tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1076906075129594062024-03-13T04:40:34.092-07:00Scaredy Kat & Her Own CrowSCAREDY KAT & HER OWN CROWKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.comBlogger178125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-74222635469089899392012-02-28T06:25:00.000-08:002012-02-28T06:26:59.601-08:00Phela-doofia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pr5iDUBpptk/T0xXj-V4-7I/AAAAAAAABuU/Ve14SOXlgso/s1600/nat+at+train+station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pr5iDUBpptk/T0xXj-V4-7I/AAAAAAAABuU/Ve14SOXlgso/s320/nat+at+train+station.jpg" width="191" /></a>I am back after a fabulously relaxing few days spent in Phela-doofia (as Nat calls it) And this is the sight I saw as soon as my head hit the top of the stairs up from the train platform.♥♥♥</div>
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Oh mannnnn what a sight for sore eyes!</div>
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She thinks her Gramma is soooo cool...not so much for the duffel bag loaded with Christmas Presents I literally assaulted several passengers & innocent bystanders with, (to celebrate our belated Christmas together)....not even because I gave her coins to put away to save, & even managaged to pull out of her ear as a very lame magic trick...</div>
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nope...</div>
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she thought I was cool cuz she was convinved I rode Thomas The Train!</div>
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We played Princess Natalie....forgive me for not posting "Princess Gramma" or Officer Gramma" pics but I would prefer to honor the last shred of integrity I like to pretend I maintain when being in her presence.</div>
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Yeah...I know...I know.... that ship sailed a long time ago! </div>
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We danced the night away one evening & I may or may not have taught her how to master"The Booty Roll" and I have NO idea where she EVER learned "The Sprinkler" :) but we were gittin jiggy with it, cuttin the rug up & busted out a few moves with our bad selves with some 80s music from my IPOD!</div>
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I was quite impressed & laughed so hard I thought I was gonna pee my pants when my very laid back son broke out & serenaded both Natalie & I with his rendition of Vanilla Ice's one hit wonder "Ice Ice Baby". Rapping word for word, from start to finish... not missing a word or a beat....Evidently not only does my brave son fight crime, serve & protect.... but he raps pretty tootin good for a white boy! </div>
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Im not even sure I "could" explain the faces he was making as he belted out another rap song & one of MY all time favorites "The Humpty" in all his very animated rapping persona! I love my son to the moon & back but I sure hope for his families sake....</div>
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he dont quit his day job!</div>
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So Im going to assemble a short list in menu form of all the excitement I experienced while away...</div>
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I almost had yet another near death experience when the cozy pull out bed Lana made for me tried to eat me alive...I was violently sucked in between the cushions & the back of the sofa like a trash compacter that begin to roll me (putting an enitre new spin on a roll away bed) to parts unknown with a ferocious momentum of its own... oh this sooo wasnt pretty, my arms & legs flailing arround like I was a drunk Circa Solie performer my Daughter in law screamed & my son...the cop...the rescuer of all in need.... just stood there almost crumbling ready to pee "his" pants.... until gratefully his wife screamed for him to DO SOMETHING, HELP YOUR MOTHER!...once I was freed, he said in a very serious cop voice...."Mom Im on vacation, I cannot be expected to be the hero when Im off duty!</div>
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I was introduced to a delicious variety of Russian food first being treated at a cozy restaurant, then being spoiled by Lanas Borsh soup which is a type of beet & cabbage soup...& another fabulous dish I couldnt even begin to spell or pronounce. (Youll just have to trust me on this one)</div>
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I pimped my daughter in law out & deflowered her by introducing her to my absolute favorite accessory store called "Charming Charlie" and knowing what a jewelry addict she is & AND knowing my son will soon need a part time job to feed her new habit in this bling-y drug lair....I pompously pontificated "Son, Im on vacation, I cannot be expected to be a hero &/or sale friendly when Im off duty!"</div>
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While standing outside having my coffee with my son one morning, I was so excited to see a few falling snowflakes...."mom, its NOT SNOW its ashes from my cigarette thats swirling around" (rolling his eyes)... but I was convinced & repeated that it was snow & once again he impatiently stated it wasnt snow but his ashes...</div>
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I took my "What-EV" attitude & went downstairs to my room to get ready for the day & looked out the sliding glass doors to what literally looked like a white out of...</div>
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wait for it...</div>
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SNOW!</div>
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I shot upstairs & said "Ohhhh Sir Son Knows It All"...look out the window at all the swirling cigarette ashes...he looked...he smirked & said "mom....there are alot of heavy smokers in Philly!"</div>
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I felt torn about coming home...being away from the hubs, my other son who I believe actually missed me...he texted me when I was there wishing me a good time telling me he loved me...WITH a smiley icon! Youd have to know my youngest son isnt a "smiley icon" kinda guy!</div>
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I could have lived my entire life without having the last vision I saw & cannot un-see of Natalie saying goodbye crying her little eyes out when we said goodbye in the car. Gramma NOOOOO PLEEEEEEASE! I had barely held it together before that...as if I needed her help with my own grown woman hic cupping quiet sobs, chin quivering, the lump stuck in the middle of my throat that wouldnt move....& the tears just waiting to race down my face with the next blink. I walked away not daring to look back feeling the saddest Id felt in a long time.</div>
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Didnt do much better holding my son goodbye. Either one of us wanted to let go.</div>
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I boarded the greyhound & didnt stop ruminating on that goodbye scene until a few minutes into our ride our bus driver took out a stop sign turning onto a street & kept on trucking...</div>
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Thank GOD for reckless bus drivers.</div>
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Angels dont always come with wings!</div>
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After transferring to Peter Pan in N.Y.C. with an hour wait, my mood finally began to brighten knowing I was going to see my husband, son, Sammy, Matt & Savanna!</div>
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When I got off the bus my Beloved hugged me so hard I felt like a newlywed! I think he actually missed me...when I shared it all twinkly eyed with my son he said "Dont get too excited mom, he probably really missed your cooking!"</div>
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So I shared the amazing sight I saw coming off the train with Natalie waiting for me in all her pig tail wonder...I want to share with you what awaited me when I got home....this is Savanna almost 2 months old...Oh heart of mine be still.♥</div>
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Thank you for spending a few minutes with me while sharing my Philedoofia adventure.</div>
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Remember the journey...not the destination!</div>
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<br /></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-81094703654834719092012-02-22T16:20:00.000-08:002012-02-22T16:20:17.379-08:00Vaca-tio-ne<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ohhh it was hard kissing this sweet baby goodbye tonight...(Savanna, not my husband) I will be boarding a train tomorrow morning veeery early....like there should only be one 6: o clock on the clock & it shouldnt be in the morning..... to go on vacation by myself.<br />
Ill be sure to post pictures & more details of my journey when I return.<br />
Dont know exactly when Im coming home, probably a week or so. I have been dreaming of a vacation by myself for awhile now. I need to do some thinking, some writing, some reflecting...some decision making about so many areas in my life.<br />
<br />
I wrote out a very detailed "husband friendly" grocery list for Ronnie. He promised me he'd follow it & not spend $130.00 on only Koolaid, bologna, Little Debbies & any cereal certain to turn his milk blue! :)<br />
<br />
I look forward in coming home with some much needed clarity & balance so I may continue working on my book Ive been writing for months now. My editor reassured me that Id have his complete support & guidance upon completion for Publication. Im also taking another writing course which is intense but I look forward to the challenge of it. I have a speaking engagement scheduled in New Haven in early March which I am so excited about, & then will be meeting with the Director of a treatment facility & Grant writer, to hopefully begin a program for women in recovery.<br />
<br />
I figured if I was going to take all of this on, Id better take some time for myself.<br />
<br />
Ive got a suitcase jam packed with a variety of way too many clothes (Im sure), my carry on is ready with my I-Pod, my Droid, & Laptop...a brand new hard cover novel, my journal, & new camera....<br />
I am sooo ready.<br />
<br />
I am curious as to how long my recent journey with being a vegan will last while on vaca. It surely wasnt something I planned on, I "was" a red meat lover, & chicken? well lets just say the chicken community would FEAR the Nicotera Household.<br />
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We love us some chicken!<br />
<br />
But last Thursday night while eating a delicious pot roast dinner I worked so hard on, I saw my life flash before me when I choked on a piece of meat.<br />
My husband was upstairs playing video games on his new Flat screen TV & was planning on eating after he killed the last bad guy. I was starving & Opie, Gino, & I decided not to wait.<br />
I couldnt believe how fast it happened. <br />
Ive never choked on anything like this before. My eyes immediately began tearing, I could feel the pounding of the veins in my neck & forehead...I realized this wasnt going down on its own & began taking the stairs 2 at a time...<br />
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Dang I can move when I want to!<br />
<br />
The whole trip up the stairs in slow motion I might add, of ALL the things I could have been panicking about, Im thinking....<br />
well son of a Bi#%H.....<br />
<br />
I live thru heroin addiction,<br />
cocaine addiction,<br />
being non responsive to Interfuron Treatment for Hepatitis C...<br />
an assault AND a mugging...<br />
AND Im gonna be taken out from a piece of POT ROAST????<br />
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When I told my son about this near death experience...no really it was...<br />
he promised that he wouldnt let me be taken out like that & he would lie to my other family members & friends & keep my "choking to death" a secret & he'd make something up with a little more integrity... like I was hit by a car while trying to save a puppy or something....<br />
<br />
I love that man....<br />
<br />
But I digress.<br />
So as Im flying upstairs, probably the thumping motion of my High Stepping pushed the sucker down. I didnt need to interrupt my husband hoping hed stop playing long enough to perform some much needed Heimleck relief to my sorry ass. But when he saw my swollen red & tear streaked face.....he actually put the joy stick down! With that look of horror on his face I know so well that says "Dang babe, what the hell did you do?"<br />
<br />
I may or may not have a history of having CrAzY stuff happen to me.<br />
<br />
Naturally I burst out in tears from fear? relief? feeling so stupid? I dont know, just pick one....<br />
When I woke up the next morning, my throat was so sore, everything including liquids hurt going down. Im not sure when it happened but I knew with everything that I have that I wouldnt be eating meat again anytime soon. <br />
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Which is absolutely rediculous since I could choke as easily on a cough drop, or vegetable...but today is day 7 & I am still morbidly RePuLsEd by the thought of any meat touching my lips. I have also been chewing my fruits & vegies into liquid form to make sure they also travel safely down my gullet!<br />
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My ever supportive husband said "Well honey I feel for ya but I hope youre not gonna make me go on this vision quest of vegetables only.... you KNOW Im a meat & potatoe guy" <br />
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No worries Beloved....<br />
I have remained committed to my wifely duties & wedding vows & have cooked your meat & potatoes every night since.<br />
So I am really excited about my adventure tomorrow. I am looking forward in relaxing, enjoying & embracing the time with my inner BFF.<br />
I wont be watching "Unstoppable" with Denzel as a TrainConductor trying to stop a runaway train until Im safely back in my nest!<br />
Thank you for stopping by & may we never take any moment for granted.<br />
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and remember....CHEW YOUR FOOD!<br />
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<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-14123017043402870042012-02-16T08:40:00.000-08:002012-02-16T08:51:48.329-08:00Perspective<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RYq7J5Vp3cA/Tz0hzOAdupI/AAAAAAAABsw/kLBtYW4d98g/s1600/caputos+angel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RYq7J5Vp3cA/Tz0hzOAdupI/AAAAAAAABsw/kLBtYW4d98g/s1600/caputos+angel.jpg" yda="true" /></a></div>Cancer has taken out so many dear to my heart.<br />
Young & old, it doesnt care.<br />
Its a beast, it eats its young.<br />
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It tears & ravages people up both victims & loved ones.<br />
I was recently made aware of my Orthopedic Dr.s young wife is one of those victims I speak of. <br />
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Since Ive been struggling in rehab & painful physical therapy from my 3d hand surgery a few months ago, I learned sadly about my Dr.s personal path with this monster.<br />
.<br />
I am quite ashamed of what he must have been thinking of me every time I was in his office, whining & complaining about my fears of never having my hand be pain free or completely mobile again' or why it does this, or that??? or why cant I open cans yet???,why it still hurts...BLAH BLAH BLAH....<br />
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. Almost passing out with every cast removal...(Im such a wimp) having to lay down with the stitches removed, tearful physical therapy...well I am just so ashamed of myself.<br />
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Heres the thing....<br />
about perspective...<br />
IM not having to whine about nausea daily from chemo & radiation treatments, nor do I have to compalin about any port having to be inserted for those weekly treatments....I dont have to worry about what will become of my husband or 3 young children if I must accept Im losing my battle...<br />
I cant begin to wrap my thoughts around what she & her family must be experiencing.<br />
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After learning about this couples medical crisis, I wanted to do something for them. But what? a card? Light a candle in a Church? make an anonymous donation to the Cancer Society? Well certainly great ideas but I wanted to do something a little more personal. <br />
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Since my surgery, I havent been able to make or create any dolls. Ive been able to paint a little but nothing that requires heavy sewing or stuffing which most dolls require...<br />
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It was time.<br />
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I carefully sketched & shopped for some specialty fabrics that slide more towards the whimsical side than the familiar primitive homespuns.<br />
I made my purchases, came home & began making an "Angel Of Healing" which although I was intending for them, realized the healing was provided for me as well.<br />
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It was slow going, a little clumsy & quite frankly after being out of commission for months, I was quite rusty.<br />
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This doll fought me tooth & nail.<br />
Yet I forged ahead. I lit a white candle & asked God to bless the recipient with healing. I asked that she be enveloped in supernatural & mindblowing healing. Once I stepped out of my own self absorbtion of trying to make a perfect doll, she began to materialize & she came to life. The reason for her purpose was just enough to keep me pushing for completion.<br />
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I left for his office this morning with his angel tucked safely amoung tissue in a gift bag. I waited nervously in his exam room like an excited child.<br />
Tick Tick Tick....<br />
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You see for so many years I was such a taker from my predatorial behavior when being strung out & at the mercy of my heroin addiction, that the gratitude & deep love I feel for God for changing me so radically just takes my breath away. 10 years ago the ONLY reason Id be in any Dr.s office was to try to hustle pain meds for some feined injury....so to think Im able to give back such a small part of me for a change...well there are no words I can describe...youd have to be there.<br />
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When he entered the room, I told him I had done a little "stitching" for HIM :) <br />
The look on his face was something Ill treasure forever. I close my eyes right now & think back to his warm embrace while thanking me & again...I am overwhelmed to think it was me recieving the gifts of healing.<br />
