Okay this has to be quick because I have a ton to do and a program to get to by 7:00. Today I went to a funeral of a dear friend of my grandma's. My grandma who I love love love belongs to a Advent Lutheran Church. Same Holy Trinity - same Holy Bible but way different in some other areas than my little First Christian.
First of all lots of wig wearers. Don't get me wrong I can totally see myself wearing one myself when I'm in my latter years but I counted 7 elderly ladies in my proximity wearing fashionable fake hair - which I think is a larger statistic than usual.
Secondly all the men have pimped out canes. Maybe "pimped out" is the wrong word let's use "decorated". Some where American flag themed some were chrome looking other mahogany. You get the drift - fancy stuff.
At the ALC they take communion every chance they get. We do too but they are a little different in their presentation and dispersion. We have silver trays that we pass with little plastic cups and tiny white crackers. They have half dollar size wafers and a brass goblet of wine. YES WINE! not Welches. And you go to the minister and usher to be served.
Now I've been to my grandma's church a few times and I know the protocol. But for some reason today I was a little disoriented. It could have be the 400 watt light bulb I was sitting under (seriously my cousin and I have tan lines) or maybe it was the fact I hadn't eaten breakfast - Or maybe it was the emotions that poured from so many hearts as the dear sweet man's family remembered and said their goodbyes but..........
By the time I walked in the line down the aisle to the minister and he held up the wafer and said "Christ sacrificed His body for the remission of your sins ~ accept this in remembrance" It was as if Jesus himself were standing there in His most forgiving manner and I stammered a "thank you" and stuck the wafer in my mouth.
Well then you go to the usher with the wine and as I was all caught up and what not I grabbed the goblet out of his hands and took a swig. Please stop for a moment and gather a mental picture. (FYI you are supposed to take the wafer and dip it gently into the wine -never actually touching the cup, certainly NOT taking it from the usher's hand.)
I should have known something was wrong when I had to tussle a little to actually get the goblet away from the usher - who as I think back had a very confused look on his face. As soon as I felt the brass on my lips I knew I had made a mistake but it was too late by then.
I took a drink and handed it back to the usher and ran to my seat. As I sat down I started to giggle in complete embarrassment and just utter humiliation.
Did I mention my grandma is from England? Did I mention she is the most prim and proper person I have ever known? Did I mention she is kind of a big deal at this church? She counts the money every Sunday, she is a member of the OWLS, she is an usher , etc. So I after I melted into a puddle of shame I then realized my grandma was going to be devastated at my lack of manners during such a sacred time.
When we got in the car to convoy to the cemetery I immediately said. "Grandma I have to tell you something I am very sorry but you are going to be upset with me. - When I went down for communion I was very upset and I was hot and I hadn't had breakfast and then I saw Ms. Helga and she was so sad and the the Minister said Jesus died and I took the bread and ate it right away and then I grabbed the wine and took a drink from the cup".
At that point my two cousins (Audrey & Carrie) laughed so hard I thought they were going to pee their pants.
My grandma who I love love love was so sweet and said "It's fine. Sometimes people do that. As a matter of fact when I began going to church there that is the way they served communion." I think she was lying because I NEVER saw anyone do it (all 200 people who came to the cup AFTER me) and I wouldn't remember when she started going to church there, although I vaguely remember a scene from the Godfather where everyone drank from a cup I think it was communion?. - so that must have been why I did it that way.
That's it. I hope you laughed at my expense ~ it would be the good thing that could come out of my lack of dignity.
:) the Queen.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Because you're the MOM that's why.
Okay here's what happened. I woke up super late then decided to clean before blogging. I discovered an infestation of ants in my closet. Weird that they only like certain clothes - all of which needed washed along with a ton of clothes already covering the laundry room floor. Then after the refrigerator was cleaned and the closet was fumigated the storm of the century decided to take down my electricity. Five hours later here I am. Blogging with unwashed clothes and unfinished chores. I would like to state for the record that I am a BIG FAN of ELECTRICITY! Seriously God knew what He was doing putting me in the time era of air conditioning, tv, washing machines, and dryers.
But here is what I intended to blog earlier today -
I hope you won't be too upset there will be no court interview today. I'm not sure how well that is going anyway - But today I have a couple things I would like to discuss.
First is anyone watching Deadliest Catch? I don't consider it one of my shows but the King and Prince are faithful to it. I caught up with one of their many marathons and holy cow! I knew Phil died but his son Jake is on drugs and during the season stole pain pills from his dad and then Jake from the Time Bandit's dad is missing and Edgar is struggling on whether to come back to the Northwestern?! Jeez Louise the drama! I was teary eyed when the Prince came in and said "What's wrong?" I replied "Deadliest Catch" and he shook his head and and said "I know". We bonded a little more at that moment.
Here's the other thing I've been thinking about...... Monday night some girlfriends came over and we drank Sangrias and watch Shag. Shag fyi is a movie with Bridget Fonda and Phoebe Cates from forever ago. I have it on VHS if that tells you anything. Its a complete summer girl movie - if you haven't seen it its worth ordering on netflix.
After the movie conversations turned to what it always does - our husbands and kids. This nights topic was specifically how hard it is to be a mom. Sometimes I think "Dang this is hard" and then turn to my husband and say something like "Don't you think parenting sucks sometimes?" and he looks at me and says "Ugh yeah".
Now I'm sure there are people out there who think I'm terrible for saying such things. But if you know me you know I love my children more than my life and I understand how blessed I am to have them. I am also extremely proud of the people they've become. That said I am still shocked as to how hard it is to raise kids. Which is kind of funny don't you think - raising a child is the most important thing a human does - and I think it should be easy. (that's pretty silly)
We came to a consensus as we sat around the living room until nearly midnight. A list of things you should remember if you are a mom if you will. I thought I would share with you in case you all of a sudden realized being a parent was a tricky job.
1.) Always remember YOU ARE THE MOM! I feel if you need to recall verbally the hours of labor and the actual fact that the child in question was grown in your womb do so. Sometimes I even throw around the word "vagina" and "breastfed". Very effective words to a 12 year old boy - it usually shocks him straight into compliance. It's my opinion the MOM is the motor behind the machine - the gas the makes the car go - i won't go on although I could.
