You'll shoot your what?????

I had to laugh as I opened up different blogger friend's pages & saw that alot of my friends were doing exactly what I was this year. Watching that oldie, but a goodie, "The Christmas Story". It's funny how many times that thing is on every year, & I still laugh at it!!!

There are so many funny parts. I think the great award ( the leg lamp)that his dad wins is absolutely hilarious, along with the pink bunny suit. I would glance at it sporatically during the day & never once (in all of its 200 presentations) got to watch it all the way through. I told my sister-in-law Falina that," I sure hope that kid finally gets his gun this year!!" She cracked up laughing.

Well, let's talk about Christmas. I had a fabulous one. My husband really spoils me rotten. This year the "big" gift was a projection TV!!!! Heaven, I'm in Heaven...!!! lol lol lol

The most special thing that happened was after he set it up. I put in the "Nativity Story", & the three of us, Schatzie, Jimmy & I watched it together. It was very emotional for me. That right there is the true meaning of Christmas. Baby Jesus.

We all have alot to be thankful for. My heart was breaking as Joseph frantically pounded on doors just to find a place for Mary to deliver. When the King of all Kings was born, it was too much for me to handle. This precious baby, a gift to the world from God, was born in the most humbling of places. That's the way that God intended. He was making a statement. Jesus was going to be a different kind of King. He was looking for true believers. Believers who weren't interested in things of this world, like fancy things, because Jesus wasn't interested in these material objects. He was interested in saving souls.

I kept thinking. Here I am in this perfect house, with the perfect family, & that poor baby had to be born in a stable. Oh how I'm going to remind myself of that everytime life gets me down. I'm going to remind myself how fortunate I am to have a meal on my table, shoes on my feet & a nice warm home to come to after a long day of work.

It was also very nice to be able to visit with family & friends. I was glad to see the ones that I don't normally get to see. My how the little ones have grown. I was flashing pics the whole time telling everyone to "Say Cheesy!!!" It was a little annoying, but they sure smiled & I got alot of great shots!!!

Christmas ended with a bang as well. We had our Christmas with my parents at the end of the day this year. It was a great change & we all enjoyed it. I GOT MY DIGITAL PICTURE FRAME!!!!! Oh, how I wanted one!!! My sister made sure it was the last present I opened. I kept singing ( like Alvin & the Chipmunks) " I just want my picture frame" all day long. She finally let me have it!!!

Jimmy was very happy as well this year. He finally got his ring. He was so happy that I just had to share this pic with you. He knew what it was before he even opened it.

My family had a great day. I hope that yours did too. Merry Christmas to all!!!!!

Things on My Mind

This blog isn't going to be the usual cheerful uplifting " positive Ang" entry. I think I'm going to write about things that bother me. We'll see where it goes from there.

1. MY TRUE FEAR OF OPINIONS. I'm so tired of trying not to have an opinion because there are two sides to every story. Unless I know all of the facts about a story, I get afraid of hurting someone's feelings by conveying my true thoughts. Now, those of you who know me know that I am never at a loss for words & are having a hard time believeing me right now, but it's true. I also think that I don't express myself very well because I'm afraid of being wrong. But you know what? Why should I be afraid of being wrong? If it's truly what I think & feel, then what does it matter if I come off ignorant or stupid about something? ( yes there is a difference. Ignorance is being uneducated. Stupid is well, just plain dumb). Sometimes there aren't two sides to every story, but I choose not to say what I think because of the fear of upsetting someone close to me. Now that's just dumb too, because if they are really close to you then you should be able to communicate every thought to them & while they don't always agree, they should respect it. But how can you expect them to accept it when you know that if they have a differing view, it would be hard for you to accept it. I'm just rambling on now huh?? lol
I just want you to know that there is not a specific reason that I'm bolstered to write about this. Nothing out of the ordinary in my life has happened, it's just something I'm thinking about this evening.
2. CHANGING FOR THE WORST. How can people that you have been around your whole life change so drastically?? Not for the better, but for the worst. You want to have an opinion about them, yet you are compelled to "keep the peace" so you say nothing. Then when you finally confide to someone else close to you about it, it feels like you can breathe again. Your chest becomes lighter because you have unloaded your true feelings to someone who understands & feels the same way you do, but is afraid to also admit it.
I so want to give a few examples of this, but can I?? Sure I can this is my blog. I can write whatever I feel. Do I choose to?? I know I want to, BUT.....
3. USERS. I hate & abominate users. There is someone in my life who is a user right now, actually there are a few I could name, that were not brought up that way, or have taught others not to be that way, but they are. It absolutely revolts me. There are favors that you can do for someone, & then there's being used for someone's selfish gain. It's truly pathetic.
4. CLOSETS. Everyone has them. It's that action or thought that creates skeletons in these closets that really pisses me off. My whole life has revolved around a closet. If people were honest with themselves & others then, regardless of the outcome, they would just be honest & let it out in the open. You are not perfect. You are going to make mistakes. Probably really good ones. But if you lie about it, or are not completely open, how can you truly feel free within yourself or the world?? I hate finding out something that was in a closet & being mislead to believe that it never really was that way from the get go. One of the first things that I say when people ask me a question about myself is, " Go ahead. My life is an open book." Then they ask something personal about me & when I tell them, they are disappointed. I can't help but feel good about it because I never lied!! Yes I really made a few good mistakes!!! Oh Boy have I really screwed up sometimes, but rather than lie about it, I just say it in hopes that it will help them from making a big mistake in their life.

