Thursday- To Tired To Think...

Working for the insurance industry for these past 25+ years this cartoon made me giggle.
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Perhaps Adam and Eve needed this Life Insurance because of this...

LOL... The swine flu was around even in the bbeginning of time, lol
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CONTEST STUFF:
So this Swine Flu is the BIG story all over the news and Internet etc. Are you concerned abiut this epidemic? Post your answer in the comment section for another entry in this weeks contest.
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I can't blog much more than this. One my son has the camera again, two I am exhausted and can't possibly type another word, three maybe I have the Swine Flu, lol...
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Have a great night, sweet dreams, see you all Friday.
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AK

Wednesday- What's That Noise?

Well I fell asleep and just woke up and remembered I hadn't blogged. So let's see if I can do this and make sense.
This is my son Jim, in the garage making a film of him playing the drums for 2 hours straight for an art presentation at school. No wonder I am tired today, listening to drums for hours, LOL
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CONTEST STUFF:
Do you play an instrument? What kind? If you don;t have you ever wanted to? Will you ever learn or do you think it's too long and you can't teach an old dog a new trick? Post your comment today and receive another entry in this final contest week.
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This is how much I got done on my sock yesterday. Never even picked up the needles today at all. Maybe tomorrow.

And I received a prize I won over on Darcy's blog last month. It's a coffee mug and I LOVE it. Speaking of Darcy's blog, she has another contest over there, and my buddy Patt is supplying the prize, go over and check it out, you might just win.
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Have a wonderful sleep, I know I need one. Sweet dreams.
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AK

Tuesday-Technical Difficulties, Nope Not Me, LOL

Guess what I did again today?
Yep I cleaned some more. Today I washed out all the kitchen cupboards, the pantry and the closet shelves. I also wiped out the inside of the stove again because it looked streaky. That word "streaky" makes me laugh... I still remember when "The Streak" was popular. I remember once my cousin Bob when he was maybe 14 streaking around our neighborhood one day. OMG that was funny. We all got in trouble but it was funny just the same. OK how did I get there talking about cleaning an oven???
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CONTEST STUFF:
So do you have a CRAZY memory of something that happened in your childhood? If you're brave enough post about it in the comment section. If you're not brave, no problem, just enjoy the memory and then tell me how it made you smile when you did. LOL. This is the last week for the contest so make sure to comment every day this week to get your entries.
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I decided to start a grown up sock tonight while watching Americam Idol. Hardest part for me is remembering what part of the sock is what. This helps.

I am using DPN's. I have done magic loop but when I use the circulars where I join in the round I get this huge gap, I know it eventually fills in but it bothers me and makes me feel like I have done something wrong, but with the DPN's I don't get a gap at all. I think that is the way for me to go when it comes to knitting socks.

Isn't that a cool diagram? If you click on it it will take you to the cool blog I found. Step by step instructions. I'd show you the picture of my sock so far but my son has the camera. So tomorrow I'll post my progress.
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Just watching Biggest Loser and then I am going to go to bed. Have a great night and sweet dreams everyone.
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AK

Monday- Man am I tired

Adam zonked on Sunday afternoon. He never takes a nap. He was sitting on the couch with Papa watching the NASCAR race and then suddenly he was asleep.
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CONTEST STUFF:
I thought today I'd post a picture to see if you felt like making a caption for it.Post your caption idea in the comment section to receive an entry for today in the final contest week. Any comment will do, even if you can't think of a caption.
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And the winner of last weeks contest is JANE. She was the 33rd comment and that's the number REGIS chose. So Jane give me a buzz and let me know which set of stitch markers you'd like.
I finished the dishcloths for the KnitDishcloths Yahoo group swap. And even got them in the mail today, they are going to the Outback so hopefully they will arrive in time.

Oh and I finished the dishcloth towel toppers too, they are boxed and ready to be mailed as well.

Did a lot of running around today, seems to be the norm for me these days. And after running around I went back to that apartment and did some more cleaning. Today I cleaned the oven, frig, freezer and bathroom floor. Supposed to go back tomorrow for more torture instructions.
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Now I am going to go to bed... Hope you all had a wonderful day, sweet dreams. See you all Tuesday.
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AK

Sunday- Shall We Swim?

Been another LONG day. I honestly don't have much left in me to blog tonight. So I am going to leave you with a picture from the Star Wars party on Saturday. I tried to label the kids, but my "paint" skills are not the best, especially when exhausted.
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The pool is open next door at my sisters. Adam jumped in and got right back out, LOL. The water is still pretty cold, I mean it's still April in the North East. I put on my swimsuit but I never went in the water. But I will, soon.
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Contest Stuff
FREE weekend of course, all you need to do is comment for your entry. This week coming is the last week to enter. I wll announce this weeks winner when I blog on Monday.
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Off to bed, sweet dreams everyone.
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AK

