tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54767982011-04-21T19:56:44.592-05:00Searching for answers... This is how a single mom of an eye-rolling, door-slamming, drama queen teen keeps her sanity.Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comBlogger4111100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-25185479830674820982007-08-03T16:05:00.001-05:002007-08-03T16:06:38.932-05:00

Women have the sensitivity to love their children unconditionally and under any circumstances, even when their children disappoint them. What a gift!There is no love in the world more absolute than a mother's love for her child. No matter what your children do, you want to protect them. It doesn't matter what mistakes they make, you believe they can still get it right.What a gift you are to the

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-80848577555818141062007-07-31T08:49:00.000-05:002007-07-31T08:53:32.540-05:00

When you look in the mirror what do you see?Do you look only at flaws? Your big nose, your doubble chin or perhaps your not so perfect skin?Every woman has her own self-proclaimed list of flaws. We're all guilty.Did you know the more you focus on your flaws the less you see your perfections? Your perfections can be seen in the mirror too!Why not consider your positive attributes - your perfect

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-56826472729686953502007-07-20T11:09:00.000-05:002007-07-20T11:18:28.548-05:00

My daughter and I drove down to Peoria, Illinois this past Sunday for the Dancing With the Stars 2007 Tour. Amanda became a huge fan this past season due to Apolo Anton Ono. The show was great. The dancing was great and the three Joeys (Joey Fatone, Joey Lawrence and Joey McIntrye) were very entertaining. Amanda even got her picture taken with Julianne Huff (Apolo's partner), Edyta Sliwinksa (

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-42320837598599648672007-07-19T11:42:00.000-05:002007-07-19T11:43:31.600-05:00

There will be times when you find yourself in situations that seem impossible to deal with. Maybe you are in one, now. Perhaps you're in a dead end job, or a relationship that seems to be going nowhere. Maybe your family is driving you crazy.Whatever your situation, remember, many women have stook in your shoes. They found a way to overcome obstacles and solve problems. But, how did they do

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-90060240137778851172007-03-27T09:09:00.000-05:002007-03-27T09:10:51.429-05:00

"Here's to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The trouble-makers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They're not fond of rules, and they have no respect for the status-quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify, or vilify them. But the only thing you can't do is ignore them. Because they change things. They push the human race forward. And

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1173210446221696212007-03-06T13:46:00.000-06:002007-03-06T13:47:26.236-06:00

There’s not a single woman in the world that hasn’t had to struggle with something or overcome difficulties at some point in her life. We all face challenges and adversity.At this very moment you may be facing one, whether they’re related to money, health, children, partners, family or careers. It’s all part of being alive.Recognize that obstacles are just part of your journey. Don’t let them

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1168281265881783612007-01-08T12:33:00.000-06:002007-01-08T12:34:25.900-06:00

PART IIA SEXUALLY TOXIC ENVIRONMENTFor both schools and families, the task of teaching sexual wisdom is made much more difficult by the fact that young people today are growing up in a world that pushes sex at them constantly. A mother of an 8th-grader picked up a copy of Teen People magazine for the first time and was "amazed . . . it was page after page of young teens dressed in very

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1167934309428328852007-01-04T12:10:00.000-06:002007-01-04T12:11:49.450-06:00

I lost my virginity when I was 15. My boyfriend and I thought we loved each other. But once we began having sex, it completely destroyed any love we had. I felt he was no longer interested in spending time with me—he was interested in spending time with my body. ~ A 22-year-old young womanI wish someone had been preaching abstinence in my ear when I was in high school. That was when my sexual

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1159480609395554862006-09-28T16:52:00.000-05:002006-09-28T16:56:49.410-05:00

In case you are wondering what happened to me here is an update...In March I bought a little house and have been busy settling into the place.In June I met a great guy at my bosses retirement party and we have been spending a lot of time together. His name is Jeremy. He has a 16 year old daughter and a 14 year old son. I have never been happier.I have given in and have created a page over on

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1152136675380101942006-07-05T16:55:00.000-05:002006-07-05T16:57:55.393-05:00

Now that gas has hit an all time high in Northern Illinois ($3.07 for regular!) here are some helpful tips:- Combine errands, and trips.- Service your car it will keep it at peak performance- Go lightly on the gas pedal- Don't pump your brakes- Don't idle for long periods of time- Don't use drive up windows...park and go in- Empty the car and trunk of extra items- Put items in the trunk instead

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1151855824273098962006-07-02T10:56:00.000-05:002006-07-02T10:57:04.286-05:00

All Your FaultsMany people say that- you like someone "because" they have pretty eyes, a nice smile, or an elegant nose. You love the person "even though" they are not rich, a good cook, or can’t put the toilet seat down. Liking someone means that you are fond of their good traits and loving someone is that you accept that other person fully even though they are not always perfect.