OK, ENOUGH ALREADY!! I'm so over this now. The next blog will try to be uplifting again.

Oh Christmas Tea!!! Oh Christmas Tea!!!

It's that time of year again. Although we have changed companies this year at work,it never stops, ( we are now Shentel Cable), I find myself embracing the Christmas holiday with a special vigor. I already have all the shopping done, stockings stuffed, & presents wrapped. ( I know you're saying Bah Humbug to that!! I can't help that I'm not a procrastinator!!!) By completing all of these tasks early, it helps to enjoy the holidays more. I can actually set back with a warm cup of tea in the evening, turn down the lights, turn on the gas fireplace, set on the couch & enjoy my Christmas tree. Oh how I love to look at that tree. It makes me all toasty inside. I turn on my Christmas music on the TV & I can set there for hours!!! It's truly relaxing & invigorating.

HOWEVER, With the Christmas tree decorated inside, my husband was not happy with the outside!! He decided to reinvent himself into his alter ego, Clark W Griswold II!!!!! We went to dinner & then went to super Walmart in Buckhannon to look at lights. He went hog wild!!! We bought 8 boxes of lights to go around the house. After we started hanging them, we found out we were a little bit short, so Clark sent me back to Buckhannon to get 5 more boxes. I didn't know whether to be excited or exhausted. While I was driving there, he calls to tell me that our flood lights to illuminate the sign had went out & could I please get some bulbs to replace them.

I told him I would get the lights & asked him if he wasn't busy to please put a pot of tea on for me so I could drink it after being out in the cold to get warmed up. He said he was very busy. I asked him what he was doing & he said he was in the house.

What could he possibly be doing?? I did the shopping, I was running to Walmart once again in the cold wintry weather, I was working on the laundry, the house was already picked up before I left. I just couldn't put my finger on what it was that had him so preoccupied. (Maybe, I began to think, he was busy wrapping presents for me!! ( big smile) )

"I'm watching Pitt play Connecticut!!!

HONESTLY!!!!! Here I am out breaking my neck for this fine family Christmas & he can't even put on a pot of tea!!! lol lol lol

I informed him that if I didn't see steam rising out of my kitchen when I got home that he was going to have to check under the tree for missing presents for him because I was going to remove some!!!!!! lol lol lol

Needless to say, I had tea!!

We decided to go to a Christmas Memorial service at the Forest Lawn Memorial Garden this evening. I was a little hesitant to go, but felt that it was important to participate. This is the first Christmas without J's stepmom & his dad really needs our support to make it through the holiday. It's always very hard for me to go there because my mom, cousin, aunt, grandparents & ex-mother in law are buried there. I can feel the tears begin to swell & my face getting hot everytime we turn up in the driveway. There are so many wonderful memories that we have shared & I can see them appear in my mind like a slideshow. Each grave had a luminary & we had to keep lighting them because the wind & snow kept putting them out. I cried as I lit my mom's & Dinah's candle. I sang "Away in the Manger" for my grandma, as it was the last song I sang to her before she passed. The experience was very emotional, memorable & the self gratification was amazing. I wasn't even cold!! It warmed my heart to think that I was able to celebrate their lives. You know they aren't even worried about the holidays, because they are in a place where they celebrate everyday. I would like to think that they at least got to look down & see me. I miss them so much!!!!!

All in all, It was a great day. I hope that everyone reading this blog enjoys their holidays & I wish you all much peace & joy!!!!!!!

Capt., I'm getting excited to see you soon!!!!!!

When you know you are loved

Ever have that feeling that if you were gone you wouldn't be missed?? I was on vacation a couple of weeks ago & a situation arose that made me actually think about it. I know it sounds stupid, but i was getting taken advantage of by someone very close to me( not Jimmy) & I began to ponder my worth.

I felt the tears run down my face as I questioned myself. I was given up for adoption, my first husband threw me away, & it seems like sometimes when I call people or communicate to people that they have better things to do with their time than spend it with me. Boy does that hurt.

I know we've all been there, but I guess at the time, it just hit me hard.

THEN.... I come back to just another boring stressful day at my job, AND... my desk was covered in Aluminum Foil!!!! I know this sounds crazy, but I thought it was the most awesome display of love & affection I have ever felt. I knew I was part of something special!! These people even thought of me when I was away.. Was it possible that they missed me??

My co-workers are the most adorable people I know. We are family!! I know I can count on them when I need them, & even if they aren't aware of what I am thinking, they still seem to come through for me. I don't know how to thank them enough!!!

So, remember, even if you think that no one cares, there are those that actually do!!!

Meet the Flintstones!!!! Wilmaaaa!!

So, today was the office party. I was Wilma Flintstone & Schatzie was Dino.

We had the best time!! Schatzie won 3rd place!!! She received alot of dog bones.