Saturday- May The Force Be With You

Today Adam and I went to a birthday party. It was a Star Wars themed party. They had a bouncy bounce, and even had a visit form a REAL Storm Trooper, he signed his autograph and took pictures with the kids (and some adults too). Adam played long and hard all day, mostly with these light sword things. Tomorrow I'll show the pics with the Star Wars guy, too tired to sort through the 29 photos now.
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It was over 90 degrees out and we were in the heat for 5 hours straight. I think I fried my brain. When we got home I was so hot I bet you could have cooked an egg on my skin. My head was pounding too. I found my fan and plugged it in. It's still on now. I don't care if it cools down or not that fan is staying on all night tonight. I think I am sunburned, maybe that's why I feel so HOT.
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I did knit while I was there. I made another teeny tiny sock, this one is for the swap I joined. I won't show it's picture until after I am sure she has received it. I tried to do the mystery knit from our WhoDuKnit group but got confused so that sits in the bag. I'll have to email Jane later for help.
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I also finally made progress on the dish towel toppers I am making for someone. There will be eight towels all together and I should have them all finished by tomorrow.
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We have another picnic/BBQ tomorrow afternoon. This one is next door at my sisters and is for my nephews birthday. If it's as warm tomorrow as it was today she is going to let people swim in the pool.
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CONTEST STUFF-
Free entries on the weekends as usual, all you need to do is comment to let me know you were here, OK?
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I am going to get ready for bed, Adam just fell asleep. Have a wonderful night and sweet dreams everyone.
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AK

Friday- Fiddlesticks, Howdy and Barnacles

I did finish a couple dishcloths too, but can't find the pictures of them, they are somewhere, LOL
I am, however, kinda proud of these mini socks and the Cravat. Both were a challenge for me and I managed to get both patterns down and I like the results. That doesn't happen often.
I still have to make one more mini sock as I joined the wee tiny sock swap. I got my partners info today and she likes pink, green, pumpkin and deep red. Gonna see if I have anything in those colors to use for her sock.
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CONTEST STUFF:
I was thinking today about those certain catch words I heard people say as I was growing up. My Nana used to say Fiddlesticks, and my dad used to say Howdy and now Adam, he cracks me up, when something isn't going just right he says "Oh Barnacles" Haha I wonder if I even knew what a Barnacle was at 4 years old? So for today's contest entry, tell me some of those "catch words" you remember from your youth. Post them in the comment section for your contest entry.
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Brought Joe to physical therapy today and then we stopped at the grocery sstore. I wanted a picture proving how much room I had between my belly and the steering wheel, Joe got a little camera crazy, LOL.
There was a time when my stomach was so far pushed into the steering wheel I could barely turn it to drive, and that's why I basically stopped driving unless I had no other choice. Plus back then the steering wheel was tilted as high up as it would go too. Now it's tilted all the way down and look at all the room. No wonder I am driving around so much these days.
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Adam and I had a great day. He is asleep now and I am close behind him. I have a slew of craft things I NEED to finish this weekend and I'd love to stay up late and work on some of them. But I think sleeping would be better for my sanity, maybe.
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You all have a great night and sweet dreams.
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AK

Thursday-

I received another blog award today from Vanessa. I always wonder if I am deserving of these, it makes me feel good to get them but not always sure I live up to the expectations. Now I am not sure but I am probably supposed to forward this on to seven blogs...but I usually don't do that, I just have a hard time picking them out, I LOVE all the blogs I read. So if you are reading this then I feel you are deserving and feel free to snag this award and pass it on to the blogs you love too. If you click on the award it will take you to the blog it originated from to learn more about it.
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CONTEST STUFF:
Here's a little Riddle for you:

This is something I really enjoy
It can be consumed by a girl or a boy
Some like it warmer and some like it cold
We all need this, it's benefits will never grow old
It's free to most but some like to pay
Gallons are wasted almost everyday
On Earth day it's good to remember this drink
Can you guess what it is, tell us what do you think?

Post your answer in the comments section for your contest entry today.
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I am still knitting these teeny tiny socks... I think I am almost ready to venture out to a full size pair finally. These are done cuff down, I understand this method. Still want to try toe up and evventually learn the two at once etc. But for now I will be happy just to make an actual pair of socks. Those pink socks are the same size, but one looks a lot bigger in the picture.
I went to the hospital today and saw my cousin who had the same surgery as I did on Tuesday. She looks good, a little sore but good. She might even come home Friday. I parked on one side of the ospital and walked to the other side to get to her room. It felt good to be able to do the walk without oxygen and not losing my breath. The only thing I kept losing was my bra straps. Those darn things won't stay up on my shoulders {{sigh}}
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Friday I take my son to therapy again and then Adam comes for the weekend.
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Getting ready for bed now, have a great night everyone and sweet dreams, see you all on Friday.
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AK

Wednesday- Whistle While You Work

Guess what I spent my afternoon doing? My mom has a friend who is moving in a few days and she needed someone to help her clean the apartment and pack. She is disabled, similar to the way I was before surgery. My heart breaks for her because I KNOW what she is feeling and going through. Just a year ago I was the one stuck in a chair or bed unable to cook or clean for myself. Today I cleaned her bathroom, scrubbed the shower, tub, walls toilet etc. I also had a chance to sit a talk with her a little. I hope that my presence there and my testimony of getting my life back will encourage her to take the first steps as well. I will go back tomorrow and clean the oven and refrigerator.
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CONTEST STUFF
What is your Faviorite Disney movie or song? I know you have one? We all do... Post a comment today to receive another entry in this weeks contest.
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My favorite Disney movie is "The Jungle Book" I bought myself the DVD last year when it went on sale. I remember watching that as a young girl...I smile thinking about it.
My dad got a new puppy. Her name is Bella and they said she weighs 4 pounds. I can't wait to meet her when I get there on June 30th.
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Well I am getting ready to call it a night. I hope to see you all tomorrow. Have a great night and sweet dreams everyone.
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AK

