Stole this from Miss Robyn (confessionsofatrophywife.blogspot.com)--

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet and current street name)
MISTY KENESAW

2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (grandfather/grandmother on your mom's side, your favorite candy
GOLDIE CELLO

3. YOUR "FLY GIRL/GUY" NAME: (first initial of first name, first two or three letters of your last name).
SBUC

4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal)
BLACK DOG

5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born)
NICOLE WINCHESTER

6.YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name, first 3 letters of mom's maiden name and first 3 letters of the town you grew up in)
BUCSUCAUWIN

7. SUPERHERO NAME: ("The", your favorite color, favorite soda)
THE BLACK ALE-8

8.NASCAR NAME: (the first name of both your grandfathers)
WILLIAM LAWRENCE

9.FUTURISTIC NAME: ( the name of your favorite perfume/cologne and the name of your favorite shoes).
ETERNITY FRANCO SARTO

10.WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: ( mother/father's middle name and the next name you hear on the tv/radio)
SUE RICHARD

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST, HNT's:
(I told you I fell in love with my jacuzzi tub!!!!)

More talk about my vacation........I was so glad we went. So glad I was there. I needed it so much. To walk on the warm sand, to walk in the warm ocean, to taste the salt on my lips, to feel the wind blowing my hair, to hear the ocean waves crashing. It really heals me when I am there.
We had lots of relaxation. Sunbathing, splashing around in the waves of the ocean, swimming in the pool, watching people be so happy and content.Watching people parasail. Even saw a little wedding on the beach (why didn't I do that!!!) No drama. Just peaceful. Good food. We ate like Kings and Queens. Lobster, grouper, mahi mahi, shrimp, scallops, calamari, filets, gyros, pizza, etc. Shopped! Went to the Harley Davidson store 3 times!!! Got some real nice treats for myself. And I fell in love with our jacuzzi tub! So here are so more pics of me being in my element. Isn't it great to take pictures so you can re-live the moments??

Vacation was great!
My husband and I went to Myrtle Beach. This vacation was planned spur of the moment as many vacations that I take with my husband are. I think I knew maybe 3 to 4 weeks before that I was going.
We drove since plane tickets were outrageous. I flew to Myrtle Beach last year with my sister and some girl friends but this year the tickets were double! I'm not a big fan of riding in a car. I don't know if I have ever mentioned this before but I if I am a passenger in a car and it starts to rain, well, I have alot of anxiety. This even happens when I am a passenger in a car in my own town. Now, if I'm in a car, alone, and it starts to rain, I can keep my composure even tho I do get nervous. If I'm driving my car in the rain in my town and I have a passenger, well, I get even more nervous.
So, you will not catch me driving in the rain, any long distance to towns I don't know with passengers!!! I know I'm a freak!
So on to my point---we left for vacation on Saturday Aug. 19 and it was raining and then pouring!!!!!!! I WAS IN HELL! And I know my freaking out, my anxiety, my panic, was making my husband feel like he was in Hell!!!!!! I wish I had control of this but I don't. I don't know why I freak like this, but I do. I cannot close my eyes, or lay my head back, I cannot sleep, I cannot read, I cannot take Valium or Zanax I cannot do anything but keep my eyes on the road! It's as tho, I must see what is going on at all times. Thank God for the the little strap right above the door near the passenger side window, I hang on for dear life. I'm actually shocked that I can use my right hand after holding it up and holding on so tight for so long. If we get close to an 18 wheeler or 18 wheelers, I freak. Or if I feel we are getting to close to the car in front of us, I freak. Or if I seeing alot of braking in front of us, I freak. Now I must mention that when I freak, I don't start screamin', or cryin' (I come very close!!!), my heartbeat accelerates, I can feel my blood pressure start to rise, my face becomes flushed, I have to force myself to breathe, my palms sweat and I feel like a clam, I just become a nervous wreck and I do try to stay calm. I pray like there is no tomorrow!!! And sometimes I try to calmly say over and over (it usually comes out in a whine), "This sucks" or "I hate this". I say those things alot. I just can't explain this torture that I suffer. And I don't know how to fix it!
But I suffer just to get to my beloved beach, ocean, vacation!
So here is a pic of me not too long after I got out the car on Sunday Aug 20. I must mention that we thankfully did not drive the whole 9 hours on Saturday. We stopped midpoint.
I also must mention that the rain did stop before we stopped on Saturday. The rain stopped somewhere in Tennessee and we did not have to drive thru the those scary "S" curves in the mountains of North Carolina. Can't thank God enough for that!!

Comair Flight 5191 was taking off from Lexington, Ky., heading to Atlanta, Ga., when it crashed before dawn Sunday morning, killing all but one of the 50 people on board.
The crash in Lexington was the deadliest in the U.S. since Nov. 12, 2001.