It felt great to be a part of the group that won !! We even decorated our room with a "cave"

theme. It was a wonderful day!! I'm appreciate all of the hard work & our group's enthusiasm. That made all of the difference!!

Priscilla, I Love You!!

Priscilla Reed Gaines

October 19, 1974-November 13, 2003

Dearest Priscilla,

I feel you everyday. You have never left me. I wish you could contact me, I wish I could hear your voice. There are days that I wish I could bring you back to me. If I had only known what was going on, maybe it wouldn't have ended this way. I am tormented by your departure. It was a selfish act against you. You deserve to be here to raise your children.

Amber has your hair. Brandon looks just like you. I still have the jelly jar that they gave me for Christmas one year. I keep it on my sink and when I do my dishes, I stare at it. I imagine them going out on a cold December afternoon picking it out for you, and the surprise look that would have been on your face as you opened it. But you didn't get to open it. It should have been for you. I am keeping it for you.

I went to their house and visited a while back. Amber's hair, oh Amber's hair. I want to touch it because it just reminds me of your hair.

I gave her a dragonfly necklace a while back. I don't know if she still has it, but I hope that she does. It was gold. I gave it to her for protection & I wanted her to know that I will always be there for her if she needs me.

I will always be there for Brandon too. He is such a bright young man, so full of life. He's not afraid of anything Cill, He loves 4 wheeling and hunting. Remember how sick he was when he was born? I remember you setting there, never leaving his side as he clung to life. I hope that he knows how proud you are of him, I know you are proud of both of them. One day, they will realize that the decision of your leaving them wasn't in your hands. I hope they are told how much you loved them everyday. They were everything to you & you were a wonderful mother. It just isn't fair to them or us. You were taken away. You didn't ask for any of this. I know in my heart that you were the best Wife and Mother that anyone could have asked for. He knew it too. He knew you never intentionally hurt anyone. He knew there was no one else, he just didn't want you to leave him. That was the only way he could keep you from moving on with your life.

Do you ever see me? Do you ever look for me?? I am here. I wish you would let me know. There are so many times that I talk to you. Do you hear me?? I dream that you do. I dream that we go out & have picnics. I long to sleep & dream of the conversations we have. I see your face & I know there are times that I don't always want to let go, but it is just because I miss you so much!!! Penelope, I MISS YOU EVERYDAY!!!

Sunday, October 19, 2008 would have been your 34th Birthday. I wish you were here so we could have celebrated it! He took you so young. Not even 30.

Why did you turn back?? Why???????? Why couldn't you have just sent for your things or had someone go with you? I know you felt you were safe & that he would never have done anything like that to you. But He knew. He knew when he called you what was going to happen. He didn't want to be without you. He knew that was the only way to keep you with him. But you are not with him now. His act was cowardly, selfish, and unfeeling. He lives alone now. His plan didn't work & that gives me some comfort.

If you would have told me what was going on, I would have helped you! Time heals all wounds, and eventually he would have went on with life, just as his cousin after he left me. I don't hate him, but I still find it hard to breathe as my chest fills with sadness and anger at what he did.

What purpose did it serve?? None. He just left everyone else to pick up the pieces. I don't think he thought about anyone but himself. He definately didn't care about the impact left on his family & friends. They still have constant reminders of the both of you around.

I went to our class reunion & lit a candle for you. The other classmates wanted it to be a reminder of all of our passed classmates, but I told them to get their own candles cause that one was for you. I would have never made it through some of the toughest times in my life if not for you, and for that I am eternally greatful.
I have tried to stay in contact with your Mom & Dad, but everytime I called, it just seemed to make your mother sadder. I just stopped calling. I would never want to upset them anymore than they already are. The last time I was there, they had a picture of you on the mantle. Don't worry, It was a good one. Not that you ever took a bad one.
I love you Penelope!! I miss you everyday. I'll keep looking for that "purple star" cause I feel it's your way of letting me know you are ok.

Forever & Always
I Love YOU,
Ang

Cleveland Browns ... Literally!!

Due to changes in my company, I have been forced to take vacation time or lose it. Wow! Big Dilemma!! Ok, so this week I'm basking in the vacation sunshine in Cleveland Ohio. My best friend Hope & her Husband Chris are the best hosts!! Everytime we come up, they take us to the best food places in the world. This time has been no exception. Yesterday, we went to the Cheesecake Factory in Crocker Park. Sorry Aunt Lillie, but the temptation was too great. Who am I to argue?? We got the Carmel Pecan Turtle Cheesecake & it was simply incredible.
That evening was their friend's ( Matt's) birthday!! We went to this converted firehouse. There was a clambake going on, so we indulged.
I am a huge Sex & the City fan, so in honor of the ladies, I persuaded my Hopie to get a Cosmopolitan. Honestly, I don't know how those women drank that all 6 seasons & were still sober enough to be in the show!! J says that they must have been drinking water the whole time.
This drink knocked me for a loop. It must have been pure moonshine with pink food coloring. I recommend anyone with sinus problems to try this. I actually think it burnt my nose hairs completely out!!
After Dinner it was karaoke time!! These Cleveland people love to go to Karaoke and just have a good time. I decided to try different songs, other than my usual ones. It was really nerve racking. I started with Vanessa Williams- Save the best for last, which elevated to Madonna- Hanky Panky & ended the evening with Celine Dion's My heart will go on.
I tried to critique myself, but being a little inebriated, I guess it sounded good.
Poor Jimmy!! He really got lit!! They talked him into drinking Red Bull & Vodka. He was bugging the waitress to death. Then we came back to the house & they forgot to buy beer!! It was hilarious. I never knew how funny he was. He called Diane & left this message on her phone telling her it was an emergency because they had no beer!! Hope & I created this song called " Cute Butt Buckie" dedicated to Chris. ( She's calls him her Buckie)
So today, no one can move. Everyone is recovering in their own way. I think Jimmy has it the worst. He literally has turned Brown!! Hopefully, he will recover for the rest of the vacation.
Here's hoping that all of my readers have a great autumn day!!