2.) It is totally fine and most likely expected that your children between the ages of 12 to 17 will not - I repeat- WILL NOT like you. This is NOT a case of "its not you its me" it is "not you its them".
3.) Do not trust them. Bear with me - Pre-teen through Young adults are not to be trusted . They do not have the psychological where with all to be fully trusted and responsible. It isn't their fault they are crazy. There is research and documentation to support this. (look it up) I also believe if you wait for them to give you a reason to not trust them - don't worry you usually won't have to wait long.
4.) Snoop. Yes I said it snoop - be all crime scene investigator. If they have passwords you should know them. Don't abuse this but if they know you can check anytime the odds of them doing, saying, texting, posting, having things they shouldn't get a little slimmer.
5.) Be consistent. If you say no stick with it. If you show weakness or change your mind it makes everything that goes along with raising children trickier. I personally think you should do this from the time they are a year old - it makes everyone's life involved a little easier.
6.) Love them when they are the most unlovable. This seems to go in waves. They are adorable and sweet and respectful and then they are projectile vomiting pea soup with their heads spinning. That's when you - THE MOM - turn all calm and cool and collected. Hey somebody has to right?
7.) Pray for them- Pray with them - Pray over them - Pray about them. I have this friend who had her son kind of go a little wild. He graduated from high school got a job out of town and started living the night life - he liked to boogie - on the disco 'round yea.... sorry this is serious I got carried away.... anyway he went bad and she went crazy.
She did EVERYTHING a mom can do. Grounded, restricted, talked, consoled, had his grandpa intervene, set the boundaries etc. finally she went to her church and asked the deacons and elders to gather and pray while she anointed his bedroom with oil. When she told me this story my first words were - "WHERE IS THE OIL? I WANT IT!!"
The point is that when she prayed and turned her worry over to God the Spirit gave her the comfort a mom needs. I also think God gives you the power, strength, and wisdom you need to fulfill the task of motherhood. These are extremely good reasons to pray.
8.) Be a TEAM. If you are a single parent then God Bless You. I don’t think I could be. The King and I are a team and back each other up. I suppose of course you could still be united even if you weren't married but no matter the circumstance if the kids see dissension - they will use it to their advantage.
9.) Remember you are doing the best you can with the children GOD gave YOU! Your children may also need reminded about this fact. That kid that doesn’t listen, rolls his eyes, has big sighs when you speak…..yeah God thought you were the best woman for the job for that one. All you can and are expected to do is your best- under your best judgment - with your best intentions.
10.) Keep your sense of humor. Is there anything more comedic than the rational of a teenager? They can be ridiculous, odd and flat out KRAZ-E! Even if it is behind their backs a little snicker or chuckle about the insanity of the situation will keep you sane.
So that is a little wisdom that we cooked up on a Monday night in my living room. We are pretty fantastic I think. Before I go I would like to reiterate that ---- I have wonderful children. I was lucky that the first two didn’t cause me to lose my mind completely and they have become beautiful Christians women. But the Prince is only just begun. I see the 13 year old crazy boy in him visiting more and more these days. Boys in puberty are interesting creatures and I look forward to watching him grow into a man even with all of the drama and insanity that comes with it.
Being a mom is a tough tough job ~ Be proud of yourself for the effort you put into it.
Love the Queen.
But here is what I intended to blog earlier today -
I hope you won't be too upset there will be no court interview today. I'm not sure how well that is going anyway - But today I have a couple things I would like to discuss.
First is anyone watching Deadliest Catch? I don't consider it one of my shows but the King and Prince are faithful to it. I caught up with one of their many marathons and holy cow! I knew Phil died but his son Jake is on drugs and during the season stole pain pills from his dad and then Jake from the Time Bandit's dad is missing and Edgar is struggling on whether to come back to the Northwestern?! Jeez Louise the drama! I was teary eyed when the Prince came in and said "What's wrong?" I replied "Deadliest Catch" and he shook his head and and said "I know". We bonded a little more at that moment.
Here's the other thing I've been thinking about...... Monday night some girlfriends came over and we drank Sangrias and watch Shag. Shag fyi is a movie with Bridget Fonda and Phoebe Cates from forever ago. I have it on VHS if that tells you anything. Its a complete summer girl movie - if you haven't seen it its worth ordering on netflix.
After the movie conversations turned to what it always does - our husbands and kids. This nights topic was specifically how hard it is to be a mom. Sometimes I think "Dang this is hard" and then turn to my husband and say something like "Don't you think parenting sucks sometimes?" and he looks at me and says "Ugh yeah".
Now I'm sure there are people out there who think I'm terrible for saying such things. But if you know me you know I love my children more than my life and I understand how blessed I am to have them. I am also extremely proud of the people they've become. That said I am still shocked as to how hard it is to raise kids. Which is kind of funny don't you think - raising a child is the most important thing a human does - and I think it should be easy. (that's pretty silly)
We came to a consensus as we sat around the living room until nearly midnight. A list of things you should remember if you are a mom if you will. I thought I would share with you in case you all of a sudden realized being a parent was a tricky job.
1.) Always remember YOU ARE THE MOM! I feel if you need to recall verbally the hours of labor and the actual fact that the child in question was grown in your womb do so. Sometimes I even throw around the word "vagina" and "breastfed". Very effective words to a 12 year old boy - it usually shocks him straight into compliance. It's my opinion the MOM is the motor behind the machine - the gas the makes the car go - i won't go on although I could.
2.) It is totally fine and most likely expected that your children between the ages of 12 to 17 will not - I repeat- WILL NOT like you. This is NOT a case of "its not you its me" it is "not you its them".
3.) Do not trust them. Bear with me - Pre-teen through Young adults are not to be trusted . They do not have the psychological where with all to be fully trusted and responsible. It isn't their fault they are crazy. There is research and documentation to support this. (look it up) I also believe if you wait for them to give you a reason to not trust them - don't worry you usually won't have to wait long.