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1150468567172368282006-06-16T09:35:00.000-05:002006-06-16T09:36:07.183-05:00

Men are like bagpipes; no sound comes from them till they're full.

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1150215675561823512006-06-13T11:20:00.000-05:002006-06-14T09:21:42.776-05:00

A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. ~ Herm Albright

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1149172431440235252006-06-01T09:32:00.000-05:002006-06-01T09:33:51.453-05:00

It seems to me we can never give up longing and wishing while we are alive. There are certain things we feel to be beautiful and good, and we must hunger for them. ~ George Eliot

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1148584222236569722006-05-25T14:09:00.000-05:002006-05-25T14:43:52.250-05:00

A message every adult should read, because children are watching you and doing as you do, not as you say.When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my First painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you feed a Stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals.When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1148477086380054032006-05-24T08:24:00.000-05:002006-05-24T08:24:46.393-05:00

Don't worry that children never listen to you. Worry that they are always watching you. ~ Robert Fulghum

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1147975402956518852006-05-18T13:02:00.000-05:002006-05-18T13:03:22.966-05:00

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom. ~ Marcel Proust

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1147457619589238402006-05-12T13:13:00.000-05:002006-05-14T14:22:11.406-05:00

Mother's Day is a holiday celebrated in honor of mothers and can be traced back to spring celebrations in ancient Greece honoring Rhea, Mother of Gods.Many countries celebrate this holiday but on different dates. Since 1600's Mothering Sunday has been celebrated in England on the 4th Sunday of Lenten Season. Servants used to be encouraged to go home for the day and be with their mothers. In The

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1147297725999867162006-05-10T16:47:00.000-05:002006-05-10T16:48:46.010-05:00

Birds of a feather flock together and crap on your car.When I'm feeling down, I like to whistle. It makes the neighbor's dog run to the end of his chain and gag himself.A penny saved is a government oversight.The real art of conversation is not only to say the right thing at the right time, but also to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.The older you get, the tougher it is to

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1147103116651767942006-05-08T10:44:00.000-05:002006-05-08T10:51:21.440-05:00

Among life's many mysteriesI have often wondered whywe designate as 'common' senseA trait in such short supply ~ ANON

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1146233397296639872006-04-28T09:09:00.000-05:002006-04-28T09:09:57.306-05:00

Heroism consists in hanging on one minute longer. ~ Norwegian proverb

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1145655652553498862006-04-21T16:40:00.000-05:002006-04-21T16:40:52.553-05:00

You cannot depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus. ~ Mark Twain

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1145369167544037722006-04-18T09:05:00.000-05:002006-04-18T09:06:07.556-05:00

Love the moment, and the energy of that moment will spread beyond all boundaries. ~ Corita Kent

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1144959113136649082006-04-13T15:11:00.000-05:002006-04-13T15:11:53.146-05:00

Draw A Pig! Personality Test!http://www.zipperfish.com/free/games/draw-a-pig.php )

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1144686901107073982006-04-10T11:34:00.000-05:002006-04-10T11:35:01.140-05:00

Man can live for about forty days without food, and about three days without water, about eight minutes without air ... but only for one second without hope. ~ Hal Lindsey

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1144418787830175902006-04-07T09:06:00.000-05:002006-04-07T09:06:27.846-05:00

Most men pursue pleasure with such breathless haste that they hurry past it. ~ Soren Kierkegaard

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1143730216597511162006-03-30T08:49:00.000-06:002006-03-30T08:50:16.640-06:00

Strength is the capacity to break a chocolate bar into four pieces with your bare hands -- and then just eat one of the pieces. ~ Judith Viorst

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1143645708778835442006-03-29T09:21:00.000-06:002006-03-29T09:51:31.226-06:00

