No pain--no gain!

Today is day #6 without sugar (and by sugar, I mean high fructose corn syrup, processed sugar, brown sugar, etc). Basically I have taken out all altered sugar and have only consumed what I like to call "God's sugar" or fruit...days 1 through 5 weren't soo tough...but today, DANGER-DANGER! I came soo close to slipping off the wagon...just as I was thinking about the stupid M&M's in the machine, I was reminded that one small bite of sugar would take away all the work I've put into the last 5 days! Plus they claim that getting over sugar and its addictive power is similar to getting over an addiction to crack. Soooo does that make me a SUGAR-HEAD?

The saving force in all of this process -- Vali Produce! I can go in there and pick as many (or as few) items as I want. Mostly the cost is determined by the weight. Last night instead of buying an entire bag of radishes -- where 2/3 of them will go bad -- I was able to get 4 and cut them up in my salad today.

Throwing away spoiled veggies and fruit makes me sad. SAD! It's such a waste. I might as well have taken the money that I spent on the spoiled fruit and burn it. Just withdraw the money and light it on fire. Poof!

Tomorrow will be ONE WHOLE WEEK without sugar. The next thing that I am removing from my diet is dairy. The one statement that made me give up dairy is this ...

"Just like human milk is for human babies...cows' milk

is for baby cows. We're the only species on the planet

that drinks the milk of another species. We're the only

species on the planet that drinks milk as adults.

It's not only gross, it's creepy. We're been duped by

the dairy industry and their hundreds of millions of

advertising dollars. And now we're totally addicted

to their disease-causing products."

And then I read a study on the chemicals in cheese...of course, we LOVE cheese. We crave it. What we really crave is the chemical rush we get after we consume it! No thanks.

This crazy cottage chicka is taking that all away...why? Because I don't have to eat food that makes me feel bad. If I want to truly be a sluggard on a Saturday and stay in my flannel pajamas ALL DAY LONG--I don't want it to be because I have eaten junk and feel lousy. I want to be a sluggard because I can and it's a choice. :)

from a special friend

What good reminder that we should laugh each and everyday that God gives us.

"A hug is a roundabout way of expressing emotion." ~ Gideon Wurdz

A friend is someone you can do nothing with & enjoy it!

Tall Decaf Pike's Place Coffee w/soy milk and honey: $1.25
Old Navy Skirt @ the Thrift: $1.75
Spending time with a friend: PRICELESS

Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you will look back and realize they were the big things. ~Unknown

- ice skating on a pond

- picking daisies

- splashing in mud puddles

- coffee with friends

- rainbows after the rain

- laughing until you cry

- sending a letter to someone special

- telling your parents "I love you!"

- walking hand-in-hand

- building a snowman

- spending a WEEKDAY at the beach

- picking strawberries

- dinner by candlelight

- airing out the house on the first mild day of spring

- washing your car with the hose and "accidentally" spraying your brother

- family reunions

- painting Easter eggs

- laughing about an inside joke

Groundhog's Day

You don't have to be a member of the Rodent family to know that there will be 6 more weeks of winter. (Photo taken on February 2, 2010 at 7:10 a.m.)

Shelf O'Books + One Feline

This picture makes me laugh...perhaps it's because I am a bookworm and now I see I have shared that love of books with my finicky feline. Or perhaps it's because out of the entire cottage (did I mention the ENTIRE cottage?), Maggie picked on top of the shelf o'books to relax.

My List of Things to Do

This past week, I have been working on my List of Things to Do! I'm super excited because I've accomplished 2 things and am working on the third.

1st -- Sign up for a knitting class. Check.
2nd -- Roll over my retirement plan from my former employer to my new employer. ('Cause let's face it -- I'm not going back!) It's time to move ahead and not just leave that money out there unsupervised.
3rd -- Remove all bad sugar from my life. This third item recently was put on my list after reading a book about the effects of sugar on our bodies. Stevia is the new sweetness in my life. It is derived from a plant in Paraguay. On a side note, do you get a weird/peculiar after-taste when you drink or eat things containing Aspartame? I do...and I always wondered why. Aspartame was rejected (YES---REJECTED) by the Food and Drug Administration eight (EIGHT) times before it was "approved."

These changes in my life may not seem significant to you -- but for me...they are CHANGES! Please don't think I am some kind of weirdo for eliminating sugar from my life. I would just like to be kind to my organs and stop eating junk that doesn't make me feel FABULOUS!

Stop & Smell the Flowers

"Don't hurry! Don't worry! You're only here for a short visit, so be sure to stop and smell the flowers." ~Walter Hagen

Hyacinths. I think they are the most beautiful of all flowers. I suppose I like them the most because they bloom during winter...or at the end of winter signifying that spring is quickly descending upon us. Their color is equally as lovely as their fragrance! Purples, pinks, whites, etc. These delightful gems make me smile!

Please-please take time to STOP and SMELL the flowers!

Word of the Day: Penchant

penchant \PEN-chunt\, noun;
1. Inclination; decided taste; a strong liking.

Angie's penchant of this individual has created unnecessary vexation of her soul. Does she mind? Not really. :) No, not at all. This enamored state has made the wintry, blustery days pass by pleasantly...and her thoughts, although at times, unnerving have brought about a state of bliss.

I love the Word of the Day on www.dictionary.com It's the one website that I visit daily. I get to expand my vocabulary one word at a time.

3 cards

When I first stamped this card, I stamped the hearts directly on to the white cardstock and felt that they were too dark. I wanted a more whimsical look -- so I inked the heart stamp and stamped it first on scrap paper then I stamped it (without re-inking) on to the white.

I cut out one of the scrap hearts (not wanting to be wasteful :)) and tied pink raffia at the top. This was then attached with 3-D glue dots.

I attached a strip of funky striped paper and then stamped the saying vertically.

The bird on this card was from a package of clear stamps (from either Archiver's or Michael's). The Dollar Bin stamps are my favorite. :)

The black with white polkadots has got to be one of my MOST FAVORITE backgrounds. It's soo simple and it really makes the pink stand-out!

The chipboard accent at the bottom adds another element of interest.

This owl card has got to be most favorite card of the day! Every time I stamp, it seems that I have one card that I really love the outcome of...and THIS IS IT! I picked up the owl stamp on a whim at Michael's one day while perusing the dollar bin. I hadn't stamped him EVER. Using Adirondack Denim Blue ink, I stamped three across the top of the card. Attached 1-1/2 inch strip of paper. Stamped "Just for you" in the same Denim Blue ink on the coordinating paper. Tied lime green raffia around the "J" and attached with double-sided tape.

Button Caper

"One of these three is not like the other...one of these three just doesn't belong..."



This top was on clearance at Wal-Mart for $3 a couple months ago. It's super cute...it has short sleeves that are gathered with a small ruffle at the end. It also has a gross-grain ribbon tie -- which totally SOLD ME on the shirt. I love ribbons...and there was a cute white collared blouse with RIBBON...and as previously mentioned, it was on the CLEARANCE RACK!



What I don't understand is the bottom button. All the other buttons are round and white and attached with white thread...then you come to the bottom button and not only is square-ish, but it's also attached with blue-green string.


Because Nancy Ellen Anderson-Good did not raise a fool -- I did check and confirm that there were extra buttons attached to the inside tag. :)



I've worn said shirt approximately 4 times...and each time, I say to myself, I really need to remove the bottom button and sew on the right one. And each time that I launder the shirt, I am mesmerized that it leaves the dryer virtually wrinkle free...I'm so mesmerized that I forget to remove the oddball button.



Soooo the question of the day is -- will Angie Good remember to remove the crazy button before wearing the shirt again? Stay tuned for the results...

* * * Signing up for a class * * *

Yes, I am going to sign up for a knitting class. After becoming entangled in the lives of the characters from A Good Yarn and now picking up the newly released third book of the series, Summer on Blossom Street...I've decided to sign up for a 6 week knitting class. Knitting is said to reduce stress. BRING ON THOSE NEEDLES! Wow--if it's true and it does relieve stress, I will be a knitting fool. Scarves, slippers, sweaters, etc. I cannot wait.

A llama or a sloth?

I'm tired of wearing dark winter colors and it did not help that today while I was out & about that I saw SPRINGY colored clothes! Pink, lavender, pale yellow, sky blue...seeing those colors brought such a sense of warmth to my being and a slight pitter-patter to my heart -- or was that the tall skinny vanilla latte that I enjoyed (compliments of a gift card).

Honestly, we've made it through January which for me is the roughest part of winter. As we mark off everyday in the February, I feel myself slowly thawing out and coming back to life again.

Spring.

Just the mere thought of spring makes me want to send my cute snowmen packing.

Warmer days. I was sitting here thinking about how much I love spring...the first day when you can go without wearing a scarf AND MITTENS! What about the first day you can be outside with just a light jacket on...or opening the windows and letting in the fresh air. (sigh)

Spring really and truly is right around the corner. And I am waiting. Waiting to embrace it! Too inform it that I MISSED IT! And I won't take each warmer day for granted.

I have news for that little Groundhog. (And I should preface this with -- I am a nice person.) If that little guy peaks his head out of his hole and calls for another 6 weeks of winter...well, I think we can find a more suitable candidate for next year. Maybe we could have a more charming animal perform the task...like a llama or a sloth. Of course, if we used a llama, it might get upset and spit. (Gross!) And sloths...well, as we learned last week in Sunday School -- God made them to move very, VERY slowly...so it might take him the whole 6 weeks to emerge from his hole...however he could then declare SPRINGTIME and be 100% correct.