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Dr.s arent usually ever able to work past my hair, heavy ink or piercings.<br />
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But this amazing, soft spoken man who wears a set of beads around his neck to represent something personal & private for him..... with an aura of spirituality surrounding him.... never once made me feel less than, or troublesome with my resum'e of complaints & fears...always treating me kindly, compassionately & warmly.<br />
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His gentle hands touching the stuffed pillow that this doll held with one hand bandaged to honor his title of being one of the best hand surgeons in the country...(another miracle of mine since this ia a workmans comp case) repeated "my wife is going to love this." I had stitched the reminders of Courage, faith & believe sitting next to a funky button claiming "HOPE"<br />
When I was standing in the reception area making my next appt. the medical assistants & nurses were coming up "ooooohhhing & aaaahing" complimenting me.<br />
He liked her so much he was in the back showing her off...How cute is that? Such a busy man with patients waiting for him...took the time to share her with the other staff members,<br />
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I was wrapped in humility.<br />
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My absolute favorite person besides my Dr. who is his secretary/ or office manager "Diane" asked me if Id be interested or willing to create, be a part of that day by participating & donate a an angel of healing doll for the large annual Cancer Awareness Fundraiser they sponsor every year.<br />
WOULD I?????<br />
To think Ronnie & I were invited to be a part of something so important, so inspirational...well...<br />
Color me Happy,<br />
<br />
I had to stop myself from hopping in her lap & licking her face in joy.<br />
<br />
Yeah, I know....Im a mess.!<br />
<br />
Dont go acting all surprised NOW!!!<br />
<br />
Angel of Healing???? <br />
Indeed.<br />
Thank you for stopping by & joining me in a little personal healing of my own.Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-54819170451032408332012-02-06T09:10:00.000-08:002012-02-06T09:10:44.256-08:00Well Looky at whos back!<span style="color: blue;">And I come draping in amends. I have been MIA. Ive been so caught up & busy with beautiful people, places & things, AND have been throwing pictures,quickie comments on Facebook that Ive sadly neglected what I used to enjoy so much which was "Blogging" I sure make time for Bravo TV w/ the rediculous addiction I have to The Real Housewives, Basketball Wives, Love & Hip Hop, Senior vs Junior, & Mob Wives! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">Im sure Ive lost respect after that confession!</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Thats ok I let my haters become my motivaters...</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">O MANNNN Did I actually say that?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"> Dont judge me, I aint been right since we got this CrAzY kitten "Gino" who has robbed me any brain cells I may have had to begin with....</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Ginos another story for another time...</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">I digress~</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Im such a lover of best selling books, anything literary, documentaries, stories of inspiration & yet Im sure to be found stretched out on my sectional sofa stitching away with these Reality shows on.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">So Ive made the commitment to get back to whats really important to me which is blogging.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> So after 10 months of unbelieveable blessings, miracles, & gifts raining down on us, that would require a keflar umbrella...where do I begin?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">You tell me...</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Being nominated for The very protegious "Push Cart Award" for the story I wrote about growing up & still living with Learning Disabilities for "Recovering The Self"</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">or how about my husband & I who have been blown away by being reunited with his 2 beautiful adult daughters after 19 years?</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">AND...</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> now have another adoreable & precious newborn Grand daughter?</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> (Thank you Facebook)</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">orrrr.....Coming out of the dark after a very scary & painful depression a new person celebrating every breath I take?</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">or nooo I know.... heres a "real" miracle.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Sit down yall....</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">you good?</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Ok, my husband ACTUALLY has a cell phone & hes prepared to use it...</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">TEXTING!</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">and there it is!</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">My name is Kat & I live with a texting monster.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Hi Kat!</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">It was charming at first bearing witness to he & his daughters texting back & forth a bajillion times a day...</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">yeah, not so charming when he texts me when hes sitting on the same sofa as I am asking me to get him a coffee!!!!!</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">I am still rehabing from a third & very painful intense thumb surgery I had on Aug.31st. I am still working hard twice a week in Physical Therapy. And am a little nervous because Ive got a nerve sitting directly under the skin that when touched or accidently rubbed (from a winter coat, gloves, etc) makes me feel as if Im being tazed & electricuted at the same time. I also have issue with a new clicky thingy which pops like a soft knuckle every time I turn my wrist. Im relying on my faith & my new Orthopedic Surgeon who is considered a Hand Savant in the country! (aint to bad on the eyes either)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">The new kitty Gino? (Thank God for Therapy)</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">He causes me facial twitches & I sound like Ive got Turettes Syndrom from the bloody flesh wounds he attacks me with.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Im still very involved with creating, painting, but the dollmaking has been very slow with my issues at hand. (excuse the pun)</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">So since this is alot to share, Ill close now with adding a few pictures of said blessings & miracles.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">I thank you if youve stopped by, I am looking forward in sharing my journey of art, family, friends pets & of course sobriety.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkRswrUdZIA/Ty_86eavKxI/AAAAAAAABrg/MQCL3vol5I8/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkRswrUdZIA/Ty_86eavKxI/AAAAAAAABrg/MQCL3vol5I8/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a>Ronnie & I.♥</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VDIWcVGNJE/TzAHj6QkqGI/AAAAAAAABr4/N42D68Rdnp4/s1600/042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VDIWcVGNJE/TzAHj6QkqGI/AAAAAAAABr4/N42D68Rdnp4/s320/042.JPG" width="240" /></a>Sammy & Matt at their baby shower.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pBE38B1GI9I/TzAHufmFjFI/AAAAAAAABsA/3xUWBMLCrCg/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pBE38B1GI9I/TzAHufmFjFI/AAAAAAAABsA/3xUWBMLCrCg/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></a>Ronnie in all his joy.♥</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hlU-Jtuyw_c/TzAHz4uwi0I/AAAAAAAABsI/RQn5fJF61WE/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hlU-Jtuyw_c/TzAHz4uwi0I/AAAAAAAABsI/RQn5fJF61WE/s320/005.JPG" width="240" /></a>Savanna & one HAPPY Gramma♥</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vm4arb0Be6E/TzAH_r7ctEI/AAAAAAAABsQ/WtnojSNVvIw/s1600/mommy+&+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vm4arb0Be6E/TzAH_r7ctEI/AAAAAAAABsQ/WtnojSNVvIw/s320/mommy+&+me.jpg" width="240" /></a>Sam & Savanna.♥</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a7ybAfOVOco/TzAHNlKYIfI/AAAAAAAABrw/6wpewk85lwc/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a7ybAfOVOco/TzAHNlKYIfI/AAAAAAAABrw/6wpewk85lwc/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a>Ronnie & Christine.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G3WK-hzeZKI/TzAIXkgomWI/AAAAAAAABsY/WpVphT5Z-ig/s1600/bopp+heaven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G3WK-hzeZKI/TzAIXkgomWI/AAAAAAAABsY/WpVphT5Z-ig/s1600/bopp+heaven.jpg" /></a>Daddy Matt & our lil Peanut.♥</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ939nXufvI/TzAIg3w6X5I/AAAAAAAABsg/QmEKCXP9bFg/s1600/model+nat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ939nXufvI/TzAIg3w6X5I/AAAAAAAABsg/QmEKCXP9bFg/s320/model+nat.jpg" width="169" /></a>Our very grown up & fashionista Natalie.♥</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EDCSyILmg7M/TzAIshZZeNI/AAAAAAAABso/MSk9VhBgnWM/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EDCSyILmg7M/TzAIshZZeNI/AAAAAAAABso/MSk9VhBgnWM/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a>AND last but not least Diablo..I mean Gino!</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-46828303220315834672011-04-17T15:46:00.000-07:002011-04-17T17:24:08.835-07:00H.O.P.E.HOPE= How Our Problems End.<br />
<br />
And I need alot of inspiration & hope to help me overcome my nicotene addiction.<br />
<br />
But before I introduce my Recovery Angel I created from Robin Seebers pattern again, although I went off the beaten path so to speak....Ive seen alot of designers on the proverbial battlefield upset rightfully so about copied designs w/o being given credit & Im so hyper sensitive to remember to acknowledge these designers...although Im hoping "because" Ive gone off this said path, I hope I dont upset anyone....Im a Scaredy Kat not a Copy Kat...I dont know if anyone would even want credit with my sometimes clumsy or alternative, funky & loopy ideas that Ive added but Id rather be safe than reeeeally reeeeally sorry. <br />
<br />
But I digress. <br />
<br />
The cool chick Ive painted on this pickle jar is a Shari Reiner design (I just love her whimsy)...I put a glass voltive candle holder w/ a tea light in the mouth & tied a fabric bow around it.<br />
<br />
I refer to it as my "God Jar" I learned about it from a group of friends in A.A./N.A. They suggest we can decorate any box, jar, or container to use when were having a hard time letting go of something were either resisting or hanging onto. They can be resentments, prayers, requests, or just plain old gratitude. We write one sentence down on a post it note, insert it, light the candle & pray for peace, & ask our Creator or God to help our light to shine brighter than whatever it is weve inserted in the jar.<br />
<br />
I know for me "If I dont let go, I get dragged" & Ive got the road rash scars to prove it!<br />
<br />
After 30 days of adding our "posted" issues, we go back & read them & most of them arent even so big or even an issue anymore.<br />
Because when we truely let go... <br />
God takes them.<br />
We throw them away & begin again.<br />
When I shared this w/ my friend Renna, I told her that Im probably gonna need a bigger jar, she suggested a gallon size pickle jar? ....I dunno I was thinkin more of a "kegger"!<br />
<br />
And now I can finally introduce my completed Angel I felt compelled to make for me.<br />
<br />
Im fighting this embarrasing, shameful but very real & difficult addiction to nicotene.<br />
It was something I always easily justified, I often lied to myself about dealing with one thing at a time,<br />
<br />
Ill quit when they get too expensive....Puff ...Puff...Puff...<br />
Ill quit when my husband does...Puff...Puff...Puff....<br />
Ill quit when my lungs tell me to....Puff puff puff... <br />
Well they did.<br />
Last December during the week of Christmas, I caught what I thought was the bi-yearly bronchitis...when it didnt go away after being treated with several anti-biotics, prednisone, breathing treatments, 3 inhalers &cough syrup w/ codene, I went to a specialist after 2 months had passed & my pitbull bark that was VIOLENT & non stop, & the pain in my right lung was intolerable, my specialist ordered a CAT Scan....they found 6 nodule/masses on my right lung.<br />
<br />
Sick as this sounds...as scared as I was I puffed myself into a frenzy...coughing, crying, up all night, (husband & family very scared) I commited that if I did have lung cancer Id smoke myself right into the ground,(God must have been so proud of me for that one) no reason to quit now....& if I didnt & indeed dodged the lung cancer bullet, I promised God I would give everything I had into quitting....to stop cheating Him, my family...myself. I had/have no quality of life being this sick.<br />
<br />
My Pulmonary Specialist reassured me I do not have lung cancer from looking at the Cat scan but still had to figure out, explore, measure & biopsy, & do cultures so scheduled me for a Bronchoscopy which I had 2 days ago... <br />
now...<br />
. had I known it would be performed thru my NOSE.... <br />
<br />
did you hear me?????<br />
THRU MY FREEKING NOSE! <br />
& not thru my big fat mouth, I would have been a no show.... <br />
<br />
OMG I need another Tums just thinking about it again.<br />
<br />
A Scaredy Kat FULL THROTTLE!!!!<br />
<br />
No amount of his valium, numbing NASTY tasting gargling pre op concoction &/or fentynal could calm me down for this nightmare.<br />
I dont remember it goin in but I was coming out of it when it was coming out & yall? <br />
I still swear it wasnt the anesthesia but he DID have his foot on my stomach yankin that sucker out!!!!! <br />
<br />
He said he didnt.... <br />
<br />
He LIES. <br />
<br />
Thats my story & Im stickin to it.<br />
<br />
I see him this week for the results & our next move on treatment or what to do in getting me much better. I know he cant do it alone...I know its up to me to accept that I HAVE to quit smoking completely. <br />
<br />
but be honest....<br />
<br />
after reading my experience didnt it make you want to light a freeking cigarette? <br />
<br />
Or something?????? <br />
Im just sayin.<br />
I have cut down significantly& sometimes dont smoke at all for several consecutive days... but thats not good enough for me...or God. I made Him a promise.<br />
I have begged Him to do for me what Im unable to do for myself. ....again.<br />
<br />
He did it many years ago when I was suffering & drinking & using...then again helping me with the strength, courage & desire to taper & get off of methadone...this should be a breeze no?<br />
<br />
Hell to the NO!!!!<br />
<br />
So I created this Recovery Angel for me....with a 24 hour A.A. medallion reminding me I can do anything for 24 hours....then I included a silver heart necklace with the inspiring words "Strength, Courage & Wisdom" on it....& on her pillow I stitched Conceieve, Believe, Achieve. and completed it w/ a tag with Eleanor Roosevelts famous & powerful quote<br />
<br />
" You must do that which you think you cannot do"<br />
<br />
I LOVE that woman. <br />
<br />
I lit a candle while creating her asking God to repulse me when I crave nicotene, free me, strengthen me... save me.... <br />
<br />
I dont want my Grand daughter to believe the only way to "get thru" something, enjoy life or calm down with a cigarette. I want to be there for my kids, & their kids, & to enjoy the second half of my life celebrating it not tolerating it because Im puffing & coughing away. I shared in my last blog entry that I was taking a little bit of a different path with the direction of my blog. I put myself out here, not always pretty, normal, comfortable or politically correct, but Ill always expose who I am.<br />
<br />
Not because I believe im all that important but because we never know who might be fighting their own demons or battles & may find HOPE in one of my experiences, battles, & belief in fighting the good fight. It aint always pretty, but its real.<br />
Ill close with thanking you for stopping by. <br />
<br />
And with this...<br />
"Id rather be hated for who I am than loved for who Im not"<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcWyoaNWT94/TatvBfrWYeI/AAAAAAAABrY/STp9oti6crI/s1600/009.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596689033411846626" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcWyoaNWT94/TatvBfrWYeI/AAAAAAAABrY/STp9oti6crI/s320/009.JPG" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a> <br />
<div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HwqfiEEQA-M/TatusvfGlfI/AAAAAAAABrQ/ltFWEkFj-YY/s1600/003.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596688676878194162" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HwqfiEEQA-M/TatusvfGlfI/AAAAAAAABrQ/ltFWEkFj-YY/s320/003.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 240px;" /></a> <br />
<div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-08va9f0zyGk/Tatufq3WyoI/AAAAAAAABrI/G2OJjcsyTPY/s1600/007.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596688452299442818" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-08va9f0zyGk/Tatufq3WyoI/AAAAAAAABrI/G2OJjcsyTPY/s320/007.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 240px;" /></a> <br />
<div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aHjgZLRe358/TatuWlf2n5I/AAAAAAAABrA/95QOgpyJnns/s1600/005.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596688296239865746" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aHjgZLRe358/TatuWlf2n5I/AAAAAAAABrA/95QOgpyJnns/s320/005.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 240px;" /></a> <br />
<div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M0HRdVLA2EI/TatuRv734TI/AAAAAAAABq4/TTT4A9d2CVc/s1600/006.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596688213142397234" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M0HRdVLA2EI/TatuRv734TI/AAAAAAAABq4/TTT4A9d2CVc/s320/006.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 240px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px;" /></a> <br />
<div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogZreEFgZ9k/TatuLcomYUI/AAAAAAAABqw/-8lQ9kFFIIo/s1600/011.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596688104882069826" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogZreEFgZ9k/TatuLcomYUI/AAAAAAAABqw/-8lQ9kFFIIo/s320/011.JPG" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a> <br />