With more than 317,000 seals killed for their fur in 2005 alone -- 98% of whom were babies under three months of age -- Canada's harp seal hunt is the largest commercial hunt of marine mammals on earth. It is certainly the cruelest.Although Canadian citizens don't support the seal hunt, the fishing industry and the federal government have refused to end it. With the recent election of Prime

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1143574345034804602006-03-28T13:32:00.000-06:002006-03-28T13:34:51.560-06:00

This one will drive you nuts!!The object of the game is to move the red block around without getting hit by the blue blocks or touching the black walls.If you can go longer than 18 seconds you are phenomenal.It's been said that the US Air Force uses this for fighter pilots. They are expected to go for at least 2 minutes.Give it a try!!http://tinyurl.com/56t9u

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1143472513443756392006-03-27T09:14:00.000-06:002006-03-27T09:15:13.463-06:00

Try this one for awhile. Use your mouse to click on boxes.http://www.zefrank.com/memory/index.html

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1143126082050337052006-03-23T08:59:00.000-06:002006-03-23T09:10:22.526-06:00

Well, I'm just about done with unpacking after my move. Now what I have to do is rearrange the many, many, many boxes of Christmas, Halloween, and Thanksgiving decorations. I promise to have pictures of the new place up on webshots very soon.Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam,Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home.~ John Howard Payne (1791 - 1852)

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1142892860054616512006-03-20T16:12:00.000-06:002006-03-20T16:14:20.066-06:00

May you always walk in sunshine. May you never want for more. May Irish angels rest their wings right beside your door. ~ Irish blessing

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1142607112098846642006-03-17T08:50:00.000-06:002006-03-17T08:51:52.113-06:00

"May the Irish Hills caress you. May her lakes and rivers bless you. May the luck of the Irish enfold you. May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you." ~ Irish Blessing

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1142521110271919592006-03-16T08:57:00.000-06:002006-03-16T08:58:30.280-06:00

"You've got to do your own growing, no matter how tall your grandfather was." - Irish proverb

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1142433997102768272006-03-15T08:45:00.000-06:002006-03-15T08:46:37.113-06:00

May you always have walls for the winds,a roof for the rain, tea beside the fire,laughter to cheer you, those you love near you,and all your heart might desire.

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1142348614157961962006-03-14T09:03:00.000-06:002006-03-14T09:03:34.166-06:00

May your neighbors respect you,Trouble neglect you,The angels protect you,And heaven accept you.- Irish saying

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1142270667364094392006-03-13T11:22:00.000-06:002006-03-13T11:38:08.520-06:00

Well, I'm all moved in. Now all I have to do is dig myself out of all the boxes. This will take a little time but with each box I empty the closer I become to being settled in.Yesterday my ex brought over Spunky, the little kitten that I fostered last Summer and ended up keeping. She hasn't grown much in size and since she will be a year old in June I don't think she will get much bigger.Last

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1141840469915291932006-03-08T11:53:00.000-06:002006-03-08T12:42:59.680-06:00

The true beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure she has or the way she styles her hair. It is in the way she sees herself.Was Mona Lisa really a beautiful woman? Did it matter? She clearly saw the beauty in herself and Leonardo da Vinci captured the smile that said it - and that made her beautiful to all.All women have this capacity to be beautiful. Feel serene and peaceful

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1141755845056261482006-03-07T12:17:00.000-06:002006-03-07T12:24:05.056-06:00

Well, I started moving boxes into my house on Friday evening. I have somehow managed to get the majority over. There are still a few more boxes left but with the help of my friends Megan tonight and Judy on Friday I'm hopeful that the only things left to move will be the furniture. I can't believe that I have that many boxes, even after weeding things out. I think I need to do a little more

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1141479682501686642006-03-04T07:35:00.000-06:002006-03-04T07:41:22.520-06:00

Yesterday I closed on my house. I'm so excited to own my own place. After my divorce I thought that I would never own my own house again, that it was only a dream. But dreams can come true, I'm living proof. Now I'm faced with the tedious task of moving boxes over before I move on March 11. My goal is to get as many boxes over so that on the day of the actual move what is left is furniture,

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1141140942038242922006-02-28T09:35:00.000-06:002006-02-28T09:35:42.050-06:00

Sometimes you have to take the leap, and build your wings on the way down. ~ Kobi Yamada