This is what NOT blogging for several days does to me. I'm sorry faithful followers.

Shredded tulips

Once upon a time, there was a girl named Angie who lived in a charming cottage with her feline, Maggie.




One blustery day, Angie stayed home from work because she had a cold.

Angie decided to get some groceries and make some yummy soup.

While at the store, Angie saw a bundle of tulips and thought to herself, those would look lovely in my charming cottage. Angie purchased said bunch of tulips and returned to her cottage.

Angie carefully and tenderly placed the tulips in a vase and placed the vase on her kitchen table. She also sprinkled some felt red hearts around the vase -- since it's close to Singles Awareness Day (also known as Valentine's Day).



The next day Angie arrived home from work to find shreds of greenery around the vase.

Upon further inspection, it was determined that while Angie was working to provide for her feline -- said feline was seeking to destroy the lovely hint of spring in the charming cottage.

Angie has since removed the tulips from the kitchen table and placed them on top of the fridge. The tulips are brought down to table-level for Angie's viewing only when said feline can be supervised and removed before compromising the tulips.

The End.

Quote

"Women want to be loved without a why or a wherefore; not because they are pretty, or good, or well-bred, or graceful, or intelligent, but because they are themselves. ~ Henri Frederic Amiel

Four seasons

55 days until spring!

Just knowing that spring is right around the corner is so exciting! What will spring bring about?

- Pretty flowers

- Green grass

- Robins

I love all four seasons! Spring is soo invigorating! The trees bud and grass turns that beautiful green colors. Birds and squirrels frolic about!

Then spring turns to summer...

The days get longer...there are trips to Lake Geneva... Painted toenails and FUN footwear! Sundresses and days lazy days spent reading in the backyard.

Summer turns to fall...

The leaves change. Apples are ripe. There are trips to the orchard and various fall festivals. Football games and bonfires. Pumpkin spice lattes and scones!

Fall turns to winter.

The ground is blanketed with snow. Days are shorter. We have to bundle up again. Hot chocolate. Festive coffee flavors. Mittens.

Every year these seasons cycle around. And every year I am reminded why I love living in the Midwest!

I LOVE ALL FOUR SEASONS FOR THEIR SPECIALNESS AND UNIQUENESS!

Sinnissippi Park

These two turtles were my FAVORITE! I love the detail of their shells!

Mr. Toad's wild ride

Pink ribbon Hope

I like this walrus!

- Alice from Alice in Wonderland -

When you have nothing to laugh about, laugh anyway. Soon you'll feel the healing power of joy and laughter bringing new energy and life to your weary, frustrating day. ~ Thelma Wells

Coloring

I found some "Life is Good" pajama pants when out with Rhonda past 9 p.m. last Friday night. I purchased them because they are brown with tiny blue polkadots AND the ribbon has these words of wisdom --

1. Color outside the lines
2. Let yourself daydream
3. Agree with your imagination

These are great words to live by...however I do not think I will be observing the "Color outside the lines." I like to color inside the lines! I love to color period. Bring out the crayons.

Maggie

This is Maggie. She graciously allows me to reside at the cottage with her Royal Majesty. Maggie loves to pounce on her human (Angie) at 5:30 a.m. Said human would like to release Maggie into the wild on those mornings...however said human knows that she would miss said feline.

3 attempts

Here are my three attempts at a new Facebook profile picture.











Wow---close up! Danger-danger!











I like the third one because I love my geeky glasses!!!

The Case of The Missing Mice...

Every three months (or so), Maggie's calico mice magically reappear at the cottage. Where does she hide them? I have NO idea! The case will remain open upon further investigation.

Packed away...

My tree has been boxed up and put away until next Christmas. In all actuality, it's nice having more room in the living room...but I love falling asleep with the warmth of the twinkling lights. (Sigh.) There's always next year...

Saturday :)

Today I accomplished 2 things -
1. I watched The Wizard of Oz...not in its entirety. I witnessed the twister, saw Dorothy put on the red shoes, laughed when she met the Scarecrow (tall and confused -- PERFECT), and dozed off right after they met up with the Tin Man. What a bummer because I love that movie.

2. Did a load of laundry.

Technically I did three things -- 3. Helped out with the open house at my place of employment. It was Family Day and they had Olan Mills come in and take pictures for a staff directory (which will help me immensely because I still get stumped with some names).

Other than that -- I took a nap and ingested gobs of Vitamin C to help fight off this cold that is in its beginning stages. No thank you, Mr. Cold! I don't want to be sick! Sooo...(as I raise my mug of HerbaTussein tea)...here's to not getting sicker and too staying well! [Clink, clink!]

"When in doubt, wear red." ~Bill Blass

I have an extreme fondness for the color red...my kitchen has a cherry theme. My living room furniture is cream and country red gingham checked. My closet (sorted by color) contains a slew of articles in the red family. My bathroom has reddish-burgundy rugs. I'm drawn to red like a mosquito is drawn to that zapping light. Have you ever witnessed it? They become mesmerized...as do I with the color red. This happens when I go thrifting with my friend, Rhonda. The red aisle calls my name, "Angie Good...come and see what pretty red things I have for you." I'm not sure when my love of red developed. Perhaps it was a compliment I received when wearing red...or just a natural love for that FABULOUS color!

When I saw these shoes at the thrift on Friday night, my heart went pitter-patter.

And they were a size 8...pitter-patter.

And they had a stacked heel...pitter-patter.

And they fit comfortably...PITTER-PATTER!

The biggest blessing of the red shoes...they had a green tag which means -- I got them for HALF PRICE!!!

Rhonda and I joke about 2 aspects of our thrifting --

1) We close down the thrifts on Friday nights.

2) Praying about our purchases before hand -- God sends the "Thrift Angels"! I mean really -- name brand, great quality clothing for 90% off of the retailer price. And when I get ink pen on my sweater sleeve at work and it cost me $2.50, I don't weep!

Leisure is NOT pronounced "LEZZ-ZURE"

Today -- right in front of me -- one of my co-workers ate a bag of Peanut M&Ms...OKAY--back-up the fun bus. Do you ever have one of THOSE days when you just want to go back to bed and crawl under the covers and try again? Today was like that for me. It all started when I went to leave for work early and thought that I had locked my keys in the rental car. (I've named her Jezebel.)

In a flash, the contents of my purse got emptied onto the kitchen counter...I pulled stuff out of my gym bag...my lunch bag was searched through. Like a crazy woman, I tore stuff apart. No keys!

"In with the good air and out with the bad" is what I told myself. After determining the keys were probably in my coat pocket which I had left in Jezebel because a lack of 2 addition arms -- I called AAA. I mean REALLY--that's what I have the membership for, right? Keys locked in cars? Having the vehicle towed? Run out of gas? Been there -- done all three!!!

Called AAA at 7:35.

At 7:57, I discovered the keys in the pocket of my brown zip-up sweater because HELLO---IT WAS A HEATWAVE YESTERDAY: 33 degrees. So I ran out of the cottage carrying said lunch pail, said purse, and said gym bag.

At 7:58 - cancelled tow truck (and BONUS---AAA is not going to count this call against me -- Happy dance!)

Arrived at work at 8:12. Now here's where the tale gets quite ironic. Just last night (January 14, 2010 at approximately 6:30), I had said to Rhonda, "I don't speed. I don't want a ticket. I cannot afford more expensive insurance." ...at 8:12 while slamming my card through the time clock, I realized that I just ate crow.

My normal morning has me arriving at work at 7:54 and enjoying a few moments at my leisure [do you ever hear people pronounce this word, "LEZZ-ZURE"? Why? Why do they say it that way?] before tackling the daily grind. Today--as I rushed to get into the building--my heart was pounding. I felt pressured. I hate that feeling. I don't misplace my keys. I have all of my stuff laid out the night before...so what in the world is up? I believe it's 2-fold...and brought on by ME, MYSELF, AND I...you know, the dish-washing obsessive Cottage Chick. [See previously posted items.]

-1- I will be moving. Those of you who are faithful blog-stalkers {I love that about YOU, by the way!} The property has sold and I believe that it might be time for a change...

-2- Baxter's report card was not accurate. It's like the child that the teacher writes "Great enthusiasm!" What she/he really means, "Your child is a basket-case and jumps around! Give the kid DECAF!" Well, Baxter's report from Carfax was not at all accurate...and only after the incident last month and further investigation was this discovered. Now I must decide if this is something I can live with. The sad answer is -- I don't think so. You see, I've been in a bad car relationship. Ruby violated my vehicular trust and now I struggle with this. Ultimately I, Angela Good, am aware that God is in control and He knows what will happen down the road. (Literally as well as figuratively :)) However God has also given me a brain to use and so I am praying about this and which direction to take.

So about the Peanut M&M's...If I would've found some stray quarters in the bottom of my purse, I think I would've purchased a bag today. However God graciously protected me from the sugar and supplied me with raw almonds and some untainted dried cranberries that were just waiting to be ingested by yours truly!