To know or not to know.....

My husband called me last Saturday & told me that he was at the JL family medical clinic getting his cholesterol screening done. The next thing I know, my Aunt Lillie was yelling at me over the phone to get down there & get tested as well. Since I hadn't eaten yet, I thought what the heck, might as well go & get it checked.
I was working in Covington Va on Tuesday, when my husband called & told me that the results were in & not to eat anything else until I heard what he had to say.
Apparently, I have a very high triglyceride number, it was 723. I am writing this in hopes that it will keep me motivated to get it down. In case you don't know, it should be under 200.
What a shock. I know that I pretty much eat what I want to, but I never really thought that my health was in jeopardy. So I have been eating nothing but fruit, veggies & boiled chicken ever since. It's absolutely depressing. I don't mind to admit that I love to eat!!
However, I have decided that it's either change my food choices, or go on meds for the rest of my life. I have chosen to watch my intake.
Ahhhhh, to know or not to know.. I admit that I am thankful I found out & I guess that my aunt & uncle probably saved my life, but at the same time, I stress about eating anything. I cringe when I think of food now. I guess that I'm scared that if I put just one wrong thing in my mouth, I could spontaneously combust!!! lol lol
I can admit that I've been doing pretty well with eating different though. I thought I would miss all the potato chips, cookies, & beef jerky that I have been inhaling, but I am feeling better.
My one vice that has been the most difficult has been Coca Cola!!! I love Coca Cola!!!
I have been drinking water & tea, but it's just not the same. Jimmy keeps telling me that it will get easier, & has been extremely supportive. He tells me that he wants to keep me around a little while longer. (I wonder if it's because he probably wouldn't have any clean underware if I didn't lol lol lo lol lol lol)
Look out Jive!! I'm gonna look different the next time you see me!!!!!

Dear Virginia

I'm sitting here watching the WVU-Marshall game & thought I'd write a little because it's been a while. Funny how time gets away from you. Last Friday, My husband called to let me know that we lost my step mother-in-law. She was such a special lady. She loved to Crochet, play bingo, & work crossword puzzles. I remember at Christmas time, I was trying to get a pic of her. She loved these chocolate sticks wrapped in " cone material". I remember telling her that I wanted to take her pic & she stuck one of them in her mouth. It was really cute. When my husband & I lived in Shadybrook, I had a bedroom devoted entirely to gingerbread men. I remember her telling me that I needed a bedspread for the room. She made a giant gingerbread blanket for our bed. It was amazing. The woman could make anything. She even made a minature Schatzie ( a weiner dog) for us. I have quite a few of the potholders & quilts that she made. I will forever think of her when i wrap up in them this winter. I will really miss her love and laughter. Virginia Henline was a super mother-in-law & person. She was very good to me & she used to tell me that if it wasn't for me, Jimmy would have probably ended up in a very bad state. She used to call me his angel. It always made me feel good. After the funeral was over, I had to drive for 3 1/2 hrs to Covington Va for work. It was a good time to reflect on my appreciation of her. There were tears of course,but there were alot of smiles also.

Rest in Peace dear Virginia. I will miss you & love you always!!!

Hot Child in the City!!

This past weekend was my 10th anniversary. I was magically whisped away to Washington Pa to celebrate with the love of my life. Needless to say it was the best trip ever. From changing hotels because we found porn mags under the mattress of the room we checked into ( we didn't stay & didn't have to pay for it), to finding a piece of plastic in my lasagna, to playing put put golf & getting beat by 5 strokes & don't forget that the new hotel we decided to stay at had to sound the fire alarm on us in the middle of our favorite tv show, & also that on the ride home Jimmy decided to take this detour that lasted 1 1/2 hours out of our way where we ended up in the boonies of Pa just so we could see a park, we had a blast!!
I returned to work today, only to find out that the air conditioner in my half of the building has ceased to operate. It must be 100 & i lost count!!! Everyone is slurping popcicles & trying to beat the heat. My co-worker brought a fan in & all of my papers went flying.
It was decided by management that we could dress in shorts tomorrow because the air conditioner is not to be repaired until Friday. I have been running around the office singing Christmas Carols, because I figure it's all a mind game anyway. However I don't think it's helping. There are threats of boycotting work if this heat keeps up!! lol lol
I guess I'm a "Hot Child in the City"

capt, here's lookin' at you

If I'd only known then.. what I know now...

