For You

I no longer have patience for certain things...

I no longer have patience for certain things, not because I’ve become arrogant, but simply because I reached a point in my life where I do not want to waste more time with what displeases me or hurts me. 

I have no patience for cynicism, excessive criticism and demands of any nature. 

I lost the will to please those who do not like me, to love those who do not love me and to smile at those who do not want to smile at me. 

I no longer spend a single minute on those who lie or want to manipulate. 

I decided not to coexist anymore with pretense, hypocrisy, dishonesty and cheap praise. 

I do not tolerate selective erudition nor academic arrogance.

I do not adjust either to popular gossiping. 

I hate conflict and comparisons. 

I believe in a world of opposites and that’s why I avoid people with rigid and inflexible personalities. 

In friendship I dislike the lack of loyalty and betrayal.

I do not get along with those who do not know how to give a compliment or a word of encouragement. 

Exaggerations bore me and I have difficulty accepting those who do not like animals. 

And on top of everything I have no patience for anyone who does not deserve my patience.

The above text was written and published by the great Portuguese Author, Jose Micard Teixeira

Karma, Baby

One Broken Heart for Sale

Its been a year and a half and you'd think that by now, my heart would have healed. 

But just THINKING about the entire situation makes my heart, my soul, my inner being just cry out in pain. Not a crying sort of pain, but deeper than that.  

I've considered going back to see Dr. Keller and talking about it, but to what end? Will it take the pain away? Answer any questions? Solve the problem? 

No. 

All seeing Dr. Keller would solve is forcing me to relive it. To explain what happened, who said what, how it made me feel, etc.  Right now I don't feel that I am strong enough to go through it all again. 

The point I am at now, is how to move on and learn to trust loved ones again. How to allow people in to my life without fear. 

 Truthfully, the only person I place 100 percent of my trust, my being in, without fear is John, my husband. (and my cousin, Heather). 

When I think of what brought all of this pain to where I am today, what started it, or rather, WHO started, I feel blinding rage. 

I don't understand how anyone could inflict the kind of damage that has been done to a family member. I don't know if I want to understand. 

I can say the one thing that brings me GREAT comfort is my strong belief in Karma. You can run, but you can't hide. 

I guess what I really want, is for the pain to go away, and to never have to feel the way I do now, and have felt for the last year and a half. 

Thanks for reading. 

Truth

No one can understand the pain I feel in my heart.

It has been shattered in such a way that I don't think I will ever recover. I don't know how long it will take for me to allow any one close again. 

The only one who holds 100% of my trust and that I am completely safe if all ways is John. 

Be patient with me. I am going to need time to heal. 

Roy Clark - Sally Was A Good Ole Girl

Accept me or walk away

There comes a time in your life, when you walk away from all the drama and people who create it. 

You surround yourself with people who make you laugh. 

Forget the bad, and focus on the good. 

Love the people who treat you right, pray for the ones who don't. 

Life is too short to be anything but happy. 

Falling down is a part of life, getting back up is living.

There comes a time when you have to stand up and shout:

This is me damn it!  I look the way I look, think the way I think, feel the way I feel,
love the way I love!  I am a whole complex package.  Take me. . . or leave me.

Accept me--or walk away!  

Do not try to make me feel like less of a person,just because I don't fit your idea of who I should be and don't try to change me to fit your mold.  

If I need to change, I alone will make that decision.

When you are strong enough to love yourself 100%, good and bad--you will be amazed at the opportunities that life presents you.

Releasing the Past

Releasing the Past. Jeff Keller

Posted: 24 Oct 2014 03:00 AM PDT

Do you condemn yourself for things which you did--or failed to do--in the past?  Everyone does this at some point.  However, if you want to lead a successful and productive life, it is imperative that you release the past and not blame yourself for events which have already transpired and which cannot be changed.
Ask yourself this question:  has "beating yourself up" about the past ever helped you or made you feel better?  If the answer is "no," I hope that you will make a commitment to stop this self-defeating behavior.

The successful person takes this approach:  learn from past mistakes and make adjustments in future behavior.  The strategy of berating yourself for past conduct solves nothing and only serves to lower your self-esteem.  You create a vicious cycle where negative experiences and negative feelings are reinforced, which leads to more negative outcomes and more negative feelings.