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1140973214258034112006-02-26T10:58:00.000-06:002006-02-26T11:00:14.273-06:00

As a single mom of a pre-soon-to-be-teen I most certainly agree with the following advice!Parent-to-Parent Advicefrom Hannah Storm, co-host of The Early Show on CBS1. You may be busy, but take the time to stop what you are doing and listen to your child.2. Try not to get into power struggles with your children. You can even physically remove yourself from the situation.3. Ask your children

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1140711111471317142006-02-23T10:11:00.000-06:002006-02-23T10:11:51.483-06:00

When you get into a tight place, and everything goes against you till it seems as if you couldn't hold on a minute longer, never give up then, for that's just the place and time that the tide'll turn. ~ Harriet Beecher Stowe

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1140188523517538032006-02-17T09:01:00.000-06:002006-02-21T12:52:57.716-06:00

Next week I become a homeowner. Which means the closest vacation to a tropical paradise I will get is to our local water park.Here are just some of the financial/tax advantages of home ownership:Owning versus renting is an investment in your family's future Seeing the break-even point on an adjustable rate mortgage Deduction of qualified interest & property taxes from the income on a first or

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1139928435887470202006-02-14T08:46:00.000-06:002006-02-14T09:08:40.130-06:00

Turn up the romance with a plate of these juicy strawberries dipped and swirled in two kinds of chocolate.Marbleized StrawberriesMakes about 28 strawberriesPrep: 45 minutesIngredients11 ounces white chocolate squares, melted5 ounces semisweet chocolate squares, melted1 quart large fresh strawberries (about 28), wiped with a damp paper towelDirections1. Line a large cookie sheet with waxed paper.

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1139864769930098782006-02-13T15:05:00.000-06:002006-02-13T15:06:09.940-06:00

Life is like mathematics in which you add your friends, subtract your enemies, divide your sorrows and multiply your joys.

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1139500673278350122006-02-09T09:57:00.000-06:002006-02-09T10:04:57.460-06:00

Everything that is worthwhile in life is scary. Choosing a school, choosing a career, getting married, having kids--all those things are scary. If it is not fearful, it is not worthwhile. ~ Paul TornierI’m buying a house. Have a mentioned that before? Probably not and only because I didn’t want to jinx the deal. Now I’m just waiting for the loan to go through. You can only imagine how nervous I

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1139324882660803952006-02-07T09:07:00.000-06:002006-02-07T12:44:43.073-06:00

May you have warm words on a cold evening,A full moon on a dark night,And the road downhill all the way to your door.

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1139157480036533582006-02-05T10:37:00.000-06:002006-02-05T11:03:28.103-06:00

One Sunday morning, the pastor noticed little Alex standing in the foyer of the church staring up at a large plaque. It was covered with names with small American flags mounted on either side of it.The seven year old had been staring at the plaque for some time, so The pastor walked up, stood beside the little boy, and said quietly, "Good morning Alex." "Good morning Pastor," he replied, still

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1138993446231652042006-02-03T13:03:00.000-06:002006-02-03T13:10:19.566-06:00

Amen to this! 98 years later. What a visionary, that Teddy R. Theodore Roosevelt's ideas on Immigrants and being an AMERICAN in 1907."In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1138891490539846362006-02-02T08:43:00.000-06:002006-02-02T08:53:33.633-06:00

This year, both Groundhog Day and the State of the Union Address fall during the same week. As Air America Radio pointed out..."It is an ironic juxtaposition: One involves a meaningless ritual in which we look to a creature of little intelligence for prognostication...and the other involves a groundhog."Happy Groundhog Day!

