2009 - Remembered

2009 was a year which found a lot of Americans unemployed,losing lots of money in their investments, ans many losing their homes. It has been a hard year for many and most will welcome 2010 with hopes of better times.
In January we saw our first african-american president sworn in. He has taken over a job that is filled with turmoil. I pray that he will do his job well and to the betterment or the country. He can not make everyone happy,but no one can. Let's just hope that we can look back on this time as changing for the good.
In 2009 the death angel claimed many of our celebrities. This link will take you to a list of them .
www.whosdatedwho.com/celebrities/people/list/celebrity-categories.asp?FD=yod&ID=2009
The one that it me the hardest was the death of David Carradine I have long been a fan of his.
My family was blessed to have two graduations this year Brandy from King's College and Jenny from Byrnes High.
We were very blessed to have Angelique return from Kuwait after a 6 month tour on Thanksgiving day.
2009 will be remembered with both good and bad which can be said of any year. But I chose to believe the good out weighted the bad.
Everyone have a safe and Happy New Year!!

Congraulations!!

My daughter,Brandy has graduated from King's College in Charlotte, NC. She now has an associates degree in Travel and Tourism. I am very proud of her. School has never been her favorite thing ,but she hung in there.
She has started a great job with Verizon in Charlotte and is planning a wedding for later in the year. I guess NC claims another one of our children. She's still only a couple of hours away. That's good she can visit often.

A New Week

It's a new week and at the end of it we get a new year.
Hopefully my depression is lifting. Most people love this time of year,but for me it just seems so stressful and depressing. I hope everyone did enjoy their holidays and not be down. I keep telling myself I will enjoy it more next year.
I am ready to start some new projects. I have a few new sewing items coming soon to my Etsy shop. And the amazing thing is that I am working on a piece of mixed media art. I am discovering interest I never knew I had.
Full time work starts back Jan. 4. But hopefully I will be able to manage my time better than I have in the past since I have an empty nest now.
Everyone be sure to make your charitable donations by Thursday if you are going to take them as a tax deduction. Remember to get a receipt. Also remember that property taxes paid on your home can be deducted even if you don't itemize. More tax tips to come later.

CHRISTMAS--JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON

We as Christians complain that Christ has been taken out of the day. But aren't we part of the problem?
Christmas has coming to mean big get togethers to eat,drink,and exchange gifts. We rush around shopping for gifts for folks who we don't know what they need or want. Just because that is what is expected. In what way does this honor our Lord? He cleared the temple of moneychangers yet isn't that what we are doing creating sales in his name that in no way honor him. We go in debt ,skip payments that should be made and do without so we can give a "nice gift". It makes more sense to buy a gift for a loved one when you see something they would enjoy or you think would make them happy instead of buying something ,anything so that you fit the mold. If I see the perfect gift for you in April why should I wait til December to give it to you?
Christmas should be the time that Christians celebrate the birth of our savior not turn it into a social celebration.
I tried to cancel Christmas at my house this year no one is coming over on Christmas day and I only put out a few decorations, no tree. It's not that I don't want to buy gifts for my loved ones I want to do it when .I see something I think will make them happy without consulting the calendar or having to buy everyone something at the same time.
Thanksgiving is a much better holiday to me it is about family and friends gathering to eat a feast,give Thanks and watch football. No pressure about gifts and who spent the most . No hurt feelings.

Christmas should have Christ put back into it by us Christians then maybe the world would get the picture.
I know I am guilty of selling Christmas items in my shop habits are hard to break but we do need to but the emphasis on the real reason for the season the birth of our Savior. How many of us stop and read the story of his birth on Christmas eve? Or we just to busy doing Christmas.
I would love to hear your comments on the subject.

November Ending

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving.
We ate our feast at our daughter Brandy's home in NC. It was her first holiday in her own apartment. The food was delicious. I ate too much. We had so many desserts to chose from it came down to a sliver of this and a spoon of that. The cherry cheesecake was my favorite.
We had so much to be thankful for Brandy has graduated from King's college with an associates' degree in travel and tourism,Jenny is surviving her freshman year at Clemson even though she thinks she won't. Angelique has returned from Kuwait. Everyone is employed and in at least fairly good health.
Everyone slow down a little bit and enjoy the season. We all get in such a rush, we miss out on all the fun.

Random Thoughts

These were sent to me my friend Nanci and they are so good I thought I would share.

Random Thoughts for the Day:

1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to
immediately clear your computer history if you die.

2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument
when you realize you're wrong.

3. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap
when I was younger.

4. There is great need for a sarcasm font.

5. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

6. Was learning cursive really necessary?

7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on #5.
I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told
you how the person died.

9. I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of
tired.

10. Bad decisions make good stories.

11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment
at work when you know that you just aren't going to do
anything productive for the rest of the day.

