tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77889849287232460532024-03-14T00:04:02.803-07:00Rose RamblingJMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.comBlogger309125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-31630214668643046692014-01-24T17:52:00.002-08:002014-01-24T17:52:51.442-08:00In four days Baby KIn four short days, Baby K will turn four months old! How time flies...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lNGCNza-Fig/UuMXRJvizbI/AAAAAAAACnk/znYidjaVbR8/s1600/Baby+K+is+almost+sitting+up+without+support+now+(Jan+15+2014).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lNGCNza-Fig/UuMXRJvizbI/AAAAAAAACnk/znYidjaVbR8/s1600/Baby+K+is+almost+sitting+up+without+support+now+(Jan+15+2014).jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">January 15th 2014 -- Baby K can ALMOST sit up on his own! Shall happen soon!</td></tr>
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Hopefully this half of Baby K's family shall see much more of my sister and her son during the next third of his life -- difficult to really grasp that he will have spent a third of a year with us already! (Not including his time in utero of course!)<br />
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ALSO, TOMORROW, my aunt is getting married!! She and her husband-to-be have been together (or at least together-ish) for many MANY years now : ) Very happy for them both!! She just wants to get the papers so not a large wedding at all, but has said she wants to have a celebration once she moves from Nevada back here to CA and we shall celebrate then!!JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-20159396122235158902014-01-23T23:57:00.004-08:002014-01-23T23:59:27.345-08:00Goodbye visit (Mexico) - after Disneyland and CA Adventure!Yesterday and today the "new" family within the Mena family went to both Disneyland (stayed in Anaheim overnight) then to California Adventure; finally were picked up late this evening and came by for a short goodbye visit! Time has flown by so quickly, hopes that they have a safe journey home and remember what a wonderful time they had visiting different family and friends!<br />
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Two Disney images:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0vON-vgcCo/UuIb5RW8_OI/AAAAAAAACm8/qwFC81RsAww/s1600/Disneyland+and+California+Adventure+Theme+Parks+Double+Map.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0vON-vgcCo/UuIb5RW8_OI/AAAAAAAACm8/qwFC81RsAww/s1600/Disneyland+and+California+Adventure+Theme+Parks+Double+Map.jpg" height="200" width="198" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double map of both parks</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QaQ_Ib4OYqo/UuIb4LMfxZI/AAAAAAAACm0/9rJgricvoYs/s1600/mickey-mouse-flower-disneyland.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QaQ_Ib4OYqo/UuIb4LMfxZI/AAAAAAAACm0/9rJgricvoYs/s1600/mickey-mouse-flower-disneyland.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mickey and Train Station<br />as entering Disneyland!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3G_RE6R-pd0/UuIcc_VBpqI/AAAAAAAACnE/fH7h9OWb7BI/s1600/Gifts+to+take+back+to+Mexico.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Photo of gifts being sent back to Mexico:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3G_RE6R-pd0/UuIcc_VBpqI/AAAAAAAACnE/fH7h9OWb7BI/s1600/Gifts+to+take+back+to+Mexico.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3G_RE6R-pd0/UuIcc_VBpqI/AAAAAAAACnE/fH7h9OWb7BI/s1600/Gifts+to+take+back+to+Mexico.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Two family images <a href="http://disappearingrose.blogspot.com/2014/01/visit-from-mexico.html" target="_blank">(as mentioned yesterday)</a> -- yep, all tired:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dqcnx-jemyw/UuIc026dvAI/AAAAAAAACnM/zkVSKoA5ZBs/s1600/Mena+Visit+Thurs+Jan+23+2014+(Christian,+his+wife+Ceci,+her+daughter+Melissa,+and+I).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dqcnx-jemyw/UuIc026dvAI/AAAAAAAACnM/zkVSKoA5ZBs/s1600/Mena+Visit+Thurs+Jan+23+2014+(Christian,+his+wife+Ceci,+her+daughter+Melissa,+and+I).JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kO0FIlV6PoM/UuIc1pSYWWI/AAAAAAAACnQ/O21TsgyjGNk/s1600/Mena+Visit+Thurs+Jan+23+2014+(Center+Three+Christian+Mena,+Ceci,+and+her+daughter+Melissa;+also+my+parents).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kO0FIlV6PoM/UuIc1pSYWWI/AAAAAAAACnQ/O21TsgyjGNk/s1600/Mena+Visit+Thurs+Jan+23+2014+(Center+Three+Christian+Mena,+Ceci,+and+her+daughter+Melissa;+also+my+parents).JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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What a whirlwind week -- still shopping to do tomorrow, but our Mexico family has all of their arrangements in order so tonight was goodbye for now!JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-53588014749831894142014-01-22T20:09:00.003-08:002014-01-22T20:09:51.490-08:00Visit from MexicoAs I <a href="http://disappearingrose.blogspot.com/2014/01/gift-of-flowers.html" target="_blank">mentioned this past Sunday, we were planning to have dinner</a> with family [friends] who are visiting the U.S. from Mexico for a very short visit (only one week! Usually they stay in CA for a week but spend at least a second week traveling elsewhere in the U.S.)<br />
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Not only did the family visit (and we had a wonderful dinner!) but my sister also came over with her son Baby K!! Overall a very happy Sunday!! While I forgot - of course - to actually take photos once dinner started, I did take two or three photos of the set up as well as Baby K... Oh, and as usual, I was asked again (in person instead of email this time) to go and visit Mexico.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NJD1vXzHels/UuCSCBkw6zI/AAAAAAAACl8/2YIGBz3bTq0/s1600/Baby+K+talking+with+his+abuelo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NJD1vXzHels/UuCSCBkw6zI/AAAAAAAACl8/2YIGBz3bTq0/s1600/Baby+K+talking+with+his+abuelo.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby K "talking" with his abuelo (grandpa)!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZOrYMKN1ZI/UuCSCTAZ57I/AAAAAAAACmE/WYJPQ2-C1uM/s1600/Pre-+Mena+dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZOrYMKN1ZI/UuCSCTAZ57I/AAAAAAAACmE/WYJPQ2-C1uM/s1600/Pre-+Mena+dinner.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prior to dinner (snacking)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DZ-asWl6ODk/UuCSDOVC0SI/AAAAAAAACmM/9YrQQ4jZymo/s1600/Table+ready+for+Mena+dinner.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DZ-asWl6ODk/UuCSDOVC0SI/AAAAAAAACmM/9YrQQ4jZymo/s1600/Table+ready+for+Mena+dinner.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Table set for dinner!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0wakRQv--j4/UuCSCc4Ug_I/AAAAAAAACmA/UOrlX3fi8bI/s1600/Keeping+Mena+dinner+warm.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0wakRQv--j4/UuCSCc4Ug_I/AAAAAAAACmA/UOrlX3fi8bI/s1600/Keeping+Mena+dinner+warm.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keeping food warm (they got stuck in traffic<br />
in Hollywood! Luckily all food was enjoyed)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Several large roadblocks on my end about going to visit Mexico (although
I know they would take GREAT care of me, have gone several times in the
past with family) -- firstly, I do not practice my Spanish often AT ALL
so I feel inadequate when I do visit and everyone is beyond fluent and
speaks quickly; secondly I feel guilty about having others pay for me to
go somewhere that I am afraid of the potential violence (not from the
family, but the news I keep reading about the drugs and negativity in
Mexico in general!!); thirdly, concern for my health... All keeps me
saying "not right now, but thank you very much for the offer to visit!!"
