My How Things Have Changed!

When I started this blog back in February 2008, it was a completely different world in terms of blogging. It makes me sad that things have changed so much. I look around and no one has the cute little backgrounds that we installed ourselves for free (i.e., mine!) and changed up for each holiday. Instead, now I see that all blogs are professional and sophisticated in style, with each new blog being more beautiful than the next.

And with all of the gorgeous photos, oh please, don't even get me started!

It's no wonder that so many of the women I started blogging with don't blog anymore. I, too, stopped blogging for quite sometime but realized how much I missed it.

I simply loved blogging and made so many wonderful, dear friends but it feels slightly odd this time around. It's different now, not so down to earth so to speak. Maybe I'm just reading more "professional" blogs where it's become a job, an online and/or home based business.

I'm certainly glad that blogging has been financially rewarding for so many women and it makes me proud that our efforts and hard work have paid off. The talent in blogland is incredible and I'm ALWAYS happy to see women succeed, but on the other hand, I'm sad that something so fun, innocent, and personal has become so highly commercialized with all of the advertising and such.

Maybe I just need to get with the program, and I will have to soon, like it or not.

For you "old time bloggers" out there, I'd love to hear your opinions as well.

Long Time No Talk!

I have missed you and my blogging days so very much!

It's time I get back into it!

And I intend too!

I'm doing well, just have been working non-stop for over one whole year now!

The thrift store has been so much fun but oh so much work..but I have loved it!

I've have devoted the past 12+ months, 24/7, to this new business but I say it's time to get my life back!

And resuming my blog is one way I plan on doing it!

Ohhh Crap!

I think I've really done it now!I tried to revert back to the old blogger interface and I've pretty much lost my sidebar, wallpaper, etc. I did save the original template but can't seem to copy it to transfer all the info back. I think I'll be making a visit to the Apple store soon!

(Update: Don't know how I did it but I solved the problem. Thank you Lord!)

500th Post and A Giveaway

Just recently I wrote my 500th post! I'm at 514 now and it's really unbelievable to me. I guess a girl sure can write about alot of random stuff if she puts her mind to it! So in honor of my 500th post, I think a giveaway is in order!

Not to long ago I bought a cute housewarming gift for a friend that bought her first home. This darling monogrammed plate and stand...


Of course, I bought one for myself and I'd like to send one to you too with your initial! Just leave a comment and be a follower of this blog. Those are the only 2 requirements.

I appreciate followers and I truly appreciate all of the comments that are left here. Blogging and the friends I've made in blogland have enriched my life so much. I'm so thankful for each and everyone of you.

So leave a comment, be a follower, and you'll be entered to win one of these adorable monogrammed plates for yourself. We're going on vacation Saturday but hopefully I'll be organized enough to pick a winner on Monday. That's my goal anyway.

I'm also hoping to have monthly follower giveaways to show my appreciation (plus, I just love giveaways!) So stay tuned!

I'm Still Layin' Low

I've got one or two pictures packed away somewhere of Fabio back in the day that I'll try and get to soon. I have to do it on the sly if you know what I mean! I don't have a scanner but I know I've got a booklet that Fabio was modeling in and I'll take a picture of the pictures.

Fabio's family was in the retail business and I specifically remember them sending out a "mailer" to their loyal customers and Fabio was one of the main models. So handsome and sexy in his Angel Flight slacks, 3-piece suits, and with a head full of hair!

At that time Fabio was playing racquetball 4 nights a week. Now I can't even get him to walk around the block! I take that back, much to my amazement, he's recently started walking. Tomorrow will be day #3! Keep up the good work Fabio!

In case you haven't noticed, hubby will now be affectionately known as Fabio. Great idea Joyce!

OMG, it's a darn good thing Fabio doesn't read this blog! I'm counting on all of you (and especially you my beautiful daughter and dear sister) to keep Fabio in the dark...otherwise I'm dead meat!

Getting To Know YOU

Today, I'm linking up again with Keely over at Mannland5 for her Getting to Know YOU Sunday. Feel free to join in!

The rules are simple. To play, just copy the questions, answer them, post them on your blog, then come back to Mannland5 and link up.

So here we go:

1. Are you superstitious? No, although I don't think I'd walk under a ladder intentionally.

2. If you were an animal..what kind would you be? I'd want to be a spoiled house dog like my little Jake. The Jakester is one loved dog!


3. You would never catch me wearing.........? Spandex!!!

4. If someone posts a VLOG..do you watch it? Yes, it's always fun to put real voices and faces to the friends we've made in blogland.

5. Have you ever waxed your girlie/manly parts..or any other part of your body? Haven't waxed any girlie parts, OUCH, but I have had my upper lip waxed. Again, OUCH!

