Vacation Day #2
Sorry this one is late. The weekend got away from me. :-)
Well, this one will be relatively simple, because Day #2 was filled with Doctors appointments.
"Little Mark" had one at Children's Medical Center to see if he might have a mild form of Tourret's. The 3 student doctors were very nice and patient with him. They said he did very well, and consulted with the head doctor. He came in and tested "Little Mark" as well. He said he did not think he had Tourettes, but could benefit from a speech therapist.
We then went to a different "Half Price Bookstore", and to an eye doctor appointment.
The day was not as "exciting" as the other days, but it was productive.
There was one thing about the day that did bother me for awhile, and I pretty much kept it to myself, because I needed to sort how I felt about it. For those of you who have homeschooled for awhile you may relate.
When the doctor at CMC found out we homeschool he began to ask "Little Mark" questions. It kind of took us both by surprise. He asked "Little Mark" two fairly simple problems, and "Little Mark" could not answer them. Now, I KNOW he knew the answers, but he was flustered and could not think on his feet. He felt he was being put on the defensive. The doctor then asked him several questions like "Who is the President? Vice-President? What's the Capitol of Texas? Capitol of the US? "Little Mark knew all of those answers and said them confidently. Then the doctor asked him what is the capitol of Argentina? At this point I got my bearings and spoke up, "We have not studied that yet, but overall he does very well." I'm glad he didn't ask me the capitol of Argentina, because I don't know!
It was after we left that I realized I was angry with myself, because I know that "Little Mark" knew the math answers, but he works problems out writing them down. If I had simply said, "Please give him a pen and paper. Now, "Little Mark", draw a rectangle, give it the measurements of 12" X 7" and find the area. He could have solved it in seconds, shutting the doctor up. (His question had been what is 12x7, that "Little Mark did not answer.)
So, why did it bother me so much? Was it a pride issue of "now he thinks I am not doing a good enough job teaching? Was it a "how does this reflect on homeschooling as a whole" situation? Why was I not more assertive? I realized I was angry with myself for not taking a stand.
In the end I realized it just didn't matter. I know what curriculums we use, and I know that based on those curriculums "Little Mark" is right on target, and ahead in some areas. So, I am not worried. I am no longer angry with myself, because I can't change the past. However, you can bet that I will be more on guard, and if the situation ever arose again I know I will handle it better. After all, don't we teach the kids that "life" is and education, and we are always learning and growing? We learn from our mistakes, and the mistakes of others, and we strive to do better.
For those of you who homeschool, has this ever happened to you? How did you handle it? Do you feel that people base their opinion of homeschooling on what they see YOU do, and does that make you put more pressure on yourself, and your children?
I think that while we do need to be mindful of how we represent homeschooling, we can't put the undo pressure on ourselves thinking "the world is watching us", because we would go crazy! I know I have been guilty of it in the past, which is why I have chosen to "let this one go" and just learn from it and move on. However, I really did need to vent. :-) So, thank you for listening.
Tomorrow, I will be back with Day #3, the King Tut Exhibit. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Monday, October 13, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
Grocery Cart Challenge Recipe Swap
OK, I know I said I would post Day #2 of our vacation today, but I forgot it was Friday; and Friday is recipe swap day. :-) So, I'll post about Day #2 tomorrow. :-)
Just the other day I posted about the NEW Soldiers' Angels cook book. I have some recipes in the cook book, so I thought I would post one of the ones that I submitted. That way you would get an idea of what kind of recipes are included. ;-)
This one was actually given to me by my sister, Michelle, so she does get the credit. ;-) It is a really great recipe. Enjoy.
Easy Lasagna
3 lb. ground beef
2 jars Prego Spaghetti sauce (we use tomato,onion,garlic flavor) 1 large jar and 1 medium jar
2 cans Italian tomato paste
1 box lasagna noodles
1 medium onion, chopped
garlic, chopped; to taste
About 3 8oz packages of Mozzarella cheese
Combine ground beef, onion, and garlic in a pan. Cook until meat is browned; drain all excess fat and return to the pan. Stir in spaghetti sauce and tomato paste, simmer until hot.
Cook noodles until almost done (you will need about 12 noodles) Drain. In a 13 X 9 casserole dish layer bottom of dish so that it is covered. (About 6 noodles). Spoon the sauce over noodles, so that all of it is covered. Cover with mozzarella cheese. Repeat steps for a second layer. Cover with aluminum foil, and bake on 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until noodles are soft, and it is baked all the way through. Serve with salad and garlic bread. refrigerate or freeze leftovers. Tastes just as good reheated.
Love,
Wendy Darling
OK, I know I said I would post Day #2 of our vacation today, but I forgot it was Friday; and Friday is recipe swap day. :-) So, I'll post about Day #2 tomorrow. :-)
Just the other day I posted about the NEW Soldiers' Angels cook book. I have some recipes in the cook book, so I thought I would post one of the ones that I submitted. That way you would get an idea of what kind of recipes are included. ;-)
This one was actually given to me by my sister, Michelle, so she does get the credit. ;-) It is a really great recipe. Enjoy.
Easy Lasagna
3 lb. ground beef
2 jars Prego Spaghetti sauce (we use tomato,onion,garlic flavor) 1 large jar and 1 medium jar
2 cans Italian tomato paste
1 box lasagna noodles
1 medium onion, chopped
garlic, chopped; to taste
About 3 8oz packages of Mozzarella cheese
Combine ground beef, onion, and garlic in a pan. Cook until meat is browned; drain all excess fat and return to the pan. Stir in spaghetti sauce and tomato paste, simmer until hot.
Cook noodles until almost done (you will need about 12 noodles) Drain. In a 13 X 9 casserole dish layer bottom of dish so that it is covered. (About 6 noodles). Spoon the sauce over noodles, so that all of it is covered. Cover with mozzarella cheese. Repeat steps for a second layer. Cover with aluminum foil, and bake on 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until noodles are soft, and it is baked all the way through. Serve with salad and garlic bread. refrigerate or freeze leftovers. Tastes just as good reheated.
Love,
Wendy Darling
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Vacation - Day #1
We left for vacation on Wednesday morning at 5:00am. We arrived in Dallas about 8:00 am and dropped the younger nephew off at home. He missed Mom and Dad, and we are pretty sure he would have no interest in the plans we had for the day. :-)
Our first stop, after the bathroom break, was the Sixth Floor Museum, aka "The JFK museum". This is an amazing place y'all. It was rather surreal going through it, given its history and all. It was very interesting, and the way the tour is set up it really gives you a feel for who John F. Kennedy was, and all the turmoil of that time. I am sorry this is the picture I have of the outside. I was told that we couldn't take pictures, but I didn't know I could take them BEFORE we entered the tour, and I left my camera in the car. Oh well...
The admission includes an audio tour that tells you what section to look at when, and describes everything that is going on. You get to hear actual footage of interviews, reporters, policemen,etc. You get to see old news reels of JFK's speeches, etc.
The thing that impressed me most how much "Little Mark" was interested. He really listened to everything, and even asked questions. Insightful questions.
I think the part that struck me most was when the tour instructed us to look out the side window and we were overlooking the grassy knoll and the street that the car was driving down at the time of the assassination. Like I said before, it was surreal.
After the Museum we drove around and tried, unsuccessfully, to get a picture of the grassy knoll. We did drive past the JFK Memorial, and I got a picture of it out the window. :-) We were actually trying to find the Pioneer Plaza so I could get a picture of the "cattle drive." We never found it.
So, we decided to abandon our quest and head to lunch. We had lunch at Denny's. It rocked. :-)
We then went to "window shop" at the galleria. Yeah. Window shop is about all most people can afford to do at the galleria. Holy Moly the prices at Nordstrom alone almost made me pass out!
All "Little Mark" really wanted to do was ride the escalators , so we obliged him. We went to the third floor and looked down on all of the people ice skating. We did go into a few shops and look around. We tried some "Armadillo Droppings", which is just overpriced, chocolate covered sunflower seeds. :-) Cute idea though. :-)
After an hour or so in the galleria we decided to head to a "Christmas Store" I read about on the Internet. Have I mentioned how much I LOVE Christmas?! :-) Anyway, it was very nice to look at all of the ornaments, trees, villages, etc; but it was a little hot in the store, so we didn't stay long.
We then went to "Half Price Books" and browsed around. I purchased a Beth Moore book, and Mom sat and drank coffee. :-)
We also hit a $0.99 store, and then ran by to get some groceries toward dinner. All in all it was a very nice day. The weather was great, and we had a lot of fun. :-)
Be back later with Day #2. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
New Cookbook!!! :-)
Hi, everyone ;-) Well, we are officially back from vacation. We had a great time! I will be blogging about it this week, but first I wanted to just let you know that we are back, and let you know about this great new cookbook. :-)
You may remember that I gave away a cookie cookbook a few months ago. The cookbook was put together by Soldiers' Angels, and the proceeds are used to help soldiers and their families. Well, we have put together another one, but this time it is REAL FOOD. :-) Here is a Direct quote from the website describing the cookbook:
Love,
Wendy Darling
Hi, everyone ;-) Well, we are officially back from vacation. We had a great time! I will be blogging about it this week, but first I wanted to just let you know that we are back, and let you know about this great new cookbook. :-)
You may remember that I gave away a cookie cookbook a few months ago. The cookbook was put together by Soldiers' Angels, and the proceeds are used to help soldiers and their families. Well, we have put together another one, but this time it is REAL FOOD. :-) Here is a Direct quote from the website describing the cookbook:
Cooking with Angels: May No Soldier Go Unloved or Unfed. Treasured Recipes from Soldiers' Angels Dedicated to Our Veterans and Troops has almost 280 pages of heavenly recipes from Soldiers’ Angels and supporters of Soldiers’ Angels. Recipes are given for hors d’oeuvres; breakfast foods; breads; soups; salads; vegetables; potatoes; pasta, rice, and grains; meat; poultry; game; fish and shellfish; vegetarian main dishes; desserts; cakes; pies and pastries; cookies and candies; drinks; and salsas, sauces, dips, and dunks. Celebrities, such as Paula Deen, and sports and political figures also contributed recipes. An original poem honoring our brave troops is included.