This has been on my mind. My heart and prayers have been consumed with this tragedy especially since this is where I live. This tragedy has
really touched home. I personally did not know anyone on board but I know so many that did.
I just can't imagine the heart ache that so many are suffering.
God bless them all. May all those who are hurting find peace.

In KY flags are a half staff today.

Comair Flight 5191 guestbook website for those who would like to send their condolences:
http://www.legacy.com/kentucky/Guestbook.asp?PersonID=19002901

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I am an Elvis fan. I have been to Graceland once (See pic below). I have more CD's and books on Elvis than any other artist. I have atleast 10 Elvis shirts or T-shirts. I have posters. I have my work computer and my home computer with Elvis as my screensaver.
I get goose bumps when I hear an Elvis song come on the radio.
I don't know why I am such an Elvis fan but I just am. Love him or hate him, I adore him, his music and his legend. Young, oh so fine Elvis or even fat, jumpsuit wearing bloated Elvis. I like his music in all the phases of his life. I am even a member of an Elvis fan club. I have even dressed as Elvis for Halloween. Guess you could call me an Elvis freak. But that's okay. I don't mind.
Today marks the 29th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death. So in honor and in memory of the king of rock-n-roll, I dedicate this blog entry to him. May his legend only continue to grow and we all know he's the richest dead entertainer.
Now, excuse me as I go make me a peanut butter and nanner sandwich.

A couple Elvis quotes:
"I ain't no saint, but I've tried never to do anything that would hurt my family or offend God...I figure all any kid needs is hope and the feeling he or she belongs. If I could do or say anything that would give some kid that feeling, I would believe I had contributed something to the world." -Elvis commenting to a reporter, 1950's.

"When I was a child, ladies and gentlemen, I was a dreamer. I read comic books, and I was the hero of the comic book. I saw movies, and I was the hero in the movie. So every dream I ever dreamed has come true a hundred times...I learned very early in life that: ‘Without a song, the day would never end; without a song, a man ain’t got a friend; without a song, the road would never bend - without a song.' So I keep singing a song. Goodnight. Thank you.” -From his acceptance speech for the 1970 Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Nation Award. Given at a ceremony on January 16, 1971. (Elvis quotes from copyrighted material with lines from the song “Without a Song”.)

Today, I got to thinking about a funny Seinfeld episode. You remember that episode where George goes without having sex and it he becomes really smart? Like genius smart? And Elaine is the opposite she, doesn't have sex and she becomes dumb? As in "what is a four letter word for Winnie the _ _ _ _?" And then that guy Elaine is dating who happens to be studying to take his medical exams to become a doctor and due to George being smarter Elaine decides for them to abstain so her beau can be smarter answers, "Pooh" and Elaine cracks up over POOH?
I got to thinking how I am dumber when I have sex. I guess I'm more like poor ole Georgie boy. I get all frazzled. I can't think staight. I can't get the wonderful moment out of my head. I replay it. I savor it. So by being consumed with the moment, it doesn't leave much else for my brain to think about.
Example, this morning it had rained and my hubbie, who works outdoors had some extra time. Lucky me. I tell ya when I went to work. I was a happy camper. Little pink in my cheeks. Spring in my step. More cheerful attitude. However, I couldn't do anything right. Couldn't spell a name that was right in front on me on patients next appointment card. I made stupid little errors. Couldn't remember what modifiers to put on different posts. Looked at the date so many times cuz I couldn't remember what day it was. Ran reports that I had already run. Put charts away that I needed to work on. I would have those moments where I lost time, becuz I was daydreaming about earlier "moments".
I was in a fuzz or a blur. I felt a little ignorant. All becuz of a little morning renedezous.
But you know what?
IT WAS WORTH IT!
Hope you had a happy, pink-in-your-cheeks kind of Tuesday!

Tag No. 1 (from Erika @ www.whyme-notagain.blogspot.com)
Four jobs I have had in my life
server/waitress
desk clerk
salad slut
administrative assistant

Four movies I could watch over and over
Pretty Woman
Bridget Jones Diary
Waiting to Exhale
Shawshank Redemption

Four places I have lived:
Los Altos, California
Winchester, KY
Richmond, KY
Lexington, KY

Four TV shows I love to watch
That 70's show
Sex and the City
King of Queens
The Girls next Door

Four places I've been on vacation
London, England
Paris, France
Oak Island, NC
Isle of Palms, SC

Four of my favorite websites
spiritdaily.com
amazon.com
americancatholic.com
myyahoo.com

Four of my favorite foods:
Sashimi/japanese
lobster
king crab legs
oysters


What would I rather be doing
Walking on the beach holding my honey's hand, listening to the ocean

