Happy Thanksgiving

I'm sorry...I just couldn't resist!

Roots

No one comes from the earth like grass

we come like trees

we all have

roots

-Maya Angelou

This year, like every other year, my thankfulness goes beyond family & friends. It extends to my Heavenly Father who reminds me everyday that I can lay all my burdens down at His feet.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving.
All my love!

Smile

"Mrs. Perry, we do offer a payment plan, if you are interested." Interested?? How do parents actually afford dental work without a payment plan. I wasn't anticipating just how soon the orthodontic work would begin. JWP, got braces put on a month ago and I wasn't quite prepared for the financial aspect of it.

I had braces as a teenager while my siblings had to fend for themselves in having their teeth straightened. I have paid a pretty penny to have my teeth straightened, filed and whitened. The dentist that we go to for our overall dental check-ups is like the "Dr. Rey" of plastic surgery.A local celebrity of sorts. When you walk into the office, there is a framed copy of the above Cosmopolitan magazine. (I have blurred out the cover for my younger readers) It is autographed by Toledo's famous daughter, Miss Katie Holmes to her favorite dentist. The boys always stop and stare and inquire who "she" is. "Just someone who left Toledo to live elsewhere and never came back," I reply.

It was at this appointment, my dentist told me I had beautiful teeth. Maybe this will be my big break out of Toledo. Or maybe, I will just smile while living here a little longer. Katie Holmes, I am not....but I'm sure my hubby would jump on a couch on national television to profess his love for me. Then again, I don't think he would.

Helping

It's that time again! The time of year when I challenge you all to step up and do something for the good of others. Now you know I don't expect you to change the world, but showing a little love to others doesn't cost a thing. Some readers have stepped up their volunteer activities...Ann in N.C. has been at the Mooresville Soup Kitchen and is fighting for Barium's Children's Home. Her girls have even helped out too. It's all about helping others, without expecting anything in return!! You can get hooked up with a local or national volunteer organization or come up with an activity you can do on your own.

Recently, some of my family members helped to winterize homes in Indiana through The United Way. This has become somewhat of a family tradition of theirs. Below, you can see a pic of my mom, brother and nephew who helped out.


This year as a family, we are collecting "gently loved" stuffed animals to donate. They will be finding new homes in the local nursing homes and also at Toledo's Clothing Closet. The Closet offers free clothing to local residents who cannot afford to clothe themselves or their children. The kids thought that these kids might like a new toy to go along with their clothes. I have received so many donations thanks in part to just getting the word out.



So, how will you give back this month? November is a wonderful month to be thankful...now, let's allow someone else to be thankful for one of the many things we take for granted.

Say Cheese

Life these days has been full of emotions. The smallest trigger can set off a crying, laughing, or coughing spell. Sad songs have made me cry(try Steven Curtis Chapman's newest cd Beauty Will Rise ). My three year old telling me I'm "a little bit of a bad driver" has made me laugh. The sinus infection that I am fighting off has made me cough...all night long. I have found only one way to solve all three....to dream about food.

Yep, strange I know! Those who know me(lucky you) know that I am quite the emotional eater. I wish I could be one of those who lose their appetite when they are experiencing emotions beyond their control, but I cross the line of gluttony.
Give me anything smeared with peanut butter, mayo, Nutella, butter, or cheese. You got it...I'm there.

There is one thing that I would love to have right now...my Dad's pimento cheese.
So, without further ado...the most requested blog comment request, thus far...the recipe!

"Spike's Pimento Cheese"

2 16oz sharp/cheddar cheese blocks
2 jars pimentos- drained
1 jar banana pepper rings- mild(reserve juice)
2 cups mayo(Hellmanns only!!)
salt & pepper to taste.

Using cheese grater, grate cheese over large bowl. Add drained pimentos. Add banana pepper rings(I usually use kitchen shears to cut them into small pieces). Add some of the juice of the peppers to moisten. Add mayonaise and salt & pepper.
Serve on melba, wasa or assorted crackers.

Enjoy Spike Zentz's(my papa)recipe with someone you love!

Thankful

I'm really trying to remember this saying the past few days. I must remain strong...a true struggle at this point.

Be thankful for something or someone...and tell them.

She is a He...

The conversations that I have with Sis Margaret can be serious, funny, or bizarre. The one that we shared this week fell somewhere in between. (Keep in mind she has two older brothers that find immense enjoyment in anything related to body parts, sounds and descriptions) The conversation went something like this:

S- Momma, little girls can have a penis...did you know that?
E- No, Sissy, only boys can have a penis.
S- Well, at school today, I saw my friend Parker go potty, and she has a penis.
E- Um, Parker is a boy and he has a penis.
S- Momma, Parker is a girl. She has long hair. It's so cool, she has long hair
and a penis!