You are not going to change one bit of your past.  It's gone.  Learn from your past experiences and move on.  You did the best you could given your awareness and understanding of your options at the time.  This does not imply that your conduct was praiseworthy; however, you will gain nothing from self- condemnation, except feelings of misery and inadequacy.

If you have done something in the past which you can do something about, then by all means take action.  If you have been unkind to someone, offer a sincere apology.  If you failed to fulfill a promise which you make, take steps immediately to fulfill that promise.
If you insist on dwelling in the past, I suggest that you focus on your past successes.  Visualizing and thinking about past successes is an excellent way to build confidence and self-esteem.  What you think about is what you become.  Therefore, when you concentrate on your successes, you help to create future successes.
When you find yourself starting to dwell on past negative experiences, immediately halt and remind yourself:  "There is nothing I can do now which will change what happened.  I learned a valuable lesson and will act in a more constructive manner next time."  You see, regardless of what you have done--or failed to do--the only sane approach is to accept it and move forward.  The successful individual does not waste precious mental energy dwelling on past events which cannot be changed.  Instead, he or she uses past mistakes as learning experiences and springboards to future successes.

9/11/01

So 13 years ago, the World Trade Centers fell due to a terrorist attack on the United States. 

Everyone always talks about where they were when the whole thing went down, etc. 

13 years ago, I was working at Steven Fabrics, in customer service. I was at my desk, working on a 4 page report of Vertical Blind back orders, calling dealers, telling them when to expect their order, etc. 

I overheard in the office (I was working in a "cube farm") that a plane had hit the World Trade Center in New York. 

1st thought that ran through my mind, was some dummy in a little Cessna or something did it.  I heard someone say it was a commerical airplane. Okay, I know that couldn't have been an accident, but I couldn't imagine why someone would intentionally do such a thing. 

I knew my Dad would know what was going on, so I called Dad and he told me it was a terrorist attack on the US. 

My coworkers all had by this time turned on the news to hear more and we heard about the Pentagon. To be honest, when I heard this part, I didn't believe it. I thought it was just a rumor. Then the one in Pennsylvania crashed. I was horrified.  

After I got home from work, my husband and I were glued to our TV, total disbelief in what we were seeing. Total chaos in NY. 

I know that as an American, I will never forget, and will continue to be grateful to first responders, police and firefighters everywhere. 

Hurt

You never expect someone who loves you to hurt you, especially a family member, either intentionally or unintentionally, so when it does happen, the pain resulting is significant and unexpected, which seems like it makes it more intense.

Sometimes, you can piece together why the other person acted out in the way that they did, but other times, you’re left wondering what went wrong, if it was something that you had done or not done, said or did not say.

Regardless, the pain is very real.

How do you react to this sort of pain?

 Do you confront the person?

 Wait for them to come to you?

Do you pretend like nothing happened?

Whichever action is taken it seems is the wrong action.

Sometimes, if you are very lucky, you have someone who loves you and cares about you to lean on, and they can help you through the process.

I am hurting as a direct result of lies and deception from someone who claimed to love me.

I am also hurting for some transgression I evidently have done by someone else who also claims to love me.

I am very lucky to have my husband John here to hold my hand, and wipe my tears away.

I hope to become a stronger, better person moving forward having learned the lessons I have. 

August Osbourne Update

Greetings and Salutations Land of Osbourne Readers! 

Hope everyone is having a good summer and things are going great for you. 

Thought I'd update you all on my thrilling life.  

John bought me a huge bird cage for our 17th wedding anniversary this year, for my 2 Lady Gouldians and 2 Shaft Tail finches. 4 tiny little birdies in a 5' tall x 4' wide x 2' deep is a lot of room for those little guys, so I found a bird rescue organization in Circle Pines, and adopted 2 Society finches, and 2 Zebra Finches. I named them "George and Weezy" and "Snow and Ice". I was a little worried about adding them to the cage and the birds fighting, but we're almost to week 3 and everyone is getting along great. I love their little chirps, (they sound like they're saying "beep beep beep") - they males sing a song to the females - sounds a little like a musical car alarm.  John loves them, and wants to adopt a few more. Could be dangerous for us to go there, because we both have a huge love of animals. I need to find a few more nests and then I may add a few more. 

Work is going good for me and good for John. Anywhere you work there is always going to be someone or something you don't like, such is life. 