... Part of me knows that my reasons are silly. A larger part of me
wants to regress to a child and run to hide under a blanket until life
is "safe" again. Anyway, enough. Two last photos from Sunday --
also they should be coming by at least for a quick goodbye, if not for
dinner tomorrow (Thursday) night!! So we will get to see them twice
instead of just once which is great!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zT52CmSOg4/UuCVc7pLbDI/AAAAAAAACmg/bHGEKjqxDAs/s1600/Baby+K+and+Tia+J+(walking+him+to+sleep).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zT52CmSOg4/UuCVc7pLbDI/AAAAAAAACmg/bHGEKjqxDAs/s1600/Baby+K+and+Tia+J+(walking+him+to+sleep).JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tia J walking Baby K to sleep</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-abcGRRFLj3k/UuCVcN4W9tI/AAAAAAAACmc/YVxTda99mfk/s1600/Baby+K+Sun+Jan+19+in+crib.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-abcGRRFLj3k/UuCVcN4W9tI/AAAAAAAACmc/YVxTda99mfk/s1600/Baby+K+Sun+Jan+19+in+crib.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby K asleep<br />
(January 19, 2014)</td></tr>
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Shall try to get family photo tomorrow ::HUGS::JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-10742635378958251392014-01-21T22:35:00.003-08:002014-01-21T22:35:31.850-08:00Atop the Christmas Tree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cn00PvMDLuk/Ut9koDG1DZI/AAAAAAAACls/ki0UJ_5Gerg/s1600/The+Angel+on+the+top+of+my+mini+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cn00PvMDLuk/Ut9koDG1DZI/AAAAAAAACls/ki0UJ_5Gerg/s1600/The+Angel+on+the+top+of+my+mini+tree.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Slightly blurry (sorry about that, my cell phone zoom is not great and no, have not gotten a camera still - not really worth the extra money at the moment) -- however this is the Angel that sits on top of my mini Christmas Tree!<br />
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<a href="http://disappearingrose.blogspot.com/2013/12/small-christmas-tree.html" target="_blank">Yes, I still have my tree up</a> in my little space -- it is only four feet plus behind the curtain that is the window with the air conditioning unit balanced... Figured the weather will start to (slowly) warm up again soon, so why not leave the tree up? After all, it only was put into place a week before Christmas <br />
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Very likely one day I will wake up, decide to put away the ornaments (less than 20 -- <a href="http://disappearingrose.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-decorations-done.html" target="_blank">compared to the garlands and regular Christmas tree this is nothing!</a>), and the pre-lit tree will be placed back into its box. In the meantime I am allowing it to remind me of good things which is lovely!<br />
<br />JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-66762847455905467312014-01-20T01:45:00.000-08:002014-01-20T01:45:47.159-08:00From the kitchen: Apple Charlotte<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-imjhps6Zs9w/UtowTNrP2nI/AAAAAAAAClA/IEPpHqkMaqo/s1600/From+the+kitchen+.Apple+Charlotte.+(Downton+Abbey+Desktop+Calendar).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-imjhps6Zs9w/UtowTNrP2nI/AAAAAAAAClA/IEPpHqkMaqo/s1600/From+the+kitchen+.Apple+Charlotte.+(Downton+Abbey+Desktop+Calendar).jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">From the Kitchen : Apple Charlotte<br />(Taken from my 2014 Downton Abbey Desktop Calendar)<br /><br />"Apple Charlotte is an easy recipe for a busy cook. To make this traditional English cake, line a buttered pie in with pieces of bread and cover with a layer of peeled apple slices, or pureed apple, and sugar. Continue to layer bread and apples until the dish is full. Bake for 45 minutes to an hour at 350 degrees fahrenheit. Turn the cake out onto a plate. Sprinkle with sugar and serve." <br /><br />Personally I love any type of baked apples/apple pie/apple crisp/etc served with vanilla ice cream ~ Hopefully you try this and you/your guests enjoy it!!</span>JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-92201399557110814062014-01-19T00:15:00.001-08:002014-01-19T00:15:20.855-08:00Gift of Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy Sunday Everyone!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S3woK3XPsG0/UtuI_G2zwGI/AAAAAAAAClc/4BXv616tj3g/s1600/Gerber+Daisies.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S3woK3XPsG0/UtuI_G2zwGI/AAAAAAAAClc/4BXv616tj3g/s1600/Gerber+Daisies.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gift of pale pink gerber daisies!</td></tr>
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Just had to share this photo of some lovely flowers I was given for a "just because" gift. Am anticipating a fun (but long) evening -- family friends from Mexico are in town and spending the afternoon/evening with us! Also a chance that my sister and her son Baby K shall visit...JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-70321027020089318192014-01-18T22:02:00.002-08:002014-01-18T22:02:44.111-08:00Something good to read<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FU6CFpB1jEY/Utoyz44taMI/AAAAAAAAClM/6AeDQxgIkog/s1600/Knowing+you+have+something+good+to+read+before+bed....jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FU6CFpB1jEY/Utoyz44taMI/AAAAAAAAClM/6AeDQxgIkog/s1600/Knowing+you+have+something+good+to+read+before+bed....jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />"Knowing you have something good to read before bed is among the most pleasurable of sensations"<br /><br />Off to read some more...</span></span></div>
JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-37849151932643309712014-01-17T23:40:00.002-08:002014-01-17T23:40:50.575-08:00Baby K Tummy TimeTwo comparison photos (10 weeks between photos, eep!)...<br />
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Baby K Tummy Time with Tia J at 5 weeks old (yes, a blanket supporting him so I could feel comfortable moving away to get a photo)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dm-6RQyRoRI/UtovPMb2hyI/AAAAAAAACks/XvOocSrULH4/s1600/Tummy+Time+(Baby+K+with+Tia+J)+at+5+weeks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dm-6RQyRoRI/UtovPMb2hyI/AAAAAAAACks/XvOocSrULH4/s1600/Tummy+Time+(Baby+K+with+Tia+J)+at+5+weeks.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Baby K Tummy Time with Tia J at 15 weeks old (during brief visit this week, first since Thanksgiving Eve/Thanksgiving Day -- miss him TONS and TONS)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OrRaGkUn5q8/UtovPGMMimI/AAAAAAAACkw/ohgw5fBlc6Y/s1600/Today+-+Tummy+Time+%28Baby+K+with+Tia+J%29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OrRaGkUn5q8/UtovPGMMimI/AAAAAAAACkw/ohgw5fBlc6Y/s1600/Today+-+Tummy+Time+(Baby+K+with+Tia+J).jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-9990218194861691752014-01-16T19:12:00.003-08:002014-01-16T19:12:52.378-08:00Baby K 7 weeks "missing"Okay, so technically my nephew Baby K was "missing" from our lives for six weeks and six days -- today, Thursday, is exactly seven weeks since Thanksgiving. He is no longer being kept from us!!! Thank you God for at least giving our family yesterday with my sister and her son Baby K!!!<br /><br />I know I should only feel thankful and happy that a situation arose yesterday which allowed my sister to grace us with her and her son Baby K's presence since Thanksgiving 2013 (for those who didn't catch her decisions, take a look at my December posts)... <br /><br />Anyway, we are lucky that my sister and her son Baby K stopped avoiding us and we finally had contact yesterday, Wed. Jan. 15th 2014 from about 2pm to 7pm -- yes, they stayed for dinner; however they did not want to spend the night. Small steps, yes? Yes. <br /><br />Size Comparison photos of Baby K in his bassinet on one of their last visits (technically last overnight was Nov. 27th to 28th -- his two month "birthday" where we got Thanksgiving and Christmas photos taken; then Thanksgiving Day itself -- we took them back to her boyfriends after celebrations were over)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tyHhg4fUM_Y/Utic4KkHc1I/AAAAAAAACkI/CdfwzUKheV8/s1600/Compare+size+-+K+in+crib+2013+(preThanksgiving).