Ok, so I was home the other day going through old VHS tapes & I came across my first wedding tape to a man named Brian. It was the craziest thing I had ever seen. Watching it now, after 14 years, I had so many mixed emotions. I was an awesome looking thing back then.. !!! Really loved that dress although it was borrowed.. My parents look so stressed out (Guess they knew I was making a mistake but still supported me) Oh My... I actually had the song " The Rose by Conway Twitty played at my wedding?? Traped through 3 foot of snow in shoes & hose & had to take off a winter coat when I went through the door!! Got my hair done that morning & then couldn't do anything with it for about a month afterward because the beautician fixed it to suit the veil (which I guess she thought I would be wearing for eternity). No honeymoon. What the hell was I thinking?? Watching this was so depressing & hilarious at the same time. It was like a bad episode of Married with Children. There he was.. standing there.. the man I was supposed to spend the rest of my life with.. rubbing snuff & chewing his lip during our vows( ohhhhhhhhh) . When we said our vows, I think I looked at him briefly & he looked at me briefly. We were 2 scared kids standing up there. No one in the audience is smiling. Everyone looks as though they are attending a funeral of someone they don't even know!! (lol lol lol) It was a rather small wedding with about 15 people. The way Brian wanted it. Like he was embarrassed to be with me.
I think the only highlight out of the whole thing was seeing loved ones in the background who have since passed away. My grandfather, who married us, even seemed sad. He was so serious. However, it was really awesome to hear his voice again. I miss him everyday. I miss my grandmother who was there too. She looked so plump & healthy. Not like the past few months before she died.
Brian's mother was on the tape also. She has since past as well. I think she hated having me for a daughter in law, but after the marriage was over, we really got along extremely well. Even now, I can't remember what it was like to be married to him. Of course I remember some good times & funny stories to tell, but it was a drama filled marriage with plenty of arguing & jealousy.
I won't be hypocritical & say that I wish I had never married him. That was a choice I made. I was proud of it at the time. He was my first, & I thought by marrying him in the eyes of God, I was making myself worthy of something true & pure. It taught me alot. I think that was when I started to really grow up, only to realize that our marriage probably wouldn't last.
Then I watched my wedding tape to Jimmy Henline. Complete 365 difference!! It was beautiful. I was a little more weathered then, but boy was I happy!! He just kept staring at me. I just kept staring at him. We were truly happy that day. Sharing smiles that only we understood. When our vows were said, we looked at each other. We meant what we said. We embraced that day with everything that was in us. I wore off white which I deemed appropriate. My cousin sang. It was alot better than any recording . My family was there & smiling. The cake was beautiful. The first dance was beautiful. Jimmy looked like a little Ken doll!!! lol lol It was real family oriented. We spent our first night as a married couple in an RV ( oh yessssssss) * then went to Virginia Beach!!It was in a nutshell.. the most incredibly happiest event with plenty of well- wishers, plenty of sunshine, smiles, & love. That's the way it should have been from the beginning.
As Jimmy & I begin our 10th anniversary, I still wonder how it all happened.
How could I have started out so unhappy & went to absolute fabulousness?? I remember asking God to allow me to be happy in my life & He really went overboard. Ok, so it's not always sunshine & rainbows, but as we set watching that wedding tape together last night, it brought back so many memories of the happiest day of our life. Jimmy squeezed my hand when the Minister said " remember how you feel right now & all the little things that brought you together, because it'll be those special times that help you make it through the rough ones." I believe that we both looked at each other with knowing glances & just smiled. His statement was so true.
If I'd only known then.. what I know now... I don't know if I would have changed my mind in marrying Brian. I probably would have. Had I known that Jimmy was my real one true love, I would have waited. I feel so embarrassed sometimes thinking that I put my immediate family through 2 weddings. Having to get dressed up & participate in something that should have completed me the first time. But I am greatful that they were there through it all.
In conclusion, I love being Mrs. Henline. I love it that we are simpatico even if the world is falling apart around us. I love it that I stare at my ring everyday remembering when it was put on my finger. I am truly blessed that my life has turned out so well.

Capt. , I am happy!!!!!!

valley worlds of ...... whew!!!

My niece samantha has come to visit. She will be here until next Tuesday. I got to take the day off of work today, because my nephew has been with us for a month & I haven't got to spend any time with them. We went just across the border to Pennsylvania so I could see Lil Bit's sister, Half Pint. She is the most adorable thing & she just sleeps & sleeps. She resembles Lil Bit, but she really has a look all her own. My cousin Lois looked really good. She actually looks rested & she said that Half Pint slept through the night last night.
After we were done there, we ventured to Valley Worlds of Fun in Fairmont. It was a great day. I was actually surprised that this 34 yr. old woman could keep up with all those young kids. I climbed that rock wall like a pro. Although I know I'll not be able to move tomorrow.
We rode the water boats & played laser tag.
Had a great time. Until later.....

captain jive.. i miss you!!