Tag No. 2 (From KJ @ www.hitmewithyourbestshot.blogspot.com)
2 moments you would like to erase
a) my brother's funeral
b) my mother's death

4 moments you would like to relive
a)that one night last August on the beach in Oak Island, NC
b) being in Europe
c) being confirmed
d) my wedding

2 places you wouldn't like to go again
a) Belterra Casino
b) truck stop bathroom

4 places you can't wait to go again
a)Mass
b)RCIA class (I'm sponsoring this year)
c) PREP classes (I'm going to be a catechist to the youth)
d)Any warm beach on the ocean

2 foods you can't stand
a)meatloaf
b) spam

4 foods you love
(already did this one above!)

2 current songs that make you change the station
a) Unwritten By Natasha somebody-the song was great at first
and now I'm sick of it
b) Public Affair by Jessica Simpson

4 current songs you play over and over
a) U & Me by Cassie
b) Buttons by the Pussycat Dolls
c)Bossy by Kelis
d) Black Horse & a cherry tree by KT Tunstall

2 books you never finished/or read again
a) Angels by Sylvia Brown (or anything by Sylvia Brown)
b)Gap Creek by Robert Morgan

4 books you have read more than once/or will read again
a) Elvis and You
b) The Five People You Meet In Heaven
c) Rome Sweet Home
d)God Underneath by Father Edward Beck

Anybody want to take a double tag?????

Free association
(from www.subliminal.lunanina.com)
Free association is described as a "psychonanalytic procedure in which a person is encouraged to give free rein to his or her thoughts and feelings, verbalizing whatever comes into the mind without monitoring its content." Over time, this technique is supposed to help bring forth repressed thoughts and feelings that the person can then work through to gain a better sense of self.
Okay, so here I go:
(week 184)
1) Kim :: my sister-n-law
2) Designate :: a driver
3) Liner :: waste basket
4 ) Weed :: smoke
5) Infusion :: mixed up
6) Nutritious ::good for you
7) Favorites :: flavor
8) Transform ::change
9) 42 :: 6 years from now
10) Sunday afternoon :: relaxation

(week 183)

1) Affair :: of the heart
2) Package :: gift
3) Warner :: brothers
4) Drop :: it like it's hot
5) Balance :: beam
6) Shore :: beach
7) Confirmation :: Catholic
8) Nose :: ring
9) Talking :: blab
10) Bend :: over

(week 182)

1)Italy :: Rome (where I'm dying to go)
2)Honk :: Horn
3)Shades :: sunglasses
4)Tool :: hammer
5)Modern :: up to date
6)Tension :: headache
7)Conservative :: liberal
8)Weight :: Heavy
9)Insurance :: coverage
10)Political:: crap

(week 181)

1)Requirements ::rules
2)Pizza :: pepperoni
3)Dating :: kiss
4)Issue :: problem
5)Sharp :: tongue
6)Distinguish :: different
7)Remote :: control
8)Felony :: prison
9)Exercise :: sweat
10)Choose :: right

Okay, I think I 've done enough!
Feel free to take these and do your own free association.
May you have a great Sunday!!

From a blog that I just discovered www.saturday8.blogspot.com
(this was from 8/5/06 blog entry on this site)