Now the old Angie said, "Go for the M&M's!" However I really did NOT want the chocolate...WOW---I don't know if I ever have said that before! Sure chocolate is good, but honestly -- the amount that I would have to workout to burn those unnecessary calories...plus my life has been full of un-necessary, uncontrollable circumstances ALL week long--chocolate would've just put me over the ege. Instead of eating the chocolate, I spent all 15 minutes of my break sending a very therapeutic email to someone who listens and I think deep-down misses me. :)

Heebie-Jeebies

Do you see it? That creepy spider was residing behind my T.V. stand. (Shudder!) And to think, he/she had taken up residence behind there for WHO KNOWS HOW LONG?! No need to worry -- it has gone on to a happier place...and that place would be ultimately where I now work. Yes. I, Angie Good, with the help of a Kleenex -- squished said spider and flushed it. I like to say, "What happens at the cottage stays at the cottage!" In this case -- "What happens at the cottage and was caught on my camera...well, it goes on my blog!" Enjoy a spider free day!

Elaina & I created this masterpiece...

She's baaaaaaaack!!!

Ever since I moved out and have lived by myself, I have developed an obsessive dish-washing habit. I don't like going to sleep with dirty dishes in the sink. ...well, in August, I decided to try something new and I started living on the edge. Ha-ha. On the edge. Well, it's living on the "wild side" of me. I, Angie Good, stopped doing my dishes every night. I even stopped making sure EVERYTHING was put away before drifting off to sleep. I know that during my 8 week two job schedule--I didn't care how high the laundry got piled (just as long as it wasn't over-flowing the laundry basket) and the inside of my fridge...GAG! I hadn't wiped it down since I don't remember when.

The laid-back-not-doing-the-dishes-obsessively Angie lasted approximately 5 1/2 months...and I am happy to say that she has returned! I must admit that I have learned a couple things in the past 5 1/2 months...

A. Little elves do not appear in my kitchen each night to do my dishes. (Apparently you have to be a shoe cobbler in order to get "help"!)

B. Leaving stuff on your kitchen table overnight is NOT the end of the known world.

C. Your mother will still love you even if you don't sweep your floor every three days...every seven days...every other week...

D. Removing the plastic globe on your overhead light will surely cause it to fall in the empty sink the next day because you didn't not put it back up securely. (Who would've thunk?)

E. It's a good idea to check the expiration date on the milk before drowning your cereal. (Expiration Date: 1/3/10 -- date Angie covered her cereal: 1/12/10)

F. The cat will still be your friend even if their are cobwebs and you don't feel motivated to sweep them down.

The Truth about January

December 1st rolls around and you look at the calendar wondering how in the world you are going to accomplish ALL of that stuff...and then you come to January 10th and realize that what seemed to be hectic and busy was just really a part of the holidays that you can't avoid. I mean honestly--there are holiday parties, family gatherings, catching up with old friends, Christmas shopping, baking, etc. I honestly think that this is why I love January. I LOVE THIS MONTH OF COLDNESS AND SNOW AND NOTHINGNESS. Don't get me wrong--I love Christmas. (I still have my tree up!) But I love-love-love January. I love a crockpot of soup, a fleece blanket, my fuzzy socks, and a wonderful book! I love a SNOWED-IN MOVIE-MARATHON-SATURDAY! I love hot chocolate and watching the snow fall. I love burning candles and enjoying the tranquil lighting. Soooo while some people complain about the cold and snow -- I say, "Bring it on!"

Some Things I Don't Understand:

1. How can Santa's White Christmas ground coffee beans bring such delight to my nostrils BEFORE it is brewed...after being brewed, it tastes odd. What's a girl to do? Too brew or not to brew...that is Angie's question.

2. Why is my cat a sluggard Monday through Friday, but surprisingly she is up early and meowing on Saturday and Sunday?

3. Why do some people come to the end of the ON-RAMP, stop, and enter cautiously at approximately 25 miles per hour?

4. Chicken gizzards

5. Being mysterious is more difficult than one would think.

6. Why don't retailers mark Christmas stuff down before Christmas to boost their sales instead of after the holiday?

7. Leggings. Unless you are under 10 years old, please do not treat leggings as pants. They are NOT pants. If you are a size 2, still NOT pants! Please--respect the rules of fashion. Say it with me, "Leggings are not pants."

2010 Resolution...kind-of :)

"To love is to want to give and above all give oneself. A perfect love is the perfect gift of oneself without thought of reward or return." ~ R. H. J. Steuart

In one of the books I read in the past year, I came across the concept that it's not the fact that I was loved in return that has made me a better person. It was the fact that I truly loved.

We should give love freely without expecting anything in return. Love isn't something that you give away with the hope of a high yield return. Love is...

- giving yourself.
- calling that friend that has been on your mind.
- being selfless.
- inviting friends over for supper and not worrying that you missed a cobweb.
- praying for someone.
- kind and patient.
- commanded of us. First to love the Lord then love others as we love ourselves.

I've been thinking about the commandment to love others as we love ourselves. We do love ourselves. (And when I say, "we"--what I really mean is ME, Angie Good.) We love ourselves an awful lot. I know that I love-love-love being able to have a lazy weekend all to myself. Why? Because I love me. If I looked at each moment of my life and really thought about putting others first -- I wouldn't go all week waiting for that quiet weekend at the cottage. I would find things to do for others on the weekend. Places to volunteer. Friends to round-up for coffee. There are people in our lives that need encouragement. Let's show a little love...

On December 31, 2010 -- I would like to look back on 2010 and find that I've taken time to have friends over for supper. I would like to look back and know that I made a difference. I am praying that the love of Christ will abound and will help me be a better daughter, friend, co-worker, nursery worker, junior church worker, SS teacher, etc.

The Songs Playing...

I'd like to let you know why you are hearing these particular songs.

1. "Sunshine Day" sung by the cast of The Brady Bunch. This song was on a CD that one of my former co-workers made for me. This song reminds me of this individual and makes me smile when I hear it.

2. "Falling for You" by Colbie Caillat. I like this song. It gives you that warm, fuzzy feeling of wondering if a boy really likes you or if you are reading too much into the situation.

3. "Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong. Who does NOT love this song? He sings, "Trees of green, red roses too...I see them bloom for me and you. And I think to myself, What a wonderful world."

4. "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" sung by Judy Garland. Because we all want to believe in somewhere over the rainbow...

5. "My Baby Loves Me" by Martina McBride. Who doesn't want a man to love her just the way she is. "He loves me silly and he loves me sad."

6. "Sending You A Little Christmas" by Jim Brickman. This song reminds me of the feeling of having on fuzzy slippers and sipping a cup of hot chocolate by a fireplace. It's a nice reminder that we need to give love away.

January Blessings

There are little things each and every day that we take for granted. For example, the fresh brewed coffee at my work. HUGE BLESSING! What about the nice person that let's you cut in infront of them because you forgot that your lane ends? Nice things happen each and everyday (and some not-so-nice things) that we can learn from. We can observe.

Today (Saturday, January 9, 2010) -- I had a couple huge blessings. First, I am truly thankful for heat and a heated vehicle. Up until about 3 months ago, I took that for granted...then with the heat being out in Ruby and then there was the night without heat at the cottage and the Christmas Eve/Day no-heat-situation here...I've become quite thankful for the furnace and the heat that it produces. I'm also thankful for HOT CHOCOLATE. Liquid chocolate -- mmmmm. Are you kidding me? If you are NOT thankful for hot chocolate, close my blog and please do not bother coming back. Hot chocolate. And it doesn't even have to be the yummy kind like I had a Panera tonight...with whipped cream and drizzled chocolate on top. If can be the cheap $1.25 kind from Mobil on the Run or Road Ranger! You can go all out however and get the $3 cup from Starbucks which I swear to you -- it's like squeezing four different bottles of chocolate directly into your mouth. I like to think of it as a party in my mouth...and sadly, I haven't had a single cup of it all winter. What? I know! I know! It's craziness. Starbucks hot chocolate is a party in your mouth!!! (If there stocks goes up, I am going to seek commission! ha. ha. ha.)

Like I was originally saying before I got side-tracked by hot chocolate. (It's like that book, If You Give A Mouse A Cookie...except it's titled, If You Give Angie Good Some Hot Chocolate...) I am going to attempt to keep track of 2010 blessings...starting with January and working my way through the year. I know this is going to be a lengthy process, but in the end--I will be able to look back over the months and see how God has given me little reminders of His love and watch-care over the 12 months.

Sometimes God puts a new path...

Today I took Baxter to get his oil changed and his headlights adjusted. While sitting at the dealership waiting, I read the following quote in Word Gets Around by Lisa Wingate:

Sometimes God puts a new path
under your feet not because you
think you're ready to walk it,
but because He knows that's
the way you need to go.

This book has been an interesting read. It was one of those books that I randomly picked up while perusing the shelves at the library. I had never even heard of Lisa Wingate. Much too my surprise, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

The main character, Lauren struggles with moving on after a horrific accident. When we meet Lauren, she has completely submersed herself into teaching college anatomy. After following her from the big city back to her small hometown of Daily, Texas -- you discover why she left. The flooded road. The accident. The unkind words spoken right before her husband's life was taken from him. OH--if we only thought about EACH and every word we spoke!!!