The summer is going by very quickly it seems. Our crazy Minnesota weather didn't really give us a spring this year, it seems sort of like we jumped right from winter to summer. Now we're knocking on the door to Fall already. I've already heard several commercials  for the Minnesota State Fair.  We went last year, and although we had a nice time I wouldn't mind going again this year, but its not a do or die kind of thing. John and I have August 29th - September 2nd off work, so it COULD happen. We'll see. :) 

Crohn's is still under control, and this new thing, Gastroparisis is about as good as can be expected. 

Take care all! 

April Miller-Osbourne

Gym Membership Dear Diary

Dear Diary, 

For my birthday this year, my daughter (the dear) purchased a week of personal training at the local health club for me. 

Although I am still in great shape since being a high school football cheerleader 43 years ago, I decided it would be a good idea to go ahead and give it a try. 

I called the club and made my reservations with a personal trainer named Belinda, who identified herself as a 26-year-old aerobics instructor and model for athletic clothing and swim wear. 

My daughter seemed pleased with my enthusiasm to get started! The club encouraged me to keep a diary to chart my progress. 

________________________________ 
MONDAY: 
Started my day at 6:00 a.m. Tough to get out of bed, but found it was well worth it when I arrived at the health club to find Belinda waiting for me. She is something of a Greek goddess - with blond hair, dancing eyes and a dazzling white smile. Woo Hoo!! 

Belinda gave me a tour and showed me the machines. I enjoyed watching the skillful way in which she conducted her aerobics class after my workout today. Very inspiring! 

Belinda was encouraging as I did my sit-ups, although my gut was already aching from holding it in the whole time she was around. This is going to be a FANTASTIC week-!! 

________________________________ 
TUESDAY: 
I drank a whole pot of coffee, but I finally made it out the door. Belinda made me lie on my back and push a heavy iron bar into the air then she put weights on it! My legs were a little wobbly on the treadmill, but I made the full mile. Belinda's rewarding smile made it all worthwhile. I feel GREAT-!! It's a whole new life for me. 

_______________________________ 
WEDNESDAY: 
The only way I can brush my teeth is by laying the toothbrush on the counter and moving my mouth back and forth over it. I believe I have a hernia in both pectorals. Driving was OK as long as I didn't try to steer or stop. I parked on top of a GEO in the club parking lot. 

Belinda was impatient with me, insisting that my screams bothered other club members. Her voice is a little too perky for that early in the morning and when she scolds, she gets this nasally whine that is VERY annoying. 

My chest hurt when I got on the treadmill, so Belinda put me on the stair master. Why the hell would anyone invent a machine to simulate an activity rendered obsolete by elevators? Belinda told me it would help me get in shape and enjoy life. She said some other sh*t too. 

_________________________________ 
THURSDAY: 
Belinda was waiting for me with her vampire-like teeth exposed as her thin, cruel lips were pulled back in a full snarl. I couldn't help being a half an hour late - it took me that long to tie my shoes. 

Belinda took me to work out with dumbbells. When she was not looking, I ran and hid in the restroom. She sent another skinny ***** to find me. 

Then, as punishment, she put me on the rowing machine -- which I sank. 
_________________________________ 
FRIDAY: 
I hate that b*tch Belinda more than any human being has ever hated any other human being in the history of the world. Stupid, skinny, anemic, anorexic little cheerleader. If there was a part of my body I could move without unbearable pain, I would beat her with it. 

Belinda wanted me to work on my triceps. I don't have any triceps! And if you don't want dents in the floor, don't hand me the damn barbells or anything that weighs more than a sandwich. 

The treadmill flung me off and I landed on a health and nutrition teacher. Why couldn't it have been someone softer, like the 
drama coach or the choir director? 

________________________________ 
SATURDAY: 
Belinda left a message on my answering machine in her grating, shrilly voice wondering why I did not show up today. Just hearing her voice made me want to smash the machine with my planner; however, I lacked the strength to even use the TV remote and ended up catching eleven straight hours of the Weather Channel. 

________________________________ 
SUNDAY: 
I'm having the Church van pick me up for services today so I can go and thank GOD that this week is over. I will also pray that next year my daughter (the little sh*t) will choose a gift for me that is fun -- like a root canal or a hysterectomy. I still say if God had wanted me to bend over, he would have sprinkled the floor with diamonds!!! 

love

"You love someone, you open yourself up to suffering; that’s the sad truth. Maybe they’ll break your heart; maybe you’ll break their heart and never be able to look at yourself in the same way. Those are the risks. You see two people and think they belong together, but nothing happens. The thought of losing so much control over personal happiness is unbearable. That’s the burden. Like wings, they have weight, we feel that weight on out backs, but they are a burden that lifts us. Burdens that allow us to fly." 