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tyHhg4fUM_Y/Utic4KkHc1I/AAAAAAAACkI/CdfwzUKheV8/s1600/Compare+size+-+K+in+crib+2013+(preThanksgiving).jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">November 2013</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ZhhS4PDM-M/Utic4M6AtwI/AAAAAAAACkM/n64sGlx2ILs/s1600/Compare+size+-+K+in+crib+Jan+15+(2014).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ZhhS4PDM-M/Utic4M6AtwI/AAAAAAAACkM/n64sGlx2ILs/s1600/Compare+size+-+K+in+crib+Jan+15+(2014).jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jan. 15, 2014<br />First time they came over<br />since staying the night<br />before Thanksgiving</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Did I mention that Baby K's father has finally re-entered the court ordered rehab he had been avoiding for several months? He went in on Dec. 30th 2013 (mostly because the judge was going to make him serve two years instead of the six months he has not done, if Baby K's father did not re-enter prior to 2014).... </span><br />
<br />
For whatever reasons my sister had not visited (nor, obviously, could Baby K visit) ANYONE from her entire family tree -- half of Baby K's family tree -- since Thanksgiving Day. Nothing prior to Christmas Eve, nothing Christmas Eve nor Christmas Day nor for New Year's.... Thankfully they both visited myself (Tia J) and C and my parents -- Baby K's grandparents and godparents. Also a strong chance they will at least have dinner with us on Sunday night (perhaps spend the night for the first time in two months!) -- because we have family friends from Mexico in town for a few short days for the first visit in years.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">PLUS- My sister allowed us extra time so we could watch her and Baby K open their Christmas presents!! Baby K LOVED his first Nativity set given to him by his grandparents (his abuelos!) </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DKFmaV8UM_o/Utid2aRCUzI/AAAAAAAACkc/aFEQig125uI/s1600/Baby+K+watching+his+Nativity+Angel,+the+lit+star,+and+listening+to+the+music+coming+from+his+new+gift.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DKFmaV8UM_o/Utid2aRCUzI/AAAAAAAACkc/aFEQig125uI/s1600/Baby+K+watching+his+Nativity+Angel,+the+lit+star,+and+listening+to+the+music+coming+from+his+new+gift.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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God has a plan, always. I need to wait for HIS time (and be patient, loving, open, understanding, willing.... prayers if you can spare them, I need help) JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-30399520125177017932014-01-15T20:36:00.003-08:002014-01-15T20:37:04.287-08:00Fragile<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fiWoyHcVOxI/UtdhvjgglnI/AAAAAAAACj8/d0GHJQtXl-s/s1600/Candle+Hope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fiWoyHcVOxI/UtdhvjgglnI/AAAAAAAACj8/d0GHJQtXl-s/s1600/Candle+Hope.jpg" height="232" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Today</div>
JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-31443668070753625372014-01-14T01:03:00.002-08:002014-01-14T01:03:17.919-08:00Cousin R's Wedding!Yes, again I am several months behind, however here is the promised post about my cousin R and her wedding to her now-husband C! Everyone had quite a lovely day/afternoon/evening!!<br />
<br />
Engagement Images/Pre-wedding day --<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uAM2b1Crx9Y/UtTNF6_WEBI/AAAAAAAAChg/oFYoHkgJQ_g/s1600/Engagement+photo+showing+the+ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uAM2b1Crx9Y/UtTNF6_WEBI/AAAAAAAAChg/oFYoHkgJQ_g/s320/Engagement+photo+showing+the+ring.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo showing the ring</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eL6wiRC0Xzo/UtTNF3bB3DI/AAAAAAAAChc/wq6ZOeDOhpc/s1600/Gift+to+R+(from+her+maid+of+honor)+to+hang+her+wedding+dress+on.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eL6wiRC0Xzo/UtTNF3bB3DI/AAAAAAAAChc/wq6ZOeDOhpc/s320/Gift+to+R+(from+her+maid+of+honor)+to+hang+her+wedding+dress+on.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gift from Maid of Honor to Bride for her wedding dress<br />
(obviously given prior to the wedding day!!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V03XOiCnw8c/UtTNF1A3bNI/AAAAAAAAChY/mG_uQnAhjx8/s1600/Rachel+and+Corey+Engagement+Photo+(one+of+many).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V03XOiCnw8c/UtTNF1A3bNI/AAAAAAAAChY/mG_uQnAhjx8/s320/Rachel+and+Corey+Engagement+Photo+(one+of+many).jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From R and C's engagement shoot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Wedding Ceremony (Sunday October 13th 2013) --<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5XDWMzqAXg/UtTOv5TjYmI/AAAAAAAACiM/wezmNR1R9yw/s1600/Rachel+entering+with+her+Dad+while+trying+%28and+failing%29+to+not+cry+before+reaching+the+alter.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5XDWMzqAXg/UtTOv5TjYmI/AAAAAAAACiM/wezmNR1R9yw/s320/Rachel+entering+with+her+Dad+while+trying+%28and+failing%29+to+not+cry+before+reaching+the+alter.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">R walking down the aisle with her dad<br />
while she (unsuccessfully) tried to not cry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CPRGKhMCEbs/UtTOu6TZVyI/AAAAAAAAChw/MZGnyCpXuJQ/s1600/During+R+and+C+wedding+ceremony+(R+and+C+with+Maid+of+Honor+and+Best+Man).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CPRGKhMCEbs/UtTOu6TZVyI/AAAAAAAAChw/MZGnyCpXuJQ/s320/During+R+and+C+wedding+ceremony+(R+and+C+with+Maid+of+Honor+and+Best+Man).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maid of Honor, R and C, Best Man</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ha2kGWn2pmw/UtTOu0ed0pI/AAAAAAAACh0/HcS78wcoS_M/s1600/During+R+and+C+wedding+ceremony+(sun+starting+to+set)+Entire+bridal+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ha2kGWn2pmw/UtTOu0ed0pI/AAAAAAAACh0/HcS78wcoS_M/s320/During+R+and+C+wedding+ceremony+(sun+starting+to+set)+Entire+bridal+party.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Full wedding party (just as the sun starts to set!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9GsZ1CyoErc/UtTOuy756YI/AAAAAAAACh4/kLDCAXhXUcc/s1600/Rachel+and+Corey+during+ceremony+(Sun+Oct+13+2013).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9GsZ1CyoErc/UtTOuy756YI/AAAAAAAACh4/kLDCAXhXUcc/s320/Rachel+and+Corey+during+ceremony+(Sun+Oct+13+2013).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovingly teasing one another during personal vows</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VZyW6EIFsVc/UtTQBGCWDdI/AAAAAAAACig/insgeyPPSq8/s1600/You+may+now+kiss+the+bride!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VZyW6EIFsVc/UtTQBGCWDdI/AAAAAAAACig/insgeyPPSq8/s320/You+may+now+kiss+the+bride!.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"You may now kiss the bride"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-InY7X1jW_Cg/UtTOvp6EnGI/AAAAAAAACiU/ygKJLfbtP7E/s1600/Rachel+and+Corey+leaving+ceremony+as+husband+and+wife+(Sun+Oct+13+2013).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-InY7X1jW_Cg/UtTOvp6EnGI/AAAAAAAACiU/ygKJLfbtP7E/s320/Rachel+and+Corey+leaving+ceremony+as+husband+and+wife+(Sun+Oct+13+2013).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Official first walk as husband and wife!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Between Wedding Ceremony and Wedding Reception --<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EsuvSXgqUDY/UtTTovhSVnI/AAAAAAAACis/bN6jSzvxe08/s1600/R+and+C+with+R+immediate+family+(Left+to+Right+brother,+mom+and+dad,+R+and+C,+older+brother+and+his+wife).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EsuvSXgqUDY/UtTTovhSVnI/AAAAAAAACis/bN6jSzvxe08/s320/R+and+C+with+R+immediate+family+(Left+to+Right+brother,+mom+and+dad,+R+and+C,+older+brother+and+his+wife).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">R and C with R's immediate family (Left to Right: R's brother,<br />
