Where is the Joy?

Static Kitty!

2012-02-15T16:02:00.003-05:00

Click on the title (Static Kitty) and watch the Youtube video.
This video is so funny. Although you will notice they are prompting the cat to walk by luring a toy... and the balloon changes color once, its BRILLIANT!
So cute and funny I think every cat should get a balloon!

Its been a LONG TIME!

2012-02-10T11:07:00.004-05:00

It's almost Valentines Day and I am divorced.... oh its not a bad thing, its been a long time coming and I am so much less stressed then I have been for the past 2 years. I have a new name, I have a new home, I have a new dog!
Today my joy is my dogs, and tomorrow it will be my granddaughter who is coming over the spend the day with me! We will make dog treats and I am sure she will want to make egg salad and white rice with "budda."
I truly am blessed with all I have, my family, my pets (aka family), my friends, my job, my home! So its been a long time, but I am back to blogging and will actually get better at it as time goes by

be good to yourself!

2010-07-21T20:52:00.007-04:00

Every second counts!
My joy today tells me to be GOOD to me!
Today, I passed my test to get my boating license!
Today, I got to play with my beloved dogs!
Today, I got to be with my kids!
Today, I realized I am worth live like I am dyin!
Today this video brought me my joy....reminding me to take care of myself and do what brings me joy every day!
Tomorrow....
I hope my joy is spending time with the kids and pets, get out on a boat soon, VACATION with friends, find a great place to live/work.... and meet fabulous new people!

I am not a country music fan... I just love all music that relates... and this one REALLY RELATES!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbfeSImDntw
Hope you enjoy it and find comfort in it! (as I do)

HOLIDAY EATING TIPS

2009-12-11T12:47:00.002-05:00

(From an Email I received today)
1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.

2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. It's rare. You can't find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-alcoholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!

3 . If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.

4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.

5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?

6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.
7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.

8. Same for pies. Apple. Pumpkin. Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?

9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost.. I mean, have some standards.

10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Re-read tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner. Remember this motto to live by:

"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, Glass of wine in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO what a ride!"

How Cute!

2009-12-02T09:22:00.000-05:00

Surprised Kitty @ Yahoo! Video

Makes me smile!

His Partner is a Real Dog!

2009-12-01T08:06:00.003-05:00

But She really looks happy and has ALL the right moves!

Snuggling Makes a Joyful Kitty!

2009-11-20T15:50:00.002-05:00

After beging home for at least 10 days since my cruise, I should be ashamed to say I haven't unpacked! But who could take this little kitty's Joy away by unpacking this overnight bag that makes such a great sleeping spot???
Here Mau-Mau cuddles up in my bag, a refuge from the dogs, and enjoys a warm snuggly sleep!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T21:10:00.009-04:00

Angel spends an afternoon bringing joy to the patients and residents at Wilton Meadows Health Care facility.......
Can you guess what she dressed up as????

Here is her favorite quote from the story of her character... "My Grandma what big EARS you have!"

Angel enjoyed her visit 110%,but it sure did tucker the girl out!

Here is the big bad wolf on the long ride home!

A Tribute to My Brother, Kevin Gilmore (Pudge)

2009-09-11T10:54:00.001-04:00

14 years ago today.... missing you always even though I feel your presence with me daily!

God saw you getting tired; a cure was not to be. So He put His arms around you and whispered "Come with Me."
I watched you suffer, and saw you fade away... Although I loved you dearly, I could not make you stay.
A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands at rest.
God broke my heart to prove He only takes THE BEST.
Its lonesome here without you. I miss you more each day. Life doesn’t seem the same since you’ve gone away.
When days are sad and lonely, and everything goes wrong, I seem to hear you whisper, “cheer up and carry on.”
Each time I see your picture, you seem to smile and say, “Don’t cry, I’m in God’s keeping, we’ll meet again someday.”

LOVE AND MISS YOU PUDGE!

A Vacation to Write Home About

2009-08-29T20:25:00.002-04:00

Totally relaxed after a week's vacation.... AT HOME!
Feeling like I could do it again..........and I never understood why anyone would "waste" vacation time and not go anywhere!
While I still LOVE cruising.... staying at home is nice too!

Friends!

2009-07-05T14:16:00.006-04:00

Nothing like having a few friends over to bring smiles and JOY all around!

LOVE YOU GUYS!

Happiness is a Warm Kitty!