You will certainly be able to find recipes for that special Welcome Home dinner as well as quick and delicious recipes for a homey dinner after a long day at work.
Almost all recipes have a dedication to a hero, wounded warrior, fallen warrior, or veteran, and these from-the-heart dedications are what makes Cooking with Angels so special.
An excellent companion to Angel Delights, the cookie book, Cooking with Angels will make a wonderful holiday present for all the cooks or heroes in your life.
.
It is a must have for any cook book collector. :-) Hop on over HERE to order your copy now. It also makes great gifts. :-) I'll be back tomorrow with the first blog about our vacation. :-)Love,
Wendy Darling
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
"The Warrior is a Child"
Several years ago, when I used to sing specials in church, this was one song I tried to sing a lot. I say "tried", because I rarely made it through without crying. I always choked up at the same place.
"People say that I'm amazing, never face retreat
But they don't see the enemies that lay me at His feet"
Can I get an "amen"? The words to this song are so moving, I don't know how Twyla Paris got through it every time she sang it. Very beautifully too, I might add. :-)
This afternoon I heard this song on the radio. I hadn't heard it in so long, and the second it came on I immediately knew what it was. I turned it up and began to sing. I remembered ALL the words, and then the part came. And I choked up. Praise God. :-)
So, I decided that since I probably won't be posting for a week I would leave y'all with this video. I pray that it blesses you as much as it blesses me. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Several years ago, when I used to sing specials in church, this was one song I tried to sing a lot. I say "tried", because I rarely made it through without crying. I always choked up at the same place.
"People say that I'm amazing, never face retreat
But they don't see the enemies that lay me at His feet"
Can I get an "amen"? The words to this song are so moving, I don't know how Twyla Paris got through it every time she sang it. Very beautifully too, I might add. :-)
This afternoon I heard this song on the radio. I hadn't heard it in so long, and the second it came on I immediately knew what it was. I turned it up and began to sing. I remembered ALL the words, and then the part came. And I choked up. Praise God. :-)
So, I decided that since I probably won't be posting for a week I would leave y'all with this video. I pray that it blesses you as much as it blesses me. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Monday, September 29, 2008
Can we say, "Overload?"
I seriously think that my brain is going to explode, y'all. Is anyone else so tired of hearing the words "bail out", "Presidential election".... that they could just scream?
I mean, I KNOW that it is important. I know this is a critical time in our country, and history is literally being made, but at the risk of sounding cynical, I just don't know how much more I can take.
We leave for vacation in 2 days, and it is starting to feel more stressful than relaxing. SO, I have vowed that for the next week I will do all I can to avoid the news, debates, magazines, etc. that have anything to do with the previously mentioned words or phrases, or anything even closely related.
I will record the Vice-Presidential debates and watch them next week. But, beginning on Wednesday there will be nothing but relaxing, learning, and enjoying my family. That's it. It may not be responsible, but believe me it is NECESSARY!!!
Love,
Wendy Darling
Friday, September 26, 2008
Recipe Swap Friday...
Today is Friday, and that means it's time to post a recipe. I had several I wanted to post, but I decided to go with this one. Some parts of the country are starting to experience the cooler weather of fall. Not neccesarily here in east Texas, but some places in the country. ;-) Cooler weather means it's time to make SOUP. So, I'm posting my recipe for home made vegetable soup. You'll need a BIG pot. You can change the amount of any of the veggies, or omit/add if what you like. These are just the ones I prefer to use. I have used others things as well if I had them on hand. Enjoy! :-)
Homemade Vegetable Soup
2 cups of frozen corn
2 cups of frozen peas
2 cups of frozen green beans
2 cups of fresh baby carrots (those tiny ones you can buy in the little packages. OR, you can just use the big ones and cut them into coins. Just try to make sure they are about the same size.)
1 large onion, diced small
1 cup of chopped, fresh celery (or more if you like.)
2 cloves of garlic, diced tiny (or you can use the jar stuff already diced for you)
3 cans of tomato sauce
3 cans of stewed tomatoes (obviously if you can your own you can use those, and it would probably be better)
at least 2 cartons of vegetable broth, or more if you like your soup with more juice. You can also add some water here if you don't want to use so much vegetable broth. I use the sodium free/organic broth)
1/2 tsp thyme, fresh or ground
1/2 tsp rosemary fresh or ground
2 bay leaves, whole
salt and pepper to taste. I use a lot of fresh ground pepper.
Put everything into a big old pot and heat on low to low-medium heat for several hours. I usually get mine started about 8 am and just let it go until 4:00 pm or so. :-) Be sure to stir and taste every once in awhile. Remove the bay leaves and serve with fresh bread, cornbread or crackers. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers. It's even better the next day. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Today is Friday, and that means it's time to post a recipe. I had several I wanted to post, but I decided to go with this one. Some parts of the country are starting to experience the cooler weather of fall. Not neccesarily here in east Texas, but some places in the country. ;-) Cooler weather means it's time to make SOUP. So, I'm posting my recipe for home made vegetable soup. You'll need a BIG pot. You can change the amount of any of the veggies, or omit/add if what you like. These are just the ones I prefer to use. I have used others things as well if I had them on hand. Enjoy! :-)
Homemade Vegetable Soup
2 cups of frozen corn
2 cups of frozen peas
2 cups of frozen green beans
2 cups of fresh baby carrots (those tiny ones you can buy in the little packages. OR, you can just use the big ones and cut them into coins. Just try to make sure they are about the same size.)
1 large onion, diced small
1 cup of chopped, fresh celery (or more if you like.)
2 cloves of garlic, diced tiny (or you can use the jar stuff already diced for you)
3 cans of tomato sauce
3 cans of stewed tomatoes (obviously if you can your own you can use those, and it would probably be better)
at least 2 cartons of vegetable broth, or more if you like your soup with more juice. You can also add some water here if you don't want to use so much vegetable broth. I use the sodium free/organic broth)
1/2 tsp thyme, fresh or ground
1/2 tsp rosemary fresh or ground
2 bay leaves, whole
salt and pepper to taste. I use a lot of fresh ground pepper.
Put everything into a big old pot and heat on low to low-medium heat for several hours. I usually get mine started about 8 am and just let it go until 4:00 pm or so. :-) Be sure to stir and taste every once in awhile. Remove the bay leaves and serve with fresh bread, cornbread or crackers. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers. It's even better the next day. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
It's the big 4-0...
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I turned 40 years old today. :-) So, I decided to do one of those lists about myself. Of course there are 40 things, but it is more of a "Hodge Podge" about me. Not one specific theme. Some of you may already know, some you may not. Hope you enjoy it. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
1. Sometimes, I really do want to be a kid again.
2. Everything I REALLY needed to know I learned from Sunday School, and Mr. Rogers
3. I like blogging.
4. I can be in a leadership position, and be successful.
5. I love Beth Moore Bible Studies.
6. I know WAY TOO MUCH TV trivia from the '70s and '80s.
7. Despite the horror of the pixies, Tenilles, and Dorothy Hamill haircuts of my childhood, I like having short hair. :-)
8. Fireworks on the 4th of July still rock!!
9. Christmas music sounds just as wonderful in July as it does in December.
10. OK, I like the Jo Bros.
11. I do like the soundtrack from Hairspray
12. I enjoy going to the gym and working out. (We have started back.)
13. "The Family Circus" is still the best comic strip ever written.
14. My favorite candy bar is Milky Way.
15. I also like Skittles.
16. My eyes are hazel.
17. I am a "big, beautiful woman."
18. I like to watch the Food Network.
19. Ace of Cakes rocks.
20. I enjoy homeschooling.
21. My favorite book in high school was "To Kill a Mockingbird."
22. The first book to ever make me cry was "The Outsiders."
23. My favorite movie soundtrack is "American Graffiti."
24. My favorite holiday is Christmas.
25. My favorite colors are different shades of pink and purple, but not together. ;-)
26. I love to bake.
27. I learned Power Point this year.
28. I get to meet Eric Dodge and FlyLady while I'm on vacation!!!! :-)
29. I would really like to learn more about photography, perhaps as a profession.
30. I like 4-H, and wish I had participated when I was younger.
31. I would like to learn to play the piano.
32. I still would like to have my children's books published.
33. I like to do one stroke painting like Donna Dewberry.
34. The first dance I ever learned was "The Stroll."
35. I was in college before I went on my first date, and now I do not date by choice.
36. My favorite subject in high school was home making.
37. My favorite subject in college/now is history.
38. My favorite hymn is "Blessed Assurance."
39. I like classical music.
40. I still do not know what I want to be when I grow up.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I turned 40 years old today. :-) So, I decided to do one of those lists about myself. Of course there are 40 things, but it is more of a "Hodge Podge" about me. Not one specific theme. Some of you may already know, some you may not. Hope you enjoy it. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
1. Sometimes, I really do want to be a kid again.
2. Everything I REALLY needed to know I learned from Sunday School, and Mr. Rogers
3. I like blogging.
4. I can be in a leadership position, and be successful.
5. I love Beth Moore Bible Studies.
6. I know WAY TOO MUCH TV trivia from the '70s and '80s.
7. Despite the horror of the pixies, Tenilles, and Dorothy Hamill haircuts of my childhood, I like having short hair. :-)
8. Fireworks on the 4th of July still rock!!
9. Christmas music sounds just as wonderful in July as it does in December.
10. OK, I like the Jo Bros.
11. I do like the soundtrack from Hairspray
12. I enjoy going to the gym and working out. (We have started back.)
13. "The Family Circus" is still the best comic strip ever written.
