Wednesday Hodgepodge

Happy Wednesday!

Today I am joining in Wednesday Hodgepodge with Joyce and the Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop with Pennie.

1. Do you like the beach? I absolutely love the beach!! Any beach!!! anywhere!! When I traveled for work I was lucky to be near beaches and was able to visit a beach at least every night. Now that I am in nursing school I don't see many beaches but I plan to visit some in the future! My favorite will always be Stone Harbor, NJ. We have traveled there almost every year since I was a baby! This picture is from Stone Harbor last year; I went parasailing with my niece Kyleigh.

How far do you have to drive to get to the nearest beach? Stone Harbor is about 8 hours from my home but so very worth the drive!

Your least favorite thing about the beach? The only least favorite thing about the beach is when biting flies are present. They are only there certain times of the year when the trade winds are blowing a certain way but they are awful!! I HATE bug spray at the beach!

Last beach trip you took? I guess my nursing trip to Nicaragua counts for a beach trip. We could not swim in the water but we did take a boat trip around Lake Nicaragua. It was pretty amazing to say the least!

2. Are you known for making waves or are you more of a 'go along to get along' kind of person? Explain. I like to believe I am a "go along with" kind of person every though I have some tendencies toward OCD and controlling behaviors. I am definitely working on these things as I do not want to be THAT person!

3. A favorite song that in some way references the beach? Toes in the water by Zac Brown Band is my very favorite tune for the beach!!



A favorite book and/or movie with a beach-y setting? I think I love any book written by Kristen Hannah. She has written at least 16 books and almost all have a beach theme1 I love her books!

4.Tuesday is National Simplicity Day...what's a simple pleasure you've enjoyed this week? I have enjoyed sitting in my hammock chair on my porch! It is sooo relaxing and I love every second spent swinging! What's something you could eliminate from your life to make things simpler? I honestly think my life at this poit is as simple as it can be. I have made sure of this because school takes up so much time!

5. What's something you love to do? Do you do it often? Why or why not? I love to read for fun and this summer (one school break) has allowed me to do this a lot! I have read so many books already! I am so happy about that!

6. Insert your own random thought here...I will leave you with the picture of my very favorite beach ever! This is Aruba!! Ahhhhh...

Thanks for hosting this Annie and I hope everyone has a fantastic week!

One Final HodgePodge?

Welcome to the Wednesday Hodgepodge. If you would like to join in with us, answer the questions and link up at the end of Joyce's post, then leave a comment for the blogger linking before you.

 

1. What has been the highlight of your summer so far?

I think just being home this summer has been amazing!! I have been traveling for work for the [ast two years and I would fly out on Sunday night and fly home on Fridays. The last thing I wanted to do was leave the house again until I have to fly out in two days.  Now that I am back to working in Pittsburgh, it is awesome!! I am home all week and I get to go up to my parents house every weekend! They live on a lake and all my siblings and their kids meet up there every weekend! It has been summer of floating, boating, tubing and skiing fun!!

2. What do you wish you'd done more of this summer? Less of?

More of? Nothing at all I can think of

Less of? Eating in general! I wanted to watch what I eat and I have been failing miserably at that!

3. Something you're looking forward to on your September calendar?

I will be leaving for Hawaii (Lahue to be exact) in mid-September!! I am so excited! I will be traveling with my mother and one of her best friends. It is bound to be an amazing trip!!!! Yippee!!! Anyone that has been there...we are looking for advice on the "must sees", "must dos" and general island advice! Any input is appreciated!!!

4. Best/favorite book you've read this summer?

This is a first...I have not read one book this summer!!! I started one before vacation and spent so much time building sandcastles and riding waves that I did not even finish that!! I am still working on it!! Usually, I read four just on that vacation!!! WOWSA!

5. Share something positive, encouraging, or uplifting here.


 

 
6. Insert your own random thought here.

I will be meeting with the Lowe's plumber today (sometime between 1PM and 5PM) to see if he can repair my brand new machine or if they need to get me a new on in! Fingers crossed this goes smoothly!!

Thanks Joyce for another great round of HodgePodge!! I hope you all have a great Wednesday and rest of your week!

Again, if you would like to join in - answer the questions and link up at the end of Joyce's post, then leave a comment for the blogger linking before you.

Wednesday Hodgepodge

I am joining in with Joyce for this week's Wednesday Hodgepodge.

Answer on your own blog, then hop back here to add your link to the party. See you there!  I always love meeting new people and reading everyone's answers!!

