Hope for a New Year?

Well, we are at the end of yet another year. So I find myself wondering if I am any better off now than at this same time last year. Did I make any resolutions last year? And how long before those resolutions went the way of the dodo bird?

See, every year, everyone talks about New Years Resolutions. And I mean EVERYONE! We get asked by our colleagues and by our friends and neighbors, "What are YOUR New Years Resolutions?". Heck, even the advertisers get in on the deal. Fitness clubs and Gyms probably make the most money at this time of year because of everyone signing up to make good on that resolution 'to get in better shape'.

So, if I have been around for as long as I have, What is there left to be resolute about? HA!, That's just the rub that I am getting at. What is it about our New Years Resolutions that we (me) cannot seem to conquer?

I am thinking that part of it may be that we aim to big. I know that if I say I am going to lose weight and I have lets say 50+ lbs to lose that if I have not dropped 10 lbs the first month then its right back to cheesecake and fatty burgers. I know that to be successful I, and I am only talking about myself here, I am sure there are many who are WAY better than I. But I digress, I know that if I start with a smaller, more obtainable goal, such as losing 5lbs, I might have greater success. And I can then make another resolution to lose another 5 lbs after that and so on.

And what of other goals, such as getting a promotion at work and/or being a better friend for example? How do we tackle such lofty goals? Certainly they are worthwhile and we feel they would make us better people. If they did not, we would not set them as goals, would we?

How do we break down getting a promotion? Maybe see where we can increase productivity in a certain area and putting in the time necessary to be noticed for positions as they became available. And how about being a better friend? That's a hard one no? I guess that you need to know just what your friends need or want IN a friend, or IN you for that matter. Of course listening and being there for them during their trials has definitely got to help.

Well, I am really trying to figure out what I most need to work on so that I CAN make some resolutions. Of course I am finding it difficult at how best to achieve "financial independence' and

'children who listen better'.

I am working on both of these as a matter of fact. I know they might seem pretty 'out there' and if you knew my circumstances maybe even unrealistic. But there is not to question but to do and so me and spouse WILL do. We are going to do the things we should have done before things looked so dire. We will 'bury' the credit cards and do something drastic. LIVE WITHIN OUR MEANS! Okay, it seems so simple when you write it down but it does not seem so simple when kids need braces for example. Or when something goes wrong in the house(money pit) and demands replacement, such as the Water main or the Heater/Air Conditioner. Sort of why we are burying the credit cards and not cutting them all up like we want to. Anyway, would welcome anyones advice on money saving tips in any area.

As far as the whole getting kids to listen better goes we figured we would call Nanny 911. Then we figured there was no way in hell I was going to put my family on television. Fat chance! Not that they are not the best kids ever, occasionally anyway. They are just, well, lets just say the decible level in our home can get mighty loud sometimes and I always wonder just what the neighbors are thinking. Because you know, even when we are having a ball, WE ARE LOUD!

I think the most common thing heard in our house apart from the repeatedly calling of children by their name until they answer is the word, "what?' or maybe "sorry, I didn't hear you' followed closely by "you never said that." Of course me and spouse find ourselves pulling out hair and groaning in misery because it seems to get worse as the children get older. In fact, I don't have a clue as to how to actually break this goal down. So, any help in this area is welcome as well.

WOW! that felt good to get off my chest. I hope I don't read this in a year and wonder 'what the heck was I thinking?'

So, now I am wondering Just what are you fellow stalkers out there putting on your lists of New Year Resolutions? Are they lifestyle changers? Are they going to cause you to make drastic changes in your routines or your home life? Please put on your brave face and let me know what you have planned for the New Year as well. Are you a big party person with lots of friends or do you roll over and kiss the spouse at midnight and go back to bed? Or are you somewhere inbetween?

Here is wishing you a very Happy New Year!

Memories

Okay, they say things come full circle and I am starting to believe it. I can distinctively remember the first time I watched the movie Home Alone. Just how many countless times I have seen it since I have no clue. I think It just may be part of my generations classic movies of Christmas. While I do not think it rates all the way up there with It's a Wonderful Life or Miracle on 34th St(the original) but when I think of Christmas that movie does come to mind. What is funny is that I think of lines to that movie even when it's not Christmas. When the uncle says, 'Look what you did, you little jerk!' This line is always repeated anytime I hear anyone say, 'look what you did!' sometimes it is not wholly appropriate but it is there, tucked into the tiny folds of my cranium.

What was the magic of this movie? I think it was the fact that we as children always think we would be better off without our parents and siblings around. Maybe that carries into adulthood but that's fodder for another post on another day. Anyway, just like any of us the star of the movie lives it up thinking he has gotten his greatest wish. Then later when he is reunited with his family he realizes just how much he loves and needs his family.

Now my children are watching this movie with the eyes of wishful children and wondering what they would do without their parents around. I see this movie with deeper meaning now as an adult.(I am an adult right? at least as far as the legal definition goes)

What other movies from the last twenty years or so, with a Christmas theme have left a big mark on us the 'regular' public? Could it be Jim Carey's 'The Grinch"? What movies would you, my fellow stalkers want to put on a 'New Holiday Classics' list?

Christmas - Humbug!?

MERRY CHRISTMAS STALKERS!

So with that out of the way I wanted to know how everyone feels this time of the year. I know for me that Christmas always is a magical time of year for me. I am lucky to have small kids around(still!) and that keeps the magic going for sure. But with the older kids we get to have a lot deeper Christmas traditions such as reading Luke 2 and watching Christ-centered movies as well as the fun Santa and Present themed movies.

I definitely was raised with certain traditions in my own family. Spouse had a few traditions in their family as well. But as we started our own family we had to decide what traditions WE were going to start.

Mostly, just spending time together is the most important because with all these kids and all the Church/work requirements we have to be flexible. But there are a few traditions we try and always do.

1. Sit around Christmas Eve and read the story of Jesus. We then have hot cocoa and go out to look at pretty Christmas lights. When we get back we let everyone open 1 gift

2. We go watch Christmas programs and Lights at certain areas(sorry-have to keep this generic or it totally gives me away)

3. We try to make cookies and treats for as many 'friends and family' as we can and deliver them as a family.

These are not knock your socks off traditions but they are OUR OWN! Because neither of us have much family support due to OUR standards we have tried to do the things to develop bonds within OUR immediate family that will last into our kids adult years so that as they grow older these traditions can be shared by their spouses and OUR grand kids.

So, fellow stalkers, what are your traditions? Are they traditions that you started within your own families? Do these traditions include any extended family? Tis the season for sharing people so SHARE ALREADY!

and MERRY CHRISTMAS!

How do you spell TRASH?

Just a quick rant that I am having difficulty dealing with. Because I wish to keep things lighter I will try to generalize what has so greatly offended me. Hey I know, I'll do one of those Dear whomever letters and let out all my frustrations that way.

Nope, that won't work either.(I would never use that kind of language in a letter!) Maybe I will just ask a few questions and see what my fellow stalkers think on the subject.

So what do you do when someone who is entrusted with the care of someone you love not only allows something to happen to them that just causes your mouth to drop open and steam to come out of your ears but actually encouraged and pushed them into it?

OH, I can't even begin to list the many levels of rage and frustration and anger and rage, I think I said that already, but you get the picture.

