tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22072254288068088832024-03-04T23:55:47.291-05:00Mama's Got a Brand New Blog.....Again!Just a little about what happens in the life of Mama SageMama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-20385905036258793072014-08-19T00:35:00.001-04:002014-08-19T00:36:38.461-04:00I am now 60 years YOUNG!<span style="font-size: large;">Hi everyone! Thanks for hanging with me through the last...ohhhhhh....well too long. A lot has happened. A lot of stress balanced by a lot of happy, healthy, memory making times. I know I kept saying I was back and then did another disappearing act. Let's hope I don't do that again. I never know.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Most of you know that I had to quit working towards weight loss surgery. It's tough to chew food to the consistency of baby food if you don't have enough teeth left to do it. Yes, my teeth starting just falling apart and falling out. It's been horrible. I was diagnosed with sjogren's disease and one of the things it does is dry you up. When they did the biopsy of my lip for diagnosis, they found no salivary glands in the sample. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I was working so hard to get there and had lost a bunch of weight in the process. That put me down in the dumps for quite a while. Having to give up that goal was terrible.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I've also had a few pretty bad flare ups with the fibromyalgia. Most of you know I was diagnosed with that many years ago. I go a while, often times a long while, with no problems, then SLAM I'm hit with a flare up. Between that and the arthritis, I can quickly become a mess.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I had a knee replacement in May of 2013. I can say it has taken away the horrid pain I was having. I'm still trying things out with it. I know I cannot get on my hands and knees. And I forcefully learned to get off the ground. Help! I fell! And I couldn't get up!! My other knee is singing the same tune and I'm babying it. I can't afford to get it done. Plus, my left shoulder is terrible and should have been replaced almost a year ago. When our medical coverage changed last October all these surgeries have been shelved.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We had two weddings since I've blogged. One on New Year's eve and on in April last year. Corry and Angel were married in their home with family present on New Year's eve. Family includes a lot! Not only does Corry have a lot of siblings, between them they have 8 kids. Yes, the house was full. Kris DJ'd and we had a karaoke reception after. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Rusty and Cait were married in April at a beautiful venue in Cleveland. I think everyone who attended had a blast. I've never seen a bride have as much fun as Cait. And little Emmi was a doll. She was so excited about "her" wedding. What a memory making day we all had. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm thinking that should pretty much catch everyone up. If I've missed things they'll probably come up in the blog one day. I do tend to go on and on. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>A 60th birthday is a <b>wonderful</b> occasion. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>You have crossed several milestones, </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>but life just keeps looking for more </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>challenges. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Enjoy</b> the <b>bliss</b> of sixty; </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>enjoy</b> the fruits of your labor. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Surround yourself </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>with your <b>children & grandchildren</b>, </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>and tell them tales of the yesteryears. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Relive the <b>magical</b> moments of life </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>even while you look forward to </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>new experiences. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>It's <b>great</b> to be sixty!</i></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>~~Oscar Wilde</i></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">
<b style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<b style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~~</span></b><br />
<b style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes, I turned 60 on Monday. I started the day out kind of in the dumps. Little by little the family started checking in wishing me Happy Birthday. Well I have to say my brother was first. He called me 4 1/2 hours before the midnight hour. lol He wanted to be first and he was. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">When I went downstairs, Cliff surprised me with a bouquet of yellow roses and a gift card. I was so happy! Yellow roses are my favorite. He used to get them for me when we were first married 42 years ago. I love them!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Corry had told me Angel and the kids wanted to see me and they were coming over around 7-7:30. Cool. I hadn't seen some of the kids for a while. And then after Emmi got out of school, Cait let her call me to see if we were home. Yep! So Ms. Em brought me some things she had made at school. She made a disco ball for me with glitter and jewels and had painted me a picture. I love the kids' art. If you come visit you'll find kids' art in many places. And she also handed me a really pretty card they'd gotten with a gift card in it! Allllll-right! I love gift cards!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A few minutes later, Dusty, Casey, and Kean showed up to pick up Dusty's cat crate we'd borrowed. And I got to see them too!! They visited a while and then left with Kennedy. Everybody had their special place to watch the Brown's pre-season game. lol Dusty's hubby Leon is a Redskins fan so she rallied the troops to help her cheer on the Brown's. Oops. Her mistake. Kean is a Pittsburgh fan. When I told him he'd just have to fake it..... lol Not a good look!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The kids all played together with the cats and Nelly. Commotion is normal in our house. In fact, I thrive on it. Angel and Corry had come separately. He had the boys and Angel had the girls. The girls stopped and got me a cake! Purple decorations. So pretty. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">During the day I got a text from Missy and got to talk to Adam about half an hour. He's starting his PhD work at the University of North Carolina. So proud of that boy. He's done it all on his own.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Tonight, when I sat down to check my "other" file on Facebook, I started reading Birthday messages that I didn't even know were sent in my feed. I guess we just flat don't get it all on our cells. My cell was showing me about 20 messages. My computer showed I had 100 greetings! And that wasn't counting the few that were comments on someone else's post!! I can't believe how blessed I am. To have so many people out there wishing me well. Oh my goodness. My heart is full. Thank you to each and every person for making my 60th birthday one of the most special days ever. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">~~~~~</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Hugs~~</i></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Mama Sage</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-39500672781086622312014-02-15T03:35:00.001-05:002014-02-15T03:53:47.267-05:00And we always hope tomorrow comes<br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">You know the other day when I had my blog half written and it just went
away (my computer decided to restart after some updates and I missed the warning
because I was so engrossed in my writing) my thought was first a bit of anger
and then "I'll just do it tomorrow. Or the next day. Whenever the mood strikes
again." I wasn't thinking about the things that have happened kind of close to
home recently that should have made me realize that although we go through life
with the hopes tomorrow will come, that sometimes it just doesn't. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">We were a little stunned a few weeks ago to hear that one of Cliff's
classmates was out shoveling snow and died. Then my friend's mother fell going
down a short two step stoop and broke her neck and passed away just days
afterward. And then yet another member of my husband's class died while
shoveling snow. Life isn't given to us with a guarantee of years. When it's
our time, we will all be called home. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then seeing the little post on facebook with the old ladies on the roller
coaster. The first row was very obviously having the time of their lives. The
second was having a good time but the third row back looked a little bored with
things. I don't want to go through my life bored with things. I want to be in
that first row. I want to have the time of my life. No regrets. I want to
enjoy and to have fun and to appreciate what I have. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Sure there are things in my life I wish had gone differently. I don't
think a truthful person around would say there wasn't. But what is, is. You
can't change the past. You can't fix yesteryear. You also can't change things
you don't have control of. And since I can't, I'm going to remember to live.
I'm moving forward once again from here, where I am. I may not move like I wish
I did. I may not have the stamina I once did. But I have a lot left here to
work with. I'm not going to glide into the future, I am marching on with the
vow to do everything I'm able and not watch others and think afterward, "Well I
guess maybe I should've tried that because now I know I was able." If I find
out I'm not able? Well at least I tried.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The last visit I had to the doctor, she told me to keep an exercise
journal. Every extra little bend and stretch should be documented in a journal.
Actually she told me to do it the visit before last. She called it homework.
Well THAT wasn't happening said the teenager in me. And I didn't. This time
I'm taking her seriously because I don't think she thinks I'm moving around
much. And I am! Shoot. She's got me on five blood pressure tablets a day. Three different kinds! All three are water pills. I've told her our potties are
up...and down. We don't have a first floor bathroom. Just the trips up and
down to potty keep me moving!! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Now that I'm actually paying attention, I've discovered that I have
actually been doing a lot of the things I was taught (reminded of actually) in
physical therapy. Never realized that I just do them without thinking as I go
through my day. I still need to come up with some more things I can do to
strengthen my thighs that doesn't wreck my hips. It would be wonderful to have
that awesome bike they had at Edwin Shaw during my rehab after my knee
replacement. I loved that thing and if they'd let me, I would have peddled my day
away. The seat was a chair like seat that didn't put pressure on my tailbone
and kill me. I just can't sit on the bikes that have a regular bike seat.
</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Don't stumble over something behind you...move on</i></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm trying to get back to more writing. It's so relaxing for me. And such
an outlet. I have two books I'm working on ... still ... and I'd like to
finish them by Thanksgiving. Then I can print them up and gift them to my
family like I'd hope to do the last couple years. Ah but life gets in the way
and changes things. And I've learned that I just need to embrace the moment and
go with it. My urge to write will never go away. And picking up from where I
left off on these two is never a problem. When your heart is in it, it
flows.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm getting back into my use it up mode with cooking. trying to learn to
cook for two. I'm also trying to add more meatless meals. One of my other goals
is work on controlling the carbs, but one thing at a time please.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cooking for two is a real challenge. For the last thirty some odd years
I've cooked for an army. Our family started growing with the birth of our first
son in 1973 and it hasn't stopped growing yet. During the years all the kids
were home, we rarely sat a table of seven. Our table was nearly always filled
with not just our kids, but their friends. Then once they were married and
started having families, we continued to grow. That growing isn't finished.
I'm sure we'll grow a bit more here and I'll need to keep the cooking for many
skills but when no one is here besides Cliff and I it needs to be toned down.
Hard! I'm used to giant pans and huge bowls. This itty skillet and tiny pan
are pretty foreign! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The meatless meals are coming for more reasons than one. It started when
our one granddaughter who spends quite a bit of time here announced that she
didn't want to eat meat. I thought Okay. We do a lot of meatless things.
That'll work. Then my bloodcounts were all wacky last go round. I need to
get a better handle on things again. So meatless meals more often will work
into that fine. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And Cliff's sugar wasn't what it should have been. So the carbs need to
get back into control too. We can do this. I do admit it would be much easier
if it was summer. Fresh produce here in the winter isn't the best. I figure by
summer when things are not only plentiful but have excellent flavor and better
prices I'll be better at it. I'm considering the time from now until then as practice time and experimental time. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's also giving me more of an incentive to get back to blogging. When I
first started in 2006 it was to track how I was doing in the weight loss journey
that I failed at. Well I had some success, but.... Well those blogs are
history. Let's move on. I don't know how often I'll be able to, but I do want
to blog my way through all this. I'll be praying my left arm and my want-to
cooperate. Hard to type when you can't use both arms!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>“Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, </i></span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” </i></span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>~~- Maria Robinson</i></span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">We are going on a Disney cruise next December with our kids. I've been
searching what all happens on Disney cruises and I'm super excited!! I've
decided that since I don't know if we'll ever be fortunate to go again we are
going to do it all. Except the shore excursions. I'm not really interested in
that. And they cost extra money which we don't have. But on board there are so
many fun things!!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">One thing I'm excited about is doing the thing called "Fish Extender". I
had no idea what it was. Now...I know! I'm making the extenders for all four
rooms family will be in, five if my brother decides to go too. And if the room
doesn't want to participate and do something for their extender gift to others
in the group I get us in, I will! I love this idea. Each person in the group
makes or buys a little goodie to gift everyone else with. You have a list of
cabins and go room to room dropping your gift into the pockets of the
recipient's fish extender. If you know me, you know I've already got a million
ideas and me and crafty stuff? Well I can't just make one thing! I'll have to
do more!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm also doing research to come up with an outfit for Cliff and I for
pirate night. I know Rusty and Cait will do something. I'm pretty sure Lia and
Dale, Cait's folks, will too. And my sister told me she has her outfit
planned. It's going to be so much fun! And when I called Disney I found out
they're doing it the day we go to their private island, Castaway Cay. Cool
beans! Can you tell I'm excited! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm still buying in bulk. Yes, even though I'm shopping for two of us, I'm
buying in bulk. I still have that save money instinct. It's still better to
buy cheese at less than $3 a pound and put it into smaller portions. Lots of
things fall into that category. When you come home with three or four things
needing separated, sometimes it looks like it's a terrible, time consuming job.