R's mom and dad, R and C, R's older brother and his wife)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JXU7BTLBsu8/UtTTotpO_vI/AAAAAAAACio/uC5jrfgmMbg/s1600/Rachel+and+Corey+after+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JXU7BTLBsu8/UtTTotpO_vI/AAAAAAAACio/uC5jrfgmMbg/s320/Rachel+and+Corey+after+ceremony.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this of the newlyweds...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wedding Reception --<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rmGE8FIgFd8/UtTU3hkcjDI/AAAAAAAACi8/RBABHFrmM5E/s1600/Entering+reception+for+Rachel+and+Corey+(Sun+Oct+13+2013).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rmGE8FIgFd8/UtTU3hkcjDI/AAAAAAAACi8/RBABHFrmM5E/s320/Entering+reception+for+Rachel+and+Corey+(Sun+Oct+13+2013).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering the reception (Guest book, an engagement photo,<br />
old table top piano from engagement shoot with box for <br />
cards on top, watercolor of two sloths - R and C's animal)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xx6fvF82rVA/UtTU3pZHrII/AAAAAAAACi4/0f0CK8AF-3E/s1600/Creative+photo+of+Rachel+and+Corey+first+dance+(Tables+were+labeled+by+a+wine+bottle+with+the+cork+slit+to+hold+a+single+record.+This+table+was+Atlantic.).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xx6fvF82rVA/UtTU3pZHrII/AAAAAAAACi4/0f0CK8AF-3E/s320/Creative+photo+of+Rachel+and+Corey+first+dance+(Tables+were+labeled+by+a+wine+bottle+with+the+cork+slit+to+hold+a+single+record.+This+table+was+Atlantic.).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creative photo of R and C first dance!<br />
(Tables were labeled by a wine bottle with the cork<br />
slit to hold a single record. This table was Atlantic.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-78pX5ypnaG4/UtTU3gebsgI/AAAAAAAACjM/ErxS7JWrv3k/s1600/Bride+and+Groom+%2528R+and+C+with+their+backs+to+the+camera%2529+with+their+parents+.+Trying+to+arrange+a+photo+at+reception.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-78pX5ypnaG4/UtTU3gebsgI/AAAAAAAACjM/ErxS7JWrv3k/s320/Bride+and+Groom+%2528R+and+C+with+their+backs+to+the+camera%2529+with+their+parents+.+Trying+to+arrange+a+photo+at+reception.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bride and Groom (R and C with their backs to the camera)<br />
with their parents (C's parents on left; R's parents on right)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3a10gy1jho/UtTU4jFtKVI/AAAAAAAACjc/SDg9beUzldU/s1600/The+wedding+cake+%2528Rachel+and+Corey%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3a10gy1jho/UtTU4jFtKVI/AAAAAAAACjc/SDg9beUzldU/s320/The+wedding+cake+%2528Rachel+and+Corey%2529.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wedding Cake! (Toppers are two sloths - "their animal")</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9wZiFuOvuQ/UtTU4fXp-DI/AAAAAAAACjg/SS8jB1X5VkM/s1600/The+candy+table+%2528Rachel+and+Corey%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9wZiFuOvuQ/UtTU4fXp-DI/AAAAAAAACjg/SS8jB1X5VkM/s320/The+candy+table+%2528Rachel+and+Corey%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Candy table (all guests could make a bag - or two! - while waiting for <br />
the cake to be cut; assortment of sweets, sours, hard, soft candies)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After eating candy --<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kdbtVACrswc/UtTYDRxRm_I/AAAAAAAACjw/lujHZqSCl3I/s1600/Cake+Time+(R+and+C).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kdbtVACrswc/UtTYDRxRm_I/AAAAAAAACjw/lujHZqSCl3I/s400/Cake+Time+(R+and+C).JPG" width="271" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let them eat cake!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>Always lovely to gather together family for a positive celebration!<br />Congratulations again R and C! We love you both!</i>JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-27136040197175066752014-01-13T21:35:00.001-08:002014-01-13T22:03:36.086-08:00What you really want cannot be boughtDuring December I found this image/quote online yet did not find the time to post it. Wanted to share it today because there were literally only three things on my Christmas "list to Santa" this year: vaseline or plain chapstick; a new set of sheets for my bed; to spend more time with people (especially family) whom I love.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DOagEc-pTRA/UtTKTL6zLZI/AAAAAAAAChQ/cg8K7-YvDAg/s1600/What+you+really+want+for+the+holidays+cannot+be+bought.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DOagEc-pTRA/UtTKTL6zLZI/AAAAAAAAChQ/cg8K7-YvDAg/s400/What+you+really+want+for+the+holidays+cannot+be+bought.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think as you grow older your Christmas list gets smaller<br />
and the things you really want for the holidays can't be bought</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Overall I have been blessed and quite lucky to have gotten nearly everything I wanted this past Christmas -- this past year included special events (wedding, baptism, birthdays, etc) with both sides of my family tree as well as various family friends!! However my sister C and her son ("our" grandson, godson, nephew) Baby K have not slept in their beds here since the night before Thanksgiving. In a way it is helping remind me that people make their own choices and if I talk about rights -- well, it is not my "right" to see my nephew. Perhaps this separation is necessary (although only God knows what the future holds/why things occur) and hopefully it will serve as the longest period of time we shall all have to spend cut off ... disconnected ... apart ... Eventually I believe (I hope) we can all appreciate and enjoy spending time together -- life is too short as it is. Thankfully I am no longer mad, I am more hurt/disappointed. Better for health, yes? Also with certain "free time" I have forced myself to return to cleaning and sorting/donating which is a bonusJMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-6699748821572593522014-01-12T20:00:00.002-08:002014-01-12T20:08:29.720-08:00Baby K Baptism<i>(Personal Note: I am "handling" things slightly better than during <a href="http://disappearingrose.blogspot.com/2013/12/disappointinghurtful-christmas-eve.html" target="_blank">December, however my only sibling, my sister C has still chosen to not visit with her only child, her son Baby K</a> - our parents only grandchild and my only nephew. Several posts last month... They spent two nights/day before Thanksgiving with us - Baby K was exactly two months then two months one day -- and have not had either of them over since because my sister decided late on Christmas Eve that she was 'done' and we could not see her son.<br /><br />Hopefully -- because we have newlywed long-time family friends visiting from Mexico next week -- C and her son K might put in an appearance... After six and a half LONG weeks of no visits. Luckily we did get one single text message with a single photo of Baby K this past week! He looks so very different, obviously, instead of eight weeks he is nearly fifteen weeks!)<br /><br />Okay, done with rant. My apologies.</i><br />
<br />
I know I kept promising a baptism post (my nephew) -- and here it is!<br />
(Also coming up this week is the wedding of my cousin R to her husband C)<br />
<br />