4.) Snoop. Yes I said it snoop - be all crime scene investigator. If they have passwords you should know them. Don't abuse this but if they know you can check anytime the odds of them doing, saying, texting, posting, having things they shouldn't get a little slimmer.
5.) Be consistent. If you say no stick with it. If you show weakness or change your mind it makes everything that goes along with raising children trickier. I personally think you should do this from the time they are a year old - it makes everyone's life involved a little easier.
6.) Love them when they are the most unlovable. This seems to go in waves. They are adorable and sweet and respectful and then they are projectile vomiting pea soup with their heads spinning. That's when you - THE MOM - turn all calm and cool and collected. Hey somebody has to right?
7.) Pray for them- Pray with them - Pray over them - Pray about them. I have this friend who had her son kind of go a little wild. He graduated from high school got a job out of town and started living the night life - he liked to boogie - on the disco 'round yea.... sorry this is serious I got carried away.... anyway he went bad and she went crazy.
She did EVERYTHING a mom can do. Grounded, restricted, talked, consoled, had his grandpa intervene, set the boundaries etc. finally she went to her church and asked the deacons and elders to gather and pray while she anointed his bedroom with oil. When she told me this story my first words were - "WHERE IS THE OIL? I WANT IT!!"
The point is that when she prayed and turned her worry over to God the Spirit gave her the comfort a mom needs. I also think God gives you the power, strength, and wisdom you need to fulfill the task of motherhood. These are extremely good reasons to pray.
8.) Be a TEAM. If you are a single parent then God Bless You. I don’t think I could be. The King and I are a team and back each other up. I suppose of course you could still be united even if you weren't married but no matter the circumstance if the kids see dissension - they will use it to their advantage.
9.) Remember you are doing the best you can with the children GOD gave YOU! Your children may also need reminded about this fact. That kid that doesn’t listen, rolls his eyes, has big sighs when you speak…..yeah God thought you were the best woman for the job for that one. All you can and are expected to do is your best- under your best judgment - with your best intentions.
10.) Keep your sense of humor. Is there anything more comedic than the rational of a teenager? They can be ridiculous, odd and flat out KRAZ-E! Even if it is behind their backs a little snicker or chuckle about the insanity of the situation will keep you sane.
So that is a little wisdom that we cooked up on a Monday night in my living room. We are pretty fantastic I think. Before I go I would like to reiterate that ---- I have wonderful children. I was lucky that the first two didn’t cause me to lose my mind completely and they have become beautiful Christians women. But the Prince is only just begun. I see the 13 year old crazy boy in him visiting more and more these days. Boys in puberty are interesting creatures and I look forward to watching him grow into a man even with all of the drama and insanity that comes with it.
Being a mom is a tough tough job ~ Be proud of yourself for the effort you put into it.
Love the Queen.
Happy Anniversary to Royal Parents
Hi how do you feel about late afternoon postings? Love them? Hate them? of course this is assuming someone is reading them as soon as they are sent out. You may be reading these posts in the middle of the night on Fridays or something along those lines. Anywho....
Today is my parents 42nd anniversary. My parents are a rare couple who met each other when they were five years old and their families stayed in contact until she decided she loved him and they married before they were 21. I've never seen or heard my parents raise their voice to each other. Come to think of it I've never seen my dad mad at my mom ever. I have seen love and affection and kindness overflow from them both often. Remember when Prince C~ my sweet son in law said his advice for someone newly married was to be a servant? Well I realized recently that - that is exactly the attitude my parents have towards each other. They are dedicated to each other, God and their kids. I never knew how lucky I was to have that as an example until I was married and realized how ridiculously difficult it is to do.
Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad ~ from your daughter the Queen
Today is my parents 42nd anniversary. My parents are a rare couple who met each other when they were five years old and their families stayed in contact until she decided she loved him and they married before they were 21. I've never seen or heard my parents raise their voice to each other. Come to think of it I've never seen my dad mad at my mom ever. I have seen love and affection and kindness overflow from them both often. Remember when Prince C~ my sweet son in law said his advice for someone newly married was to be a servant? Well I realized recently that - that is exactly the attitude my parents have towards each other. They are dedicated to each other, God and their kids. I never knew how lucky I was to have that as an example until I was married and realized how ridiculously difficult it is to do.
Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad ~ from your daughter the Queen
Monday, July 26, 2010
Today I will clean!
Ahhh Monday ~ after the weekend I always have big plans for the week and even posted on my facebook page that I am devoted to cleaning my entire house. However its already almost 10:30 a.m. and I''ve done a bunch of nothing so far. It has to be done though - I've neglected it long enough. And as I decide where to start it makes me think of the worst to the least of the worst jobs in that order. Isn't that always the way? Or is it me?
I let the laundry go until we are using beach towels to dry with.
I eat everything and anything until I can't wear my favorite khaki shorts.
I clean out my refrigerator only when there is an unidentifiable smell that I can't get rid of.
I ignore my daily devotions until I am laying awake at night filled with anxiety.
I waste money until my wallet is empty.
I organize my closet when I can't find a single thing to wear.
I vacuum out my van when I can no longer see the floor mat due to the grass and dirt.
Is it just me? Please say no. I make myself feel better my making a logical conclusion that in this season of my life daily survival is the key. When I'm old(er) and retired and relaxed on Tuesdays I will wipe out my fridge and there will never be more than one load of clothes to do - I will eat a daily healthy diet that will make me a perfect 10 and all of my Coldwater Creek outfits will be comfy and practical.
I hope to goodness this is true - but if not I suppose I will just live like I have for the past 40 years and make the best of it.
Now on to the laundry ....... Your houseworking Queen.
I let the laundry go until we are using beach towels to dry with.
I eat everything and anything until I can't wear my favorite khaki shorts.
I clean out my refrigerator only when there is an unidentifiable smell that I can't get rid of.
I ignore my daily devotions until I am laying awake at night filled with anxiety.
I waste money until my wallet is empty.
I organize my closet when I can't find a single thing to wear.
I vacuum out my van when I can no longer see the floor mat due to the grass and dirt.