Lets put it this way:

You have a prize winning dog. It is pedigreed and trained and is treated with white gloves. Your "friend" agrees to watch your dog for the weekend and you feel safe that your dog is getting loving care, greater than that from some stranger at a kennel. When you come to pick up your dog you find out that your "friend" took your dog to a dog fighter to "toughen it up" and give it a more aggressive doggy cut. While there the dog fighter crops the tail and generally changes your prize winner forever.

This was a stretch and does not even begin to really explain the situation but let me ask you this.:

If a friend or family member destroys the trust you had with them by choosing to put someone you love in harms way deliberately, should you feel guilty about not wanting to be around them? Even during the holidays?

PLEASE put on your brave faces and help me out here!

Politically Correct Christmas?

Merry Christmas all you bloggers out there in blogger land. It may not be politically correct to say it but say it I do with all the emotional feeling to go with it. Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas.

I am not some anti-Semite or other hate monger as our PC society would have you believe. No, I am a God fearing, Christ believing Christian. There I said it. WOW that feels good. I want it to be known that I am respectful of all religion or lack thereof. In fact my own religion teaches tolerance of all beliefs and faiths.

So why is it that I am supposed to say Happy holidays instead of Merry Christmas? Are we really supposed to give in to all the commercialism of this season and forget about the true meaning? My Jewish friends are respectful of me and wish me a merry Christmas and I wish them a Happy Chanukah.

Don't get me wrong I love all the traditions of Christmas but isn't it all about the giving and sharing?

So what do I do when someone says, "Sorry I don't believe in that!" when I wish them a blessed and merry Christmas? After all, they ARE getting gifts wrapped and are waiting in line with their kids to see Santa. I know many atheists who celebrate Christmas so what's the deal? Is it the word blessed? Geez, forgive me for the atrocity!

I will not preach to someone who does not want to be preached to but are we to the point where Christianity is to be locked away and hidden from the world? I would not ask anyone else to shelf or hide their beliefs so why should I?

Well, leave me your thoughts stalkers. And as always, Have a great day!

And MERRY CHRISTMAS!

If mice could talk?

Well, Mama Kat gave an assignment and I actually decided to take it to task. So first up, what would I do if a mouse spoke to me?

Well, first off I would ask it for a great meal. Hey, I saw the movie. I know those things can really cook. And after my scrumptious meal I would start scheming. What?! Have you seen the places where a mouse can fit into? I have not got it all figured out yet, but I am sure we would make quite the team.

If I needed to know how someone really felt about me or what was "really" being said behind closed doors my new little friend could really help out. Of course I am only assuming that this mouse would be intelligent and not just some dumb field mouse who by some sheer coincidence has the gift of human speech.

And what could I offer that mouse? Protection for one. Do you know how many different ways humans have perfected in exterminating mice? A lot I think! Anyway, on top of that, I think a mountain of cheese would go a long way in making the little bugger my ally.

Of course, It would be a one mouse deal. No parties, no friends. Soon as there is more than one, DEALS OFF! I still have nightmares about the movie BEN. Anyone remember that one? With all the rats? Yep, as soon as the friends start hanging out its all over but the clean up. lol

The second part of my accepted assignment was about new roads I have taken ion life. Well, lets see here...........getting married, that was a new road.......bumpy at times but the best road I ever started down for sure. A little info on blogstalker......was very young when I got married. Especially young by the worlds standards. Even some of my family could be whispering that our marriage could not last a year. HA! jokes on them, going on two decades now!

Anyway, many different roads I have turned down on this here journey. Looking back there were some roads that forked. The sure thing is that you can only go down one of the forks or you can just sit still, never quite deciding which direction to go. One thing I cannot be accused of is sitting still. A slew of kids, some different career/job directions and a whole host of other 'activities'.(lol, maybe an inside joke)

So now I turn it around and ask my fellow stalkers what roads have you chosen? Were they the right roads? Also wondering about backing up and going down a different road when you realize you are not on the road you thought you were taking. Anyone done that? Anyone wanted to do that? Whats stopping you?

Okay stalkers, you know what to do....or do you?

Me Worry?

Okay stalkers, I think I feel a confession coming on. Yes, it is definitely coming out. I do not know exactly how to let it out but will do my best. I have a feeling most of you already know but I need to type it to convince myself. So here it goes: I am getting so old! Well, relatively speaking of course.

So why do I feel the weight of all my 234 years pulling me down to towards the earths core? Well, that question is not so easily answered. But seeing how I only have limited space to write(the Internet IS limited, right?) I will try to briefly let you into my head.

You see, when I was younger, I did not fear anything. At least I cannot remember fearing anything. I probably was a scared little kid at one time, but I am remembering that young teenager who saw the world orbiting around him/herself. I did things that I would never dream of doing at my ripened age. I took risks with my personal safety and more than likely those around me without really thinking of the possible consequences.

While I was not that impolite teenager or the teenager that broke EVERY rule I did step out of the box my parents tried to package me in. And now HERE IS THE KICKER.

Now I have to deal with the kids who are not scared of anything! I find myself worried to death about everything they do and what 'could' happen to them. Now don't get me wrong, I let my kids make their own mistakes. I even let them do things I know they are not going to like the consequences of. MY problem is that too often I expect or imagine the worst. And boy do I have an active imagination.

My older kids are really good kids. I honestly think they are way better kids than I ever was. But then again my parents thought I was such a great kid. AND THAT IS WHAT SCARES ME THE MOST. What don't I know about them? Me and my spouse have prided ourselves on the fact that we talk to our children about 'everything' openly and honestly. We may 'over react' at times, but really do tend to really hear them out and take their concerns to heart. I do wonder who they are when we are not around and it's just them and their friends. To be a fly on the wall.(or a little electronic transmitter. lol)

So, I am rambling again. Child #1 just got home from late night(morning) out. Everything went well and I can stop worrying.(for now)

So I do have a new question for all you stalkers who hung out through this boring post.

What do you worry about? or do you worry at all? If you do, what do you do to help you cope? For those of you with completely grown kids, do you ever stop worrying? and for those of you with all young'ns(no teenagers yet) GOOD LUCK!

Put your brave face on and leave a comment!
Have a great day!

Yummy Chocolate!

I, as you all know have been seriously limited on my blogging as of late. Imagine my surprise when after a week of not getting on my computer, found that I had not received just one award but TWO! The fact that they are the same award makes it that much easier to post about!

Thank you to The Scholastic Scribe and to Veggie Mom who showed me the bloggy love!

I want to award the following regular contributors(besides Scribe and V. Mom) to my comments with this award!

• Mussings of the mindless banterer
• Whetten Wonders
• Billions of versions of normal
• The family awaits
• Ronda's Rants
• A day in Rhonda's life
• Tale of a Kansas Girl
• Life Happens
• Whose roll is it anyway?

The rules will follow at the end of this post, but because so many move on before that I wanted to tell you all that this is A must have award! Not that I need any award to find reason to enjoy a sweet treat such as chocolate, but when it is a requirement it makes it twice as nice and I am sure when you are eating chocolate because it is part of an award that it has no fat and zero calories!

So anyway, is chocolate the chink in your armor? I like chocolate but Cheesecake is the sin that I have little or no defense against. Is there something that you stalkers out there have to be careful around? Is it harder around the holidays? I know I am trying to run more again, one of the reasons I am finding less time to blog!

Here are the Rules of the Road:

You must eat a Piece of Chocolate in honor of accepting The Octamom Award.