Tuesday- Trial and Error

The Cravat is done... I actually LIKE it. Not sure if I'll ever wear it, but I do like it.
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CONTEST STUFF
Do you wear a bathrobe? Do you have more than one? Why am I asking this question you might be asking? Well my cousin had surgery today and wanted a light bathrobe to wear in the hospital, and her husband went everywhere and NO ONE sold roes outside of winter. Isn't that weird? Post your comment and/or thoughts for your Tuesday entry in this weeks contest.
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Speaking of hospital, I waited there while my cousin was in surgery and while I waited I knit TWO, yes TWO teeny tiny socks. If I can knit teeny socks I must be able to knit big socks too, right?

Well after a 10 hour day at the hospital, I am beat. Have a great night and sweet dreams.
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AK

Monday- Have A Drink On Me...

Went to Walmarts today... couldn't believe the deal on Easter stuff... everything from candy to baskets to decorations were all 20 cents a piece. These Bunny Big Ears made me laugh so hard I had to buy a couple of them. They are at least 18" long. Now there's some CHOCOLATE, and for 20 cents too.
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CONTEST STUFF:
Do you like to buy reduced priced items after a holiday and save them for the next year? Are you able to find all the stuff you bought for next year? Post a comment and receive an entry for today in this weeks contest.
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My sister always buys the marked down stuff and stores them for the next year and then can never find them. Goes out and buys more in desperation, and then the next holiday when looking for stuff she won't find what she wants but all the Easter stuff will be found, LOL. me I have no place to store it so the 20 sale items I bought today will all get eaten by the men in the house no doubt before the week is over.
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CONTEST WINNER from last week...
I had 94 comments in all, and REGIS has chosen the winner and it's comment #77. This belongs to Anita O. ongratulation Anita, please contact me with which set of stitch markers you would like me to send to you.
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So I had to take my X-BIL to the hospital today for an MRI. He is in pretty bad shape and can barely walk, I insisted on pushing him in a wheel chair when he was done because he couldn't make the walk and he did NOT wanna listen to me. I was stern and he finally got in the chair. Ironically just a few short months ago I would have been the one getting pushed and not doing the pushing. Anyway when I was in the Walmart parking lot I parked next to this car and the window cling they had made me laugh... Where do people find these things?
But the best part of my day today was seeing this car in Walmart's parking lot. I felt so cool wipping out my just happen to have on hand camera and started shooting


Isn't that saying funny above the back window? The foam goes straight to the brain. LOL
Go ahead have a drink on me, LOL
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Speaking o brains, mine just checked out and said time to go to sleep. I need to be out of the house by 7:30am tomorrow. Our cousin is having surgery and I plan on being there with her husband while he waits.
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Good night everyone and sweet dreams.
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AK

Sunday- Sunny Day

A DAY AT THE RIVER

APRIL 19, 2009

IT WAS A SUNNY DAY

PERFECT FOR PLAY

THE DUCKS WERE THERE

NO TIME TO SPARE

THROWING ROCKS

WHILE BOATS LEFT DOCKS

NANA WAS KNITTING

IT JUST SEEMED FITTING

THE WIND WAS BLOWING

MY GRANDSON IS GROWING

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That pretty much sums up my day. How was your Sunday?

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Contest Stuff:

As usual weekends are FREE all you need to do is post a comment. A winner will be chosen on Monday from all comments made from Monday through Sunday.

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I think I might go back and work on the Cravat, I am more then half way finished. Have a wonderful evening and sweet dreams everyone.

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AK

Saturday-Surprised Myself Today

When did Adam grow up to look like such a grown up boy? I still say I am going to bring the Baby home, and gosh he just isn't a baby anymore. {{sigh}} Where does the time go?

Been working on my Cravat today... I even figured out the part where I had to divide stitches and then combine them back again. I was so excited that I did it. That's pretty HUGE for me. So HUGE in fact I think I might even attempt to start a pattern from HERE............

Yep, my Socks From The Toe Up arrived today. I know, I know... I say I am gonna knit socks and then I never do. I really am going to start a pair, maybe as early as Sunday. I am just not saying which Sunday. LOL
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CONTEST STUFF
Is free over the weekends, if you want another entry all you need to do is leave a comment.
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It was a long day today, did dishes and laundry, played with Adam, went to my sisters for my Uncle Earls birthday, we ate coldcuts and then played Mexican Dominoes, we just got back a few minutes ago. Adam is already asleep and I am moments behind him.
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I hope you all had a wonderful day and have a great night. Sweet dreams.
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AK

Friday- Folding it In

Well the verdict is in. I finally folded all the clothes I was given recently. Remember how you all guessed what was there? Well here is the breakdown:

11 Long sleeved sweaters
22 Pairs of pants/capris
1 Pair of shorts
1 Belt
6 Pairs of pajamas
7 Thermal type long sleeve shirts
8 Dressy long sleeved shirts
10 Short sleeve shirts
10 Sleeveless shirts
1 Scarf with a matching storage bag
1 Bra
4 Pairs of brand new underwear (Fancy too)
2 Camisoles

That is a total item count of 84 Pieces. WOW, huh?