While reading this account of fictional Lauren's life, I was reminded of a line from a movie...a line that up until recently I couldn't pinpoint which movie it was from. (In a wickedly, evil female voice), "Choose your words wisely. For they may be your LAST!" Do you know which movie it's from? Come on--think. I'll give you a hint. The words were spoken by a queen to a very cruel step-mother. Give up? Ever After with Drew Barrymore. The real-life Cinderella story. I haven't watched that movie in years. I think I might have to pull it out. Anyway...

How true though. We never know when the last thing that we said to someone will be the LAST THING that we ever say to them. How hurtful our words can be. Let's guard our words and our actions. Let's love one another as Christ loves us.

Something to think about...

Taken from the book, Having a Mary Spirit, by Joanna Weaver.

Joanna Weaver quotes Robert McGee (in his book, The Search for Significance), "We all have compelling, God-given needs for love, acceptance and purpose and most of us will go to virtually any lengths to meet these needs...many of us have become masters at 'playing the game' to be successful and win the approval of others."

My Performance + Others' Opinion = My Self-Worth

Weaver goes on to say, "Swallowing this lie caused me to live as though I held a mirror in my hand. I held it up to other people, and their response told me who I was. If they smiled, I was a good person. If they frowned, I was bad. If they welcomed me with their expression, I had value. But if they remained detached or looked away, their disinterest wasn't due to fatigue or a bad day. No, I had obviously messed up and deserved their rejection. I had disappointed them somehow, and made myself unworthy of their love. And as a result, unworthy of God's love."

Later in the same paragraph, Weaver writes, "Fear of making a mistake may keep us from trying anything at all."

Lastly this paragraph was what I stopped to meditate on:
"Worst of all, we may persist in viewing God as an aloof and distant judge,
holding up a scorecard to rate our every attempt to please Him, rather than
seeing Him as He truly is -- a loving Father on bended knee with hands
out-stretched and a smile as big as eternity. Praising our every step.
Picking us up when we stumble. Helping us walk while He teaches us how to run.
Ready with the acceptance and approval we have been killing ourselves to obtain
on our own."

The Death of Wonderful Appliance

2000 - 2009

Beloved Kitchen Appliance

Loved by all

For 9 years, this crockpot has served Angie countless meals (such as, but not limited too: Chicken Tortilla Soup, Chunky Potato Soup, countless roasts, meatloaf, layered sweet potato-turkey breast-green bean casserole... The meals warmed Angie's heart and brought her great comfort during the blustery Rockford cold.

In honor this brave appliance, let us devote a moment of silence and hope & pray for another fill its place in Angie's heart.

CONFESSION: I do not want to take my Christmas tree down. Normally I am ready by New Year's but for some reason--this year, I am not ready to take off the ornaments and pack it away.

It all started at the Dollar Bins @ Target...

This summer Target had wide headbands in their Dollar bins. (Have you ever looked through those bins? If you haven't, STOP READING THIS BLOG and walk---nay, RUN TO TARGET! Check out their Dollar bins!!!!) Okay--where was I? Oh yes---this summer during a trip to Target, my friend Rhonda and I found some fun wide headbands in said Dollar bins. Asked Rhonda, "Do you wear headbands, Angie?" Answered Angie, "Not in years!" We decided to give them a whirl. We started out with a shiny black headband. This is where it all BEGAN...the shiny black headband created such a happy hairstyle that I returned to the point of the crime and found a shiny pink headband and wonder-of-wonders a polka-dotted one that screamed, "BUY ME ANGIE GOOD!" I swear--it said my name! Needless to say---we have since found headbands at the Dollar Tree and various other discount stores.

Tonight while perusing my headband choices for work tomorrow, I discovered that I did not like it that my headbands were willy-nilly in a wicker basket. I began searching the cottage for an acceptable storage device...when ALAS--I found the 25 cent garage sale metal basket-thingy...with some cellophane in the bottom...TA-DA! Now I have a FABULOUS HEADBAND HOLDER and a place underneath for bracelets and ribbons! It's almost a Christmas miracle...however since Christmas has past by...the next holiday is January 6th which is Epiphany. Did you know that Epiphany represents the final (the 12th) Day of Christmas...as in the pipers piping, the lords a-leaping, the 5 golden rings...yes. Your true love should have been giving you these blessed gifts beginning on 12/26 through 1/6. Soooo I suppose my basket/headband thing is an EPIPHANY MIRACLE!

Bryan bought me this cute wire tree at Anna's. The branches are thin wires with sparkly snowflakes at the ends. It's soo cute and cottagey. I think I will leave it up all winter...through March, right?

(Baby talk) "Here Mr. Plow....where's a good Mr Plow?"

The roads were so bad in Barrien County, Michigan that we were kicked off of I-94 and sent down some Goat Trail (as my father would lovingly refer to it as)...said trail, not plowed very well. I believe our top speed was hovering around 21 mph...from this goat trail, we turned onto another road which had yet to see any type of plowing device. Thankfully Gloria was home and able to encourage me along...only a few more miles of this junk and then the lake effect stuff tapers off and you should be smooth sailing. Without her, I think I would've sat at the Shell Gas station and cried. No joke. Thanks Gloria! You were such a blessing in my time of need!

Blocking the exit of Olive Garden

-Robyn, Angie, Miekyn, and Shelley. (Not pictured: Bryan as he is taking the photo)

January 2, 2010

Bryan enjoyed driving Baxter! Bryan's comment was "Wow--these are nice brakes!"

At the Jackson Coffee Company...

Some valuable things I learned the past 3 days...

1. It's a good idea to not only check http://www.weatherbug.com/ for weather information regarding your departure city and arrival city...but let's not forget the area inbetween known for LAKE EFFECT SNOW (i.e. Barrien County, Michigan).

2. I hate driving in said lake effect snow.

3. Snow plows and charter buses are my new BFFs.

4. Always, always travel with an emergency book!

5. The St Vincent's Thrift Store on E Michigan Ave is kind of scary--always take your tall brother! (Found a brown skirt and a green 3/4 length sleeved top for $2.10---TOTALLY WORTH RISKING OUR LIVES!)

6. Drinking 1 cup (8 ounces) of green tea after 5 p.m. will, infact, keep me up until 2 in the morning. It's okay because of #4---I am reading, Fireproof. Haven't seen the movie YET, but wanted to read the book!

7. Meeting up with a couple of high school friends at Olive Garden is always good for my soul!

8. I love my brother's church! They show the love of Christ and are true-blue genuine! If only there was a way to transport myself there every Sunday...Beam me up, Scotty!

9. A $4 bag (4 ounces worth) of almonds purchased on the tollway does not at-all taste the same as the 1 pound bag purchased at Woodman's for less!!!

10. Going to the movies to see a "kid" movie (Alvin & the Chipmunks) was a blast even though we are now "adults"... The hissing cat was Bry's favorite because he said, (and I quote), "That reminds me of Maggie when I would shake her and give her tremors!" Poor Maggie. :)

Saturday

Today Bryan and I are going to go ---
A. THRIFTING
B. TO THE JACKSON COFFEE COMPANY
C. TO THE BOOK ABBY (or is it Abbey?)

I love hanging out in Jackson, Michigan with my dear brother.

Last night we went and saw Alvin & The Chipmunks - The Squeakuel. It was cute. My favorite part was the cat that hissed because it made Bryan laugh OUTLOUD at the theater. I love my brother!

Brrrrrrrrr....

Earlier this month, I prayed for cheaper utility bills. Last year was exceptionally cold and my gas and electric bills were really, really high. This year, I didn't want to face those huge bills...so I prayed about it and asked the Lord for cheaper bills.

Since praying about these bills, the furnace stopped working for about 24 hours. Cheaper gas bill.

On December 23rd, my power was knocked-out by an ice storm. I woke up on Christmas Eve morning to find a chilly cottage. I immediately thought it was just the furnace, but quickly realized that it was a total power outtage. The temperature at the cottage dropped 10 degrees every 2 hours. Thankfully Rhonda was insistent that I come to her house.

I took this picture because I couldn't believe I was once again wearing MULTIPLE layers INSIDE the cottage. The layers included:

- knee socks

- long john pants

- lined workout pants

- cami

- long sleeve t-shirt

- short sleeved t-shirt

- FUN red zip-up hoodie (and yes, it is RED!!!)

- fleece blanket

- blue blanket underneath

I am reminded of the verse in the Bible that says "Ask and ye shall receive..." Now I know to pray more specifically. My prayer now is, Lord, please let my utility bills be cheaper while keeping the cottage warm. :)

The little girlies

Myla, Macy, and Reagan

Macy was intrigued with Reagan's eye! Danger-danger!

Girls Night Out!

Girls Night Out!

Where: Starbucks on Perryville

When: December 29th

Time: Circa 5 p.m.

882

Channel 882 plays non-stop Christmas music from October 1st through January 15th (ish). I love this channel. Right now Debby Boone is singing "O Holy Night". At the bottom of the t.v. screen, Music Choice puts random facts about Christmas or about the artist. I have learned many interesting facts, including (but not limited too)...

A. The Rockettes have 78 seconds to change costumes during their Christmas EXTRAVAGANZA!

B. In Germany, they put a Christmas pickle on their tree.

C. The poinsettia, a popular Christmas plant, is native to Mexico.

D. Mistletoe represented the Norse Goddess of Love.

E. In Norway, a bowl of porridge is left in the hayloft for the barn elf on Christmas Eve. Does oatmeal count? I'm not a fan of porridge.