1. I feel most energized when I _______________________.   I have to say I definitely feel more energized when I get out of barre class. After I get home from work, I put on jammies for an hour or two and veg out watching Ellen. I am always so tired and sluggish after sitting at that desk all day but I always then MAKE myself head out to barre (exercise) at night. After barre, I am so peppy and feel great! I truly believe exercise is good for EVERYTHING that ails you!

2. Where were you ten years ago?  I was still at the same company as far as a job and I was living with a man that I thought would be my husband, Turns out, he was an addict so I have to kick him out of my home about a year later - UGH! Other than that - not much has changed!

3. July 17th is World Emoji Day. Do you use emojis? Which one's your favorite? Your most used?  I love the smiley emoji that kissing with the puckered lips! That is definitely my most used emoji! Spread love always!

4. What song would you put on a wedding DO NOT PLAY list? This is much too hard for mid-week thoughts...ummm..maybe So Hott by Kidrock! LOL! Yes, definitely So Hott would not be appropriate! HA HA! You will have to google those lyrics yourself...it is really not even publishable! HA!

5. What deserves less of your attention? More of your attention?  Less of my attention needs to go to what people think of me- I am starting to worry less and less about this and it feels so good to not care! More of my attention needs to (AND WILL) go to me and getting and staying healthy! I want to lose this weight and very healthy and mobile and be able to live long and be active until the end!

6. Insert your own random thought here. If I ever need a part time job I can be a cable installer! If anyone saw the end of my post yesterday HERE on getting a new cable box since the old one quit working - I had to install it last night when I got home from work. It was do it myself or wait a week!  It was easy peasy and up and running within 15 minutes!!! Yeah!!! Also, the new has the voice remote so I can now ask my TV to do things for me! LOVE THIS FEATURE!

Also, this post caught my eye! LOL! So very true! HA HA HA HA

I hope everyone has an amazing hump day!  I am now off to read everyone else's answers! I am sure there are going to be some good ones for 4!!!  HUGS ALL!

Anyone else like to home projects and installs? 
Anyone else obsessed with their home electronics? lights you work wit your phone? cameras? etc? 

Wednesday Hodgepodge

Hi all!  It's Wednesday!!! You know what that means?!?!?  

It is time to join in with Joyce from This Side of the Pond for Wednesday Hodgepodge.  If you want to join in; just answer on your own blog, then hop back to Joyce's blog tomorrow to add your link to the party. I always love meeting new people and reading everyone's answers!!

1. What's something in your house you'd like to get rid of but can't?  Oh UGH! Don't remind me!! LOL! My carpet! I own a condo and I would love to replace my carpet!. My parents had their whole house done for around 5 thousand so I thought it would be reasonable for my little itty bitty condo but guess what???It was ridiculous!! My lowest quote was $3600!! WHAT?!?!? So disappointing! Then - my dishwasher broke so that sealed the deal for no new carpet!!  What I am going to do I start watching YOUTUBE videos and learn how to do hardwood or laminate myself!! Stay tuned!!! 
 
2. When is the last time you experienced a sense of nostalgia? Elaborate.  This one is easy! I wear my Great Grandmothers ring she left to me in her will every day and I swear every time I happen to glance at it on my finger or start to twirl it out of habit; I am immediately taken back to my childhood! I spent so many hours sitting and talking with my Great Grandmother. Her name Margaret Eileen Jumps and she was an amazing woman! After my fathers mother died when he was 14, she took over as the mother figure in the family. She was an accomplished organist in her church and was such a lovely, classy and talented woman. I will never forget everything she taught me! It did not hurt that I was her favorite also! :-)

3. You're only allowed three apps on your smart phone or tablet...which three do you keep?  
First - I use my bank app everyday-I have to have it! I love that I can transfer from accounts and also deposit from my phone now!!! No more trips to the bank AT ALL!!   Second - Facebook!  I am almost sad to say this but I still LOVE Facebook! It keeps me connected to friends and all my nieces and nephews and family and I love to see how much fun everyone is having this summer!!  Third - I would have to keep My Fitness Pal. Now that I am back on track with my eating and exercise; it is a must to keep me in line!
 