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1138718817229879702006-01-31T08:46:00.000-06:002006-01-31T08:46:57.243-06:00

Never make the same mistake twice or you'll never get around to all of them. ~ Anonymous

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1138633973354810582006-01-30T09:12:00.000-06:002006-01-30T09:12:53.366-06:00

Men who treat women as helpless and charming playthings deserve women who treat them as delightful and generous bank accounts. ~ GQ

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1138551282681586312006-01-29T10:10:00.000-06:002006-01-29T10:45:22.680-06:00

If you are a mother or even a mentor take notice of the successes of everyday life that occur by just being who you are.Perhaps your child is faced with a decision, rather than stepping in you watch and wait to see how she uses her judgment. You watch her take the time to think it through and come to a decision.You as a mother should feel proud. You are the one who taught her the importance of

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1138481425355332942006-01-28T14:45:00.000-06:002006-01-29T10:09:56.036-06:00

Remember, there is no perfect time for anything, there is only now. Today is the day to begin your journey to greater levels of fulfillment and productivity.Don't wait until everything is just right, it will never be that way. There will always be challenges and obstacles. So what. Get started now.With each step you take, you will grown stronger and stronger, more and more skilled, more and more

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1138125585891491632006-01-24T11:57:00.000-06:002006-01-24T11:59:45.893-06:00

Sometimes we wonder, "What did I do to deserve this?" or "Why did God have to do this to me?" Here is a wonderful explanation!A daughter is telling her Mother how everything is going wrong, she's failing algebra, her boyfriend broke up with her and her best friend is moving away. Meanwhile, her Mother is baking a cake and asks her daughter if she would like a snack, and the daughter says, "

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1138052747428536392006-01-23T15:45:00.000-06:002006-01-23T15:45:47.440-06:00

People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. When you figure out which it is, you’ll know exactly what to do. ~ Michelle Ventor

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1137681362883897022006-01-19T08:35:00.000-06:002006-01-19T08:36:02.896-06:00

I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1137602753425137112006-01-18T10:45:00.000-06:002006-01-18T10:45:53.436-06:00

To get all there is out of living, we must employ our time wisely, never being in too much of a hurry to stop and sip life, but never losing our sense of the enormous value of a minute. ~ Robert Updegraff

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1136560832697241492006-01-06T09:19:00.000-06:002006-01-06T09:20:32.706-06:00

If you are going to walk on thin ice, you might as well dance. ~ Anonymous

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1136473336646860682006-01-05T09:01:00.000-06:002006-01-05T09:11:48.970-06:00

Smart Ass Answer #5:A flight attendant was stationed at the departure gate to check tickets. As a man approached, she extended her hand for the ticket and he opened his trench coat and flashed at her. Without missing a beat....she said, "Sir, I need to see your ticket not your stub."Smart Ass Answer #4:A lady was picking through the frozen turkeys at the grocery store, but she couldn't find one

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1135961018754799312005-12-30T10:41:00.000-06:002005-12-30T10:43:38.766-06:00

Click on the link…………it is worth the read.As I've Matured

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1135264378228878202005-12-22T09:09:00.000-06:002005-12-22T09:12:58.240-06:00

Baking Cookies With Your Cat!Look in cookbook for cookie recipe.Get cup of coffee.Get cat off of cookbook.Find that special recipe.Get cat's nose out of coffee mug.Go to fridge and get eggs.Get dry ingredients from cupboard.Break eggs in small bowl.Sift dry ingredients in large bowl.Answer the phone.Cat ate eggs; get more from fridge.Get cat out of flour bowl and dust cat off.Get Band-Aids for

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1135203409402023912005-12-21T16:13:00.000-06:002005-12-21T16:16:49.416-06:00

Yes, I know…here is another one of these……but come one….aren’t they just a little bit fun?~?~?~?~?Welcome to the 2005 Holiday Edition of Getting to Know Your Friends! You know the drill. Copy (not forward) and change the answers to your answers. Enjoy!!OK, here goes....1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Egg Nog, it’s sinful!2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under tree? wrap3. Colored lights

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1135100817339507542005-12-20T11:44:00.000-06:002005-12-20T16:06:39.063-06:00

Thanks Joe!WHISKY CHRISTMAS CAKECHRISTMAS CAKE RECIPEINGREDIENTS1 cup of water1 cup of sugar4 large brown eggs2 cups of dried fruit1 teaspoon of salt1 cup of brown sugarLemon juiceNuts1 bottle of whiskyMETHODSample the whisky to check for quality. Take a largebowl. Check the whisky again. To be sure it's thehighest quality, pour one level cup and drink. Repeat.Turn on the electric mixer, beat one

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1135024862266737272005-12-19T14:34:00.000-06:002005-12-19T14:41:02.276-06:00