Snow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There is something special about snow on Christmas!!! I love watching the big flakes float to the ground!

I took this picture at Rhonda's while we sat at her kitchen table enjoying a yummy cup of hot coffee and fellowship.

Thank you, Lord, for friends!!!

Plan B

My Christmas was supposed to be spent in Michigan with Bryan -- however it didn't happen due to the icy storm that knocked out my power.



My power was out for approximately 40 hours! Thankfully the men and women of ComEd worked relentlessly on Christmas Day!


During the course of this situation, God is good. God always watches over us. Had my power worked properly, I would've been stuck driving back to Rockford on Saturday night during the snowstorm.



Thank you, Lord, for Plan B!

A piece of gum...

Tonight was Trudy's Carol-Sing. Every year, the Anderson family invites people in their neighborhood and then friends to come and sing Christmas carols and eat snacks. It is a wonderful, wonderful part of Christmas. I look forward to it EVERY year. Spending time with Trudy and the men in her life is something that is good for my soul. This year was no exception.

One of the attendees was a small child (I am going to guess about 2 years old). She had some type of glutton-intolerance which was made known to us (Ruthie and me) after the girl STOLE a piece a gum from inside Ruthie's purse. Of course before the gum was compromised, said child picked up a long-stemmed votive holder and was gazing mesmerisingly at the flame. THE FLAME! ...here's how it went down.

Small child is gazing at the candle. Angie realizes the dangerous situation and goes sprinting through Trudy's kitchen to confiscate the candle. Angie puts all 5 candles up and then tells the child, "No! No!" (Note: the child's parental unit was not present in said kitchen.) The child then went and unzipped a stranger's purse and removed a piece of gum. Said piece of gum entered child's mouth as the child toddled back out to her mother. Angie leaves the kitchen and returns to be seated next to Ruthie. The child's mother says, "No gum. She's allergic to wheat." Okay--let's focus on the fact that the gum was STOLEN and that the child has an obsession with OPEN FLAMES. Hmmmmmm...klepto and pyro...6-to-1. Really?

Angie then said to Ruthie, "Wow--I'm sure glad that the gum was her ONLY problem and not the open flame!" At which point--Angie sat laughing HYSTERICALLY during The First Noel. Really---angels declaring the Savior's birth and Angie is laughing to the point of tears.

Again--Carol-sings are good for Angie's soul.

May you have a safe Christmas!!!!

Emma

Last week, I got to spend some time with Emma Kate. The highlight for the evening was this conversation.

Angie: "I love you, Emma!"
Emma: "Katie happy."

To Emma Kate, I am Fun Angie and I love it!

Pretzels

I have been lacking any and all motivation to bake this year...and I am not quite sure why. Sooo since tomorrow evening is the Carol-Sing @ Trudy's, I decided to get my act in gear. Chocolate-covered pretzels...mmmmmmmm...a slice of Heaven.

The second batch of pretzels are peanut butter drizzled with chocolate. (Hint: Use a cheap squeeze bottle like one at Sally B's used for hair dye...those bottles are MUCH cheaper than the ones at Michael's...and let's face it, they work the same!)

Eva

I have the sweetest group of children that I get the opportunity to teach week after week in Sunday School. Each child brings a unique energy to the class that creates a special atmosphere most conducive for the Holy Spirit to work -- on their hearts as well as mine. :)

TGIF!

I received the nicest voicemail from Trudy last night stating that she has been praying for me all week. I now know why I have had a wonderful week at work -- the prayers for my friend were answered. And actually I cannot believe that today is Friday! This week went tra-la-la-la-ing by and now here it is Friday night!!! (Happy dance.) I think I shall make some cranberry tea and toast the weekend. Happy weekend to you!

One Fish Less

Today I had to sit at the reception window which looks out toward the indoor pond. There is a faux rock wall and a bridge...the pond is divided into two sections. The lower section which has some fish and about 10 turtles (which several have attempted to run away--only to be caught the following morning) and the upper section which is deeper and contains more fish. I did discover this morning that the upper section is minus one sucker fish which sadly took his own life when he attempted to escape. What a tragic way to end your life. And as Misty pointed out, he cannot even receive the royal flush because...well...he's already THERE! Poor little fish. A moment of silence was observed...followed by laughter because it was around 2:30 p.m.

On the ledge on the outside of the reception area sits a poinsettia. It's beautiful...and I am not a fan of such flowers--however this one is full and very, very red. And let's face it -- Angie Good LOVES the color red even before she heard those wonderful scientific facts about wearing the color red. :)

I did however miss my little cubicle area today--not that I minded sitting out in the reception area because it changed things up a bit...but I missed the way my desk is organized and how if I look off to the left, I can see the picture of my family. (I transformed it into sepia and then found a burgundy frame at the Dollar Tree!) Oh--and on my right hand side, I have my radio which is tuned to 24/7 Christmas music! But alas...I was the friendly face at the window.

I am not sure what tomorrow will bring...but I have a feeling that I will be back at said window. And you know what -- that's okay. I like my job. I like helping people. I like learning new things. Tomorrow is going to be a good day.

Hmmmmmmm...

What in the world? It's already the week before Christmas... Danger! Danger! My normal schedule goes something like this --


Weekend after Thanksgiving:
1. Address Christmas cards
2. Put up tree
3. Figure out baking


Not this year and that's fine. It just means that it's CRUNCH TIME! Tonight I sat down and wrote out 98% of my Christmas cards. Check. This weekend--baking. And I will finish up my Christmas shopping online. :)


One thing that I love about this time of year -- the lights on my Christmas tree. They are white. I love to leave them on all night...drifting off to sleep with them on reminds me of the magic of Christmas from my childhood. The believing that anything is possible. I don't leave out cookies and milk anymore...but I have thought about that letter to Santa Claus.

Dear Santa,

Greetings from Rockford, Illinois. I'm not 100% convinced that I have been "naughty"...and I'd like to clarify! ...

May your days be merry and bright...and may ALL your Christmases be white...Thank you, Bing!

Long johns, fuzzy knee socks, flannel pants, hoodie...

The furnace was out at the cottage last night. DANGER! DANGER! 42 degrees. Frost on the windows on the inside. Brrrr...

Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather. ~John Ruskin

There is quite a bit of truth in this statement...granted, the 12 inches of snow that was delivered to us through the night last night and today didn't necessarily seem to be "good"...I believe winter is good for our souls. It allows time to slow down and spend more time at home. Winter, honestly, makes me more thankful for spring.

What I Love about This Time of Year...

* Snow-covered trees * A mug full of hot chocolate * Flannel pajamas * Cardinals outside my window * Snowball fights * Wearing mittens * Peppermint sticks * Heavy socks * Ice skating * Watching Christmas classics * Playing board games with family and friends * Eggnog * Candles * Big, fluffy snowflakes * Sledding * Singing along with B103's All-Christmas-Until-You-Are-In-The-Returns-Line * Fuzzy slippers *

Baxter

This is the new man in my life. Baxter. He's so smart. He's safe. He's silver. He has some stylish "shoes". He understands my need to sing along with the radio. I'm still trying to figure him out.

Amtrak

Train 351 -- The Wolverine

At 6 am in Chicago, you can get a peppermint mocha---it was just like a Christmas Miracle!!!

Monday, December 6, 2009

2:45 a.m. left the cottage bright & early

3:30 a.m. departed Rockford on the VanGalder bus to O'Hare

4:45 a.m. arrived @ O'Hare

5:10 a.m. departed O'Hare on the Blue Line Metra

5:40 a.m. arrived at the Jackson Street station

5:40 - 6:15 a.m. meandered through the Windy City while watching the snow fall * found a Starbucks and ordered a tall Peppermint Mocha...my heart went pitter-patter...

6:15 a.m. arrived at Union Station and located South Concourse

6:15 - 7:00 a.m. observed other travelers

7:00 a.m. boarded train

7:30 a.m. departed Chicago headed for Jackson, Michigan

8:30 a.m. received a call that the car was in an accident and not available for my purchasing

11:30 (C.S.T.) a.m. arrived at Jackson station - met up with Uncle Mike

11:31 a.m. met Dexter

11:32 a.m. loves Dexter

Dexter isn't the exact car that I had planned on owning -- God knows what is best and I know that there must've been a reason why the original car did not work out.

Fresh Guacamole

I love the color of my bedroom at Barton!

Sooo many colors...

Yesterday Bryan and I went to Lowes in search of paint options for the house on Barton. I've come to the conclusion that there are WAY TOO MANY CHOICES! Wow. How am I going to choose? We perused the aisles and looked over NUMEROUS color samples. I've decided on two...well, okay, three. My choices are:

Option A-Green Family
Laura Ashley Home - Pavilion White (kind of creamy white color)
Seaside Retreat -- Garden Fairy (a pale-pale green)
Laura Ashley Home - Moss 4

Option B - Tan Family
Olympic Paint - Moroccan Moonlight, Imperial Sand, Puppy Paws

Option C - Pinks/Reds
Sizzle, Burning Love, Smoldering Coals

My favorite is the greens. I'm not sure what they say about rooms painted green. For some reason, I remember hearing (maybe in my Teaching Art class @ PCC) green is a color of frustration/agitation.