2009-06-18T16:56:00.005-04:00

Well, "Puppy School" is over for now..... we will have to continue to call it puppy school when Angel gets out and starts WORKING! She loves PUPPY SCHOOL, and seeing people and brining a little joy into their day! It does poop a pup out though! I think the cat likes a pooped pup!

They look so sweet together...... These pictures sure do make me smile!

Did something make you smile today???

Cloud 9

2009-06-10T17:08:00.002-04:00

YES!!! She passed! Angel is going to graduation next Tuesday night! She is VERY excited (and so am I) She will be a CERTIFIED THERAPY DOG!
Angel will start by visiting people at the local hospital, and maybe she can go to the library where kids will read to her! I bet her favorite stories will be, "Harry the Dirty Dog," "My New Boy," and All the Clifford Books!
Watch for graduation pictures!

Great Ideas Come From Comics!

2009-06-09T11:07:00.003-04:00

I got this in an email today from a friend, and it really made me smile!

Wouldn't it be great to really do this! HAHAHHAHA

Thank Jean-a-madre! (Let's do dinner!)

One More Class!

2009-06-02T22:41:00.004-04:00

Angel did pretty well in her class tonight! We have one more class to go... a FULL DRESS REHEARSAL before we know if she will GRADUATE and become a Certified Therapy Dog!

She worked REAL hard tonight and gave it her all..... Keep us in your thoughts (please) and if it is meant to be, then next week we will know for sure!

Angel Gets Wigged Out!

2009-06-01T22:19:00.009-04:00

You know what an Afghan hound is right???

She is just playing around.... but wonders what life would be like as an Afghan...

So Angel tries a wig on for size....

Doesnt she look good??

I Cant Make This Stuff Up!!

2009-05-25T11:49:00.003-04:00

Walking through town today I saw this sign.....

Reflection of Yesterday

2009-05-24T20:52:00.020-04:00

Yesterday was such a wonderful day! I had such a busy social schedule that i had not time to post.... but I did not want to let the day go by without posting about it's joys!

I was fortunate enough to join some friends in a TEA PARTY! not my dolls and Teddy bears, but real live dolls (Leslie, Kim, Sue and Jennifer) and a teddy bear (Bob). We enjoyed fancy herbal teas, finger sandwiches cookies and mostly great company! We had lots of laughs and special moments!

As if this was not enough joy for one day, I then went home and changed into BBQ attire and ran to the best dang BBQ this side of Texas! Its true! We had LOTS of food, ribs, burgers, sausage, hot dogs, shrimp, corn, chips, tex-mex dip, pretzels, salads omg! then there was the BAR... whats a BBQ without one... and a ROARING pit fire! The conversations were serious, silly and all wonderful!

I have to say, I am truly blessed to have so many wonderful friends in my life!

His Quote... "Living the Gospel"

2009-05-22T22:19:00.002-04:00

What a fun person! I went to Walmart toady to see a friend, and ran into my JOY! This young gentlemen made me smile an laugh! He has been married for 41 years to the same precious woman... they have 5 children (He proceeded to show me pictures an tell ,e about each one.... and then, his 2 BEAUTIFUL grandchildren,...,, his little Javon, looks just like him!

Blessings to him and his family!

Kisses Heal Everything!

2009-05-21T21:53:00.005-04:00

Today was a BEAUTIFUL day in Conneticut! There is so much to be joyful about..... but most of the afternoon I ws not really feeling well. And my German Shepherd, who only gives out kissing sparingly, watched over me and kissed me often! She is so intuavtive! She sat beside me, Kissed me often (maybe checking to be sure I was breathing??) and waited outside the bathroom door for me... What a sweetie, no wonder she is working on becoming a therapy dog! (or was she concerned no one would feed her?)

Just a rendering (not really us)

A Funny Thing Happened at the Hair Show

2009-05-20T17:52:00.001-04:00

When you go to a hair show you really see EVERYTHING!

I saw my first pregnant woman in spandex years ago at a hair show (yes, she had a Leopard print on as well), Then not long ago was a man in a 3-pc pin striped suit...with stiletto heels, and the heels themselves were silver...

This year I saw a lady with a Palm tree on her head... her friend actually was a flashlight... the top of her hair had a LIT light bulb..... SMILE!

Sleepy Days

2009-05-19T23:20:00.012-04:00

We have been working LONG hours this weekend.... and even the animals need a BREAK!
Looking forward to a LONG weekend without work....