You must, um…..Eat Yet Another Piece of Chocolate when you put The Award on your blog.

You must visit Debi B. (who designed the award) by clicking Here. "It’s neighborly, you know," proclaims Tara R.

Try to go by and see the other stalkers we're putting links up for.

Don't forget to display the award on your blog!

Feel free to add or subtract from the rules as suits you…except that Chocolate one…

And, but of course, if you're reading this post & feel like you need a little Chocolate in your life, please accept The Octamom Award, with blogstalker's blessing!

Thanks for nothing!

The title of this post means nothing. I really am truly thankful for a whole lot. I AM thankful that I am busy enough with work and family that blogging has to come a distant third. I AM thankful that despite my great and obvious faults I DO have the greatest spouse in the known(and unknown) universe.

I do not get the opportunity to post, let alone read blogs with the frequency that I would like to. But all things considered, who cares? Not that I am blase about it or anything, there just is not any time. I seriously have written and rewritten post after post within the little brain I was blessed with. Problem is, with no time to sit at a computer it is just gets lost to the wind.

I have done some very cool family activities as of late and I so enjoy them that it caused me to take a look at what I am thankful for. It really is amazing how mush, even the least of us, have to be grateful for. How often do I feel like I am going without because the cable is out or the soda fountain at the store is out of order? Seriously!

Anyway, Since this IS thanksgiving(In America) I thought I would share a few things I am thankful for

• My spouse, seriously, my best friend!
• My children....I need to tell them that more...each one brings me immeasurable happiness
• A relationship with God through church and service
• My health........it could be better.....but it could be so much worse!
• My Job.........duh.......the way things are everywhere.....a big one
• A descent house....adequate for our needs
• Reliable transportation
• The ability to communicate my feelings and beliefs.......to a fault......I talk too much....but so much better than not being able to talk
• Cell phones and always being able to get hold of my kids...lol!
• Great books!
• Good movies!
• Music for any mood....ipods and mp3 players
• the rest of technology that I could live without but glad I don't
• Good Mexican food

Starting to get a little out of hand I know, but we could all make lists that could probably go on forever if we were honest with ourselves. As bad as things are or as bad as they get I think we all need to remember to treasure what we need, and be willing to part with what we don't. If we can do that, we can always be found happy, no matter the trial.

So.....anyone out there thankful for something? Spill it and help add to the good feelings of the Holidays (or at least so I can read more comments) Who knows, what you are thankful for might trigger something for someone else and so on and so on.............

Put your brave faces on and comment!

Houston, We have a problem!

Your life's soundtrack!

So, any of you who are frequent visitors to my blog, and not just readers of my posts on google reader, will note that I have quite a variety of music. I REALLY relate to music. While I am not musically inclined in any way, I am literally obsessed with GOOD music.

What is good music? Obviously we would all give different answers to that question. Some might even say that they prefer quiet to music. Crazy I tell ya! My tastes in music are very diverse to say the least. For example: I am huge fan of hair metal, particularly that from the 80's. I also like Johnny Cash and even some Michael Jackson(just keep him from my children). If it is good, I also like pop or top 40 music. Anyway, I also just love The Phantom of the Opera soundtrack and some of the classics. So how does one classify me?

Well you can't! That's right, there is no category I fit into. I really like music. Music that is well written and somehow connects with me. I like music that is well performed and produced. Not that I do not like a 'raw' sound also.

Two things that keep me from liking an artist or a band: Good vocals and writing but horrid musicianship & Great talent with the instruments and sound and then deplorable vocals

I know it sounds so so picky, and really I am not too critical. If it sounds good I probably like it. I am usually less critical than most music critics. But critics are usually biased in some way, which is fine, I just don't listen to them. I know that I tend to listen to music depending on the mood I am in. Does that make me a moody person? Probably, but there are distinct moments in my life where I can definitely 'hear' that certain song that 'fits' my mood, feeling or what is happening.

Now don't get me wrong, I have music that I run to. I have music I like to veg out to. I have playlists for many different things. And some songs make all the lists while others may only work with one.

I find myself 'craving' NEW music to try out. I am constantly updating my itunes and Windows players with new music. It may have actually, at one time, been a really unhealthy addiction. I started this post with the intent of posting my "Life's Soundtrack", a group of songs that would cover most of the highs and lows and good and bad of my life thus far. As I started listing songs I realized that I could not make a small enough list. There IS a song(or three) for EVERY occurrence and happening in my life! I could not whittle a complete list together. To illustrate what I was combing through, I tell you that my music folders contain 32,458 songs. Told you it has been unhealthy at times!

Anyway, I thought I would list some artists who I think of as contributors to my life soundtrack:

• Pink Floyd
• Metallica
• Led Zeppelin
• Rush
• Reba McEntire
• The doors
• Eric Clapton
• Johnny Cash
• Jon Bon Jovi
• Beastie Boys
• Michael Jackson
• Audioslave
• Charlie Daniels
• Guns N Roses
• Queen
• Garth Brooks
• UB40
• Jimmy Hendrix
• Lynyrd Skynyrd
• Styx
• The Eagles
• 3 Doors Down
• The Cranberries
• Sweet
• Willie Nelson
• Blondie
• Have to throw in Weird Al and all of Dr Demento's hits!
• Almost all 80's hits, you know, what they played on the radio!

Well, that is so not even close to putting any semblance of a complete list together. I want to either add another 50 or erase them all together. But I wont, at least not right away!

So, now that I have probably bored everyone to tears and sent them off to their next post, way to go Stalker!!!! Wow, I still have one reader. Thanks for sticking with me. So, if you would, let me know if you have a soundtrack of your life. Do you relate to music depending on your moods? Any chance you are as crazy about music as I am?

Answer or don't, I realize I now have way more readers than commenter's. And that is O. K.

But if you want to put your brave face on and leave a comment, GREAT!

Have a great day!

So, anyone ever feel like there isnt enough hours in a day? Or maybe it's just that so few of those hours are spent doing the things you want to do.

I have to say I cannot seem to find the time to do half of the things on every days to do list.

Maybe we need to petition to have them make a mandatory 3 day work week. With 4 day weekends I could probably fit in everything I need to.

Make it happen people!

As always, Have a great day! (or at least a good one)

Two Blind Pilots

Two blind pilots both are wearing dark glasses, one is using a guide dog, and the other is tapping his way along the aisle of the plane with a cane.

Nervous laughter spreads through the cabin, but the men enter the cockpit, the door closes, and the engines start up. The passengers begin glancing nervously around, searching for some sign that this is just a little practical joke. None is forthcoming.

The plane moves faster and faster down the runway and the people sitting in the window seats realize they're headed straight for the water at the edge of the airport. As it begins to look as though the plane will plough in to the water, panicked screams fill the cabin. At that moment, the plane lifts smoothly into the air. The passengers relax and laugh a little sheepishly, and soon all retreat into their magazines, secure in the knowledge that the plane is in good hands.

In the cockpit, one of the blind pilots turns to the other and says,"ya know, Bob, one of these days, they're gonna scream too late and we're all gonna die."
______________________________________________
So, are you one of those people who sees something terribly wrong but thinks there might be an honest explanation and so keep your mouth shut? How about when your service is just awful or the food at a restaurant is bad. Do you speak up? Or are you quietly burning inside wishing later that you HAD said something?