4. July 11th is National Blueberry Muffin Day. Who knew? Not I!  Do you like blueberry muffins? They are just okay.  If you were going to have a muffin would blueberry be your choice? No, I would chose banana nut!!  What's the last thing you baked?  Sadly I do not even remember! As you can tell from my answer, I do not bake. HA HA
 
5. What's the biggest way you've changed since you were a child? I was horrible! I do not remember a lot but I know I was a bully and not very nice to others. I recently found out from someone I grew up with that I was the one that told him he was adopted! Apparently when I was around 8 years old I overheard my parents talking about it and ran and told him! His parents had not told him yet! I apologized to him when he told me that story last year. See?? I was awful!!  In what way are you still the same?  I am still very fun-loving and spontaneous! I pride myself in being the "fun aunt" and I hope I never grown up so much that I can not laugh at myself and have fun!

6. Insert your own random thought here.

Please consider stopping by my blog on Tuesdays!!! You can follow me and visit me HERE!! I am starting Trim Down Tuesdays link up to help anyone that wants a supportive place to hang out as we share our weight loss and healthy eating journeys!!  

I can not wait to go visit the others that are linking up today with Joyce!! 

Happy Wednesday yinz!!

Wednesday HodgePodge

Welcome to another week and another Hodgepodge! I am joining Joyce again this week!

 If you want to play along - simply answer the questions on your own blog, then hop back and link up at Joyce's Blog From This Side of the Pond!

Here we go-

1. Security or freedom? Can you have both? Explain. I prefer both but am not sure if both are possible. I believe we should all be free to move around and explore the world - life would be way more interesting that way. However, something has got to be done about the bad dictators! There are far too many dangerous places on Earth and sadly if you are born there, you are stuck! I wish everyone could live with democracy and peace!!!  Sadly, that is not really realistic! But it does make me very grateful to have been born and raised in America!

2. If you could visit any historical American site what would it be? Why? I love Gettysburg! There is such history there! Every time I go, I learn more about the strategies, struggles and sacrifices that others have made for my freedom!

3. Free as a bird, free reign, be free of, free enterprise, free trip, walk away scot free, free for all...which 'free' phrase can best be applied to your life in recent days or weeks? Explain.  Let's go with "be free of".  I am now free of traveling every week for work - I am permanently in Pittsburgh again - I have not decided if it is a good thing or not - LOL! Some days I am happy to be done with all the packing and travel and some days I really miss it! I do love that I can hang out with friends again though!

4. Something in your frig that's red? Something in your house that's white? Something in your view that's blue? My fridge ALWAYS has Heinz Ketchup! I use it on everything and I am from Pittsburgh so it is fitting! My walls and carpet are white! I love that crisp, clean look of an all white room! And something blue that is in my view right now are the post-its on my desk at work and this text for my answers!

5. July 27th is National New Jersey Day. Have you ever visited The Garden State? If so where did you go? Are there diners where you live? Have you tried Taylor Pork Roll? Do you like to play Monopoly? Salt water taffy-yay or nay? How do you feel about shopping at the mall? Springsteen, Sinatra, or Bon Jovi-you have to pick one. I love the Garden State! I travel there at least once a year for vacation at Stone Harbor, NJ!!! My favorite beach on the earth! We have gone every year since I was about 6 years old! LOVE Monopoly - my favorite board game!!! And ICK to taffy but yeah to fudge!!! Not a mall fan and I love Springsteen!!!!

Raise your hand if you know why these add-on questions are appropriate on National NJ Day. ME ME ME!!!! They are all from New Jersey, right?!

6. Insert your own random thought here.
I am so happy it is Wednesday! This week is crawling along slower than molasses on a flat road! 


I hope you all have a blessed and happy Wednesday!!! Now, I am off to go read all of your answers!!
 

Wednesday HodgePodge

Today I am joining Joyce @ From This Side of the Pond for her edition of Wednesday Hodgepodge.  You should play too!!! Just copy and paste the questions; write your answers and add you link at the end of her blog post! Here we gooooooooo...

1. What happens to the mail at your house?

That's easy! I live alone with cats so nothing! HA HA! I get it from the mailbox and open it. I remove my address from all papers and grind them in my shredder.  I grind anything with my name or address and anyone else's name and address (ie: Return addresses, etc. I am big on identity theft!

Now, as far as packages, that is another story! I live in a condo with a thief! It sucks in that anytime we get a package delivered we have to look out for each other and immediately take it to that persons door or our thief neighbor steals it and sells it on the weekend at Trader Jacks!!! So freaking annoying! Such is life until I move! Cra cra...right?