1. are you currently in love? Yes!
2. do you have a "one that got away?" tell us about him/her. if not, describe your last awesome partner.
I don't feel that I have a story about the one that got away. I feel that
past relationships ended. period. No one got away we just ended. And that was that. My last awesome partner? Well, that has to be Mr. Blessed.
We have been together for 10 years and almost 8 years (Sept.) married.
We have had our ups and downs as any couple would, but as always, I thank God for him because I am blessed.
3. recently, a florida couple got stranded on their first date (read about it here). although it's not terribly romantic, it's sweet that they've decided that even after being stranded for 6 hours they're willing to go on a second date! what's your favourite romantic story? (this can be a movie, book, poem, story of long-lost love from a friend or relative, etc.) tell us about it. Favorite romantic story? I like how Carrie and Mr. Big ended up together
on the last episode of Sex and the City. Their story definitely had it's highs and lows. I tend to be drawn to realistic story lines where couples have problems and (hopefully) work thru them.
Real life romantic story? My brother and his wife have been married 17 years and they got married after only knowing each other 6 months!
I think that two wonderful, loving people found each other and they have a marriage that I aspire to have-even after 17 years.
4. what's the hardest thing you've had to deal with in a relationship?
substance abuse
5. when it comes to lovers, are you the 'jealous type'? I really don't think I'm the jealous type. I don't mind my honey talking to women and being friends with women or even spending time with his male friends, but
should I see some chick flirting with my man, I will admit it flatters me and then it makes a little ticked becuz most the time I'm with him and they know he is taken. I feel that some girls just do it to get my goat!
But I'm not reaching over and grabbing nobody by the head and puttin' the smack down on'em or bad mouthing.
6. do you believe in 'love at first sight,' or do you think it's a chemical/biological lustful response? I don't believe in love at first sight. I do believe it's a chemical/biological lustful response only. I can admit that I have seen a hot guy and my hormones went into overdrive but then I've talked to him and fizzle! he's stuck on himself, or he's drunk or he's got no personality, etc. Physical appearance is good but I need the whole package. Like what's on the inside-that's where I mostly drawn.
7. do you believe that a person has a 'one true love,' the person that he/she was destined to be with forever? No I do not believe that a person has only one true love. I believe we have many true loves. I do believe we have to work on the forever part. I believe that once we decide we have found our match we must work on keeping the love alive, keeping it fresh. Fall in love with that person over and over again. And it does take two to do this. Not one partner trying to do it all.
8. love gone wrong - what's the worst romantic 'horror story' you've ever heard, maybe from your friends or family, or something that's happened to you?
Love gone wrong-goodness! I hear alot of this. Most stories aren't love gone wrong but love gone bored. Or I love you till someone better comes along. Or the butterflies are gone-uh-oh, time for a change.
Or we're married now, I got you, no need to try anymore.
Maybe this isn't the worst romantic horror story but I know this girl
who got into a relationship with this pot smoking, alcoholic guy when they were in college. She was attracted to the bad boy, hell raising fellow that he so obviously was. There was chemistry and sex that was so good and then there was the sweet side of him that he sometimes let out and she was so delighted to see. That sweet side was where he was caring, loving and gentle. Where he admitted his flaws, showed off his goofy, funny side, where he was shared his dreams. He would love her up-mind, body and soul. Loved her up not just sexually but with his heart and soul. Enter his self destructive side-alcohol. He let it control him and out came the other side of him-the ugly side, the very ugly side. And so the cycle of abuse started-abusive words, threats, smacks, hits, break ups and back together and then the realization of his actions and then the pitiful, heart wrenching sorrowful apologies and then she would forgive the ugly side and then the wonderful, earth shaking make-ups would almost wipe away the demolishing track it caused. Eventually, the ugly side just kept getting uglier, her self esteem lacked, her motivations were few and the good side of him seemed to be a distant memory. The apologizes came less. The hurt that she held in her soul eventually killed her desire for him. Finally, one day, by the grace of God, she knew she had enough and she decided to close that dreadful chapter of her life...it only had taken four and a half years. He tried to beg her back. He even threatened her. But her mind was made up and when she walked away with what was left of her pride, she walked away for good, for the better and stronger.
That horror story was about me.

So, it's Friday night and I am at home. I don't mind that I'm not out painting the town red. I am not bored but do feel a little lonely.
So here I am blogging and checking others blogs.
I'm feeling a little left out. I feel a little like Rudolph the red nose reindeer. No, I don't have a red nose. I just feel like sometimes that
I'm Rudolph and the other reindeers won't let me play in their
reindeer games.
No what I mean? Ever felt excluded? Ever felt that nobody wanted to
include you? Like you were the odd man out?
Kinda feeling like that. No, I'm not having a pity party. Just stating how
I feel. No big woop. It really doesn't matter. Just felt like blogging about
it.
I also feel like sometimes people act one way to me in private and another when they are around others. It's like I'm not cool enough or fun enough or interesting enough when others are around but they will make due with me when no one else is around.
Sucky feeling. But I'll be okay.
Kinda reminds me of immature, freakin' high school, childish behavior.
Don't fit in the click becuz I'm different; becuz I won't copy or do what all the cool kids are doing. Screw that. Grow up.
I just wish that if you don't like me you wouldn't even bother. Stay out of my world and go play with the kids you would rather be playing with.
Don't jerk my chain. Don't pretend with me. Go be with people that are more like you. I see right thru ya.

Okay, I'm done now.

NEWS OF THE DAY:
British police said Thursday they thwarted a terrorist plot, possibly just days away, to blow up U.S.-bound jetliners over the Atlantic and kill thousands. Chilling accounts leaked by investigators described a plan on the scale of Sept. 11 that would use liquid explosives concealed as everyday carry-on items and common electronic devices to bring down 10 planes in a nearly simultaneous strike.

Every morning I awake to the television. It automatically turns on to wake me up and this is terrible news is what I hear.

Did this scare you? Doesn't this scare you?

They have gotten us before. I have to say I had started to become comfortable again in my life. I had started to feel a little safer since 9/11. This just woke me up. As I go thru life and get boggled down with all the don't matters, this event makes me not take my freedom for granted.