So often we find ourselves in situations where we are faced with the decision on how to react. For instance, when someone is overtly rude to us at work in a smarmy, cocky kind of way, we can react in any of three ways:

• We can 'be the better person' and just let it all slide off of us. (even though we know inside that we are just pissed!)
• We can react with righteous anger and call them out for their remarks.(and risk that they act all innocent in front of everyone as if they had not done it intentionally)
• Or we can plan ways to get even!

So which way do you react when faced with someone like this? Do you act differently depending on who it is, and what their 'status' is? Do you ever have regrets for how you have reacted?

As always, put your brave faces on and leave me a reaction

Have a great day!

Roll Call

Have not done a roll call in quite a while. Lets see, do I remember how this goes? Of course I do.

Please leave me a comment and let me know:

• Who are you and where you are from
• What it is like in your town, city, community right now!
• What about you that helps set you apart from others around you
• What you fear
• What brings you joy

And of course you can leave anything else in a comment also. Just leave a comment so I can see who has checked in. If this is your first time to my blog or your first time leaving a comment,do not be shy. I have a saying around here, "Put on your brave face and go for it!"

Like Nike and Michael Jordon said, "Just do it" and then do it again if you come back and want to add something else. We do not penalize for multiple comments, long comments, short comments, non-sensible or even dissenting from general consensus comments.

Holy Belly Barrows Batman!

Today Blogstalker is taking part in Candid Carries's Phota Phiesta! So, after you comment on my post, totally go check her out to see everyone else involved!

Todays Entry:



Wait for it.....








Wait for it........







Okay, you asked for it

This weeks Phriday Foto Phiesta entry is another spoof of McDonalds! So at what point do you realize you have a problem? Is it when you can't find a shirt to fit, or when you need a wheelbarrow to move yourself around?

It's pictures like these that keep a person motivated, no?

So, while we're at it. What motivates you? In Life? at work? Are you a motivated person at all?

Do you set goals for yourself ? What about for others? Do you expect others to perform to your standard? Above your standard?

Just wondering.....so put your brave face on and drop a line and enlighten the rest of us!

Oh, and have a great day!

Hand outs?

I was so excited after the election.

I got up early and ran to my local gas station. But there was no one there to pay for my gas. I came home and opened my mail. No check to pay off my mortgage. And to top it off I still got bills for Satellite and Water services! Talk about disappointing. Well, maybe things just can't happen that fast. Maybe tomorrow!

The United States of America is certainly the greatest country in the world. Where else could you have an election that popular vote was so close the last three elections and there has never been rioting or ugly military takeover bids. Over 55 million people voted for the guy that lost.

I hope everyone from America realizes just how blessed they are and becomes even more committed to being "informed" on everything political.


Have a great day Stalkers!

A New President

In The United States of America today, November 4th, 2008, the American people have the opportunity to vote for a new President.

I urge all of you who are able to do just that and VOTE!

Voting is a privilege and a right many have died to give you. And remember that no matter the winner, The United States of America is a blessed land still full of great people who will do great things. I challenge ALL Americans to become more active in the political process so that politics in America become MORE about a government of, by and for the people.

Thant is all!

Have a great day!

What ?

So, Everyone have a fun Week? Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend.

Are you all nervous about the election in the United States? If you watch the news you would think the world might come to an end. Maybe it is.......But that is not the subject of this post. I do try and keep politics out of here....even though it creeps in from time to time.

What I really want to know is what else is going on out there in your neck of the woods. While I know the election seems to take up most of the news, I do not have a clue what else is going on. Hopefully you people are starting to gear up for the holidays. Maybe you are hung over on sugar from 'inspecting' all the candy from Halloween. Who knows?

But one thing is for sure. We all need to keep our minds active and give them a break from some of the other concerns in life. So here is the question of the day:

If you could only get one gift for Christmas, and price is not relevant;

• What would you want to receive?
• Who would you want it from?

You cannot ask for world peace or for enough food to feed all the hungry of the world. While these are noble thoughts, I am looking for more selfish answers. It is okay to be selfish. We are only daydreaming after all.

So think about it a moment, then leave your answer in a comment. Then if you think of something else come back and leave another comment. There are no penalties for multiple answers only that the last one given trumps all prior comments.

So.....put your brave face on and comment already!

And have a great day!

Phun Phriday

Okay blog stalkers, It's Phriday Phun with Candid Carrie. Here is my entry into the madness this week.

SO, what do you think? Is this their way of saving gas? Or are they just plain lazy dog-walkers? Tell me what you think when you see this picture?

And since today is Halloween, I have a second picture to share;

BTW, since this is Halloween, what makes you scared? Do you like scary movies? When you watch a movie like Arachnaphobia do you feel spiders crawling on you?

Just wondering

Have a great day!

Do you know your ABC's?

So, I was not planning to post again but was challenged by Rhonda to do it. And I just LOVE a challenge!

So I will attempt to put something down that corresponds with EVERY letter of the alphabet! Hope you hang in there all the way through. Who knows, you may just find out something new about me. Or maybe not! lol

• A is for All done having children. Me and spouse cannot have any more! But no sadness...grandkids one day! :-)
• B is for Blog Stalking, one of my fun new pass times and time eater uppers
• C is for crowds, I do not like them and avoid them when possible
• D is for Daughters. They are my Princesses and the hope for real change in this world!
• E is for Education, whether it is formal or on the job, continual education is so necessary in this trial of life.
• F is for Football, my favorite sport to watch
• G is for Graciousness (may I always act that way)
• H is for humor, without it life is just a collection of trials.
• I is for Ice Cream with My family, a fun time
• J is for the Joy that is realized after we come through our trials
• K is for Kissing done right!
• L is for Lipstick.....on a pig (haha)
• M is for Metal, (like hair metal.....80's )
• N is for NeenerNeener
• O is for Outhouses, thankfully we have indoor plumbing now
• P is for Privacy, I like mine
• Q is for Questions and the answers that help us grow
• R is for Reading, because the books I read are the best Movies I've never seen
• S is for Scriptures, because they help us find the answers
• T is for Television. It may rot my brain but is a great retreat from the cares of life(in moderation of course)
• U is for Universal truths and Understanding them
• V is for Victory over our weaknesses
• W is for a Winning Attitude
• X is for Xopenex (it's like gold)
• Y is for Yesterday, may we learn from it and not yearn for it!
• and Z is for Zaniness, may we all be able to experience it occasionally!

How do you think I did? Did I leak out any insight into myself? Do you like any of my answers? Do you NOT like some of my answers?

Feel free to try this, it IS harder than it seems but it WAS fun!

Leave a comment and tell me one or two letters you think represent you!

Have a great day!

10 Questions for today

So today, instead of asking one question I decided to ask 10 questions. Not because I want to mix it all up or give y'all lots of homework. I just wanted to lighten it up a little. These are not questions that can solve the problems of today. They are merely a collection of stolen thoughts from the Internet that I too want to know the answers to. So pick one or two or ten and give me YOUR explanation or answer.

• Why do banks charge a fee on “insufficient funds” when they know there is not enough?
• Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars, but check when you say the paint is wet?
  
• Why do they use sterilised needles for death by lethal injection?
  
• Whose idea was it to put an “S” in the word “lisp”?
  
• What is the speed of darkness?
  
• Why do Kamikaze pilots wear helmets?
  
• If it’s true that we are here to help others, what are the others doing here?
  