2. Something you always splurge on? Any guilt associated with the splurge?

Barre classes! Definitely barre classes! They are pricey but I cannot wait to get to class so that says something right there! Also, maybe my eyelash growth serum...it is about $130 from Rhodan and Fields but it is so worth it! I got used to beautiful lashes when I was getting extensions and then all of the sudden I became allergic to them! So, this is my only option but it really does work!

3. There are many, but what are two important questions you think every bride and groom should ask/answer before they plan their walk down the aisle?

Not that I will ever be in that position again but ...

For me, over 50, I would say "How much debt do you have?" "Have you ever been married before? and if yes,how many ex-wives and children are there?" Very important information for later in life! HA HA

4. What's the best advice your father ever gave you?

Nothing is free! And that is very true.  Also, if it looks too good to be true, it is! Those have served me well so far in my 50 years!  My Dad was a hard worker and dedicated to his family...that is so hard to find in a man these days...everyone I date ends up being lazy, unmotivated and looking for an easy, softer way in life. Or just looking for a woman to take care of them-not happening!!! UGH!

5. Your favorite movie where a father features heavily in the storyline?

Daddy's Home just cracked me up! Really is probably on of my new all time favorites! Also, on a side note: Daddy's Home 2 is just as funny!!!

6. Insert your own random thought here.


I want to wish my Dad Happy Fathers Day and also Happy Fathers Day to the dad hero in your lives also! They give so much of themselves and it feels so good to celebrate them! My Dad has taught me to be a self-sufficient,strong, powerful, respectful and hard-working woman that can take care of herself...well Mom and Dad both...I owe them so much!! Thank you for the gifts of self-sufficiency you have given me! No matter what happens, I will be okay! And...family is #1 always, after God!!!

Thanks for hosting this Joyce, great questions! I cant wait to read everyone else's answers!

Have a blessed and exciting day!!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

 

 

1. What's changed in your life, home, or community since your last birthday? 

My birthday was May so not very much at all I am sad to say. Actually nothing really. I really like my predictable life right now! LOL

2. September is Classical Music Month. Do you like/listen to classical music? If so what's a favorite piece and/or who is a favorite composer? 

 

Not really a fan at all unless I am at the Opera. Is that classical? LOL

3. Besides The Bible, what's a book that has positively changed your life, relationships, career, or perspective? How so? 

I love the Big Book! It has transformed my entire life and even, do I dare say, given me a life! I owe everything I have today to those first 100!!!!

4. I read (here) these ten hobbies will make you smarter...play a musical instrument, read voraciously, meditate regularly, work out your brain (puzzles, sudoku, board games, etc), exercise often, learn a new language, write your feelings down (blog, journal, just write), travel to new places, cook different kinds of meals, participate in sports actively. Are any on this list your current hobbies? Which hobby on the list would you be most inclined to try? 

I workout everyday (running, barre or body pump) and I love puzzles and board games! I also journal all the time when I need to talk something out with myself!

5. What sports traditions does your family have? 

 

No traditions - we just LOVE our Pirates, Penguins and Steelers with every part of our being!

6. In a few words, weigh in on the current football/National Anthem brouhaha. Keep it family friendly please.

 

There is too much drama for me in everyday stuff that just does not need that much attention. I feel exactly the same about the election! We could learn a lot from the older generations that say "if you can't say something nice then don't say anything at all".

7. Where do you have loads of patience, and where do you most lack patience? 

Driving is the only area where I completely lack patience! I have zero when I am behind the wheel of a car! LOL

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I am so happy that half the week is over! 

 

Wednesday HodgePodge

Hi all!  First a BIG thank you to our Hodgepodge Hostess, Joyce!! 

Hodgepodge Questions-Volume 279

If you want to join in on the Hodgepodge, hop on over to From This Side of the Pond, grab the questions, write answers on your blog and then go back to add your link. 

1.  Are there any men or women in blue on your family tree?  None that are currently living but many, many great Aunts and Uncles that served our country.

2. Are you someone who suffers from the Sunday night blues? What helps you get over it?  No, not really. I try to enjoy each day for what it brings...life is WAY to short to stress over a day of the week!

3. I read the color blue is an appetite suppressant since there are very few naturally blue foods out there. How do you feel about blue cheese?  I LOVE IT!!!! I could eat it on everything! Salads, burgers and alone!  Love it or blech?  If you're a fan, what's something you like that's made with blue cheese?  Huntsman cheese is amazing! It is cheddar cheese with blue cheese in the middle of it!! Best ever!