Baby Turns a Year Old!

2009-05-18T20:19:00.016-04:00

OMG!

My Baby is a Year old!!!

I feel so bad that on her first BIRTHDAY was away (working) However I did call home and sing happy birthday! (the hubby was thrilled, as Angel was settled in for he night and i got her all excited!)

And after a LONG weekend of work, we had a small party to celebrate...I believe there should be a BIG SHIN-DIG OVER THE WEEKEND!However here are some pictures to enjoy for today............ Louie also joined in for some FROSTY PAWS!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T23:08:00.003-04:00

Ahhh what a beautiful day today was in CT!

Joy was everywhere! the sky was blue with fluffy clouds! I managed to get up and out to the gym with a great friend....

Later a wonderful ride around the city (including a beach visit)

afterward I came home and found my son did some house cleaning for me.....

what a nice boy.

Had a soak in the hot tub, listened to some music in sun on the deck with the love of my life....YES JimWrinn!

A beautiful relaxing day....

did I mention GIFTS too???? OOO that MADE my day! heheheeh

Hope everyone else enjoyed their Mother's Day too

Angel Climbs the Ladder of Success!

2009-05-07T07:58:00.008-04:00

Angel is doing it! She is living the dream! One step closer to becoming a certified Pet Therapy Dog! She has been training for this all her life (Angel will have her first birthday in 2 weeks.) Last night she completed round one of training for therapy work and advancing into the next level. After 5 more weeks of training, if she continues to do well, she will be CERTIFIED!!!

Here is a picture of her and George receiving a treat for their hard work.... Also in class is (but not pictured) EllieMay and Henry.

Happy Cinco De Mayo!

2009-05-05T16:55:00.002-04:00

Cruise to Lose! AGAIN!!!!!

2009-05-04T08:01:00.005-04:00

http://www.rubycruises.com/ctl2009/default.aspx

I am getting more and more excited about our upcoming CRUISE!

This will be my third annual! Terri and Greg always make it a fun vacation!

Check it out.... and consider joining us! I get to meet so many wonderful people from around the US! Last year I met Donna and Jim, and although I have not spoke to them, I sure hope they are coming back this year! TAMMI! KATHY! RENEE!!!!! Just to mention a few peeps I met!

I am putting together a program for the cruisers, where they will walk away with a makeover!

Its gonna be a BLAST! HURRY UP NOVEMBER AND GET HERE!

Check out the Ruby Cruises web site... Just $250 oer person deposit can get you a cabin!!! Final payment due in Aug I think.... CALL TERRI AT RUBY CRUISES! (toll free) 1-866-685-7829

In Heat

2009-05-03T18:49:00.002-04:00

Since Angel is in heat.... I found this cartoon amusing!

What can I say, I got up at 5:20am... to much amusement...my kids can make me laugh at any hour! I probably can not tell anyone about what happened here at 5:30am (for fear the son will put me in a home)... but you could probably ask Sue!

SPRING!!!

2009-04-25T23:03:00.004-04:00

Today was an absolutely beautiful day in southern CT.I was able to enjoy the morning outdoors with a good friend and outside with our dogs...

It ended up to be about 80....

Everything looks so vibrant and full of life and NEW HOPE!

I believe tomorrow is just as promising!

Hope your day was as wonderful!

Not that there is anything WRONG with it!!!

2009-04-24T11:52:00.004-04:00

Super Heros Unite!

The Gym is Joyful!

2009-04-20T22:23:00.005-04:00

ok, its been weeks... everyday for at least an hour and a half....

weights, bike, elliptical..... Still NOTHING!

but I am confident that soon I will see results!!!

Some days I wear my Batman costume..some days I don't... BUT.... you can bet Batman and Robin are at the gym EVERY night!

ARE YA WITH ME ROBIN????

What a Wonderful Weekend!

2009-04-19T19:17:00.001-04:00

The weather in CT was beautiful this weekend!
Angel and I had time to visit friends and play in the yard. Angel even got to garden with Dad.... in translation, Dad planted beautiful flowers, and when he walked away Angel dug them up!
Hope your weekend was as wonderful!

SAVED!!!