12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue
Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection...again.

13. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it
asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page research paper
that I swear I did not make any changes to.

14. "Do not machine wash or tumble dry" means I will never wash
this -- ever.

15. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello?
Hello? Damn it!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine
times and goes to voicemail. What'd you do after I didn't answer?
Drop the phone and run away?

16. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then
not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.

17. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know
not to answer when they call.

18. My 4-year old son asked me in the car the other day "Dad
what would happen if you ran over a ninja?" How the hell do I
respond to that?

19. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

20. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday
or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lite than Kay.

Friday Fill-ins

And...here we go!

1. Plans and schedules never work for me .

2. I'm happy when things go smoothly .

3. The last thing I drank was pepsi .

4. One of the most valuable things in my life is my family .

5. I like ham,mushrooms, and pineapple on my pizza.

6. Dear November,I love the colors and temperatures you bring.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to relaxing, tomorrow my plans include seeing "Men Who Stare at Goats" and Sunday, I want to watch racing and football as usual!

Friday Fill-ins

And...here we go!

1. It was a dark and stormy night, and I curled up with a good book.

2. She didn't make it to the library so I offered to take the books myself.

3. Rushing out, I always forget something.

4. Ohhh...I think I heard a howl!

5. Shhhh... I am trying to sleep.

6. I am hungry so give me something good to eat!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going shopping, tomorrow my plans include trick or treat and Sunday, I want to watch racing and football.

57 Days til Christmas

Can you believe Christmas eve is 8 weeks from today?

We aren't having a Christmas get together this year. All the kids are scattered and most have their own family units plus in-laws to see. But I hope the ones who are closest can drop in for a few hours, just don't think we can all make it at the same time.

So I am planning a Christmas dinner for about 6 to 8 people instead of 25. I probably will overcook we will be eating left overs til new year's!

I have been working on Christmas items for my Etsy shop. I added new items today. Today's blog picture is one of the ornaments I have made. Checkout the shop at http://www.nascarnana.etsy.com/ .

Don't forget to enter our street team giveaway.

Enter now for your chance to win 12 items from South Carolina artisans. A value of at least $75.http://scstreetteam.blogspot.com/2009/10/team-scs-sample-box-giveaway-enter.html

Bananas

I went to the grocery store today and found a large bag of bananas on clearance for $1.49. I love bananas. This bag had 20 bananas in it. Usually when I buy them like this there are overripe and I use them to make banana bread. But these were still firm. So I shared a few with my mom and then I made Banana Pudding for supper. The remainder I will make bread with tomorrow. Here is the recipe for the Yummiest Banana Pudding.

3/4 cup sugar,divided

1/3 cup flour

1/8 tsp salt

2 cups milk

3 eggs,separated

1/2 tsp vanilla

1/2 package vanilla wafers

5 bananas,sliced

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix 1/2 cup sugar,flour and salt in 3 quart pot. Blend in 3 egg yolks and milk. Cook over medium heat for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring constantly. When mixture has thickened remove from heat and add vanilla.

Layer wafers,bananas, and pudding in an oven proof dish.

Beat egg whites on high until soft peaks form while gradually adding 1/4 cup of sugar. Beat until stiff peaks form. Spread over the pudding mixture. Bake for 15 minutes.

SCTeam Giveaway!

The South Carolina Etsy Street Team is proud to announce their Sample Box Giveaway just in time for the Christmas shopping season!Various artisans from around the state of South Carolina have donated their time and talent to build this fantastic assortment of gorgeous items. This sample box contains items that are worth at least $75.00 and is up to a $120.00 value!! By winning this sample box, you could take care of all of your Christmas shopping at once (or if you want, keep it all for yourself!)The winner in this giveaway will win all of the items shown in the photo above:
Music CD- Nascarnana
Bookmark- Prisspatch
Crown Earrings- Hawleywood
15% off coupon- Citydetails
Tissueholder- Brownbagboutique
Greeting Card- Kwinkelerphotos
Earrings- Brittanyh
Key chain and Notepad- CurlyfrySC
Stone Pendant- Roagom
Earrings- JewelrybyPatricia
Pig Patterned Bag- MinnieMaes
Christmas Earrings- Bethwicker
Wondering how you can get the chance to win this fantastic sample box? Entering is easy, just leave a comment here - it's that easy!
Be sure to leave us a way to contact you if you are chosen (blog address, email, Etsy shop name, etc). Only one entry (comment) per person.
Comments can be left today through November 30th. A winner of this sample box will be chosen December 1st and notified.Worried that you might not be chosen the winner and you really, really want these gorgeous items? Don't panic! Click on over to the Team SC shop on Etsy and purchase your own sample box similar to the one pictured above.
And don't forget to visit the individual shops for some beautiful items.

