardrobe - all three outfits. I have not put any fall decorations out. I have not purchased a pumpkin. BUT... I want to! Now. Today. I hear the Farmers' Market calling me..." Come, please come and buy our pumpkins, fall veggies, crisp apples, and a variety of our orange, yellow, rust colored Mums..." So, I will wait a little longer, but I do not like waiting - I may grumble and complain, but what choice do I have? Remember, "Y'all come back, ya' hear!"

Thoughts, Actions, Result

2009-08-30T12:35:00.007-04:00

The week was long, but so productive! A true blessing from Above... My friend, fellow Diva LSJ, and I spent Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in Charleston, SC at the Medical University of SC's teaching hospital having her hearing aid implant removed. An out-patient procedure (amazing what modern medicine is capable of doing), which was successful. A feeling of relief, yet sadness, too. Relief that the removal was relatively easy for the physician and a minimum of pain for my friend. Sadness over the device not producing the desired results. This is not a complaint or a commit to influence any one's decision to try the method to increase hearing ability. This column deals with opinions of the author and that alone. Understand? Normally our road trips are business and / or medical, with a smidgen of fun mixed it... we were to tired to venture out of the motel, this trip; however, we played SCRABBLE! What a great game. It mixes fun with learning while keeping those brain cells active. This is really important for the 50+ crowd, my peer group.

Thursday the 13th, what does that mean?

2009-08-13T13:31:00.012-04:00

Absolutely nothing! The number 13. Why the superstitions about a number... My least favorite resource, Wikipedia says, Unlucky 13 Main article: Triskaidekaphobia The number 13 is associated with bad luck in some countries, and even has a specifically recognized phobia, Triskaidekaphobia, a word which was coined in 1911. Friday the 13th has been considered an unlucky day since the 1800s, as a combination between an unlucky day, Friday, and the number 13. Lucky 13 In Sikhism, the number 13 is considered a special number since 13 is tera in Punjabi, which also means "yours" (as in, "I am yours, O Lord"). The legend goes that when Guru Nanak Dev was taking stock of items as part of his employment with a village merchant, he counted from 1 to 13 (in Punjabi) as one does normally; and thereafter he would just repeat "tera", since all items were God's creation. The merchant confronted Guru Nanak about this, but found everything to be in order after the inventory was checked. April 13 also usually turns out to be Vaisakhi every year, which is the Sikh New Year and the major Sikh Holiday. Several successful sports figures have worn the number 13. Ozzie Guillén, manager of the 2005 World Series Champion Chicago White Sox, has worn the number throughout his baseball career. Alex Rodriguez began wearing it upon joining the New York Yankees (three, the number he had previously worn, is retired by the Bronx Bombers to honor Babe Ruth). Dan Marino, an American football player known for passing the 2nd most yards in NFL history, wore the number 13, although pundits in the sport have often cited him as the greatest quarterback never to win an NFL championship. Basketball great Wilt Chamberlain wore the number 13 on his jersey throughout his NBA career. Also, FIBA rules require a player to wear the number in international competitions (only numbers from 4 to 15 could be worn, and as there are 12 players, one must wear 13); Chris Mullin, who wore #20 in college and #17 in the NBA, wore #13 for both (1984 and 1992) of his Olympic appearances. Shaquille O'Neal wore #13 in 1996, Tim Duncan wore #13 in 2004, Steve Nash is currently wearing it for the Phoenix Suns, Yao Ming wore it in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, and Mats Sundin and Bill Guerin wear 13 in the NHL. One of Iceland's all time best handball players, Sigurður Sveinsson, wore the number 13 when he played for the national team. In association football, both Gerd Müller and Michael Ballack have favoured the number 13, among others. In Italy, 13 is also considered to be a lucky number, although in Campania the expression 'tredici' (meaning 13) is said when one considers their luck to have turned for the worse. Colgate University also considers 13 to be a lucky number. They were founded in 1819 by 13 men with 13 dollars, 13 prayers, and 13 articles. (To this day, members of the Colgate community consider the number 13 a good omen.) In fact, the campus address is 13 Oak Drive in Hamilton, NY and the all men a cappella group is called the Colgate 13.