4. We can't head into the Labor Day weekend without a related question, can we? Complete this thought:  I work best when  I am down to the wire on a deadline! I am a procrastinator...definitely an issue of mine. HA

5. 'Everything yields to diligence.' Antiphanes Your thoughts? (on this particular quote or on diligence in general)  I would interpret that as "don't half-ass anything" and I totally agree with that!

6. The National Park Service turned 100 years old on August 25th. Have you been to many of America's National Parks?  If so share with us a favorite or two. Which National Park would you most like to visit before the next birthday rolls around? I do not think I have - I am totally sure I am missing out!!!

7.  Bid farewell to August in seven words or less.  Blowing kisses...I love you so much!!!!! Please don't go!!!

8.  Insert your own random thought here.  Happy it's Wednesday! I hope everyone has an amazing Labor Day weekend!!!

Thanks for your visit!!  I do enjoy Hodgepodge Wednesdays!!  Peace & hugs.

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. It's National Waffle Day (August 24th)...what decision are you currently 'waffling over'? (or share one you've recently 'waffled over')

Buying a new home. I own a condo but when my family comes to visit there is just not a lot of room. I would love to have a large house with room for everyone!! Gotta keep saving!

2. It's the middle of August, but I'm already seeing lots of autumn-related posts. Do you think we rush the seasons? If so, does that bother you? I saw (here) an end of summer bucket list that included-

make s'mores, read a new (or favorite) book in the park, eat something delicious and bad for you at a state fair, be a tourist for the day, have a pot luck picnic, book a last minute summer getaway, relax by or in the pool, take a hike to watch the sunset, have a day on the lake, try a new summer recipe

Which activities on the list might you squeeze in before summer officially comes to a close? 

We definitely rush the seasons way to much and I hate it. I wish we could all just enjoy today more!!!  I went in to Hobby Lobby and they have Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas up already! Seriously!?!? Yuck! It is still summer to me!I may try all the above you have listed...

3. Your favorite summertime 'art' found in nature?

Flowers! I absolutely love flowers!!! God's hand at art work!

4. Stephen R. Covey is quoted as saying 'We judge ourselves by our intentions, and others by their actions.' Agree or no? Do you define yourself based on your intentions, your actions, or something else? 

I am in recovery so I have learned to take a hard look at myself and ALWAYS judge myself on my actions and take a long hard look at my motivations for any situation. As far as others, judge not less we be judged, right? I try really hard not to judge others at all....Live and Let Live!

5. Are you useful in a crisis? Elaborate. 

Today yes....in my younger years absolutely NOT!

6. What's been your go-to dish this summer? Is it something you'll continue making as the seasons change?

Capresi salads are my favorite for summer! Basil, tomato, mozzarella cheese and balsamic reduction is amazing!!!!!!

7. Adult coloring books are a thing now. Have you jumped on the bandwagon? If not is this something you think you might enjoy?

I have, and I like to color but just never find the time. I also enjoy reading way more so that seems to always win when I have down time. I think I have colored 1/2 of one of the pages in my book - LOL!

8.  Insert your own random thought here. 

If you are struggling with staying on track with weight loss, I am hosting Weigh in Wednesdays to keep each other accountable...I would love it if you would join in !  Annster's Domain

Wednesday Hodgepodge - Link On Up

Joyce asks the questions.

We answer the questions.

Click here to join the fun! 

 1. I read here four creative activities to try this month. They were-calligraphy, make your own cookbook, dance or learn a new type of dance, and letter writing. Which activity on the list appeals to you most? Will you add it to your August? 

I LOVE dancing! Zumba is my favorite however, I make a point of dancing to music in my home alone whenever possible!!

 2. Bertrand Russell is quoted as saying, 'To be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.' Agree or disagree? Explain.

I LOVE this quote! If I am interpreting correctly that is. To me this means that if you never have to WANT and WAIT to get something, you can never truly appreciate it when you get it. Kids today have this problem a lot! So many kids I know get and have everything they want...it is hard to appreciate anything now days. Kinda sad really....      I can remember waiting MONTHS to get a certain new toy at Christmas.

3. August 17th is National Thriftshop Day...are you a 'thrifter'? If so, tell us about one of your best or favorite finds. 

 

I do enjoy thrifting! Goodwill is my favorite stop and I also really enjoy flea markets! Your junk is my treasure! HA HA

 

 4.  On a scale of 1-10 (with 1= almost none and 10=loads) how would you rate your sense of wanderlust? What kicks your wanderlust into high gear? 