Friday Fill-ins

And...here we go!
1. So are we going to ever see the sun agian?
2. Halloween is what's up ahead.
3. I love to watch birds.
4. I want a vacation of some sort.
5. I walk a rocky path of life.
6. Love is the true elixir of life!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a quite night, tomorrow my plans include watching the Charlotte race and Sunday, I want to watch football with Randy!

Remember Our Troops

I talked to my oldest daughter yesterday. She is a MSgt in the USAF deployed to Kuwait. I realized while talking to her how much we as Americans go about our daily lives never thinking about the men and women who are defending our way of life. We spending time almost everyday on our computers,watch tv(and complain there is nothing on our 200+ channels),eat what every we want and hug our family.

So many of our men and women are deployed to dangerous places missing their families,missing that cookie or chips we are eating and would be happy to watch reruns. And would be very happy to have to deal with homework and ball practice.

Lets all try to take a moment each day and pray for these brave men and women and the ones at home who are anxiously awaiting their return.

We need Your vote

Please visit the TeamSC Etsy team blog and vote for your favorite in our Halloween/Fall Creative Challenge.
http://scstreetteam.blogspot.com/2009/09/its-time-to-vote-for-your-favorite.html

Friday Fill-ins

And...here we go!
1. One week ago it was a very rainy day.
2. when I was young I was very skinny.
3. Mama told me never tell a lie.
4. Hoping for a great weekend for you and me.
5. Take your time and do it right.
6. All your troubles will pass!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to sewing, tomorrow my plans include spending time with Randy and Sunday, I want to watch Nascar and football!

Autumn

Autumn is my favorite time of year and today we welcome it.

I love the crisp air. Wearing sweaters and jeans. Eating apples,watching the leaves turn brilliant colors. Hearing the geese honk as they fly overhead. Football and racing on the weekends.Fall festivals and getting ready for the holidays.

Now, if only the weather here in upstate SC would get the message. It's rainy(to the pointing of flooding in some areas),the air is very warm and humid feels more like summer instead of the first of fall.

I am getting in to the crafting mode more making holiday items and working on a Halloween vest for my husband if it turns out ok I will post pictures.

Here's hoping for cooler,drier air and some sunshine to chase away the blahs.

Friday Fill-ins

1. My car is in need of a tune-up.
2. The Nascar Chase is coming up next.
3. Lately, things seem overwhelming.
4. The dark is one of my favorite 'hiding' places.
5. What happened to my brain power?
6. Happinessis not impossible!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching Jeopardy, tomorrow my plans include sewing and Sunday, I want to watch Nascar and football!

Doctor's Visit

I hate going to the doctor!!
I have to go in every 3 months for blood work and check. The nurse that always takes me back is so unfriendly. She barely speaks. She nearly pinches my arm off taking my blood pressure. She acts like it is a total inconvenience for me to be there. It's not like its a place I want to be,but I am paying them for a service it would be nice to get answers to my questions without feeling like I was holding her up.
I would think she was just having a bad day but she is always like this. I am not sure if I should complain and if I did who to complain to.
Oh well, I have lost 6 pounds since my visit 3 months ago and to me this was a great accomplishment and my blood pressure was only slightly elevated . (I contribute that to the nurse making me mad.)
Thanks for letting me vent. Maybe it lowered my blood pressure. LOL

Fall is in the Air

Finally,fall is in the air. I love this time of year. cooler weather,brilliant colors in nature,football,and preparing for the holidays.
We are not planning to do anything large for the holidays this year. Time to let the kids start making their own traditions. But I will be decorating for Halloween,Thanksgiving , and Christmas. I look all the colors that flow for these holidays.
I am also getting busy making new items for my Etsy shop. Sometimes getting the idea out of my head and into the finished product can be challenging. I just finished and listed a Halloween wreath that was stuck in my head so vividly, but so different for me it is totally black except for some silver glitter and bony skeletons. It turned out almost like it was in my head. I am happy with it.
I have more ideas I am working on but they are more colorful.
I would loved to hear your feedback on this latest creation.

Friday Fill-ins

And...here we go!
1. That's a hard thing to be.
2 Hey you; I'm over here!
3. The possibilities include: some driving time
4. Vegetable soup with cornbread is one of my favorite cool day recipes.
5. How will you know you have reached contentment in life?
6. Sorrow and a stormy sky.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to finishing my Halloween challenge item, tomorrow my plans include babysitting my granddaughter in Charlotte and Sunday, I want to go to church!

The Empty Nest

The time has finally arrived. We have an empty nest. Jenny left last weekend for the Clemson Bridge Program.