Today's happenings have definitely sent chills up my spine. I am fearful and scared. Almost the same feelings I had on September 11th except THANK GOD no loss of life today. No buildings annihilated. This is such a scary world we live in. I am so happy and proud to be an American and yet I am fearful. So many hate us. So many want to hurt us.
I THANK GOD for all the men and women out there
who are protecting us.
I THANK GOD that I am safe; that my family is safe.
I THANK GOD for all that I have today.
I THANK GOD this plot was thwarted.
I THANK GOD there was no loss of life.
How lucky we ALL are to live in this great nation
and to have all we have.
GOD BLESS AMERICA!

To each their own.
One has a right to one's personal preferences.
Sometimes I don't understand
I may even disagree
or even agree
I believe to each their own.

I don't want to be judged
So I try with all my might
not to judge.
I would be a liar if I said that
I didn't somewhat. I think
we all sometimes assume things.
Just as long as we put ourselves back in
check, have a clairfing moment
and remember
to each their own.

What you do with your life
is your decision.
What I do with my life is
my decision.
To each their own.

You can think what you want.
You can live as you want.
To each their own.

Is it wrong of me, if I don't understand, or even if I disagree, to
try to understand where someone is coming from?
How do they make their decisions?
Maybe by my curiousity I will no longer disagree?
Maybe I just will be enlightened to a whole new way of thinking.
Maybe I won't.
Isn't it good that I want to learn? Or that I want to know?
I'm not closing off my mind and just dwelling on what I think.
To each their own.

I am not perfect. I don't claim to be.
I am a sinner who makes mistakes
every time I turn around.
I try to go thru this life with an open
mind. I don't condemn,
even if I disagree.
To each their own.

I love a person for who they are
not what they do. I ask the same of
me.
I hate it when I try to understand
and the words don't come out right or
I don't articulate my thoughts as I wish
them to be,
and the wrong thing is assumed of me.
But you know what, if you want to
assume something of me, go right ahead.
You know why?
To each their own.

So many don't know me. I have a loving
caring heart and wish only good things for
all. Even if I get angry, I think of some-not- so-nice
thoughts, but then I get over it. And I still
want to see the best in everyone.

I have set some standards for myself
but they are for myself. I don't hold
others to them.
I will admit I see people living their
lives and I don't exactly agree but
I firmly believe it's their life.
To each their own.

If you want to do drugs, be an alcoholic,
have casual sex, cheat on your spouse,
pick your nose, like to use foul language,
don't believe in God,
hate our president,
or WHATEVER
it's your perogative to do what you want to do.
To each their own.

So excuse me if I ask questions. That's just
my curious nature. I like to see how
people tick. I like to see why
people make the decisions they do.
I like to see just exactly what
makes each of us different
and then what make us
the same.
Believe me when I say-
To each their own.

And as always, I wish
you many blessings!

Goodness! I feel like a dirty bird after my last two pics that I have posted!
Guess I'm just showing another side of myself.
I thought they were funny till a couple of my older friends seemed embarassed by them. They even gasped. I didn't see anything wrong
with my pics. One friend even said that the latest pic was pornographic!
I told her that I didn't think it was pornographic-you couldn't see anything for pete's sake! And then I proceded to try to imitate some porno music! Ha Ha!
Can't a girl have a little fun? Guess I was feeling a bit mischevious the last two posts! I'm allowed! I guess I'm feeling a bit guilty for showing my
mischevious side. Guilt! I hate it.
NEways, on to better non-guilty thoughts...................
12 more days till the beach.
Did I mention there's a jacuzzi in our room. WOO HOO! Dirty bird will be coming out to play!
Uh-OH.... there's that mischevious side again creeping on in. LOL
So now I will leave you with a nice, sweet, non-offending, non-guilt makin' graphic....

I wasn't tagged-so I stole it from Jenny @ mildlymalcontentend.blogpsot.com

9 Lasts...
1. Last place you were: Circle K convenient store
2. Last drug used: generic ibuprofen
3. Last beverage: Starbucks coffee frappucino
4. Last kiss: My honey
5. Last movie seen: Couldn't tell ya-I'm pathetic
6. Last phone call: sister who called from her vacation in Chicago
7. Last cd played: Kenny Loggins Greatest Hits
8. Last bubble bath: Couldn't tell ya since bubble baths and me don't agree
9. Last time you cried: last Monday at Funeral

8 Have You Evers...
1. Have you ever dated someone twice: yes
2. Have you ever been cheated on: no
3. Have you ever kissed somebody and regretted it? yes
4. Have you ever fallen in love: yes
5. Have you ever lost someone: yes
6. Have you ever been depressed: yes
7. Have you ever been out of the country: yes
8. Have you ever been on TV: no