Music

Music is an interesting thing. It changes how you feel, reminds you of good things and bad. 

For some, they can take music or leave it. 

For others, they can't imagine a day without music in it, and that would be me. 

I love most all types of music. The only type I really don't enjoy would be "death metal" or things in  that sort of category. All other music, I enjoy. 

On certain television shows, tv commericals or movies, music plays an huge part. 

Here is a list of songs I won't be able to listen to without thinking of something else: 

(in no particular order, other than what pops into my mind first) 

Carry on Wayward Son - Kansas - Truthfully, I never heard the song before watching the TV show Supernatural. Now, not only do I associate that song with Supernatural, I have gone as far as downloading it. 

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper - This was featured prominently on an episode of my favorite show Bones. If you're a Bones fan, no other explanation necessary. Iconic episode.  Now, whenever I hear it, I think of Temperance "Bones" Brennan singing it in Karaoke shortly before Seeley Booth is shot. 

Hot Blooded - Foreigner - I had heard the song before, but wasn't impressed with it. Until the historic Bones episode that any true Bones fan worth their salt knows; Season 1, Two Bodies in the Lab. It is now considered Booth and Brennans "Song", and has been featured on a few other episodes throughout the television shows history. It is my favorite song, and the default ringtone on my cell phone. I love it. 

We're Not Gonna Take It - Twisted Sister - I love this song. It is now the theme opening song to Betty White's Off Their Rockers. Now when I hear it, I think of Betty White and that awesome show that makes me LMAO. 

Pick Me Up On Your Way Down - Charlie Walker - When I was little, Mom and Dad took me and Rachel to the Grand 'ol Opry. This song, when Rachel and I were kids, use to be one of her favorites. When we were at the Grand 'ol Opry, as we were walking out, someone was on stage singing this song. The song has a whole new meaning for me now, as it makes me think of Rachel. 

Hey Jealousy - Gin Blossoms - When I was dating John, back in 1993, he would play this song while driving us around in his white Camaro. Its now the ring tone for John on my cell phone. I love it, makes me think of my sweetheart. 

Black - Pear Jam - ditto to previous post 

Lawdy Miss Clawdy - Elvis Presley - When My Dad was in a band when he was younger, with my Uncle Soup, and cousin Keith, they would play this at every dance. My Mom  now hates the song because they played it so much.  That story makes me laugh, so that song is the ring tone for Mom. 

Ashoken Farewell - (instrumental) - My Dad heard this song while watching a Civil War documentary, loved the song so much he learned to play it on guitar and wants it played at his funeral. Makes me sad, but I like the song. 

These are just a few, but thought I'd share. Thanks for reading.

Happy

Greetings and Salutations! 

Not sure if you guys are aware, but I suffer from chronic depressive disorder, which means that I will be on medication to help keep me smiling and sane, likely for the rest of my life. 

It has taken some time, (3 years to be specific) to figure out my magic combination of drug therapy, and I think I've FINALLY got it figured out. (well, not ME on my own, but with the help of my doc)

Despite my recent diagnosis of Gastroparisis, and the side effects and what that all means, the Crohn's Disease and we can't forget my bad knee too (which I realize needs surgery again, but until I can't walk at all, I'm not doing it). 

Anyway - the reason for my post is, recently I came to the realization that I am HAPPY. 

Sure, there are some things in my life I wish were different, just like anyone else, but I am smiling more and am happy. 

In closing, I'd like to say this: 

Some of the best prayers that I've prayed to God are the ones that he said : "No"   to. 

Take care friends....

April (Miller) Osbourne

April Update

So, I am sure that if you have read anything on my blog, you are aware I have severe Crohn's Disease (Crohn's Colitis to be specific), and that I have had it for years. (2001 I was diagnosed). I think I've dealt with it fairly well, all things considered. I am happy to say I've been in a fairly strong remission for several years now, and hope to continue to stay there. I've been on IV infusions every 6 weeks of Remicade. 

Anyway...since around November of last year I've been having issues with nausea. I didn't mention it to my "team" of doctors, because I figured it would go away. Well, it didn't. 