Baby K was baptized by our long-time family friend, Father Edwin, on Sunday, November 17th 2013 in a small private (Catholic) ceremony -- isn't he ADORABLE in his white suit?? He was asleep as we arrived at church, so waited until the last minute to add his white suit (with tails!) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v1tRz9uuyHk/UtNd6odcq2I/AAAAAAAACgg/DN7BFipW0xM/s1600/Baby+K+Baptism+%28K+is+wearing+his+white+tux+-+minus+jacket+-+minutes+before+his+private+baptism+ceremony%29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v1tRz9uuyHk/UtNd6odcq2I/AAAAAAAACgg/DN7BFipW0xM/s400/Baby+K+Baptism+%28K+is+wearing+his+white+tux+-+minus+jacket+-+minutes+before+his+private+baptism+ceremony%29.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
His mother (my sister C) and her boyfriend B very lovingly took turns holding their son Baby K.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0SnaZjD79A/UtNjMVx25YI/AAAAAAAACg8/qsROKgcxG_0/s1600/Kolten+Baptism+(during+ceremony)+Godparents,+Parents,+Kolten,+Fr.+Edwin+(Sun+Nov+17+2013).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0SnaZjD79A/UtNjMVx25YI/AAAAAAAACg8/qsROKgcxG_0/s400/Kolten+Baptism+(during+ceremony)+Godparents,+Parents,+Kolten,+Fr.+Edwin+(Sun+Nov+17+2013).jpg" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to Right: Godfather M; Godmother P; Dad B holding<br />
Baby K while the priest pours holy water over his head;<br />
and Mom C (the camera angle has her slightly blocked<br />
however you can see the purple flowers in her hair)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Our parents (M and P) were Baby K's only godparents (as is tradition in
the Catholic Church -- one practicing Catholic of each gender is chosen
for each baby -- sometimes only a single godparent is chosen though
which is allowed if two are not "wanted"/"available").<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5H7_Ywtzecs/UtNjMBplAlI/AAAAAAAACg4/COvmpJb3k-8/s1600/Kolten+Baptism+(after+ceremony)+Baby+K,+parents+(C+and+B),+God+parents+(M+and+P+--+C+and+my+parents+so+also+Baby+K+grandparents),+and+myself,+Tia+J.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5H7_Ywtzecs/UtNjMBplAlI/AAAAAAAACg4/COvmpJb3k-8/s320/Kolten+Baptism+(after+ceremony)+Baby+K,+parents+(C+and+B),+God+parents+(M+and+P+--+C+and+my+parents+so+also+Baby+K+grandparents),+and+myself,+Tia+J.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Immediate Family: Baby K, his parents (C and B),<br />
God parents (M and P -- are C and my parents so <br />
they are also Baby K grandparents), and myself, J</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Photo of FOUR GENERATIONS on BOTH SIDES of Baby K's family! He is such a lucky little guy!! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8AMXOKJ7M1o/UtNd8JKf7nI/AAAAAAAACgo/pq1Xt5j1vg0/s1600/Baby+K+Baptism+Sunday+Nov+17th+Four+Generations+on+BOTH+sides+of+K%27s+family+plus+Father+Edwin+(2013).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8AMXOKJ7M1o/UtNd8JKf7nI/AAAAAAAACgo/pq1Xt5j1vg0/s320/Baby+K+Baptism+Sunday+Nov+17th+Four+Generations+on+BOTH+sides+of+K%27s+family+plus+Father+Edwin+(2013).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom C, grandparents, great-grandparents in purple<br />
Dad B, grandparents, great-grandparents in green<br />
(white are Godparents and Father Edwin)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I KNOW there must be photos of the reception after (as mentioned, small, perhaps 25 guests??) however I cannot find a single photo, not even of Baby K's baptism cake! If I find them later I shall share : )JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-3930466759722250112014-01-11T23:50:00.001-08:002014-01-11T23:51:21.760-08:00What is a 'weekend'?Courtesy of my Christmas Gift, The Downton Abbey Desktop Calendar for 2014:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e1Ypn_MDJB0/UtJHpz89xgI/AAAAAAAACgM/O0eVOdGCqak/s1600/Weekend+52.52+(Titanic).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e1Ypn_MDJB0/UtJHpz89xgI/AAAAAAAACgM/O0eVOdGCqak/s1600/Weekend+52.52+(Titanic).jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downton Abbey Calendar Weekend 52 of 52<br />
(Current Events: April 1912 the Titanic has sunk)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Downton Abbey Calendar Weekend 52 of 52<br />
(Current Events: April 1912 the Titanic has sunk)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5HhEe7vqXZA/UtJHpomwSTI/AAAAAAAACgI/G2k3CIblEjo/s1600/Weekend+51.52+%28What+is+a+.week.end.%29.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5HhEe7vqXZA/UtJHpomwSTI/AAAAAAAACgI/G2k3CIblEjo/s1600/Weekend+51.52+(What+is+a+.week.end.).jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downton Abbey Calendar Weekend 51 of 52<br />
(Violet, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, is honestly bewildered and<br />
perplexed when the new heir mentions the unknown word "week - END"<br />
as she pronounces it... Hence the second weekend image for the desktop<br />
calendar has her asking "What is a 'weekend'?")</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Downton Abbey Calendar Weekend 51 of 52<br />
(Violet, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, is honestly bewildered and<br />
perplexed when the new heir mentions the unknown word "week - END"<br />
as she pronounces it... Hence the second weekend image for the desktop<br />
calendar has her asking "What is a 'weekend'?")</div>
<br />JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-18476842455369724292014-01-10T18:02:00.004-08:002014-01-10T18:02:49.668-08:00Prayers... Taylor, Michael, Abigail, Gloria WunderGlo, and more<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HUL8H64WQCY/UtCge0jT1QI/AAAAAAAACfw/7FToFwz5Sww/s1600/three+yellow+gerber+daisies+%28in+loving+memory%29.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HUL8H64WQCY/UtCge0jT1QI/AAAAAAAACfw/7FToFwz5Sww/s1600/three+yellow+gerber+daisies+(in+loving+memory).jpg" height="320" width="258" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gerber Daisies -- yellow to represent a certain family but these<br />are also the unofficial flower of our high school (FSHA - Flintridge<br />Sacred Heart Academy)... Sure to be at Gloria's life celebrations which<br />start tonight (she was one year ahead of me in high school) - more in this post</td></tr>
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January 10th (2014)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUprdZwH5AU/UtCge4SpWjI/AAAAAAAACf0/rNL7hRLb6yY/s1600/CandleForTaylor%28NotreDameParisFrance%29.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUprdZwH5AU/UtCge4SpWjI/AAAAAAAACf0/rNL7hRLb6yY/s1600/CandleForTaylor(NotreDameParisFrance).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Initially lit a couple years back for angel Taylor. For me this<br />image reminds me not only of her - also of two of her angel siblings<br />(Michael and Abigail) -- also many others who gained their wings too early.<br /> Always in my thoughts and prayers -- the angels and their families.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MhLuIMLPWrA/UtCgdmGt3gI/AAAAAAAACfk/5YiJLMazuS8/s1600/Gloria+Borges+WunderGlo+(Spring+2013)+Cancer+is+tough.+I+am+tougher..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Already posted this week, however Gloria "WunderGlo" diagnosed with stage four colon cancer at age 28. She fought long and hard yet finally passed away Sunday after getting to celebrate her 32nd birthday, last Christmas, and last New Years on earth. <a href="http://www.thewunderproject.org/honoring-gloria-borges/" target="_blank">Viewing and rosary tonight with a full day of celebrations tomorrow (info located here)</a>. If you are a Face.Book individual you can also simply type in Gloria Borges<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MhLuIMLPWrA/UtCgdmGt3gI/AAAAAAAACfk/5YiJLMazuS8/s1600/Gloria+Borges+WunderGlo+%28Spring+2013%29+Cancer+is+tough.+I+am+tougher..jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MhLuIMLPWrA/UtCgdmGt3gI/AAAAAAAACfk/5YiJLMazuS8/s1600/Gloria+Borges+WunderGlo+(Spring+2013)+Cancer+is+tough.+I+am+tougher..jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="color: black;">Friday, Jan 10th 6pm-9pm<br />
Viewing and Rosary at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church<br />