I have a feeling that my Winter 2009 those sweaters won't fit me anymore but hopefully the pants WILL. They are still a little hard to get on right now.

CONTEST STUFF:
OK here's my question for the day... Do you have enough storage room for all your clothes? Are you keeping only fitting sizes out in the open or do you have wishful sizes taking up room there too? Post any commet and receive todays entry for the contest.
I decided to start the One Skein Carvat today... what is a Carvat anyway? I have no clue. I am almost to the next part of the instructions where I have to divide stitches, and then after that I have to combine stitches. NO CLUE what I am supposed to do there. I hope to take it one word at a time, but if you come back and see I forgged something you'll know I freaked out, LOL

Adam and I had a really busy day today. I am pretty tired so maybe I'll get here earlier tomorrow and talk about it a little. But right now I am off to dreamland. Hope you all have a wonderful night and sweet dreams too.

AK

Thursday- Brush It Off Man, Brush it Off

Ahh today was a busy busy day. Out early to take Joe to physical therapy, a 90 minute shopping spree for groceries at the Walmart super center, then home yo unload everything, and off to get Adam. Why Adam you ask? It's NOT Friday is it? Nope Adam had an appointment and I was the taxi. Can you guess where I took him?
Yep to the dentist. The part about this visit though has me baffled. He has a cavity, a HUGE cavity in is front top tooth. Apparently it's too big to fill it. They want to do a ROOT CANAL!!! I was shocked, a root canal on a baby tooth? I never heard of that being done. Seems like a lot of pain for a 4 year old to endure for a tooth that will fall out in less then 2 years.
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CONTEST STUFF:
Have you ever had a root canal? Would you allow your 4 year old child to have one? Any and all comments are appreciated today. And any comment will still get you that entry today as well. it's a win win for us all, LOL
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Back to the busy day... After the dentist Adam asked, OK BEGGED, to come to Nana's house. He has no school this week, how could I say NO? So Adam is here, and finally sleeping for the night. Of course we had to get chicken and fries on the way to Nana's house. He has me wrapped around his little finger that boy.
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I had to leave him with his daddy and Uncle Jim so I could go to support group so I was back out of the house again until 8PM.
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Remembered on my way home I needed a couple things I forgot at Walmart so I stopped at the local pharmacy. Came home and tried to eat my first meal of the day. The verdict is still out on if it will be a good choice.
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Now I feel like I have been run over by a Mack Truck, I know I need to get up and brush it off. Easier said then done, huh?
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Have a great night everyone, sweet dreams.
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AK

Wednesday- Wishes

Yep it's April 15th Taxes are done the result...??? Speaking of affording things... I am the first one to NOT have a cent to spare. But my heart breaks for the children. I was visiting Mels blog today (finally catching up since I've been sick) and I saw that she was supporting March for Dimes with a megar goal of $100. I donated $10, it's barely a drop but babies are so precious and what's $5 or $10? A lunch at McDonalds, a couple Coffee's to go instead of making your own? I hope I don't turn anyone away but if you have $1, $5, $10 or more please click on the picture and donate. Your heart will feel good. I lost an infant at birth, there was no chance to save or know what was wrong with my daughter but there is HOPE for these babies. If you choose to donate, I would love to send you something. For you knitters a ball of cotton maybe or some homemade stitch markers... (if I ever start playing with my sculpy clay), for you non knitters how about I make you a dishcloth? It's not a bribe, simply a thank you. The walk is in 9 days and we need $90 to meet Mel's goal... that's doable, right?

CONTEST STUFF
So tax season is over... I read this question over on Knitty Kitty's blog and thought I'd use it myself... Are you a last minute tax return filer, waiting to rush to the PO before it closes or are you ready to submit everything on Jan 31st hoping to get that savings account, I mean refund in ASAP? Post a comment today to get Wednesdays entry in this weeks contest.
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Speaking of contests... I heard about this one earlier today and I wanted to mention it here ASAP as it ends on Friday. Easy like mine all you need to do is leave a comment, but you can do a couple other things for extra entries if you like. Click on the picture to go to the blog post and rules.

Well I haven't knit a thing today, been playing blog catch up all day. Tomorrow I hope to start something. I am off to shower now and then church. Thought I'd blog early today and not rush around tonight for a change.
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Hope you all had a wonderful, stress free day, and an even better evening. Sweet Dreams.
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AK

Tuesday- Tada...

This is the most recent pattern design I made. I designed it for the KAL on one of my Yahoo groups. I called it Easter Egg Love, I know not very creative. I'll be adding it to my pattern blog this week. And Ravelry of course.
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CONTEST STUFF
What is your favorite Easter Candy? I know a silly question but honestly folks I am still a little tired and brain fried. Any comment made will get you Tuesdays entry for this weeks prize.
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Oh an looky what I got in the mail. My first Interweave KNITS magazine. I wonder if I will ever attempt a single pattern in this book?