My room upstairs is a large open space. The ceilings are slanted and there are two windows on opposite ends of the room.

The living room (which is downstairs on the main floor) is painted a creamy tan color. I like that room color because it is very inviting and it will go nicely with just about any color of furniture. The two bedrooms on the main floor are painted your basic white. The bathroom has white tile 2/3 of the way up and then a blue & yellow floral print tile the remainder of the way up.

The house on Barton has alot of potential! I'm excited about the possibilities. Now--we just need to clean it!!! I will take some before and after photos.

The Grinch

And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more. ~Dr. Seuss



I'm quite fond of the Grinch. He had a horrible experience which left him cynical of the whole idea of Christmas. Once the Grinch felt love from Cindy Lou Who, how could his heart not help but grow?



Christmas is about spending time with people. Getting to know them. Inviting them into our homes even when there are stray cobwebs (gasp!). It's about being warm and inviting.



Embrace Christmas. Sing-a-long with the carols being piped through the speakers at the grocery store! Think about your favorite holiday tradition...remember past Christmases...love the ones you are with currently because we don't know if we will all be together next Christmas.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Since today is the last work day of the week, I decided to wear my Happy Thanksgiving t-shirt. It's brown and the words are in a hot pink color with a funny turkey underneath. (I will post a picture of it tomorrow--I was having issues with the self-timer today...) Anyway...today at work one of my co-workers said, "Angelina, don't you know that it is District policy that you cannot wear holiday apparel to the office." He said it so straight-faced that I really did think he was serious. I should've known better. Goodness--it was 2 in the afternoon...and if it was really a POLICY, they would have sent me home alot earlier in the day. (I am going to post one of the pictures I attempted to take today--it just didn't go well. Either I was way too close or too far away. I promise to have Bry take a picture tomorrow!)

Old Navy is now carrying these cute holiday t-shirts. They are $5 and super cute. The Christmas ones are fun.

Speaking of Christmas, I will never-ever again look at Pyrex bakeware and mistletoe the same. Oh mylanta! My friend Rhonda said that I need to serve up some "holiday cheer" and deliver a Casserole...she is not right, but that is what makes us such good friends.

The true secret to happiness lies in the taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life. ~William Morris

A cup of coffee...a good book...Sunday afternoon naps...slippers...a grilled peanut butter & jelly sandwich...a small dinner party with the people you love...comfy jammies...a family photo...sunshine...a cuddly cat...striped socks...fleece throw...hot chocolate...a warm sweater...honey crisp apples...a new haircut...white Christmas lights...baking...walking through a museum...saying words phonetically...laughing at an inside joke...line-dried sheets...a carriage ride through the city...ice skating...fresh cut lilacs...spending the day at the lake...holding hands...playing skee ball at Chuck E. Cheese...Trudy's Christmas carol sing-along...finding $5 at the bottom of your purse...sending a card to someone special...spending time with family and friends...telling someone special that you care about them because loving them has made you a better person...

I love Hamilton!

3

I don't understand how my stainless steel pan can have a dent from my cheery cherry coffee mug! How can a ceramic mug put a dent in a pan? The mug was a good mug and gave her life in the line of service.

Last night while enjoying a salad at Panera, my taste buds were compromised when I ingested a black olive! I can't eat them. They are the devil.

Thirdly -- earlier this week, I read (on Yahoo) that some fishermen had caught a 450 pound jellyfish. FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY POUNDS! That is HUGE! Apparently there's something with Global Warming...who knows!

Kind of glum...

For the past couple days, I've been kind of glum (as my friend Sara's two year old, Emma Kate, would say).

I'm so thankful for email -- something that "when I was kid..." we didn't have it. It was pen and paper and a stamp! Now you can just write your feelings and click SEND and it is on its merry way.

Yesterday said Sara (I had to type up some legal mumbo-jumbo today and I typed "said lot" or "said parcel"...so SAID SARA) informed me that she was thrilled beyond belief when she discovered that the tiny gas station near her farmhouse was selling pumpkin spice lattes. She compared it to the Children of Israel receiving the manna from the Lord. I love my friends. I love it that God has put people in my life that know me and love me and have similar personalities! (Thank you, Lord, for friends!)

Today I read some amazing verses...

Psalm 34:8 -- O taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.

Side note: I finished that amazing book that I was telling you about in the last couple posts. Oh my goodness--it was soo good and full of Godly truth! In the book, the last chapter was about our worship of God and how we need to fall more in love with Him before we can have a deeper human relationship. The author encouraged me to insert MY name into Scripture when I read it. Here's how I read Psalm 34:8 -- "O taste and see that the Lord is good, Angie! Blessed is the woman that trusteth in Him."

I Corinthians 1:4a -- I thank my God always on your behalf.

I Corinthians 1:9a -- GOD IS FAITHFUL...

John 14:1 -- Let not your heart be troubled. Angie, you believe in God, believe also in Me [Jesus]."

Psalm 147:4 -- He telleth the number of the stars; he calleth them by their names.

These verses reminded me of the many attributes of God that I love and cherish. When we remember that God loves us unconditionally and that He has a perfect plan for us -- we can face the trials and joys that are brought into our lives. He plans them for a purpose! He loves us!

I hope you feel the warmth of God's love today!

Random Monday-ness

I'm looking forward to the first snowfall. The trees will be white and sparkly. The birds will prance around on top of the fluff waiting for me to put out suet cakes. The squirrels will prance around and if the snow is deep enough, they will tunnel searching for food.

I'm not looking forward to driving on snowy, icy roads. However without winter, would spring be as sweet?

I've been thinking about God's goodness lately. The fact that He would bless me with a wonderful job and co-workers that I am enjoying getting to know. He always gives us His best even if we choose not to acknowledge it. He cares about us and loves us...and when we embrace His love and His care, then (and only then) can we show love to others.

I cannot believe that Thanksgiving is next week. Yeah for a visit with my brother!!! I miss him.

A New Book

I recently (and by "recently" I mean YESTERDAY) got a new book at Border's. I cannot put this thing down! It's soo good...soo real. It has put alot of things in perspective. The author, Hayley DiMarco, talks about how my relationship with God has to be real and genuine before I can even think about having deeper relationships with others (i.e. family, friends, co-workers, etc).

In the second chapter, DiMarco states a couple of points worth sharing:

1. "Joy is found in doing the will of God, not in getting everything right or even in getting everything good."

2. "So how can you be joyful in the mist if sorrow and suffering? The answer must be that joy isn't an emotion that precedes an action but an action that precedes an emotion."

3. "True happiness come from the hand of God in our lives and the complete acceptance that whatever He gives us is the best thing we could ever have."

4. "And choosing to say no to something that someone else could do just as well as you -- or things you are doing out of obligation, not because they're things God has called you to -- is a good place to start. If you are willing to stop hurrying and tart living, you will find more depth and fullness in your relationship with God, in your relationships with the people in your life, and within your own soul."

The key

I'm getting ready to turn in my office key. It seems like a lifetime ago that I started working for Terracon--yet it's been four years. 4 years! Where does the time go? I remember thinking (on more than one occasion), How am I going to learn all of this? And now I wonder if I will ever forget it. :)

Working at Terracon taught me some valuable lessons...

1. It's not nice to laugh at people when they are lost. (Sorry Bobby!)

2. Soil is a nicer name for "dirt".

3. Men will eat just about anything.

4. Never take for granted a GREAT boss!

5. Bituminous concrete is a fancy-schmancy name for asphalt.

6. Sometimes it's best to walk away from all the filing.

7. If you shred something that has been laying on your desk for 3 months, you will need it 3 hours after it ha been shredded.

8. "There's always a reason -- it might not be a good reason, but there's always a reason."

9. Always, always have a spare chair in your office area -- call it the "Therapy Chair." People need other people to listen.

And lastly...

10. Saying goodbye is never easy.

Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for a while, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same. ~Flavia Weedn

To Certain

Today I listened to a Celtic Christmas CD at work and was reminded of something nonsensical that I figured out just a few years ago. You know the song, The First Noel. In the first verse, it says, "The first Noel, the angels did say was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay..." Okay--the phrase "to certain"--I, Angela Dawn Good, could not figure out what in the world the song writer meant when he/she used the VERB "to certain". How do you CERTAIN something? How did I finally figure it out -- a bulletin board while I was student teaching in Pensacola, Florida. A SECOND GRADE BULLETIN BOARD! There was a picture of the manger with a gift tag "To: Certain Poor Shepherds." Funny--it all made sense after that! Wow--imagine if I wouldn't have seen that bulletin board...I would probably still be trying to figure -- how do you certain something?

Aren't you glad that you found MY blog today?

Punching is unacceptable!

One of my Sunday School kids got punched by his younger sibling and it caused his tooth to fall out. He was telling us the details today when one of the other children piped up and said, "Punching is unacceptable!" The tone of voice that was used caused me to believe that this other child had heard this reprimand from a parental authority.

We also learned that Miss Lauren doesn't like spiders. She informed the children that she uses bug spray to paralyze the spiders before smashing them with the end of said can. She then obtains them with a kleenex and flushes them!

What a big day for us in Sunday School! We learned alot!