• If someone with a split personality threatens to commit suicide, is it a hostage situation?
  
• What level of importance must a person have, before they are considered assassinated instead of just murdered

You blog stalkers out there are so smart, I can't wait to see your comments. You ARE planning to leave a comment, right?

Oh Good, well, Have a great day!

Manic Mondays...and tuesdays etc.

We all get busy. I take that as a given. We have our families and/or our careers to deal with. Some of us have life issues that keep us extremely occupied. Many of us are involved with either our church, community, or political party on top of everything else. Sometimes when everything is pulling at you from 5 different directions you just want to scream and tell the world to STOP!

There is always some deadline to deal with. Something that needs to be done that you have to do or make happen. Do you ever want to just stop doing everything? I for one know that it is a BIG temptation to just withdraw and do the things that, in your mind, are more important.

On days like this, when kids need to be a million different places at a million different times, and work is demanding more and more of your time, and you are trying to keep your house in order, and then your church responsibilities need so much of the little time left, and you on top of that are involved in political campaigns, and......................................

That's what I feel like anyway. I just want to throw up the big red stop sign and just collapse. Sometimes I get caught up in thinking "I can't wait till things get less busy."

.

But I think I can. I definitely look forward to the small simple pleasures of a few minutes to myself. I have talked to quite a few older people lately who have retired, and whose children are all grown, and they have achieved that all lusted after 'quiet' to themselves. Guess what? They wish that they had appreciated more the life that I sometimes call chaos.

.

.

So I start thinking about it. Do I really want total quiet and time to myself? It sounds so alluring and almost dirty to talk about having time to myself. But after a lot of actual thought I don't think I do. I look forward to each new step in life. Each achievement level my children reach will be welcome and appreciated. But as I think of this journey called life I think I want to enjoy the chaos as long as I can. I know it is not always easy but if it were 'easy' then I don't think it could be so rewarding. I don't think anyone misses changing diapers but who has a teenager with a little attitude who does not miss the limitless hugs from when they were three.

.

Anyway, Just thinking out loud. What do you think? Where are you in this circle of life? Are you looking forward to a certain time when things will be 'easier'? Are you missing the days gone by? Anyone want to share tricks(that work) on balancing their time?

.

.

As always, put your brave face on...............and leave a thought.

Have a great day!

Comment Junkie!

So, as I spent the last few days not posting, busy in real life, I have had at least a dozen ideas for posts. Some of them take on lives of their own and others fizzle into nothingness. I found myself determining whether or not it was a good idea for a post based on how much someone might want to comment on it. As many of you regular visitors will be able to attest to, I love asking questions or stirring up thought. I started this blog for a way to connect with many different people from many different areas and all with their own backgrounds. Our environment, and our life's experiences mold us into the people we become. I realize that not one of us is exactly like another. Just as not one of us sees 'everything' the same way as someone else. Where we build camaraderie and relationships is when we find others who share enough of our likes, dislikes etc..

So back on topic..........I realize that I enjoy Reading my comments. I enjoy it as much as reading your blogs. I guess others already knew this because I have heard the term, 'comment whore'. Wow, lol, anyway it was in jest and maybe not so off base. So if comments and dialogue are what I'm after:

• what makes someone leave a comment?
• Why do many people visit a blog, become a follower, and never comment?
• Are some people scared to comment on a new blog they stumble upon?
• Why do I care? Do you care?

Alright then, this is the assignment. You must accept it. Answer the questions, tell me what you think. I know that I have been guilty of not leaving comments. Sometimes I have no response to what a particular post is about. Sometimes there is nothing to comment on. But all in all I try to leave a comment. If for no other reason than to say, 'Hey, read your blog....blah blah blah'.

Many of you blog as a journal of sorts. I think that is great. I have done that. I like to look back on other posts but keep too many particulars of my life out of it. I want to get inside your minds. I want to know what people are thinking. I want to know why they are thinking that?

Okay, I've rambled on enough. So obviously.....leave a comment......if you think of something new later.....leave another one. There is no such thing as a bad comment. Criticism is okay too if it is done in bounds.

As always, Have a great day!

Tell me if you've heard this before.

Okay my fellow blog stalkers, today we are going to stretch our brains a little. It's been awhile since the last trivia session. Some of you may not have too hard a time with this, while others may scream in agony. What are you talking about Blog Stalker? Well let me tell you what I have planned for today;

• I am going to list the line from a popular (at some moment in time) song.


• You have to come up with the name of the song


• And you have to come up with the artist
• and if you can come up with the theme you win the bonus!

Sounds easy, right? Trust me though, there might be a few gimmes in the mix, but hopefully these will make you think. And really, If you can just get the title OR artist I will be impressed.

So without further delay, here are the lines:

• 1. 'Cause you shine on me wherever you are I just think of you and I start to glow And I need your light And baby you know
• 2. I'm working hard, your working too....we do it every day....for every minute I have to work, I need a minute to play......day in, day out All we know...........
• 3. Boy -Now in the streets there is violence an-na-na lots of work to be done.No place to hang all our washing and then I can't blame it all on the sun.
• 4. Drivin' home this evening I coulda sworn we had it all worked out You had this boy believin' Way beyond the shadow of a doubt Then I heard it on the street I heard you mighta found somebody new Well who is he baby - who is he And tell me what he means to you
• 5. Once upon a midnight dearie I woke with something in my head I couldn't escape the memory Of a phone call and of what you said, Like a game show contestant with a parting gift I could not believe my eyes
• 6. And, I wear it for the thousands who have died,Believen' that the Lord was on their side,I wear it for another hundred thousand who have died,Believen' that we all were on their side.
• 7. On the street where you live girls talk about their social lives They're made of lipstick, plastic and paint, a touch of sable in their eyes All your life all you've asked when's your Daddy gonna talk to you You were living in another world tryin' to get a message through.
• 8. All I ask for when I pray, steady rollin' woman gonna come my way. Need a woman gonna hold my hand, won't tell me no lies, make me a happy man.
• 9. We are young heartache to heartache we stand No promises no demands
• 10. And when your fears subside And shadows still remainI know that you can love meWhen there's no one left to blame So never mind the darkness We still can find a way'Cause nothin' lasts forever , not even cold..........
• 11. I saw him dancing there by the record machineI knew he must have been about seventeen The beat was going strong, playing my favorite songAnd I could tell it wouldn't be longtill he was with me, yeah, me
• 12. Oh the things that you say Is it life or Just a play my worries away You're all the things I've got to remember You're shying away I'll be coming for you anyway
• 13. Children behave that's what they say when we're together And watch how you play they don't understand.And so we're running iust as fast as we can Holding on to one another's hand.Trying to get away into the night
• 14. You Know I'm A Dreamer But My Heart's Of Gold I Had To Run Away High So I Wouldn't Come Home Low Just When Things Went Right It Doesn't Mean They Were Always Wrong Just Take This Song And You'll Never Feel Left All Alone
• 15. Big wheels keep on turning Carry me home to see my kin Singing songs about the south-land I miss 'ole' 'bamy once again And I think it's a sin Well I heard Mister Young sing about her Well I heard ole Neil put her down Well, I hope Neil Young will remember A southern man don't need him around anyhow
• 16. Broken hearts lie all around me And I don't see an easy way to get out of this Her diary it sits on the bedside table The curtains are closed, the cats in the cradle Who would've thought that a boy like me could come to this
• 17. If you should go skating On the thin ice of modern life Dragging behind you the silent reproach Of a million tear stained eyes Don't be surprised, when a crack in the ice Appears under your feet You slip out of your depth and out of your mind With your fear flowing out behind you
• 18. Heard it from a friend who Heard it from a friend who Heard it from another you've been messin' around They say you've got a boyfriend You're out late every weekend They're talkin' about you and it's bringing me down
• 19. I get up, and nothing gets me down.You got it tough. I've seen the toughest around. And I know, baby, just how you feel. You've got to roll with the punches to get to what's real
• 20. (this IS my favorite song of all time! Oops, is that revealing? nah!)
• Life it seems, will fade away, Drifting further every day, Getting lost within myself, Nothing matters no one else, I have lost the will to live, Simply nothing more to give. There is nothing more for me, Need the end to set me free. Things not what they used to be,Missing one inside of me. Deathly lost, this Can t be real, Cannot stand this hell I feel. Emptiness is filling me, To the point of agony. Growing darkness taking dawn, I was me, but now he 's gone. No one but me can save myself, but it's too late. Now, I can't think, think why I should even try. Yesterday seems as though it never existed. Death Greets me warm, now I will just say goodbye
• If you get that last one, it counts as 20 points and you win automatically.