It isn't. Time it sometime. You'll be totally surprised how little time that
job takes.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">You know that doesn't just apply to that example. It actually applies to
many things we procrastinate about. They look like mountains you're going to
have to move with a teaspoon. But your spoon is usually bigger than you thought and one spoon at a time it goes faster than you think. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Italian Sausage Pasta Skillet</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1# whole wheat Rotini, cooked and set aside</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />2 links sweet Italian sausage, cut into 1 inch pieces and
browned</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">To the skillet with sausage, add:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">4 small onions cut in lengthwise strips<br />Handful of mushrooms<br />Sm
zucchini, halved then sliced<br />Sm yellow squash same, halved then sliced<br />1/2
a red bell sliced thin<br />2 handfuls baby spinach<br />Can of Hunts diced tomatoes
with red pepper and fennel</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When cooked to your liking (doneness of vegetables is a personal choice),
stir in pasta and serve. A nice sprinkle of your favorite shredded cheese turns
it into something wonderful.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With hugs and love until next time</span></div>
<div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">~~Mama Sage</span></i></div>
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Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-62949809229234484942013-09-29T22:13:00.001-04:002013-09-29T22:44:48.646-04:00It's blog time ....<div>
I finally had the appointment with my ortho doctor for my shoulder. She agreed it was a good thing for me to put off the surgery. Losing weight and not being under so much stress will be a good thing. No sense taking chances I don't need to. </div>
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She xrayed my neck and other shoulder and I didn't like what I heard. I already know that my feet have arthritis. I already know my hands do. I know it's in my knees too. Well now, it's not only in my left shoulder, it's in my right. It's also where my collar bone and shoulder meet. The upper spine xray showed it's in my spine too. C4, 5, and 6. Super. And I know if they did the xrays of my lower back, it's there too. I know now that it is something I have to find a way to live with. It doesn't make me happy, but it's my reality. I have to learn to live in my own reality. And be happy.</div>
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We are changing my meds so I don't need to be on percocet. I hate taking that stuff. But it did work. We are trying a new to me arthritis med called relafen. Anyone out there used it? Any reactions? Advice? So far it seems to be doing okay. It's great not to be so tired all the time.</div>
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She also gave me shots in both shoulders. It always takes a couple days, but it's all good now.</div>
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~~~~~~</div>
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Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.</div>
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~~Lao Tzu</div>
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<div id="r1PostCPBlock" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; color: black; left: -99999px; overflow: hidden; position: absolute; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<span class="bqQuoteLink"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/l/laotzu151126.html" title="view quote"><span style="color: #003399;">Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.</span></a></span><br />
<br />
Read more at <a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/reality.html#P1mPy8GSMKJQyv8F.99" style="color: #003399;">http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/reality.html#P1mPy8GSMKJQyv8F.99</a></div>
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<div id="r1PostCPBlock" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; color: black; left: -99999px; overflow: hidden; position: absolute; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<span class="bqQuoteLink"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/l/laotzu151126.html" title="view quote"><span style="color: #003399;">Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.</span></a></span><br />
<br />
Read more at <a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/reality.html#P1mPy8GSMKJQyv8F.99" style="color: #003399;">http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/reality.html#P1mPy8GSMKJQyv8F.99</a></div>
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Oh the stink from that freezer mess lasted forever! It was horrible! I think we pretty much have it handled now but I still need to reclean, reclean, reclean. I want to do the inside again. It was more or less just wiped out. It needs a real strong cleaning. It's just so hard for me to do so many things. In time. And the way I figure it, I've got the rest of my life to get things done.</div>
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The yard looks so different. The pool is down now. It has given us the incentive to do some more clearing out. We just have so much stuff! I'm helping a little out there, but I have so much inside to purge through it's tough for me to spend time out there. </div>
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I finally have the attic back to where I can move around a little. It will get much better as I go along. I'm working on getting things ready to donate to our friend Mary Michel for the ministry she and her husband Marv Hodges run. Bridging the Gap ministries in Cuyahoga Falls is changing locations and will be able to expand. It's fantastic watching their growth. The craft items I have stored up there not being used will be able to be utilized in good ways. That will make me and all those who have passed things down to me happy. </div>
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While I was working in the attic, I moved the things that went in the dressers in the attic back where they belong. That's a good thing. Finally. I like things in order. Getting them out of the office and clearing that space was easy because we just did grab and stack. Putting it all back has taken time. Lots of time.</div>
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<div id="r1PostCPBlock" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; color: black; left: -99999px; overflow: hidden; position: absolute; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<span class="bqQuoteLink"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/w/willsmith167213.html" title="view quote"><span style="color: #003399;">Throughout life people will make you mad, disrespect you and treat you bad. Let God deal with the things they do, cause hate in your heart will consume you too.</span></a></span><br />
<br />
Read more at <a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/hate.html#1rDywFut1q3sZc6B.99" style="color: #003399;">http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/hate.html#1rDywFut1q3sZc6B.99</a></div>
</div>
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<div id="r1PostCPBlock" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; color: black; left: -99999px; overflow: hidden; position: absolute; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<span class="bqQuoteLink"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/w/willsmith167213.html" title="view quote"><span style="color: #003399;">Throughout life people will make you mad, disrespect you and treat you bad. Let God deal with the things they do, cause hate in your heart will consume you too.</span></a></span><br />
<br />
Read more at <a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/hate.html#1rDywFut1q3sZc6B.99" style="color: #003399;">http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/hate.html#1rDywFut1q3sZc6B.99</a></div>
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Throughout life people will make you mad, disrespect you and treat you bad. Let God deal with the things they do, 'cause hate in your heart will consume you too. </div>
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~~Will Smith</div>
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We have found a way to gather some funds for our next Branson trip. Our stay is free. We have a free trip coming plus we had some points banked we needed to use. We be gone the entire week. Our food, gas and entertainment is being provided for free too. Well mostly free. We have cash vouchers at the casino that is only half an hour from home. If they want to send free money I have no problem using it. We are going up and using them, then whatever is won on them comes home and goes into our trip can. None of our own money is being spent...because we have none TO spend. While we are there, we've used our free food vouchers for a meal out. And, we've got gas rewards credits we've used that actually have paid for the gas to go up and use the vouchers. </div>
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So far, we have our gas money and show money in the can. Shows will be cheap. One will cost $20 and one $30. Next, food. And whatever meals we don't have money for, we will be taking food. The kitchen is full stocked with cooking utensils, etc. so cooking is no problem. Only thing they don't have is a crockpot and we will take my little one. </div>
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I plan to work on my writing the week we're gone. I think the concentrated time away from the hustle and bustle of homelife will help me get back on track. I'd love to get one of the two books actually done. We shall see how it goes.</div>
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COOKING NOTE:</div>
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I tried making rice krispie treats with marshmallow cream. I had what looked like a good recipe. They tasted like...well not good, and they didn't hold together. Recipe fail.</div>
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If there were no cooking failures, there wouldn't be as many fast food joints.</div>
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~~Mama Sage</div>
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Oh my oh my. Cliff was cleaning out the shed that keeps the outdoor/garden things. A nasty old mouse had decided to use the shed as her home. Not happenin'. Mama Sage doesn't like mice. Nope. They relocated to places beyond my sight. And they better not be thinking they can move into the house. We will have a war!</div>
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I am still mourning my pan. Someone came over and asked to borrow my giant Farberware pan. The more I think about it, it seems it was someone wanting to waterbath something but they couldn't find or didn't want to look for their own big pan. I vaguely remember telling them it didn't have a rack for the bottom but that they could use extra canning jar rings to create a rack. </div>
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And now my pan is gone. I-dunno has it. I really, really want it back! Really. I'm hoping and praying whoever has it runs across it and realizes it is mine. If they don't want to admit they had it, fine. Anonymously drop it on the porch. I'll be good with that. As long as I get my pan back. </div>
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Last weekend, not today and yesterday, but last weekend, we had Emmi and Kennedy both for the weekend. It was Kennedy's regular weekend with us and Emmi's mommy and daddy were away at a friend's wedding. We had the best time. I just love spending time with our kiddos. THIS is what being a grandparent is all about. Love and smiles neverending. I missed them as soon as they left.</div>
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My turkey tetrazzini was a hit. I wish I'd written down what I did. The sauce was cream of chicken soup with milk added. There was some shredded cheese but not a lot. I used carrots and onions. Of course the turkey and noodles. Since I had spaghetti noodles handy and actually a few that were in my frig as leftovers, I used them instead of fettuccini. I used crushed chip crumbs on top. Waste not ya know. I really don't know what else was in it. Darn it. I know the recipes I looked at called for peas and I decided on carrots. I didn't use one particular recipe so I can't look it up. Shoot. Well that'll teach me!</div>
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I learned I can still sew! lol I don't do much in the way of sewing anymore so when Corry brought me the couch cushion to repair, I was a bit leary about doing it. Angel had washed it and the entire zipper had come off. Oh boy. When I took it downstairs and set to fixing it, it all came back like riding a bike. When it was done, it was good as new. Yay me!</div>
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Cooking fails seem to be my thing lately. I made bean soup and it smelled so good! It looked fabulous. It tasted....SALTY! Nothing worse than salty. Even after putting the potato in for a long time to absorb the excess salt it was still bad. I haven't made myself toss it yet, but I'm thinking by tomorrow I'll be able to let that pot o' beans swirl down the disposal. No way can we eat it! No way. Blood pressure nightmare!</div>
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We had to go to Verizon to reset the phone brought back to us that someone used. Sometimes I think these smart phones are only smart because they make us feel dumb! I did a hard reset on it and still it had the last user's apple ID attached to it. It was useless. It's bad enough we still have to pay for the sucker for the next 16 months, but the fact it couldn't be used made me angry! What the heck. </div>
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Cliff went in to Verizon after we had messed with it a few days and it was one of those "click - here ya go" fixes. Now why can't the fix be posted somewhere online to save people the inconvenience of going into a store? Dumb.</div>
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In case you wondered, the apple cider at Aldi's is wonderful! Liquid apple. No odd tastes.</div>
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I'm going to get back into writing one way or the other. It is so good for me! We had our first meeting to organize the next reunion for the singing/social action group we belonged to as teens. I volunteered to do a blog for the masses to keep everyone up to speed with what's happening. Made me feel good to get going on it. </div>
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Writing for me sort of has a domino effect. One project leads to another and soon I'm doing a lot of it which makes me feel fantastic! Who knew I'd ever feel that way about writing. I always thought my best suit was something in the math area in school I never would have imagined myself actually enjoying writing with a passion.</div>
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Packaged cinnamon biscuits are good. I think a little less milk than called for would have made them better, but they tasted very good. Martha White brand. Yum.</div>
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That was Saturday's breakfast. Lunch was a quesadilla inspired by the leftovers in the frig. I had leftover fajita chicken and the onions and peppers to go with it. Oh and mine also had mushrooms added. I love the quesadilla maker my sister-in-law April gave us for Christmas many years back. All you do is put the filling between two tortillas and close it. In just a few short minutes, you've got something tasty. </div>
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Since my blog has been nothing but boring this time, I'm cutting it off. lol I know you're thanking me for that. I hear you. But beware. I shall be back.</div>
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Hugs....<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-61978268944963631452013-09-16T00:13:00.001-04:002013-09-16T00:13:05.555-04:00Oh what a week it's been!<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I enjoyed my time with my sister so much! I liked when we both lived in
Texas just hours from each other. We got to see each other at least once a
month then. That was nice. Living two days from one another is tough after ten
years of being close. I know it's been a lot of years since then but I'm still
not used to it. Not at all. I miss people who belong in my life when they
aren't around. And my sister isn't the only one. There are a few. :-)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think I'm going to have to give in and call the shoulder/knee doctor.
First I need to get the xrays of the other knee and other shoulder done. I'm
actually having trouble with them all now. I just don't want to do the surgery
until after I lose the weight again. I don't feel safe going under the knife
when I'm this fat. And with all the breathing stuff that's been going on lately
I want to for sure wait until I'm a bit slimmer. Every pound off reduces my
risk.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm also having trouble lately with the dry eyes. I have the eye drops to
replenish the moisture. I just wish it wasn't necessary. I never knew what it
would feel like to have them go dry. It actually hurts! Pain. Strange.
</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love still having things we bought in Amish country in the freezer. (And
thankfully I used them before the catastrophe. Info to come later in the
blog.) I had gotten a bag of ends and pieces of lunch meat. I took them
and put them through the grinder on my Kitchen Aide, added cheese ends from home
slicing and some pickles I wanted to use up, then added light Hellmans mayo and
scraped the last of the jar of Kraft mayo and stirred it all up together. I
ended up with two huge containers of "ham" salad. A lady I knew when I was in
high school worked at a local Lawson's store and she used to make it for them
with their ends and pieces. Glad I watched a time or two. Homemade beats the
heck out of store bought.</span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-size: large;">I got a letter back from our granddaughter Brandi. Brandi is our oldest
son's middle daughter. She seems to be doing good in bootcamp and is actually
sort of enjoying it. She's always been one to love a sports challenge and I
guess a lot of bootcamp is like a physical challenge. We are so proud of her
and what she's doing. She would really appreciate mail from people. She has a
couple more weeks. </span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's flood her with a ton! Feel free to pass on her address to those you
know. <br />Thanks everyone!<br /><br />Goostree, Brandi<br />1st PLT "Renegades"<br />E
Co, 1-34 IN BN, 165th IN BDE<br />12000 Dixie Rd.<br />Ft. Jackson, SC
29207-6019<br /><br />Please put a "1" on the back of the envelope.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When she's done in South Carolina she will be headed to Virginia for
further training. I'll be sure to pass on that address too. </span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-size: large;">I'll tell you what. It seems every plane trip I go pick people up at
the airport for has a little drama. Judy's plane got in early. That's pretty
normal. Usually about 10 minutes. But, her luggage wasn't on the turnstile.
Hmmm. After some investigating, they discovered hers wasn't late, it had
actually come on an earlier plane. It took just a little time, but they found
it and off we went.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To Eat and Park! She had been on the plane or in airports all day and was
hungry. Eat and park is good for breakfast or a regular meal any time of day or
night. She'd never been so it was perfect. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well Miss Emmi got her first stitches. She somehow slipped and cracked her
noggen on her other grampa's sailboat and had to have a staple. She called it
her "sparkly princess bandage staple" so we just went along with it and told her
how beautiful it was. What a trooper. She acted as if it was nothing.</span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-size: large;">I had a really bad stressful night while Judy was here. The day had
gone good. I'd gotten the chicken cooking for the pulled chicken sandwiches.
The planning was all good. I had gotten the message sent out for when we'd be
having it so the kids could come see her while she was here. Adam was in town
for the weekend for the Browns opener too and we worked according to both
schedules. All that was good. Then my mind took over. I started thinking
about situations happening. I got so stressed I actually started having chest
pain and got out the nitro tablets just in case. I was fighting it and trying
to calm myself for a long while. Almost went and woke her up to take me to the
ER. Then it eased. But it was horrible! Stress just about did me in.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm working hard to tell myself prayer is the best I can give. And I know
it is. But there are just times when you feel like it might not be enough.
It's been a week now and I'm doing a bit better. Still breaking down often, but
trying to remember God is in charge. Period. Not any of the people who think
they are. God. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We had a nice afternoon meal with the kids here to see Judy. Rusty, Cait
and Em along with Adam came by on Saturday. We had the chicken sandwiches and a
cucumber and tomato salad. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Saturday was her class 70th birthday. I drove her over to join her
classmates and on the way we drove by my gramma's old house and the house we
lived in as kids. I wanted her to see things and tried to make use of the miles
each trip we headed out. </span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sunday Kris and Darlene, then Corry and Angel and CJ came by to see Judy.
I'm glad they did. She missed seeing Dusty, Leon and Casey and Missy and
Melanie, but she did get to see most of the family. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When everyone left, we took her out to the Racino at Thistledown. That
lucky duck sat down, played $2.05 and won $56! Wow! And yes, she went home
with every dime of it. We played our free vouchers and ate on the food vouchers
so the evening was cheap fun. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We also did a little sneakin around. Heeheehee. My sister follows a
certain Christian singing group and someone in it lives very close. She
couldn't find out the info but wanted to try and see the house. Well this ol'
gal can find her some people! lol I took the info she had and very quickly
went to my "find 'em" websites and found him! So we went out and drove past his
home and his father-in-law's home what was also a big gospel singer in his
day.<br /><br />~~~~~~</span></div>
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</span><span style="font-size: large;">Another meal I made my sister was plain ol' meatloaf. Yep. Nothin fancy.
Just my meatloaf with cheese. Also made a hashbrown casserole that was suppose
to be like Cracker Barrel. Next time I make it I'll tone back the cheese. WAY
too cheesy for me. I think the best part of Cracker Barrel's is that the cheese
isn't overbearing and you can actually taste the sour cream a bit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Whoa boy what a catastrophe! I put too much cinnamon butter topping in the
bottom of the pan (along with pecans and raisins) of cinnamon biscuits. It ran
over and wow what a mess I had. Oh it smelled awful in here. Not much worse
than the overpowering smell of burnt sugar. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lunch was a ham and swiss quesadilla in our quesadilla maker. Then we took
off for one more time past the star's home to make sure we were thinking the
right one in our heads. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And to finish one more thing on my list of "do with my sister" we went to
Stoddards. Her suggestion actually. I got cherry frozen yogurt. She got
traditional chocolate custard. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">Somewhere here I missed the fact we went to the hotdog shop. Retro Dog.