I am feeling better, still tired and a little sore but I should live. I was hoping to get to the Y this week to swim but think maybe I should wait until I am at least off the antibiotic. UTI and public pool, maybe not a smart move.
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I guess I am going to sign off for now and hit the hay. Hope you are having a wonderful night and sweet dreams too.
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AK

Monday- Easter ER, But I Survived... And Prizes Too

Well yesterday started out great, but got progressivly worse as the day went on. I haven't been so sick in a long time. My high tolerance for pain could not handle it, so around 8PM I finally went to the emergency room. For me to go to the ER, especially on a holiday, it must be pretty bad. My sister drove me and dropped me off anf then picked me back up around 3AM. Long night. Turns out I had a UTI, which was causing all the pain and naseua. I got hooked up to fluids via IV as I was also dehydrated by this point, they gave me nasuea meds, antibiotics and morphine. I basically slept through most of it. I feel better today, the back pain is much better, still sore in other areas and still can't eat anything but I am getting in all my water today so that's good.
Look what arrived in the mail today!! I won a needle holder from Michele. But she didn't just send me the needles holder she also sent one skein of Adrienne Vittadini Bettina yarn in a really pretty lime green color, and it came with a pattern for a one skein Carvat.
And a set of stitch markers that she made. The picture is blurry but they are really really great.
I finished the 4th dishcloth for Libby today they are her prize for helping me name Barbie, my car.
This is a picture of all four cloths. I hope to get them out in the mail tomorrow.

Speaking of prizes these are the four stitch marker prizes remaining for the winner this week to choose from. These were made by Bea, who by the way got married this weekend, congratulations Bea. If you get a chance go by her post and wish her the best.
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Anyway last week we had 115 comments made and REGIS, my trusty random generator guy, chose comment number 61. That was the fifth comment made on Thursday last week an dit belonged to Superwoman_2002. Congratulations Zaneta, just let me know which of the four remaining prizes you want and I'll send it right out.
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CONTEST STUFF:
Since my brain is wiped out I guess I'll just ask a stupid question. Have you ever gone to the ER on a major holiday? Post a comment to receive Monday's entry this week.
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I guess that's about it for me, I am still pretty tired, probably because I haven't eaten, or maybe it's a Morphine withdrawl, who knows. Anyway I hope I can sleep tonight. And I wish you aall a great night too, sweet dreams everyone.
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AK

Sunday- Everyday HOPE

HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY

Thought a few Easter cartoons were in order for today.

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I went to two churches today. Mine and my Mom's. It was my Easter gift to my mom to surprise here there. it worked. I also saw my baby sister for the first time since before surgery... she yelped, and then started crying. Ruined her make up. I guess it's VERY noticable if you haven't seen me in a few months.

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I have a sharp pain in my lower back on the left side and have been nauseus most of the day but no clue why. I am going to rest up until dinner at 4 or 5. I took two Tylenols hopefully they will kick in soon.

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Hope you are all having a wonderful day, filled with HOPE and new beginnings. Remember Jesus isn't just alive on Easter, HE is ALIVE everyday, and that means we have hope everyday.

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Oh for your final contest entry for this week just leave a comment.

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AK

Saturday- So Tired, My Batteries Are Dead

Now if I could figure how to get this in the header I'd be happy, LOL. I love seeing my name in flowers. It's so SPRINGY.

Adam is not a flower person. Actually this photo was taken last weekend, but I never posted it. I didn't take any this weekend, batteries are dead in my camera, of course.


I started this dishcloth a couple days ago. There is more done then this of course, same camera issue.
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It's a great pattern, one of Maile's. But the knit 4 together thru the back loop is a KILLER, a KILLER I tell you.
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The batteries are dead in one of the Wii controllers too. That meant Adam had to play by himself and I am happy to brag, he can play tennis now, he won against the computer 3 of 4 matches. Not too shabby for a four year old.
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CONTEST STUFF:
All you need to do today is leave a comment about whatever you want. Weekends are free entries, as long as I know you were here.
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The clothes are still in a pile on the couch. Never got to it today. Maybe tomorrow, maybe Monday, I'll let you know when It's done what the final count is.
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It's getting late and I am sleepy so bed time for me.
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Have a great night and I'll catch you tomorrow.

Friday- Really? It's Friday? I thought it was Thursday again.

Well this week I did finish a few things but the thing standing out most in ym mind is the frogging (all be it barely a start) of this pair of socks at the same time on one needle magic loop style. yeah, say that three times fast, lol. I amm just having issues and i ripped out my start. I will try again and maybe one day this year it will be on a Finishing Friday post. CONTEST STUFF-
Below you will see a picture of all the cloths recently donated to me or found in my closet. It's A LOT. I think your mission today is to guess how many outfits, or pairs of pants, shirts etc are in this pile. Your guess gets you an etry for today, right or wrong you still get the entry. BUT if you guess exactly right I will have a special prize just for you. I am exhausted and MUST go to bed. See you when the sun rises. Sweet dreams.
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AK