14. My favorite candy bar is Milky Way.
15. I also like Skittles.
16. My eyes are hazel.
17. I am a "big, beautiful woman."
18. I like to watch the Food Network.
19. Ace of Cakes rocks.
20. I enjoy homeschooling.
21. My favorite book in high school was "To Kill a Mockingbird."
22. The first book to ever make me cry was "The Outsiders."
23. My favorite movie soundtrack is "American Graffiti."
24. My favorite holiday is Christmas.
25. My favorite colors are different shades of pink and purple, but not together. ;-)
26. I love to bake.
27. I learned Power Point this year.
28. I get to meet Eric Dodge and FlyLady while I'm on vacation!!!! :-)
29. I would really like to learn more about photography, perhaps as a profession.
30. I like 4-H, and wish I had participated when I was younger.
31. I would like to learn to play the piano.
32. I still would like to have my children's books published.
33. I like to do one stroke painting like Donna Dewberry.
34. The first dance I ever learned was "The Stroll."
35. I was in college before I went on my first date, and now I do not date by choice.
36. My favorite subject in high school was home making.
37. My favorite subject in college/now is history.
38. My favorite hymn is "Blessed Assurance."
39. I like classical music.
40. I still do not know what I want to be when I grow up.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Back to our regularly scheduled program...
It's been a nice break, but I'm ready to get back to our normal routines. :-) I haven't posted in exactly one week, and as you can see I missed the Recipe Swap today. I'll post one next week though. I'm already looking for it. :-)
"Little Mark" went to stay in Dallas when Gustav was supposed to come this way. We got a little rain, but that was about it. Then, just before it was time to go and bring him home Hurricane Ike decided to make an appearance. And what an appearance he made!!
We got quite a bit of wind and rain here. We actually only lost a lot of branches and such, and 2 wooden post off our fence, but nothing major. We did lose power, but only for a few hours. Just a few blocks away people had trees uprooted, and tossed on their houses. Some people were without power for 3-4 days. So, we are not complaining at all. We realize how blessed we were. I actually do have pictures, but I will have to post them another time.
So, "Little Mark" and the younger nephew will be coming home tomorrow. School will resume as normal on Monday, and 4-H will be back in full swing as well. ;-)
Then, we leave for VACATION!!! :-) OK, so we are only going to Dallas, but it is still vacation. ;-) We have lots of things planned; the "King Tut" exhibit among them. :-) I am very excited. :-)
I am EXTREMELY excited, because on Saturday I will be attending FlyFest, and I will get to meet FlyLady, Marla, in person as well as Eric Dodge! :-) I'm so excited I could just scream. ;-) But, the rest of the family is in bed, so that would be very wise to do right now. ;-)
I have had a nice "break", but I got very little accomplished. I did get everything "up and running" for 4-H, and lesson plans are made for the next week or so, and vacation plans are made. I did rest, as well as fight allergies for several days. It's funny, but it seems that I get more done when I am super busy than when I have LOTS of "free" time. ;-) I guess it is the adrenaline rush. :-)
I am excited about next week, because the nephews and I are going to make our own chewing gum. Has anyone used the chewing gum kit? I can't wait to try it. It really looks like it will be fun, and neat learning experience. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
It's been a nice break, but I'm ready to get back to our normal routines. :-) I haven't posted in exactly one week, and as you can see I missed the Recipe Swap today. I'll post one next week though. I'm already looking for it. :-)
"Little Mark" went to stay in Dallas when Gustav was supposed to come this way. We got a little rain, but that was about it. Then, just before it was time to go and bring him home Hurricane Ike decided to make an appearance. And what an appearance he made!!
We got quite a bit of wind and rain here. We actually only lost a lot of branches and such, and 2 wooden post off our fence, but nothing major. We did lose power, but only for a few hours. Just a few blocks away people had trees uprooted, and tossed on their houses. Some people were without power for 3-4 days. So, we are not complaining at all. We realize how blessed we were. I actually do have pictures, but I will have to post them another time.
So, "Little Mark" and the younger nephew will be coming home tomorrow. School will resume as normal on Monday, and 4-H will be back in full swing as well. ;-)
Then, we leave for VACATION!!! :-) OK, so we are only going to Dallas, but it is still vacation. ;-) We have lots of things planned; the "King Tut" exhibit among them. :-) I am very excited. :-)
I am EXTREMELY excited, because on Saturday I will be attending FlyFest, and I will get to meet FlyLady, Marla, in person as well as Eric Dodge! :-) I'm so excited I could just scream. ;-) But, the rest of the family is in bed, so that would be very wise to do right now. ;-)
I have had a nice "break", but I got very little accomplished. I did get everything "up and running" for 4-H, and lesson plans are made for the next week or so, and vacation plans are made. I did rest, as well as fight allergies for several days. It's funny, but it seems that I get more done when I am super busy than when I have LOTS of "free" time. ;-) I guess it is the adrenaline rush. :-)
I am excited about next week, because the nephews and I are going to make our own chewing gum. Has anyone used the chewing gum kit? I can't wait to try it. It really looks like it will be fun, and neat learning experience. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Friday, September 12, 2008
The Grocery Cart Challenge Recipe Swap
With all of the hype about "Ike" I forgot to post a recipe today. So, I ran through my cookbooks and found a quick, easy one for you. ;-) I made this one not too long ago for a meeting I had to attend. Everyone really liked it. I hope you enjoy it. :-)
Roasted Red pepper Dip
8 oz Sour Cream
7 oz jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
4 oz Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
1/2 t chopped fresh or frozen chives
Blend sour cream, peppers, cream cheese and chopped chives in electric blender or food processor until well mixed. Refrigerate until serving time. Serve with crackers.
Makes 2 cups.
Love,
Wendy Darling
With all of the hype about "Ike" I forgot to post a recipe today. So, I ran through my cookbooks and found a quick, easy one for you. ;-) I made this one not too long ago for a meeting I had to attend. Everyone really liked it. I hope you enjoy it. :-)
Roasted Red pepper Dip
8 oz Sour Cream
7 oz jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
4 oz Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
1/2 t chopped fresh or frozen chives
Blend sour cream, peppers, cream cheese and chopped chives in electric blender or food processor until well mixed. Refrigerate until serving time. Serve with crackers.
Makes 2 cups.
Love,
Wendy Darling
Thursday, September 11, 2008
"Ike, the 'Cone of Uncertainty' and coughing"
How is that for a title? Yes, here in East Texas we are preparing to get a lot of rain from Ike. IF the "Cone of Uncertainty" is correct. I like what Big Mama had to say about that today. We are prepared, but NOT panicked, for the storm. We have water, non perishable food, batteries, etc; but after seeing Big Mama's picture of her supplies I realize I need to go back and buy M&Ms and Skittles.
But, instead of enjoying the "Hurricane Hoopla" I am trying to hack up a lung. Seems all of the rain we have had lately is REALLY wreaking havoc with my sinuses/allergies. Come to think of it, I may need to go back to the store and stock up on decongestant. That would be bad to run out of this weekend.
In all seriousness, we are praying for everyone on the coast and in the path of Ike. I wanted to share with you this "Plan of Preparedness" that I got from Fly Lady. It won't help those in Harris County who are being forced to leave NOW, but those it MIGHT come to still have time. As a matter of fact, we actually did all of this to prepare for Gustav, and since he changed direction we were not affected, but we are still packed and prepared. ;-)
How is that for a title? Yes, here in East Texas we are preparing to get a lot of rain from Ike. IF the "Cone of Uncertainty" is correct. I like what Big Mama had to say about that today. We are prepared, but NOT panicked, for the storm. We have water, non perishable food, batteries, etc; but after seeing Big Mama's picture of her supplies I realize I need to go back and buy M&Ms and Skittles.
But, instead of enjoying the "Hurricane Hoopla" I am trying to hack up a lung. Seems all of the rain we have had lately is REALLY wreaking havoc with my sinuses/allergies. Come to think of it, I may need to go back to the store and stock up on decongestant. That would be bad to run out of this weekend.
In all seriousness, we are praying for everyone on the coast and in the path of Ike. I wanted to share with you this "Plan of Preparedness" that I got from Fly Lady. It won't help those in Harris County who are being forced to leave NOW, but those it MIGHT come to still have time. As a matter of fact, we actually did all of this to prepare for Gustav, and since he changed direction we were not affected, but we are still packed and prepared. ;-)
FlyLady's 11 Points to Preparedness for Evacuation
"We can FLY in the face of Danger and Emergency if we are prepared. Don't wait till you are being asked to evacuate. Everyone thinks that it could not happen to them. Well it could and it is up to you to make sure you are prepared. Don't wait! DO IT NOW!!" -- FlyLady
- PEOPLE: Have a plan for getting out of the house and make sure everyone knows it. Have an emergency bag of food and water for your family. Include wholesome snacks and treats for the children: dried fruit, nuts, peanut butter, crackers and granola bars.
- PETS: Keep pet carriers and leashes readily available to lead pets to safety. Also take pet food with you.
- PICTURES: Keep negatives or CDs of pictures in a lock box or at a family member's home. Have picture albums in one place ready to grab and go at a moments notice.
- PAPERS: Have all your important papers in a lock box at a bank and only keep copies at the house. This keeps you from panicking. If you have them at home then put them in a folder that you can easily grab if you have to move fast. Color code it so you can find it!
- PRESCRIPTIONS: Take your medications with you. Don't forget the ones that have to be refrigerated like insulin. Have small ice chest and cold packs readily accessible to pack and go. If you have babies; remember their formula or medications.
- PURSES and PETROL: This is where you keep your identification, credit cards and cash. Keep a stash of cash for emergencies and grab it. You may not be able to use an ATM in the event of a power outage. Make sure your car always has a half a tank of gas.
- PROPER CLOTHES and COMFORT ITEMS: According to the weather conditions; gather up a change of clothes along with outer clothing: coats, rain gear, boots, gloves and hats. If you have babies remember diapers. Remember to grab your children's favorite blanket, stuffed animal or toy. A game or a deck of cards could keep them occupied and calm too.
- PLANNER/CALENDAR/CONTROL JOURNAL: These documents have all the information you will need from phone numbers, insurance numbers and important dates. They are small and filled with things you don't have to try to remember.
- PERSONAL PROTECTION: Many of us still have that time of the month. Be sure and grab a box of your preferred protection. It may be hard to find if you have been evacuated. Stress can cause our bodies to do strange things too. So be prepared. Take medication for cramps too.
- PHONES and RADIOS: Many of us have cell phones now. Always keep them charged up and have a charger in the car or an extra battery. They may not work in the event of power outages, but then they might. Know which local radio station has emergency bulletins. Keep your battery powered radio tuned to that local station and have plenty of batteries for it.