6. Are you a spender or a saver? A little of both but more of a saver.

7. If you were starring in a movie..who would you want to play your leading man/woman? I have to think about this one. No one in particular comes to mind. It would be a handsome, distinguished, middle aged man though. Definitely not a COUGAR here!

8. Smoker..never smoked..social smoker..or smoked back in the day? Never smoked! Not even a puff and I'm proud of it!

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Also wanted to mention a great giveaway. If you love stationary and paper products as much as I do, head on over to my friend Lene's blog. She's giving away a $20 give certificate to one of my favorite places, DOODLEBUGS PAPER! Check out Lene's giveaway here:

Getting To Know YOU

Today, for something new and fun, I'm linking up with Keely over at Mannland5 for her Getting to Know YOU Sunday.

The rules are simple. To play, just copy the questions, answer them, post them on your blog, then come back to Mannland5 and link up.

So without further adew...

1. If you could star in any movie genre..what would it be..romance..horror..comedy..suspense or action? Romantic comedy, with a handsome leading man!

2. Do you recycle? We recycle our cans.

3. Have you ever been to a strip club? For my 30th birthday, a group of us girls took a limo to Chippendales in Los Angeles. That was my one and only "strip club" experience.


4. Do you have a nickname? Not really, although one friend at work insists on calling me Linda Lou!


5. What's a name you can't stand to be called? Without a doubt, it's ma'am!


6. What are your Summer staples? Cute flowing skirts and sandles!


7. What was the last thing you bought for yourself? I can't remember! Most of my purchases are for the house, family, friends, and coworkers. But trust me, I'm not deprived! I'm very blessed!


8. Are you happy with your boob size? I was until I put on some weight! Now they're a little BIGGER than I'm used to!

Happy Sunday!

It's Friday

And I'm nosy...

So here's the question: What is your favorite kind of pie?

I know it's January and diets are in full swing but I'm dreaming about Coconut Cream pie over here, big time. I was fine until hubby had to go and have a slice of Chocolate Cream pie the other night at Marie Callender's. It's definitely his fault.

Also, my fellow nurse friend Mari says it's De-lurking Week! So, if this pertains to you, come on, de-lurk! Meeting new blogging friends is always fun and always welcomed! That's what blogging is all about!

As an incentive to de-lurk, say "hi", introduce yourself, and I'll send you some "good mail" from Lindanjake!


Even though I've kept this post light and fun, my heart is heavy right now for those who suffer in Haiti and for those who have lost their lives. How can they have any hope after such devastation? The good news is that they can indeed have hope, hope through Jesus Christ who can strengthen and sustain them! That is my fervent prayer!

Mashed Potatoes and All Things Pink

Macey's sister Mckenzie (my daughter's best friend) started a blog about Macey and her recovery. Mckenzie reports daily on Macey's progress. Here is the link if you'd like to check it out for yourself:

http://mashedpotatoesandallthingspink.blogspot.com

Macey's picture pops up immediately on the right. She's changed her hair color since I last saw her in October but you can see what a gorgeous girl she is. She looks beautiful in the picture but is truly stunning in person! By the way, all of that hair had to be shaved off for surgery. I believe she has staples from her forehead all the way to the back of her head. It's ok though, it's only hair!

As you might have guessed, she loves mashed potatoes and all things pink!

Update on Macey

First of all, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the outpouring of support you have shown to Macey and her family. I knew the blogging community would band together in prayer, and you certainly have. I'm sure the family can feel the prayers that have been said for them. Thank you so much!

Mckenzie and Courtney made it to the hospital safe and sound at about 1:30am this morning. Mckenzie's longtime boyfriend Tim was already there. He also goes to Arizona State but luckily had been attending a meeting in Los Angeles. He was the first one to get to the hospital. It's still sketchy how anyone was notified of the accident because they don't think Macey had any ID on her. I do know her roommate became worried when she didn't come home and that may have started it.

Mckenzie, Tim, and Courtney were allowed to go in the room alone to see Macey and of course they just lost it. Macey is in very very bad shape. Stitches, bruises, broken bones, punctured lung, head trauma, tubes coming out of everywhere, and they had to shave off all of her gorgeous long hair. My heart breaks for Mckenzie. It's certainly not a way to see your one and only sibling, and cherished sister. It's heartbreaking for Courtney and Tim too. These 4 kids are like siblings themselves having been best friends for many years.

So right now, this is what we know. No alcohol was involved by the driver. Apparently Macey was wearing all dark colors, jogging when it was dark, and the driver didn't see her. The doctors are saying it can go either way. She is in a drug induced coma due to her head injuries. They did remove part of her skull to relieve pressure on her brain and as of this morning, the swelling had decreased somewhat. Prayers are already being answered!

Again friends, thank you for your prayers and please continue to pray for this family. The doctors say if she pulls through she could be in the hospital for months. It will be a very long haul for all of them.