Is it just me? Please say no. I make myself feel better my making a logical conclusion that in this season of my life daily survival is the key. When I'm old(er) and retired and relaxed on Tuesdays I will wipe out my fridge and there will never be more than one load of clothes to do - I will eat a daily healthy diet that will make me a perfect 10 and all of my Coldwater Creek outfits will be comfy and practical.
I hope to goodness this is true - but if not I suppose I will just live like I have for the past 40 years and make the best of it.
Now on to the laundry ....... Your houseworking Queen.
Friday, July 23, 2010
An Anniversary FAVS and FLOPS
It is July 23, 2010
22 years ago Ronald Reagan was the president but in July the republicans nominated George W. Bush and Dan Quayle to go against democrat Michael Dukakis.
22 years ago Iran Contra was all the rage and the cost of a stamp was .22 cents.
22 years ago number one hits were Rain Man, U2's Joshua Tree, and Bobby McFerrin's Don't worry Be Happy.
22 years ago Magnum PI and Dallas came to an end and Nick Jr. and 48 Hours were born.
22 years ago today a very young girl who thought she knew it all walked down the aisle in a borrowed dress in front of a crowd of over 200 to a boy who she thought knew it all wearing a tux and a mullet.
22 years ago today I promised to love, honor, cherish and yes I said the words obey - through sickness and in health for richer for poorer until I was officially dead.
Oh man I didn't have a clue. And boy oh boy I have broken a few of those vows time and time again. Over the past 22 years I have not always loved, honored, cherished or obeyed. I have however stuck by him in sickness, broken bones, terrible burns, cuts, and bruises - I know for a fact that we have seen days of richer and more days of poor - and I have yet to completely die.
Since today is Friday, I thought I would share a few FAVS and FLOPS of the person I share my life, children, home, bed, family and faith with, King G~
My FAVS about King G~
*He is my best friend
*He is the smartest person I know
*He is the hardest working person I've EVER known
*He "knows a guy" and "has a buddy" :)
*He is good with money & "deals"
*He takes good care of his family
*He loves his children and is proud to be their father
*He is really handsome (sometimes I see him somewhere and I will think "hmmm that's a cute guy" and then realize its him)
*He wants what's best for me
*He has no enemies
*There is nothing he wouldn't do for anyone
*He is the spiritual leader of our home
Now its probably more romantic if I said at this point there are no FLOPS about King G~ but if you've been married for more than a month you and I both know there are things that are total downers about your spouse so here are a couple of mine.
*He is a really aggressive eater (that may not make sense without a demonstration but its a little annoying).
*He is good with money and deals (yes this was a FAV but you know what they say our greatest attributes are our biggest downfalls - G~ & $ they're real tight)
*He allows me to do the majority of the discipline. (read between the lines)
*He thinks jewelry and flowers are a waste of money
*He rarely thinks anything bad about anyone - if I am complaining about someone or something , he usually takes the other side (I'm sure this is to just show me the errors of my ways)
*He's never met a stranger - and likes to chat which sometimes makes going somewhere and leaving promptly a little problem (the kids tend to be annoyed by this fact)
That's about it. I know I am blessed beyond measure to be married to the man God created just for me. I am thankful that marrying at 18 wasn't a mistake and as I grew up and realized I really didn't know anything - he grew right along with me.
I look forward to the next 22 years and falling in love more and more each year.
Love the King's Wife.
22 years ago Ronald Reagan was the president but in July the republicans nominated George W. Bush and Dan Quayle to go against democrat Michael Dukakis.
22 years ago Iran Contra was all the rage and the cost of a stamp was .22 cents.
22 years ago number one hits were Rain Man, U2's Joshua Tree, and Bobby McFerrin's Don't worry Be Happy.
22 years ago Magnum PI and Dallas came to an end and Nick Jr. and 48 Hours were born.
22 years ago today a very young girl who thought she knew it all walked down the aisle in a borrowed dress in front of a crowd of over 200 to a boy who she thought knew it all wearing a tux and a mullet.
22 years ago today I promised to love, honor, cherish and yes I said the words obey - through sickness and in health for richer for poorer until I was officially dead.
Oh man I didn't have a clue. And boy oh boy I have broken a few of those vows time and time again. Over the past 22 years I have not always loved, honored, cherished or obeyed. I have however stuck by him in sickness, broken bones, terrible burns, cuts, and bruises - I know for a fact that we have seen days of richer and more days of poor - and I have yet to completely die.
Since today is Friday, I thought I would share a few FAVS and FLOPS of the person I share my life, children, home, bed, family and faith with, King G~
My FAVS about King G~
*He is my best friend
*He is the smartest person I know
*He is the hardest working person I've EVER known
*He "knows a guy" and "has a buddy" :)
*He is good with money & "deals"
*He takes good care of his family
*He loves his children and is proud to be their father
*He is really handsome (sometimes I see him somewhere and I will think "hmmm that's a cute guy" and then realize its him)
*He wants what's best for me
*He has no enemies
*There is nothing he wouldn't do for anyone
*He is the spiritual leader of our home
Now its probably more romantic if I said at this point there are no FLOPS about King G~ but if you've been married for more than a month you and I both know there are things that are total downers about your spouse so here are a couple of mine.
*He is a really aggressive eater (that may not make sense without a demonstration but its a little annoying).
*He is good with money and deals (yes this was a FAV but you know what they say our greatest attributes are our biggest downfalls - G~ & $ they're real tight)
*He allows me to do the majority of the discipline. (read between the lines)
*He thinks jewelry and flowers are a waste of money
*He rarely thinks anything bad about anyone - if I am complaining about someone or something , he usually takes the other side (I'm sure this is to just show me the errors of my ways)
*He's never met a stranger - and likes to chat which sometimes makes going somewhere and leaving promptly a little problem (the kids tend to be annoyed by this fact)
That's about it. I know I am blessed beyond measure to be married to the man God created just for me. I am thankful that marrying at 18 wasn't a mistake and as I grew up and realized I really didn't know anything - he grew right along with me.
I look forward to the next 22 years and falling in love more and more each year.
Love the King's Wife.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Bedding.
Hi - I finished teaching summer school today. Let the summer begin - or restart after a brief two weeks pause. Or let the summer wrap up - because I can't stop thinking of the new year and all the great things we are going to do in 3rd grade!