7 States You've Been To...
1. California
2. South Carolina
3. North Carolina
4. Florida
5. Indiana
6. Tennessee
7. New York

6 Things You've Done Today...
1. Got up!
2. Got dressed
3. Fed dog
4. loved on animals
5. went to Mass
6. went to convienent store

5 Favorite Things...
1. Being Catholic
2. my husband
3. my family
4. my animals
5. going to the ocean

4 People You Can Tell Almost Anything...
1. My priest
2. My Sister
3. My sister-n-law
4. my brother

3 Favorite Colors...
1. green
2. turquoise
3. pink

2 things you want to do before you die...
1. Go to Rome
2. be stronger in my faith

1 thing you regret...
1. dating my ex for too long and wasting all that precious time
being with someone I shouldn't have!

Tag to anyone who wants to take the tag!

I know in the big scheme of things, this subject is really not that important. Guess you could say it's a "D M"---Don't Matter.
But I had to blog about it since it did disturb me a bit yesterday.
In the last week, I had heard a rumor floating aroung the office that since we have been re-doing our office (new wallpaper, new carpet, new office machines/appliances) and trying to get rid of clutter-----[must interupt here and add that our office reminds me of an obstacle course, so much stuff in not that big of space-or maybe it's just too much stuff-or better yet this medical office/practice has just outgrew this space, that you are constantly trying to go around things and employees to get where ever you are going. Also reminds of bunch sardines stuck in a tight little sardine can, cramped!]-----Now, the rumor was that we were to straighten up our own personal area. I don't have a cubicle but I have this little desk. I work in check-out so I am one of those people that you're gonna see when you are leaving the office (that's just ONE of my duties).
On my desk I have a hodge-podge of frogs. As I have said in other posts, I collect frogs and obviously I'm gonna have'em on my desk. I had about 6 frogs on my desk. Nothing huge. Some real small. Mostly decorative. I have a wooden one that sits up right. It's carved out of wood, hand painted and it's legs and arms move. I had a cute little almost beanie baby type of leopard frog that sits on top of my computer (it croaks when you squeeze it's belly), a small Kermit was sitting there next to him. On my computer speakers, one on each, was bean bag frogs. They are small too. And then there was a very little lucky glass frog. A tiny frog that has some quote on it that's says you gotta believe. And one framed picture of my husband and me. Oh yeah! And on the side of my computer was the cutiest sticker that says "Have you hugged a frog today?" I've become known as the frog lady. I don't feel that my desk was cluttered or tacky. I feel my desk is cute, homey and definitely a conversation starter. A many a patient has said "so you like frogs, huh?" And then that would lead into some frog story, or how they know someone else that collects frogs or do you like frog legs (NO!!!!). And hey, did you know that frog stands for Fully Rely On God? I've even got a couple of frog gifts from patients!!!!
So finally the rumor became fact. Out came the inter-office memo and I quote:
"In an effort to improve the appearance of the office, the decision has been made that personal items must be removed from your workspace/counter space. you may have a maximum of two framed pictures in your area. No knickknacks or other personal memorabilia shall be viewable by our patients. please remember limiting your personal items will elimate clutter and allow for a more professional work environment. Your area will be cleaned and items removed by day end on Friday, August 4. Thank you in advance for your cooperation."

I have to say I was disappointed. This was my little haven. Gave me a little joy. I took pride in my desk. I have to say I was a ticked and sad.