And if you like to read about mystery and folklore, you might enjoy this book,

BOOK of the week

The 13th Floor: A Ghost Story by Sid Fleischman ages 8 and older

Have you ever noticed that buildings, even really tall buildings, usually don't have a 13th floor? That's because so many people think 13 is an unlucky number. Put Buddy Stebbins, the main character in this slightly scary, very fun ghost story, in that group. When Buddy gets off on the 13th floor of a rickety old building, he finds himself on a leaky pirate ship off the coast of New England in the late 17th century. He meets up with one of his ancestors, an adventurous girl named Abigail. While Buddy and Abigail encounter witches, ghosts, pirates and treasure, Buddy must also figure out how to get back to the 13th floor and back to his home.

Although Wikipedia is not an acceptable resource for most instructors, it is a starting point for basic information. Always check the information you find there for accuracy, as anyone can edit, add to, or delete information. Now that I have given the site some free word of mouth advertising, how funny is that? Any how, it was a little background on the number 13.

I hope your Thursday has been a fun day and that you have made plans for a restful weekend!

Until next time ... Smile, God love you! Me, too!

Baby birds, rain, cooler weather, barking puppies ...

2009-05-14T18:54:00.006-04:00

Those are the sights, sounds, and smells of my world for the past few days. They rejuvenated my tired 'almost sixty-year-old-body' to get up and move around a little - successful, but neuropathy is still a part of my daily life. For all you youngsters out there - make the right choices concerning the food, drugs, and the environment you place in and around your body because you will reap the rewards (or punishment) from your choices. Do not click away from Life after SAHM - I am not going to nag or preach to you. Just a 'little nudge', OK? See that did not hurt a bit!

Oops. did anyone notice this photograph almost goes with post, but not quite?

This is the view from my home office ... God is good ... such a sweet life ... such a blessing! Spring, a time of new beginnings - the baby birds; rain ... water for growth; cooler weather ... time for renewal; and the barking puppies ... being brought back to reality Another day in the life after a stay-at-home-mom! This is a getting-back-in-the-swing-of-things post. Thanks for putting up with my lame attempt at humor (I did see the smiles.) So, until next time ... remember to savor the moments whatever they might be.

Hump Day

2009-04-08T10:42:00.001-04:00

Hello bloggers everywhere!

Good morning, have a blessed day.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T09:16:00.004-05:00

From my heart to yours...

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

FRIDAY !

2009-02-06T09:50:00.006-05:00

It's gonna be a great DAY!

T. G. I. F.

Enjoy this weekend with family and friends.

Come back on Monday, OK?

Tuesday? What happened to Monday?

2009-01-27T10:33:00.005-05:00

Has that happened to you? You wake up, realize a new day is here, but you can not for the life of you remember what you accomplished yesterday... it feels really weird - like someone stole something from you, but you can't remember what!

Sixty is running after me and will catch me this year... could that be the culprit? Getting older? My goodness, I hope - because then I am doomed to forever forgetting! Shucks, I want to remember all this craziness, don't you?

Oh, the "A+" is not for my forgetting, but the rating I give my life so far. How do you rate yours?

I'll be back tomorrow ... unless I forget I was here today and told you I would be back tomorrow. Life can be very confusing sometimes, can't it?

Until next time, "Keep smiling!"

WHAT A YEAR!

2009-01-01T11:47:00.000-05:00

WHAT A NEW YEAR'S EVE IT WAS! JUST THE TWO OF US, A GOOD BOTTLE OF THE BUBBLY, GOOD MOVIE ON OUR NEW HDTV, MY HUBBY MADE IT TO 12:15 AM... THEN OFF TO BED, TO RISE BEFORE DAWN FOR THE LAST DAY OF HUNTING SEASON... JUST ME AND THE PC AND THE DOGS AND CATS AND PUPPIES, OH WELL... THAT IS THE LIFE OF A WIFE OF A DEER HUNTER! MAYBE HE WILL GET THE "GREY GHOST!" HAVE ANOTHER GLASS WITH ME, OK?

2009!

2009-01-01T06:02:00.006-05:00

Happy New Year...

...2 0 0 9...

Christmas Eve ...