133 N 5th St, Burbank, CA 91504</span></i></div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Saturday, Jan 11th<br />10:15am-12:30pm/Memorial Tribute at Walt Disney Concert Hall/111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012<br />
12:30-1:30pm/Light Reception in the Blue Ribbon Garden</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">2:00pm/Funeral Mass at The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels/ 555 W. Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">3:15pm/Procession to Interment Ceremony at Forest Lawn Memorial Park/6300 Forest Lawn Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068<br /></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Open House Celebration Party immediately following at WunderGlo’s house<br />
3260 Bennett Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068)</span></i><br />
<br />
January 10th (2014) ... Has become another day to stop and remember many, and as the image below reminds me, [we] must pray hardest when it is hardest to pray. Love, prayers, support, and ::HUGS:: to so many, named and un-named, as well as their families and loved ones<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mImK4pXxtzE/UtCgdf2utsI/AAAAAAAACfg/2xKvKYchgrM/s1600/Pray+hardest+when+it+is+hardest+to+pray.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mImK4pXxtzE/UtCgdf2utsI/AAAAAAAACfg/2xKvKYchgrM/s1600/Pray+hardest+when+it+is+hardest+to+pray.jpg" height="320" width="199" /></a></div>
JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-8156312096296118452014-01-09T19:57:00.001-08:002014-01-09T19:57:02.356-08:00"The Unofficial Downton Abbey Cookbook""The Unofficial Downton Abbey Cookbook"<br />
<br />
Yes, am absolutely still on my "Downton Abbey" kick : ) It only runs in the UK Nov/Dec then premieres/shows here in the U.S.A. in Jan/Feb -- so I shall not be posting about this forever! Simply enjoying the fourth set of episodes, and an aunt lent me the "Unofficial Downton Abbey Cookbook" -- I LOVE how the various time period appropriate recipes are divided into courses and into what would be appropriate to serve upstairs verses downstairs. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xT4Tk2Rm5Sg/Us9tZHaK9RI/AAAAAAAACeo/DWCnyYwOvYI/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.Cover..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xT4Tk2Rm5Sg/Us9tZHaK9RI/AAAAAAAACeo/DWCnyYwOvYI/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.Cover..jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cover of the book</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now three pages for Part One (upstairs dining order and recipe options)<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H9KfWPsQjXM/Us9tZV2x6eI/AAAAAAAACe0/GP2_4TxEtu4/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.upstairs+1+of+3..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H9KfWPsQjXM/Us9tZV2x6eI/AAAAAAAACe0/GP2_4TxEtu4/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.upstairs+1+of+3..jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Abv8pqacDuU/Us9tZBxN0dI/AAAAAAAACek/1AhCYOdR8Do/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.upstairs+2+of+3..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Abv8pqacDuU/Us9tZBxN0dI/AAAAAAAACek/1AhCYOdR8Do/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.upstairs+2+of+3..jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8c2HABvp0k/Us9tZnqugOI/AAAAAAAACes/0sLdqoTx3mM/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.upstairs+3+of+3..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8c2HABvp0k/Us9tZnqugOI/AAAAAAAACes/0sLdqoTx3mM/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.upstairs+3+of+3..jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Lastly, two pages for Part II (downstairs/servants recipe options) <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RxUtQj3zbBU/Us9u9cw3JeI/AAAAAAAACfM/UM9dXKt_Rss/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.downstairs+1+of+2..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RxUtQj3zbBU/Us9u9cw3JeI/AAAAAAAACfM/UM9dXKt_Rss/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.downstairs+1+of+2..jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N6dtzcX68js/Us9u9PHtZyI/AAAAAAAACfI/5TfuY0bp8RI/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.downstairs+2+of+2..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N6dtzcX68js/Us9u9PHtZyI/AAAAAAAACfI/5TfuY0bp8RI/s1600/Unofficial+Downton+Abbey+Cookbook+.downstairs+2+of+2..jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-1076598960383950132014-01-08T17:11:00.004-08:002014-01-08T17:13:29.672-08:00Plant these flowers!Hello! In CA (at the very least) there is a declining bee population. A friend of mine shared this fun list of flowers we can all plant to help the bees!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0z8HbdBR38E/Us33SS6VXxI/AAAAAAAACeU/Q86UJ-EffC8/s1600/Flowers+to+plant+to+help+the+bees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0z8HbdBR38E/Us33SS6VXxI/AAAAAAAACeU/Q86UJ-EffC8/s1600/Flowers+to+plant+to+help+the+bees.jpg" height="640" width="494" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Specific Herbs, Perennials, and Annuals that can help save bees)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-58379204504134466422014-01-07T17:38:00.003-08:002014-01-07T17:39:05.544-08:00Downton Abbey Season Four Premiere<span style="font-size: large;">No spoilers, simply wanting to share that I enjoyed the season four premiere of Downton Abbey!! Looking forward to each new Sunday night installment (and, as usual, secretly hoping each season will be longer than the last!) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TGKbQjFy1zw/UsyrSB4Z9SI/AAAAAAAACeE/4pnaIHIkywo/s1600/Still+of+Mary+and+Anna+from+Downton+Season+Four+Premiere.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TGKbQjFy1zw/UsyrSB4Z9SI/AAAAAAAACeE/4pnaIHIkywo/s1600/Still+of+Mary+and+Anna+from+Downton+Season+Four+Premiere.JPG" height="262" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still of Lady Mary (left) and her lady's maid Anna (right)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks to the writers, actors, tech, everyone who helped (helps!) make PBS (Public Broadcasting Systems) possible</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">P.S. Also loving <a href="http://disappearingrose.blogspot.com/2013/12/new-years-eve-2013.html" target="_blank">my new desktop calendar for 2014!</a></span>JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-25720239169171463532014-01-06T20:35:00.001-08:002014-01-06T20:35:24.403-08:00Lost to Colon Cancer at 32<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I learned that a friend who I went to high school (FSHA) with, <a href="http://www.dukebasketballreport.com/2014/1/5/5277016/gloria-borges-dies" target="_blank">Gloria Borges</a>,
who was diagnosed at age 28 with stage four colon cancer, passed away
yesterday morning (Sun Jan 5th) at the age of 32. Love, prayers, and support