* * My Wonderful, Wonderful Weekend * *

Weekends don't count unless you spend them doing something completely pointless. ~Bill Watterson

This is the first weekend in quite some time that I haven't had anything pressing to do!

Friday night -- sappy chick flick
Saturday -- trained Misty in the morning + bought some FABULOUS nail polish (No Spain No Gain) + went walking with Trudy + got a pedicure with Gloria + came home and watched Two Weeks Notice = GREAT DAY!
Sunday -- taught the munchkins about Zaccheus (who was a wee little man and wee little man was he) + a special service at church for a returning solider + went walking with Rhonda at Harlem High School's bike path = A FABULOUS WAY TO END THE WEEKEND!

Today at church, we sang the National Anthem...do you ever stop and think about the words of our National Anthem? We have so many freedoms in America that we take for granted daily. We need to be thankful for men and women who are willing to defend our freedoms!

A Whole Bunch of Randomness...

You have been warned--A Whole Bunch of Randomness. I figured, why not put it right up there in the title so everyone knows that today...well, today is just a BUNCH of crazy Angie thoughts.

1. My heart goes out to the little man at the Lou Bachrodt dealership who got thoroughly scared tonight when I test drove a 2009 Camry. We were exiting the dealership and I attempted to go out the exit through the entrance drive. The poor guy was seated in the passenger seat. Nervously I laughed and said, "I did pass drivers ed." I should've went on to explain that I use my driving as a witnessing tool to tell people about Jesus and if he were to die today while riding in the car with me, does he know Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior?

2. Everyday last week from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., I sat at my desk and laughed. Most days it was because one of my co-workers talked about punching another co-worker right in the mouth...and the thought of that just cracked me up. Not that it's right and I am all for hitting people...I know that this person would never punch this other person right in the chops--that's what makes me laugh! What was odd was that it was from 2-3 everyday. I wanted to post a sign, "Angie has mentally left until 3:00 p.m. Please direct all questions via email as she will be able to answer them between random bursts of laughter.

3. Last Friday I found the VERY same jean jacket that I had been eye-balling at a store--I found it at the THRIFT STORE for 95% off of the retailer's price. (Happy dance.)

4. Taking the time to workout improves my mood by 1000 times.

5. Painting my toenails and fingernails make me happy.

6. Sorting things is great therapy. Packing and actually moving...well...

7. Drinking Mrs. Molencupp's tea in the afternoon is guaranteed to keep me up late.

8. Reading lets me escape into another world. Right now I am currently reading a book about Mozart's sister who was equally as talented as he was--however being a woman hindered her from being as recognized.

9. Going to Wal-Mart before work is the best time of day to go there! No one in their right mind is there at 6:30 in the morning. I'm there--so NO ONE in their right mind is there.

10. Sometimes you just need your bestie to listen and let you cry about the trials in life.

Mrs. Molencupp's Hot Cranberry Tea

Yield: 1 gallon

1 cup boiling water
3 small tea bags
1 cup sugar

2 cups water
1/2 cup red hot candies
20 whole cloves

1 quart cranberry juice
12 oz. orange juice concentrate
6 oz. lemonade concentrate
2 quarts water

Directions:
1. Steep tea bags and boiling water for 5 minutes. Add 1 cup of sugar and set aside.
2. Boil cloves and red hots in 2 cups of water. Strain cloves. Set aside.
3. Mix juices and 2 quarts of water in a large pot. Combine all ingredients and simmer on stove.

Serve hot or chilled. If chilled, mix with ginger ale.

Thrift Store and sushi

This past month has flown by at whirlwind speed and I know it's because I've been busy. With the approach of November, I'm looking forward to a slowdown. I've neglected my friends...forgot things...forgot people...forgot if it was Thursday or Friday and had a panic attack that I was experiencing "Casual Friday" on Thursday...laughed so hard I thought for sure I was going to be asked to keep it down...and the list goes on and on. Oh, let's not forget laughing during church on a Wednesday night when it wasn't really funny. Yeah--not good. Not good at all.

Having said all that -- about a week ago, the Lord allowed me a bit of a break and I was able to stop & enjoy the beauty of fall. I think that's what I miss the most...just being able to sit outside and bask in the sunshine while the leaves float to the ground. Or spending time at the apple orchard. Running from here to there and attempting to learn something so foreign to me -- it's been challenging.

On the brighter side of things, Maggie greets me at the door after 7 most evenings. She seems happy to see her human. I'm definitely happy to see her.

My next project is to start boxing up stuff that I don't need right now. I'd like to weed through some stuff in the garage and get it properly boxed up for easy moving. I know that I can safely put away the spring and summer items.

Tonight I was given the opportunity to spend quality time with my dear friend who is dealing with much sadness in her life. We started out the evening with some hot beverages at Meg's Daily Grind...and then we meandered to State Street's Goodwill where we filled a cart to over-flowing. No worries--we didn't purchase everything in the cart. I obtained some work clothes and a fabulous PHEOBE-style skirt. (I know when S. Derrer sees it -- she's going to to say that it's totally ME!) It's totally Pheobe and what I would pick out. It has purple, teal, a hint 'o'pink, and brown...the bottom hem has brown crocheted lace. It's soo cute! It's my motivation for working out with said friend.

After the thrift store, we went to Woodmans and bought sushi and dined in the car. We laughed...ALOT! Oh my goodness--I learned that there are health ordinances established by the Health Department. One of them is -- you cannot spit on other people. (See, former second graders -- that wasn't just a crazy Miss Good rule!)

What else did we discuss? More like--what didn't we discuss! Oh my soul! My friend (while I was trying to encourage her and cheer her up) -- she cheered me up and brightened my Friday night.

Thank your best friend for the part they play in your life!!! It might be just the encouragement THEY need!

Des Moines

On October 24th -- Tanya and Jason got married! The wedding was soo beautiful! The bridesmaids wore brown silk dresses. My role in the event was Personal Attendant. I've never had the opportunity to star in that leading role. It was fun!

On Sunday, we went to Jason and Tanya's house for the gift opening and then wedding leftovers. It was nice spending extra time with Tanya and her family.

Tanya, Shawna, and I performed our traditional Purchasing of the FUN Pajamas on Monday at...you guessed it, OLD NAVY -- where shopping IS fun! We also enjoyed a yummy cup of coffee...because we cannot get together without purchasing jammies and coffee! It's a must! I think that if we lived closer to one another, we would:

A. have to expand our closets to contain the pjs

B. have a serious (and I mean SERIOUS) caffeine-addictions

All in all, it was a wonderful weekend spent in Des Moines, Iowa with friends! Many thanks to all of you who prayed for my safe journeys. I did nearly freeze-to-death Friday night driving Ruby over there...she is without heat. After putting on my winter coat, scarf, and gloves--I spent the remainder of the trip (circa 2 hours) laughing at myself because I was thinking that I looked like Clark Griswold when he got locked in the attic on Christmas Vacation. Isn't laughter the best medication? :)

What day is it?

This week has been insanely busy for me...from running to Terracon and then to The District and then back to Terracon to answer Misty's questions...and then off to meet Rhonda for some much needed therapy. I leave the cottage around 6 in the morning and return well after 7 at night. It's crazy...completely crazy. I wish that I could take a week and dedicate to training my replacement so I could focus on my new job. Obviously God knows that I can handle this and He is going to take care of me during this crazy time.

On Friday, I actually felt like I needed to phone a friend just to confirm that YES, it was Friday and it was okay to wear jeans to work. Isn't that sad?

Today while training Misty, we heard some peculiar noises from the back area. Without the radio on and me talking to myself, the pipes creeped us out. Well, I don't think it was really an "us" being creeped-out situation...it was more Angie-being-creeped-out.

It's official -- being friends with Rhonda is great for my heart and my mental health. Besides making me extremely accountable for working out, she's a huge blessing in my life! She helps keep me mindful of the things of the Lord and I honestly believe without her friendship during this crazy/hectic time in my life--I would be lost. (Thanks Rhonda!)

Tomorrow is Sunday. (See--I have to tell myself, oftentimes outloud, what day it is and what day the following day will be.) I'm teaching the children about Jesus calming the storm. What a good reminder that Jesus is in control over EVERYTHING and there's nothing that happens in our lives without Him ordaining. I love this story because even now in 2009, it's applicable.

I do wish you a wonderful week filled with God's grace...and remember, He is there and He will calm all the storms in your life!

Much love --

Thankful for the little things...

A yummy candle. Heat. A welcoming cat. Warm, chunky applesauce. A friend to workout with. A camera. Snow flurries that I saw on Saturday (because they are a reminder that winter will be here soon--and that means my busy-ness will be coming to an end). Loyal friends. A good book. A funny movie. Oatmeal. Toenail polish. Fuzzy slippers. The cottage. My family. And sooo much more...

Aunt Becky's Applesauce

8 cups peeled, cored, chunked apples (Granny Smith pictured)
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla
sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg

Combine all ingredients and cook over medium heat until apples are soft.

Serve warm or chilled.

Danger--your entire house will smell DIVINE!!!

Thank you, Columbus!

Today is Columbus Day and I didn't have to work at The District. I did however go in and help Misty with her Monday morning stuff at Terracon. Since it was her first day and I had some new hire stuff to input, I opted to give up some of my day off in order to avoid working over the weekend. Good choice, I think. :)

After helping Misty, I came home and lit my most favorite fall-ish candle -- Home Sweet Home. I had picked this up awhile ago when I had a coupon. It was well worth the wait!