We are so excited. So many projects we want to do. Trips we want to take. After 35 years of always being responsible for someone else freedom is Delicious. I love all our kids and we be there if they need us. But it is time for them to build their own lives and for us to concentrate on each other and our dreams for our later years.

Over the next few months we will be remodeling our home should be an adventure. I plan to keep you updated with written reports and pictures.

I am also working on new things for my etsy shop keep an eye out new arrivals coming very soon.

Everyone have a fantastic September one of my favorite month's..

Friday Fill-ins

. I remember, I remember the days before cell phones.
2. Dear Jenny I want you to know I am proud of you.
3. Is that my reflection in the mirror!!???
4. I'm trying to resist the temptation of chocolate.
5. I'm saving a dance just for you!
6. If I made a birthday list a cruise would definitely be on it!!!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to hopefully feeling better, tomorrow my plans include doing absolutely nothing and Sunday, I want to sleep!

Friday Fill-in

And...here we go!1. When will the weather get cooler?
2. Hurricane was the last good book I read or movie I saw or tv show I watched.
3. Everything has its beauty but beauty is in the eye of the beholder
4. Egg salad sandwiches is what I had for dinner.
5. I'd like you to have a great weekend.
6. Go to bed is where I want to be right now.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward sleeping, tomorrow my plans include eating out and Sunday, I want watch the race and sew!

Blessings!

I am having a terrible go of it lately! So i figure i should count my blessings. It's suppose to make you realize how lucky you are!

1. I have a husband that loves me ;we are the odd couple I am Oscar,he's Felix.

2.All our children are in good health,have decent jobs,and a decent place to live. Even the 2 in college have part-time jobs.

3.We are not in danger of losing our home and we actually eat too much.

4.Our health is not doing well right now but we do have good health insurance.

5. Angelique is in Kuwait but it seems to be a safe location and November is right around the corner.

I am just tired , I am being pulled in so many directions,expected to solve every one's crises. But after 35 years of taking care of everyone else I need some me time. Why does no one understand???

Should Go To bed

I am sitting here on the computer after taking my medication and I should be in the bed.


so if I sound a little off rack it up to the medicine.
I have been looking forward to downsizing for a long time. It's finally happening mid August;but there are mixed emotions about it. I am sure Jenny will do well she has had her plan set since middle school she is following her dream.
But unfortunately some of the other kids are not set on a path to follow their dreams and they are jealous of the one's who are. And Mom feels stuck in the middle because she loves all of them and wants them to be happy. But I can't make their decisions for them. And I can't fix the messes they make they are adults now. Being a mother to grown children is a lot harder than having little ones.

Friday Fill Ins

And...here we go!1.Watermelon is my favorite summertime fruit .2. My favorite John Hughes movies is don't know one :(.3. My husband's face is something I love to touch.4. The full moon makes me mischievous.5. Sleepy right now.6. When daylight fades the stars shine. 7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to crafting, tomorrow my plans include shopping and crafting and Sunday, I want to watch the race!

WHERE HAVE I BEEN?

I can't believe it's been over a month since I blogged. I was so certain I was going to have better time management.

July was a busy month. Jenny had her college orientation,basically boring for us both. I have taught the kids independence since they were able to walk so she knows how to make decisions and knows what classes she needs to take to fulfil her dreams. She moves in August 21. She is very excited. I know she will do well.

I also had my first etsy sale in July. I was very happy. I followed some advice I read about listing a new item or re listing everyday to drive traffic up and it is working.

I am working on some new things for the shop, getting ready for the holidays. But I have to finish a baby quilt for a shower and refinishing a bed before I can give it the attention it needs.

I am posting a picture of my latest quilt.

I am going to try to blog I least once a week this month.

Thanks for dropping by.

Christmas in July

I hope everyone had a great 4th of July. Randy and I watched a very exciting Nascar race from Daytona. Tony Stewart (my favorite driver) won. There were a few bad wrecks , but no one was serious hurt and the racing was good.

I am working on a Noah's Ark baby quilt hope to have it done soon and in the shop.

Teamsc is having a Christmas in July sale. I am listing all the participating shops. Check them out for some great sales.

I am offering 20% all the artwork in my shop plus free shipping to the US.

These TEAM SC members are having a “CHRISTMAS IN JULY”sale, discount or give-away♫ http://allaboutthebuttons.etsy.com/♫ http://carolinakloset.etsy.com/♫ http://carolinagirlbowtique.etsy.com/ ♫ http://curlyfrysc.etsy.com/♫ http://customcandycreations.etsy.com/♫ http://ladypippie.etsy.com/♫ http://lolsoaps.etsy.com/♫ http://lowe40.etsy.com/♫ http://minniemaes.etsy.com/♫ http://morganalexadesigns.etsy.com/♫ http://nascarnana.etsy.com/♫ http://roagom.etsy.com/♫ http://stitchnlove.etsy.com/♫ http://thevillagestar.etsy.com/

In Memory of my Father

Happy Father's Day, Daddy!