It's got a Stow address but is actually right inside the Cuyahoga Falls line on
Steels Corners Road. Great place if you haven't tried it. I wasn't in the mood
for a dog so I got chili cheese fries. Awesome! I might just have to get them
again!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">You know I really like puzzles. But a dresser is not supposed to turn into
a puzzle! I had taken all the drawers out of a dresser when we made room for
Missy and Melanie and must have put them back in the wrong order. What a job to
untangle my mess! Now that she is no longer here with us, I'm trying to put the
house back in order. It's taking a lot longer to put it back! I still can't
move even a couple steps into the attic. It'll happen. I have to. I want to
start purging and selling or giving away things. It'll happen. I have to keep
positive. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Oh boy have I been SICK! We went out the other night and I had onion
rings/petals that had been fried in oil that had fried fish. My fish allergy
has progressed so much that I had terrible stomach problems. So bad I probably
should have headed to the hospital but I've been holding off. Instead, I had a
day of a soft diet and slowly put a few more things into my diet. So far so
good. My belly, lower belly, still hurts a little but not like it was. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And, when it rains, it pours. As if we aren't under enough stress in this
house, we had a horrible discovery. Kris went downstairs and discovered the
source of our stinky smell. The freezer had been open. My fault. The night
before I had gone down and messed with things. I moved some things. I did shut
it but was too lazy to lock it. Never again! I will ALWAYS lock it! We lost
hundreds of pounds of stuff. Thankfully not all of it like we thought. As we
dug through, some was actually still icy cold or frosty. One of the turkeys was
cold enough I finished thawing it and cooked it today. The ham was cold enough
I'm cooking it tomorrow. And some things were able to be refrozen. I'm just so
thankful Kris found it or we definitely would have lost everything!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><div>
~~~~~~</div>
<br />
<em>On particularly rough days when I'm sure I can't possibly endure, I like to
remind myself that my track record for getting through bad days so far is 100%
and that's pretty good.</em><br />
<em>~~Unknown</em><br />
<br />
~~~~~~</span><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">I think we're about caught up for now. I plan to keep blogging. But, when
life happens there might me a few days between them. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks for being my readers. You guys are great. I enjoy your comments
here, on facebook and in emails. Hugs to you all....</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><em><strong>~~Mama Sage</strong></em></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-43171196833688009092013-09-03T01:19:00.004-04:002013-09-03T01:19:36.656-04:00Slowing down … want to or not!
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I really don’t like this slowing down thing my body is going
through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s hard when my mind is still
on zoom and my body has switched to scoot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m trying hard to keep doing things but so often something slows me
right down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had all good intentions of coming upstairs
after the weather (my old routine) and starting to bring back down things we
had taken to the attic to make the office into a bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the things were taken up, I had Natalie
and Kennedy here to do the carrying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
thought down would be so much easier than up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">When I got up here, I decided to dust this floor first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time I had the second floor dusted, I
was exhausted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could hardly breathe!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know if I was just overworked or if I
was having a tad bit of a problem with my asthma.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, whatever, plans changed and I ended up
pulling out yarn for more little blankets and rolling some half done projects
into yarn balls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I love how even pretty ugly yarns turn into cute once they
are paired with another thin yarn and knitted up into itty bitty baby
blankets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I first started these I
wasn’t real excited about them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved
the little hats I’d made and they actually made up pretty fast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just wasn’t sure about the blankets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that I have several done (almost 20) I’m
enjoying it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m enjoying putting all
this yarn I’d stored into use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m glad
that yarn that my mom and my gramma and a few others passed down is being put
to use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And for it to go to little
babies so small (NiCU babies) is a bonus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You see those tiny little babies no bigger than someone’s hand and you
want to help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I kind of feel like this
is helping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Makes me feel good inside.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I’m really enjoying free vacations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We still have a couple more that we haven’t
done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One is an all expenses and fees
paid cruise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One is another trip to
Branson or Pigeon Forge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well those are
still available after we take this last one this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s nice to just pay the gas and have a home
away from home when we get there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
will stop at the commissary at Ft. Leonard Wood this trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s about two hours out of Branson so with a
cooler we will be good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re going to
in Branson all week and don’t plan on eating out much if at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">We have a timeshare in Branson but we can stay pretty much
anywhere with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has all the
supplies you need in the kitchen, all linens, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They have several properties and we’ve stayed at two different ones so
far.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will be the third.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I understand there is one more in the Branson
area so one day we will have to stay there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Am I un-American?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
mean is it required that if you live in the US of A that you love
baseball?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even after giving it a rallying try this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can, however, tolerate it more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s progress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yep, give me football any old day, but
baseball?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Naaaaaa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">The plan was to steam and dust the first floor Sunday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Didn’t happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did get the dusting done but it wore me
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the swiffer duster
dealie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So much easier to dust
with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have you tried them yet?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoxwwVvzwp62HokiUxhyphenhyphenXWdBqA50mmUReHn_g3-54Ua7cOenApCVPMcxm4yncAR0fPYoJhTSnYUPTMESjKUF0wQhDmMRLpGvowu44Ye5uiocPf0dRgM3VSZEJYlajVLBeMGmCZ9NXhrM/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoxwwVvzwp62HokiUxhyphenhyphenXWdBqA50mmUReHn_g3-54Ua7cOenApCVPMcxm4yncAR0fPYoJhTSnYUPTMESjKUF0wQhDmMRLpGvowu44Ye5uiocPf0dRgM3VSZEJYlajVLBeMGmCZ9NXhrM/s320/4.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sunday’s running around included getting gas ~~choke choke~~
, getting what little groceries we could, and finding out Cartridge World was
closed Sunday and Labor Day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hope we don’t
have to print something!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Our meals all weekend were leftovers pretty much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had an open face sloppy joe for lunch so I
wouldn’t eat as much bread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then for
supper, I made us a pizza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was pretty
cheap to make.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We got three crusts at
the R Store so the crust was .50.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
sauce was leftover pizza sauce I had frozen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We had gotten a 5# chub of Italian sausage at the R Store one time for
$7 and I had chunks of it in the freezer too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We added the sausage, some pepperoni, some black olives and some
mushrooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cooked it on my pizza stone
and it was awesome.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-color: currentColor currentColor windowtext; border-style: none none solid; border-width: medium medium 3pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsEmJEB8d8d0LWtkBIPjs4t_GgFqfgWw9bchsNyGzMHyGK5Q5On3Ttnv-C-tPlV8l5AJebbLhcdHpfpvj4RCYLwd_PlnZEhjyJI-jMYnULhcPiT2pk7DFpcGKjsMFepOB9snxQ21EzWg/s1600/2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsEmJEB8d8d0LWtkBIPjs4t_GgFqfgWw9bchsNyGzMHyGK5Q5On3Ttnv-C-tPlV8l5AJebbLhcdHpfpvj4RCYLwd_PlnZEhjyJI-jMYnULhcPiT2pk7DFpcGKjsMFepOB9snxQ21EzWg/s320/2a.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: large;">We
are not a failure </span></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: large;">because we fail at something.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: large;">Nobody
is a failure unless they quit trying!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~Joyce
Meyer<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I love that the little
ones are getting artistic and bringing me pictures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are a couple that our budding artists
have brought to Mimi to hang up for all to see.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4TZJrPCxVM_dFtluc7vgxDQJtdILmrl2Z7AR56Pg24Wfc0az7uYXAeSxIM1wTUcNsnPyhKiJPXphR6832eZuetPkHALPb5qd5g2OqwsAepnbWrQUA5_Y9O1GbMHSsy8h0EDIP5qcc4w/s1600/1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4TZJrPCxVM_dFtluc7vgxDQJtdILmrl2Z7AR56Pg24Wfc0az7uYXAeSxIM1wTUcNsnPyhKiJPXphR6832eZuetPkHALPb5qd5g2OqwsAepnbWrQUA5_Y9O1GbMHSsy8h0EDIP5qcc4w/s320/1a.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoU_9CD3iCeAjywq4z_O_a1-xSpvNeu2xjlXYRt83mu0m1xaftWnmfG0BrUkD9_GdnDZd1Q0IuumtiFofkJqXKY_YVfplNnFDKyMU-MGOXshiD5qO_I_gdDvKiYF8fUgh99ikIAnYdjak/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoU_9CD3iCeAjywq4z_O_a1-xSpvNeu2xjlXYRt83mu0m1xaftWnmfG0BrUkD9_GdnDZd1Q0IuumtiFofkJqXKY_YVfplNnFDKyMU-MGOXshiD5qO_I_gdDvKiYF8fUgh99ikIAnYdjak/s320/3.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">After the little bit
of running around we did today, we came home, ate a little and I got going with
the steam cleaning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took me doing
part at a time to get through it, but eventually the livingroom, diningroom and
kitchen got done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tomorrow my plan is to
attack the furniture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We shall see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope it gets done but I also need to finish
the bathroom cleanup and sweep the stairs and second floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wish me strength!!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">And I felt guilty for
not doing more so I just went up and straightened the office supply shelves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t purge it but that will eventually
happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I brought a few things down but
didn’t do much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s going to take a
very long time to get it all done and have things back where they belong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Well by Wednesday, all
the kids will be back in school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
Miss Melanie will be in preschool just like Miss Emerson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love having them all around, but I remember
how exciting it was to have them all back in school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s to a superb school year.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Love and hugs from <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: wave windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">~~Mama Sage<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
</div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-57595281217825340722013-09-01T02:53:00.004-04:002013-09-01T02:53:52.592-04:00I just didn't get it done today
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Humidity and this body just don’t mix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I checked the weather on my phone and it said
the humidity was 64%.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I walked outside
and the air was so thick I could hardly breathe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmm<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Something wasn’t right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I
couldn’t breathe, my whole day’s plans changed.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I really wanted to go to our grandson Hadyn’s football
game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just knew it was a bad idea for
me to be outside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m VERY proud of him
though.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Corry gave me the report that
even though they lost, he had two great tackles and a couple sacs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>SUPER!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You have to understand, he is right smack dab on that front line and he’s
not a big guy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The week before he was
faced with a HUGE opponent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t get
to see this week, but my guess is it was probably another pretty good sized
kid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibup5WvO4zozSCYdQ_vr4mRGyU5DvDftk9RoP7XsQ_0qMvGyG4ecEiqaDsLH4_mIgbU5z18R7Fb5QJ0CGkubbry_z9M8Rqwd4YgpRTAo9eLGoxwXcQ6IZ59h0Cn3vjwFGf4oJJocXredo/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibup5WvO4zozSCYdQ_vr4mRGyU5DvDftk9RoP7XsQ_0qMvGyG4ecEiqaDsLH4_mIgbU5z18R7Fb5QJ0CGkubbry_z9M8Rqwd4YgpRTAo9eLGoxwXcQ6IZ59h0Cn3vjwFGf4oJJocXredo/s320/photo.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I had also planned to get a letter written and sent to our
granddaughter Brandi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Brandi is in
bootcamp for guard right now in South Carolina.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We are so proud of her!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a
picture her boyfriend found on her group’s website.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m so glad to see it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know they’re doing fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re in good hands during their training,
but a picture just says so much!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZk1K35RaEcdXHy9IDuoU5ZBkyi7xv4IdraBWfi51pA77LHgqq1zjX6OUrXyDvwNaw9ny08JvkZP7VCRYDvWiJnRyGoHRUvDtldef_BSw2JKM3Goi9bPiFIinFb2sLqPryQrWR7dbKrA/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZk1K35RaEcdXHy9IDuoU5ZBkyi7xv4IdraBWfi51pA77LHgqq1zjX6OUrXyDvwNaw9ny08JvkZP7VCRYDvWiJnRyGoHRUvDtldef_BSw2JKM3Goi9bPiFIinFb2sLqPryQrWR7dbKrA/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Brandi is on the bottom row behind the wood on the left.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I have a good start on the letter but want to take a little
more time with it tomorrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This being
the Labor Day weekend, it wouldn’t go very far even if I had mailed it today.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">We ran into a great deal today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think anyone can get it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go to the Spaghetti Warehouse website.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is if you have one close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the coupon you’ll find there, you get</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">2 lasagna entrees</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">2 fettuccini Alfredo entrees</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">2 chicken parmesan entrees</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">4 salads or soups (we got two of each)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">2 loaves of their bread with two little tubs of the garlic
spread</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">All that food for $30.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since you can get it to go curbside, you can get it without purchasing
drinks or paying a tip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Awesome
deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I haven’t found any better deal
anywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s only good through Monday
so get online and take advantage of it ASAP.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I want y’all to keep me to this….I want to start going to
the gym on Tuesday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d like to start
slow but go a couple times a week to start out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ve got to get in there and strengthen up some.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m having a terrible time really.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I keep saying I’m doing good, encouraging
myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m talking my way to
positive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the truth is my legs feel very
weak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when the shoulders start up,
it’s bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last night I had trouble with
both legs and both shoulders all night long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It made sleeping nearly impossible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So far tonight doesn’t look like it will be much better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve got so much I want to do I just can’t
let this body of mine fail me.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Dinner tonight was a real challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had decided on some sweet and sour chicken
stir fry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had the chicken all cut up
and waiting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d gotten the veggies
ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started browning the
chicken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then I realized I didn’t
have some of the ingredients I really needed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I just played around and made it up as I
went along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It didn’t really end up like
sweet and sour chicken but it was good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I browned the chicken in a little olive oil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I added the veggies and continued cooking
until the veggies were as soft as we like them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I added the sauce mix which included a pouch of seasoning I had on the
shelf, some catsup, some soy sauce, some sugar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And then I realized no cornstarch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Well I had to thicken it somehow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I didn’t have pineapple chunks but I had crushed pineapple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I stirred some brown gravy mix into it and
then stirred that mix into the pan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
was really good with a decent consistency to serve over rice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I couldn’t do the steps to go down and get
white or brown rice (I had run out in the kitchen and my pantry is
downstairs).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I dug around the cupboard
and found two pouches of cook it quick in the microwave rice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Uncle Ben’s garlic wild rice mix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was wild rice with red and black
quinoa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turned out pretty good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We just had peaches with it.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Learn to enjoy every minute of your life. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Be happy now. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't wait for something outside of yourself to make you happy in the future. Think how really precious is the time you have to spend, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
whether it's at work or with your family. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Every minute should be enjoyed and savored.</div>
<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br />
~~Earl Nightengale</div>
</span><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I got out some cleaning supplies for tomorrow and then
headed upstairs after cleaning the kitchen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Once I was up here I put away the laundry and cleaned part of the
bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t do it all at once so I
just did the sink tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did the tub
deep clean the other day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One thing at a
time and eventually it all gets done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
the best I can do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Well it’s time to try to relax these legs and see if maybe
some Aleve will give me some relief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t
need another bad night.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">See you next time…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><em>~~Mama Sage</em></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-79731457591938744952013-08-30T01:27:00.001-04:002013-08-30T01:27:12.721-04:00Procrastinating doesn’t pay!