So what did I do? Well, I found this really interesting article supporting
decorating your desk and I wrote a little introduction letter and gave it to Dr. Head-Honcho, "THE" man, who started this practice, who is the
ultimate decison maker. Top Dog. Let's me add, that this man, to me, is
not that easy to talk to. He is not what I consider approachable. He is a bit intimadating. He is old money. And not much of a sense of humor.
I feel he thinks he is above everybody except those who are old money too. He a renown surgeon. I do believe in giving respect BUT (there is always a but...) I think as a human being, I got to respectfully speak my mind despite he is the decision maker, and despite he's sometimes
condescending attitude.
So instead of going the chicken-sh*t way by not saying nothing OR putting the letter and article on his desk, I go to his office and give it to him personally. Before I gave to him, I said, "Dr. Head Honcho (of course, that's not his real name--I'm leaving his name out of this), I have something I would like you to read and I would like to know that you won't be mad at me for giving it to you?" He said sure he would read it and no he wouldn't be mad. So he reads it, or better yet skimmed it.
The letter and article were (and I'm paraphrasing):
Dr. Head Honcho,
Hello.
I just wanted to share this article (or atleast the beginning of this article) that I found very insightful.
Thanks for taking the time to read it.
Sincerely,
Me (the boat rocker---ha ha)
Here's the article (or atleast some of it):
De-stressing at Work
Stress. The ever-present shadow that follows you around the office all day. It accounts for numerous mistakes, lost man-hours, decreased productivity, increased tension and hostility, and a general dislike for work. We won't ever eliminate stress completely, but we can learn new ways to deal with it.
What follows is a list of tips to help you de-stress at work. Each exercise can be completed in ten minutes or less. Try them all a few times to see which one works best for you. Then, rotate your exercise throughout the day to relieve stress and rejuvenate.
****DECORATE YOUR SPACE****
Most people spead more waking hours at work than any other place. Yet very few poeple realize the full effect our work environment has on us. Proper environment is crucial to our well-being. That's why I want to start with this exercise.
Before you do anything else, decorate your office or cubicle in a style that fits your personality. If your company is on the stiff side, start slowly, but do something! Your surroundings should support your best efforts, and the best way to do that is put a little of you into them. Pictures, posters, knickknacks; it doesn't matter as much what it is as why it's there.......
Be creative, have fun. And most importantly, create a workspace that makes you feel good just being there.
Now the article goes on with other exercises such as breathe deeply, create a mental vacation spot, do a few yoga stretches, take a short walk, share a snack, etc.
So he says to me, "well, I could give you three more articles counter acting what that says. Like how that the clutter distracted and made people less productive.....and blah, blah, blah"........"I appreciate your individuality and respect you for showing me the article....blah, blah, blah." He was nice about it. But it really was a waste of my energy.
I just had to have me say. No since complaining about some decision you don't like without trying to fix it or possibly showing someone another side.
Yesterday at the end of my day, I got a box, packed my stuff up, and brought it home. I came in the door and my husband said "so did you get fired?"
No, but my froggies did.

A couple more answers for two new questions.
From Flora Pang @ www.fforflora.blogspot.com, 2 questions:
*a) On a scale of 1 to 10, how violent are you?
I would have to say probably a 7 becuz once I get ticked, I have been known to rage. I feel my mind, my thoughts, my
body language is so angry and spiteful. I have thrown things
like the phone, a hair brush, a beer, an ink pen. Not at anyone
or not at anything that would cause damage. I do have
thoughts of wanting to beat the tar out of, strangle, and/or just
punch someone who I had let make me angry. I have been in
few physical fights but my fights are more with terrible, angry, ugly,
spiteful, hurtful words. They are my weapons and I use them as daggers.
Please know I am trying to get a hold of this terrible flaw. I hate all
the pent up anger that I sometimes let surface.
*b) On a scale of 1 to 10 how humourous are you?
I would have to say a 9 since I like to joke, cut up and make light bad situations. I am corny and goofy. I don't mind being the joker or acting the idiot at times. I think I am funny and I love to make people laugh.
From Miss Robyn @ www.confessionsofatrophywife.blogspot.com
How do you keep such a postive attitude?
Well, Miss Robyn I don't feel that I do all the time. I feel I am much
more positive with others than myself. I feel that I am too hard on myself. I have been surrounded by negativity so much of my life and I try
to be positive, see the light at the end of the tunnel and I always believe
in hope and faith. It's sometimes easier to be more hopeful for others.
I don't want to rain on anybodies parade unless they rain on mine.
And then I really have been trying to to be more forgiving and open minded so I probably would turn the other cheek, so to speak. I remember this one girl that I considered my friend back in college.
She was one of the sweetest, most positive persons I had ever known.
She always saw things on the bright side. She never had a bad thing
to say about anyone. She was like a breath of fresh air and a ray of sunshine. I knew then that was how I wanted to come across and that's how I wanted to be. I also realized that due to my past and some a very negative history, I couldn't easily be like her....but I'm striving. Thank you for the compliment.*blush*

**Tonight I booked our suite in Myrtle Beach!!!! I am so excited!!!!Ocean front, balcony, jacuzzi!!!!! Hot diggity Dog! We were to leave on Friday the 18th but now we will be leaving on Saturday, drive half way
and stop and then get up Sunday and be there!!!!!!!!! I really like
splitting up the drive. I wanted to fly since I flew to MB last year, but
the tickets were double what they were last year.

**I'm loving my freshly highlighted hair. I feel so rejuvenated when I get
my hair trimmed and highlighted. It's as though, I have more energy and more zest when my "do" looks perty.