<div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-69416253792773636612011-04-10T05:56:00.000-07:002011-04-10T06:18:33.164-07:00<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ldd2FrSV1ds/TaGp-DvIwjI/AAAAAAAABqo/ZPQxkVwlItI/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593939095790862898" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ldd2FrSV1ds/TaGp-DvIwjI/AAAAAAAABqo/ZPQxkVwlItI/s320/002.JPG" /></a> <br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HpShAvklngg/TaGprZAbVhI/AAAAAAAABqg/AtTocTCog-0/s1600/014.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593938775083013650" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HpShAvklngg/TaGprZAbVhI/AAAAAAAABqg/AtTocTCog-0/s320/014.JPG" /></a> <br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P0HdcN5iQp4/TaGpbZgsD_I/AAAAAAAABqY/_VEFitRTN3s/s1600/019.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593938500340420594" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P0HdcN5iQp4/TaGpbZgsD_I/AAAAAAAABqY/_VEFitRTN3s/s320/019.JPG" /></a> <br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VRMpr8krw14/TaGpMeOcC3I/AAAAAAAABqQ/Qk_kjOvYy7c/s1600/017.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593938243908012914" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VRMpr8krw14/TaGpMeOcC3I/AAAAAAAABqQ/Qk_kjOvYy7c/s320/017.JPG" /></a> <br /><div><span style="color:#330033;"><strong>Ive been busy this past week & it feels so good to have had some of my energy return. Ive got 2 appts this week w/ Pulmonary Specialists & my new Pulmonary Therapist is just amazing. Shes helping support me while Im on this trip to hell in terms of becoming a non smoker. I have good days, or I should say successful, then something will get me nervous or upset & I fail.</strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#330033;"><strong>I shared with her the importance of having someone like herself who isnt so black & white while quitting this addiction to nicotene. my Doctor, (& I do love him) but hes the Black & White kinda guy I speak of. (NO MERCY)</strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#330033;"><strong>Amys more of a "gray" person. She understands what a difficult process it is & doesnt badger or judge me on the days I fail.</strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#330033;"><strong></strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#330033;"><strong>So I wanted to make her an angel emulating her beautiful spirit. I was inspired by Robin Seebers Outside the Box pattern Id found last year in Create N Decorate magazine, I doctored my version up if youll excuse the pun! :) Can you believe I actually found a miniature see thru x-ray & stethescope I glued to the stand?</strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#330033;"><strong></strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#330033;"><strong>Im seeing her Tuesday & will give it to her then. I made a stained tag saying "Embrace Your Gray-ce"</strong></span></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#330033;">Im already busy on to my next angel Im making to celebrate "Recovery"</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#330033;">I stitched this primitive willow tree & made it into a cute little pillow tuck.</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#330033;">I posted a picture of my beloved Opie who like his Grampa who also has a sweet tooth & I was having a hard time keepin him out of the Easter Basket I had on my coffee table. (it was just easier in the end to move it)</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#330033;">Its so sunny & beautiful outside this morning, I think Im going to take Opie out for a long walk...They really need to sell Puppy Ipods.</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#330033;">Thank you for stopping by & may we all be reminded to ....</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#330033;">"Embrace Our Gray-ce"</span></strong></div></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-4633023135669584092011-04-05T05:19:00.000-07:002011-04-05T06:07:11.167-07:00New DirectionsIve made the decision to make some changes in my personal life which will include sharing them on my blog. Originally I created this blog to include only my artwork, my dolls, projects, etc...with likeminded artisans. I was introduced to my passion of dollmaking through some amazing Primitive Artists, Historians, & friends of friends on FB. I have grown in my creativity which expanded into my other passion which is writing & carrying the message of hope to anyone living with addictions or know someone who is. As some of you know I am a recovering heroin/cocaine addict. Hello???? Thump thump thump.... Is this thing on? Yeah, I was wondering cuz I usually lose alot of people at THIS point. One of the reasons I began my journey of painting, sewing & creating was when I had begun the looong, slow, painful road to recovery. I needed some other venue to stimulate me, one that didnt include syringes, triggers, cravings & Church Basements loaded every night with other souls seeking a new way of life thru the 12 steps. I am so indebted to this group of people I consider my personal heros but there came a time (& Ive often been critisized for this) but I wanted to live my life without being reminded in every fiber of my being of what I did, or to who...who I used to be... Wasnt there more to my identity than being " Kat the Recovering Addict"? I found there was, there is...so I ran, I ran deep into Art Therapy. People at Craft fairs & forums who had no clue as to my old demons or new found recovery. But then God blessed me with a full circle of sorts & decided my gifts werent only in my creating on fabric, wood or faces, but in sharing "my" way out......& the way "in" to others who still suffer from the ravages of addictions, or early recovery where they feel as if their going to die of boredom, lack of interest & stimulation....I am just blessed but often feel burdened with the desire & unable to share how I want to help support the patients who have sought help thru the contraversial but life saving (for me) path of Recovery with Methadone. Ill support anyone on or curious about wanting to taper off. Ive been all over the map with that one, but since I have been both alcohol, drug AND medication free for a long time, I cant take my blessings & run. I am called to give back. Arent we all? So Ive been praying for guidance from God to help place me. I didnt know if I belonged only in the dollmaking community being careful who I shared my complete journey & then wondering who to invite to read my articles in "Recovering The Self" since each articles Ive had published speak of my history of the dark into the light...I felt as if I were living the great white lie. I "do" understand how ugly, & disturbing drug addiction can be, can sound, smell like, feel like. But finding the beauty of recovery & all of its miracles, blessings out weigh any odious fears we have in opening our minds and or hearts. And the cool thing is having choices is that we all have them. If someones not comfortable reading this blog or someone elses, we have the choice to leave, run, never to return, but I have experiences, strength, hope AND a voice...AND Im preparred to use them ALL. Right here. I will never share or allow anything (comments included) to be too graphic or negative, because then we lose hope. I lived a life of ugly, & negativity, it was a dark place & I want to provide light...mine, yours...ours....Gods. So from now on Scaredy Kat & Her Own Crow will be going in a different direction. Quoting Diana Ross.... IM COMING OUT! I will continue sharing my artwork, my creations, my passions about writing, my CrAzY babies with fur...my friends, my family, AND how we all got here. I really do appreciate those who love me in spite of myself, my quirkiness, my neurotic bantering, musings & growing pains. But I wouldnt havent been growing at all if I were by myself. I LOVE the saying .... "Its not the destination, but the journey." I thank you for stopping by & hope those of you who join me do so with hope in their hearts leaving any judgements at the door.Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-86559161591116134292011-04-02T13:02:00.000-07:002011-04-02T13:41:00.308-07:00Be Ye Thankful<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GfIEO5XoxN8/TZeB2WSa9cI/AAAAAAAABp4/W-QwPnIb_RM/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591080233099523522" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GfIEO5XoxN8/TZeB2WSa9cI/AAAAAAAABp4/W-QwPnIb_RM/s320/002.JPG" /></a> And I so am....very thankful. I sent these goodies off to a dear friend in Rhode Island. I had such a good time stitching at night while watching our favorite shows on TV. & This canvas tote which I painted both sides was a facial twitching treat at times. I just feel so called to Shari Reiners amazing designs. Shes so whimsical & when I see anything she paints, I feel happy inside. And isnt THAT what its all about? Im sitting here sucking away on one of my Nicotrol inhalers trying to beat the nicotene dragon. Im not proud to say that most of you know I have experience with recovering from addictions but NEVER has one been as difficult...as nerve wracking as nicotene. I feel like I wanna eat someone. No.... really.... I sincerely do. Im not fussy... anyone will do. My doctor has introduced me to Holistic Healing Therapy. <snicker><snicker>BUT Im desperate enough to try anything. Join me if you will & close your eyes while I guide you into the very twisted & hysterical visual of ME in a pair of Yoga pants trying to touch the floor grunting & groaning???? Go ahead...laugh...ya know ya want to... Ill wait... I got nothin but time. Im putting the same hard work & faith into this as I did my other recovery. I do have a suggestion though for the Nicotrol people though... They should allow not only nicotene to be inhaled as your desperately sucking away... but... perhaps a few LARGE miligrams of Valium... Im just sayin. Just tryin to be helpful. Im grateful the weather will be turning warmer so I can begin walking. I have my IPOD loaded with some CrAzY songs that always keep me hoppin with housework, so power walking should be excellent with music. I love me my Beastie Boys...Fiona Apple....Leela James....Bon Jovi...Guns N Roses...Pink.... black Sabbath...Humble pie...OZZIE!!!!!some Hip hop from the 80s....The Humpty.... Now whos laughin??? Yes I LOVE The Humpty...I may or may not be seen at any given time DOING the Humpty if Im sure no ones lookin....& if Im really in the mood I may not care whos watchin! Shouldnt we all live our lives singin & dancin as if no one was????? Im wishing everyone a magnificent day & week to come. Im going to check on our oven roaster & make my "Healthy" salad w/ lishy little cherry tomatoes...mmmmm Thank you for stopping by to spend a few minutes with me....Scaredy Kat. ♥ (Shes the one in the Yoga pants....) <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idtVX3xagSY/TZeBTHHFLkI/AAAAAAAABpw/R4Oup_iJxHM/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591079627730005570" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idtVX3xagSY/TZeBTHHFLkI/AAAAAAAABpw/R4Oup_iJxHM/s320/003.JPG" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ywN71XvOvM/TZeBE2FuvTI/AAAAAAAABpo/P7555r9IXJM/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591079382642769202" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ywN71XvOvM/TZeBE2FuvTI/AAAAAAAABpo/P7555r9IXJM/s320/002.JPG" /></a> <br /><div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-6598386487410523222011-03-25T06:05:00.000-07:002011-03-25T07:00:55.409-07:00Happy March, happy spring, happy happy everything"The Spring has sprung, the flowers has riz....I wonda where dem boidies is????"<br /><br />Here they are!!!<br /> I found these lil peeps in my issue of Create N Decorate by Cheryl Wall....what fun to make. I went to town making 22 of these. Some had polka dots, some had hair, some didnt...I brought an Easter basket filled with green grass, loaded with chocolate eggs, jelly beans, & 3 of these chicks for the Clinic where I co-facilitate groups every Friday. This morning I put the basket on the front desk where the patients swipe their ID cards before being medicated & I heard so many ooohing & ahhing this morning, it made me so happy.<br /><br />I feel bad that I havent been a very good Blogger lately, I have had my hands full with my husband who finally had his second surgery to remove the mesh that his body rejected after his first hernia surgery.<br /> They replaced it, flushed him out & probably changed his oil cuz hes much better now.<br /> In fact the picture I took of him below was only 4 days after his second surgery. He was on his way to his cousins wake & I thought he was lookin purdy dapper!<br /><br />In fact during his recouperation... or the pain meds, Im still not sure which, but bored him enough that this man FINALLY grew some interest in the internet...his adoreable index finger pecking out greetings...intense staring at the screen gigglin like a fool.... & making comments on....on...HIS OWN FACEBOOK page!!!! OH Mannnnnn....Ronnie has joined the millenium....<br />Welcome Darlin...<br />I have created a monster...<br />Now he wants to tweet!<br /><sigh><br /><br />The other reason for my absence is that I have been facing & dealing with a very serious lung issue & have been seeing a Pulmonary Surgeon who is planning to remove 6 masses that were found on my right lung. Im grateful to say they dont "believe" its lung cancer which runs rampant in my immediate family, AND Im not proud to admit I was a smoker my entire adult life... but we'll know better once this new Doctor examines my CAT Scan & will take a look see with a camera/scope.... do a biopsy & measure these suckers etc...HMMMM Im thinkin Im not all that excited about that prospect but its time to pay the piper...I have lived reckless & irresponsibly.<br /> I blame no one but myself.<br /><br />The changes incorprated in my life lately which is NOT smoking, eating less... moving more... has made for one crabby Kat!<br /><br />But I am grateful & want to live to see my Natalie grow up. Be half the wife my husband is to me. Carry the message of hope to addicts needing support...to give back to my patient, forgiving & always loving sons....Ive got much work to do.<br /> I have to change.<br /><br /> "If you want something youve never had before, you must do what youve never done before..."<br /><br />So now onto more fun things to share....<br /><br />I finally finished my new commisioned frog I named Angelceena since my friend who ordered her is named Alceen. She asked me to create a frog (which she collects) with her own spirit shining thru & since shes a passionate advocate for surviviors of Domestic Violence, I had a blast making her. I was honored to create this doll since Alceens husband was my counselor while I needed support in my own journey of recovery from addiction & is my mentor today.<br /><br />The John Sliney design I painted on a pickle jar was for my girlfriend for Christmas & the pillow I cross stitched was for my buddy Lynn from Painting Thyme Needfuls. I lOVE this woman. I met her thru her blog, but now happily make it my mission to try & drive her crazy on FB...she has that effect on me. She is not a victim, she can certainly hold her own & dishes out the laughter and love as well. I am truely blessed.<br /><br />Im staying focused & busy writing & just submitted my third article to Recovering The Self for Aprils exciting issue. I was asked to write about any disability I had experienced with either personally or professionally. Growing up with learning disabilities in the late 60s & the ignorance & bullying that I experienced & then the acceptance & healing when my own son was diagnosed in the late 80s gave me much to share.<br /><br />And in closing I would like to congratulate my oldest son for beginning his new job as a Philly Police Officer. Although hes been a New Jersey Police Officer for the past 4 & a half years, Philly requires extensive training, so Monday he hops on a plane for Little Rock Arkansas for 8 weeks. NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! I know hes excited but its breaking his heart to leave his wife & little Natalie for so long.<br /><br />Its a beautiful Friday morning & Im off to continue a LARGE painting project for a friend on a canvas tote bag & if any kind of facial twitches are to be had...it would be painting on this bad boy. I need the work, the joy & reason for breathing.<br /><br /> Creative art & friendship provides just that.<br /><br />May we all be blessed & live our last day as if it "were" our last.<br /><br />Thank you for spending a few minutes with Scaredy Kat & Her Own Crow...and Ive got MUCH to crow about.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JNetq-2i7M/TYyVS9vMP6I/AAAAAAAABpg/r2xAOpz2KfY/s1600/056.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588005390702624674" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JNetq-2i7M/TYyVS9vMP6I/AAAAAAAABpg/r2xAOpz2KfY/s320/056.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vgBWfR4XjcE/TYyVD0JM5xI/AAAAAAAABpY/MQsxFo9qM0I/s1600/039.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588005130429327122" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vgBWfR4XjcE/TYyVD0JM5xI/AAAAAAAABpY/MQsxFo9qM0I/s320/039.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VUK3EqPDBb4/TYyUte8o5wI/AAAAAAAABpQ/NIB0cIOK2Ew/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588004746782369538" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VUK3EqPDBb4/TYyUte8o5wI/AAAAAAAABpQ/NIB0cIOK2Ew/s320/010.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOulYwZRNpM/TYyUgOLIN8I/AAAAAAAABpI/VfsZ80lXIVc/s1600/058.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588004518941439938" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOulYwZRNpM/TYyUgOLIN8I/AAAAAAAABpI/VfsZ80lXIVc/s320/058.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jmL7E1sxFMA/TYyUJygeKII/AAAAAAAABpA/CdThoPUlyh8/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588004133557643394" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jmL7E1sxFMA/TYyUJygeKII/AAAAAAAABpA/CdThoPUlyh8/s320/008.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KLhU0_ddXXQ/TYyT_a25cxI/AAAAAAAABo4/sM8q1jyVDDM/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588003955410563858" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KLhU0_ddXXQ/TYyT_a25cxI/AAAAAAAABo4/sM8q1jyVDDM/s320/005.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4P1n3eMi7M8/TYyTyVrpiWI/AAAAAAAABow/kljWEcxu0ZE/s1600/060.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588003730682906978" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4P1n3eMi7M8/TYyTyVrpiWI/AAAAAAAABow/kljWEcxu0ZE/s320/060.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-65399060042002989822011-01-25T04:20:00.000-08:002011-01-25T05:17:39.884-08:00Nat-urday Healing<span style="color:#000099;">What a winter wonderland we awoke to this morning.