2009-04-15T11:51:00.002-04:00

My dog (mis-named Angel) found a nest of baby bunnies in the yard yesterday. While typically my husband curses bunnies we both watched over these babies hoping for the best. It wasn't looking good.... Angel points out to the cats where they are all snuggling together in the ground....As the situation became increasingly more dangerous for the bunnies, I called Wildlife Rescue. I scooped them up (first I could only find 2 as they were looking for another safe place to hide.... however tha cat pointed each out to me, until I found all 4.
They safely arrived at the rescue where they will flourish and then be set back into the wild (Jim is thrill it will be far away from his garden)
Here is a picture of the sweet little babies huddled together....

I had an egg for breakfast

2009-04-09T12:39:00.001-04:00

This will have to hold you for today.....

Dancing for Joy!

2009-03-11T12:00:00.005-04:00

To me...This is hysterical! Kim looks like she just had some BAD reaction to the drugs!

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Because This REALLY Makes Me Smile!

2009-02-18T20:24:00.003-05:00

it's few days late, but I just saw this VALENTINES DAY CARD again.... and thought What the HAY! So for Your Entertainment....
HERE IT IS!

A Thought I Came Across Today

2009-02-18T18:29:00.002-05:00

BANDIT!

2009-02-07T19:58:00.003-05:00

While this is not an actual picture.... meet BANDIT!

(I named him, but he does not belong to me)

Josh decided to invest in a salt water tank. Unknowingly to the amount of money he would spend before he actually got his first fish. He has been working away at this for 2 weeks now, and today he placed the first fish inside the tank! It is so CUTE.... he said, it took him $1,000 just to put that 1 fish in the tank! (good thing he doesnt have anything else to spend his money on!) None the less, fish are good for our health...bringing blood pressure down while enjoying them (no not for DINNER!)

Crap Day... TGFTG (thank God for the gym)

2009-02-01T21:36:00.003-05:00

While today was mostly a weepy day for me, I am glad I went to the gym!
I got to workout and feel good about it!
I had an incident today that really brought me down in the dumps.
I did my best to "do the right thing" even though I am not sure what that is anymore.

I am confused and unsure what "kind" of person I am.
Although I hope I am open, fair, non judgemental, and accepting.,.. days like today I wonder, even who I am.
Si while at the gym, where I focused on me, my trainer and my gym buddy, I found laughter and joy.......
I am sorry every other part of the day I din not feel the same why.

OK, I'm Late, But could Miss This One!

2009-02-01T09:48:00.006-05:00

I have the greatest friends a person could wish for!

My friends pitched in on a moments notice to do a ton of work to help Jim & I close the deal on the house for sale!

We could not have done it all without you guys and we are touched by your generosity to offer us so much help!

As I reflect back on how wonderful it is to have you, it makes me realize how special each of you our in our lives!

Thank you so much EVERYONE for everything you did!

Dave - Chief Sheetrock man.... Thank you!

Sue - my kitty cat painter.... you are the cat's meow girl!

Robert - Martha would be super proud... I am sending her your resume!

JeanMarie - I bow down to you, the queen of painting! (Dolphin Gray!)

Kim - ya kept me alive with hot coffee, great company, and clean up!

Al - You are the MAN! Working in the cold all day hammering in those boards.... I owe ya a haircut!

Joshua - We work so well together, we should open a painting service, maybe even do creative art on the walls..... but first I must get you safety glasses!

Christy - WTG in that back bedroom! Second coat was really needed. Thanks for leading the gang in what needed to be done on floor 2

Leslie - Painter, Cleaner, good conversation! Stayed until the bitter end, sweeping, washing counters, and organizing tools..... You are so good I might have to marry you (it is legal in CT now!)

You Guys ROCK!!!!

Giving up your Saturday for us! I can't say thank you enough....

Reflecting on your kind hearts and giving spirits it brings a tear of JOY to my eye!

2009-01-28T14:38:00.004-05:00

An Email Brought Joy

I received a email today that I found rather humorous...I know I have a sick sense of humor, but it brought me joy today.

Apparently (whether true or not) a little girl was asked to draw a picture of what she wanted to be when she grows up...

This was her drawing...

(Here's the reply the teacher (Mrs. Jones) received the following day)

Dear Mrs. Jones,
I wish to clarify that I am not now, nor have I ever been, an exotic dancer. I work at Home Depot and I told my daughter how hectic it was last week before the blizzard hit. I told her we sold out every single shovel we had, and then I found one more in the back room, and that several people were fighting over who would get it. Her picture doesn't show me dancing around a pole. It's supposed to depict me selling the last snow shovel we had at Home Depot.From now on I will remember to check her homework more thoroughly before she turns it in. Sincerely,
Mrs. Smith

2009-01-27T17:32:00.003-05:00

The Pet Store Brings Joy!