In late March, I finally let the doctors know about this nausea thing. They did an upper GI (they stick a tube with a camera on it down my throat), that came back okay, then they did this stomach emptying thing, where they feed me, x-ray my stomach, wait an hour, x-ray, wait another hour, x-ray, etc.  Found out I have "Gastroparisis".

 Great.

Part of my stomach has nerve damage and is paralyzed. How the HELL did that happen you wonder? Yeah, me too.  It can be from GERD, which I do have.  

No cure, (of course), and they CAN give you medicine to help the digestive process along, or you can try and control it with diet. That is my plan of attack. I've already lost 10 pounds, and am hoping to lose more with this new issue. I eat 1 smallish meal a day and the rest of the day I drink liquids. My appetite is pretty much non existent, so its not like I am suffering or anything.  If I were skinny as a rail and this came up, I'd probably be a little more upset about it, but as it is, I am going to use this opportunity to shed a few extra pounds.  

Thank GOD for great health insurance. 

"My Life"

 

Got a call from an old friend
We used to be real close
Said he couldn't go on the American way
Closed the shop, sold the house
Bought a ticket to the West Coast
Now he gives them a stand-up routine in L.A.

I don't need you to worry for me cause I'm alright
I don't want you to tell me it's time to come home
I don't care what you say anymore, this is my life
Go ahead with your own life and leave me alone

I never said you had to offer me a second chance
I never said I was a victim of circumstance
I still belong, don't get me wrong
And you can speak your mind
But not on my time

They will tell you you can't sleep alone
In a strange place
Then they'll tell you you can't sleep
With somebody else
Ah, but sooner or later you sleep
In your own space
Either way it's okay
You wake up with yourself

I don't need you to worry for me cause I'm alright
I don't want you to tell me it's time to come home
I don't care what you say anymore, this is my life
Go ahead with your own life and leave me alone

I never said you had to offer me a second chance
I never said I was a victim of circumstance
I still belong, don't get me wrong
And you can speak your mind
But not on my time
I don't care what you say anymore, this is my life
Go ahead with your own life and leave me alone

Moist Double Chocolate Muffins

Moist Double Chocolate Muffins

Boston Terrier

American Made Cars vs Foreign

So recently I was rear-ended, requiring me to relinquish my car to an auto body, and forcing me to drive a vehicle other than my own.

If this event had happened in the summer or fall, it wouldn't have been a problem, all I would have had to do is drive the 1993 Camaro Z28. However since the Camaro has very large racing tires, it didn't seem like a good idea to pull it out of storage to drive in this awful Minnesota winter.

I was authorized the use of a brand new Volkswagen Jetta. Under normal circumstances, I'd probably never have the chance to drive this type of car, because from the time I was a kid, it was impressed upon me the importance of buying an American made car, seeing as numerous family members, my Dad included, all held a job for Ford.

 Naturally most of the family drove Fords, not only because they're good, reliable cars, but because employees get a pretty nice discount on new cars. Plus, since they work for Ford, most of them worked on cars too, so it made sense.

Anyway, I really enjoyed driving the Jetta, much more so than I thought I would. I went as far as looking into costs, and things like that.

I got my car back on Monday, and it sure is nice to have it back. My Focus has snow tires, and the Jetta didn't, so I definately saw a difference there. In retrospect, I wonder if the reason I liked the Jetta so much isn't so much the brand per se, but the fact that it was brand new.

My car has 141,000 miles on it, and I know with the miles I drive everyday to and from work, it won't be long and it will be time to look for a new vehicle.  As of right now, here are the cars I'm considering:

Ford Focus
Ford Fiesta
Ford Fusion (Love this one)
Dodge Dart (Love this one too)
Volkswagen Jetta

Its nice not having a car payment though,and until we pay off the Harley Davidson, we can't afford a car payment anyway..

Thanks  for reading! :)

You're Always There In My Heart

Spring is shining and its blowing,
but you're always in my heart.
life's wonderful, everything beautiful,
'cause you're always my other part.
summer coming, sun keeps shining,
'cause You're always in my heart!

Seasons come, seasons go
But you're always there in my heart.
Raindrops fall, breezes blow
But you're always there in my heart.
Photos fade, years have gone
But you're always there in my heart.
Time goes by, life goes on
But you're always there in my heart.