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
procrastinated about paperwork around here so long it has become a hurdle much
too high to jump in a single bound.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
started today with current stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that
hamper full of paper is all that stands between me and peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My plan is to accomplish it this weekend but…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do have other things to get done too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have company coming on Wednesday which
means last minute steam cleaning, sweeping and dusting, bathroom and meal
planning needs done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can DO IT!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes I can!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I’m still not eating the way I should, but I’ll get
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m staying well within the
calorie limits to lose, but I’m not eating only what’s good for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lol <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
guess most people really don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m trying
to make sure to eat enough to be above that 1200 calorie mark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s so much fat on this body I know
people think I could eat off the fat of the land a long while, but I won’t do
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not after seeing on Dr. Oz that if
women don’t eat at least 1200 calories they will go into starvation mode and
actually gain weight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes,
seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I finished the thawed salsa this evening so I won’t be eating
chips and salsa the rest of the weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And I won’t have any of the babies here this weekend and won’t get
tempted into eating a grilled cheese sandwich.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ve got chicken thawed for tomorrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The plan is to do sweet and sour chicken, wild rice and peaches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that I wrote that down, maybe I’ll feel
obligated to really make that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Tomorrow, Friday, two of my kids are having minor back
surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know how any back
surgery can be considered minor, but that’s how it’s categorized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just know this mama will be really glad
once noon rolls around and I know both are fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, I would definitely appreciate all the
prayers people feel like sending up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any
back surgery can have terrible consequences so yes, prayers for successful
surgeries would be welcomed.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">This past week has been full of challenges as well as
blessings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The blessings are many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been so happy to be back in contact with
several life long friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finding out
that we aren’t the only ones going through trials right now is sad, but it’s
also giving us someone else to pray for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Can miles truly separate you from friends…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">If you want to be with someone you love,</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Aren’t you already there?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~Richard Bach</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">It’s looking like our pool will be taken down a little
earlier this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t stand by the
Labor Day tradition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There has often
been really warm weather the month of September.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow I don’t think that will happen this
year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re calling for some pretty
nippy temps in the 10 day forecast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
bet we have it down within the next two weeks.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Well, it’s time to close this up and relax the legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They still give me trouble.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Love y’all,</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">~~Mama Sage<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-28085966167269291072013-08-28T21:45:00.000-04:002013-08-28T21:47:18.485-04:00Posting without editing because it won't let me.<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s been a while I know but once again I’m going to try and pick up and continue my blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So much has transpired since I last wrote there is no chance of catching up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If any of you are curious about certain things, feel free to ask.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will answer as best I can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some questions I may choose not to answer in my blog or in a comment on the blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I may ask you to message me personally and answer more privately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks for understanding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My followers do rock!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When I started my blog, I was just doing it to keep track of my progress in my weight loss journey and make myself accountable in a public venue to myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I absolutely loved the encouragement and support from each and every one of you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was working to lose enough to have weight loss surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is no longer an option.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I found out I have something called Sjogren’s<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Disease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was diagnosed using a lip biopsy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The test showed no salivary glands in the chunk of lip they took.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it was actually pretty good sized!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s something that causes lots of things I hate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mouth dries out so much at night that it “glues” itself shut.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve had some pretty nasty injuries from that happening and my opening my mouth anyhow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a temporary fix for that problem but it isn’t perfect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still dry out but at least there is something I can do to help a little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do use Biotene products, but the dentist and dental hygienist told me about something call MI paste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s very expensive but it does last quite a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I use it mainly at night when I wake up and can’t open my mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I can open my lips, I can rub a little on my teeth and work it around with my tongue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Weird.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But for me, it’s life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Because of the saliva problem, I lost most of the teeth on the right side of my mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They just started falling apart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Saliva is extremely important for teeth to stay healthy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The other side was able to be saved at least for a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Sjogren’s also makes other things dry out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My skin, yes, but what bugs me more is my ears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have no ear wax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only does that cause itching and flaking, it means it’s sometimes hard to hear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Strange.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m finding out more and more about how things work in this ol’ bod the longer I have this disease. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a cream I can occasionally use in my ears but it’s not an every day thing to use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My feet also drive me nuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The skin on the bottom of my feet dries up really bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They feel so tight and miserable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That coupled with the gout/arthritis makes my feet a very painful part of my body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So now you’re up to speed with that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fact I don’t produce enough saliva is part of the reason I can’t do the weight loss surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The other reason is I now have no teeth that meet to actually grind the food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you have weight loss surgery it is extremely important to properly chew your food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it isn’t properly chewed it would be able to be properly digested.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The doctor I was seeing for the weight told me he was confident I could do it on my own without surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My last visit with him I had lost 50 pounds on my own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And now, I’m back to square one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got terribly depressed about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’m an emotional eater.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I hate the image that stares back at me in the mirror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hate that I’m not able to do a lot of things because of this weight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am going to try and get back with the program and DO this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I had my right knee replaced in May and am now able to walk a little more than I had been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My back is still a problem, but most days I can deal with it at least a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had planned on doing my left shoulder later this month but have cancelled that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t feel like I’m ready for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Several things in my life have added a lot of stress, I’ve gained back weight and don’t feel safe in that respect, and I don’t think my knee is strong enough to do the shoulder surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’d be surprised which limb helps the others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try to not use your left shoulder and not put weight on your right knee and get in bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not real easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not ready for more surgery yet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And we are still fighting all the medical billing people to properly bill things so they can get paid!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amazing how many mistakes can be made on the billing for one medical problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today I started back using My Fitness Pal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not adding friends or anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will just be for my benefit so I can track which nutrients, etc. I should increase or decrease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also have found out that a woman should never eat less than 1200 calories a day because the body goes into starvation mode.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I plan to do the things I used to do here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I plan to continue to post a recipe or two, add quotes, post pictures, speak Mama Sage speak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think I need this to get me back in the full groove.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I definitely need to put myself first again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need to realize I can’t help those who don’t want help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need to get many things in life straightened around and orderly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My plan for fall and winter is to straighten out bookwork and filing, purge purge PURGE the whole house, keep accountable through my blogging and reconnect where I feel disconnected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When life gives you a hundred reasons to cry,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">show life that you have a thousand reasons to smile.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">~~Unknown</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">No recipes today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had stuffed peppers, but they were ones I’d made earlier in the summer and frozen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With that I just cooked up noodles and added peas and we had applesauce.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For an evening snack, we had left over strawberries over chocolate ice cream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m still within my calorie limits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well within.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, friends, Mama Sage is closing up for the night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve got a lunch to pack and I want to try and tackle a little of this paperwork mountain before I head upstairs for the night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tomorrow we will be spending the day with Emmi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to gather things to do some crafting with her too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Night all….</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">~~Mama Sage</span></div>
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Having trouble trying to edit this before posting. Hoping I'll be able to do it later? Maybe? Who knows. Can't highlight anything to make changes. Can't back space to make changes. Weird. </div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-71381065355432460222013-04-08T21:33:00.003-04:002013-04-08T21:47:51.714-04:00Days are getting hairy...<div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It's</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> a normal thing around here for there to be noise and commotion. Our daughter Missy and our daughter-in-law Angel have started working and we're watching the kids. With spring break last week, we had lots of kids around. Kennedy was here for the week and Natalie was here most of the week. And we watched kiddos too. Yep. This place is jumpin' most every day. I don't think we have days off any more. lol</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Today we watched CJ and Melanie along with Haydn who wasn't feeling well. He only had a headache so we didn't have to isolate him or anything. Good thing! With all the projects going on, that would have been difficult to do!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">I've finished up the office/guest room for my sister complete with books I've set aside for her and a goodie basket. I remembered the soap she needs to use too. The only thing I can think of I haven't done was to grab juices and water for the frig. And we need to clean and clear on top of the computer armoire. It's a little...congested. Ya. That's much nicer than saying trashy! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">I was so tired tonight, and I'm working on keeping the frig cleared of excess stuff, I just warmed up the leftover veggies and Cliff went out and got some chicken. The only veggies I have left now will be used the next two or three days. In fact, if the weather happens to dip a little, I might make a potato, corn, carrot chowder.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Our basement stairs have bothered me since we moved into this house. And lately I've felt they were down right dangerous. Cliff started the big job over the weekend tearing off the junky carpet and scraping all the mountains of tape and glue the previous owners must have thought would fix them. What a mess! Today, he rebuilt the upoper section. The top step went down way further than it should. The drop was very high and it killed me to step down it. They're much better now. He painted them today and tomorrow will put the runner/treads on. I wish we could put the red carpet we bought to use down there on. I don't see it happening. Maybe by summer. He still has to paint the rest of the bottom part and lay the runner/treads there too. So much better. Then he can figure out how to put the railing on. There is nothing sturdy to hook it to on the bottom section. It's really needed though.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Next project for him will be to finish up putting back the gawdawful trim in the bathroom. I need a thousand bucks to do what needs to be done up there so it'll have to wait. We finally got the faucet problem solved so we can close it all up. It really needs the walls gutted, the floors torn up and some of the places fixed where someone cut the joists. (Is that how it's spelled??) Oh boy. We are always finding another place that was short cutted in the name of "fer show." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">This last weekend was so nice we were able to get the porch is ready to enjoy. I decided on using the furniture we bought for it originally out there and use the stuff we had at camp on the back patio area. Well it isn't a patio yet but when I win the lottery it will be! lol </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">The yard needs lots of work that may or may not get done. We only have so much time and we have so very many projects. The part of the yard I definitely want done is the area where the pool goes and the play area. I wish I had a few hundred extra bucks for at least some rocks for the driveway and for mulch for the flower beds. I'd like to be able to get the garden going too but who knows if that can get done. We shall see. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">I did get the donation inventory finished up to take to the tax man tomorrow. I loathe tax man day. I'm just hoping to sleep tonight and not get too worked up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">We lost a beautiful family member Sunday. Aunt Betsy Lingo, Cliff's mother's twin sister, passed away after suffering a heart attack. She was such a loving caring woman. When Cliff and I got together, she and Gramma Rickenbacher were so welcoming to me. And through the years, she remained not just an aunt, but a friend. She will be missed. Almost 91. Wow what a long and rich life she led.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Teenages and clean rooms are just something that doesn't mesh. This weekend I told Kennedy it was a MUST that her room be done or I'd be going in and cleaning it out. She listened and she and Natalie attacked that room hard! I am so very proud of what they did. It looks absolutely fantastic.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">We won't talk about the way they decorated my diningroom with all the stuff that was being disposed of. Ohhhh boy. But after sorting through it, it wasn't so bad. We have a sell pile and a donate pile. Not much was trashed and some was given away. Not bad, not bad. I'm just so excited about how great it looks in there now!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Easter went great here. I had the weekend before doing eggs and things with the kiddos. We did regular colored eggs and then did some cascarones. Not everyone could come, but the kids who came seemed to have fun. Missy brought her friend's daughters to join in the fun. In the end, about six dozen eggs and probably three dozen confetti eggs got done. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">After we were done with that, Kennedy asked if we could make salt scrub. I just happened to have bought a big bag of fine ground sea salt and a giant jug of olive oil so I said yes, of course! When we were done, she and Natalie even did facials.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Cliff had to work on Easter. And the night before. The night before was also Rusty's bachelor party. And Cait was on call. Sooooo, it was up to me to get 'er done.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">I got it all set up by myself, cooked all except the cheesy potatoes and scalloped potatoes and the adorable deviled eggs Darlene made. We had a great meal with nearly everyone here. We had ham, green bean casserole, corn, honey buttered carrots, salad with strawberries, three bean salad, a four layer spice cake, choose your topping cheesecake....and I don't remember what else! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">When everyone had left, Natalie and Kennedy helped bring all the food up from the basement. (I hesitate to call it that, it's a rec room area. But it's a finished BASEMENT! lol) They also swept the floor. I did the rest of the clean up and I was POOPED! And in pain, but it was soooo worth it! I love having the family here. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">We recently got to take a wonderful little trip down to Amish country. Rusty and Caitlin had bought us the two night stay at a very nice cabin area. Donna's Premier Lodging in Berlin, OH if anyone wants a getaway destination. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Our cabin was very nice. The bedroom was in a loft, which with my knee proved a little tricky to get to. We had a choice of cabins and this one looked perfect. Next time, we'll do the one the kids said was better. But I loved this one. Huge bathroom with a shower and a jacuzzi tub that they furnished bubble bath for. The soap in the bathroom was also hand</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">made. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">The kitchen had everything anyone would need. In the frig were our chocolate covered cherries and the box of Coblenz chocolates. That's a local candy maker. In front of the fireplace was a beautiful soft, soft, soft blanket for us and two mugs with gormet hot chocolate packs. We later got a second blanket and two of those drink cups with screw on lids and straws. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">It was set up on a hillside in a lightly wooded area. Outside were rockers on a small patio with a grill. To the side was a firepit. We were told that there were MANY wild turkeys that would probably greet us in the morning. It was so cold though, they never showed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">We did a lot of exploring. On our way down, we stopped at Shearer's outlet. We loaded up on a couple months worth of chips and things. With spring break, company coming, etc. it won't go to waste. And after all the discounts we got them for a steal!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">We also hit up several cheese outlets. Mmmm oh the cheese. I filled the two drawers in our extra frig with it all. Couldn't help it. It was all between 2.49 and 3.09 a pound. Just couldn't pass it up. We splurged on the meat sticks. Can't pass them up though! And of course there was the trail balogna. Who can leave Amish country without cheese and trail balogna?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">We enjoyed exploring the small little towns all around and clear to Columbus. And we learned a lot. I never realized that the Amish families lived in little groups. Or so it seems. I really should have sat down with someone and asked questions. There was never one normal family sized home. It was always a huge living area. If the homes were normal sized, they were connected in some way. Either by a big porch, a walkway, a hallway type thing, or some other way. And seeing laundry on EVERY line. Wow. Awesome sights. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">We found several centenial homes and barns. We ate at Der Dutchman. We just had some good fun. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span><br />
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<span class="usercontent"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Once it’s been said via social media or some other cyberspace outlet, it is out there forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t say things you will probably regret.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>You are what you share.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><strong>~~Charles Leadbeater</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Emmi has started doing the cutest thing. Emmi has been packing Papa’s lunch. She makes him a "sandwich" with her little fake food and put it and her "milk" fake food in his lunchbox. So cute. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">I found shoes for the wedding. At first I settled on a pair of flats. Quilty black back with a patten leather front with a little bow. I have a brand new pair of black slippers when my feet can't take the shoes any longer. And then Kennedy came with an AWEsome pair of comfortable shortie heals. Comfort Plus. I love them! Went right out to Payless and got a pair along with a hair do-dad. It's a lovely gold headband with a pretty flower. And now the outfit is complete. Well it will be when my new bras arrive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span><br />
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><strong>Social networking </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><strong>is about building people up </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><strong>in your network,</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><strong>NOT tearing them down</strong>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">~~Tasha Turner</span><br />
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span><br />
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em>A little FYI...</em></strong></span><br />
<br />
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">I LOVE....my husband, my kids, my grandkids, my brother and sister, my parents and grandparents in heaven but I won't be posting all the signs. Who's with me? :-) </span><br />