just catching up

It has been a while since my last blog, so on this one I have decided to play catch up!! Jimmy went to Texas & surprise!!! It's a boy!!! Our nephew came back with him. His name is Jordan & we have had a good visit. Weird how you have to adjust to things you're not used to!! Like, I can't run naked out to the dryer to grab clothes & have had to play Betty Crocker for almost a month now, but things are good.
Got to see Cousin Jive finally!! My goodness Colt is getting so big & babbling!!! He was singing with me & playing.. Cousin Joe got stuck working with Uncle Bob to assemble a swing set. Captian was the navigator & all went well.
My Cousin Lois had a new baby!! She is just as cute as Lil Bit, who called to tell me that she had a baby sister!! it was the cutest thing ever.
I'm setting here tonight, July 4th, no fireworks because of the weather. Happy Birthday America & to my best friend Hope!!!
I have been singing patriotic songs all day!!
My nephew Kenny had a wedding reception for the WV crew today!! It was nice to see the family.
Jessica is getting over the flu.. She called today to borrow movies. Hopefully she'll feel better soon & get married so my parents will get off my back about grandchildren!!
That's it for now!! Hope Everyone has a great 4th!!

New Cell Phone

I am getting a new cell phone. There, I said it. So What's the big deal?? People get new cell phones every day. Why then am I so excited?? I really couldn't tell ya, but I am estatic!!!
It's a sliding phone & I am breaking down & getting J & I internet. I'll be a texting fool!!! Honestly, the best part about getting a new phone to me is getting new ringtones. I love ringtones. The most difficult part about ringtones is picking out the one you want.
If it were up to me, I would have a never ending library selection of songs that I could change everyday. I 'm debating on Elvis, Fergie, Catpower, Barry Manilow, Santana, Frank Sinatra, Madonna, Elton John, Kanye West, the Beatles, the Monkees, America ... the list goes on & on. I literally drive Jimmy crazy because I set for weeks trying to decide which songs I should put on my phone & what specific ringer is gonna be set for who calls me.
It's exhausting!! I think the only complaint I have about getting it set up would be retyping all of my contacts in the phone. If anyone knows how to do this without retyping all of them, please feel free to share!! Also, if you have any suggestions of songs that cannot be missed, let me know!!

A Fond Memory from just a Song

I just love the goat in this video. If you know anything about me at all, you'll understand why. I am notorious for making up songs about anything!! My husband has personally been driven out of his mind on long road trips with the songs I make up about places we are going, or places we have been. He tells me to " take a nap" just so he won't have to listen to them!! It's hilarious!! If I am being truly honest about the whole situation, I love to annoy him with them!! When he saw this video, he went " Oh Lord, It's like taking a road trip with my wife, only you can mute the video!! lol lol I get tickled just thinking about it.

I received this gift from the master himself.... The One.... The Only... Claude W Riffle. He was my grandpa who I dearly loved & remember fondly. My grandpa had a heart condition, so he wasn't able to be active with us grandkids. Granted for fun he would take us to the LCHS Football field when we ( my cousins Shelby, Sara & I) were kids & swing us around using a broom handle on a pair of plastic roller skates that hooked to our shoes for about a $1.oo from the local thrift store. As you picture this, may I add that it was on blacktop, so we used to hold on for dear life as we cackled laughing & screaming for him to quit spinning so fast because we couldn't hold on & would end up scraping the heck out of our knees & hips when we let go!! Today in our society, they would call it child abuse, but back then it was entertainment!! We loved it so much that we would beg him to take us every chance we got.. He used to have to buy us new skates everytime we went because the blacktop would wear the plastic wheels out after just a few times. I wouldn't trade those memories for a million dollars!! I think about him often.

Anyway, back to the original story. He had a heart condition & wasn't very active. For fun I remember sitting with him under a big oak tree in the back yard of his house & listening to him make up songs about " the little birdie up in the tree". He would sing a made up song about "Bimbo", who was a little boy that rode on a bike in his underware. Bimbo was going up the rode to see his little girlie-o". lol lol lol

Just talking about this, I am wiping my watering eyes because I am laughing so hard.

We would be in church & there was this song called " I wouldn't take nothing for my journey now" & he would be back there singing ( to the top of his lungs) " Oh I wouldn't take nothing for my Jersey Cow!!! My grandma would turn red from embarrassment & slap him on the arm to try to get him to be quiet, but that just made it worse, because he would only sing louder!!

I learned to make " Rhyming Songs " up from him. He was the master!!

I hope you enjoy this song, because it sounds like something he would have written & sang.

Capt'n, you know I speak the truth & could probably share a few songs he made up as well!! He was truly one of a kind!!

New Kitchen!! Enjoy the Pics!!

I love my new kitchen. As you can see, it was a drastic improvement in painting, adding baskets, vines, grapes & wine bottles to the top of the cabinets & a new floor, as well as wall hangings!!
It was alot of work, but it was well worth it!! Look out Capt'n Jive!! Might have to cook you a meal when you come in this summer!!

Lil Bit

I just wanted to take a minute to talk about my little cousin. For security reasons, we'll call her " lil bit". My Aunt & Uncle watch her on the weekends because her mother works. I try to go visit as much as I can. She is simply amazing.