- PATIENCE: This is one of the most important things to pack. Keep it inside of you so that you have a clear calm head. Having your P's to Preparedness list guiding you will keep you patient. In the event of an evacuation there will be lots of displaced people. Being patient will make things less stressful. Your children need to see you calm and collected. This will help keep them calm too.
Sunday, September 07, 2008
An amazing woman...
I promise that I am not going to turn this blog into just posts with videos. :-) However, I began a new Bible study tonight, "Walk By Faith," and this woman is so amazing that I wanted to share her with you. If you have never heard of Jennifer Rothschild, then you need to get acquainted with her and her story. The following is taken directly from her website:
"For Jennifer Rothschild, these words are much more than the lyrics from a familiar hymn; they represent a foundation upon which many life lessons have been learned…in the dark
I promise that I am not going to turn this blog into just posts with videos. :-) However, I began a new Bible study tonight, "Walk By Faith," and this woman is so amazing that I wanted to share her with you. If you have never heard of Jennifer Rothschild, then you need to get acquainted with her and her story. The following is taken directly from her website:
"For Jennifer Rothschild, these words are much more than the lyrics from a familiar hymn; they represent a foundation upon which many life lessons have been learned…in the dark
At the young age of fifteen, Jennifer was diagnosed with a rare, degenerative eye disease that would eventually steal her sight. It was more than a turning point for the Miami, Fl, native. Her dreams of becoming a commercial artist and cartoonist faded. Words and music have replaced her canvas and palette for more than 25 years.
Known for her substance, and a down-to-earth style, Jennifer weaves together colorful illustrations, universal principles, and music to help audiences find contentment, walk with endurance, and celebrate the ordinary. Through her signature wit and poignant story-telling, audiences are prompted to look beyond their circumstances to find unique “gifts,” in unusual packaging."
Of course, me being me I wanted to share videos of her with you. I found two that I really wanted to share, so I am posting both. They are not long, and believe you will truly be blessed after seeing them.
Friday, September 05, 2008
Grocery Cart Challenge Recipe Swap
It's Friday, and that means it's time to post another recipe. :-) Once you read this one head on over to Gayle's to see some more wonderful recipes. :-)
Are there times when you just sit around and think about the food you ate when you were little? The stuff that people ALWAYS brought to family parties and holiday meals? Surely, it's not just me. ;-) I was actually doing that just the other day. Our family had "staples" at most parties. The things you could always count on being there. Like Nana's fudge, or chocolate pie. One of the things my Mom always brought was "Cottage Cheese Delight."
Now, don't scrunch up your nose and say "Ewww, cottage cheese..." This is not the typical cottage cheese. This stuff ROCKS! And I have been craving it for days. :-) So, just give it try, and I am betting you will like it. :-)
Cottage Cheese Delight
1 carton of small curd cottage cheese
1 large box of Jell-O (any flavor)
1 can crushed pineapple (about 15 oz)
1 carton of Cool Whip
Melt the Jell-O and pineapple in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat. Pour in the cottage cheese and whipped topping. Mix together well and pour into a 9 X 13 dish. Chill for 1-2 hours.
This can be made low fat, or fat free just by using the LF or FF cottage cheese and Cool Whip. Also use the sugar free Jell-O. See? It's healthy. :-) Another fun thing is to use the use a color of Jell-O to co-ordinate with your holiday. For instance, use the lime or strawberry/cherry for Christmas. Or Orange for Halloween. It's fun, and even the kids can make it! :-)
If you try it, let me know what you think. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
It's Friday, and that means it's time to post another recipe. :-) Once you read this one head on over to Gayle's to see some more wonderful recipes. :-)
Are there times when you just sit around and think about the food you ate when you were little? The stuff that people ALWAYS brought to family parties and holiday meals? Surely, it's not just me. ;-) I was actually doing that just the other day. Our family had "staples" at most parties. The things you could always count on being there. Like Nana's fudge, or chocolate pie. One of the things my Mom always brought was "Cottage Cheese Delight."
Now, don't scrunch up your nose and say "Ewww, cottage cheese..." This is not the typical cottage cheese. This stuff ROCKS! And I have been craving it for days. :-) So, just give it try, and I am betting you will like it. :-)
Cottage Cheese Delight
1 carton of small curd cottage cheese
1 large box of Jell-O (any flavor)
1 can crushed pineapple (about 15 oz)
1 carton of Cool Whip
Melt the Jell-O and pineapple in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat. Pour in the cottage cheese and whipped topping. Mix together well and pour into a 9 X 13 dish. Chill for 1-2 hours.
This can be made low fat, or fat free just by using the LF or FF cottage cheese and Cool Whip. Also use the sugar free Jell-O. See? It's healthy. :-) Another fun thing is to use the use a color of Jell-O to co-ordinate with your holiday. For instance, use the lime or strawberry/cherry for Christmas. Or Orange for Halloween. It's fun, and even the kids can make it! :-)
If you try it, let me know what you think. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Fireproof!!! :-)
I have been waiting for months for "Fireproof" to be released. ONE theater near me will be showing it, and I would love to be there opening night. :-) Here is what IMDB has to say:
Lt. Caleb Holt lives by the old firefighter's adage: Never leave your partner behind. Inside burning buildings, it's his natural instinct. In the cooling embers of his marriage, it's another story.
After a decade of marriage, Caleb and Catherine Holt have drifted so far apart that they are ready to move on without each other. Yet as they prepare to enter divorce proceedings, Caleb's dad asks his son to try an experiment: The Love Dare.
While hoping The Love Dare has nothing to do with his parents' newfound faith, Caleb commits to the challenge. But can he attempt to love his wife while avoiding God's love for him? Will he be able to demonstrate love over and over again to a person that's no longer receptive to his love? Or is this just another marriage destined to go up in smoke?
It is made by the same people who did "Fly Wheel" and "Facing the Giants." Both were fantastic movies, so I am really looking forward to this one. :-) Also, I really enjoyed Kirk Cameron's acting in the "Left Behind" movies, so I am sure his performance here will not disappoint.
The release date is September 26th. Perhaps this could be a "birthday present" to myself. ;-)
Is anyone else planning to see this movie?
Love,
Wendy Darling
I have been waiting for months for "Fireproof" to be released. ONE theater near me will be showing it, and I would love to be there opening night. :-) Here is what IMDB has to say:
Lt. Caleb Holt lives by the old firefighter's adage: Never leave your partner behind. Inside burning buildings, it's his natural instinct. In the cooling embers of his marriage, it's another story.
After a decade of marriage, Caleb and Catherine Holt have drifted so far apart that they are ready to move on without each other. Yet as they prepare to enter divorce proceedings, Caleb's dad asks his son to try an experiment: The Love Dare.
While hoping The Love Dare has nothing to do with his parents' newfound faith, Caleb commits to the challenge. But can he attempt to love his wife while avoiding God's love for him? Will he be able to demonstrate love over and over again to a person that's no longer receptive to his love? Or is this just another marriage destined to go up in smoke?
It is made by the same people who did "Fly Wheel" and "Facing the Giants." Both were fantastic movies, so I am really looking forward to this one. :-) Also, I really enjoyed Kirk Cameron's acting in the "Left Behind" movies, so I am sure his performance here will not disappoint.
The release date is September 26th. Perhaps this could be a "birthday present" to myself. ;-)
Is anyone else planning to see this movie?
Love,
Wendy Darling
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Music Meme:
I stole this one from Cleggy. :-)
I really like most of the songs by The Temptations, but I really like "Just My Imagination". The reason why I love this part of it, is because of the way Paul sings it. He puts so much passion into it, and if we are honest we would all admit that we have felt this way about a guy/girl at least once in our life. Right? :-)
Every night, on my knees I pray,
"Dear Lord, hear my plea...
don't ever let another take her love from me
or I will surely die.."
Ooh, her love is heavenly;
when her arms enfold me,
I hear a tender rhapsody...
but in reality, she doesn't even know me
Just my imagination -- once again --
running away with me.
It was just my imagination
running away with me.
I never met her, but I can't forget her.
Just my imagination..
-- ooh yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah --
running away with me
5. How many times have you seen 4 live?
Just once, but I would love to see them again. That was just one huge worship service!! It was awesome!
6. What is your favorite song by 7?
Oh, that's another hard one. I really like most of his songs, but I have always liked "Picture Perfect."
7. Is there any song by 3 that makes you sad?
"County Your Blessings" always makes me cry. It depends on the mood or circumstance if they are happy or sad tears. It is just a very moving song if you really think about it.
8. What is your favorite lyric of number 2?
Man! You're doing it to me, again!! Okay, I'm going to say these from "The Dash."
Someday they're going to carve two dates beneath my name in stone,
One for when I first arrived, one for when I say, "Goodbye".
I can't change when I got here, or when I'm going home
But there's still a little time in the middle that's mine, all mine
The dash between the dates the gift we've all been given.
That little line that takes us from the cradle up to heaven.
You're born and then you die.
Life goes by so fast, and it's all riding on the dash...
9. What is your favorite song by #9?
This is a tough one too, but I am going to have to say "Shackles." Mandissa can flat out SANG that song!
10. When did you first get into #1?
The first time I heard him sing "Amarillo By Morning." It was on the Country Music Awards in the early 80s, and he was so cute, and did a wonderful job. He is still very good looking, and the man can SING! And do I really need to mention "Pure Country?" Hello????
11. How did you get into #3?
I have always like the Standards, but I guess I really got into her after seeing "White Christmas." I just love her voice. :-)
12. What is your favorite song by #4?
OOOHHH, that is a hard one!!! Umm..... if I HAD to choose, "East from the West", from the "Altar and the Door" album. Although every one of their songs are amazing.
13. How many times have you seen 9 in concert?
None, but I would LOVE to. Especially if it was joined by a Beth Moore Seminar! :-)
14. What is a good memory concerning #4?
The concert that the nephew and I attended together. I worked getting the dressing rooms ready to get free tickets, and just being able to share that with him was awesome. And, of course the concert/worship was amazing. The night was a lot of fun, and I got a lot of joy from sharing it with him.