Thursday- Dazed and Confused

Well what a day. It actually started out pretty good. I took my son to an orientation for a place called Job Corp, they will help you get your GED and/or diploma and train you in up to 3 skills and PAY you while you do it. You can even live on site and they will feed you too. OK I am sold. LOL We had to park in the city of Albany on the street, meter parking of course. We found a spot close to where we had to go, and the meter still had 17 min left on it. Thank you Lord. We between the two of us found 4 more quarters to put in, that would buy us one hour and 17 min. We found out we were going to be there for 2 hours. I was a little worried. I found 2 more quarters in the bottom of my purse, so my son went and put those is, still 13 min short though. BUT we ended up getting out of there faster and we actually had 12 min left on the meter when we left.
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Next we went to lunch. I haven't been out with just my youngest son in forever. We went to Olive Garden. We pulled in the parking lot and it was PACKED. Looks like everyone wants to go out to lunch on a Thursday afternoon. We only had about an hour before our next appointment so we decided if it was crowded or there was a wait we would just leave. A parking spot opened up just as I entered the parking lot and it was right in front, couldn't have been better if it was a handicapped space. We walked in and there were 10 people sitting, my guess was waiting for seating. We walked up to the greeter guy (what is that official name anyway) he asked us how many? 2 my son said. Just then a seater walked up with menus in his hand and the greeter guy said... "follow him" WOW no wait. The food was delicious, I never even ate my meal. I had some salad and a small piece of the chicken from my sons kebob. I brought my meal home I'll get two meals out of that for sure.
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Next we stopped at the lawyers office to discuss options from Joe's car accident in January. He is 23 and walks like he is 63. It's not very good. That appointment went well and soon we were on our way back home.
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Home I cleaned the kitchen, checked the mail and got dinner cooked so I could go to support group. I drove myself, another HUGE thing for me, I hate driving in Albany at night. This makes 2 weeks in a row that I did. I am determined to OVERCOME by limitations.
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CONTEST STUFF:
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So on the way home I saw a license plate that stumped me...
It says..." GR8NEWFS " sorry it's blurry, pictures through the front windshield don't always work out too well. Anyway your contest mission today is to help me figure out what it's trying to say... I can't figure it out. LOL Post your idea in the comment section and receive an entry for Thursday in the contest. Post a comment even if you are confused like me, we can stick together, LOL
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No knitting or reading today but I did do a lot of walking. I think bed time is in order now. Have an early day tomorrow and then Adam will be here.
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Have a great sleep, sweet dreams.
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AK

Wednesday- It's NOT Thursday

Well all day today I thought it was Thursday. Not sure where I thought Wednesday went.
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I finished the dishcloth I started yesterday when I gave up on the socks. I didn't have a dish soap bottle to model so I used my water bottle instead.
I have one more dishcloth to make and then I can mail them out to Libby.
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I received a package in the mail today. I am going to make some towel toppers for Bonnie.
Isn't this handmade card and sheep just the cutest?
These are the towels she sent. They are going to be so pretty.

WEDNESDAY's CONTEST

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So today just a question... what color yarn do you think I should use for the toppers. The same on all 4 or different? Post your sugestions in the comment section and receive an entry for today in the April contest.

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I got two bags of clothes from a Chris at church tonight. She has been saving all her clothes for me. I haven't had a chance to open them yet, and I'll be gone most of the day tomorrow but I can't wait to see what fits me.

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I know I had more to say but I am a little tired. I'll save it for tomorrow. Good night everyone and sweet dreams

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AK

Tuesday- Trying On A New Hat...

So I thought today I'd finally get started on that sock KAL I joined. We are knitting two socks at the same time on one circular needle using the magic loop method with this basic pattern. Now I didn't think I knew the magic loop method but I DO, so I got excited thinking I can DO this. So I bought the yarn and the new needles today at the LYS and I was READYDoesn't it look great? Yeah, it sat just like that on my bed all afternoon I was afraid to touch it and tangle it all up. But I finally decided it's now or never. I need to step out and go with the new, because the old just isn't fun anymore.
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So far this is what I've accomplished...
HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so stuck and confused. I got the cast on OK, and started the ribbing on the first half of sock one and then I was LOST. Now what? Who knows, maybe I need to frog it and start over or just start something else? Anyone live close enough to Upstate NY that wants to help me, please call, I'm in the book, under dazed and confused, LOL.
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CONTEST STUFF:
Today I think I'll just ease my inferiority complex by asking have you ever stepped out of your comfort zone to try something new and failed on your first try? It doesn't have to be knitting related, it could be cooking, or writing, or a sport whatever... Did you go back and try again? Tell me about your experience in the commebt section so I can draw from your successes and maybe keep trying. Any comment counts and gets you an entry for today.
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OH and the caption I had in my mind for yesterday's tangled dog was... "Well it's your fault, you're the one who named me SWIFT."
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So today I had my admissions interview at Bryant & Stratton College. I have decided after almost 30 years to finally go to college and get a degree.One day I may once again wear one of these. Better than one of these There are so many things out there to be learned but I have decided I want to go into a medical field for my new career. I am going to start out with Medical Administrative Assistant and then finish off with the actual Medical Assistant program. These will set me up to work in the home doing billing/coding/transcripting or out of the home in a DR office or hospital doing things like drawing blood and EKG's and monotiring, assisting, running units and offices etc. It's a HUGE growing field and I can easily support myself with either of these degree programs. Classes would start September 9th. I filled out the FAFSA forms on line today so we shall see if I can swing the cost. There are a lot of changes happening in my life right now and this is just the beginning.
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I have been reading the April book for the WhoDuKnit group, it's called "The Husband" by Dean Koontz. I have never read any of his books, but I have to tell you I was hooked right on page ONE. The ironic thing is that I am reading a book about a husband that loves his wife more than anything, while this crazieness is going on all around me. Sometimes God's sense of humor is way over my head.
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Well I think that's enough for today. I need to go to bed soon and dream about knitting socks and least in my dreams I actually knit them. Have a great night and sweet dreams.
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AK