I miss being able to say these words. My daddy went home to be with Jesus May 22,1987. He was in the hospital after having had surgery for cancer,the doctors called the family in late at night on the 21st. He was worse,so they were moving him to ICU. As we followed the bed he was in to the elevator he was singing "I'm going home to see Jesus". The doctor said he shouldn't even be conscious and he wasn't after he arrived at ICU. This memory is even more precious because my daddy didn't sing,EVER! He was happy and at peace.

My daddy was born in 1917. The oldest of 12 kids. He had a condition with his spinal that made him kinda stoop over,this was the reason for his nickname "Humpy".

Daddy loved books, and everything about learning.He would have loved to have been a lawyer.But times were hard and he had to quit school before getting his high school diploma and go to work in a cotton mill.

He was a weaver and a very good one. He taught me no matter what you do in life give it your all. I have always tried to follow this and at times have been a workaholic .

He never stopped reading and encouraged all of us kids to read. He was teaching me to read the newspaper before I stared school. I am still an avid reader.

He also loved nature and gardening. I believe he could grow anything. Once in the mid 1970s he planted a marijuana plant. It was said to be very hard to grow. He planted it among his tomato plants. After about a month it was doing good but he was afraid of getting busted so he destroyed it. I am sure the cops would not have believed he only wanted to see if he could grow it but that was the truth.

He taught me to play poker which I love. I still play at pokerstars.net.(no real money exchanges hands).

He also loved football. His team was the Washington Redskins and I am thankful he got to see them win a superbowl.

I miss him in so many ways. A few years back I had jury duty he would have loved discussing that . We would have enjoyed watching OJ's trail together it would have been about the court proceeding for us not the celebrity.

He had 5 children and now has 12 grandchildren. And at least 6 great grandchildren,one of my nephews may have more than I know. They have all done well. His oldest granddaughter is a teacher I know he would be proud. But so far no lawyer. Maybe one of the great grandkids will be one.

I love you ,daddy .

New Shop on Etsy

www.NanasFinds.etsy.com

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25824020

I have opened a new shop on Etsy to sell vintage items. I am just getting it stocked. Bought my banner and avatar from Sandy,at http://www.morganalexadesigns.etsy.com/. She also made the banner and avatar for my nascarnana shop. Check out her work it is awesome and she gets it to you fast.

I have a doctor's appointment early tomorrow morning (blood work,ugh!) and we must visit my mother-in-law she has been in the hospital since May18th but she is doing better.

After all that I hope to get new items listed in both shops. So when you have a few minutes check them out and let me know what you think.

I've Been Tagged---8 is Great

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23335738

I was tagged by a fellow member of the SC Etsy Street team,Minniemaes. She makes beautiful things with a useful purpose. I am one of her repeat customers. Above is one of her great coupon organizers.

8 is Great is the name of the Tagging game. These are the rules,if you would like to play:

1.Mention the name of the person who tagged you.

2.Do the lists of 8

3.Tag 8 bloggers of your choice.

4.Let said bloggers know they have been tagged!

8 Things I'm Looking Forward To:

1. Getting my craft room finished.

2.Having an empty nest come August.

3.The cruise my husband and I have planned for next year.

4.Getting a second car--we have been making due with 1 for almost 6 years.

5.My daughter coming back from Kuwait.

6.Putting wood floors in our living room.

7.Finishing the many projects I have started.

8.Learning to use my new embroidery sewing machine.

8 Things I did Yesterday:

1.Defrosted the deep freezer.

2.Did the laundry.

3.Mopped the kitchen.

4.Grocery shopped.

5.Talked to Mama on the phone for an hour.

6.Took Jenny to work,then picked her up.

7.Read my emails and some blogs.

8.Filled the bird feeders.

8 Things I Wish I could Do

1.Have a deck built outside my craft room.

2.Have landscaping work done to our yard.

3.Learn to speak Spanish.

4.Have a cabin in the mountains.

5.Become motivated to exercise more.

6.Open a gift shop.

7.Travel cross country for a couple of months stopping at interesting out of the way places.

8.Send more support to my favorite charity:Food For The Poor.

8 Shows I Watch

1.Nascar Racing

2.NCSI

3.Flashpoint

4.Clean House (it makes my house look better)

5.House Hunters

6.CSI:NY

7.Jeopardy

8.The Big Bang Theory

8 Bloggers Tagged

1.Golden Willow Products

2.Simply Charming in SC

3.Yesterday's Glitter

4.Southern Belle's Blog:)

5.Rock N Roll McAshley-My Life Blogged

6.Magnolia Blossom Art

7.Michelles Charm World

8.Designs by Vanessa

There you have mine. i hop you chose to play I am looking forward to reading every one's.