 

I am a 10! I love to get away! Had about four weeks of vacation this summer - made such a difference in my outlook! The beach is my serenity!

 

 5. Has life felt more like a marathon or sprint so far this month? How so?

 

Sprint...days go by faster and faster!!! I am getting way too old way too quick!

 

 6. What do you need to get a jump on before fall officially arrives? 

Nothing at all!!! Yeah me!

7. What's the last thing you did with friends or family where you lost track of time?

Family vacation to the beach! I did not even know what day of the week it was on most days! LOVE that!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

 

Loving that my weight loss is back on track thanks to Weigh in Wednesday and staying accountable on social media!! Lost 3.2 this week!!!  Won't you please join me?!?!!? Stop by and link up there too! I would love to have you!!! Happy Hump Day!

 

 

 

 

Wednesday Hodgepodge

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. What does retirement mean to you? Are you planning for it, not thinking about it, looking forward to it, or dreading it?

I am absolutely living for the day I can retire!  I almost feel like i am not enjoying today because I am planning so much for it!  I am planning for it and, God willing if I live that long, I will be living better then than I am now! YIPPEE!! If I die, then my nieces and nephews can all buy houses with my money! HEE!

2. It's International Guitar Month...do you play? Does anyone in your family play? What's a song you especially like to hear played on the guitar or a favorite song featuring the guitar?

I do not play. I have tried and my fingers do not work that way.  I have a friend Michael that plays and I loved hearing him play Kumbaya by the firepit.

3. What's your comfort food?

Chocolate and/or peanut butter - always my go to! I cant even keep them in the house!

4. What's one activity or area of your life where you absolutely never procrastinate?

Balancing my checkbook and finances. I check my finances EVERYDAY!!!

5. Who does the grocery shopping in your house? Does your local store bag the groceries for you or is it a do-it-yourself kind of place? Do you like someone packing your groceries?

I shop myself and I use the self scan isle and bag them myself. I need to make sure my stuff is packed well and not too much in each bag, etc. HA! When I go with my BF, we use the checkout and they bag them. He buys WAYYYY more than me! HA

6. What's the coolest thing you've seen in nature?

I love it all! I honestly cant pick one thing. I love running on trails here at home because it is all amazing to me! The little streams and waterfalls, to snakes and frogs and bunnies! I love it all!

7. Share a favorite quote about home.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I am waiting to hear some important news and it is killing me!!!! Again, rushing through time and wasting today...

Wednesday Hodgepodge

 

 

Visit Joyce and join the fun!

1. What are two or three expectations you have of yourself?

 a. I expect myself to bring joy to others and not hurt or pain
b. I expect myself to be there as much as I can for my family
c. I expect myself to always be the best I can be in any given situation and follow God's will each day

2. In what way does your outdoor space need sprucing up this spring?

I live in a condo so I spruce up my patio every year with LOTS do flowers as you can see in the photo below. This year, I will get to do outdoor at my BF's house too though. We are planning to build a waterfall and pond with fishes!!! I am really excited for that project! If anyone has plans to share on one they have completed....I am all ears!!!

3. According to this site (Roadtrippers), six of North America's most wondrous waterfalls are-Webster's Falls in Ontario, Upper Whitewater Falls in North Carolina, Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon, Multnomah Falls in Oregon, The Lower Yellowstone Falls, and Niagara. Have you seen any on the list? Which one on the list would you most like to visit? Prettiest waterfall not on the list that you've seen in person?

I have seen Niagara but it was so long ago I do not remember any of it. I would definitely like to plan a trip there soon though! I love a good waterfall...see answer 2 above - hee hee!

4. Looking back, what's something you wish you'd done as a teenager?

Nothing! I did it all. Not a single regret either! I love the person I am today and I think all the mistakes and screw-ups made me this way! My mother on the other hand may have a different answer for this one - she lost a LOT of sleep!  Sorry Mom!

5. Ham...yes please or no thank you? If you said yes please which of the following do you like best-baked ham with all the trimmings, a ham and cheese sandwich, prosciutto with melon, a ham biscuit, a bowl of split pea and ham soup, or a slice of pizza topped with ham and pineapple?

Ham, no thank you. I prefer a good Honeybaked turkey breast! YUMMO!

6. Are you typical of your generation? How so?

I am not sure. I do not like to think that any generation has a stereotype.