• Good luck blog stalkers.....Are you even brave enough to try?
• If you really want to see the answers, click here.

RUDE? Who me?

Okay, so I couldn't wait to take that McD's baby picture down. But it did kind of grow on me after awhile. NOT!



On to new things. So I was reading Rhondalue's post about being rude. General phone manners and how we conduct ourselves in our interpersonal relationships. Go read her post here. She does it so much better than me.



So after determining that I might in fact be a little rude I get to the heart of what my post is about today. RUDE PEOPLE. We all know them. Heck, some of us are them. It is the weekend and I am not going to ramble on and on, but do want to ask this question here:



Is it ever OKAY to be rude? Is there a time when nice needs to be thrown out the window? I promise not to judge, because there is no judging on this blog, REMEMBER.



And the follow up to that question is: How does it feel to be on the other side of rude? Does it change your demeanor for a certain amount of time? How do you deal with it?



As always, put your brave face on and leave a comment. I look forward to reading them.



Have a great day!

Phriday Foto Phiesta!

First entry ever in the Candid Carrie's Foto Phinish Phiesta! So, Am I the only one who gets a little phreaked out by this foto? I mean, come on!

After you leave your awesome comments(and you know you want to) go on over and check out Carrie's blog.........and tell her who sent ya!

Have a great day!

Want to Know?

I want to start off by thanking all those who left comments about my question yesterday. It is so therapeutic to read that we are all worried/excited/scared about something, sometimes the same things.

Amy worries about her daughter struggling in school and medical bills. Yet she takes it one day at a time and life goes on. Petra Michelle wants to visit every state and hopes for a crystal ball(more on this in a moment) Rhondalue has lots of worries, like accidents and scammers and clutter, but counters with a list of joys/blessings in her life. Emma has concerns with how her kids deal with her divorce and where the road leads in the years to come, but cites an awesome serenity saying to help her through. Tulsi is excited to have her son coming home soon and her children close to her. She looks for the good and finds it. Keeping in unity worries about bad neighbors and bills but sees her own abilities grow and flourish. Breanne worries about her daughter and seizures, her husband leaving for Iraq and health problems but is like Rhondalue happy for the blessings in her life. Kelly worries about money and I know everyone else is worried about something.

So on to the question for all to consider. If you could know how your life was going to turn out, or even a portion of it, would you want to know? Now hold on there people. Don't go skipping down to the comments just yet. I want you to really think about what knowing the future could mean. First of all, would you become discouraged because things happened the way you hoped they wouldn't? What if things turn out great, would it now lose its excitement?

In ever time traveling movie I can think of, if you change even the tiniest thing, you alter the future. Does that change your answer? If you knew something was going to happen would you be able to prevent it? Or maybe you just make it worse. Maybe what you do trying to prevent it is what causes 'it' to happen.

What about loved ones passing on. Would you want to know when they pass? Could you bear to know? I am just asking the questions and hoping to stimulate some response. I for one do not think I could handle it. While knowing how much time you have left may seem nice, I would just be grieving that much sooner or denying, thinking I could prevent it.

I know this question can have many sides and may need time for serious thought. Please comment and let me know what you think about it. Are we better off not knowing? Or would we be better off knowing how it ends?

Can't wait to read what you brilliant people have to say on this.

Have a great day!

Wondering? and SITS

I have posted a similar post before. What I want to know is simple. We all come from different places and different backgrounds. None of us have exactly the same experiences, good or bad. When you look back at what has shaped us, we will probably all point out different things that have made us who we are and how we view life.

Despite all of this we tend to group ourselves into categories. In politics we may call ourselves republicans or democrats. (There are many others) We identify with what church we may belong. We rally behind sports teams and schools. The point is that within these groups are individuals. Individuals who have their own ideas and outlooks on things but have identified with "the group" because of some common interests or beliefs.

So, I want to know what is on YOUR mind today, as you read this blog? What are your fears? What are you worried about TODAY? What are you excited about? I am not looking for politics or controversy. Maybe you are worried about the layoffs at work or the babysitter is sick. Hey, maybe there is a great new book you are dying to read, or a movie you want to see. One of your kids is struggling in school. You may have health concerns. Maybe, you just want to get something off your chest. That is what I am looking for. SO come out of the group, and like I always say, 'Put your brave face on' and let me know what's on your mind. If you are new to the blog, don't be shy, leave a comment and jump right in.

Only one rule: NO judging allowed!



And a last minute addition to this post: I joined the Blogathon over at SITS. Why not, everybody else is doing it.



Gotta give shout outs to EVERYONE on my Blog list. They all RAWK!

One word

For those of you who have been here before you know that I am not a huge fan of tagging. Not that I don't think some of the tags out there are interesting. In fact most tags are interesting and let one get to know more about others. I do however not like to feel obligated. I have stated in previous posts that Tag was merely a game I played at recess. However, one of you(Summer)decided that they would tag me anyway. And since it was a simple tag and I like the one word format, I decided to play. I am NOT going back on what I stated earlier. I did state that if tagged I would decide to participate based on a tag by tag basis. SO, without any further delay:



The rules: Answer the following questions with one word answers and pass it on to seven others.



Here are the questions:

1. Where is your cell phone? Pants

2. Where is your significant other? car

3. Your hair color? real

4. Your mother? teacher

5. Your father? example

6. Your favorite thing? family

7. Your dream last night? non-existent

8. Your dream/goal? finishing

9. The room you're in? large

10. Your hobby? many

11. Your fear? alone

12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? together

13. Where were you last night? home

14. What you're not? simple

15. One of your wish-list items? restraint

16. Where you grew up? haven't

17. The last thing you did? drive

18. What are you wearing? jacket

19. Your TV? off

20. Your pet? gone

21. Your computer? slow

22. Your mood? varied

23. Missing someone? yes

24. Your car? dependable

25. Something you're not wearing? scowl

26. Favorite store? many

27. Your summer? hot

28. Love someone? spouse

29. Your favorite color? black

30. When is the last time you laughed? Sunday

31. Last time you cried? Saturday



So, being the rule breaker that I am I do not tag anyone. You heard me, not a soul. But if you would like to try it, have at it. It is harder than it seems. One word answers limit what you may want to put. Good luck and I hope everyone has a great day!