1) From Keshi @ www.keshigirl.blogspot.com:
What is the happiest thing about life?
The happiest thing about life to me is being at the ocean, with the sun shining down on me, walking thru the frothy waves as they pull me out further, feeling the sand moving under my feet, feeling the wind blowing my hair, the smell of the salt water sea, the seagulls flying over me in the vast blue sky, watching pelicans diving into the blue water. I am happiest when I am at the ocean. It is total paradise to me. I have no cares. I always think about how when I walking out of the water, how the waves slap me as if they are playing tag, and trying to get me to stay and play some more.(17 days till I'm there)
2)From KJ @ www.hitmewithyourbestshot.blogspot.com
When are we going to lunch?
Well, my dear, how about when I get back from vacation. What about Saturday, September 2nd??? Where would you like to go? Here in my
town? I have alot of favorite spots. What about you?? Where would you like to go? Now there's a question answering with a question.
3)From DG @ www.onestepright.blogspot.com
Tell me something that you have accomplished that you are very
proud of.
I have to say that becoming Catholic. I love it. It has changed my life.
It wasn't easy. I'm sure you know you just don't go to Catholic mass and
viola! you are Catholic. It took many months of going to class-something like 9 months. I am so very proud to be Catholic Convert and I think it shows.
4)From Knight @ www.drearycity.blogspot.com
Four questions! I love it!
*a)What is your most prized possession?
Materially it would have to be my wedding rings. They are not huge, or really fancy, kinda dainty, pretty, simple and what they symbolize to me
means the world.
Non-material I would have to say my health. I am blessed knowing how very lucky I am to get up each day with two good legs, two good arms and hands, two good eyes, I can think, I can breathe, I have no aches, I have no illness. I work in a medical office where I see so much sickness and I do thank God for blessing me at this moment with being healthy.
*b) As a Christian, how do I juxtapose free will with pre-destiny?
Goodness how to I compare and contrast free will (which I say is our will truly free when I feel our we have such a weakness in our will?) and pre-destiny-something that I see as set, such as when we will die, that God knows know us, and has full knowledge of our deeds and controls our destiny-I feel that as a human being I know right from wrong, my will is weak and I falter, and I believe God knows this already (pre-destiny).
----okay, this is too deep Knight, but I gave it a tiny little stab. Knight I
got a C+ in philosphy and it was one of the hardest earned C+'s I ever got!
* c) What is my favorite food?
Sushi--better yet, sashimi.
*d) When am I gonna turn off word verification on my blog?
I turned it on since I got some spam/fake comment. So I guess I'm not turning it off. Does it aggravate you?
5)From Erika @ www.whyme-notagain.blogspot.com
What is one thing I regret?
I do have many regrets but one I feel that I can admit is dating my crazy, abusive ex, Scary Jerry. I knew from the moment I met him he was bad news, yet I got with him and made so many stupid decisions that I can't even count. I made so many regretful decisions. I acted in ways that I feel to not become me. I feel that I let myself become garbage. I let myself be belittled, degraded, abused. It sometimes sickens me to know just how low I stooped. How I was kicked and punched and still crawled back for more. *gag* I got a bad taste in my mouth.
6)From Leigh @ www.tryagain2006.blogspot.com
If you had to change one thing in your life, what would it be?
If I had to change one thing it would be my fears. My fear of having children. I am scared of it. And yet, here I am now, a Catholic girl who is not on birth control. (I also have been told by my ob/gyn that if I wanted to have youngin's that she would probably have to put me on fertility medicine since I don't ovulate normally) but still I fear being pregnant, having a child. I am fearful of all aspects: the actual carrying of a child,
the birth, the raising, would I be a good mother? Am I too selfish?
What if something was wrong with my baby? On and on I could go on about this. I just wish I could change my fear of this. I hope you don't think I'm awful when having children is freakin' common. Heck fire! That's how we all got here!
THANK YOU ALL FOR THE QUESTIONS. THEY WERE AWESOME BUT NOT AS AWESOME AS ALL OF YOU!
And now I will close this post with my usual,
BLESSINGS
and
come on Dial Up Princess, you gotta think of a something to ask me.
and
where are my other bloggers at??? Robyn? Starry Nights? 2-many
thoughts?
***********this just in, from Starry Nights @
www.stargazer-lalitha.blogspot.com (just after I was questioning where Starry Nights was!!!)
question #7
What is most important in my life? And what contribution would I like to make in this world?
*a) Most important in my life is my faith. I made a decision to put God and Jesus first above all.
*b)My contribution? I believe it is so true that you can make some small difference right where you are-so my contribution would be that smile that someone needed on a bad day, or a hug, or caring word, or shoulder to lean on, or a laugh to lighten the mood, and even witnessing that
God loves you and know He is ALWAYS with you, waiting for you to turn to Him!

Fellow bloggers in blogland, trying something new--
Somebody, everybody, anybody ask me a question.
Ask more than one, if you like.
Any question.
A real question.
Is there something or anything that you would like
to know about me????
Ask me.
I'll post answers on next blog.
Now come on, get to thinkin' and get to askin'.