For three months, my daughter has played with her best friend Parker, thinking HE was a SHE.

Moral of the story: If your son has long hair, please don't be offended when my three year old mistakes him for a girl with a boy's private part! Thanks :)

The Oak Tree

A week has passed since I left my parents home. Returning home was nice, but the dazed undertone of my emotions returned soon after. I pretty much resigned from all duties outside the home. The simple tasks that complimented my life seemed pretty minimal compared to the events that had taken place a week earlier. The grey cloud was trying to pass from above my head, but in a way I found comfort in it.

Trying to explain this to anyone is useless. Unless you have had to mourn something in some form or fashion, you will never understand. Everyone deals with grief and disappointment differently. I realize this after spending literally every waking minute with my parents and siblings this past month. We are all very different...each with different opinions, beliefs and lives. Yet, the common bond that we share is a collective heartache for my dad. We have all had disappointment in our lives. Maybe it was the job you didn't get, or the test you didn't pass. Maybe it was your child's behavior or just a moment when you stuck your foot in your mouth. My dad just went through a major disappointment, but he came through it victoriously!

As I pulled into the driveway, I watched as the wind shook the leaves from their branches. It was almost as if it was raining leaves. I have yet to begin to rake them, instead enjoying their blanket of protection they lend to the yard. I long for that blanket of protection too....for my heart.

I came across this poem about a mighty Oak and I soon realized the mighty Oak in this poem describes my dad, too. Resilient, strong, unshaken...with roots deeper than you could ever imagine...a fighter. The similarities strike me as an omen of sorts. One brought to me like a present from nature.

The Oak Tree
A mighty wind
Blew night and day
It stole the oak tree's leaves away

Then snapped its boughs
And pulled its bark
Until the oak was tired and stark

But still the oak tree held its ground
While other trees fell all around
The weary wind gave up and spoke
How can you still be standing Oak

The oak tree said, I know that you
Can break each branch of mine in two
Carry every leaf away
Shake my limbs, and make me sway

But I have roots stretched in the earth
Growing stronger since my birth
You'll never touch them, for you see
They are the deepest part of me

Until today, I wasn't sure
Of just how much I could endure
But now I've found, with thanks to you
I'm stronger than I ever knew

~ Johnny Ray Ryder, Jr. ~

Hierarchy & Bribery

It wasn't until recently that I noticed there was a hierarchy when it came to grandchildren. On a recent visit to see my darling Bachie(my 91 year old grandmother)a competition of sorts ensued. I went to visit her along with my mom and two sisters. You could see the three of us look quickly around her apartment to see how many pictures of each of us were displayed. I sat quietly...my children were represented, but I didn't see one picture of myself. My oldest sister had a few of pictures but my other sister's representation was over the top. Everywhere you looked, she smiled down at you, almost pitiful, because you didn't hold the same title. My Bachie explained the reasoning behind all of this.
1) She had spent the most time with my oldest sister, Cameron, therefore she holds a special place in her heart. She is not truly represented in "numbers" because she is not married with children. She used to receive the most phone calls from Cameron, but not anymore. To this, my sister promptly pulled out her phone and began to list off call dates..."what year", my Bachie exclaimed.
2) Allison's "shrine" is located all over the apartment. Above the tv, in her bedroom, kitchen...you name it, Ali is there. She hold the most honorable place of all, too. Her baby picture, wedding pictures, and locks of hair sit behind the locked glass of the curio cabinet. Gag!


3) When it was brought to Bachie's attention that there were very few pictures of me, she exclaimed that indeed, she had pictures of me up in a very special place. She said to look in the bathroom!e(How fitting.) So we all ran into the bathroom. Unable to locate them, she said to open up the cabinet. There I was, proudly displayed among a light bulb, cardboard trash, and other miscellaneous toiletries.


It was at that moment I realized that I would never make it to the "Curio Hall Of Fame". I didn't have enough calls logged to her nor did I have beautiful locks of hair to give. Naming my daughter after her, also wouldn't cut it. I wonder where my pictures will be displayed on my next visit. This is after I send her some delicious coconut macaroons...bribery always works, right?

Phase Four

....all the Kings horses and all the Kings men(Dr. Howard & Fellows)couldn't put my dad back together again.

...but, that isn't stopping him.

Phase four of my dad's plan will begin soon. His story...to be continued!