2008-12-24T18:26:00.005-05:00

I hope everyone has a joyous holiday! Remember this is the night of our Savior's birth ... Rejoice! My prayer is a happy, healthy, warm, and safe holiday.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

to all and to all a good night!

Sweet Dreams!

The Christmas Story

2008-12-15T13:49:00.002-05:00

Visit here for the Christmas Story.

Your Christmas Angel, from ME to You...

2008-12-06T21:07:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas! Check out these: Country Shabby-Country Chic Faith Hill A Country Christmas

Baby, It's cold outside!

2008-12-02T11:10:00.005-05:00

Here, in South Carolina, the rain has stopped, the sun is out, and the temperature has DROPPED! Baby, it's COLD outside! December is here ... hope is high. Thanksgiving was a blessing this year, spent with friends as the "unclaimed" couple ... a first for us; however, it was one of the best holidays in the recent past. In fact, I think I am still full with turkey and dressing, smothered in giblet gravy! YUMMY! Now our thoughts will turn to decorating, baking, planning, and blogging for the holidays. Have you started putting up your home decorations? Have you addressed and mailed your Christmas cards? How about the menu? Is your guest list finished? Invitations addressed? Mailed? Have you purchased your Christmas tree? What kind? Or have you moved from natural to silk? This sounds good in theory, saves money in the long run, but our children still say, "The real thing is better!" They love the smell that fills the house. This is a cheat sheet for you. I hope it helps you get organized and on your way to a wonderful holiday celebrating the true meaning of Christmas - the birth of baby Jesus! Have a blessed day. Let me know in comments about your plans for Christmas, OK?

"There's nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and not be a child."

~Erma Bombeck (1927-1996), American author and humorist. Find a Christmas quote here.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2008-11-26T19:10:00.005-05:00

Puppies they are a'comin'...

2008-11-17T19:07:00.002-05:00

Betsy's Jack Russell Terriers Hannah & Lander are pleased to announce the births have begun! so far ... proud parents of 2 young ladies and counting!

HAPPY "LATE" HALLOWEEN!

2008-11-01T00:19:00.000-04:00

I KNOW ... LATE AGAIN!

BLOG ACTION POST DAY 2008

2008-10-15T21:23:00.012-04:00

It's here! Blog Action Post Day 2008! The topic this year is POVERTY. Wow, this is a tough one ... especially with the problems in our economy over the last several weeks. It has hit most, if not, ALL Americans where it hurts the most - being able to take care of their families by providing shelter, food, clothing and the necessities for living, the basics. Jobs have been lost, homes have been foreclosed and families displaced, pension depleted, and people are scared! Poverty falls across the board and shows no mercy to race, gender, religion, politics or economics. Persons with a lot of money have "lost it all" and have been placed in the Welfare system of the Federal Government. Some are able to get jobs and pull themselves up and out of "the system". The people in poverty that pull at my heart the most are those that have been in this "hell" for three generations and longer ... whole families - father, mother, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. It some areas the entire family is sharing a bathroom and sleeping in 1 or 2 bedrooms or on the floor, if they are blessed to have a house to live in. Others, are in shelters with their belongings in trash bags, carried from shelter to shelter - no privacy at all. Yet, they manage to get through the day, only to face the same situation when they awake the next day. And then we find poverty in the lowest form and the hardest to help or understand, those living on the streets of ALL towns and cities across our country. Some (a few) choose this life, I think, because it is all they have ever known. Others have been removed from mental health institutions and prisons and left without any means of taking care of themselves - if they even know how! This section will grow as our economy continues to stagnate. Whose responsibility is it to change the conditions of people in our society that fall into this awful category of poverty? EVERYONE ... that is the only way to help to eliminate poverty - the buddy system - every adult becomes the buddy of an adult in poverty. The BUDDY helps in this way ... when shopping for groceries purchase TWO of what they buy, bagged separately and taken to their buddy. Food is the first need to fill. If a person is not hungry, the chances increase that strength and health improve allowing the search for work each day until a job is found. Each BUDDY will check on their buddy each week, offering transportation to health care appointments, job interviews and church. Our country was founded by very strong Christian men and women. Prayer was a daily part of their lives. Church is where you could find them on the Sabbath. What we have forgotten is this is what made us strong as a nation and what kept us strong. Now we have removed prayer from schools, we try to separate church and state, and we ridicule the beliefs held dear by Christians. This MUST be changed, freedom of religion needs to return. No one should be forced to pray, believe, attend, or practice something that is not what they want to do. However, my personal opinion, is one that feels in some cases poverty can be helped by having the strength of prayer and a home church to help person(s) and families. Will we end poverty in a short amount of time? NO! Can we make a difference? YES! Let's start today.