Now I am making some of my Aunt Becky's apple sauce. She shared the recipe with me when I was visiting her in September. I will post it. It smells divine.

It's weird having today "off" from my job-job but working at the other place. The most amazing thing happened -- I am slowly getting ready to bid farewell to TerraLand not the people...but the place and the extra work. I've introduced a couple small things to Misty and I know that she is going to catch-on quickly. I'm so thankful that I recommended her for my former position!!!

And so now you know how I spent Columbus Day! What did you do?

God is good ALL the time.

It honestly feels like I haven't blogged in forever...well, that's an exaggeration. I mean really -- forever? Come on, Angie.



QUOTE OF THE DAY: "It's hard to talk to crazy people!" This quote just soo happens to win "Quote of the Day" because the person who said it...well, this person isn't quite in their right mind.



There's a potential for snow on Sunday night. Now before you get all panicky--I think I might have to agree with the rantings of Douglas and Eric. Doug (I believe it was Doug who said this) brought up the possibility that the Weather Channel could be based out of Florida...and when there's a potential for inclement weather (i.e. snow, ice) Floridians freak-out! It's a lovely theory, DW. Quite a gem...and kind of believable!



My last thought for the day is this -- God is good all the time. ALL the time. Not just when things are going to bright and sunny...but when you are soo sad about something that seems unbearable. God is good. God sends along people (dear friends) to encourage you on your way.

RE Not Blogging

I do apologize to my blog stalkers for not posting much the past week. I've been struggling. Why lie? I mean really -- this is MY blog. You see I recently started a new job as Engineering Secretary for The District. (I like calling it that because it sounds classified and cool.) And this new job has some unique personalities...and one particular one who just shocked me beyond belief with some comments about something I had done. My first reaction was -- Lord, I just left a job I love and people that I love...FOR THIS? No way. I'm going back there.

I'd like to say that after spending the weekend in much prayer and begging with the Lord for some type of a sign...it took my boss (my old boss who I love dearly) to tell me that it's okay to be scared and too not really like where you are at. God isn't going to give me more than I can handle. He knows. He opened this door and it's a good opportunity. Sometimes (for me atleast), I need confirmation that the people I am leaving behind -- that they are going to be okay. I know it sounds weird and it might sound strange to you. But it's how I am wired. And they are going to be okay! They are going to continue on and God is going to work out all the details.

To my friends and family who have prayed for me for the past couple days -- to you (and you know who you are) -- THANK YOU! THANK YOU FOR PRAYING FOR ME WHEN I WAS SOO DISCOURAGED AND SAD...Thank you for calling me & leaving me voicemail messages. For the cards and the emails. They have meant soo much!!! Your support and love mean alot!!!

DESPERATELY SEEKING: Navy Shoes w/A Chunky Heel

I need some navy blue dress shoes. Not fancy-Sunday shoes. I'm envisioning blue loafers with a stacked, chunky heel. Do you know it's practically impossible to find these? Well, I take that back...you can find them however they are $175 per pair. I about had a heart attack last night while searching the internet. I hate it when I can picture the EXACT shoe that I want (style AND color) and then I cannot find it...or I find it but it's WAY OUT OF MY PRICE RANGE! I mean really...I have a black pair -- chunky heel, cute with jeans or dress pants...why, oh why, can I NOT find navy ones? In my head--these shoes are super cute! I could attempt to find another black pair and then spray paint them. No--I won't do that! Not yet, anyway...oh, maybe I should check Gordman's. They have some off-the-wall shoes.

If you see any navy shoes with a chunky heel--please let me know where! And by doing that -- you will have helped this silly cottage chick who's going crazy trying to find navy shoes! Many-many thanks.

And when my heart is overwhelmed...Lead my to the Rock which is higher than I...

I have about 20 thoughts right now floating around my brain. First and foremost -- I love that we sing out of a hymnal at my church! I love it how today's special music was wonderful and exactly what I needed to hear. Second -- I love my Sunday School kids. I love how they wait all week long to tell me something and then they are just bursting at the seams to get it out. Third -- I love my church family. I love how we know each other and can pray for each other specifically. I love how they encourage me when my heart is heavy...as it is right now. The Lord has brought the most special group of people into my life that have encouraged me and loved me and I know that they are going to be praying for me.

Yesterday I was reading in Psalms and I love Psalm 34. Right now I needed to be reminded that when this poor GIRL cries that the Lord hears. Psalm 34 brings me great comfort. I know that through this...God is in control. God knows my heart and He knows that I can bear this difficulty even though I really don't think I can.

Friday wasn't such a good day. Getting reprimanded for FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS isn't something that I can take lightly. Doing what I was told and then getting spoken too critically about...oh, let's not forget infront of others...well, it pained me. I'm not going to lie. (I mean really--afterall, this is MY blog. But no details.) Just know that on day 5--I KNOW! I KNOW AND I AM NOW SAD...and I would give anything...ANYTHING...to just go back to the plain Jane coffee that I gave up. The plain Jane coffee was nice and warm and comforting. The plain Jane coffee brewers never-ever threw people under the bus. It's not what you do. People are soo rude. Lord, am I rude? What are you teaching me through this? Do I have to stay and endure this? Is it wrong that I'd prefer the other? "Lord, please help me! (This has been my heart's cry all weekend long...HELP ME, LORD!)

A little moment inside Angie's brain...Danger-Danger!

Tomorrow starts the beginning of my craziness in my life...as if my life needs anymore craziness. Actually this is good craziness and it's temporary (as in 3 months or so). Temporary craziness holds the promise of ending and then normalness...which explains why I am not freaking out too much about this. Here's the deal--tomorrow I start my new job but for the next couple weeks I am going to be going to the old job first thing then the new job then back to the old job then working out with Rhonda and the home--where I believe I will slumber only to wake-up and start the cycle over again. I was informed by Gloria that this will just be a blur once it has been lived through...and you know what? I'm totally okay with that. I think in our lives there are things that the Lord allows us to go through and then blur the events so we only remember the goodtimes. Why else would someone have more than one baby if they truly remembered the excruciating pain of the first child? Why would we get back in the car with a good friend after she scares the heebie-jeebies out of us? We do it--because we forget. :)

It is comforting to know that my family and friends are praying for me during this time. God is good and He is going to help me multi-task and manage this. He promises to NEVER leave me nor forsake me.

So...I raise my cherry coffee mug and offer a toast..."Here's to forgetting this craziness and too remember the goodtimes at Terracon." (Clink, clink.)

Happy Fall!!!

A Little Reminder from A Dear Friend...

This week I am saying goodbye to a job that I LOVE. And my dear friend, Kari, sent me a note to let me know that I am in her thoughts and prayers this week as I say goodbye to a place that I have invested the last 4 years (okay--it's been 3 years and 11 months) of my life.

My new position is engineering secretary for the Rock River Water Reclamation District. It's a fabulous opportunity to expand the skills that I have acquired at Terracon. And BONUS--it's less hours with a set schedule!

As previously stated in this post, I've been with Terracon for 4 years...and during that time, I've learned to love my office. What do I love most about the office? My co-workers. I won't lie--there have been a few (a slight few) that I haven't seen eye-to-eye with...but on the whole, I love each of them dearly. It's been a long road...crazy at times...maddening at times...and just plain laugh-yourself-silly at times, but we're this family that has managed to come together during the insanely busy fall season and the not-so-busy winter months.

Wrapped up in the co-worker bundle is also the friendships that I have made with other receptionists in our other offices and the people at corporate who offer an encouraging word or a listening ear.

I can honestly say that I won't ever regret a single day that I worked at Terracon. I had a wonderful boss who is my friend first and boss second. He made choosing this new job easy. His advice, "Take that job, Angie. Take it and go laughing all the way to the bank!" His support during this change means so much!!!

I hate goodbyes. I'm not kidding. I cry when E.T. says goodbye to Elliott. In the movie The Mask (which is a comedy), I cry when Jim Carey is in jail saying goodbye to his dog. NO ONE CRIES IN THAT MOVIE--IT IS A COMEDY!!! I cry when I say goodbye to my friends in real life. I cry when I say goodbye to my family even though I know that I will see them again. Goodbyes are not easy for me. And this goodbye I am on facing with my co-workers...it makes me sad too.

Where has the week gone?

This past week, I caught a cold. Well, I think it was a cold. Sore throat, cough, runny nose, and a painful right ear. I thought it odd that only one ear was sore...oh well. Weirder things have happened, right?

Thanks to the recommendation of my friend Sara, I found a little miracle worker named COLD-EEZE. Homeopathic and delightful. It has gobs and gobs of zinc and other good things! Combined with Herba Tussin tea & much prayer -- I'm well. Well, as well as well can be...and what's amazing--I prayed that I would feel well by today and God miraculously healed me. Thank you, Lord, for hearing our prayers and knowing what we need day by day.

On Wednesday, September 9, 2009 - we moved the coffee trip to Edwards Apple Orchard West. Gloria, Jackson, Reagan, and I got their first. We had a few minutes to chit-chat which was nice. This is my favorite picture from that day!

We took this picture on Saturday, September 12 ,2009 at my Aunt Becky & Uncle Butch's house in Defiance, Ohio.