In Hades Kitchen

Once upon a time, a wonderful family moved in across the street. They moved to North Carolina from Long Island..West Babylon, to be exact. I fell madly in love with all seven of them (yes, you heard correct)! I quickly learned the rules and the lingo, and in some regards became one of them. Or rather, they became one of me. They supported and loved me when I was at my worst(I've been there) and were angels unaware, as they came alongside me to help out with our sick friend, Lee. AML became my best friend(an unlikely match, but it works beautifully) She is just what I need when I am feeling down or sorry for myself. A simple, "Put on your big girl panties and deal with it", is her daily reminder.

This brings me to her hubby, Roger. A man of few words(I love him dearly)unless he wants you to hear him, he works tirelessly for his family. I could always count on a delicious meal on Sunday nights...his penne a la vodka..wOw!! This week he interviews for the great show, Hell's Kitchen. Personally, I don't know anyone who would want to try and express their culinary talents while being screamed at and undermined by other contestants, but if anyone in this world can do it....it's Roger. He will certainly bring his Long Island, Southern transplanted self, and show up big time with his culinary creations.

So, Mr. Roger...we wish you the best of luck! Don't forget, I want my own table at your new restaurant and a personal introduction to the chef! Here's to you!

Waiting

The kids waited and waited for the arrival of their Ma & Pa who came to visit. My dad's surgery is scheduled a week from today, so they graced us with their presence for a few days. I just love this pic of Sis Margaret waiting for them to arrive.

Trying Silence

I am trying.

Trying to be silent.

Trying to listen.

Trying to let Him speak to me.

Trying to calm the "noise" of my life.

I am amazed of the many things He has spoken to me.

I think I will be quiet a little longer & remain in this silence.

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Romans 12:12

I Wish You a Blessed Day

I have two and a half hours, three days a week, while Sis Margaret is at school. I have good intentions to go to Starbucks or Carribou and sit with a good book, a latte and most of my sanity. Unfortunately, the reality of being a mom of three, with more obligations than I can juggle, catch up with me. This time is more appropriately spent rushing to get milk and bread, run to the bank, calm the family "Daily Drama", etc. Therefore, my mind is spread over a million places just reaffirming I am alive and "normal" in this world of "normal".

It was truck day at TJ Maxx, so I had to just take a sneak peek to see if any new goodies arrived. I was ready to pull out of the parking lot into another lot and proceeded to turn left. The minute I did, a huge pick-up truck came barreling around the corner...out of nowhere. Trust me when I say I am a excellent driver :) Let's just say he wasn't very pleased with my choice of timing. As I made my other turn into the parking lot, his two middle fingers shot up quicker than a game of fast draw. He was sure to let me know he was very angry.

Oftentimes, the rage of having red hair would come out and I would politely reply back with my own form of insult along with a little prayer that he would have uncontrollable diarrhea(my mom taught me that one)! Thanks Mom! Instead, I was so overwhelmed with anger , I pulled over and cried. Now, this man could have cared less that his quick reaction would draw such a dramatic reaction from a girl like myself, but it did. He continued into the Walmart parking lot and continued about his day...probably never giving it much thought again that he affected me emotionally like he did.

The point I am trying to make isn't that I was a big cry baby because someone hurt my feelings, but it is to recognize that every single interaction that you have with people on a daily basis can be construed in a certain way. How you react to the elderly lady in the grocery line writing a check, or the sales clerk who didn't ring up your discount correctly can mean so much. We don't have a telepathic way of knowing what someone might be going through outside of that situation. The man in the truck didn't know that I had closed a few windows, that my dad had cancer, that I am in still awaiting news on a huge family changing event. He didn't know that his lovingly gesture would send me over the edge. So, as you go about your day, be aware how you react to those around you. Say a little prayer for them. Wish them a blessed day.

btw...I must be honest. I did wish the truck driver a bad case of diarrhea, but with a bathroom and a bottle of Imodium nearby. I also did it in the form of prayer, with a blessing of a good day. Does that count?

I Heart Thee

Warning...this post has little sentimental value. No deep thoughts or life discoveries. Just a wish now that Fall has arrived on my doorstep. I want to take a walk among the oak leaves and acorns, sipping my pumpkin spice latte, wearing these! The Second Annual Consumption Crackdown may have to take a rest for a week so my feet can find a new home in this pair of lovelies. Welcome Autumn!

May I Suggest

"I want a life that sizzles and pops and makes me laugh out loud. And I don't want to get to the end, or to tomorrow, even, and realize that my life is a collection of meetings and pop cans and errands and receipts and dirty dishes. I want to eat cold tangerines and sing loud in the car with the windows open and wear pink shoes and stay up all night laughing and paint my walls the exact color of the sky right now. I want to sleep hard on clean white sheets and throw parties and eat ripe tomatoes and read books so good they make me jump up and down, and I want my everyday to make God belly laugh, glad that he gave life to someone who loves the gift."