particularly go to her husband Will and her parents, Becky and Mike.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fUdSWxElA8Q/UsuCtpK8V-I/AAAAAAAACdU/2dOUKSZLMSk/s1600/Gloria+(with+her+husband+Will+and+her+parents+Becky+and+Mike).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fUdSWxElA8Q/UsuCtpK8V-I/AAAAAAAACdU/2dOUKSZLMSk/s1600/Gloria+%28with+her+husband+Will+and+her+parents+Becky+and+Mike%29.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fUdSWxElA8Q/UsuCtpK8V-I/AAAAAAAACdU/2dOUKSZLMSk/s1600/Gloria+(with+her+husband+Will+and+her+parents+Becky+and+Mike).jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2013 Will and Gloria (blue hat) and her parents Becky and Mike</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Gloria was such an inspiration, and although she was a year ahead of me at FSHA (class of '00 while I graduated in '01) her life became so amazing after she was diagnosed in 2010! Please indulge me while I share the <a href="http://www.wunderglo.com/" target="_blank">LINK TO HER BLOG (WunderGlo)</a> ... to the foundation she created to stop colon cancer <a href="http://www.wunderglofoundation.org/" target="_blank">THE WUNDERGLO FOUNDATION</a> ... also a very short video she was in which shows just how full of life she was and how much anyone could learn from her/life lessons to take away:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/71126797" target="_blank">WunderGlo (Gloria talking) </a><br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20src=%22//player.vimeo.com/video/71126797?title=0&amp;byline=0&amp;portrait=0%22%20width=%22500%22%20height=%22281%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20webkitallowfullscreen%20mozallowfullscreen%20allowfullscreen%3E%3C/iframe%3E%20%3Cp%3E%3Ca%20href=%22http://vimeo.com/71126797%22%3EWunderglo%3C/a%3E%20from%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://vimeo.com/agsent%22%3EAGS%20Entertainment,%20Inc.%3C/a%3E%20on%20%3Ca%20href=%22https://vimeo.com%22%3EVimeo%3C/a%3E.%3C/p%3E" target="_blank"><iframe src="//player.vimeo.com/video/71126797?title=0&amp;byline=0&amp;portrait=0" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe> <p><a href="http://vimeo.com/71126797">Wunderglo</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/agsent">AGS Entertainment, Inc.</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p></a><br />
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<br />JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-56987415073424506432014-01-05T03:16:00.002-08:002014-01-05T03:23:20.839-08:00Candlelight Christmas (book)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-El_PSPTyPNU/Usk7WaVcloI/AAAAAAAACdE/1wcwDcwAPQ4/s1600/Candlelight+Christmas+by+Susan+Wiggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-El_PSPTyPNU/Usk7WaVcloI/AAAAAAAACdE/1wcwDcwAPQ4/s400/Candlelight+Christmas+by+Susan+Wiggs.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Candlelight Christmas by Susan Wiggs</td></tr>
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Christmas 2013 has come and gone - and I have forgotten to share a new holiday book I found! "Candlelight Christmas" (by Susan Wiggs) is a book I found perhaps around Thanksgiving (of this past year). It is a "fluff" book, but I found it/find it a light, cozy, Christmas read. Basic plot is focused on a divorced dad who usually gets to see his only son every summer and (focus of this book) at Christmas. The dad's family and his work have a place in this novel, as does just a touch of summer camp, a dash of Thanksgiving -- and the focus, CHRISTMAS!<br />
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I tagged "Tie Blanket" in the various labels for this post because I do not think I have ever shared this particular blanket here (before now). I was taught a while back how to make tie blankets, and at first I was not really thrilled with this particular pattern of circles -- over a year later it has become one of my absolute favorite blankets! I find myself throwing it over my shoulders instead of a sweater, or throwing it on my lap while watching tv, or curling up under it while reading into the wee small hours of the morning : ) I have actually used this pattern twice now, once paired with a solid darker green background (which is the one I still own) and the other with a darker grey (which became a gift a while back).<br />
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Considering making baby tie blankets and selling them (instead of giving baby-sized or tv-sized blankets) as gifts. Most family and friends (and more!) have tie blankets made by either myself or another family member, and while everyone loves them (seriously, no complaints in nearly a decade -- and I see them used often in others houses, they are not closed away) -- it is an idea. Not really sure if (or even how!) I would be able to make a large enough selection, where to find people to buy them, etc etc... yet perhaps it is something I shall try this new year. Love to all!<br />
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P.S. Downton Abbey Season Four premiers in the US TONIGHT from 9pm to 11pm!! Thank you PBS and everyone who supports public broadcasting stations -- therefore making lovely period shows like Downton Abbey possibleJMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-27007849606605908382014-01-04T20:05:00.001-08:002014-01-05T03:22:29.490-08:00Life Is Not Always Perfect<br />
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"You need to see that life is not always perfect. We will not always get what we want. And though it hurts a lot, what should've happened, happened. Who should've left, left, and whatever's thrown you off course will always bring you to where it is you need to be." (Unknown author; image found online)<br />
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With a new year many people, myself included, often take a closer look at what has passed and at what is to come. I know I tend to blame myself even when things are not my fault -- this quote reminds me that I am not responsible (at least not always!) for where I am in life. Other people make decisions that can help me or hurt me -- I am the only one who can decide how others/their choices will change (or not change) my life. This second quote/image was also found online and it is another good reminder:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--nybUAdAAts/UseczoEHXoI/AAAAAAAACcs/IJoqZYq37qA/s1600/Forgive+others+not+because+they+deserve+forgiveness+but+because+you+deserve+peace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--nybUAdAAts/UseczoEHXoI/AAAAAAAACcs/IJoqZYq37qA/s320/Forgive+others+not+because+they+deserve+forgiveness+but+because+you+deserve+peace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
"Forgive others, not because they deserve forgiveness, but because you deserve peace." (again, unknown author)... Life should not be a constant string of stressful moments, nor is it to be perfect. The ups and downs of life help remind us that we are to have faith and let go... Am hopeful that this new year I can face both the ups and the downs with more grace than I have previouslyJMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-56101085288327027872014-01-03T21:17:00.001-08:002014-01-03T21:17:43.248-08:00Colposcopy Results (good!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5rdKVQgD3Yo/UseZawHiBkI/AAAAAAAACcg/oNdtQH45tIo/s1600/LAX+to+Gif-sur-Yvette+(37).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5rdKVQgD3Yo/UseZawHiBkI/AAAAAAAACcg/oNdtQH45tIo/s200/LAX+to+Gif-sur-Yvette+(37).JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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I realized I did not say anything about my colposcopy results! So sorry for those who were waiting -- I finally got a call late Dec. 30th (I think they waited until the last second of my "a few days to two weeks maximum")... Anyway, I have as good news as possible (yay, something else positive in my life!!)<br />
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So this year I had a colposcopy done on Dec. 17th. Still have a virus (same as last
year), still have irritation (same as last year), still need to come
back in 11 to 12 months (same as last year) -- HOWEVER! Same as last year --
no progression!!!<br />
<br />
This means I continue to sit and wait and eventually it
will either go away or will develop into pre-cancerous growth. Unless
it goes away for three solid years (three clean/normal PAPs), I just get to wait around and do a yearly
pap that gets abnormal results which gets me another colposcopy appt
which gets more samples taken and the cycle goes on and on and on and
on....<br />
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Not sure if I am making any sense -- bottom line is I do not have to have any removal procedures, nor have I been given any new diagnoses. VERY GOOD NEWS. On the other hand, I have to sit and wait for every November to roll around and likely every December I'll have another colposcopy.<br />