TUESDAY TIDBITS

2008-10-07T16:10:00.005-04:00

After the week of bail-outs, buy-outs, and left-outs- it is not clear what tidbits are available... Well, it appears there aren't any! See, if there is music available ... ---------------- Now playing: Aaron Goldberg - OAM's Blues via FoxyTunes Blues seem appropriate, don't they?

Autumn, Yet It Felt Like Summer Today

2008-10-03T22:27:00.004-04:00

Today was hot and humid, as if Mother Nature was giving one more day of summer before letting Autumn officially begin. The leaves are changing color. It is such a great time of year. Children are in school and have a renewed focus. College students are back on campus and for most, weekends are spent tailgating at football games. Rivalries abound. This means FALL has arrived! Farmers markets are filled with pumpkins. Late summer and fall vegetables can be found. Craft shows are popping up with items for fall decorating, Thanksgiving themes, and gifts for Christmas! Attending the shows, whether just looking or making purchases it's a nice way to spend a day during the weekend. If craft shows do not excite you, this is the season for yard sales. Plundering through someones stuff is appealing to those looking for hidden treasures and bargains and can be a great adventure. Being the one having the yard sale may not be quite as much fun - choosing what to sell, pricing items, setting up early on a Saturday morning and dealing with the shoppers that come an hour early - no matter how early you open the gate. Everyone should have a great yard sale story to tell - whether a seller or a buyer! So check the ads in the paper, plan your attack, and have fun. Now, if all of the above sounds to exhausting, then fill the car with gas and tour your area enjoying the fall colors. This may be more relaxing, yet may cost more than shopping due to the price of GAS! Oops, SORRY TO BRING THE PRICE OF GAS UP ... maybe choose a good movie, have fresh popped popcorn, put your feet up and enjoy! God bless.

FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE

2008-09-28T08:43:00.011-04:00

Today is the Day the LORD hath made, let us REJOICE and be GLAD in it.

MONDAY TIPS ... success?

2008-09-22T13:16:00.000-04:00

Tips this Monday are based on SUCCESS. I am reading SUCCESS, One Day at a Time, by John C. Maxwell and he gives a quote at the beginning of his book.

You will never change your life until you change something you do daily. The secret of your success is found in your daily routine.

When I read this I suddenly felt hopeful. How does the quote make you feel? Mr. Maxwell gives no credit to LUCK or WEALTH in a person's success. As his quote says it is what you do daily, habits formed by you leading to success or failure. He gives seven steps to success. I suggest you practice one each day this week ... learn it, do it, be it ... successful! Step One: Commit to grow daily. Step Two: Strive for lasting improvement. Step Three: Give your best on days you feel good AND days you feel bad. Step Four: Pay first and enjoy greater rewards in the end. Step Five: Go beyond your limits - potential is limitless and untapped. Step Six: Practice time management - lost time is lost, make the most of time. Step Seven: Sacrifice - trade up, not down. Following these steps should help you to improve. I have pledged to give it a try. Next Monday I'll let you know if I feel I have improved and grown in some way. We all have our 'rainbow', let yours remind you of your path to SUCCESS.