Happy SolsticeHappy HanukkahMerry ChristmasHappy KwanzaPlease accept with no obligation, implied or implicit my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress, non-addictive, gender neutral, celebration of the winter solstice (tm), practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1134676743999620292005-12-15T13:56:00.000-06:002005-12-15T13:59:04.010-06:00

Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots in a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. Like fine Irish Whiskey. In fact, it's even rarer than single malt scotch. You can't find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1134487813655102532005-12-13T09:28:00.000-06:002005-12-13T09:32:24.833-06:00

by Kristin JohnsonHow Does Santa Make Out His List?I’ll let you in on a secret: I know Santa Claus. And I received a letter from him with his Christmas list.Dear Kristin,Thank you for the homemade cookies last year. For some reason, people seem to forget that I’m not planning to lose weight, thank you very much. I don’t have a peanut allergy and I’m not lactose intolerant. Up here at the North

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1134317678935337682005-12-11T10:13:00.000-06:002005-12-11T10:14:38.950-06:00

Tell everyone to pull on their layers and bring over their favorite winter outdoor activity equipment, such as sleds, skates, and cross-country skis. Hits the hills and have as much fun as you did when you were a kid. When they've had enough, invite everyone over for a warm-up. Provide electric blankets, quilts, and pillows to make sure everyone is toasty and comfortable. Light candles or a fire

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1134053700846821242005-12-08T08:54:00.000-06:002005-12-08T08:55:00.860-06:00

A church group from Topeka, Kansas, that says U.S. military casualties in Iraq are God’s punishment for America’s tolerance of homosexuality has indicated that it might picket the funeral of Marine Lance Cpl. Andrew Patten of Byron, Illinois, who was killed in action last week.Give me a break! Let the family of this marine (of any soldier) mourn the loss of their son in peace.

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1133968078041994412005-12-07T09:07:00.000-06:002005-12-07T09:07:58.056-06:00

Understand that the right to choose your own path is a sacred privilege. Use it. Dwell in possiblity. ~ Oprah Winfrey

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1133448477727211332005-12-01T08:46:00.000-06:002005-12-01T08:47:57.740-06:00

1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.2. You haven't played solitaire with real cards in years.3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of 3.4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.5. Your reason for not staying in touch with friends and family is that they don't have e-mail addresses.6. You pull up in your own driveway and use your cell

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1133217002632504382005-11-28T16:28:00.000-06:002005-11-28T16:30:02.646-06:00

Help! My daughter wants an iPOD for Christmas but I can't see buying a 12 year old an iPOD. Her Dad and I are thinking about buying an MP3 Player instead. Any thoughts on the matter would be greatly appreciated.

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1132780347483318482005-11-23T15:11:00.000-06:002005-11-23T15:12:27.496-06:00

It wasn’t Mom’s fault that there wasn’t enough turkey - or pie - to go around. After all, Dad had said the neighbors weren’t coming. But they did. All of them.Source: Jean Bell Mosley, in "Wide Meadows"

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1132599727483132262005-11-21T13:01:00.000-06:002005-11-21T13:02:07.496-06:00

Set the Stage for a Thanksgiving CompanyHollow out apples or mini pumpkins; place tea lights inside. Mix treasured pieces of family china. Look for similar colors or complementary patterns. Place votive candles in Mason jars; anchor with fresh cranberries (remove after dinner). Elevate small pumpkins and gourds on a pretty cake stand. Don't forget the sideboard or buffet. Scatter tea lights and

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1132326890141150692005-11-18T09:10:00.000-06:002005-11-18T09:14:50.153-06:00

Fourth movie, 'Goblet,' could be the best yet!I'm as excited as a little schoolgirl to see the new Harry Potter movie. From everything I have heard and seen so far, I doubt that I will be disappointed. But sadly I will have to wait until next weekend to see it. Check out my review at Let's All Go to the Movies over the Thanksgiving weekend.