</span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7Cappw4eI/AAAAAAAABok/bCwBvTMyfy8/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566099952589922786" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7Cappw4eI/AAAAAAAABok/bCwBvTMyfy8/s320/003.JPG" /></a> <span style="color:#000099;">Caught Ronnie </span><span style="color:#ff0000;">RED</span><span style="color:#000099;"> Handed outside this morning brushing cars off....5 days after a 3 & 1/2 hour hernia surgery that was supposed to be a quick one hour in and out</span> ... <span style="color:#000099;">followed by a very intense recovery room experience where his blood pressure dropped & he became shock-y & concerned the nurses & his wife...so stitches in tact, hes outside this morning grinning as Im looking at him from the door as if he lost his mind....I told him if he needs to DO something, he could DO the dishes!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">WHATEVER!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">So Natalie & the kids left yesterday & gratefully missed this weather going back to Jersey. I am pretty proud of myself, the neighbors werent snickering because Jordan & Ronnie had to pry my body off of their bumper as they left the drive way & I see lil Nats tattooed stamped hand waving goodbye.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">OMGAWD! Dont think for a minute that hanging on their bumper did NOT cross my mind...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Its certainly NOT beneath me...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Nothing is when it comes to this little girl.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">NO-THING!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">My integrity is still in tact!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">This time....</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">What a wonderful & healing visit it was. Dave called his brother, his best friend & they all went out to eat...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">and....</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">to drink.....</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">LOTS of drinkin...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Im not sure I needed or wanted to hear all about shots they competed shooting...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Im in recovery...not them...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">They were all pretty funny talking about the "Booty Shakin Bar" they went to...I cant picture either of my very manly sons "shakin their booties"</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">I think one may have...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">they aint sayin much about that...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">I got my money on the copper.....</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Yeah, hes the one who woke up with the hangover the size of Texas....</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Fried dough is a great hang over reliever...my dainty lil size 2 daughter in law sat down & threw 6 pieces down her gullet,then went back for 2 more.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">She can do that & get away with it...she stays fit chasin Nat around.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Mannnnnn...I got a whole new respect for toddler owners...the back of my thighs, calves and.... and...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">well my bootie shakin would make any of the "shakers" workin the pole the night in question very proud!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Pop Pop & I are certifiably beat! pooped.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Oh how cute was Natalie saying "Pop Pop...Pop pop...where my pop Pop? Nattie want Pop pop....</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Yeah.....</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">NO!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">At first the kids & I were all thinkin how stinkin sweet is that????? Of course olde Pop Pop is just beaming like a fool...She didnt want much of anything to do with any of us. I pick her up & shes struggling lookin for...yeah... Pop Pop...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">WHATEVER!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">The kids & I were all smilin in front of him...all sweet like but we were all lookin at each other rollin our eyes!!!!! It WAS getting a little annoying!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Rons cracking up saying "WHAAAT? I didnt do anything,...I cant help it...(she loves me)"</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">What does he know, hes all gooned up on dilaudid...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Lucky bast...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">So Lana baked us all this sinful & I would imagine illegal or should be..Applebee Blondie with 100 % pure Vermont made syrup & Vanilla bean ice cream....</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">We spent 2 days eating, laughing, joking, picture taking...</span><span style="color:#000099;">40 pictures to victimize each and every one of you at any given time...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">OHHHH COME ON yall...you KNEW I was a Gramma idiot, so dont go acting all surprized NOW!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7B4IkWLTI/AAAAAAAABoc/2kcMEMJPM-U/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566099359593278770" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7B4IkWLTI/AAAAAAAABoc/2kcMEMJPM-U/s320/009.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7Bs9jFeaI/AAAAAAAABoU/40GQMMrOFi8/s1600/024.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566099167656638882" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7Bs9jFeaI/AAAAAAAABoU/40GQMMrOFi8/s320/024.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#000099;">Pop pop was just beaming from ear to ear as he proudly exercized his right of passage & gave Nattie her first rub on (shhhh dont tell her its not real) Tattoo on her little hand...she calls it Pop pops Kakkoo!</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">All that experience did was make Ronnie want to have her sized for her first Leather jacket!</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;"><sigh></span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">Unca Jordan was another problem....</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">and DORA! </span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">Next visit...</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">Im banning anything having to do with Dora</span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7Ba4UZT3I/AAAAAAAABoM/SmhpzeH4khQ/s1600/031.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566098857015201650" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7Ba4UZT3I/AAAAAAAABoM/SmhpzeH4khQ/s320/031.JPG" /></a>...</div><div><span style="color:#000099;">or Pop Pop...</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">Or anyone who diverts her attention to where it should be...</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">ON ME! Oh shes got my heart as no other.</span> </div><div><span style="color:#000099;">The house is eerily & sadly quiet & clean.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">I didnt even care for 2 full days it was TODDLER TRASHED! I was in my ever lovin sweet glory....</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#000099;">Can someone please pass the damn box of Kleenex?????</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">So back to life, back to reality. Im going to be starting a commisioned frog doll for a dear friendof mine who is married to one of my old (as in time not in age) counselors who I consider one of my Mentors today. Alceen honored me & asked me to create a frog for her emulating her personality & embracing her very passionate cause being an advocate for Domestic Violence. I will soon be knee deep in purple solids & prints making a dress & bloomers...ohhhh the sweet relief I always find in the healing qualities of Art Therapy.</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">Thank you all for stopping by & having a cuppa cawfee with me.</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">May we all smile & feel hope in our hearts for better tomorrows & embrace all of our todays...</span></div><div><span style="color:#000099;">thanks for being a part of mine♥</span><br /><br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7BJs7G4hI/AAAAAAAABoE/j1_cUm8Rrto/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566098561898570258" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7BJs7G4hI/AAAAAAAABoE/j1_cUm8Rrto/s320/006.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7A9ZOGJJI/AAAAAAAABn8/GZqacNp6r5g/s1600/023.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566098350451074194" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7A9ZOGJJI/AAAAAAAABn8/GZqacNp6r5g/s320/023.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7AunlVUcI/AAAAAAAABn0/s0sC9WNxp3E/s1600/034.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566098096608596418" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7AunlVUcI/AAAAAAAABn0/s0sC9WNxp3E/s320/034.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7Ac0FYIbI/AAAAAAAABns/7QdRT58OBlY/s1600/032.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566097790726578610" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TT7Ac0FYIbI/AAAAAAAABns/7QdRT58OBlY/s320/032.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-66425097001355149532011-01-18T03:47:00.000-08:002011-01-18T05:17:37.716-08:00New England Blessings<span style="color:#000099;">My Toddler in Crime "Nat" is coming this weekend...Can we get a WHOO HOO?</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> Shes sportin her new denim jacket I made her last spring...Nampa...who Nat has decided... on her own one day to just up & change his name (maybe to protect his innocence) to "Pop Pop" who btw is finally scheduled AGAIN....for hernia surgery this Thursday, so as sore & gooned up as Im sure hell be, Nurse Nat will be exactly what the Dr. orders for smiles, & healing.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">I cannot wait to see the kids & exchange presents with them for our belated Christmas. Nats Unca...Jordan & Tee Tee NoNo will be here as well. Unca will be here after he gets out of work at his NEW job...working for his favorite Car Dealership as in house Service Mechanic....oh dreams do come true dont they?</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Rons surgery was cancelled last Thursday because of the 2 feet of snow Conn. got slammed with. This is a nightmare were both looking forward in seeing end.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> This man is incredible...he is somehow pushing himself to work half days & all snow storms which hes out attending to as I type. Last week when he was out with his crew of 4 CrAzY guys who adore him, & had been out for 14 straight hours, he came home to dig us out... and he wasnt alone...he brought re-enforcements....these guys hopped out, grabbed 3 blowers,2 shovels, sand,& salt (looking & feeling exhausted) & all took charge & insisted Ron come in & warm up, recharge... but the Crew Pit Boss wouldnt hear of it.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> Im so incredibly grateful to these hysterical & funny guys who had me belly laughing at their banter & teasing one another.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> Im pretty sure not one of them would hop onto my Dollmaking/family/housewifey/writing/Blog to see how thankful I am to each of them...but stranger things have happened.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> So Thank you Dan, Mark, Matt, and Dave.♥</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Me? I attempted to go out before they got here & shovel...hackin up what felt like a lung...couldnt move with snow up to my thighs..I threw the shovel on the deck, came in & did what any sane, snowed in housewife would do...I made a hot egg & cheese sammy with Texas Pete Hot Sauce & spent the afternoon with The REAL Housewives of Atlanta!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Last night we were gonna have left over spaghetts, but since I am beginning to feel better from this Pneumonia, I decided to spice it up in the kitchen & give "The Pioneer Wife" Ree Drummond a little stiff competition... One fiesty redhead to another....& I so did!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> I made these delicious ranch dipped parmesian/toasted onion/breaded chops.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> Off the charts.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> Mashed up some sweet potatoes & green beans & both Opie & Ronnie were lookin at me with eyes of wonder & love, love, love. </span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Watch out Ree, there may be a new sheriff in town!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">I posted a picture of this months beautiful issue of "Recovering The Self" a Journal or Hope & Healing. The cover is exquisite, the articles just mesmerizing. Stories, poems, experiences, victories, overcomers & opening dialogue. I am simply humbled to be a part of each issue.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">I shared the picture of Ronnie reading my article because his enthusiasm for what I write just overwhelmed me....My husband is alot of wonderful things but a reader???? ummmmm... not so much. </span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Not unless its got Harley parts, welding news, or Mixed Martial Arts ultimate fighters in it...so to see him sitting here intensly reading each sentence WITH his Bass Master Fishing Magazine waiting for him & he read this first?????oh heart of mine be still.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">AAAAHHHHHHHHH......♥♥♥</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Im also very excited to share that I was offered a new position as a Recovery Coach at the same Treatment Facility that helped save my life many years ago...A grant for this position was written, & now because of the funding, there are several requirements I must participate in, in order to meet these requirements. I have already attended an all day, very intensive training day & have become a member of the Patient Advocacy Group for NAMA... National Alliance for Medication Assisted Recovery.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Next is filling out apps,letters of ref. an interview & drug testing..bring THAT on... Im locked & loaded with so many helping me thru this nerve wracking process. </span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Ironically...my thumb surgery wont be happening for a couple of months so I am able to begin my new career without any immediate surgery dates comprimising or complicating any of this...</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> God is just blessing me & pushing me outside of my comfort zone to follow His will for me. Hes NEVER said no to me, so how could I? its not about me...not even about the high risk patients Ill be supporting..its ALL about Him!</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">In honor of all of my blessings, children, family, & opportunities Ive dedicated this entire month to designing & creating "Angels" I know Gods assigned me a birage of them & they dont always have wings. </span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">My newest angels name is HOPE which I though very appropriate.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Before I close on a very personal note Ive thought carefully about replying to a comment left here, but feel I must. I will only reply this once & then moniter each future comment to avoid that which doesnt belong here. We are not victims, we are Victors in the name of our Heavenly Father.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">...Attn. T.O.C. You do have family. You have chosen to publicly & privately denounce & now demote me to your "half sister" & have vehemently vowed to keep me out of your life.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">It saddens me but respect your choice of this very long journey.</span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> I love you, I continue to pray for your protection, recovery & peace. Sometimes we need to let go & let God do for us what were unable to do for ourselves. You are tucked tightly & closely in my heart & I pray that Peace & Grace happen for you...for us. </span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"> </span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWCIw-OrQI/AAAAAAAABnk/bbSmvsjSlMc/s1600/nat%2B%2526%2Bdenim%2Bjacket.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563496001782590722" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWCIw-OrQI/AAAAAAAABnk/bbSmvsjSlMc/s320/nat%2B%2526%2Bdenim%2Bjacket.bmp" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWA9-1DOWI/AAAAAAAABnc/yIz9nyTy0oU/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563494717011999074" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWA9-1DOWI/AAAAAAAABnc/yIz9nyTy0oU/s320/004.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWAwM3mCfI/AAAAAAAABnU/DhE8AMW270U/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563494480262597106" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWAwM3mCfI/AAAAAAAABnU/DhE8AMW270U/s320/003.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWAbScu37I/AAAAAAAABnM/uPOnpB5ukg4/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563494120983289778" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWAbScu37I/AAAAAAAABnM/uPOnpB5ukg4/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWAQIQG2pI/AAAAAAAABnE/oK6em4DyeNs/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563493929267419794" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWAQIQG2pI/AAAAAAAABnE/oK6em4DyeNs/s320/003.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWADST05kI/AAAAAAAABm8/LELd_CDZVXE/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563493708629075522" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTWADST05kI/AAAAAAAABm8/LELd_CDZVXE/s320/002.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV_xEMgpgI/AAAAAAAABm0/BZjlBTI_BQE/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563493395602646530" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV_xEMgpgI/AAAAAAAABm0/BZjlBTI_BQE/s320/006.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV_iRUq_aI/AAAAAAAABms/u6ah_p9T1RA/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563493141428501922" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV_iRUq_aI/AAAAAAAABms/u6ah_p9T1RA/s320/011.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV_LNkTF-I/AAAAAAAABmk/WYvzGaEPMfM/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563492745283311586" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV_LNkTF-I/AAAAAAAABmk/WYvzGaEPMfM/s320/008.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV-5u-DROI/AAAAAAAABmc/m_mdqzHKh2g/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563492445012051170" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV-5u-DROI/AAAAAAAABmc/m_mdqzHKh2g/s320/010.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV-piLDHrI/AAAAAAAABmU/WmwOs71m3Ns/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563492166698999474" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TTV-piLDHrI/AAAAAAAABmU/WmwOs71m3Ns/s320/002.