15. Is there a song by 10 that makes you sad?
No. Not sad.
16. What is your favorite song of #1?
Oh. My. Goodness. I have no idea how to narrow that one down. Ugh.... how do you choose a FAVORITE George Strait song?!..... I can't do it.... I'm sorry.
17. How did you become a fan of #10?
The nephew playing them ALL THE TIME wore me down. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
I stole this one from Cleggy. :-)
- List 10 musical artists you like, in no specific order (do this before reading the questions below). (Only 10?) :-(
1.George Strait
2. Eric Dodge
3. Rosemary Clooney
4. Casting Crowns
5. The Temptations (The ORIGINAL)
6. The Carpenters
7. Michael W. Smith
8. Harry Connick Jr.
9.Mandissa
10. The Jonas Brothers (okay, I admit it... their good. Don't tell the nephew) - What was the first song you ever heard by 6?
Oh goodness, I don't remember... I want to say we sang "Sing a Song" in elementary school, but I didn't know they sang it. I also learned "On Top of the World" at church (changed a few lyrics), but again, I didn't know it was a Carpenters' song. - What is your favorite song of 2?
OH DON'T DO THAT TO ME!!! I love a lot of Eric's songs. Oh man, if I HAD to pick just one.... "That's Who I Wanna Be". NO, "Why Not Today." NO, "The Dash".... Can I just say, "Grab both CDs and point to one?" :-)
I really like most of the songs by The Temptations, but I really like "Just My Imagination". The reason why I love this part of it, is because of the way Paul sings it. He puts so much passion into it, and if we are honest we would all admit that we have felt this way about a guy/girl at least once in our life. Right? :-)
Every night, on my knees I pray,
"Dear Lord, hear my plea...
don't ever let another take her love from me
or I will surely die.."
Ooh, her love is heavenly;
when her arms enfold me,
I hear a tender rhapsody...
but in reality, she doesn't even know me
Just my imagination -- once again --
running away with me.
It was just my imagination
running away with me.
I never met her, but I can't forget her.
Just my imagination..
-- ooh yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah --
running away with me
5. How many times have you seen 4 live?
Just once, but I would love to see them again. That was just one huge worship service!! It was awesome!
6. What is your favorite song by 7?
Oh, that's another hard one. I really like most of his songs, but I have always liked "Picture Perfect."
7. Is there any song by 3 that makes you sad?
"County Your Blessings" always makes me cry. It depends on the mood or circumstance if they are happy or sad tears. It is just a very moving song if you really think about it.
8. What is your favorite lyric of number 2?
Man! You're doing it to me, again!! Okay, I'm going to say these from "The Dash."
Someday they're going to carve two dates beneath my name in stone,
One for when I first arrived, one for when I say, "Goodbye".
I can't change when I got here, or when I'm going home
But there's still a little time in the middle that's mine, all mine
The dash between the dates the gift we've all been given.
That little line that takes us from the cradle up to heaven.
You're born and then you die.
Life goes by so fast, and it's all riding on the dash...
9. What is your favorite song by #9?
This is a tough one too, but I am going to have to say "Shackles." Mandissa can flat out SANG that song!
10. When did you first get into #1?
The first time I heard him sing "Amarillo By Morning." It was on the Country Music Awards in the early 80s, and he was so cute, and did a wonderful job. He is still very good looking, and the man can SING! And do I really need to mention "Pure Country?" Hello????
11. How did you get into #3?
I have always like the Standards, but I guess I really got into her after seeing "White Christmas." I just love her voice. :-)
12. What is your favorite song by #4?
OOOHHH, that is a hard one!!! Umm..... if I HAD to choose, "East from the West", from the "Altar and the Door" album. Although every one of their songs are amazing.
13. How many times have you seen 9 in concert?
None, but I would LOVE to. Especially if it was joined by a Beth Moore Seminar! :-)
14. What is a good memory concerning #4?
The concert that the nephew and I attended together. I worked getting the dressing rooms ready to get free tickets, and just being able to share that with him was awesome. And, of course the concert/worship was amazing. The night was a lot of fun, and I got a lot of joy from sharing it with him.
15. Is there a song by 10 that makes you sad?
No. Not sad.
16. What is your favorite song of #1?
Oh. My. Goodness. I have no idea how to narrow that one down. Ugh.... how do you choose a FAVORITE George Strait song?!..... I can't do it.... I'm sorry.
17. How did you become a fan of #10?
The nephew playing them ALL THE TIME wore me down. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
I'm resorting to a Meme...
No, I have not been playing the highly addictive game "hammer head" so much that I haven't been posting. :-) I've been TEACHING. "Little Mark" and I have made this "crunch week" to finish our last 2 subjects so that we can begin 6th grade next week. :-) We are almost finished, praise the Lord! :-)
So, while I am waiting on him to finish an assignment I thought I would do a meme, so you would at least know I am still around. :-) I stole this one from Kwizgiver. :-)
Random Meme...
No, I have not been playing the highly addictive game "hammer head" so much that I haven't been posting. :-) I've been TEACHING. "Little Mark" and I have made this "crunch week" to finish our last 2 subjects so that we can begin 6th grade next week. :-) We are almost finished, praise the Lord! :-)
So, while I am waiting on him to finish an assignment I thought I would do a meme, so you would at least know I am still around. :-) I stole this one from Kwizgiver. :-)
Random Meme...
What’s the greatest thing that happened to you today?
I got up and did my Beth Moore Bible Study.
How many TRUE best friends do you have?
I have several.
Would you rather get up early or sleep in?
Get up early.
Tell me about the shirt you’re wearing?
Short sleeve, red, t-shirt
What are you excited about right now?
That we are ALMOST finished with our curriculum, AND that I found the Language Arts curriculum we need, and I get it on SATURDAY.
Would you rather smile over a lie or cry over the truth?
I think the truth is always better
What’s on your bedroom floor right now?
There are a few boxes under the bed
Who’s the last person you got into a argument with?
"Little Mark"
Do you trust people?
Most of the time.
If you could move away, no questions asked, where would you move?
The country.
Your favorite number?
7.
Could you go a day without eating?
I have, several times
How much do looks matter to you in a guy/girl?
Integrity and character are more important
Do you like anybody right now?
Not romantically, no
When was the last time you had your hair cut?
three weeks or so ago
Would you rather be mad or sad?
Mad at least shows passion, and then I get over it
Does it take a lot to make you cry?
Yes.
What's the best feeling in the world?
Love and happiness.
Are you close with your mom?
Pretty close
Are your parents strict?
I thought they were growing up, but I find that I am more strict than they were
Do you tell your parents everything?
No.
Name some fears you have:
Being homeless, the rest I don't eve want to think about. It's all in God's hands.
Does the thought of marriage scare you?
No.
How many kids do you want?
none of my own.
What’s your favorite season?
autumn.
What’s your favorite color to wear?
Pink and purple, but not together :-) .
Who was the last person in your bedroom?
My mom
What are you doing today?
School and church.
Do you get bored easily?
Not really. I don't have time to be bored.
What’s something that someone can do that really bothers you?
lie, disrespect, be negative most of the time.
Did you ever want to change your name when you were younger?
Yes.
Do you wish you were famous?
No not really.
Do you make a wish at 11:11?
No
When you go to the beach do you swim or lay out more?
I haven't been to the beach since I was a child, and I swam most of the time.
Who’s the last text message you received from and what did it say?
It was from Terry, and I don't remember the message.
What are you freakishly obsessed with?
I can't think of anything.
What’s your favorite song at the moment?
"Every Head Bowed, Every Eye Closed" by Randy Travis.
Do you like going to the mall to shop or just shopping online?
I really like both.
Can music affect your mood?
Definitely
What piercings do you want?
Just my ears, but I haven't worn earrings in so long I am pretty sure they are closed up.
Have you ever been in a cave?
yes, it was cool
Ever eaten a bug?
No
Are you in a good mood?
Yes :-) .
Would you rather skydive or bungee jump?
Uh... that would be a neither.
Do you like snakes?
No.
What’s one place you would like to visit?
New England.
Do you like waffles?
Occassionally
Does the number 23 have any significance to you?
Yes
Be honest, do you like people in general?
Yeah.
What color are the walls in your bedroom?
Light Purple.
Do you think starbucks is expensive?
Yes.
Are you named after a family member?
Yes, but I have never met her.
Say you were given a drug test right now, would you pass or fail?
I would pass it.
Wanting to tell someone something?
I would like to tell "Little Mark" to STOP WASTING TIME
Last restaurant you went to?
Jalapeno Tree.
What is the weather like today?
Looks like it will be sunny
What happened yesterday?
We did school work ALL DAY
What would you do with five million dollars?
Tithe, give to charity, pay off family debts, fix up current home and give to the church, build a home in the country, buy a car, start trus funds for the nephews
How many hours did you sleep last night?
9:00 pm - 5:00 am, so that is 8 hours. I woke up a few times though.
Any upcoming concerts you want to attend?
Not that I know of.
Who’s the last person that you felt was stalking you?
No one.
Have you ever been on your school’s track team?
nope
Have you cried today?
Yes, out of joy when doing the Bible Study
Do you think that someone is thinking about you right now?
I don't know
Does it annoy you when someone says they’ll call, but never do?
Depends on who they are, and why they are calling.
What did you dress up as for Halloween?
Nothing
Cable or Satellite?
Cable
Favorite video game?
Does the evil, addicting "Hammer Heads" count?
Do you have to sleep with a fan on at night?
Usually
Your feelings on global warming?
I don't believe it is man made
Do you still have a VCR somewhere?
Yes.
Been on a sailboat?
No, but I've been on a speed boat
Two of your best friends are fighting. Your reaction?
I try to be a peacemaker, and if that doesn't work I stay out of it
Home Depot or Lowes?
Home Depot.
Beer or Hard Liquor?
Neither.
Best movie you’ve seen recently?
Journey to the Center of the Earth- 3D
Would you walk across broken glass for $100?
No.
Your feelings on dolphins?
they're cool
Would you ever rob a bank?
No.
Do you plan out your day before it begins?
Yes, but I'm still flexible to changes.
What kind of digital camera do you have?