I walked into a store that my husband built just over 23 years ago. In fact He had to keep a pager with him because I was pregnant and due at any moment while he was doing that job. So today I walk through that door, with the "baby" who is 23. He was looking to purchase what he needs to start his first salt water tank. As I looked at the tanks that held these beautiful (and expensive) animals, I recalled some of the most beautiful tanks we had. With Anenemes, live coral, star fish (Yes back when they were star fish and not SEA STARS.) We didnt have very much back then, and we would save to buy the most exotic fish (and pray for their survival).

Funny how the small things in life can be so easily forgotten. So today, walking into that store was like taking a step back in the past, where I recalled JOY!

Like Mother Like Daughter

2008-12-15T17:15:00.003-05:00

I had to smile today! I was looking at some old pictures from our cruise, when I came upon this photo....

And here comes the LAUGH.... My toe and Christy's toe bend in the same way! Like Mother like Daughter!

Angel Meets Santa

2008-12-14T19:23:00.005-05:00

Angel and I went on a quest and found SANTA!

omg, she is so excited! Although she has everything she needs and wants, she just had to see the Jolly old elf!

An Afternoon with Friends!

2008-12-14T18:54:00.004-05:00

An afternoon with friends is always nice, however this one was extra special.
We were all invited over to Steve's to help him decorate his tree!
What a nice time.... lots and lots of laughs and a bit of holiday spirit...
OMG, can we do this again tomorrow??
Thanks to all the hubbies behind the camera for taking the pictures!

THREAD!

2008-12-04T20:55:00.010-05:00

Everything seemed so HARD today! At work my computer just would not co-operate. I had to reboot more then a couple times! I could not get voicemail, my customers were unavailable, even the dogs seemed extra needy! Then I went to the bank (inside a grocery store) this evening and it was PACKED, like they were giving food away. I had to park as far away as I think I ever have. Then it all makes sense, the teller...tells me its a FULL MOON!

ahhhh.... I realize, its not me...its the poser of the universe! I get home and I meet the UPS man and he brings my LONG AWAITED THREAD!!! I am so excited about this! You see I am creating gifts, and I was in need of more thread!

So although I am still experiencing lots of technical issues...(and YES I had to reboot yet again to upload my images and post my blog.)

However...I have thread and I can slowly make (sew) my way towards Christmas!

The First Snow!

2008-11-30T17:31:00.004-05:00

Angel's first experience with SNOW!

Hopefully there will be MUCH MORE to enjoy this winter!

The snowy nose makes me smile!

Slowing Down to Visit Friends

2008-11-24T21:38:00.005-05:00

With Thanksgiving just days away, everyone is rushing around. Shopping, traveling, cooking, cleaning and so much more. However today I was blessed with a moment in time to slow down and forget the hustle bustle of the days ahead, to spend time with some work friends! It was great to see some friends that have moved to other places and I have missed for a while, as well as friends I work with day to day. We had lots of laughs, and stories to tell. Some catching up and some networking too. It was great that someone took the annotative to put the event together! I cant wait to do it again!

Sweet, Quiet, Joy!

2008-11-19T21:05:00.004-05:00

My joy came tonight with my husband in in a quiet gentle way. We relaced in the hot tub after sunset, and talked about the up coming holidays, the house, and the family. It we nice to relax and enjoy eachother's company. Sometimes the quiet stillness brings the sweetest joy!

My "Other" Dream Comes True

2008-11-12T19:49:00.005-05:00

Wish us luck and SPEED! Our other house which has stood empty for nearly a year is FINALLY on the market! PRICED TO SELL! Of course this is not the best time to be selling, there are tons to choose from out there, however, we priced it low!
When you say your prayers, think of us (PLEASE!) and ask for a speedy turn over!

A Big Day Out!

2008-11-11T22:01:00.004-05:00

I took today off to do some Christmas shopping with my pal Donna....

We hit several stores and had a nice time, and then stopped for lunch. While we sat chatting eating our burgers, Donna began to giggle. The it turned into uncontrollable laughter. With tears streaming out of her eyes she managed to tell me what she 'found" so funny. There was a man sitting nearby wearing Khakis, and the zipper was wide open. I said to her kiddingly, is there a soldier sitting on a couple duffel bags? And she again broke into laughter and cried out, MORE LIKE A BIG OLD GRIZZLY BEAR! I just could not believe this... so I got up to toss some stuff in the garbage and take a little look see for myself. Well, sure enough, she was right, the gentleman not only forgot to zip up.... but forget to put on underwear this morning. We laughed all the way out the door and to the car. It was a big day out for everyone!