Interrogation or Interview?

So, awhile back I promised an interview. Several of you awesome blog stalkers submitted questions. Many of you did not. I invited a close personal friend of mine to help me with the interview. Thought it would be a little weird to just sit here and ask myself questions. An Interview needs a little meaningful banter.

So without further delay I would like to introduce Pat , a Detective from the Internet Investigative Division:Stalking Unit. But we'll just call this person Pat and turn over this here interview over to them.

Pat: So first of all thanks for inviting me here. We've been watching you for a while now.
BS: Really? Watching me?
Pat: Well, the whole "Blog Stalker" name is a little frightening to some.
BS: Honestly, I chose to be anonymous so I could be judged by the content of my posts and comments and not by anything else. It has been quite interesting. I know I probably put some off who might otherwise hand out, but that is the bed I made and now I have to sleep in it.

Pat: Okay then. First submitted question.
BS: Go for it.
Pat: On your profile you are listed as 232 years old. That's pretty old, can you explain any significance to that.
BS: 232 years ago there was an event on the North American Continent that I feel has shaped the entire world from that point to this day.

Pat: Quite a few of your readers wanted to know when you go to the bathroom whether you sit or stand?
BS: I can honestly say I have done both. Next question.

Pat: Okay, what about first thing in the morning, do you shave or fasten a bra?
BS: Again, I have done both! Not saying it was my bra, but not saying it wasn't either.

Pat: So sitting down you seem kind of average height. How tall are you?
BS: I am 5'9 and 3/4". Exactly.

Pat: Have you had any operations?
BS: Yes as a matter of fact. I have had an operation that will prohibit me from having any more spawn.
Pat: Speaking of 'spawn', sounds like you have children. How many?
BS: That's a little tricky. I do not want to give out too much info, but let's just say it is more than 3 and less than 10.
Pat: 10? really?
BS: I said less than 10. Are you even paying attention?
Pat. Oh Sorry, just caught me a little off guard.

Pat: So, someone asked if Pink Floyd was your favorite band?
BS: I do love Pink Floyd but I love lots of music. I listen to many different kinds of music, as regular visitors will be able to attest.

Pat: So, someone else wanted to know what speed you set your ceiling fan on?
BS: Really? Why would anyone want to know that? Anyway, I like it cold, so always on high unless the chitlins are cold. Cuz, getting a blanket is too much work for them.

Pat: How many sharpies do you own?
BS: Again, really? Oh Okay, Lets say if I had to count them, this interview would be over because it would take all night.

Pat: What do you want to be when you grow up?
BS: Does that mean I have to grow up?
Pat: Hey, its not my question. Do you Have a dream job?
BS: Oh yes I do. I want a job that wants to pay enormous amounts of money to watch tv, preview movies and spend ridiculous amounts of time with my family and then blog about it all.
Pat: Sounds nice. Do you want an assistant?
BS: Nah, I can handle it. It IS MY dream job.

Pat: What is your best household tip? What about a beauty secret?
BS: How about 'If you kick it, YOU pick it up!' and for beauty secret, Q-tips ARE for cleaning out your ears....I don't care what it says on the box.

Pat:If you had only 30 days to live what are the top 5 things you would definitely want to do?
BS: Okay, this is kinda hard. 1. Quit job, and spend every possible moment with my family. 2. REpent of everything, whether I'd done it or not. 3. I'd want to travel, but takes too much time and stresses everyone out so I guess order lots of take out and watch movies and tv in bed with the whole family. 4. Write as many letters as possible to my kids that they can open on special dates in the future. 5. Hug my family as much as possible.

Pat: I liked the honesty of that last answer. I will try to lighten it up for the next one. So someone wanted to know if you changed the batteries in your smoke detectors recently?
BS: Well, geez....let me think..........hmmmmmmm......I better go and check
Pat: Hey, where are you going? Hello? Well, I guess that ends this interview. I still have a sheet full of questions and I suppose many others may have been raised. I had a lot of fun conducting this interview and can state that 'Blog Stalker' is a pretty good individual. We'll keep our eyes on (him,her.it) for you, but fear not.

Until next time, this is Pat..........................................signing off

Embarrasing

Have you ever been so embarrassed that you wished you were dead? If you have been a teenager then I assume that the answer to this question is yes. As I was thinking the other day(scary I know) about a new post I decided that maybe I should share an embarrassing moment. Still not sure whether it is a good idea but what the heck. I do feel time heals all wounds and so here it goes.

I was in a particular store just walking the isles, shopping. Because I failed to have a list with me I was just browsing the sales and looking for things that jumped out at me. It was not a particularly crowded day at this store. The isles were clear and maneuvering around was easy. Anyway, all of a sudden my stomach was doing the twist and I was not moving. I thought to myself, "Self, this does not feel good. You either need to pass some gas or they are going to need a clean up on isle 9." So I stop walking and lean down on the cart a little. It is very painful and I know whatever is gonna happen needs to happen fast. I quickly scan the area and no one is anywhere around me. I brave it and release the pressure............whew! No clean up needed. But an air freshener would have been warranted. It did definitely did not smell like roses. But tragedy averted right? Wrong! The putrid smell was just lingering there and of course Before I can go anywhere, someone else starts down the end of this isle. I make a break for it, hoping to move the air around as I leave. As I get to the other end of the isle I look back. This person is just staring at me with a kind of wrinkled nose and a look of 'What the Heck was that?' all over her face.

So, now I shared. Are you done laughing with me? I hope this doesn't make anyone feel differently about me.

And now I want to hear from all of you. What was your most embarrassing moment(s)? But since most of you probably will not share that experience, tell me what you can share. And remember, Time DOES heal all wounds. And as observed in the preceding, It is sure fun to laugh at other peoples embarrassing moments. The important thing is that we survive those moments and are able to look back and hopefully laugh, and maybe even cry a little.

Spill it stalkers,
And have a great day!

I'm Back

Well, now don't I feel silly. There was actually a post about me and what reasons I might have for not posting in awhile. Thanks to The Scholastic Scribe who started an awesome dialogue on her site today. It was really intreresting to read her post as well as those of you that commented.



I must say that I have been busy. I needed some time to prioritize everything in my life. I love to blog. I really enjoy the creative outlet and the escape it sometimes provides. But I am also a parent and a spouse. My number one priority needs to be my family. That being said, there is still time for blogging. I specifically took some time off of blogging to prove that I didn't need it.



Guess what? It was truly hard the first few days. Like any 'addiction' there was a withdrawal period. There was time I could of spent blogging but didn't. I realized that I didn't have to blog. And that I didn't have to check for new posts and/or new comments constantly. I think I can now enjoy a more healthy blogging experience.



I do not feel that I will take blogcations very often, but there may be times I don't post for awhile. A very wise blogger once posted, "I blog for me. I don't worry about how many people read my blog." Now, I may not be quite that good, I DO want everyone to come by my blog. I actually blog for the interaction. I want your comments. If you have noticed. I like to ask the readers of my blog to participate.