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1132239612961569442005-11-17T08:56:00.000-06:002005-11-17T09:00:12.973-06:00

Do you spend a lot of time feeling anxious and stressed? Does your body have a way of tightening? Do your shoulders feel tense and hard? Maintaining this state for periods of time can do all kinds of unpleasant things to your mind and your body.It's essential that you relax and take care of yourself. You are worth it, you know.Try this simple escape, find a comfortable chair in a quiet place

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1132070616977272512005-11-15T10:02:00.000-06:002005-11-15T10:03:36.990-06:00

Johann Christoph ArnoldWhen things look dark and hopeless, that is the time to find out who your friends and neighbors really are. Or do you think you are the only one who is afraid? Look with new eyes at the people you meet daily, and you will quickly realize that everyone is frightened, at least at some level. But every time we share a burden like fear with another person, that burden is cut in

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1131994962207780902005-11-14T13:02:00.000-06:002005-11-14T13:02:42.220-06:00

More often than not - we get up in the morning and once our minds kick in to gear we start mentally running through all the things we need to get done.Within a few minutes we’re frantically running around trying to get everything and everyone organized for the day. When we start the day by filling our minds with high voltage activity we usually spend the rest of our day feeling anxious and

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1131898246080324602005-11-13T10:08:00.000-06:002005-11-13T10:10:46.090-06:00

When you were a child, you didn't look for a purpose in everything you did.You didn't run across a field, sink your teeth into a juicy orange or jump high with a ball because it was good for you - you did it for the sheer, glorious fun of it.Release your inner child. Take time to play in the park, laugh with friends, visit a fair, walk barefoot on a beach...just for fun.If it makes you feel good

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1131839683892477532005-11-12T17:53:00.000-06:002005-11-12T17:54:43.903-06:00

When you feel stressed out, burned out and maxed out and you think your life is too hard, take a step back and reflect for a moment. Think of all the things that you are thankful for, your health, your family and all those little things you take for granted.When life seems like it is moving too fast and you’re riding on its coat tails, watch the sun set, listen to some good music or delve into a

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1130857312138578782005-11-01T09:00:00.000-06:002005-11-01T09:01:52.150-06:00

You know you are too old to Trick or Treat when:1. You get winded from knocking on the door. 2. You have to have a kid chew the candy for you. 3. You ask for high fiber candy only. 4. When someone drops a candy bar in your bag, you lose your balance and fall over. 5. People say: "Great Boris Karloff Mask," and you're not wearing a mask. 6. When the door opens you yell, "Trick or ...." and

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1130798184175322672005-10-31T16:34:00.000-06:002005-10-31T16:36:24.186-06:00

The Halloween party was over, and Mark was going home. It wasn't quite afull moon; but as that happened just a few days earlier, it was still quite bright even when some of the light clouds changed it from a near perfect circle to a blurry glow. Mark was not suspicious, but he was tired, and therefore had no problem deciding to take the shortcut home through the cemetery, even on Halloween.It was

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1130521904755725612005-10-28T12:49:00.000-05:002005-10-28T16:07:45.796-05:00

by Ann Hodgman and Patricia MarxCollecting an unprecedented five gallons of coins for the penny harvest at your child’s elementary school.Paper towels with a paisley borderSeeing a girl you went to high school with in a bit part as the rich victim’s dog walker on Law & OrderHeated car seats

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1130435064707584852005-10-27T12:39:00.000-05:002005-10-27T12:44:24.716-05:00

by Ann Hodgman and Patricia Marx"If that’s a chin hair, I’m killing myself right now.""No way I’m this fat. The dry cleaner shrank my pants.""If I do Amy’s carpool next Thursday, and Wendy does Meg’s carpool Friday, and Rachel does my carpool on...""She must have had Botox.""Why aren’t there more bathing suites with skirts?"

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1130362004753027922005-10-26T16:25:00.000-05:002005-10-26T16:26:44.760-05:00

You’re hip, you’re cool...Oh, face it, you’ve crossed the line. Relax and have a laugh about how you’ve changed.1. You expect your breakfast cereal to cure you, not entertain you.2. Getting lost in a car is no longer a romantic adventure.3. You actually think your daughter’s friends are all too thin.4. You made it all the way to work without noticing that you were wearing one loafer and one clog

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1130081448777549742005-10-23T10:30:00.000-05:002005-10-23T10:30:48.783-05:00

You've failed many times, although you don't remember. You fell down the first time you tried to walk. You almost drowned the first time you tried to swim. . . . Don't worry about failure. . . . Worry about the chances you miss when you don't even try. ~ Sherman Finesilver, US District Court Judge

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1129570092226365312005-10-17T12:27:00.000-05:002005-10-17T12:28:12.233-05:00