For the Love of Tagging

2008-11-10T18:14:00.007-05:00

I had a busy day today. Rushing around getting all my work errands done... well, almost (more to be done tomorrow) but it was a hectic day for sure. When I finally stopped, switched CDs in the PC from looking at working images to looking at some old tags I created, and had so much fun making! As I looked them over I could feel the joy filling within me, as I so loved making them. These are images that will never be seen by most, but I have fun making them and sharing them, and now that I am BACK into doing my newsletter (Byrne's Bytes) I imagine I will be making more soon!

Here are a couple samples of some of my favorite "blanks"

Twenty Three and Still in Love

2008-11-09T10:09:00.003-05:00

It all began one our first date.... when I felt so comfortable that I jumped into a wading pool full of green water and captured a frog.... I knew then I must have found my prince!

Married 23 years today Jim and I are still in love.... meant to be together! Soul Mates!

I know how fortunate I am to have found the soul that competes mine to spend this lifetime with!

We have been through our ups and downs as everyone must go through... and it has made our relationship stronger. My joy is knowing that today I celebrate 23 years of marriage to a wonderful man, thankful I have found that love, a love that makes my heart leap!

I can only wish that everyone gets to love someone as much as I love my prince!

WHAT MAKES YOU SMILE???

2008-11-08T22:24:00.002-05:00

LOOK FOR MY POLL!
Look on the left to answer my poll....
I will try to put a new one in monthly.....
Join in the fun and answer!!!!

Dog Days

2008-11-08T08:37:00.002-05:00

We went to PUPPY SCHOOL! yes we are trying a new group to see if we can have som consistancy (last place kept canceling classes)
Angel and I went and had a nice evening oout together. She met a new friend named Edna that is a 5 month old rescue. Saved by her new Mom Rose from a kill shelter in the south. Edna is a sweet little shepard mix, and as it turns out, she lives right around the corner from us!
Angel and Edna want to have some play dates, and Rose and I decided walkign together would be a great way to socialize the dogs! Rose lives on a very busy road, so if Edna learns her way over to our house and ever gets "lost" she will probably find herself on a safe road, and in a safe place..... Hope it never happens but comforting to know she will learn the lay of the land!

Playing with Dolls

2008-11-05T14:59:00.006-05:00

I don't often get my dolls out but when I do I must admit I have fun!

I have been pondering what style cut I want and if I am ready to change back into a brunette before the holidays. I have been (like so many) enjoying the Victoria Beckham cut (you know POSH SPICE) I resist the fad until its over, and then I GOTTA HAVE IT!

So I looked at it one more time.... pulled out the scissors and my doll.... and had FUN playing with scissors. Most of the time I hate to cut.... but I must admit it is FUN to create....

Next I will go into photoshop and look at styles and colors on ME!

Motorcycle Mama!

2008-11-04T07:29:00.003-05:00

This Harley girl is CRAZY! She takes chances like no one else!

GO CRAZY BIKER CHICK!

Bringing a smile and Joy into my life on our shopping trip!

Team Work Pays Off!

2008-11-02T07:23:00.005-05:00

Aren't my men cuties??? Here is the Father/Son coaching Team bringing their football players to the championship! Oh its true the father portion of this sport usually (always) gets the WORST players in the league, but together they coached these boys into fine football players!
I am so proud of them.... and my son, very handsome! Makes my heart leap with joy! (Are you surprised where I found my JOY today?)

Trick or Treat!

2008-10-31T14:08:00.002-04:00

My first trick-or-treater arrived this morning!

"Jenna Princess Warrior" stopped by before running off to the cancer center to pass out some treats!

(Shhh don't tell anyone, but I was still in my Jammies)

I think Jenna should wear this "outfit" everyday! It suits her to a Tee!!!

Jenna Princess Warrior is my HERO!!!!

YOU GO GIRL!!!!

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T09:07:00.005-04:00

Halloween is so much fun!

Enjoy this little video while we are out trick or treating!

Simple Pleasures

2008-10-22T13:30:00.003-04:00

Enjoying coffee with a friend always brings joy. A surprise visitor came over, just as my pot of fresh blue mountain beans finished brewing! We sat and had a nice visit, shared stories and a couple smiles. While the coffee was just ok, the visit was wonderful!