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span><br />
<br />
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">I don't have a clue when I'll be back. The next few weeks is sure to be crazy making. And after the wedding, I'm having my right knee replaced. Yep, May 14th. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Now I have edited this three times. Every time all the paragraph spacing disappears. Lets see what happens this time. I triple spaced!!! lol</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Hugs and love,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-65727265725747081482013-03-12T00:37:00.002-04:002013-03-12T00:37:28.773-04:00Last week was a rough one
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">This last week has been pretty hard to get through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We loved a loved pet last week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Baby actually belonged to our son Corry, but
our family is close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Baby was all of ours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all shed tears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all feel the loss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From our youngest family member, CJ to our
oldest, my mother-in-law, we all loved Baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Baby came into our lives as a pup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It all started with her mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her mom is Jasmine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jazz belongs to our oldest son Kris and
Darlene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They got her from Missy as a
gift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her friend’s pit bull had pups and
she knew what a good home Jazz would get with Kris and Darlene and their three
girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kris and Darlene got a second
pup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thor was a Doberman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was Baby’s daddy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Baby was the runt of the little of puppies
that Jasmine and Thor had.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">When Corry got Baby he lived with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were in Rootstown then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved her sweet little face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She and her people daddy, Corry, stuck tight
by each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were buds from the
beginning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Corry worked with her and
taught her so many, many tricks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
a super smart dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Baby lived in my home a few other years too when Corry moved
back here with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was a great
companion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was a protector.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was unconditional love every moment of
her life.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sadly what took her was her own doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had worked and worked and worked with her
to get her to stop eating carpet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
tore up the basement stairway carpet while she lived here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t really know why, she just did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She seemed to stop for a while when Corry
moved out and down the street.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course
the house he moved to didn’t have a lot of carpet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then one day she started it up
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This time it was bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">They had indoor outdoor carpet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It tore her up inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time she stopped eating and started
acting sick, it was too late.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within the
day, Corry got her to the vet and within the next 12 hours she had become
septic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surgery went from a possibility
to useless endeavor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The vet said if
they opened her up, they’d end up having to put her down on the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of putting her through that, she had
her family around her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even our Corry’s
brother and sister came to the vet clinic to say goodbye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all sat with her and shared hugs for a
last time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very, very hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But she is now pain free in heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She can pal around with my dad until the rest
of us are there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe he’ll teach her a
few more tricks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My dad would have loved
her if we’d had her when he was alive.</span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Farewell, my buddy, my pal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I miss you so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg407uCA5OZ6nu7nmG9IVFlvv9jn1BDuFGJ81OOwyc7ucI3UNqTgF-Udtu0c_02zLdohzOQDvfFTp_qYP3vXTGXSdcYDpz87pKwfO8KNxp0cOzuoGrnzTTxqf5trftbC6WMx_xa7EO_il8/s1600/DSCN9630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg407uCA5OZ6nu7nmG9IVFlvv9jn1BDuFGJ81OOwyc7ucI3UNqTgF-Udtu0c_02zLdohzOQDvfFTp_qYP3vXTGXSdcYDpz87pKwfO8KNxp0cOzuoGrnzTTxqf5trftbC6WMx_xa7EO_il8/s320/DSCN9630.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Wow!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not very
long until this wedding!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started
thinking about what all needs to be done here and tried to make a schedule of
sorts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I discovered I should have been
thinking a few weeks ago if I want it all done!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lol</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have my dress thanks to Rusty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My purse was repaired thanks to Corry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now I need shoes and a slip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cliff is of course wearing a tux so his
outfit is handled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I handled my jewelry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found a set of my mom’s I wanted to wear
that was broken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I added a chain for the
necklace, reworked the bracelet and decided that I’d wear the clip on
earrings<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>because converting them would
be something I couldn’t do myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The wedding is going to be beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t wait to take all the wonderful
pictures I know I will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the week
after Rusty and Caitlin’s wedding, I’m doing the pictures for one of Missy’s
friend’s wedding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can’t wait!!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I would like to find a loveseat sleeper within the next two
or three weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A very cheap or better
yet, free one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re trying to get sleep
areas situated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have my sister in one
room and my brother and his fiancé in another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I need a place for Kennedy since we’re ousting her from her room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re using her little flip bed for Emerson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t know if anyone else is staying here but
we want to be prepared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think we can
get a fold up cot from my mother-in-law.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I want the livingroom and the basement/rec room able to be used for
sleep areas too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I also want the loveseat for after my surgery in case I
can’t do the stairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m bringing back
the lift chair we let my mother-in-law use and all the other handicap equipment
we have lent out will be back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not
to do the stair more than once a day for the first two weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can use the leg for anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As long as we have things set up at home and
I have people to help me if I need it, they should let me come on home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Also in preparation for both the wedding and my surgery,
I’ve been cooking and freezing meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
need to choose two to do this week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have stuffed peppers, cabbage rolls, a veggie casserole, turkey, etc. in there
now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really need to make a list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have desserts for when they’re here planned
too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Strawberry shortcake, ice cream in
waffle bowls, peach cobbler…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some people
loathe having guests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Especially when it’s my sooster and
brooster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I made a switch of my dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My coca cola dishes are what I consider my
“winter” dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They red and
Christmas-y.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have them put away now
and pulled out my brightly colored fiesta ware.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have a hodge podge of colors so it looks Easter-ish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re all seconds I’ve picked up on trips
to the factory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d like to go down and
start gathering some smaller bowls and some serving pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a couple platters but I don’t have
bowls for veggies and other sides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I need to change out table covers, window stained glass
decorations, throw blankets…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I keep my
house cold all year so we need to have blankets all around for folks to wrap up
in.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve got about four blinds, maybe five needing to be
replaced so I’ll be hunting for them in all my cheap shopping joints.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First I’ll be seeing if there are enough
slats at the bottom bunched up that I could take them apart and fix them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No sense spending the money if I don’t have
too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can’t afford to anyhow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I got down most of the winter curtains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still need to do the diningroom but might
hold off on that one a couple more weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Before I do I want to find some way to camouflage the fact the curio
cabinet is in front of the one side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because I like it
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not putting up the livingroom curtains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe later but for now, the cornices will be
the window treatment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have
mini-blinds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">We got one big job handled yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The dresser from the attic is now in the
office and the filing cabinets that looked pretty tacky are in the attic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well one is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The other is the night stand by the bed in the office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also purged through the gift bags, tissue
paper, ribbon, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s in the dresser
for now but if the dresser is needed it will be boxed up and taken to the
attic.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNEyppKvJbZZjqPwyUEOCYAyhky3jZfHt5NCWcZmHwHvceWel1nYR2h2Bk_802aa5-U1ybRK6WPC_jfse-pij1L16yiJ2rRhbXallAsSjnK8Nw1nSIc7BaXUEjUYN4fM9s9hhKDEe480Y/s1600/72681_10151547609073698_262939179_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNEyppKvJbZZjqPwyUEOCYAyhky3jZfHt5NCWcZmHwHvceWel1nYR2h2Bk_802aa5-U1ybRK6WPC_jfse-pij1L16yiJ2rRhbXallAsSjnK8Nw1nSIc7BaXUEjUYN4fM9s9hhKDEe480Y/s320/72681_10151547609073698_262939179_n.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The weekend was a pretty busy one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kennedy marched in the parade with the zoo so
we did the St. Patrick’s Day parade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
always like it anyhow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something very
cheerful about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Little Miss Melanie
started out with two necklaces and by the end of the hour and a half parade,
she had about 20 along with a huge amount of candy!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Saturday night we had four of the girls here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kennedy and Natalie stayed in her room and
Morgan and Madison stayed in the office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In the morning I did a little experimenting and made cinnamon
biscuits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t feel like doing rolls
so I put the cinnamon glop in the bottom of a pan, sprinkled it with pecan
pieces and raisins, laid biscuits on top and baked them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I took them out of the oven, I flipped
the pan and the goo covered them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very
yummy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Well that’s it for
now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m pretty tired and tomorrow is
another day I’m sure will be filled to the brim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sending hugs and love to you all…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">~~Mama Sage<o:p></o:p></span></em></strong></span></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-84991474856056746952013-03-04T00:38:00.004-05:002013-03-04T00:38:54.697-05:00Well now THAT stinks!!
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thought it was a good thing to use those space saver bags
and store some things under the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
I conveniently forgot about what I had stored there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well tonight I got curious as to just what it
was that was stored under the bed in the office so I got down on all fours and
started digging it all out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My winter
clothes!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really thought I’d purged
through and tossed most of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
were my sweaters!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>YES!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I grabbed the bag and pulled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mmmmmm STUCK!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I grabbed bag number
2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tug tug tug tug STUCK!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now this isn’t funny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All three bags had lost that suction that
makes them skinny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All three bags had
grown to take up every nook and cranny under the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had gotten lodged in all the crevices
between the boards on the bottom of the box springs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But I was determined so I tugged and pulled, maneuvered the clothes out
of the bags and got it all out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
sweaters!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m so happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Only 16 days until spring, but I’m still happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll have them in the closet now and if we
get a cold snap I’ll have something to wear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s been pretty chilly without them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I’ve been working on making ahead meals for when we have
wedding company and also for when I’m having my surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tonight I did up a big chub of bratwurst sausage
into patties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cooked them all and also
carmelized a ton of onions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had
sandwiches with it for supper tonight and then I packed up the leftovers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took two patties for each guest and put
them in a container and smothered them with onions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When it comes time to cook them for a meal
all I’ll need to do is grab out the bowl, dump it in a casserole dish, sprinkle
it with water and put it in the oven to warm up.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also have stuffed peppers ready for the crockpot as well
as cabbage rolls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll just pop them in,
sauce them, and voila!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A meal in a
jiffy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well a slow cooked jiffy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I cooked a turkey last week and only used a little of the
meat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I kept the breasts as one piece to
heat and slice for a turkey dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
juices are also frozen and ready to make my sister noodles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her favorite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I kept one package of meat off the bones for a casserole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Possibly a turkey pot pie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I did it, I cooked up the bones and made
some good turkey soup for a meal for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You can’t smell a turkey baking all afternoon and not eat some.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least I can’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not strong enough to do that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will probably do one more turkey and handle
it much the same way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have several
frozen turkeys and won’t want to deal with them from about the last week of
April until I’ve healed from my May 14<sup>th</sup> knee surgery.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We had Emmi today while the kids went and added things to
their gift registry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seems to be the
same for nearly every young couple I’ve talked to about their registry that
they don’t want to really register for much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They found out why when they got nearly everything on the first list for
their shower Saturday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now it looks
pretty good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lots of choices in lots of
price ranges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course people don’t
always shop off a registry and that’s fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Surprises!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it’s always good
to give money instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m one who likes
to give gifts instead of money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unless I
know that the couple is in real NEED of money, I’d rather go have some fun
shopping for something fun, useful and unique.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Poor Baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s
Corry’s dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She won’t quit eating
carpet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We thought when she moved out of here that
the problem was probably solved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
didn’t do it at their place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now she’s
doing it again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was all bound up
this evening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Corry took her out to run
even though the temperature was in the mid 20’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When she comes in the door here she generally
chows down Nelly’s food as fast as she can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She didn’t even want to touch it tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All she wanted was the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lots of water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And her poor belly is all bruisy again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one ever figured out why.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It just does it now and then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought it could mean cancer, but she’s
still alive and it’s been a long time since that discoloration started.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We ran out to Acme for a few things tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just some things to get by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Milk was on sale, 4 half gallons for $5.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sell by date is a ways away so we bought
more than what we’ll be using in the next few days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re having a super meat sale too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t take big advantage of it but I did
get some boneless skinless chicken for 1.89 a pound.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m thinking chicken parm sounds good for one
day real soon.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Saved myself having to get a nice purse for the
wedding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had a beautiful one my mom
got that was made in Amish country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
handle on it broke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried fixing it
and even my very old Singer couldn’t handle the thickness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Corry took it to an alterations shop close by
that he thought might do it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For $3 I
have a “new” purse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>YES!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well time to wrap it up for tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m hoping to get back to regularity but
every time I say that, life gets in the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Instead of promising to be back tomorrow, I’ll just promise to be here
whenever I can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hugs to all</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Until we meet again…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><em><strong>~~Mama Sage</strong></em></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-59148409663127991502013-01-25T02:48:00.001-05:002013-01-25T02:48:16.697-05:00A litte catching up....<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I've had some really good granola lately. It had the best pecans in it.
They were the kind I loved from Texas but hated to shell. Those of you in that
area know what a pain it is to shell those tiny hard shells but you also know
that they are so much better than any other kind. Their flavor is so special.
Much more flavorful. I love them. They are unmistakable. This granola also
has larger, flatter flakes of coconut and it isn't an overwhelming amount. The
thing that really tips the scales on it for me, aside from the wonderful pecans,
is the touch of cinnamon. I've got to try and duplicate this stuff.
Mmmmm.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Emmi has been doing a lot of cooking with Mimi lately. We made a very
special meatloaf. She helped me pour in some of the ingredients that I'd
chopped. And together we shredded carrots and celery. If she's at all like her
Mimi, she will remember little lessons learned along the way for a long, long
time. Like how you need to be careful when hand shredding not to get your
fingers too close. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Mimi and Emmi's meatloaf</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Ground beef, 90% lean</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">mushroom pieces chopped up</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">carrots and celery shredded</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">chopped onion </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">chopped bell pepper</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Mix all that up good with an egg. If it's too gooey, add a little rolled
oats, crushed crackers, crushed plain variety cereal, or torn bread pieces or
bread crumbs. Anything works good as a binder. If you want to think it some, a
bit of catsup, tomato sauce or even a blop of milk should do the trick.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">We flattened it into a nice rectangle and then "fancied it up." She helped
me lay spinach over it, then provolone cheese. We then carefully rolled it up
and pinched the edge closed. Next we put it in the oven to bake until it was
done. 305 degrees for about an hour for the size we had.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">A nice variation would be to press balls of the mixture into muffin tins.
Then you could put a couple small spinach leaves and a chunk of cheese in the
center and top it with a little blip of the mixture to seal it. It wouldn't
have to cook as long in this small size. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">You could also just chop the spinach and chunk the cheese and mix them in.