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-10358268903182144472010-12-18T10:33:00.000-08:002010-12-18T11:31:45.109-08:00Sufficient Grace<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TQz_YVUn8OI/AAAAAAAABmA/uBxLb8cryuY/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552093234146570466" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TQz_YVUn8OI/AAAAAAAABmA/uBxLb8cryuY/s320/003.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TQz_IOUN6zI/AAAAAAAABl4/GkAkud2QXRw/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552092957387909938" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TQz_IOUN6zI/AAAAAAAABl4/GkAkud2QXRw/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">Im pretty proud of myself for finally completing this picnic basket I found on one of my flea market hunts this past summer, (Renee Mullins design) in fact, it gave me so much trouble when I first tried sealing it with the wood not wanting to soak up anything even after some serious sanding...I base coated it, & put it away for 3 weeks. </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">I hate admitting defeat, so needing some distraction from some personal panic I was feeling, I picked it up last week & mannnnnnnnnnn...I cant believe the cussin flyin out of my sailor mouth.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"> I was expecting Opie to put his paws over his ears while he sat there looking at me as if to say..."When did SHE join the Navy with that mouth?"</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Yeah... all this swearing while sportin a sweatshirt saying..."Peace Happens"</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;"> Blehhhh...</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Im an idiot.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Then I painted this sweet winter scene from my recent issue of Create N Decorate that one of my dear friends surprized me with, on a piece of duck cloth & made a little pillow to tuck somewhere to celebrate winter. Its a design by Kathryn Wrona. Im not generally good with snowy scenes but Im pleased with this piece Im giving to a friend for Christmas.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Peace DID happen while painting this.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">WHEW.....</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">I titled this blog entry Sufficient Grace for a reminder to myself that no matter what kind of fears Im facing, Christs Grace is ALWAYS sufficient for me. I...we...will be taken care of.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">My panic is the size of a monster because whenever the Surgeon calls, Ronnie will be going in for Hernia surgery this coming week. </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Yes, before Christmas </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">& no, no health insurance,</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;"> and no... to sick pay.....</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">No weapon formed against us shall prosper.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">I am grateful we found a wonderful clinic not concerned about one more American without health insurance, only in the finding a solution to make them well again.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">The care we are recieving while going thru this is probably better than some of the care weve had when we did have pricey private insurance.....see? His Grace is indeed sufficient.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">I am grateful my poor husband is pain free (with the help of some good pain meds) & although hes unable to work until after he heals from this surgery, he is not in pain today. After not having anything in his system for so many years, needless to say they hit him like a tank, I knew cuz he was professing his appreciation & gratitude for me for the past 21 years...and then he got the munchies, & was laughing hysterically....for COMMERCIALS on tv!!!!</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Dude.....really? hes such a cheap date....after hearing his speech about his undying love for me, Im thinkin I may slip him a mickey when this is all said & due for a referesher....</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Im just sayin, a girls gotta do.....</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Back to my gratitude list....</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">We have a beautiful twinkling Christmas tree to remind us of the real reason for this season.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">We will be eating again today, we will be sleeping in a warm house with clean sheets & quilts (cuz its Saturday & its laundry day)</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">We have each other,</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"> our pets,</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"> our friends and sons who check in on us daily & keep us in prayers & much laughter.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">I feel powerless because since my own issues with pain & weakness in my thumb, Im unable to work even part time to help us out. I do however have an appt. with my attorney this Monday after having an Independent Medical Exam last week & he cant even begin to rate my disability until this is fixed..at this point I have a 100% disability & Im hoping my attorney will have information about a new Workmans Comp doctor so I can have the 3d surgery I so desperately need & get my quality of life back including a stable income. Im so discourgared since a couple of months ago my thumb began curling into my palm & it hurts to straighten it back out.....</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">this cant be good.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">So Ive written out all of my Christmas cards, but I cant justify the 20 bucks for 2 or more books of stamps Ill need.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;"> Ive got bigger fish to fry.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;"> like Christmas dinner, scripts Ronnie will need after surgery...gas for the truck, etc....</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">My perspective has taken quite the turn after seeing my husband in so much pain, & feeling so scared that he wont be able to provide for us while he waits for surgery & afterwards & the time to recover.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">I keep going to extra meetings, I stay closely connected to my prayer warrior sisters who never insult me with pity but with words & acts of love & encouragement even when I cant possibly afford to keep up with the bake offs, Christmas parties, shopping, or the usual festivities I used to think were the end all & be all to being worthy to self & others...</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">I was sadly mistaken.....</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Babbling phone calls to Natalie, talking to our son, snuggling up to Ronnie while stitching & watching tv together with Opie competing for our attention... Praying for our group members on Friday mornings that not only do they remain clean & sober during their first Christmas, which can be stressful, sometimes family-less-ness holiday....but embrace the beauty of friendship.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Im so grateful theyve blessed me with theirs....</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">may we all believe that </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">"those" are our real blessings, </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">The real spirit of Christs Grace.</span><span style="color:#009900;"> </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">People are our blessings,</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"> not things.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Thanks for being one of mine.</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-31514016308327812202010-12-06T04:41:00.001-08:002010-12-06T05:34:34.779-08:00Happy December!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzdkVJhmlI/AAAAAAAABlw/4VWvNJ3iW8U/s1600/030.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547552457235733074" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzdkVJhmlI/AAAAAAAABlw/4VWvNJ3iW8U/s320/030.JPG" /></a> Not for nothin but Im thinkin I should probably ask Santa to bring me some Dove Self Tanning Cream for my legs so I NEVER take another picture like the one on the header of my Blog! What in tarnation was I thinkin?<br /><br /><br />Opie was tanner than those gams Ive got crossed!<br /><br /><br />Sorry but I "just" noticed & Im sure if you never have I just put the spot light onto myself...as if all yall have<br />been losin sleep cuz of my white legs!<br />RTS must have... because Im so grateful they didnt use THIS picture for the Oct cover.<br /><br />So here we are into another December & Christmas fast approaching (yeah I use Merry Christmas in my verbal & written greetings) I aint skeert.....although I probably should be after the article I just submitted for Aprils upcoming issue....I wrote about my experiences on...& here it comes....Methadone. Im really not "tryin" to ruffle anyones feathers, but just hoping to open some dialogue...that may or may not be...yeah...no, it is...very contraversial. Not wanting to change anyones mind but to share my path while on it & while its far from perfect, it certainly was for me. Especially without health insurance, it was my only hope to utilize not just the medication but every available resource they offered to myself & countless others.<br /><br /><br />"People may not remember what you say but theyll always remember how you made them feel."<br /><br /> When I was taking this medication, I was literally shunned, shamed, & shut out...of the 12 step community, the medical community, etc. I never want anyone to feel as dirty as I did while trying not to die & seek the help I desperately needed.<br /><br />So dat be dat...I got a life..... & Im preparred to use it!<br /><br />Ronnie & I went out to buy or Christmas tree Friday night & hell say "we" but "I" decorated it...he watched MMA Ultimate fighting...he did put on the lights....& I may have warned him that if he got in my way we'd be having a little throw down ourselves... he'd be tapping out, not me...He told me not to threaten him with a good time...<sigh><br /><br />I had a blast decorating although tucking all the little ornaments carefully on the tree that my mom made or my sister who celebrates Christmas in heaven, made me a little teary eyed this year. my oldest son turned THIRTY years old last week!!!!!!! & Ive got a couple of his favorite old ornaments we'd save for him to put on....BAAAUUUGHHH! Lordy it feels as if he was 6 five minutes ago.....but I happied "up" when I put our real star on our tree....I cut out a picture of our Nat Nat giggling & put it in a cross stitch mini frame, tied a prim bow on top & put her top center...right where she belongs.<br /><br />I included a couple of pictures of Natalie & Nampa. Here I was worried the Dora doll we brought her would out shine me.... but NOOOOOOOOOOO it was her & Nampa, her buddy, her reading padner, her horsie to ride, her best friend to feed imaginary "air" food to...over & over...& over again...that kinda diet would put ole Jenny Craig right outta business...AND I wouldnt have it any other way.<br /><br /> They are clearly 2 peas in a pod.<br /><br />We are still on a high from each & every sweet & funny face she made or kiss she gave us...or diaper "I" changed...dang I still got it!<br /><br />We have become certifiable "idiot" Grand parents...bragging, repeating stories, showing pictures, & are now not just our friends any longer...but our victims.<br /><br /><br />Were expecting some snow today, supposedly Waterbury is getting it now & their only 25 minutes away from us...Im sooo excited, Im going to bake some Christmas cookies & wrap some presents.<br /><br />Enjoy your week, & thank you for stopping by being a part of my babbling, sharing & yes exercizing my rights to be an "idiot" Grandma with white legs!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzdOR556vI/AAAAAAAABlo/eZbNRE8hjO8/s1600/025.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547552078407789298" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzdOR556vI/AAAAAAAABlo/eZbNRE8hjO8/s320/025.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzc4bzPpiI/AAAAAAAABlg/V60QziZT-WQ/s1600/028.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547551703107085858" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzc4bzPpiI/AAAAAAAABlg/V60QziZT-WQ/s320/028.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzck4KxBFI/AAAAAAAABlY/9nFDjktk5D8/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547551367124550738" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzck4KxBFI/AAAAAAAABlY/9nFDjktk5D8/s320/010.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzcO8hBjkI/AAAAAAAABlQ/wU-IhntbRSs/s1600/022.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547550990334529090" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzcO8hBjkI/AAAAAAAABlQ/wU-IhntbRSs/s320/022.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzb6oV3CkI/AAAAAAAABlI/bwtQ1FqNwwU/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547550641321609794" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzb6oV3CkI/AAAAAAAABlI/bwtQ1FqNwwU/s320/008.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzbmTShWKI/AAAAAAAABlA/vL4hszMNl0M/s1600/020.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547550292073076898" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzbmTShWKI/AAAAAAAABlA/vL4hszMNl0M/s320/020.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzbUy4sNkI/AAAAAAAABk4/vOq4Kk6ztgc/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547549991317026370" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzbUy4sNkI/AAAAAAAABk4/vOq4Kk6ztgc/s320/003.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPza6Nn6JaI/AAAAAAAABkw/bYtJVOSvOn0/s1600/042.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547549534637925794" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPza6Nn6JaI/AAAAAAAABkw/bYtJVOSvOn0/s320/042.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzaXU7z9UI/AAAAAAAABko/t3GCV96K0KY/s1600/027.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547548935305033026" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TPzaXU7z9UI/AAAAAAAABko/t3GCV96K0KY/s320/027.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-12669477221340903862010-11-23T09:46:00.001-08:002010-11-23T10:20:57.908-08:00Happy Thanksgiving.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOv-Vy4ki_I/AAAAAAAABkg/9-8xFyhUELs/s1600/477.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542803416799284210" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOv-Vy4ki_I/AAAAAAAABkg/9-8xFyhUELs/s320/477.JPG" /></a><br /><div>Giving himself a time out...</div><div> </div><div>even before we know hes been snackin in the litter box...</div><div> </div><div>when we see Opie "do this"? for 20 minutes or more refusing to look at us..</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>we know...</div><div> </div><div>the litter box is empty....</div><div> </div><div>he snitches himself out....</div><div> </div><div>This is something new hes been doing...</div><div></div><div>He punishes himself maybe before we do so hes guarenteed no corporal punishment??? </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>But doesnt he realize????</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>if he didnt do this, we wouldnt have known he was in the kitty box?</div><div> </div><div>Or maybe hes just plain sick to his stomach from the said crime & the pressure of the arm of the sofa soothes him...I dont knowwwwwwww.</div><div> </div><div>Im all too familiar with the guilt of ridding shame.</div><div>Kinda takes the wind right out of my sails when Im not the one verbally eeewwwing & GA-ROSSING him out...</div><div>But its hard to verbally kick a dog when hes down.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>So Im thrilled & humbled to announce that my story that was published in Barbara Sinors book Tales of Addiction & Inspiration for Recovery was nominated for a very prestigous Pushcart Award.</div><div>Although it was my story, because it was in Barbaras book it is Barbara that was nominated...</div><div>Im happy for her..</div><div> </div><div>Congrats to the other 5 nominees for this award.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Im preparing a large turkey & all the fixings for Thanksgiving dinner, our son Jordan & his adoreable wife Noelia are spending it with us...were having friends stop by for pie & coffee later in the day...Im busy packing & wrapping little goodies for Nat & the kids since were leaving Friday morning around 6am for Jersey.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>I spend alot of time trying to carry the message of recovery, living a new life beyond any dreams I could imagine for myself, I try to feed those who are hungry...(whether its food, hope or recovery)but knowing I cant spend it with my own sister for reasons that are just way too big for me...just breaks my heart.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Sometimes I have trouble when God say "no" to me...I even whine when He says "yes" & I get overwhelmed with blessings & opportunity but to be told to "wait"...wait on the Lord...I really struggle accepting this, I only pray its not too late & someday Peace can mean more than being right....</div><div> </div><div>Grace Happens</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>I love her with all of my heart... She is always in my daily thoughts & prayers.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>So I wish all of you a fabulous Thanksgiving...may we all be soon belching & napping from anatriptaline (sp) ( the chemical that acts like turkey heroin) & with "left over" joy.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Love your family & friends....because at the end of the day...Kindness "is" all that matters.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-91858738931710915252010-11-15T02:52:00.000-08:002010-11-15T03:52:48.925-08:00Kindness Matters<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOEUWn2XiDI/AAAAAAAABkQ/TefTQsCBdEo/s1600/468.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539731395529115698" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOEUWn2XiDI/AAAAAAAABkQ/TefTQsCBdEo/s320/468.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOETyOrPURI/AAAAAAAABkI/RDWxBTIx8xQ/s1600/Nat%2Bin%2Bbathrobe.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539730770296262930" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOETyOrPURI/AAAAAAAABkI/RDWxBTIx8xQ/s320/Nat%2Bin%2Bbathrobe.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>These 2 cuties are the loves of my life...The one on the left trying desperately to leave the death grip I had on her for this one picture...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOETmp3LwfI/AAAAAAAABkA/rVmzeCNaN5Y/s1600/485.