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Thankfully, all the prayers/good vibes/etc worked (THANK YOU) and I have no progression (nothing is worse). So a positive start to a new year!JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-84323817296226345962014-01-02T03:29:00.002-08:002014-01-02T03:29:08.557-08:00Downton Abbey daze/crazeHello! Was intending to post about the Rose Parade (or perhaps finally post about my cousin R's wedding - lots of photos!), however, I am in the midst of a Downton Abbey marathon. Marathon of dvds as well as reading (re-reading) also being sure to AVOID THE INTERNET because Season Four starts on Sunday night and I really want to have ZERO spoilers -- looks like an achievable goal for the premier but I don't know if it will last all season... <br />
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As mentioned one of my favorite Christmas gifts was a 2014 daily desktop calendar about Downton Abbey (sometimes photos of the show, or quotes, or behind-the-scenes information/period information)... Received a NYE gift of a book based on the historical figure of Cora Cash -- who in real life became a duchess yet in Downton Abbey is the mother/wife/female head of household/Lady Cora/Countess Cora...<br />
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Anyway, am halfway finished with the book at 3am on January 2nd and it is a novel/historical fiction -- enjoying it so much so that I have paused in between episodes of Downton Abbey (all of season one complete; over six episodes of season two complete as of this moment) to begin/continue reading the book.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sxamCPQ7gNw/UsVLH5Kin_I/AAAAAAAACb8/xAxN1LRA87s/s1600/The+American+Heiress+(Cora)+by+Daisy+Goodwin+(Novel+but+also+historical+fiction).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sxamCPQ7gNw/UsVLH5Kin_I/AAAAAAAACb8/xAxN1LRA87s/s320/The+American+Heiress+(Cora)+by+Daisy+Goodwin+(Novel+but+also+historical+fiction).JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The American Heiress (in real life, Cora Cash -- taken from real life,<br /> placed into Downton Abbey as the Countess Lady Cora)</td></tr>
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Unknown to me, the bookstore (chain store, barns. and.noble) which was only a short drive away was set to close for good on NYE. Luckily I found heard in time and instead of fighting holiday traffic decided to hop online and use my Christmas giftcard on the website instead -- Season Three has been shipped and will hopefully appear SOON -- but if it does not appear by Saturday evening I think I shall record the season four premiere instead of watching it live as currently planned<br />
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Tracking currently shows that Downton Abbey s.3 should arrive in time to be re-watched however, so I will have well over twenty hours re-watched between all three seasons! For those who are not avid watchers, you should know that season one came out in the US in 2011, so it is not unreasonable at all for me to want/have a marathon prior to the fourth season arriving : )<br />
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Oh! I also have a great book that I found just before my 30th birthday called "While. We. Were. Watching. Downton Abbey " -- the three female characters all have their own storylines/are in different modern-day "classes" of society but all recently moved into a new building where once a week the concierge decides to have a Downton Abbey showing (the book follows season one on dvd, then "live" season two weekly episodes)... Wonder if I have a photo of the book --<br />
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"While We Were Watching Downton Abbey" I absolutely recommend to anyone -- particularly any females who are interested in reading a book about contemporary women with various life problems who will easily relate to the three female characters whose current life stories happen to make them an unlikely trio of great friends -- due to watching a television series together! Life with heartbreak and love, family and loss, and of course, Downton Abbey thrown in. One of my favorite new books in the past five years (as a bookworm that is saying alot!!)JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-91873729555048665512014-01-01T00:29:00.001-08:002014-01-01T00:29:31.335-08:00New Year's Day 2014!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K2p7UBrqA-w/UsFCPkKZkHI/AAAAAAAACa8/XKlmeoGzPuw/s1600/Happy+New+Year+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K2p7UBrqA-w/UsFCPkKZkHI/AAAAAAAACa8/XKlmeoGzPuw/s400/Happy+New+Year+2014.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Ring in 2014 ~ HAPPY NEW YEAR"</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today is the first day of a new year -- prayers and hopes that good wishes/events/happy times are waiting for everyone during 2014. Especially lots of quality time with loved ones! ::HUGS::</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GG1YExavNVM/UsFCPgTA1nI/AAAAAAAACbA/leey36TGmr8/s1600/2014+%28sparklers%29.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GG1YExavNVM/UsFCPgTA1nI/AAAAAAAACbA/leey36TGmr8/s400/2014+%28sparklers%29.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to 2014! (sparklers ~ another online image)</td></tr>
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P.S. In case you have not guessed, living in Southern California means that every New Year's Day is absolutely to include The Rose Parade! Perhaps many of you have seen it on television, or in person?JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7788984928723246053.post-63550749970002698272013-12-31T00:34:00.000-08:002013-12-31T00:34:46.658-08:00New Year's Eve 2013<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A8bJpybsWyY/UsFBGv7VM6I/AAAAAAAACaw/yffzvaNanoE/s1600/NYE+(newton-pendulum)+2013+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A8bJpybsWyY/UsFBGv7VM6I/AAAAAAAACaw/yffzvaNanoE/s400/NYE+(newton-pendulum)+2013+2014.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(NewtonPendulum) 2013/2014</td></tr>
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The last day of the year of our Lord 2013 has arrived! Many good things have happened over the past year... the last few months (and days!) of the year have brought trials and tribulations... Am very hopeful that 2014 shall help return everyone to a good place, better health, more time with family and friends, everything positive that is wanted/needed!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UV7LJsr8FCQ/UsE_GWHj2JI/AAAAAAAACaU/m7rXYMipWyE/s1600/NYE+%28ocean+waves+wash+old+year+out%29+2013+2014.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UV7LJsr8FCQ/UsE_GWHj2JI/AAAAAAAACaU/m7rXYMipWyE/s400/NYE+%28ocean+waves+wash+old+year+out%29+2013+2014.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ocean waves washing away 2013 and leaving a new 2014 (NYE)</td></tr>
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One of my favorite Christmas gifts this year was a desktop calendar for 2014 of Downton Abbey! Season Four of Downton starts on PBS here in CA in just a few short days - and I have yet to finish re-watching all of the first three seasons to catch up and get back into the wonderful world of Downton! Shall have to get right on that...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KXXY4l7MIHM/UsE_GauBi9I/AAAAAAAACaY/YEFohGXifGc/s1600/Downton+Abbey+2014+desktop+calendar.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KXXY4l7MIHM/UsE_GauBi9I/AAAAAAAACaY/YEFohGXifGc/s400/Downton+Abbey+2014+desktop+calendar.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downton Abbey 2014 Desktop Calendar</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Have a good (and safe) New Year's Eve and may tomorrow be the start of a wonderful New Year for all!</span></span>JMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321051201768707315noreply@blogger.com0