The Adoption is Final!!

My oldest daughter; Angelique is not able to have children. But even as a little girl she always wanted to be a Mom. So in January 2007 her and her husband took into their home to wonderful little boys. At the time they were stationed in Germany and the boys are from Oklahoma. Before the adoption could become final she got orders to Illinois. So then they had to meet standards for both states. During all that time we could not display their pictures on any of our web sites. That's tough on a Nana. But as of today they are legally my grandsons . So now I can post all of my grandchildren pictures.

It's a happy day in this family.

10 Day Countdown

I have my counter set to countdown til May26. It will be a day of a wide range of emotions for me. On that day my oldest daughter must report for duty in Kuwait. She will be there until late November;leaving a husband and 2 sons back home in Illinois. The adoption of the 3 boys will be final Monday 05/18/2009. My heart breaks for her having to leave them. And of course I am afraid for her,but I am also very proud of her. She went in to the USAF 10 days after graduating from high school in 1992 and this is her first really dangerous assignment. She has made her mother very proud.

On the same day in the early evening my baby will graduate from high school. She will be leaving for college in August. She has also made her mother proud. She is in the top 15% of her class,has been active in school clubs,church,and held a job since late 10th grade.

I am also very proud of our 5 other kids and if I listed their accomplishments I would be here half the night. But these 2 are the bookends of my "career as a mother" . I start a new phase in my life I will always be a mother and be there if they need me;but after 35 years I don't have to be as serious or as responsible. The thought is exhilarating and scary at the same time.

So I guess I need a whole box of kleenex for May 26th.

Facing Motality

I have not blogged in almost a month. It seems like I have come face to face with my mortality and I am trying to deal with it. My Mom's health has started to decline it is hard to witness plus I share some of the diseases she suffers from. She has not taken care of herself and I am not doing a good job of taking care of myself either. In late 2006;early 2007 I faced a terrible emotional upheaval I tell myself I have put it behind me, but I never was good at taking care of myself ; always taking care of others. And now I seem to have given up on myself. I have reached the highest weight of my life 210. That's bad for a 5'4" woman who has diabetes and high blood pressure.
I know I need to lose weight and to exercise but I just seem to be stuck in park.
I thought I was on the right track last year when I opened my etsy shop I was finally doing something I wanted to do and my creativity was starting to show up.
But now I don't seem able to create anything. It's like I have lost my zest for life. Everyone keeps pulling at me to do for them and I am tired I expected to be able to do things for myself at this stage of my life but instead I am stuck in park with my insides overheating.
I know this probably makes no sense I am just rambling but I am trying to get back on track and quit wasting my life. Life is short and I really do want to enjoy the remainder of mine. I don't want to be like mom depressed, bitter, and negative.
Hopefully I will figure a way to make it out of this dark place.
Thanks for listening to my ramblings hopefully the next update will be more upbeat and not so far apart.

Welcome to the World Tyler

My God grandson Tyler was born April 8th 2009 at 5:45pm in Greenville SC . He weighs 7lbs.and 4oz. Mother and son are doing fine can't wait to hold him. Congratulations Karie and Josh.

I Finished a Project---YES!

It seems like I have a dozen projects going on. I will be glad when tax season is over so I will have more time.

This is a baby blanket I made for my daughter's best friend her baby is due April 13. Randy says its the best blanket I have made so far. Maybe I should take orders instead of making them random for the shop. Knowing it is for someone makes it special.

20 Years

March 21 our 20th anniversary. It's so hard to believe. It seems like just yesterday we were getting married.

We had 5 kids between us that day,had jobs we liked and a plan. But God has his on plans 2 years later we have 7 kids the last 2 only 45 weeks apart.

Life has taken a lot of twists and turns since then. The baby was 18 last Sunday;the oldest will be 35 in July.

The kids are grown,the jobs are totally different , the plan is different but the love is stronger than ever.

It has been an adventure and I am looking forward to the next 20. We are going to be the kids I never had a chance to be. So if I times I sound like I have lost it really, I have found it.

Randall, I Love You, Always and Forever.

Friday Ramblings!!

I am off work and looking forward to the weekend. The weather is suppose to be beautiful in the 70's. not like the snowy weather last weekend.
I am hoping to get a lot done.
below is a fill in list I picked up at Curlyfrysc blog site she has a link to go to the original blog I am still figuring out how to do links. Sometimes the computer can be challenging for us old ladies.
Everyone remember TURN THE CLOCKS UP 1 HOUR BEFORE BED SATURDAY
its that time again!