Lil Bit really doesn't know a stranger. She is always smiling & playing. Her favorite word is " Hi". It's hilarious because she says it to you & then a few minutes later, she says it to you again. You stand there looking ridiculous because you find yourself repeating it over & over!!!

I wanted to share a couple of stories about her.

1. Lil Bit loves her "Granny" & "Pap Pap". It is really cute to see the 2 of them with her. I asked her today "Where's your honey??" & she says "honey" & points to her pap pap. Everytime!! She'll be comfortably playing & then jump up & say "nannie", then quickly runs to find her granny.. Pap Pap has promised her that she will get to ride on his tractor when the weather breaks. She gets totally excited & runs to the sliding glass door ( Which AuntBev has cleaned a milion & one times because of her fingerprints) like she can hardly wait to go get on it NOW!!!

2. Today, my cousin Mandy ( who lil bit affectionately calls : Manny) came down with us & told us that "Lil Bit" is having trouble in day care. Apparently, she will not kick a ball or stack more that 2 blocks when all of the other kids are stacking 4!! Hilarious huh?? Like that really makes her academically challenged!!! Mandy said that Aunt Bev refuses to let her " get behind the other kids, so Granny, Manny & I are sitting in the floor trying to get her to kick a ball!! Amazingly enough, she did it several times. It's not that she can't, she just chooses not to get involved!! lol lol

3. Lil bit has developed a new passion!! The Potty!! Apparently her grandparents purchased this amazing potty that sings when you pee in it. Although I have never heard it go off yet, lil bit loves to set on it. She'll make a surprise face like she's done something & get up to look if anything is in there!! But the potty doesn't sing, so she sits back down, looks at a book, & a few minutes repeats herself!! Oh, life's little pleasures!!

I wish all of us had one ounce of her energy, she never stops for a minute. Always on the go!!

Lil Bit, Thanks for making my Saturdays so eventful!! I Love You!!

Captain Jive.. I enjoy reading about little man & his activities!! Keep em coming!! I can't wait to see little man & lil bit play together when you come in!! They're growing up fast!!

Weekend Thoughts

My youngest sister had a Birthday this past week on April 2nd. We waited till Saturday evening to have her party. I can't believe my "Jo-Bear" has turned 20 years old. I can remember diapering her & singing her to sleep.

We had the usual cake & ice cream with candles & the singing of "Happy Birthday". I bought a pin the tail on the donkey game & some noise makers that truly weren't appropriate for a young adult party. But, ya know what?? We had a blast!! Jessica put the tail on the donkey's ear & as you can see, one of the guests, Brian Reed put the noisemakers in his ears!!

I think the best part of the evening was Charades. Jessica had to be Jar Jar Binx from Star Wars, Daniel was Adam Sandler, & I had to act out Chris Farley. Poor Joni had to act out Mary Katherine Gallegher. It was hilarious to say the least.

We played scrabble & needless to say Jessica hopes that she never has me for a partner again. I still think "be loaf" is a triple word score!! Jessica was about ready to kill me because I kept making up non existent words. If the dictionary was left up to me, " Ar Teens" would qualify for something.

So today, I got my house cleaned up, we went grocery shopping & I am comfortably setting out on my back sunporch with a glass of tea just enjoying myself amidst the sounds of the neighbor's rooster crowing every five minutes because he is confused(it's 5 in the evening) & Jimmy using the chainsaw to cut up 9 trees out of our yard. It's hard to completely find solace & I'm about ready to take that chainsaw next door & serve roast chicken for dinner!!! lol lol

What a beautiful day!! I am loving life in this house. I can't believe that I am this incredibly happy. Is that possible?? It's almost scary to feel this happy. I feel like Jennifer Lopez in the movie "Selena" when she is sitting on the bridge & says that she feels like she is flying. I think the only thing that could make my life any happier was that if I had my family living near me here. I have 2 aunts that live close, but we don't get to see one another much.

What a wonderful husband I have!! Words cannot express how much I love and appreciate him each & every day. He has made all of my wishes & dreams come true. I couldn't begin to thank him for all of the joy he has brought into my life. I don't remember what life was like before I met him. Thank you God for my Jimmy!!! I don't know what I ever did to deserve him, but I am ever so greatful that you gave us the opportunity to find one another in this vast world!!

So, Captain Jive cut Mr. Bunnell's Hair!!! Hope you saved some for the baby book!!!

Happy 25th Anniversary Mom & Dad!!

Just a shout out to my Mom & Dad who are celebrating their 25th Anniversary today. What a wonderful couple. My sisters & I love them very much & wish them all the joy & happiness their hearts can handle. It amazes me that they have been married this long & still love one another as much as they do. I can't wait until I get to celebrate my 25th Anniversary. That is, if J can hold out!! lol
I love you Mom & Dad!! Have a great day!!

Captain Jive, Watch out for flying toys.. You might want to buy a crash helmet when Little man Bunnell is around!!