I Found My Joy!

2008-10-16T20:54:00.005-04:00

I DID IT! I FOUND MY JOY!

Today was a rather melancholy day for me.... I wanted it to be brighter, but it just wasn't in the cards. I thought to myself " WHERE IS MY JOY? How will I possibly blog about it???"

Then without warning it hit me!

I came in after playing with the dogs, making dinner for my family, and then chilling in the hot tub with Jim... and my screen saver was on. It is a slide show of random pictures...

puppy, family, EXTENDED FAMILY.... hair shows, work events.....Cruising friends and fun

it was like my life flashing before my eyes............

And then like a ton of bricks I felt myself smiling... and THERE! There was my JOY!

It was everything, my family, friends, plants and bugs in the yard! It was my life! And you better believe, YOU were a big part of it!

Errands Bring Delight!

2008-10-14T15:54:00.007-04:00

I was fortunate enough today to have to run an errand during the day that took me miles from home. While I took the main highway up to Orange, I decided to take the "scenic" Merit Parkway home!

Oh My What a GREAT idea that was!

The foliage was gorgeous and it really made me feel good to see such beauty all around!

I did happen to see some deer. The colors was glorious.....

being surrounded by all that majesty and beauty makes the world just melt away!

Would have been a perfect day to hike through some of that land!

Indian Summer Sunday

2008-10-12T19:54:00.006-04:00

What a beautiful day today was! While normally a day like today it is hard to pick only one thing that brings me joy, today is the exception! I hung out with my dear friend Jean Marie today! I have not seen her in a while so it was great to just hang out and catch up! Jean Marie has the most infectious laugh! She is so great to be around! She listens to me and lifts my spirits (I just hope I do the same for her!)

We had so much fun! I think the highlight might have been her laugh as we fed the seagulls at Vet's Park!

Our Fun Day!

2008-10-11T19:30:00.006-04:00

I had such a nice day today! Its hard to begin to say what part brought me the most joy! I had lunch and a "day out" with Kim! We went to a nice spanish restaurant, and then did a little grocery shopping (it's always better with a friend)
Then when I got back, Christy and I went to Petco taking Angel along to get her a halloween costume.... She doesnt mind wearing it at all (yet) and I am planning on wearing out for our daily walks begining tomorrow!
Here is a little vide of Angel showing Louie her costume....
More Pictures to follow soon!

The Joys of Childhood

2008-10-08T21:49:00.002-04:00

Ahhh this song brings me back...
Back to Josh watching.... The Elephant Show...Sharon Lois and Bram....
Singing the wonderful.... Little Bunny Foo Foo!

Wednesday Brings Smiles

2008-10-01T22:25:00.006-04:00

Swimming is so much fun!
She can always manage to bring a smile to my face, or actually help me laugh out loud!

Now before the game began, the patio wa DRY...

no rain.... just puppy play!

A Walk in the Park

2008-09-24T19:01:00.004-04:00

A nice trip to the dog parks is sure to make you smile!

Louie and Angel had a grand time! Louie met a guy who wanted to be his "Special Friend" while Angel finally found a cat sized dog to have some rough play with. Everyone came home extremely pooped out..... However while the dogs nap, I still have my usual chores to finish.

It was great fun and exersize... cant wait until next time!

Can You Feel the Joyful Burn?

2008-09-23T19:24:00.005-04:00

Its true.... I still do have some muscles left inside this roly poly belly!
With the help of Laura, and my other friends... and alot of work on my part, I will be able to see them soon!
While working out take an affort on my part I give thanks to Laura who sacrifices so much of her time to help me get back into the swing of things!
Joy happens when friends help eachother through the rough spots!

Happiness is Help with cookin!

2008-09-22T13:55:00.002-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIMMY!

2008-02-10T20:53:00.000-05:00

What I great day I had celebrating YOUR Birthday! I enjoyed our girls' day out! You guys make me laugh so much! Lunch was great, who knows maybe the waiter will be my son in law some day. (Stranger things have happened) And painting after... PRICELESS! I cant wait to get the SUPER 7 together to show them their likenesses! Oh yes you better believe there will be a picture of that will be on the blog soon! LADIES, THANKS FOR MAKING MY DAY! and Kim, HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL!

Speed Bump!