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539730571435688434" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOETmp3LwfI/AAAAAAAABkA/rVmzeCNaN5Y/s320/485.JPG" /></a>(in which she won) is Enola...her parents, Matt & Nicole & brother Mike are my secondary family... And the little one dressed like Rocky Balboa "ala-fem" is my Grand daughter Natalie Josephine....they have nothing at all to do with the content of my blog entry but I have delightfully earned the rights to brag....Ronnie & I are driving to Jersey on the Friday after Thanksgiving (yes that would be black Friday) to spend the weekend with them. The kids have a wedding to go to on Saturday so well have Nat all day..."Of COURSE well keep Nattie tightly on her schedule" BAUUUGHHHH!!! and they believed us!!!!! LOL(Suckers) we havent seen her since June & I swear if she calls me Gamma again Im buyin her a car!♥</div><div></div><div>So look at me showing off all the recent loot I got in the mail from my best friend in Napa Cali...thanks Jody ♥ she hooked me up, she knows I love antiques, anything vintage & always quilts. In this huge box were 3 different pieces of old beautiful quilts...one I kinda got choked up with when I saw women had carefully & lovingly stitched their family names on them...and how they ever ended up in Jodys hands & now mine is beyond me but I am truely grateful & humbled & will take care of them with the love they surely deserve. </div><div></div><div>She also send me fun knick knacks, books (cuz were both reading addicts) some old vintage grunged baggage tags to use on my dolls, and a Coach bag....did you hear me??? Who sends their friends COACH BAGS????? a beautiful large black one...Im showin it off in the picture somewhere around here...Im the happy redhead with the COACH BAG! </div><div></div><div>I also had a delightful surprize come in the mail from Create and Decorate my favorite Primitive magazine, I was informed my dear friend had ordered me a subscription cuz God told her to....WHEW... cuz of ALL the things God "could" have told her to do concerning me..like "ask her to clean up her mouth, or never mind her mouth...her CELLAR...yeah... tell her to clean & organize that borderline hoarding mess shes got down there..." but nope...gratefully He wanted her to bless me even more than she already does with the gift of plain old fashioned friendship which I appreciate more than a clean cellar by the way....so thank you R. I adore you too.</div><div></div><div>So anyone seein Pigs Flyin around????</div><div>ohh cuz they should have been since my youngest son Jordan decided to stop by to see is old Momz...I was so shocked.... I threw the digital across the living room into Ronnies hands & screamed " Dude....Start Clickin" Jordan was smirking at my sarcasm & even humored me during our photo shoot.....when I looked at the pics I said "Oh thank goodness I dont look fat" & my very sensitive son came back with..."Mom I was laying across you hiding everything"!!!!</div><div></div><div>TOUCHEE...</div><div>He was....<br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOETW5wooxI/AAAAAAAABj4/KHw7Da3EJrc/s1600/483.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539730300825281298" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOETW5wooxI/AAAAAAAABj4/KHw7Da3EJrc/s320/483.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOES--PPmxI/AAAAAAAABjw/bNnYTjoHT-4/s1600/481.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539729889710545682" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOES--PPmxI/AAAAAAAABjw/bNnYTjoHT-4/s320/481.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOESuaokkdI/AAAAAAAABjo/y1vsDvlJVKA/s1600/494.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539729605275193810" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOESuaokkdI/AAAAAAAABjo/y1vsDvlJVKA/s320/494.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOESTW7Vw_I/AAAAAAAABjg/VRBKVz51idE/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539729140423705586" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOESTW7Vw_I/AAAAAAAABjg/VRBKVz51idE/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOESGHAmGCI/AAAAAAAABjY/PQGk-6X8hJ0/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539728912812480546" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOESGHAmGCI/AAAAAAAABjY/PQGk-6X8hJ0/s320/002.JPG" /></a><br />LOOK</div><div>.....a Snowman Convention....</div><div>Look down....</div><div><br />I made these little Orna-Pins for the Nurses at the Treatment center I volunteer at every Friday morning. I thought theyd get a kick out of them..they can be worn on their lapels or used as ornaments for their trees.</div><div>I make the counselors 2 huge painted coffee cans that look like snowmen (the cans not the counselors) full of my homemade Reindeer Feed....Ill NEVER give up the recipie but its better than crack...well Ive been told....I wouldnt know...ahem...cough...cough...</div><div>All I know is the first ones free....</div><div></div><div>So at the end of the day Kindness is all that matters....</div><div></div><div>"People may never remember what you say but theyll always remember how you made them feel."</div><div>Live, laugh & love...</div><div>Thank you for spending a few minutes with me.</div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOER2yDaSxI/AAAAAAAABjQ/QgS279xXyKU/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539728649489107730" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TOER2yDaSxI/AAAAAAAABjQ/QgS279xXyKU/s320/004.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-63151377278233954912010-11-01T05:06:00.001-07:002010-11-01T05:43:24.834-07:00Happy November!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TM6uHbT6CdI/AAAAAAAABjI/DS1k6rHgVLU/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534552434698488274" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TM6uHbT6CdI/AAAAAAAABjI/DS1k6rHgVLU/s320/004.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TM6tfHf0jZI/AAAAAAAABjA/RXJ8B0zi8yY/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534551742184983954" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TM6tfHf0jZI/AAAAAAAABjA/RXJ8B0zi8yY/s320/003.JPG" /></a> I am so honored & humbled to be featured in "Recovering The Self"<br />The poor mailman didnt know what to think (as usual whenever I recieve packages) Im such a kid when I know somethings coming like pictures of our Natalie or supplies I ordered...& although I sent RTS the several pictures they requested for my article, & I did know my article on Art Therapy would be featured & some pics were being considered but I had NO IDEA this issue would be celebrating who I am & what I do on the cover!</div><div> </div><div> They achieved what no men could do before...</div><div> </div><div>Render me speechless....</div><div> </div><div>My crazy husband told me he had a tear in his eye knowing someone other than him was able to perform this miracle!....</div><div> </div><div>Everyone wants to be a comedian.....</div><div> </div><div>The entire issue is simply amazing, so many passionate contributors sharing creative, informative topics embracing healing.....a phenomenal interview with our editor Ernest Dempsey & Jay Levy (who I consider an angel without wings) on the epidemic on homelessness in America.</div><div>And the stories go on & on.</div><div>Im not a pushy sales person... in fact Im quite turned off when people work me for a hard sell, but with so many supportive folks expressing interest on how to purchase a copy or subscription, I thought it only fair to put the link here. </div><div><a href="http://www.recoveringself.com/">www.recoveringself.com</a></div><div>Thank everyone for the lovely, congrats, funny comments on my FB page, & genuine excitement for me & my new adventure now being a regular part of this new family of RTS.</div><div> </div><div> I want to thank Victor Volkman, & Ernest Dempsey for working so patiently with me when my computer CRASHED 2days before my deadline...& the long distance international phone calls from Ernest only to support my neophtye concerns about......well dang near everything.</div><div> </div><div>Id like to thank you for stopping by & joining me for this celebration & close by saying...this all began with someone believing in me when I didnt believe in myself...</div><div> </div><div>Thank you Barbara Sinor for encouraging me to share my story in your book "Tales of Addiction<br />and Inspiration for Recovery" <a href="http://www.drsinor.com/">www.DrSinor.com</a> </div><div> </div><div>My life took on a momentum of blessings of a wild ride of people, places & things since then, which Im still trying to make sense of, but enjoying every flippin minute of! :)</div><div> </div><div>If you want something youve never had before....do something youve never done before....</div><div> </div><div>and then strap yourself in...</div><div> </div><div>your life will NEVER be the same.....</div><div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-112973270738645172010-10-23T11:55:00.000-07:002010-10-23T13:10:47.485-07:00Birthing thru the pickles in life<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TMMzO30um3I/AAAAAAAABi4/zOaLkGRe740/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531321097937394546" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TMMzO30um3I/AAAAAAAABi4/zOaLkGRe740/s320/013.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TMMy77xumiI/AAAAAAAABiw/EM1lZ4cbD7U/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531320772581038626" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TMMy77xumiI/AAAAAAAABiw/EM1lZ4cbD7U/s320/006.JPG" /></a> Introducing "Birtha"</div><div></div><div>I was compelled to design this whimsical lil Lady to pay homage to some really special women in my personal, professional, & online life.</div><div></div><div>These women (& you KNOW who you are) teach me & inspire me that no matter how cold it may seem in life, or what kind of pickle we may be in....that THIS is the time to push...also reminding me to P-U-S-H "Pray Until Something Happens...that this is the time to embrace change & honor my spirit of "expectancy"</div><div> </div><div></div><div>Reminding me of Maya Angelous magnificent quote...</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>"I can be changed by whats happened to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it"</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Its not that I believe in miracles.....</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>I rely on them!</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>This network of women show me that the pickles in life arent important... but how I handle them...are.</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Lawdy how I love me my wimmens!♥</div><div><br />Im not sure whether its just the circle of life, or something in the air, but quite a few of my friends seem to be going thru some really challenging, painful & ambiguous times in their lives.</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>I cant fix em...</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>I cant control em...</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>all I can do is "Push" with them.</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Im grateful having just come out of a really dark place myself recently, I have the energy to encourage & support them. </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Im so incredibly grateful that the only reason I walked into the light was because of some of these very women Im celebrating by creating "Birtha"</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Some of these friends are being faced with health issues, their childrens health issues, going back to school, work, trying to deal with family members who are dangerously stuck in self sabatoge & battling addictions, depression, high risk behaviors, broken hearts & the list goes on & on.</div><div></div><div>Ive been thru so many of these issues on my own journey & although it wasnt until after Id walked thru it, I realized because of the experience, Im able to express compassion & support void of any judgement.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>So I created "Birtha" from muslin fabric, I sculpted her eye area & stitched 2 little black seed beads for her eyes...her ultra long paper clay sculpted nose (that Im quite sure Freud would have something to say about that!) (chuckle)</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Then I went on to tack raw sheeps wool for hair I picked up from a sheep shearing contest at the Hebron Fair this year, I gently stained her cheese cloth head/shoulder shawl with a light recipie of prim smelling goodies & then stitched & stuffed a large belly ( I was merciful & made her free of any stretch marks) underneath her soft, cotton, rose bud, fabric dress. (I wished her pregnant belly showed up in the pictures better) I scuplted her stash of pickles with the same paper clay I used for her carrot nose.</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>I painted a little textured snow on her to help us appreciate how sometimes we may feel really cold on our journey but as long as we stand tall, feed ourselves that which sustains us, we can continue our birthing process.</div><div> </div><div></div><div>And then lastly my favorite embellishment I added was the soft glitter that I was hoping to express that as women we indeed sparkle & shine...always in all ways.<br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TMMyoQCmsLI/AAAAAAAABio/dDv9DG-Gmoo/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531320434423148722" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TMMyoQCmsLI/AAAAAAAABio/dDv9DG-Gmoo/s320/008.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TMMyaaA6eoI/AAAAAAAABig/0EBSMbLCjTM/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531320196582242946" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TMMyaaA6eoI/AAAAAAAABig/0EBSMbLCjTM/s320/009.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>I hope you all can appreciate my efforts in creating some of the joy in the lessons & experiences each of you have blessed me with in one amazing way or another.</div><div></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-68929094853316783892010-10-16T06:04:00.000-07:002010-10-16T06:54:27.467-07:00Reinventing this Kat<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TLmkLdajNNI/AAAAAAAABiQ/6nZ1f-eGYeM/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5528630534355498194" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TLmkLdajNNI/AAAAAAAABiQ/6nZ1f-eGYeM/s320/003.JPG" /></a> I am being brought thru another road of lessons & being tested again. And I cant even complain because I asked for it all. Why doesnt anyone EVER just stop me & my big ideas????<br /><br /><div>I really need to re-evaluate the way I pray.</div><div> Most of my prayers get answered.</div><div> God, Im sure is just a gigglin away. watchin me fuss thru these recent growing pains. </div><div> I know He was probably laughing with me...cuz He shouldnt be laughing at me...</div><div>would He?</div><div> I mean He is God...He can DO anything He wants...</div><div>Im just sayin.</div><div>Coming thru such a dark place recently <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TLmj3j_7K2I/AAAAAAAABiI/f3dKajaDMkc/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5528630192525486946" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TLmj3j_7K2I/AAAAAAAABiI/f3dKajaDMkc/s320/009.JPG" /></a> w/ my health, I am gratefully on the way to getting my life back...but its not anywhere close to my old one, its a brand new one.<br />My energy is slowly returning, I was even blessed with a delicious, deep comatose drooling sleep the other night after pulling an all nighter the night before that.</div><div>But what I was made painfully aware of...is that if this is as good as it gets...Im soooo screwed! </div><div>The down time spent on my sofa for almost 3 months made me realize I have really betrayed my body. I havent been able to utilize all of my God given gifts because Ive been sooo tired...ok...maybe more...out of shape...oooops THERE IT IS!</div><div>HELLO we have finally broken thru the denial.</div><div> </div><div>So I bundled myself up one day, did some rediculous & probably hysterical stretches in my back yard...I know them 8 lil squirrels we feed twice daily,were rolling on their chubby lil backs guffawing away...(lil ingrates) sharp little nut crackin, buck teeth chucklin away....<br />I plugged my new to me IPod in & Macy Gray, Pink, & I attempted our first day of power walking....</div><div>ok very funny...</div><div> </div><div> Ill wait for yall to stop snickerin....</div><div> </div><div>I got all day....</div><div> </div><div>nuttin but time....</div><div> </div><div>and the best thing happened.....</div><div>I freeking LOVED it! Who knew?</div><div>Yeah I know...that would be God again. Sometimes He is just such a show off!</div><div>Cuz we all know after hoofin & I mean HOOFIN,,,for 5 days worth of 4.3 miles (cuz I made the mistake of driving to count the miles myself) I was hollerin out for mercy with a very sore ass, throbbing ankles & the back of my thighs are deemed pretty much worthless this weekend.</div><div>Its not pretty...</div><div>but Im going back. It was suggested I walk 5 out of 7 days...so sweet relief for my battered & broken body till Monday.</div><div>Ive also begun eating healthier...drinking more water... Lots of bottled water...</div><div>I really loathe water.</div><div>And</div><div> Portion control. I eat my meals on a dessert dish not the normal platter sized dinner dishes we usually eat from. </div><div>Yeah, Im sailing this ship alone...</div><div>Speaking of show offs, my husband can eat what, when & where he wants & keeps his big bad hot manly body & doesnt skip a beat...</div><div>Im also trying to find my comfort zone with my new VERY expensive progressive lenses...although I have the weekend off from walking, Im still highstepping & performing triple sow cows to avoid steps & those damn sneaky curbs...but my bifocal lines are gone...and thats a GOOD thing.</div><div>I was working thru some personal challenges I faced after yesterdays Friday Group & came home to make Ronnie a homemade apple crisp, then I finally climbed the Summit that was taunting me by sewing closed this huge painted fall pillow. It sat on my floor open, stuffing bulging & because of my still un-cooperative post surgical useless thumb.</div><div> I was fixin to staple this sucker shut...with a power staple gun..I KNOW we have one around here somewhere...but the stress I was working thru...was more than enough...I am pleased with this Big Betty of a pillow I made using Barb Jones wonderful & whimsical design.</div><div> </div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TLmjoU89bvI/AAAAAAAABiA/sD5Uf5U16H4/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5528629930788482802" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TLmjoU89bvI/AAAAAAAABiA/sD5Uf5U16H4/s320/002.