I will say that I am not a real stalker but understand the name can be a little intimidating. I have blogged before on a more personal blog. I do not think I am an old pro but am actually quite social in real life and feel like most comments are just me reacting how I would in person. Just so it's clear, I do not want to 'stir' up any controversy. I merely marvel at this human experiment and all the variations of life out there. We all are so different, and yet in some ways we are all the same. It's these little differences and those little likenesses that make interpersonal connections interesting. There are so many people out there with hopes and dreams and even fears. Some of us share likes and some of us share our heartaches. What makes us connect with some and what pushes us away from others? Is it our political views? Is it where or how we were raised? Is it our religious views or our ethnicity that define us or those we will consider friends?



I don't have the answers and so I blog. I also do it for just plain fun. The day it becomes a chore I will quit blogging forever.



I hope I still get visits by all you awesome blog stalkers out there, but if I don't I understand.

Answers

Hope you'all had fun with the Movie Trivia. And thanks to the few who submitted their own great Movie Lines.


1.Indiana Jones


2. Scarface


3. Superman 2


4. Cool Hand Luke


5. Erin Brokivich


6. Apocalypse Now


7. Magnum Force


8. Dirty Harry


9. Forest Gump


10. 16 Candles


11. Wizard of Oz


12. A League of their own.


13. It's a wonderful life


14. Star Wars


15. Patton


16. True grit


17. Back to the Future


18. Monty Python and the Holy Grail


19. The Princess Bride


20. The usual Suspects


21. Batman


22. Tombestone


23. Peter Pan


24. Gladiator


25. Casablanca


26. On the Waterfront


27. Meet the Parents


28. Airplane


29. War Games


30. Batman Begins


Bonus Question: Ghostbusters

Movie Trivia Time

Okay, I am still trying to schedule the interview. Things just don't go the way you want them to sometimes. Stay tuned, it WILL be forthcoming........

But now for something I hope you'll really like............

See if you can come up with the name of the movie from the line quoted directly from the movie.

1. "Snakes! I hate snakes! Why did it have to be snakes?"

2. "Say hello to my little friend."

3. "I have been working out." (simulate weight lifting)

4. "What we've got here is failure to communicate."

5. " No, no... I hate lawyers. I only work for them."

6. " I love the smell of napalm in the morning."

7. "A man's got to know his limitations. "

8. "I know what you're thinking. Did he fire six shots or only five? Well, to tell you the truth, in all this excitement, I've kinda lost track myself. But being as this is a .44 Magnum, the most powerful handgun in the world, and would blow your head clean off, you've got to ask yourself one question: 'Do I feel lucky?' Well, do ya punk?"

9. "My mama always said, 'Life is (was) like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get.'"

10. "Can I borrow your underpants for ten minutes?"

11. "I'll get you, my pretty, and your little dog, too!"

12. "There's no crying in baseball!"

13. "Every time you hear a bell ring, it means that some angel's just got his wings."

14. "You came in that thing? You're braver than I thought."

15. "Now I want you to remember that no bastard ever won a war by dying for his country. He won it by making the other poor dumb bastard die for his country."

16. "That's mighty brave talk for a one-eyed fat man."

17. "Roads? Where we're going we don't need - roads."

18. "Your mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries!"

19. "Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die!"

20. "The greatest trick the devil ever played was convincing the world he didn't exist."

21. "Where does he get those wonderful toys?"

22. "You tell em' I'm Coming, And Hell's coming with me!"

23. "There it is, Wendy. Second star to the right and straight on till morning."

24. "at my signal, unleash hell"

25. "Here's looking at you, Kid."

26. "I could have made class. I could have been a contender."

27. "I have nipples, Greg, would you milk me?"

28. "There's no reason to become alarmed, and we hope you'll enjoy the rest of your flight. By the way, is there anyone on board who knows how to fly a plane?"

29. "Shall we play a game?"

30. "I have got to get me one of these!"

Bonus Question

31. "Human sacrifices, dogs and cats living together! Mass hysteria!"

So how did you do? Score yourselves.

1-5. You don't get out much. You tend to curl up in front of a book. TV may serve more as a coaster

6-10. You tend to get out and socialize but on a limited basis. When co-workers or friends talk about movies and what was on TV you usually just fake that you know what they are talking about.

11-20. You are a social butterfly. You watch all the happening movies and are up on the coolest new shows.

21-25. You tend to watch movies and TV more than you interact with people. You avoid people because there is a movie on TV you have not seen yet.

26-30. You really need a life (dang it, that's me! CRAP! Anyone got a cheap life for sale?)

Let me know how you did. And if you know a great movie line, please share it!

It's not fair

I think that the line, 'it's not fair' has been used by all of us at one time or another. When you are young and you want to stay up late to watch a really cool movie and your parents send you to bed. You say that it's not fair. When you go on a field trip and your dad gives you 5 dollars to spend on lunch but your friend brings 25 dollars so he can buy souvenirs too. When you study all night long and still barely manage a 81% on a test and yet there is always someone who says they never opened the book and get a 98%. When you follow all traffic rules at all times but one day you are running a little late and go too fast, and that is when there happens to be a cop around. How about when you do everything you are asked, and stay late at work putting in long hours and sacrificing personal time with your family for the good of the company, and then some co-worker who sits on their butt gets the big promotion and/or raise.



I could go on and on, but what would be the point? Life is not fair. My dad told me this when I was very young. I thought he was being mean and unusually cruel. but what he was really doing was preparing me for real life. In real life not everyone is a winner. In real life not everyone is put on equal footing. Not everyone has equal opportunity. And we, or should I say 'I' need to realize that and be happy with what life has given me.



It is so easy to feel sorry for yourself when you look at everything that you DON'T have. What we really need to try and do is look at everything you DO have. When I take inventory of all the blessings in my life; family, health, Gospel, etc. I tend to feel better. How can I complain about anything when I see all the good in my life? Why is it that we as a society tend to always look at what we don't have and want instead of what we do have and need to hold on to?

How precious life is. How fragile it is. And how glorious it can be when spent in righteous pursuits. I am definitely going to try and enjoy how great my life is. Who knows how long I will even be a part of this life. Why spend all my time wishing for more instead of enjoying what I have? I vow to enjoy my family even more,, knowing I would like to provide them with more, but also knowing I can give them everything they need.

Life is not fair. And I am not complaining.

Arte Y Pico

I want to start this post off reminding everyone that an interview with mui is forthcoming. If you didn't get your questions in, it is not too late. Post them in the comments or email me. I will tell Blog Stalkee to try and use as many questions as possible and still not have too long a post. Okay, on to the new post:

I have to thank Erebus Scotus for the award he just awarded me. I have also added him to the stalked blogs. He had not asked yet, but I made an exception. We award winners have that prerogative. Anyway I was honored to get this one. It translates literally to 'art peak'. It has been passed on as meaning a creative and interesting blog. The rules are as follows

1.) Choose 5 blogs that you consider deserving of this award based on creativity, design, interesting material & overall contribution to the blogger community.

2.) Post the name of the author & a link to his or her blog so everyone can view it.

3.) Each award winner has to show the award & put the name & link to the blog that has given him or her the award

4.) The award winner & presenter should post the link of the "Arte y pico" blog so everyone will know the origin of the award.

5.) Post these rules.

I choose at this time 5 blogs from a group of many deserving. But five it is:

1.Musings of the Mindless Banterer

2.The Scholastic Scribe

3.Ronda's Rants

4.Counting Our Blessings

5.Eat your Veggies

The field was large and I could easily have given more out. Congrats to the winners. And don't forget to pay everything forward!