-Shauna Niequist
Cold Tangerines

The Window & The Plate

My plate is full.

I'm closing the window.

These are just a few of the sayings that my dear friend AML and I share. If you say them often enough, you begin to follow the mantras. I have found it difficult to not just say them, but follow through living them out day to day.

Oftentimes as women, we have this "thought" that we must take on so much in order to achieve success or have others see success in us. I fall into this trap, oftentimes it seems like the trap won't let us out of its nasty gashing teeth. My blog friend Malisa, described it recently in one of her posts as "the cliff's edge". I found this to be so relational. Her lovely husband rescued her from the edge. I silently rejoiced alongside her.

I'm still waiting on my rescue squad.

I was sitting outside Sarah's music class chatting with another mother. She asked what activities my boys were in this season. When I said that they weren't participating in anything but school and a Wednesday night bible study, it looked as if all life had left her body. It felt great to say that we were doing "nothing" for a while.

With The Hubby traveling once again, I have made the decision to just slow down. Empower myself to say "no" when asked to help out(a quality that I have been blessed/cursed with). Not because my heart doesn't care to help out when needed, but rather at this time of my life, I have found it necessary to slow down.

I encourage each of you to "close the window" or tell someone lovingly that your "plate is full". Slow down and enjoy the process. Slow down and enjoy the life and the people in it that you love. Maybe sometime soon my window will will be cracked open just a little. I have a feeling it will just be to allow some of the crisp Autumn air come into our home.

This & That

The view out my kitchen window in the morning...how beautiful it is!


My wonderful next door neighbor delivered these to me today. We babysat her granddaughter last weekend and she kindly repaid us with this lovely arrangement.


You know how much I love monograms. Check this one out...my 15 year old nephew, Trey, had custom Nike's made(size 13). He had his initials put on one shoe and III put on the other (His full name: Tony Gene Zentz III) Very Cool!


We spent the weekend with my lovely sis and her dashing dude. It is always a jam packed weekend full of fun. Aren't they adorable?!


After the older boys got home from the Notre Dame game, they played flag football. Sis Margaret got in on the action.


We were thrilled that my mom and dad joined us for the night. My dad made a batch of his famous pimento & cheese spread. You can never have enough!

A Song

I have been finding so much comfort in the lyrics of songs lately. Today was a difficult day, yet a day that was filled with comfort and hope. This morning I was able to join together with many ladies of the Toledo area as my Bible Study began. I found so much comfort in these ladies last year...I find that I need other women of faith surrounding me to help keep me accountable...I am after all, human. This years class is full of such wonderful women of God!

This afternoon, I received a call from my mom that a dear friend of our family had suffered a stroke. I thought about how weeks earlier this couple sat with my parents and our family as we struggled to make sense of my dad's diagnosis. This is what good friends do...support, love & life up in prayer. Friends that you consider family. My prayers and the prayers of many go out to the Hammond Family during this time.

Trav & I continue to pray about where He may lead us to go. There are difficult decisions to be made, especially when you are also dealing with a parent who is ill. Yet, we feel confident as a couple and as a family that He is in control. He will carry us along the way. A reminder that wakes me every single morning...why am I searching when YOU hold all the answers. A comfort that I find in the lyrics of a song.

Why are you striving these days
Why are you trying to earn grace
Why are you crying
Let me lift up your face
Just don't turn away

Why are you looking for love
Why are you still searching as if I'm not enough
To where will you go child
Tell me where will you run
To where will you run

And I'll be by your side
Wherever you fall
In the dead of night
Whenever you call
And please don't fight
These hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you

Look at these hands and my side
They swallowed the grave on that night
When I drank the world's sin
So I could carry you in
And give you life
I want to give you life

Cause I, I love you
I want you to know
That I, I love you
I'll never let you go

"By Your Side"
Tenth Avenue North

If we left it up to him...

If we left it up to CEP, we would be competing against the Duggar Family who are expecting baby number 19! Nineteen children...more caffeine..STAT! I am in awe of the way this family can function. I struggle keeping up with the laundry and school papers of three children.

I am a big fan of babies...much to the chagrin of family members and strangers. There is always an undertone in their comments, "you certainly have your hands full as it is" or "I think three is a good number for you". No worries, The Hubby and I aren't planning on expanding our family(just yet) but if we left it up to CEP, we would have a new little bundle on his way(note the gender preference). We have told CEP to leave the baby planning to God and the economy.

p.s. Note how our darling CEP is now spelling his name at school "Clay'n".
Lovely(note the sarcasm)