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TLmjal1q75I/AAAAAAAABh4/f2no0LYzePU/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5528629694803144594" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TLmjal1q75I/AAAAAAAABh4/f2no0LYzePU/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>I hope you all have a magnificent Autumn weekend, understanding that although I do alot of complaining, there are always lessons, experiences & room to be the change we want to see. Im greedy...I want and deserve ALL the fruit of my labors....its just always such a trip doin the work.</div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-20984005627264089692010-10-08T17:52:00.000-07:002010-10-08T18:48:21.133-07:00Harvest Thyme Bringing Forth Gratitude<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK_AIfCa7DI/AAAAAAAABgw/Cguy03tV8cM/s1600/Cabinat.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525846519810026546" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK_AIfCa7DI/AAAAAAAABgw/Cguy03tV8cM/s320/Cabinat.jpg" /></a> Ohhh my lil Cab-i-Nat! I just wanna eat her lil face & munch on her toes. Six Flags got nothin on the rides in her kitchen. Like her Gamma a cheap date!<br /><br />And can you stand the evil look on this spoiled, pouting dog?<br /><br /> He wasnt sent here...<br />no "time out" from us....<br />Nope, he wasnt scolded...<br />wasnt even in trouble for chasin squirrels...<br /><br />This??????<br /><br />was Opie making a statement letting us know he doesnt appreciate or accept any kind of attention O'Malley may get...<br />Attention?<br />Really Opie?<br />All I did was snap a picture of our 10 year old cat who doesnt ask for much other than 2 squares a day....<br />GET OVER IT! Ask me if I lost any sleep over this pout fest? ok well since Im experiencing horrible bouts of insomnia lately, this is a moot point....Im just sayin.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-_3OVsg-I/AAAAAAAABgo/Y_4qtmviHfI/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525846223269692386" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-_3OVsg-I/AAAAAAAABgo/Y_4qtmviHfI/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>O'Malley & I are both on diets & have agreed that we need to be on more than just one diet, cuz the one were on doesnt have enough food!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-_iQr2YlI/AAAAAAAABgg/Nxc-Kn0oMv0/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525845863122231890" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-_iQr2YlI/AAAAAAAABgg/Nxc-Kn0oMv0/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-_NCJCBnI/AAAAAAAABgY/ZurCOBO5osA/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525845498440844914" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-_NCJCBnI/AAAAAAAABgY/ZurCOBO5osA/s320/004.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Sadly in July, after calling our local Police to do a safety check on our 54 year old neighbor who we knew was sick & very stubborn & disregarded our offer to take him to the ER on one night in particular...we had a bad feeling when he wouldnt open his door after 2 days of checkin on him....we were devestated to learn he had passed away that very morning.</div><div> </div><div> We were a couple of hours too damn late.</div><div> His wonderful 80 year old Mom insisted we take a couple of his antiques....so Ronnie came home with this amazing sterling silver coffee caraft...It has a glass voltive on the bottom to insert a tea light to keep the poured coffee warm...it was FiLtHy!!! tarnished, so I worked diligently on it with silver cleaner & walla...now a part of our friend Martin graces our credenza in a very special place.</div><div>As if that lovely keepsake wasnt enough his Mom brought over 3 old issues of National Geo. One was a month older than me...I loved some of the adds in there.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-_BNcIJzI/AAAAAAAABgQ/YXHz5ayQezU/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525845295315298098" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-_BNcIJzI/AAAAAAAABgQ/YXHz5ayQezU/s320/005.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK--wnDozMI/AAAAAAAABgI/CHv8vfsT3fg/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525845010134125762" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK--wnDozMI/AAAAAAAABgI/CHv8vfsT3fg/s320/008.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK--e3sXCnI/AAAAAAAABgA/HCpi6SrE6HQ/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525844705362250354" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK--e3sXCnI/AAAAAAAABgA/HCpi6SrE6HQ/s320/003.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br />I had a ball painting these 2 big boys with iccky spiders I was inspired to paint on their noses after watching a "Billy The Exterminator" marathon....( isnt billy just so stinkin cute?)</div><div> </div><div>I wanted to donate these 2 pumpkins to my girlfriends lunchroom that she supervises & raffles off to her kids....People always feel the need to gently scold me for donating whatever happens to be on my heart,(rather than sell what I choose to make & donate) but you know what? Im not even supposed to be here...how can I not share what puts such a song in my heart...</div><div>Not to mention people....</div><div> Im tryin desperately to get into Heaven.....</div><div>Oh man have I got some splainin to do on THAT day.....</div><div> </div><div>AND I always get good instant karma...Lynn (the rockin lunch lady) Facebooked me & told me they were a HUGE hit & a bunch of the teachers wanted prices so they could purchase some....</div><div>Sooo Im good.</div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /> </div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK--HS4R3WI/AAAAAAAABf4/y_gH27uXoSI/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525844300343139682" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK--HS4R3WI/AAAAAAAABf4/y_gH27uXoSI/s320/008.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-9rQjcGrI/AAAAAAAABfw/sBVTnOgfXp0/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525843818682522290" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-9rQjcGrI/AAAAAAAABfw/sBVTnOgfXp0/s320/003.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-9cZcxdAI/AAAAAAAABfo/WVMHEiSkeGg/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525843563372442626" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-9cZcxdAI/AAAAAAAABfo/WVMHEiSkeGg/s320/004.JPG" /></a><br />Ive been having a blast decorating for fall. Im so grateful that A) I care enough to want to celebrate fall & B) go up & down all those stairs "to" dig out my goodies.</div><div>I painted this sewn from scratch muslin witches hat, & after 3 days of cussin like a drunken sailor I managed to finish this design by Pat Oneill & another fun pillow in the process of being sewn from Barb Jones suggesting we always "Give Thanks"<br /></div><div>Im a little overwhelmed & very weepy today after our early moring group. Im still blown away that God deemed me trustworthy to step up for this privilidge...then I was humbly surprized when someone made a heartfelt & gracious amends to me for something they felt I deserved....Holy Crap batman, Ive been so busy for the last 7 years making all of my amends I sure didnt see this one coming. This life is....is....ummmmm.... I surrender...I am speechless!</div><div> </div><div> Yet another Friday morning driving home from group with the ugly cry, mascara rollin...hiccupping away with sobs cuz yall just dont know......</div><div> </div><div>Still waiting for the October issue Im featured in of Recovering The Self which was pushed back for another couple of weeks....if this keeps up, Opie may have some company in his Pout Fest...</div><div> </div><div>Thank you for stopping by...sharing how I am LIVIN THE DREAM! :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-9Nb5QBFI/AAAAAAAABfg/XB4T-aoNHis/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525843306330719314" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TK-9Nb5QBFI/AAAAAAAABfg/XB4T-aoNHis/s320/002.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-45258020029858621752010-09-26T06:35:00.000-07:002010-09-26T07:19:29.768-07:00Getting BetterLoreal Make up really ROCKS!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJ9UexenkmI/AAAAAAAABfY/HmsifRY1zig/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521224555834085986" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJ9UexenkmI/AAAAAAAABfY/HmsifRY1zig/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br />& heres why...<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJ9SEjLkgYI/AAAAAAAABfQ/MqlEwzavB74/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521221906296242562" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJ9SEjLkgYI/AAAAAAAABfQ/MqlEwzavB74/s320/002.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJ9MXmu2hFI/AAAAAAAABfI/12ivKx4HqiM/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521215636597277778" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJ9MXmu2hFI/AAAAAAAABfI/12ivKx4HqiM/s320/001.JPG" /></a> Happy Sunday! What a gorgeous day it is here in Conn. Were promised a beautiful sunny but chilly day. it is ripe with Autumn in the air.<br /><br />I finally painted & embellished my first painted pumpkin of the year. It took me awhile since everything is still such an effort...With these stairs, Id probably lose your respect if you knew what Id do JUST to have a Foleys Catheter strapped to my leg...TMI? Im just sayin... </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Im actually going to bravely post this picture of me from this past Tuesday afternoon when my dear funny friend Diana (a wonderful Primitive dollmaker) stopped by after work for some coffee & gossip.</div><br /><div>Poor girl had that look on her face when she saw me like....</div><br /><div>she just shot her parents accidently...</div><br /><div>then gracefully & quickley recovered fast enough to cover the shock she had on her face from seeing me. Her visit was very healing...friendship & laughter always is. </div><br /><div>True Dat!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>This journey has aged me beyond. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Gratefully a large & careful amount of Loreal, my flat iron, hair care products help me cover up & fool my Friday Group into believing that I am able to show up...and I do. its what provides me with great joy & hope, I probabaly wouldnt go to help myself...but to help carry a message of hope to someone needing it...Then a girls gotta do...what a girls gotta do.</div><br /><div><br />So back to my pumpkin story...I sat this guy in a basket with some straw, funky gourds & loaded it with Werthers & Jolly Ranchers hard candies & brought it with me to donate to my Friday morning group. I still feel warmed & amazed that these people can express such child like excitement & appreciation for such a small act on my part. They all have such "Life Issues" theyre battling & yet each of them made sure to hug & thank me...You just never know who you touch when youre busy being "you" Im still washed with deep humility to be on this path.<br /><br />So Im sitting in my jeans & favorite old red tattered fall "Champion" sweatshirt...ooooh yeah the honeymoon is way over...that train left the station years ago...(giggle)<br />& since I steam cleaned the house yesterday, Im going to put a pork roast,& some roasted taters, in the oven & will serve it up with homemade applesauce...garden cukes & tomatoes..(not necessarily from my garden cuz I didnt plant one this year... but SOMEBODIES)<br />I bought the latest issue of Create n Decorate & found some delightful patterns to paint. I have a couple of different palletes to paint them on so it should be fun. Im still trying to finish my painted/quilted primitive flags Im almost done with. Gosh Im such a LOSER when it comes to completing projects that scare me....Im livin up to my Scaredy Kat moniker.<br /><br />Im busy reading, writing, & walking to some fabulous old school funky music on my I-Pod. I still resemble a geriatric patient without a cane...hmm... how tempting would painting a crazy & wild wooden cane be??? to use on these death defying walks in my hood? My husband would probably beat the ugly off me if I allowed myself to stop fighting & give up....this journey sure aint for cissies...<br />So Im on my way to healing.<br />Thoughts of visits with my Nat Nat & the energy needed for her 16 month old "catch me if you can" energized bunny self.... (PPPFFF show off) keep me grounded & going...<br /><sigh><br />no painted canes for this Kat.<br />Which probably means...<br />no Foley catheters either....<br />Until the next time, may all of our weeds be wild flowers...</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-39133315905516842712010-09-21T12:09:00.000-07:002010-09-21T12:53:50.361-07:00Rough Riders!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJkKreto-xI/AAAAAAAABfA/9G5NPB0-YSE/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519454560414399250" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJkKreto-xI/AAAAAAAABfA/9G5NPB0-YSE/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJkDGY_ugQI/AAAAAAAABe4/NMihH1Ctr34/s1600/untitled.bmp"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 193px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 192px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519446226643091714" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJkDGY_ugQI/AAAAAAAABe4/NMihH1Ctr34/s320/untitled.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJkDBI0ehKI/AAAAAAAABew/8pKK8bS6hzk/s1600/ruff+rider.bmp"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 213px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 174px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519446136401593506" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TJkDBI0ehKI/AAAAAAAABew/8pKK8bS6hzk/s320/ruff+rider.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>Hey Everyone...</div><div></div><br /><div>Im sorry Ive been amiss but Ive been busy... Rough Ridin...</div><br /><div>Im not going to bore anyone with any graphic or gorey details, ( I am facing some of the physical wreckage of my past) suffice to say Ive been bed ridden & sofa surfing after a serious round of medication that proved toxic & non responsive to my system & until we were/are able to rid it...Ive been riding out some exhausting terrain battling extreme pain, weakness & exhaustion.</div><br /><div>Anyone who knows me knows I am generally boinging off the walls with energy...</div><br /><div>"boinging"</div><br /><div>hmmmmmm...</div><br /><div>is that even a woid?</div><br /><div>did you know what I meant?</div><br /><div>then on to my story....</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So facing this experience has stolen my quality & every aspect of my life...</div><br /><div>but heres the good news...</div><br /><div>I BELIEVE!!!!</div><br /><div>I am on my way to healing, the devil IS a liar & no weapon formed against me shall prosper.</div><br /><div>There...how bout we have some Church up in here?</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Its been about 7 weeks of this experience & thru it all just when I thought I couldnt possibly love my husband any more...oooops there it is.♥</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>What in the world have I ever done to deserve this man? He has loved me, waited on me while working inside & outside of our home, hes cooked, done dishes, sorted, done & folded laundry, entertained folks, yakked on the phone to my girlfriends..HELLO!!!! all the while supporting, encouraging, laughing, loving, praying & putting my level of comfort on his priority list.</div><br /><div><sigh></div><br /><div>Hes such a keeper.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I know Im getting better because I feel it, I believe it & God showed me...heres how... Ive been a renewed sense of trust & purpous by being asked to facilitate a group of heroin/opiate addicts seeking recovery in the same facility that saved my life so many years ago...</div><div> </div><div>Is God kidding????</div><div>When????</div><div>This Friday????</div><br /><div>Full circle...</div><br /><div>Gods timing.</div><div>Not mine....</div><br /><div>Last Friday I SOMEHOW managed to throw on the face paint, iron my hair & strap on my turquoise & silver (& fake it till I make it) to meet for the first time for an hour & a half. </div><div></div><div></div><div>I went in convicted & hard...</div><div>but came home balling my eyes out...</div><div>no one saw me....</div><div>I hope...</div><div>(another segment of rough ridin tryin to steer the truck thru the ugly cry) in humility & gratitude that the Director, counselor & patients trusted me...me? to support them, to give what was given to me so freely....</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>This gift, gave me a sense of purpous & passion again as I walk thru some darkness of my own right now. I came home & napped HARD for 4 hours...</div><div></div><div>We went out Saturday to buy pumpkins so I could paint & donate them to the Center. This time & opportunity has provided me a reason to get up & get out of myself....</div><br /><div>I dont remember being thru anything like this..not even in my darkest times...</div><div>back then...</div><div>so Im so very grateful for everyday I wake up for another chance to please God,(even when & especially when Im convinced I cant do it...I do, so thats God not me) try to make up to my husband a portion of his gifts he gives to me & with a renewed spirit about whats "really" important & how its not always.... always about me.</div><br /><div>Another blessing is that I found out the magazine I write for ~Recovering The Self~ is on the press & the article I wrote & am featured in will be out in early October....</div><br /><div>Ive posted a very whimsical & silly "Grady" on my side bar who is one of my several punkin head dolls Ive been slowly making...</div><div>everything these days is slow...</div><br /><div>REALLY</div><br /><div>S-L-O-W!</div><br /><div>Grady was completed yesterday while I was feeling the lost gift of increased energy & wanted to honor him being so "Grade-ful"</div><br /><div>Thank those on my Face Book page, my recovery forums & in my personal life who know the darkness Im climbing out of....I couldnt & cant do any of this without prayer, without support & unconditional love void the shame I already battle for the consequences of my horrible choices many years ago...</div><div>Time to pay the Piper.</div><div>Hes a bitch!</div><br /><div>Thank you for stopping by & next time I promise there will be more creative projects and a more uplifting post....</div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-25771904043321069112010-09-05T15:36:00.000-07:002010-09-06T05:44:06.651-07:00Abundant September<span style="color:#330000;"></span>Thought Id enjoy a delicious cup of hot coffee with you on this perfect fall like September day.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TIQdHS4lpOI/AAAAAAAABdA/yZVqpflwsk4/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513563854973805794" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TIQdHS4lpOI/AAAAAAAABdA/yZVqpflwsk4/s320/002.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TIQc9zh91EI/AAAAAAAABc4/bI2ntiHLJCQ/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513563691938600002" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TIQc9zh91EI/AAAAAAAABc4/bI2ntiHLJCQ/s320/003.