7. April rolls in at the end of the week, and in keeping with that theme...'act the fool', 'nobody's fool', 'a fool's errand', 'could have fooled me'...which foolish idiom most recently applies to you? Explain.

I love Act the Fool! If you cant laugh at yourself then you are not living. I have realized that I am such a tiny part of this whole big world...I am not that important at all! LOL - pretty amazing actually!

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

I just hope everyone has an amazing Wednesday and I can't wait to read everyone's answers!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

I am linking up with all my buddies again for Wednesday Hodgepodge! I you want to join in, grab the button above and answer all the questions...then link up Here!


1. February ended with an extra 24 hours in 2016. What did you do with your bonus day?
Since it was Monday I had to work so nothing special happened at all. :-(
2. What's something in your life that's grown by leaps and bounds in recent days, weeks, months, or years? I'm giving you lots of room to come up with an answer here, so no fair passing on this one.
I guess my sense of what I want in life. I feel very stagnant and like I need a big change so I am pursuing that! I think I will change a lot of things - especially how I approach what I want. It may sound selfish but I put others in front of myself A LOT an that is going to change. No more going out of my way for someone unless it truly is something I WANT to do. I do not want to waste any more precious time taking care of others. My family is the exception to this...LOL!
3. Do you read reviews about a film before deciding if you'll see it? Did you watch The Oscars this year, and if so your thoughts on the program? How many of the Best Picture nominees had you seen prior to the broadcast? (Spotlight, The Martian, The Big Short, The Revenant, Mad Max: Fury Road, Room, and Brooklyn) If you watched The Oscars who gets your award for 'best dressed'?
I do not go to see a lot of movies. I saw Sisters recently but have not seen any of the nominated films. I did not watch much of the Oscars either...just seems very extravagant to me!
4. When did you last have overnight house guests? Give us your top three tips on being a good house guest.
My sister and mom stayed over a few months ago.
1- Love cats - I have three so this is a must  2- Keep your area clean and tidy  3- Make sure you come back soon! I LOVE company! 
5. March 2nd is Peanut Butter Lover's Day. Will you be celebrating? If so, would you prefer a home made peanut butter cookie, a Reese's peanut butter cup, an old fashioned peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or shall I just hand you a jar and a tablespoon?
Now that I know this I will! I LOVE any excuse to eat peanut butter! Just a jar and spoon works for me!!
6. Why is failure important? Or isn't it?
Failure teaches us that we WILL NOT succeed every time but that does not make s less of a person. We will always be human and some people are just better than others at certain things. As a parent, if you let you child win and make them think they are the best at everything, they will NEVER find their strength. I think knowing your strengths and weaknesses if a very important aspect of discovering our true selves!
7. Share with us one fun thing on your March calendar.
GOING TO FLORIDA - need I say more?!?!?
8.  Insert your own random thought here. 

This week is crawling by...vacation starts next week so we cannot get through this one fast enough - LOL!!!! So much for not wasting precious time, right?!?! LOL

I hope you all have an amazing Tuesday! I cannot wait to meet you all and hear your answers!

Skate On Over

Thanks to Joyce at From This Side of the Pond for hosting another great linkup for Wednesday HodgePodge!  This is my favorite post of the week - I love meeting new friends!! Here we go!!!!!
1. Speaking of skating...when did you last 'skate on thin ice', 'skate over the details', 'encounter a cheapskate', or just plain skate?
  
I skate over the details daily! LOL! I am a very spontaneous person and not very detail oriented AT ALL! It is actually one of those weekends I am working on in my life. I tend to lean to the "the less I know the better" side of life! Not good - I know, but I just don't have time to ponder details...HA!
2. What would you say is the biggest problem of people your age? 
My age is 48 - I am not sure how to answer this. I have friends my age that have money issues or health issues or children issues. I am single and live with my fur baby cats so I tend to just be grateful for everyday and make it the best it can be.



3. What's your favorite accessory? Is it something you wear every day, often, or only on special occasions?
I got a beautiful scarf for Christmas form my friend Kathy and it is really my favorite! I love it and I get so many compliments on it when I wear it! Here it is below...

4. January 20th is National Cheese Lover's Day. Are you a lover of cheese? What's your favorite dish made with cheese? Last thing you ate that contained some kind of cheese?

I love cheese in anything and on anything but my favorite is just plain CHEESE! It is definitely my favorite food! I buy cheese by the bus loads! I love a good Huntsman or Lemon Stilton and any other cheese also but those two are my favorites!! YUM!!