Now that I will be home with my children during the day, I may be able to stay on top of the laundry and dishes and possibly cook a meal that requires something beyond the microwave. I will also have more control over the television's recording schedule. Lately "someone" has scheduled shows like "Pregnant and addicted to heroin" or "Paralyzed and pregnant with twins". I find these shows slightly repulsive. Which says a lot because I love me some trash reality.
I also have been disturbed to see an advertisement about mattresses. It goes something like your mattress used to weigh 8 pounds but after 10 years it now weighs 16! The doubled weight is due to the dead skin, dirt and dust mites that have accumulated. Ughhhh that is so gross. Our mattress btw is like 18 years old. I can't even think about it.
Here is another disturbing piece of information I learned recently - People who live in Great Britain only change their bed sheets and average of three times a year! Holy mother?!@?@ THREE times A YEAR!? That is just disgusting. I change my sheets at the very least once a week, sometimes twice. I read once that Oprah has her sheets changed everyday. I like that idea and if I had the bedding I would do the same. But heavens to be ----- THREE times A YEAR? ugh *cringe.
I think sheets and mattresses are two highly important pieces of your home and well being. Oh and did I say pillows. Yeah def. pillows too.
What do you think? What's your average sheet change?
:) The Queen
Now that I will be home with my children during the day, I may be able to stay on top of the laundry and dishes and possibly cook a meal that requires something beyond the microwave. I will also have more control over the television's recording schedule. Lately "someone" has scheduled shows like "Pregnant and addicted to heroin" or "Paralyzed and pregnant with twins". I find these shows slightly repulsive. Which says a lot because I love me some trash reality.
I also have been disturbed to see an advertisement about mattresses. It goes something like your mattress used to weigh 8 pounds but after 10 years it now weighs 16! The doubled weight is due to the dead skin, dirt and dust mites that have accumulated. Ughhhh that is so gross. Our mattress btw is like 18 years old. I can't even think about it.
Here is another disturbing piece of information I learned recently - People who live in Great Britain only change their bed sheets and average of three times a year! Holy mother?!@?@ THREE times A YEAR!? That is just disgusting. I change my sheets at the very least once a week, sometimes twice. I read once that Oprah has her sheets changed everyday. I like that idea and if I had the bedding I would do the same. But heavens to be ----- THREE times A YEAR? ugh *cringe.
I think sheets and mattresses are two highly important pieces of your home and well being. Oh and did I say pillows. Yeah def. pillows too.
What do you think? What's your average sheet change?
:) The Queen
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
A court interview with the Queen's son in law
As our girls were growing up we would (still do) pray for their spouse. That God would protect him and guide him in the right direction. Before we had kids and people would tell us they did this I secretively thought they were a little weird - because it seems a little weird to pray for someone specifically that you don't know.
But when the time came for us it wasn't hard or weird at all. I think it payed off too. At least as far as Princess C's~ husband is concerned. There is no question that he was made especially for our daughter and we don't think anyone could love her more or take care of her better.
Cody and the Princess have dated since they were in the 10th grade. The King and I and the rest of the court think of him as part of us and couldn't love him more.
Prince C~ attends the University of Florida. He received a full four year 100% scholarship for music. He is close to the brightest person I've ever known. He is also very humble and generous and caring. He shares his God given musical talents with many teaching lessons, composing and assisting bands and camps at UF.
I'm sure you can tell by now that we are proud. But what we love the most about him is how he loves our oldest daughter and in turn accepts our family as his own.
Here's what he has to say:
Queen: How do you feel today?
Prince C~ I'm good.
Queen: What are two things are on your mind most right now?
Prince C~ finish mowing the yard and my trip to my grandmas
Queen: What was one thing you remember most from high school?
Prince C~ fried chicken Fridays
Queen: What is a hobby you enjoy?
Prince C~ music, any kind, playing, writing, listening
Queen: What advice would you give to someone who is a newlywed?
Prince C~ Be a servant. (aww how sweet is that - hey King G~ try it!)
But when the time came for us it wasn't hard or weird at all. I think it payed off too. At least as far as Princess C's~ husband is concerned. There is no question that he was made especially for our daughter and we don't think anyone could love her more or take care of her better.
Cody and the Princess have dated since they were in the 10th grade. The King and I and the rest of the court think of him as part of us and couldn't love him more.
Prince C~ attends the University of Florida. He received a full four year 100% scholarship for music. He is close to the brightest person I've ever known. He is also very humble and generous and caring. He shares his God given musical talents with many teaching lessons, composing and assisting bands and camps at UF.
I'm sure you can tell by now that we are proud. But what we love the most about him is how he loves our oldest daughter and in turn accepts our family as his own.
Here's what he has to say:
Queen: How do you feel today?
Prince C~ I'm good.
Queen: What are two things are on your mind most right now?
Prince C~ finish mowing the yard and my trip to my grandmas
Queen: What was one thing you remember most from high school?
Prince C~ fried chicken Fridays
Queen: What is a hobby you enjoy?
Prince C~ music, any kind, playing, writing, listening
Queen: What advice would you give to someone who is a newlywed?
Prince C~ Be a servant. (aww how sweet is that - hey King G~ try it!)
Queen: Describe your life right now in three words.
Prince C~ busy, hot and musical
Queen: What do you think about your mother-in - law having a blog?
Prince C~ It's interesting I don't know anyone else who has a blog.
Queen: What did you want to be when you were little?
Prince C~ An engineer ( even when he was little he had gifted aspirations)
Queen: What do think is the best and the worst thing about being a student at UF?
Prince C~ The worst is its crowded. The best is its free and I'm apart of the gator nation.
Queen: What are the best and worst things about being apart of our family?
Prince C~ The best part is I never had a normal regular family until you all. (haha he thinks we are normal, bless him.) and I can't think of any thing bad about it. (ok ok I knew it was a loaded question - If I had to speak for him I would say sometimes we are all very overwhelming - especially to someone who hasn't had much family)
Queen: Closing remarks.
Prince C~ I didn't think it would be a big deal to be interviewed. When everyone else said it was stressful I thought they were exaggerating - they weren't.