Then bake it as one larger loaf or as small individual loaves. Any way you cook
it, it's good!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's bitter sweet that the little ones are growing up. I do miss the wee
babes, but I love this age where they drink in so much knowledge and show every
day how very smart they are. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">We are in the game playing stage, the educational shows stage, the reading
and telling stories stage right now. Our favorite games now are Go Fish,
Penguin Pat, and Lucky Ducks. At least at our house. Emmi and I spent an
entire day, eight full hours, playing games recently. I was sore sore sore from
all the floor sitting, but I had a great time. It totally wore me out too!!
lol</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The swiss steak I made recently was so good! I think it's because we
didn't just add the gravy with onions, we added chopped up mushroom stems and
shredded carrot. I had slow cooked the meat in the crockpot for hours. I love
using the crockpot. There is just so much you can do with it. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">New Year's Eve for us was very special this year. Our second oldest son
Corry got married! He and Angel said their vows early in the evening in front
of their parents and their children and then everyone else went over for their
reception/New Years party. Great fun! And now we are officially grandparents
of 13. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">We are preparing for Rusty and Caitlin's wedding at the end of April. I'm
making a few things for them. I did Cait's garter and will do their unity
candle with my daughter Missy. I'm also going to be writing the reading to be
done in the ceremony. I'm so glad to be involved in all this. Being the mom of
boys means you're not always included. I had the best fun working with Missy on
her wedding and I was fortunate to be able to help with Kris and Darlene's and
with Corry and Angel's. It means a lot to me to be included. Thanks,
guys!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">While I've been gone from here, I've accomplished some major tasks. I have
defrosted both my big freezers. I have sifted, sorted and purged all the
Christmas totes and now have it down to....probably 20. I had a sit down
Thanksgiving dinner here using my best china and things handed down by family
and friends' families. I organized the Christmas progressive dinner. And the
latest accomplishment was to trade closet areas with Cliff. While doing that, I
purged my wardrobe. It's nice to have it all handled now. I have many, many
more projects and somehow they will be handled. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Well I need to close this out and get a little shut eye. Tomorrow I will
be on the phone finding out some things about the insurance company and some
coverage. The ins and outs and dos and don'ts. I need this MRI and I need it
open. Wish me luck!!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Many hugs and much love,</span></div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-65018722176481745752012-10-11T00:20:00.003-04:002012-10-11T00:20:47.013-04:00So let's see what's still important<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Those of you who have followed my blog for any length of time know how I do it. I send myself notes of things I don't want to forget to include in my blog. Well it's been quite a while since I've been here and my list of notes is long. I'm wondering about now just what I have in here that might still be of any value to write about. We shall see...</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">My stuffed cabbage. Now that seems like something I'd still like to include. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Mama Sage's stuffed cabbage</em></strong></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">First, go out to the farmer's market when cabbage is in season and grab a huge head of cabbage. Mine cost $1.50. Not bad for as big as it was. When I went to dunk it and boil it to soften the leaves for rolling, it nearly didn't fit into my biggest stock pot. And that baby is huge! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">While it was cooking, I mixed the following...</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><div>
<span style="font-size: large;">2# pork, unseasoned (but sausage would have been fine)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">3# beef</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">10 mini carrots, pureed in the food processor along with 1 medium onion and the leftover ends of celery</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">2 eggs</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">some of my homemade bread crumbs</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">and a mix of garlic, salt and pepper...a good amount</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">When the leaves were cool enough to pull off the cabbage head, I took them off, cut the thick vein out and then went to work. The meat blob was a little more than a meatball would have been. I put it in the middle of the leaf and rolled it up. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">24 went into the freezer for meals later. When I was done with them, I had what would amount to a normal sized head of cabbage left and some meat mix left. I put a layer of chopped cabbage into a casserole, made meatballs of the mix and put them on top then more cabbage. Next went a tomato sauce mix. Then lid on, into the oven for an hour or so and we had dinner.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's amazing what sparks memories. I was recently going through some boxes contemplating just what and how a Christmas project was going to happen and came across some memory joggers. I found my Dad's hair brush. Mom had kept it as one of her memories. I found the bride and groom that I put on their cake for their 50th wedding anniversary party. Mom said they hadn't had a cake when they got married and it brought tears to her eyes when she saw I made the cake and the bride and groom for on top. And then there were news articles and pictures.... Memories. Hang on to your memories.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">While Cliff and Rusty worked on staining and sealing our front deck, we were busy preparing a meal. We had a turkey in the smoker with mesquite wood. (Mmmm. It was delicious!) I also made </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>cauliflower and broccoli casserole</em></strong></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> 1/2 head cauliflower, chopped in 1" chunks, softened</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> 1 broccoli head, chopped big, softened</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> 1 onion, quartered and sliced, softened</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> 1 can cream of broccoli soup</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> 1 can cream of mushroom soup </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> 2 c. shredded cheese</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> just a few durkee onions on top</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Mix it up and bake a while.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cait brought corn on the cob and also made a sweet potato/pear dish she found the recipe for of Martha Stewart's. Very good. I don't like sweet potatoes and I liked this. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> slice 2 sweet potatoes like french fries</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> cut three pears into thin wedges, in half</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> spritz with olive oil</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> sprinkle with a mix of spices - (about 1/4 t. ea.)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> cayenne pepper</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> ginger</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> ground mustard</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I also made an apple cake for our dessert. Yummy.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">When the guys were done, the food was done. We sat and ate watching college football - Kent State's game first, then Ohio State. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">WAY better now, but I need to let you who don't know in on this one....</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Wednesday, Oct. 3</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cliff literally saved my life today. We were eating lunch and I swallowed a hunk of food wrong and choked. I mean seriously choked. I couldn't breathe in or out and couldn't swallow it or cough to get it out. I stood up and somehow remembered the sign for choking (you always wonder if you'll really remember) and he grabbed me and did the Heimlich. Thank God! If I'd have been alone, I wouldn't have made it. That's two of us in the family recently saved with the Heimlich. I'm okay now, but man, my ribs hurt!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I've been bulking it a lot lately. I've made about 90 sausage patties and have them in the freezer. Yes, we'll use them. They're cooked and can be heated quick for breakfast or they can be chopped and used in a number of dishes. The price was unbeatable. And now we have them. Pretty lean too! I also divided up bacon we got for a song. BLT's are my cuppa tea right now.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm listing scarves on Etsy now along with my elves. If you haven't checked it out yet, check out my Etsy store..</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MadebyMamaSage">MadebyMamaSage</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And now, I'm bushed. I know this is a strange blog coming from Mama Sage. Forgive me. I'm whipped! Nighty night.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Love and hugs,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-69751452033688191222012-09-28T00:45:00.002-04:002012-09-28T00:45:22.401-04:00It was a very productive few days<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">The cooler weather
really does give me the extra umph I need to get things done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m a very cold weather person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started out thinking if I just cleaned out
one corner in the livingroom I would call it a good day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s pretty hard to get things like that done
when I have a demanding two year old in the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that time with her is precious to
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wouldn’t trade it for
anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Emmi cooperated so well today,
I was able to do the whole livingroom which desparately needed my attention. I
pulled everything out and swept behind and under and moved a few things around
and trashed a few things. It was a good day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unless you want to take into account the aches and pains that
follow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Especially my back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shoving furniture around and doing windows
and things isn’t nice to one’s back.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Cleaning out things in
the livingroom, I came across lots of recipes pulled from here or there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some were mine, but many were my mother’s. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really need to get a handle on the recipes I
have and make decisions on what to keep and what to pass on or trash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I cooked 24/7 the rest of my life and
lived to be 90 there is no way I could use half of the ones I have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time to pare down a bit.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve been feeling the
need for protein and cranberry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My days
don’t feel right unless I start them out with those things in the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some people need to start with something like
oatmeal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That would be good too, but I
just feel like my tummy feels better with the eggs and toast breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2 slices of whole wheat toast, two micro
poached eggs and a glass of cranberry apple juice.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
Why can’t it be easier to find games on TV these days?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where did the days go that we had three
channels, cut and dry, if something was on TV it was easy to find?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well I don’t really want it to go back to
that!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it took us forever to find the
Ohio State game Saturday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It ended up
being on a channel we didn’t even know we had!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">After the game was over,
we went to use the gift card the kids got me for my birthday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks Rusty, Cait, and Emmi, for a super
meal!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The waitress we had suggested we
try the steak with original seasonings and cooked on the fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Superb!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Best steak we’ve had in a long time!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">I looked at her and
asked…”You aren’t from here are you?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She told me no mame, she wasn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was from Dallas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could just tell she was Texan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is something about Texans that stands
out so strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She thought it was the
little bit of an accent she had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told
her no, it wasn’t her twang (her word).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was because she was polite and attentive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told me she couldn’t help it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Daddy raised me that way and I can’ t change
it.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need more of that around here!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">I finally got that
basketball sized head of cabbage handled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I now have 24 cabbage rolls in the freezer plus we had what I called
Cabbage Ball Casserole for dinner one night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Cabbage Rolls<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">For the filling, mix:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">2# pork<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">3# beef<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">10 mini carrots, chopped
fine in the food processor<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">1 med onion, chopped
fine in the food processor<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">ends of celery that
weren’t big enough for much, chopped fine in the food processor<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">2 eggs<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">some of my homemade bread
crumbs<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">my mix of garlic, salt
and pepper, good amount<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">I took that huge cabbage
(1.50 at a local farm market) and boiled it whole to soften the leaves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It almost didn't fit in my biggest stock pot!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it is very big!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Once the leaves were
softened, I peeled them off, cut off the thick center vein and rolled small
hands full of the meat mixture into it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">On Sunday, I made the
casserole out of the cabbage that was too small to turn into cabbage rolls and
the leftover meat mix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A layer of
cabbage, a layer of meatballs, a layer of cabbage, cover with a can of tomato
soup, cover the casserole and bake until done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I think it was about an hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
must have been pretty good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was me,
Cliff, Kennedy and Emmi eating and it was completely gone!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Sunday really was a
cooking day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made a casserole for
breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been in this eat more
protein mood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had some frozen
hashbrowns that had to be used up, some ham ends from when I cut up the lunch
meat, a few small hunks of cheese that were getting old.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I layered the potatoes first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next I chopped the ham hunks into itty bitty
bites and shredded the cheese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were
layered on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mixed up 10 eggs and a can
of evaporated milk and poured it over top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I then baked it until a knife came out clean when inserted in the
middle.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Lunch was BLT’s at the
request of Kennedy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t do mayo on
mine and it’s just fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cutting back,
I’d rather eat bacon than mayo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gotta
make choices.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">We trashed my
recliner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was getting terrible!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know why they don’t make a good and
comfortable one that will last!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took
one of the other ones in the livingroom and claimed it as mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh it may have been a big mistake!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I HURT!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I kept thinking it was too stuffed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I stood it as long as I could but was going nuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally I flipped it over and started to
investigate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was looking for a good
place to cut a hole so I could dig out a bunch of the stuffing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Low and behold, you’ll never guess what I
found!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Zippers!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were zippers in each section!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pulled out a big garbage bag of
stuffing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a little better but no
where near perfect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’ll do for now.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /><span style="font-size: large;">
Sunday evening we took Kennedy home to her mom’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’d had a good weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">When we got home, I
started another elf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s so exciting
making these little guys!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think the
most exciting thing though was deciding to charge $15, listing that on my
facebook and within five minutes having someone purchase two!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That really gives me the incentive to do
more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve also got the makings for my
treetop/shelf angels out and ready to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m hoping to make at least a couple this next weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Change it up. Variety
sells. Ham and eggs just wasn’t going to cut it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too boring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Instead, I made ham and egg sandwiches. We had the sandwiches and cranberry
peach juice for breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some of you caught my facebook status the other night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nelly did eat the entire loaf of garlic bread!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d put it on my pizza stone to toss in the
oven and toast and gone in the livingroom until time to pop it in the
oven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I already had a meatloaf in and
was boiling the water for corn on the cob.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When I went back in to put it in the oven, it was missing!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At first I thought I might be losing my
mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe I hadn’t gotten it
ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I glanced at the floor which
was globbed with the butter, garlic and parsley topping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BAD DOG!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lol</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-size: large;">The
first two elves have been mailed to their new home in California.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A couple FYI’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-size: large;">FYI
– Paypal charged something like 3.7% fee – I should have added that in<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-size: large;">FYI
– The post office makes you use debit cards as debit and won’t let you run it
as credit – fee<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-size: large;">FYI
– Those priority boxes are free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
just pay the postage when you send it.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuthkg8o-VYPOr9dpMc-4pMP7j4t-Bp6PS1PxYUhDM1w6lqC1kFtH2NZo0lPccuxwwVJX94pSiGbiWiusDAa-_Yf0AQdilNEldemwpR3EeRfhbH6Tr1tq3uJcY1-o2_l-NipKjPfBDPYk/s1600/2012-09-23+00.24.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuthkg8o-VYPOr9dpMc-4pMP7j4t-Bp6PS1PxYUhDM1w6lqC1kFtH2NZo0lPccuxwwVJX94pSiGbiWiusDAa-_Yf0AQdilNEldemwpR3EeRfhbH6Tr1tq3uJcY1-o2_l-NipKjPfBDPYk/s320/2012-09-23+00.24.00.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Today, Thursday the 27<sup>th</sup>, was my friend Jennifer’s
birthday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A group of us went to the
English Pub in Ravenna to have a little meeting/get together and wish her happy
birthday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s good seeing friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being back in touch, finally, with classmates
and childhood friends really adds something to your life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all spent so many years raising our
families that most people fell out of touch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Now our families are mostly raised and we’re into the roll of
grandparents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reconnecting means leaving