1. Letting a lady go in front of me in line was my last random act of kindness. 2. Another place would be lonely without Randy.3. Tread lightly in matters of the heart.4. Coffee, tea or Pepsi. 5. We are walk separate paths.6. Our love reminds me that there is a safe haven from the troubles of the world. 7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to sleeping,tomorrow my plans include shopping,cleaning crafting, and Sunday, I want to watch the race!!

Snow,snow,snow go away!

My power is back on . We got hit by a winter storm Sunday dumping 6 inches of snow we had thunder and lightning with it the
news cast called it thunder snow it was weird. And being in the south we lost power. But this time I was prepared I have a kerosene heater that will heat up to 1000 square feet and plenty of candles. But no cable or computer and I can't read or sew by candle light. I really am amazed at what people could do a 100 years ago.
But I am taking the day off the roads are in bad shape and I drive a Kia Rio not exactly a heavy car. I hope no one wanted their taxes done today.
Everyone have a great week I am going to finish up a baby quilt I am making for a baby shower later this month and hopefully get a few items in my etsy shop.

A Weekend off!!!

I have been enjoying my first weekend off in a month. The weather is beautiful,sunny and warm.

I have been watching the birds eat at our feeder in the yard. I am going to have to get a book to teach myself the different birds I am seeing.

I have gotten some crafts done a couple of new items are in my etsy shop . I still haven't had any sales on Etsy but I have sold a few items locally. I am now working on orders for college pillows . A plus to having a high school senior. I must brag about her she will be attending Clemson for her college years this is a dream come true for her. She was also accepted at Auburn but she is staying in state.

I have started to Twitter you can follow me at Nascarnana56@twitter.com.

Work has slowed down so I hope to be blogging more often. Everyone have a great week.

One More Day!

One more day of long hours then back to more reasonable work days. Then I will be back on more often . Thanks to Crystal for mentioning me in an award earlier this month sorry I was so slow in catching up.
I am planning on catching up on all my blog friends next week and posting more often.
I also plan to add new items to my etsy shop so stay tuned.

Stress!! Stress!!!STRESS!!!!

Boy has my life become stressful. It's busy season at work. So I don't eat right and don't get enough sleep. So I am bitchy! Then we get the news that my husband 's plant is going to be closed for a week they are already on 4 days .
So I am that poor kitten holding on to the end of the rope and then I get the worse news of the year. My daughter is going to Kuwait in June for 6 months. She doesn't think of it as a big deal but her mother thinks it terrifying even though I know its her job and I am proud of her .
Everyone please pray for me and the poor people who have to live and work with me. Hopefully I wont hurt anyone's feelings before I get it together.

Going To Have a New Daughter-in-law

Karieann & Thomas

Our youngest son woke me up a 6:30am to tell me he had asked his girlfriend to marry him. And she said yes.

The family is expanding. They are planning a spring 2010 wedding. That gives me time to lose some weight.Maybe the thought of all those pictures will motivate me.

I am already thinking about a design for a quilt for them and he doesn't think you can have enough pillows.

She is a very sweet girl and they make a nice couple. Randy is thinking about having more grandkids in a few years to spoil.

I am very tired need some sleep but thought I should post this in case some family members had not heard.

Everyone have a great week.

Another Week!

It has been a looong week. I worked 58 hours this week it leaves so little time for crafting. But the bills must be paid and I am thankful to have a job. I probably would get more into the shop if I would focus on one project at a time. But that is not me. My brain whirls with ideas and have many projects going on at the same time. I have finished a pillow that I have listed in my etsy shop. I am posting a picture of it here. I should have a 2nd one finished and in the shop before bed. Next week is 12 hour days so I won't be posting much but I will be reading other blogs as time permits. I enjoy reading everyone's blogs some are enlighting, entertaining,and just fun way to connect with others.

Everyone have a great week and keep me in your prayers . This Nana needs more energy.

Inaugration Day!

In honor of Inauguration day I am having a one day sale in my etsy shop. 20% off all purchases .Discount refunded Thur Paypal.

http://nascarnana.etsy.com/

We had a fun meeting of the Upstate members of Teamsc in Spartanburg on Monday it was nice to meet everyone and put faces with names. Some of our members brought some of their work for us to see. We have very talented artists check out their etsy shops.

http://rocknrollmcmama.etsy.com/

http://allaboutthebuttons.etsy.com/

http://hawleywood.etsy.com/

http://gemlover7476.etsy.com/

http://bittybooks.etsy.com/

http://jmkoontz.etsy.com/

http://morganalexadesigns.esty.com/

http://dayzface.etsy.com/

http://yumyumcreations.etsy.com/

http://beaddazzled.etsy.com/

Everyone have a good week.