Monday- And The Winner Is... ME and YOU

Week one is over already so I MUST pick a winner. I LOVE giving away prizes. I had a total of 71 comments last week over 5 days, not too bad. I called up "Regis" and asked him to pick a number randomly between 1 and 71. I did not give any clues to who was what number, I MUST be fair now. But thank you to all those who bribed made such nice flattering comments in hopes to increase your chances. You'll know if it worked when you win, LOL. Just kiddding.
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I ordered my prizes from Bea's Etsy store this time around, she was having a sale and I couldn't pass it up. These are the items I bought and received in the mail today. The yarn sorry is for ME. It's name was OOAK, it was calling out to me... OO AK, could it have been any clearer?
The other 5 pictures are homemade stitch markers, and well I kinda want to keep them all so I have no clue what I will use for the prizes now. No even though I love them I will still give them away... Unless you don't happen to be a knitter with a need for stitch markers and then I will make you something special, everyone wins. And that includes me cause I'll get to keep a set of stitch markers. LOL. Oh Regis, # blah is not a knitter can you pick that one, please?
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Oh you are wanting to know who won this past week. Oops sorry I got carried away, cause I am almost light enough now to actually be carried without the help of the fire department.
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THE WINNER IS DEB ... And I am glad to see Regis pick her. She has been away from Blogland for a little bit caring for her father whom she loves dearly. A selfless act like that should not go unrewarded. So Deb you have your choice of the 5 sets of stitch markers pictured above. Just email me or PM me on Ravelry or post in the comment section which set you'd like. But you still need to at least get me your mailing information, LOL
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MONDAY'S CONTEST
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Well what shall I do for today. How about a cute photo that could use a caption... are you up for that? Look at the picture below and if a funny caption comes to mind post you thoughts in the comment section. If you can't think of anything simply enjoy the ones before you and after you for that matter and just make any comment at all. This will get you an entry for this weeks contest.

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So finally here is the self portrait I mentioned I took in McDonalds. I figured you were all tired of seeing pictures of me so that's why I didn't post it. I wish the camera made me look as slim as I felt in that shirt. As you can see it's too big and was falling off my shoulders, but I am going to have it taken in so I can wear it for a while longer.

So there you are, now have a wonderful evening, and a great nights sleep. Sweet Dreams and make sure to come back tomorrow.
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AK

Sunday- Sometimes I Wonder...

Well this has been a weekend of all weekends. I had high hopes, thought things were going really good. But then the bomb drops. There is always a bomb isn't there? But I am not going to dwell on this negative stuff. Instead let's look at finished dishcloth number two.
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Feather and Fan... knitted in Peaches and Creme Licorice

This is truly one of my favorite patterns, super easy, pattern repeats are not complicated so no pattern pages to carry around, and it's just beautiful.
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After church today I took Adam and Christopher (my son Jim's friend's son, is that as confusing as it sounds to me?) to McDonalds for lunch and to play on the slide. We were there for 2 hours and they had a blast. I actually ate myself, OK I didn't eat MYSELF, I ate McDonalds food. LOL I ordered the grilled chicken snack wrap and took the chicken out of the wrap and just ate the chicken and I had a side salad. It was just enough food, didn't make me sick and kept me from having a starving day like I had last week because I hadn't eaten all day. It's nice to know that I can basically eat anywhere, it's all about choices. It always has been. I just finally GET it.
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I wore one of the new shirts I got last night from my husband's cousin's wife (geez another confusing sounding explanation)and even I thought it made me look thinner. I took a picture in the mirror in the McDonald's bathroom, LOL. I was in there four times with Adam. I swear food goes through him faster then it does me and I have a medical reason for that.
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Tomorrow I will announce the winner for this weeks contest prize and what the prize will be. It's just small prizes weekly since I am giving away 5 prizes this month. Hopefully one of the contest months this year will have just a grand prize winner with a more expensive prize at the end instead of weekly. Unless of course you all prefer the weekly small ones. I like to go with the flow you know. Hey that rhymes.
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Well I hope you all had a great weekend, and that your ready for the Monday on the way. It's a rat race out there, are you prepared for whatever may come?

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Sweet dreams
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AK

Saturday- Ouch Barbie is 50... Scary I am so right behind her.

Yeah even beauties can suffer from old age. Yikes. Wonder how Skipper looks? LOL

Blurry family picture taken tonight at Gary's cousins home. We went there for dinner tonight, and it was delicious. (See cousin Cliff in the mirror?)

Earlier today Hannah came over to play with Adam, they were Space Cowboys. Or something like that. Adam did have a specific name but I can't remember. Oh Barbie I am so close to filling those shoes of yours. {{sigh}}
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There was some knitting today. Not much but some. I'll blog about that tomorrow. It's almost midnight, Adam is asleep and I am ready to follow soon.
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Adam says..."Watch out I have ALL my eyes on you."