You're a part of me, as I am of you
I can't leave you behind.
You're a part of me, and whatever I do
You're always on my mind.

Through the years, joy and tears
You're always there in my heart.
Always near, ever dear
You're always there in my heart.
Always there in my heart!

The Stand, by Stephen King - big screen movie!

So, my favorite book of all time, which I re-read and listen to in audiobook format, is “The Stand” by Stephen King.

I’m sure we’ve all seen the TV Miniseries that was done in the 90’s – which in my opinion wasn’t bad. 

I think that Gary Sinise was the perfect Stu Redman. 

Also, Adam Storke as Larry Underwood was spot on.

For the last 2 years, rumors have been floating around about a big screen remake of this, for which I am a huge supporter and I can’t WAIT for more details.

Currently I am listening to the audiobook of “The Stand”, and as I enjoy this, I am imagining in my mind which actors I’d like for characters.

So, for fun, here is my dream cast – so far. What do you think?

Randall Flagg – Tom Cruise

(Don’t you think he’d make the ultimate “Dark Man”)?

Nadine Cross – Jessica Alba

Stu Redman – Josh Holloway

Fran Goldsmith – Natalie Portman 

Larry Underwood – Justin Timberlake

Lucy Swan – Drew Barrymore 

Glen Bateman – Anthony Hopkins

Nick Andros – Jared Padalecki (Rob Lowe nailed it, btw)

Tom Cullen – this is a tough one – the guy who played him originally did so well, its hard to imagine anyone else in the role. Maybe Leonardo Dicaprio?

Mother Abigail – Wanda Sykes

Trashcan Man - Billy Bob Thorton

This is all I can think of now. 

I thought of Jensen Ackles for Stu Redman, but Josh Holloway’s southern accent is perfect for the character. Also thought of Terry O’Quinn for Glen Bateman, but I think Anthony Hopkins would be a better fit.  

Rear Ended - AGAIN

On April 18th 1995, I was involved in a car accident. My Camaro was rear-ended and it was totaled. I was in physical therapy for 1 year after.

Monday February 24th at exactly 4:40 pm, I was on the way to go pick up John from work. I was at the interesection of 18th Ave NE and Fillmore. I stopped at the 4 way stop (it is a residential type neighborhood), and had just started across the intersection, when B A M! I was hit from behind. I didn't see him coming at all.

The other driver drove a foreign made pick up truck and had slid right through the intersection and slammed into me. He did try to swerve, so most of the damage is on the rear passenger side of my car. My bumper is broken on both sides, and cracked in the middle. It looks like its going to fall off.

When the guy came to talk to me, he didn't want to give me his name, phone number or insurance info. He said all I needed was the licence plate number.

Really?

So....what I just look up the information on the internet or something? Right.

I insisted on getting at least his policy number and the name of his insurance company.

What a run around I am getting from them.

At first, it would be a day or two tops, and they'd get my car into a garage and fixed. Then it would be another day or so. Now its looking like next week.

Yesterday the insurance adjuster came and checked out my car.

The roads here in Minnesota are absolutely HORRIBLE. Pure solid, thick ice on most side streets, and then in other places, thick ice mixed with dry pavement, giving you that genuine off road experience while driving.

This has been by far one of the worst winters on record for Minnesota, and I know I speak for MANY when I say we're ready for it to be D O N E.

26 Things Minnesotans Do That Seem Odd To Everyone Else

Some things Minnesotans do are actually mind-blowing-ly odd to people from other places.

1. We use snowballs to play fetch with our dogs. Sometimes they don’t know what to do with them.

2. At random during the winter, Minnesotans take a break from their day to just start their cars. Not to go anywhere, just to hear the glorious sound of an engine starting (and to make sure the engine will start at -40 degrees). We also leave our cars running sometimes when we go shopping. We rely on Minnesota nice maybe a bit too much.

3. We get so much snow on the top of our cars that those scrapers just don’t work. So we use push brooms.

4. What’s that you say? The temperature is over 32 degrees? Shorts and t-shirt weather.

5. In April, yes April, we sled down 2 story tall snow hills created by plowing snow off of parking ramps.

6. We eat hot dish. The rest of you call it casserole, but you’re wrong.

7. We consider sledding a date night activity. Nothing says romance quite like bundling up like the Michelin man and going up & down the hill until you just tackle the other person, all beautiful with rosy cheeks and running nose.