all the past in the past and connecting as we are now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The childish little groups we might or might
not have been a part of don’t mean a whole lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Now, we have so much in common.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We are happy to have made it this far in life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are sad that so many have gone before
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We care for each other in all new
ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one has anything bad to say
about anyone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are truly one now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s just a little sad it took so many years.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The friends who grew up with you deserve a special respect. <br />The ones who
stuck by you shoulder to shoulder, </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">in a time <br />where nothing was certain, all
life lay ahead, and every <br />road led home.<br />~~ The Wonder Years</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">It took me too long to finish this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve got to get better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Especially since I have plans with a friend
to possibly start another blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stay
tuned…</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Hugs and love,</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-40784148945117266032012-09-21T00:04:00.000-04:002012-09-21T00:04:44.435-04:00I'm not an old dog! I'm 50-young!<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I refuse to be anything else but 50-young until I turn 60-young! Never old. Never.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">But I did learn a new trick today. The van has this tire deal that blinks and warns you when you have low tire pressure. Cliff had stopped and put more air in the tires, but the light just kept blinking. He called the dealership and we learned a couple things. I learned that the air pressure suggestion is on a tag on the door frame of the driver's door. I also learned that whatever it says might not be exactly right! We were to inflate them an extra two pounds. Ohthese new fangled electronic age cars today! And then I learned that in order to reset the computer, you have to drive it 20 miles. And so we did!</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">We had been debating about going down to the R Store in Hartville. They've expanded and had just opened back up. I figured they'd probably have some killer deals. Found out nothing earth shattering. Nothing but their normal good deals. And they are good! My best buy was big, big buckets of salads. Pasta salad was 2.99, jello salad was 2.69 and ham salad was 3.99. The ham salad was 5#. All the buckets were that size. We needed yogurt and got there a little late I guess. I only found 6 at my price. I only buy them when they're .20 or .29. A great deal we got to put away for fun with the kiddos was 7 oz. of chocolate icing in a squeezy pack. Yes, name brand. They were .79 regularly but they were 75% off. .20 for 7 oz. of icing is a good deal. And then I'm not going to be tempted to make my own which I like so much better. I know. I should. But if I do, I'd eat whatever had it on it. I like my icing. And I'm weak!</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cheeses were an exceptional deal too. Lots of variety. Some organic. Some from Amish country's cheese houses that I recognize (Heini's). And all were very reasonable so we got quite a few.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I didn't work on the elves too much tonight. Just a little bit. I was totally ragged out. Emmi hadn't slept much last night and she was a ball of fire. </span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm so tired out now, I'm not staying up much longer. Just need to go watch the news and read.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hugs to all,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-74255470960904431342012-09-19T23:44:00.000-04:002012-09-19T23:44:11.868-04:00Well I'm a little disappointed<div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I actually LOVE a good variety show. I was brought up on them. I spent many a night and many a day on the footstool in front of my dad's chair watching singing, dancing, comedy spots and the like. I just love all that stuff. But shouldn't a variety show be billed as just that and not as a show seeking out unfound talent? Shouldn't they say that they are looking for a top act period and not let it come across that they are seeking out someone others don't know about and trying to "MAKE" them a star?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">America's Got Talent really disappointed me this year. Don't get me wrong. I think the acts this season were fantastic! The top acts were so good, it was hard to choose who to root for. I think the judges did an excellent job of choosing and critiquing. What I am disappointed with is that the acts in the finals were NOT unknowns. Have you googled them? I did. In no particular order, let me share what I found out.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Joe Castillo was the man who did the gorgeous sand art. When I googled him, I found he had done performances for all CBS, NBC, BBC, TED, over thirty Fortune Five Hundred companies, kings, presidents and dignitaries and he had done it in more than 18 countries around the world! I'm thinking that means he isn't an unknown that came in hoping to be discovered. He's known.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">David Garibaldi was the cool guy who did the fast art with music. Loved trying to guess what he was making. He has done shows for many sports' halftime shows. Not a newbie. He's also done fundraisers, performed in England and Canada and toured throughout Canada with the Blue Man Group. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tom Cotter and his wife are both comics. He actually had a show called Two Funny that was on Women's Entertainment Network. He has also traveled overseas with his act. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Olate Dogs were the winning act, a dog act. They've been on Today Show, Regis and Kelly, 60 Minutes and a few others. They have also traveled throughout North and South America doing theater shows, circuses and stage performances. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now William Close is a very unique musician and his Earth Harp is just flat out cool. But...the Earth Harp has a permanent installation at Cirque du Soleil’s show “Ka” at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Yes. Seriously. Already IN Vegas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Untouchables are the adorable kids in the fantastic dance group. They are perhaps the only non-professional even though they are very, very good. I know some have performed in other places because I recognized the one little couple, but if I remember right, they were one of the little kid dance couples on Dancing with the Stars. I may be wrong. They could possibly have a real show already too, but nothing I could fine. I'm sure they will continue to develop and succeed. They came out of the same studio as last years' Miami All Stars which does show that they have superb training.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And Sharon isn't returning. I couldn't figure a reason why so I started researching. If she chose not to return because of the reason I found, I don't blame her one bit. She's a mother. What I read was that the network wouldn't hire her son Jack because of his MS. That's just wrong. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You wonder why I've not been here. One reason is because I've had some big, big days.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We started out the day with one baby, added another and then added another. Having all three babies at once was F U N, but it definitely wore me out!! They do play good together. Now that little CJ is movin' and shakin' it's even more fun to watch them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I want to tell you about a food pantry that my friend's church does. It's always on the third Saturday of the month. They have what's called a choice pantry. You don't just take what they give you, you pick and choose. That way people don't end up with things their family won't eat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you know anyone in the area who is in need, for whatever reason, send them. I'll try to remember to remind people and have an address at that time. We took one person this month and ended up taking home things to deliver to some others. Very good thing for folks who run out before the end of the month.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Saturday we went up to North Olmsted and took pictures of Kennedy in her homecoming dress. We actually got some shots of her and her best friend, Alexis. Cute girls. It's hard to believe that she's old enough for fancy dances!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvTbnfoS-oeZKCUIWOfRGT_ZhVXMU4ksFsq4ca1AvEOlX78bZH3PK3VWNvsnIljuIH3tYLVXmwEmOe5Z-lq65of939bGg0oY2jejFAk_r5_A1lBkwanuseob1lVa6HxXRGQCpsdk9T_48/s1600/fav+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvTbnfoS-oeZKCUIWOfRGT_ZhVXMU4ksFsq4ca1AvEOlX78bZH3PK3VWNvsnIljuIH3tYLVXmwEmOe5Z-lq65of939bGg0oY2jejFAk_r5_A1lBkwanuseob1lVa6HxXRGQCpsdk9T_48/s320/fav+3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It took the entire weekend for the pool to empty. But now it's empty, dried and boxed for winter storage. I'm going to miss being able to just hop in and swim. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm working on my elves again. I need to get them and the scarves listed on whatever. I'm debating between craigslist, ebay and etsy. Time to make some cash. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'd like to get going with the angels too. Once I see how to promote things properly, I think I'll have a little extra incentive to keep clicken</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Emmi and I put up the fall decorations. She had fun doing that. I love having it out. I'll have to get some pictures one day soon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We've check two local orchards now and the story is the same. The weather this year has affected them terribly. The first orchard said they lost 80% of their crop. The one we went to today said they lost 60% I did get a few apples, but they are very small and there just aren't many. I got enough to enjoy a dump cake.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today's dinner was vegetable soup. I actually made it yesterday. I used a piece of meat called "boiling beef." I'd tell you what I put in it, but I'm too tired to think at all. Ask me tomorrow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hugs and much love,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></em></strong> </div>
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Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-29510320963943230122012-09-13T00:02:00.005-04:002012-09-13T00:02:44.899-04:00Just to keep my promise...<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The house smelled good all day! At least it smelled good to me. Cliff is having a tough time opening his mouth and eating so I thought we could still have steak if I made it swiss steak. My swiss steak is generally not what you'd get in a restaurant. It's the Carpenter variety. We did ours in a brown gravy instead of red gravy because my dad didn't like tomatoes. I cut the meat up pretty small, added sliced carrots and a slice onion and it ended up being almost a stew. Still served it with mashed potatoes. Worked out great.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lunch today had been grilled swiss cheese and a bowl of tropical fruit. Nothing fancy but something good!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">After we went out to get a lottery ticket, I stayed outside just a little while with Emmi. She wanted to play on the swings and trampoline. It seemed to be an outside day, so we spent more time out front the later part of the day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Needing to do a little online research for someone. Later, my friends. I'm whooped!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-51611927523161718502012-09-12T00:21:00.000-04:002012-09-12T00:21:33.529-04:00I just don't know what to say<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I want to say something that would be honorable about the loss we ALL SUFFERED on 9/11. But there is nothing that really says enough. Instead, let me drag some to the shed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Be ashamed! Be ashamed you couldn't put aside your politics for ONE DAY when your energy would have been more appreciated if you'd used it in honor of the innocent people who died! BE ASHAMED that you didn't stop ALL political commercials and mentions in the news and in speeches of the almighty greatness of your chosen candidates. BE ASHAMED! Saying you were honoring them with no campaigning just really didn't happen, did it? If you listened, you heard what was said without saying. I would rather have heard your silence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">How did you honor the fallen? I hope at least in your thoughts and prayers. Please. If you did nothing, don't tell me. I really don't want to know. I prefer to think of those I know as being caring individuals who would respect those who died and their families. And thank you to everyone who did.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cliff isn't doing better today. I don't know if I expected he would be, but I didn't expect him to actually be doing worse. His face drooped a lot more, his eye seems drier, his speech is more affected and his shoulder hurts more. He saw the doctor again today and they gave him another prescription that is supposed to help. If he isn't feeling improvement and/or we don't see improvement within two weeks they want to see him again. He is able to work, so my prayer is that it's not too much for him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Food? We were supposed to eat today? Oh. Leftovers. Nothing fancy or good. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's been a long day again today and I really want to relax my back. Once it gets to hurting bad I feel miserable a long time. Can't let it get to that point.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sorry this is short and sweet. I'll try for better tomorrow. But I had to write tonight no matter what just to keep up the pace. Besides. I needed to get that first part off my chest and "onto paper."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hugs to you...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
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<span class="huge"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>No person was ever honored for what he received. </strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span class="huge">Honor has been the reward for what he gave.</span> </strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>~~Calvin Coolidge</strong></span></div>
Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-43392488436125694202012-09-10T23:33:00.001-04:002012-09-10T23:33:25.200-04:00And the phone rang<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">just as I was getting ready to get the day going. It was Rusty. Cliff had gone to pick Emmi and Adam up and there was a problem. He asked me if he had been having any troubles with slurred speech or anything the day before. No. Just a neck ache that progressed to a headache. He told me that his jaw was drooping and he was having problems. He needed to go to the ER. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Long story short, Missy picked me up. Adam took Cliff to the ER and we met them there. Several hours later, it was diagnosed he has Bell's Palsy. His eye is also drooping. They put him on an anti-viral medicine and prednisone. I guess it's been determined that most times it is caused by a virus that attacks one of the two main nerves that controls face muscles. He was also told he will need to use eye drops and tape his eye shut at night so it doesn't drift open and dry out. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So the day was quite interesting. Nerves got me when we got home. I tried to chill out and we ended up having a mixture of rice with a few little veggies and browned hamburger for supper. Cheap. Easy. Quick. My kind of meal on a day like today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Still pretty worked up, I sat down and finished the little elf I'd started. His name is #09102012 until his is adopted and given a proper name. I've decided to sell the little guys. I started making them last year when I saw how cheap and ready to fall apart so many of the store bought elves are. Mine are unique, each being hand stitched and designed as I go. I don't generally have a plan. I let them talk to me as I'm making them. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEaPxCqV_RtMNcW75gSaMu1FOc5SBfWq4QkON2FJIJOgjJoFiAKkfe6KmmFWenUuGE3Q4qeYEEShm3o3tK7SW3wg5fnF9nVZBbqvIlXu57hCsWPsBZ4jzIYM97v9VGRM1gJhrHWyPbhbE/s1600/elf+1+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEaPxCqV_RtMNcW75gSaMu1FOc5SBfWq4QkON2FJIJOgjJoFiAKkfe6KmmFWenUuGE3Q4qeYEEShm3o3tK7SW3wg5fnF9nVZBbqvIlXu57hCsWPsBZ4jzIYM97v9VGRM1gJhrHWyPbhbE/s320/elf+1+2012.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think I'm also going to do some tree top and/or shelf angels. Lacey and pretty. After I get a few elves done, I'll start working on the angels. Yes. I'll be sure and post pictures of them when I do them too. :-) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And so I'm ready to say adios to Monday and get on with Tuesday. May the day be a little less eventful! I want to thank God for my family. Adam, Missy, Caitlin and Kris came to the hospital. The others were working and couldn't be there so they kept in close contact by phone and text. Thank you, kids, for being there. Love you all so much!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lots of hugs...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
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<div align="center">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><span class="quote"><em>Things turn out best for people </em></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><span class="quote">who make the best<br />of the way things turn out.</span><br /><span class="quotesource">~~John Wooden</span></em></span></span></span></div>
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Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-47503307078623235442012-09-09T21:37:00.000-04:002012-09-09T21:37:17.063-04:00I just want to stay awake until the pizza gets here<div><span style="font-size: large;">And I'm finding it hard to do! I only got a few short hours of sleep last night and then I kept doing and doing and doing today. Wore myself out!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Cliff saved the day today. I was having a bit of a problem deciding what I wanted for breakfast and he decided on bagels with strawberry cream cheese. Hit. The. Spot.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As I'm eating those, I decide to make some snack chips. I had four soft pretzels that no one was eating and thought drying them with some seasoning might keep them from being wasted. They turned out very good! I mixed up the seasoning for chex mix to give them a flavor everyone would like. Then I cut off the knots of the pretzels and put them in Cliff's lunchbox for a work snack tomorrow night. The straight pieces were then sliced about a quarter of an inch thick, stirred good with the seasoning and baked at 250 degrees until they began to dry out. And are they ever good! Yummy!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My next chore was a day long chore. I had purged the meat freezer and needed to do the same with the fruit and veggie freezer. Just unloading it was a job! Then we turned it off and set the fan in front of it to defrost it. While it was defrosting, I cleaned the door shelves on both freezers. Very little was tossed out. I did find some fish that was way beyond a useful status and trashed that. The rest was just sorted and readied to go back in. Once it was defrosted and cleaned, I reorganized the things in it and loaded it up. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">And whoa boy did I get myself into a big job! I had picked up some chubs of lunchmeats and cheese when I found them super cheap. Froze them. Well I thawed them back out enough to slice ALL THE SAME DAY! So I also sliced up 10# of chip chop ham, 10# of honey baked ham, 10# of smoked turkey and 5# of Lorraine cheese. Yes. My arms hurt! But it's done and now we have lunch meat on the top shelf of the meat freezer (yes I refreeze and it's always been fine) that will last a long time. The chip chop was purchased for a dollar a pound, the others about 2 dollars and the cheese was 2 dollars a pound too. That's a REAL savings in my book!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Lunch today was the bean soup I made yesterday and some sweet corn bread. Jiffy mix. The only way to fly. I found a recipe fake for Jiffy corn bread mix but haven't tried it yet. When I saw it I thought it was nuts. Jiffy mix is so cheap. But when I saw how cheap to make the fake I copied the recipe down for future reference. After the two boxes I have are gone.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">We went up to Cliff's mom's to take her meds to her and I surprised her with the cookies I made yesterday, some of the bean soup and some corn bread. I was going to put it in the frig for her and she said she hadn't eaten and it sounded good to her. That was good. I know she'll eat now.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">While there, I grabbed a couple big bags of clothes that she had and wasn't using that were my mom's. I've got some projects to tackle and I need them. What I don't use I'll be donating. Soon. We're trying to keep on purging and donating.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Once we were home, I readied three bags of things for donation. Keep purging. Keep purging. And it never looks like anything is missing!!!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Next job was to put the dishes away. That didn't take long at all. And now I'm whooped! So dinner shall be pizza!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">I didn't get the filing finished or the mending done. But they're on my list. There's always tomorrow. Right?</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">“When your mother asks, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Do you want a piece of advice?" </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">it's a mere formality. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">It doesn't matter if you answer yes or no. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You're going to get it anyway.” </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">~~Erma Bombeck</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Hugs!!</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div><div> </div>Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-31518294281399567612012-09-08T23:01:00.000-04:002012-09-08T23:01:49.614-04:00Still bloggin' along<div><span style="font-size: large;">I woke up this morning with so many aches. I knew it would be a rainy day. When the humidity kicks in, the fibro kicks my butt.