Canon.
Can you fall asleep with your eyes open?
No
Winter or Summer?
Winter.
Your ex’s car breaks down and they ask you for a lift. Your response?
I give them a ride
Do you go to the gym regularly?
Not as much as I used to, but my routine is beginning to get back to normal.
Internet Explorer or Firefox?
We have both, but I prefer Firefox
Favorite sport to watch?
When I watch sports it is Ice Skating or Football
You see someone running around naked in the street. Your reaction?
Oh My Goodness!
How much syrup do you put on your waffles and/or pancakes for breakfast?
A little
Do you have a lot of candles in your room?
No, but I'd like some.
Are the files in your computer well organized or all over the place?
Pretty organized
Are there dogs barking in your neighborhood right now?
Nope.
Where would you most like to be right now?
At the movies.
Do you own a sleeping bag?
No
Favorite reality show?
I don't really care for reality TV
What was the first CD you ever bought?
I honestly don't remember. I am sure it was probably George Strait though
Are all infomercials completely pointless?
Not all of them. But, I miss Mike, the guy from the 80s - 90s infomercials. He had nice sweaters. :-)
If money was no object, what car would you drive?
I would like a nice sized mini van, a hybrid
Was this survey random enough for you?
Yes
That's probably more than you ever wanted to know about me. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Friday, August 22, 2008
I may need to search for a 12 step program...
I am addicted y'all. I can't help it. I am obsessed with a computer game. I need help.
Have y'all heard of "Hammer Head Deluxe?" OH. MY. GOODNESS. Addicting is not even the word.
"Little Mark" downloaded this game a couple of months ago. I saw him playing it once or twice. I wasn't really interested. But, earlier this week I gave it a try. HUGE mistake. I am now addicted to trying to make it to the next level. It is so bad y'all, that I was finally at a level where I could "save it", so I didn't have to start all the back over. The trouble is that when you get to that point, and move up, it's harder but you only have the power that was left from the last level to work with.
It's maddening. Y'all want to know just how bad it is? I have spent the last hour or so trying to get to the next level with only about 1/8 power. I get a little here and there, but nothing significant. Nothing that I can really work with. Each time I attempt the next level I only last about 30 seconds or so, but I immediately hit the "try again" button. I can't stop myself.
It is aggravating, frustrating, and I am determined to beat it!! So much so that I can't stop. It is fun too, but the best part (or worse) is the challenge. I am pretty much at a "no win situation", but I won't give up!
Help me.... ;-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Inspiring!
I just read the most inspiring blog post over at Big Mama's, and I just had to share it. Thank you, Melanie. I needed to read that today. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
I just read the most inspiring blog post over at Big Mama's, and I just had to share it. Thank you, Melanie. I needed to read that today. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Monday, August 18, 2008
Homemade Hair Detangler
"Angel" has been less than diligent when it comes to brushing her hair. She showed up a few weeks ago with a terrible "rats nest" in the back of her hair. She would NOT let me comb it out. So, out of desperation I thought about buying some "No More Tangles" stuff. But, then I thought "Why not make it myself?" I poured some conditioner into a spray bottle with some water. Shook it up, and sprayed it on.
I told her it "works like magic. If you stay VERY still while I comb your hair the tangle will come out, and it will not hurt." She bought it, and IT WORKED. :-)
I did an Internet search to see if there was a recipe, and there are plenty. This is how I made mine.
1 C water in a spray bottle
about 1/4 conditioner
shake to mix
I use the same conditioner I use when I make my own fabric softener. It works great. Once it dries it doesn't look "wet/slick" or anything. Her hair looked and smelled great.
I don't really get into the whole "break down to the penny" thing, but it cost me around 25 cents to make this, and it will last a long time. :-) MUCH cheaper than the name brand. ;-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
"Angel" has been less than diligent when it comes to brushing her hair. She showed up a few weeks ago with a terrible "rats nest" in the back of her hair. She would NOT let me comb it out. So, out of desperation I thought about buying some "No More Tangles" stuff. But, then I thought "Why not make it myself?" I poured some conditioner into a spray bottle with some water. Shook it up, and sprayed it on.
I told her it "works like magic. If you stay VERY still while I comb your hair the tangle will come out, and it will not hurt." She bought it, and IT WORKED. :-)
I did an Internet search to see if there was a recipe, and there are plenty. This is how I made mine.
1 C water in a spray bottle
about 1/4 conditioner
shake to mix
I use the same conditioner I use when I make my own fabric softener. It works great. Once it dries it doesn't look "wet/slick" or anything. Her hair looked and smelled great.
I don't really get into the whole "break down to the penny" thing, but it cost me around 25 cents to make this, and it will last a long time. :-) MUCH cheaper than the name brand. ;-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Sing, Sing a Song...
"Little Mark" had a hard time doing it, but he finally admitted that he likes some of the songs on my MP3 player. ;-)
Every so often I take my mp3 player in the car with us, and I put it in. (One can only take some much Raven, Hannah and Jonas Brothers...) I tell him he can play any song, as long as it is off of MY mp3 player. I have noticed that he will put on one song, and then he will change it and say, "I know you want to hear this one." He always puts on the same 3 songs. Then, he will say (with a huge sigh) "I don't really like it, but I know you like it." (Insert violins here) ;-)
Today, he did the same thing on the way home from church. I told him, again, "You don't have to play just those songs. I like all of them on there, so play what you want. He responds, "No, it's okay." Then I few minutes later he admits, "OK, I do like them." :-) You could tell it just killed him to admit it. ;-)
The songs in question? "Amazing Grace", by Chris Tomlin; "Every Head Bowed" by Randy Travis; and THIS ONE:
Yes, my friends. That is the theme to the "Greatest American Hero," and it IS on my mp3 player. ;-) In all of its cheesy, 80s glory. ;-) And, I figured if I'm going to share it, I'm going to do it right. Here it is in a LIVE Solid Gold performance, complete with the SG dancers. :-) And "Little Mark" likes the song. ;-) The day he replaces a Raven, Hannah and Allie and AJ song with these 3, I will be one happy Aunt. ;-)
"Little Mark" had a hard time doing it, but he finally admitted that he likes some of the songs on my MP3 player. ;-)
Every so often I take my mp3 player in the car with us, and I put it in. (One can only take some much Raven, Hannah and Jonas Brothers...) I tell him he can play any song, as long as it is off of MY mp3 player. I have noticed that he will put on one song, and then he will change it and say, "I know you want to hear this one." He always puts on the same 3 songs. Then, he will say (with a huge sigh) "I don't really like it, but I know you like it." (Insert violins here) ;-)
Today, he did the same thing on the way home from church. I told him, again, "You don't have to play just those songs. I like all of them on there, so play what you want. He responds, "No, it's okay." Then I few minutes later he admits, "OK, I do like them." :-) You could tell it just killed him to admit it. ;-)
The songs in question? "Amazing Grace", by Chris Tomlin; "Every Head Bowed" by Randy Travis; and THIS ONE:
Yes, my friends. That is the theme to the "Greatest American Hero," and it IS on my mp3 player. ;-) In all of its cheesy, 80s glory. ;-) And, I figured if I'm going to share it, I'm going to do it right. Here it is in a LIVE Solid Gold performance, complete with the SG dancers. :-) And "Little Mark" likes the song. ;-) The day he replaces a Raven, Hannah and Allie and AJ song with these 3, I will be one happy Aunt. ;-)
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Change is good... :-)
Well, I made a lot of changes the last couple of weeks. The first one was, I cut my hair. Short.
Actually, I paid to have it cut. If I had done it they would have had to shave it, because the best hair dresser in the world would not have been able to fix it. Y'all it had become so long and so unruly that I was actually hot rolling it, and had the whole "80s big hair" thing going on. Yeah, it was scary.
After it was cut "Little Mark" said, "It's very short. That's not how you usually get it cut. I don't like it." Well, thank you for the boost of confidence, and remind me to teach you about TACT later. ;-)
I was a little nervous about it, because it is much shorter than I am used to having it, and it is layered all over, instead of just the bangs. But, I figured, "It's hair. It'll grow." The next day we had an activity at church, and I fixed my hair and walked in like any other day. OH. MY. GOODNESS. Y'all, there were compliments. MANY compliments. I was happy. ;-)
Since then I have gotten used to my hair, and I really like it. It is much easier to keep, and actually suits me for my age. :-) However, "Angel" didn't recognize me when she came back this week. She stared at me for a long time, trying to figure out what was different. She finally said, "You don't look like my Aunt Wendy." :-)
I pointed out that I had my hair cut. She looked really hard at me, and then proclaimed, "NO, you are a FAKE Aunt Wendy." All righty then. She has since gotten used to it, and says she likes it. "Little Mark" decided it was "Okay" after about the 3rd or 4th compliment he overheard me get. :-)
The other change is, I am taking a class on "Power Point" at the public library. Now, you may be thinking, "Power Point? Where have you been that you don't know that?"
I've been AT HOME, or CHURCH. So, to get out of the house, and because I want to learn it, I have been taking a class. One of the things I have been trying to teach "Little Mark" is that you never stop learning. You should always be trying to learn something new. Find something interesting, and learn all you can about it. So, this would be an example to him as well.
My sister is also taking the class, and that helps. But, I thought I was going to be in trouble the first night when the teacher, a friend of Cleggy's, opened by saying, "You will do just fine if you took the Introductory Class, because this is actually an ADVANCED class."
What?! Holy Moly, I am in trouble. He then followed that up with, "Or, if you are a fast learner." My sister, who also did NOT take the first class said, "We'll be fine." Uh... sure. OK. We'll give it a shot. I am a note taker. I have about half of a small legal pad filled with step by step notes. And you know what? It's fun. I really have learned a lot, I caught on fast, and I am looking forward to using it.
"Little Mark" wanted to take the class too, but I think I am just going to let his other Aunt teach him that. ;-) So, when I get my first solo Power Point presentation put together I'll share it with you. ;-) I like learning, growing, and changing. I guess you really can "teach an old dog new tricks." LOL... :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Well, I made a lot of changes the last couple of weeks. The first one was, I cut my hair. Short.