8. We own the Ice-skating bike.

9. Have you ever seen a frozen waterfall? We have. Yep, it’s that cool

10. We buy large, expensive machines called snowmobiles to only drive a couple months out of the year.

11. Hockey – an amazing game where talented folks strap blades to their feet and hit each other with sticks. In Minnesota, that’s what we call a good time!

12. We walk on water. Well, frozen water that is.

13. We drive trucks on water too, and even put houses on our lakes and drink beer in them. Sometimes people call this beer-drinking-on-lakes,  “ice-fishing.”

14. A favorite winter activity of ours is lying in the snow and flailing our arms and legs around, also known as snow angels.

15. We go outside in the middle of blizzards.

16. We use can coozies, not to keep our beer from getting warm, but to keep it from freezing. They’re like a little jacket for our beer.

17. We make our dogs wear jackets and boots. And not just because it’s cute….even though it is.

18. We grow beards not just for the look, but for the functionality of keeping our face warm.

19. We call beverages like coca-cola, mountain dew and sprite, pop. Can I get you a cold pop?!

20. We think that the “No Wake” sign for plows on the highway makes perfect sense.

21. We ride our bikes in the snow, and have ingenious ways of keeping them from getting covered in snow by plows while they are parked.

22. “Whatever” means we’re disappointed. We say “You bet” because we don’t have a strong opinion. “That’s different” means you have an opinion but don’t want to discuss it.

23. Not all of us are coordinated enough for skating. Or maybe we just had one too many beers. In that case we play broomball or boot hockey. Sometimes we wear special shoes and sticks for broomball. Sometimes we duct tape old brooms and use those.

24. We don’t worry about our beer getting warm. Snow = permanent beer chiller.

25. We skijor. That’s where we tie up our dogs and have them pull us across the snow on skis.

26. It takes us a really long time to say goodbye. We just don’t want you to feel like you have to leave and we want you to know that we really like you and enjoy hanging out with you…
“Are you sure you don’t want to stay a little longer? We could make you some cocoa. It’s cold out there! What about some leftover tator tot hot dish? We could heat some up for you. Speaking of heating up tator tot hot dish, do you happen to have any new hot dish recipes? One of the ladies in the church basement said she tried crushing up some wheaties on top of some chicken……”
……and soon it has been 30 minutes and you’re still standing in the doorway all bundled up saying goodbye.

27. We play Duck Duck Gray Duck. The rest of you that play that other game are just wrong.

Merry Christmas Baby Goose

This is my first year without my Katie Goose.

We didn't get out our big indoor Christmas tree, we didn't bring in our assortment of beautiful ornaments, we didn't bring in our stockings with the names on them. We have a 12" tree sitting on our kitchen table.

Neither John or I wanted to bring the big tree, ornaments and stockings in. Neither of us wanted to see Katie's stocking that we wouldn't be hanging this year.

Every day I miss my Katie Goose.  Very much more so now, as I am not buying presents for my Goose.

John and I bought a little Boston Terrier ornament and put it over by where Katie's ashes are, that is our present to her and my sweet Rommy bear.

I just found out, that the neighbor who lives behind us, upon hearing of Katie's passing, cried and cried. I found out that she would play ball with my Gooser every day when I was at work. Such a special little dog.

Thank you God for allowing me to know and love Katie for the 12 years you did.

Merry Christmas Baby Goose,

Love, Mom & Dad

His Latest Flame - Remastered H.Q. 320 kpbs (Marie's the Name) - Elvis P...

3000 Miles To Graceland - Such A Night (Elvis Presley)

Show Your Joe

Vince Gill - Take your memories with you - this is for your Katie Goose & Rommy Bear - missing you always

http://www.youtube.com/v/WahSs63AuR0?autohide=1&version=3&feature=share&autohide=1&attribution_tag=vV68GnttMU1FaF_lnu2eVA&showinfo=1&autoplay=1

Borderline Personality Disorder

This explains SO much!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borderline_personality_disorder

Being right - Rachel, this one is for you

Misunderstanding and disagreement in any relationship can actually be an opportunity to learn about ourselves.  However, most of the time we simply focus on how the other person is wrong.  It is easier to point the finger than to look to ourselves and face the unpleasant truth that we may share some or all of the responsibility.  We think, "If he (or she) were only more considerate, had more time for me, or did the dishes more, then I'd be happy."