Don't you just love him? Just to brag a little more. Cody was the fastest to answer the questions. I also don't think he changed his answer once - which is what everyone else does every time. Cody is just one of our many blessings that God has given us.
The Queen Mother in Law
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
A Charleston Review
Hello Tuesday - its late but its still Tuesday. One day I would like to move past telling you the day and also opening with "hello" but for now its just about all I got.
Yesterday was not good. I don't know what it is with "me + vacations = illness" but it happens. I started feeling yucky on Saturday. I attributed it to the heat but Monday morning woke up with the worst pains and general awfulness. By 9:00 am I was in the dr's office waiting room.
Diagnosis bladder infection/ uti. Pray for me. If you've ever had one you can sympathize - if you never have drop to your knees right now and thank God for his mercy. So last vacation it was some crazy virus with a fever blister closure - and this vacation ends with a bladder infection. I can't wait for the next trip.
I promised a review of Charleston and here it is.
Charleston, SC is great if you are rich. The main streets are lined with stores like Louis Vuitton, Yves St. Laurent, etc. We also learned that South of Broad is the 5th wealthiest city in America. When King G~ was impressed by a car that I had never heard of and he had never seen in person - I knew we were fish out of water. The car was a Maybach btw.
It was also very very hot and muggy in Charleston. I don't know why I was so surprised about this, I mean I do watch the news. But when you live in Florida and you travel north... one expects the weather to be a tad bit less blistering. Call me crazy.
We took a carriage ride, walked the streets, ate, walked, visited a tea plantation, looked for Richard and Ginger, enjoyed a sweetly adorable bed and breakfast (called the King George Inn) and went to Isle of the Palms where we ate one of the best dinners I've ever had at The Boathouse.
All and all I would give Charleston a "B" or a "6" . It does not compare to Savannah from last year though. I feel like Savannah was cleaner, more romantic and interesting. But any vacation with just the King is always good. We are thinking of NYC next year, if I can find cheap tickets. I can only imagine the adventures we could have in a big city.
A few more things I would like to wrap up Charleston with.
1.) We watched at least 4 separate men on 4 separate occasions carrying their wives/girlfriends purses. What is up with that?! The first time I was like "oh my goodness - he is carrying her purse" and the second time I thought "awww he is carrying her purse" and then after that I was like "George WHY aren't you carrying MY purse?!" I then returned home to watch my DVR-ed episode of Bethany getting married? and Jason (Bethany's husband) carried her purse. Its all very strange and makes me have mixed feelings. On another note - George refuses to do so. His argument is I don't need to carry one in the first place.
2.) While staying in our historic and kind of pricey bed and breakfast - King G broke a lamp. Yeah into hundreds of pieces. Knocked it off the table as he was trying to eliminate the light coming in from the porch. We thought for sure we would owe a left arm or at the very least the value of a night's stay - but after they checked it out they said it was fine and they weren't that valuable and she needed to buy new lamps anyway. So... whew.
UN-Charleston related.....
3.) Whitney left a comment about prayer from last Thursday's post and I have thought and thought about it. Here's the comment:
"Let me ask you something. If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?"
Here's my response:
I think I've realized people (speaking of myself) can really get bogged down about prayer. When people who aren't believers hear others say their prayers have been answered or see ones that seem to have not been answered - they can rationalize answered prayers may be coincidences and do not prove a god and unanswered prayers show there isn't - because as S.Walsh points out if Christians believe God is all powerful AND loving it is difficult to rationalize why some prayers go unanswered. It would be much easier if He were just powerful, because then we could say He just doesn't love us enough - or if he were just loving because then we could say God loves us and would answer the prayers but doesn't have the power. But of course we believe that He is both.
So when you ask about God making us patient or loving or courageous - how would we know we were if it weren't for the experience where we could put it into action. Does that make sense? I suppose I'm saying yes and yes to the question.
I can tell you first hand I have been on my knees or in my bed or in the fetal position on the floor in complete distress where I was sure I couldn't make it another single minute - or had no idea where to go or what to do about whatever the drama was at the time and cried out to God for strength or peace or comfort and at the moment of my answered prayer felt those feelings.
I was already in the midst of an experience where God used my Spirit to sustain me.
This past week a sweet teacher who used to work at L.B.E.S. lost her toddler from drowning while on a family outing. My heart breaks for this young couple who lost their only child. I can't imagine living through something like this without the communication of prayer. I don't know Cayla's mom and dad very well but I'm positive they are somewhere on their knees praying for strength, comfort and peace that they can get no where else but from God.
One of the most wonderful things about prayer is that they don't have to ask for all of that alone - dozens and dozens of others are praying too. Please add this sweet young couple to your prayer list, I'm sure they would appreciate your intercession on their behalf.
I hope all of that made some kind of sense and I'm still reading "Get off your knees and pray" so maybe I will find some more enlightening pieces of information to share.
Have a great day. The Queen.
p.s. if any of that stuff about prayer doesn't make full sense I'm blaming any of the three prescriptions I'm on. Thanks.
Yesterday was not good. I don't know what it is with "me + vacations = illness" but it happens. I started feeling yucky on Saturday. I attributed it to the heat but Monday morning woke up with the worst pains and general awfulness. By 9:00 am I was in the dr's office waiting room.
Diagnosis bladder infection/ uti. Pray for me. If you've ever had one you can sympathize - if you never have drop to your knees right now and thank God for his mercy. So last vacation it was some crazy virus with a fever blister closure - and this vacation ends with a bladder infection. I can't wait for the next trip.
I promised a review of Charleston and here it is.
Charleston, SC is great if you are rich. The main streets are lined with stores like Louis Vuitton, Yves St. Laurent, etc. We also learned that South of Broad is the 5th wealthiest city in America. When King G~ was impressed by a car that I had never heard of and he had never seen in person - I knew we were fish out of water. The car was a Maybach btw.
It was also very very hot and muggy in Charleston. I don't know why I was so surprised about this, I mean I do watch the news. But when you live in Florida and you travel north... one expects the weather to be a tad bit less blistering. Call me crazy.