Actually, I paid to have it cut. If I had done it they would have had to shave it, because the best hair dresser in the world would not have been able to fix it. Y'all it had become so long and so unruly that I was actually hot rolling it, and had the whole "80s big hair" thing going on. Yeah, it was scary.
After it was cut "Little Mark" said, "It's very short. That's not how you usually get it cut. I don't like it." Well, thank you for the boost of confidence, and remind me to teach you about TACT later. ;-)
I was a little nervous about it, because it is much shorter than I am used to having it, and it is layered all over, instead of just the bangs. But, I figured, "It's hair. It'll grow." The next day we had an activity at church, and I fixed my hair and walked in like any other day. OH. MY. GOODNESS. Y'all, there were compliments. MANY compliments. I was happy. ;-)
Since then I have gotten used to my hair, and I really like it. It is much easier to keep, and actually suits me for my age. :-) However, "Angel" didn't recognize me when she came back this week. She stared at me for a long time, trying to figure out what was different. She finally said, "You don't look like my Aunt Wendy." :-)
I pointed out that I had my hair cut. She looked really hard at me, and then proclaimed, "NO, you are a FAKE Aunt Wendy." All righty then. She has since gotten used to it, and says she likes it. "Little Mark" decided it was "Okay" after about the 3rd or 4th compliment he overheard me get. :-)
The other change is, I am taking a class on "Power Point" at the public library. Now, you may be thinking, "Power Point? Where have you been that you don't know that?"
I've been AT HOME, or CHURCH. So, to get out of the house, and because I want to learn it, I have been taking a class. One of the things I have been trying to teach "Little Mark" is that you never stop learning. You should always be trying to learn something new. Find something interesting, and learn all you can about it. So, this would be an example to him as well.
My sister is also taking the class, and that helps. But, I thought I was going to be in trouble the first night when the teacher, a friend of Cleggy's, opened by saying, "You will do just fine if you took the Introductory Class, because this is actually an ADVANCED class."
What?! Holy Moly, I am in trouble. He then followed that up with, "Or, if you are a fast learner." My sister, who also did NOT take the first class said, "We'll be fine." Uh... sure. OK. We'll give it a shot. I am a note taker. I have about half of a small legal pad filled with step by step notes. And you know what? It's fun. I really have learned a lot, I caught on fast, and I am looking forward to using it.
"Little Mark" wanted to take the class too, but I think I am just going to let his other Aunt teach him that. ;-) So, when I get my first solo Power Point presentation put together I'll share it with you. ;-) I like learning, growing, and changing. I guess you really can "teach an old dog new tricks." LOL... :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Friday, August 15, 2008
Grocery Cart Challenge
It's time for Grocery Cart Challenge, again. :-) I like participating in this each Friday. :-)
I actually posted this recipe back in May, but I wanted to post it again. Why? Well, 1) It's a good recipe, 2) I don't have to type a brand new recipe. :-)
Be sure to hop on over to Gayle's to see all of the other great recipes! Her Breakfast Parfait looks great!! :-)
We got this from the "Kraft: Food and Family Magazine" last month. If you are not familiar with this magazine please visit them here, and sign up to receive this free magazine. They really are full of great recipes y'all.
Anyway, on with the recipe. This is an awesome recipe. Little Mark LOVED them. He ate 4 that night at dinner. FOUR! Even after he declared "that looks nasty; I'm not eating it." Yeah, bud, try saying that with your mouth full of tuna cake. :-) Before posting the recipe let me just say that when we made it we doubled the recipe and only made half of the recipe for dinner that night, and then the rest at lunch the next day. It worked wonderfully. :-)
TUNA CAKES
prep time: 10 minutes Total: 26 minutes, including refrigerating.
2 cans (6 oz each) of light tuna in water, drained and flaked
1 pkg (6 oz) Stove Top stuffing mix for chicken. (we used the "off-brand" cornbread stuffing and it worked just fine.)
1 C Kraft shredded mild cheddar cheese
1/2 C shredded carrots
1/3 C Kraft Mayo Real Mayonnaise
2 Tbl. Sweet Pickle Relish
3/4 C water
Mix the tuna, stuffing mix, cheese, carrots, dressing, relish and water in a bowl. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 10 minutes. Heat a large nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray on medium heat. Scoop tuna mixture, using about 1/3 C for each cake, into skillet in batches. Try using an ice cream scoop to make evenly portion batches. (We did and it worked great!)
Gently flatten cakes using a spatula. Cook 3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown on both sides, turning cakes over carefully. Makes 6 servings, 2 tuna cakes each.
I am sorry that there aren't any photos this time, but believe me when I tell you that these are AMAZING, and healthy. :-) Enjoy!
Love,
Wendy Darling
It's time for Grocery Cart Challenge, again. :-) I like participating in this each Friday. :-)
I actually posted this recipe back in May, but I wanted to post it again. Why? Well, 1) It's a good recipe, 2) I don't have to type a brand new recipe. :-)
Be sure to hop on over to Gayle's to see all of the other great recipes! Her Breakfast Parfait looks great!! :-)
We got this from the "Kraft: Food and Family Magazine" last month. If you are not familiar with this magazine please visit them here, and sign up to receive this free magazine. They really are full of great recipes y'all.
Anyway, on with the recipe. This is an awesome recipe. Little Mark LOVED them. He ate 4 that night at dinner. FOUR! Even after he declared "that looks nasty; I'm not eating it." Yeah, bud, try saying that with your mouth full of tuna cake. :-) Before posting the recipe let me just say that when we made it we doubled the recipe and only made half of the recipe for dinner that night, and then the rest at lunch the next day. It worked wonderfully. :-)
TUNA CAKES
prep time: 10 minutes Total: 26 minutes, including refrigerating.
2 cans (6 oz each) of light tuna in water, drained and flaked
1 pkg (6 oz) Stove Top stuffing mix for chicken. (we used the "off-brand" cornbread stuffing and it worked just fine.)
1 C Kraft shredded mild cheddar cheese
1/2 C shredded carrots
1/3 C Kraft Mayo Real Mayonnaise
2 Tbl. Sweet Pickle Relish
3/4 C water
Mix the tuna, stuffing mix, cheese, carrots, dressing, relish and water in a bowl. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 10 minutes. Heat a large nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray on medium heat. Scoop tuna mixture, using about 1/3 C for each cake, into skillet in batches. Try using an ice cream scoop to make evenly portion batches. (We did and it worked great!)
Gently flatten cakes using a spatula. Cook 3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown on both sides, turning cakes over carefully. Makes 6 servings, 2 tuna cakes each.
I am sorry that there aren't any photos this time, but believe me when I tell you that these are AMAZING, and healthy. :-) Enjoy!
Love,
Wendy Darling
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Free Download!!!
I know that I have mentioned my love for Eric Dodge's singing before. This week he was in Country Weekly Magazine. He is and independent label, and he made it into Country Weekly Magazine!! How awesome is that!! :-)
He wrote a song, "Last Real Cowboy" in memory of his grandfather. Y'all this song is amazing. You can download it for FREE at Country Weekly Magazine.com
Hop on over and download it, listen to it, and then go HERE or HERE and purchase his CD. You won't be sorry. OH, and he has a Christmas CD coming out VERY soon. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Awesome Bagel Dog Recipe...
I wish I could take credit for this recipe, but I can't. Cleggy found it on the internet HERE, and he made them. Oh. My. Goodness. They are amazing. :-)
We used to buy bagel dogs years ago, and then the store stopped carrying them. We couldn't find them anywhere. Then, we started ordering them from Schwan's, but they are rather expensive, and you only get 8.
So, Cleggy in his infinite wisdom did a recipe search and came up with this:
I missed getting pictures of him making the dough, but I did get these:
These were taken after the "dogs" were rolled into the dough, and just before the boiling stage. He doubled the recipe and made 12 "dogs" and 3 regular bagels.
You only boil them until they float to the surface. This step only took a minute or so.
This is what they look like after they are boiled. They have been placed on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
Half-way through the baking process (about 10 minutes) he brushed them with an egg wash and placed them in the oven for 10 more minutes.
Here they are just out of the oven. Nice and golden brown. :-)
Here is one after it has been cut in half. :-) It tasted fantastic!! :-) We are freezing the rest to have for a quick lunch one day. :-) I do believe more will be made soon to "stock-pile" the freezer. :-)
(Now, Cleggy differed from the recipe a little. Instead of making them into bagels, he pinched off a piece of dough the size of a billiard ball. He then rolled it out longer in length than the sausage, and 3 times as wide. [He used Eckridge Beef Smoked Sausage -14 oz package]. You then wrap the the bagel around the sausage, much like you would a pig-in-a-blanket.)
Love,
Wendy Darling
I wish I could take credit for this recipe, but I can't. Cleggy found it on the internet HERE, and he made them. Oh. My. Goodness. They are amazing. :-)
We used to buy bagel dogs years ago, and then the store stopped carrying them. We couldn't find them anywhere. Then, we started ordering them from Schwan's, but they are rather expensive, and you only get 8.
So, Cleggy in his infinite wisdom did a recipe search and came up with this:
I missed getting pictures of him making the dough, but I did get these:
These were taken after the "dogs" were rolled into the dough, and just before the boiling stage. He doubled the recipe and made 12 "dogs" and 3 regular bagels.
You only boil them until they float to the surface. This step only took a minute or so.
This is what they look like after they are boiled. They have been placed on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
Half-way through the baking process (about 10 minutes) he brushed them with an egg wash and placed them in the oven for 10 more minutes.
Here they are just out of the oven. Nice and golden brown. :-)
Here is one after it has been cut in half. :-) It tasted fantastic!! :-) We are freezing the rest to have for a quick lunch one day. :-) I do believe more will be made soon to "stock-pile" the freezer. :-)(Now, Cleggy differed from the recipe a little. Instead of making them into bagels, he pinched off a piece of dough the size of a billiard ball. He then rolled it out longer in length than the sausage, and 3 times as wide. [He used Eckridge Beef Smoked Sausage -14 oz package]. You then wrap the the bagel around the sausage, much like you would a pig-in-a-blanket.)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Sunday, August 03, 2008
And the winner is.....