(You will never hear me say one more word about my measly little broken ankle. Things were suddenly put into perspective when we heard about Macey, and rightfully so!)
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Bloglines

Is it just me or is anyone else having trouble with Bloglines today. I swear, I think its down more than it's in operation. It just might be time to switch to Google Reader.

I'd make the switch right now but I'm unable to access any of the blogs that I read regularly since Bloglines isn't functioning. I'm unable to access the URL addresses that I need to paste into Google reader. Man is this annoying!

Hopefully I'll be around to visit everyone soon!

Awe-Summm!

My friend Nanny passed this onto me recently. Thank you Nanny! It's funny though, Nanny mentioned that she thought I was talented and interesting. These are two adjectives I normally wouldn't have used to descrive myself. It's interesting to see how other people view you vs. how you view yourself isn't it!?! Talented and interesting, I appreciate and like that...I think it's Awe-Summm!


As part of receiving this award, I'm supposed to list 7 awesome things about myself. As wives and mothers, we don't look at ourselves as awesome, we just look at ourselves as everyday women, but you know what, we are awesome, everyone of us.

1. It's awesome that I am a child of God, daughter of the King of Kings! This is something that I'm so thankful for yet I don't take lightly. It's a privilege.

2. I have an awesome family that I get along great with. I have children, parents, sisters, and spouse that I love doing things with. It's a blessing to be able to say that my family are my best friends.

3. It's awesome that I have a job that I love and appreciate. Not many people will have a job in life that they feel they were made to have. It was my calling to become a nurse.

4. I think it's awesome that I'm generally a positive, upbeat person.

5. It's awesome (and I know my family always appreciated it) that I love a clean, organized home, a nicely decorated home. I always have. Even as a child and teenager I wanted things clean and organized. I take pleasure in it and find great joy in my home.

6. I think it's awesome that the older I get, the more outgoing I've become. Getting older is so freeing...it's definitely not all bad.

7. This may sound cliche' but it's true, I think it's awesome that I've made so many wonderful friendships through blogging. Blogging has made me a better person and so have the people that I've met along the way. I had no idea what I was getting into yet now I wouldn't trade it for anything. I also think it's awesome how blogging has forced me to become computer savvy...who knew!

I'm heading out the door soon but I'm supposed to pass on this Awe-Summm award to 7 friends as well. I'll try and update this post soon and pass it on then. In the meantime, I'm off to look at new computers!

I Can Feel The Ocean Breeze Now...

It's Saturday and nothing exciting to report from here. I feel like I'm going through a blogging slump. I have things I'd like to write about and share but just don't have the energy to do it. I'm sure you've all experienced these slumps too right?

As much as I enjoy participating in the fun things around blogland, they take effort and energy. I always have the best of intentions but then don't follow through. Real life sure does get in the way of blogging doesn't it!

Plus, I'm without a computer! I'm using hubby's right now and believe me, he asks me at least every 10 minutes if I'm finished with it yet. As my friend Jill says, talk about a "groove buster!" My computer bit the dust and I'm in mourning big time! I loved my computer (probably a little too much). My favorites, my pictures, everything, gone. I'm surprised I'm not more upset, but really, what can be done about it now.

The heat doesn't help either. It has a way of draining a person's energy. It's been almost 100 degrees everyday lately so I think summer is here to stay. I came up with the idea to run away to the beach tomorrow for a few days to escape the heat and boy did hubby jump at the idea! So that's what we're doing tomorrow, we're running away to the beach! Old downtown Ventura has cute, quaint shops so I plan on spending the next few days browsing around shops and taking long walks for exercise. The only thing missing will be my fun shopping buddies, my daughter Courtney and sister Debbie. I love shopping with these girls but hubby will do in a pinch!

So yep, the groove buster, Jake, and I will be relaxing with the cool ocean breezes for a few days. Hope your first few days of summer are relaxing too!

P.S. I'll be picking a winner tonight for my 300th post giveaway!

It's Time For A Giveaway!

I reached my 300th post recently and I definitely think it calls for a giveaway! Wow, 300 posts! I specifically remember writing that very first one. After I hit "publish post", I sat there thinking "ok, what next!?" I was afraid and excited all at the same time.

Over the last 15 months, alot of my day to day feelings have been shared, my life has been opened up and shared, and I've made wonderful friends and memories in the process. I wouldn't trade it for anything! Thank you for being on this fun journey with me!

Blogging truly has become one of my favorite things to do so that is the theme of this giveaway...favorites! It will be fun gathering up some of my favorite things to share with you. Hey, if Oprah can do it, so can I! Everyone knows that Target is my all time favorite so a $25 Target gift card will be first on the list...the rest will be a surprise!