5. What's something guaranteed to make you roll your eyes?
Weather forecasters who say we're going to get a lot of snow. It cracks me up! I live in Pittsburgh and everyone is at work today saying we are supposed to get so much snow over the weekend!  I will bet we get an inch, if we are lucky, and it is gone by Wednesday. Meanwhile, the groceries will sell out of milk and bread! LOL!

6. Your favorite book series?

Currently I am loving these! I am only in the middle of book two Insurgent but it is awesome!
7. Why did you choose your profession?
I fell into my profession...I did not choose it. I graduated with a Psychology degree and really wanted to help people. I found out that I could not live on any job that was willing to pay me for using my degree so I got into Computer Helpdesk work since I have always been great at computers.


I have simply worked hard and moved up from there within my current company.
 8. Insert your own random thought here.


Thanks again Joyce for hosting this each week! It is a lot fo work I am sure and I look forward to it every week!

I cant wait to read everyone's responses and get new book ideas and new friends!!! HA

Wednesday Hodgepodge

Today I am joining Joyce for her Wednesday Hodgepodge ! I cannot wait to see everyone that links up and make some new friends! This is my favorite linkup - I have met so many amazing people already! If you want to join in...copy the text below, change my answers to your answers and link up with Joyce! Also, thanks for hosting and doing all of this work to organize this linkup Joyce!!!! Now...onto the answers!

1. Share one thing that really makes your day.

Getting thank you letters. I just got a bunch of thank you letters from my nieces and nephews for their Christmas presents and it was like I hit the lottery! I love that they were taught to take time to do that (I send them to everyone also) and I love reading through their comments and thank yous! I save them all and will treasure them until the day I die!

2.  Lots of these kinds of lists out there, but one found here says the fifteen most colorful places on earth are:

Vernazza, Cinque Terre, italy~Burano, Italy~Havana, Cuba~Rio de Janiero, Brazil~Chefchaouen, Morocco~Balat, Istanbul, Turkey~Menton, France~Jodhpur, india~La Baca, Buenos Aires, Argentina~Guanajuato, Mexico~Capetown, South Africa~Valparaiso, Chile~Wroclaw, Poland~San Francisco, California~and Pelourhino, Salvador, Brazil.

Of those listed which would you most like to see up close and in person? Of all the places you've seen or traveled in your own life, what would you say was one of the most colorful?

I think I would like to see Morocco some day. I have heard many things and I think that is on my bucket list.
For the most colorful place I have been...that would definitely be Curacao! It was my honeymoon and I wish I could have stayed longer than a day.  Curaçao, a Dutch Caribbean island, is known for its beaches tucked into coves and its expansive coral reefs rich with marine life. The capital, Willemstad, has pastel-colored colonial architecture, floating Queen Emma Bridge and the sand-floored, 17th-century Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue. It’s also a gateway to western beaches like Blue Bay, where scuba divers can access a vertical coral wall from the shore. Seriously, the cutest place ever!!! It makes you happy just to be there it's so colorful!

 

3. "Everything you want is on the other side of fear." Jack Canfield In general, would you agree or disagree with that statement? Why?

I definitely agree with that. Everything I do or do not do it rooted in fear. It may be masked on the outside as anger or hurt but the reality is that everything in my life can be tied to the fear of losing something I have or not getting something I want! Sad truth! I am the happiest when I realize that I have no control of anything but me and carry on from there! HA

4. Imagine you're stranded on a desert island and dessert appears...what do you hope it is? Do you ever struggle to remember which spelling is desert and which is dessert?

I would be praying for some chocolate - I NEED my chocolate! Even better...chocolate delivered by a hot man would be perfecto!

5.  What song almost always makes you cry?

Jesus Take The Wheel - Carrie Underwood! I love the song and can totally relate to everything it says! That is my life in a song! The version where she cries when she sings it, makes me sob!




6.  January is National Soup Month.  Everything from soup to nuts, in the soup, thick as pea soup, souped up...which saying most recently applies to your life in some way? Explain.

I don't really think that any apply. I can say that I do LOVE a nice bowl of tomato soup to dip bread in in the winter though!!!

7. Write a two word note to your younger self. What does it say.

Cherish love.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

I am finally going the right direction on the scale, I am evaluating all the relationships in my life and getting rid of those that are negative or do not benefit me (I get used A LOT); I am making a promise to myself that 2016 is MY YEAR! I got this and I am not slacking off!



Happiest of  Wednesdays to you all!