The following quote reminds me of some of the part time help we hire around the holidays at the mall.Hard work spotlights the character of people: some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don't turn up at all. ~ Sam Ewing

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1128976014700845532005-10-10T15:26:00.000-05:002005-10-10T15:26:54.710-05:00

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that youdidn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sailaway from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. ~ Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain)

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1128608835539314202005-10-06T09:21:00.000-05:002005-10-06T09:27:15.546-05:00

The tragedy inflicted by Hurricane Katrina was compounded by the failure of federal, state and local authorities to include animal companions in their disaster planning. As a result, many people chose to risk their own lives in order to remain with their pets when rescuers refused to take these animals to safety along with their human guardians.In the weeks since Katrina struck, volunteers have

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1128607365157522522005-10-06T09:02:00.000-05:002005-10-06T09:02:45.166-05:00

What every woman wants…a great career, a good man, and comfortable shoes -- lots and lots of them. ~ Catherine Bell

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1128448067739263862005-10-04T12:45:00.000-05:002005-10-04T12:47:47.746-05:00

by Helena Coleman (1860-1953)Of all Earth's varied, lovely moods,The loveliest is when she broodsAmong her dreaming solitudesOn Indian Summer days;When on the hill the aster pales,And Summer's stress of passion fails,And Autumn looks through misty veilsAlong her leafy ways. How deep the tenderness that yearnsWithin the silent wood that turnsFrom green to gold, and slowly burnsAs by some inward

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1128358961398438472005-10-03T12:02:00.000-05:002005-10-03T12:02:41.413-05:00

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you've imagined. As you simplify your life, the laws of the universe will be simpler. ~ Henry David Thoreau

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1128102359660496502005-09-30T12:45:00.000-05:002005-09-30T12:45:59.666-05:00

Use your imagination to build a personal retreat. A place you can go for centering and refocusing your attention and attitude.Start by imagining a favorite place, a relaxing and private place where you can enjoy being alone.A tropical beach, a bench in the back yard or even a luxurious hotel room. Place yourself in this place and notice how you feel. Are you relaxed, calmer and more secure? Relax

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1127769178542540712005-09-26T16:10:00.000-05:002005-09-26T16:12:58.550-05:00

A number of primary schools were doing a project on "The Sea." Kids were asked to draw pictures or write about their experiences. Teachers got together to compare the results and put together some of the comments they found funny:This is a picture of an octopus. It has eight testicles. (Kelly-Age 6) Some fish are dangerous. Jellyfish can sting. Electric eels can give you a shock. They have to

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1127667920232775082005-09-25T12:02:00.000-05:002005-09-25T12:05:20.246-05:00

Having an optimistic outlook can improve one’s healthTo be more optimistic in your daily life, try these six strategies.1. Be on the lookout for negative thoughts. When you catch yourself thinking your life is terrible, stop the thought in its track.2. Put things in perspective. Remember, everyone’s life is full of sorrows and joys.3. Try to find the good in bad situations. If you’ve suffered a

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1127498650633835262005-09-23T12:57:00.000-05:002005-09-23T13:04:10.640-05:00

Johann Christoph ArnoldThe devastation left by Katrina has not brought us together, but set off widespread finger-pointing and divisiveness. Government officials as high up as the President have been singled out for unusually harsh criticism, and now, with another hurricane barreling across the Gulf of Mexico toward his home state of Texas, all eyes are on Washington D.C. again. Meanwhile, I can’

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1127413611773582792005-09-22T13:24:00.000-05:002005-09-22T13:26:51.783-05:00

As our Hurricane Katrina response heads into its 20th day, our Disaster Animal Response Teams continue their quest to rescue stranded pets while we brace for the potential arrival of Hurricane Rita. Here’s the latest update on what’s happening in Louisiana and Mississippi, along with new photos and a video of our teams on the ground.Three weeks after Katrina struck the region and the flood waters

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1127325871247679552005-09-21T13:04:00.000-05:002005-09-21T13:04:31.253-05:00

Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fleeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains. ~ Diane Ackerman

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5476798.post-1126879880605267762005-09-16T09:05:00.000-05:002005-09-16T09:11:20.610-05:00

Sisters,A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her Mother. As they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter. "Don't forget your Sisters," she advised, swirling the tea leaves to

Valariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03630324676109638260noreply@blogger.com