New Etsy Shop Banner

Check out my new banner and new avatar. I got them from fellow teamsc member Sandy at

http://www.morganalexadesigns.etsy.com/

Check out all her banners, she is really talented and gets them to you super fast.

Tired!

I am so tired. Work started back full time this week and I worked 53 hours. My blood sugar level is up , it seems to go up when I am stressed. I have to figure a way to control this.
I have got a new pillow listed in the shop. Then the camera said low battery so it will be later this week before I get more items listed in the shop.
I hope everyone is enjoying the new year. I was looking forward to the football playoffs but my Panthers forgot to show up last night! Now I am not sure who I will pull for.
But it's 5 weeks til the Daytona 500. It always seems like a long time between Homestead and Daytona.
Everyone have a great week.

Etsy :: Treasury West List

Etsy :: Treasury West List


http://www.etsy.com/trasury_list_west.php?room_id=38430

Check it out I am featured in a treasury!!!!

Good Advice

A friend send me the following advice for the New Year. I think it is such good advice I wanted to share it.

Let this coming year be better than all the others. Vow to do some of the things you’ve always wanted to do but couldn’t find the time.
Call up a forgotten friend. Drop an old grudge, and replace it with some pleasant memories.
Share a funny story with someone whose spirits are dragging. A good laugh can be very good medicine.
Vow not to make a promise you don’t think you can keep.
Pay a debt.
Give a soft answer.
Free yourself of envy and malice.
Encourage some youth to do his or her best. Share your experience, and offer support. Young people need role models.
Make a genuine effort to stay in closer touch with family and good friends.
Resolve to stop magnifying small problems and shooting from the lip. Words that you have to eat can be hard to digest.
Find the time to be kind and thoughtful. All of us have the same allotment: 24 hours a day. Give a compliment. It might give someone a badly needed lift.
Think things through. Forgive an injustice. Listen more. Be kind.
Apologize when you realize you are wrong. An apology never diminishes a person. It elevates him.
Don’t blow your own horn. If you’ve done something praiseworthy, someone win notice eventually.
Try to understand a point of view that is different from your own. Few things are 100 percent one way or another.
Examine the demands you make on others.
Lighten up. When you feel like blowing your top, ask yourself, "Will it matter a week from today?"
Laugh the loudest when the joke is on you..
The sure way to have a friend is to be one. We are all connected by our humanity, and we need each other.
Avoid malcontents and pessimists. They drag you down and contribute nothing.
Don’t discourage a beginner from trying something risky. Nothing ventured means nothing gained.. Be optimistic. The can-do spirit is the fuel that makes things go.
Go to war against animosity and complacency.
Express your gratitude. Give credit when it’s due—and even when it isn’t. It will make you look good.
Read something uplifting. Deep-six the trash. You wouldn’t eat garbage—why put it in your head?
Don’t abandon your old-fashioned principles. They never go out of style..
When courage is needed, ask yourself, "If not me, who? If not now, when?"
Take better care of yourself. Remember, you’re all you’ve got. Pass up that second helping. You really don’t need it. Vow to eat more sensibly. You’ll feel better and look better, too.
Don’t put up with secondhand smoke. Nobody has the right to pollute your air or give you cancer.. If someone says, "This is a free country," remind him or her that the country may be free, but no person is free if he has a habit he can’t control.
Return those books you borrowed. Reschedule that missed dental appointment. Clean out your closet. Take those photos out of the drawer and put them in an album. If you see litter on the sidewalk, pick it up instead of walking over it.
Give yourself a reality check. Phoniness is transparent, and it is tiresome. Take pleasure in the beauty and the wonders of nature. A flower is God’s miracle.
Walk tall, and smile more.. You’ll look 10 years younger.
Don’t be afraid to say, "I love you." Say it again. They are the sweetest words in the world.
If you have love in your life, consider yourself blessed, and vow to make this the best year ever.

Everyone have a great weekend!

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year,Everyone!
I started off my day by going to pounce on etsy and making a purchase from a shop that had not had a sale yet. This is going to be one of my new year goals to make a first purchase from a shop once a month.
This year I am setting goals that are different from previous years. They are not as focused on changing me but on being more myself and enjoying life.
I do have one big one focused on change and it is the old cliche of better diet and exercise but not for the reason of changing my appearance but to improve my health. I found out in June that I have diabetes (which is very bad in my family) and I HATE shots so I must try to do all I can not to have to go on insulin.
I also want to do things I have always put off to later. Learn to knit, learn Spanish,and take a cruise.
Our youngest daughter graduates from high school in May. So we are hoping to take a cruise next fall.
Tomorrow tax season official opens so its back to work full time. But I will still take time for me and do something everyday that I enjoy.
If you check out my etsy shop you will see how I keep finding things I like to create.
I wish everyone a happy and healthy new year.