We took a carriage ride, walked the streets, ate, walked, visited a tea plantation, looked for Richard and Ginger, enjoyed a sweetly adorable bed and breakfast (called the King George Inn) and went to Isle of the Palms where we ate one of the best dinners I've ever had at The Boathouse.
All and all I would give Charleston a "B" or a "6" . It does not compare to Savannah from last year though. I feel like Savannah was cleaner, more romantic and interesting. But any vacation with just the King is always good. We are thinking of NYC next year, if I can find cheap tickets. I can only imagine the adventures we could have in a big city.
A few more things I would like to wrap up Charleston with.
1.) We watched at least 4 separate men on 4 separate occasions carrying their wives/girlfriends purses. What is up with that?! The first time I was like "oh my goodness - he is carrying her purse" and the second time I thought "awww he is carrying her purse" and then after that I was like "George WHY aren't you carrying MY purse?!" I then returned home to watch my DVR-ed episode of Bethany getting married? and Jason (Bethany's husband) carried her purse. Its all very strange and makes me have mixed feelings. On another note - George refuses to do so. His argument is I don't need to carry one in the first place.
2.) While staying in our historic and kind of pricey bed and breakfast - King G broke a lamp. Yeah into hundreds of pieces. Knocked it off the table as he was trying to eliminate the light coming in from the porch. We thought for sure we would owe a left arm or at the very least the value of a night's stay - but after they checked it out they said it was fine and they weren't that valuable and she needed to buy new lamps anyway. So... whew.
UN-Charleston related.....
3.) Whitney left a comment about prayer from last Thursday's post and I have thought and thought about it. Here's the comment:
"Let me ask you something. If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?"
Here's my response:
I think I've realized people (speaking of myself) can really get bogged down about prayer. When people who aren't believers hear others say their prayers have been answered or see ones that seem to have not been answered - they can rationalize answered prayers may be coincidences and do not prove a god and unanswered prayers show there isn't - because as S.Walsh points out if Christians believe God is all powerful AND loving it is difficult to rationalize why some prayers go unanswered. It would be much easier if He were just powerful, because then we could say He just doesn't love us enough - or if he were just loving because then we could say God loves us and would answer the prayers but doesn't have the power. But of course we believe that He is both.
So when you ask about God making us patient or loving or courageous - how would we know we were if it weren't for the experience where we could put it into action. Does that make sense? I suppose I'm saying yes and yes to the question.
I can tell you first hand I have been on my knees or in my bed or in the fetal position on the floor in complete distress where I was sure I couldn't make it another single minute - or had no idea where to go or what to do about whatever the drama was at the time and cried out to God for strength or peace or comfort and at the moment of my answered prayer felt those feelings.
I was already in the midst of an experience where God used my Spirit to sustain me.
This past week a sweet teacher who used to work at L.B.E.S. lost her toddler from drowning while on a family outing. My heart breaks for this young couple who lost their only child. I can't imagine living through something like this without the communication of prayer. I don't know Cayla's mom and dad very well but I'm positive they are somewhere on their knees praying for strength, comfort and peace that they can get no where else but from God.
One of the most wonderful things about prayer is that they don't have to ask for all of that alone - dozens and dozens of others are praying too. Please add this sweet young couple to your prayer list, I'm sure they would appreciate your intercession on their behalf.
I hope all of that made some kind of sense and I'm still reading "Get off your knees and pray" so maybe I will find some more enlightening pieces of information to share.
Have a great day. The Queen.
p.s. if any of that stuff about prayer doesn't make full sense I'm blaming any of the three prescriptions I'm on. Thanks.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Queen and Broad
Hello. Its the Monday after a weekend getaway. The King and I had a wonderful weekend in Charleston and I have a full review rolling around in my head but unfortunately I am way too tired to tell you anything about it today.
I will post tomorrow all about it and also have a few other things I've been contemplating lately.
But hey how about that cap on the oil spill? I don't think congratulations or even a good job is in order ... how about Thank God! Now on to the disastrous mess right? BP?
In other news..... An earthquake in D.C., Mel Gibson is crazy and his girlfriend was / is after his money, the iphone4 is defective, and it is HOT! Oh boy is it HOT?!
The picture is from our Charleston weekend - At the intersection of Queen St. and Broad.
Have a good first day of the week ~ try to stay cool or at least not melt. The Queen
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Don't do it Bristol
Hello Thursday ~
First things first...... Bristol, Bristol, Bristol....... Girlfriend I know he is a hottie and says the right things and makes you feel all grown up and tingly but you are making a mistake. Mark my words and maybe call Sandra B. or Elin W. tigers don't change their stripes hunny. Not to mention you are essentially picking him over your entire family. Maybe you have your own control issues with your mom or something but honestly don't see how this could turn out good in any way.
Secondly on a sadder note my friend's daughter Jenna is back in the hospital. She was recovering nicely and suddenly got hit with a virus. A regular virus may put you or I in bed for an afternoon but for Jenna who is still recovering from gastroparesis and IBS it hit her like a mack truck.
She is in Shands and they've put in a pick line and may need to do series of serious procedures to heal / recover her intestines. Please put Jenna and her family on your prayer list. I asked her mom last night what she specifically wanted prayed for and she said this: Wisdom for the doctors and pain relief for Jenna. I want to add rest for Kelly (her mom) and endurance for her entire family as they do another round of this crazy season of their lives.
I am reading Get Off your Knees and PRAY by Shelia Walsh. It's one of those books that you pick up here and there and each time you can take something else profound away from it. As far as prayer goes I find it easy. I've realized some people don't. I'm not sure why maybe its due to my fondness for talking or the use of words. Or maybe its how I view my personal relationship with God.
I definitely am not bragging, there are likely 230980 things I do wrong in my prayer life and or in my Christian walk in general - Just "talking" to God doesn't seem to be one of my stumbling blocks. Reading this book has brought a lot to light about why to pray, how to pray and what to pray. So I think the only thing I do have right is the actual "WHO" to pray to part.
In the book Sheila Walsh speaks of her own prayer battle. Which in itself is a shocker - Since if you don't know Shelia Walsh is like Women of Faith Queen of Christian Sisters!