2008-02-06T08:51:00.000-05:00

O its true! Some days are harder to get through then others!!! I think it's probably just a time we go through, to help us grow. I had a pretty bad day the other day, and it was so easy to sit around and feel sorry for myself (man that can make a day longer!) but then something happened to make me stop and say, "Don't take life so seriously!" So what happened to stop and make me laugh? My friend dropped his phone down my toilet! It was way too late to catch it! He was freaking when he had to tell me what happened.... My husband (Jim) and I just busted out laughing. Tough times, sure, they will come and go, but they are just little bumps in the road to see what our charactor true is, not what we say it is.

Thanks for bringing us joy Al!!!!

Sometimes its hard to find

2008-01-30T15:30:00.000-05:00

Yep thats right. Today is one of those days. It's been a tough one all the way around, but I know its just for a moment, and it will be over. Still, its a beautiful day, the sun came out (althought its cold) and its blustery... I do enjoy windy days, wind is so powerful! I have managed to smile, even laugh, on this day that wasnt so joyful. Since it hasn't been a day I can easily bubble with joy, I would love to share with you a joy I had not time to tell you about before! I entered a photo conntest and my picture was pipcked to be in a book! It is so very exciting! I doubt I will ever be a "famous" photographer, but it was so cook to get the letter asking permission to use my photo! I felt just like Steve Martin in the JERK when he found his name in print (in the phone book) FAMOUS!

School Daze, School Daze!

2008-01-07T21:52:00.001-05:00

I started school today! And there I found my joy.... it was very unexpected (for me). The first assignment was to write and post an autobiography. So looked them all over, and what a diverse group I will be attending with! And there was my joy! A young man, who has had many tough times in his life. Yet this young man of 19 seemed to be working hard to a good future, and although he had some tough times in the inner city, he always seemed to keep thing positive and focus on his future. He made me smile. Just reading it I felt proud of him. I guess I had wished I had started looking for my joy when I was a kid. Of all the people I could have spoke to today, this young man was the one that brought me joy, touched my heart and made me smile. Cant really explain why I feel so moved by him.... He might never become famous, or a super star, but somehow I know there is a special place in the universe for him. Funny...strangers can bring joy into our lives, if we let them. Try giving a stranger the time of day some time... might make you both smile.

Bad Hair Day?

2008-01-04T21:36:00.000-05:00

Jan 4 - Every expect to find Joy in the supermarket? I did! (but I might be wicked) I had to smile as I walked around the store looking at everyone's... HAIR! I could not help myself. The comb over, the lady with the BAD perm and mulit-colored red highlights... I was so sure she thought it looked good I just had to laugh to myself..... Yep, sure made me feel better about the way MY HAIR LOOKED (gag)

Jan 3 - Happy Birthday Linda!

2008-01-03T22:34:00.000-05:00

My Cuzzie.....My Joy. Though my Cousin is not here physically today, I know she will always be with me! Linda was by far the most giving person I have known. And while I miss her terribly I treasure all the time I had with her! Thanks for taking me to the movies when I was a kid, teaching me to sew, and showing me my worth! I reflect back on what we had and remind myself to exprience such great joy, I will also feel the loss more deeply! Dont be sad because its over, be happy because it happened!

Wednesday's Joy

2008-01-02T23:01:00.000-05:00

Jan 2 - Today was an ordinary day. Nothing much to report I was thinking. Just work, and my group meeting. I work alone, and normally see no one during the day (hmmm Joy?) So as I reflected back on my day I asked myself.... Where was my joy? And then it hit my like a ton of bricks!!! It was my group! I met with a GROUP of people who truely care about ME! I thought of these wonderful people, many friends and felt so very fortunate to have them. They not only care about me, but I care about them! They bring me JOY! I can only hope, that I return the JOY to them! Love you guys!

Jan 2 2008

2008-01-02T14:34:00.000-05:00

So, I came across a booklet that I had started a couple years ago. I had simply written down 1 thing that brought me joy that day. I guess it was a time in my life, when I was encouraging someone else to LOOK for something that brought them joy that day, and I decided to take a spoonful of my own medicine. Funny thing about doing this is, as you do it each day, it becomes easier to FIND that joy...no matter how bad things can be, there is always something that can bring you joy, no matter how small. And if it ever comes a time that you simply cant find joy... you could always flip the pages backward, read what brought you joy the days or years before.... and find joy all over again! That said I have decided to Look for my joy every day! I hope you can find your joy too!