Everyone who follows this blog are my favorites too so Saturday night I'll pick a winner from my follower list on my sidebar. It's just a small way of saying thank you for being a follower. I'll announce the winner Sunday.

So with that being said, I better get shopping!

Camping Club Weekend

Yippee, it's that time again! We so look forward to this one weekend each month. It's always great to be able to spend time with good friends, relax, eat delicious food, and enjoy the nice weather. I can't wait!

The theme this month is Cinco de Mayo so I won't be eating much of the food this time though. I'll be eating salads and such since I started my diet on Monday. The diet is going good although I do have a massive headache right now. Caffeine related possibly!? I've already lost a few pounds. It feels good to be headed down the right path. The extra weight isn't only menopause related, I've overindulged way to much this last year and it's caught up with me.

I have my 30 Day Shred DVD and will start on it on Monday. I knew I'd be out of town Thurs-Sun so I've been walking instead. I'm anxious to start the 30 day Shred but I hear it kicks butt. That's ok, this butt needs kicking!

I'll get to spend time with my kids this weekend too. Courtney is leaving AZ today for Orange County to babysit my nieces and nephew for the weekend. My nieces are 16 and 17, have boyfriends, and my SIL doesn't trust them to be alone while they're out of town. Smart woman that SIL of mine! We'll be at the beach near Courtney and the kids so they plan on spending the day with us on Saturday. I'm planning on seeing my son tomorrow for sure. He asked if I'd like to go to lunch, maybe do a little shopping with him tomorrow. He's no dummy, he knows momma's got the checkbook! No really, Brandon never asks us for anything so I'm HOPING he lets me treat him to a few things this weekend. I'm blessed with 2 loving, very responsible, and incredibly beautiful children!

As always, I'll take along my camera and hopefully will capture some good memories. Even though I think about it, I hesitate to take pictures sometimes because people don't know I have this blog. I often want to say "lets take a picture so I can blog about it" but of course say nothing and end up with no pictures either. I'll work on that!

Be safe and have a fantastic weekend!

Computer Trouble

I let someone use my computer Saturday night and it was returned with a pesky virus! It's not their fault, it just happened. In the meantime, I've got big computer problems here. I'm REALLY hoping to get everything fixed and back to working order soon.

So for now, have a great Thursday!

Where Has The Week Gone!?!

I can't believe it's Thursday already!

I completely lose track of time...and my days, when I work alot of hours back to back...which is the only thing I've done so far this week.

So I've got nothing to share. Oh, I probably do but I'm just too tired to think about it. I was supposed to meet some friends for lunch today...too tired! It sure sounded good at the time though. It's ok, I'm meeting one of them in the morning for coffee instead. I'll be refreshed and roaring to go by then.

When I work 3-12+ hour days in a row, I feel like I've missed out on something. Like I've missed out on life in the "real world." Like life has passed me by...and in a sense it has.

When I'm at work, I love it. When I'm at home, I love it. But the two don't mix. On the days that I work, my normal life just passes me by...

I've missed you!

I did see the news and video of the Domino's Pizza workers and the sick stuff they were up to. Unreal isn't it!

Yep, It Was My Blogoversary!

Thank you so much for the well wishes and the offering of congratulations on my one year blogoversary (and 236 posts!). Where has the time gone!?!

I remember so clearly writing that first post and being very nervous about the whole thing. I was clearly nervous about putting myself out there on the web for everyone to see and have access to. I was also nervous about who I'd meet and wondering if any friendships would develop like those I had been reading about. Although I wanted to make those connections, I knew it would take time. Thankfully, those connections and friendships did develop and although I'm still "cautious" about the web, I don't feel as nervous as I did a year ago. Now I feel...


Over the past year I have met and become friends with incredible, smart, talented, witty, creative, caring, and generous women...women who I now call friends...and friends, you bless my life daily in so many many ways. Thank you!

To show you how much I appreciate you and the joy you bring to my life, I thought I'd have a little giveaway. I wrote out everyone's name on a piece of paper who left me a comment about my blogoversary. I drew a winner and I'll be sending one special friend the "Blessed" sign in the photo above. I know you feel as blessed as I do and thought you might enjoy displaying it in your home. Or who knows, maybe you might want to pass it on for your blogoversary also, to those that are blessing you!

So without further adew (is that how you spell it?) Lisa Loo, please e-mail me your address. I'd love to send this gift your way.

Only 362 days until my next blogoversary!

It's A Special Day!

Today is a special day for me...

Any guesses as to why...

Look on my sidebar for a clue!

Was It Something I Said!?!

I could have sworn this followers thing on my sidebar used to say 46 and now it says 45. I sure hope I didn't say something to offend anybody.

I don't keep track of the whole followers thing and have thought about deleting it altogether but I really thought I remembered seeing the number 46 on there forever???

Maybe I'm just losing it, but if it was something I said...SORRY!