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TIQcwuwKtSI/AAAAAAAABcw/MZjzAL-3KEo/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513563467317687586" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TIQcwuwKtSI/AAAAAAAABcw/MZjzAL-3KEo/s320/004.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TIQb6IOn-0I/AAAAAAAABco/_3f7dbh1PUU/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513562529263516482" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TIQb6IOn-0I/AAAAAAAABco/_3f7dbh1PUU/s320/005.JPG" /></a><br />Ive been working on some really cute but stubborn punkin head dolls.</div><div>This heres Earleen, (thanks to Peanut from Countryfolk Keepsake) I was birthing her when we were anxiously awaiting the hurricane Earl who missed us but took away our heat wave... & Peanut suggested I honor her after Earl...& after seeing how our hair styles are similar.. (mine & Earleens not Peanuts)I mean some folks hardly know if Im comin into or outta a hurricane on most days....</div><div>Ive got 8 more neked bodies awaiting my attention, theyre gittin kinda ornery just layin on my table...just waiting & awaiting like Ive signed em up for some nudist colony wanting them to hang their little freak flags.</div><div></div><div>And speaking of flags....(Giggle)</div><div></div><div>Ive also been having some fun painting some prim flags... not to worry, I am fully clothed....then I stitch em up w/ batting inside & embellish em with some stripes & stars & rather than use a dowel to attatch them, I use a long branchy kind of twig outside. They are really cute & sell really well. Ive painted some pumpkins on them, some salt box houses & a couple of crows-n-sheep.</div><div></div><div>Im so grateful to share that since my last blog post, my husband has been called back to one of his jobs that he subcontracts out to AND has been working every weekend restoring a sweet 67 Mustang for someone needing a welder & body guy! </div><div>That would be him....:)</div><div></div><div>Ive also been so busy, I completely forgot on Sept.3d I celebrated my 7 year clean & sober anniversary...wow...what a ride.</div><div>Much to be thankful for. </div><div>I sure wasnt even living close to the beautiful, bountiful, spoiled life Im blessed with today.</div><div></div><div>So thank you... to all my family & dear friends who cared enough to support, encourage & love me when I havent always been the most loveable.</div><div>And of course, I am emotionally & forever grateful to God who plucked me up from the bowels of the earth cuddling me, healing me, & promising me that this was only the beginning.</div><div></div><div>So yes, I celebrate this very abundant September.</div><div>Thank you for stopping by & sharing a cuppa with me..Im just tickled with joy that you stopped by....<br /><br /><br /></div><div><strong><span style="color:#660000;"></span></strong></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-42455764639908938122010-08-26T19:44:00.000-07:002010-08-27T03:51:53.838-07:00Reflections<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/THcm2KfwwQI/AAAAAAAABcg/BSIzVvUoAXQ/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509915381083455746" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/THcm2KfwwQI/AAAAAAAABcg/BSIzVvUoAXQ/s320/006.JPG" /></a><br /><div><strong>Sitting here in front of our toasty fire pit the other night, sipping coffee,(slappin away some B-52 sized skeeters) I was reflecting on so many changes that have occured in my life during the past year. Last year at this time, I was healing from the first of 2 surgeries on my thumb from a nasty fall at the school I was working at. I returned for 2 days last September but have since resigned needing a second surgery from being forced to go back too early(because of politics) & getting an infection that attacked the wound & surrounding tissue.</strong></div><div><strong>I worked really hard testing & preparing for that supervisors position & it was sad for me to leave. </strong></div><div><strong>I had to...</strong></div><div><strong>for me.</strong></div><div><strong>Ive also made some personal changes as I shared in recent posts about not people pleasing or competing in blogland & Ive learned some good lessons there....</strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>Then this crazy turn of events of & after writing for Barbara Sinors book,(Tales of Addiction & stories of inspiration) then being featured in "Recovering The Self" this coming October, & then as if that wasnt enough... the follow up invite/offer to write as a regular contributor</strong> <strong>there, well its just taken on a momentum of its own. </strong></div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>During all of these changes, Ive put my creating dolls & painting on the back burner & I realized some of my meloncholy that I couldnt identify with all this other good stuff happening...came from a place of discontent. I LOVE creating dolls. Its what makes my heart beat a little faster, its what gives me a sense of identity & purpous especially in a time of changing seasons, calendar wise & metaphorically speaking.</strong></div><div><strong>So Im trying to incorporate both passions into my life without having to put one or the other down. Writing as much as I do, & the editing, & more editing...well its not as easy as some may think. Especially being the perfectionist that I am. </strong></div><div><strong>Ok,</strong></div><div><strong>maybe not perfectionist,</strong></div><div><strong>Im no Jodi Picoult,</strong></div><div><strong>surely no Anita Shreve....</strong></div><div><strong>but I am a really intense...I mean.... passionate woman.</strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>The whole time I was worried about who I was & where I fit in..in this big olde scary world, God gently... </strong></div><div><strong>ok... sometimes...ok... MOST of the time... PUSHES me into doing some really uncomfortable stuff...</strong></div><div><strong>I ask Him to bless me indeed...increase my territory...& He does...then I act all confused & overwhelmed...</strong></div><div><strong>Poor God.</strong></div><div><strong>So as I sat outside fighting them mosquitos & moths, I realized I dont have a thing in the world to worry about.</strong></div><div><strong>Gods GOT this. from start to finish. Do I worry that my husbands been out of work? Do I worry cuz Im unable to work outside of the home right now? Or that Im facing some health issues in addition to possibly a 3d surgery on my deformed & painful thumb??? nahhhh, not anymore...</strong></div><div><strong>Ill type with my nose & paint with my toes if need be.</strong></div><div><strong>Im convinced this has all been already worked out for my highest good.</strong></div><div><strong>I can hear God chuckling sayin..."Dont trip tater chip"</strong></div><div><strong>I just wish Hed do something about them skeeters!</strong></div><div><strong></strong></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-23586072904724503032010-08-19T05:30:00.000-07:002010-08-19T06:29:23.961-07:00Gratitude!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TG0ud6ExbXI/AAAAAAAABcY/gH6iSK_S-to/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507109010684341618" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TG0ud6ExbXI/AAAAAAAABcY/gH6iSK_S-to/s320/004.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TG0rLXto6xI/AAAAAAAABcQ/3QEm1FMt210/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507105393687980818" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TG0rLXto6xI/AAAAAAAABcQ/3QEm1FMt210/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TG0q4pl-ncI/AAAAAAAABcI/abwWo3lC98Q/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507105072070172098" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TG0q4pl-ncI/AAAAAAAABcI/abwWo3lC98Q/s320/006.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">MMMMMM, My home smells so nice this morning, the combination of coffee, wood burning from Ronnies new project, & the crisp breeze coming through the kitchen window reassuring us Fall is indeed around the corner.</span></strong></div><br /><br /><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;"></span></strong></div><br /><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Not sure when, or where my husband will be working next, both jobs he subcontracts for have been put on hold... both shops either waiting for materials or not being able to afford them has put our lives on hold.</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">We have always been well taken care of in the past when this unpredictable "SNAFU" visits us, we know this isnt any different, we dont panic, we utilize our creative options staying focused on what "we" can do, & leave the rest to God.</span></strong><br /></div><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Or...........</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">we can insist Opie earns his keep & sit him on the side of a highway with a sign stating "Will do tricks for Begginstrips"</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Ive been busy making apple cobbler, & painting a cute little denim jacket for Natalie Jo.</span></strong></div><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Painting on denim sure aint for cissies, but Im pleased with the results, Ive designed a whimsical goofy sunshine to complete the back side.</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Ronnie was so sweet insisting that we go to Best Buy 3 days before my birthday & buy a WIFI Router thingy for my new laptop, so Im not so limited in one area of our house. </span></strong></div><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Ive been wanting to create a studio of sorts upstairs in the empty & rather large finished, attic with 2 rooms. I can bring the laptop up there & work upstairs either painting, sewing or writing. </span></strong></div><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">in the really "red" rooms...</span></strong></div><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Had no idea when the newlyweds were living here & encouraged to paint their new digs any color they wanted....that it would be "Bordello Red"</span></strong></div><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">but it is....</span></strong></div><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">really red.</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Ronnie also surprized me with the new issue of Create & Decorate...(ran to AC Moore w/o me) (how stinkin cute is that????)& its a good one.</span></strong></div><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;"> I cannot WAIT to begin making some adoreable Bats from Denise Whites "The Cats Pyjamas", & a couple of perfect prim & whimsical pumkin dolls by a variety of artists.</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">So Ive got a busy day ahead of me...its a wonderful cool & dry day to make some delicious Cheeseburg Casserole with a healthy salad from fresh veggies from our local Farmers Market, finish up Nats jacket & do some writing for RTS for their next issue. I still cannot wrap my thoughts around this amazing oppertunity that takes my breath away.</span></strong><br /></div><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Just a quick note before closing, I did research on a recent post concerning the designers' name I wasnt sure of who designed the crow & pumpkin I painted & made into a fall pillow & I was right, it was indeed "Susan Burd". (She just rocks)</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">Thank you for stopping by, it JUST tickles me knowing you care enough to swing by. </span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#003300;">I hope everyone has a fun filled week celebrating all weve been blessed with!♥</span></strong></div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-107690607512959406.post-51475645329571773392010-08-13T18:43:00.000-07:002010-08-13T20:19:48.306-07:00New Chapter...<span style="color:#660000;">"Recovering The Self" has invited me to write for them and to be a part of their magnificent family/team. Of course I thought about this amazing learning experience for me, I also of course asked my husband what he thought????...</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"><sigh>I should have known that man couldnt be objective with anything concerning me, he is my number one supporter in anything & all I do...yup...even the crazy changes, colors, & doos I make in my hair at any given moment...he just loves me...& Im not sure who was more excited about this...me or him?</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">But then I thought perhaps this decision that was riding a bit high on my scale to just jump & grow some wings on the way down...to avoid this decision that might be based on ego or excitement, I went to my best friend in the whole world...God.</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">This is what I heard...& I dont even talk like this so although it was my voice, it was His words.</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">"Child, you come to me daily in our talks, walks, or in your journal & ask me to honor the prayer of Jabez...and ask me to increase your territory, to bless you, to guide you... to keep you clean, sober & ever changing, to put people in your path, Yet here you are, still you lack clarity on this amazing oppertunity youve been invited to be a part of?" </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#660000;">Do you not trust me?</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">Kat interrupts & tells God its "her" she doesnt trust.....</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">Im sure He rolled His eyes...</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">"You have been blessed with your gift of words, your brand new life, family, friends, material luxuries, & I only did what you werent able to do for yourself, "you" child did the rest." </span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">He was on a roll & then continued with this....</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">"Im touched that theres little you wont do without seeking guidance from me, but Kat, you are more than capable of walking thru any nervousness & give back what was so freely given to you...I know this road of recovery, radical changes in both forgiving others & forgiving yourself in addition to carrying the message hasnt always been easy, but as I always tell you...To whom much is given, much is expected.</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">I have given you much, it is time to give it away....I want you to accept this blessing with the gratitude, with the love & experiences we have been thru together & I want you to accept this gift & then do some re-gifting... touch lives...</span><span style="color:#660000;">You have made a difference in mine.....love, God"</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">So I emailed my editor back & humbly accepted this generous offer to write, I thanked him for believing in me, trusting me with this monumental responsibility & honor, & especially for wanting to help me follow my dreams while writing for this amazing magazine that celebrates & embraces healing, the mind, body & spirit.</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;">So once again, Im following my bliss. Im dwelling in possibility, & Recovering the Self.</span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#660000;"></span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TGX13fjwSoI/AAAAAAAABcA/ZFknevQk-xo/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505076453243374210" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TGX13fjwSoI/AAAAAAAABcA/ZFknevQk-xo/s320/011.JPG" /></a> So the hubs & I are sitting on our front porch this evening & Opies havin a ball, jaws snappin at flies...trying to befriend a bumble bee & just sittin there as cute as cute can be...panting, smiling, trying to lick me,& Grampa.<br />He just sittin there staring into my soul with his big dark beautiful liquid brown eyes, & Im thinkin how beautiful would this picture be?<br />So I grab the camera & attempt snapping the picture of the year...<br /><br />EZPZ this guys a ham....<br /><br />"Here Opie, Grammies takin your picture...</p><p>You who......<br />look at Grammie....<br />O-O-O-P-I-E...<br />Come on Opers, Ill give you a cookie"...<br />all of a sudden, hes camera shy????</p><p>..when in tarnation did THAT happen?</p><p><br />He squinted his eyes,<br />stopped smiling started scowling & wouldnt look at me..<br />not for love or money<br />( actually not really money but snausages).<br /><br />So this is what I got...<br />the pout.<br /><br />These Hollywood stars forget where they came from.<br />Hes no Eddie on Frazier thats for sure!</p><p><br />Ok, so I may or may not trying to push fall.<br />I love me some fall.<br />I painted this crow & pumpkin, & made it into a cute little pillow to tuck somewhere special. I found this pattern in an old issue of one of my favorite magazines... Create & Decorate,I mean besides Recovering The Self....<br />BUT...<br />Im so embarrassed, I cant for the life of me remember who the awesome designer was, Im wanting to say Susan Byrd, but in all fairness, to keep me a Scaredy Kat & not a copy Kat, (cuz Homie dont play that)I promise to research her name for sure & edit this & include her name tomorrow.<br /><br />I also finally finished one of Terrye Frenches designs on this piece of wood I found in someones outside trash...HELLO! my trash to treasure...now my husband once again wouldnt hear of me fussin & complaining that Id made so many mistakes, Im just hopin when it was all said & dont Terrye French may not WANT me to credit her with the final outcome...LOL<br />Im just sayin....<br />Well...Suck it up Ter, a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do...but my husband was so cute, he said, "Babe, theres never mistakes when creating...its just "custom" LOL<br /><br />Oh my dear Lord & all thats holy...<br /><br />what did I ever do to deserve this man?<br /><br />Thank you so much for stopping by & to all who left such heart warming comments to me about my new blog, my experiences, challenges, & hopes.<br />I dont know what Id ever do without any of you. ♥♥♥<br /></p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TGX1oiGEiJI/AAAAAAAABb4/sN5OVR5CWS8/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505076196226140306" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TGX1oiGEiJI/AAAAAAAABb4/sN5OVR5CWS8/s320/010.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TGX1WBf7jZI/AAAAAAAABbw/Vgh_Sx6kuUY/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505075878238588306" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TGX1WBf7jZI/AAAAAAAABbw/Vgh_Sx6kuUY/s320/006.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TGX04PUzFuI/AAAAAAAABbo/jLuBuvBLKDY/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505075366553917154" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c9QEZQVXnCY/TGX04PUzFuI/AAAAAAAABbo/jLuBuvBLKDY/s320/001.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14989142358875383220noreply@blogger.com1