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Adam's in town and he, Rusty and Cait wanted to go somewhere with friends to watch the Ohio State game, so we had Emmi here. We also like watching so it was on here. Emmi told methe people were dressed Indians. I told her the red was like some of the Indians fans dress but it was football. Ohio State. She told me to turn on the Indians. Girl likes her baseball.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">We've been working on potty training her and she's just such a busy little girl she hasn't been real interested. Today she decided to try to potty "so Uncle Corry will say Yay Emmi!" She didn't go even though she sat there quite a while, but she tried. He left a dollar for her and said when she poops in the potty she can have the dollar. NOW she's excited! Who knew a dollar bill would work better than a twenty dollar toy!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">After Emmi and the kids left, I decided to go ahead and make the cookies I'd been planning on making. I made oatmeal, using some "big raisins" from California that my mother-in-law sent away for and had frozen. She gave me two bags when she went through her freezer and it was the first time I decided to use them. They were fine, but a little sugary and dry from age, but still very useable. When I put them into the batter, they broke up in little pieces and MAN it made those cookies good! Raisins make cookies moist and good anyhow and when they're broken up like this they make them great! Thjey tasted like yummy cookies you'd pay a good buck for. I've got a bunch hidden away for a couple events coming up and still filled the cookie jar.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">I didn't want to do a lot of moving around so the filing and mending are put off until tomorrow. Instead, I decided to work on my book a while. I sure wish I hadn't started out with it the way I did. I don't want to chuck it and start over but I really made myself a mess. I did "notes" for the book on more than one computer then put them together to refine and expand on. What a disorganized mess! Can't stand it! It's going to be a chore until I get the basics or organization done. I have really procrastinated about it and I can't do that any longer. I need it done by December so I need to stick with it. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">I made bean soup today but we won't eat it until tomorrow. It's always better if it sits a day or so to marry the flavors. I'll make some cornbread to go with it tomorrow for our main meal. I actually started it last night. I put the ham bone in the crockpot of water to cook all night. Today I strained the broth and got it ready to be considered soup. I added an onion, a bunch of carrots, celery and the ham meat after I'd de-fatted the broth. Then some pepper. Bean soup needs pepper. I wasn't sure what kind of beans I wanted to use and settled on Great Northern since I didn't have any Limas. They're always my favorite. My sister prefers Navy Beans. Beans are beans and they're good for you so whatever I have is what I use.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">It felt good to have the doors and windows open today. It'll feel even better to have the window open all night. It's going to be so nice out! For the next week at least I'm hoping not to use the air or the heater. It's time to give the budget a break. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Well, my friends, I'm going to go back to that book for a while before I turn in so I'm going to sign off here. Hope to see you tomorrow. And remember...</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS','sans-serif';"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>We need to find the courage to say NO </strong></em></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS','sans-serif';"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>to the things and people that are not serving us </strong></em></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS','sans-serif';"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>if we want to rediscover ourselves </strong></em></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS','sans-serif';"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>and live our lives with authenticity.</strong></em></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS','sans-serif';">~~</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS','sans-serif';">Barbara De Angelis <o:p></o:p></span></strong></em></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Hugs, </span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-67503576229293687152012-09-07T23:54:00.000-04:002012-09-07T23:54:02.913-04:00Well my friends, it's like this<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm pooped. I had Emmi here long hours today and I'm flat out pooped. I don't think I'll be blogging about anything earth shattering. Well unless you count the very loud and very long fireworks that were downtown today. Not sure what they were for, but it was 11 or so when they started and they drug on quite a while. Wish the leaves were down so I could have enjoyed them. Soon...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I do want to remind you of a danger in your home. I was getting ready to clean the bathroom last night, late of course, and opened up the cabinet of cleaners. Someone had put a spray top on the bottle of The Works. I thought, oh. Good idea! I'll use less because it will cover more. Well let me just say WRONG! I sprayed it and it absolutely took my breath away. I couldn't breathe in OR out. I ran to the window and stuck my head out and could breathe. Held my breath, ran over and turned on the shower. Back to the window. Breathed a few then held my breath again. I did this until I had washed the shower clear of the cleaner concoction. Oh it was scary! I don't know who did that or why, but it went down the drain and then into the trash with the container. I closed up the bathroom, window open, fan on, water running and went into my room. My chest hurt. I turned on my oxygen and pulled the tube off my c-pap and put it into my mouth and started breathing it in and out, in and out and finally after a little while, the pain went away and I felt better. I left the bathroom fan on all night but did end up shutting the window and turning off the water after a while. I wanted NO trace of whatever it was in this house. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All day today, I've been sneezing like crazy. Just can't seem to stop. I generally do this when I'm severely dried out. Today I'm not though. I'm wondering if there isn't something that my body is trying to expel. Whatever I sure hope I wake up tomorrow without this sneezing fit nonsense. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we visited my cousin, she showed me how she makes all her own cleaners and such. I'd kind of had a bug to do some of it again (did when the kids were little) and that gave me some inspiration. Now this! As soon as cleaners in this house are gone, they're gone! NO more. Back to simplicity!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our youngest flew in this evening. He's here for the Browns home opener. I'm itchin to go but don't know if we could even do it. Just something about football...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And today passed and we didn't get in the pool. Now it's going down into the 60's so I think our swim days are over. Sad. I wish I could still walk in the pool. That did me so much good. I'll have to keep on losing and look for another low impact exercise. Has to be until I get that new knee and who knows how long it will be before that happens.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Toaster struedel was our breakfast this morning. I know. Not the best for us, but it was good! And Emmi enjoyed squeezing the icing on them and decorating for us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We did our weekly produce and milk run. Didn't find any killer deals, but did bring home chicken nuggets for Emmi's lunches. She had those and applesauce today. And then a yogurt. And then raisins. And then a banana. lol She saw things and wanted them. Acted like she was starved! What a cutie. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We were closing up the porch things because the rains were getting close and Emmi decided to bring in her little bike. "Because Uncle Adam will want to see me ride it." Okay. That's fine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Her latest thing to do is to fill bags. Any bag. My grocery bags, the newspaper bags, little cloth bags. Any she finds. And then she twists and twists and twists them tight. Don't ask me why. It keeps her busy. And when you can keep a two year old busy in a non-destructive way...that's a good thing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've started working on elves. Our kids all have them now so any I do this year will probably be for sale. I just don't know how much time I'll have. I also wanted to do some lacy treetop angels. Don't know if I'll be able to. And the gifts on my list. And and and.... When I was younger, I'd have accomplished it all. Now? Hey. Anything I get done is success!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dinner tonight was oven roasted (far too long) veggies and sausage in buns with mushroom and onions sauteed in sherry for a topper. Turned out okay but not the best. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And this is it. Can't do any more. Like I said, I'm whipped and need to go rest. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hugs to all, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em><br /> </em></strong></span>Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-53423242954744562762012-09-07T00:23:00.001-04:002012-09-07T00:25:42.334-04:00Morning has broken<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And the first songbird was Emerson! She was a little shocked when she bounded around the corner to head upstairs and found me in the middle of the livingroom. lol Beat her to it! She didn't get to charge up the stairs and bust through the bedroom door to wake Mimi. heeheehee</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Breakfast for us today was cinnamon raisin toast. We were about out of milk and I wanted if for bedtime. But that didn't work. I mentioned it and Cliff misunderstood and he and Emmi finished the last of it. Oh well. I'll drink double the water tonight instead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We stayed home today and played. It was time. Two days in the car was too much. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lunchtime was grilled cheese. Emmi argued with me and told me it had to be cooked in the microwave. When I put it on the griddle, she asked me if we were cooking it in a pan instead. I said, "yes, Emmi, we are." She said, "oh okay." and the argument over how to cook it was done.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think we played with every single toy today. We played pick up several times! Problem was I got nothing else accomplished. But that's fine. My time with any of the kids or grandkids trumps housework and other activities all the time!</span></div>
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<span class="userContent"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Friends and prayer warriors: Please pray for a classmate of mine, Bob, who is going through treatment for cancer. We all know what a horrible monster cancer can be. They feel they did get the tumor removed in time that it will not be life threatening, but he will still need all our support to get through the six weeks of chemo he has in store. Thanks so much for your care and prayers. You guys rock!</em></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had little CJ here tonight. That li'l dumplin' was walking all over the room by the time he went home. Such a doll baby. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm so flippin tired. I had leftovers of this and that for supper. And I'm about to head to bed. Just can't do a real blog tonight. I still need to clean the bathroom. Adam flies in tomorrow and I'd like something in the house to be clean. :-)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hugs, my friends,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
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Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-77968575504415442702012-09-06T00:01:00.000-04:002012-09-06T01:18:46.541-04:00Good morning, Sunshine!!<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Up and ready to start the day. Thanks, Emmi! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love how she comes flying up the stairs and through the bedroom door for me when she gets here. Many times if I hear her coming, I'll play possum so she can "wake me." If I've already gone downstairs, she seems so disappointed! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we went downstairs together, she wanted cereal. I got us each a bowl of cereal and we sat down to eat it. Blueberry. We both love our blueberries.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we were done eating, we talked a lot about the Rapunzel set Emmi needs to earn by pottying in the potty. I'm still trying to get her "in the mood." She's just such a busy little girl, she doesn't have any interest right now. I guess when she's ready, she'll go. We really thought the potty charts at home and here would work since she picked out her own prize to work for. Nope. She just doesn't care right now. One day she'll surprise us. It'll happen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cliff brought in a tote of clothes for me to go through that Missy had brought over. Melanie is about a size behind Emmi so we pass around the pass downs. It's great having them so close in age. They can share all kinds of things.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When I was done with that, we were off to the bank and then to meet Missy. She needed us to watch Melanie a little while. Having both girls is so entertaining! We picked us all up some lunch and then headed off with them in tow to pick up some things Rusty needed us to transport home in the van. Once we had them loaded, we headed to the R store. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not doing a lot of shopping really. Just what I really need mostly. I was able to pick up pancake mix (the kids ran me out that last week of summer), some marked down tomato sauce (always need that), chow mein noodles for nutty, noodly clusters, a big ol chunk of ham for slicing thin for lunches for Cliff (probably share that with the kids too---10# for $10), couple boxes of cereal, and some Pepperidge Farm heavy breads. Good and grainy. Love those.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">From there, we dropped of the things at Rusty's house that we'd picked up for him. And set off the alarm! Oh boy. He called and asked if we were there and told us to expect the police. The security company had called them. It's good to know they react so quickly. And...he warned us NOT to be in the house or they would be meeting us guns drawn. Okie dokie! Not a problem. Outside. Okay. They would want to see our identification and the key that we have. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then off to drop off bags of purged items to charity. That was just a very quick stop. From there we stopped by our house to pick up a fax that had come in and let the dog out. She was so happy to see us!</span></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The girls were taking turns napping. When one woke up the other fell asleep. It was getting close to time for us to meet Missy and drop off Melanie so we headed that way. Until she got done, we sat outside with the girls. We let them loose in the van (back seats were down so it was roomy and fun for them) and they had a ball. Soon they got quiet. I peeked around to see what they were doing. They were leaned against the back door and had their legs covered with Emmi's blankie. They had one of the toy horses too. "Whatcha doin girlies?" They answered in unison, "Sharing." I love my grandchildren.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We found gas a little cheaper where we were than it was at home so we took advantage and got gas. Sheetz gives you 3 cents off when you use their card which is an added bonus.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our last stop was to take Emmi back home. Did my heart good when she stuck her head out the door and hollered, "I love you!!!" at the van. Awe. I love you too, Miss Em.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>Truth be told, there's nothing better than being a grandparent. </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>All our elders know this </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>and it is evidenced by that twinkle in their eyes. </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>Of course, they know more than they let on—</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>life's secrets have come to them through time, experience, </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>and patience. </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>~~author unknown</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we got back home, I did some online work for Corry. He came by when I was about done and needed to send a fax. Once that was done, I put away the groceries and got out all the chubs of meats and cheeses I had collected (frozen) that I plan to slice up this weekend for lunches. I hate getting out a piece of equipment like that for just a little bit. Give me a ton to do and I'll feel it's totally worth while. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Settled down to eat my supper of leftover stir fry then cleaned up my email. I always have a pile of spam to sort through. I could add the addresses of some of them to my address book, but I'd rather not clutter it with those things. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I did a little bit of putting things away. No matter how much I try to keep up with things, there are always piles somewhere needing to be dealt with. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And now I'm upstairs. I gave the dog a bath and am waiting for her to dry a little before heading into the bedroom. Oh I'm tired enough to start relaxing. It's been a long day. But this dog is W E T ! And I don't want her drying on the bed. lol Oh the smell of a wet dog --- clean OR dirty. Ewww</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You're caught up with my day now. I hope I didn't bore you so much I scare you away. :-)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Love and hugs, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
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Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2207225428806808883.post-44559987535265967492012-09-04T23:55:00.000-04:002012-09-04T23:55:36.362-04:00Everyone just blows it once in a while<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And today it was me. But today was an unusual day. Most of it seemed to be in the car. And that is enough to drive anyone 'round the twist!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The day started out pretty normal I suppose. But even though I had rested all night, I hadn't gotten good sleep. When I took Kennedy home yesterday, we listed to music. And all night long, the songs were going round and round my head. Every single time I woke up, turned over, or whatever, one of them was a-sing-songin' through my brain. Ahhhhhh!! lol</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Breakfast was the last of the breakfast tacos. Just one, pretty small and only cheese on top.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Missy came by so we could take her to her doctor's appointment today. She needed a driver. The girls get so excited to see each other. I love it. These two will be tight friends all their life. Before we left, they chose a movie for in the van. Tinkerbell. Or STINKERbell as Emmi says. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's a good movie. I like it. The first time through, it was cute. The second time a little less cute. And by the THIRD time...it was downright annoying! But it was today's favorite. Generally Tangled gets that distinction. Emmi is a huge Tangled fan. So much so, she starts quoting even the non-important dialog. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Missy's appointment went a bit longer than expected. Actually quite a bit. By the time she was done we were all pretty hungry. Five Guys. Hadn't been there in a long time. I like it because I can get the burger and toss the bun and still have a lot to eat. If you do it right, it's like a salad and meat! All the veggies, the burger and no bun or condiments. Winner every time. But I did blow it. I had WAY more than my ten fries! That's fine. I would deal. I hadn't done too bad for the day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But then I really blew it. I drank pop! How could I resist? I was actually tempted to just stand there doing tastings! What an awesome machine they have. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I guess you'll have to turn on your side to see this. I've done it three times. Redownloaded it. Cropped and resaved it. The thing still wants to lay down! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">142 flavors! So many it's NUTS! I settled on two and liked them both very much. Orange coke and grape fanta. Yes. ORANGE coke. I actually liked that one a lot! They also had lots of "zero" flavors, lots of "light" varieties, fruited waters, If you can imagine it, it was probably on that machine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tonight was the monthly get together for people in Cliff's class. We started out at the Tavern at Twin Lakes. Formerly not nearly as fancy and known as Twin Lakes Tavern. The number of Audi and BMW was way less back then! There were problems with getting seated so we decided to go to their standby place, Diggers. Not nearly so pricey and way more laid back. I got mesquite bbq chicken rolled quesadillas. Um. They were chicken taquitos! lol But they were good, inexpensive and hit the spot. We weren't that hungry. I'd have gotten a salad like Cliff did, but it was pretty much a chore chewing the "salad" I'd gotten with my burger at Five Guys. We didn't want to spend much because we'd already eaten the burger earlier. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em>It is great to have friends when one is young, </em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em>but indeed it is still more so when you are getting old. When we are young, </em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em>friends are like everything else a matter of course. <br />In the old days </em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em>we know what it means to have them.<br />~~Edvard Grieg</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And now I'm bushed. And we have both girls and maybe CJ a while tomorrow too. I need to take my meds and relax. And hopefully NO songs will run through my head tonight!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tomorrow I hope to continue my one step at a time projects. 1. super cleaning rooms, 2. purging ... ANYTHING! 3. finishing up the files. I seem to be gaining energy as I drop pounds. That's a good thing. Maybe one day the house WILL be in order! Now that would be a miracle, wouldn't it?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll be back tomorrow. Let's hope it's a little more interesting! lol</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Love and hugs,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>~~Mama Sage</em></strong></span></div>
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Mama (LuAnn) Sagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10256598135358734675noreply@blogger.com1