Baby Jive Bunnell

I wasn't really feeling up to blogging tonight, but then I get hit with a bombshell!!! Captain Jive is with child. I am so unbelievable estatic for the both of them!!!! These two are fabulous parents & this child is so blessed & fortunate to have a great family in which to grow!!! I guess I'll have to get another life jacket because I expect to have this family on my boat this summer!!! After the salivation of Mr. Jive last year at the site of "Believe & Achieve", I'm sure the lake is beckoning him!!! Little Bunnell!!! How excited I am for you. You are going to be a big brother now & cousin Ang is so proud of you!!
Well, that's all for now... Have a great night!! Nice choice guys!!!

Choices

Robert Frost (1874–1963). Mountain Interval. 1920.

1. The Road Not Taken


TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;
5

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,
10

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.
15

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

I have this poem hanging on the corkboard above my desk. There are days that I wouldn't even know it's there, and then there are days that I just lose myself in its conotation. Choices are all around us. It's almost as unnoticable as the air that we breathe. We make unconscience choices all the time. Some are good, some are bad, but they are choices.
Choices must be respected. Even though we may not understand them. Maybe the choices one makes aren't exactly what others would do in the same situation, but at the time they mean something to that person.
Ever wonder what the world would be like if we could take back all the choices that we deemed bad in our lives? Everything would be completely different. There would be no mistakes, because we could go back & erase them. Imagine how bland the world would be with no mistakes in it. We would never learn anything by experience be it great or small. We would never have personal success or achieve anything if we always went by the rules. I'm not saying that we should make bad decisions, or end up doing things to harm ourselves, but if everybody did the same thing, it sure would be bland.
I appreciate everyday living in a country where we can make choices. I'll be the first to admit that I have made many blunders. There were times in my life that it felt unbearable to breathe due to the decisions I had made. But experience being the best teacher, I have learned what works for me & what doesn't. I have the opportunity to be whatever I want to be. I simply love that. I'll admit that I can be stubborn when it comes to some circumstances but whatever I do, I know that I made the choice to do it. No one can take that away from me.
-And I, I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference!!!!
Captain Jive... by the way.. I think the choices you have made are wonderful!!

Just A WV Gal posts her first blog

Today begins a new chapter in my life. I have decided to blog. So, to begin this adventure, let me share a little about myself. I was born in the cold winter month of January... no, seriously, I am a 34 year old red head who enjoys life in general. I am married to my soulmate. Now I know you find that hard to believe, but yes, Jimmy Henline is my soulmate. We recently purchased my dream home in a country setting called Westfield. My father constructed the dwelling in the 1980's & then had to sell it because he needed to relocate. It has always been a dream of mine to return to the residence. It is my home. It is my heritage & I thank God everyday for the opportunity he has given me to live here. I wake up every morning very blessed & never take a day in this house for granted.
I have a child, as I like to think of her, named Schatzie. She is my 8 year old Dauschund.
We live a rather comfortable lifestyle.
I work in Communications. Later on, I'm sure that I'll be rambling on & on about it, but for now, I'll leave it at that.
I love socialization. I Like to be around people & I love to make them feel better about themselves & smile. I guess if you get to know me, I'm hardly one that you will forget. I enjoy music, books, scrapbooking, movies( my passion), traveling to new places, & boating.
I am always joking around. People literally call me crazy because I'm a scatterbrain. I use the word scatterbrain because my Grandma Riffle labeled me with it & it fits perfectly.
Since this is Easter Sunday, I have decided to share my latest venture into mischief.
I went to the store this evening & bought plastic Easter eggs, a basket & candy so that I could surprise my neighbors (my aunt & uncle). I took the eggs & wrote their names on them & then proceeded to fill them with little notes about how great their neighbors (me & my husband) are. I also enclosed candy just to make them feel better. I called my cousin who gave me a ride to their house to drop off the present. I left it on their front porch with a Happy Easter sign & snuck out of there so that they would think the Easter Bunny dropped it off. My cousin forgot to unlock the car door, so here I am panting & racing back to the car so we can get out of there & can't get the door open. The dogs started barking & the motion light came on. I thought for sure that I was busted, but we got out of there & no one was the wiser. I can't wait to hear about their discovery later in the day. But knowing them, they might not say anything because they know I want to hear about it. When my cousin & I got back to my house, we spent the evening catching up because we hardly get the opportunity to do that. Let me just begin to tell you that she amazes me. This gal has been through some personal hardship in her life that I could never endure & yet she still always finds a way to keep her head above water. She has actually motivated me to try & always see the positve points in life. Move Forward. Never Look Back.
I hope that I can strive to obtain that.
Well, it's 5 the morning & I should have been to bed hours ago. I guess that if I don't hurry up, the Easter Bunny won't come!!! Who am I kidding?? A 34 year old woman waiting for a furry white rabbit with a basket of eggs & candy?? Hey, it's a chance to get chocolate & at my age, chocolate is a necessity. It quit being a luxury a long time ago. I would like to give a shout out to my cousin Kris, who inspired me to begin blogging in the first place. I have enjoyed reading her ramblings & now have a place to keep my own. I hope that she will stop by my page once in a while as I will always pay tribute to her at the end of each one. I love you Captain Jive!!!