Instead of looking at our own behavior, we believe that the other person is the problem.  We believe we are justified, reasonable and more than fair.  They need to change.

When I believe I am right, I spend an exorbitant amount of time re-hashing the situation in my mind.  I obsessively review the other person's responses and actions to find the evidence I need to be right.  In this internal dialogue, nothing changes.  I try to rebuild my case, yet I get nowhere.  If I continue down this path, when the time comes to discuss the matter with the other person, I've already become the judge, jury, and executioner.

It really does take more energy to hold on to being right than it does simply to be responsible for our behavior.  When we are willing to let go, problems can be solved more easily.  People are more willing to listen, to be open, and even to acknowledge responsibility when they are not under attack.

Practice
Identify Your Expectations:
First acknowledge you have expectations.  Then ask yourself if you are willing to give them up.  Stop expecting others to read your mind, to know what you want and need, and to satisfy your unspoken expectations.  Stop waiting for people to complete you.

Stop Keeping Score:
Yesterday's argument doesn't have to carry over.  Don't bring it into your next dispute.  Don't throw things in each other's faces.  Accept that we are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We have our moods, our reactions, our fears.

Acceptance:
Love people for who they are and who they aren't.  Allow them to change and grow.  Be willing to see them newly.  Don't put them in a box.  Instead of trying to make them be who you want them to be, give them the space to be who they are.

Give up Being Right:
Ask yourself--how important is your position, really?  Is being right more important than your relationships?

Ozzy the Boston Terrier being silly

Boston Terrier

I've been promoted!!!

Hi Guys! 

So on Friday of last week, I get a call from my boss in California. He asked if I would be interested in taking over as office manager for our office in Roseville, Minnesota. 

I was really surprised to say the least. (me? an office MANAGER?) 

I accepted.

Over the last year I've been slowly been taking over more and more tasks from the current office manager, and now I get the whole kip & kaboodle. 

She isn't fired or leaving or anything, but this frees her up to take care of her growing list of other duties involving sales representatives.  

I haven't gone to college. No technical schooling, yet here I am making good pay as an office manager in a job I actually enjoy and like. 

Had to share - thanks for reading. 

April

Positive Thoughts

May every day of your life bring you fresh hopes for tomorrow- because hope gives all of us our reason for trying.

May each new day bring a feeling of excitement , joy, and wonderful sense of expectation . Expect the best, and you'll get it.

May you find peace in simple things , because those are the ones that will always be there.

May you remember the good times and forget the sorrow and pain , for the good times will remind you of how special your life has been.

May you always feel secure and loved and know you are the best.

May you experience all the good things in life - the happiness of realizing your dreams , the joy of feeling worthwhile , and the satisfaction of knowing you've succeeded.

 May you find warmth in others , expressions of love and kindness , smiles that encourage you , and friends who are loyal and honest .

May you realize the importance of patience and accept others for what they are. With understanding and love , you'll find the good in every heart .

May you have faith in others and the ability to be vulnerable. Open your heart and really share the miracle of love and intimacy.

Above all , may you always have Positive Thoughts.

"Follow Up"

Greetings!

I have my follow up appointment today with the digestive specialists to go over the results of my colonoscopy. Good news - no disease activity, no present inflammation, and the biopsies they took are all non cancerous. She did point out that I am at high risk for cancer so they are going to continue to closely monitor me.

YAY!

To "let go"

To "let go" does not mean to stop caring,

it means I can’t do it for someone else.

To "let go" is not to cut myself off,

it’s the realization I can’t control another.

To "let go" is not to enable, but to allow

learning from natural consequences.

To "let go" is to admit powerlessness,

which means the outcome is not in my hands.

To "let go" is not to try to change or blame another,

it is to make the most of myself.

To "let go" is not to care for, but to care about.

To "let go" is not to fix, but to be supportive.

To "let go" is not to judge, but to allow another to be a

human being.

To "let go" is not to be in the middle arranging all the

outcomes,

but to allow others to affect their own destinies.

To "let go" is not to be protective, it is to permit another

to face reality.

To "let go" is not to deny, but to accept.

To "let go" is not to nag, scold or argue, but instead

to search out my own shortcomings and correct them.

To "let go" is not to adjust everything to my desires,

but to take each day as it comes and cherish myself in it.

To "let go" is not to regret the past, but to grow and live

for the future.

To "let go" is to fear less and love more.