HOB ... SOUL FUNCTION ... DELBERT MCCLINTON

2008-09-18T16:35:00.007-04:00

Hi, Well, gang, the "old lady" (ME) was invited to a concert at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach, SC this past weekend. As it turns out the opening band - SOUL FUNCTION was primed and more than up for getting the crowd in the moment of the music. They did a great job opening for Delbert McClinton. SOUL FUNCTION is a local band based in North Myrtle Beach ... but always excited about gigs in new places. This band brought a full house to "grooving" to their music; up, clapping, singing along and dancing for a solid forty-five minutes! I was there and "got my groove on", too! Needless to say, the crowd was primed for Delbert McClinton. He was good, but it seemed the crowd wanted more of SOUL FUNCTION. It was the best concert I have ever attended ... thanks to my daughter and her SO (significant other) who plays with SOUL FUNCTION, and the Band. Follow SOUL FUNCTION on their MySpace Page ... http://www.myspace.com/soulfunctionmb Next recommendation from my great weekend is a movie - "THE WOMEN' - with a stellar cast: Meg Ryan, Annette Bening, Debra Messing, Bette Midler, Candace Bergen, Jada Pinkett-Smith and the bad one(whose name I forget!). A group of women tied together by family and friendship who stick by one another through life's trials and joys, using a background of humor. I'm not sure this is a date flick, but I KNOW it is a great choice for a good chick flick! Do not miss it! In fact, I may go twice!! http://thewomenthemovie.com/index.html

JohnMcCain.com - McCain-Palin 2008

2008-09-16T11:20:00.004-04:00

What do you think about the new commercial? Is this your choice for ELECTION 2008? I am still gaining information to make my choice ... JohnMcCain.com - McCain-Palin 2008

[via FoxyTunes / ]

LifeafterSAHM

2008-09-11T17:21:00.001-04:00

THE DAY AFTER ...

2008-09-02T13:01:00.004-04:00

Hall & Oates - me & Mrs Jones

[via FoxyTunes / Hall & Oates]

I hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend - I know I did! My 'hunting hubby' did, also! September 1 was opening day for hunting season our area. 'The Boys' worked hard getting the fields ready, putting corn out, repairing - replacing - moving stands around for optimum sighting of the deer. They are up at 4:00 am and on their way to the 'scene' by 4:30ish. It is an all day event on opening day... morning hunt, lunch break for something great cooked by 'one of the boys' and then back to the stands in the afternoon. It was great fun and hard work, but it was enjoyed by all ... even though no one 'bagged' a deer! There will be other days to try again and my 'hunting hubby' will be out there every free morning or afternoon he can work into his schedule. As for me, I'll be plugging away here at "Life after SAHM" writing and sharing with all of you what, how, where, and when wonderful things are happening at our place ...

Enjoy Labor Day

2008-08-30T00:04:00.004-04:00

---------------- Now playing: Hall & Oates - Me & Mrs. Jones via FoxyTunes

I DID IT!

2008-07-28T13:02:00.004-04:00

Yes, I am now a college graduate with an Associate Degree in Business Administration in Health care Administration. Yea! I am so proud of myself. This has been a dream since I was eighteen years old. My parents could not afford to send me to college, remember, this was before financial aid counselors and government programs for continuing your education! I joined the workforce, married, had a child, divorced, met the love of my life - married, continued to work in health care, had three more daughters, became a stay-at-home-mom and volunteered at the girls' schools, the museum, the library, Junior League, garden club, and at church in the children's department. My life was happy, full filled, and then the youngest left for SCGSAH at 16 and suddenly my "nest" was EMPTY! I tried several things to fill the time - reading, some volunteering, watching a lot of TV and movies, and slowly began to feel VERY sorry for myself. It was time to regroup after a very deep depression that led me to try and end my life, but by the grace of God and my youngest calling for help, my life was spared and it was up to me to decide what I was going to do with this "second chance". I chose to search the Internet for choices to LEARN. I looked at as many choices as possible. I wanted an online program, a degree in the business side of health care and a program that I could finish in a reasonable amount of time ... American Inter Continental University, AIU Online, offered all of my criteria. I made the call and it changed my life! I began in July, 2007 and finished my associate degree on July 13, 2007 - walked across our virtual stage on Saturday, July 26, 2008 at 11:00 AM CST with a smile on my face and a tremendous feeling of pride! Now, I plan to take a short break and return to AIU in November to begin work on by Bachelors degree in Business Administration in Health care Management. If any of my readers are thinking about returning to school, leave a comment and we'll "talk". I love the concept of getting a higher education and I would love to "toot the horn" of my school, AIU. I hope you are not bored with this post - it certainly means a lot to me. :)