In the chapter Is God angry with me? She discusses Jonah. I will not review the whole chapter but I loved this one particular part when Jonah although sent to preach to the Ninevites to repent or be destroyed, when they did he was annoyed about it - thinking that they should all be destroyed in the first place and that God should not show them mercy.
Wow isn't that familiar? We pray for something then when it happens we are like "umm no I won't accept it - consequence is the only fairness." So Jonah has a hissy fit runs out into the hottest driest desert he can find and sits and pouts. At this point aren't you just amazed that God uses people like this?! Surely there were more righteous and loving men out there at the time.
During his fit God gives him a gift. A bush of some sort. It grows fast, thick, tall and shades Jonah. Jonah loves the plant and sits in its shade from the burning sun and rehearses what he is going to say to God.
I think it was something like this...... "God. really? save the people who are the sinnest of sinners!? You and I both know they are going to just do it again. If you would have just wiped them out to begin with I wouldn't have had to live in that stinky fish for three days or leave my hometown that I loved so much!" But...... as he rolled over that conversation in his head God sends a worm to eat his plant - then he is really really mad! It was his plant after all - really all he had. Man I bet you he thought God had some nerve.
Here is God's response: Jonah 4:9-11
9 Then God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry because the plant died?” “Yes,” Jonah retorted, “even angry enough to die!” 10 Then the Lord said, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. 11 But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn't I feel sorry for such a great city?”
As far as prayer is concerned I think God wants us to think more like Him than more like our human selves. I believe that's where prayer helps. Asking for wisdom that only He can give - Listening / seeing what he wants us to know.
When I was talking to my friend Kelly about Jenna she said "God is in control" I asked her (jokingly) did she laugh when she said that. Not because God isn't in control but because there are points in our lives when we get slapped in the face (or a worm comes by ) and lets us know Oh yeah GOD is in control - I should remember that.
I hope you have a great weekend and I hope you will forgive me for not posting Fridays FAVS and FLOPS. The King and I are leaving Friday morning for a romantic anniversary weekend in Charleston, SC. I'm looking forward to no kids, no drama and lots of one on one time with my best friend for the past 22 years.
Don't worry I'll post all about it on Monday. ~ The Queen
First things first...... Bristol, Bristol, Bristol....... Girlfriend I know he is a hottie and says the right things and makes you feel all grown up and tingly but you are making a mistake. Mark my words and maybe call Sandra B. or Elin W. tigers don't change their stripes hunny. Not to mention you are essentially picking him over your entire family. Maybe you have your own control issues with your mom or something but honestly don't see how this could turn out good in any way.
Secondly on a sadder note my friend's daughter Jenna is back in the hospital. She was recovering nicely and suddenly got hit with a virus. A regular virus may put you or I in bed for an afternoon but for Jenna who is still recovering from gastroparesis and IBS it hit her like a mack truck.
She is in Shands and they've put in a pick line and may need to do series of serious procedures to heal / recover her intestines. Please put Jenna and her family on your prayer list. I asked her mom last night what she specifically wanted prayed for and she said this: Wisdom for the doctors and pain relief for Jenna. I want to add rest for Kelly (her mom) and endurance for her entire family as they do another round of this crazy season of their lives.
I am reading Get Off your Knees and PRAY by Shelia Walsh. It's one of those books that you pick up here and there and each time you can take something else profound away from it. As far as prayer goes I find it easy. I've realized some people don't. I'm not sure why maybe its due to my fondness for talking or the use of words. Or maybe its how I view my personal relationship with God.
I definitely am not bragging, there are likely 230980 things I do wrong in my prayer life and or in my Christian walk in general - Just "talking" to God doesn't seem to be one of my stumbling blocks. Reading this book has brought a lot to light about why to pray, how to pray and what to pray. So I think the only thing I do have right is the actual "WHO" to pray to part.
In the book Sheila Walsh speaks of her own prayer battle. Which in itself is a shocker - Since if you don't know Shelia Walsh is like Women of Faith Queen of Christian Sisters!
In the chapter Is God angry with me? She discusses Jonah. I will not review the whole chapter but I loved this one particular part when Jonah although sent to preach to the Ninevites to repent or be destroyed, when they did he was annoyed about it - thinking that they should all be destroyed in the first place and that God should not show them mercy.
Wow isn't that familiar? We pray for something then when it happens we are like "umm no I won't accept it - consequence is the only fairness." So Jonah has a hissy fit runs out into the hottest driest desert he can find and sits and pouts. At this point aren't you just amazed that God uses people like this?! Surely there were more righteous and loving men out there at the time.
During his fit God gives him a gift. A bush of some sort. It grows fast, thick, tall and shades Jonah. Jonah loves the plant and sits in its shade from the burning sun and rehearses what he is going to say to God.
I think it was something like this...... "God. really? save the people who are the sinnest of sinners!? You and I both know they are going to just do it again. If you would have just wiped them out to begin with I wouldn't have had to live in that stinky fish for three days or leave my hometown that I loved so much!" But...... as he rolled over that conversation in his head God sends a worm to eat his plant - then he is really really mad! It was his plant after all - really all he had. Man I bet you he thought God had some nerve.
Here is God's response: Jonah 4:9-11
9 Then God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry because the plant died?” “Yes,” Jonah retorted, “even angry enough to die!” 10 Then the Lord said, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. 11 But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn't I feel sorry for such a great city?”
As far as prayer is concerned I think God wants us to think more like Him than more like our human selves. I believe that's where prayer helps. Asking for wisdom that only He can give - Listening / seeing what he wants us to know.
When I was talking to my friend Kelly about Jenna she said "God is in control" I asked her (jokingly) did she laugh when she said that. Not because God isn't in control but because there are points in our lives when we get slapped in the face (or a worm comes by ) and lets us know Oh yeah GOD is in control - I should remember that.
I hope you have a great weekend and I hope you will forgive me for not posting Fridays FAVS and FLOPS. The King and I are leaving Friday morning for a romantic anniversary weekend in Charleston, SC. I'm looking forward to no kids, no drama and lots of one on one time with my best friend for the past 22 years.
Don't worry I'll post all about it on Monday. ~ The Queen
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