Have a great night, see you Sunday. Sweet dreams.
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AK

Friday- Favorites

Let's start off with Darcy's Knotty Knitter Contest. It's her 2 year Blogaversary and she is giving away 7 count then SEVEN prizes. And the best thing, is theyy are all donated by some of her FAVORITE shops (mine too). There are even 7 ways to get entered so chances are really good. Make sure if you go there from here that you mention my name (it gives me another entry, thanks) I think you can click on the photo to get to Darcy's blog but here in the link to the actual contest post and instructions as well.
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CONTEST STUFF
So it's Friday what will the contest focus be today? I think I'd like to know some of YOUR favorite places to shop or dream or drool. Post about them in the comment section and receive an entry today for April's contest. If you don't have a favorite place yet, come back and read the comments, you might just find one.
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This is also Finishing Friday...
Well I finished quite a few things... let's see if I can get a Moasic up of this past week.

Finally finished the baby blanket. I thought about putting a hood on it like I did for the first one I made but I think not. It's hard to get a picture showing a full blanket, LOL

Speaking of Favorite things, this is mine. Bet you had no idea, huh? Notice the stickers? I found those cleaning yesterday and he spotted them within seconds of walking in the house from the school bus. We immediately both were sporting several boy and girl stickers on each others shirts.
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We took a trip to Walmart and I returned the too big jean shorts, but forgot to buy another pair. We had to go to the food section first, Adam is very persistant, lol. He wanted fruit salad, and chips, and ice cream and a baseball bat and ball and... yeah you get the idea. $78 later I finally got him back in the car, minus the $8 bouncy ball he wanted, it was like 4" in diameter, you've got to be kidding me. Sorry kid, I love ya more than my luggage, BUT... in all the commotion and excitement I totally forgot to get the shorts. LOL
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Another favorite thing of mine... Blogging and Contests. April is a good month cause I get both.
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Have a great Friday and wishing you all sweet dreams.
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AK

Thursday- Thankful but Tired

I spent the afternoon in the education class that all patients hoping to have gastric bypass surgery must attend. I went as support for a friend of mine in the process. And all I can say is GOD is AWESOME. He has changed my life and given me HOPE again. I am so thankful that He has changed my mind set and given me wisdom. I can almost NOT remember what it was like when food controled my life instead of God. I heard 100 times today if I heard it once, weight loss surgery is NOT the answer, it's just a TOOL. You have to want to do the work, you have to want to make the changes, you have to believe. The surgery just helps you in the beginning stay focused, but it won't do it for you. I heard people there that were ready to make a life change and others that even with surgery were going to struggle, because they haven't yet changed their thinking. I have been losing weight since 1983. I have lost hundreds, and gained thousands. This past year I awakened, I decided that living was worth more then a candy bar, that breathing was worth more then a sandwich. And all the credit goes to God, He is awesome and I am so thankful.
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So for today's April contest entry, answer this question:
WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR TODAY?
Post your response in the comment section and receive an entry.
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I finished one of the dishcloths today while I was out...

Close up of the front side and... then the back side

This is the Waffle Texture dishcloth designed my Maile. She has some awesome patterns and this one was super douper easy. Perfect for a long day out.

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I wish I could post more, but I am exhausted and have to go to bed. Have a great night and sweet dreams.

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AK

Wednesday- Aunt Kathy Models "The Bikini", No Fooling

Ok that's really not me... April Fools... But this is...

Ok that isn't either... Got You Again... But I have to tell you that bear still looks better in the bikini then I do, LOL

Yes this is me, NO FOOLING, self photographed, pardon the blurriness, and for your own sanity the top half is all you will ever see, LOL. OH and that is NOT a belly button you see below the top, that is one of the six scars from the bypass surgery. Unfortunately the belly button is much lower then that, quite depressing. In fact if and when I ever get this excess skin removed I probably won't have a belly button anymore. Freaky huh?


Yes everyone April starts up the next MONTH long contest. As usual I will try to keep you entertained yet not make you do a ton of work just to get an entry. I just love to give away stuff, and I'd LOVE for you to get some. Usually all I require is a comment from you daily for your entry. Even if your comment has nothing to do with the contest, it will count. No pressure. I hate pressure, unless it's a massage or back rub. Oh yeah then I LOVE Pressure, LOL
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Since today is April Fools Day I thought for your entry today I want you all to answer the following in the comment section:
1- YOU ACTUAL WEIGHT
2- YOUR MOST EMBARASSING MOMENT
3- ANY ILLEGAL ACTS YOU HAVE COMMMITTED
4- YOU CREDIT CARD NUMBERS, EXPIRATION DATES AND THE 3 DIGIT CODES ON THE BACK
5- YOUR ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER AND SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

Leave those answers in the comment section and receive 1,000,000,000 entries in this months contest.

No really if you have a funny April Fools Joke you played or that was played on you and you want to share, GREAT, otherwise just say "HEY I was here" and you'll get that entry.
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Well now wasn't that fun???
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I am going to try to blog earlier this month since it is a contest month. No promises, this bikini I am wearing around the house might be cutting off oxygen to my brain just a little, LOL
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What's the prize this week? Well I'm not telling. Not yet anyway. Soon. Could be tomorrow, could be Friday, could be the weekend, you'll just have to keep coming back to see now won't you? Please come back... and feel free to follow the blog, and tell your friends. I may even have a prize for those blog followers at the end of the month too.
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Yikes the computer played a trick on me and published this while I was still typing. So I am going to rush now and close before anyone see's it was published. I need to get ready for church anyway.
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Enjoy the day, have a great night, and sweet dreams.
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AK