I know it is about 10 minutes early, but I need to leave for church. Sorry that I didn't think of that when I set the time of the drawing for 6:00 pm. I'll remember not to do that next time. :-)
Thank you to EVERYONE who entered the contest. If in the event you did not win, please visit the website here, and order yourself a book. It really is a great one to own, makes a great gift and you will be supporting our soldiers at the same time. How could it be better? :-)
Well, one way is also going HERE and see the different ways you can support our troops. You can adopt a soldier, just write letters or cards, bake cookies to send, make no-sew-blankets for the wounded, etc... There are many ways you can be a blessing to our men and women in uniform. :-)
Now, what am I forgetting?..........
OH, the winner!! :-) (Thought I forgot didn't you?) ;-)
OK, I used the random generator, and it popped out.....
#27 - TXsunlover!! :-)
Congratulations, and thank you, again for all of you who entered. Again, please visit the above links and order yourself a copy of this great cookbook. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
I know it is about 10 minutes early, but I need to leave for church. Sorry that I didn't think of that when I set the time of the drawing for 6:00 pm. I'll remember not to do that next time. :-)
Thank you to EVERYONE who entered the contest. If in the event you did not win, please visit the website here, and order yourself a book. It really is a great one to own, makes a great gift and you will be supporting our soldiers at the same time. How could it be better? :-)
Well, one way is also going HERE and see the different ways you can support our troops. You can adopt a soldier, just write letters or cards, bake cookies to send, make no-sew-blankets for the wounded, etc... There are many ways you can be a blessing to our men and women in uniform. :-)
Now, what am I forgetting?..........
OH, the winner!! :-) (Thought I forgot didn't you?) ;-)
OK, I used the random generator, and it popped out.....
#27 - TXsunlover!! :-)Congratulations, and thank you, again for all of you who entered. Again, please visit the above links and order yourself a copy of this great cookbook. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Happy Birthday, Trey!!! :-)
My youngest nephew's birthday is actually in July, but we had his party today. :-) I made the cake you see here in the picture. (Yes, that is the Houston Astro's logo) He is 6 years old now, and is very excited about it. :-)
He received many games and books, which he enjoyed. They are all on "his reading level", since he is a beginning reader. He is doing very well, and cannot wait to begin 1st grade. :-) I am very proud of the little guy. :-) I am sure his Dad will blog more about it, so I won't continue further.
Happy Birthday!! We love you. :-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
Sometimes it isn't worth talking to a REAL person...
If you're like me there are many times when you call a company you just want to talk to a real person. Someone without that monotone voice on the other end that tells you to keep pushing buttons. MANY BUTTONS. I just want to be able to ask a question.
So, yesterday when I decided to make a couple of purchases from those neat little inserts you get in the Sunday paper, I called instead of doing it online. (We'll call that mistake #1)
The first one I called was Pro-Active. I got a representative right away. I didn't have to wait, listening to some lame music or advertisement for the company. I thought it was a good sign. My representative spoke very fast, and didn't exactly have an American accent. I couldn't understand a lot of things she said, and I had to ask her to repeat herself several times.
I finally got through the end of it, I understood my purchase and my payment plan, etc. She asked, "Do you have any other questions, or purchases you would like to make today?" I replied, "No, thank you. Good Bye." It was all finalized and I was happy.
But, she wasn't finished. Oh no. She then spoke even faster than before (if that was possible) and began to try to get me to purchase vitamins, oil remover, and several other things. Now, like most of you, I was taught not to interrupt people when they are talking. Over the years though, I have decided that telephone sales people are an exemption to that rule. It just wastes their time, and mine, when I know I am not going to make any other purchases. I could tell she was reading from a script. I tried to interrupt her, but she wasn't stopping. So, when she finished her pitch I politely replied, "No thank you. I have what I need."
She then tried to begin again, this time I did manage to interrupt with "No thank you, all I need is what I ordered. I appreciate your time." And, I hung up on her. I did feel a twinge of guilt, because I know it was rude, but when they don't stop how else do you handle that?
Then, I made a call for a purchase my Mom was making. It was to a clothing company. Again, I immediately got a representative. A very nice lady who did not talk too fast, and who I understood very well. "This one will be much easier..." I thought. I was WRONG!
Placing my order took less than 5 minutes. They had everything she wanted in stock, and all was well. Then, the representative asked the inevitable question, "Will there be anything else?" I said, "No, thank you. That is all." and before I could say "Good-Bye" she went into a full scale pitch about Health Care insurance. Excuse me? I called a clothing company, not an insurance company. She spoke even more quickly than the last woman, and I could not interrupt at all. So, when she, FINALLY, finished telling me that she could "easily sign me up for one free month and if I was not completely satisfied I could cancel at any time..." I told her, "No, thank you, I know I won't use it so I will save you and myself the trouble." She then, reading from a script, continued the pitch telling me "I was making such a terrible mistake and it was oh so easy to sign me up for a FREE month and I could cancel at any time but she couldn't believe why I would because I would save OH SO MUCH MONEY." (WHEW! I don't know how she did it, but she never took a breath, seriously)
Again, after declining and hanging up on her, I thought about it, and I have decided to beat them at their own game. I have written my own "preface" to give when calling a sales representative. :-) Here it is, and feel free to use it the next time you have to talk to one of them. :-)
"Hello____________________,
My name is ____________________, and I will be happy to spell that for you in just a moment, but first let me just go ahead and save us both some valuable time. I want to make a purchase from you. I have thought long and hard about my purchase, and I have only what I absolutely want to buy on my list. I do not wish to hear about any other fabulous offer you have that I may not be aware of. Believe me, I am aware of it and I don't want it. Please, do not try to sell me accessories, extras, insurance, warranties, etc. I assure you my world will not fall apart if I do not add those things to my order.
I don't care if I get a free trial for one month, because we both know that I will be so busy next month that I will forget to cancel and then I will be out money as well as time when I DO call to cancel. That will not be good for you or me, so we will just avoid that issue altogether.
However, I do have an order right in front of me, and I have all of my information ready to give to you. If you would be so kind as to type it in and give me my confirmation number. Please, be aware that when our conversation is completely finalized I will politely thank you, and promptly hang up the phone. Do not be offended, as I am saving your valuable time as well as mine. Are you ready to begin?"
How does that sound? Too much? ;-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
If you're like me there are many times when you call a company you just want to talk to a real person. Someone without that monotone voice on the other end that tells you to keep pushing buttons. MANY BUTTONS. I just want to be able to ask a question.
So, yesterday when I decided to make a couple of purchases from those neat little inserts you get in the Sunday paper, I called instead of doing it online. (We'll call that mistake #1)
The first one I called was Pro-Active. I got a representative right away. I didn't have to wait, listening to some lame music or advertisement for the company. I thought it was a good sign. My representative spoke very fast, and didn't exactly have an American accent. I couldn't understand a lot of things she said, and I had to ask her to repeat herself several times.
I finally got through the end of it, I understood my purchase and my payment plan, etc. She asked, "Do you have any other questions, or purchases you would like to make today?" I replied, "No, thank you. Good Bye." It was all finalized and I was happy.
But, she wasn't finished. Oh no. She then spoke even faster than before (if that was possible) and began to try to get me to purchase vitamins, oil remover, and several other things. Now, like most of you, I was taught not to interrupt people when they are talking. Over the years though, I have decided that telephone sales people are an exemption to that rule. It just wastes their time, and mine, when I know I am not going to make any other purchases. I could tell she was reading from a script. I tried to interrupt her, but she wasn't stopping. So, when she finished her pitch I politely replied, "No thank you. I have what I need."
She then tried to begin again, this time I did manage to interrupt with "No thank you, all I need is what I ordered. I appreciate your time." And, I hung up on her. I did feel a twinge of guilt, because I know it was rude, but when they don't stop how else do you handle that?
Then, I made a call for a purchase my Mom was making. It was to a clothing company. Again, I immediately got a representative. A very nice lady who did not talk too fast, and who I understood very well. "This one will be much easier..." I thought. I was WRONG!
Placing my order took less than 5 minutes. They had everything she wanted in stock, and all was well. Then, the representative asked the inevitable question, "Will there be anything else?" I said, "No, thank you. That is all." and before I could say "Good-Bye" she went into a full scale pitch about Health Care insurance. Excuse me? I called a clothing company, not an insurance company. She spoke even more quickly than the last woman, and I could not interrupt at all. So, when she, FINALLY, finished telling me that she could "easily sign me up for one free month and if I was not completely satisfied I could cancel at any time..." I told her, "No, thank you, I know I won't use it so I will save you and myself the trouble." She then, reading from a script, continued the pitch telling me "I was making such a terrible mistake and it was oh so easy to sign me up for a FREE month and I could cancel at any time but she couldn't believe why I would because I would save OH SO MUCH MONEY." (WHEW! I don't know how she did it, but she never took a breath, seriously)
Again, after declining and hanging up on her, I thought about it, and I have decided to beat them at their own game. I have written my own "preface" to give when calling a sales representative. :-) Here it is, and feel free to use it the next time you have to talk to one of them. :-)
"Hello____________________,
My name is ____________________, and I will be happy to spell that for you in just a moment, but first let me just go ahead and save us both some valuable time. I want to make a purchase from you. I have thought long and hard about my purchase, and I have only what I absolutely want to buy on my list. I do not wish to hear about any other fabulous offer you have that I may not be aware of. Believe me, I am aware of it and I don't want it. Please, do not try to sell me accessories, extras, insurance, warranties, etc. I assure you my world will not fall apart if I do not add those things to my order.
I don't care if I get a free trial for one month, because we both know that I will be so busy next month that I will forget to cancel and then I will be out money as well as time when I DO call to cancel. That will not be good for you or me, so we will just avoid that issue altogether.
However, I do have an order right in front of me, and I have all of my information ready to give to you. If you would be so kind as to type it in and give me my confirmation number. Please, be aware that when our conversation is completely finalized I will politely thank you, and promptly hang up the phone. Do not be offended, as I am saving your valuable time as well as mine. Are you ready to begin?"
How does that sound? Too much? ;-)
Love,
Wendy Darling
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